Travelling at an early age must be the most precious gift we can give our children. Travel: the one bug we actually want our children to catch!
Experiencing diverse cultures cultivates empathy, broadens perspectives and fosters a love for learning and curiosity, with a lifelong appreciation for the world’s richness. Building memories together as a family strengthens bonds, and from a parent’s perspective there is nothing quite like seeing your child’s face sparkle in delight and sheer wonderment at discovering new cultures and experiences.
Planning a ‘big’ trip can feel overwhelming and that’s where we come in – our team of travel planners (and Mums) are here to take the planning and stress off your hands, so you can focus on what counts.
Let the adventure begin in 2024. Read on for some of unforgettable family destinations and itineraries. Now is the time to start planning!
St Lucia
A Caribbean jewel with oomph. Whilst offering the stunning golden beaches and turquoise seas you’d expect from this corner of the world, there are also lush rainforests and volcanic peaks, perfect for a spot of adventure. Rainforest walks, cycling and zip-lining through the canopies, cacao groves to learn how chocolate is made, tumbling waterfalls, black sulphur springs and the active volcano of Mount Soufriere will all totally enthral children. While snorkelling or diving in the sparling sea will transport children to a colourful underwater world full of teeming fish of all shapes and sizes; they can learn how to kite surf at Cas en Blas, ride horses in the sea, bamboo raft down the Roseau River or try their hand at deep sea fishing. There is even a Splash Island Water Park – if there’s time – we doubt it.
Sri Lanka
Perhaps one for slightly older children given the lengthy distances but what a treasure trove of a country Sri Lanka is, wrapped up with a genuine warmth. Families will feel so at home here – think cricket with hotel staff, specific junior ranger programmes, elephant researchers on site, and the incredible Yala National Park with thrilling wildlife encounters including elephants and the elusive leopard. Kayaking, horse riding, cooking, archery, cultural shows, tuk tuk rides to Galle Fort, train rides through tea and cinnamon tours or gentle cycling through padi fields, there are activities galore and no two days will be the same. And as for culture – to name just a few – the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa will be sure to inspire. We have lots of fantastic family-friendly places to stay – including some multi-generational accommodation, if the grandparents want to tag along too.
Oman
Only a 7 hour from the UK, Oman is off the beaten track adventure and the perfect introduction to the mystical allure and charm of the Middle East. From its vast dunes, hilltop citadels, bustling souqs and colourful mosques, to the empty beaches and crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean between Muscat and Jumeriah there is just so much to do and see. Camping under the stars with sandboarding, quad biking and camel rides will completely mesmerise children, and days can be spent discovering remote wadis, village to village trekking along ancient paths and energetic mountain biking… Hotels here are hot on kids clubs too where they will encourage children to get out and about with adventure walks and fun activities. Head to the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman for a well-deserved flop…and watersport fun.
Maldives
A tropical playground with an incredible number of family-friendly resorts with out of this world slick service and a laid back Maldivian hospitality, with sparkling kids clubs the children will be begging you to take them to. Perfect if you want to squeeze in some well-deserved R&R (it’s not ALL about the children). Often pegged to romance, we can promise you that lots of corners are perfect for children too. Snorkelling or learning to dive… there can be nowhere more inspirational, and you can even surf in the Maldives between March to October. Whale shark season runs from November to April when they migrate through warmer waters – imagine snorkelling with them at night, or snorkelling with turtles or fly fishing.
Kenya
A wildlife adventure like no other packed with vibrant colours, flavours and unique smells. Whether throwing spears with a Masaai warrior, sleeping out in a treehouse or going on guided bush safaris tailored to suit young and inquisitive minds, this is one of the most inspirational holidays you can choose for young ones. We are on hand to advise on the best family-friendly lodges, which will welcome children with open arms, be it with ping pong competitions, tennis, croquet or mountain biking trails, fishing in the Mara River or visits to the Reteti Elephant sanctuary. While the Kenyan coast offers another dimension with watersports, dhow trips, kite surfing, horse riding all on offer. If you’re there in July turtles hatching is quite mesmerising.
Italy
We can’t recommend our Italian road trip enough, combining Portofino, Tuscany and Naples, to showcase some of the best regional cuisine, culture and coast. Starting in Portofino, families will learn traditional farming techniques, learn how to cook regional Ligurian dishes and visit the fabled Cinque Terre: five charming fairy-tale hamlets. Feast your way along the coast on a traditional gozzo boat with a nibble at farinata at Vernazza, pesto trofie in Manarola and a gelato at Corniglia. From Portofino to rural Tuscany, with a stop at Pisa on the way, explore the area with local guide, cycle through vineyards and perhaps go truffle hunting with dogs. And from Tuscany to Naples with its medieval castles and sparkling seas, reach Vesuvius and UNESCO World Heritage designated Archaeological Area of Pompeii. Not forgetting pizza in Naples.
Indonesia
The joy is that Indonesia’s weather is best during the European summer holidays; making a 10-14 day trip very feasible. Fly via Singapore and shed a bit of the jet lag with a stroll around Singapore’s Botanic Gardens or quick zipline across the beach and jungle at Sentosa, before heading on to laidback Bali. With its black volcanic beaches in the north and soft sands in the south there is much to explore and our guides will show you the authentic Bali away from the crowds. Start in Ubud and cycle through rice paddies and terraced fields, visit the Sacred Monkey forest, fascinating temples, bustling markets, go white water rafting, and learn how to cook Indonesian food. For the second half of your trip head to the beach at Seminyak on the southwest coast to enjoy all that the Indian Ocean has to offer.
Start planning with us…
Now really is the time to start planning – you get the best prices, offers, availability and peace of mind. So, if you are beginning to think about 2024 travels and can steal a moment before the festivities kick in then it will be so worthwhile chatting to one of our team (with no pressure). They are here to bounce holiday ideas across the globe and for the year just for you.
Contact us to plan your family holiday