9. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
There’s so much for families in London, it’s hard to know where to start. Tweens will probably want to head straight to Madame Tussauds for a selfie with the biggest celebs and the littlies will want to do some browsing at the famous Hamley’s Toy Shop on Regent Street. Iconic tourist haunts like the Tower Of London and Buckingham Palace (the changing of the guards on a sunny day is a great family outing) are always worth visiting as are lesser-known but no less interesting sights like the London Transport Museum (one for the Thomas the Tank Engine obsessives in the family!) and the Museum Of London. www.visitlondon.com/
8. SOUTH AFRICA
Always dreamt of taking the kids on a once-in-a-lifetime safari to see the Big Five? Book into Bush Lodge, which is Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve’s family-friendly lodge. Not only will you be able to view all the animals up close, after your adventure there are two pools for the kids to frolic in and a kids centre called EleFun Centre, which has no electronics. Instead, the kids will play bush games, do kids safaris and craft. Childminding is also available for younger children while parents are on safari. sabisabi.com
7. HANOI, VIETNAM
Regarded by many as one of the most beautiful cities in Asia, Hanoi is a wonderful place to take the family, especially if you’re keen to do something a little different and get away from the regular tourist haunts. Rich in history, safe and perfect for walking around, it’s a great place to show the kids a vibrant culture unlike anything they’ve probably seen before. The Old Quarter is a fascinating area filled with temples, markets and restaurants, catch the Water Puppet show and learn how to slurp Pho (Hanoi’s famous rice noodle soup) at Pho Bat Dan, regarded by many as the best Pho in the Old Quarter. Stunning landmarks are plentiful and sites like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature are all worth visiting. http://www.vietnamonline.com/
6. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Of all the great European cities, Barcelona is perhaps the most magical for families. It offers a stunning mix of eye-catching architecture, bustling street life and exquisite cuisine. Start with a walk along La Rambla, Barcelona’s main promenade and home to grand theatres and the incredible Boqueria Market. Spend some time at the Maritime Museum and then take the lift to the top of the Columbus Monument for amazing views. Barcelona is renowned for it’s architecture and in particular the almost surreal work of Gaudi. The Sagrada Familia is perhaps his most famous, a work in progress for 150 years. Sports fans will want to visit the Camp Nou of Lionel Messi and Barcelona FC teammates and a Camp Nou Experience tour is a great treat for soccer fans young and old alike. www.spain.info/
5. SINGAPORE
This remarkable island-city-state is a fabulous melting pot of cultures and a destination that should be on every family’s list. From the sound and aromas of busy hawker markets to a leisurely stroll through the Marina Bay Gardens to the spectacular views from the Observation Deck at the SkyPark, Singapore is the perfect family destination. You can also head over to Sentosa Island to check out Sentosa Resort World with its range of attractions like Adventure Cove Waterpark, Dolphin Island and Universal Studios. http://www.yoursingapore.com
4. CALIFORNIA, USA
It’s no surprise California, especially Anaheim just outside of Los Angeles, is a perennial favourite with families. There’s always something new at California’s Disneyland Resort, and this year promises to be even more magical than ever. If your family are Pixar fans, head to Pixar Pier where starting in April 2019, you can mosey on over to a classic carousel starring Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl. Here you will see all the faves including characters from Toy Story, Monsters, Inc. and Cars. You’ll be able to ride the Incredicoaster as well. disneyland.disney.go.com
3. FIJI
If ever there was a destination perfect for kids of all ages, Fiji is it! Make your first stop the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort. From the welcoming ‘bula’ to the enormous range of activities on offer in the kids and teens clubs, it’s a haven for families. There’s a dedicated family pool area, plus the opportunity to snorkel along the Coral Coast. And right next door is the Kula Wild Adventure Park, with a forest canopy zip rail ride and waterslide. If you want to indulge in a romantic dinner or a spa treatment, there are nannies to keep the kids entertained. See outrigger.com; https://www.fiji.travel
2. HONOLULU, HAWAII
Waikiki Beach used to be the playground of Hawaiian royalty; these days it’s a playground for families from all over the world. Honolulu on the island Oahu is a relaxed yet vibrant city, nestled against some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Once you’ve paid your respects to the statue of Duke Kahanamoku (the father of modern surfing) a dip in the ocean is mandatory. The more adventurous members of the family can hire surfboards or paddleboards and take to the waves. A family hike to the top of Diamond Head is moderately challenging but visually stunning once you reach the summit. You won’t want to miss out on the moving Pearl Harbour historic sites (just 20 minutes drive out of the city) or the bustle of downtown Honolulu and the historic Chinatown area. www.gohawaii.com/au
1. JAPAN
Japan could be the ultimate family destination – it’s safe, it’s fun and the chances are every family member will be awestruck by the cool and quirky sights. But for first-timers whodunit know the language, it’s best to do it as either a tailored self-guided adventure, or as a tour with a guide. Inside Japan can design your trip exactly the way you want it: their Zen & Now Family Holiday is an easy two-centre jaunt to Japan’s best-loved cities: Tokyo and Kyoto. You’ll visit Tokyo’s amusement arcades, see robots, visit cat cafes and climb the infamous Tokyo Skytree to see the vast neon cityscape from above. In Kyoto visit the best temples, make sushi, and try on exquisite kimonos. insidejapantours.com