I covered the best trips for solo travellers a couple weeks ago, so now that you’re relaxed or have a de-stressing trip to look forward to, let’s discuss the best trips to take the whole family on. Multigenerational trips have become increasingly popular over the last several years. An informal poll of Largay Travel advisors yielded some great responses on the best multigen adventures for your family. I’ve expanded on a few of these below.
Multigenerational Trips
When gathering the family together, some families opt for the tried and true Florida condo, or the annual vacation to grandma’s. Some families spice it up a bit by taking everyone on big multigenerational trips, usually reserved for milestones. Most do a combination of both, with annual trips replaced by big ones in the milestone years.
Whether you’re celebrating a big birthday, a big anniversary, or simply being an awesome family, here are some ideas for your next multigen adventure.
Italy
Italy is great for everyone. There are so many different experiences one can have in this fascinating country. The history in major cities such as Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice is great for grandparents and students alike. Young adults will appreciate the romance and nightlife. There are perfect spots for coming together as a family in a villa. Rentals are typically weekly, and there are amazing countryside options in Tuscany and Umbria or the lake region in the north. Along the way, a great option to stop in medieval towns for a guided tour. From Puglia to Liguria, there are plenty to see. Sicily and the Aeolian Islands could make a trip unto themselves.
Been to Italy already? Head for Puglia, one of 2019’s best regions, to see the famed Sassi caves and the gorgeous grottoes of the southern coastline.
Travel advisor tip: While Sicily could be its own trip, combine it with Malta for a unique travel back in time – only one hour by ferry. Bonus tip: Include time in Tunisia.
Costa Rica
It’s close and fairly easy to reach. There’s good service into two airports, one near the beach and one closer to the rainforest, Arenal volcano, and the accompanying hot springs. There are fabulous treetop lodges full of activity — horseback riding, waterfall hikes, birdwatching — and spa treatments — coffee exfoliation, mango coconut wraps — in equal force. The Pacific coast has the great beaches of the Papagayo Peninsula, and there’s river rafting throughout, sometimes even right up to your lodge.
Travel advisor tip: Combine a land excursion with Lindblad Expeditions Costa Rica and Panama cruise. Lindblad offers some wonderful multigenerational trips, and this is one of the perennial favourites.
Australia/New Zealand
It’s quite possible most of your family will only go to this part of the world once. You might as well all go together. Marvel at the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, tour the Sydney Opera House behind the scenes, and see unique wildlife in Australia. Golf your way through New Zealand, take time to cruise Milford Sound, and trek Middle-Earth in between courses. After all that, somebody is definitely making a return trip.
Travel advisor tip: You need at LEAST two weeks for each destination – not two weeks for both. Don’t rush it if you don’t have the time – pick one or the other for your multigenerational trip – the family will thank you.
A Cruise
The ship itself has shows, plenty of dining options, activities for kids, even babysitting in some cases. Ergo, it’s the perfect multigenerational trip. The places the ship takes you are breathtaking, especially wildlife destinations such as Alaska and the Galapagos. You’ll see incredible animals in their natural environments along with gorgeous scenery. A Mediterranean cruise or select family-oriented European river cruises take you in the heart of cities rich in culture. Your travel advisor will help you find the cruise line that fits your family best.
Travel advisor tip: Always look to see how you can combine bucket list destinations into one exciting itinerary. A cruise that hits the Central European highlights can be easily combined with Paris or London on the way home.
Safari So Good
A safari is a wonderful experience at any age, and something every traveller should experience at least once. Game drives make for a perfect all-inclusive day out, since everybody loves observing wildlife in action. Africa has so many beautiful natural wonders, from Victoria Falls to Ngorongoro Crater to the Okavango Delta. Those lucky enough to spot all of the Big Five will never forget it. Even if you don’t see them all, you’ll have invaluable memories with your family. By the time your grandkids tell their grandkids about it, the story will be embellished enough that you did see all five.
Travel advisor tip: A safari makes a great multigenerational trip, but the kids need to be the right ages. Talk with your travel advisor to map out the best time to take the family to Africa.
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Paper, Ink, & Passports Travel is a full-service travel consulting and design company. We craft custom itineraries for destinations around the world. An Aussie Specialist, New Zealand Gold Specialist, Ireland Specialist, and Scotland Expert. Contact me now to start planning your romantic getaway in New Zealand!
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