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Tips for taking the grandparents with you on holiday

Taking grandparents along on holiday is a often great idea. Your children will get a chance to bond and create memories with your parents, and your mum and dad will enjoy seeing everyone spend time together. However, bringing along the older generation requires some finesse and careful planning. Cater to them too heavily and your kids will be bored, but ignore their needs and they won't have a very enjoyable time. Here are some travel tips to consider if you've decided to take the grandparents with you on your next trip.

Consider their health

Firstly, make sure to think about any special health needs they may have. Older adults' special needs vary greatly by individual. Encourage your parents to pay a visit to the doctor prior to embarking on your journey. That way, they'll be able to get their hands on prescription medications they may need throughout the trip. Their doctor may also recommend various immunisations, depending upon where you're travelling. Additionally, make sure you read up on the hospitals and health fees in the area you're visiting - if you're travelling abroad, you may want to purchase travel insurance to cover you in the event of an emergency.

Pick an itinerary that appeals to everyone

Grandma and grandpa may not be as excited as everyone else for a camping or hiking trip, but your kids won't want a holiday that solely includes museums, either. When planning your itinerary, it's important to keep diverse interests in mind if you're travelling with multiple generations.

In addition to choosing a holiday theme that's not limiting for any age group (alcohol-focused trips won't be possible for kids and physically demanding adventures won't be accessible to grandparents), consider one that will allow for a diverse array of activities. A beach holiday, for example, will allow older adults to relax on the beach and read while the kids partake in excursions such as surfing or stand-up paddle boarding.

Your itinerary should also include some room for independent time. If you have teens, there's no problem with dropping them off at a park or cafe while you and your parents enjoy a nice brunch. You can all meet up after the day is finished to share your experiences with one another.

Choose the right accommodation arrangement

Every family is a bit different when it comes to accommodation in Australia. Some groups will prefer to rent one suite that will fit every member of the family, while others will prefer separate lodging for grandparents. Similarly, some families love to cook and eat meals together in their hotel suite, while others prefer to go out to eat while on holiday. These factors will help you determine what kind of accommodation you should choose.

Regardless of which option you go with, you'll want to pick a resort or hotel that has amenities for older adults. Unless you get a room on the first floor, you'll need a location with an elevator, for example. Ask your parents what kinds of amenities they need before booking your accommodation.

Don't be shy about money

When two generations of adults travel together, you run the risk of not knowing who is supposed to pay for what. Do the people who planned the trip intend to pay for lodging? What about food and meals? Before going on holiday, sit down with your parents and discuss their expectations in terms of divvying up the cost of the trip. If you've decided you want to pay, let them know ahead of time so they don't have to worry about the cost of entertainment.

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