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Have you got a holiday in your sights, but also a brood of kids? According to a recent study conducted by Intrepid Travel, families are now willing to travel to more exotic locations, and encourage you too as well.
The company’s inaugural Adventure Travel Index was launched this week and here are the destinations real mums and dads deemed as the top 10 places for all Australian families.
1. Vietnam
Dyan McKie, Intrepid’s family travel expert, said Vietnam is the place to be for foodie families.
‘Vietnam is a stand out for foodies within the family regardless of age,’ he says. ‘Freshness is key to Vietnamese food and you can pick up cheap eats from street vendors like Banh Me or Pho.’
2. Thailand
It’s no secret that Thailand has always been a family favourite, and Intreprid reports that it’s still remains in the top 10.
Lyndsay Domonkos, a mum-of-two, told Kidspot, ‘Thailand is a popular choice for Aussies but a family adventure holiday can get you to interesting off-the-beaten path places.
‘A key highlight for us was visiting an elephant nature park in Ch iang Mai. Our kids were able to get up close and personal with these magical animals in a way that’s responsible.’
3. Malaysia
Malaysia is Australia’s third most popular family holiday destination yet it ranks 17th overall, according to Intrepid Travel.
‘Our family trips go to Borneo where families have a jungle camp experience and wildlife experiences including orangutans and elephants,’ Dyan says.
4. India
Evelyn Mollins, a grandmother who travelled with her grandkids to India (without their parents) says this destination is family friendly and beautiful.
‘Everyone’s seen a photo of the Taj Mahal, but nothing compares to seeing it in person in the glowing morning light – you’ll understand what beauty really is,’ she admits.
5. Sri Lanka
Dyan says, ‘For many, Sri Lanka can seem overwhelming to visit on your own and that’s why small group tours to this country are our fifth most popular for families. The country is packed with ancient sites, fascinating culture, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches.’
6. Cambodia
Cambodia is a great destination to open your children’s up to an incredible new culture.
Rochelle Carol, a mother of two, tells Kidspot, ‘We took our kids to Cambodia to experience another culture. By learning about the country’s brutal history, they gained a better appreciation for their own lifestyles. The people were so friendly and welcoming.’
7. Morocco
Morocco is listed as Intrepid’s sixth most popular destination and seventh most popular for families specifically.
‘A trip here is action packed covering everything from camel-clad deserts to pristine beaches and bustling Markesh,’ Dyan says.
8. Italy
Dyan says of Italy, ‘Genuine pizzerias aside, there’s a stack of culture, history and adventure activities to be had.
‘Kids on our tours always hit it off and keep each other amused, whilst parents can enjoy adult conversation over a glass or two of Italian wine.’
9. South Africa
According to dad-of-two Ben Child, taking your family on a safari in South Africa is a great idea for those with teenagers.
‘In Kruger National Park, kids will learn about wildlife conservation and nature through first-hand experiences. Sleeping under the stars in Kruger was one of the most amazing things we have done,’ he reveals.
10. Japan
‘We recently took our son on a small group tour to Japan. It was the perfect mix of city and nature experiences. Our son made instant friends with the other children on the trip as we got to know the other parents and our local Japanese guide,’ Natalie Placko, a mum of one, said.
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