As I scan the Ambassador pool of the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, I spy the gaggle of cousins at the swim-up bar, sucking down their daily infusion of tropical fruit smoothies. Another glance to my right shows my father-in-law enjoying his daily indulgence, a poolside massage — a brief interruption to an ongoing Scrabble tournament with his wife. The smile on my mother-in-law’s face captures her joy at seeing her entire family, usually separated by over thousands of miles, gathered together in one place.
When my youngest nephew approaches her to ask if he can order pizza, it doesn’t even take his charming smile to twist her arm. There is nothing she loves more than spoiling her grandchildren and to get that opportunity for a full week is absolutely priceless.
Of course, it took over a year of planning and much negotiation to make this week of zen a reality. Planning a multigenerational trip can be a challenge, but these tips, followed by five of our family favorites, will get you on your way.