Ideas For Multi-Generational Family Vacations
One of the most noticeable trends in the luxury travel industry is a shift towards multi-generational travel inquiries. Not for the quick family getaway, but for bucket list trips the family wishes to experience together. Multi-generational travel is typically associated with a milestone birthday, anniversary, or regularly scheduled family reunion; however now more than ever the mindset appears to be finding opportunities to share incredible travel experiences together as a family group sooner than later.
Multi-Generational Travel Leads To Lasting Memories
Growing up I was lucky to experience having one set of grandparents who spent their summers at the unique lakeside community of Chautauqua Institution in western New York. Every summer we would spend one to two weeks with them, often coordinating our visits to overlap with the rest of the extended family so we had that special time together and over 30 years later we still continue our annual Chautauqua visits.
On the other side of my family, my grandmother made it a point to bring the family together through travel after my grandfather passed away. She knew time was running out for opportunities to have the whole family together for an extended period of time so we had our first family trip to St. John in the US Virgin Islands and two years later we visited Hawaii. There are so many vivid memories from these trips: the gorgeous beaches and sunsets to hilarious family dinners to the not-so-great memories of getting stung by a jellyfish 10 minutes into my first beach swim and being carsick on the famous road to Hana on Maui.
These vacations were so special, particularly now as an adult appreciating the logistics of getting 12 people to have almost two weeks free at the same time. As the grandchildren grew up and scheduling became impossible along with my grandmother’s decline in health, it became evident that the large family trips were a thing of the past, but I am so thankful I was able to have those experiences.
A common theme when people talk about regrets or things they wish they could change is the regret of not traveling earlier in life, before the kids grew up and became too busy and before health issues crept up limiting travel options or eliminating travel all together.
There is always a feeling of “maybe next year” or “when the kids are a little older” -- until it becomes too difficult. The current trend towards family travel is encouraging to see as people recognize the value and importance of spending quality time together, and to do that in an incredible destination with unique experiences makes it more special.
Multi-generational travel has recently become more popular with luxury travelers, and properties are recognizing this by developing incredible options for family groups traveling together who do not want to compromise luxury, service, or customization.
Here are some of my top recommendations for incredible multi-generational family vacations:
Luxury Ranch Vacations
For families looking for a unique luxury travel experience without having to leave the United States, why not book a luxury ranch vacation? With accommodation options ranging from 1 bedroom resort rooms to exclusive use private homes for the extended family, a luxury ranch trip can be tailored to any family. The gorgeous landscapes, fresh air, privacy, and endless activity options for all ages result in the perfect post-COVID-19 family getaway. Here are two options for luxury ranch vacations the whole family will love:
The Resort at Paws Up-Montana
Paws Up is a luxury mountain resort situated on a sprawling 37,000-acre, authentic working cattle ranch in western Montana. Whether you choose an expansive private home or sophisticated safari-style luxury tent, Paws Up offers incredible connection with the natural beauty of Montana along with rustic elegance, comfort, and impeccable service. Paws Up offers a seemingly endless list of activities including:
• horseback riding • fly fishing
• river rafting • rappelling
• paintball • Kids Corps of Discovery
• spa services • chuck wagon dinners to fine dining
Accommodation options range from luxury glamping tents available during the summer and fall months to exclusive-use elegant homes for larger groups year-round.
Ted Turner Reserves-New Mexico
Set among over one million acres of New Mexico’s varied landscapes, the four properties that comprise the Ted Turner Reserves collection offer families a variety of immersive activities for all ages, crucial conservation projects, and warm hospitality. The Vermejo property located in northern New Mexico is perfect for family groups, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from guest cottages to an eco-lodge to Ted Turner’s former private residence Casa Grande, a renovated 7 bedroom stone mansion.
Vermejo provides a wealth of outdoor activities for everyone in the family, all while keeping a sense of rustic luxury, outstanding guest service, and all-inclusive gourmet dining. Custom itineraries are created for each guest and group based on individual interests. Here are just a few of the activities available during your stay at Vermejo and the other Ted Turner Reserves properties:
• hiking • fly fishing
• wildlife viewing • conservation tours
• cooking classes • spa services
• mountain biking • horseback riding
• disc golf • junior trackers program
Hawaii
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
When deciding what destinations to highlight for this article, I knew I had to include Hawaii. Not just because it truly is an amazing family vacation destination, but because I was fortunate enough to experience Hawaii on a personal multi-generational family trip. Hawaii is a wonderful option as it has such an extensive variety of activities available, either by combining islands as part of a custom itinerary or by taking advantage of all that one island has to offer.
Grand Wailea
Of course, there are the traditional water-based activities, plus luxurious golf courses, stunning hikes and landscapes to explore, and unique cultural experiences. There really is something for everyone, from the beach bums to the active explorers. Depending on the age range of the family group, there are some amazing resorts that can be a great fit for a multi-generational trip. Here are just a few of the outstanding properties known for having a wonderful balance of child and family-oriented activities, impeccable service, and a variety of luxury accommodation options from resort rooms to exclusive villas:
Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Grand Hyatt Kauai
Four Seasons Maui
Four Seasons Lanai
Grand Wailea Maui
Four Seasons Hualalai, Big Island
Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui
Costa Rica
Are you looking for a multi-generational family trip that incorporates gorgeous beaches, unique wildlife, volcanoes and hot springs, and luxury eco-tourism at its best? Costa Rica is an excellent destination for family travel; balancing luxury with nature there is plenty for the whole family to stay busy. For a great family vacation combination, you can’t beat splitting time between the beautiful beaches in the Peninsula Papagayo region with time in the Arenal region, exploring the lush rainforest, volcano, and hot springs.
Catering to children and adults without compromising luxury and service, the Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo and Andaz Costa Rica are excellent options for family vacations. They both offer dedicated children’s programs and the sophistication and top notch service expected from these luxury brands for adults. Families can enjoy separate resort rooms, suites, or even an incredible stay at Casa Del Mar residence at The Four Seasons which sleeps 14 and comes with a heated infinity pool overlooking the bay and private butler service. Both properties provide access to water-based activities, exclusive golf, and outdoor soft adventure and adrenaline activities that will keep the entire family entertained!
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Andaz Costa Rica Resort
In the Arenal region you have access to natural hot springs, the gorgeous backdrop of the Arenal Volcano, and amazing wildlife and rainforest exploration. Two properties that stand out for multi-generational family vacations include The Springs for more of a resort feel with endless choice of activities, multiple pools and hot springs, and a variety of dining options.
For a more boutique feel there is Nayara Gardens or the brand new Nayara Tented Camp with stunning views of the rainforest and volcano, wildlife surrounding the property, personalized service, unique dining options, and family-friendly activities. The sister property Nayara Springs is an exclusive adult-only hideaway; however those guests also have access to the remaining resort facilities meaning it may be a good option for adult family members who may not have children and want to be in a quieter area, but still be able to share in the resort facilities and experiences with the rest of the family.
Nayara Gardens
The Springs Resort and Spa
The Maldives
Soneva Jani
Four Seasons Maldives Private Island Resort
For a more ambitious multi-generational vacation, the Maldives are becoming more popular as a luxury travel destination for families. When you picture the stunning, remote islands of the Maldives, most people associate it with romantic honeymoons and couples trips; however it is rapidly becoming the new hit destination for family travel in the luxury vacation market. Resorts are catering to all ages with some intentionally designed to encourage family groups from the activities and children’s programming on offer to the out-of-this-world family and group villas.
With the ability to explore crystal clear waters and pristine beaches while being surrounded by nature without the crowds, the Maldives embody relaxed barefoot luxury. For a luxurious multi-generational family vacation that is all about relaxation, enjoying each other’s company, and being as active or lazy as you want, you really can’t beat the Maldives. Some resort options that cater to family groups and children (many of which are the only resort on the island for exclusive privacy) include:
Soneva Fushi
• Four Seasons Landaa
• Four Seasons Private Island
• Soneva Jani
• Soneva Fushi
• One and Only Reethi Rah
• Anantara Dhigu
Yacht Charters
For something completely different from the typical resort or villa rental, why not charter a yacht and design your own custom adventure at sea? Yacht charters are a huge hit right now in the luxury travel market since it allows for flexible itineraries and scheduling while being able to travel in a family or friend group and maintain privacy. You can explore the Caribbean, cruise the southern coast of France, visit Italy or Croatia, or design a bespoke itinerary tailored just to your family’s interests. With dedicated private staff and daily itinerary of ports and activities created just for you, it is the ultimate luxury family travel experience.
Private Luxury Family Safaris
One of the most unique multi-generational family vacation options is an incredible safari experience in Africa. While Africa may sound intimidating, it can be very family-friendly when the trip is designed and managed properly, and is one of the most memorable and rewarding travel experiences, so why not share it with the whole family? I feel so strongly about how special a multi-generational family trip to Africa can be that my next article will focus solely on family travel to Africa and my best recommendations for an amazing family safari experience, so stay tuned!
For now, envision your family taking over an intimate luxury lodge with private game drives, the warmest hospitality and service, and life-changing wildlife and cultural experiences. Add to that some beach time at exclusive luxury beach resorts within easy access to your safari or time exploring the stunningly beautiful city of Cape Town and the surrounding winelands and you can experience a true bucket list trip that family members of all ages will love and remember forever.
For clients looking for a luxury family safari experience, I recently stayed at three of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa. All three lodges welcome children and families and have amazing family-friendly suites and exclusive use private villas to accommodate family groups-perfect for a luxury multi-generational family safari trip! Learn about these incredible lodges and the type of experience you can have by clicking here.
How to Start Planning for a Luxury Multi-Generational Family Vacation
Planning any trip can be time consuming, but planning a multi-generational family vacation is another level of time commitment and effort. Here are some considerations for getting started with your next multi-generational family vacation:
Budget
Who is footing the bill for the trip, is it grandma and grandpa, a combination of family members, or is everyone paying their own way? Determining who will be financially responsible and what the budget will be will help guide where to go and the style of your trip.
Timing
Hopefully, if you are discussing budget and destination considerations, this means the family has already decided on when everyone is able to travel together and for how long. Some trips are best suited for family groups who are all traveling together for the exact same dates while others may offer more flexibility if some family members have to arrive late or leave early due to schedule conflicts.
Bring in the Expert
A multi-generational family vacation is the exact type of trip that allows professional travel advisors to shine. You don’t want to put unnecessary stress on one or more family members to deal with all of the logistics, travel arrangements, becoming an expert on the best properties or destinations that fit the group, or having to play counselor if there are disagreements within the group during the planning process. A travel advisor will:
Be able to assist with matching the best properties and destinations to group interests
Facilitate and manage bookings for the entire group
Remain neutral to be able to assist when there are differences in interests or opinions in the group and help design the best itinerary for everyone
Be available as an emergency contact to assist with any bumps or changes in plan without putting the burden on a family member
For more information on the benefits of working with a travel advisor, please check out my article Why Use a Travel Advisor?. If you haven’t worked with an advisor before and may not know how the process works, take a look at my step by step planning process.
If you’re inspired to get the family together for an amazing multi-generational family vacation, please contact me to discuss how I can help you design an extraordinary family vacation that everyone will love and remember forever!