Traveling With Three Generations: Where To Go With The Grandparents

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

07 Dec 2006 03:31 PM

In a previous blog I detailed one of our family's favorite traditions. As a child growing up in Hawaii each Labor Day weekend our entire family (my grandparents, parents, brothers, and I) would squeeze into two vehicles for four action packed days at a resort located on the opposite side of the island. My brothers and I looked forward to the trip each year. We had the best time and the memories made during those trips remain with me today.

Of course, those family trips were made decades ago. Which is why I found it interesting that a new study found the trend of grandparents, their adult children and grandchildren traveling together has increased over the past few years. In fact, according to the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), more than 5 million families opted to travel with multi-generations last year. In addition, the TIA predicts those numbers will rise by 6% this year.

Our family chose a Hawaiian resort to spend our multi-generational vacation at and it worked for us. To help make the experience fun, be sure to choose a destination that offers something for everyone.

Here are some suggestions:

· Hawaii (okay, you knew this was coming). So much to do, so little time to do it. The Aloha State offers kids and grandparents alike a variety of options. History buffs will enjoy Pearl Harbor and Punchbowl. While kids of all ages (adults included) will have a ball at any one of the Islands' beaches, botanical gardens and museums (with loads of hands-on activities).

· Orlando, Florida. If three generations of family members can't find family centered activities to enjoy here-then there is something seriously wrong. Orlando has something for everyone-from guided boat trips in the Everglades, mini golf courses and theme restaurants such as King Arthur's Feast (eat with your hands, no silverware allowed) to water parks, theme parks (including Ripley's Believe It or Not), Kennedy Space Center and more.

· San Diego, California. If you are a family of animal lovers then this is the place to take your next trip. San Diego is home to a host of family friendly destinations, including SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Wild Animal Park. In addition, San Diego has great surfing and nearly 70 miles of coastline. What's more, Disneyland is only an hour away.

· Mexico. What I have always liked about Mexico as a family-friendly destination is its extensive list of all-inclusive resorts where grandparents and kids alike will enjoy the planned activities and day trips. All-inclusive resorts can offer a value for families, since many offer free nights and meals for kids. In the Cancun/Riviera Maya region, travelers are close to the historic Mayan ruins and, of course, the beach. Cancun is also a great destination for snorkeling and other water activities.

· Puerto Rico. If you have a family of adventurous souls then Puerto Rico is a good option for your group. You can swim with sharks, parasail, and bungee jump all in a single afternoon. In addition, Puerto Rico is also home to abundant historical sights as well as offering a number of eco-tourism adventures. Kids of all ages would enjoy a visit to the Arecibo Ionospheric Observatory (with a massive satellite dish featured in many recent movies), which is home to NASA's Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) program. And, finally, because it's a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico's road system, language and conveniences make you feel like you are traveling in the states.

Related Articles:

Traveling With Grandparents---Survival Tips

Visiting Hawaii on a Budget

Hawaii: When To Visit

Hawaii--Visiting the Big Island's Best Waterfalls

Visiting the Island of Lanai

Hawaiian 101: "Was that Mauka or Makai?"

Adventure Travel--Swimming With Sharks

Adventure Travel--A Trip to the "Valley of the Kings"

Visiting the World's Largest Outdoor Shopping Center

America's Best Beach

Destination: Hawaii--A Great Family Beach

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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