Have you ever wanted to just escape with the grandkids without their parents overruling your every whim? How about a trip. I’ve found some great travel trips for grandparents and grandchildren to enjoy each other’s company without the middlemen (parents) getting in the way. When I was a kid, I always loved going on outings with my grandparents.
Often, during the planning process, grandparents are much more democratic with the kids in the decision making process, like destination, activities, and even choice of lodging. Children feel more involved when asked for their opinions during the planning stages of the vacation. Also, it is a good rule of thumb to only have one grandchild per grandparents while traveling. This helps ensure that the children and grandparents can bond and get to know one another better. And, travel at the grandchild’s pace. It may take a bit longer with the younger kids, but they will have more enjoyment not being rushed.
One great way to travel with the grandkids is to go on an organized vacation, like a cruise, a visit to a resort, or an organized tour. Many companies cater to grandparent-grandchild traveling, like elderhostel.org.
The Sierra Club offers a great grandparent trip to the Tahoe National Forest. Help your grandkids discover the beauty of nature. With swimming and crafts, combined with nature hikes, the historical significance of this area and bonding time with the kiddos, this is a perfect get-a-way. The trip is all inclusive, which includes accommodations, meals at the lodge, activities and admission fees.
For those grandparents that have more money to spend on a vacation, check out Road Scholar. With guided trips all over the world, there are numerous vacation tours that will please both you and your grandchildren. Trips include African Safaris, discovering Greece, hot air ballooning and more.
But, for those who like to “wing it” there are a lot of places to go based on the time allowance, budget, & level of activity. Stay overnight in a lighthouse! At the Rose Island Lighthouse in Newport, RI, you can stay the night or a week. For those wishing to stay a week, they take part in the Full-Time Keeper program. Do light maintenance, record keeping, etc. This helps maintain the lighthouse and keep it open for others. And, if you choose the Full-time keeper option, it is tax-deductible for the time you stay. What better way to spend a once-in-a-lifetime vacation with your grandkids.
If you are into the care and conservation of the wolves, visit the International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota. With many special and age appropriate activities, children will love observing the wolves in a natural setting and learning about wildlife in general.
With a few ideas and hints to get you started, traveling with the grandchildren can be fun and bonding for everyone. These trips will last a lifetime, so why not plan one today? If you have any tips to pass on, we would love to hear about any in the comments.
