This blog post was updated on July 16, 2019.
Baby Boomers this. Millennials that. But what about those of us in between?
Generation X is often overlooked by pundits and prognosticators – even in the travel industry! But, they’re no less keen to get out there and explore the planet. When it comes to their ideal holidays, the criteria include culture-rich itineraries, enjoying vacations with the whole family, and mixing things up with short breaks close to home and bigger bucket list trips far away.
We gave Gen Xers and their interests some thought and came up with this list of six perfect getaways for a maturing but still youthful set of savvy travelers.
Kissimmee, Florida
The central Florida city of Kissimmee makes an excellent hub for family-oriented vacations. It’s near all the major attractions in the Orlando area and is just a short drive from the beach (Gulf or Atlantic – take your pick!). Vacation home rentals are the mainstay in Kissimmee. So if you like to spread out, lounge by the pool, and enjoy big family dinners or BBQs at your home away from home, keep this convenient and sunny destination in mind.
Paris, France
Culture, couture, and cuisine! The City of Lights yields so many delights for any traveler craving an illuminating adventure abroad. Whether pondering Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile at the Louvre, admiring the majesty of Notre Dame, or rambling round the streets of Montmartre, there’s plenty for art lovers, history buffs, and culture vultures to see and do. From trendy lanes lined with independent boutiques to the aisles of some of Europe’s most celebrated department stores and flagships of global designer brands, the shopping in Paris is par excellence. Of course, between sightseeing and touring the town, you’ll have the chance to eat and drink amazing food and phenomenal wine. For modest budgets, creperies and patisseries offer quality nosh at affordable prices. For travelers inclined to splurge, you’ll find a delectable assortment of Michelin Star-studded restaurants headed by some of the best chefs in the world.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Browse The Andy Warhol Museum in the morning and catch a Steelers (or Pirates or Penguins) game in the afternoon. Later in the day, indulge in an infamously massive Pittsburgher sandwich at Primanti Bros restaurant and bar. Burn off all those calories the next morning by kayaking in one or all of Pittsburgh’s three rivers. A big city with a small town feel, Pittsburgh lets you do all the stuff you’re into at your own pace and in an easygoing atmosphere.
Tokyo, Japan
Get lost in translation with a trip to the biggest (not to mention cleanest and most polite) megacity in the world. Yes, we’re talking about Tokyo, where hyper-modernity meets age-old tradition. A visit to this Japanese metropolis can mean so many things – be it the chance to experience an authentic green tea ceremony, the opportunity to shop for high-tech gear at super low prices, or all those moments to eat some of East Asia’s most amazing food.
Seattle, Washington
Relive the glory days of grunge while contemplating a perfectly poured latte at a barista-led café during your Seattle city break. Like mixing outdoorsy fun with your urban activities? Don your favorite flannel and sturdiest footwear for a hike in the Cascades or slip on your flip-flops for a stroll along the Puget Sound.
Uttar Pradesh, India
Embark upon a spiritual journey to Uttar Pradesh in northern India. Along the way, you’ll see iconic landmarks including the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The food from this region of the subcontinent is out of this world, especially in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. Yoga retreats around the region are highly rated and among the best in India.
Are you a Gen Xer who loves to travel? What are some of your favorite destinations?
