As they say, time spent with family is time well spent.
With the busy schedule at school and work, taking time for family vacations is a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with the kids and create special memories to fill our hearts and photo albums (social media albums count too!).
When choosing a perfect destination, it is important to visit a place that interests the whole family, has family-friendly attractions and will give you some adult fun too. Long travel days and connecting flights can be hard for everyone, so it will be wise to pick a destination that has direct flights.
The short list here shows some handpicked destinations perfect for family travel.
- Hong Kong, China
Heading to Hong Kong for a family vacation is a great idea. It has a lot theme parks, shopping outlets and great food! Make sure to try their Michelin-starred dimsum!
You can check out Hong Kong’s impressive skyline and excellent views at the Avenue of the Stars, Victoria Peak or you can also ride Hong Kong’s Observation Wheel.
On your second day, excite the little ones by visiting the Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland. Kids will surely love the Ocean Park that features jumping dolphins and clapping sea lions. In Disneyland, make sure to catch the parade and see your kids’ favourite Disney characters come to life. There are a lot of adrenaline-inducing rides, 3D attractions and live shows to experience.
To cap off your fun day, have a sumptuous dinner along the sides of Victoria Harbour while watching the symphony of Hong Kong lights. If time permits, you can drop by the Ladies Market in Mongkok and shop for great finds for the whole family.
Source: Hermeia Chan
- Orlando, Florida
It’s true that Orlando is one destination best for family vacations! It’s a mecca of theme parks, galleries, museums and live shows. Its warm weather makes it even more perfect for a fun filled vacation.
Create a magical experience at the Walt Disney World Resort. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Magic and Animal Kingdom, Epcot Theme Park and the MGM Studios. Adults can also enjoy the Downtown Disney where lots of shops, restaurants and theatres are located.
Next stop can be the Orlando’s Sea World. Walk around its large aquarium and try out their rides with splashing waters and watch live dolphin shows!
You can also avail an inclusive all-in one-day pass at the Discovery Cove and get to swim with the dolphins, snorkel among coral reefs and discover underwater grottos filled with eels, sharks and other tropical fish.
Are you fond or riding thrilling rides? Visit the Universal Studios and enjoy the sights and rides inspired by your favourite films such as Jurassic World, King Kong, Despicable Me and Minions.
A great educational activity for the family is at the Orlando Science Center that features interactive exhibits, special presentations in 3D films and other engaging activities for learning science.
Also take a short visit at the Basilica of Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine which is a huge church with an onsite museum that contains religious paintings, sculptures and relics.
Source: Jared
- New York, United States
New York is a parent-approved vacation spot. With its world class museums, iconic landmarks, public parks, huge zoos, and good food, there will be no shortage of many fun things to do in the city.
See the famous skyline of the city from a cruise boat. Pass through everything from the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, up to Ellis Island. If you still got the time, go up on the Statue of Liberty’s observation deck and enjoy the breath-taking view of the New York Harbor, lower Manhattan and the South Ferry subway.
Spend an afternoon cycling and strolling around the vast green grass of the Central Park. Lay your picnic blanket and relax with a bite to eat after a long day.
A visit to New York City won’t be complete without seeing one of its Broadway shows. Grab your tickets and catch classic Broadway musical shows like Wicked, Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King.
Shopping should be another highlight of your New York Trip. Whether you’re looking for cheap fashion or into luxurious finds, stores at the Rockefeller Center or the sophisticated Fifth Avenue will be shopper’s heaven!
Lastly, bring everyone at the bustling Times Square and together experience NYC’s vibrant spirit with its impressive billboards, massive shops, restaurants and theaters!
Source: John Simm
- Paris, France
Paris may have a reputation as a city for lovers but this city is a wonderful family travel destination as well. Paris houses some of the best museums in the world, historic monuments, castles, and famous parks making it an all-round destination for the whole family.
Take a perfect family picture at the scenic views of the most famous sites in Paris like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe. Be sure to visit Jardin des Tuileres (Tuileres Gardens), where an old-fashioned carousel is, which your kids will surely be keen to ride. For some outdoor playtime, take the kids to Luxembourg Gardens.
All day sight-seeing and visiting museums may tire the kids so why not give them a fun day trip at Disneyland Paris. Although quite similar to other Disneyland parks, the Walt Disney Studios, Disney Village and hotels on-site add to a unique European appeal that makes your visit totally worth it.
Discover cozy and charming restaurants at Ile of Saint Louis for a perfect gastronomic treat to match your Paris mood.
Source: Arigrumelli
- Malaysia
Thinking of travelling in Asia? Malaysia is a good pick!
The view from the famous Petronas Twin Towers which is an architectural wonder should be a highlight of your Kuala Lumpur vacation. To avoid the hassle, you can book tickets ahead of time for a sky bridge tour and take in the view of Malaysia’s impressive skyline from above.
For a breath of fresh air and city escape, plan a trip to Malaysia’s most beautiful kept islands like the Langkawi and Perhentian islands. If you would like to take the kids for some history and heritage tour, explore Malacca for a day and cap it off with an Authentic Halal dinner.
Legoland Malaysia is worth adding to your itinerary. With its bricky ambience, huge water park and thrilling Lego-themed rides, the whole family will surely be captivated. To complete the Lego experience, you can opt to stay at the Legoland hotel for a night.
Source: Edmond Low
Planning for a family trip can be a challenge. From booking flights and accommodations in advance to planning the whole itinerary that would involve doing things together. But choosing the right destination is key. Hopefully the list gave you suggestions on where to take the family on that yearly trip.