New mom Joanne McNamara takes her family of three to Adelaide
We were considering a trip and weren't sure where to go with a 'bub' in tow. Deciding that we needed a relaxing trip away, my partner Ben, baby Jay and I chose to head to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, for a holiday. The idea was that we could spend time with family during Jay's early months and also enjoy the summer and early autumn season, which runs from December through April in Australia.

Given the temperate climate, one of the nicest things about this trip was staying in the center of town and exploring the parklands surrounding the city. There are creeks, paths and colorful birds of all kinds to see (including magpies, a state emblem) not to mention the Botanic Gardens and the Himeji Japanese Gardens to explore with little Jay in his stroller. We packed picnic lunches of yummy brie, baguettes and antipasto that we bought at the famous Central Markets (on Gouger Street), some sparkling Pinot Noir (Australians can't call it champagne but it is so cheap in comparison to Shanghai!) and lay on rugs soaking up the sunshine. This was a great way to catch up on rest but also, at times, with family and friends. In the future, we'll remember to take a soccer ball along for the kids (like our nephews and niece, who came along) to play with and make time to stop at one of the many playgrounds allowing kids to burn off energy.

Often, there are nearby events taking place such as the "Tour Down Under" cycling event and also the Adelaide Fringe Festival-second only to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival-which we could not help but be swept up in. Anyone who has children would love the energy and excitement of public events such as these.

One day we took a tram from the city's central square to the beach. It runs on a direct-line to Adelaide's beautiful coast where there are miles and miles of safe, protected swimming beaches. The water was crystal clear and blue and while we didn't swim we paddled up to our knees in the cool water and reflected on how far from the crowded streets of Shanghai we were. Good thing we took our hats and sunscreen as it was 38C that day. This can often be the case in February!

Another important place to mention is the Cleland Conservation Park in the hills just a 20-minute drive from the city. We took our niece and nephews and Jay there to feed kangaroos and hold a koala.

In addition to beaches and parks, there are many outdoor cafes and restaurants in Adelaide. Streets such as Rundle Street and King William Street have plenty of multicultural eateries to choose from. The most baby friendly area, we found, was Chinatown near the markets off Gouger Street. During Chinese New Year we headed there for a feast and felt right at home with the Cantonese community as they held lion dances and martial arts displays in the street.

It truly was the best way for Ben and I to ease into parenthood before taking bigger, busier trips abroad as a family. I definitely recommend coming to the Land of Oz if anyone is planning a family holiday with a newborn.

Joanne McNamara and baby Jay can't wait until their next family vacation