Planning your next family adventure: Top travel destinations and activities for families

If you are looking for an excuse to bring the family away from the cold fall and winter weather of Nova Scotia and go somewhere abroad, there is a world of diverse ranges of destinations which are perfect for family adventures. Whether you are looking for a sun-soaked beach vacation, a journey through culture and history, or some thrilling experiences for the whole family, there are plenty of international destinations with unique experiences. This article will provide some inspiration for travel plans for families, based on the latest family travel trends, where destinations offering flexibility, safety, and engaging activities for all children are prioritized. You can therefore use this article to get inspired to book family activities and finding the right destination for your next travels. 

Orlando, Florida – The theme park capital of the world

For many, Orlando is synonymous with family fun, especially due to the amount of famous theme parks in the city. Here you will find the Walt Disney World Resort, which is a magical kingdom where kids can meet their beloved characters, while being blown away by exhilarating rides and watching enchanting parades and fireworks. You can also visit Universal Studios Florida, which is ideal for families who wants to immerse themselves into adventures such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 

Beyond theme parks, there are various other attractions for the family in Orlando. You can for example visit Gatorland, which is an alligator-themed park where children safely can interact with reptiles. You can also visit the Kennedy Space enter, which is an educational yet thrilling experience about space exploration. 

Paris, France – A blend of history and culture

If you are looking for an experience combining culture and history, then Paris is a great choice. On this trip, you can visit Disneyland Paris, where you can experience all the magic of Disney through the classic attractions from Disneyland. The park has some iconic rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a small world, coupled with many seasonal parades and shows. 

But Paris have so much to offer beyond theme parks. You can for example cruise along the Seine River, which is a family-friendly and relaxed way to see landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Louvre Museum is also an opportunity, as the museum offers kid-friendly tours and activities to engage younger audiences. If you want an interactive experience, you can visit Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, which is one of the largest science museums in Europe, consisting of many hands-on exhibits and workshops. 

London, UK – Where history meets adventure

London is a city offering many types of activities for families, which makes it an exciting international destination. You can for example go explore the Tower of London or ride the London Eye to indulge the city’s history, adventure, and entertainment. You can also visit some of the world class museums in the city. Such include the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, which both offers interactive exhibits designed for children. If the kids need to burn some energy, you can go for a stroll in Hyde Park. Or if you want to keep the children entertained, you can bring them to Hamleys, the world’s oldest toy store. 

If you are a fan of Harry Potter, you can visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Here, families can walk through iconic sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and also board the Hogwarts Express. 

Barcelona, Spain – Sun, sand, and architecture

If you are looking for the perfect balance between beach relaxation and cultural sightseeing, added some of the best foods in the world, then Barcelona is the perfect location for you. The Mediterranean climate makes it possible for families to enjoy sunny days on one of the city’s many beaches, while also spending time exploring some of Barcelona’s rich architectural heritage. 

A highlight in Barcelona is to visit Park Güell, which is a whimsical public park designed by famed architect Antoni Gaudí. With colorful mosaics and winding pathways, this park is full of fun with a fairy-tale setting for children to explore. You also must experience Gaudí’s masterpiece La Sagrada Família. For more educational and fun experiences, you can for example visit the CosmoCaiza Science Museum, where you will find interactive exhibits on space, the natural world and technology. You can also visit one of Europe’s largest aquariums, L’Aquiárium, which is a lot of fun for children of all ages. 

Tokyo, Japan – A world of wonder and innovation

If you are eager to explore Asia, then Tokyo offers an exciting mix of traditional culture and modern innovation. Magical experiences for the family include Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. These are uniquely Japanese takes on the traditional U.S. counterparts. 

Other family-friendly destinations in Japan includes the Ueno Zoo, which is the oldest zoo in Japan, or Odaiba, with is an entertainment district full of interactive museums, shopping malls, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum. If you want some more cultural experiences, you can visit the Asukusa district, where you will find the famous Senso-ji Temple. YOu can also take a stroll through the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. 

Concluding remarks

Family travel is surging, with over 29 million total reported listings worldwide. The reason for this rise in international family travels is the combination of education and leisure, which creates enriching and memorable experiences for children. Traveling will bring a more open and tolerant mindset to people and giving this to children from a young age has many advantages. The best way to plan your next getaway is to research travel blogs and read travel recommendations, to ensure a great trip for you and your family.

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