Kids to Stay

I cannot believe the guilt trip some posters are willing to throw at OP.

Yes, children are precious and grow up too fast. But, thant does not mean that the parents have no right to a breather. You'll say that six months is not really a "breather", no, it's not, it's time off for an adult to do thing suitable for adults. Then there will be time to do things suitable for the entire family.

And, to twist a bit what #17 said, the youngest will be three, you'll be away for six, months, 1/6 of his life up to that point. Then, you'll be with your child for the next 14-15 years....yeah' there's time to grow together.

I agree with many of the other responses. Travel is even better in some ways with children. We have been on backpacking trips to South America and Southeast Asia with our children. We loved it and they loved it. It was such valuable family time. You just travel at a different pace than you would without them. They force you to slow down a bit and really experience a new culture. They really helped us to connect with local people too and we were often invited into their homes.
We sign on for such a short time (although it may seem like forever sometimes!) when we become parents. We do need to take every opportunity to share experiences with them. Travelling to Africa WITH your children should be a great reward for. A three month budget travel trip with them might be a good compromise. Then after a couple of years with a lawyer's salary, you can plan another 3 month trip with them.
We are just planning to head to Kenya and Southern Africa with our 9 & 11 year old for three months. I'll let you know how it was when we get back!

OP - Well, in most parts of Asia (at least in South East Asia) double = a big queen / king size bed. Twin would be 2 separate single / half-queen bed. Also, it's not a strange concept for folks to be squeezing the whole family of 5 or 6 into one room. The only snag is that the room normally comes with breakfast and in most cases, you'll get only 2 breakfast vouchers. Not a big deal.

I think the ultimate decision on making the grand trip on your own or with kids is entirely up to you. As long as you feel comfortable with the idea. Kiddoes are lucky to have an adoring Grandmum with a swimming pool. ;)