By Carol Hutcheson
A growing phenomenon in the United States is intergeneration travel. It is estimated that 15% of the vacations taken last year included grandparents and grandkids.That’s one in seven vacations as estimated by the travel industry.
What makes traveling with grandkids so popular?
Grandparents see it as a way to cultivate relationships with their grandchildren in a setting that is fun and memorable.It is equally adaptable to those who live close by or far apart.Taking a trip together gives rise to shared experiences which connect generations.
It provides a venue for laughing, reminiscing, and problem solving that can’t be found in baby sitting, watching movies or just hanging out. It becomes a win-win situation. The parents get a break and the grandparents get the kids all to themselves.
Take a practice run
Your money situation and your health will probably determine whether you want to take shorter day trips or an extended vacation. If the grandchildren are young or if you haven’t taken the kids somewhere by yourself before, you might want to try a day expedition just to see how it goes-you know, a practice run.
Let the kids help plan
Letting the grandkids help plan the destination makes very good sense. Brain storming places to visit is always fun. You can read travel guidebooks, the atlas, or the encyclopedia. You could even take the kids to the travel agency with you. Having them be a part of planning increases the anticipation and enjoyment. This is their trip too!
Mixed company
You may find significant differences in what grandsons and grand-daughters want to do. If you have mixed company, make sure each grandchild gets to pick something he or she really wants to do. Sometimes it is easier to take the guys on one trip and the girls another, or cousins of the same age. Taking each grandkid one at a time develops closeness that you wouldn’t get otherwise.
California Here We Come!
Of course, Disneyland or other theme parks are always an option but they aren’t the only fun destination. National Parks are economical and there is something awe-inspiring to see nature’s wonders. Usually the parks provide activities sponsored by the park rangers from hikes to crafts. It is great for grandparents because seniors can get a lifetime park pass. (See www.nps.gov )
Another economical trip is to go camping and experience nature first hand. If you have grandchildren who crave knowledge, consider college campus vacations. Contact your favorite university to see what they offer. Many give classes in chemistry, poetry writing, art, and also let you use the sports facilities and sleep in the dorms.
Elderhostel
If you have the resources and want to really expand your horizons, Elderhostel, (www.elderhostel.org ) a travel based organization for people 55 and older, also offers learning vacations for grandparents and grandkids. One international program listed was “Harry Potter, Fact and Fiction.” Another program was based in Orem, Utah where grandkids could visit Sundance, the headquarters for Robert Redford’s Film Institute and make a day climb to Timpanogas Cave. <<
Carol Hutcheson is a retired high school English teacher. She claims her greatest accomplishment lies in rearing six successful children and being grandma to eighteen grandchildren. Her partner in that enterprise is her husband, Don, to whom she has been married forty-two years. She can be reached at Carol@LetLifeIn.com
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