Family getaways are a great opportunity to reconnect and spend time together. We’ve picked the best destinations for easy escapes right now, with plenty for kids to do and lots to interest parents too.
Choose quieter Sunar beaches in Bali with younger kids
Bali: one of the best destinations for young surfers
Bali can be heavenly for families, even with younger kids. For beach days, choose the resort of Sanur on the south coast. It’s not far from very popular Kuta, but always quieter and the wave breakers guarding the beach mean children splashing around in the shallows won’t get mown down by surfers. You’ll also find several restaurants lining the beach ranging from affordable warungs at one end to more expenses places at the other.
However, should older kids want to give surfing a go, Balangan Beach – just south of world famous Padang Padang – is perfect for beginners with relatively small waves and friendly surf schools. Canggu is another great beach for learner surfers, and it’s close to Echo Beach which has some of Bali’s best sunsets.
Canggu Beach, Bali
Don’t miss Waterbom Bali, Asia’s #1 waterpark. Not only does it feature incredible slides and rides for bolder, older kids, it has splash zones for pre-schoolers as well as restaurants, snack bars and even a spa area.
Although over fives who’re up for ziplining and aerial adventuring will love Bali Treetop Adventure Park, just over an hour’s drive north of Kuta. And you can’t visit Indonesia’s most famous island without a trip to Ubud and the enchantment of monkey forests waterfalls and rice terraces will enchant your kids.
Bali’s dry season is April to September, but visit off-season between April and May or September and October for lowest prices and fewer crowds.
Recommended family hotels in Kuta
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Singapore: the all-round destination for family getaways
If you haven’t visited Singapore, put it on your to-do list now. The compact, walkable city has so much to see and do, your little ones will never be bored. A must-see in Singapore is Jewel Changi Airport, whether you’re flying or not. The indoor wonderland features mazes, nets to bounce on, things to slide down, and much more.
Joo Chiat Road, Singapore
In the heart of the city, Changi Jurassic Mile is a huge permanent display of life-sized dinosaurs, with more than 20 different models of all your favourite species. However, to get around faster, a number of bike rental shops will let you hop on two wheels to explore the area.
If playgrounds are your small person’s thing, there’s a huge 3,500-square-foot facility at Marine Cove, with activities suitable for toddlers to teens. If that’s not enough, head over to Admiralty Park in the north to discover dozens of slides, undulating terrain and play equipment for children with additional needs.
Singapore is a great city year-round. It’s driest from December to June and February to April is typically sunny with lower humidity.
Recommended family hotels in Singapore
Traditional Thai dancer, Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai: cultured city for family getaways in Thailand
The searing heat and humidity of lowland Thailand can be avoided when you head to the hills and the mountain city of Chiang Mai. Despite being about as far away from Bangkok as you can get without leaving the country, the city retains a wealth of Thai culture and history, from its stunning Buddhist temples to its beautiful Old City.
Elephant Sanctuary, Chiang Mai, Thailand
For kids, there’s plenty of fun and games in and around Chiang Mai. Elephants are a must, and the Elephant Nature Park is a wonderful way to embrace these gentle giants. Although there’s no elephant riding here, you will be able to feed, bathe and play in the mud with them. For animal lovers, expansive Chiang Mai Zoo is another must on family getaways, complete with pandas and the Siam insect zoo.
To burn off some steam, the Grand Canyon Water Park is a great choice, with inflatable slides and obstacles to navigate. Get closer to nature at Namtok Bua Tong (Sticky Waterfalls), or hike Doi Inthanon National Park to discover flowers, wildlife and stunning sunsets.
Chiang Mai is coolest October to April. Visit in February to see lots of flowers are in bloom.
Recommended family hotels in Chiang Mai
Hanging out in Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An: more child-size culture, this time in Vietnam
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most popular cities for family getaways. Although the Old Town is bustling with shops and street sellers day and night, there are also beaches, water parks and attractions within easy reach, so there’s always something to do.
If you’re into theme parks, Vinpearl Land Hoi An is a great day out with kids. It has a bird park, a substantial water park, a river safari and ‘Adventure Land’ with all the rides and rollercoasters you could wish for. Although it’s not the most cultured experience, there’s something for everyone from toddlers to teenagers.
Hoi An riverfront, Vietnam
However, in the Old Town, you’ll find a wealth of Vietnamese cultural experiences to enjoy, from lantern making to cooking classes, perfect for getting a taste of local life. Nearby Cham Island is perfect for snorkelling, but if your little ones aren’t quite water-confident yet, SeaTREK gives them the full underwater experience without the swimming requirement.
Dry season runs from March to September and it’s coolest in March or April.
Recommended family hotels in Hoi An
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