Three generations, one holiday: planning trips with parents and kids

Multigenerational trips are some of the most rewarding holidays — and the most complex to plan. Children want rides and pools; grandparents want comfort and shorter walks; parents want everyone happy. Here’s how we make it work.

Pick a destination with short distances

Compact, well-organised places are ideal. Singapore, Dubai and Malaysia keep travel time between attractions short, have reliable taxis and offer familiar food. Destinations that need long drives or frequent internal flights are better saved for later.

Pace the days

• Plan one major activity per day, with a rest break in the afternoon.
• Alternate busy days with lighter ones.
• Avoid early-morning departures after late-night arrivals.
• Keep one flexible half-day for whoever needs it.

Choose the right rooms

Connecting rooms or family suites keep everyone close. Ask for lower floors or rooms near lifts for elders, and hotels with a pool for children. Central locations reduce taxi time significantly.

Private transfers over coach tours

For groups with seniors or small children, private vehicles often cost little more per person than shared tours — and allow stops whenever needed.

Health and comfort

Carry regular medicines in cabin baggage with prescriptions, request wheelchair assistance at airports in advance (it’s usually free), and make sure travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions where possible.

Let everyone choose one thing

Ask each family member for one “must-do”. Building the itinerary around those choices means everyone gets their moment — and that’s what makes a family trip memorable.