Single & Vacationing with the Folks: Fun or Faux Pas?

At 13, vacationing with your parents is normal.  But what about if you're 34...and single?  I have been struggling with this question for the past couple weeks.  At 34, by society's standards, vacationing with your parents usually means they play the role of grandparents.  In my case, however, it's just me.  My sisters are both paired off happily and doing their own thing with their partners (and kid in one case). 

My parents own a beautiful 32 ft. sailboat and try their best to make time during the summer to visit other clubs around the area.  Often this means going with other boats from their yacht club or meeting up with friends who also have boats.  Sometimes they do this alone, and sometimes I'm the add-on.  Don't get me wrong, I love being on the boat and I've made good friends with some of their friends, but I've had this nagging thought throughout the entire thing...

My home for a week

Does being 34 and still vacationing with my parents make me a "loser"?

I brought this up with a close friend and again with my mother.  Luckily for me, my parent didn't take any offense.  My friend was quick to say, no...and then head off for a solo trip around the Costa Brava part of Spain on her bike.  Hmmm...sailing with parents vs. adventurous cycling for one...lol, something tells me her trip sounds a whole lot more age appropriate. 

My mother listened and understood that it wasn't that I didn't appreciate the experience and time with my parents.  After much thought, I've come to the conclusion that while some may see me as a "loser", some day, my parents will both be gone and the memories I'll have from spending time with them will be priceless.  It's also still okay to feel a bit stunted and hope for trips where I will have my own family to bring along.

Toronto's nighttime skyline from Algonquin Island

I had a lot of fun on my trip.  I worked from the boat by commuting to school using ferries & public transit, met new people, and increased my comfort with sailing in heavier winds.  I got to see the beauty of Toronto at dusk and nightfall from a unique viewpoint, I was less dependent on technology, and I reduced my carbon footprint.  If I'd given in to my perceived view of public opinion & refrained from going on the trip, all I would have had to show for it would likely be one more week living in a hot apartment, eating alone, and watching Big Bang re-runs. 

A loser I may be, but at least I'm a happier one.