5 Unexpected Destinations to Visit with the Little Ones in Tow

Ever thought about travelling with kids? It’s something we’d really love to do. If you want to look beyond popular, tried-and-tested holiday destinations, we’ve got you covered, and they’re all kid-friendly. There’s a whole world out there, whether you and your family wants to go on a beach holiday, a city break, or a calming countryside retreat. Here are five places to visit with your little ones and five places we’d certainly love to try!

South Africa

If your family love animals, South Africa needs to be top of your holiday destination list. There are plenty of kid-friendly safari resorts dotted around the country, such as the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve on the Northern Cape, which has a programme of activities like bush walks and wildlife sightings, and the Western Cape’s Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. With riding stables and a petting farm, this eco resort has lots of opportunities for children to meet the animals, plus treasure hunts, rock pools, and an entertainment centre for lazy days. There are some amazing places in South Africa for Game Drives. Find out what to expect on a Game drive with this Game Drive Safari Guide.

Not sure what to pack for a safari? Check out this list of essentials.

Ibiza

You might think Ibiza is only a party destination, but there’s so much more to it than that — you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to family-friendly activities.

There are numerous safe beaches for building sandcastles (or burying Dad), such as Cala Llenya, which has shallow water for kids to paddle in safely, and Es Caná, where you can try your hands at paddleboarding and riding pedalos. Some resorts have beach clubs, where kids can go for a couple of hours while parents get some well-earned rest.

Away from the coast, you can tour the island on a jeep safari, visit the aquarium, or try your hands at a game or two of crazy golf. There are some lovely cafés and restaurants, too, where even the fussiest of eaters will find something to devour.

The Cotswolds, UK

The perfect blend of countryside and culture, the Cotswolds is ideal if you want a chilled out break. It’s particularly good for those with very young children, or even children on the way (find out more about travelling when you’re pregnant in this handy guide). Although there are many sights to see, it’s easy to go at your own pace.

See how people used to live at the Roman Baths, admire the splendour of Blenheim Palace, or visit the Cotswold Farm Park, which is home to rare breeds and has activities for kids like bottle feeding and a farm safari. And no trip to the Cotswolds would be complete without at least one walk through the countryside, with homemade ice cream to reward yourself at the end.

(Photo by Tetiana Syrova on Unsplash)

Iceland

Iceland is hands down – number one on the top of our adventure list – it’s a place I really hope I can take the kids one day – it’s also one of the safest countries in the world and also one of the most family-friendly (find out where else made the list here).

You can rent a car or go on a bus tour (there are shorter ones suitable for kids) and see the sights along the way. Must-visits include the Golden Circle, where you can see erupting geysers and cascading waterfalls, and the capital city of Reykjavík, with its geothermal pools, whale watching tours, and stunning views from the tallest church, Hallgrimskirkja.

Are you up for some camping? Consider booking a campervan for your family. Driving around Iceland in a campervan adds to the adventures and brings the family closer throughout the trip.

Everyone will also be closer to nature, enjoying jaw-dropping landscapes wherever one goes. Plus, campsites can have playgrounds, sports areas, and activities to keep the young and old entertained.

Children will love dog sledding, especially because you get to cuddle the huskies before you set off, and don’t forget to make a trip to some of the museums, such as the interactive, open-air museum, Arbaer, and Whales of Iceland.

Malaysia

Malaysia does take a while to get to, but it’s worth it if you and your little ones are able to cope with a longer flight. English is widely spoken in Malaysia, so it’s easy to get by, and the friendly locals are always very welcoming, particularly towards children. Head to Kuala Lumpur, where there’s no shortage of activities to get stuck into.

There’s a zoo, an aquarium, and the fascinating Petrosains Discovery Centre, which is filled with interactive science and technology exhibits. KidZania (just like the London version) gives your children a chance to act as workers like police officers, secret agents and hairdressers in a mini city based on Kuala Lumpur, and it also gives parents time to sit back and relax.

These are just some of the top destinations we’d like to take our kids on holiday! What would be on your list?

*This is a Collaborative Post*