Why Multi-Generational Holidays Are the Ultimate Gift - and Where to Go Next

If there’s one thing the past few years have taught us, it’s how precious time with loved ones really is. That’s why more and more families are choosing to travel together - not just parents and kids, but grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins too.

Multi-generational holidays offer a chance to slow down, reconnect and create memories that span generations. Whether it's a barefoot beach break, a bucket-list adventure or a once-in-a-lifetime escape, these trips are about shared experiences that everyone remembers - even if for different reasons.

As a mom, daughter, and travel expert, I love curating holidays that bring families together. But let’s be honest - planning for a group with different ages, interests, and energy levels can be tricky. That’s where I come in: to take the stress out of the planning and make sure every member of the family feels considered and cared for.

Here are some of my top destination picks for South African families looking to travel together:

Mauritius Just a four-hour flight from Joburg, this island is perfect for families. Think spacious villas or interleading rooms, all-inclusive resorts, calm beaches, and activities for everyone from toddlers to grandparents. Resorts like Beachcomber, Lux*, and Heritage Le Telfair cater beautifully to multi-gen groups.

Garden Route, South Africa For something closer to home, the Garden Route ticks all the boxes. Road trip it from Cape Town to Knysna, or base yourself in a family-friendly guesthouse or villa. You’ll find everything from wildlife experiences and forest adventures to relaxed lagoon days and delicious local food.

Victoria Falls or Chobe, Zimbabwe/Zambia/Botswana A great option for an unforgettable Africa experience. Combine the thrill of the Falls with a few nights in a safari lodge. Many lodges now offer family suites and kid-friendly game drives, while the views and wildlife delight every age group.

Southeast Asia (Bali or Vietnam) For families wanting culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, Bali and Vietnam are both excellent. They're safe, welcoming, and surprisingly affordable - even for bigger groups. Private villas with staff are common, giving you privacy without compromising on service.

Cruises Cruising is a game-changer for multi-generational travel. Unpack once, and let the world come to you. Onboard there’s something for everyone - kids’ clubs, fine dining, spa treatments, and daily excursions. I often recommend cruises departing from Europe or Asia for a unique blend of exploration and comfort.

A few tips for a smooth multi-generational holiday:

- Choose flexible accommodation like villas, interleading rooms or suites with lounge areas - Build in downtime - not every day needs to be jam-packed - Plan experiences everyone can enjoy - cooking classes, gentle hikes, wildlife viewing, or cultural shows - Use a travel professional (hi, it’s me!) to coordinate the details so you can just show up and enjoy

Whether it’s a big celebration, a long-overdue reunion, or just a desire to spend quality time together, multi-gen travel is one of the most rewarding ways to see the world.

Ready to start planning your family’s next chapter? Let’s chat - I’d love to help you bring everyone together in a way that feels special, seamless, and truly memorable.