Multi-generational travel can be one of the most rewarding ways to make lasting family memories—but with different ages, needs, and travel styles in the mix, it can also bring a fair bit of chaos. In this episode, Heidi and Melissa talk with seasoned travel advisor Nancy Heimbuecher about the ins and outs of multi-generational travel. From cross-continental cruises to navigating ancient ruins with Grandma, Nancy shares both the beauty and the logistics of planning trips that span generations. If you’ve ever thought about taking a parent, grandparent, or kids on a shared adventure, this episode will inspire—and prepare—you to make it happen.

Key Takeaways

- Cruising Is a Game-Changer for Multi-Gen Travel Cruises offer the perfect balance of togetherness and independence, with activities for all ages, minimal logistics, and built-in accessibility options.

- Not Every Destination Is Multi-Gen Friendly Consider mobility, safety, and interest levels when choosing where to go. Destinations like the Acropolis or certain ruins in Italy may not be ideal for travelers with limited mobility.

- Make Space for Individual Must-Dos Whether you're traveling with five people or sixteen, ensure each traveler gets at least one meaningful experience to make the trip personally memorable.

Resources:

Connect with the guest, Nancy Heimbuecher:

Travel Adventures with Nancy - nancyh@envoyage.com Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

Viking River Cruises: Website

Safe Travel Tips for Older Adults: National Council on Aging

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.

[00:01:19] Meet your hosts and today’s topic: multi-generational travel.

[00:02:26] Nancy shares her travel agent origin story and return to the industry in 2021.

[00:03:23] The first multi-gen trip: Panama Canal cruise in 2019 with five travelers.

[00:04:55] Planning tips: handling flight logistics, accessibility, and airport navigation for elderly travelers.

[00:06:20] Why cruising is ideal for multi-generational travel—ease, comfort, and flexibility.

[00:10:00] Melissa and Heidi share their own multi-gen cruise experiences.

[00:12:00] Debunking the myth: multi-gen doesn’t mean being together 24/7.

[00:16:08] Destinations that were less accessible: Greece and Italy with ruins and mobility challenges.

[00:17:13] Easier destinations for multi-gen: Caribbean ports and Ireland.

[00:20:00] Stateside multi-gen travel: theme parks and domestic challenges.

[00:21:28] Pro travel tip: private golf cart tours in cities like Rome can save the day.

[00:23:16] Nancy’s biggest lessons: advocate for accommodations and always get travel insurance.

[00:24:33] Advice for planning your first multi-gen trip: think about every age group’s needs.

[00:25:28] Melissa’s tip: make sure everyone gets one thing they really want out of the trip.

[00:27:00] "Would You Rather": River cruise vs. all-inclusive with a group of 16.

[00:28:50] Final thoughts and thanks to Nancy for making multi-gen travel sound inspiring and doable.

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