The sun is setting over crystal blue Caribbean waters. I’m sitting on the bow of a catamaran watching the nearby islands pass by. “Happy Birthday” is being sung behind me as my family surprises me with a homemade cake. I am surrounded by nature, by adventure, and by love. 

I am 12.  

The memory is so clear, I can smell it. I hold it with me on a daily basis. I don’t remember what I was gifted from friends that year, but I remember this. But why? 

According to the US Travel Association, 62% of adults say their earliest childhood memories were of family vacations taken when they were between ages 5 and 10, remembering these experiences more vividly than school events or birthday celebrations.

The fact that I can still vividly remember my 12th birthday in the British Virgin Islands makes this statistic feel undeniably true. 

In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with ads for the latest tech, designer clothes, and must-have toys, choosing the perfect gift for our loved ones can feel overwhelming. 

This is especially true when it comes to younger family members like children, nieces, nephews, or grandkids, when the pressure to find the best gift that will produce the biggest smile is at an alltime high. You also might feel this ever present desire of wanting to leave a legacy or a lasting impact on your family - but can this be done with a gift? 

What if there was a gift that went beyond the fleeting excitement of a new toy or trendy piece of technology? A gift that created lasting memories, deepened bonds, and shaped the person your loved one would become? 

That gift is travel, and for good reason, it’s been called “the gift that lasts forever.” And the ones who give these precious gifts? They are “The Memory Makers." The ones who will be forever tied to these formative experiences.

Here are 4 reasons why you should be a Memory Maker this holiday season.

Experiences Matter More Than Things

While toys or tech may bring temporary happiness, experiences offer long-term satisfaction. Studies show that the joy we get from material items fades quickly. However, the emotional impact of travel grows stronger over time. 

We recently brought my Aunt, who’s in her seventies, to Costa Rica, which was her first international trip in decades. Being able to open up the world for her, while my daughters also got to make memories with their great-Aunt was truly a priceless experience. 

By giving the gift of travel, you’re offering more than just a week away from home. These experiences build character, foster curiosity, and develop a sense of independence and adaptability—skills that no toy or gadget can ever provide.

Travel Shapes Young Minds

For children and young adults, travel opens their eyes to a world beyond their own, expanding their horizons and shaping the way they see the world. A visit to a national park can inspire a lifelong love for nature and the environment. Exploring historical sites can spark an interest in history and society. Interacting with people from different cultures can foster empathy and an appreciation for diversity. 

Earlier this year, Annika Paradise, the author of Wonder Year, shared on my podcast that despite growing up in a landlocked state, her daughter is now studying Marine Biology in college because of her early exposure to oceans around the world. 

The Gift That Strengthens Bonds

Traveling together creates a unique opportunity to strengthen bonds. The shared experiences, whether it's hiking through mountains, tasting new foods, or even getting lost in a foreign city, foster connection in a way that material gifts can’t. It’s the laughter around the campfire, the teamwork required to navigate a language barrier, and the stories shared during travel days that bring us closer together.

Shared experiences like this bind you together, and allow you to tell stories for years to come. Travel experiences are not only remembered more vividly, but also passed on to younger generations. The US Travel Association reports that 77% of children said that their parents have told them stories about their childhood family vacations, showing that you can be a “Memory Maker” for generations to come. 

Memorable Experiences Beyond Extensive Travel

Gifting travel doesn’t always mean expensive international vacations. Sometimes the most meaningful experiences are the simple ones. A weekend camping trip can be just as impactful as a week-long vacation abroad. It’s about the experience, not the destination. I still remember my Aunt taking me on full day adventures for my birthday, where I got to choose what we do for the day. One of my most favorite memories is going to the local water park with her. Quality over quantity is the key here. 

As "The Memory Maker," you have the opportunity to give your loved ones something far more valuable than any material item—the gift of exploration, adventure, and discovery. In the process, you are shaping your legacy through the people they become because of these experiences with you. 

So, when you’re considering what to give this holiday season, think about how travel could be the gift that truly keeps on giving. With travel, you’re not just gifting a moment—you’re gifting a lifetime of memories.

As a Travel Advisor, I’m here to support you in becoming a “Memory Maker” so you can create special experiences for your loved ones. Connect with me to learn about the many possibilities that await you!