Europe
The city of light is a must for any mother-daughter escape. Paris is known for being one of the most romantic cities in the world, but it is also home to an array of activities for tourists. One of the most important things to do in Paris is simple: offer yourself and your daughter time to walk around and explore the city. Walking is the best way to experience Paris and it won’t cost you much, as many of the most interesting things to see are free, such as Notre Dame Cathedral. If you’re feeling a little more extravagant, a river Seine boat cruise at sunset is the perfect way to experience Paris. For a cultural experience, visit the Louvre on a Friday night when it’s open until 10 p.m. and less crowded than during the day. You are less likely to feel rushed and can linger as long as you want in front of the world-famous art. Another highlight of a trip to Paris is, of course, the food. For a taste of France without spending too much, take a trip to a local market and purchase a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine, and you’ve got a cheap, tasty, and romantic meal. If you are after a little more of a formal dining experience, make sure to sample some of Paris’ finest cuisine with a trip to one of its many restaurants. With so many things on offer in Paris, you’ll be sure to find something that you and your daughter can enjoy. Rome is a city that is filled with history and provides a fantastic backdrop for a mother-daughter rendezvous. Explore the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, or get lost in the city streets and discover the beauty of the Pantheon. All will leave you in awe at what was once the world’s most powerful empire. But the best thing about Rome is that there is always somewhere to stop and take a break, maybe at a cafe or a gelateria where you can sample some of Italy’s finest coffee and gelato. It is the perfect city for simple relaxation and mother-daughter bonding, with history, art, and culture around every corner. And one of the best things is that you can find people from all over the world, each with their own story to tell. A memory of a comedy exchange between my mother and I and a Japanese couple will always remind me of the lighter side of Rome!
Paris, France
Also, who can forget Paris? There’s a reason it’s labeled the city of love and girls totally swoon over it. It’s romantic, it’s a fairytale, it’s charming and really it’s just a magical place to be. To share that with your mom is something you’ll both remember forever. More than just a mother-daughter getaway, Paris could prove to be a life-changing trip, if not just super fun and fabulous. The shopping is unbeatable, the sites are iconic and the food is to die for. Imagine sharing a delicious French meal while sitting behind Notre Dame or picnic of pastries and fruits bought at a local French market in front of the Eiffel Tower. How can you pass up such an amazing experience? Don’t be afraid to go the tourist route with your mom. During the day go to all the sights, see the Louvre, walk along the Seine, visit the Parisian gardens, and of course go to the Eiffel Tower. At night, pick a hot spot in town like the Latin Quarter or Marais and take in the Parisian nightlife. Buy a beret and sip a cappuccino at a roadside café or even grab some wine and watch the local street performers. By seeing all that Paris has to offer, you and your mom will share an incredible vacation but you’ll also get a little bit closer and learn more about one another in the process. Who knows, maybe with all the romance in the air of Paris, mom will let you in on a little advice about love!
Rome, Italy
Rome is often referred to as Italy’s capital of the world, and the mother-daughter tourists will experience that romance and history are in the air. One of the most visited places in the world, Rome has it all. Delve into the city’s history and spend your days visiting historical sites such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forums, and the Pantheon. A visit to Vatican City and the St. Peter’s Basilica is a must as there is so much art and history to soak in. It’s a good idea to take a guided tour when visiting these historical sites to make the most of your trip and gain a deeper understanding of the history of Rome. After a full day of sightseeing, take a break and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Legend has it that those who throw a coin in assure a return to Rome, those who throw two coins will fall in love with a Roman, and those who throw three coins will marry them. The locals are very friendly and welcoming, and with the opportunity to shop till you drop and dine in some of the best restaurants in the world, Rome is an ideal location for a mother-daughter trip.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s stunning architecture, history, and culture make the perfect European getaway for a mother-daughter duo. The awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia or the Gothic Quarter are perfect places to visit where you and your daughter will be left mesmerized by the stunning architecture and art. Both can take plenty of picture-perfect moments that make these great places to visit and ponder life over a coffee. As with the whole of Spain, the evenings go on forever, so if you and your mother are night owls, you won’t have to worry about not being able to find a place to sit and chat while watching the world go by. We suggest resting your feet and heading to Placa Reial for a relaxed, yet entertaining experience. In the day, you will find Barcelona is full of life and energy, with plenty to see and do. If walking is your thing, then you’ll love strolling around the city taking in the various art and many street-side markets. If you want a day of shopping, then make sure you head to Passeig De Gracias, whereby it boasts many boutique shops, as well as some more familiar ones, there is something for everyone, you find it difficult to pull your mother away from the Swarovski shop!
London, United Kingdom
Try a centrally-located hotel in the Covent Garden area for comfort and access to the best of London’s theatre, shopping, and dining. No.5 Maddox in Mayfair and The Rookery in Farringdon are other great options that offer boutique charm. All of these hotels are located in perfect areas for evening strolls and restaurant hopping. Even when planning rest and relaxation, it’s important to organize activities in advance so you and your mom can enjoy some great memories together. These may include anything from beauty treatments to day trips. In London, there is always the option to visit a world-class spa, like the one at Claridges or The Sanctuary in Covent Garden. If you’re a mom and daughter who like to be pampered, half a day at a spa could be the highlight of your trip! In terms of day trips, there are so many great options but one idea, especially for travelers coming in from North America, could be a jaunt to an English country manor for traditional afternoon tea. Highclere Castle in Newbury, Berkshire (the set for Downton Abbey) is open to visitors from July to September.
London welcomes all kinds of travelers. A history buff can explore the historic streets and landmarks to learn more about the old world of England while a casual vacationer can choose a charming hotel and check out the local scene. When it comes to mother-daughter trips, London is a seamless blend of past and present, providing an inviting atmosphere for quality time. There are hundreds of charming and well-located hotels ideal for weekend stays, and with the Eurostar no longer a travel option from March 2020, London is a convenient and affordable destination. On arrival, it’s easy and cost-effective to get around London by using Oyster Cards on the Tube, so time-pressed travelers can take in the wealth of experiences that London offers.
Asia
For an oriental vibe, I suggest Tokyo, Japan. We all know Japan for its cherry blossoms, but Tokyo holds an array of places and activities perfect for a mother-daughter trip. Spring is of course a great time to visit Tokyo, especially when there is cherry blossom season to look forward to. However, it can also be quite crowded and accommodation is expensive, so an alternative might be to visit in late March or April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. At Ueno Park for example, there are over 1000 cherry blossom trees and it would be perfect for a hanami party while doing some people watching, and enjoying the food sold at the food stalls. If your trip doesn’t coincide with the cherry blossom season, don’t worry, Ueno Park is also a great place to visit at other times of the year, there is a zoo, a few museums, and a large pond where you can rent a row boat. Best for a cheapo hanami party without the rowdy crowds. Another great place to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo would be at Chidorigafuchi, and you could even rent a small boat and row along the moat. To enjoy a more laid back atmosphere, you could also visit Inokashira Park in Kichijoji, which is also a great place for people watching. Please be sure to check when it is cherry blossom season in Tokyo before booking your trip. Another key point for Tokyo is to wear comfortable walking shoes, as a lot of time will be spent walking and on trains compared to driving and sitting in taxis. More culture oriented activities can include visiting Asakusa and Sensoji Temple, or the East Gardens at the Imperial Palace. Shopping can be enjoyed nearly anywhere, and if your daughter is a fan of manga, anime, or video games, Akihabara is the place to go. If your daughter is a foodie, Tsukiji Fish Market would be a place where she can try an assortment of interesting foods. But one of the best places to visit to get a cultural fix would be at Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park, where you can sometimes catch a cultural festival or parade. A more personal mother-daughter experience, would be to purchase an Ema at the shrine, writing wishes for each other and tying them onto a rack. In May, there is also a spring festival at Yoyogi Park which includes performances and food from all around the world. So it seems that regardless of when you choose to visit Tokyo, there will always be something interesting to see and do. A good resource for planning your stay in Tokyo can be found at the Tokyo tourism guide.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a very modern city. When people think of Tokyo, they think of technology. In general, people say the culture in Tokyo is to work hard and long hours. In Tokyo, it is said that working less than seventy hours a week is considered slacking off. That is the kind of dedication the Japanese have. This could also be a reason why the Japanese also have the longest life expectancy. Japanese live longer than any nation. The women in Japan have a life expectancy of eighty-six years old. That means if my daughter and I were to take a trip to Tokyo, we would have a long, hard, and fulfilled life. Tokyo is a city where people take pride in making visitors feel welcomed. The Japanese people are also very helpful. It is possible to take a trip to Tokyo without knowing a word of Japanese. If you get lost or have a confusion, there will always be someone willing to help. My daughter and I would feel very safe there. Oh, and don’t forget about the shopping! Tokyo has some of the best shopping with a diverse array of merchandise, making the sheer act of buying things an experience in itself. This would be the ultimate bonding experience getting to try on Yukata (summer kimono) and eating at traditional Japanese restaurants. An added benefit is that all of the Japanese locals are very polite and treat everyone with respect, making my daughter and I feel comfortable when asking these good people to take photos of us. This would be a memory we would never forget. Taking a trip would be great, not only to bond with my daughter, but for a learning experience as well. Kawaii, building on the culture of cuteness in Japan, has become a prominent aspect of Japanese modern culture. My daughter has grown up with a fascination for anime, manga, and cute Asian things. I want her to see what the lifestyle is really like since Japanese culture has an abundance of cuteness as a part of their daily lives. With everything from children’s school supplies to government JASRAC regulation, one could find kawaii in Japan. This would be quite an educational journey for my daughter and it would help her form an understanding and respect for other cultures.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali does carry some of that spiritual cache, but there’s more to it than that. There are stunning beaches to be swum and surfed, and a lush and beautiful interior. The town of Ubud, Bali’s main arts and crafts centre, has the Richard Shoppe to videotapes on just about any known culture, and if you can’t find the video you want the American owner will know where to get it. It also has walking access to a living museum of Balinese culture. West Bali National Park is one of the last places to see the almost extinct Bali Mynah. Each of Bali’s nine directional winds has its own name, and belief that it brings both positive and negative influences. Ritual polluting witchcraft rites are occasionally held to turn the bad influences back on the demon which sends them. Bali is also famed for its elaborate rice terraces.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is an excellent mother-daughter travel destination because it blends traditional cultures with current fashion trends and technological advances. Seoul’s shopping scene combines traditional markets with high-end luxury stores. Namdaemun Market and Dongdaemun Market are popular shopping destinations that are similar to Chinese markets with a vast array of goods. Myeongdong, on the other hand, is more modern and chic and is one of Korea’s largest shopping districts. It sells both international and Korean cosmetic products and on the main street, there are many trendy boutiques and cafes. In the vicinity of Sinsadong, there are many high-end luxury stores such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Due to the variety in shopping atmospheres, tourists of any age will be able to enjoy the shopping experience in Seoul. The markets and Myeongdong sell trendy and cheap clothes that will appeal to young women, while the upscale stores will cater to older women who prefer luxury goods. By visiting such places, tourists will be able to acquire gifts and souvenirs for one another to remember their trip to Seoul.
North America
Mentioning that they hope to take a mother-daughter trip in the future are soon-to-be empty nesters and sisters. They are in the process of raising their youngest children and have realized that with adult children comes the freedom to really focus on their relationship with them. Whether your child is off to college and this is your last summer break together, your daughter is a working professional, or somewhere in between, the travel options are vast. Even if schedules don’t permit a trip this summer, we have gathered ideas for great trips to take with your adult daughter. Building on the concept of relaxation, you may opt to take a beach trip. A few days of R&R on a sunny beach can work wonders. Now that you and your daughter can enjoy each other as adults, sharing a meal and a bottle of wine on the beach with some pleasant conversation may be the best quality time both of you have had in years. Consider a trip to: Brazil, for some sultry live music and caipirinhas on the beach in Rio, the south of France, Italy, or perhaps a week in a luxurious, pampering Caribbean all-inclusive. A beach getaway can be a short trip, and something to consider for those super busy mother-daughter duos. If you are both feeling more adventurous and really want to immerse yourselves in a culture, a trip to Central or South America could be an excellent option. There are countless places to visit in this vast region. One very unique idea could be a mother-daughter volunteer vacation. Organizations like Global Volunteer Network have projects all over the world. You could spend a few weeks teaching English in Costa Rica, working in an orphanage in Peru, learning Spanish and doing medical volunteer work in Guatemala, or perhaps working with at-risk youth in Brazil. This will be a very rewarding experience to share with your daughter and a memory that will last a lifetime.
New York City, USA
New York City is a great spot for mother-daughter travel. The city can be a bit daunting for first-time travelers, but it is a great way to open your daughter’s eyes to the world around her. This city is actually made up of five boroughs, each unique in its own way, but travelers mainly stay in Manhattan since many iconic landmarks are there. These landmarks can be almost cliché to visit, but are almost required for a first-timer in the city. Depending on the age of your daughter, you’ve most likely already been to a few of these places, but here are some NYC must-dos.
The Broadway musical is something that is typical for a teenage girl and what daughter wouldn’t want to be treated to a night out in the big city to see a real Broadway musical? For an authentic NYC experience, take your daughter to see one of the Off-Broadway shows. Tickets to these shows are significantly less expensive, and better yet, there is usually higher availability and the shows are more interactive and comedic.
Another “NYC thing” to do is ice-skating at Rockefeller Center. Here, people of all ages can enjoy a quintessential New York City activity at one of the most legendary rinks. Whether you are graceful on the ice or wobbly, there’s nothing like skating in the heart of New York City. This could be followed by viewing a late afternoon matinee and then a nice dinner at one of the close to a hundred restaurants in the area. Shopping is a must in NYC, and even if you are not hitting the glamorous Fifth Avenue.
Vancouver, Canada
Located on the West Coast and known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains and the ocean, giving you and your mum the winning combination of activities to choose from. You can visit Stanley Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities or take afternoon tea in a stylish tea house. Also popular for shopaholic mother-daughter duos is Robson Street, one of Vancouver’s biggest shopping districts. Or take a drive out to Victoria and spend a night in an impeccable and traditional Bed & Breakfast. There is a large variety of hotels to choose from in Vancouver depending on what draws you to the city. Staying in the heart of downtown or by the water is popular for those wanting easy access to sightseeing, or staying in the west of the city is also appealing with the peaceful surroundings but still with easy access to all parts of the city.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a perfect mother-daughter destination for so many reasons. With vibrant culture, rich history, and a diverse mix of old and new, there’s no shortage of unique things to do in Mexico’s capital. Not to mention, the incredibly family-oriented culture makes it a really comfortable and safe place for women travelers. Some of the city’s highlights include visiting the ancient Aztec city of Teotihuacan, taking a ride in a trajinera in Xochimilco (like a gondola), and of course, the yummy Mexican cuisine. Depending on the season, there are also a number of family-oriented festivals and events taking place in and around the city. Most of the nicer hotels and shopping centers will have staff who speak at least a little bit of English, but it’s never a bad idea to brush up a little on your español before coming on a trip to Mexico City. Breast up on a little contemporary Mexican history as well (there is a lot of negative stigma surrounding Mexico due to political and social issues) so that you can appreciate this rich and complex culture just a little more. And don’t worry about no hablar español! Even though Mexicans may not speak much English, they are always happy to help show you how to order the right dish or catch the right bus and guaranteed you will be giggling at your Spanglish by the end of the trip. I would recommend a combination of structured activities and leisure/downtime on your trip to Mexico City. For girls older than 12, IMAC and Horizonte offer Spanish and culture classes that can be tailored to a number of schedules and with both elder and kiddie activities outsiders languages and interactive play. This is a good way to help the kiddos be less culturally shocked and have them practice a little español. In any case, there is always a good balance of activities from shopping and movie nights to cultural site visits. Coming home and talking about the day’s events in a journal is also a good way to engage the kids and make sure they are really thinking about what they got out of their visit.
San Francisco, USA
San Francisco is a city that is one of a kind, and the perfect destination for mothers and daughters wanting a trip with a difference. Pack up your scarves and be prepared for a foggy adventure in the land of diversity, open-minded attitudes and famous landmarks.
Certainly to be high on your list of places to visit is one of the fanciest Starbucks you’ll come across that sits on the corner of Powell and Market Street. It is the start of a world famous trip up the hills of San Francisco via a ride on a cable car. Here you can pose for a happy snap on board, enjoy the ride as you cling on or take in the truly delightful views as you hang off the side. At the other end of this street you will find yourself at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Being two ladies with taste, this city is an opportunity to indulge. There is a variety of places to eat, shop and admire the arts. Take a tour of Alcatraz if you’re game, wander around Pier 39 and watch the famous sea lions or spend time in one of the city’s many art galleries. If you’re a pair of bookworms then head for the world’s biggest Chinatown outside of Asia where you can duck into the China Book Store hive of knowledge on Grant Avenue. At times it’s nice just to simply chat with the locals and perhaps visit the city’s oldest fortune cookie factory. A fun way to spend an evening could be with tickets to Beach Blanket Babylon, a long running musical revue that will equal up to a night of giggles and a definite highlight.
South America
Buenos Aires, Argentina Take your mother on a cultural shopping spree in Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America. She will enjoy the architecture, shops, and street fairs in this vibrant city. Stay in one of the many boutique hotels for a cozy, intimate environment. Eat dinner at a “parrilla” and enjoy one of Argentina’s famous wines. Take in a tango show and even sign up for a lesson. Your mother will love the chance to brush up on her dancing skills while spending time with you. There is lots of shopping to be done, and Buenos Aires has products from all over the country and continent. Buy mom a unique gift that she will cherish forever. The enormous craft market on Defensa street is open on Sundays and is the best place to get authentic and unique Argentine products. Make sure you venture further into Argentina’s culture and take mom out to a Polo match. The season is from November to December. Today, Polo has gained a far greater degree of popularity with the general public in Argentina than it has in any other country. Meet a Gaucho and play at Estancia La Martina or visit one of the many clubs and enjoy this unique and thrilling experience with an authentic Argentine Country atmosphere. A match at the club usually takes place on the weekend, and it’s a great chance to see Polo at a high level in an authentic and unique setting. Tickets are easily obtained by contacting the Argentine Association of Polo.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a perfect place for a mother-daughter getaway vacation. The weather can be a relief from cold winter days. It also has one of the most diverse cultural experiences that one will find in one place. There is truly something for everyone, and it is quite possible that neither daughter nor mother will want to go home. With over 36 neighborhoods to explore, Buenos Aires is referred to as the “Paris of South America.” It is hard to become bored when exploring the museums, churches, parks, and football stadiums among many other things. If the ladies are really looking to relax and simply enjoy life for a while, then Buenos Aires is a great place to relax. The Argentineans have a concept called siesta, which means that between 1 pm and 5 pm everything closes down and everyone takes a rest to build up energy for the evening’s activities. A vacation in Buenos Aires is the perfect way for young women and women alike to have new experiences and adventures, and at the same time truly relax and enjoy their surroundings.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The peak of Brazilian culture is Carnival, held each year 40 days before Easter, and Rio is undoubtedly the best place in the country to mark this occasion. While it may not be suitable for everyone, Carnival would be an amazing experience to share with an all-adult family of mom and daughter.
A trip to Rio isn’t complete without a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking city views and the famous Christ the Redeemer Statue. Lace up your trainers (or buy a pair of Havaianas in one of the only places in the world you can get athletic wear tailored for more glamorous attire) and take a hike through the Tijuca Rainforest, the only rainforest in the world to be found in an urban area, perhaps followed by a visit to Parque Lage for a little afternoon camel riding. Now if that doesn’t sound like a blast, I don’t know what does!
Rio de Janeiro is the perfect destination if you and your girls have a love of fun, fashion, and festivals. This vibrant city is exactly what comes to mind when you think of South America – golden beaches, samba, and streets filled with the sound of laughter. Rio has been going through a much-needed tourist-friendly cleanup in recent years, and while it’s still important to keep your wits about you, petty crime isn’t as common as it is in other parts of Brazil.
Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru, is a thriving metropolis with a rich history and cultural heritage, making it an ideal place for a mother-daughter trip. Visitors to Lima can immerse themselves in Peruvian culture while enjoying the trappings of modern life. Lima’s beaches and mild climate also lend themselves to a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. A trip to Lima can be as leisurely or as active as you and your mother/daughter would like, and it is an affordable destination with much to offer. Start your trip off by pampering yourself and your mother with a visit to a spa. Spas in Lima can be found in most luxury hotels and offer a full range of services from massages to facials. Many also have sauna and steam rooms, and some have views of the ocean. If you are looking for something truly luxurious, book a spa day at the Espa Laucura at the Hotel Marriott, which offers a three-hour, $110 spa package including a full body massage, facial, and use of the sauna and steam room. Next, take your mother on a leisurely stroll down to Love Our Hotel Miraflores and get a pisco sour from their upper-level outdoor bar, which has a spectacular view of the ocean and the perfect atmosphere for chatting the afternoon away. This would also be a good time to do some shopping around LarcoMar, a large shopping center that sits atop a cliff, also with great views of the ocean. Here you can find a mix of western and Peruvian stores, offering a variety of goods from expensive boutiques to small souvenirs. One of the best things to do there is to buy a bag of fresh picarones (Peruvian doughnuts, best eaten warm) from the small stand in the corner across from the bowling alley. After you’ve shopped, head back to your hotel for an excellent meal at one of Lima’s top hotel restaurants, featuring a variety of cuisines from traditional Peruvian to Japanese. In the afternoon, take a walk around the Plaza de Armas in downtown Lima and the surrounding streets to see historic buildings and houses with stunning architecture. Be sure to visit the Monasterio de San Francisco and learn about the catacombs underneath the church. End the day with dinner at one of downtown Lima’s top restaurants.