Last Updated on May 8, 2025 by sophibee
When I look back on the most meaningful moments of my life, they almost always involve travel—and family. Not the perfectly posed kind of travel you see on postcards, but the real, soul-filling kind. The kind where generations sit around a table, share stories, laugh too loudly, maybe disagree over dinner—but walk away with memories that shape them forever.
As a luxury travel advisor, I’ve helped families plan experiences in far-flung corners of the globe. But it wasn’t until I lost my father that I fully understood the profound gift these journeys offer: time. Time together, time away, time uninterrupted.
I was 43 when my father passed away in 2019. He was 75, a generous man with a quiet dignity and a deep affection for the world—especially when experienced with family.
In our fast-moving world, where children grow too quickly and parents age in what feels like a blink, multi-generational travel is not merely a luxury. It’s an act of love.
I believe more than ever that multi-generational travel is the most meaningful luxury we can give ourselves and our families. It’s not just about the destination—it’s about legacy.
The logistics might seem overwhelming (that’s what I’m here for!), but the joy of sharing time together—away from the daily routine—is always worth it.
Moments That Live On
My father may be gone, but the places we visited together are reminders of time well spent, and of how deeply we valued being together.
I think of our walks in the Austrian Alps—fresh mountain air, and endless views. Or all those little Italian villages we wandered through—like Sirmione—with their charm, their slow afternoons, and no real plan except enjoying the day. And then there was Venice, when my youngest was just a baby, cradled in our arms as we explored the canals together—three generations soaking it all in. These moments don’t fade. They’re quiet reminders of how special it is just to be together.
Years later, I found myself on a boat tour on one of the Dutch lakes, my father sitting between me and his granddaughters – this time after one of his chemo treatments. The wind in our hair, the water gently rocking us – we didn’t say much. We didn’t need to. We both knew that time like this was precious.
They are reminders that while we can’t hold on to time, we can choose how we spend it.
Multi-Generational Trip in South Africa
Our most recent multi-generational family adventure took us to Hoedspruit, near Kruger National Park and Johannesburg, where my brother and his wife have lovingly built a home. It was he who organized this extraordinary journey—an unforgettable gathering of four generations under the wide, golden skies of South Africa.
South Africa welcomed us with open arms: my mother, my brother, our spouses, our children—and even my 80-year-old aunt, whose zest for life could rival anyone half her age.
We watched our children spot their very first elephant on safari, while my husband and mother sat wide-eyed as lions casually passed by our open safari vehicle—equal parts awe and nerves.
One evening, we shared an adventurous bush dinner under the stars, the fire crackling, when we suddenly heard—and even saw— hyenas moving in the shadows around us. It was thrilling, a little surreal, and completely unforgettable.
These were not just moments. They were living proof of how travel brings us back to what matters most. And no photo, no matter how beautifully framed, could ever fully capture that feeling.
So whether it’s your father’s wisdom, your child’s curiosity, or your mother’s quiet grace—bring them with you. Make time. Share meals. Sit in the sun. Travel in a way that connects the generations.
Because in the end, the greatest luxury isn’t five stars. It’s five generations sharing one table.
Bookings
Whether you’re gathering three generations under one roof or planning a special milestone trip, I’ll be with you every step of the way—before, during, and after your travels.
From choosing the perfect destination to handling the little details that make a big difference, I’m here to make it seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable for everyone.
Ilonka Molijn – van Ginkel
Creator & Founder of Sophibee
Luxury Travel Advisor Sophibee & 360 Private Travel
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