So, it’s official. Multi-generational travel is THE top trend for 2018. Some might argue that holidays that include three or more generations – be it grandparents, parents, children and even cousins and uncles and aunts – have always been a popular option. However, the phenomenon was officially identified by tourism authorities as an emerging ‘travel trend in 2015, and has been on the up and up ever since.

If you don’t quite believe us, then a recent report from travel experts Virtuoso might convince you!

You can check out the full Forbes article here, which reports that, “Taking the kids — and even grandma with you — that’s the top travel trend for 2018, according to luxury travel network Virtuoso. It has revealed that the families continue to travel, in search of experiences that create closer bonds and lasting memories. Connecting with family through travel is one of 2018’s must-have experiences.”

Think back to your own childhood experiences. We bet some of the best (and the hilariously worst!) were spent with extended family! Accor Vacation Club is possibly ahead of the curve when it comes to the trend to take grandma, kids and cousins along for the trip.

Indeed, many Accor Vacation Club Members already use their memberships to take advantage of the great apartment accommodation on offer across the Club’s network to spend quality time with extend family regularly throughout the year.

Here are our top five reasons for jumping on board this trend – if you haven’t already.

1. Getting serious about family time

Let’s face it. In our modern world, time is our most precious commodity, and spending it with the people that matter most to us should be a priority. We schedule work time, gym time, even me time – but what about time with extended family members? While social media, phone and email is a great way to stay in touch with those you love, nothing beats scheduling holidays together for actual face time and real contact. Seeing each other in the flesh, sharing a hug, conversation or just hearing each other laugh is the ultimate for creating memories based on shared experiences.

2. Built in babysitters

For many parents juggling careers and family, grandparents have become more essential than ever to the family mix, lending a hand in the childcare stakes and for emotional support. That of course goes for time spent on holidays too. If a date night is hard to come by, then a multi-generational holiday offers a great opportunity for a mum and dad who have little chance to spend time together the perfect excuse for a mini-date escape. And let’s not forget the other relatives also on hand to keep a watchful eye on little ones, to give Nan and Pop a break too. A million memories are made from playing with cousins and that hilarious uncle or auntie who provide entertainment value for days!

3. Sharing is caring

The beauty of bringing more family members along for the ride? There are more people to delegate to and collaborate with!  Sharing duties has to be one of the best perks of organising a holiday with an assortment of different family members involved. Cooking, cleaning, and even divvying up who is driving or researching different day trips can be a godsend. It means everyone can actually enjoy some time off, with each person bringing something different to the party. Collaborate and celebrate.

4. Forging strong next-generation relationships

As we get older, we start to realise just how fragile life can be, and how important creating a legacy and establishing meaningful bonds truly is. Parents age. Children grow up quickly. Other family members move away as ‘life’ and new opportunities beckon. It’s so important not to wait until someone is sick and unwell, or until all your school and work commitments are completed, before planning that special holiday together. An annual trip is another brilliant way to ensure that special bonds are formed, encouraging a lifetime of love, support and of course a lust for travel with the people who know and (still) love you!

5. It’s FUN!

Ok, we admit it. Sometimes family time can be challenging. But in the scheme of things, holidays spent with family also represent some of the most rewarding and beautiful times you’ll ever have the privilege of enjoying. Embrace the crazy – and your family – and enjoy all the fun times that family travel represents.

To plan your next holiday escape visit www.accorvacationclub.com.au

The information in this article is not personal financial advice and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person.  Before making a decision to purchase or upgrade a membership in the Accor Vacation Club, you should consider the PDS dated 1 January 2017, issued by A.P.V.C. Ltd AFSL 245515 and available at www.accorvacationclub.com.au or by contacting A.P.V.C. Ltd on 1800 70 81 90. All hotel and cruise bookings are subject to availability.

In need of a survival guide to get you through the upcoming school holidays? You are not alone. Family holidays are meant to be about making time and creating memories that your children will carry with them for the rest of their lives (ok that might be aiming too high…at least into next term!). But often, school holidays can be fraught with stress and problem solving that can easily sap the energy and magic right out of your vacation.

Here, we share a few ideas to help smooth the way to a fun – not frightful – trip away with your children.

1. Book early!

We can’t stress this enough. Let’s face it, everyone with school aged children will be planning to travel and book accommodation at the same time as you, so thinking ahead and making that travel booking needs to be done as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.  As they say, the early bird gets the worm (or the room as the case may be.)

2. Select a destination to suit the ages and interests of your family.

It pays to have a good think about your kids’ ages, and how well the destination you have in mind might meet their age requirements and keep them best occupied. If younger members of the family are entertained and happy, it gives you a chance to relax and enjoy yourself too.

Overseas favourites like Bali and Fiji have great reputations as family destinations for those with younger children and babies, with good reason. The staff generally go above and beyond to entertain young guests while Mum and Dad kick back and have a chance to finish off breakfast at the restaurant buffet in peace! If your kids are older, perhaps a road trip and more adventure style options will seem less daunting. For example, the Gold Coast is famous for theme park fun if you think your kids are old enough to appreciate an action packed trip full of rollercoaster action. Melbourne offers everything you need to inject a little culture into your children’s lives. And the alpine regions of NSW and Victoria have adrenalin and snow adventures in easy reach, ideal for both summer and winter breaks that get you back in touch with nature and the great outdoors. It all depends on your family, so it pays to spend some time to consider your options in order to get this right.

3. Apartments versus hotel rooms.

Let’s face it. Sometimes more is just, well, more! To make sure your holiday vibe remains chilled, an apartment can be a great option, offering a true home away from home experience with the added benefit of more space. Often, apartments also include several separate guest rooms, kitchen and laundry facilities. Especially great for those with larger families, who might not fit a traditional hotel room style configuration.

4. Consider inviting friends and family.

There are definite benefits to travelling with family (including grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles), or close friends. By agreeing to travel to a destination with your wolf pack, you can ensure there will always be trusted friends to join your kids in the pool for a game of Marco Polo, a mate to bring you a drink while you are slaving over the barbecue, and an extra set of eyes to watch your brood while you duck away for that much need afternoon holiday nap. Plus, you get to share your holiday experiences with people you care about, with stories to reminisce over for years to come.

5. Pack a carry bag with essentials, treats and surprises.

We all know that life happens, even to the best of us. To take the stress and drama out of excursions, day trip, flights and road trips always pack a carry back with you so that all the essentials you require are in reach. That includes first aid and toiletry essentials, and an extra set of clothes for each person (just in case!). Prepare your travel entertainment in advance too (charge those devices and pack those books and pencils!), and don’t forget some new gadgets or surprises to build moral and keep little minds engaged should you encounter delays on already long trips.

6. Plan ahead… and then plan B (and in some cases, C)

The most organised trip can easily get derailed, so it’s important to stay flexible, adapt to changes, have a plan B ready to go to if unforeseen problems crop up. A sense of humour is also essential to face issues with a smile and set the tone for your little ones! In terms of itineraries, it’s always a good idea to plan some structured time into your day to give focus and have something to look forward to, even if it’s as simple as a daily beach walk or board game. For more packed itineraries that have you out and about in your destination, don’t forget to factor in some down time to simply relax and veg out with your crew. Sometimes it’s the unplanned moments where true holiday magic and memories happen!

To plan your next holiday escape visit www.accorvacationclub.com.au

The information in this article is not personal financial advice and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person.  Before making a decision to purchase or upgrade a membership in the Accor Vacation Club, you should consider the PDS dated 1 January 2017, issued by A.P.V.C. Ltd AFSL 245515 and available at www.accorvacationclub.com.au or by contacting A.P.V.C. Ltd on 1800 70 81 90.