Can you really take the whole family to Europe?

You can if you make a plan that takes the whole family into account…

More and more people are looking to multi-generational trips with family:  traveling with parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren.

But what do you need to consider when planning a family trip to Europe?

• Varied interests: How are you going to keep everyone engaged most of the time? Adults and children may have very different ideas about fun activities, and teens may not want to be involved at all. Some people in your party may be adventure seekers, while others are more interested in cultural activities, exploring off the beaten bath, or even just relaxing.
• Varied capabilities: this is not just about active touring but accessibility as well.
• Amenities/preferences: you think everyone will want to fly coach? What about accommodations?
• Communal/private spaces: when traveling with a group, do you want a gathering space large enough for all to hang out…smaller spaces for some quiet time?
• Proximity to medical facilities: it’s not just a concern for grandparents. There are accidents, illnesses, or even lost meds.

Varied Interests

Fortunately, the travel industry has recognized this trend of multi-generational traveling and is adjusting its business models to help families.

• There are a number of companies offering guided land-based options that take care of the planning for you:
  • Adventures by Disney:  Group tours throughout Europe accompanied by Disney Adventure Guides.  They specialize in kids’ activities, adult-only events, VIP access and private events…all the things that say “Disney Magic!”
  • Tauck Bridges Program:  Escorted group tours designed with kids in mind.  Options include many locations in Europe.  Examples of family activities are:  Gladiator School in Rome, scavenger hunt in Old Dublin, hayride on a private ranch in Provence.
  • Kensington Ancestry Trips:  Kensington tours partners with Ancestry.com to provide an itinerary for the area of interest and match your family with local ancestry expert.
• Cruise lines
  • Cruise lines are the best option if you want choices throughout the trip.  Kids’ clubs, nightlife options, a variety of tours that can be taken in any port—this is the way to provide something for everyone in your party.  LINK TO MED CRUISES
• Villa Rentals and Resorts
  • Villa rentals work well in many places like Tuscany where a family can rent a huge home with lots of bedrooms, gathering space, and often a pool.  Many come with an optional cook.  The villa can serve as a base for local exploration while also providing downtime.
  • Resorts will often have enough space for a large family, optional tours, activities and a concierge to provide local information.  Many will have space for a large family to gather.  These tend to be located more around areas like beaches and skiing locations.

Varied Capabilities

Similar to varied interests, be aware that everyone may not physically be able to take every tour or enjoy every activity.  Here are some things you might not have considered:

• Touring castles and even churches come with a lot of steps.
• Those picturesque little European alleys can have a lot of tricky cobblestones…and they are really slick when wet!
• Summer in Europe is HOT!!  Not everyone can handle traipsing around in the full sun to tour southern Europe.

Amenities/Preferences

Not everyone wants to spend money on the same things.  There is also a different expectation of what is acceptable in the way of travel for different people at different points in their lives.  These are a few things to consider when planning the family vacation.

• Some members of the family will want to pay to fly business or first class overseas.  Everyone needs to be okay with that. 
• There may need to be different levels of accommodation for the group.  Think size of beds, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, access to pool or spa…
• Meals:  One size does not fit all when meals are involved. 
  • Ships are the best bet for multiple options and convenience.
  • Picky eaters need to be considered, if not accommodated.
• Do you really need internet and if so, how good does it need to be?  Do your teenagers need to be gaming or streaming videos?  Is somebody having to check in at work?

Communal/Private Spaces

• Think about meals together.  A ship for ex, may not be able to put the whole group together at the same time for the same seating. 
• If you’re not big on going out at night, is there a communal space for everyone to gather to watch tv, play games, or just visit?
• Do some family members really need a private space for quiet time?
• Is there a place for the kids to burn off energy?

Proximity to medical facilities

• Older adults generally in good health may feel safer traveling to Europe knowing there are good nearby medical facilities should a health issue surface.
• Those taking part in more active options can have a sport-related injury that needs treatment, and you don’t want to lose more vacation time trying to figure out where to find help.
• Pharmacies in Europe tend to sell more things over the counter than the US so you may be able to find antibiotics and other meds should the need arise.  I know I was able to purchase a seasickness patch in Scotland which definitely requires a prescription here.  It might help to see if there is a pharmacy in the vicinity.
• Ships travel with medical staff, but be aware that there is an additional cost involved.

Final Thoughts

A trip to Europe with the whole family can be a once-in-a-lifetime memory for all involved.  However, it takes a great deal of planning and discussion with family members about their feelings. 

Be mindful of some of the major areas of concern:

• Varied Interests
• Varied Capabilities
• Amenities/Preferences
• Communal/Private Space
• Medical Facilities

Consider involving multiple family members in the planning process.  Paying attention to the various needs and expectations of all ages will give you the best chance of success.