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Multi-generational Travel
5/4/2009 11:51:40 AM
Traveling with family members means taking steps to keep everyone happy. When your family covers multiple generations, that task can be even more challenging.
Traveling with family members means taking steps to keep
everyone happy. When your family covers multiple generations, that task can be
even more challenging.
Grandpa wants to get up at 5 a.m. The kids want to stay up late into the night. You want to keep peace
in the family and have everyone enjoy the vacation. It can be tough to juggle
the interests and habits of different age groups.
A successful multi-generational vacation starts with
planning. Think about each family member who will be traveling with you. Do
your parents like to eat an early dinner, but you normally don’t eat until 8 p.m.? Does your spouse love to spend
all day in a museum, but the kids prefer to splash at the water park?
If you force everyone to participate in every activity, then
no one is likely to have a good time. If you see that you have distinct
differences in the group, it may be best to create smaller groups. Those who
like fun in the sun can have their schedule while the museum and shopping group
can enjoy those activities at their pace.
But keep in mind that this is still a family vacation - having small groups who go their own way all the time isn’t the best answer. Balance out the vacation by planning a few times when the entire group
gets together, such as sharing the evening meal at the earlier time. Then allow
the early birds to go to bed while the night owls head out dancing.
Vacation Planning Staff
Trip Tips
