What if your next family vacation could change the way your kids see the world—and make a real impact on the communities you visit? In this episode, Heidi and Melissa sit down with Eduardo Cartaya, Global Purpose Specialist at G Adventures. Eduardo shares how G Adventures and National Geographic Family Journeys create meaningful, small-group adventures that go beyond vacations—immersing families in local culture, supporting communities, and building unforgettable memories. From Costa Rica to South Africa, learn how family travel can transform not just your vacations, but the way you see the world.

Key Takeaways

• Immersive, responsible travel: G Adventures prioritizes locally owned hotels, guides, and experiences so your family trip directly benefits communities.

• Family-focused adventures: With National Geographic Family Journeys and G Adventures Family Tours, trips are tailored for children (ages 5–17) and multigenerational groups.

• Making memories that last: Unique destinations like South Africa and Costa Rica create once-in-a-lifetime experiences families cherish for decades.

Resources:

G Adventures contact info and all current happenings - https://linktr.ee/gadventuresgps 

G Adventures Family Tours - https://www.gadventures.com/travel-styles/family 

National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures - https://www.gadventures.com/travel-styles/national-geographic-journeys/family 

Planeterra Foundation - G Adventures’ nonprofit partner supporting community tourism projects - https://planeterra.org 

Connect with Hosts:

This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ 

Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ 

Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/

Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ 

Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel 

Key Episode Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports

[00:01:03] Introducing Eduardo Cartaya from G Adventures

[00:01:46] What makes G Adventures unique in the travel space

[00:02:52] Family Adventures vs. National Geographic Family Journeys

[00:04:41] What “immersive travel” really means for families

[00:06:24] How unique trips create lasting family memories

[00:08:05] Why CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) make every trip special

[00:11:03] Easing families into adventure travel outside comfort zones

[00:13:14] Age restrictions and differences between family lines

[00:15:36] Private departures for multi-gen families and reunions

[00:17:57] Trending destinations: South Africa and Costa Rica

[00:18:56] G for Good and Planeterra projects supporting communities

[00:22:36] Best first adventures for new family travelers

[00:24:00] Options for adults-only or non-family travel styles

[00:26:28] How far ahead to book and why early is best

[00:29:26] Melissa’s upcoming South Africa safari experience

[00:31:09] What to expect on safari with National Geographic Journeys

[00:33:45] The impact of community tourism and responsible travel

[00:36:00] “Would You Rather” with Eduardo: safari vs. national parks

[00:38:45] Final thoughts and wrapping up with Eduardo

Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s