Let’s say you’re planning your next family vacation, and this time you want something different. Something memorable that the whole family can enjoy – a more meaningful experience than can be had splashing around in the hotel pool.
Here are some exotic destinations to consider, places with a unique touch that are still accessible enough for everyone to enjoy. Family villa rentals and other accommodations are plentiful in each of these locations, as is a safe and well-established tourism infrastructure.
Bali
Bali is Indonesia’s main tourist draw for a reason, as many happy travelers have discovered. It is the cultural and artistic center of a fascinating country, offering a genuinely exotic mix of sights and sounds.
Everything about Bali is unique, from the lines of its ancient temples to geometric rice terraces and colorful displays of traditional music and dance. The food will excite your palate as well, with local dishes that are infused by flavors of India, the Middle East, China and Europe. When you hit cultural overload, unwind at some of the most beautiful beaches found anywhere in the world.
South Africa
With its excellent tourism infrastructure, South Africa is a great choice for families seeking that perfect balance of wild and safe. It’s very easy here to arrange a wildlife safari, and kids will go nuts for the chance to get (relatively) up close and close and personal with the four-legged TV stars of National Geographic.
If a safari doesn’t sound appealing, Cape Town offers the chance to swim with penguins, visit an aquarium, and ride a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain.
New Zealand
This island nation combines several excellent features into one relatively small, easily navigable package. Here, modern urban life intermingles with fascinating, traditional Maori culture in a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of volcanoes, wildlife, and stunning beaches.
There are all kinds of watersports, as well as hiking and even world-class vineyards to explore. The North Island is home to most of the country’s population and culture, while the South Island is more natural and picturesque.
The city of Nelson which lies in the North western region of the southern Island is a great place to visit for anyone looking to explore outdoors. In Nelson you can go on canoeing excursions or join in on a nature walk. Staying in Nelson offers a variety of options for any age. Families can enjoy wildlife parks and water activities while others can partake in wine tastings and or go stargazing at the foot of Mount Cook. There is certainly plenty to do in this picturesque city.
Costa Rica
This Central American nation is packed with natural wonders just waiting to explored – from monkey-filled rainforests to hidden caves and pristine jungle-backed beaches. Many locals speak English as well, making things a bit easier on family members who may not take to another language so easily.
Kids will love the chance to explore volcanoes and hot springs, jumping off the path from bridges and rock formations to waterfalls and natural pools.
Spend Some Time In A Castle
If the kids are young enough, they’ll surely enjoy the chance to live out a fairy tale fantasy by sleeping in a real castle. There’s just something about those ancient stone walls, especially when the inside is all decked out with tapestries and a knight’s shining armor.
The storybooks are filled with such imagery, and with a little imagination you can live out those fairy tales with the whole family. Such castles are easy to find in European countries like England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany and France.