Key facts
- Olympic champion Greg Rutherford is advocating for children to be involved in planning family holidays.
- He has partnered with Marriott Bonvoy to promote this initiative.
- Research by Marriott Bonvoy indicates children prioritize simple holiday elements such as free rein at breakfast buffets, ice cream, and later bedtimes.
- The study also found children prefer not to do chores or participate in activities solely of adult interest.
- A significant majority of parents (72%) are curious or excited about letting their children plan a holiday.
- Rutherford suggests that involving children in planning enhances the holiday experience for everyone.
Olympic long jump champion Greg Rutherford is now championing a new discipline: involving children in the planning of family holidays. In partnership with Marriott Bonvoy, Rutherford highlights how this approach can lead to more enjoyable and stress-free getaways for the entire family.
Rutherford, a father of three, shared that his family's travel style has evolved from pre-children city explorations to a more balanced approach that incorporates relaxation with pockets of activities. He noted that allowing their children to choose some of the holiday activities has made their trips more fun.
A recent family trip to Barcelona, where they stayed at Le Méridien Ra Beach Hotel & Spa, saw the children take the lead on deciding activities and dining, with the hotel's amenities, including its kids' menu and spa access, proving popular.
Research conducted by Marriott Bonvoy supports Rutherford's views, indicating that children prioritize simple desires such as having freedom at the breakfast buffet, enjoying ice cream for lunch, and staying up later. The study also revealed that children generally prefer to avoid chores, boredom, and activities exclusively for adults. Conversely, a large pool with water slides was a key priority for many children surveyed.
According to the study, 30% of adults have previously allowed their children to plan a holiday, and a significant 72% are curious or excited about doing so in the future. For parents, 66% identified quality family time as their top priority while abroad. Rutherford encourages parents not to hesitate in involving their children in the planning process, stating it can lead to a more controlled and enjoyable experience for the younger family members.