Many people secretly love to travel because it lets them get away from their families. This is unfortunate – because the real secret is that all the best adventures are the ones that we can share with others. Apart from love and associations, the thing that truly binds families together is shared experiences. It only makes sense then that we cherish our loved ones, and endeavor to explore the world and all its joys with them. So… where to?
1) Thanda Island, Tanzania
A private island? Hold on. What about a luxury private island? For most it seems like a fantasy. Why not break the spell and give your family a holiday they’ll never forget? Thanda Island, which sits in Tanzania’s Shungi Mbili Island Marine Reserve, is exactly what you’d expect from a private island getaway. It boasts incredible dining, water adventures like swimming with whale sharks and cruising through the gorgeous island scenery, as well as walking along breathtaking beaches while the evening sky cascades above. Still not sure what real luxury feels like? Look no further, as Thanda Island is eager to be of service to the whole family!
2) Kruger National Park, South Africa
An important box to check in any travelers bucket list: The Kruger National Park, located in Limpopo, South Africa. This incredible (and massive) park is home to the majestic Big Five (Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Rhino, and Leopard) and attracts travelers from all over the world. This incredible open expanse of natural beauty and jaw-dropping scenery is sure to wow every member of the family (even that uncle who doesn’t get along with anyone). Slightly isolated and away from the buzzing cities, the Kruger Park is a private, exciting, and unforgettable place. It’s also the kind of memory that finds itself being brought up at the dinner table again and again.
3) Snowdonia National Park, Wales
This destination is one of the few that satisfies all possible cravings the family might have. It features thrills, fun and relaxation (not necessarily in that order). Snowdonia National Park sits within Wales, which itself sits in the southwest of Great Britain. The park is home to the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway which climbs all the way to the summit of Wales’s highest mountain: Mount Snowdon. Needless to say, the panoramic ocean views the mountain provides are sure to leave you and the in-laws with quite a few tales to tell.
4) Reykjavik, Iceland
Let’s be honest, any country with the word “Ice” in its name doesn’t sound like such a great time; just thinking about it might have you pulling your blankets a little closer. But here’s the thing, and I need you to hear me out on this: Iceland isn’t as cold as you think, in fact, it’s the last destination any family should avoid simply because they’re worried they might get a bit chilly. Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik is filled to the brim with adventures to be had. Anticipate gorgeous architecture, astute museums containing swathes of Viking history, and the transcendental and otherworldly Northern Lights which illuminate the skies (the lights can be seen from late August to mid-April).
5) Hua Hin, Thailand
What used to be a quiet fishing village is now a fashionable escape for travelers the world over. While many families flock to Bangkok and Phuket, Hua Hin remains one of those greatly underrated escapes. It’s home to the breathtaking Vana Nava Water Jungle, one of the largest waterparks in Thailand, featuring more than eighteen attractions to satisfy every kind of visitor. Savor the Thailand heat while splashing yourselves and the kids with thrilling new memories.
6) Québec City, Québec, Canada
Of course, travelling isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s also about experiencing the different cultures and characters you meet along the way. If you’re a parent, it’s about showing your children the incredible diversity all around us. It’s for this reason that Québec City has found its way onto this list. With an interesting mix of French and Canadian culture, Québec boasts beautiful sights ready to captivate you everywhere you look. Let the kids explore their creativity at the Musee de la civilisation, which features secret passages and several fun (and educational) activities. Or, if you’d rather grab a tan and go for a swim, take the family to the Baie de Beauport, the city’s delightful beach.
If you walked through a bustling airport terminal and started asking strangers where they’ve been, you’d no doubt get some impressive answers. Chances are you’d encounter a living, thriving spirit of wanderlust in their eyes, and an insatiable desire to travel. Many people think that having a family means that the wanderlust has to die, but that’s only true if you think it is, and most of our greatest adventures involve our families. Appreciate those moments, and be sure to create as many of them as you can!
