When my children were little (4, 7 and 9 respectively), I decided to take them on a week-long trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. I also took along my mom and my step-father.
This intergenerational trip was a ton of fun: My parents really enjoyed watching the kids' reactions to the Disney characters they would meet along the way and in the parade, while the kids enjoyed sharing the vacation with their grandparents, who also seemed to find their inner child again.
You might not think that Disney World, or any theme park, is the perfect intergenerational vacation spot, but for us it was. There were rides that all of us could enjoy and shows we all saw together.
"For intergenerational travel, you need to select a destination that everyone can enjoy," said Stacey Hartmann, owner of Enjoy Vacationing in Waunakee, Wisconsin. "I think the best destinations are those that are on a beach or with a great pool and near a moderately-sized city for meals and activities."
Hartmann said her favorite intergenerational trips are cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts: "I have a three-generation family traveling to Turks & Caicos over the holidays this year, which is another great way to get everyone together and avoid more stuff while gaining more experiences."
No matter what destination you pick, you don't have to spend every minute together.
"It is completely appropriate to spend the day apart and then come together in the evening for family time and to talk about the day's events," said Katie Berry, travel agent with MickeyTravels, "Cruises are a great way to do this since there truly is something for everyone, onboard and in port."
According to the most recent 2018 Virtuoso Luxe Report, the most popular family (and intergenerational) destinations are Italy, Mexico, Orlando, Hawaii and Costa Rica.
"Costa Rica has become an extremely popular destination, and it's not hard to see why," said Robert Wells of Evaneos. "A country that offers enormous variety in all respects is bound to attract a broad audience. Experience everything from jaw-dropping landscapes and natural beauty to luxury beaches or city life in San Jose.
"Children and younger travelers could explore the jungle in a canopy tour of the Cloud Forest, learning about the local animals and wildlife. Families can take a snorkeling trip in Manuel Antonio or explore the Arenal Volcano National Park together. Bird-Watching one day, action-packed adventuring the next. In Costa Rica, the only limit is your imagination."
Wells also recommends Sri Lanka for your intergenerational escape:
"Sri Lanka is not only vast and extremely good value but it has endless possibilities for your intergenerational trip. Stay with a local family to immerse yourselves in Sri Lankan culture or experience wildlife like never before; surf, hike, trek, cycle or explore. If you feel like you need a break after all that, take a yoga class in one of Sri Lanka's leading wellness retreats or participate in a meditation session with a Buddhist monk."
Finally, he said that Morocco's warm climate and rich history also make it a great place to visit for all ages and interests: "Discover Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains and the Desert at your own pace. You'll be able to experience anything from camel or horse riding to relaxing in the palm groves with some delicious local Moroccan cuisine. Morocco will enchant any traveler and its constant, yet natural buzz is sure to keep you entertained."
According to the 2018 Virtuoso Luxe Report, whether renting a European villa for a celebration with loved ones, cruising to the Galapagos Islands, or snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, a family trip creates lifelong memories, strengthens bonds and plays a pivotal role in childhood education.
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