• WORK WITH GABBY
  • PACKS LIGHT PRODUCTS
  • GABBY RECOMMENDS…

More than 50 Active Facebook Travel Groups to Join in 2024

Facebook groups are valuable forums for connecting with others in your local community or around the globe. Being in the travel niche especially I've found Facebook groups great places to ask locals questions, meet up with friends when I'm traveling solo, vent about travel mishaps, and generally have a good laugh.

I've met up with over 500 women from travel Facebook groups in countries such as Canada, the Netherlands, the UAE, the US, and more!

Here are the top active Facebook groups of every travel niche that you can check out and join:

Travel Facebook Groups anyone can joinn

  • Bucket List Beasts  – “We share tips, articles, personal stories, photos, videos, and plan bucket-list meet-ups! But whatever we do, we’ll make sure you don’t end up with a life full of “coulda, woulda, shouldas!” Your new life starts NOW! The only question is – Are you ready?! YOLO, baby!”
  • Conscious Travel Community – This group is for self-aware, positive travelers to come together to connect, discuss, ask for advice and inspire each other around all things travel related!
  • Travel Community – This travel community is a place for like-minded people to engage with others that love to discuss travel.

Gen Z/Young Travel Facebook groups

  • Young Travelers Network  – A global community of Gen Z, 20-somethings, college students, teens, and Zillennials, who love travel! Whether you've never left your home town or you've been to 40 countries, this is your tribe. Connect with other young travelers, share stories, engage in discussions, and meet up around the world!

Female Only Travel Facebooks Groups

  • Global Girls United  – Global Girls United is for girls alike who eat, sleep, breathe t ravel! Share travel tips, deals, stories, etc. A very casual, off-the-cuff, fun group. We have zero tolerance for assholes.
  • The Solo Female Travel Network   – A space for all female solo travelers to be able to come for not just travel advice and reliable hostel recommendations. Ask if that local was being creepy or if it was cultural, get support for homesickness, show off the amazing photos from your last trip, tell stories, and share whatever is on your mind. 
  • Solo Women Travelers   – This is a fun, supportive group of diverse, wonderful women who love to travel alone whether by plane, train, RV, boat, bicycle, backpacking, motorcycle or car … or dreaming about traveling solo. I want this group for everything we women want to talk about… from leaving behind old lifestyles and embracing new ones, to travel wardrobes, music, travel plans, gadgets, tips and tricks, families, our fears, and our triumphs!
  • Solo Women Travel Tribe  – We are here to LEARN, INSPIRE, SHARE & CONNECT with fellow Solo Women Travellers from all over the world.
  • Girls Who Travel  –  Girls Who Travel is an education and empowerment network for travelers who identify as women, trans, and/or genderqueer. Our mission is to empower women travelers to explore beyond their boundaries and to create a more inclusive world.
  • Curvy Girls Travel Guide  – This group was founded to provide a space for curvy and plus-size women to collaborate and connect on all things travel. Please feel free to dive in and introduce yourself, ask questions, share experiences and meet new friends.
  • GirlsLOVETravel   – Girls LOVE Travel is a global community of active and aspiring female travelers providing resources and empowerment to one another through safety, socializing and support. 
  • Conde Naste's: Women Who Travel   – a place where all self-identifying female travel lovers can join in the conversation about what it means to travel as a woman today. 
  • We Are Travel Girls  – We Are Travel Girls is a global travel community created to inspire, connect, educate and empower female travelers around the world.
  • Over 60 Solo Women Travel – This group is for Over 60 Women who like to travel on their own, solo, without a travel companion. The majority of members enjoy the solo experience or are novices seeking advice and encouragement to travel solo.

Male Only Travel Groups

  • Guys LOVE Travel   – Guys LOVE Travel is also a place to share your adventures and gain extra exposure for your travel photography, filmmaking or blogging by sharing your social media links with your posts.

Family/Mom Travel Groups

  • Families Who Love to Travel – This page is a safe space for parents to exchange travel ideas, itinerary suggestions, questions, concerns, and experiences.
  • Traveling with Kids Worldwide – This group is for parents who love to travel with their kids and who want to share their experiences, tips, and tricks, to ask questions, and to be inspired to go on more adventures! I share travel deals and do giveaways!
  • MOMs (Girls LOVE Travel ®) – #gLt MOMs is an official SubGroup of the Girls LOVE Travel Facebook group community. This is a space for moms to discuss all things travel and how to travel with your family!
  • Wandering Moms – Women who want to literally give their children the world. We are a group that provides support and resources for women who are interested in traveling the world or living abroad with children in tow.
  • Tiny Globetrotters: Travel The World With Kids – Have kids and still want to travel? This group is for you! Let's share destination ideas, tips for traveling with tiny humans and trip reports. We all have one thing in common, the love of travel which now includes kids!
  • Travel The World With Your Kids – This is a group for anyone who wants to travel the world with kids. Long term, short term, full time, part-time, fast, slow… Whatever works for you. Ask your questions, meet other travel families who travel and get advice.
  • Dreamers, Drifters, and Diapers: Have Kids, Will Travel – This is a group for people who LOVE to travel and are looking for helpful tips, tricks, and hacks to make for a more pleasurable experience all-around. It caters specifically to parents and soon-to-be parents looking to brave the friendly skies, roads, rails, or seas with little ones in tow.

Cheap Flight Deals Facebook groups

  • Secret Flying – Finding your cheap flights around the world.
  • TravelFree group – cheap flights and more – Just the hottest travel deals, error fares.
  • TravelPirates Community  – Do you want to travel the world and not spend a fortune? Do you want to explore the places where tourists don’t go? Want to meet other travelers? Like rum? Our group is to be used for travel research and recommendations.
  • Travel On A Budget Official – On A Budget is a social community for problem solvers and money savers. Here at On A Budget we help members to save time and money, offering a safe space to learn and share new ideas.
  • The Best Travel Deals – Here you’ll find travel deals discovered and shared by Travel + Leisure editors. This is also a safe space for sharing your own travel deals and connecting with fellow travelers.
  • TravelFree group – cheap flights and more – Just the hottest travel deals, error fares!!!Feel free to ask tips, suggestions 🙂

Travel Bloggers/Entrepreneurs & Digital Nomads groups

  • Female Travel Bloggers   – We are a supportive online co mmunity for travel blogging women to expand their reach, learn about blogging, and make meaningful connections in the travel blogging world. If you’re looking for a tribe of badass women who want to help each other make their blogs a success, you found it! 
  • Female Lifestyle & Travel Bloggers  – A fully inclusive blogging group for female lifestyle bloggers a nd female travel bloggers aimed towards open discussions, a supportive community, and sharing blogging resources. 
  • Black Travel Movement Travel Blogger Community   – The Black Travel Movement Blogger Community is a dedicated space  for travel Bloggers of color to post links to their TRAVEL BLOGS and articles to share with the Black Travel Movement Community.
  • Digital Nomads Around the World – This is a place for digital nomads to share advice and tips rela ted to living the digital nomad lifestyle.
  • BLOGGERS AND TRAVELERS   – A worldwide group of travel lovers, blo ggers, photographers, and writers. Some of us also write and maintain blogs on a wide variety of subjects. Join our new travel forum 
  • Digital Nomads – The Solo Female Traveler Network   – This grou p is a sub-group of The Solo Female Traveler Network, specifically for connecting solo female travel who work on the road to trade links, social share circles, get advice, advertise for jobs, and share experiences.
  • Female Digital Nomads  – This group was started with the goal to unite, inspire and inform us digital babes that are wandering the globe. Do you have any questions about setting up an online business? How to run your travel blog? About where to travel next? This is the place to come and ask them.

Black Travel Groups

  • Black Travel Movement   – Black Travel Movement is a community of friends and family who s hare an interest in cultivating new friendships and epic experiences through international worldwide travel. As a member of the BTM family you have a connection to a wide range of new and seasoned travelers who are anxious to join and share travel experiences.
  • Nomad•ness Travel Tribe   – NOMADNESS is an award-winning travel lifestyle brand. They represe nt the underrepresented demographic in mainstream travel through NOMADNESS Travel Tribe.  
  • Black Elite Travelers – B.E.T.'s mission is to create networking and travel opportunitie s, as well as professional, meet up, dating/non-dating vacation opportunities for like individuals looking to enhance travel knowledge, travel partners or network worldwide in the dawn of a new century celebrating African American freedom to move around the globe.
  • Melanin Globe – Mela nin Globe ® is a global travel group founded upon the basis of bringing individuals from all walks of life, regardless of cultural difference, together. Here you are encouraged to immerse yourself into “all things travel!”. 
  • Black Folks Travel Too! ᵀᴹ   –  A forum to share travel photos, videos, information, and recommendations. So whether you've traveled internationally, domestically or are just discovering the treasures near your home, please share.
  • Black Travel Lounge – Black Travel Lounge is a space for Black travelers, black owned travel companies, and travel agents to share their experiences and knowledge.to find inspiration, share experiences and travel tips/hacks.
  • Black People Travel & Network – This group was created for the love of traveling and networking. Meeting new people and learning new cultures. Supporting each other/ Black businesses. Let us share and inspire each other.
  • (AA&M) African-Americans and Minority Travelers Backers and Road Trippers – Encouraging African Americans to Travel the world cheaply. With a Back Packing, Road Tripping and local travel. See the world. From international to nation.
  • Black Travel Experience, Group Trips and More – This group is to help travelers find group trips, travel agents, and share experiences.

Black Women Only

  • Black Women Travel – Bringing black women who travel the world together.
  • Black Girls Travel Too – A unique and dynamic travel club with a fervent belief that women, specifically black women, being deserving of a seat at the table. Whether that table is at a street side café in Morocco or just off the coast of Zanzibar in the tiny fishing village of Stone Town, WE have the POWER and PRIVILEGE to choose.
  • Black Girl Travel Movement   – Empowering * Inspiration * Sisterhood * Travel. Black Girls On The Go is an international organization dedicated to exposing black women to the healing power of travel. 
  • Black Women Who Love To Travel – I enjoy seeing women of color celebrating life to the fullest and seeing their travels. This can also give others a chance to get ideas and share their traveling memories in a group. 

Black Men Only

  • Black Travel Movement Men's group   – The BTM Men's Group is a place where the brothers and men of the Black Travel Movement can meet to discuss travel issues from a Black Man's perspective. Feel free to discuss any and all topics freely.
  • The Black & Abroad® Man: A Group for Black Men Who Travel the World   – Welcome to Black & Abroad MAN, a group where black men with a common interest in international world travel can share their travel goals, experiences, recommendations, travel hacks, and more. Connect with other like-minded brothers by becoming a member.

LGBT Travel Groups

  • LGBTQ Travel – Welcome to LGBTQ Travel. This group is for everyone who loves to travel any chance you get. From flying to another city for a pride celebration to traveling across the world for an adventure. A place to network and share your travel tips, advice and maybe find a couch to crash on.
  • Man Expeditions ( Community Travel Group for Guys)   – The primary goal of this club is to help bring like-minded guys together through positive adventure travel initiatives and to build new meaningful friendships while giving back to wildlife & environmental conservation projects through our participation
  • Lesbian Travel   – Welcome to Lesbian (& GBTQ) Travel This is a place where we can all connect. This is a safe haven if you are looking for travel tips, advice, or just want to meet some of your fellow queer travelers.
  • Pride (Girls LOVE Travel ®   – #gLt Pride is an official subgroup of Girls LOVE Travel to have everyone have a place to talk and gab about experiences while traveling the globe and either being directly part of the LGBTQ community or supporting as an ally.
  • Lesbian Travel Club   – This group is for discussion of Lesbian Travel.
  • O&A Gay Travel   – A new gay travel web site with vacation options never before targeted to the gay and LGBT consumer; National Park Tours, California Wine Country, Pacific Coast bike tours, culinary vacations, Alaska adventure cruises, and so much more coming soon.

Did I miss any poppin' travel Facebook groups people should know about? ⇣ Drop them in the comments below. ⇣

36+ Travel Facebook Groups Everyone Should Join

Liked this? Check these out!

Are shampoo bars good for curly travelers i tried 5,..., 6 steps to the perfect travel vision board (free template), 10 things i wish i knew about dubai before moving..., your next budget winter getaway for snow and hot springs:..., curly hair travel tips for your next vacation (from a..., housing options as a digital nomad: where do you live, 12 comments.

Is there a good group for travelers (both male and female in one group ) over 50?

I’m not an expert in that arena, my audience is recent grads and 20’s, so I don’t know! I’m sorry!

Thanks, these are so helpful! I am curious if you have ever come across any legit, alive Brown/South Asian travel groups, would love to know some. 🙂

I’m looking for a Facebook group for individuals traveling on a safari to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar or something close. All groups that I find are companies promoting their travel tours.

I’d recommend maybe looking for expat communities in Kenya or Tanzania. What’s your goal with the Facebook group?

Great list, I would also recommend the Travel Fashion Girl group, awesome for packing tips.

Thanks for the great list. Can you recommend any working holiday face book pages? I’m thinking of starting one.

I don’t know of any! If you make it, I will add it to the list 🙂

Great list! You should include Black Travel Lounge! https://www.facebook.com/groups/BlackTL

I ran across your web site. I loved it. I’m a 68 married female. I want to travel different states in the United States. My husband does not want to travel real bad. I would like to meet women who loves to travel also. What is the best Facebook travel site for that.

I think Girls Love Travel, and Solo Female Travel Network will be great for what you’re looking for!

Excellent suggestions!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Gabby Beckford

Gabby is a multi-awardwinning creator. She is a full-time travel influencer, Gen Z travel marketing expert, and public speaker. You'll find her featured in the likes of Good Morning America, National Geographic, CNNTravel, Forbes, Travel+Leisure, and even the TEDx stage.

More than Havana: 5 Other Must-Visit Destinations in Cuba

Are shampoo bars good for curly travelers i tried 5, here are my thoughts..

  • Visit Family Vacation Critic on Facebook!
  • Visit Family Vacation Critic on Twitter!
  • Visit Family Vacation Critic on Instagram!
  • 1 Subscribe to stay up to date!

Find Your Family Vacation

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Family with infant visit Sequoia national park in California; Courtesy My Good Images/Shutterstock

9 U.S. National Parks Kids Should See Before…

So many incredible national parks, so little time! Which ones are best for kids? We've…

Seaside view of the Breezes Resort & Spa in the Bahamas

The 5 Best All-Inclusive Bahamas Resorts For Families

Vacations are meant to be restful, fun, and worry free. If your family is headed…

Person using a rapid antigen at-home COVID-19 test

Make Your Life Easier With These At-Home COVID-19…

At the beginning of the pandemic, getting a COVID-19 test was a tall order, appointments…

Stowe, Vermont in autumn

The 7 Best Weekend Getaways in New England

There is nothing quite like New England in the fall—or, quite frankly, any time of…

Child wearing snow boots in the snow next to a snow toy shovel

10 Best Waterproof Winter Boots for Kids

Having fun while stomping through the snow is a terrific way for children to stay…

Traveling with Kids

Infants ages 0-2.

Get Started

family travel facebook

Little Kids Ages 3-6

family travel facebook

Big Kids Ages 7-9

family travel facebook

Tweens Ages 10-12

family travel facebook

Teens Ages 13-17

family travel facebook

Family Vacation Planning Made Easy

Create family memories that last long after your suntans fade

Expert Verified

We've been there done that so you can avoid speedbumps

Nitty-gritty details

Must-pack items, hotels with cribs, kid-friendly menus, and more

All ages & stages

From tots to teens, we have ideas to keep everyone happy

Most Popular Stories

Mom teaching child how to ride a bike

5 Best Fitness Trackers for Kids

Activity tracker watches help kids develop healthy habits and keep moving in technologically fun ways. Parents already using them might want to get a kids…

Family wearing matching holiday pajamas on a couch next to a Christmas tree

The Best Family Pajamas for 2023

It’s that time of year again – to get matching pajamas for everyone in the family! From flannel to fleece, we’ve got the best picks…

Toddler bundled in snow gear on a swing

10 Best Winter Mittens for Toddlers (That Will Actually Stay On)

Tiny mittens are adorable, aren’t they? But finding ones that fit properly and actually stay on can be a frustrating task. Isn’t it funny how…

Family Standing in Airport; Courtesy of Robert Kneschke/Shutterstock.com

8 Things You Should Never Wear at the Airport

Getting the entire family out the door and to the airport is a task that warrants a vacation all its own. And oftentimes, some of…

Kids Crocs in Water; Courtesy of Tom Gowanlock/Shutterstock.com

8 Best Water Shoes for the Beach

Inspecting tidal pools for critters and splashing in the waves is more enjoyable when nobody’s complaining about sore feet. Enter the water shoe—the go-anywhere footwear with…

Toddler swimming in pool with swim floaties on; Courtesy of FamVeld/Shutterstock.com

8 Best Swim Floaties for Kids 2023

Whether you have an infant, toddler or a young swimmer, floaties for kids are a fun and a safe staple for any day in the…

family travel facebook

8 Best Beach Wagons and Carts for 2023

What’s more relaxing than a day of sand and surf? The sea breeze, the warm sun, and best of all… the unimaginable amount of family…

Family of four sitting in the trunk of their car with suitcases nearby

11 Best Road Trip Games for Families

Games for a family road trip need three ingredients in order to maximize their vacation mileage: portability, a minimum number of small parts, and a…

Your personal family vacation planning starts now

Get expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for your family all year round!

Get family travel & tips from our experts

Thanks for signing up.

Globetotting

37 fun family travel influencers to follow on Instagram

It’s estimated that there are some 1.074 billion (yes,  billion ) Instagram users worldwide, with new accounts signing up daily. With so many Instagram accounts out there, how do you choose which ones to follow?

I love Instagram for travel inspiration, in particular for finding new destinations to discover with my own kids. So, putting together a list of some of my favourite family travel influencers on Instagram was an easy task. There are lots of travelling families out there who inspire, inform and uncover some of the coolest spots around the world. Some travel full time, others make the most of school holidays and there are a handful of families who have chosen to up sticks and live overseas.

Family travel bloggers on INstagram

The best family travel bloggers on Instagram 

Table of Contents

The following list of family travel bloggers on Instagram haven’t been chosen for the size of their following or because their particularly famous. Rather I’ve chosen them for their beautiful photography, for sharing their stories and for being inspiring. I like to follow family travel influencers who travel responsibly, who visit interesting destinations, who have a cohesive feed (so no random photos of lunch if they don’t typically post food shots), and who post regularly.

The following list of travelling families on Instagram is by no means exhaustive; if you have any recommendations or if you would like to be feature then please get in touch!

Mum Pack Travel

This mother daughter duo, Evie and Emmie, are one of my favourite accounts to follow. They’ve had some incredible adventures all around the world and their captions are always honest and often hilarious. Follow them on Instagram 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Evie & Emmie ✨Family ✨Travel (@mumpacktravel)

Macs Explore

I love following the McEvoy family. They’ve been exploring South American for the last two years and post wonderful photos as well as great Instagram and photography tips. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by MCEVOYS | ADVENTURE TRAVEL (@macs_explore)

The Little Adventurer 

Jenny is the mum behind this fun account that covers books, places and things for families. Make sure you read her captions, they are brilliant. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Little Adventurer (@the_littleadventurer)

Twins and Travels 

Anna shares life at home with her five-year-old twins and a toddler as well as their family adventures, such as an epic trip to Kenya. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Twins and Travels – Anna (@twins.and.travels)

Petit Bivouac 

A wonderful look at family life in the beautiful French Alps. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by p e t i t ↟ b i v o u a c ???????? (@petitbivouac)

Travel Babbo

Eric and his kids have had some epic adventures. He goes on a solo trip every year with each child – and they get to choose the destination. Follow him on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Eric Stoen | Family Travel (@travelbabbo)

Pint Size Pilot

Tara and her family have been everywhere from Peru and The Galapagos Islands to Norway, Iceland and much more. They also post a lot of great skiing photos and information. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pint Size Pilot ???????? Tara Cannon (@pintsizepilot)

Kids Are a Trip

Beautiful photography, amazing destinations and fun family travels are just three reasons you should follow Kirsten and her family on Instagram. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip)

Here We Go Again 

Ula and Ollie take wonderful photos of the trips they take in their van with their two girls. They started the UK county challenge and are trying to visit them all! Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Family Travel Blog | Vanlife (@herewegoagain.blog)

Walking on Travels 

You won’t find your typical Instagram poses on this fun feed. Rather, Keryn imbues colour, fun and energy into all of her photos! Follow her on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Keryn Means (@walkingontravels)

We 3 Travel

Tamara is the go-to person for teen travel. She takes an annual mother-daughter trip with her teenager and shares fun and educational things to do. Follow her on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tamara ✈️ Blogger & Podcaster (@we3travel)

Stuffed Suitcase

Kim always takes great photos and always documents the best things to do with kids wherever she goes. Follow her on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kim • Seattle Travel Blogger (@stuffedsuitcase)

2 Travel Dads

If you’re not already following this traveling family on Instagram then you really should. Expect lots of family fun and plenty of blue seas and sunshine from their base in Florida. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rob Taylor (@2traveldads)

Family Trips from London

Natalia and her two girls are great fun to follow. They’re always discovering new places to visit in London and the UK and Natalia’s captions are great fun. Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Natalia – ????????London, England (@familytripsfromlondon)

Woolfpack Travels

This awesome family spend six months working and six months travelling – completely living the dream travel life! Follow them on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Woolf Family Travel (@woolfpack_travels)

Travel Mad Mum

Karen used her maternity leave with both her two children to travel the world, accompanied by Travel Mad Dad. They have been to some amazing places and documented their trips with stunning photos. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by TRAVEL MAD MUM ???? (@travelmadmum)

Wild Blue Family 

This family enjoys the kind of travels that we do – skiing, hiking, swimming and time in the Great Outdoors. Plus, their photos are beautiful. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bryan Megan Stella Kai Aria (@wildbluefamily)

Wandering Wagars 

Adventures at home in Canada and overseas, this is a fun travelling family to follow. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kevin Wagar | Wandering Wagars (@wanderingwagars)

It’s Claudia Travels 

Her boys are grown now but Claudia still covers family adventures as well as solo and couples travel. Plus, she’s lovely and her photos are so inspirational. Follow her on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Claudia Laroye ???? Travel Writer (@itsclaudiatravels)

Traveling Mel 

I’m a big fan of this account that focuses on adventuring in Montana, Yellowstone, and the west. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Travel Writer????Melynda Harrison (@travelingmelmt)

Boy Eats World 

I’ve been following Aleney and her gorgeous kids for years now. I love her travel philosophy and her colourful travel tales. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Aleney, Raff & Sugarpuff (@boyeatsworld)

Wanderlust Crew

Another family travel blog that I’ve been following for a long time. Vanessa and her family of six showcase their travels with fun, colourful photography. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vanessa Hunt | Wanderlust Crew (@wanderlust.crew)

Where the Kids Roam 

Fantastic photos and an even better sense of humour. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by B + C + B + R + R (@wherethekidsroam)

Pod Travels 

Charly shares her overseas travels and UK adventures with her 10-year-old daughter and husband. Always with a camera in hand, her feed focuses on places and people with discovery, exploration and adventure at the heart. Follow Charly on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Charly Dove | POD Travels (@charly_dove)

One Tiny Leap 

Maria wants to dispel the myth that having children makes traveling impossible, and wants to inspire families to get out of the comfort zone and go explore the world around them, even if it’s the woods/beach/mountain near where they live. Follow Maria on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Maria (@onetinyleap)

Zena’s Suitcase

Great photos and an honest look at family – and travel – life. Follow them on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Zena ???? Family & Adventure (@zenassuitcase)

Picture Taker Memory Maker

Chloe is passionate about showing her three girls (11, 10 and 8) the world and loves documenting their adventures on camera as they travel as a family – the chaos, the calm and all the moments in between. Follow Chloe on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chloe (@picturetakermemorymaker)

Mini Travellers 

Karen shares her adventures on the grid which range from days out in the uk, to camping, to 5 * luxury villas to African family travel. Follow Karen on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Karen Beddow (@mini_travellers)

Flying with a Baby

Carrie shares family days out and travel inspiration both at home and worldwide. She shares plenty of tips to help you plan your trip away. Follow Carrie on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Carrie Bradley • Family Travel (@flyingwithababy)

Monkey & Mouse 

Jenny loves to show her followers the best of Scotland with her two home educated, curly haired, 7 and 5 year olds. Aside from Scotland they spend time every year choosing several different countries to visit around the world. Follow Jenny on Instagram .

My Travel Monkey 

Follow Ting and her travel monkeys on their adventures at home and abroad. You’ll find a mix of scenery and family shots which are bright and engaging. If you’re looking for family travel inspiration then there’s plenty here. Follow Ting on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ting Dalton | My Travel Monkey (@mytravelmonkey)

Like, Love, Do

Donna loves a bright coloured photo and has an eye for seeing something different. You will be sure to find snaps from all over the world as well as plenty of London historic sights, bars and restaurants. Follow Donna on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Donna vallance (@likelovedo_london)

Tin Box Traveller 

Claire fills her grid with moments captured during her travels and family adventures in the UK and Europe. There’s also a good helping of fun at home in goregous Devon in the South West of England. The cheeky smiles of her two daughters, aged five and three feature a lot, but Claire is also partial to an epic view. Follow Claire on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Claire – Tin Box Traveller (@tinboxtraveller)

Otis and Us

Katy loves to travel and share her family adventures. Her IG grid is all about life outdoors, camping, glamping, adventures and family travel, oh and maybe a beach and a pretty door thrown in for good measure. Follow Katy on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vanlife • Camper Family • VWT5 (@otisandus_)

Travelynn Family 

Jenny and her family aim to push the boundaires of family travel and dispel the myth that adventure needs to wait until the kids are older (her boys are aged 3 and 4). On her grid find inspiration from their epic African roadtrip, adventures through Asia (particuarly India), with a bit of Peak District (their new home) for good measure. Follow Jenny on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JENNY LYNN • FAMILY TRAVEL (@travelynnfamily)

Mummy Travels 

Beaches worldwide are a favourite but Cathy and her daughter love to chase blue skies around the world. From cities to countryside to coast, her feed is full of bright colours and travel inspiration. Follow Cathy on Instagram .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Cathy Winston | Family Travel (@mummytravels)

globetotting

Our Instagram feed is filled with travels everywhere from Mexico and Finland to days out in London, which we’re rediscovering after nearly 12 years living abroad. I’m a firm believer that you can – and should! – take your kids everywhere. Come and follow us on Instagram

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Katja | Travel Writer & Author (@globetotting)

Share this post:

About the author.

family travel facebook

Katja Gaskell

7 thoughts on “37 fun family travel influencers to follow on instagram”.

family travel facebook

Really lovely bunch of ladies, thanks for including me too

family travel facebook

What a fab list! Thank you for including me ?

family travel facebook

Thank you so much for including me Katja! I feel very honoured to be included on a list alongside all these other fab family travel bloggers. So many sources of inspiration in one place!

family travel facebook

Thanks for including me! x

family travel facebook

Thank you for including me! So much inspiration 🙂 Amanda – We Blog Travel x

family travel facebook

Great list! What can I do to get Travel Mamas IG account added? ????

family travel facebook

Good point! I need to update this list 😉

Comments are closed.

Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List: 119 Adventures Around the World

This family travel bucket list is filled with over 100 family adventures around the world. We love to travel as a family! There are so many places to explore together, the options sometimes seem endless.

Organized by region, this family bucket list will inspire you to plan your next family vacation, long-term travel, outdoor family vacation, or once-in-a-lifetime family adventure! We’ve also indicated age ranges when applicable, though, of course, this may vary by family.

Some of these adventures were part of our Family Year Out ( what is a family year out? ), and others we’re still hoping to see and do!

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. All our recommendations are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

Talking with your family about bucket list ideas? At the bottom of this post download free Mobile Wallpaper images to satisfy your wanderlust!

Know where you want to head? Use the Table of Contents to skip around!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List

We’ve compiled a list of over 100 family-friendly adventures around the globe- organized by continent. The more we travel, and check a few family bucket list adventures off of the list, the more we realize how incomplete any list is. The more we travel, the more we want to see, and the more we realize how many unique things there are to do around the world!

Family Travel Bucket List Europe:

Some of our favorite trips through Europe include a month in Florence (here’s our best list of things to do in Florence and what to eat in Florence ), and a month in Croatia , including Zagreb , Split , Plitvice , and Zadar .

We also spent a month around the holidays in Vienna, Austria. Vienna is a walkable, enchanting, city, that is one of the safest cities in Europe .

1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

All the pomp and circumstance of the Changing of the Guard symbolize London for me. Ideally, pop into Buckingham Palace for a tour after the ceremony. Buckingham Palace has been the official London home of the Royal Family since 1837.

Changing of the Guard usually occurs at 11 am, except for Saturday and Tuesday. Make sure to check the official schedule before you go.

2. Visit Stonehenge at Sunset

Stonehenge is closed to the public by sunset, but you can book a special access ticket to watch the sun dip behind the stones.

The Stone Circle Experience gives you access to inside the stone circle either before or after general admission hours. These are timed tickets that allow you to wander among the stones up until 9:00 in the evening. Children are welcome (under 5 are free), but please don’t touch the stones.

If you are concerned with visiting at sunset, you can combine Stonehenge with a trip to Windsor Castle, and the famous town of Bath, all in a one-day trip from London. What a great way to see three bucket-list-worthy sites all at once (and it’s affordable!)

Book Now: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath Tour from London

3. Road Trip around Scotland

Explore Edinburgh, search for the mythical Nessie in Loch Ness, see the reindeer in Cairngorms National Park, and visit the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides Islands. We’re hoping to do this soon, hopefully in the warmer summer months!

4. Stay in a Castle in Ireland

The beds are quite short, but you’ll never forget a night in a real Irish Castle. We stayed at Cabra Castle , in county Kingscourt and I’d go back in a heartbeat!

We arrived after dark on a rainy night, so we didn’t get to explore the grounds as much as I would have liked. It feels very grand to pass a suit of armor on your way down to dinner!

5. Swim with Wild Dolphins in the Azores

Put on your mask and snorkel and go see the dolphins where they live and play! Best for ages 8 and up.

The Azores are nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic with a population of just under 250,000 people. They are an autonomous region of Portugal, with a subtropical climate. The Azores are a 2 1/2 hour flight from Lisbon .

The beaches are rocky and the terrain is wild- you’ll find geothermal hot springs, active volcanos, and natural lava swimming holes. These islands are great places for whale watching and dolphin experiences.

6. Sing Do-Re-Mi in Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is known as the birthplace of Mozart, has dramatic views of the Alps, and you can visit some areas where the Sound of Music was filmed.

To really get into the spirit, take Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tour of the areas shown in the film. They have bikes for adults and kids, as well as tandem bikes.

You can also take a Sound of Music tour by bus that includes stops in the town of St Gilgen Mozartplatz, and the town of Mondsee, where you’ll see the Basilica St. Michael where the wedding of Maria and Baron von Trapp was filmed.

Book Now: The Original Sound of Music Tour

Salzburg is a wonderful place to visit for Christmas- explore the festive markets and take a carriage ride through town. A day trip to Salzburg is easy from both Vienna and Munich.

7. Tour the Colosseum in Rome

There is so much history in Rome (and also a lot of cats). Eat gelato and take in centuries of ruins. I loved Rome and could have stayed for weeks.

I went to the Colosseum on my own, and think I would have learned a lot more, with a tour guide. When we visited as a family we booked a guided tour of this incredible place to help it come alive for all of us.

Book Now: Guided Tour of the Colosseum

Interested in Rome? Don’t miss our 4-day Itinerary for first-timers with kids, the best hotels in Trastevere , and our recommendations for the best golf cart tours , and tours of the Roman catacombs .

8. Picnic Under the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the first landmark that my kids recognized from outside our country. Visiting it will turn what they have seen in books or on maps into a real place that exists outside their imaginations.

Choose a treat or two from one of the gorgeous patisserie windows and picnic near the famous monument. There is so much security set up around the perimeter, that getting actually under the Eiffel Tower is more difficult than it used to be!

9. Visit the Guernsey Islands

A little off the beaten path, but easy to get to, these Channel Islands get the most sunshine in the UK!

Enjoy afternoon tea, look for puffins, learn to surf, kayak, or relax on a sandy beach. Older kids will want to tour the tunnels built by the Germans during their occupation during World War II.

As a bonus, these islands don’t count toward your Schengen Area days!

10. See the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen

This small bronze statue welcomes visitors to Copenhagen harbor. Denmark is consistently rated as one of the happiest countries in the world.

Take a picture next to the mermaid, stroll through the old city, then hop on a canal tour to see the city from the water. Head over to Nature’s Playground in Valbyparken to climb and explore.

11. Marvel at the Alhambra in Spain

The Alhambra in Granada is a large palace complex with elaborate gardens, and water features. You can easily wander all day here if you love staring at intricate tile patterns like I do!

The Alhambra was the royal residence and court in the mid-13th Century, it then became a Christian court in 1492. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a top example of Moorish architecture, and a fascinating mix of the East and the West.

I traveled to Granada pre-kids just to see this astounding site, and I can’t wait to explore this bucket list palace with the kids!

12. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam was one of Waker’s favorite stops in Europe, and we’re excited to share it with the kids!

Rent a boat to explore the canals or rent bikes to cycle around this flat city. Visit the Rijksmuseum   to see Rembrandts and Vermeers, then head over to the Van Gogh Museum for more fabulous art.

Visit the Anne Frank House to explore the secret annex where she and her family hid for years. This can be an emotional visit, use your judgment for age appropriateness.

13. See Tulips in Bloom in the Netherlands

From mid-April to early May, the tulips bloom in breathtaking fields of color. You can see the tulips about 40 km from Amsterdam in an area called Bollenstreek.

This area is also famous for stunning views of traditional Holland. The Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse are a popular place to view the fields. You can rent a bike to explore the area, or even take a helicopter over the fields.

14. Visit Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall

Checkpoint Charlie is a famous access point between East and West Berlin during the cold war. There is a museum there, and they’ve left the checkpoint booth, sandbags, and flags so that you can imagine what it might have been like during the cold war. You’ll find it at Friedrichstraße 43-45.

To view what’s left of the Berlin Wall, head to the East Side Gallery to see the longest stretch of surviving wall. More than 100 artists have decorated this area of the wall. Start at the Warschauer Straße or Ostbahnhof railway stations.

15. Visit the Acropolis in Athens

Seeing the Acropolis tower over the city of Athens is an awe-inspiring sight. Climb the hill and explore this archeological wonder.

The amount of history surrounding you can be overwhelming- try this Mythology Tour to put it into perspective and keep the kids entertained.

Book Now: Acropolis Mythology Tou r

Make sure to stop by Syntagma Square to watch the changing of the guard. Consider adding a day trip to your family holiday to see the Temple of Poseidon as well.

16. Explore the Greek Islands

The blue and white color palette of the Greek Islands just oozes relaxation. Take a morning ferry from Athens and enjoy the ride over.

The Cyclades Islands are the closest to Athens and offer plenty of great options. I’ve spent time on Santorini and Naxos and loved them both for different reasons.

Interested in Santorini? Check out this one-day Santorini itinerary .

Mykonos is also on our list of possible islands. From beautiful beaches to a calm atmosphere, wonderful fresh food, ruins, volcanos, and stunning sunsets, Greece has it all. It’s best to visit from late May to September.

17. Eat Chocolate and Waffles in Brussels

Who doesn’t love, chocolate, waffles, french fries, and beer for grown-ups? Brussels offers specialties in all these areas! See the famous Mannekin Pis statue, then visit the Royal Palace and the Musee de Magritte.

18. Explore Medieval Castles in Romania

Bran Castle is the most famous of Romania’s Medieval castles, but its connection with Dracula is tenuous, and it can get crowded.

Corvin Castle and Peles Castle are beautiful and less visited castles. While you are there, sunbathe on the edge of the Black Sea, visit the Berca Mud volcanoes, and stroll the old town of Sighisoara.

19. Take a Boat into the Blue Cave in Croatia

Similar to the Blue Grotto near Capri, the light inside this cave is supposed to be incredible. The Blue Cave is on Bisevo Island, you can take a speedboat here from Split or Dubrovnik. You’ll enter the cave in a wooden boat- it’s best to visit on a bright sunny day, ideally between 11 am and noon.

Book Now: Blue Cave Small Group Tour

20. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Cappadocia

Cappadocia in central Turkey is known for its tall rock formations called “fairy chimneys”. This otherworldly landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the best ways to see this area is by hot air balloon- most balloons go up in the early morning for sunrise. To visit the area, take a flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir.

Base yourself in Goreme and stay in a cave hotel. Make sure to visit Uchisar Castle and the underground city of Kaymakli.

Taking a hot air balloon ride has long been on my travel adventure bucket list! I had planned to take one over the deserts of Jordan but windy conditions canceled the flight.

You can also take a balloon ride over coffee farms in Columbia, the temples of Bagan, Myanmar, or Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The most inexpensive place to fulfill this travel dream is the town of Vang Vieng, Laos.

Hot Air Balloon rides are generally for ages 6+, though some companies go by height (minimum 4′ 6″). Keep in mind that the balloons are loud, so bring ear protection for sensitive ears.

21. Visit the Palaces of St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is called the “Venice of the North”, and Russia’s “Cultural Capital”. Ever since I read War and Peace I’ve been dreaming of seeing the grand palaces where extravagant balls were held followed by a horse and sleigh ride home.

Visit the grand palace of Peterhof – often compared to Versailles. It has 147 fountains for the kids to run around outside, including some “trick” fountains.

Head 30 km South to see Catherine’s Palace , the summer palace of the tzars.

Lastly, visit the Winter Palace , which houses the world-famous Hermitage Museum . Best for ages 8+.

22. See the Bolshoi Ballet

See a performance of the world-famous Bolshoi Ballet on the historic stage of the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow. You can also take a guided tour of the theater .

23. Go Dog Sledding

Head up to the Northern reaches of Europe to try dog sledding. A form of transportation that has been used for over 2000 years, dog sledding is an ideal way to experience nature in near silence.

Svalbard, Norway is famous for its dog sledding. There are also opportunities in Finland, Andorra, Greenland, and Iceland!

24. See the Northern Lights

Seeing the swirls of the northern lights is definitely a family travel bucket list item! We hoped to see them during our time in Iceland, but no luck. Northern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Svalbard in Norway, and Abisko, Sweden are locations with a high chance of seeing this phenomenon.

25. Explore the Fjords of Norway

Take the Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flåm, with riveting scenery along the way. Pass endless waterfalls, then take a boat ride through the fjords.

Don’t miss Balestrand, the village that inspired Disney’s Arendelle in the Frozen movies. The best time to visit is June through August. Expect to see snow, even in the height of summer.

26. Watch Whales and Puffins in Iceland

There are lots of amazing things to do in Iceland , but visiting Iceland in the summer means you can see puffins and whales! Puffin tours run from May to August. Look for smaller boats that can get you close to the birds.

This whale watch out of Husavik is on a wooden sailing boat the kids can help sail. Ages 7+ for this tour, others are for all ages.

Book Now: Whale Watch on a Wooden Boat

27. Visit Santa’s Village

Just a few kilometers from Rovaniemi, Finland on the Arctic Circle, is Santa’s Village . Open every day of the year, come meet the reindeer and Santa himself at his main office!

There is no charge for the village or meeting Santa. The Arctic Circle is denoted by a beam of light, and you can get a certificate for crossing the circle. You can get your passport stamped and send postcards from Santa’s Post Office.

You can also visit huskies, go sledding or ice tubing, visit a snow castle, and more!

Family Travel Bucket List Asia :

We started our adventures through Asia with Sri Lanka, then India. We’ve loved our time in SE Asia, including a month in Bali. We also highly recommend a visit to South Korea!

28. Visit Tibet

Stroll through Lhasa, visit the Potala Palace, and learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture. See the emerald-colored, freshwater Yamdrok Lake, visit monasteries, and explore the Himalayas.

Yowangdu Experience Tibet has a great article on Lhasa – covering everything from safety to traveling around.

Tibet is at a high altitude, and the sun can be harsh- make sure to bring sunscreen, and plan to take time to acclimatize to the altitude.

Travel to Tibet is best for kids 5+ based on the risk of altitude sickness. The best times to visit are April-June and September-October.

29. Explore Bhutan

I’m intrigued by this small, landlocked, Himalayan nation where archery is the national sport. Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the holiest site in Bhutan, which is built into the side of a cliff.

The government requires all tourists to have a preplanned itinerary with a Bhutanese guide. To visit you must pay a daily tourist fee, per person. Adults pay approx. $250 USD per day, children ages 5-12 pay approx. half and children under 5 are free.

While this makes Bhutan very expensive to visit, it also ensures that the tourist attractions are never crowded, or disrespected.

The best times to visit are from October-December and March-April. Due to altitude and the difficulty of the trek to Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan is best for ages 7+.

30. Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

The ABC trek in Nepal is very popular- it will generally take you about 14 days starting and ending in Kathmandu. The scenery along the route is breathtaking, and you’ll stay in traditional tea houses along the route.

You’ll need a guided trip for this outdoor family adventure- I trust G Adventures , I used them in Jordan, and have spoken with other travelers who have used them all over the world.

Book Now: 15 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The minimum age is 12 for the Annapurna tour. You can also trek to Everest Base Camp, also ages 12+.

Families with younger kids may want to consider a five-day Poon Hill trek. While in Nepal, don’t miss Chitwan National Park- you may see a One-horned Rhino!

31. Find Tigers in the Wild

See tigers, leopards, and sloth bears in Royal Bardia National Park or Chitwan National Park in Nepal. Explore the parks through guided tiger walks, jeep tours, and canoe rides.

Nepal takes animal conservation very seriously, so the animals here are well protected, You can also travel to Ilam in Eastern Nepal to try to spot the endangered red panda.

32. Visit Mustang

I’d never heard of this place until a friend mentioned it, and now it’s definitely on our family travel bucket list!

Mustang is a region of Nepal, close to the Tibet border. It is considered the “lost kingdom”, and was its own kingdom until being incorporated into Nepal in 2008.

Tourists first entered this area in 1992. The Nepalese government now offers a 10-day permit to enter the area with a guide. This International Traveller article has more information. Ages 12+.

33. Slide Down the Great Wall of China

Visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, located about a two-hour drive from Beijing. Take the gondola to the top of the wall, then walk down the sloping wall until you reach the metal alpine slide.

The ride down takes about five minutes. You are in your own bobsled with a brake, so you control your speed. You’re not actually sliding on the Great Wall, but down the mountain to the base of the wall.

34. See the Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors are a series of 2,000-year-old clay statues that guarded the tomb of China’s first Emperor. They were discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974.

You can visit three pits in the Terracotta Museum to see over 8,000 clay warriors, jade weapons, and bronze chariots. Each warrior is life-sized and unique- with different expressions, faces, and clothing.

Originally each warrior was painted and carried a real weapon. The Terracotta Museum is located about an hour East of Xi’an.

35. Ride the Trans Siberian Railway

The Trans Siberian Railway is world-famous. Spend a few days onboard watching the scenery, then step off and enjoy a few days in a town along the way.

There is no set route, but rather a network of rail lines across Russia. The three main routes are Moscow to Vladivostok (the original route), Moscow to Beijing (via Mongolia), which takes about 5 days non-stop including two border crossings; and Moscow to Beijing (via Manchuria) which does not include stops in Mongolia. Here’s a handy map .

Consider starting in Moscow, stopping in Ekaterinburg, Irkutsk (visit Lake Baikal), Ulaanbaatar, and finally Beijing. Adventure Family Life wrote a great post on taking the train with kids which has a lot of useful information.

Children under 5 are free, but they have to share a bed with a traveling adult. Children 5-10 are half-price.

36. Sleep in a Yurt in Mongolia

Spend a few days in Ulaanbaatar, visit Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, and see the giant equestrian statue of Ghengis Khan. Head to the Gobi desert to stay with a family in their ger (yurt), and climb the dunes at Khongoryn Els.

See the Flaming Cliffs, then head to Karakorum, the old capital of Mongolia. Finish with a trip to the Mongolian grasslands and Khustai National Park to see wild horses.

37. See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

The cherry blossoms bloom across Japan in the Spring, starting in late January in the South, and blooming in Tokyo around late March, or early April. You can check forecasts to see predictions for the year.

Called sakura, this is a time of celebration and gatherings of friends and family. Many Japanese celebrate hanami, where they picnic and quietly contemplate life.

Mount Yoshino is a popular spot for hanami, as there are over 30,000 cherry trees. Look for sakura-flavored treats available only during this time.

38. Stay at a Traditional Ryokan in Japan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese Inn. They can be found all over Japan, but are especially prevalent in areas around hot springs, and the Kyoto area.

You stay in a room with a tatami floor and a futon, which often converts into your dining space. An elaborate traditional dinner is served, as well as breakfast. A bit more expensive than other housing options, they offer a window into Japanese culture and traditions.

We are hoping to stay in a ryokan at Shibu Onsen when we visit the snow monkeys!

39. Visit the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is such an iconic building, of course, it had to make our family travel bucket list! Fly into New Delhi, spend a few days there, then head to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.

Arrive for sunrise, then enter via the East gate. After you are done exploring, head to Agra Fort to see where Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned after his son seized power.

The Taj Mahal is India’s biggest tourist attraction, it was built using the labor of 1,000 elephants! We wrote a full guide to visiting the Taj Mahal .

From Agra take the train to Jaipur to see “the pink city”, then see wild tigers in Ranthambore National park. Head back to New Dehli, or continue on to Udaipur, the “city of lakes”, then Jodhpur, “the blue city”.

40. Sleep in a Monastery in Myanmar

Myanmar (Burma) is off-limits in 2021, but we’ll leave this intriguing country on our travel bucket list for down the line.

Travelers have written of the beauty and isolation of this country which had just opened up to tourism before the current political climate closed it again.

Hopefully sleeping on a thin pad on the floor of a monastery will be one of our family adventures when the situation calms down.

41. Stay in a Stilt House in Myanmar

Visit the floating gardens of Lake Inle and stay in a bamboo house built on stilts. The woven bamboo allows for air circulation to keep the house cool. Apparently, tomatoes grow year-round in the gardens here!

42. Explore Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a laid-back attitude and miles of sandy shoreline, it’s also one of the best places in the world to spot a blue whale.

Climb Lion Rock, visit a turtle hatchery on the Southern coast, and take photos of the stilt fisherman! Visit Yala National Park to try to spot a leopard (we saw one named Amber!), and see elephants and water buffalo in the wild.

You can also visit a tea plantation and take a train ride through the beautiful countryside from Kandy to Ella. Some of our favorite beaches are Hiriketiya Beach and Hikkaduwa Beach . Ready to visit? Check out our Sri Lanka itinerary to get started!

43. Cruise Halong Bay

Board a traditional junk boat and cruise Halong Bay in Northern Vietnam. A few hours from Hanoi, the bay is known for its towering limestone rock formations. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most popular spots in Vietnam.

Choose a two-night cruise if you can- you’ll escape the crowds on the second day. There are so many tour operators, the hardest part is choosing which boat to take!

Most boats stop at Surprise Cave and Ti Top Island, and some offer cooking classes or other activities onboard. An alternative is Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay which are less crowded. October to March is the best time to visit.

Check Prices: Halong Bay Tour

44. Visit the Temples of Angkor Watt

Waker and I visited Angkor Watt as part of our honeymoon, and were excited to take the kids there to explore. We spent a month in Cambodia, and found that Siem Reap has become a hipper town, than we expected, with lots of great coffee options .

Check out our guide to the Angkor Temples , as well as all the other amazing things to do in Siem Reap , Cambodia. Consider taking a food tour to learn about Khmer cuisine .

45. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

When we visited Thailand in 2013, we visited an elephant center where we fed, rode on, and bathed the elephants. We discussed it at the time and felt that our dollars were supporting the care of the animals (who are notoriously expensive to feed).

Animal tourism has evolved since then, and we are now more careful to only support places where the animal’s natural behaviors are encouraged.

We’d love to expose our kids to the wonder of elephants, but in a place where there is no riding or unnatural training. As such, we are hoping to visit an elephant sanctuary to interact with rescued elephants.

Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is one option that is on the well-worn tourist route.

We highly recommend a visit to the Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri, Cambodia. You can spend a half-day walking through the jungle with the elephants, and the other half of the day volunteering around the facility.

Responsible Travel has a great list of Elephant Sanctuaries around the world that you can feel good about supporting.

46. Lounge on a Thai Island

The island beaches of Thailand are well-known for a reason! So many options for relaxing in a tropical paradise. We spent part of our honeymoon in Koh Samui, then took the kids to hang out on Ko Phi Phi, but there are endless options for islands to explore.

47. Relax on the Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands are Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. There are no cars on the islands, you either walk, bike, or take a horse-drawn cart to get around.

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the islands with the most nightlife and a night market. Gili Meno is the smallest, least populated island and is known for its turtle sanctuary.

We opted for the middle-sized island of Gili Air, and spent part of our “babymoon” there- it was a bumpy boat ride from Lombok to get there, but the island itself is absolutely lovely.

Family Travel Bucket List Middle East:

The Middle East is packed with history- Petra is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, and Israel has the most important landmarks for three major religions packed into one city. Abu Dhabi and Dubai pack in family-friendly activities as well- from jaw-dropping architecture to amusement parks.

48. Visit the Ruins of Petra in Jordan

I grew up with the Indiana Jones movies, and ever since I realized Petra was a real place I’ve wanted to visit!

I explored Petra and other places in Jordan for the first time on a G Adventures tour in 2013 and it was just as magical as I’d hoped. Waker didn’t have time off from work, and I knew (hoped) we’d be starting a family soon, so I joined the tour solo, and loved it!

I met lots of friendly people and saw a lot more through the tour than I could have managed in the same amount of time on my own.

Petra is absolutely a bucket list family adventure! We returned in 2022 and explored as a family.

Petra at night is spectacular. There is a musical concert in front of the Treasury (the most well-known facade), and the walkways and treasury area are lit by candlelight.

49. Sleep Under the Stars in Wadi Rum

The Wadi Rum desert is stunning- ride a camel, climb rock arches, and sleep under the stars. We visited on our tour of Jordan but didn’t get a chance to sleep overnight in this beautiful desert, as it was a cold time of year.

50. Float in the Dead Sea

Floating in the Dead Sea is a strange experience- the sea is over 30% salt, so you are extremely buoyant. The mud is supposed to be wonderful for your skin, so you slather it all over yourself and then float in the sunshine.

You can enter the Dead Sea from the Jordanian or the Israeli side, as the middle of the sea forms part of the border between the two countries. I visited the Jordanian side, we could see drones patrolling the Israeli border.

51. Visit Jerusalem

The Holy City for Jews, Muslims, and Christians, there is a ton of history packed into Jerusalem. Visit the old city, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Al Aqsa mosque.

Consider a day trip to Bethelem to see the Church of the Nativity (it is easiest to take a tour), or a day trip to the Dead Sea.

It’s worth noting that everything in Israel (restaurants, public transportation) shuts down for the Sabbath from Friday late afternoon to Saturday night. Holy sites generally require that shoulders and knees are covered.

52. Visit the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

This mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE is one of the grandest in the world. It is massive- the equivalent of four football fields. Construction began in 1996 and took 12 years to complete.

An international collaboration, the mosque combines Persian, Mughal, and Moorish architecture. The Grand Mosque includes 82 domes and has the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.

There is no charge to visit the mosque, but you will need to reserve a time . Visit early to beat the heat. There are free guided tours available- don’t miss these tours! You’ll be inside the main space, while others crowd around ropes on the outside.

Women will need to cover up- bring a headscarf, the mosque provides black abayas in a couple of sizes to borrow. Men are also requested to dress conservatively.

53. Tour Iran

Iran is a tricky place for Americans to visit politically, and the State Department currently warns strongly against it. I’ve heard amazing stories from other travelers who found the local people warm and inviting. My Pinterest is filled with images of mosques and tile work in Iran, I’d absolutely love to visit!

Unsure about visiting? Check out this article from Intrepid Travel (from 2018). Even when the situation is a bit more stable, Americans, Brits, and Canadians can only visit on a tour.

Plan to book a tour at least three months ahead as the visa process can be quite long. Note that debit cards and credit cards will not work in Iran.

There are some tours for younger travelers like this tour for ages 5+ from Shiraz to Tehran. I would probably wait until the kids are older and opt for a longer tour like this one from Intrepid Travel for ages 15+.

Family Travel Bucket List Oceania:

54. road trip around new zealand.

We are really hoping to road trip around New Zealand in late 2021, early 2022 (now aiming for 2023!) depending on when the borders open. We are all really excited for the dramatic landscape of New Zealand, and it’s soo far from us in the US that this will be a real treat!

Ideally, we’ll use a relocation service to rent a vehicle, then drive from Auckland stopping at Hobbiton, Rotorua for Geysers, the Redwoods, on to Wellington, then across to the South Island.

We will pan for gold, see a glow worm cave, then head to Queenstown, Milford Sound, and the penguins in Dunedin. We’ll pause at Lake Tekapo to try to see the Southern Lights, then head to Christchurch, and possibly out to Kaikoura to see the whales.

55. Explore a Glow Worm Cave

Taking a boat ride through a glowworm grotto sounds so magical! Arachnocampa Luminosa are unique to New Zealand, you can see them by exploring caves, or going for a guided kayak trip or night hike.

The most famous caves are the Waitomo Caves on the North Island where you go 150 feet underground to see the glowworms in large limestone caves.

On the South Island, you can visit the Te Anau caves . Cruise across Te Anua lake before entering the glowworm grotto. All ages.

Check Prices: Te Anau Caves Glow Worm Tour

56. See the Southern Lights

I didn’t know the Southern Lights existed until I started researching New Zealand. Now the Aurora Australis is definitely on our family outdoor adventure bucket list!

We are hoping to see them at Lake Tekapo, which is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Other good places to see them in New Zealand are Stewart Island and Invercargill.

You can also see the Southern Lights from Tasmania, Australia; Antarctica, and the South Georgia Islands. Some stargazing tours do have an age limit of 6+.

57. Swim with Wild Dolphins

Swim with wild Dusky Dolphins, Hectors Dolphins, and Common Dolphins with Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

You can’t touch the dolphins, but you’ll swim in their natural environment with a snorkel and fins and let them engage you as much as they desire. You can also watch from the boat if you prefer. Ages 8+ to swim with the dolphins.

While in Kaikoura, you can also kayak beside whales, seals, and dolphins.

Book Now: Kaikoura Wildlife Kayak Tour

58. Fly to the Top of a Glacier

When exploring New Zealand, don’t forget the glaciers! This helicopter tour will take you around both the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before landing in the snow for you to experience them firsthand. These glaciers are the largest in New Zealand and the most visited. They flow almost down to sea level.

59. Explore the Australian Outback

The Australian Outback has such a mystery to it- wild camels, lizards, crocodiles, and poisonous trees!

I did a 7-day tour from Adelaide to Alice Springs and had a fantastic time. We took the dirt roads, stopped for hikes, and camped at night. We visited the opal mines in Cooper Pedy, toured Uluru, and ended in Alice Springs. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole trip fascinating.

I’d love to take my kids when they are a bit older and do something similar. A lot of tours have you flying into Alice Springs to visit Uluru, I would avoid these, half the fun is getting there!

60. Cuddle a Baby Kangaroo

I got to cuddle a joey on my tour of the Australian outback, and you should too! We visited Josephine’s Gallery and Kangaroo Orphanage in Cooper Pedy- they take in baby kangaroos from all over Southern Australia and raise them until they can be re-homed.

Most of these babies come to them when the mothers are killed on the roads, but the joeys survive in the pouch. They use cloth pouches to simulate the mother and bottle feed them. It’s such a treat to hold them and see what affectionate animals they are.

61. Visit Uluru

Uluru is a sacred sandstone formation in the middle of Australia. Aboriginals believe it was formed by ancestors in the Dreaming. Once called Ayer’s Rock, it was returned to its aboriginal name.

The Anangu people still hold ceremonies in caves at the base of Uluru, and only certain tribe members can climb the rock.

As a tourist, you can walk around the base of the rock and learn about its history and its place in aboriginal culture. It is a beautiful place, and its dominance over the surrounding flat landscape is awe-inspiring.

62. Climb the Harbour Bridge

Ready to climb high over Sydney? Climbing the Harbour Bridge gives you incredible views over Sydney Harbor, including the iconic Sydney Opera House. You clip onto the side of the bridge (so there’s no chance of falling).

It’s exhilarating and totally safe at the same time. I debated whether to spend the money to do this when I was in Sydney, and I’m so glad I did!

63. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on earth. While there have been worries about coral bleaching and many will say there are better, less touristed spots to dive, this is still definitely on our family bucket list for outdoor adventures!

Visit December-February for the warmest waters and best visibility, March-November is colder, but you are more likely to see large whales.

64. Sail the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are 74 islands close to the Great Barrier Reef in Northeastern Australia. They are known for their tropical climate, white sand beaches, and great diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Whitehaven Beach is famous for its white silica sand. You can take a day cruise, charter a yacht, or settle in for a three-day cruise experience.

65. Relax in Fiji

Fiji has lots of resorts that cater to families- with pools, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs. Explore the boardwalks of Kula Eco Park, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, or take a day trip to visit additional islands (Fiji has 333 of them).

The best time to visit is April through October. Fiji is located to the East of Australia, and North of New Zealand. It is about a four-hour flight from Australia’s East coast.

Family Travel Bucket List Africa:

We’ve visited Morocco as a family, but still have a lot of Africa to see together!

66. Visit the Egyptian Pyramids

Egypt is high on our family adventure bucket list! S recently became intrigued by the tombs and history of Ancient Egypt, so we’ve been reading a lot about it.

Start in Cairo, and visit the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum where King Tut lies. Visit Saqqara and the tombs and pyramids there.

Fly to Aswan and take a cruise down the Nile to Luxor in a traditional dahabiya or felucca. Visit the Kom Ombo temple (which we just read about in our Little Passports book) and the Crocodile Museum.

In Luxor, visit the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. If you have time, head to the Red Sea to relax, or take a train from Luxor back to Cairo.

67. Scuba Dive in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is one of the best places in the world to scuba dive. The water is warm and clear, and wildlife is abundant.

Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam are three of the top spots to dive. There are healthy reefs and world-famous wrecks to dive. During the summer you may spot whale sharks and manta rays.

68. Find the Big Five on an African Safari

The Big Five you try to spot while on safari are: the African leopard, African lion, Cape buffalo, African elephant, and rhinoceros.

Tanzania is known for its game parks- the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are amazing. These more famous parks tend to be more expensive than some others, including Kruger in South Africa. You can also visit the Addo Elephant National Park which is in a malaria-free zone in South Africa.

Some parks allow for self-drive tours. If it is your first time on Safari, I’d advise against this. Our driver was instrumental in ensuring we had a fabulous safari experience. He started us with the smaller animals- on day one we were thrilled to see baboons, by the third day we probably would not have been so enthusiastic.

Our driver was also in contact with other drivers, so he could reroute us when a leopard was spotted in another section of the park.

69. Climb Kilimanjaro

I summited Kilimanjaro with a close friend in 2007- it was tough and incredibly rewarding. If your family is into long treks, this should definitely be on your family bucket list!

The glaciers at the top of Kili are slowly melting, so go as soon as you can! The official minimum age to climb is 10, but 12+ is probably a safer estimate.

70. Relax in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a beach resort destination off the coast of Tanzania with amazing sand beaches. You can also see giant tortoises that are nearly 200 years old on Changuu Island, a protected marine park known for its diving and snorkeling.

Zanzibar is a self-governing state in Tanzania- it consists of two big islands and many small ones. Zanzibar is sometimes called the Spice Islands because cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper grow there.

The old city of Stone Town is a pleasant maze and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The food in Zanzibar is a mix of Indian, Arab, Chinese, Portuguese, and African influences.

Zanzibar is mostly Muslim, so women dress modestly. At one point these islands were the center of the Arab slave trade, so you can visit a former slave market as well as the Mangapwani Caves which were used as holding pens.

To reach Zanzibar take a fast boat from Dar Es Salaam. The best time to visit is June-October.

71. Explore the Souks of Morocco

Morocco is a deluge of sounds and smells. The souks (markets) are fascinating mazes. I visited in 2002 and loved it. I was a little worried about being there on the first anniversary of September 11th but found the people incredibly warm. We visited as a family in 2022, and all enjoyed driving around the country seeing the deserts and the mountains.

Marrakesh and Fez are both “don’t-miss” cities, we created a 10-day Morocco itinerary that includes these as well as Chefchaouen (the blue city), and the beach town of Essaouira.

71. Sleep in a Bedouin Tent in the Desert

One of my favorite memories of visiting the dunes of Merzouga (the red sand dunes where The Mummy movies were filmed) was sleeping in a Bedouin tent in the desert.

We rode camels out to the dunes and had dinner around a campfire. After dinner our Berber guides tried to teach us some basic drumming skills, then we settled down to enjoy the quiet stillness of the desert.

Nowadays, most tents in the desert are rather luxurious- complete with electricity and flush toilets, but it’s still a fun experience.

72. See Lake Retba in Senegal

Lake Retba is called “Lac Rose” for its unusual pink color. The color is created by specific bacteria that are drawn to the salt in the lake. More than 60,000 metric tons of salt are hand-harvested from the lake each year and exported across Western Africa.

Less than an hour’s drive from Dakar, you can swim in the lake or take a rowboat out onto it. The best time to visit is November to June when the salt content is the highest.

73. Look for Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda has some of the last Mountain Gorillas on Earth- there are less than 1,000 left in the wild. The classic gorilla tour includes flying into Entebbe, then taking a jeep to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where you will trek in by foot to see the gorillas.

You have about an hour to observe the gorillas and are required to keep a distance of at least 7 meters from them.

Next, you’ll head to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see the traditional safari Big Five, then to Kibale Forest National Park to see chimpanzees and monkeys of various sorts.

The best times to visit are during the drier months of December to February or June to August. Book early, as permits to see the gorillas are limited. You can also do a Gorilla trek in Rwanda’s Parc National de Volcans.  Ages 16+.

74. Explore Tunisia

Tunisia offers a mix of Mediterranean and Arabic cultures. Explore the historic ruins of Carthage, then head to the enormous Colosseum at El Jem.

Venture into the Sahara desert to see where scenes from the planet Tatooine in Stars Wars were filmed. The planet in the movie was named after the nearby town of Tataouine. The underground house where Luke lived with his aunt and uncle is a hotel in Matmata- you can stay there. The best time to visit is October to May.

75. See Penguins in Capetown

Head to Boulder’s Beach in False Bay to see African penguins. Normally found in Southwestern Africa, a pair appeared here in the 1980s and bred. There are now over 2,000 penguins.

There are viewing platforms and boardwalks to let you safely watch the penguins in this protected area. You can also take a double kayak out to see the penguins from the water.

Book Now: Simon’s Town Penguin Kayak Paddle Tour

The penguins are most active between February and August. All ages for viewing, ages 5-8+ for kayaking depending on the company.

76. See the Namaqualand Desert Bloom

For a few weeks every year, the desert blooms- and is covered with flowers of all colors, including some flowers not seen elsewhere in the world. The peak of color is from early to late August depending on the year.

Start in Springbok, South Africa (about 5 1/2 hours north of Capetown), and head south, stopping at the Goegap Nature Reserve and Skilpad Wildflower Reserve. 

Stop in Niewoudtville where many local farms will open their gates for tourists. Next is Cedarberg and Clanwilliam. The Namaqualand Flower Route is popular, and the scarce accommodation fills up quickly. You may need to book up to a year ahead.

77. Visit Victoria Falls

David Livingston was the first Westerner to see this waterfall and named it after the British queen in 1855. Its native name is Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders”. It is almost a mile wide, and twice the height of Niagara Falls.

The falls form the border between Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone, Zambia. Whichever country you enter, get a UniVisa upon arrival, so that you can visit both sides of the falls in one day.

78. Relax on the Beaches of Mozambique

Mozambique sits between South Africa and Tanzania, with miles of secluded beaches along the Indian Ocean and great dive spots.

We’re hoping to take a few weeks to chill with friends in Vilanculos as part of our Family Year Out . Vilanculos made this list of the best beaches in Mozambique. The best time to visit is from May to November.

79. Explore Madagascar

The fourth-largest island in the world, Madagascar has so many indigenous species, that it’s sometimes called the “eighth continent”.

Madagascar has three UNESCO World Heritage sites and the only native population of lemurs remaining in the world. Stay in a treehouse, explore the rivers, and see the rock formations of the Petit Tsingy.

Learn about native Malagasy culture, see the giant baobab trees and take a night walk through the rainforest. The best time to visit is from May to October. Recommended for ages 8+.

Family Travel Bucket List North America:

We love road-tripping around the United States, enjoying wacky attractions like Meow Wolf in Santa Fe , or Trees of Mystery in the California Redwoods. Our kids still talk about visiting the Jelly Belly Experience (CA) and the Crayola Factory (PA).

We’ve also visited a lot of National Parks- from smaller parks like the Wright Brothers Memorial , Mammoth Cave , Great Sand Dunes (don’t miss tips for sand sledding ) and Craters of the Moon , to the larger, more famous parks of Glacier , Yellowstone , and Yosemite .

We also love exploring Canada and Mexico. We spent six weeks crossing Mexico, (check out tips for driving in Mexico ) including stops in Ensenada , Puerto Vallarta , the beautiful small town of Yelapa , and historic San Miguel de Allende .

80. Road Trip Across the USA

Whether it’s Route 66 with all its kitsch photo opportunities or circling the National Parks, the American Road Trip is a classic family adventure. Pack the cooler, get ready to sing songs, and eat motel breakfasts!

We took on an Epic 60+ day cross-country family road trip from Connecticut across to Los Angeles, and up to Santa Rosa, CA this summer. We saw friends, hiked in National Parks, and explored big and small towns along the way.

We embarked on a second road trip in the early fall through the American Northwest , followed by a road trip across the Mexican border into Baja Norte .

We got lots of family road trip tips to help you make the most of your road trip, from the best road trip snacks to road trip activities , to a complete list of road trip essentials .

81. Ride Horses on a Dude Ranch

I’d love to take my girls for a week at a dude ranch! Most of them assign you a horse for the week- you help to take care of it as well as ride it. There are campfires, s’mores and games for the kids, and relaxing time for the adults.

82. Visit the Famous National Parks of Utah

Utah has some amazing National Parks including Bryce, Zion, Arches, and Canyonlands. On our summer road trip, we stayed in Bryce Canyon , and hiked in Arches and Canyonlands from a base in Moab .

If you’ll be visiting three or more National Parks, be sure to get an American the Beautiful National Parks Pass. This annual pass grants you admission to National Parks, Monuments, and Preserves. The pass covers everyone in your car, or up to four adults, and means you can leave and re-enter the park easily.

Buy Now: Annual National Parks Pass

82. Climb the Statue of Liberty

Lady Liberty is a New York City icon. Take the ferry out to see her and climb all the way to her crown! The same ferry will take you to Ellis Island as well.

The crown of the statue was closed after September 11, 2001, for security purposes. There were plans to reopen it before 2020 closed the interior of the statue completely.

Check the official website for updates. You can find more details about visiting the Statue of Liberty in our Beginners Guide to New York City

83. Spend Autumn Leaf Peeping in New England

I grew up in New England, so the seasonal change of colors is easy to take for granted. If you haven’t visited to see the fall colors, you really must!

Peak viewing is usually late September in Northern Maine, and about mid-October in Connecticut. Use this Fall foliage map to see color predictions by state.

Leaf peeping can be combined with other fall activities such as Fall festivals, apple picking (and eating apple cider donuts), corn mazes, and hayrides.

84. Explore the National Mall, Washington D.C.

The National Mall in Washington D.C. is full of monuments, memorials, and museums, all free to the public. From seeing the original signed Declaration of Independence to Dorthy’s Slippers from The Wizard of Oz , there’s always more to see and do. Visiting Washington DC with kids is always a great idea!

When you’re in the area, don’t forget to visit Mt. Vernon , Washington’s family estate.

85. Visit New Orleans and Eat Beignets

New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras parties (and those are lots of fun!) but there’s plenty for families to do as well. Wander the French Quarter and visit Jackson Square to hear musicians and see fortune-tellers.

Visit the Presbytère Museum to learn about Hurricane Katrina, and then see some Mardi Gras costumes and learn about the history of the celebration.

Make sure to stop for beignets- little square pastries covered in powdered sugar that resemble fried dough- at either Cafe du Monde or Café Beignet. 

Listen to some live jazz and try some Creole dishes like po’boys or gumbo. Ride a streetcar, take a steamboat cruise up the Mississippi, or an airboat swamp tour to look for alligators.

Check out the Artmazing Gallery – 13 selfie rooms, including one where money rains down on you!

You may also consider visiting the Whitney Plantation which focuses on the lives of the enslaved people on the plantation, it’s about an hour’s drive from New Orleans.

86. Watch a Rocket Launch at Kennedy Space Center

Watch a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral! Check the calendar, launches include unmanned rockets and SpaceX capsules headed to the International Space Station. Watch from the visitor center viewing area next to the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

The Kennedy Space Center has so much to offer! Visit their rocket garden to see real rockets, see the Astronaut Hall of Fame, and learn about the Apollo missions.

Step inside an astronaut training simulator to learn to pilot a space shuttle. Kids 10+ can opt for the full Astronaut Training Experience , which is a 4-5 hour program that includes simulated mars terrain.

87. Swim with Manatees in Florida

Crystal River, Florida, is the only place to legally swim with manatees. The water stays warm here all year round, so in the winter around 400 manatees migrate here, though you can visit them year-round. These endangered mammals each weigh about 1,000 pounds and are slow and gentle.

You can take a tour from Crystal River or a day trip from Orlando (about 90 minutes away) that includes manatees, lunch, an airboat ride, and a trip to Homosassa State Wildlife Park. Ages 3+.

Book Now: Manatee Tour from Orlando

88. Visit Cuba

I’d love to take a family trip to Cuba! It’s so close to the United States, yet we have been restricted from visiting for so long. The rich culture, colorful buildings, and beautiful beaches all sound enchanting.

I’d love to visit during the Havana Jazz Festival in December. Plan to explore Havana, stay in Casa Particulares (local homes), take a salsa class in Vinales, and relax on the beach in Trinidad.

Cuba is currently difficult for Americans to travel to, hopefully, these restrictions will loosen over the next few years. You’ll need a government permit to visit and a travel visa.

The easiest way to do this is through a tour company that can provide a Support the Cuban People travel license , though this can get expensive. Options include private tours with Global Family Travels , and group or private tours through Cuba Explorer .

Once you arrive your debit and credit cards won’t work, and you will probably need a local sim for your cellphone. Internet access may be limited. The best time to visit is December to May.

89. Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a must-see. Plan to spend a few days exploring it. We are staying inside the park this summer so we can see the sunrise in the park and take a few hikes. We also took a helicopter ride over the canyon!

Update: We didn’t love it. In fact, we might skip the Grand Canyon on our next road trip!

90. Raft the Colorado River

An adventurous way to see another side of the Grand Canyon is to raft the Colorado River through the canyon. Plan for at least 3-4 days of rafting, and camping on the river’s edge at night. Ages 10+.

91. Visit Yellowstone Park

Old Faithful should be on every family’s outdoor travel bucket list! We wrote a 3-day guide to Yellowstone with kids . The famous geyser inside Yellowstone Park erupts around 20 times per day.

Visit Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States. You can view the spring from above from a viewing platform on the Fairy Falls trail.

Explore Yellowstone Canyon- take in the view from Artist’s Point then head out on Uncle Tom’s trail.

Don’t miss the Lamar Valley drive where you may see wild bison, deer, or bears. This drive can be combined with visiting Mammoth Hot Springs.

92. Explore Native American History

There are lots of places to explore various Native American cultures around the United States. These experiences help balance some of the European-biased histories we were taught in school.

On our cross-country road trip , we visited several places that largely focus on the colonial and settler experience- from stops at Colonial Williamsburg to the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Kansas. While both include the native experience to some extent, it is not their focus. We also learned about the Oregon Trail by visiting some of the stops along the trail.

To balance this with some of the native experience, we started the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC (which we don’t recommend for families). We then visited the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee, NC which is focused on the Cherokee people, which we highly recommend! The Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, OK also has a living history village (focused on 1710) and an exhibit on the Trail of Tears.

Explore Mesa Verde National Park (check out our tips for the best of Mesa Verde ) to learn about the Pueblo people. and Taos Pueblo to learn more about how the Taos people are combining modern life with ancient traditions.

93. Visit Disney

A Disney theme park visit should definitely be on every family’s travel bucket list! While I’m not one to visit Disney again and again (and we generally don’t include theme parks in our plans), Disney magic is pretty special. I’m excited to see the kid’s faces light up when we see some of their favorite characters!

We visited Disneyland in December of 2021. We spent one day in Disneyland and had a Park Hopper starting in California Adventure for the second day. At ages 4 and 7, our kids were the perfect age to soak up the wonder and loved seeing the characters, the parade, and the fireworks show.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Lulu . This hotel is an easy 10-minute walk from the parks, with a shuttle stop right outside the hotel. The rooms were cute and comfortable.

94. Kayak or Swim in a Bioluminescent Bay

We kayaked to a bioluminescent lagoon in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, it was amazing! There are beaches around the world that sometimes have bioluminescent plankton, but they can be unpredictable.

A Nomad’s Passport did a great post pulling together options around the world. All of these experiences take place after dark, so many are for ages 8+.

We were able to snorkel with bioluminescent plankton in Columbia, on the Rosario Islands .

95. Take an Alaskan Cruise

I’m not a cruise person generally, but an Alaskan cruise would be the exception! I’d love to take a cruise on a smaller boat and be able to kayak out to see the wildlife and spectacular scenery.

Our kids love watching PBS’s Molly of Denali , so we’re all excited to learn more about Alaska and its native traditions.

96. Swim with Manta Rays

Head to Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii to swim with manta rays. You’ll see the sunset from your boat, then snorkel alongside these magnificent creatures. You can also scuba dive with the rays.

You’ll have a float with a light shining down- the light attracts the plankton, and the manta rays then come to eat the plankton. These reef manta rays can grow up to 18 feet, on average the rays in Kona are about 12 feet.

Book Now: Swim with Manta Rays in Kona, Hawaii

Swimming with Manta rays is also available in the Maldives, the Galapagos, and the Great Barrier Reef. Often at those locations, you’ll see manta rays where they go to get their skin cleaned, rather than where they are feeding.

97. Drive the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana in Maui starts in Kahului and winds along 64 miles to the town on Hana. You’ll explore the rainforest, and see waterfalls, roadside stands, and other attractions including the seven sacred pools and a red-sand beach.

The drive is stunning. When I drove it we listened to audio commentary via cassette while we drove- now you can download Gypsy Guide to your phone before you leave. Take your time, stop along the way, and don’t rush! The journey is the destination in this case.

98. Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Watching a large sea turtle gently swim by is an amazing experience! I swam with them in Hanauma Bay , on Oahu. Hanauma Bay is within a volcanic cone and is a marine life conservation area. The Bay now limits visitors and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to give the wildlife a break.

You can also take a snorkeling tour to Turtle Canyons on Oahu or Turtle Town on Maui to snorkel with Green Sea Turtles in the open ocean.

Book Now: Maui Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel Tour

You are most likely to see the turtles between 11 am and 2 pm. There are many beaches you can visit in Maui where you have a high chance of seeing sea turtles- including Slaughterhouse Beach, Black Rock Beach, and Maluaka Beach (Turtle Town). On Oahu try Laniakea Beach, Kahe Point, and Kaupo Bay.

99. See Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is often associated with the Great American Road Trip. You can visit either the American or Canadian side. From the American side, don’t miss the Cave of the Winds, and take the Maid of the Mist out to Bridal Falls. Ponchos are required of course.

From the Canadian side, take the Hornblower cruise out to the falls, ride the SkyWheel, or take a helicopter ride above the falls.

100. Practice your French in Montreal

Dust off your French language skills for a visit to charming Montreal! Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montreal while eating poutine.

Visit Mount Royal and take a paddleboat out onto Beaver Lake. Check out the botanical garden, the planetarium, or Voiles en Voiles- a pirate ship that houses ropes courses, rappelling, and aerial activities.

Have Barbie fans in your house? Don’t miss the free 5,000-square-foot Barbie Expo exhibit.

101. Explore Sunny Vancouver

Less than an hour from the US border, Vancouver is known for its sunny days and easy access to snow-capped mountains. Explore Stanley Park where you’ll find playgrounds and totems carved by native peoples.

Take a water taxi over to Granville Island for a great public market and a sprinkler park. Take the gondola up Grouse Mountain, or visit Victoria island to have high tea at the Fairmont Hotel.

102. See Polar Bears in Churchill

Head to Churchill, Manitoba to see polar bears in the wild. In October and November, the bears gather in groups, waiting for the “big freeze” so they can head out onto the ice for seal hunting.

Take a tour to see the bears in an all-terrain tundra vehicle, watch for arctic foxes and see the Northern lights. Ages 8+.

Travel Bucket List Central and South America:

I traveled overland through Central America in my 20s, then we spent over 5 months in South America as a family. We loved practicing our language skills and watching how the language and culture shifted from Colombia to Peru (don’t skip Lima ), to Argentina and Brazil (we wished we had longer in Sao Paulo ).

We also wrote travel tips for South America specifically for families- you’ll often find lines just for families when traveling here.

103. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

In the 1400s Pachacuti built the citadel of Machu Picchu high in the (now Peruvian) Andes. A four or five-day hike brings you to the ruins of this city.

Plan to acclimatize for a few days in Cusco due to the 11,000-foot elevation. There are also fabulous day trips from Cusco to other areas of the Sacred Valley. If you have time, don’t miss Ollantaytambo as well.

Cusco will be the starting point for your Inca Trail hike. On day three you’ll be at over 13,000 feet before descending into Machu Picchu. The trail can be narrow and has steep steps. Best for ages 12+.

There is a one-day Inca Trail hike alternative that is more suitable for families with younger kids. You’ll still enter at the Sun Gate but without the strenuous multi-day hike.

Book Now: One Day Inca Trail for Families

104. Explore the Bolivian Salt Flats

Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat- covering more than 10 kilometers. These flats create a mirror effect reflecting the sky in the wet season (November to March), and a patterned effect in salt during the dry season (May to October).

The salt flats are at over 12,000 feet. They can be reached from the town of Uyuni, or on a tour from La Paz. Multi-day tours include seeing wild flamingos, hot springs, and colorful lakes.

105. Explore Patagonia

Trek through Las Glaciares National Park, stare in awe at the Perito Moreno Glacier, or even take a kayak up close to it (ages 14+).

See the emperor penguins in Tierra del Fuego National Park- the only place they live in the wild outside of Antarctica. This area on the very tip of Argentina is known as the “End of the World”.

Patagonia can be explored from Chile or from Argentina. Flying is often the easiest way to get around as there are large distances between cities.

106. Ride Horses in Mendoza

Mendoza is one of Argentina’s most famous wine regions, but it’s also home to grasslands, mountains, and the gaucho culture (cowboy culture). Take a horse ride across the hills and enjoy Asado (traditional barbeque) for lunch. Ages 6+.

107. Explore the Amazon Rainforest

Most of the Amazonian rainforest is within Brazil. After exploring Rio de Janeiro, head to Manaus, then take a boat to where the Rio Negro and the Rio Solimoes meet.

Dine at a floating restaurant, see lily pads as big as kids, then head out on a boat to cruise through the Amazon. You’ll see macaws, monkeys, piranhas, and more.

You can also explore the Amazon from Peru – either the Iquitos or Tambopata region. The high season is from December through March. Ages 8+.

108. Visit the Galapagos Islands 

A visit to the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies of the Galapagos Islands is definitely high on our family adventure travel bucket list!

The Galapagos Islands are about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. You can choose to do a boat-based or land-based exploration of the islands.

The Galapagos can be expensive to get to, you can also visit Isla de la Plata “the poor man’s Galapagos” to see blue-footed boobies. Visit the Galapagos any time of year, ages 8+.

109. Watch Boats go Through the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a 50-mile feat of engineering that opened in 1914. You can visit easily from Panama City and watch a boat slowly move through the locks.

The Miraflores Locks is the best place to watch- there is a detailed explanation of the canal in the visitors center, then head to the viewing platform to watch the boats. Best for ages 12+.

110. See the Caño Cristales River in Columbia

The Caño Cristales River has been described as a “liquid rainbow”. During July, August, and September, a water plant blooms turning the river red, white, black, and yellow. Located in the Sierra de la Macarena National Park, accessible from the town of La Macarena.

Colombia has some fantastic family destinations, including Medellin , Guatape , Jardin , and Cartagena .

111. Swim with Stingrays in Belize

Head to Shark and Ray Alley to swim with nurse sharks and large stingrays. The animals are used to the idea that the boats bring food and will come quite close to snorkelers. Most tours leave from Caye Caulker in Belize.

You can also swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman- you’ll find large South Atlantic rays in an area dubbed Stingray City. Antigua also has opportunities to swim with Southern Rays. Ages 6+.

112. Visit the ATM Cave in Belize

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is the most popular cave in Belize. This cave was a spiritual site for the Mayan people and was discovered by them around 300 AD. The cave was opened to the public in 1998.

Archeologists believe that human sacrifice took place in this cave, including the sacrifice of small children. Pottery, human remains, and other artifacts are still in the cave for viewing. No cameras are allowed in.

The journey to the cave involves a trek through the jungle, swimming, darkness, and scrambling over rocks. The cave is located about an hour’s drive from San Ignacio. At least ages 8+.

113. Experience Tango in Buenos Aries

Buenos Aires is the “Paris of South America”. Visit the colorful La Boca neighborhood to enjoy the street art and watch impromptu performances of the tango. Stop at a cafe to try some delicious alfajores.

While you are in La Boca, take a walking tour of the Boca Junior soccer stadium. Many restaurants offer a dinner and dance show where you can watch more tango.

We spent one month in Buenos Aires during our Family Gap Year . We loved our time there and would all love to go back.

114. Spy on Sloths in the Wild

Sloths generally hang out in lush tropical jungles, often sleeping high up in trees. Make sure not to touch them as this is very stressful for the animals!

Sloths can be found around Costa Rica- in the Arenal area try taking a guided walk of the private Bogarin Trail. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve also has sloths, though mostly nocturnal, so you’ll need to take a night walk. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park has sloths, though you may need a guided tour to spot them.

In Peru, visit Tambopata National Reserve and take a night walk through the jungle to spot sloths. Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve near Iquitos has brown-throated sloths, and you may also see pink river dolphins or jaguars!

We were lucky to spy a sloth in the wild while visiting the colorful, vibrant city of Cartagena .

115. Climb Temples in Tikal

Tikal absolutely took my breath away. Incredible temples are spread over acres of thick Guatemalan jungle. Monkeys scream from the trees and lemurs dance around your feet. Of all the ruins that I’ve visited across Central America, this is the one I’d most like to return to.

Tikal was a Mayan city that at one point housed up to 100,000 people. Only a fraction of the city has been excavated. You can climb the main temples, for a wonderful view across the jungle canopy. Most temples have narrow steps and no railing, so I’d advise at least age 8+ to get the most out of the site.

116. See Solstice at Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is a Mayan ruin on the plains of the Yucatan. Just a few hours drive from Cancun, It’s most famous for its main temple which acts as a calendar. On the yearly equinoxes, as the light hits the temple it looks like a serpent slowly descending the stairs of the temple. There is a light show each evening that recreates this phenomenon, but I’d love to see it in actuality!

Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Go early in the day, as the heat can get intense, and shade is limited. The best time to visit is November to April.

117. Get Wet at Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina is another one of the new “Seven Natural Wonders” of the world. It is actually made up of 275 separate waterfalls.

To visit from Brazil, fly from Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguacu. From there, you can visit the falls by either taking the Cataratas Hiking Trail to a boardwalk with views of the falls, or you can take a boat closer to the falls. You can opt for a “wet” or “dry” boat, depending on how close to the falls you’d like to get.

In Argentina, fly to Puerto Iguazu. On this side of the falls, there are more hiking trails with views of the falls. Take the green trail to the lower circuit trail- it has eight viewpoints and some places to stop and rest. Boat rides on the Argentine side are for 12+ only. A lot of visitors opt to visit both sides of the falls, crossing the border is pretty easy.

Family Travel Bucket List Antarctica:

We haven’t made it here yet, but we hear it’s amazing!

118. Explore Antactica

Head over the rough seas of Drake’s Passage to get to Antarctica! See waddling penguins, sunning seals, calving glaciers, and enormous icebergs.

The elusive Southern Lights can be seen year-round, though your best chance during the touring season is in March. Tours range from 10-20+ days in length. The summer months of December to March are the best time to visit. Best for ages 8+.

119. Step onto South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

There are no residents of these islands, and they are claimed by both Britain and Argentina. The famous explorer Ernest Shackleton is buried here. These islands along with the Falkland islands are sometimes combined with Antarctica on longer cruises.

The South Georgia Islands have kelp forests and the largest colony of emperor penguins on earth. You’ll also see albatross penguins, king penguins, fur seals, and elephant seals. Ages 10+.

There You Have It: Family Travel Bucket List

I had so much fun putting together this ultimate family vacation bucket list- the more research I do, the more places I want to add to our family travel bucket list! I hope this helped you put together some family travel bucket list ideas for your next big adventure.

Did we miss any travel adventures that are on your family bucket list? We’re always willing to add new ideas or destinations!

Need advice about traveling with kids? Check out our best family travel tips and tips to stay safe when traveling.

family travel facebook

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

Similar Posts

What is a family year out all about a family gap year, 10 amazing things to do in iceland with kids, 50+ essentials items for your day pack, 20+ tips to survive and thrive on a road trip with kids, family itinerary: 3 weeks in colombia with kids, kids road trip essentials: 70+ things to carry on a road trip in 2024.

family. kids. beach. sunset. ocean. run. group

Family Travel 

Planning family travel has never been so complicated. Before hitting the road, there are tons of questions to ask about safety, comfort levels, and bringing together family members who live in different places, especially when it comes to a multigenerational trip or that first big vacation with young kids. (Of course, there’s always the option of ripping up the holiday travel calendar entirely .) But regardless of how big or small your summer plans may be, we have plenty of ideas for how to capture the essence—and joy—of travel over the coming months, from places to stay both near and far, to trip ideas that cater to your kid's latest obsession. Plus, inspiration for future trips down the line (cue the best kid-friendly cruise itineraries to book now) and heaps of advice from well-traveled parents.

Summer inspiration and advice

7 Family Cruises to Book Right Now

7 Family Cruises to Book Right Now

By Fran Golden

Family Travel Experiences Catering to Your Kid’s Latest Obsession, From Dinosaur Digs to Rocket Launches

Family Travel Experiences Catering to Your Kid’s Latest Obsession, From Dinosaur Digs to Rocket Launches

By Debra Kamin

What to Pack for a Family Beach Trip, According to Well-Traveled Parents

What to Pack for a Family Beach Trip, According to Well-Traveled Parents

By Nila Do Simon

Places to stay

13 Airbnbs That Will Fit Your Whole Family

13 Airbnbs That Will Fit Your Whole Family

By Meredith Carey and Alex Erdekian

The Best Family Resorts in Hawaii for Your Next Getaway

The Best Family Resorts in Hawaii for Your Next Getaway

By Alex Erdekian and CNT Editors

22 Airbnbs We'd Rent Just for Their Pools

22 Airbnbs We'd Rent Just for Their Pools

By Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny

The Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

The Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

By Regan Stephens

How to School Your Children from Anywhere, According to People Who Have Done It

How to School Your Children from Anywhere, According to People Who Have Done It

By Iona Brannon

The Best Vacations for Kids at Every Age: A Trip Guide for Parents

The Best Vacations for Kids at Every Age: A Trip Guide for Parents

By CNT Editors

The Complete Guide to Family Travel

The Complete Guide to Family Travel

How to Plan a Seamless Family Camping Trip

How to Plan a Seamless Family Camping Trip

By Lauren Matison

Can We Take a Family Vacation If Our Kids Haven’t Received the COVID-19 Vaccine Yet?

Can We Take a Family Vacation If Our Kids Haven’t Received the COVID-19 Vaccine Yet?

How to Ensure Your Family Sits Together on a Plane

How to Ensure Your Family Sits Together on a Plane

By Jessica Puckett

Traveling with babies

Everything You Need to Know Before Flying With a Baby or Young Kids

Everything You Need to Know Before Flying With a Baby or Young Kids

By Laura Dannen Redman and Noah Kaufman

Camping With a Toddler Isn't Easy, But I Promise It's Worth It

Camping With a Toddler Isn't Easy, But I Promise It's Worth It

By Rachel May

Why You Should Enroll Your Baby in Airline Loyalty Programs

Why You Should Enroll Your Baby in Airline Loyalty Programs

By Sarah Firshein

What I Learned While Traveling Alone With a Baby

What I Learned While Traveling Alone With a Baby

How Do I Convince My Husband to Go to Europe With Our Two Small Children?

How Do I Convince My Husband to Go to Europe With Our Two Small Children?

By Megan Spurrell

A Primer to Breastfeeding and Pumping While Traveling

A Primer to Breastfeeding and Pumping While Traveling

By Cassie Shortsleeve

How to Survive a Red-Eye Flight With a Baby

How to Survive a Red-Eye Flight With a Baby

Traveling With an Infant: 6 Things I Learned on Our First Big Trip

Traveling With an Infant: 6 Things I Learned on Our First Big Trip

The 7 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

The 7 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

Our favorite gear.

15 Gift Ideas for Budding Travelers

15 Gift Ideas for Budding Travelers

By Juliet Izon

29 Children’s Books That Will Teach Your Kids About the World

29 Children’s Books That Will Teach Your Kids About the World

By Caitlin Morton

9 Items That Make Flying Alone With Kids Less Stressful

9 Items That Make Flying Alone With Kids Less Stressful

13 Products That Make Traveling with a Baby Easier

13 Products That Make Traveling with a Baby Easier

11 Beach Essentials for Families with Babies

11 Beach Essentials for Families with Babies

The Essential Disney Packing List

The Essential Disney Packing List

By Valerie Marino

Kid friendly activities

15 Best Things to Do With Kids in New York City

15 Best Things to Do With Kids in New York City

By Sunshine Flint

15 Best Things to Do in Paris With Kids

15 Best Things to Do in Paris With Kids

By Daisy de Plume

10 Best Things to Do in Rome with Kids

10 Best Things to Do in Rome with Kids

By Maresa Manara

9 Best Things to Do With Kids in Abu Dhabi

9 Best Things to Do With Kids in Abu Dhabi

By Melinda Healy

Best Things to Do With Kids in Barcelona

Best Things to Do With Kids in Barcelona

By Gemma Askham

12 Fun Things To Do in Austin with Kids

12 Fun Things To Do in Austin with Kids

By Stirling Kelso

12 Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids (That Are Fun for You, Too)

12 Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids (That Are Fun for You, Too)

12 Best Things to Do in Tokyo With Kids

12 Best Things to Do in Tokyo With Kids

By Diana Hubbell

15 Mother-Daughter Trip Ideas, From Nile Cruises to Sedona Getaways

15 Mother-Daughter Trip Ideas, From Nile Cruises to Sedona Getaways

A Mother and Son's Felliniesque Adventure From Puglia to Naples

A Mother and Son's Felliniesque Adventure From Puglia to Naples

By Rob LeDonne

On a Road Trip Through Oman, Navigating Grief and Parenthood

On a Road Trip Through Oman, Navigating Grief and Parenthood

By Ashlea Halpern

15 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US, From Cape Cod to Charleston

15 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US, From Cape Cod to Charleston

By Kimberly Wilson and Jamie Spain

We Asked Experts: When Is It Okay for Children to Miss School for Vacation?

We Asked Experts: When Is It Okay for Children to Miss School for Vacation?

The Best Diaper Bags for Traveling Parents

The Best Diaper Bags for Traveling Parents

9 Things to Know Before Letting Your Child Fly as an Unaccompanied Minor

9 Things to Know Before Letting Your Child Fly as an Unaccompanied Minor

By Rachel Chang

Travel Firsts: A Tanzanian Safari With My Toddler in Tow

Travel Firsts: A Tanzanian Safari With My Toddler in Tow

11 Family-Friendly Paris Hotels That Set a New Bar for Kid-Focused Amenities

11 Family-Friendly Paris Hotels That Set a New Bar for Kid-Focused Amenities

By Luciana Bellini

In Costa Rica, Reconnecting With My Teenage Daughter

In Costa Rica, Reconnecting With My Teenage Daughter

By Shoba Narayan

What Can You Do About Crying Babies on Planes? Our Editors Weigh In

What Can You Do About Crying Babies on Planes? Our Editors Weigh In

The Best Kids’ Luggage: Lightweight Suitcases & Backpacks Young Travelers Will Love

The Best Kids’ Luggage: Lightweight Suitcases & Backpacks Young Travelers Will Love

Retracing the Steps of My Ancestors, the Wild Scots of Galloway

Retracing the Steps of My Ancestors, the Wild Scots of Galloway

By Mary Winston Nicklin

A Sneak Peek at ‘Disney Treasure,’ Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship

A Sneak Peek at ‘Disney Treasure,’ Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship

By Megan duBois

Bye-Bye, Baby: This Airline Is Creating an Adults-Only Section

Bye-Bye, Baby: This Airline Is Creating an Adults-Only Section

By Charlie Hobbs

Will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy .

family travel facebook

Family Travel Radio

Eighty family travel radio podcast episodes were recorded up through june of 2020. the information provided within each is invaluable; however, please keep in mind that the majority of it was recorded prior to covid-19 shutdowns and restrictions. enjoy the content below and stay tuned for new episodes in the future, inclusive family vacations: lgbtq families — episode 80, family travel radio believes in family vacations where all are welcome. today’s guest helped pioneer vacation planning for lgbtq families and their friends..

EPISODE NOTES

Family travel anytime: Virtual travel activities for kids — Episode 79

Family travel isn’t canceled virtual travel allows your family to explore the world together—even when you’re not able to travel., safe family vacations: dude ranches — episode 78, learn why dude ranches are the ultimate all-inclusive vacation for families. they are also a great covid19 vacation option for many different reasons., puddles, passports, and a pandemic — episode 77, the sparrow family was prepared for just about anything when they left home in september 2019 for a trip around the world. one thing the san antonio, texas, family wasn’t ready for was a global pandemic., the most interesting man in st. louis explains the art of family adventure — episode 76, derek loudermilk speaks about moving a family to a new country, running a business remotely, and building community while traveling, a new york city family finds solace in the ohio suburbs — episode 75, facing the growing threat of coronavirus in mid-march, brittany baron and her husband mike left their apartment in new york city with their three boys and took refuge at her in-laws home in ohio., taking family time at home with liling pang of trekaroo — episode 74, today we check in with liling pang from her family’s home in pacifica, ca. the coronavirus may have grounded family travel, but it can’t take away your family time. we hope you’ll join us in taking this time together to discover new ways to engage with the world—from a distance., from wandering the world to wondering what’s next — episode 73, we check in with kevin wagar from wanderingwagars.com. kevin and his family are currently quarantined in their home after returning from a family trip to egypt., travel will go on w/greg kaminsky — episode 72, a quick check-in with greg kaminsky, co-founder of r family vacations — the first company to offer customized vacations for lgbt families and friends., absolutely necessary family travel – live from the road with erin kirkland — episodes 68-71.

For the foreseeable future, Family Travel Radio will focus on how social distancing due to the coronavirus threat is impacting how families are engaging with the world—and with each other.

Follow the Family Travel Association’s Facebook page for a series of discussions about how real families are making the best of a difficult situation while being socially responsible and staying healthy.

Receive an alert when we go live by turning notifications on here: https://www.facebook.com/familytravelassociation/

LISTEN & LEARN MORE

Engaging with the world—from a distance — Episode 67

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE

Embracing the unexpected & facing the unknown — Episode 66

Fearlessly traveling the world with her son who has cerebral palsy taught this mom a priceless lesson about embracing the unexpected and facing the unknown., will your legacy keep traveling — episode 65, positively influencing the way a child experiences the world creates a legacy that will travel on long after you’re gone., what will your travel legacy be family travel radio wants to know., families are traveling inside europe — episode 64, one trip to europe can change the way your family sees the world forever., this episode takes you inside what matters (and what doesn’t) when planning your family’s first european family adventure..

Inside Europe - Happy Travelers - Family Travel Radio

The Family Travel Experts Go Live! — Episode 63

This episode features two amazing moms discussing the many challenges families face when planning vacations., the discussion, moderated by richard d’ambrosio, was recorded during an fta facebook live event..

#TakeFamilyTime Take the Pledge

Real Families Talk Real Travel — Episode 62

family travel facebook

A five-part episode featuring brief interviews with real families about why family vacations are so important—even when they don’t go exactly according to plan…

Take the pledge to prioritize family vacations at takefamilytime.com, taking family time is taking off — episode 61, the #takefamilytime pledge has clearly struck a nerve with families., pledging to take family time — episode 60.

family travel facebook

The FTA is rewarding families who commit to prioritizing family vacations.

Ancestry travel: exploring your family’s heritage — episode 59.

family travel facebook

Where in the world are your family’s roots?

Ancestry travel allows your family to explore the world with a purpose—to learn about the people and places that contribute to your heritage.

Nuggets of Family Travel Advice — Episode 58

family travel facebook

With her endless nuggets of family travel advice, Ranjana Armstrong is changing the way families see (and hear) the world.

Truth about family travel blogs — episode 57.

family travel facebook

Do you read blogs to help with travel planning? By better understanding how travel blogs work, we can get a better handle on how, and if, to use the information we find in blogs when planning our family trips.

Family glamping: comfortably wild vacations — episode 55.

family travel facebook

Prepare yourself for uncommon adventure, as the “World’s Longest Honeymooners” share their favorite glamping spots for families in North America.

Family bonding through vagabonding — episode 54.

family travel facebook

The Scott family simplified their lives by focusing less on comfort and more on what is most important to them: exploring the world and spending time together.

Mega-ship cruising: is it right for your family – episode 53.

family travel facebook

Maybe you’re just not the mega-ship cruising type? It’s OK—you’re not alone.

Finland for families – episode 52.

family travel facebook

No matter what time of year, one-of-kind experiences await your family in Finland.

Ftr live making learning fun for kids – episode 51.

family travel facebook

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the Family Travel Association Summit at Custer State Park in South Dakota. Tune in for three unique perspectives about how the travel industry is incorporating educational opportunities into family travel experiences.

Adding vision to youth’s lives – episode 49.

family travel facebook

Teach your kids to be proud of where they come from and to take that same pride out into the world.

A life-changing year abroad – episode 48.

family travel facebook

Raising global children means bringing travel into their education—and education into their travel.

Embracing the tingles in your belly – episode 47.

family travel facebook

Lily Huckleberry just might be your kids’ new best friend. Meet the author behind the popular children’s book character who encourages kids to be curious about the world and always ready for adventure.

From dream to reality: round-the-world trips for families – episode 46.

family travel facebook

Ready to dream bigger?

Visit Airtreks.com/FTR and take the first step towards making your dream of a round-the-world trip with your family a reality.

Affordable Outdoor Family Adventures – Episode 45

family travel facebook

Affordable, adventurous family-friendly vacations full of natural beauty and outdoor activities abound in and around our national public lands.

Family cruising with norwegian – episode 44.

family travel facebook

Ready to set sail? Enjoy two unique perspectives on the cruise experience on one of the most popular cruise lines for families.

Creating your travel legacy – episode 43.

family travel facebook

Travel like your legacy depends on it (because it does!).

Many years ago, aaron schlein’s grandmother gave him a generous gift: the gift of travel. today, aaron honors her legacy by sharing that gift with his own kids—and by helping other parents do the same., what will your travel legacy be, families traveling by piggyback – episode 42.

family travel facebook

One innovative product is helping families travel further, climb higher, and explore longer—all while smiling ear-to-ear.

Aaron schlein chats with bryan lifshitz, the co-creator of the piggyback rider, a product that helps young children and children with special needs experience more of the world than ever before., affection for planning disney vacations – episode 41.

family travel facebook

Endless adventures lie beyond the horizon. A genuine affection for Disney inspired Kim Anwar to help families make their own magical memories.

Best national parks for families – episode 40.

family travel facebook

Plan a visit to a U.S. National Park!

When it comes to bang for your family vacation buck, U.S. National Parks are tough to beat. In this episode, we dive deep into several of the best National Parks for families.

Why Family Vacations Matter – Episode 39

family travel facebook

There’s just something incredible about family vacations.

Family Travel Radio is excited to announce the launch of #TakeFamilyTime, an advocacy campaign that highlights the importance of traveling as a family. #TakeFamilyTime also raises awareness about the alarming trend of American parents not using all their vacation days.

Waving the Family Travel Banner with Rainer Jenss (from the Dramatic Travels Vault) – Episode 38

family travel facebook

Ready for a little slice of history?

This episode features the first conversation ever between Family Travel Association founder Rainer Jenss and podcast host Aaron Schlein. It was this very conversation that ultimately led to the creation of Family Travel Radio, which launched just a few months later. Aaron’s interview with Rainer originally aired in May 2018 on Dramatic Travels .

Kids Are a Trip! With Kirsten Maxwell- Episode 37

family travel facebook

Step into the vault!

For the month of July, we’ll be featuring archived interviews from Dramatic Travels —the podcast that spawned Family Travel Radio. This week’s episode features Kirsten Maxwell from Kids are a Trip in an interview from September 2018 .  

Meaningful Family Vacations with Patricia Monahan – Episode 36

family travel facebook

Step into the vault! All month, we’ll be featuring archived interviews from Dramatic Travels —the podcast that spawned Family Travel Radio.

This episode features Patricia Monahan from Our Whole Village in an interview from June 2018 .

Taking your kids outside their comfort zone with Caz Makepeace – Episode 35

family travel facebook

This episode features Caz Makepeace from ytravelblog.com in an interview from May 2018.

Seeing the World Again Through a Child’s Eyes with Johnny Jet – Episode 34

family travel facebook

This week’s episode features new dad Johnny Jet from JohnnyJet.com in an interview from February 2018.

Living Proof That Families Can Travel Better, Longer and More Often – Episode 33

family travel facebook

Head into summer with some travel hacking tips from one of the best in the business.

Family vacations for intrepid travelers – episode 32.

family travel facebook

Taking your kids to off-the-beaten-path destinations is absolutely possible and delivers an opportunity for shared adventure and growth. Discover what separates intrepid family adventures from other types of vacations.

You can take your kids everywhere – episode 31.

family travel facebook

Take your kids everywhere (seriously!)

Eric Stoen is just your typical dad–who happens to have traveled to all seven continents with his kids. Tune in and learn how you can do the same.

Family Adventure Planning in the Real World – Episode 30

family travel facebook

Family adventures await!

Having a trusted travel advisor in your corner makes it easier to step outside your comfort zone.

Family Vacations With Purpose: Discover Corps – Episode 29

family travel facebook

Rekindle your global citizenship and immerse yourself in a purpose-filled vacation.

Vacations with Purpose are for families and friends! Each trip includes comfortable accommodations, flexibility, and fun–all while spending time volunteering with local organizations.

Traveling with Other People’s Kids: The Niece Project – Episode 28

family travel facebook

You don’t have to have your own kids to share the gift of travel.

No kids of your own? No problem! Traveling with your nieces and nephews is a wonderful way to build relationships with them.

Capturing Family Vacation Memories – Episode 27

family travel facebook

There are a few key ingredients that go into creating lasting family vacation memories.

Journey Jotter Books helps you build a travel journal as unique as your child, no matter what your destination or budget.

Mother and Daughter Vacations – Episode 26

family travel facebook

Don’t wait until those rocky teen years start taking one-on-one trips with your kids.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, this episode of Family Travel Radio is all about planning and taking mother/daughter vacations. Family travel writer and podcaster Tamara Gruber is our guest.

Britain With Kids: Moments That Mattered – Episode 25, Part 5

family travel facebook

This episode is part of Aaron Schlein’s podcast series recapping a real-life family adventure through London and the UK.

In this final installment, Aaron recaps the moments that mattered most from his family’s trip to Britain.

Family Accommodations in Britain: The AirBnB Experience – Episode 25, Part 4

family travel facebook

In this episode, Aaron discusses things to consider when selecting an Airbnb for your family in Britain.

Britain From Behind the Wheel – Episode 25, Part 3

family travel facebook

In this episode, Aaron discusses tips and tactics for driving in Britain with your family. He goes into great detail about overcoming the challenge of driving on the left side of the road.

A Family Day Trip to Stonehenge – Episode 25, Part 2

family travel facebook

In this episode, Aaron discusses his family’s full-day road trip to Stonehenge. Was it worth it?

Exploring London With Kids – Episode 25, Part 1

family travel facebook

In this episode, Aaron discusses how jet lag impacted the start of his family’s trip as well as the highs and lows of exploring London with his kids.

Britain: A Practically Perfect Family Vacation – Episode 24

family travel facebook

Family Travel Radio is headed to Britain!

Be sure to subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already. Aaron is also taking over the FTA’s social media during his family’s trip to London .

Fiji: Where Happiness Finds Your Family – Episode 23

family travel facebook

A transformational experience awaits your family in Fiji. Take home beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Autism-friendly family vacations – episode 22.

family travel facebook

Travel is possible for ALL families—even for those with disabilities.

Many travel agents and destinations are becoming accessible to families with children with Autism and other Special Needs. There are more family vacation options than ever before!

Ethical Animal Experiences for Families – Episode 21

family travel facebook

What better way to connect with your family on vacation than by sharing a volunteer adventure overseas!?

Animal Experience International offers safe, ethical, and authentic volunteer experiences. They only partner with locally run conservation and animal programs and make sure that all volunteering absolutely does help the animals and the environment.

Finding the Right Resort For Your Family – Episode 20

family travel facebook

What is your family’s ideal resort experience?

Family scuba diving vacations – episode 19.

family travel facebook

Family SCUBA vacations are easy, fun, and memorable for everyone.

At Kids Sea Camp, you can help save sharks from extinction, restore ancient corals, explore sunken wrecks, jungle bike through a 200-year-old sugar plantation, take off on a magical cruise around Darwin’s Arch, kayak the Rock Islands of Palau and dive below the majestic Pitons of St. Lucia.

Family Accommodations: Resort Residences – Episode 18

family travel facebook

Resort residences offer families the space of a home and the amenities of a hotel—without the commitment of a timeshare.

Barcelona for families – episode 17.

family travel facebook

Barcelona is family friendly and a great experience for kids of all ages.

This episode is all about Barcelona, Spain for families. If you’re planning a family vacation to Spain, be sure to include Barcelona! Barcelona also makes a great option when you have just a week in the winter or spring.

Family Cruise Vacations: There’s Something For Everyone! – Episode 16

family travel facebook

Show your kids the world. Unpack once.

Once upon a time, cruising was reserved for the very wealthy. These days, cruise ships have become destinations of their own with lovely accommodations, top-notch dining, and activities for the whole family. Throw in a few exotic ports of call, and the question becomes: is there a better family vacation?

Fearlessly Planning a Family Vacation – Episode 15

family travel facebook

You don’t have to lose your mind planning the perfect family vacation.

Sally Black from VacationKids.com demonstrates how she helps her clients fearlessly navigate the planning of a multi-generational trip. This episode was recorded live on stage at the New York Times Travel Show in New York City.

Affordable and Fun International Air Travel for Families – Episode 14

family travel facebook

One airline is changing the game when it comes to affordable international family vacations.

Norwegian Air offers irresistibly low fares that allow parents to take their kids overseas without breaking the bank—or sacrificing safety and comfort. Anders Lindström joins us to chat about everything you need to know about your Norwegian Air experience.

We’ll also check out a fun new book from Lonely Planet Kids that prepares little ones for air travel by teaching them all about how airports work.

I Love NY Family Vacations – Episode 13

family travel facebook

New York State is the ideal vacation destination for families with fun and unique experiences for all ages and interests from year-round outdoor activities, to cultural institutions, to exciting adventures, to one-of-a-kind, world-class attractions that you can’t find anywhere else.

Ross Levi, Executive Director and Vice President of the Division of Tourism at Empire State Development, leads the iconic I LOVE NEW YORK tourism program and helps coordinate marketing efforts to increase awareness and promote statewide tourism visitation.

Affordable Family Vacations: Mindset is the Key – Episode 12

family travel facebook

Life-changing family vacations don’t have to break the bank. Make every day an adventure, and your kids will love being wherever they are.

In this episode, Erin Kirkland joins us to discuss affordable family vacations that don’t forsake adventure or meaningful experiences. Erin is an author, freelance writer, and Alaska’s only family travel journalist. Her guidebook series titled Alaska On the Go is required reading for families exploring the 49th state with children.

Accessible Family Vacations: Traveling “Curb Free” With Cory Lee – Episode 11

Family travel radio is all about helping families overcome obstacles that limit family vacation options. today we tackle one of those obstacles head on: accessibility..

Cory was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy at the age of two, and doctors told Sandy that he would never walk. Did that stop them from traveling the world together?

Cory and Sandy have visited six continents together. While it may be difficult at times, they’re determined to show others that anything is possible with enough determination.

The Secrets To Traveling With Reluctant Teens – Episode 10

Can it be true your teenager says he would rather spend time with friends than travel with you. here’s how to take the vacation of a lifetime with your reluctant teen..

In this episode of Family Travel Radio, we’re speaking with a leading authority on traveling with teens who don’t want to travel with you. Shellie Bailey-Shah from KidTripster holds nothing back in talking about why teenagers may not want to travel with their parents. Then, Shellie shares nine specific actions you can take to win over your disinterested teen.

Dude Ranch Vacations for Families – Episode 9

Dude ranch vacations offer authentic, transformational experiences for children and adults., flying with babies and toddlers – episode 8, flying with babies and toddlers is about more than just survival..

In this episode of Family Travel Radio, we’re tackling one of the greatest fears for parents when it comes to travel: flying with babies and toddlers. Trish McDermott joins us to share her hard-won wisdom about savoring the experience of flying with your tiniest travelers.

Multi-Generational Travel: Making The Most Of Your Most Valuable Assets – Episode 7

Experience the magic that happens when the generations come together for an unforgettable family trip..

Whether it’s simple or exotic, the shared experience of a family vacation is a powerful way to bring the generations together. In this episode, travel adviser Jessica Griscavage shares the best ways to plan your multi-generational family trip and start making memories.

Off the Beaten Path: Washington, DC & Dingle, Ireland – Episode 6

Family travel radio is veering off the main road to explore the hidden treasures that await your family in washington, dc and dingle, ireland., emerging family destinations: cuba, iceland & zimbabwe – episode 5, cuba, iceland, and zimbabwe may not immediately jump into your mind when you think about ideal family travel destinations. that is about to change..

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the 2018 Family Travel Association Summit in Bermuda.

Family Road Trips: Bring Back the Magic – Episode 4

Family travel radio is hitting the highway to rediscover the magic of the family road trip..

Today on Family Travel Radio, we’re talking about family road trips. Caroline Beteta from Visit California shares several of her favorite family adventures on the roads of the Golden State, as well as some exciting news about one of California’s most iconic highways. Later, we’ll chat with the “King of the Road Trip” himself, author Richard Ratay. Richard shares some of his secrets for recreating the magical family road trips of yesteryear .

Unique Tours: Wild Africa & Mystical Peru – Episode 3

Discover two unique and life-changing family tours in this first installment of the “unique tours” series on family travel radio..

Kelly Rossiter from Tauck is our guide as we travel to Africa for a life-changing family safari. Then, we’ll head to mystical Peru and explore the wondrous Machu Picchu with our kids.

Angkor Wat & Ancient Wonders for Families – Episode 2

Explore the temples of angkor wat and other ancient wonders with your family in this episode of family travel radio..

Today on Family Travel Radio, we’re traveling to one of the majestic ancient wonders of the world—the temples of Ankor Wat in Cambodia.

Family Travel Radio is on the Air! – Episode 1

Aaron schlein chats with fta president & founder, rainer jenss, about his vision for family travel radio..

Family Travel Radio helps families like yours discover the world of possibilities that family travel has to offer. At the Family Travel Association, we celebrate the power travel has to change children’s lives. We’re here to deliver the inspiration and information you need to share the power of travel with the children in your life.

family travel facebook

Meet the Board: Jenn Lee

Jenn Lee, Travel Planners International’s VP of Industry Engagement and Support, isn’t shy about her obsession for guiding and leading today’s entrepreneurial-minded travel advisor community. So, it was a natural fit for her to join the board o

family travel facebook

Meet the Board: Stephanie Lee

Stephanie Lee is the founder of Host Agency Reviews (HAR), a website that connects over 70k visitors a month to travel industry resources. HAR helps people looking to join the travel industry the roadmap to successfully start and grow their travel ag

family travel facebook

Meet the Board: Tamara Gruber

A former marketing executive, Tamara Gruber launched We3Travel.com in 2013 to share her passion for family travel. Now a travel writer and podcaster based in New England, Gruber works to make it easier for others to plan vacations by providing de

family travel facebook

Trends in the Family Market Recap

Recently, the Family Travel Association presented an hour-long Lunch & Learn webinar covering the latest Trends in the Family Market, hosted by three experts in the industry. Here are just a few key highlights from the full discussion, which is a

family travel facebook

Meet the Board: Karlene Angus-Smith

Karlene Angus-Smith has been with Sandals’ Unique Vacations since September 2002, working her way up over the years to her current role as Associate Director of Industry Affairs. Her new position allows her to work along with the Director of Indust

family travel facebook

FTA Member Spotlight: Family Travels and Adventures

Kristin Luz has been traveling her entire adult life, so it only made sense to help others do the same. From trekking the Inca Trail to sailing on a 50-foot yacht in Greece and visiting village markets in Morocco, Luz and her family have done and see

family travel facebook

2023 US Family Travel Survey Results

The 2023 Family Travel Association annual family travel survey highlights post-pandemic trends, positive attitudes and opportunities for growth. Today, the Family Travel Association released findings from its 2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey on family

family travel facebook

Why Cruise Lines Make For the Perfect Family Trip

There are a lot of benefits to working with the largest cruise line in the world, especially for families. As of May 2023, Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 25 ships, with another in the works, across 15 different home ports spread across the

family travel facebook

FTA Member Spotlight: Il Viaggio Travel

Sustainability, accessibility, education—Il Viaggio Travel does it all. While based in Costa Rica, “Il Viaggio” is actually Italian for “travel,” inspired by co-founder Stephanie Sheehy’s family and heritage. The initial hope was to draw

family travel facebook

Welcome to the Family: Discover DeKalb

Just outside of Atlanta, Georgia lies a haven for family travel. North of the downtown area, Discover DeKalb—a new FTA member—represents a group of cities and towns with a hugely diverse selection of travel offerings. Michael Vescio, Director of

family travel facebook

Lunch & Learn Recap: Cowboy-Cations

Every few weeks, the Family Travel Association is hosting a 30-minute virtual Lunch & Learn with suppliers, industry experts and panel discussions. Being an FTA member, you can not just attend these webinars, but also access the recordings at any

family travel facebook

safetravelRX: 24/7 Peace of Mind

Would you know how to call for an emergency responder in Italy? Could you find a pharmacist in Egypt that speaks English? What about the latest health guidelines in Costa Rica? Even if you’re a seasoned traveler, you can’t account for every situa

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

  • Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
  • She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
  • In Ecuador, she climbed an active volcano, and in Guatemala, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

Insider Today

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I lived in Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

Related stories

In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Aztec or Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. In the future, I plan on hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: The true cost of Mexico's Maya Train

family travel facebook

  • Main content
  • Investigates
  • Houston Life
  • Newsletters

WEATHER ALERT

4 warnings in effect for 5 counties in the area

Hey houston ✈️🌍 2024 travel tips if you’re planning an adventure.

Ahmed Humble , Digital Content Producer

HOUSTON – Summer is almost here and before you know it, you’ll be hitting the road or taking that flight to your next adventure!

MORE: Travel prices increase this summer! Here are 3 budget-friendly vacay options, money saving hacks

However, anyone whose ever traveled knows things can go wrong, so KPRC 2 consulted Doug Shupe with AAA Texas to get some tips before you start booking flights or requesting time off work.

Key Takeaways:

  • Analysts are predicting they’re projecting that 4.9 billion people will travel globally this year. That’s going to be a record higher than the 4.5 billion who traveled around the world back in 2019 before the pandemic began.
  • Some domestic carriers have been consolidating routes due to smaller regional jet services in some areas and hiring airline staff.
  • Think about where you want to go and book the flight now - the sooner the better! This is because the cost of airfares is ALWAYS up in the summer. Consider flying out on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or a Saturday. Those tend to be the cheapest because you don’t have as many business travelers on those days,
  • Consider working with a trusted travel advisor, to help bundle your vacation - packages include airfare and accommodations. And if you’re a AAA member, there are even more savings and benefits you may be eligible for. NOTE: You don’t have to be a member to work with AAA advisors, but Shope says it’s highly recommended.
  • Don’t let high gas prices deter you; consider a road trip, as you can make your own schedule and you’ll save a lot more money than you would for airfare.

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Ahmed humble.

Historian, educator, writer, expert on "The Simpsons," amateur photographer, essayist, film & tv reviewer and race/religious identity scholar. Joined KPRC 2 in Spring 2024 but has been featured in various online newspapers and in the Journal of South Texas' Fall 2019 issue.

Recommended Videos

Mother falls 140 feet to her death while hiking with family

SEDONA, Ariz. ( KPHO /Gray News) - A hike in Sedona, Arizona ended in tragedy when a woman fell off a cliff and died.

Zaynab Joseph was hiking the Bear Mountain trail in the Coconino National Forest with her husband and 1-year-old child Monday. According to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, the 40-year-old then, for an unknown reason, fell off the 140-foot cliff.

A group of hikers nearby heard yelling and went to help. As others called 911, one person hiked down the embankment and found Joseph still breathing. However, she died shortly after.

The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office reported 40-year-old Zaynab Joseph died shortly after...

The sheriff’s office reported Sedona Fire arrived at the scene and confirmed Joseph’s death.

Her husband and child were flown off Bear Mountain in a Department of Public Safety Ranger helicopter as search and rescue volunteers and crews with the Department of Public Safety recovered Joseph’s body.

The sheriff’s office, search and rescue team and Department of Public Safety Ranger helicopter all assisted.

The sheriff’s office reported the family was visiting from California and had rented an Airbnb in Sedona.

They also reported investigators talked with hikers as they were coming off the mountain and that the sheriff’s office is looking into the events that led to Joseph’s death.

Copyright 2024 KPHO via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Blue Mesa Bridge in April 2024.

TRAVEL ALERT: Highway 50 closed indefinitely due to safety concerns caused by cracking

TRAVEL ALERT: I-70 westbound closed near Horizon Drive, hazmat crews called in for diesel spill

TRAVEL ALERT: I-70 westbound has reopened following crash, say police

Sign outside the Little Mavs daycare.

New information on child abuse case allegations at Little Mavericks daycare center

Colorado Mesa University

Staff members from Little and Mini Mavericks fired after child abuse accusations

Latest news.

The DVFD attempted to control the fire and requested assistance from the Bureau of Land...

Rattlesnake Gulch Fire burns through power poles, trees, and historic waterwheel

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., and the House Republican leadership meet with...

House on the brink of approving Ukraine and Israel aid after months of struggle

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., talks on his phone on the way to a closed-door...

Senate passes reauthorization of key US surveillance program just after midnight deadline

Senate votes Friday to advance key security authority as the clock ticks down to midnight...

Senate votes Friday to advance key security authority as clock ticks down to midnight deadline

Syracuse helmets shown on the field before an NCAA college football game against Wake Forest...

NCAA approves coach-to-player helmet communication for 2024 football season

  • International

April 11, 2024 - Israel-Hamas war

By Heather Chen , Antoinette Radford, Tori B. Powell , Aditi Sangal and Elise Hammond , CNN

Our live coverage of Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza has moved  here .

UN committee fails to reach consensus on full Palestinian membership, Security Council president says

From CNN’s Richard Roth and Michael Rios

A specialized UN committee failed to reach a consensus Thursday on Palestinian membership in the United Nations, according to the president of the UN Security Council.

Two-thirds of the committee members were in favor of moving on with membership, with many countries arguing that “Palestine fulfills all the criteria that are required” to be granted full state member status, Malta's Ambassador and Security Council President Vanessa Frazier said. 

She added that no one explicitly objected to the membership qualifications.

Frazier also said she would circulate a draft report on the deliberations as soon as Friday. If the committee doesn’t agree on the report, it could hold another meeting to iron out any differences.

Asked whether the process of deliberating Palestinian membership in the committee is now over, Frazier said, “Unless the next step of agreeing (to) the report of the committee warrants another meeting to iron out the differences, it’s not foreseen that there would be any further committee action.”

But she noted that any UN Security Council member can still table a resolution to vote on Palestinian membership at any time, regardless of the committee's report.

The US and Middle East brace for a possible Iran attack that could escalate the conflict. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

People attend the funeral procession for seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members killed in a strike in Syria, which Iran blamed on Israel, in Tehran on April 5.

Concerns about a possible Iranian attack against Israel has prompted many diplomatic conversations around the globe.

Here are some developments on diplomacy around the threat of an attack:

  • Iran's statement: The imperative for Tehran to "punish" Israel for the deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week might have been avoided if the attack had been condemned at the United Nations, Iran’s Mission to the UN said Thursday.
  • US and UK diplomacy: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with the foreign ministers of Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday night and Thursday morning to tell them that countries should be urging Iran not to escalate the conflict in the Middle East after  threats made by Tehran against Israel,  according to a State Department spokesperson. The top US general for the Middle East is also in Israel . Additionally, Britain's foreign secretary warned his Iranian counterpart on Thursday that Tehran “must not draw” the Middle East into a wider conflict .
  • Israel receives US support: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke with Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The US officials expressed the country's support for Israel against Iranian threats. Gallant warned that such an attack could lead to a regional escalation.
  • Travel restrictions: The US State Department restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran. “The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events,” the alert noted. US officials  are on high alert  for a potential retaliatory strike by Iran or its proxies against Israel.

Meanwhile, here's some other updates:

  • Hamas on hostages: A member of Hamas' political bureau said   a prisoner-hostage exchange is being discussed as part of larger ceasefire negotiations. "Part of negotiations is to reach a ceasefire agreement to have enough time and safety to collect final and more precise data" on the hostages held in Gaza, Basem Naim said in a statement on Thursday. "Because they (hostages) are in different palaces, (being held) by different groups, some of them are under the rubble killed with our own people, and we negotiate to get heavy equipment for this purpose."
  • Updates on aid to Gaza: It is clear that Israel is working to ramp up humanitarian aid to Gaza, but it has not yet implemented all of the measures it has announced, a top United Nations humanitarian official said. Aid coming in trucks from Israel has to be "segregated from water, from food, from medical items" before it goes into Gaza, said Jamie McGoldrick, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Jerusalem. “Getting 400 trucks from Kerem Shalom doesn't mean 400 trucks go into Gaza,” he said, adding that the logistical complications are numerous, and take time to resolve. He also said Israel’s restrictions on movement inside the strip complicate matters.

Anera charity resumes work in Gaza after pausing when Israeli strike killed 7 World Central Kitchen staff

From CNN's Tala Alrajjal and Mohammed Tawfeeq

American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera) has resumed Gaza operations "after a temporary pause" following an airstrike that killed seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers on April 1.

"As you know, the decision to temporarily pause our operations was not an easy one. We followed the direction of our staff in Gaza, who've faced death, loss, and destruction since the start of the war," Sean Carroll, the president and CEO of Anera, said in a statement on Thursday. "After the killing of Anera staff member Mousa Shawwa , followed by the attack that killed seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen, we made the difficult but necessary decision to pause aid operations on April 2," Carroll added in the statement.

Carroll said Israeli authorities informed him during a meeting Thursday that "certain measures would be taken to protect humanitarian aid workers in Gaza – including Anera's staff."

"With the full support of our Gaza team, we have determined that the circumstances have changed sufficiently to resume our vital humanitarian work in Gaza," Carroll said. 

Anera on Thursday resumed "full operations in Gaza to deliver meals, food parcels, hygiene kits, tents, medical treatments, and more to families in dire need," according to the statement.

Iran says its imperative to punish Israel could have been avoided had UN Security Council condemned attack

From CNN’s Natalie Barr and Adam Pourahmadi

Emergency services work at a building hit by an air strike in Damascus, Syria, on April 1.

The imperative for Tehran to "punish" Israel for the deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week might have been avoided if the attack had been condemned at the United Nations, Iran’s Mission to the UN said Thursday.

“Had the UN Security Council condemned the Zionist regime’s reprehensible act of aggression on our diplomatic premises in Damascus and subsequently brought to justice its perpetrators, the imperative for Iran to punish this rogue regime might have been obviated," the  mission said on X.

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack on April 1, according to a statement from the UN spokesperson Stephan Dujarric. A Security Council discussion was held on April 2 to discuss the attack, but differences among members prevented any formal action or condemnation from taking place.

The United States is on high alert and actively preparing for a “significant” attack by Iran targeting Israeli or American assets in the region  in response to the strike in Damascus  that killed top Iranian commanders.

UK foreign secretary warns Iran not to draw Middle East into wider conflict

From CNN's Natalie Barr

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron speaks during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, DC, on April 9.

Britain's foreign secretary warned his Iranian counterpart on Thursday that Tehran “must not draw” the Middle East into a wider conflict following a series of escalating threats made by Iran toward Israel.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron told Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian that the United Kingdom was "deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks," according to a post on X .

Iran's state-aligned Tasnim news agency on Thursday reported that Amir-Abdollahian had told Cameron that the silence from the UK and the United States following Israel’s attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week only served to encourage Israel to continue waging war in Gaza and expand its conflict in the region.

US and Israeli defense leaders discuss fears of Iranian attack

From CNN’s Michael Conte in Washington, DC, Tamar Michaelis in Jerusalem and Larry Register in Atlanta

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant today to “reaffirm the US ironclad commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies,” according to a Pentagon spokesperson.

The call comes a day after Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Israel " must be punished and it will be" following a strike on an Iranian embassy compound in Syria that killed seven Iranian officials.

Israel “will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory,” the statement read, adding that the two defense leaders also discussed detailed preparations “for an Iranian attack against the State of Israel.”

Gallant said an Iranian attack on Israel could lead to a regional escalation.

It is the second discussion held between Gallant and Austin over the past week, according to the statement. Gallant expressed his appreciation for Austin’s personal commitment to the security of the State of Israel and for the deepening cooperation between the defense establishments of both countries, as well as between the Israel Defense Forces and US CENTCOM.

State Department restricts personnel travel in Israel amid concerns over Iranian threats

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

The US State Department has restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran.

“Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva areas until further notice,” a  security alert  posted by the US Embassy Thursday said. “U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel.” “The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events,” the alert noted.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said he would not “speak to the specific assessments that led to us to restrict our employees and family members’ personal travel, but clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel.”

“We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days,” Miller said. “Israel is in a very tough neighborhood and we have been monitoring the security situation. You saw us slightly adjust for travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict and we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground.”

US officials are on high alert for a potential retaliatory strike by Iran or its proxies against Israel.

Hamas says ceasefire with Israel is essential to collect data on hostages held in Gaza by different groups

From CNN's Abeer Salman and Mohammed Tawfeeq

A member of Hamas' political bureau said   a prisoner-hostage exchange is being discussed as part of larger ceasefire negotiations.

"Part of negotiations is to reach a ceasefire agreement to have enough time and safety to collect final and more precise data" on the hostages held in Gaza Basem Naim said in a statement on Thursday. "Because they (hostages) are in different palaces, (being held) by different groups, some of them are under the rubble killed with our own people, and we negotiate to get heavy equipment for this purpose," he added.

Naim's statement was in response to questions from media outlets about whether Hamas has been rejecting the latest proposal, which was made in Cairo over the weekend, because it can not release 40 hostages in the first phase of a three-stage ceasefire deal.

According to an Israeli official and a source familiar with the discussions, Hamas indicated it is currently unable to identify and track down those 40 Israeli hostages, raising fears that more hostages may be dead than are publicly known. 

CNN's record of the conditions of the hostages also suggests there are fewer than 40 living hostages who meet the proposed criteria.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

an image, when javascript is unavailable

  • Motorcycles
  • Car of the Month
  • Destinations
  • Men’s Fashion
  • Watch Collector
  • Art & Collectibles
  • Vacation Homes
  • Celebrity Homes
  • New Construction
  • Home Design
  • Electronics
  • Fine Dining
  • Aston Martin
  • Costa Palmas
  • L’Atelier
  • Les Marquables de Martell
  • Reynolds Lake Oconee
  • Scott Dunn Travel
  • Wilson Audio
  • 672 Wine Club
  • Sports & Leisure
  • Health & Wellness
  • Best of the Best
  • The Ultimate Gift Guide
  • What It’s Like to Stay at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort, Turkey’s Answer to Aspen

Skiing and Turkey may not be synonymous, but with sprawling chalets and a booming après scene, it's worth leaving Istanbul.

Demetrius simms, demetrius simms's most recent stories.

  • A Park-View Aerie in One of N.Y.C.’s Buzziest Towers Lands on the Market for $33 million
  • An Aspen Estate Sells for $108 Million, Becoming Colorado’s Most Expensive Residential Sale
  • Share This Article

The exterior of the chalet at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

Related Stories

  • This ‘Bridgerton’ Themed Trip in England Will Take You to Where the Series Was Filmed
  • This African Safari Lodge Just Got a Luxe Makeover. Here’s a Look Inside.
  • Amsterdam Bans New Hotel Construction to Help Curb Tourism

Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

The exterior of Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

What’s the deal?

From ancient baths to Dolmabahçe Palace , Turkey is choc-full of rich history and raw beauty. But if you already know about the Ottoman Empire, the delicious meze, and the Bosphorous (the international waterway allowing passage between the Black Sea and Mediterranean), why not try something a lot different; for example, the skiing .

Turkey’s first artificial snow machine is put to use in the area, surrounded by a verdant forest—guaranteeing you’ll be able to land free-skiing Booter and Alley-Oop tricks safely. Several dining establishments, plus two bars are also accessible to guests for apr è s-ski bites and entertainment. But the posh amenities in select rooms might be enough to keep you bedside, too.

The best room

A chalet at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

But if you are traveling to the property as a couple or simply crave unfettered privacy, we recommend the grand chalets that span two floors with four bedrooms and ensuite baths. These larger-than-life quarters come with 24-hour butler and shuttle services, plus breakfasts made daily to your liking daily. A backlit wooden display highlights the living room with a soaring ceiling, while the nearby outdoor jacuzzi overlooks Kartalkaya’s powdery mountains. There’s even a massage room for decompressing.

The Rundow n

The slopes at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

Did they greet you by name at check-in? No, but I was warmly received with smiles and my luggage was carefully attended to. Welcome drink ready and waiting when you arrived? Bonus point if it wasn’t just fruit juice. Yes, I was handed a glass of Champagne—which is great for celebrating. But after reaching the hotel’s high altitude, a glass of water seemed much more appealing. Private butler for every room?

I wasn’t so lucky to have an Alfred on call, but guests of the luxury chalets do.

Is the sheet thread count higher than 300?

The linens used in the rooms have an 82-thread count and are made of 100 percent Turkish cotton sourced from Kahramanmaraş on the southern side of Turkey. This wasn’t a huge issue for me, especially after spending afternoons on the slopes, but I will say they were not as sumptuous as you might expected from a resort of this caliber. Additionally, bath, hand and foot towels are made of 100 percent Turkish cotton from Aydın and Söke on the Aegean side of Turkey.

Is there a heated floor in the bathroom? What about a bidet?

By day two I realized there was a bidet in my compact bathroom. There are also no heated floors, but I wasn’t fussed about it thanks to good central heating. With that said, the bathroom was not great—there were dirty towels I noticed, a small hole in the wall, plus uncapped toothpaste set atop a painting. Off putting, to say the least.

Are the toiletries full sized?

Is there a private pool for the room’s exclusive use?

Pool, no. Jacuzzi, yes. Set in front of a window, I used the jacuzzi in my Deluxe Suite twice après-ski and really enjoyed it. While inside, you not only get a relaxing view of the room’s open-air design and tall ceiling, but also the snow-topped mountains and the occasional wild dog napping or passing by. 

Is the restaurant worth its salt?

Kaya Palazzo Kartalkaya houses two dining establishments inside the main resort, plus two bars, that includes: Palazzo Buffet; Swiss Fondue Restoran; Lobby Bar; and the Chill Out Bar. The open buffet serves up a five-star assemblage of foods like Ezine White Cheese part of traditional Turkish breakfasts, plus other local favorites like Yaprak Dolma and Balaclava, alongside international cuisine like sushi.

Dipping breads into gooey fondue on the lower-level of the two-story Swiss Restoran was nice, but neither its food or vintage-style interiors captivated me. I was more enthralled watching snow fall from inside the space. The Chill Out Bar is possibly the most unique of all, featuring a striking center display engulfed with circular seating where you can smoke, watch the game, or enjoy appetizers.

Five-minutes walking from the main resort, you’ll reach Palazzo Lounge where a more lively ambience introduces itself from the entry filled with artworks by local artists like Sezen Özdemir and Gunez Caglarcan. After being seated on the second level, attentive hosts dressed in tartan shirts and jeans share favorites from five menus available by Serafina, Develi Kebap, Yada Sushi, plus the Palazzo Steakhouse and Palazzo Patisserie. Delicious bespoke menus including staples like kebab and Pide can be curated for the table, as well as cocktail/mocktail offerings. I was highly impressed, daily.

Is there caviar on the room service menu?

Do you want to spend Friday night in the lobby bar?

The Palazzo Lounge at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

Yes and no. To kick off the evening, yes. A massive white wall featuring 3D panels and a wood-burning fireplace at the center of the space is encircled by leather and suede seating. Wood floors, exposed brick walls, and a unique backlit ceiling bring the communal space to life with luxurious flair.

It’s a chill spot to meet up with family, get some work done, or read for sure. But what’s a ski trip without varying degrees of excitement? The Palazzo Lounge offers just that with bass-heavy DJ sets, hookah, and an assortment of local spirits like Tekirdağ’s Altın Seri, a highly favored Turkish Raki from the Aegean, Thracian and Marmara regions of Turkey, plus wines by names like Doluca and Barbare to get you on your feet.

Would you buy the hotel if you could?

As it is, no. Although I do see it as a unique winter destination, I would not buy the resort due to the number of maintenance issues I feel are be overlooked. Moreover, being the only Black person on-site was slightly uncomfortable. For me to invest, more marketing towards my community, as well as other minority groups, would need to be amplified, because the only images that came across my bedroom TV screen were of white women and men living la dolce vita. That’s fine, but it can’t be that hard to factor in other races that enjoy luxury experiences.

The Verdict:

The lobby at Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort

Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort is ideal for families and large groups. If you’re a sporty couple, the chalets are your best bet for uninhibited privacy—not to mention easy ski-slope access. To get the bad out of the way, it’s not high up on my list of luxury stays because of the lack of attention to detail that stems from the rooms where, as mentioned, I came across unclean bathing products and presumably leftovers from other guests. A thoroughly clean room is the bare minimum to a great stay, in my book.

But that shouldn’t mean there aren’t a handful of great experiences I’ve returned home with from the sky-high resort. This includes the patience that Kaya’s friendly snowboard instructors showed me as I practiced heel-side turns and more on the bunny hills, Palazzo Lounge’s drool-worthy spreads, and taking in sights of the powdery mountains apres-ski among other tourists and locals alike. ATV’ing through the mountains, which can be arranged, was another highlight worth mentioning.

Rate: from roughly $450. Chalets start at roughly $5,533 per night; King Suite from $2,213.

What Our Score Means:

1-3: Fire your travel agent if they suggest you stay here. 4-6: Solid if you’re in a pinch—but only if you’re in a pinch. 7-8: Very good. We’d stay here again and recommend it without qualms. 9-10: Forget booking a week. When can we move in permanently?

Demetrius Simms is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. After starting their career in PR, they transitioned to freelance writing in 2020. Their work has now appeared in lifestyle and culture…

Read More On:

  • Checking In

More Resorts

The exterior of Castelfalfi

This Billionaire’s Tuscan Resort Isn’t Just the Talk of the Town—It Is the Town

An exterior of Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort, in Punta Mita

The Billionaire Buyout: Publicity Stunt or Ultimate Luxury Travel Triumph?

Therapist explaining male patient during session at home office

Facials, Massage, Psychotherapy? Why More Luxe Hotels Are Providing Onsite Shrinks for Guests

A pool at Patina Maldives

What It’s Like to Stay at Patina Fari Islands, a Maldives Resort With a Buzzing Social Scene

magazine cover

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Resorts

The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection slide cover

The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection in Photos

Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort slide cover

Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort in Photos

More from our brands, caitlin clark’s stylist on dressing her in prada and louis vuitton and why fashion brands should pay attention, buffalo bills hire allen & company to sell stake in team, gov. phil murphy visits hollywood to tubthump new jersey production tax credits: ‘our incentives are as competitive as any in the world’, venice diary day 3: the biennale’s best pavilions capture the absurdity of art in this moment, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Quantcast

family travel facebook

  • The Star ePaper
  • Subscriptions
  • Manage Profile
  • Change Password
  • Manage Logins
  • Manage Subscription
  • Transaction History
  • Manage Billing Info
  • Manage For You
  • Manage Bookmarks
  • Package & Pricing

Eruption of Mount Ruang volcano puts paid to travel plans

  • Sabah & Sarawak

Friday, 19 Apr 2024

Related News

QuickCheck: Has the Mt Ruang volcanic eruption caused toxic rain to fall in Sabah?

QuickCheck: Has the Mt Ruang volcanic eruption caused toxic rain to fall in Sabah?

Sabah celebrates aidilfitri madani, sabah to soon get cardiology centre, says pm.

Lives interrupted: Sharul’s daughter’s flight was among the flights cancelled. (Right) Miguel says suspended flights meant students couldn’t get back to their classes in Sarawak.

PETALING JAYA: From family members and students to a would-be bridegroom, the eruption of Mount Ruang volcano in Sulawesi, Indonesia, has caused widespread disruptions to Malaysians – and even their pets – between the peninsula and the South China Sea.

Those affected by the cancelled flights to and from Sabah and Sarawak took to social media to share their experiences yesterday.

On X (formerly Twitter), Tiffa Riza expressed sadness for being unable to return to Kuching to pick up her cats.

“Please pray that my flight doesn’t get delayed because of the volcano eruption. I want to go pick up my cats,” she wrote before finding out about the cancellation of her flight.

She later updated her X status: “I can’t go home because of the volcano. Inbound and outbound flights from Sabah and Sarawak are all cancelled for today and tomorrow.”

A Facebook user, Han Budak Cina, said he was making a trip back to Sarawak yesterday for his wedding tomorrow.

“I was planning to go to Sarawak today (yesterday) ... I’m getting married this Saturday,” he wrote.

Another X user known as Miguel said many Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) students from Peninsular Malaysia couldn’t return to their classes in Sarawak following the suspended flights.

“Unimas students from the peninsula who want to go to Sabah and Sarawak this week can’t do so as all flights have been suspended,” he wrote.

Ju Razalli, whose flight from Penang to Sabah was suspended, attached a video of passengers queueing up to leave the aircraft with her post on Facebook.

“All passengers were instructed to leave (the aircraft).

“All flights to Sabah are cancelled effective immediately. Sabah’s airspace is closed,” she wrote.

Sharul Wong posted on Facebook that her daughter’s Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) scheduled for departure at 9.50am yesterday was also cancelled.

“Now, she is at KKIA, waiting for MAS to reschedule her flight,” he said.

According to news reports, over 2,000 passengers were stranded at Terminal 2 of KLIA due to the eruption of Mount Ruang.

The cancelled flights involve those to Sandakan, Labuan, Miri, Sibu, Bintulu, Kuching and Brunei, which are expected to be affected until 8am today.

Related stories:

Tags / Keywords: Sabah , Sarawak , flights , cancel , Facebook , X , volcano , Mount Ruang , Sulawesi

Found a mistake in this article?

Report it to us.

Thank you for your report!

Sabah celebrates Aidilfitri Madani

Leading the fight against payment scams

Next in nation.

family travel facebook

Trending in News

Air pollutant index, highest api readings, select state and location to view the latest api reading.

  • Select Location

Source: Department of Environment, Malaysia

Others Also Read

Best viewed on Chrome browsers.

family travel facebook

We would love to keep you posted on the latest promotion. Kindly fill the form below

Thank you for downloading.

We hope you enjoy this feature!

IMAGES

  1. 10 Budget-Friendly Family Vacation Ideas for This Summer

    family travel facebook

  2. 200+ Family Travel Quotes & Captions to Inspire Your Next Adventure

    family travel facebook

  3. Making Memories Together

    family travel facebook

  4. Top Five Tips for Family Travel

    family travel facebook

  5. Legit Ways to Make Large Family Travel Easier [And Save Money on Trips

    family travel facebook

  6. 8 Travel Essentials You Must Pack for Any Family Trip

    family travel facebook

COMMENTS

  1. Family Travel

    Family Travel. 27,120 likes. Family of 5 Travel Journalists. We sold everything for an adventure around the world!!

  2. Family Travel

    Family Travel. 28,607 likes. For families who travel. Real parents, carers, kids and grandparents share their family travel experi

  3. Family Travel Show

    Family Travel Show, Orlando, FL. 4,070 likes · 612 talking about this. Links + Collab https://linktr.ee/travelshow Support Us...

  4. The Best Facebook Travel Groups On The Internet

    What Are Facebook Travel Groups. A Facebook travel group is a group on Facebook that is dedicated to all things travel. Some of them use special niches like family travel, travel to a specific region, travel for specific genders, etc. Regardless of their niche, you'll find a group of people all interested in that particular topic.

  5. Family Travel With Kids

    Family travel with kids can sometimes be stressful, It doesn't have to be. This is a community to share ideas, concerns, tips & trips...

  6. Family Travel

    Family Travel. 27,303 likes · 1 talking about this. Family of 5 Travel Journalists. We sold everything for an adventure around the world!!

  7. Family Travel

    Family Travel, San Carlos, California. 439 likes · 30 talking about this. We plan trips that cater to family and multi-generation travel around the world.

  8. Family Travel Association

    Family Travel Association, Grand Rapids, Michigan. 3,450 likes · 7 talking about this · 3 were here. The Family Travel Association unites travel experts to inspire, empower and serve families. Together

  9. THE ULTIMATE FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE

    Family travel is one of the most wonderful and rewarding experiences you can have together. It teaches your children about the big wide world, while also building their resilience for coping with change, helping them to become more flexible in their everyday life beyond travel. It also brings families closer together, through shared experiences ...

  10. More than 50 Active Facebook Travel Groups to Join in 2024

    Gen Z/Young Travel Facebook groups. Young Travelers Network - A global community of Gen Z, 20-somethings, college students, teens, and Zillennials, who love travel! Whether you've never left your home town or you've been to 40 countries, this is your tribe. Connect with other young travelers, share stories, engage in discussions, and meet up ...

  11. Kid-Friendly Trip Ideas for All Ages

    by Jackie Perrin. Games for a family road trip need three ingredients in order to maximize their vacation mileage: portability, a minimum number of small parts, and a…. Family vacation planning made easy. See ideas for family vacations, destination and resort reviews for families, and tips from expert family travelers.

  12. 37 fun family travel influencers to follow on Instagram

    One Tiny Leap. Maria wants to dispel the myth that having children makes traveling impossible, and wants to inspire families to get out of the comfort zone and go explore the world around them, even if it's the woods/beach/mountain near where they live. Follow Maria on Instagram. onetinyleap. Porto, Portugal.

  13. Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List: 119 Adventures Around the World

    24. See the Northern Lights. Seeing the swirls of the northern lights is definitely a family travel bucket list item! We hoped to see them during our time in Iceland, but no luck. Northern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Svalbard in Norway, and Abisko, Sweden are locations with a high chance of seeing this phenomenon. 25.

  14. Family Travel Ideas & Inspiration

    Step-by-step guidance on finding a campsite during high season, easy and delicious meal ideas, and games that'll turn your kids into lifelong campers. By Lauren Matison. The New Standard. In our ...

  15. 50 Best Family Vacation Ideas for All Ages (2024)

    The Best Family Vacation Ideas: All-Inclusive Family Vacations and Resorts in the U.S. All-Inclusive Family Vacations and Resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico. Family Cruise Vacations. Theme Park and Water Park Vacations. National Park and Camping Vacations. Staycations and Road Trip Vacations.

  16. Family Travel Radio

    Engaging with the world—from a distance— Episode 67. For the foreseeable future, Family Travel Radio will focus on how social distancing due to the coronavirus threat is impacting how families are engaging with the world—and with each other. Follow the Family Travel Association's Facebook page for a series of discussions about how real ...

  17. 39 Best Family Travel Blogs To Follow In 2024

    31. Family Road Trip Guru. Family Road Trip Guru blog has been voted top 20 travel blogs in California. We focus on educational and affordable family travel in North America. We love finding hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path itineraries and hands-on, learning opportunities for families.

  18. Family Travel NZ

    Family Travel NZ. 742 likes. We are excited to let you know that in July 2022 we will be relaunching our family travel digital ma

  19. The Best, Overlooked Countries, From a Lifelong Traveler

    Kate Boardman/@wildkat.wanders. Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US. She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit ...

  20. Hey Houston! ️ 2024 travel tips if you're ...

    Hey Houston! ️🌍 2024 travel tips if you're planning an adventure! HOUSTON - Summer is almost here and before you know it, you'll be hitting the road or taking that flight to your next ...

  21. Mother falls 140 feet to her death while hiking with family

    Zaynab Joseph was hiking the Bear Mountain trail in the Coconino National Forest with her husband and 1-year-old child Monday. According to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office, the 40-year-old ...

  22. April 11, 2024

    9:10 p.m. ET, April 11, 2024. The US and Middle East brace for a possible Iran attack that could escalate the conflict. Here's the latest. From CNN staff. People attend the funeral procession for ...

  23. Inside Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort, Turkey's Answer to Aspen

    There, at 6,561 feet above sea level, you'll find the nation's best lodge, Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort. The mountaintop getaway offers access to 15 exhilarating slopes in Kartalkaya ...

  24. US restricts travel for personnel in Israel amid rising fears of Iran

    The State Department has issued updated security warnings for U.S. government employees in Israel, amid warnings that Iran is expected to launch a retaliatory attack on the country. The U.S. Embass…

  25. Eruption of Mount Ruang volcano puts paid to travel plans

    PETALING JAYA: From family members and students to a would-be bridegroom, the eruption of Mount Ruang volcano in Sulawesi, Indonesia, has caused widespread disruptions to Malaysians - and even ...