When it comes to the idea of an ideal vacation, sometimes parents want little more than to catch a few precious moments of rest, relaxation, and, if time permits, a margarita or two by the beach. But those with little ones know that in order to do so with a peace of mind, the family would need to be somewhere that not only has facilities to entertain (and if need be, watch) the children but one that suits the desires of both the young and young at heart. Inspired by the fact that Summer is underway, we went hunting for some of the best vacation spots that meet all these requirements while capitalising on the sunny weather. Luxurious yet family friendly, these lovely vacation spots are almost guaranteed to bring on a serious case of wanderlust — you’ve been warned.
Phuket, Thailand — JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
One of the most sought after places for a getaway that’s just a hop, skip away from Singapore, Phuket is a popular choice with travellers of all ages. For those who are frequent visitors, you would know that the Thai culture is a very friendly, welcoming one, even to foreigners, and would make for a wonderful experience for the whole family.
Voted one of the Best Family Hotels in Thailand and in Asia by TripAdvisor, The JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa offers Batik painting, Thai dance lessons, and yoga for kids. They also have a special Thai Ginja cooking course for families where guests get to work together with Marriott’s to create child-friendly Thai cuisine customised to suit the children’s sensitive tastebuds. The fact that it’s got a beautiful beach and amazing weather just makes it all the more appealing.
Maldives — Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Maldives is more popular as a romantic destination for couples but those with little kids in tow can rest assured that if they’re guests at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, that their minis will be well taken care of. Upon arrival, the children are greeted with a welcome amenity and can find child-sized bathrobes and slippers as well as complimentary child-appropriate toiletries for their use. Strollers, playpens, and even baby monitors and bathtubs are all available upon request, helping to lighten the traveling load of weary parents.
The Four Seasons Resort Maldives has a kids club aimed at children from the ages of four to 12. Known as the Kuda Mas or ‘small fish’ club, kids get to experience the Maldivian spirit through activities such as island exploration, gardening, coral painting, palm leaf folding, hermit crab races and even yoga!
One activity that caught our eye was the chance to build your own coral reef as a family, then watching it grow online after you leave. What a wonderful way to leave a mark and save the environment at the same time!
Boracay, Philippines — Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa
On the shores of Puka Shell Beach lies Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa. A short ride away from Caticlan, a paradise island awaits you, with white sandy beaches and a dazzling azure sea. The perfect place for parents to recharge and kids to reconnect with nature and wildlife. If the adults need some alone time, there is a babysitting or child care service available, as well as a plethora of activities to keep young ones busy.
With its dedicated Adventure Zone and Entertainment Centre for kids, they will never run out of things to do. The Adventure Zone features an indoor playground with a drop slide, while the Entertainment Centre comes with games galore, karaoke, and even billiards for the older ones and young at heart!
India — Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa
India may not be the first place that comes to mind for a summer vacation spot but you may very well change your mind when you check out the Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa. With its award winning Sereno Spa and Camp Hyatt for kids, as well as India’s largest free form swimming pool with levels of fun for the whole family, this seems like the perfect place for a family friendly vacation.
For the culturally inclined, a concierge is on hand to help with planning a guided tour of places to see in Goa, look out for the old village homes, intricately designed churches and historical forts, for a meaningful vacation takeaway.
With Camp Hyatt, parents would be able to take a break by the poolside or head to the spa for some much needed rejuvenation, while the little ones are engrossed with pottery classes, movies, or arts and crafts. If your bub is younger than four years of age, fret not as Camp Hyatt has a special space dedicated for babies up to four years so that mums to spend some quality time with their little ones as well.
Bali, Indonesia – Conrad Bali
Known for its Infinity Chapel and located on the southern coast of Bali, the resort won the Asia’s Leading Family Resort in 2013, and with good reason. For starters, complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner is offered to children up to 12 years of age from a special Kids’ Menu when parents dine at the hotel’s restaurants. Conrad Bali also has a special family policy stating their commitment to families which includes receiving a children amenity set upon check-in, complimentary baby cots, connecting rooms upon request, and free access to Kura-Kura Kids Club.
The Kura Kura (Turtle) Club immerses kids in the rich cultural heritage of Bali, where they can learn the local Balinese dance, try on the gorgeously intricate costumes, and learn and play traditional songs and games. For the more adventurous, beach trails are available along Tanjung Benoa Bay where children can hunt for seashells and interact with sea life.
Babysitting services are also available upon request for a fee.
