Traveling With Children: Essential Vaccinations For Young Adventurers

Feb 13, 2024

Last Updated on: Jul 1, 2025

Travel Guides

Traveling opens up a world of adventure, especially for younger explorers. But before you book your tickets and board the plane, it’s important to know that proper immunization is critical to ensure your child’s health and safety abroad.

Are you equipped with the essential vaccinations for your young adventurer?

Key Takeaways

Vaccinations are critical for safe travel.

A tailored immunization schedule is necessary.

Proper administration and aftercare of vaccines protect young adventurers.

Fundamental Concepts Of Vaccination

Fundamental Concepts Of Vaccination

When planning trips for young adventurers, it is crucial to understand how vaccines protect against diseases by boosting immunity, and the processes that ensure their safety and efficacy.

Understanding Immunity And Vaccines

Your immune system is your body’s defense against infections. When exposed to disease-causing organisms, your body produces antibodies to fight the invaders.

Vaccines are biological preparations that provide this immunity without causing the disease itself. They contain weakened or killed forms of the microbes or their parts, stimulating your immune system to recognize and combat the actual disease if you’re exposed in the future.

Types of Vaccines:

Live, attenuated vaccines

Inactivated vaccines

Subunit, recombinant, polysaccharide, and conjugate vaccines

Toxoid vaccines

Common Vaccines for Kids:

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)

Polio (IPV)

Hepatitis B

Vaccine Development And Safety

The development of vaccines is a rigorous process. It involves several stages of testing for effectiveness and safety before they can be approved by regulatory bodies such as the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

After a vaccine is released, it continues to be monitored for adverse side effects.

Vaccine safety is a priority, and side effects, when they occur, are mostly mild, such as a sore arm or low-grade fever. More serious side effects are very rare.

You need to be aware of the recommended vaccine schedule for kids to ensure they are protected against preventable diseases during their travels and beyond.

Vaccination Schedule And Recommendations

Vaccination Schedule And Recommendations

It’s crucial to adhere to recommended vaccination schedules for different stages of life to ensure protection against various diseases.

Childhood Vaccination Guidelines

Your childhood immunization schedule starts from infancy. The CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) outline that infants should receive multiple doses of vaccines such as DTaP, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

It’s important to keep a record and follow up with your pediatrician to stay on track.

Birth to 6 years Vaccine Schedule Summary:

AgeKey Shots
BirthHepatitis B
1-2 MonthsHepatitis B, DTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio
4 monthsDTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio
6 monthsHepatitis B, DTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio
12-15 monthsHib, PCV, MMR, Varicella
4-6 yearsDTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella

Adolescent Immunization Needs

As you transition into your teen years, additional vaccinations are necessary to maintain immunity. Adolescents should receive the Tdap vaccine, a booster for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, typically around 11-12 years old.

The HPV vaccine series should also begin at this age to protect against human papillomavirus-related diseases.

7-18 years Vaccine Schedule Summary:

AgeKey Shots
11-12 yearsTdap, HPV series start, Meningococcal
16 yearsMeningococcal booster

Vaccines For Specific Age Groups

Young adults should ensure they are up to date with vaccinations, especially if they haven’t completed the HPV vaccine series or haven’t received a Tdap booster in their adolescence.

As you age, vaccines like the annual influenza shot and potential travel-related vaccines become pertinent based on your lifestyle and destinations.

Always consult with a healthcare professional to tailor your immunization plan to your specific needs and to assess whether you need any catch-up vaccines.

19-26 years Vaccine Checkpoints:

Annual: Influenza

As needed: HPV series completion, Tdap, Travel-specific vaccines (Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, etc.)

Protection Against Specific Diseases

As you prepare for your adventures, ensuring you are vaccinated is a key step in protecting your health. This section covers essential routine and travel-related vaccines and guidance for disease outbreaks and seasonal vaccinations that are critical for young adventurers.

Your vaccination schedule should begin with routine vaccines that protect against common diseases. These include:

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): A combined vaccine providing immunity to these three diseases.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP): Protects against these bacterial infections; a booster is needed every 10 years.

Polio: Typically given in childhood but check your status as it’s vital for travel to certain regions.

Varicella (Chickenpox): Important if you haven’t had the disease in childhood.

For hepatitis A and hepatitis B, vaccines offer long-term protection, particularly important in regions with higher incidence rates.

As for travel-specific vaccinations, they depend on your destination:

Yellow Fever: Required for entry into certain countries; check if it’s necessary for your itinerary.

Typhoid and Hepatitis A: Recommended for travelers to most parts of the world, including Southeast Asia.

Vaccine Shots for Southeast Asia: shots for Japanese encephalitis and typhoid are needed, along with malaria pills for protection against the mosquito-borne disease. Rabies and cholera shots should be considered as well.

Disease Outbreaks And Seasonal Vaccinations

Be aware of disease outbreaks in your travel destinations. This requires staying informed about current health threats which may necessitate additional vaccinations or precautions.

For seasonal vaccinations, the yearly flu shot is recommended for all travelers to maintain health and minimize disruptions to their plans. Additionally, consider vaccines for:

Meningococcal disease: Especially if you’re visiting areas where outbreaks are common or live in close quarters with others (e.g., hostels).

Human papillomavirus (HPV): Recommended to protect against various cancers and diseases caused by HPV.

Rotavirus: Particularly for young children, as this vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule.

Always consult with a healthcare provider or a travel medicine clinic well in advance of your trip to ensure you receive all necessary vaccinations for safe travels.

Vaccine Administration And Aftercare

Vaccine Administration And Aftercare

Ensuring proper vaccine administration and managing aftercare can significantly enhance the benefits of immunization, such as reducing the risk of hospitalization due to vaccine-preventable diseases.

Read Also: Bali Beyond The Beaches: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of The Island

Preparing For Vaccination

When preparing for vaccination, it is crucial to consult with your pediatrician to understand which vaccines are appropriate for your kid.

Your healthcare provider will recommend the necessary doses, including if a booster shot is needed. For example, the COVID-19 vaccine regimen may consist of more than one dose. Make sure you are aware of:

The vaccination schedule, including the timing between doses.

Possible pre-vaccination requirements: such as an allergy test for severe allergic reactions.

Managing Possible Side Effects

Post-vaccination, it’s common to experience minor side effects such as redness, pain, swelling, and soreness at the injection site. To manage these:

Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area to alleviate discomfort.

Use your arm regularly to improve blood flow and reduce pain.

For side effects that persist or if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face and throat), seek medical attention immediately.

Keep in mind that the benefits of vaccines, like the prevention of serious illness, often outweigh these temporary discomforts.

Conclusion

Your children’s health is paramount. Adhering to recommended vaccinations significantly reduces your risk of contracting travel-associated illnesses.

Stay informed, be proactive with their health, and consult healthcare professionals for appropriate vaccines before embarking on your travels.

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE best hotels in salt lake city

Ski Retreats And City Suites: Salt Lake City’s Hotel Gems

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

Salt Lake City has an incredible amount of amazing things to do. The capital of the Beehive State has plenty to see and do, From Temple Square to its vibrant LGBTQ community, from its rows of top-notch restaurants to its snow that is actually truly flag-bearing. If you are looking for the best hotels in Salt Lake City, this article is it. SLC offers a fantastic array of lodging choices for all types of visitors. It includes boutique hotels, historic inns, five-star resorts, and unusual B&Bs. However, wherever you choose to book, remember that Salt Lake 101 is charming, unique, and reasonably priced. These are our top 11 hotels in Salt Lake City with friendly service, unique décor, and incredibly low rates. Best Hotels In Salt Lake City If you want to make your overall experience wholesome, then lodging at a good hotel is a priority. Here are some of the most amazing hotels that you can check out. It will help you make the most of your trip to Salt Lake City. The Cliff Lodge At Snowbird Who said that lodging for skiers had only to have rustic, mountain-style buildings? With its spectacular Brutalist concrete exterior and modern, bright rooms, the Cliff Lodge defies convention. This contemporary lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access to some of Utah's most challenging and excellent terrain. It is tucked away in Little Cottonwood Canyon, less than 45 minutes from Salt Lake. Winter isn't the only season to visit Snowbird. Miles of hiking and biking trails appear when the snow melts. Additionally, Snowbird hosts Oktoberfest, complete with live music and steins brimming with beer, from mid-August through most of October. Inn On The Hill Bed And Breakfast This Renaissance Revival-style home stands atop Capitol Hill and offers expansive views of the city below. The 1906-built Inn served as both a residence and a law office before converting to a B&B in the late 1990s. Every room has its own décor and is named after a Utah landmark, such as Arches or Sundance. The Carriage House is also available for rent from The Inn on the Hill. It has a cozy two-story cottage with a kitchenette and gas fireplace. It's a perfect place for family vacations or quiet getaways. The Peery Hotel The Peery is a museum and lodging combined, thanks to the building's rich history and the various works of art all throughout the grounds. Operating since 1910, it is a member of the Ascent Collection of independent boutique hotels. The interior features a retro Art Deco feel from the 1920s. The aesthetic is evident in both Carnegie's Public House and the sleek rooms. You can get to Pioneer Park and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art quickly by foot from the Peery, which is in the downtown area. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City The Monaco, another of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, is actually regarded as one of the greatest in Salt Lake and Utah. Its historic bank building and its contemporary, lively rooms add character. Hotel Monaco is ideally in the heart of the city, close to theaters, eateries, and other attractions. In and of itself, the hotel restaurant Bambara is a dining destination. A meal here is a must, with a chef who has been at it for more than 20 years and a dedication to fresh, local cuisine that is evident in the All Local Cheese Board. The Grand America Hotel The flagship property of the Little America Hotel family, The Grand America, knows how to lull guests into relaxation with its signature afternoon tea and tranquil Grand Spa. Step-out balconies are a feature of Suites and Premier Rooms, perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. The Grand, Salt Lake City's only AAA Five-Diamond hotel, combines elegance and family-friendliness with features like cribs and a babysitter concierge service. There are tons of amazing eating options within. But make sure to save room for one or two macaron options from La Bonne Vie's pastel rainbow. Ellerbeck Mansion Bed & Breakfast Ellerbeck is a little piece of Victorian history. It is one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This 1892 mansion, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has marble columns, stained glass windows, and antique wood finishes that evoke a bygone era of opulence. This bed and breakfast in the Avenues neighborhood offers a range of reasonably priced rooms. You also have the option to reserve the entire property if you are traveling in a big group. Oh, and don't forget to enjoy the sumptuous free breakfast served every morning. Little America Hotel From a fitness center with the largest indoor/outdoor pool in the city to a plethora of dining options, this enormous hotel has it all. Little America is part of an old lodging custom that stretches back to the late 1800s. According to legend, a shepherd in Wyoming got lost in a snowstorm and dreamed of a cozy home stocked to the brim with food. A few decades later, he opened the first hotel called Little America after the United States base camp in Antarctica. Salt Lake's Little America, situated on Main Street in the city center, is a perfect starting point for exploring the area. Hansen House Bed & Breakfast There are many historic hotels in Salt Lake City, but this bed and breakfast takes you back in time. Constructed in 1887, the Victorian mansion features a formal dining area, a traditional library, and a sitting area furnished with a grand piano and chandelier. The Hansen House's outdoor areas, which include a charming garden surrounded by 100-year-old trees, a rock garden, and a cozy sitting area, are just as impressive as its interior. Every themed room has a whirlpool tub and a fireplace. Castle Creek Inn Fantasy lovers will simply swoon when they discover that this inn is actually housed inside a castle. Easily one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, the goal of Castle Creek Inn is to combine the rustic atmosphere of a Scottish citadel with contemporary amenities. It offers quick Wi-Fi, movie streaming online, and a late-night snack bar. It's not just about the old-fashioned charm, though. Even though downtown Salt Lake is just fifteen minutes away, taking a soak in the two-person whirlpool tub surrounded by trees and natural rock will make you feel worlds away from the bustle of the city. Make sure the themed room you choose—from Romeo and Juliet to Canterbury—fits the occasion. Anniversary Inn Bed & Breakfast You need look no further if you've ever wanted to spend the night in either an Egyptian tomb or the Oval Office. That's something the Anniversary Inn can arrange. There are about fifty suites spread across its three locations in and around Salt Lake City. Each has a beautifully designed, distinct theme. Everybody can find a suitable motif, From families with children who love pirates to adventurous couples who want to go on safari. Breakfast, sparkling cider, and cheesecake are also complimentary with a stay. If you are staying here for your anniversary, then there are lots of extra amenities available. Like a romance spa package and a candlelit bath scented with rose petals. Silver Fork Lodge The Silver Fork is well-known among the locals for its restaurant. It boasts a 70-year-old sourdough starter that gives pancakes in their best-in-state breakfast dish a serious tang. It also has a smoker that produces some of the best barbecues in the city. Aside from food, the Silver Fork is the best place to stay for travelers who are addicted to log cabins. The sauna is a must-have feature of this historic inn, which is located minutes from skiing and less than an hour from the airport. The Wasatch-Cache National Forest surrounds it. Wrapping Up Here, we enlisted the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This should guide you to choose hip and trendy hotels as well as small boutique hotels. These hotels feel uber luxurious and yet romantic and unique. So much so that you may not want to leave your room. The hotels we have mentioned will also have coffee shops, restaurants, and even museums. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Houston Hospitality: The Top Hotels You Need To Experience Eternal Elegance: A Guide To The Best Hotels In Rome Luxe Living: The Best Hotels In Dallas

READ MORE best time to visit dubai

Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 31, 2023

Dubai is tirelessly inviting visitors to immerse themselves in an exotic landscape of culture, architecture, and luxury. Dubai is an oasis of splendor hidden within the Arabian Desert. With the help of a well-chosen Dubai tour package, you'll be able to embark on an exciting adventure. You can visit some of the city's most breathtaking attractions. Learn about the city where tradition and modernity dance effortlessly together. Dubai leaves no room for the ordinary as it unveils a wide variety of tourist attractions. It ranges from the Burj Khalifa's soaring splendor to the classic charm of the Gold and Spice Souks. The sun-kissed beaches of this desert metropolis, which contrast sharply with the concrete jungles, reveal its lively personality. The Palm Jumeirah and the Mall of Emirates are two examples of man-made wonders in Dubai. It increases the list of destinations in Dubai and provides a varied itinerary for every traveler. The city's famed hospitality guarantees opulent lodging and delectable cuisine. In order to experience this desert paradise, where every moment is planned to exceed your expectations, plan your trip immediately! If you are conflicted about the weather in the “desert” city, here is the best time to visit Dubai. Best Time To Visit Dubai It is a little tricky to answer the question of when is the best time to visit Dubai. Dubai can get extremely hot, with the summer months of July and August being particularly unbearable. It is due to the high temperatures and humidity. Moreover, during May and June, the holy month of Ramadan is observed. Most malls, stores, schools, and universities remain closed during the day, giving the city a deserted look. If you want to know the best time to visit Dubai, you can plan between mid-November and early December. Or you could go in the first half of March when the temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius. It stays high during the day and drops in the evening. It allows you to take a stroll through the city after 5 p.m. Visiting during the peak tourist months of January and February for the Dubai Shopping Festival can be challenging due to the heavy crowds. The Dubai weather is hot throughout but a little caution can help make your trip less uncomfortable and restrained. Therefore, visiting in the recommended months will allow you to experience the city without the hassle of navigating through large crowds and enjoying pleasant temperatures. Places To Visit While In Dubai Once you know when to visit you should in all possibility also be aware of some of the best places you cannot miss. These spots are the highlight of Dubai and have put the city on the world map. They drip raw extravagance and missing out on them while visiting Dubai is going to be a very expensive error. Burj Khalifa Welcome to Dubai, a city where the sky truly is the limit and where wonders abound! The Burj Khalifa, which lies in the center of unparalleled magnificence, is a sight that will undoubtedly leave you speechless. It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Dubai, rising high like a beacon of human achievement. Just picture yourself at the base of this magnificent structure, your gaze traveling up the dazzling borders of the tower to the clouds. But that's only the start! Once inside, the real magic starts to happen. As you soar into the heavens in a matter of seconds, taking an elevator might feel like traveling through time. Palm Jumeirah Travelers, pack your bags for an alluring trip to Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, one of the city's most magnificent attractions. It's a palm-leaf-shaped architectural wonder in the middle of the Arabian Sea that serves as a tribute to human ingenuity and aspiration. Why should you visit right away? Imagine yourself unwinding in a beachfront cottage with a warm breeze caressing your hair. What about rewarding your palate with a selection of culinary treats from top-notch restaurants? Here, every second is a delicious taste of luxury! Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo In the center of Dubai's glittering desert city, where sparkling skyscrapers pierce the sky, an aquatic sanctuary welcomes both curious and brave spirits. Welcome to the fascinating world of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, a world that captivates you and takes you to a place of wonder and exploration. You will be surrounded by a gigantic aquarium brimming with a colorful tapestry of marine life when you enter this aquatic wonderland. Your senses are heightened as you glide down the glass tunnel. Majestic sharks and graceful rays pass overhead, unconcerned with the wonder they elicit. Even seasoned travelers are surprised by this humble encounter. Burj Al Arab Dubai, a metropolis of breathtaking wonders, exposes The Burj Al Arab as a blank canvas for the sumptuous fantasies of the heart. It is a symbol of wealth and splendor, nestled amid the turquoise Persian Gulf and teasing the azure skies. In Dubai, it's more than just a tourist destination; it's a chance to experience magnificence itself. The story of luxury starts when your chauffeur-driven, gold-plated Rolls Royce carries you into its arms. The high tea at the SkyView Bar will lavish you with amazing views of the glittering city. You can inhale the fragrant Arabian coffee and gaze upon the golden furnishings. Dubai Marina In the beating center of the city sits Dubai Marina. It is a man-made wonderland bursting with beautiful skylines and a world of luxury. This enchanted oasis, braided with sparkling fairy lights, is one of the most alluring spots to visit in Dubai. Enjoy the Marina Walk's ethereal radiance as the dying sun playsfully on the glistening structures. The Marina is a haven for wanderers. It expertly combines the excitement of a busy metropolis with the peace of a beach getaway. Enjoy the lingering flavor of various cultures colliding at a crossroads. It will draw you in with the fragrances of international cuisines emanating from the many restaurants. Try visiting in the colder season because that is the best time to visit Dubai Marina. Dubai Frame Dubai Frame is a remarkable architectural and narrative symphony that begs for your attention. It's a huge window that connects the city's dazzling history and present, glistening against the Emirati sky. It's evidence of the fast development that propelled this oasis in the desert to the world stage. You begin your tour on the mezzanine level, where you will find a charming reminder of the past. You'll experience an exhilarating journey through Dubai's rich past. It will leave you with a renewed respect for this city of dreams and a racing heart. Global Village The Global Village, Dubai's stunning cosmopolitan oasis, is located in the center of Dubai’s desert. Here, the sun-kissed dunes of sand create a breathtaking environment. This location creates a vivid tapestry of cultures, heritage, and excitement. It is all tucked away under one starry canvas as if it were taken straight out of a fairy story. Imagine taking a quick trip around the world in a matter of hours, visiting over 75 nations, each elegantly represented by a separate pavilion. Taste the delectable culinary treats of China. Sway to the pulsating rhythms of Africa. Behold the vivid hues of India and immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Europe. Miracle Garden Walk into a magical oasis where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are skillfully blurred. Gorgeous flower displays made of vibrantly colored blooms will defy your wildest imagination. When you witness this spot, you will realize that the best time to visit Dubai is definitely the cooler months. Welcome to the aromatic kaleidoscope known as Dubai Miracle Garden, which is tucked away among the dry desert sands. It is one of the nicest spots in Dubai to visit. It invites you to immerse yourself in its spectacular beauty with its fanciful designs in full flight. Enjoy a kaleidoscope of floral formation of the Airbus A380. Witness the swirl of walkways with umbrellas over them, and the heart-shaped lanes beckoning and whispering. The garden teases the senses by fusing a flourish of natural grandeur with a sense of innocent wonder. There are numerous jewels in Dubai's tourist attractions, but this one makes you genuinely happy. It compels you to take hundreds of photos as souvenirs. Wrapping Up Chart the Burj Khalifa through the clouds, see the Atlantis, and shop til you drop at the gold souk. Dubai is a city of opposites and a kaleidoscope of adventures. Now that you know the best time to visit Dubai- plan your trip right away. As your voyage comes to a conclusion, take a stroll through Bastakia's serene lanes to commemorate your exciting experience. As you explore the city's humble beginnings, leave your mark in the sands of time. Dubai's true essence is found here- among the lovely wind towers and sand-colored homes. You're in for a unique experience when you enter the city of riches. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai Yachting In Dubai – A Memorable Experience A Cultural Adventure: Dhow Cruise Trip In Dubai

READ MORE Ionian Islands

Seven Reasons To Visit The Stunning Greek Ionian Islands

BY  Arnab Jul 25, 2023

Churches, Venetian castles, olive groves, and forests of pine right up to the water's edge set the iconic Ionian islands of Greece apart. Having lived for centuries under Venetian rule, it is aptly reflected in their age-old buildings. Choosing the right operators, like www.ionianislandholidays.com can be a deciding factor in making or breaking your holiday to these stunning Greek islands. The sapphire-blue Ionian Sea welcomes visitors to the breathtaking destinations. There’s so much more to witness, from Kefalonia to Lefkada, Corfu, Zakynthos, Paxos, and Ithaki. They are all wonderful island hot spots that you will adore exploring. So, if you are still not considering moving to Greece, which is easier than you could imagine, you aren’t living life completely. Below are a few reasons that will prove the point! Why visit the Ionian islands? While on land you can explore monasteries, mountain villages, and waterfalls, kites, and windsurfers regard the waters of the Ionian Sea as a prime location to enjoy water sports. If you're planning a trip, keep in mind that with favorable winds, there is no better place for sailing than these beautiful islands of Greece. Some other compelling reasons to visit the Ionian islands are: 1. The celebrated beaches There are countless beaches, big and small, all over the islands of the Ionian Sea that have a charm of their own. The Shipwreck Beach of Zakynthos is a mega crowd puller from all over the world, and so are the pristine sands of Lefkada, Porto Katsiki, Voutoumi, and Engremni. Again, while Antipaxos and Vrika are a one-stop for boat owners, Schinos in Ithaki and Myrtos in Kefalonia are where the elite mingle with each other. Finally, there is the much-photographed Kaladi on Kythera and Paleokastritsa in Corfu which are lapped by blue waters against a backdrop of towering limestone cliffs. 2. Rich culture and history The ancient monasteries, churches, castles, and other buildings lay testimony to the myths and colorful traditions of the Ionian islands. Homer's kingdom of the Phaeacians, Corfu, is home to Old and new Venetian Forts, Achillion Palace, and Mon Repos, all top-class architectural wonders. Then there is the outstanding Asian Art Collection museum inside the Palace of St Michael and St George, the Municipal Gallery, and the Archaeology Museum. Lefkada, too, has some impressive medieval buildings, while the most sturdy attraction of Greece, by far, is the 14th-century castle of Santa Maura. 3. Best for water-based activities Many of the Ionian islands are known for consistent wind conditions which attract water sports lovers, especially beginners as conditions are best for them. This makes the islands a great place to take up a new water-based activity or even some laid-back paddling in the pristine waters When it comes to water sports, the Ionian islands enjoy a reputation of their own. While Lefkada draws ever-increasing hordes of windsurfers, year after year, sailors flock to the beaches of Myli and Vasiliki, ranked by many as the best in the Mediterranean. Adventure junkies also head to the nearby isles of Meganisi, Kastos, and Kalamos, north of Corfu, who then head around the island before sailing south towards Paxos Antipaxos, Ithaki, and Kioni are all other destinations that are loved by sailors in the Ionian Sea. For hikers, there are well-marked trails through the green mountains and the famous 220 km long Corfu trail. 4. Delicious cuisine The Greek cuisine in itself is a good reason to visit the country, especially the food served on the Ionian islands which has a strong Mediterranean diet base which is considered to be key to longevity. Inspired by the history of the Ionian Sea, the delicacies of the Greek islands will surprise you with their wealth of culinary delights. The Ionian islands stand out, not only for their sophisticated dishes like sofrito and Bianco but complemented for their locally produced ginger beer and kumquat liqueur. Diners in Zakynthos and Lefkada are usually regaled by strolling musicians while the locals serve their own delicacy, a nougat treat. Ask for it if you don't get it. The piece de resistance of Kefalonia is the rich meat pie and another one of Zakynthos is salsa, a meat stew accompanied by cheese. An integral element of Greek cuisine is olive oil, which is world-renowned, and used in most dishes. 5. Fantastic year-round weather There are few better holiday spots in the world, than the Ionian islands of Greece, which enjoy near-perfect weather all around the year. There are plenty of beaches if you wish to soak in the sun with your family at any of the famous ones in Greece. Typically, the temperature never drops below 70°F through September or in any case below 50°F during the winter months in any of the top islands you may wish to visit. Moreover, the frequent rainfall has made the vegetation lush green which characterizes the islands. Snow is rare, and summers are cool even on the hottest of days. This means, even in the off-season, conditions are near perfect for hiking, checking out the vibrant scenery, and not forgetting loads of shopping all without being troubled by the teeming hordes of visitors. 6. The hospitable locals Greek hospitality is legendary with its roots deeply embedded in every heart of the locals. The word for hospitality in Greek is philoxenia which literally means "friend to a stranger" and refers to the art of caring for anybody who visits a Greek home. The value of hospitality of the ancient Greeks still lives today in modern Greece. Over the centuries, the generosity of the locals has become a cultural norm and revolves around sharing life with others, like inviting a newcomer to their home for a homemade meal. Ancient Greek's care for strangers was an institution as they considered the act of welcoming someone as a missionary sent by the gods, Hence hospitality enjoys important value, even today, for every Greek citizen and they happily open their doors to foreigners and invite them for a treat in their homes. 7. They produce awesome drinks Greek wines are among the best in the world. Brands like Retsina, Agiorgitiko, and Vidanto are all legendary to wine lovers, with Assyrtiko from the island of Santorini being one of the most popular of all Greek wines. It is the diverse landscape that explains the presence of distinct characteristics in these wines, especially the red variety from the volcanic island of Santorini, the most wine-producing state in the country. Another good variety of white wine by the name of Robola is associated with the island of Kefalonia where some of the best brands can be found. Ouzo is another famous Greek drink that is worth a try. This is a heady licorice-flavored drink served with a glass of water before meals and best enjoyed with eating mezedes by the seaside on any of the islands. Do not forget to say Yamas, the Greek equivalent of "cheers" before you begin to drink. Read Also: Aeolian Village Beach Resort: The Ultimate Destination For Relaxing Holidays 4 Fun Destinations For All-Inclusive Holidays Acropolis Of Athens Tickets