1/7 The Great Barrier Reef
Why is it disappearing?
Tragically, time is running out for Australia’s Iconic Great Barrier Reef. Climate change, combined with water pollution and coral’s slow growth is a nightmare recipe for the reef. What took 8,000 years for nature to create could disappear within our lifetimes and marine scientists have said that climate change could cause irreversible damage by 2030 if action isnt taken soon.
Why go?
Australia has lots to offer, but the Great Barrier Reef is up there with the best of the country’s must-sees. It’s the largest coral reef in the world, with views that need to be seen with your own eyes. In short, it’s one of the world’s seven natural wonders for a reason.
Why is it great for kids?
If the little ones love Finding Nemo as much as we do, then they’re in for a treat. Let them dive into the world of their favourite film, as they spot the tropical fish that inhabit the reef.
There are so many activities on offer for families; vising the turtles at Townsville Reef HQ-a sanctuary for turtles, getting close to stingrays at Dreamland Island or taking an extended cruise around the whole reef.
Price: Flights in July from London to Townsville cost between £922 (BA) and £1107 (Emriates)
Find out more: australia.com
2/7 Venice
Why is it disappearing?
The world-famous City of Water (quite literally) has been gradually sinking throughout the last few years and sadly, there aren’t any signs of it slowing down. Experts predict the city will be underwater within 100 years.
Why go?
Venice is perfect for a family getaway and whether you’re a first-time visitor, or have been dozens of times, it won’t disappoint. Don’t forget to visit Rialto Market and admire the local produce and of course, take in the incredible sights from Grand Canal.
Why is it great for kids?
Aside from tasty pizzas and gelato, Venice has plenty to offer kids. It’s well worth taking them to the Doge’s Palace Museum, where you’ll be lead hrough the history of the highest political powers in the Venetian republic. And you’ll get a chance to see old armoury and prisons. But if you want something more relaxed, little ones love exploring the city by water taxi.
Price: Flights in July from London to Venice cost between £67 (Ryan Air) and £78 (Easy Jet)
Museum entrance is £20 per adult and family tickets are available at a reduced price at the ticket office
Find out more: fodors.com
4/7 Seychelles
Why is it disappearing?
There are 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, but with sea level rising rapidly, experts believe many will be uninhabitable in the next 50-100 years.
Why go?
It is hard to exagerrate the beauty of Seychelles. With its sugary white sands, the island is like something from a picture book. The kids will love splashing about in the crystal clear waters, while you can relax under the warm sun. Bliss.
Why is it great for kids?
The island is a natural playground for kids, with glorious sunshine to boot. Energetic families will be spoilt for choice, and with everything from following turtles to octopus watching on offer, the kids will have the time of their lives. And if you want to do something unique, you can hire a family canoe and watch the tropical fish as you cross the waters.
Price: Flights in July from London to Mahe Island cost between £553 (Emirates) and £859 (Air France)
Find out more: seychelles.travel
4/7 The Alps
Why is it disappearing?
Erratic climate change has caused problems in the French Alps. Every year a small percentage of Alpine glacial ice melts and while the consequences may not be a problem now, experts are predicting the snow could disappear by 2050.
Why go?
The Alps are only a few hours from home, so they’re a great option for getting away for a few days. There is a huge choice of lodges that are designed to make families feel comfortable and safe. Make sure you pack thick jumpers because you’ll definitely feel the cold.
Why is it great for kids?
The Alps are a paradise for kids. They can have fun playing in the snow and developing their snowboarding and skiing skills (most lodges will offer lessons for ages three and up). But if skiing doesn’t appeal, little ones can be excited by dogsledding, ice-skating or paragliding.
Price: Flights in July from London to France cost between £82 (Ryan Air) and £109 (EasyJet)
Find out more: http: fodors.com
5/7 The Taj Mahal
Why is it disappearing?
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the most popular tourist attraction in India. Attracting over 4 million a year, it’s on the brink of disappearing. Air pollution is eroding away the white stone, which could eventually cause the collapse in 40 years.
Officials are considering closing the Taj Mahal to the public within the next few years. So don’t miss out on the chance to see one of the world’s wonders.
Why go?
Move a visit to the Taj Mahal to the top of your family’s bucket list because it will be an unforgettable trip. There is so much history to explore at this beautiful monument, which took 20,000 men to build.
Why is it great for kids?
It’s always a valuable experience for kids to be exposed to different cultures, especially via something as visually stunning as the Taj Mahal. They’ll get to explore Indian cultures and traditions as they explore the grounds.
There are family tours available that include tracking a tiger through the jungle, elephant rides or a train ride across the base of the Himalayas.
Price: Flights in July from London to Agra cost between £540 (Air India) and £622 (Qatar). Tickets to Taj Mahal cost £10
Find out more: tajmahal.gov.in
6/7 Maldives
Why is it disappearing?
Much like the Seychelles, the island’s biggest concern is global warming. Nature can’t be fooled, sea levels are rising quickly, so there’s a very high chance the Maldives will become the first country to disappear as a result of global warming. Experts predict that the dream island could disspear in the next 80 years.
Why go?
The Maldives is a bucket list destination for many, as it’s the definition of a paradise holiday. The sunshine, culture and environment make it a dream destination, whatever your family’s interests. Don’t put off your visit because of worries about price, as there are surprisingly affordable packages available.
Why is it great for kids?
The kids will find a new respect for the ocean and its animals, and will fall in the love with the Maldives’ myriad of activities. If the kids are old enough and love the sea, the diving in the Maldives is incredible. The warm seas have high visibility throughout the year and there are over a thousand species of fish and underwater creatures to meet. The kids will be begging you to do it again the next day.
Price: Flights in July from London to Maldives cost between £550 (Emirates) and £932 (Air Italia)
Find out more: maldives.com
7/7 The Glacier National Park
Why is it disappearing?
In the 1850s there were over 150 glaciers in Montana’s Glacier National Park. Today only 25 remain. Global warming is melting the glaciers, which is threatening the park’s scenic beauty. There are also more than 15 thousand species of animals plants that could be lost as a result.
Why go?
The more pertinent question is why not? The park offers the perfect natural escape for busy families. Take advantage of the Park Archeology Programme, which gets the whole clan involved and will lead you and the kids through as many trails as possible to help you experience the park to its fullest.
Why is it great for kids?
Kids are guaranteed an education in the wonders of the natural world at the Glacier National Park. To really get close to nature, be adventerous and camp overnight. This is the perfect environment for kids to learn about global warming and really appreciate how it threatens the world’s natural wonders.
Price: Flights in July from London to Montana cost between £1032 (Delta) and £1100 (Virigin)