Vacation was not a holiday

I'm currently lying on an uncomfortable bed next to my two and half year old (32ish months) on day 5 of a 6 day holiday abroad.

I am exhausted.

She unfortunately got a bit of a flu/cold shortly before our travel so I don't think that has helped at all.

Between the super early starts, wanting to be in the pool all day, refusing the food, refusing the sun cream, refusing to shower when there is no bath, I am so exhausted.

I have loved moments... the hugging my face and saying I love you mummy, or just seeing her confidence in the water for the first time, but my God, this was not a holiday for me..

I knew it wouldn't be.
But I think I underestimated how much I rely on all her toys and books and home to distract her when she is tantruming and moaning. Or how much even a few hours rest in my own comfy bed recovers me to be able to cope with another day.

I've now decided no more foreign holidays till at least 5 years old.

Single parents who have really enjoyed foreign trips....what's your secret?