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Think back to your childhood. Do you remember what a typical day was like? Maybe you remember specific events or celebrations, but do you recall what any given day was like? The answer is most likely no. However, you can probably recall what every family vacation was like and where you went.
Taking a vacation isn’t only for the adults in the family – kids need to get away too. Taking trips as a family is a great learning experience for the kids, as well as a great bonding opportunity.
Giving your children the chance to see what’s outside their familiar bubble can enrich their lives and pique their worldly curiosities. It’s a win-win! The adults get to have a break from the regular stresses of life, and the kids are allowed to explore and see new places and cultures.
Your family vacation doesn’t necessarily need to be just for the little ones. Some families think that if you’re taking the kids with you on your trip, you have to tailor the entire trip around them.
Of course, you should consider family-friendly destinations, but you don’t need to pack up and spend the entire time doing children’s activities. After all, it’s your break away, too, and you want to enjoy it as well.
Here are the best family-friendly vacation destinations that offer something for the entire family.
Family Vacation #1 Florida, USA
What kind of family-friendly destination list would it be without mentioning Florida? Orlando is probably the first place you think of when you hear the words ‘family vacation’’. It’s often known as the theme park capital of the United States for a reason.
Between Walt Disney World, Animal Kingdom, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, there’s certainly no shortage of family fun waiting for you and your kids.
If thrill rides and theme parks aren’t your idea of fun, there’s still so much to do and see in Florida. The Florida Keys are a great family spot to enjoy nature, especially in Key West and Marathon.
Enjoy swimming with fish and getting friendly with birds at a sanctuary, explore the old railroad that connected the Florida Keys, and eat along the scenic Seven Mile Highway.
Choosing where to stay isn’t hard. No matter where you decide to rest your head at night, you’re close to the action and adventure.
Why not enjoy a luxurious stay at one of many Florida villas? After a long day of adventuring and exploring, you and your family can relax and unwind in style, ready to take on the next day’s adventure.
Family Vacation #2 Cairns, Australia
For the adventure-seeking, outdoorsy families, Cairns is a must-visit spot. It’s known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can take day trips to snorkel or go diving and explore the incredible underwater world.
You can also take your family just outside of the city to the Daintree Rainforest. There everyone will have a blast zip-lining and enjoying the picturesque beaches after all the hiking and swimming. There’s also a riverboat cruise where you and your kids can look for wild crocodiles.
Accommodation is easy to find in Cairns, either in the city or just outside it closer to the rainforest. There are lots of options for every budget, from a simple hotel to rest your heads at night, to luxurious 5-star resorts with every possible amenity you can imagine.
Family Vacation #3 Crete, Greece
The Greek island of Crete is another famous family vacation destination. It’s got everything that would fit anyone’s idea of a perfect trip. An ideal climate, plenty of relaxation, beautiful beaches, interesting history, world-class food, and the ultimate laid-back way of life.
If your children are old enough to appreciate history, you can immerse yourself in the ancient ruins and Greek mythology. If your kids are too young, there are so many other activities you can enjoy together. Spend time on the beaches and lap up some sun and spectacular views of the landscape while playing in the waves.
Finding a place to stay on Crete is easy, no matter what budget you’re working with. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels, or if you want to stay in style, choose from several luxurious villas dotted along the coast.
Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
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The Cairns, Australia vacation sounds the best to me, but dang, it takes a long time to get there from the Midwest. Great blog… lots of ideas here!
Australia is one of the places my husband never wants to go because all the most deadly things live there lol
I would love to go to Greece. I think Crete would make for an amazing family vacation.
I know right? Any of these vacations would be amazing
I think vacation in Florida appeals to me most. Did not know they had villas there! Thanks for sharing!
Florida is def a travel hotspot