Exotic Locations To Consider For Your Next Family Vacay

Words by Karen Tee

January 08, 2019

Forget an idyllic beach resort or a luxury cruise. From Bhutan to Peru, these bucket list locales are increasingly becoming destinations of choice for those going on multi-generational vacations

Chang Theng Hwee, CEO of Scott Dunn Asia says, “More often, you find families spreading out across the globe, so the grandparents don’t live round the corner, but rather on a different continent! Planning a family trip provides the opportunity for everyone to travel to a new destination so there’s the element of excitement to explore and experience somewhere new on holiday.”

We get three top bespoke travel agencies to recommend their favourite destinations for multi-generational vacations.

Paro, Bhutan

Recommended by Amala Destinations

Spiritual Bhutan is often thought of as a destination for those on retreats, but there are plenty of opportunities for families to have fun in this small mountain kingdom. Here, in the land of plentiful fertile fields, families can spend time with farmers in the Paro Valley and try their hand at rice or chilli planting or harvesting the crops. It’s a great way for kids, and even adults, to discover a deeper connection to the origins of their food.

While the legendary Tiger’s Nest monastery is probably the most photographed site in the country, its location on a vertiginous cliff means it may not be accessible to the very young or elderly with mobility issues. Instead, take an easy walk through Choedin village to the ruins of Choedin Lhakhang where one can enjoy stunning views of not just Paro, but also admire the view of Tiger’s Nest in the distance. In this idyllic town, stay at Como Uma Paro which has a standalone two-bedroom villa with a dining area that seats up to eight people and its own spa treatment room.

(Related: The Secret To Travelling With Kids)

Sacred Valley, Peru

Recommended by Lightfoot Travel

The ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu is always a highlight for visitors to Peru but the sacred valley, where it is located, has plenty on offer to keep a multi-generational family entertained and enriched at the same time. The 43-bungalow Relais & Chateaux Hotel Sol Y Luna in the town of Urubamba is a good base for a deep dive into the charms of this region. It has its own stables for horse riding and offers activities including quad biking, yoga and tai chi to cater to a variety of preferences.

The entire family will certainly enjoy an excursion to Awanakancha, a small farm where one can get up close and personal with the llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos that live in the Andes region. Arts and culture buffs will also relish the opportunity to observe local master weavers at work as they painstakingly spin yarns and weave colourful textiles.

The region is also dotted with many well-preserved Incan sites that are less crowded compared to Machu Picchu. Visit Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Incan towns, where a large archaeological complex still remains. It used to serve as a wayside inn for royal delegations on long journeys—adults can take the opportunity to admire how the complex Incan architecture has withstood the test of time while younger adventurers will have fun clambering and exploring the ruins.

Western Norwegian fjords, Norway

Recommended by Scott Dunn

For an escape into the wonders of nature, consider a trip to the west coast fjords of Norway. The pristine fjords offer both dramatic views as well as an abundance of natural wonders that will enthrall all family members, whether they are young or old.

Scott Dunn recommends chartering a fjord helicopter ride to enjoy the most impressive perspective of the surrounding landscape. Then, hop onto a private fjord cruise for a relaxing day out with the family and to savour the same breathtaking sights that emperors, adventurers and mountaineers have enjoyed since the 1850s. The area has plenty of hiking and biking trails of varying difficulty levels, so parents can burn off some energy with the kids, while the grandparents take it easy.

The Storfjord Hotel, perched on the side of a fjord, is a charming boutique hotel decorated with rustic touches such as sheepskins, tweeds and antiques. Its homely sitting room, complete with a roaring log fire and a constant supply of freshly baked cookies, is a lovely gathering space for an extended family to hang out at during mealtimes.