Traveling with my kids allows me the privilege of reliving my childhood – i can see things from a child’s perspective – I get to play like a kid with my kids, doing the things my Dad did with me. Jumping into pools. Diving off his shoulders. Playing tennis, throwing a ball, endless battles of table tennis and billiards. Reconnecting with my loved ones away from the vacuum of work makes my life worth living and gives me a stronger sense of purpose and reward.
There are a number of amazing destinations around the world, but some stand out to me for all the right family reasons. Whether its Summer or Winter, here are my top five family friendly must go holiday destinations.
Gold Coast, Australia
There really is no better family destination in Australia than the Gold Coast. Famed for its long stretch of golden sand fringed by sky-high buildings, the region is fun filled and action packed. Theme parks reign supreme with anything and everything imaginable available, be it a day in the water at WetnWild or getting up close and personal to some of Australias indigenous animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. For those who prefer a good old fashion theme park both Dreamworld and Movie World are famous for their thrill seeking rides.
Phuket, Thailand
The exotic town of Phuket easily meets the needs of any parent in search of the perfect family destination. If the allure of tropical beaches isnt enough then the vast array of family friendly experiences available is second to none. Treat the kids to something they will never forget with an elephant ride through the jungle or for older children a game of Mini Golf at Dino Park does the trick. Wakeboarding at Phuket Wake Park allows participants the thrill of the ride and caters to everyone no matter their previous experience. Phuket has it all.
Sanur, Bali, Indonesia
The quiet and pristine beach at Sanur is one of the many reasons families have been coming here for years. Balis earliest beach resort is well known for its quiet and laid-back vibe despite the large number of restaurants and accommodations that line the streets. The upmarket beach is the ideal place for children to play with a wide beach and the waters much calmer than elsewhere in Bali, thanks to being sheltered by a reef. To amp up the pace why no take a day trip to the Bali Safari & Marine Park for an unforgettable safari experience. Visitors have the pleasure of spending time in the company of rare and endangered species such as the Komodo, Orang Utan and Bali Mynah.
Queenstown, New Zealand
The adventure capital of New Zealand is a vibrant and exciting family holiday destination, not only for its intoxicating spirit but also for the number of activities available for both children and adults year round. An outdoor playground visitors experience unique vacations dependent on which time of year they arrive. During winter take the kids up the mountain and teach them to ski or in summer spend the days in the lake basking in the sunshine. The fun isn’t limited to the snow, a trip up the Gondola will see you taking in some of the worlds most spectacular scenery, while the Luge down the mountain promises an exhilarating race down. You name it, Queenstown is the fun centre of the world!
Coral Coast, Fiji
A region rich with natural beauty and stunning beaches the Coral Coast, Fiji is our final family friendly destination. While the beaches are perfect for children to swim and play in, there is so much more in the area to fill their days with. Visiting Kula Eco Park is an absolute must, here guests enjoy a rare chance to get up close and personal with Fijis wildlife, getting the opportunity to hold and take pictures with some of the rarest animals in the world. Staying in a luxury holiday house or resort with a massive pool is a must!
