One: Include all family members in the planning, so nobody feels left out, bored or ignored. Few things could be less fun than a family holiday where Dad is quietly sulking because he didn’t get to go to the museum he wanted, the teen is whining that they never get to do anything fun. Make sure whoever is in charge is listening to the rest of the family.
Two: Plan to split up. You’re not all going to want to do the same things, and you don’t have to in order to have a good time. Maybe some of you can go shopping while another couple head for the beach. Don’t drag people to places they have no interest in unless it’s necessary. When that’s said, consider finding a family friendly version of each person’s favourite activity. Is there an old church that’s especially spectacular? Perhaps you could all go and see that one!
Three: Consider self catering. It can be cheaper than eating out, and it can give you a sense of freedom not to be dependent on hotels and restaurants. As a bonus, you get the cultural experience of grocery shopping in a foreign country. A French supermarket is different enough from other ones that it can actually be fun. If you approach it with a sense of adventure, it can actually be one of the best parts of your vacation.
Four: If you’re doing self catering, split the workload. Just because one of you usually cooks at home, doesn’t mean they want to spend their time doing so on holiday. The worst case scenario is one partner deciding on a self catering holiday, expecting the other to do all the work. Resentment is guaranteed, a great family holiday is not. Keep in mind that your holiday accommodation may not have a dishwasher or the large kitchen you’re used to at home.
Five: Relax and enjoy yourselves. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you need to see every sight and cultural history site in the country of France, with a stop in Rome on the way home. It’s easy to think of your trip as the great European vacation and over-plan. It’s understandable that you don’t want to miss a thing, but if you make your holiday the most stressful part of the year you are likely to be disappointed. Try to prioritize, because ultimately having a great experience is more important than having seen every famous building.
