Family life has changed drastically from what it was fifty years ago, even from that of ten years ago. A lot of families are smaller, usually both parents work, and grandparents may be working longer too. So, other than holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, getting everyone together to spend quality time can be challenging. And as we all know, holidays can be stressful too. The solution? Multi-generational vacations! 

Multi-generational travel is fast becoming the popular way to unite two, three and four generations for that quality time together. Instantly you are thinking that doesn’t work for your family – the children would have no interest in sharing all their time with the grandparents (and grandparents let’s be honest, neither would you), and your whole vacation would disintegrate into a series of negotiated activities so everyone can do a little of what they want to do. This does not have to be so.

As a travel professional, I will know exactly the right resort, destination, cruise line or ship which will serve all ages well. Many offer age-specific programs for toddlers to teens, exciting activities for mom and dad, and enrichment activities for the grandparents. (Of course nowadays the lines are blurred and the grandparents may be more active than their children!) Some cruise lines such as Norwegian have a more luxury-based section on their ships (The Haven) where the more mature generation can chill in style and comfort with extra perks while the children and grandchildren reserve regular staterooms and enjoy more energetic pursuits. With Royal Caribbean’s mega ships having such a large range of activities from simulated sky diving and surfing to cooking lessons and crafting, no one is at a loss for something to enjoy. Even river cruise lines have gotten into this market. Uniworld, the epitome in boutique style luxury, now offers family based cruising on select voyages, and AmaWaterways has teamed up with Adventures by Disney®. Some all-inclusive resorts such as Dreams or Hyatt Ziva/Zilara offer fully supervised children’s programs for children age 3 – 17, the adults can partake in cooking and cocktail classes including wine, tequila or rum tastings, or simply relax at the beach with your favorite beverage.

With everyone staying in the same area, the family is free to share and engage in as many activities across the generations as they wish – or just meet for meals to recount the highlights of the day. No cooking, washing dishes, making beds, or picking up toys! On the other hand, the wealth of opportunities to make long lasting memories is almost endless. Imagine biking through the German countryside or swimming with the Dolphins with your grandchildren, shopping with Mom in the Christmas markets, or the whole family swimming in the Caribbean surf, or enjoying an ice theatre or magic performance at sea.

So if lack of quality time with your family has been on your mind, reach out to April to discover the wealth of multi generational vacations that await you at sea and on shore.

Article first appeared on Real Travel Experts with additions by April Powers Travel. Images courtesy of Bigstock .