Need a little inspiration for your next family vacay? We asked tour operator Lightfoot Travel for four of their top destinations in Australasia for must-do family holidays from Hong Kong.
New Zealand
Why go?
New Zealand has some of the most striking landscapes in the world, from snow-capped mountains and volcanic islands to sun-kissed beaches, pristine glaciers and dramatic fjords. There’s every outdoor adventure under the sun, including great skiing in winter.
Highlights?
Whale watching and swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura; visiting working sheep stations in Queenstown; embarking on a cycling vineyard tour in Hawke’s Bay (yes, it’s family-friendly!).
When to go?
January to March are the warmest months while July and August are best for skiing. We generally regard it as a year-round destination for family holidays!
Where to stay?
Hapuku Lodge, Kaikoura – kids will adore its treehouse villas, outdoor pool, resident deer herd and collecting fresh eggs for breakfast.
Mongolia
Why go?
The least densely populated country on earth, Mongolia is as different as you can get from congested Hong Kong. With diverse landscapes, wildlife and friendly people, it’s a holiday the kids will never forget.
Highlights?
Living alongside a nomadic family; milking the cows; collecting water; helping to cook dinner – an experience to bring you back to what life is all about. A great experience for family holidays.
When to go?
June through August are the warmest months and the most comfortable time to travel. However, there are special experiences that can be had year-round, including the incredible Eagle Hunting Festival in late September.
Where to stay?
Three Camels Lodge is a luxurious ger camp in the Gobi Desert. Sit back under incredibly clear night skies and watch the mesmerising stars come to life.
Myanmar
Why go?
Though not untouched by tourism, Myanmar is less visited than its Southeast Asian neighbours. Our guests most often speak about the people upon their return – genuine friendliness with an eagerness to share stories and show you their country.
Highlights?
Boat rides on Inle Lake; impromptu football games with local children in Bagan; riding the circular train in Yangon; visiting the elephant conservatory in Kalaw.
When to go?
Myanmar’s dry season is from October to May, with peak season from November to February. However, if you don’t mind the occasional downpour, the end of the summer can be refreshing with cooler temperatures.
Where to stay?
Belmond The Governor’s Residence in Yangon has a great outdoor pool for the kids post-sightseeing, and serves up a mean gin and tonic for parents. A tick from everyone for family holidays!
China
Why go?
Put simply, it’s right on your doorstep and you’ll never be closer! There are plenty of opportunities for families to take in the cultural sights in ways that are fun and interesting for kids.
Highlight?
Visiting the pandas in Chengdu; symbol-hunting in the Forbidden City in Beijing; dumpling-making in Shanghai; making your own Terracotta statues in Xi’an.
When to go?
It’s a huge country with various climates; March to June and September to November are generally good months to go.
Where to stay?
The Banyan Tree Lijiang in Yunnan Province features a two-bedroom jet-pool villa that’s great for families, with huge grounds for the kids to run around.
For more advice and ideas on your next holiday, speak to one of the staff at Lightfoot Travel on 2815 0068 or go to lightfoottravel.com
Get more holiday ideas from our Travel section!
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This article appeared in Expat Living’s 2017 City Guide. Get your FREE copy here.
