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When it comes to family hotels, 2023 sees quite a few brands pushing the boundaries for original design, not to mention hospitality and service. Here are new openings we think you should be getting excited about right now.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai: a reset for luxury family hotels in Thailand

Set in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, just 35 minutes by boat from Phuket and 20 minutes from Krabi, Anantara Koh Yao Yai opens in November 2023. The 148-room resort sits right on the water’s edge, against a backdrop of limestone formations that rise out of the waters of Phang Nga Bay. The one and two-bedroom beachfront villas each have grass roofing, as well as direct access to the resorts long, sandy beach, complimentary bicycles and private butler service.

Huge family suites with built-in bunk beds and in-room slides are particularly loveable here. Although the resort also features one of Thailand’s largest kids’ clubs with bubble pool, waterslides, dance studio and dedicated nap room. Supervised kids activities include recycling projects, mangrove seedling planting, cooking classes and nature walks make this one an education for its younger guests: baby yoga is available too, and teens have their own activity building and restaurant.

Book a stay at Anantara Koh Yao Yai

Intercontinental Khao Yai: vintage rail travel vibes in Thailand

Three hours north of Bangkok, tucked off the main road and hidden behind tall trees, is the Intercontinental Khao Yai, designed by award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley. Featuring upcycled train carriages converted into luxury suites, the lobby is built like a traditional ticketing booth, and even two of the restaurants are also in carriages.

One of the most original new family hotels, younger guests will love the train-themed spaces  – the kids club is, naturally, in a carriage! Plus, there’s an outdoor pool, as well as a spa and fitness centre on site. Nearby Khao Yai National Park is the place for elephant-spotting in the jungle, along with golf on several world-class courses. And if you want to explore further, you’ll find a night market in nearby Pak Chong Old Town and a Buddhist monastery.

Book a stay at Intercontinental Khao Yai

Regent Phu Quoc, Vietnam: one of the new family hotels for island hoppers

Nestled on the white sands of Phu Quoc island’s west coast, at Regent Phu Quoc untouched tropical landscapes are interwoven with the rustic charm of an idyllic island life. From the expansive terrace, the calm blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand stretch before you, an ideal position for taking in sunsets. When it comes to the rooms, sunlight radiates through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, opening to the sweeping scenery of the sea and the skies.

There’s a dedicated Regent Kids programme, with activities ranging from arts and crafts to sports and ocean exploration, encouraging young guests to learn and have fun. Inside, kids will find a variety of stations, including swings, climbing structures, a treehouse, napping area and a theatre for movies. The reading nook contains Time’s 100 Children’s Books of All Time in many languages, and there are also plenty of board games, toys and puzzle games to keep kids busy too.

Book a stay at Regent Phu Quoc

Alila Kothaifaru, Maldives: active kids love this new resort

Alila Kothaifaru lies in the peaceful and unspoilt Raa Atoll, home to few inhabited islands and an abundance of marine life: you can even go snorkelling with hawksbill turtles, green turtles and manta rays here. If you prefer to stay out of the water, a sunset cruise brings you close as can be to spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Alternatively, there’s also the spectacular “Sea of Stars” phenomenon: an extraordinary sight to behold at nearby Vaadhoo Island.

In fact, this family-friendly resort has experiences and activities aplenty, most of which can be tailored to suit guests. The kids club is a buzzy place and the specially trained team is always ready to make sure even the youngest guests feel at home.

Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach: the new family haven in Thailand

A charming coastal resort in a peaceful sanctuary, just a short drive from many of the attractions and tourism hotspots of Pattaya, Thailand, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is a family-friendly resort with 204 spacious rooms arranged in intimate clusters amid the tropical landscape. Choose from beachfront suites and indulgent pool villas, contemporary in style and featuring spacious balconies that immerse you in nature with stunning views.

There are three different pools here, including the Lagoon Pool, a tropical paradise for kids and families. Fish Club is the beachside restaurant and bar serving locally caught and freshly grilled seafood. And families can enjoy sundowners by the pool with a laidback beach club vibe and live music. Children will like making new friends while being immersed in fun, learning and exploration at Sanuk Sanuk Kids’ Club, next to the kids’ pool, where activities range from locally inspired arts and crafts to games and storytelling.

Book a stay at Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach

Jumeirah Bali: inspired by traditional Javanese temples

Describing a new family hotel as ‘inspired by a tranquil Javanese-Hindu water palace’ might sound a little esoteric, but we’re forgiving Jumeirah Bali everything because the resort is simply exquisite.

There’s a whisper of quiet luxury through everything here from the elegant, traditionally designed suites to the discreet personal butler service. Naturally kids will be more excited about the cuteness and sheer fun of the Peafowl Kids Club which does Balinese dress up for younger clubbers as easily as it delivers yoga for teens.

Book a stay at Jumeirah Bali 

Cap Karoso, Indonesia: the most authentic of new family hotels

A 30-minute flight from Bali, Sumba is a largely undeveloped island paradise, with white sand beaches and wild horses. Sitting on the shores of a coral reef and surrounded by turquoise lagoons and traditional villages, Cap Karoso is a new luxe resort with 47 rooms and 20 villas, as well as an organic farm that also acts as a farming school for the Sumbese community. Covering three hectares of rehabilitated land, the farm produces nearly all the fruits and vegetables used in the restaurant and bar.

The resort is also home to the kids’ club where everything from discovering the constellations with the telescope to learning to grow crops on the organic farm, make children feel like explorers. All family villas have private swimming pools, open-air kitchens and barbecues, so you can prepare unforgettable family meals with fresh produce delivered to your door.

Four Seasons Suzhou: new luxury just 30 minutes from Shanghai

Suzhou is one of China’s famous canal cities, just a half-hour by train from Shanghai. With UNESCO-listed classical gardens and ancient stone bridges over waterways, when he visited Venetian explorer Marco Polo is said to have called it ‘the Venice of the East’.

New Four Seasons Suzhou sits on a 22-acre private island in the heart of Jinji Lake looking towards the city skyline. There are 210 rooms here, including penthouse suites and stand-alone villas. As well as two swimming pools – a lake-view outdoor infinity pool and a glass-enclosed indoor pool – guests can also enjoy the jogging track that runs along the island’s shoreline, lakeside gardens and outdoor terraces. Plus, the always amazing Kids For All Seasons programme, features an indoor playroom and an outdoor kids’ zone.

Book a stay at Four Seasons Suzhou 

Innit, Lombok: the beachiest of new family hotels for 2023

Perched on the secluded white-sand shores of Ekas Bay, surrounded by sparkling waters, soaring cliffs and traditional fishing villages, Innit Lombok is an intimate haven. At the moment there are seven beach houses, each designed for families with two bedrooms and private ensuite bathrooms, as well as a central open-plan living/dining/kitchen area, although future plans include hillside residences and a Bridge Hotel.

This may feel like a downtime destination, but you’ll find activities nearby from visiting a local lobster farm to exploring volcanos and waterfalls, kayaking, surfing, snorkelling and paddleboarding. Alternatively, lazy bones can simply lie by the infinity pool or enjoy the hotel’s 300-metre long stretch of soft white sand beach.   

Book a stay at Innit Lombok

Janu, Tokyo: new opening for winter 2023

The sister brand to Aman, Janu (the Sanskrit word for ‘soul’) is launching its first property in Japan. A fitting flagship, Janu Tokyo, opens its doors this winter in the city’s much anticipated Azabudai Hills: a newly built urban village in the heart of the capital, with views of iconic Tokyo Tower.

An urban oasis with 122 guest rooms and suites, many of which are interconnecting for families, one of the capital’s largest spa and wellness centres, and eight distinctive dining venues, Janu Tokyo promises a unique and soul-enriching stay for its guests. There will be six restaurants, a bar, a lounge, and a garden terrace, including a patisserie, an Italian food emporium and a grill with an open kitchen and bar. This new addition will also feature one of the largest wellness facilities of any luxury family hotels in Tokyo: spanning over 4,000 sqm  and including a 25m lap pool. 

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, Japan (opening spring 2024)

Located in the Gion and Higashiyama district, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will open in spring 2024 as a 52-key luxury, hilltop urban resort boasting spectacular views of Kyoto city. It’s set to become the first and only hotel in Kyoto city to have a Noh stage, a traditional Japanese performance space specifically designed for Noh, a classical Japanese theatrical art form that has been performed for over 600 years.

YOTEL Tokyo Japan (opening spring 2024)

A great budget option for family travellers, YOTEL Tokyo is steps away from Ginza, the city’s most popular dining and shopping destination, featuring flagship stores for many of the world’s best-known brands. Japan’s first YOTEL is also only a fifteen-minute walk from Tokyo station, home to the city’s main Shinkansen high-speed rail terminal providing access to most parts of Japan as well as the Narita express, the city’s main gateway to Narita International Airport.

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Looking for the best family theme parks in South East Asia? We’ve already looked at everything from all-day-passes to clear height restrictions (no disappointment for kids on the day), record breaking rides for teens, and plenty of gentle fun for toddlers too. Here are the best of the best according to our kids.

Siam Amazing Park, Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand’s longest running and most popular theme park and waterpark, Siam Amazing Park is also home to the world’s largest wave pool.

It covers more than 118 acres, and includes five different adventure zones: Extreme World, for older kids, teenagers and thrill seekers; Adventure World, for young explorers; Family World, fun for all ages; Small World, for the youngest adventurers; Bangkok World, which celebrates the architecture and history of the city.

Opening hours: open 7-days from 10am to 6pm.

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Wild Wild Wet, Downtown East, Singapore

One of Singapore’s largest waterparks, and one of the 10 best in Asia, Wild Wild Wet covers all rides from adrenalin-pumping free fall to relaxing water slides.

In addition to the original nine slides and rides which made its name, the park now has seven more attractions including the Royal Flush: Asia’s first hybrid ride. Kraken Racers (see video) is  Singapore’s first four-lane mat racer slide. Although serious thrill seekers need to try the Torpedo or Free Fall. Don’t worry, little splashers aren’t left out, the Kidz Zone is a lot of gentler but still fun excitement, so this is one of the family theme parks we can recommend for everyone.

Opening hours: open Monday to Friday from 12pm-6pm and closed on Tuesdays; Saturday, Sunday, school and public holidays from 11am-6pm.

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Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy World), Jakarta, Indonesia

Located in Ancol Bay City, a resort destination on Jakarta’s waterfront, Dunia Fantasi has over 40 rides and attractions, divided into eight regions.

Travel round the world starting in Jakarta, journeying across Indonesia, discovering Asia and Africa, exploring America then Europe, and ending up in captivating Fantasi Hikayat (Legendary Fantasy). Along the way kids can ride rollercoasters and log flumes, take a spin on Ferris wheels and spinning cups, or go for slightly gentler options like carousels and the cutest Hello Kitty adventure.

Opening hours: 10am-5pm Monday to Friday; 10am-7pm Saturday, Sunday

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Dream World, Bueng Yitho, Thailand

Welcome to the Dream World land of make believe! Here dream-like experiences feature across four themed zones: Dream World Plaza with its wonderfully odd architecture; Dream Garden where a tranquil lake and cable car give you views of the whole park; Fantasy Land of fairy tales

with a castle, a bread house and a giant’s house, and Adventure Land with rides such as Train To Space, Viking, and Snowland. Apart from that, there is also the Colour of the World Parade and Hollywood action shows to enjoy on weekends. 

Opening hours: 10am-5pm Monday to Friday. 10am-7pm Saturday and Sunday

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Suoi Tien Theme Park, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ever been to a Buddha-themed theme park? Well now you can! Located outside Ho Chi Minh City, the most popular attraction of Suoi Tien Theme Park is the Tien Dong – Ngoc Nu waterpark, which has the first artificial beach in Vietnam and an artificial waterfall. The waterpark is divided into two sections, one is child friendly and while the other is geared up for adults, and includes waterslides and splash pads.

For those preferring dry land, there are also roller coasters, Ferris wheels and other serious white knucklers. Interestingly, there are also various Buddhist temples beside the park – honouring the Hung kings, Tran Hung Dao and Hai Ba Trung, so you get to combine culture with your thrills.

Opening hours: open 7-days a week from 8am- 5pm.

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Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa Island

The only Universal Studios park in Southeast Asia, this theme park on Sentosa Island regularly beats many of its competitors to win the number one theme park in Asia accolade.

There are six regions to visit including, Far Far Away, Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi, Ancient Egypt and The Lost World. From the virtual reality Transformer rollercoaster to the intertwined Battlestar Galatica double coaster, there are also plenty of exciting rides. And younger kids aren’t left out as there are Sesame Street and Puss In Boots’ themed rides, as well as lots of their favourite characters walking around for photo opps.

Opening hours: open 7-days a week from 11am-6pm.

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VinWonders Nha Trang, Vietnam

Located on Hon Are Island, with its clear water and white sand, VinWonders Nha Trang is another of our family theme parks divided into different worlds.

There are six worlds in all here, ranging from adrenalin-fuelled rides at Adventure Land to the King’s Garden where kids can see rare white Bengal tigers, as well as flamingos, hippopotamus, lemur, and nearly 30 species of birds. World Garden covers five hectares and contains more than 10,000 flowers from around the world.

Active kids will love Water World with its amazing 20 rides and slides to try and Sea World showcases the planet’s extraordinary marine life. Then there’s Fairy Land, which might sound sweet but in reality is the place for thrills such as 1,865m long summer toboggan rides and zipline which hold records for longest, steepest and highest landing in Vietnam.

Opening hours: open daily from 8.30am-9.30pm

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LEGOLAND Malaysia, Nusajaya: best of family theme parks for younger kids

With over 40 shows, rides and attraction, LEGOLAND Malaysia has something for everyone in the family. Budding knights and swashbuckling pirates can explore ancient lands or even be transported around the world in just a few steps. Little ones get to join the driving school or climb and slide around DUPLO Town, while older kids will love the world’s first LEGO virtual reality rollercoaster.

There’s also a waterpark on-site, and Legoland hotel features themed rooms ranging from Pirate and Kingdom to Adventure and Ninjago. 

Opening hours: open from 10am-6pm daily but occasionally hours vary, so check website.

Find family hotels near LEGOLAND Malaysia

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Know as a vast island rich in wildlife and adventures, Borneo is perfect for families keen to have new experiences and lay down once-in-a-lifetime memories. Starting from the island’s Kota Kinabalu airport (accessible from Kuala Lumpur), your first step is a speedboat transfer.

Day 1-4: Gaya Island Resort, Borneo

Fringed by a golden beach and backed by lush rainforest, Gaya Island Resort is a welcoming retreat where you can recover from your journey.

Surrounded by a wealth of coral reefs for diving, indigenous flora and fauna for enriching nature walks, and an award-winning spa in a unique mangrove setting, as well as plenty of restaurants and a lounge bar overlooking the pool, it has a real back-to-nature appeal.

Nestled within the rainforest are hill villas with a variety of views including mangrove, canopy, tropical rainforest, and Mount Kinabalu in the distance.

Beyond the room there really is something for everyone, big or small. Settle into one of the spa’s treatment rooms for a sleep inducing massage after a guided meditation session; go diving and discover the tropical marine life in the coral reefs; learn about Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre’s turtle and conservation efforts; dine at Fishermans Cove for the freshest seafood dishes on the rooftop under a starry sky.

Book your stay at Gaya Island Resort

Day 5: Kiulu Farmstay in Kiulu Valley

After breakfast, depart by speedboat back to the mainland and transfer to Kiulu Farmstay in Kiulu Valley.

This is a small area in the north western part of Sabah with a population of over 2,000 people. Its name (Kiulu) was derived from a plant that is called Tulu, which is a small bamboo that commonly grows on the river banks. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for local communities in Kiulu Valley – this includes rubber plantations, fruit orchards, paddy fields and mixed gardens, mostly consisting of vegetables, pineapples and ginger.

The area is committed to using local resources (accommodation, activities, and people), maintaining unique culture practices and developing rural tourism through training of hosts and linking homestays with surrounding products or activities. This is what makes Kiulu Valley unique and a great place for family outings, – it is a real learning experience and one that will leave a lasting memory.

On the way, stop at Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, passing by the scenic views of the Kiulu Valley. Take a walk through the local village and see the local school, lush paddy fields and the hanging bridge, before returning to Kiulu Farmstay for dinner.

Kiulu Farmstay is based on the Bornean communal culture of longhouses with an eye towards sustainability – using locally sourced and treated wood that fits perfectly with the surrounding jungles. If you’re keen for more adventure and cultural experiences, there are many optional activities to try such as quad biking, cycling, water tubing and cultural activities.

Find out more and book your stay at Kiulu Farmstay

Day 6: Sepilok Nature Reserve in Borneo

Time for an early start and a longer transfer (about five hours to be exact), but your journey will be rich with things to see and do.

First, visit the Mt Kinabalu National Park. An area known for its incredible biodiversity, here you can hike local trails around the base of the huge granite monolith while your guide offers insights about the immense variety of flora along the trail, including their medicinal properties and their importance to local communities.

Take a wander through the Kinabalu Botanical Gardens where a one-hour tour is provided, allowing guests to learn more about some of the 5,000-6,000 local species of flora found in the area.

Continue to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, stopping for a lunch en-route and arrive at Labuk Bay for the early afternoon feeding session. The proboscis monkey is unique to Borneo, with the males identifiable by their huge floppy noses. Here you have a fantastic chance to get up close with these unique animals. There are a variety of other species located in the sanctuary, such as hornbill birds and grey leaf monkeys, which you might be lucky enough to spot.

Your jungle adventure starts among the tropical plants, grasses, trees and spectacular orchids which surround the chalets of the Sepilok Nature Resort, within walking distance of the world famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, home for the last wild orangutans of Northern Borneo 0 also known as ‘wild men of Borneo’.

All the timber chalets are set around a beautiful natural lake and have en-suite private bathrooms with lake or jungle view verandas. The surrounding garden is huge with over 150 species of Asian Orchid! During your stay, enjoy flavours from both the East and West on the terrace of the lodge’s restaurant, accompanied by the mesmerising chorus of the tree frogs.

Find out more and book at stay at Sepilok Nature Reserve

Day 7: Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort

Spend the morning at the world’s largest orangutan rehabilitation centre at Sepilok and see the orangutans being fed by the rangers.

After that, go to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre where there are currently 36 bears housed at the centre, rescued from poachers.

Now it’s time to get a boat to Abai, Kinabatangan. On the 1.5 hour cruise, you’ll pass Berhala Island, a historical site from World War II, before the boat journey continues towards the mangroves and villages of Abai. This cruise also offers views of the different types of vegetation found along Sabah’s mighty Kinabatangan River, as well as plenty of wildlife including macaques, wild orangutan, proboscis monkeys and mudskippers.

If you are looking for something exclusive and away from the main tourist hotspots of Sukau and Bilit, Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort is the place to go.

Located in Abai, a quieter area of the Lower Kinabatangan Floodplain, the resort offers 10 chalets in total, all ensuite. You could take another river cruise on a small, opened topped boat to get even closer to the incredible environment around you, or simply spend time relaxing and observing nature from your chalet; myriad birds and monkeys, such as silver leaf langurs, maroon langurs, hose langurs, and wild orangutan, are regularly spotted within the area. Raised boardwalks are available for night walks and morning strolls.

Day 8: river cruises and night safaris

Wake up to an early morning cruise to nearby ox-bow lake, Danau Pitas, to explore the area. There’s a local fishing village worth a visit before you return to the resort for breakfast. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the river’s hidden gems, including firefly colonies, before you cruise back to the resort for dinner. After dinner, there’s the option of a night river safari on the lookout for nocturnal species.

Day 9: Gomantong Caves

Next stop, Sukau and an exploration of the intricate limestone system of the Gomantong Caves. After walking about 10 minutes, you will reach two main accessible caves – Black & White Caves. Within these caves the ancient tradition of collecting solidified swiftlet saliva for ‘Birds Nest Soup’ is still carried out, although under strict licensing and on sustainable terms.

The area surrounding the caves is thick rainforest, where, on occasions, you may see wild orangutans. It’s also home to around two million bats and the opportunistic bat hawk.

Journey onto Lahad Datu for lunch before the last leg of the journey into the luscious virgin rainforest area of Danum Valley – one of the world’s most complex ecosystems. Here you will arrive at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

First on the list must be a late afternoon walk along the 130-metre-high, 300-metre-long canopy walk, high up in the 130 million year-old rainforest which hums with jungle sounds. After dinner, board an open-top 4WD vehicle for an exhilarating night spotlighting tour. Accompanied by a local guide, who shines a light into the jungle looking for nocturnal animals, you will be able to spot a range of nighttime creatures that inhabit the reserve, from samba deer to civet cats, leopards, and a stunning collection of insects and frogs.

The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is set within 43,800 hectares of protected virgin rainforest of the Danum Valley and is surrounded by more than 320 species of bird and 124 species of mammals, including the Asian elephant and wild orangutan. This is one of the best places for viewing Borneo’s wildlife. It delivers the wow factor in terms of location and experience and, while it is basic, clean and comfortable, the facilities and standards here are of a very high standard, given how far away it is from amenities.

Find out more and book a stay at Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Day 10-11: Borneo Rainforest Lodge

The morning chorus of the jungle is a cacophony of sounds ranging from birds to primates, such as the gibbon.

Taking a packed breakfast, travel to a 200 year-old Kadazandusun Burial Site, known as “Coffin Cliff”, along the 2.6km View Point Trail. The end of this trail results in spectacular views over an ocean of million-year-old jungle – a truly spectacular sight. The return journey includes a trip to waterfalls where guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the Jacuzzi Pool – with the added benefit of nibbling fish!

Afternoon is at leisure; however there is a range of optional activities available, such as private trekking, tubing on the Danum River and specialised guided tours. There is also a series of tracks leading around the Canopy Walk that guests are free to discover at their leisure.

This evening, venture into the jungle on foot with a local guide. Quietly entering the jungle reveals a stunning array of wildlife, not to mention the variety and size of the many insects that flourish in the evening hours.

Day 12-15: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort

On your final rainforest morning, take a last stroll in this jaw-dropping environment before you leave for Lahad Datu Airport for the flight to Kota Kinabalu, and an onward short transfer to Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort. A final few days of luxury before your holidays ends, the Shangri La Rasa Ria is a large resort style hotel situated between forested hills and Pantai Dalit beach.

For sports lovers, choose from horse riding, wind surfing, white water rafting, cycling and tennis. For those who want to immerse themselves in more nature. the hotel also has its own 64 acre nature reserve with treetop canopy walkways. Whether you want to visit nearby hot springs or just chill out on the beach, the hotel can organise the perfect way to end your Borneo adventure.

Find out more and book a stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria

Malaysia may not be known for all inclusive resorts, but we’ve found the best family options so you can check in knowing everything has been taken care of.

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort, Kota Kinabalu

This idyllic all inclusive resort is situated on the northern tip of Sabah, and provides a range of unique activities for guests. Families can take mahjong lessons, learn the art of napkin folding and the language of Bahasa, or even join in blowpipe competitions and mudball making.

The first and only one of its kind in Borneo, the water play area comprises a dedicated section for toddlers and teenagers, as well as an interactive area for all ages. Featuring theme-park-quality water slides for adults and children, the park also offers water battle stations with water balloon launchers, a 2000m² swimming pool which has a tapered shoreline for younger kids, and an infinity pool for adults.

What’s included at this all inclusive resort

Daily meals and drinks, family fun activities, free kids ice cream, one-hour complimentary usage of non-motorised water sports, unlimited entry to water play area and kids zone, and round-trip airport transfers and access to resort’s expansive facilities.

Find out more and Book Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort

The Danna, Langkawi

Giving traditional colonial style a contemporary Mediterranean twist, The Danna is a luxury hotel located on the west side of the island. It’s less than half an hour’s walk from the Langkawi cable car that takes visitors to the Sky Bridge, and the Seven Wells Waterfall (great to do as part of a zipwire rainforest tour).

Within the hotel, chose from more traditional rooms in the elegantly appointed main building, or the beach villas with private pools. Spend your days swimming in the three-tier infinity pool, the kids pool and hot tub, or visit the spa, kids club and array of games rooms.

Check out the Danna Jr package to treat children to a sleeping tent with lanterns, beach toys and home-made sweet treats.

What’s included at this all inclusive resort

Breakfast, daytime meals, Italian three-course dinner or buffet dinner, and complimentary meals for children under the age of four when dining with parents.

Find out more and book The Danna 

Pangkor Laut Resort, Pangkor Laut

The private island of Pangkor Laut Resort sits three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. This peaceful five-star resort features spacious villas, luxury facilities, a beautiful beach, and a variety of excellent dining options.

The resort itself is made up of a collection of wooden buildings that blend seamlessly into the forest. Roofs that open up to the sky allow guests to view a variety of wildlife, including long-tailed macaques, oriental pied hornbills, white-bellied sea eagles and large monitor lizards.

What’s included at this all inclusive resort

With the all-inclusive Residents’ Package (for residents of Malaysia), you’ll enjoy accommodation, daily set breakfast, set lunch and set dinner. Coffee, tea and mineral water served during meal times are included too. Plus, the all-inclusive also covers return scheduled speedboat transfers to and from Marina Island Pangkor, as well as in-room WIFI, and Jungle Walks with a Resident Naturalist.

Find out more and book Pangkor Laut Resort

Club Med Cherating Beach, Pahang

Club Med Cherating Beach all-inclusive family beach resort, facing the South China Sea, sits in the heart of an 80 hectare forest, perfect for jungle adventures and serene spa breaks alike.

Made up of traditional teak buildings, stroll around and listen out for macaques and gibbons in the surrounding trees or the crashing waves in the nearby sea.

Kids will love the family splash zone or enjoy ocean views from the adults-only zen zone pool while little ones explore the kids club. There are so many activities included in the packages, from learning to fly on a trapeze to sea turtle watching, Club Med offers many unique Malaysia family holiday packages and activities.

What’s included at this all inclusive resort

The price includes it all – accommodation, food, drinks, sports and entertainment, and kids club. Additionally, if you book your flights with Club Med, your transfers are included too.

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Borneo

Set amidst a nature reserve overlooking the South China Sea, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu is an open-plan, spacious resort, featuring 26 pairs of interconnecting rooms in the family-friendly Garden Wing.

Swimming pools are designed to feel like tropical lagoons and there’s a putting green, tennis court, croquet lawn and water sports centre where kayaks and paddleboards can be hired. There’s also an adjacent 18-hole golf course and a spa.

What’s included at this all inclusive resort

Families can enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, buffet dinner, unlimited beverages, as well as return airport transfers. Unlimited access to the Rasa Ria Reserve is also included and kids will love the guided nature walks, forest garden and discovery centre.

There’s access to a range of other activities for adults and children too, including unlimited wall climbing and bike rides about the resort. Fun at the Cool Zone Kids Club and Adventure Point – Outdoor Playground are part of the resort’s all-inclusive package. And all families benefit from a complimentary one-hour hire of kayak or body boards.

Find out more and book Shangri-La Rasa Ria

When it comes to scuba diving lessons, Asia is a haven for marine life, bursting with vibrant coral reefs and packed with fascinating sites. Thanks to warm waters and great PADI schools, it’s also perfect for kids to learn the basics, and beyond. Now dive into some of the best family resorts with PADI diving instruction for children, and parents too, of course.

PADI basics before you decide where to go diving

The minimum age is 10 years old, although kids from age eight can try out with PADI Bubblemakers. Student divers younger than 15 years, earn PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification. They can then upgrade that to PADI Open Water Diver certification at the age of 15. Kids can also start learning online before their holiday with PADI eLearning, under 13s need parent or guardian permission to register for online courses.

Start diving lessons at Lotus Bungalows in East Bali

Bali is a year-round diving destination with consistently warm temperatures, whichever month you visit. One of Bali’s greatest charms is its wide range and variety of dive sites. One day, you can dive on a steel shipwreck, and the next you can swim over sand slopes, off vertical drop-offs, along deep coral-covered ridges, in roaring currents, with manta rays, sharks or small nudibranches in many colours. In short, there’s diving for everyone at every level.

Under the shade of the coconut trees, on the edge of the water, Lotus Bungalows is an excellent stepping stone to discovering the treasures of East Bali. Situated away from the most touristic areas, it is a perfect hideaway for both divers and non-divers who are ready to seek out the cultural and underwater gems of The Island of The Gods.

Find out about PADI diving lessons at Lotus Bungalows

Learn to explore the underwater wonders of Koh Samui

Koh Samui and the surrounding islands have long enjoyed a reputation for having some of the  best dive spots, including Sail Rock, Angthong National Marine Park, Southwest Pinnacle, Chumphon Pinnacle, and Koh Tao. 

Look out for schools of barracuda, big eye trevally, jacks and queenfish, yellow boxfish, moray eels, and even whale sharks. Black coral, barrel sponges, sea fans and a garden of soft coral sprinkled with sea anemones make Koh Samui a firm favourite, plus its calm, bright waters provide stable conditions throughout the year. Scuba diving courses can be arranged through a variety of resorts and centres in the area. At the Anantara resort you can enjoy a beachfront villa with glittering bay views and island luxury – and memorable dives just off the coast. 

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at Anantara Rasananda

Dive into reefs and round wrecks at Pulau Tioman

Located on the east coast of Malaysia and surrounded by numerous coral reefs is a popular scuba diving spot, Pulau Tioman, which has perfect crystal-clear, warm water and white sand beaches. You can visit nearly all-year-round but avoid the monsoon season from November to February when water currents get higher and stronger.

The island features over 25 dive sites – swim in the shallow, calm waters of Pirate Reef, wander among the amazing granite and lush coral formations at Chebeh or explore the wrecks at KM Sipadan or Sawadee Wrecks. You can even head to Malang Rock (Coral Island), rich with an abundance of hard and soft corals (home to hawksbill turtles) to catch a glimpse of the occasional cuttlefish, lion fish, moray eels, black tip reef sharks, parrot fish, and blue spotted rays.

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at Berjaya Tioman Resort

Family friendly Cebu island is a perfect scuba start for kids

Travellers to the Philippines are always wowed by the majestic Chocolate Hills, dense jungles to explore, pods of friendly dolphins and countless paradise islands.

Cebu is one of the country’s smaller islands, and particularly popular with families. As well as being perfect for water sports and relaxing on white sandy beaches, it’s the life beneath the surface that visitors adore. And from underwater caverns to freshwater cave diving to shallow shipwrecks, Cebu has an interesting range of dives. 

Plantation Bay’s dive centre features colourful reefs to explore, steep walls for drift diving, exciting caves and wrecks to discover, and virgin marine sanctuaries teeming with aquatic life. Whether you are an expert or novice diver, you can get to a suitable dive site within just five minutes of leaving your room.

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at Plantation Bay Resort & Spa

Give kids diving lessons with the best in the Maldives  

Clear Indian Ocean waters and astonishing coral reels, are just two reasons the Maldives is the dream diving destination for experienced divers, and beginners. It really is an island paradise – the perfect place to swing in a hammock in the shade of palm tree after a busy day of diving. There are plenty of desirable resorts and atolls to choose from – the region is famous for having one of the greatest diversity of marine life in the world. 

Vilamendhoo is the perfect location for manta ray and whale shark diving all year round, and offers some mind-blowing channel and thila (an underwater pinnacle) dives in South Ari Atoll. 

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at Vilamendhoo Island Resort

Discover a world of underwater marvels in Redang Island

Located in Malaysia’s South China Sea, Redang sits in an archipelago comprising of nine islands: Lima; Paku Besar; Paku Kecil; Kerengga Besar; Kerengga Kecil; Ekor Tebu; Batu Ling; Pinang and the main island, Redang. So you’re well positioned to explore more than 30 dive locations, filled with both beautiful hard and soft corals.

Expect to see turtles and reef sharks which, despite their name, are harmless to humans.  You can also look forward to sightings of moray eels, angel fish, barracuda, napoleon, triggerfish, rainbow runner, puffer fish, giant stingray, cuttlefish, octopus, and nudibranch. 

Set between tropical rainforest and a flawless, white sand beach, The Taaras resort is all about barefoot luxury and contemporary design, woven through with warm, traditional Malaysian hospitality.

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at The Taaras

Indulge in barefoot luxury at Murex Bangka Dive Resort

On a private white sand beach on Bangka Island in North Sulawesi is the Murex Bangka Resort, a barefoot, Robinson Crusoe-style experience perfect for families. Just steps away from the beach is an impressive reef, perfect for snorkelling or an easy dive.

At the resort, dive boats go out twice a day. On these trips you can expect to see white tip reef sharks, schooling snapper, and brightly coloured coral, as well as pygmy seahorses, ghost pipefish, blue ring octopus, cuttlefish, and frogfish.

Murex Bangka has all the kit you need for all ages, including dive and snorkelling gear. There’s also plenty to keep kids entertained when they’re not diving, including sea kayaks, beach games and a coral nursery project where they can plant their own coral. 

Find out more about PADI diving lessons at Murex Bangka Dive Resort

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Multi generational family holidays are on everyone’s mind now, and more destinations than ever are aware of the demand. However, we’ve taken a closer look at what places are really going the extra mile for kids, parents and grandparents and here’s what we discovered.

For active multi-generational family holidays choose Thailand, Vietnam or Cambodia

Do your grandparents still have a spring in their step? If you have top and bottom generations who have the curiosity and ability to manage a more active trip, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia over two weeks is ambitious but achievable. 

Try Thailand for hiking, wildlife and Thai cooking classes

Start with Thailand, which offers a range of activities. For active grandparents, a light hike in Khao Yai National Park is ideal – younger kids and teens can search for wild elephants and other exciting animals in amidst the Park’s jungles. Visit an elephant sanctuary or take a Thai cooking class, then retreat and reset at the country’s renowned beaches, where kids and parents can enjoy exciting and fun water sports while grandparents enjoy beach walks and some well-deserved rest.

Think Vietnam for multi-generational family holidays with cruises in the mix

Next stop, Vietnam, which features rustic scenery and a relaxed pace of life. While grandparents might enjoy a gentle Halong Bay cruise, kids and parents can get on the water in a more active way, such as kayaking and swimming. Relics of the Vietnam War in Ho Chi Minh are popular to visit and all generations will be fascinated by that part of the country’s history.

Everyone can take part in a visit to the ancient town of Hoi An, take a local cyclo to explore the Old Quarter and watch a water puppet performance in Hanoi, before finishing with a trip to the magnificent rice fields and old villages in Sapa.

Majestic Angkor Wat makes Cambodia a must for families

If the stamina of the group permits, Cambodia is interesting for grandparents and parents who like to explore ancient history and culture. Majestic Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s biggest draw. The Land Mine Museum is also fascinating place where everyone can learn about the more-recent history of Cambodia.

For a less demanding schedule, visiting two countries in two weeks may be more doable, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, focusing more on history and scenery, and all at a slower pace.

Every generation loves beautiful, beachy Bali

Bali is known for warm weather all year round so it’s ideal for multi-generational family holidays. And beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, dramatic volcanoes and great surfing means there’s  something for everyone.

The Aling Aling waterfall is actually a series of waterfalls, pools and cascades, with lots of opportunities for cliff jumping and swimming – older generations might enjoy a jeep-based hot springs tour. Either way, there are so many ways to explore and experience the island.

Hit one of Asia’s top waterparks in Kuta, then soothe in hot springs

For more adrenalin-fuelled adventures, kids will love their time on 17 different water slides at Waterbom, and adults can lounge at the beach club or take a therapeutic soak in the hot springs of the Toya Bungkah village. 

Ubud, a centre for traditional crafts and dance, is best known for its Monkey Forest, art museums, and ancient temples. If your family is into marine life, go snorkelling with manta rays at Nusa Lembongan. You can also take Indonesian cooking sessions or plan a trip to Bali Safari and Marine Park, where you all ride together in a safari bus and watch over 60 different animal species roam freely.

Japan weaves culture into multi-generational family holidays

Balancing modern life with ancient traditions, Kyoto offers plenty of sight-seeing opportunities against a backdrop of timeless architecture. It’s the ideal city break to do with the family, as it’s rich in history but also offers plenty of attractions for younger family members. 

There’s a temple trail which all generations will find fascinating – over 10,000 shrines and sites, such as Daikaku-ji, the Shingon Buddhist temple built in 876 AD. Visit the Nijō Castle, home to over 430 cherry blossom trees, or take part in a hanami, the Japanese traditional custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers. You can all experience an ancient tea ceremony, and for nature lovers, feed the roaming deer at Nara Park, less than an hour from Kyoto, at the foot of Mount Wakakusa.

Take a break from temples at Tokyo Disney Resort

Alternatively, catch a train to some of the country’s most popular children’s attractions, including Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan, Osaka, to experience some fun rides, and meet their favourite characters from the movies!

Try Singapore and Sentosa for a city and beach mix

Singapore, also known as The Lion City, is a melting pot of cultures, which naturally gives it a wide appeal for all ages. With an efficient, easy-to-use public transport system, and most attractions  being wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly, it’s a city made for multi generational family holidays.

For the sleek, shiny side of Singapore, the Marina Bay Sands development is a good place to start. Check out the ArtScience Museum, have lunch on top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel with commanding views of the city and then visit the hugely impressive Gardens By The Bay.

Go island hopping to Sentosa for rainforest adventures and beaches

Enjoy a ride on the Singapore Flyer, then head to Sentosa – a resort island packed with adventures and experiences.

The Singapore Zoo, with over 2,800 animals, is always a favourite for families, especially the nocturnal tour. And shoppers will love Orchard Road and dinner at the Hawker Centre: a large, cheerful food court with stalls around the perimeter serving both good-value local and global eats.

There’s no shortage of attractions in Singapore, but which ones will really wow your kids. We recently tried and tested the top things to do in Singapore with our children. And here’s our top pick for engagement, excitement and a little education too.

ArtScience Museum: top of the digital attractions in Singapore

Housed in a lotus-inspired building, the ArtScience Museum on the edge of Marina Bay is home to a permanent exhibition: Future World. This is definitely one of the attractions in Singapore that’s aimed squarely at kids. So yours can look forward to digital exhibits such as a virtual aquarium and a digital city where they can immerse themselves in a world of art, science, magic and metaphor through a collection of interactive installations.  

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Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

Do you have a budding geologist in the family? Or a future natural historian? Then let them loose in the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum.

Here they can explore the wonders of Singapore’s shores, from dinosaur fossils to the Earth’s ecosystem. With over 2,000 natural history specimens on display, they’ll be amazed to find a specimen of the now locally extinct Changi tree and a sperm whale, under the same roof. In fact, it’s more like a trip back in time than a dusty natural history museum and watching the earth’s diversity emerge is a fascinating experience, and not just for kids.

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National Museum of Singapore: a favourite with local families

A firm favourite with local families, the National Museum of Singapore is packed with permanent and one-off exhibits to keep kids entertained. Among the downloads to explore before you go, try the ‘Get Curious: My Family’s Stories’ Kit. Here you can discover stories from different generations of your family through a set of conversation cards covering six topics and featuring  images from the museum’s  ‘Home, Truly’ exhibition.

Don’t miss the ‘Story of the Forest’ interactive exhibit, and, the beautiful Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre: eight kinetic chandeliers that sway dramatically in mid-air.

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Gardens By The Bay: the most iconic of attractions in Singapore

Best described as a horticultural treasure trove, the Gardens By The Bay are set in the heart of downtown Singapore and home to a collection of over 1.5 million plants from every continent, except Antarctica.

With its award-winning cooled conservatories and iconic Supertrees, it’s an enthralling experience and a showpiece of garden artistry. Plus, from the flower dome to the cloud forest to the OCBC Skyway – suspended between two Supertrees 22m above ground – there’s nowhere else on Earth like it.

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National Gallery Singapore: Keppel Centre for Art Education

With hands-on activities designed just for kids, the Keppel Centre for Art Education allows them to playfully create in a dedicated. As well as plenty of galleries to explore, there’s also range of children’s workshops, including one where they make their own virtual sculptures,

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Science Centre Singapore: a top fun learning experience

From learning about electricity to understanding gravity, the Science Centre Singapore offers endless corridors from which you can discover 11 themed zones.

Head up to the treehouse, play on the organ to create music with science, or learn about DNA with 3D glasses. Then finish off with fun at water play or the digital planetarium. 

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Singapore Zoo Night Safari: a world first for family attractions in Singapore

Known as the world’s first nocturnal safari, this after dark adventure is an open air zoo that houses 2,500 creatures of the night.

Climb aboard the guided tram ride and you’ll come face-to-face with nocturnal animals like tapirs, pangolins and clouded leopards.

Discover the nightly routine of leopards, lions, civets and porcupines and be amazed as otters, binturongs, civets and other animals reveal their natural talents at the Creatures of the Night show!

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Children’s Museum: one of the newest family attractions in Singapore

Newly opened in December 2022, the Children’s Museum Singapore invites even its youngest visitors to learn through play. Children are encouraged to touch, smell and feel as they journey back through time to learn about the history of Singapore in the most fun way imaginable. Plus, there’s a soft play reward for toddlers at the end. 

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Museum of Ice Cream: the sweetest of attractions in Singapore

The Museum of Ice Cream gives kids the chance to jump around in a giant pool of sprinkles. Then it teaches them the history of the world’s favourite sweet treat using 12 multi-sensory installations. And finally it offers unlimited ice creams from around the world, including dairy-free.

This pink palace is the epicentre of frivolous, flavoursome fun, and comes complete with a vintage diner and unicorn playground.

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MINT Museum of Toys: Asia’s largest vintage toy museum

MINT Museum of Toys is the largest vintage toy museum in Asia. It’s ever-growing collection currently contains over 50,000 items, and the exhibits from over 40 countries will instantly fascinate your children, while possibly taking you on a trip down memory lane! And, from action heroes to first-edition comics, spacecraft to superheroes, there’s something for everyone. 

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Mandai River Wonders: enter the Amazon flooded forest

Welcome to the world’s largest freshwater aquarium, Mandai River Wonders. When the forests along the banks of the Amazon River become submerged in over 10 metres of water, manatee, arapaima and other aquatic creatures take that as a cue to gorge themselves on the forest’s abundant resources. The aim is to build fat reserves which will tide them over during the dry season, when food is scarce. Watching this incredible natural phenomena unfold in front of their eyes never fails to astonish kids. 

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This article contains affiliate links. We may earn commission when you click on them. This does not influence our editorial standards. We only recommend products and services we believe will enhance your family travel experience.