mythreesuns

I do have to add this.. I was the grandchild that took many trips with my grandparents when younger. Ours was mostly by vehicle. Most of the ride was beautiful or things to look at.. except.. The Dakota's.. the most boring states to ride in. The entire trip looked like we were just on repeat. lol So I read books.. then when the day was over (earlier for my grandparents then me) they were ready for bed..I was younger and still wanted to go..I had books.. I only used my books when I was bored..nothing to see nor do.. It will be the same way with your grandchildren. My grandparents tried to keep me entertained constantly, but our age difference was a factor. Even now when we take our grandchildren.. they do the same thing as I do. At home, they are attached to their ipods, ipads, mp3 players, computers, cell phones... but when on a trip..they are used MUCH less. Plus it amazes me, as they actually notice more details then we do even when they are using their gadgets.

jbj137

I agree, NO GADGETS. J J

sewnbug

I agree. If they can't go without their gadgets for such an opportunity, it's their loss.

craftymatt2

I wonder how old they are, are they to young to go on such a long trip?? I would rather go by myself.

Gabrielle's Mimi

How about a compromise, as others have said. Although I am not a gadget geek, think about this: we all feel connected to this board (or to email, or to our cell phones) and we'd hate to be told "NO!" I think it might be fair for on planes or in hotel rooms before bed, but def. not when sight-seeing or at meal times or other family times. You'd actually be doing them a favor, teaching them moderation, because we now live in a techno world. I really liked someone's idea of a written contract, that way no one can say they didn't know the rules.

caspharm

I agree, because on the long plane ride, the entertainment is usually a limited selection and on our trip this last fall, the onboard television system was not always working for every seat (like mine) on certain channels.

chuckbere15

I would let the bring the with. That will keep them occupied on the plane and in the hotel room. And when it's time to enjoy the sites, the gadgets get locked up. If they still don't agree then I would not take them.

Oh, and by the way, you could take me and I would leave my gadgets behind. Please! Pretty please with sugar on top!

QuiltingCrazie

Mother of five and we travel alot. Were in Europe right now and our kids love it. They do have gadgets but they play those at home. I agree with you, kids miss out on the good stuff for a game. So afraid they will be bored. Our kids love the scenery and what's here.. so cold right now hard to enjoy the sites but summer is different. Stick to your guns, they have to learn entertainment is more then video games. I would pull up images and such so they can see and be part of the planning you might be surprised at the result. Remember the dollar is way down here. 1 euro is 1.45 american dollar. Shop in villages for food, it's cheaper then cities. Fast food is gross here don't waste your money, the oil is different. Everything closes early and most american credit cards don't work on the economy here. Honestly they wont have anywhere to charge there gadgets here without converters. You may know all this but thought i'd throw it in!

piepatch

I agree with you 100%! This is a wonderful opportunity for them to travel and learn. If they are not yet mature enough to make the trip without their electronics, they probably wouldn't get much out of the trip anyway. Having said that, I know a few mature adults who wouldn't make the trip without their "gadgets".

psychonurse

Leave the kids at home. Enjoy yourself. Maybe take someone who is graduating high school this coming year who would never be able to go otherwise.
It doesn't have to be any one related to you or that you know,just someone with a greatful appreciative heart.