Alesandra Dubin reflects on her experiences as a new parent and shares her regret over not starting air travel with her twins earlier. Initially overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting two newborns, she and her husband postponed flying until their children were two years old. However, in hindsight, Dubin realizes that traveling with infants could have been more manageable and financially advantageous. This essay explores the benefits of early travel, both in terms of cost savings and creating lasting family memories.

In the early days of parenthood, every moment can feel like an overwhelming challenge. For Alesandra Dubin and her spouse, the arrival of twin babies in 2014 brought about a whirlwind of responsibilities. The couple had always enjoyed exploring the world together, but suddenly, even a trip to the local market seemed like a monumental task. Consequently, they chose to avoid air travel during the first two years of their children's lives, a period when infant tickets would have been free. Instead, they opted for simpler outings, such as visiting nearby parks to watch planes land at LAX.

Dubin acknowledges that while those initial months were indeed difficult, they might have been the perfect time to embark on long flights. Infants, unable to crawl or walk, are naturally more self-contained and less demanding than toddlers. Yet, at the time, the prospect of navigating airports, managing gear, and ensuring the well-being of their babies felt insurmountable. It wasn't until much later that Dubin realized how much easier it could have been—and how much they could have saved by not purchasing separate seats for their young children.

Now, a decade later, Dubin's children are seasoned travelers who have experienced the wonders of global exploration. They have fully stamped passports and can navigate customs counters and foreign subway maps with ease. Reflecting on this transformation, Dubin feels a mix of pride and nostalgia. She sees how quickly childhood passes and wishes she had embraced the opportunity to travel more extensively when her children were infants. Not only would they have saved money, but they also could have enjoyed adult-oriented activities without the need for constant child-focused entertainment.

While Dubin admits that her current perspective may be somewhat idealized, she believes that the rewards of travel far outweigh the inconveniences. She encourages other parents to consider starting their family adventures earlier, seizing every chance to explore the world together. For her, the joy and enrichment that come from travel make it worth pushing through any challenges. In the end, Dubin's message is clear: don't let the fear of difficulty prevent you from creating unforgettable memories with your children.