6 Family holiday destinations with a twist

So you’re no longer a carefree twenty-something heading wherever the mood takes you, but don’t think for one moment that your days of exploring the world are on hold. At Rickshaw we believe that travel is for all ages – there are plenty of destinations for you and your little ones to enjoy together. We’ve looked through some of our favourite countries and picked out a selection of family-friendly itineraries to add to your wish list. Enjoy!

Elephantastic family adventures in Thailand

The last ten years has seen Thailand become one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations. It isn’t just about gap years and honeymoons, there are lots of great adventures to be had for families too. The ‘land of smiles’ is really well geared up for family travel with a fantastic train system, good value internal flights, cheap and convenient buses & boats as well as the iconic tuk-tuks. All Rickshaw Ramblers have 24/7 access to assistance from our Thai partner, so if you and your family need anything at all, help is at hand.

If you’ve got kids aged five and up, we recommend our Thailand with the Family: Elephants & Islands 16-day itinerary. You’ll explore the bustling backstreets of Bangkok by bike, kayak along peaceful rivers in the lush Khao Sok and chill on the zen-like islands of Ko Phangan and Ko Samui. You even get to watch wild elephants play and help prepare them a tasty lunch!

Wild family adventures in Costa Rica

Holidays aren’t just about rest and relaxation, they are a great chance for people of all ages to learn about new cultures, cuisines and wildlife. Costa Rica is paradise for nature loving families, the ecosystem is bursting with colourful creatures at every turn. The locals are famously friendly and often speak a little English. A little bit of Spanish will go down well and be great practice for any kids and adults learning the local lingo.

If your children are at least eight, we suggest 13 days taking in the best of Costa Rica’s on Pura Vida en Familia. This itinerary is ideal if you’re looking to head to Central America during the UK school summer holidays as we’ve tried to pick places with slightly less rain! With volcanoes, Caribbean beaches, a trip to the buzzing San Jose and a boat ride through the jungle this itinerary wraps multiple holidays into one big adventure.

Culture, crafts & castaway shores in Vietnam

Vietnam is perfect for those wanting to grab an authentic slice Asia. Explore Ho Chi Minh on a bicycle or the back of a scooter, try zingy street food and get to know the friendly local people. As with all our destinations, we have people on hand 24 hours a day in case you need any help making the most of your adventure in Vietnam.

If you’ve got slightly older kids (over 12) we recommend Vietnam with the Family: Culture, Crafts & Castaway Shores, a 14 day itinerary taking in a wide variety of sights and local experiences. Enjoy the energy of Hanoi with a local English-speaking guide, relax of Palm Island, splash about in kayaks and even try your hand at farming in the middle!

Pack your trunk to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is trendy and we’re not at all surprised. With tea covered green hills as far as the eye can see, wild elephants and fantastic local cuisine the island is popular with all ages. Families are sure to love the mixture of nature, welcoming locals and the really unique places to stay.

With kids aged six and above, why not head to Sri Lanka for 14 days exploring Elephants, Beaches and Emerald Fields. The itinerary takes in Negombo’s canals, animal spotting up north, some time relaxing at the beach and a visit to Ella’s emerald hills.

Family island fun in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is the perfect Indonesian island for families! Hop on a bike and explore rice paddies and ancient temples or meet the monkeys out in the forest. All ages will love the beaches, especially for some relaxation after zipping around exploring. To get a real authentic experience you could spend a night in a homestay, the home-cooked food and warm welcome are unforgettable.

If your little ones have turned six, head east for 13 days on our Bali with the Family: Bikes, Boards & Beaches itinerary. You’re sure to have some long peaceful night’s sleep after the family have tired themselves out cycling in rice paddies, cooking local cuisine and surfing. We especially love getting away from modern life on the Gili Islands – the main transport is still horse and cart!

Epic adventures in Peru

Ever fancied sandboarding one day and hiking to Machu Picchu the next? In Peru you can keep the kids busy with activities galore. Accommodation ranges from jungle lodges all the way up to a colonial villas, there is something for everyone. If you love an active holiday as a family you’ll love Peru.

Peru is perfect for families with kids ages ten and above, so set your ‘out of office’ and head to South America for 17 days with our Peru with the Family: Ingredients, Incas and Animals family-friendly itinerary. You’ll spend time in Lima, trek the iconic Machu Picchu off the beaten path, speedboat across the shimmery waters of Lake Titicaca, learn how to cook the perfect quinoa or make your own tasty chocolate. Delish!