One of our editors goes on an annual trip with her mother, and this heartwarming tradition has inspired the rest of us to plan something similar with our own moms. We think a mother-daughter bonding vacation is especially important to squeeze into packed schedules before kids come into the picture, at which point everything, including the woman who raised you, becomes an afterthought. So, we’ve put together itineraries you can choose from based on your mom’s personality, whether she’s a party animal waiting to rage or someone who likes to stay a little closer to the hearth. Start planning now, and don’t forget to leave your cell phone behind—these are priceless hours you’ll treasure forever.
Find The Perfect Itinerary For You And Your Mom
Destination: Paris
Why here: You have one of those adorable moms who thinks a road trip to visit grandma counts as travel. We love her, and we don't want her to change, but we also really want her to see Paris. Dust off her passport and plan a weekend in the late spring. If you can't convince her to venture that far from home, try a weekend in New Orleans instead.
Don't miss: The Musée du Louvre and lunch at Le Grand Véfour. In New Orleans, Faulkner House Books and Preservation Hall. See also our insider's guide to New Orleans.
Destination: Miami
Why here: It's the perfect destination if you're looking to revel and relax, as the nightlife is extensive and the beaches are beautiful. If you're not feeling Miami due to the Zika outbreak, however, we suggest Vegas as an alternative—just be sure to stay in a hotel that allows you to easily extricate yourself from the madness when needed (we like the Four Seasons at Mandalay Bay). Cabo also offers a perfect mix of both leisure and, well, tequila. We're currently coveting a room at the Mar Adentro.
Don't miss: In Miami, El Tucán. In Vegas, Britney Spears' Piece of Me show. In Cabo, the Glass Box Bar at The Cape.
Destination: Traverse City, Michigan (The Leelanau Peninsula)
Why here: Traverse City is, without a doubt, one of the most charming towns in all of America, and it's surrounded by wineries—Mario Batali has called it his "number-one destination, anytime." Come here to gossip while strolling the town's quaint streets before getting deep over a Pinot Noir flight.
Don't miss: The Bel Lago tasting room.
Destination: Mount Rainier
Why here: We recently followed Eddie Bauer climbing guide Melissa Arnot to the top of her 50th mountain peak in fewer than 50 days, and we were beyond inspired. If mom loves to push her physical boundaries, you can hire Melissa (who is lovely, by the way) to help you summit Rainier together.
Don't miss: Rainier is less than two hours from Seattle, so we suggest you unwind after your climb with a (booze-infused) soft-serve float at Rachel's Ginger Beer in Pike Place Market.
Destination: The Haramara Retreat in Sayulita, Mexico
Why here: As we reported, Sayulita is fast becoming the new Tulum (It destinations come and go quickly these days!). This yoga retreat is situated on 12 seaside acres just outside of town and has no electricity other than in the yoga studio and restaurant. The best part? Cell service is limited. We also love Morgan's Rock in Nicaragua and Canyon Ranch in Tucson, if Mom prefers to stay stateside.
Don't miss: In Sayulita, a chocolate banana milkshake at ChocoBanana. (It's sort of healthy? You deserve it!) In Tucson, Saguaro National Park.
