Greetings! I spent last Friday at the New York Times Travel Show held at NYC’s Jacob Javits Center. In just 10 hours, I learned enough to fill half a dozen newsletters! Since my goal is to share travel tips, tricks and inspiration in these newsletters (and on Facebook and Instagram), I will devote this issue to family travel trends in the new decade, and why you should think out-of-the-box for your upcoming family vacations.
As you know if you’ve read my past newsletters, I’m a firm believer that family travel can be transformational for kids, bringing you closer together as a family in the process. Here’s why:
- Family travel experiences teach new life skills and enhance a child’s education.
- They heighten a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world; in fact, colleges value incoming students who understand what it means to be a global citizen.
- They expose children to new cultures and perspectives.
- They strengthen the traveler’s connection to wildlife and nature.
- They promote self-discovery and self-confidence!
If your interest is peaked, read on for some fantastic ideas for out-of-the-box family travel that will certainly be transformational for your kiddos (and you too). You can also download our “10 Hidden Gems” freebie from the website for even more inspo…
Transformational Family Travel Ideas
Dubai for the World Expo 2020 (also known as the World’s Fair) is truly the ultimate for an educational and transformative family vacation with the themes of Opportunity (unlocking the potential of individuals and communities to shape the future), Mobility (creating smarter and more productive movement of goods, people and ideas) and Sustainability (respecting and living in balance with the world). These themes will be explored through 192 unique country pavilions, 60+ live shows/events/parades per day, and 200+ dining spaces from around the world. The World Expo runs from October 20, 2020 through April 10, 2021. For families with daughters, March 8-14, 2021 is a ‘women and girls focus week’ which looks to be a transformational experience for female empowerment around the world.
Culinary experiences – kids love to eat and many love to cook! The panel that discussed culinary experiences throughout the world spoke to a packed session at the Travel Show. Getting a sense of place through your sense of taste is an interesting concept that appeals to many travelers, and tourism boards and suppliers are expanding their offerings. Cooking classes, preparing and having a meal with a local family, or even a culinary tour geared to kids are wonderful ways to immerse yourself into the culture of your destination. I was intrigued by a tour where you gather your own mussels and then go back to a restaurant to prepare your meal under the guidance of a local chef. We will be going on a culinary tour in Greece next year, and I can’t wait to report back to you!
G Adventures – I met them at the show, and what an amazing company! They offer adult and family-focused itineraries around the world and specialize in hyper-local accommodations to allow you to deep-dive into the local culture. For example, families with children aged 7 and older can experience Thailand with a perfect balance of cultural immersion, sightseeing and beach time. A Chief Experience Officer, whose goal is to bring to life what your kids are learning in school, shows travelers a variety of bona fide Thai experiences. Some of the inclusions are a longboat tour of Bangkok, a meeting with a hill tribe community, a cooking class in Chaing Mai and a reflective visit to the bridge over the River Kwai. Plus of course, time to enjoy the gorgeous sand and surf of Phuket.
Inspired and excited to learn more? I can be reached by email at susan@hiddengemtravelconsulting.com or phone/text 203.247.3396.
Hidden Gem Tip: Travel companies that specialize in family travel itineraries are ideal for matching your family to a transformational trip. They have educators on staff who understand how to appeal to a variety of ages and interests. We curate those suppliers for you since we know how you like to travel.
Warmly,
Susan
Referral bonus: Do you know someone who would benefit from my services? Forward this email and have them mention your name during their complimentary consultation. You will receive a special perk! They may also sign up for this weekly newsletter and access our free Hidden Gem guide at www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com.
