Nearly 45 percent of Millennials are planning a family vacation this year, according to a new report from AAA Travel. This jet-setting generation is part of 88 million Americans who are saving their dollars for a relaxing getaway in 2018. Millennial (those born between 1982-2002) travelers are trailed by Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, who logged in at 39 percent and 32 percent, respectively.
In summing up their latest research, AAA Senior Vice President of Travels Bill Sutherland says that Millennials – just like their parents and grandparents before them – view a family getaway as a prime opportunity to reconnect with loved ones while creating lasting memories. “No matter their age, families are going on not just one, but multiple vacations throughout the year to revisit favorite destinations and experience new places,” added Sutherland.
Family vacations abroad a big trend in 2018
AAA says that family vacations abroad will be a big trend this year. Of all the holiday-goers, a whopping 35 percent plan to explore international destinations, marking a 9 percent uptick in the past two years.
So where are Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers flying to for their family fun abroad? According to advance flight bookings, the top three international destinations will be: Cancun, the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana, and Montego Bay in Jamaica.
Three-quarters of those polled are planning family vacations in places they have never before visited. This overwhelming desire for new experiences explains the recent boom in Mexico tourism, especially in sunny resort towns like Cancun.
Cancun – more than a Spring Break destination
Boasting plenty of sun, picturesque beaches, trendy bars and modern amenities, Cancun is perhaps most noted for its hordes of Spring Breakers. But partying college students account for a mere fraction of Cancun’s annual visitors. Less than 2 percent of the 5 million Cancun tourists come for Spring Break. The rest are families, honeymooners and other travelers who have come to admire the historical attractions, the Mayan culture and the mind-blowing array of outdoor adventure.
The Cancun Tourism Bureau says that families are attracted to the Yucatan Peninsula for a number of reasons. The tropical climate is one selling point, but it’s an array of family-centered activities and attractions that really interest visitors. There are eco-parks where you can zipline in the jungle, Nature centers where kids can swim with dolphins, and enchanting Mayan ruins within a short drive.
Boasting cool theme parks, gourmet dining and a diverse range of water sports, Cancun is undoubtedly one of the best places for a family vacation in Mexico! For the best deals on luxurious Cancun vacation rentals, contact Sea Side Reservations today!
Top things to do in Cancun
The lovely white-sand beaches are key selling points to most Cancun vacationers. Here are a few other highlights to consider on your next family holiday.
- Boat trip to Isla Mujeres, where you can snorkel in clear waters
- Swimming with dolphins at Delphinius Dreams
- Visiting the “hands-on” interactive aquarium at La Isla Shopping Center
- Taking a day trip to the Mayan site of Chichen Itza
- A full day at Xcaret Ecological Park
Additional Resources on Millennial Family Vacations:
- TravelAgentCentral, Stats: 44% of Millennials Planning Family Vacation https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/stats-44-millennials-planning-family-vacation
- MiniTime, 10 Reasons to Visit Cancun with Kids http://www.minitime.com/trip-tips/10-Reasons-to-Visit-Cancun-with-Kids-article
- US News, Best Places to Visit in Mexico https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-mexico-vacations/
