Philippines travelling with a 6yo and a 4 yo

Jon and I just got back from an amazing 2 weeks vacation in the Philippines.   We saw family for a short period but mostly ... we stayed at some really fun resorts.  It was our children's first memories of the Philippines and it was a "mission accomplished" kind of trip.

I had 2 goals:

Other than having an amazing time with the fambam, I wanted us to return unscathed healthwise.  Especially with the kiddos.

How'd we do it?  1) no street food.  I know its part of the experience, but street food is risky.  Its cheap... that's a huge upside .  But the risk does not exceed the reward.

2) stay only in reputable places.  Marriotts,  Hiltons, Holiday Inns....  when in Manila.  Unless you can find comfortable accommodations with family.

3) resort beach paradises are everywhere in the Philippines.  Research them.  Read the comments.   Then choose accordingly.

4) use bottled water, don't drink any drinks with ice, and even your toothbrushing activity needs to be done with bottled water.  When in the shower, don't open your mouth! Tell your kids ahead of time.

5) peel the fruits.  Dont eat the skin.  If you want to eat an apple with the skin on, rinse it with.... bottled water.

6)  just in case, tell your doctor of your upcoming trip.  Perhaps you can get some cipro or zpak for emergencies.

7) bring kiddo food.  Little bags of their usual type of cereal will go a long way during hours of your airplane flight.

8) bring a sweater or blanket the kiddos can use when not in the plane.   These little dudes get cold. 

The trip was a memorable one.  And one which again, i can't wait to get my younger kids to do too in a few years.

Til next time Philippines!