Any suggestions for a family vacation with kids & grandparents?
"Multi-generational getaways are a great way for grandparents and grandkids to bond," says Virginia Smith Spurlock, a psychologist and the author of Traveling with Your Grandkids. When planning such a trip, make sure that there will be an activity of special interest every day for each generation. Although grandparents are great built-in baby-sitters, don't assume that they'll want to do it all the time; it's their vacation too. Consider these fabulous extended-family options:
Take a Cruise
Many ships are designed with amenities and activities to appeal to all ages and interests. For big clans, consider Royal Caribbean Cruises Internationall, which takes care of tots in playrooms chock full of toys, art supplies, games, and computers. Some vessels sport such impressive youth indulgences as rock-climbing walls and an ice-skating rink. For adults, there are sophisticated lounges, discos, afternoon tea, movies, evening shows, Bingo, fitness centers and spas, golf tee-off, art auctions, trivia contests, casinos, and more.
Stay at a Resort
Resorts are also a fine destination for multi-generational travel, because there are amenities to appeal to many ages and tastes. The Tyler Place, in Highgate Springs, Vermont, has a childcare program as well as adult diversions, such as boating, bicycling, and hiking, as well as less strenuous pursuits. The Y.M.C.A. of the Rockies, which has two Colorado centers, offers cozy lodgings, all-you-can-eat buffets, and recreation such as canoeing, tubing, sleigh rides, and hayrides.
Laura Manske is the editor of Family Travel: The Farther You Go, the Closer You Get.
