A multi-generation holiday allows grandparents, parents and children to spend some quality time together – here’s how to go about planning yours.
Having grandchildren is one of the greatest pleasures of growing older, and spending time with them can be some of the happiest and most uplifting of times. Travel is also a highlight, with more time than ever before to explore the world and tick off countless destinations and experiences from the wish-list.
Because of this, it’s no surprise that multi-generational holidays are on the rise, as are skip-gen holidays, (or gramping), just for children and their grandchildren without the parents.
However, finding the perfect destination and itinerary for a multi-generation holiday can be challenging, taking into consideration grown-ups in need of relaxation and comfort, whilst lively, energetic and youngsters are in search of some fun.
Whether you’re in a beachside villa or on board an action-packed cruise, a family holiday is guaranteed to put a smile on all your faces, not to mention a great way of sharing precious quality time together and creating wonderful memories.
Why choose a multi-gen holiday
There are an estimated 14 million grandparents living in the UK, and research by Age UK has shown that 40 per cent of these grandparents provide regular care for their grandchildren, creating a special bond between them.
In fact, research from Good Housekeeping magazine has shown that 71 per cent of grandparents felt happier after spending time with their grandchildren, a feeling that many of us will want to fully enjoy as much as possible.
In collaboration with Populous Research, Saga found that four out of five grandparents reported holidaying with their grandchildren kept them more active, giving themselves a boost of energy and making them feel more alive.
It makes sense, then, that grandparents and their grandchildren should enjoy their holidays together, be it to sunny beachside resorts, a countryside villa or on a luxury cruise ship, which offers activities and dining for all ages.
Where should you go?
According to the figures, hitting a sun-soaked beach holiday is a good way to enjoy a multi-generation holiday at 22 per cent, with a spacious villa holiday also considered a great option – favoured by 57 per cent of people.
For those families who are more adventurous, and perhaps brave, a city break is another fantastic way to spend a multi-generation holiday. Combine a cultural and foodie trip to Paris with a delightful dabble in Disneyland, or explore the futuristic megastructures, super shopping malls with man-made ski slopes and long sprawling beaches of Dubai.
Due to the freedom and flexibility they give, a villa or self-catering accommodation in the UK or overseas, is a super choice when booking a multi-gen vacation.
Silver Travel Advisor partners offer spacious properties to rent across the globe, from Tuscan properties nestled in vineyards to Balkan or Greek island homes ideal for families and those who love outdoor activities.
A cruise is also a great way to spend a multi-generation holiday, sailing to the Caribbean and Med on Princess Cruises, or exploring the wilds of Alaska on Holland America Line.
As the holiday for everyone, cruise ships offer luxurious surroundings, exciting excursions, countless restaurants and a world of entertainment, and bars plus kids’ clubs and creches for much-needed adult nights. While offering everything you need on board, cruises also sail to some of the most exciting ports in the world, guaranteed to make all the family happy. There’s further information at World of Cruising, so you can find the right ship for your family.
In case you need further persuasion, an impressive 74 per cent of multi-generational travellers said they’d do it all over again, with only seven percent saying not again, thank you. For those looking to spend more time with their family, it’s really a no brainer.
Multi-generation holiday tips
- Go abroad – more exciting for everyone, especially the children.
- Meal-time flexibility – don’t commit to eating together every single night.
- Go all inclusive – saves any potential awkwardness about bill splitting.
- Agree to book your own accommodation close together, but not too close. On a cruise, this could be at the other end of the ship.
- Discuss activities at the planning stage.
- Spend quality time together – after all, that’s why you’re there.
This article has been written by our partners at World of Cruising Magazine. Click here to read about our special subscription offer.
