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.
Perfecting the art of multi-generational family holidays
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.
Chiang Mai Temple Gardens, Thailand
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.
Hoi An riverfront, Vietnam
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.
Temple complex, Angkor Wat, Cambodia
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.
Add Bali’s beautiful beaches to multi-generational family holidays
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.
Discover ancient traditions in Ubud
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.
Nijo Castle, Kyoto, Japan
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.
Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan
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!
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
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.
Palawan Beach, Southernmost Point of Continental Asia, Sentosa
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.