Travel Destinations

[jernin]

How much does your children influence your families travel destinations?

[beaandbunny05]

Well, normally when we go on family vacations, it's for something that the whole family can enjoy. The kids give input and ideas, but ultimately, the decisions are left to the adults.

[kathymuggle]

A little bit.

My older daughter only wants to visit really large cities (New York city comes to mind), where as others in this house prefer more nature oriented vacations.

We have thought of doubling up  - hitting the Adirondacks for a few days, then NYC, but people do not like that idea either.   

It is tough.  I usually accept input, but ultimately decide. I do try to balance everyones needs - and they do get quite a bit of say once they are at the destination.  The outlet shops are not my idea of fun - but they are DD's, so off we went.  My kids are lucky they get as many vacations as they do - and I try to keep that in mind (i.e no whining that you are on a beach in Nova Scotia instead of a hotel in NYC…it is very entitled)

Edited by kathymuggle - 11/5/12 at 12:09pm

[ollyoxenfree]

A fair amount. They decided on where we would go on the last couple of family trips. They wanted to go to New York city and I wanted to go to Mexico and lie on a beach. 

If DH and I decide on a travel destination, we keep in mind what is available for the kids and what they would enjoy. When we are planning specifics, the kids get a lot of input on choosing activities and attractions. 

A few years ago, we traveled around New Zealand. We took in a fair number of Lord of the Rings sites and some adventure experiences (zorb, luge) that I might not have chosen if it was just DH and me. We skipped the vineyards entirely, to my ever-lasting regret, because they were too young to drink. OTOH, I don't think they would have chosen to spend as much time in the botanical gardens or other such places if DH and I hadn't taken them there. 

I figure a vacation should be fun for all members of the family. That means everyone gets some input and everyone does a little compromising.