In the travel industry today, the compelling trend is 3G.
There is a growing demand for destinations that cater for multi-generational holidays; those travelling with extended family. Increasingly, parents are not only getting away with their children, but also their aunts and uncles, and even the children’s grandparents.
Bringing the family together
Modern life has often meant that families no longer live in the same neighbourhood, region or even country. Work, education and other opportunities can mean that families spread all over Italy, Europe or even further afield. Thus, holidays represent that magical time when one can not only truly relax, but also spend quality time with the family, bringing generations together.
Why choose Italy?
Italy remains a favourite and I believe it is a perfect destination for a multi-generational 3G holiday. There are a hundred and one reasons why, but here are seven to convince you, in case you are still looking for the perfect family holiday destination this year.
1. Italy has everything
Italy is privileged for its diversity in nature, culture and cuisine. One of the challenges when creating a successful multi-generational holiday is making sure there is something special for everyone. Children love to play in the pool; teenagers want to feel they can get away and have time alone; parents want guilt-free time to relax and maybe learn a new skill like cooking; and uncles, aunts and grandparents will seize the opportunity to experience an interesting holiday destination – no one wants to feel like they are alone with free childcare.
Italy manages to offer that diversity of experiences for every generation – the glittering Mediterranean and its islands; romantic lakes; imposing mountains; world-class urban culture; captivating history; reliable weather; and, of course, superb cuisine (I mean, really, have you ever met a child who doesn’t love Italian food?!). In most cafés a cup of freshly brewed espresso will only cost you €1.00, sometimes less, and in restaurants a pizza margherita freshly prepared in a wood-fired oven can only cost you €4.00.
2. Indulge your passions
Italy does not do things by halves; therefore, take a holiday here and you can be sure that every member of the family can be happily absorbed in what they love. Sporty teenagers will love being close to the sea, a beautiful lake or the mountains. There is cycling, swimming, sailing, jet-skiing or climbing. For the culture lovers in your clan, well, there is enough history and fine arts in Italy to fill a thousand holidays. Nothing will bring a school project to life more than a visit to Pompeii or the temples in Sicily!
Food lovers can expect not only tasty local food and wine, but also superb gourmet restaurants. You can learn some new skills from the professionals in local cooking classes, wine or olive oil tastings, even cheese-making courses. Maybe there is a petrol station in the family – so how about a ride in a Ferrari in Maranello? Or do your kids love fashion? Then Milan is sure to be a hit.
3. Suitable for families
It is no secret that in the Mediterranean, family is everything. Travelling to Italy with children makes for a relaxing holiday: children are welcome everywhere, from a Michelin-starred restaurant to an elegant beach club. Are your kids picky eaters? No problem for the restaurant chef to prepare a simple meal off the menu. And no dirty looks if you take the kids to a restaurant late at night. Italian children are used to dining very late and follow their parents everywhere.
4. Villas and family homes
The choice of accommodation in Italy is exceptional. Popular with multi-generational families is the vast selection of beautiful holiday homes also for those looking for more space and privacy, from castles in Umbria to country estates in Tuscany or sea-view villas in Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, from trulli in Puglia to chalets in the Alps or palazzos on Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, with spaces perfectly suited to the different expectations of different generations, from daily maid service to gourmet chefs, or even a personal trainer.
5. It’s all at your fingertips
Italy is a surprisingly compact country, so you can choose a location close to some amazing attractions. I love Sorrento, for example, because it’s easy to be close to the sea, but also within easy reach of ancient temples or beautiful cities like Naples or Positano. City, coast, Alps and countryside – this is a winner for multi-generational vacations.
Umbria is another favorite – a great combination of tranquil landscapes, food experiences but also a short distance from the world-class culture of Assisi or Perugia. Try visiting islands lesser known to international tourists like Elba or Pantelleria; And get to Le Marche fast before everyone else finds out where it is!!
6. Mixing the goals
Italy allows visitors to mix their holidays; the classic two-centre holiday has never been easier in a country with Alpine mountains and Mediterranean islands! And Renaissance cities close to the protected countryside.
7. Friendly people
In a world of over-tourism, it is so special to be welcomed by locals when you travel. Italy is notoriously hospitable, and when you visit you can be sure that children will feel loved, grandparents safe and you will be relaxed!
Discover La Terrazza Family Holidays
Three spacious and elegant bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large living kitchen: all the space you need to experience your stay in Sorrento in total comfort and freedom!
