Top 5 International Destinations for Family Travel
One of the best ways to strengthen family relationships is through travel. Magic happens when you get out of your day to day schedules, commitments, put away phones and laptops, and experience the richness of a new place together, uninterrupted.
With a whole world to explore, it can be daunting to figure out where to go next. If you need travel inspiration, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve picked our top 5 international destinations for family travel, and given you our best recommended itineraries from some of our trusted travel partners and leaders in the industry.
Costa Rica
Tropical rainforests, amazing wildlife, beautiful beaches, this country is a great pick for active families. Zip lining over jungles, white water rafting, snorkeling, hiking, this destination is full of adventure the whole family can enjoy. Nature becomes the classroom as you can learn about cacao trees, how chocolate is made, rainforest and animal conservation. Best for ages 6+, great for tweens and teens.
Our recommendation: Adventures By Disney
2. Italy
Rich culture, ancient history, decadent food, art and architecture, what more could you ask for? With so much to see in Italy, being able to visit multiple cities across a couple of weeks is ideal. Stroll the streets with gelato in hand, pair the best wines with the perfect pasta, tour Vatican City, ride a gondola through Venice. This is perfect for multi-generational families traveling together, and the pacing can be as active as you choose.
Our recommendation: Italia Bella-Rome to Venice by Tauck
3. Japan
The Land of the Rising Sun, you can experience the most forward thinking technology and traditional culture in one country. From the bustling streets of Tokyo, serene Kyoto, Mt. Fuji as your backdrop, and all the Pokémon and Nintendo your kids could imagine, this country is perfect for the adventurous family. For a first trip, we recommend taking “The Golden Route” (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka).
Our recommendation: Independent Treasures of Japan by Globus Family of Brands
4. The United Kingdom
It is hard to choose between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, so why not explore them all? For a first international family trip, England is a great place to focus. For families that may have more limited time, don’t mind an active schedule, and want to see the best highlights of each place, it is possible to see as much of the U.K. as you can in a couple of weeks.
Our recommendation: Exploring Britain & Ireland by Collette
5. Caribbean Cruise
Sometimes the best vacations are when you only have to unpack once, but see multiple destinations. This is why we love cruising! There is nothing like that Caribbean blue water, exploring the unique cultures of the islands that make up this destination, and relaxing in the sun as much as possible. For families needing to hit the easy button, or multi-generations traveling together, it’s the perfect mix of rest, activity, togetherness, and do your own thing.
Our recommendation: Disney Cruise Line
As travel professionals, we would love to design your family’s next vacation. We’ll take care of the detailed planning so you can have a seamless experience, focusing on the memories together.
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Written by Christa Jordan
Christa is a Platinum Top Producer and Senior Travel Advisor with Share the Magic Travel, and a founding member of STM Travel Design. She loves combining the art of storytelling with her passion for travel, helping clients write their travel stories through expert planning and collaboration. Even though she’s an introvert, she enjoys the rush of city life, unhurried mornings, and discovering the best local coffee shops wherever she goes. Wife of 15 years and mom to 2 active boys, going on adventures with her family is her favorite thing in the world.
Click here to learn more and connect with Christa.