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A mother/daughter trip is a special way for moms to spend time with their adult children. A trip together allows both mom and daughter to share an experience and strengthen their connection to each other.
“The most important part of planning a mother-daughter trip is to make sure both mom and daughter have the same objective,” explains April Merenda, president and co-founder of Gutsy Women Travel. “The purpose of the trip can be any number of things from bonding to adventure, absorbing culture or learning more about family roots.”
Whatever the reason for the trip, as long as both parties are in sync and do their homework, there is much to be gained from traveling together.
While the possible destinations for a mother-daughter trip are endless, here are a few that are very popular right now.
1. Italy
From the food to the culture, Italy is an ideal location for a multi-generational girls’ trip. “The Amalfi Coast is the number one trip we book,” says Merenda. “This location satisfies on so many levels.
Many mother-daughter pairs choose this trip to learn more about their heritage and family history together.” From cooking classes, walking tours, historical sights and fabulous scenery, Italy is a perfect place to explore and indulge.
For more on how to enjoy Italy without the crowds, go here.
2. France
Merenda believes it may be the influence of the TV show Emily in Paris as she has more and more mother-daughter duos requesting trips to Paris, France. Between the shopping (from designer to vintage), the cute cafes and the multitude of museums, it’s easy to see the allure of Paris. “While Paris is quite popular, the South of France is also a highly requested destination,” says Merenda. “Moms and daughters are drawn to the rich history of the region and beautiful beaches. River cruises of the area are scenic and spectacular.”
For tips on a low-cost visit to the City of Light, go here.
3. Spain
“The price point of Spain makes it a great travel choice for any budget,” says Merenda. “People love Barcelona. The tapas bars, coffee bars and all the opportunities to immerse in Spanish culture make it a wonderful place to vacation. The price point of Spain, as well as Portugal, is about half what it costs to travel to France or Italy, so you get to experience a European vacation for a lot less money.”
For more on where to go, where to stay and what to eat in Spain, go here.
4. Galapagos Islands
For adventurous mother-daughter duos, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador is an exhilarating trip that has become more popular in recent years. There is so much to enjoy, including great snorkeling, beautiful beaches, hiking and incredible wildlife. “A lot of younger people are very interested in sustainability and their mothers are up for joining them to see this part of the world,” says Merenda. “I recently booked a mother-daughter on this trip. The mom said it was her daughter’s idea so they could experience nature and animals together.”
5. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is another fun destination for a mother-daughter trip. Of course, Napa is known for all of the winery tours and tastings, but there are also quaint neighborhoods to stroll, biking trails, relaxing spas and great restaurants.
“We have a tour we call California Dreams that combines Napa with Beverly Hills that is very popular with mothers and daughters traveling together,” says Merenda. “Highway 1 is quite scenic and both Napa and Beverly Hills offer a lot to see and do.”
For more information on what to do and where to go in this charming region of California, go here.
6. South Carolina
Southern food and hospitality make a trip to Savannah and Charleston delightful for moms and daughters to take together.
“These areas in South Carolina are aesthetically beautiful and there is so much history to be explored,” says Merenda. “Movies such as The Big Chill and The Great Santorini were filmed here. The weather makes it great for leisurely walks and the food is fabulous.”
For more information about where to stay and what to see in Charleston, go here.
7. Washington, Connecticut
No list of places for mothers and daughters to travel together would be complete without mention of a quaint town in Connecticut. The iconic TV mother-daughter pair of Lorelai and Rory Gilmore lived in the fictional town of Stars Hollow, inspired by the real town of Washington. Vacation like a Gilmore Girl by booking a stay at the Mayflower Inn & Spa. Stroll the neighborhood, being sure to stop in at Hickory Stick Book Store (where you can find a list of Rory’s Reads), browse the racks at Five Janes and get your coffee fix at Marty’s Café (Luke’s).
Have you ever taken a mother-daughter vacation? Where did you go? Let us know in the comments below.
