Why Traveling with Family Matters (And Why Europe Might Be More Doable Than You Think)

We get 18 summers, if we're lucky.

That’s 18 opportunities to take a trip with your kids while they’re still kids. And even fewer when you consider busy schedules, work commitments, school calendars, sports, and everything else life throws in the way.

But here’s the thing: the time you carve out for shared adventures is what your family will remember long after the toys are donated and the uniforms are packed away.

Travel isn’t just a vacation — it’s the memories, the bonding, the moments.

There’s something powerful about stepping away from your routines, into a place that’s unfamiliar. Whether you're walking through the ruins of ancient Rome, chasing sunsets on the Amalfi Coast, or laughing with your kids over a local pastry in a tucked-away café in Paris — you're not just seeing the world, you're growing together in it.

That’s the true value of family travel.

You Don’t Have to Go to a Beach (But You Can)

So many families automatically default to beach vacations — and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. A little sun, sand, and frozen drinks can be exactly what the doctor ordered. But if you’re craving something different, there’s an entire world beyond the shoreline.

Vacations that are not a beach might include river cruises through Europe, exploring charming alpine towns in Switzerland, or castle-hopping in Ireland. Maybe it’s a gondola ride in Venice, a food tour in Barcelona, or hiking the lavender fields of Provence. These aren’t just vacations — they’re experiences that spark curiosity, connection, and wonder.

On the flip side, if you're still drawn to the beach (who isn't?), there are ways to elevate your experience. Beaches and Sandals tips and tricks include choosing the right resort for your family’s vibe — whether that’s a quieter Sandals property for couples or a Beaches resort that offers Sesame Street characters, waterparks, and certified nannies for the little ones. Knowing which rooms come with butler service, how to get the most value from included water sports, and which beaches offer the calmest waters for small kids makes a big difference — and that’s where travel advisors come in.

Europe vs. Theme Parks: The Price Might Surprise You

One of the biggest misconceptions in family travel? That international trips — especially to Europe — are too expensive, too complicated, or simply out of reach.

Here’s the truth: a 7-day family trip to Disney or Universal, staying onsite, buying park tickets, and paying for food (not to mention Genie+ or Express Passes) often ends up costing the same or even more than a week in Europe.

Let’s break it down:

• A moderate hotel at Disney, with 5-day park tickets, meal plans, and extras? You’re easily looking at $5,000–$7,000 for a family of four.

• A week in Italy, with boutique hotels, cultural tours, and amazing meals? Also possible within that range — and often includes more inclusive experiences.

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Now, consider the difference in pace and experience. While theme parks can be thrilling, they’re often exhausting. Europe, while rich in culture, history, and beauty, can be tailored to your pace — and that might include cooking classes, biking through vineyards, or simply people-watching with a gelato in hand.

The Value of Experiences Over Things

Years from now, your kids may not remember the souvenirs they brought home — but they’ll remember waking up in a new city, trying something different, and being present together. They’ll remember the inside jokes from your guided tour, the way the Eiffel Tower lit up at night, and the time you all got caught in the rain in Dublin and laughed your way back to the hotel.

And they’ll carry those memories with them. Into adulthood. Into how they see the world.

Travel becomes a part of their story.

Travel Smart with Food Allergies & Special Needs

Traveling with family isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially when someone in the group has food allergies or dietary restrictions. It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out where it’s safe to eat, who understands your needs, and which cruise line or resort is actually equipped to handle it.

Here’s what I tell clients: not all cruise lines or resorts are created equal in this department. And the best cruise line for food allergies isn't necessarily the biggest or most luxurious — it’s the one with trained staff, clear protocols, and a culture of care. Some cruise lines go above and beyond by offering custom meals, allergen-free zones, and even assigning a dedicated dining team to your family throughout the sailing.

When you work with someone who understands these nuances, travel becomes not just doable — it becomes enjoyable. Safe. Memorable.

Planning with Purpose

Travel planning can feel like a full-time job. Between researching destinations, comparing reviews, and booking all the moving parts, it’s easy to understand why so many families stick with what they know — a familiar hotel or theme park.

But when you plan with purpose — with intention — something amazing happens. You’re not just picking a destination. You’re curating an experience that fits your family’s season of life. That might mean prioritizing relaxation, or adventure, or cultural enrichment. It could be a milestone trip. A “just because” trip. Or a trip to connect after a busy season.

Whatever it is, your trip should reflect what you value. And when it does, it becomes more than a vacation. It becomes part of your family legacy.

The Time Is Now

The truth is, we always think we’ll have more time. More summers. More flexibility. But those 18 years fly by. And the window of traveling with your kids — really experiencing the world with them — is small.

So if you’ve been dreaming of something different — Europe, an adventure cruise, a cultural escape, or just a break from your routine — I encourage you to make the leap. The memories are worth it. The planning doesn’t have to be stressful. And you may be surprised at what’s actually possible within your budget.

Ready to start dreaming?Let’s create something amazing for your family — custom to your needs, your interests, and your budget.

Request a custom quote today: https://app.tern.travel/public/forms/3IwOs4lK4i77fIFa9fQOzg/responses/qiQdAnAj5-KGOXRmQe4hMg/edit