One of the benefits of being a travel blogger is that it has helped me develop some thick skin. I’ve learned that people love to comment on anything that they remotely disagree with. Thankfully, most of the time the comments are still respectful. But still, some of my travel habits have sparked heated comments on the blog, on social media and through email. Here are some of my biggest controversies.
Flying Kids in Economy While Parents are in Premium Economy
In a previous post, I outlined reasons why some kids should not fly in business class on international trips. For my family of 5, using miles and points for upgraded seats can be quite costly. Last year, my husband and I sat in premium economy while our kids sat in regular economy on a 10-hour flight from Madrid to DFW. Clearly, this decision did not sit well with some readers. “Why don’t you just pony up and have a nice FAMILY vacation?”
If I had unlimited miles and points AND if there was award availability for my entire family in premium economy or business class, of course I would splurge for all of us to have nice seats. But the reality is that neither of those is true. My husband and I have more aches and pains that come with age, while our kids can sleep and get comfortable in more cramped quarters. They survived the flight in economy and were thankful that we got to visit Portugal during Spring Break.
Flying Kids in Business Class
On the flip side, some folks think that kids don’t belong in upgraded seats at all. After I wrote a post about the benefits of flying kids in business class, I got a lot of backlash on Facebook.
“Ruins the experience for the other passengers.”
“I wouldn’t want to meet, associate, or have anything to do with someone whose childhood consisted of flying business class. I can’t even begin to imagine the level of entitlement that would engender…”
“Kids don’t deserve biz class. There. I said it.”
My kids have flown in business class to Europe (all 3) and to Asia (just my daughter). Each time, they appreciated the space and amenities with the knowledge that we can’t fly in business class every time.
My New Zealand Itinerary
In 2019, my family traveled to Australia and New Zealand. We only had time to visit part of New Zealand, and we chose to visit the north island. Many, many readers told me that the south island is much more scenic and impressive. But, we had our hearts set on visiting Hobbiton, Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. I have no regrets! Hopefully someday, we will make it back to New Zealand to check out the south island.
Eating at McDonald’s on International Trips
On almost every international trip, my family eats at McDonald’s at least once. The food is usually inexpensive and the tastes are familiar. We like to see what different menu items each country has. Plus, some of the McDonald’s buildings are just cool!
But of course, some people are repulsed by the thought of eating at McDonalds in any country. I get it, I really do. I don’t love McDonald’s when I eat out locally. But, I won’t be shamed into skipping it on trips.
Travel During/After the Pandemic
By far, my most controversial travel was during and after the pandemic. Everyone had strong opinions that we should or should not be traveling. My family took a low-risk trip to a remote cabin in May 2020, and I got a lot of hate mail after that. And, I know people thought I was nuts when I returned to cruising. I’m glad this isn’t such a hot topic anymore.
Bottom Line
I’m frequently surprised at how controversial my travel habits and blog posts can be. After all, it’s leisure travel we’re talking about, not politics or religion. But it’s all good. And while I enjoy hearing different perspectives, I won’t necessarily modify my trips to appease others.
Have any of your trips or travel habits sparked controversy with your friends or family?
Author: Nancy
Nancy lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three kids. Her favorite vacations include the beach, cruising and everything Disney.
Le Gasp! (Hand to the forehead).
Seriously though, if that’s what you’ve got for controversy you’re doing just fine.
Interesting… I guess my controversial travel moves are to skip touristy places. The comment is always the same: “There’s a reason why they are touristy”. I’m not into pop culture, so the two times I went to New Zealand I avoided the Hobbit Town or Lord of the Rings spots. It helps that I didn’t watch those movies or read the book. When I went to Greece, I stopped for a night in Santorini because a ferry got cancelled and we had to change our route. By avoiding those places, I have experiences that other people don’t, save money and… yes, miss the beauty of those places. Once I retire, I’ll be able to visit them during mid season and avoid the crowds and crayziness.
No problem at all with any of your choices. People need to worry about themselves and be less judgemental of others. As for kids in business class, my kids have flown first class domestically since they were infants and have enjoyed international business class. Any self absorbed person that claims it “ruins it for other passengers” is clueless. Unless they are crying infants you don’t even know they are there, just like you don’t know who else is in business class. It isn’t a private club. If you can afford it (money or points) go for it – anyone that complains is likely just jealous they can’t afford it.
This situation is of extremely concerning and unfortunate that it happens. Josh, the new traveler also got clobbered by audience, as well. I guess it comes with the territory since there isn’t much that can be done. Jealousy is the biggest reason. FM is always traveling with his little kids as well and so do many other travelers. I don’t see any problem with kids in biz/first (especially at your kids age).
Just, keep going Nancy!!! There is nothing wrong and it’s within your rights!!
Oh wow! I did the same for NZ and got some criticism too. I also love to go to McDonald’s at least once for the same reasons. Who knew these were so controversial lol
You do you. But if you choose to publish you exploits don’t expect validation from everyone.