Most South African families live for their December break. However, a family holiday involves spending plenty of extended time together, and the mix of ages and expectations can sometimes turn a long-awaited getaway into a test of patience.

Corné Alberts, national marketing manager at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, provides some practical tips and secrets for a family holiday that doesn’t end in chaos but is enjoyable for all ages.

no friction, only enjoyment

She highlights how different generations travelling together can find a good rhythm and enjoy the holiday without friction and resentment, so everyone ends up smiling over braai smoke instead of arguing over who controls the TV remote.

For most South Africans, the long-awaited end-of-year summer holiday is a sacred ritual. However, while the idea of everyone finally relaxing together sounds idyllic, the reality often includes some dramatic sighs, eye rolls and tense moments on how the holiday should be spent.

different generations, different expectations

According to research published by Kantar, multigenerational travel is one of the fastest-growing trends worldwide, but it’s also one of the trickiest since each generation approaches holidays differently.

Gen Alpha requires constant entertainment and supervision, while Gen Z loves adventure and social-media-worthy experiences. Millennials seek meaningful, often foodie or cultural escapes, while Gen X values time with extended family. Boomers prefer peace, comfort and a slower pace.

If you consider all these different expectations, it’s no wonder chaos sometimes reigns during the December/January holidays.

Find out how to holiday without the hassle and read our article on packing for your holiday.

planning insights

Here are some insights on how to plan a family holiday that will create a win-win for all generations.

Choose destinations that keep everyone entertained 

Select destinations and accommodation options that provide variety. A resort that includes kids’ clubs, a spa, hiking trails, archery or quad biking, and an array of cuisine options gives each generation something to look forward to. Holiday accommodation options with plenty of onsite activities will avoid any unnecessary drama and provide quality family time when everyone regroups.

Find out more about the beauty of an all-inclusive family holiday.

Self-catering apartments equals shared experiences with privacy

About 20% of Gen X prefer renting self-catering apartments, making this option ideal for all generations to join in shared meals and game nights, while allowing everyone to retreat to their own space when they need it.

Sneak in the romance

Millennials rank romantic trips with their spouse or partner as a top priority, but this is often tricky when travelling with the whole family.  The secret here is to book a resort or hotel with a holiday cinema, kids’ club or supervised activity programme where grandparents and toddlers can watch a movie or a show at the resort, while parents slip off for a romantic dinner or sunset walk, making sure no one feels left out.

A one-stop destination for Boomers

Boomers love a holiday that lets them truly switch off, with 77% preferring a single-destination vacation. The problem is that Millennials and Gen Z thrive on variety. One way to make this work is to choose a base destination with easy day-trip options. Boomers can stay put and enjoy calm breakfasts and leisurely walks, while Millennials and Gen Z venture out for short excursions, such as a nearby safari, hiking trail, horse-riding on the beach or cultural village visit, returning to the same comfortable base each night.

Technology and travelling preferences

While Gen Z and younger Millennials rely heavily on social media and travel apps to plan their trips, Boomers prefer guidebooks and traditional planning methods. Make this work by sharing a digital itinerary or app with the tech-savvy, but have a printed schedule handy for those who prefer something tangible. This way everyone stays informed without feeling forced into using unfamiliar tech.

create space for each generation

The key to a family holiday that is rated a success, not a failure, is not to try and expect everyone to enjoy the same experience, but rather to create space for different generations, find the overlaps in interests and allow everyone to have a memorable time.

Happy family holidays!