Take your Grand Kids and Go
In today’s hectic, 24/7 world where over-scheduled kids and constant connectivity compete head on with quality family time, grandparents today must shake their heads at the craziness of it all. My mother, for instance, questions the activities my three children are involved in and feigns exhaustion any time she looks at our family calendar posted in my kitchen. With two teenagers and a tween, my days are full but I also know the value of a family vacation when done right.
At Collette we are seeing an increase in grand parents opting to travel with their children and their grandchildren. “The key to an unforgettable vacation is to immerse your family in adventures and activities that when added up over the course of a week or two result in many shared happy moments,” says Melissa Snape, executive vice president of product. “And isn’t that one of the key reasons families choose to travel together in the first place?”
In Italy, that might mean an after-hours visit to a 14th century monastery to learn about monastic daily life followed by an authentic and traditional Tuscan feast – served family-style! Or how about walking in the footsteps of gladiators at the Roman Gladiator School and museum, where you can try on the official gear of the gladiators and practice different gladiator formations and combat exercises. In Venice, lots of laughs are practically guaranteed when you lead your family on a scavenger hunt – Collette provides the map and clues, you provide the sense of adventure!
It’s these types of activities that bond families together, and if we’ve done our job here at Collette, all you have to worry about is where to go. Even my mother can’t argue with that.
Here are 5 Family-Friendly Activities You’ll Love:
1. Tower of London
London, England
On the London & Paris Family Adventure, a guided tour of the Tower of London will have you front and center with the dazzling Crown Jewels. You’ll also see famous ravens and 500 years of royal armor. Shhh, don’t tell but everyone will probably learn a bit of history along the way as well…
2. Masai Mara
Rift Valley Province, Kenya
On the Kenya Family Safari, experience a full day game drive in the Masai Mara, home to the largest concentration of wildlife in Kenya and search for the “Big 5” – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo. Stop and enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.
3. Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, Virginia
Get patriotic during the American Spirit Family Discovery, where you will learn about everyday life at Mt. Vernon and the interesting history of George and Martha Washington. Your character guide from Washington’s day will lead you through an interactive tour of the house and grounds and will escort you through Washington’s daily activities and share his fascinating stories.
4. Arenal Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Discover the geologically young volcano during a Costa Rica Family Adventure. Almost every day you can see the red burning rocks tumble down its slopes. In the afternoon, gather with the group for a visit to the volcanic hot springs – something Arenal is famous for. Enjoy the pools, waterslides, or simply relax in the healing waters. Also, spend two nights at a hotel with amazing views of the 7,000 year old volcano.
5. Athabasca Glacier
Alberta, Canada
On the Canadian Rockies Family Discovery, board the Ice Explorer and journey to the top of the Athabasca Glacier – which is over 1,000 feet thick, over 400 years old, and the largest accumulation of ice south of the Arctic Circle. At the top of the glacier, take in outstanding views and a taste of glacier water.
posted by Melissa McKee
Collette Vacations
Tags: Canada, Collette, Collette Vacations, Costa Rica, Family Travel, Family Vacations, Kenya, London, Mount Vernon
