International travel with children : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (Honours)

Abstract

International travel has the ability to change the lives of those who choose to partake in it. Family based overseas travel can have similar impacts. The presence of children can act to alter these experiences further. Yet, both historical and contemporary research takes little or no account of children in these experiences. This study examined the experiential nature of international travel involving parents and their children. The study explored the travel experience from a parental point of view by discussing the influence that children have on an international travel experience. The second aim of the study was to assess the outcomes felt and experiences had by children during this travel. In-depth interviews were held with six families in the Christchurch area who were selected using the snowball technique. A further three families provided written data. Three main themes emerged. First, motivation for family travel is derived from one or both parents. Perceived benefits of the travel for children are not considered to be one of the main motives. Second, children have little or no role to play when decisions regarding a holiday are made, however, children do indirectly influence the decisions made. Third, positive outcomes from overseas travel outweigh the negative outcomes. Finally, children appear to gain both socially and developmentally from overseas travel. Equally, increased family unity is often a result of overseas family travel.