Have you been wanting to travel but have children and that makes you nervous? Or you don’t know where to safely take your kids? While there are so many great spots all over the world, here is a list of the top 5 international destinations to travel with kids.
5. Iceland
For those wanting an adventure around every corner, Iceland is a great destination. Not only can you find fairly cheap flights (often direct), but you can do a lot in a short amount of time. With such a small island, you can take a long weekend (4-5 days) and have an amazing experience. Popular locations are not far from the airport and Reykjavík, increasing time spent exploring instead of sitting the a car for long timeframes. Iceland has a unique history and culture which provides lots to see and try from food to the northern lights to museums. Don’t forget to be on the lookout for Icelandic horses!
Popular activities: exploring lava tubes, hiking, hot springs, geyser visits, waterfall hunting, and finding the northern lights in winter or staying up with the sun in summer
4. Turks and Caicos
Are you wanting some of the most beautiful beaches with clear water to relax on? Look no further than Turks and Caicos. You can have everything you need without having to leave your resort as all-inclusive resorts. No need to leave the resort if you do not want to, but you can always explore the island by water or land to have a day off the beach. Though the islands are fairly flat, you head to Turks and Caicos for the beach and water not the drastic island views you may get from other islands. If you want to do something unique and fun, head over to Potcake Place and take a puppy on a socialization walk along the beach!
Popular activities: snorkeling, boating, stand-up paddle boarding, horseback riding on the beach, parasailing
3. Crete
The southernmost island in Greece, this large island has everything you could want: great beaches, delicious food, nice people, and amazing weather! There is so much to explore from the ancient ruins, secluded beaches, and gorges. This big island is perfect for any ideal vacation with so many great villages to have as a home base or to move to when wanting to see other parts of the island. Learn about Greek mythology as some origin stories come directly from the island, such as the Minotaur and Zeus’s birthplace. One favorite activity is going to the local aquarium or donkey sanctuary. The aquarium has local sea life you can look at if wanting a break from the beach or historical sites. The donkey sanctuary is for rescued donkeys from other islands which were used to haul people and goods up steep cliffsides.
Popular activities: beach hopping, olive oil tasting, wine tasting, exploring ancient ruins, shopping, and snorkeling.
2. Japan
As one of the safest countries in the world, Japan can open doors to a whole new world for you and your family. Japan is known as an industrious city but also pays respect to their traditions and culture. Being a country of industry and hospitality helps when planning and wanting to travel between different cities since they have many options for easy public transportation. Need to know what could be options for kids? Look no further than the many amazing theme parks (Tokyo Disney and Universal Studios Japan) or museums for popular Japanese animation such as Pokemon and Studio Ghibli. There are also really fun and educational sites such as the Osaka Aquarium and the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
Popular activities: hiking, exploring temples, the monkey park, walk through traditional markets, experience a tea ceremony, walk through a bamboo forest
1. Costa Rica
Filled with almost a dozen different ecosystems in the same size as West Virginia or Denmark, you will not find a lack of fun to have. From the coral reefs to the volcanic mountains, your family can explore and see a wide array of animals and plants without having to travel. to multiple countries. Though not known for the most marvelous of beaches, Costa Rica has other scenic locations if relaxation is on the top of your list. Not only are Costa Ricans some of the friendliest people, you will not need to spend a fortune to have a great experience. While there are certainly high-end hotels and tours, you can find something that fits your desired activity level and budget. All-Inclusive options are available, but are not recommended as these resorts are not as well-established as in other places (i.e. Mexico or the Dominican Republic) and the food you can find in the towns is very good and not super expensive.
Popular activities: coffee tastings, chocolate tastings, hanging bridge tours, hot springs tours, surfing, waterfall chasing, and safari floats.
Are any of these destinations on your list? Where is your next vacation to with your family? Let me know in the comments!
Do you not have one on the list and need help figuring out what will be the best next vacation spot? Fill out my travel inquiry form and let’s get you vacationing!
Makenzie
Travel Advisor with Pixie Travel
