When I sit down with my clients that have young families to discuss their upcoming year of travel plans, I encourage them to claim some travel time alone, without their kids. I am always surprised to see their response which is usually a “Why didn’t we think of that?” look.
Understandably so…between the logistics of running a household and planning the family vacations, it’s often not even a remote consideration.
That is until they’ve done it once.
The benefits of parents traveling without kids can be profound, not only for their own relationship but for their children. Even grandparents (or other relatives they may leave kids with) can enjoy them.
While they may not think they need you to plan a quick getaway to a nearby inn, you can suggest some trips that might be far more to their personal liking and your assistance is key. Here’s a sampling of some ideas our clients have cottoned to.
- A Weekend in the City: Sometimes just spending a weekend in the nearest big city can be just what the doctor ordered for a couple. Having your travel agent secure a good hotel room, get theater tickets and dinner reservations makes it all the better.
- A Ranch Vacation: Ideal for the outdoor loving couple, there are ranches where you’ll find horseback riding, hiking, fishing (and other fresh-aired pursuits) as well as outstanding cuisine and plenty of creature comforts. Your expertise is knowing which ranches are best for couples.
- A Biking or Hiking Trip: So many parents want to do active trips as a family, but with kids different ages and abilities, it just doesn’t happen. Solution? Encourage them to take a riding or hiking trip with a company that specializes in such adventures. They can choose a destination close to home in the USA or set their sights abroad.
In addition to introducing your clients to ideas that they may not have thought of, your job as a travel agent is to make it as easy as possible for them. This requires not only knowing the destinations you are selling, but taking the time to put it all together so, for a least a while, the parents get to be kids.
Susan Farewell is the owner of Farewell Travels LLC (FarewellTravels.com), a travel design firm based in Westport, CT. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @FarewellTravels.
