Welcome to the Era of Multi-Generational Travel
The ‘Great wealth transfer’ has been talked about a lot recently. With an estimated $80+ Trillion in assets to be transferred over the next couple of decades, there is much to talk about. However, most of these assets still remain with the baby boomers, and one of the significant areas they are choosing to spend this wealth is on multi-generational trips all over the globe.
Today’s grandparents are more active than ever. When it comes to travel, Boomers, on average, take 3-5 trips a year, with almost half preferring international travel. They take expedition cruises to get up close with Polar bears in the Arctic regions or swim with Giant Tortoises in the Galapagos. They like to bring along their children and grandchildren because it adds a special kind of magic to the trip. Imagine seeing your grandchildren in awe of a centuries-old castle in Europe. For children and young adults, travel brings to life pictures in their heads of all the history they have learned and the books they have read.
Savvy travelers also know that vacationing together is the ultimate way to make memories as a family. Studies show that most parents prefer to travel with grandparents rather than just with their kids alone.
A study last year by Beaches Resorts surveyed guests about multi-gen vacationing. A whopping 74% of respondents who have taken a multi-generational vacation remain excited by the idea of extended family getaways, with 67% of all parents prioritizing family travel to maximize time across generations. They also reported that their core childhood vacation memories include their own grandparents.
There are clear advantages for parents when grandparents accompany them on trips. Sometimes, they may travel to destinations lacking a "Kids Club” to keep children entertained. With the older generation joining in, kids can spend quality time with their grandparents while Mom and Dad have the opportunity to reconnect and recharge their relationship. Also, in the Beaches Resorts study, 66% of respondents said their children would prefer family activities over the kids club at a hotel.
Speaking of activities, imagine a family vacation where every member of the extended family can enjoy their own experience at their own pace. When the group consists solely of parents and children, it often becomes challenging to branch off and engage in diverse activities that appeal to everyone. This can lead to situations where some family members are stuck participating in activities that don’t truly excite them. However, with grandparents joining the fun, the dynamics shift dramatically. They create wonderful opportunities for smaller groups to split off, allowing everyone to pursue activities that genuinely resonate with their interests. This not only enhances satisfaction for all ages but also strengthens family bonds through shared yet uniquely tailored experiences. Don’t just vacation; create a memorable journey that embraces everyone’s passions!
Here are some ways to gain even more value from a multi-generational vacation while enhancing the magic. Villa rentals are becoming increasingly popular. They make for the ideal accommodations for larger family groups. Everyone can enjoy their own room while still being in the same place, often with extra amenities like a private pool and a yard for recreation. Additionally, you can often find better value for your money, as several hotel rooms can end up costing more per night than renting a villa, depending on the location. Villas come equipped with a kitchen, allowing families to prepare their own meals. This brings an extra special touch to the trip since the entire family can participate in cooking together. Alternatively, the family can indulge and hire a private chef to cook for them!
Private tours provide better value for larger family groups. While a day trip with a private driver and guide is quite expensive for only two people, the cost per person decreases significantly when the group expands to six. Essentially, you're creating your own small group tour. To add a special touch, consider hiring a professional photographer for part of the day, allowing you to capture those memories with high-quality professional photos!
Multi-generational trips offer a unique opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories. With the wealth of experiences, activities, and the joy of shared adventures, these vacations can enrich relationships across generations. By embracing the concept of travel as a family tradition, you can foster deeper connections and create cherished moments that will be treasured for years to come. Start planning your next adventure together and watch as new traditions unfold. Contact us today to make your family’s travel dreams a reality!
