برچسب: Family

BORACAY with Seniors and Kids: Top 8 Family Travel Tips
The team just wrapped up another Boracay trip, and this time, we brought the whole family — aunts, uncles, cousins, and even senior citizens! It is easily one of the most family- and senior-friendly destinations in the Philippines. While it is a small island, it has relatively good infrastructure and plenty of transportation options. Most attractions are easily accessible, requiring minimal physical effort compared to other islands where trekking or swimming is often necessary.

It’s no surprise why Boracay remains a top choice for family getaways. But that doesn’t mean everything will go smoothly without preparation. If you’re planning a trip with seniors or kids, keep reading! We’re sharing tips to make your Boracay family vacation stress-free.

WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

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1. Check in online for your flight.

Checking in online before heading to the airport is a huge time-saver and makes the whole process more convenient. Most airlines have dedicated counters for online check-in passengers, and these lines are usually shorter since many travelers still don’t use this feature. Less time standing in line also means less strain on your companions, especially seniors or those with knee problems.

However, seat selection matters. If you didn’t pay to reserve seats when booking, the airline will randomly assign them. If you want to sit together, it’s best to either pay for seat selection in advance or arrive early and ask the airline staff if they can arrange seats next to each other. They often accommodate requests if there are still available seats. Otherwise, there’s not much they can do. If you’re traveling with someone who needs assistance or it’s their first time flying, paying extra for seat selection can be worth it for peace of mind.

2. Avail of priority boarding.

Senior citizens and small kids get priority boarding, so they don’t have to wait long at the gate. When the airline announces priority boarding, head straight to the gate. They are allowed companions, but the number depends on the airline — usually just one per senior or child.

Don’t feel pressured when others rush to line up even before their assigned boarding zone is called. Just walk to the front confidently because passengers with seniors or kids always board first.

3. Collect the senior/student IDs.

After boarding, gather your companions’ senior citizen and student IDs, so you can handle the island transfer smoothly. When you arrive at Caticlan Airport, exit the terminal and head to the tricycle station. Each tricycle can only accommodate two people, and the fare per ride is P75.

Whether you’re going to Caticlan Jetty Port or Tabon Port, let your companions sit and rest first while you line up for the group. You have to present the following:
- Tourist Arrival Form. This is not a requirement per person, you only need one arrival form for the entire group.
- Hotel Booking. While no longer mandatory when traveling to Boracay, confirmed booking at an accredited hotel or resort is highly recommended, as staff at Caticlan Port may occasionally check and ask to see it. You can check out the list of accredited accommodations in Boracay here: LIST OF ACCREDITED BORACAY RESORTS AND HOTELS!
- Valid ID. These are typically government-issued IDs. It’s best to present school ID for students, senior citizen ID for seniors, and passport for foreign visitors.
Providing the school and senior citizen IDs is essential to avail of student and senior discounts. This can lead to big savings, especially when traveling with multiple seniors or children, as there are three fees to pay.

First is the terminal fee. The jump-off port to Boracay depends on the season. It could be Caticlan Jetty Port or Tabon Port. Next is the environmental fee, which has discounted rates for seniors and students, as well as a different rate for foreign tourists. Last is the boat fee. If you’re traveling with kids five (5) years old and below, they are exempted from fees. Just present a birth certificate if they don’t have an ID yet.
Terminal Fee (Caticlan Jetty Port): Regular, P150; Seniors/PWD/Student, P120; Kids (5 y/o and below), FREE

Terminal Fee (Tabon Port): Regular, P100; Seniors/PWD/Student, P80; Kids (5 y/o and below), FREE

Environmental Fee: Domestic Regular, P150; Domestic Seniors/PWD/Student, P120; Foreigners, P300; Kids (5 y/o and below), FREE

Boat Fee: Regular, P50; Seniors/PWD/Student, P40; Kids (5 y/o and below), FREE
4. Assist them when getting on and off the boat.

The boarding process may vary depending on your port of departure and the type of boat you’ll be using. Typically, you’ll walk along a narrow gangplank or gangway to reach the boat. There’s a handrail for support, but it can still be tricky, especially if you’re carrying luggage. It may also sway slightly with the waves, so be sure to assist companions with mobility issues. We’ve even seen wheelchair users board with the help of the staff.

We also experienced boarding via a floating jetty when we availed of a resort’s transfer service. It was even more challenging for seniors and those with mobility concerns since the surface moves with every step. However, we’re not sure when exactly these floating jetties are used.

5. Consider multi-cab if you’re a big group.

When you arrive on the island, your next step is getting to your hotel. From the port, the usual option is an e-trike. It’s affordable, costing P15 – P50 per person for a regular trip where you share the ride with others, or P100 – P400 per trike for a chartered trip. The exact fare depends on the distance.

But if you’re with a big group, consider riding a multi-cab. A chartered ride to Station 2 costs P250 and can fit up to 10 people, making it a budget-friendly option at just P25 per person.

You can also charter a multi-cab for an island tour. E-trike land tours usually cost P500 per hour (good for 4 people), while we were charged P700 per hour for a multi-cab (good for 10 pax). We’re not sure if this is the standard rate since we haven’t heard back from official sources, but it was much cheaper than hiring multiple e-trikes or a van for a big group.
LAND TOUR RATES

E-trike: P500/hour 
Good for 4 pax (P125/hr/pax)

Multi-cab: P700/hour 
Good for 10 pax (P70/hr/pax)

If you’re interested in chartering a multi-cab for your trip, you can contact Kuya Bong, the drive we hired on our previous trip.

MULTICAB TRANSFER/TOUR

Kuya Bong
+63 939 823 8198
6. Check hotel location and amenities.

When booking a hotel for a trip with seniors or those with mobility issues, be sure to check its location. While Boracay is small, it is not flat. Some areas are uphill or farther inland. You don’t need to stay at a beachfront hotel. If you are traveling with seniors and people with mobility issues, we recommend booking near the main road for easier access to transportation. Staying close to the main road allows you to hail an e-trike easily, so you can get from Point A to Point B without long walks. This is much more convenient for seniors than walking on sand.

Aside from location, check the hotel’s amenities, especially if it’s a multi-story building. Make sure they have an elevator so elders won’t have to climb up and down the stairs.

7. Pick group-friendly accommodations.

What do we mean by group-friendly? It means the hotel offers rooms for groups and has special group rates. This helps you save more compared to booking multiple standard hotel rooms. Most hotel rooms are for two people, and you’ll have to pay extra for additional guests. So, look for accommodations designed for groups, even if it’s just for four people.

On our recent Boracay trip, we stayed at Azalea Boracay, where a two-bedroom suite for six people cost P6,900 — that’s just P1,150 per person. Plus, it’s a full-service hotel with free breakfast.

8. Bring senior ID when eating out.

Of course, Boracay’s food scene is one of the highlights of any trip to the island! If you’re dining out with senior citizens, don’t forget to bring their Senior ID to avail of discounts. Just present it before getting the bill to enjoy the savings.

✅ If you want to check out some of the best restaurants we tried in Boracay, you can get more details here: 25 Restaurants and Food Spots We Tried in Boracay

✅ If you are looking for budget-friendly meals and grubs on the island, you can visit this article for suggestions: 10 Affordable Restaurants in Boracay

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2025 4 24 – First uploaded
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24/04/2025
Exploring Cappadocia with Kids: A Family Adventure

Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most magical destinations, and it’s not just for adults. With its fairy-tale landscapes, underground cities, and hot air balloons, Cappadocia is a dream destination for families traveling with children. If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore the region, Uçhisar is an excellent choice.

This charming village offers stunning panoramic views, easy access to major attractions, and a quieter atmosphere compared to busier towns like Göreme. Here’s how you can make the most of your Cappadocia adventure with kids while using Uçhisar as your home base.

Why Stay in Uçhisar?

Uçhisar is the highest point in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking views of the valleys and fairy chimneys. It’s less crowded than Göreme but still close to all the major attractions. The town itself is home to Uçhisar Castle, an ancient rock fortress that kids will love exploring. Many of the hotels in Uçhisar are built into the rock formations, providing a unique experience that will delight children and adults alike.

We stayed at the Peristyles cave Hotel in Cappadocia, which has a great terrace from which to take the pictures of the balloons you see below. The breakfast is also fantastic!

Start the Day with Hot Air Balloons

One of the most iconic experiences in Cappadocia is watching the hot air balloons rise over the valleys at sunrise. While young children may not be able to go on a balloon ride (most companies have a minimum age requirement), watching them from the terraces of Uçhisar is just as magical. Many hotels in town offer early morning breakfast with spectacular balloon views, making for a memorable start to the day. This is what we did!

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Just a short drive from Uçhisar, the Göreme Open-Air Museum is a must-visit for families. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a collection of ancient rock-cut churches adorned with well-preserved frescoes. Kids will love exploring the caves and learning about the history of early Christian settlements in the region. The site is relatively easy to navigate with children, though a stroller may not be ideal due to uneven terrain.

Horseback Riding in Cappadocia

We had always dreamed of exploring Cappadocia, but experiencing it on horseback with our kids made it even more magical. There are many horseback riding companies in the area, but very few of them allow kids under 12 to join them. One of the few that do is Moonlight Horse Ranch, a super friendly operator which made for great memories.

From the moment we saddled up, the landscape opened up in a way we could have never imagined—fairy chimneys, hidden valleys, and wide-open trails stretched as far as the eye could see. Our guide was incredibly friendly and made sure the horses were gentle and suited to each of our experience levels, especially for the kids. It felt like we had stepped into a storybook world, trotting past ancient rock formations and cave dwellings while the kids giggled and pointed out every new discovery.

What made the tour truly special was how family-friendly it was. The pace was relaxed, allowing us to enjoy the scenery and chat with each other along the way. We paused midway through to take in the view over a quiet valley, where the kids got off their horses and ran around for a bit while we took photos. It was one of those rare travel experiences where everyone, regardless of age, felt connected—to the place, to the moment, and to each other.

Adventure in Love Valley and Pigeon Valley

For families who enjoy the outdoors, a hike through Love Valley or Pigeon Valley is a great way to experience Cappadocia’s natural beauty. Pigeon Valley, in particular, is accessible from Uçhisar and offers easy trails that kids can manage, though watch out for heat during the summer days.

Along the way, you’ll see ancient pigeon houses carved into the rocks and stunning rock formations. If hiking isn’t an option, horseback riding tours are available and offer a fun alternative for exploring the valleys.

Admission is free, by the way.

Discover the Underground Cities

Older kids with a sense of adventure will love exploring Cappadocia’s underground cities. Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı are two of the largest and most famous. These subterranean cities, once used by early Christians as hiding places, feature narrow tunnels, living quarters, and ventilation shafts.

While some parts may be a bit claustrophobic, they offer an exciting and educational experience for families interested in history.

Pottery Making in Avanos

A short drive from Uçhisar, the town of Avanos is famous for its pottery tradition, dating back thousands of years. Many local workshops offer hands-on experiences where kids can try their hand at making their own clay creations. This interactive activity is both fun and educational, allowing children to connect with Cappadocia’s artistic heritage.

Evening Relaxation in Uçhisar

After a day of exploring, Uçhisar provides a peaceful retreat where families can relax and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine. Many restaurants in the town offer family-friendly menus with delicious local dishes such as pottery kebabs and lentil soup. The cool evening breeze and stunning sunset views over Cappadocia’s valleys make for the perfect ending to an adventurous day.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Cappadocia with kids is an unforgettable experience, and Uçhisar is the perfect base for a family-friendly adventure. Whether watching hot air balloons, hiking through valleys, or creating pottery, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained and engaged. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Cappadocia promises an enchanting trip for the entire family.

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23/04/2025
5 Destinations that are Worth Considering for Your Next Family Travel

All good moments get even better when shared with the people you love. Well, this is also true when it comes to vacations. While exploring a destination can be fun when you travel solo, visiting a place with your family is a great way to make memories that will last for a lifetime. Besides, traveling ignites children’s sense of adventure and curiosity while also helping them develop their imagination. But, although it sounds great in theory, taking your kids on a trip isn’t the easiest thing to do!

Luckily, it is doable, but you should choose a place that your children will love and that offers enough activities to keep them engaged. If you find it challenging to pick a destination, below is a list of the most noteworthy destinations that can make for a great family vacation. Check it out!

London

London is one of the most accessible and family-friendly destinations where you can have lots of fun on your next adventure. Amazing things are waiting to be discovered, such as museums that allow kids to explore everything from technology and natural history to design. In the city’s downtown, you can explore the Tower of London, one of the royalty’s symbols, and an iconic monument of England’s capital. You can also embark on a sightseeing cruise across the Thames River – some companies offer entertainment packs for children, so be sure to compare different options before booking.

Plenty of adventure activities are available for kids, including a walk through the Millennium Dome and treetop activities. And if you and your kids love Harry Potter, London is the perfect place to find the magic portrayed in the famous books and movies. You can explore the studios, and the filming locations, take a picture at the platform 9 ¾, and so much more! Of course, these are only a few things you can spend your time doing while visiting London with your kids – there are endless possibilities when it comes to the things you can see and do in this wonderful city.

Portugal

Whether you enjoy city life or want to connect with nature or relax at the beach, Portugal is one of the most amazing places to consider when planning a trip with your family. Portuguese people are very welcoming to kids and tourists, which will make your vacation a thousand times better! One of the most exciting things to do here (which your kids will probably love) is riding a tuk-tuk, which is basically a three-wheeled vehicle with comfortable seats.

Exploring the Bussaco forest in Central Portugal is another activity suitable for families. This ancient forest is so wonderful that your kids will be genuinely excited to be there! Consider taking a picnic there to make your trip even more memorable.

Israel

Regarding child-friendly places, Israel stands out, as it offers plenty of interactive activities for kids. While it’s viewed as a destination for religious tourism, the truth is that Israel goes beyond that: you can go to the beach, explore ancient caves, ride on camels, and much more. If you decide to travel with your family to Israel, one of the best ways to ensure you will make the most of the trip is to book a specialized tour. If you do this, you will plan less for the trip and relax more.

Although there aren’t a lot of custom-designed activities for kids in Israel, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time in this destination. You can visit the Israel Aquarium, explore the Garden Tomb, go on a boat trip on Lake Galilee, discover Israel’s Children’s Museum, and so on. Hence, if you aren’t into spirituality, various reasons make the Holy Land worth a visit, whether learning more about its history, discovering archaeological sites or taking a break from daily responsibilities. Even educational tourism to Israel has become popular, enabling students to gain valuable knowledge about this incredible country.

Bali

Bali is so famous for a reason, as it is a tropical paradise that boasts lush landscapes and breathtaking sunsets that you will not forget. And it’s also one of the best family travel destinations out there – once you visit it, you will likely want to return over and over again. From trying out water sports to exploring Bali’s markets, or experiencing a family retreat, there are activities suitable for all types of families.

There are many places where kids can get creative, such as the Sari Api, where they can take a ceramic class, or Berawa Art House, where both adults and children can join art classes. You can even learn how to make artisanal chocolate – now, that’s really exciting, isn’t it? So, don’t hesitate to add Bali to your family travel list – you won’t regret it!

Peru

If you’re searching for an unforgettable family travel destination, look no further than Peru. One of the most popular attractions here is Machu Picchu (of course!), which is incomparable and genuinely magical. There are fun experiences for adults and kids to enjoy but be sure to book your ticket as early as possible, as spaces can get filled quickly.

Cusco is another excellent place to visit with your children, offering a rich culture and history and myriad activities suitable for the entire family. For example, you can visit the chocolate museum together, wander the ancient streets, or let kids discover Peruvian cuisine at one of the best restaurants.

Ready for your family adventure?

As you can see, you can explore many travel destinations with your family – and they will fit everyone’s passions and interests. There’s no need to worry that your kids won’t be entertained, as each place mentioned above will offer little ones an experience they will keep in their hearts forever. Just make sure to do a bit of planning before hopping on the plane, as this will help you feel more relaxed and more in control. And most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy your family trip!

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15/04/2025
How to Plan an Unforgettable Family Reunion in a Dream Destination
Dreaming of gathering the whole clan in one amazing location?

A family reunion can be a blast, especially when it’s set somewhere unforgettable! After our family of four (that’s me, Micki, my hubby Charles, and our two teens) learned about Charles’ nephew planning a wedding in Mexico, I started to dream about turning the next family reunion into a destination get together!

There’s just something magical about family reunions – the laughs, the stories, and the chance to catch up with everyone. Now, imagine all of that, plus finally bringing the family together somewhere everyone’s excited to be like on a sun-kissed beach, by a mountain lake, or in a bustling city!

How to Plan an Unforgettable Family Reunion in a Dream Destination

Planning a destination family reunion might seem like a lot, but with the right tips (and a little insider knowledge), it just may be the best memory your family makes together. In this guide, we break down everything you need to plan a reunion that’s as fun as it is unforgettable!

Ready to start crafting those family memories somewhere spectacular? Let’s get started.

1. Start Planning Early and Get Everyone Involved

Planning a family reunion can be like herding cats – and that’s especially true when it comes to picking a date. Start early, and don’t be afraid to use a poll or online survey to find the best time for everyone.

Get input from different family members on the location and activities. This way, everyone feels involved, and there’s a lot more excitement from the start!

2. Choose a Destination with Something for Everyone

Here’s where it gets fun!

When picking a location, make sure it has options for all ages and activity levels. Think about including things like hiking, water sports, or sightseeing for those with an adventurous spirit, but also consider relaxing activities like spa days, beach lounging, or sightseeing tours.

Not every family member is up for ziplining, but everyone can enjoy an evening beach bonfire!

3. Book Accommodations That Bring Everyone Together (With a Little Privacy!)

Vacation rentals are perfect for family reunions – you get common areas to hang out and kitchen spaces for cooking those big family meals. Plus, everyone can have a bit of their own space, too.

Look for homes or condos with enough bedrooms and bathrooms for comfort, or consider a group of cabins close together if you’re planning something a little more outdoorsy. Keep in mind that, in some places, larger vacation rentals book up fast, so lock those in early!

4. Don’t Forget to Send the Invites!

With the date and destination set, it’s time to send out the invites! You can send digital invites for easy RSVPs, but don’t forget to get some physical invitation printing for a personal touch, especially for older or offline family members. Printed invites can be a great keepsake!

Include key details like the date, location, accommodations, and an RSVP deadline. Add a personal touch with a family photo or a fun trip teaser. About a month before the reunion, send a follow-up with any updates and packing tips. A well-crafted invite not only gets everyone on board but sets the tone for an unforgettable family getaway!

5. Keep Meals Simple and Stress-Free

Meals can be one of the most fun parts of a family reunion – but also one of the biggest headaches.

Pro tip: Have someone bring a cooler full of snacks and drinks for outings so no one gets hangry.

Consider catering one or two big meals to save time and hassle. Or, plan for a fun potluck where everyone can show off their favorite dish! If you’re renting a house, assign a cooking team for each night or plan a family BBQ. A few grocery runs and plenty of snacks keeps everyone happy.

6. Plan a Mix of Activities and Downtime

When it comes to family reunions, more is not always better.

Don’t over plan every minute – give people a chance to relax, explore, or catch up at their own pace. Schedule a few big activities, like a group hike or boat trip, but leave room for spontaneity.

Some of the best memories are made from those little, unplanned moments – like watching the sunset or playing cards together in the evening.

7. Coordinate Travel Wisely

Since everyone is coming from different places, organizing travel can be a challenge.

If people are flying in, pick a destination with a nearby airport and consider arranging shuttles or car rentals for your family. Create a group chat or shared document to share flight details, travel times, and any other relevant info.

Planning For A Trip: 10 Practical Tips To Save Time, Money And Hassle

Keeping everyone in the loop makes a huge difference!

8. Hire a Photographer for a Day

Everyone loves snapping photos, but having a professional capture those priceless family moments is worth it.

How to Find and Hire the Perfect Vacation Photographer

Hire a local photographer to spend an hour or two taking family photos on the beach or at a scenic spot. You’ll get beautiful pictures that everyone can cherish, without someone having to miss out on the fun to be behind the camera.

9. Plan for Group Games and Family Challenges

A little friendly competition can make the reunion even more memorable.

Set up a family trivia night, an outdoor scavenger hunt, or a talent show. You could even create a Family Olympics with activities that suit all ages – sack races, tug-of-war, and even a water balloon toss. It’s a great way to get everyone laughing and bonding, and the kids (and adults!) love it.

10. Pack Smart and Share Essentials

Families tend to pack a little bit of everything, so make a list and share it ahead of time. Things like sunscreen, first aid kits, extra beach towels, and bug spray can be shared. With fewer suitcases to lug around, everyone can focus on enjoying the reunion. Plus, you can assign certain family members to be in charge of specific items – it’s all about teamwork!

11. Bring Along a Few Family Traditions

Reunion trips are perfect for adding a few family traditions.

Bring along a favorite family board game, make time for a group movie night, or start a new tradition, like a family reunion time capsule. Each person can contribute something small, and you can open it up at the next gathering.

Traditions help make each reunion feel a little extra special and give everyone something to look forward to for the next one.

10 Fun Family Reunion Destination Ideas

Ready to let your imagination run wild? Here are 10 perfect spots for your next family reunion:
1. Maui, Hawaii – Amazing beaches, waterfalls, and family-friendly luaus.
2. Banff, Alberta – Stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and endless outdoor activities.
3. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Cozy cabins, beautiful hikes, and family-friendly attractions in nearby Gatlinburg.
4. Disney World, Florida – A magical experience for all ages, with resorts that cater to large families.
5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Beautiful lake views, water sports, and skiing in the winter.
6. San Diego, California – Gorgeous beaches, family-friendly attractions like the San Diego Zoo, and year-round sunshine.
7. Niagara Falls, Ontario – Stunning waterfalls, boat tours, and a range of activities for all ages.
8. Sedona, Arizona – Breathtaking red rock landscapes, outdoor adventures, and relaxing spa options.
9. Whistler, British Columbia – Great for summer or winter activities, with hiking, biking, and world-class skiing.
10. Charleston, South Carolina – Historic charm, beautiful beaches, and delicious Southern cuisine.
Wherever you decide to go, planning a destination family reunion is all about making memories, having fun, and creating traditions that might last for generations. Enjoy every moment, and happy travels!

Moraine lake in Banff national park Alberta Canada

International Family Reunion Destination Ideas

Looking for somewhere international for your reunion? Here are four amazing international spots for your next family reunion:
1. Costa Rica – Known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and incredible wildlife, Costa Rica offers family-friendly eco-lodges, zip-lining adventures, and opportunities to relax in natural hot springs. Perfect for a reunion filled with both relaxation and adventure!
2. Santorini, Greece – With stunning white-washed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is a beautiful choice for families who want a mix of culture, beach time, and delicious Mediterranean food. Rent a villa with views of the Aegean Sea for an unforgettable experience.
3. Bali, Indonesia – Bali is ideal for families looking to immerse themselves in a peaceful, tropical paradise. With beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, and family-friendly villas, you can enjoy activities like snorkeling, temple visits, and exploring traditional Balinese culture together.
4. Queenstown, New Zealand – Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is perfect for families who love outdoor activities. You can take a boat ride on Lake Wakatipu, explore the stunning Southern Alps, and enjoy everything from bungee jumping to wine tours. It’s a scenic and thrilling destination for all ages.
Each of these locations offers something unique and memorable for a family reunion, so you can gather the whole family and make memories in one of the most beautiful places on Earth!
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14/04/2025
Planning the Ultimate Multi-Generational Family Getaway
Hoping to plan the perfect family getaway? Looking for travel ideas for kids, parents and grandparents combined?

Imagine a trip where grandparents get to see the world through their grandkids’ eyes, parents get a break from their daily grind, and kids create memories with the entire family that they’ll remember forever. Multi-generational family vacations are growing in popularity, and for good reason.

Shared memories can often transcend generations and creating memories the entire family can talk about for decades to come is one of the many reasons to travel with an extended family. In todays busy world, carving out some much needed family time gets harder every year.

However, let’s be honest, balancing the needs of different age groups can feel like juggling flaming torches at times. Seniors often have health and mobility concerns, parents are often over stressed, and kids are either glued to their devices or have so many activities going on in their lives that they often don’t know if they’re coming or going.

The good news? With thoughtful planning and the right destination, you can craft a trip that’s as fun as it is stress-free for every member of your family.

How to Plan the Perfect Family Getaway: Ideas for Kids, Parents, and Grandparents

Step 1: Picking Accommodations That Work for Everyone

Your choice of accommodation can make or break a trip. For multi-generational groups, flexibility and space is key.
- All-Inclusive Resorts: These are great for stress-free family travel. All-inclusive resorts provide dining, entertainment, and childcare in one convenient package. Everyone can pick their own adventure while staying within arm’s reach of each other and all of them offer day trips if you want more culture or more excitement on your trip. Find the perfect multi-generational retreat with Escapes.ca’s all-inclusive vacations.
- Vacation Rentals: If you’re looking for a home-away-from-home vibe, consider an Airbnb or Vrbo. Shared spaces like kitchens and living rooms make family bonding easy, while separate bedrooms provide much-needed privacy. These can be initially cheaper than all-inclusives but make sure you budget in your meals, alcohol and any activities as those will all cost you extra.
- Cruises: A family cruise offers a floating resort experience, with options ranging from kids’ clubs to fine dining. Some cruise lines, like Disney or Royal Caribbean, excel at catering to multi-generational groups though you’ll likely pay handsomely for the privilege.
Why All-Inclusive Resorts Shine for Multi-Generational Travel

All-inclusive resorts take the guesswork out of planning. Here’s why they’re perfect:
- Everything in One Place: Dining, entertainment, and activities are all covered, so no one has to stress about logistics.
- Customizable Fun: Kids can join supervised clubs, grandparents can lounge by the pool have a spa day, and parents can enjoy activities like yoga or water sports.
- Budget-Friendly: Upfront pricing makes it easier to plan and avoid unexpected expenses plus a lot of resorts charge the same per 2 person booking as they do for shared rooms. That means that the grandparents can have their own room down the hall from you and the costs don’t double like staying in a hotel. If you have older kids, they could have theirs as well.
- Examples to Consider: Iberos Resorts in Dominican Republic, Bahia Principe or Barcelo resorts in Mexico, or Riu Resorts in Montego Bay Jamaica.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Destination

Picking the perfect destination is crucial to ensuring everyone has a great time. Start by considering:
- Accessibility: Choose a destination that’s easy to navigate for grandparents who may have mobility concerns. Think resorts with shuttles, flat walking paths, and minimal stairs.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Look for destinations that cater to all interests. For example, a beach destination might offer snorkeling and paddle boarding for the adventurous while providing serene beachfronts for relaxation.
- Weather and Season: Consider travel times and seasons that are comfortable for all ages. Not too hot for grandparents and not too cold for young kids. If planning a beachside holiday, make sure that the water is comfortable to swim in but not so busy you regret leaving your room.
- Top Picks: Mexico’s family-friendly beaches, Orlando’s theme parks, or European destinations like Italy and Spain, which combine culture with family-friendly attractions.
Step 3: Crafting a Balanced Itinerary

The secret to a successful multi-generational family trip is balance. While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary with activities, it’s better to create a schedule that allows for flexibility.
- Group Activities: Plan experiences that everyone can enjoy together, such as a guided walking tour, a family-friendly cooking class, or a wildlife safari. Often a shared experience can transcend the mundane because the whole family got to partake in it.
- Age-Specific Activities: Include downtime for grandparents, like spa treatments, while kids burn off energy at a pool or playground.
- Dividing When Appropriate: Sometimes separating the group for specific activities can allow everyone to get something from the trip that they can’t as a group. Whether that be ziplining through the jungle or going out for a romantic meal, realize that sometimes giving each person their own time can benefit the family as a whole. If nothing else, it gives the family things to talk about afterwards.
- Free Time: Build in periods of free time or down time for everyone to explore independently or simply relax if they’re feeling burnt out. We’ve learnt over our many years of travel with our family that when someone hits the burnt out stage that the entire group suffers. Factor that into your time equations when creating your plans and don’t fret about not doing every single thing a new place offers. The point of the trip is family and sharing and not tired and cranky.
Stress-Free Travel Tips
- Book Early: Multi-generational trips often require larger accommodations or group bookings. Planning ahead ensures you get the best options and if you’re planning for an all-inclusive getaway, often the best price is well before things start booking up.
- Travel Insurance: Cover everyone with a comprehensive policy. It’s especially useful for families traveling with young kids or older adults. There are cheaper plans that cover larger families so make sure you search them out for better deals.
- Meal Planning: All-inclusive resorts simplify meals, but for other trips, choose restaurants with varied menus that accommodate dietary restrictions. if you’re cooking for yourself, make sure that you make something your whole family will enjoy. When away from home and cooking for ourselves, we always try to include a few local flavored meals using local ingredients while also throwing in an occasional tried and true family favorite meal to give a small taste of home.
- Delegate Responsibilities: To reduce stress, assign roles, such as one person handling transportation while another manages bookings. This helps spread the load of planning a trip and ensures everyone has their say.
- Get Everyone On Board: The more each member of your family shares their input ahead of time, the more likely that they’ll enjoy that same activity when it finally arrives. We’ve learnt to prep our kids for our travels more as they get older so that they feel invested in the trip and have a personal activity they’ve chosen that they get to look forward to. It goes a long way to ensuring that the trip isn’t just what this person or that person wants but that there’s something for every member of the family.
Packing and Preparing for a Multi-Generational Trip
- Essentials: Bring medications, snacks for kids, and entertainment for downtime. If it’s a long flight, make sure to bring things to make the flight easier with little ones.
- Shared Items: Consider packing communal items like sunscreen, travel-sized games, and books. If you have a pool where you’re staying, packing or buying a few small inflatables when you get there isn’t a bad idea either nor is packing large refillable water bottles so everyone stays hydrated on days spent in the sun or on hikes.
- Tech Tools: Use apps like Google Maps or WhatsApp to coordinate schedules and stay connected. Look at getting a shared Wifi device or picking up eSims for data for a few of the group if you think you’ll be splitting up often enough.
- Light Packing: Encourage everyone to pack light to leave room for souvenirs. We still travel with only carry-ons but with a large family group, consider checking a few bags so that getting around the airport is easier on everyone and boarding/unboarding the plane remains stress free.
Wrapping Up: Embrace Flexibility and Have Fun

No trip is without its hiccups, but the magic lies in creating shared experiences and lasting memories. Embrace flexibility, focus on the moments that matter, and remember, the best part of a family vacation is being together.
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14/04/2025