Planning a trip for all the family requires a lot of work. Enter Jessica Tang of Jacada Travel to help simplify the process, starting with three top tips:
1. Location, Location
What venues will be off-limits to you? Consider aspects like availability of baby seats, wheelchair accessibility or even minimum age requirements.
2. Room to Breathe
Multi-room villas or suites that can house the entire clan are ideal. This provides space for everyone to gather and spend quality time together – while preserving all-important privacy.
3. Pace Yourself
Everyone wants to explore at a different pace. Figure out a rhythm that works for everyone. Think a leisurely morning of sightseeing and lunch for all the family, followed by nap time for the young and elderly – and exploration for those with energy left.
Go Here: Destinations for All Ages
Chiang Rai, Thailand
The northern Thai city is home to some incredible resorts and outdoor activities. Highlights include a visit to Elephant Valley Thailand, where you can walk or bathe with Asian elephants. Meanwhile, foodie families shouldn’t miss northern Thai delicacies like khao soi curry noodle soup and sai ua sausages.
Tokyo, Japan
Whether it’s a visit to the Imperial Palace, a stroll to the Meiji Shrine in the ever-peaceful Yoyogi Park, or seeking out the latest fashion and tech in Harajuku or Omotesando, there’s something for everyone in the family in this year-round destination. Our tip: remember to bring an empty suitcase for all that shopping.
Sri Lanka
An island nation of ancient ruins and temples, as well as miles upon miles of beaches. There are plenty of opportunities for exploring wildlife: highlights include visiting Yala National Park for its Asian leopards, a trip to the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project and meeting Asian elephants at Gal Oya National Park.
Stay Together: Room for All Ages
The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia
Surrounded by a pristine rainforest, the Datai is a sleek resort with 121 rooms, suites and villas, featuring plenty of opportunities for guests to reconnect with nature. Families can book one of its private villas and take advantage of the resort’s 18-hole golf course, private beach and wide range of nature activities.
Rayavadee Krabi, Thailand
This idyllic, eco-friendly resort features 101 circular, two-storey pavilions and opulent beachfront villas that all blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The resort’s sustainable practices continue through to its dining offerings, with a focus on ingredients grown on its grounds or sourced from producers nearby.
Silolona, Indonesia
Built in the style of a phinisi, a traditional Indonesian sailing vessel, the Silolona’s luxury yachts can accommodate 10 to 12 guests, with an attentive crew that includes a private chef, dive instructor and an expedition leader. With destinations including the Komodo Archipelago, Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay, Silolona offers complete flexibility for guests of all ages, and itineraries can be crafted according to guests’ interests.
