Holiday accommodations solely for adults ponder whether the prohibition of 'child-free' vacations is imminent.
France might soon see a decline in "adults-only" vacation establishments, as a proposed law aims to prohibit such offerings. While these child-free retreats are coveted by some for the tranquility they promise, they are perceived as discriminatory by others.
Sophie Rabory, a guesthouse owner in Brittany, exclusively accommodates couples without children, explaining that it allows parents to recharge without their children. Other establishments across France follow suit, offering child-free accommodations and experiences. However, this trend could soon be a thing of the past in France, as a bill is under consideration to ban this type of vacation offering.
For Sarah El Haïry, the High Commissioner for Childhood, this is a form of discrimination. A grandfather, with nine grandchildren, shared a similar sentiment, stating that bringing children to restaurants is a pleasure for him.
Similar practices are common in Spain and Germany, where "adults-only" establishments are prevalent. In Brussels, some restaurateurs have adapted by dividing their establishments into separate sections, offering an adults-only Sunday brunch.
The Minister in charge of Childhood will hold a meeting with tourism professionals on Tuesday to discuss this issue and reflect on creating a more child-friendly society. The implications of such a ban, if passed, could be profound, potentially sparking legal challenges, impacting the tourism industry, and shifting cultural norms regarding inclusion and personal choice.
In light of the proposed ban, France's tourism industry might experience a shift, potentially altering the lifestyle choices of individuals seeking child-free holidays, such as Sophie Rabory, the guesthouse owner in Brittany. This proposed law, if passed, could extend beyond vacation offerings; it might impact home-and-garden establishments and restaurants that cater to an adults-only clientele, affecting the travel experiences of grandfathers like Sarah El Haïry's nine grandchildren's grandfather.
