A recent survey has unveiled the surprisingly straightforward secrets to a perfect family holiday, as dictated by children themselves. Planning a getaway with kids can often feel like a daunting task, but the findings suggest that simplicity and fun are key to creating memorable experiences.
What Children Truly Want on Holiday
When asked to describe their dream trip, kids provided refreshingly clear priorities. According to the research conducted by Marriott Bonvoy, 63% of children emphasised the importance of having free rein at the breakfast buffet, while 57% highlighted plenty of waterslides as a must-have. Perhaps most delightfully, 58% expressed a desire for ice cream for lunch, showcasing their love for simple pleasures.
What Kids Don't Want
The survey also shed light on the aspects children dislike during family breaks. Boredom was identified as the toughest part by 39% of respondents, with 35% explicitly stating they want "no adult stuff." This underscores a preference for child-centric activities and freedom over structured, complicated itineraries.
Andrew Watson, Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA at Marriott International, commented on the findings. "Kids told us they don’t want complicated itineraries, they want freedom, fun and quality time spent with their families," he said. "That’s why family holidays are about more than just rooms and amenities; it’s about creating places where everyone can relax, play and make memories together."
Parental Challenges and Involving Kids in Planning
The research revealed that four in ten parents admit to struggling to please everyone when organising a holiday. This difficulty may explain why 39% of families are now letting children help with the planning process. Interestingly, around 72% of parents said they would consider allowing their kids to plan the entire trip, indicating a shift towards more inclusive holiday decision-making.
Destination Preferences
When it comes to favourite holiday spots, kids showed a clear preference for sunny European destinations. Spain topped the list at 33%, followed by Italy at 18% and Greece at 16%. In contrast, parents prioritised quality time together as a family (66%) and a stress-free break (47%), highlighting the different focuses between generations.
The Family Holiday Bucket List According to Kids
Based on the survey results, here is a detailed breakdown of children's holiday must-haves:
- A big pool with lots of waterslides (61%) – such as those found at The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino.
- A beach next to the hotel for swimming and building sandcastles (47%) – available at destinations like Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection.
- Sports and games (37%) – offered at venues like JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, set on a private island.
- A hotel close to home with swimming (36%) – ideal for staycations, such as Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club.
- A pirate ship in the middle of a pool plus waterslides (31%) – featured at Algarve Marriott Salgados Golf Resort & Spa.
Watson added a practical suggestion for families: "If you’re looking for inspiration for your next holiday this year, why not get the kids to plan it?" This approach not only caters to children's desires but also eases the planning burden on parents, potentially leading to more enjoyable and harmonious getaways.
The survey ultimately demonstrates that the secrets to a brilliant family holiday are simpler than many adults might assume. By focusing on freedom, fun, and quality time, and by involving children in the planning process, families can create unforgettable summer breaks that satisfy everyone.
