A vacation with the children doesn't have to be a parental chore by Wong Sher Maine kids@mediacorp.com.sg BE IT hitting the road, cruising on the high seas or jetsetting, a holiday with the kids can be a fun and enriching experience. It just takes a little preparation and planning. Here are some things you should note before setting off: - Since 2000, every newborn Singaporean need their own passport to travel. Submit an online application at www.ica.gov.sg and the passport will be ready for collection after three working days. - Keep the travel itinerary flexible to accommodate sleeping - this is crucial as sleepy kids can get extremely cranky - and eating. - Check with the doctor the vaccines you and the kids need for where you are going. Those heading to the United States, for instance, are advised to get the flu or the H1N1 vaccine as influenza activity is currently widespread there. Road Where to go - Australia. Not too far away from Singapore and the airfare is affordable. It boasts stunning scenery, great weather and lots of quaint travel stops. A good bet is to drive along the Great Ocean Road in south-west Victoria. - Malaysia. Prices are generally cheaper than in Singapore, and the food is glorious. Car tips - Proper car seats for the kids are a must-have, as driving in unfamiliar territory warrants taking heed of all safety aspects. It is also compulsory in some countries, such as Australia. - Kids unused to long drives can get fidgety. Look at your map and prepare for pit stops every hour or so. - Have light snacks (like crackers or dried fruit) and drinks on hand. - Come up with some car games (spot the cow, for example) or bring magnetic board games that the kids can play. - Some rental cars have DVD players. Put on movies and cartoons to keep kids rooted to their seats. - Resist the temptation to scrimp by renting a smaller car. A cramped space will make for a very miserable drive. Sea Where to go - Go to a cruise travel agent to check out the available packages that are suitable for you and your family. - Cruises which cater to families with kids include Star Cruises, Disney Cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines. Cruise tips - Take along whatever medication junior might need. It may be hard to find specific medicine once you are onboard. - It is a large ship, so a stroller may come in handy for young children who refuse to walk the distances down long hallways. - Although cruise ships provide many activities for kids, take with you some of your child's favourite books. There will be times - before bedtime, for instance - when you will still have to do the job. Air Where to go - Disneyland trips are great entertainment for the kids, but can be pricey. Plane tips - If it is going to be a long flight, choose a departure time that is just before your child's usual bedtime. Junior can sleep onboard and wake up at the destination. - Children can get uncomfortable as their ears stuff up at take-off. For babies, time the feed so that they are breast- or bottle-fed during the plane's ascent. The swallowing motion helps. Toddlers and older kids can suck on a sweet. - Kids might not be used to airline meals. Prepare and place in your hand-carry some snacks that they like. - Some planes have entertainment sets, but budget airlines do not. Bring along books, hand-held games, crayons and paper for the kids. http://www.todayonline.com/Kids/EDC091128-0000045/Holiday-fun-with-kids