Where should you go on holiday with kids? That question usually leads to a debate — Greece or Turkey, which beaches have the finest sand, where the buffet has more variety.
When planning family trips, most people default to the classic hotel stay: a 5-star all-inclusive, sun loungers on the beach, and a water park nearby. But by sticking to this familiar format, you could be missing out on an extraordinary range of experiences!
Tour Leader journal presents 10 destinations for family trips with children that will broaden their horizons far beyond the standard beach resort.
Mexico and Egypt
Ancient civilisations make for the best history lesson a child can get. The Maya pyramids of Mexico and the pharaohs' temples of Egypt will leave a lasting impression on any young traveller. And in La Paz (Mexico) you can spot grey whales, while Abu Dabbab (Egypt) is home to the dugong sea cow.
Kenya and Tanzania
An African safari is an adventure children will remember for the rest of their lives. Lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras — all in the wild, not a zoo. Many lodges in Kenya and Tanzania are specially equipped for families with children.
The Galapagos Islands (Ecuador)
A living laboratory of evolution. Marine iguanas, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies — the animals of the Galapagos have no fear of humans whatsoever. For a child, this will be the finest biology lesson of their life.
Madagascar
The island of lemurs, chameleons, and baobabs. Eighty percent of Madagascar's animals and plants are found nowhere else on Earth. It is like journeying to another planet — without the spacesuit.
Greenland
A world of icebergs, whales, and the northern lights. Greenland teaches children to respect nature and understand just how fragile our planet is. And on top of that — it is stunningly beautiful.
Nepal
Trekking in the Himalayas is entirely possible with children — there are routes for every fitness level. And the cultural programme — Buddhist monasteries, the squares of Kathmandu, the living goddess Kumari — will captivate any child.
Sri Lanka
Elephants, tea plantations, ancient cities, tropical rainforests, and stunning beaches — Sri Lanka offers an incredible variety of experiences within a relatively small area. And all of it at very accessible prices.
Morocco
Sleeping in a tent in the middle of the Sahara, riding camels, wandering the labyrinthine medinas, and exploring the Atlas Mountains — Morocco will give children adventures worthy of a thousand and one nights.
Kamchatka (Russia)
Volcanoes, geysers, bears, and the Pacific Ocean — Kamchatka holds its own against the world's finest destinations. And as it is within Russia, no visa or international passport is required for the journey.
Travel with your children beyond the beach. Broaden their world with unconventional journeys, and you will be amazed at how vast and wonderful their universe becomes!
