As our Thailand trip gets closer, I’ve been making a checklist of everything we need to prepare — especially since we’re traveling as a family with a child.

Here are some of the most important things on my list:

✅ 1. Travel Documents

Making sure passports, IDs, and bookings are all ready and organized.

✅ 2. Family-Friendly Accommodation

Choosing a place that’s safe, comfortable, and suitable for a child.

✅ 3. Packing Essentials

From clothes to medicines — especially things my daughter might need.

✅ 4. Basic Itinerary

Planning simple activities so we don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.

✅ 5. Travel Insurance

One thing I almost overlooked — but now consider important.

Traveling internationally comes with uncertainties, and having coverage gives peace of mind, especially as a parent.

I’ve been looking into options like SafetyWing, which seem flexible for travelers and families.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Preparing for this trip has made me realize that travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s also about being ready for the journey.

And for us, that means planning carefully so we can enjoy every moment together.

Next year, our family is finally going on a trip we’ve been dreaming about — a family trip to Thailand.

My husband works abroad, and for a long time, he’s been the one traveling to visit me and our daughter. But this time, we’re doing something different.

We’re traveling together.

And while I’m really excited, I’ll be honest — planning an international trip with a child comes with a lot of thoughts and responsibilities.

🌴 Why This Trip to Thailand Is Special

This trip means more than just a vacation.

It’s about finally spending time together as a complete family, in a new environment, away from our usual routine.

Because of my husband’s work situation, moments like this don’t happen often — which makes this trip even more meaningful.

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is gearing up for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s only marketplace devoted entirely to Filipino books and locally published works. It also serves as a vibrant shared space where publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders come together. The festival will take place from March 12 to 15, 2026, at Megatrade Hall on the 5th Floor of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

“With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences.”

Building on this momentum, the NBDB views PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to increase visitor turnout and exhibitor participation, but also to further strengthen access to locally produced books and educational materials. Marking a significant milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book evaluators from across the country.