Travelling with children is guaranteed to add an extra dose of fun and adventure to any trip. With the excitement of discovery in their hearts, the wonders of the world are even more magical through the eyes of a child. Introducing them to new places is an amazing way to bond, and it is sure to remind you of your child-like wonder too. There are so many places across the globe that are great to travel with children, from countries full of outdoor activities to places known for their theme parks and resorts. Here are my top five destinations for a family trip:
Al-Ain
Known as the garden city for its palm groves and natural springs, Al Ain is a beautiful and fascinating destination to travel with your children. With family at the heart of its culture, visitors travelling with children are heartily welcomed.
Visit Jebel Hafit Mountain Park and discover this desert wonderland with hiking and mountain biking trails for every kind of explorer.
Learn about the history of Al Ain at the Palace Museum and the Archeological Park or play hide and seek in the Beehive Tombs
Who’s the King of the Castle?Let your child be dazzled by the stunning Green Mubazzarah Lake, a sparkling and stark contrast to the surrounding desert. It’s an oasis for families who come to enjoy the parklands and dip in the healing water.
The Wadi Adventure water park is best for a day of action. Ride down white-water rapids, or enjoy the surfing, kayaking, and wakeboarding facilities. Located at the beautiful foothills of Jebel Hafit Mountain, it’s the perfect spot for fun and enjoyment for the whole family.
Most restaurants in Al Ain are child friendly so there are plenty of options available. Solidaire is a popular choice combining modern and traditional aesthetics, with a menu of Levantine dishes as well as western favourites for those fussier eaters. For a more authentic experience, try Al Fanar Restaurant & Café, counted as one of Al Ain’s best restaurants, where the menu and atmosphere provides a taste of traditional Arabian heritage.
If desert camping isn’t your style, stay in the centrally located Aloft Al Ain and enjoy their rooftop pool.
Malta
That’s what I’m talkin’ a boat!Visit the cool and colourful Popeye Village, where you’ll find play and swimming areas alongside boat tours and restaurants. For a day away from the sea, take the family to Splash and Fun Water Park where, as the name suggests, you are sure to have a great time!
Explore Malta’s mysterious stone age ruins with their monolithic constructions and unknown construction methods or visit the late medieval city of Valletta and pretend that you are courageous knights!
Malta has a marvellous selection of restaurants and a vibrant food scene, and plenty of places are great to dine with the family. Il Ristorantino Italiano is perfect for a friendly atmosphere alongside delicious Italian and Mediterranean dishes. For a relaxed beachside affair and a hearty global menu, book a table at Westreme.
Stay in a magical palace that the children will love at the boutique Corinthia Palace Hotel. Enjoy spacious rooms, private balconies, and an excellent swimming pool.
New Zealand
There is so much to see and do in New Zealand, that the best way to explore it is to embark on a road trip! Hire a campervan or a car, and travel across the North and South Islands, to really show the kids all this beautiful country has to offer.
For fans of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton is a must-see stop near Auckland. Marvel at this impressive and uniquely beautiful movie setting, and step into a world of fantasy that both you and the kids will love.
Known for its mountains, glaciers and lakes, the South Island boasts hundreds of hiking opportunities alongside jaw-dropping vistas.
Walk the Abel Tasman Track and wind along the coastline on this easy, scenic trail.
Your friends will be purple with envy!There are hundreds of fantastic child-friendly restaurants and cafes to stop along during your trip. Otherwise, pack a picnic and don’t miss out on the views!
If a motorhome isn’t quite your family’s style, stay in of the country’s bachs (small weekend huts), or opt for a self-catered seaside home.
Orlando
What could be a better place for a trip with your children than the hometown of Disney World? Orlando is the ultimate location for a family holiday, and whilst its iconic theme park may be top on the itinerary, there is so much else to explore.
As well as the famous Disney World theme park, there are lots of other parks in Orlando to try. Visit the Tree Trek Adventure Park where kids can explore the canopy and swing like Tarzan, or head to The World of Chocolate Museum for something extra sweet. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is best for a mix of magic.
Catch a kayak or canoe down the river in Shingle Creek or play a round at a miniature golf course. For something more relaxing, take a trip to one of Florida’s beaches, and relax by the sea.
A Magic Kingdom!For those focusing their trip around Disney World, Lake Buena Vista is one of the most popular places to stay, and also features golf and shopping facilities as well as hotels, homes and villas from which to choose.
South Africa
Take your kids on an exciting excursion in South Africa! From safaris and hikes to relaxing beach days, you and the family will be spoilt for choice when visiting this beautiful country.
Explore Cape Town’s vibrant streets by taking a gourmet walking tour testing tasty traditional dishes. Climb Table Mountain or go by cable car, and marvel at incredible ocean views. Look out for the ‘tablecloth’ cloud that sometimes sits over the top!
South Africa’s wildlife is its top attraction, and your children will be amazed by how many animals they can spot in this stunning country. Kruger National Park is one of my favourites for safari! Watch out for whales on a boat tour in Hermanus or embark on a safari in the Eastern Cape.
Step back in time in the Northeast KwaZulu-Natal region and explore South Africa’s history at the Anglo-Zulu battlefields.
South African dishes are mainly meat-focused, but there are also plenty of international restaurants on offer.
In the bush, dare to dine on kudu, springbok and even crocodile, while on the coast you’ll find sumptuous seafood restaurants
The tablecloth!In Cape Town, The Waterfront Village Hotel boasts self-catering apartments with pre-stocked fridges and stunning sea views. For something more adventurous, why not take on a camping safari tour and immerse yourself in the wilderness.
Whichever destination you decide to venture with your kids, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time. There’s no excitement compared to that of a child on a trip of discovery, and it will remind you why you love to explore places too! So, gather the whole family together and set out for adventure!
Love,
Isabella