Given that family holidays are all about reconnecting with loved ones and making lasting memories, it’s no surprise that adding multiple generations into the mix is one of the hottest new travel trends. Multi-generational holidays, often referred to as 3G getaways, are on the rise, catering to a diverse range of family dynamics. These trips aren’t just for grandparents, parents, and kids—they can include any combination of aunts, uncles, or cousins, of any age.
The appeal of multi-generational holidays lies in their ability to meet the varied needs of all family members. The younger children can be kept entertained, teens can find engaging activities to keep them off their screens, parents can unwind, and seniors can enjoy their time without feeling like they’re just there for babysitting duty.
Multi-generational travel is on the rise in the UK, with 89% of holidaymakers considering booking getaways involving at least three generations of their family. According to Travel Weekly nearly 46% of people consider it crucial to go on multigenerational family trips. Factors contributing to this trend include cost savings, the ability to afford multiple holidays in a year, and the desire for more luxurious getaways. These figures indicate a growing interest in multi-gen travel, bridging generational gaps and creating memorable experiences for families across different age groups.
Tropical Sky understands the unique requirements of these extended family trips. The tour operator has curated a selection of exceptional destinations and experiences tailored to multi-generational families. Whether grown-ups are seeking quality time with their kids and parents, or doting grandparents are looking to spoil their offspring and grandchildren, Tropical Sky’s offerings promise something for everyone.
Be wowed by tropical island glamour and glittering beaches
The one place guaranteed to bridge the generation gap and maximise bonding time is the beach, especially if comes with swathes of glistening sand, bathtub-warm swimming waters, and places to stop for ice cream. For adventurous, active and culturally curious grandparents whose children and grandchildren are worth draining their bank account for, the teardrop-shaped island of St Lucia ups the ante with a unique mix of laid-back Caribbean charm and French finesse.
And little beats Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa when it comes to catering to all ends of the generational spectrum. Situated along the exotic Savannes Bay on St. Lucia’s undiscovered south coast, this 250-room resort offers a plethora of recreational activities for guests of all ages, both on land and water. The resort is thoughtfully divided into two wings: ‘Harmony,’ an intimate adults-only section ideal for relaxation and enjoying the serene St Lucian weather, and ‘Splash,’ a vibrant family-friendly area featuring CocoLand, St. Lucia’s largest water park, and the Kidz Klub.
The resort’s layout allows older relatives to enjoy peaceful moments away from the children if they wish, thanks to the Harmony area. Additionally, the resort offers spacious family rooms, including popular two-bedroom interconnecting options that accommodate up to two adults and four children, making it a versatile choice for families.
A seven night stay at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, arriving 14 July 2025, is priced from €6,996 total for two adults and two children (aged between two and 11) sharing a Deluxe Garden View Splash Room on an all-inclusive basis, this includes return flights and transfers.
Tropical Sky (01 664 9999, www.tropicalsky.ie)
Saddle up for ranch-based adventures in the Wild West
Few things are more quintessentially American than the cowboy, so it’s easy to see why the larger-than-life state of Texas fits the bill for the old and the young-at-heart to indulge any Wild West fantasies. If you want to turn your good holiday into a great one, the 10-day Saddle Up to Texas – Family Self-Drive is the perfect pick; mostly for its three-night stay at the 340-acre working Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera – the so-called Cowboy Capital of the World located in Texas Hill Country.
Not only will visitors get to slow down the pace in the breathtaking countryside, but there are also activities for the whole family to enjoy, from grandparents to grandkids, creating perfect opportunities to bond. Families can try their hand at horseback riding, guided hiking, fishing, old-fashioned hayrides, and bonfire singalongs. They can experience cowboy-style breakfasts out on the range with enthusiastic staff eager to share their knowledge of the landscape.
For even more excitement, they can tour the legendary AT&T Stadium (home of the NFL Dallas Cowboys), enjoy a rodeo and cattle drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, take a river cruise along San Antonio’s River Walk, visit the historic Alamo Mission, and relax on the Gulf Coast beaches of Corpus Christi. There’s something for everyone, making it the perfect family getaway.
A nine night Saddle up to Texas tour, arriving 12 April 2025, is priced from €7,196 total for two adults and two children (aged between two and 11), this includes international flights, fully inclusive car hire, hotel accommodation on a mixed board basis, plus three nights at the Mayan Dude Ranch where all meals are included, as well as two scenic horseback rides per day, evening ranch entertainment, fishing and hiking.
American Sky (01 664 9900, www.americansky.ie)
Enjoy a jungle adventure in Thailand
A unique adventure awaits multi-generational families seeking to explore Thailand beyond its famous beaches. This 12-night Thailand tour is a brilliant once-in-a-lifetime experience perfect for families, catering to all generations from grandparents to grandkids. It begins with four nights at the serene Merlin Khao Lak beach resort, ideal for a relaxing beach holiday that everyone can enjoy.
The adventure continues with a stay in a luxurious tent in Khao Sok National Park’s Elephant Camp, where guests can enjoy a canoe safari, interact with resident elephants, and participate in conservation activities. The diverse itinerary includes a visit to Takhun’s local market, a traditional longtail boat ride on Cheow Larn Lake, and a gentle rainforest trek, ensuring there are activities suited to all ages and interests.
Evenings offer movies, cooking demonstrations, and dance performances, providing entertainment for the whole family. The tour concludes with a stay on Phuket island, offering opportunities to relax by the pool or beach and explore the largest island in Thailand, situated in the beautiful Andaman Sea. This tour’s variety and flexibility make it ideal for creating lasting memories across multiple generations.
A 12 night Elephant Hills Experience and Thai Beach tour, arriving 30 June 2025, is priced from €7,296 total for two adults and two children (aged between two and 11), this includes 12 nights of accommodation on a mixed board basis, return international flights and transport throughout.
Tropical Sky (01 664 9999, www.tropicalsky.ie)
Combine education with exhilarating outdoor pursuits in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a superb family destination, appealing to both grandchildren and grandparents for its diverse attractions and enriching experiences. For adventurous spirits, there are thrilling rainforest canopy tours and volcanic hikes that offer breathtaking vistas. Nature enthusiasts can marvel at the country’s rich biodiversity in protected reserves like Manuel Antonio National Park, home to sloths and colourful birds.
This 9-day trip offers a perfect blend of ecological wonders and fun outdoor activities, ideal for multi-generational families seeking both adventure and education. Designed for parents and children to enjoy together, the journey includes thrilling experiences such as rappelling and rafting in La Fortuna, and zip lining and hiking through the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Families will visit a local household to learn the art of making traditional tortillas and study the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Relaxation awaits on the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, complemented by the exploration of the colonial city of San Jose. Highlights of the trip include hiking in Monteverde and Manuel Antonio National Park, engaging in water sports on Lake Arenal, and soaking up the sunshine on pristine beaches, making it an unforgettable educational adventure for all ages.
An eight night Costa Rica Family Adventure, arriving 18 July 2025 is priced from €12,296 total for two adults and two children (aged between two and 11), this includes return flights, eight nights accommodation in a hotel, eight breakfasts and one lunch, transport and a tour guide throughout, and all activities listed above.
Tropical Sky (01 664 9999, www.tropicalsky.ie)
Escape from the familiar and head to a land of cultural contrasts
There’s nowhere quite like Japan for a mind-boggling mix of the traditional (Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, tea ceremonies, geishas, cherry blossoms, elaborate gardens and fairytale-like castles) with the futuristic (fashion, artworks, bullet trains, electronics, and LED-illuminated robot restaurants).
It’s also one of those eclectic places that offers a vast amount of contrasting experiences in a single day; for example, you could be wowed by state-of-the-art museums, glittering skyscrapers, hypnotic gaming centres and gleaming shopping malls in the morning and visiting one of the country’s peaceful religious sites in the afternoon.
And while it’s impossible to see and do everything in one trip, the 11-night Japan Family Holiday does a stellar job of creating a city and country itinerary that starts in Tokyo and continues to Hakone and Hiroshima before finishing in Kyoto. Highlights include learning the ancient art of calligraphy, feasting on fresh sushi, enjoying a soak in an onsen (hot spring bath), taking a Tokyo Bay boat cruise and Hozu River ride, spending the night on a tatami mat, walking through the bamboo forests, and visiting a monkey sanctuary.
An 11 night Japan Family Holiday, arriving 26 June 2025, is priced from €24,796 total for two adults and two children (aged between two and 11), this includes return flights, 11 nights’ accommodation, nine breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners, transport throughout, and all activities listed above.
Tropical Sky (01 664 9999, www.tropicalsky.ie)
Fun for all the family on a cruise
A cruise is a great option for a family as they’re perfect for all ages and something that elders may feel more comfortable with. Many elders may have already cruised before and want to take their family. Cruises used to have a reputation for being for older people but are growing in popularity with younger folk and families. This thrilling cruise and stay itinerary is designed with fun at its core.
Begin with two nights in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment hub on International Drive, where a plethora of restaurants, shops, and attractions await. Then, embark on Carnival’s newest ship, Mardi Gras, offering unparalleled entertainment and dining. Departing from Port Canaveral, the cruise features a blend of relaxing sea days and exciting port stops. Explore Nassau’s vibrant culture and beaches, unwind at Amber Cove’s golden sands in the Dominican Republic, and discover Grand Turk’s turquoise waters and charming Cockburn Town. With additional sea days for onboard enjoyment and a final night in Orlando, families can savour every moment.
Tailor your perfect holiday by including visits to iconic sites like the Kennedy Space Centre for a truly memorable family adventure. This itinerary is great because it starts and ends in family-favourite Florida, renowned for its theme parks, beautiful beaches, and endless family-friendly activities.
A 10-night Carnival cruise and stay in Florida, arriving 20 February 2025 is priced from €1,479 pp based on two sharing a room on a mixed board basis, this includes return flights, two nights pre-cruise stay in Orlando, seven nights on a Carnival cruise aboard Mardi Gras on a full board basis, one night post-cruise stay in Orlando, most amenities and activities. Transfers not excluded.
American Sky (01 664 9960, www.americansky.ie)