TravelHer: Shivani Malik Explored The Benagil Caves In Portugal

Travelling helps me bond with my family. I am a working mother, so when I travel, we are together 24 by 7 and this is the most precious time we get to spend with each other. It is a total learning experience and therapeutic as well. It helps me take away all the stress from my life, as I am constantly trying to balance work and kids.

Travelling has become an essential part of my life. My kids have also become used to it. It is also therapy for me. People these days don't shy away from going to unexplored places. Even going on cruises is a trend which is catching up.

Where did I go?

We visited Benagil cave in Portugal or Algar de Benagil, its Portuguese name. The inside of this cave is just spectacular, with sunlight streaming through the roof and the golden sand and beautiful azure waters underneath. This part of the world has a lot of rock formations along the coast.

How did I reach there?

We took a private boat from Algarve to get to the caves.

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My experience

The two-hour experience was one of the most astonishing experiences of my life. Each cave opened to a totally unprecedented view, like a small beach. The breathtaking view amidst crystal clear water underneath the boat and the open sky above was a very relaxing experience. We also spotted a few dolphins just a few meters away from our boat.

People these days don't shy away from going to unexplored places. Even going on cruises is a trend catching up these days

The Portuguese Riviera is not much talked about, but the natural beauty that these caves have to offer is certainly worth a visit.

My kids' reaction to the caves

My kids are very water friendly. The boat ride, spotting the dolphins, building sandcastles at the beach got them very excited.

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Some lessons I learned from the trip.

Sometimes travelling with kids makes you apprehensive about visiting unexplored places, however its always a good idea to open up to the idea, and take the plunge, as it gives a lot more exposure to the parents and children.

The Portuguese Riviera is not much talked about, but the natural beauty that these caves have to offer is certainly worth a visit.

Few things to keep in mind while traveling with kids.

Always carry water and some packed foods. An extra pair of clothing and wet wipes makes your travel convenient. Make sure the kids have enough free time to play around. Do not plan a completely packed itinerary.

Responsible Travelling

I don't use plastic bags while travelling.  I carry a bag and put everything I buy in it. I don't encourage plastic.

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Shivani Malik is the Founder of DaMilano. The views expressed are the author's own.