“Discovering Grandymoons: The Surprising Travel Craze Set to Take 2025 by Storm!”

How frequently did you find yourself making an urgent phone call to your parents last year to seek assistance with the children?

Whether it was rushing off to a brief medical visit, caring for a sick child while you went to work, managing school drop-offs/pick-ups, or entertaining kids during those tedious lengthy school breaks, we understand that those grandparents likely rescued you on several occasions over the year.

For this reason, parents are making extra efforts to show their appreciation to their parents for stepping in to help on various occasions. It indeed takes a community, after all.

Grandymoons… the emerging travel phenomenon for 2025

I came across the travel phenomenon of taking grandparents on a holiday while exploring enjoyable ways people are planning to travel this upcoming year.

Japan consistently appeared as the top destination people were targeting in 2024 and 2025, with Airbnb stating it emerged as the most searched location for solo adventurers, couples, families, and group explorers alike.

However, the escalating cost of living has hindered many from traveling abroad, prompting interest in destinations closer to home.

According to Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager for Airbnb Australia and New Zealand, group reservations have been increasing.

“Families and circles of friends are flocking to Airbnb, with more than 80 percent of bookings on the platform now for group getaways. Whether it’s unwinding by the pool or discovering a new city together, these trips allow for reconnections and the creation of lasting memories,” she shared with Kidspot.

“Airbnb offers budget-friendly holiday choices for groups looking to share the costs of a getaway during a time when financial considerations are crucial.”

With features like collective wishlists and group messaging, arranging a group escape has become simpler, with no individual needing to “take charge” of the planning (which is, in my opinion, the least enjoyable task!)

Selecting the ideal location

I suggested the concept of whisking my parents away to my siblings, all of whom supported the idea of treating them with a holiday. But it wasn’t just any holiday… it was a “grandymoon.” Similar to a honeymoon or babymoon, but specifically for grandparents.

A moment for them to spend time with ALL of their grandchildren simultaneously and experience their youth again by having their own children under one roof for an extended period.

“Having the entire family under one roof again – and now with partners and kids added – sounds like a nightmare…” I often heard many people comment.

I must admit, I somewhat agreed.

As I browsed through Airbnb, we contemplated two choices – a beachside spot or a winery – which seemed to be two popular preferences for group bookings.

We ultimately decided on Greenacres in Pokolbin, Rothbury, a vast residence in the heart of the Hunter Valley. This 30-acre property could comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests (8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms) and featured various amenities to keep the entire family engaged for a weekend getaway – including a large swimming pool, tennis court, and games shed.

The estate was even friendly for pets, allowing our furry friends to join in on the family festivities as well. How wonderful!

The accommodation is spacious with three sleeping areas in the main residence, alongside a self-contained two-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage and a Bunk House that can host five guests.

It was cozy enough to gather everyone in one place without crowding each other and entertaining enough that no one would get bored (or complain about the adults heading off for wine tasting in the vicinity!)

It seemed like the perfect location to me – it was time to put this plan into action!

The family getaway everyone cherished

It took hardly an hour for me to realize that this was truly the best idea I’ve had all year. The other was purchasing a $29 inflatable raft from Kmart for a camping journey. However, this isn’t the moment to boast about that.

Once we settled into the homestead, we poured ourselves a drink and soaked up the afternoon sunlight on the back patio.

Everyone was joyfully spread out. Some children were enjoying the pool, others were playing tennis, and the rest of us were engaging in conversation and laughter. While we were all occupied in different activities, we shared one common thread. We were all relaxed.