International Destinations Perfect for a Joy-Filled Family Vacation

Traveling is an experience that switches our worries with unlimited happiness. It brings about a beautiful change in us and the joy goes to a new level when we are traveling with family.

The fun in packing, taking road trips, and exploring new places doubles up, and you don’t really miss home because you have the whole gang rejoicing every moment. However, picking a destination that is perfect for everyone becomes taxing sometimes. Don’t worry, I have made things easy for you with this post.

Here I present to you a list of 10 family-friendly international destinations perfect for a super awesome holiday. Start scrolling and make your list!

Other posts on family vacation planning: 
– Best & Fun Vacation Ideas for Families
– Vacation Planning Tips For Parents With Small Children
– Things To Consider When Choosing Your Next Family Vacation Destination

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Family-friendly international vacations

1. Singapore

We all love places that bring together the perfect mix of experiences. This is why I thought of beginning this blog with Singapore. The island city-state is a rock star that has evolved and became a better version of itself. Food, shopping, and wildlife dominate the travel scene whereas the open green space amid the skyscrapers and wildlife is a joy to the heart of wanderers. Below are the top experiences you would love to add or tick off from your Singapore bucket list.

Besides, you can also book Singapore holiday packages for making your travel planning easy and hassle-free.

Things to do in Singapore

• Meet the wild creatures at Singapore Zoo.

• Enjoy a night safari.

• Breathe in tranquility at Gardens by the Bay.

• Get amused at S.E.A. Aquarium.

• Visit Little India.

• Shop till you drop at Orchard Road.

• Touch the sky with a ride on the Singapore Flyer.

• Taste lip-smacking flavors at Chinatown.

• Stroll around Marina Bay.

• Let your inner child feel joy at Universal Studio.

Read more: 20 Fun Things To Do in Singapore With Kids

2. Thailand

A family vacation is about spending time with loved ones and making memories. Thailand is among those destinations that have an unending list of amazing things to do. Settled in Southeast Asia, the country offers beaches, historical sites, delicious food options, and wildlife encounters. When you plan your trip, here are the things you need to know before going to Thailand. And if you are going to explore different cities, here’s the quickest way from Bangkok to Pattaya.

Things to do in Thailand

• Choose your favorite resting place from the 300+ islands.

• Take a tuk-tuk ride.

• Relish shopping at the floating markets.

• Try different delicacies with a street food tour.

• Marvel the Grand Palace.

• Unveil the underwater secrets with scuba diving.

• Explore Elephant Nature Park.

• Plan a stay in an overwater bungalow.

• Unwind on the Ko Lipe Island.

Read more: 5 Places to Visit in Bangkok

3. Malaysia

If you are planning international family holidays, then there is no place better than Malaysia. Spreading the word ‘Malaysia, Truly Asia’, this country is a beautiful showcase of cultures and dynamic cities. On one hand, its wildlife, rain forests, and adventures like trekking and hiking fascinate travelers, on the other beaches, shopping malls and delectable food keeps them coming for more.

Things to do in Malaysia

• Admire the PETRONAS Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

• Visit the UNESCO site of Penang.

• Meet the Orangutans in Sepilok.

• Trek the wild expanse of Taman Negara National Park.

• Get a taste of history at Malacca.

• Meet the simpler side of life at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park.

• Soak the sun at Langkawi.

Read more: Kuala Lumpur with Kids: KL Tower, Mini Zoo, Aquarium

4. Indonesia

With its 17,000 islands, this country is one of the most loved destinations for a family vacation. Also known as the largest island country in the world, Indonesia offers a chance to explore the myriad beaches, meet and greet with wildlife, and dive into verdant greenery. The trip doesn’t come to an end unless you visit the largest Buddhist temple and try the mouthwatering cuisine. 

Things to do in Indonesia

• Say hello to the monkeys at the Monkey Forest in Ubud.

• Pay regards at Tanah Lot Temple.

• Enjoy a tour to Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

• Visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur Temple.

• Let the kids enjoy themselves at The Bali Safari & Marine Park.

• Try the famous Padang food.

• Feel bliss strolling around Lake Toba.

• Souvenir shopping at Ubud Art Market.

Read more: Amazing Places to Visit in Indonesia

5. The Maldives

The moment you read the Maldives, you must have imagined yourself relaxing in your private lap pool with a drink in hand. That’s exactly how this South Asian country likes to be known. The Maldives is one of the most family-friendly destinations where everyone gets to enjoy the diversity etched to this nation. From uncovering the deepwater secrets, trying delectable cuisines, building sandcastles on the white sandy beaches to fishing with the whole gang, the list goes on and on.

Things to do in the Maldives

• Enjoy snorkeling and surfing.

• Soothe your muscles with a spa therapy.

• Explore the deep underwater secrets with scuba diving.

• Set foot in the diversity of Male.

• Ride the town with a Dhoni (Maldivian primary transport).

• Try your hand at fishing.

• Delight your taste buds with fine wine and dine experience.

Read more: 10 Reasons Why The Maldives Is Most Popular Honeymoon Destination

6. Dubai

Dubai is a blockbuster destination that has a lot of interesting things to do for its travelers. It’s a city where luxury and modern lifestyle are a major highlight for the millennial and so are the age-old Arabian traditions and Islamic culture. For the last 30 years, Dubai has been trying its best to become the hub of activities, entertainment, and luxury so that travelers don’t have to go elsewhere. The emirate surely succeeded, hasn’t it?

Do you dislike the idea of making bookings? Don’t worry, you can browse through these amazing Dubai tour packages that come with custom-friendly itineraries.

Things to do in Dubai

• Go up to the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa to get an eagle-eye view of the city.

• Swipe your cards at the Dubai Mall.

• Stroll at the Dubai Marina Walk.

• Admire the Burj Al Arab.

• Take joy at the Dubai Fountains dance.

Read more: 10 Fun Things To Do In Dubai With Kids

7. France

Given a chance to throw the dart on any European destination, chances are your heart will direct it to France. The country, as a whole, frames a picture of alpine villages, medieval cities and completes it with comforting beaches. As we dig a little deep, the capital city Paris walks in with its world of fashion and the icon of love, the Eiffel Tower. Some other attractions are the art museums and galleries.

Things to do in France

• Catch the sunset from Eiffel Tower.

• Walkthrough the vibrant old quarters of Paris.

• Explore the Artists’ Villages in Provence.

• Paddle around Bordeaux.

• Pay homage at Mont Saint-Michel.

• Enjoy sailing in Saint-Tropez.

• Ski your way in the French Alps. 

8. Mauritius

Spending its days in the company of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is one such destination that surprises you every second. Popularly known for natural wonders like waterfalls, rich rainforest wildlife, the nation is also a one-stop adventure destination. If your idea of a vacation is less exploring and more relaxation, there is no better place than Mauritius as it offers great resorts and fun-filled beach life.

Things to do in Mauritius

• Head to Port Louis.

• Get lucky with deep-sea fishing.

• Spend a day at Caudan Waterfront.

• Try different delicacies at China Town.

• For a fun night visit Grand Bay.

• Dive deep in Blue Bay Marine Park.

• Wildlife tour to Casela Wildlife Park and Yemen Reserve.

9. Switzerland

The beauty of Switzerland is enough to amaze travelers and keep them on their toes. Seated in Central Europe, the country is an amalgam of history, natural wonders, and local life so to say. A typical family vacation is about relishing snow sports, buying Swiss chocolates and watches, riding a kayak, and just making endless memories.

Things to do in Switzerland

• Skate through the snow in Grindelwald.

• Feel bliss while kayaking on Lake Geneva.

• Hike with the gang.

• Spend the evening taking a walk at Zurich’s lakeside promenade.

• Take a cable car ride from Zermatt.

• Get stunned with the scenic views as you ride the Bernina Express

10. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a wonderful destination painted with the colors of history and modernization. When on a family vacation, expect to be riding the train to Hogwarts, visiting the famous Roman Baths, and entering the world of art. Make sure you have a good number of days in hand before you set foot in this bubble of culture and all things amazing.

Things to do in the United Kingdom

• Sightseeing tour of Houses of Parliament.

• Take a ride on the London Eye.

• Explore the Roman Baths. 

• Enjoy a day at home stadiums of famous football clubs.

• Tour the historic city of York.

• Relive the Harry Potter days with a train to Hogwarts.

• Art lovers head to Tate Modern, one of the best museums in the world.

Read more: 20 Things to Know Before You Visit London

Kids Travel Journal for your international family vacation

Make your international family vacation more memorable with our Kids’ Travel Journal. It has a Flight logsheet journal and a vacation journal.

About the author:

A soul bred in the mountains, Akansha Negi doles out travel inspiration from solo wandering, exploring heritage and culture, tasting local cuisine, adventures, and experiences of her travels.

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