Multi-generational travel is growing in popularity, as people look to spend time with their parents, grandparents, children or grandchildren and create special memories. In fact, 35% of all holidays taken last year were booked with multi-generational travel in mind, according to Original Travel, and 74% said they’d do it again.
But how can you make the experience fun for the whole family? In this post, we offer our top tips for taking a multi-generational trip to China. Spoiler: it’s all about the planning (but not too much).
1. Plan carefully
There’s more to think about when your party is made up of multiple generations, so everyone can enjoy the adventure together; for example, seniors may have accessibility requirements. The sheer scale of sites like Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China can be intimidating, so it’s best to visit sections that offer ramps, cable cars, lift access or wheelchair rental services. For example, there are wheelchair-accessible paths and ramps at the Forbidden City, and lifts, ramps and accessible toilets at the Badaling sections of the Great Wall.
You can reduce the physical strain even further by pre-arranging private transportation to avoid the long walks often required to reach public transport hubs or attraction entrances. When booking accommodation, double-check that your hotel provides fully accessible rooms.
Meanwhile, younger children may need to stay somewhere quiet, so it’s easier for them (and the rest of you!) to fall asleep. Accommodation that can cater to children will also make things simpler all-round.
2. Strike a balance that suits everyone
Mastering the art of compromise is the secret to a harmonious multi-generational holiday in China. It’s normal for children to have more energy than grandparents, as well as different stamina levels and interests. Instead of forcing your entire group to follow a rigid, one-size-fits-all schedule, embrace the strategy of splitting and merging. This approach allows different generations to pursue separate activities that suit their own pace. For instance, younger family members might embark on a high-energy hike up the steep paths of the Longji Rice Terraces, while older relatives enjoy a tranquil, traditional tea ceremony in the village below. You can reunite afterwards to talk about your experiences.
A big part of going away together is the shared memories, so don’t forget to plan activities everyone will enjoy, too. Give everyone a say when you’re putting the itinerary together.
3. Give yourselves plenty of time
China is a vast country with lots to see, so set aside as much time for your trip as you’re able to. Day to day, try to build a slower, more relaxed pace into your daily itinerary. This gives you a buffer for the many mishaps that can occur when trying to wrangle excited children and it makes sure the older members of the family don’t feel rushed. It allows some space for spontaneity, too – some of the best travel memories come from unexpected surprises.
A slower itinerary also allows plenty of time to rest and prevent fatigue, no matter how old you are. Younger children and seniors may need naps, while parents will appreciate some downtime to relax. This can reduce everyone’s stress levels and make sure the trip stays fun.
Travelling through China with multiple generations requires thoughtful planning, but by prioritising accessible routes and balancing the daily itinerary, you lay the groundwork for a memorable holiday. And China’s profound cultural reverence for elders will create a warm, welcoming environment for your entire group. Gather your relatives, start planning your route, and get ready for the adventure that awaits your family.
