Without a doubt, multigenerational travel is one of the hottest trends going. Multigenerational vacations bring the entire family together to enjoy exciting adventures and to make memories that last a lifetime.
Thirty-six percent of vacation bookings are multigenerational, according to travel association figures. The 55 and older generation worked hard, invested well and many of them are already enjoying retirement.
Yet, 54 percent of grandparents say they wish they had more time to spend with their grandchildren. And now, they have found the way; grandparents are taking the lead and booking trips for their whole family.
Tricia Scott, agent at Visit Mickey Vacations, reports an increase in multigenerational travel in the past few years. Travel to Disney offers plenty of trips for all ages that have nothing to do with parks or with Mickey Mouse.
Scott answers a few questions about multigenerational trips.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TRIPS?
It’s a destination that can fit everyone’s pace. Nobody wants to feel left behind or the one holding everyone else back. Babies and grandparents may want a slower pace. Teens tend to be in a hurry.
So, what are the best options?
TRY A CRUISE
Disney Cruise Line ships have activities and areas specifically designed for the entire family. They also have several adults-only areas, including spas and nightclubs.
Kids, too, have their areas which are conveniently divided by age groups.
Disney Cruise Line ships stop at a private island, Castaway Cay, on trips to the Bahamas or to the Caribbean. Other trips include cruises to ports in Alaska, Europe, Mexico, California and the Canadian coasts.
Royal Caribbean, which is not affiliated with Disney, is another cruise line that does a great job with families. If you like to gamble, that might be a choice because Disney ships do not have onboard casinos.
ALOHA
Aulani is Disney’s Resort and Spa in
Hawaii, about a 35-minute drive from
Honolulu airport. This lovely resort,
which has activities for all ages, al-
lows families to do as much, or as lit-
tle, as they choose.
At Aunty’s Beach House, kids ages 3-12 can learn to Hula, snorkel in a pool and enjoy fireside storytelling. Many activities are included in the initial cost, but an excursion specialist can suggest extra adventures, depending on family interest.
With both Disney cruises and the Aulani resort, families can spend all their time together or split into small groups and then get together for meals and special events.
TRAVEL THE WORLD
With Adventures by Disney, families are adventurers, not tourists. Its travel packages provide immersive activities such as making pasta in Italy, taking painting lessons at Monet’s home in France and making pretzels in Germany.
It offers more than 30 adventures in 23 countries. From the beauty of the Austrian Alps to wine tasting in the warmth of Tuscany, to ancient ruins in Athens, this is family-friendly world travel adventure.
WANT TO STAY CLOSER TO HOME?
The company has more than nine awe-inspiring trips throughout North America. Check out a Broadway show or gaze at the majesty of a glacier in Alberta, Canada. See the true Wyoming Wild West or wind your way through the untamed wilderness of Alaska. All of these adventures have terrific things to do and places to see; each is professionally crafted to give lifetime memories.
Traveling with a large multi-age group can be challenging. Accommodating a variety of interests, ages and physical abilities can be stressful. Consider reaching out to a travel professional to find the right fit for your family. Let them do all the work so you can have all the fun.
