In theory, school holidays are the perfect time to take that amazing family trip somewhere – to enrich your children’s knowledge of the world, different cultures and ignite their wanderlust, while at the same time getting in some magical family bonding time.
But that’s in theory, right?
In reality things tend to go a little differently most of the time. If you have young children, then they get tired and bored from being stuck in a car or plane for hours, and teenagers want more privacy and space than the confines of transportation allow.
Well we’re done with that reality! Your family trips should be the stuff that makes (good) memories – and we’re here to help. You don’t get to be a successful hotel group without knowing what makes travellers happy, so we’re going to share some great hints to make that trip amazing.
PREPARATION IS KEY
You’ve organised your travel plans – where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and of course, where you’re staying – but take just a little extra time to make sure everyone has the best chance at a great time.
Plan for family time, with activities that the whole family can easily enjoy, as well as for alone time. As much as this trip is meant to be for bonding, you’ll all probably be at much closer quarters than you’re used to, and everyone needs their space. Take advantage of activities that the area you’re visiting offers, as well as pack things like a pack of cards, board games etc., that the family can enjoy together. Make sure each child brings a book, some toys, or any favourite hobby that is mobile and can entertain them for a few hours.
Don’t try to fill every minute of the trip with amazing moments, education or enriching experiences, because, more often than not, it’s in the quiet impromptu times together that the real memories are made. Plan enough so that everyone can entertain themselves, but then relax and enjoy your holiday.
LAY DOWN SOME GROUND RULES
If you have younger children then the excitement of a new environment and change in their routine might mean that they start to feel like all day, every day, is a nonstop party and start to forget all their good behaviour.
So before you start your trip, let them know where the boundaries lie – not to stop the fun, but to ensure that everyone has a great time without you having to shout at them constantly. This is also a good idea for teenagers if you are visiting somewhere where they may want to go out by themselves. Decide on rules that suit both you and your teens and then you can start your holiday with the same expectations.
LET YOUR KIDS KNOW THAT THEY AREN’T JUST ALONG FOR THE RIDE
Children love it when they feel important and grown up, so use this to your advantage. Before the holiday, you could present them with a travel journal and a cheap camera and tell them that it’s their job to document the holiday. Another idea is to let them help you research the holiday and choose a few places themselves that they’d love to visit during the trip.
The more involved they feel, the more invested they’ll be in the holiday being a great one.
Are you feeling ready for that trip? Then we have some great holiday ideas around South Africa for you here >>