7 Different Personalities on Every Multigenerational Getaway

The multigenerational family getaway is a rising travel trend as more families choose to take an annual vacation together. These special trips – where grandparents, parents and kids of all ages come together – are an opportunity to connect, spend quality time together and create lasting memories in brilliant and beautiful destinations.

Naturally, a multigenerational family getaway can be challenging to plan. Each family member may have different interests and preferences when it comes to travel, from beachside relaxing to adventurous jungle treks. That’s where group travel comes in – it takes away all the hassle!

When big families get together on vacation there are often a few key personality types that arise. From the Adventurous Eater to the Cultural Connoisseur and the Action Hero, let’s take a look at various personalities you might encounter on your next multigenerational family holiday.

The Adventurous Eater

Tripe stew is a traditional Roman dish? Of course they’ll try it. Insects for breakfast? Why not. The Adventurous Eater is always looking for new and exciting food experiences. They’re not afraid to try the most exotic and unusual dishes that would make most of your family squirm. Keeping an open mind leads them to new experiences, and this family member loves learning about the cultural and historical significance behind different dishes. As a real foodie, they’ve probably already done their research on “where to find the best croissants in Paris” (or they know to ask a local).

The Cultural Connoisseur

The Cultural Connoisseur – sometimes known as a Culture Vulture – is always on the hunt for new and exciting cultural experiences in a destination. On a multigenerational family tour, this personality might be a history buff, an art enthusiast, or mad for music. They’ll be the first to suggest museums, galleries, and historical sites. This family member is the one to follow around to absorb extra knowledge from – there’s a good chance they’ve done their research and will enlighten you with bonus facts about a sight or painting.

TRY THIS TRIP: Family Tour: Castles & Kilts

The Patient Planner

With a pen and a notepad in their pocket, the Patient Planner is definitely the most organized family member. They are often the person to research trips, choose the itinerary and execute the details. They are the person who makes sure every aspect of the trip is looked after, from calling restaurants for reservations to knowing where the next gas station is. While they are a great asset to any multigenerational family getaway, planning travel is hard work – and the only way to truly give the Patient Planner a break is to bring in a trusted third party. That’s why having an experienced Travel Director is the perfect solution so your family planner relax knowing it will be a smooth trip.

The Action Hero

Lights, camera, action! The Action Hero personality type is always on the go (and you wonder where they get their energy from!?). The Action Hero thrives on physical challenges and on a multigenerational family getaway they’ll be the ones watching their step count and suggesting a running race up the nearby hill. They’re the character who will eagerly climb 200 steps up a medieval bell tower to take in the view. If there is a chance to get their heart racing, sign them up. They’re always looking for new sports and activities and would say YES to hiking, climbing, surfing, kayaking or anything that gets them moving. The Action Hero can be a great catalyst for fun group activities, but be careful not to burn the rest of the family out!

TRY THIS TRIP: Family Tour: Monkeys, Jungles & Volcanoes 

The Natural Linguist

“Un caffè per favore,” the Natural Linguist says with a near-perfect Italian accent. This travel personality type has a natural aptitude for picking up and using new languages. They love the challenge of communicating with locals in their native tongue. Maybe they spend a bit of time before the trip studying phrases or vocabulary, or maybe they just wing it with infuriating success. Whether they choose to brush up ahead of travel or rely on those high-school language classes, they are a useful asset to any travel abroad as they bridge language barriers with the locals – and most importantly, make sure everyone gets their daily caffeine hit.

The Social Butterfly

This extroverted personality type comes into their element while on holiday. Outgoing, friendly, and always up for a good time, the Social Butterfly relishes in meeting new friends and making connections. This is family member that will strike up conversations with random people on the street, and will sign everyone up for social activities like a dance class. The best part about having this personality in your family unit is that they help break the ice. They are loads of fun, and they might make connections you would have otherwise missed.

TRY THIS TRIP: Family Tour: Pioneer Adventures of the Old West

The Laid-Back One

The Laid-Back One and the Patient Planner are like yin and yang, two exact opposites. This personality type is a “happy to be here” family member who goes with the flow. They have an easygoing attitude and don’t mind uncertainty and spontaneity and are flexible to change plans or take detours. While seeing the key sights is great, they are just as happy to sit in a cafe and people-watch. When a multigenerational family is traveling together, the Laid-Back One can diffuse tensions or add balance to a trip. Tell them where to send the money and they are 100% on board with any trip.