Family holiday resorts are a boon for intergenerational distance families

First published on LinkedIn July 2022

I like them for three reasons

1.     You’re holidaying on neutral territory – no one is the host
2.    If the grandkids are entertained, everyone is happy
3.    The grandparents can choose to have their own space by reserving separate accommodation

For 20+ years I have vacationed at resorts and complexes spread across three continents. Each resort differed in what was offered and included.

In Netherland, Germany Belgium, France, England and Ireland you’ll find Center Parcs. They’re all surrounded by nature and the great outdoors. The majority of cottages and accommodation are self-catering with restaurant options onsite. Each park features fantastic activities. I can recall indoor skiing in summer with real snow. They claim, “bored kids are completely unheard of at Center Parcs”.

In England, Wales and Scotland you’ll find Hoseasons parks. These are self-catering with some offering accommodation on canal boats. Many are geared up for winter stays with heated pools.
Club Med offers resorts all around the world – ideal for winter (skiing) and summer stays. No kitchen facilities because the resorts are all-inclusive in food, entertainment, Kids Club care, and even alcohol! Once you arrive and unpack you don’t want to leave. 

In Australia there's the popular all-inclusive Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast.
Here are article links to explore more… architecturaldigest, planetware, travelandleisure, FullSuitcase and Vacationist.

There is no doubt about it when you add up the cost, some are mouth-watering. What’s important to keep in mind though are all the normal living costs that won’t appear on all generations' credit card statements for the time you’re away. These add up and help offset the investment.

The added advantage of all-inclusive resorts like Club Med is that once you are there everyone puts their wallet away and there are no discussions about who pays for what.

Hints and tips

• Grandparents… arrive a day or so earlier and depart a day or two later, especially if you have to deal with jetlag. Give yourself time to become familiar with the layout of the resort - what is where and all the nooks and crannies. It can be overwhelming arriving when everyone else knows where they are going. If you aren’t as mobile request accommodation convenient to facilities and/or your family. Some of the resorts are spread over acres. During a stay in France, it took us half an hour to walk between our unit and our son and family. All good exercise, but in the heat of August - not so good. Incidentally, this resort offered hire bicycles. We didn’t pay attention and by the time we realised a bike would be useful they'd all been book out. It pays to do some homework beforehand.
• If it is feasible to bring all your beach gear and equipment, do so. However, if space is at a premium you can buy most things once you’re there, and can gift your purchases to other guests when it’s time to leave. They will love you for it.
• Sunscreen – bring heaps more than you imagine you need - some for the bathroom, some for the beach bag and spare. On our recent vacation sunscreen became a regular, repeat purchase from the boutique.
• Laundry – if your resort offers laundry facilities check out how you pay for it. During our last stay we required US$1 coins. Sounds simple? We live in a cashless society and we were tourists with reduced access to cash. The only change machine at the resort was empty. Reception couldn’t help until a staff member was available to drive the half hour to the closest bank and it wasn’t going to happen anytime soon. Come prepared.
• If grandchildren are likely to stay over with you ask the parents to bring a second set of pyjamas and toothbrushes. On one hand, these things really don't matter for a few days but on the other hand, they contribute to a familiar bedtime routine. You certainly want to avoid late night, stressful to-ing and fro-ing between accommodation collecting these items.
• Kid’s Club – if there is one – use it. Don’t be a martyr to parenting and grandparenting. Grandparents, give yourself time to recharge because you’ll be more engaged when you’ve had downtime.
• You’ll find you’re texting each other all the time to keep in touch about what’s happening and who is going where etc. If technology isn’t your thing, you’d be wise to brush up your skills so texting is second nature. Also, bring a zip-lock bag for your phone or consider purchasing a water-proof holder if you'll be around water a lot.
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My last hint is to have realistic expectations. Grumpy toddlers and children still complain and get upset even when they're in paradise. Your family will be no different. There will be times, in the heat of the moment when you wonder if it was all a good idea. However, looking back on the many photos you’ll remember how easy it was, on so many levels to create family memories.