By Gladys Mutie
I’ve seen people go on a family vacation and just hang around their villa or hotel until it’s over–but who can blame them? I’m sure a vacation sounds like the best time to just relax and take a break from school or that overwhelming job. However, you shouldn’t let your trip go to waste. How many opportunities will you get to vacation for a few days? Whether you’re a parent who wants to enjoy more time with their kids or a child who’s finally made it in life to treat their parents to that vacation. There’s so much you can do with your family to make the most of it.
1. A Day at the Water Park
Wave pools, lazy rivers, slides. Sounds nice, doesn’t it? A water park sounds like it’s just, well, water. But there are so many family-friendly activities, such as thrilling family raft rides and floating in the current along the lazy river. And who doesn’t enjoy a water slide? Adults reconnecting with their inner child, and your kids just living in pure bliss. Your family will revisit that memory of the water park trip twenty years down the line. Yas Waterworld, Waterbom Bali, Aquapark Istralandia, and Jungle Aqua Park are some of the best water parks in the world.
2. Beach Activities
There’s no better escape than a day at the beach, whether you want to relax, have fun activities, or have an adventure. If you don’t feel like moving around because of the heat, you can simply lay on a beach blanket and sunbathe while the rest of the family undertakes other activities. Other activities at the beach include;
- Playing games such as frisbee and beach volleyball,
- Kayaking,
- Jetskiing,
- Beachcombing by looking for treasures like shells and rocks and,
- Taking a refreshing swim,
- Roast marshmallows in a bonfire at night (if allowed within a controlled environment).
After a long day at the beach, the family can relax as they watch the beautiful sunset and the waves getting closer to shore. Don’t forget to capture these moments with your camera as you do all this. You will treasure them forever. Diani Beach, Bon Bon Beach, Kapalua Bay Beach, and Wharton Beach are some of the best beaches to visit in the world.
3. Scavenger Hunts
Nothing spells family bonding more than the thrill of discovery, a little competition, and people working together (or competing) to find hidden treasure. Scavenger hunts are a great family activity because they challenge you to think outside the box. You get to spend a lot of time with your family, figuring out clues, being creative, and having an unforgettable adventure. There’s also a bonus: you explore the scenery as you look for the hidden treasures. You can either organize these hunts and test your creativity or have your resort or hosts do it for you (that’s why we’re here).
4. Craft Workshops
I’m sure that most of us barely get to explore our hobbies with work, school, and many other things going on in our lives. I would know because I had a passion for drawing when I was younger, and now, I can barely watch a 20-minute sitcom episode. A vacation is a great place to explore these parts of ourselves that we lose to our busy schedules. Craft workshops during a vacation are a great place to start and a plus, you’ll be doing it with the family. You can pick up pottery, painting or making jewelry. I believe that everyone has an inner artist in them. A vacation is a great time to discover that artist or rediscover your lost art and hobbies.
5. Snorkeling
I know I mentioned beach activities, but I must give snorkeling a spotlight. It’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and I’m sure your family will have the same opinion. We all know that ocean water is salty, so I was a bit concerned about how it would go. But with just a snorkel, you will get to experience something exhilarating. Imagine seeing the ocean life in real time like we do in documentaries. You can see fish clearly, and other ocean creatures swimming around and get to join them. However, be careful about stepping on sea urchins or getting stung by a jellyfish.
6. Visit Amusement Parks
When we talk about amusement parks, it’s important to think big. I recommend visiting destination theme parks because they offer more than regular rides, merry-go-rounds, and bumper cars, which can get boring at times. You can enjoy much more, including live shows, daredevil rides, funhouses, freefall coasters, haunted houses, escape rooms, and, of course, family rides. Disneyland Park, Tivoli Gardens, Europa Park, and Alton Towers are some of the best amusement parks to visit in the world.
7. Hiking
I saved the (reasonably) toughest activity for last. Many people I have encountered do not enjoy hiking because it’s tiresome and requires a lot of energy. However, there’s nothing wrong with challenging yourself and the family occasionally. Picture navigating hidden streams, running into wildlife, and experiencing nature. The hike might be tough, but the scenery will be worth it when you get to the top. Be sure to wear hiking boots–I learned this the hard way and carry a hiking pole to help you maneuver the terrain. Some of the best hiking spots in the world are Kilimanjaro, Mount Toubkal, Kalalau Trail, and the Appalachian Trail.
Contact us to organize a trip filled with these activities. You can also visit our shop to get items such as snorkels and hiking poles.
FAQs
What Should We Pack for a Family Trip?
Pack outfits that align with the theme of your destination, for example, light clothes for the beach, casual outfits for the amusement park, and heavy clothing for cold areas. Also, carry some entertainment such as board games and comfort items for the kids. Most importantly, do not forget your travel documents and any necessary medications.
How can We Save Money when Traveling as a Family?
If you want to save money when traveling, look for discounted offers, stay in good rentals instead of resorts, and prepare some meals yourself.
How can I Ensure my Family’s Safety During Travel?
The best way to ensure your family’s safety is to read reviews on your destination and see what people who’ve been there have to say. You can also work with professionals who know the best, family-friendly, and safe places to visit.
