As a family, we have always been drawn to travel and adventure. Even before having kids, my husband and I embarked on thrilling journeys, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. When our children came along, we didn't let that stop us from continuing our explorations. In fact, we took it a step further by allowing our kids to take the reins and plan our family vacations.
A Legacy of Adventure
My husband and I share a deep passion for hiking, camping, and discovering new corners of the world. Prior to becoming parents, we backpacked extensively across the US and India, our home country. Our honeymoon was a remarkable 18-day RV road trip through New Zealand, where we embraced a completely off-grid experience with no fixed itinerary.
Even after the arrival of our children, our wanderlust remained undiminished. Some of our most cherished memories include backcountry camping in Glacier National Park and trekking 11 miles to Sperry Chalet with our little ones in tow.
A New Tradition Takes Flight
As our teens grew older, they began expressing their travel preferences inspired by books, movies, and personal interests. To involve them in the vacation planning process, we introduced a unique tradition. Each child suggests four destinations they wish to explore, which are then written on chits and placed in a fishbowl. Two options are drawn, evaluated for feasibility and cost, and ultimately narrowed down to one choice.
This innovative approach has led us on some extraordinary escapades, creating lasting memories for our family.
Unforgettable Adventures Unfold
One of the most remarkable experiences was free diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Immersed in the vibrant underwater world, surrounded by marine life, our children found a sense of wonder and tranquility that they still reminisce about.
Another unforgettable journey took us to a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, Jordan. Surrounded by the serene desert landscape, under a canopy of stars, we felt a profound connection to nature and history.
Our adventures also included climbing an active volcano in Chile, where our family embraced the thrill of exploration and the beauty of nature's raw power.
Teaching Through Travel
As we continue to draw our next adventure from the fishbowl, I am reminded of the valuable lessons we impart to our teens. It's not just about exploring new places; it's about instilling a sense of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in the face of the unknown. Through travel, we teach our children to embrace the unexpected, both in their journeys and in life.
—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: insider@insider.com (Karthika Gupta)
Title: Empowering Teens to Plan Family Adventures: A Unique Approach
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/teens-plan-family-trips-pick-destination-out-of-bowl-2025-3
Published Date: Sun, 16 Mar 2025 18:23:01 +0000
Leave a Reply