How to travel with grumpy teens
2010-05-26
Kids in their late teens often aren't the most fun travel companions. Stuck between adulthood and childhood, teens bring a special set of considerations to anyone planning a family vacation. They're too old for most attractions aimed at kids, yet don't want to be stuck hanging out with adults the entire time.
Readers of the
San Jose Mercury News travel section recently sent in some tips to bring teenagers who don't want to travel with their families back into the fold.
One reader suggested bringing hesitant teens in on the planning aspect of family vacations. If kids know that there will be things they have to look forward to, they might be more willing to endure some of the more exhausting aspects of vacations.
Another strategy that seemed to work was allowing the teen to bring a friend, or vacationing with another family. This way, they have someone their own age to interact with.
Families may also want to consider planning their vacation as a family reunion. Teenagers might dread being locked in a car or hotel room with their parents or siblings for a week, but they might be keen on spending time with their cousins, aunts, and uncles. Larger vacations also afford everyone the opportunity to split up and pursue whatever types of activities they might enjoy.