Should Granny travel with us on holiday?
Travelling with Granny can make or break a family holiday; therefore, it should be planned thoughtfully.
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Mariana Balt
Multi-generational travel has become increasingly common across Southern Africa, driven by longer life expectancy, flexible retirement years and a desire to share meaningful time.
Inviting Granny along on a family holiday can deepen connections, yet it also reshapes how a trip unfolds. The decision requires honesty, planning and an understanding of everyone’s needs.
Destinations matter. A self-catering cottage in the Western Cape, perhaps along the Garden Route near Wilderness or De Kelders, offers a gentler pace than a fast-moving itinerary. Easy access to shops, level walking paths and medical facilities provides reassurance without detracting from the sense of escape. Coastal towns along the R43 or N2 allow for scenic drives punctuated by cafés and viewpoints rather than long, uninterrupted travel days.
National parks and lodges can work well if chosen carefully. Rest camps in Kruger National Park offer bungalows with en-suite bathrooms, level walkways and on-site restaurants. Camps such as Berg-en-Dal or Satara balance wildlife access with comfort, allowing Granny to skip a game drive and enjoy the shade of camp if needed.
Private lodges often provide attentive service, though guests should confirm vehicle step height and seating comfort in advance.
Energy levels shape daily rhythms. While children may rise eagerly before dawn, older travellers often prefer later starts. A flexible itinerary helps avoid frustration. Splitting activities allows each generation to engage at its own pace, meeting again for shared meals or afternoon rest periods. These quieter moments often become the heart of the trip, filled with stories and reflections that rarely surface at home.
Health considerations should be addressed openly. Access to medication, refrigeration for prescriptions and proximity to clinics all influence destination choice. Towns like Hoedspruit, George and Nelspruit offer reliable medical services within reach of popular holiday areas. Travel insurance becomes essential, not optional, particularly when crossing borders.
The emotional benefits of travelling together are significant. Children gain perspective by spending extended time with an older generation, while grandparents often relish seeing familiar landscapes through younger eyes. A sunset over the Drakensberg Amphitheatre or a slow afternoon in the Karoo acquires added meaning when shared across decades.
Challenges do arise. Differences in routine, dietary preferences and tolerance for uncertainty require patience on all sides. Clear communication before departure sets expectations and prevents resentment. Honest conversations about rest time, budget and responsibilities help ensure that the trip feels inclusive rather than demanding.
Inviting Granny along should never feel like an obligation. When the match between destination, accommodation and personalities is right, multi-generational travel becomes a gift rather than a compromise. Shared experiences, unhurried conversations and the creation of living memories often outlast the holiday itself.
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Mariana Balt
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