Traveling as a family can be one of the most rewarding experiences, filled with unforgettable moments, laughter, and learning opportunities. It’s remarkable how certain family travel destinations can leave a lasting impression on kids, shaping their views of the world. As we plan our next adventure, I recently asked my children about their favorite trips. Their answers surprised me, revealing just how much joy they find in exploring new places. Our journeys have taken us across continents, but it was our time spent in Jordan that stood out as a family favorite, offering a unique mix of culture, adventure, and delicious cuisine.
Why Jordan Ranked as Our Top Family Travel Destination
One of my own travel dreams has been to visit Jordan. It was on my bucket list long before I became a parent. The idea of floating in the Dead Sea, exploring the ancient city of Petra, and diving into the rich history and culture of this region brought me eagerness. However, I wasn’t certain how my kids would react to spending their spring break in a country so different from familiar vacation spots. Surprisingly, they all agreed that our nine-day trip to Jordan was absolutely their favorite adventure.
What made this wonderful family travel destination special? My children enjoyed the rugged charm of the Bedouin camp and even embraced the experience of “roughing it” more than I anticipated. As my son still reminisces about the flavorful falafel he enjoyed in Jordan, it’s clear that the experiences we shared in this captivating country are cherished memories we’ll carry forever.
Unexpected Treasures in Poland
While trips to classic European destinations like Paris or London often dominate family travel destination lists, my children and I found at least as much joy in Poland. Initially visiting Warsaw to attend a Taylor Swift concert, we soon realized how much more Poland had to offer. Our excitement blossomed over the nine days we spent exploring its various regions.
The historic charm of Krakow wowed the kids, particularly because it remained unexplored during World War II. But their absolute favorite spot was Zakopane, nestled in the Tatra Mountains, where we hiked stunning trails and soaked in relaxing hot springs. Even the vibrant atmosphere of Warsaw, with its expansive parks and restored buildings, captivated their hearts.
The Thrill of South Korea
Our trip to South Korea came about serendipitously as we added a five-day extension to our itinerary after an initial visit to Japan. Given our flight layover in Seoul, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to experience this dynamic city. Much to our surprise, it turned out to be among my children’s top three highlights of our trip.
They reveled in the unique experiences South Korea offered—from exploring iconic suspension bridges to immersing themselves in K-pop culture along K-Star Road. One unexpected highlight was our visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea, sparking fascinating discussions and broader understanding of world events. If time permitted, I would have loved for us to explore more of South Korea, as every moment there highlighted the beauty and excitement of this family travel destination.
Adventurous Cruises in Iceland
Another unique experience was our expedition cruise around Iceland’s stunning coastline. Unlike traditional cruises packed with activities geared toward families, this adventure allowed my children to engage meaningfully with the destination. From learning to steer a ship to discovering the enchanting stories of Icelandic folklore, the immersion was truly impressive.
The low-key atmosphere fostered by our expedition ship brought my children closer to nature. They were thrilled to ride in zodiacs to observe puffins and whales while hiking on remote islands. They declared that they preferred this enriching experience over more commercialized cruise options. The thrill of exploration ignited a desire for adventure that I hope continues on our future journeys.
The Future Awaits Our Family Adventures
As I ponder our next family travel destination, I’m relieved to see that my kids genuinely enjoyed our unconventional choices. Despite occasional wishes to simply lounge at a beach resort, they have embraced the out-of-the-box ideas that we’ve ventured into together. Our shared experiences have solidified our bond as a family and enriched our outlook on the world around us.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for family travels, check out these great resources: traveling internationally with kids, planning an 11-day family trip, holiday travel transitions, and tips for holiday adventures with kids.
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