Top 5 Holiday Destinations for Families

Going on a holiday with the family is always an exciting thought but when it comes to actually planning it, it’s a different ball game altogether. Where to go, what to take, how to keep the kids busy… are just a few thoughts that race through the mind. Having realized that the summer vacations are not too far, it’s time to get our thoughts focused. After doing some research, and asking others what they are planning, combined with years of personal experience, I recommend the following top 5 holiday destinations for families this year.

Dubai

Dubai seems to have it all – beautiful beaches, adventure sports, hotels to fit all budgets and of course, it is a shopper’s paradise. Luckily, there are enough indoor and outdoor activities to keep the day quite packed. Since it gets hot during the day, plan to head to the beach early in the morning, and while the sun is beating down, you could enjoy activities like Ski Dubai, Ferrari World, Dolphin Bay or just go shopping. Make sure you go for a desert safari one evening. There is so much to do in Dubai that you could spend a whole week and still have more to see! So if that’s the sort of holiday you are looking for, go ahead and book your holiday soon!

USA

‘Humungous’ is the only thought that comes to my head when I think of the United States of America. I think you could spend a lifetime trying to explore it! Each state has its own specialty and they are so different from each other. There is enough to satisfy each member of the family – from the ’Golden State’, California, to the rugged North-west ‘Sunshine State’, Florida to the busy streets of New York City. Take a road trip and drive down the beautiful Pacific Highway from Hollywood to San Diego in the west or take a group tour to get a glimpse of all there is to see.

Thailand

The kids will just love Thailand and so will you. Bangkok of course is a shopping hub, but there are many other attractions as well, like the Grand Palace, Safari World, the Tiger Temple and many more. Don’t forget to have the freshly squeezed orange juice available on the streets, apart from all the scrumptious street food. After you have had a few exhausting days in Bangkok, head out for a relaxing time to one of the beach towns or just explore more of the country.

One such town that you could go to is Hua Hin. You will really love the beautiful beaches, malls and night bazaars. Or you could go to Krabi and enjoy its unending emerald waters, amazing sea food and everything from rock climbing to kayaking. Chiang Mai is another popular option in northern Thailand, known for its delicious food, ancient temples and shopping.

Hong Kong & Macau

Disneyland, Madame Tussaud’s, Avenue of the Stars, Ocean Park, Observation Deck… why do you need to go far and wide, when you can find all this in one place – Hong Kong! Hong Kong is also known for its great street food and bakeries. If you get fed up of the local Chinese food, you can always choose from some great international options.

About an hour by ferry or 20 minutes by helicopter is Macau, which is a good mix of entertainment and adventure. Shows this season include ‘The House of Dancing Water’ at the City of Dreams or ‘Zaia’ by Cirque Du Soleil at the Venetian Macau. The kids will also enjoy go-karting and grass sliding. If you are feeling adventurous, you could head up 233 metres to the top of the Macau Tower to SkyJump or Skywalk.

Singapore

Singapore is one of the top 10 cleanest cities in the world. It is truly a family paradise – packed with fun filled activities that the family can do together. The Singapore Zoo, the Jurong Bird Park and Sentosa, along with many more, are fascinating places to visit. There are several museums and temples also that you could add onto your itinerary. Shopping, of course, is a very important part of any vacation and Singapore has sales galore throughout the year. You will find great deals on many brands, so don’t forget to stock up on your favourites.

Now choose your destination, here are some exciting holiday packages, pack your bags, and enjoy a great family vacation!

Bon voyage!