With family members often separated by hectic schedules, holidays are a great time to bring everyone together for a multi-generational vacation. Trips that include three or even more generations need to have activities that will appeal just as much to a toddler as they will to a great-grandmother. Here are a few of the top destinations and retreats that offer something for everyone!
#1 Norfolk Island, Australia
If you are after a holiday that will transport you back to a time when family holidays were all about spending quality time together, then pack up and head for this tiny speck of an island in the South Pacific.
Many will be deterred by the additional domestic flight you’d have to take but there are qualities and quirks to Norfolk Island that makes it a unique place to visit, such as the friendly locals who speak their own language (a mix of colonial English and Tahitian), a colorful history and local laws that give cows right of way.
The island is also a hotspot for those who are well past the retirement age, but that is all changing to welcome the younger crowd. It’s now a perfect balance where you can spend the morning at a farmers market and the afternoon snorkeling at Emily Bay – the reef is also sheltered so the whole family can join in the fun.
Choose from a sprawling homestead, the smaller cottages or one of the few four-and-a-half-star boutique accommodations overlooking the ocean to accompany your stay.
But, it’s wise to note that there is no transport system on the island, so you might want to plan a for a family road trip around the island.
#2 Cappadocia, Turkey
From picture-perfect landscapes to emerald thermal pools, ancient Greek ruins, and vibrant cosmopolitan cities, Turkey is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in the world. Located in the central plains of Turkey, Cappadocia paints a rich tapestry of magnificent rock formations and golden-hued sunsets that leave the eyes feasting for more.
The meandering valleys and network of underground cities are not the only ways to explore what the city has to offer – there are various other family-friendly activities to fill up your itinerary with.
Round up the family for a pottery class for a dose of culture and afterward, unwind for the evening with a gondola ride along the Red River. Of course, a hot air balloon ride is a must, as everyone would be able to enjoy the beautiful sunset and crisp air without having to sweat it out. Those who are up for an adventure can opt for a guided tour of the typical ATV routes that are dotted with charming villages and sand dunes.
And let’s be honest, we Singaporeans love bonding over food. Lucky for all of us, Turkey is a gastronomic epicenter, and one of the most traditional meals here is the Pottery Kebab; a stew enclosed in clay pot which is cracked open upon serving.
#3 Bangkok, Thailand
Many know the land of smiles as a shopping paradise, but naming it as a family fun pursuit could get you some puzzled looks.
While there may not be as many activities here to take part as a family, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling city. Check your kids into Kidzania and you’re free to roam the bustling streets – you’ll have a peace of mind knowing the kids are having a fun time discovering and learning. If the old folks are getting a bit tired, there are also plenty of massage parlours for a pit stop.
Once you’re done with the hustle and bustle of the city, take your loved ones to one of Bangkok’s many temples, such as Wat Pho, where they can get a taste of the city’s spiritual side. The canal tours are also a great option, breezy and cooling on hot days with a nice cup of iced Thai Milk Tea to sweeten the deal.
For something a bit more rustic, hop on a boat and head north to Koh Kred island, to enjoy a peaceful afternoon of renowned Thai hospitality.
#4 Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is a fan favourite for its many charms; this beautiful seaside city has an eclectic mix of the old-school nostalgia and the bustling excitement and optimism of the new. Known for their art and music, families can also find access to beaches, nature, sports and fun, and get around by tram without worrying about hiring a car or expensive taxi fares.
Take the family for a ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, where you can get a view of the whole countryside. Animal Land Children’s Farm is also a great place for your little ones to interact with cute and furry animals. And if anything else fails, the Queen Victoria Market is a sensory wonderland of fresh produce and fantastic products that your kids will love.
The City Circle Tram is a free and easy way to get around central Melbourne without breaking a sweat – you just wait at any tram stop along the City Circle Tram route. The tram has audio commentary and stops at almost all the major hot spots such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre – which makes sightseeing a breeze with the family in tow.
#5 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
While most travellers to Java will make a beeline for Mount Merapi and the famous Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Yogyakarta has many other hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The city has something to offer for every type of traveller – cultural landmarks, historical ruins, white sand beaches, volcano trekking, orchard gardens, shopping and gastronomic tour – you name it, Jogja probably has it.
For a fuss-free family holiday, book your stay with Mangunan Fruit Garden Resort where there’ll be tons to explore on the grounds itself. This up and coming eco-nature resort boasts one of the best sunrise views in the region and also offers an excellent lookout point of the Parangtritis beach with the Indian Ocean in the background. You can also feast on the various tropical fruits grown in the orchard as you tour the area.
Jogja has two Aluns-Aluns, which is their version of apasar malam, located behind and in front of the King’s palace. And if combing the whole area by foot is too much of a hassle with the whole family, take a spin on one of those brightly colored vehicles that’ll bring you around the whole marketplace.
Food-wise, the city is considered by many to be the culinary capital of Indonesia – a must try would be their Nasi Padang and Nasi Gudeng. Fried chicken diehards should not miss Ayam Goreng Kalasan – reputed to be tastier than Popeyes while street food lovers will find their paradise in Jalan Malioboro.
And there you have it, some of the best multigenerational travel destinations to explore the next time you’re planning a family holiday. It’s no easy feat, coordinating different levels of attention span, fitness levels as well as the kid’s interests.
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