3 Reasons Why Thailand Is The Ultimate Wellness Destination

BY  Sibashree Jan 21, 2026

It’s a lot of fun when we let our kids decide the destination and details about the best family holiday destinations. Now, at 13 and 10, my daughter and son have already travelled more than their peers. You can blame it on their parents, us, who are the ultimate bohemians. Nevertheless, this time, we told them to list the best family holiday destinations, irrespective of the experience they want.  They could choose a backpacking trip, beach holidays, adventures, or even anything purely relaxing. Last time, we played a similar game when they picked the best family road trip destinations for us! So, let’s check out what they have chosen as the best holiday destinations for families.  What Are The Best Family Vacations Spots? (With Kids And Seniors) I was impressed with how my kids kept the list of the best family vacation spots eclectic. They may have done a lot of research, as the same list has Portugal and Italy, both places standing on the opposite spectrum as travel destinations.  Here are the places they have picked. 1. Portugal From the beautiful beaches in Portugal to the intoxicating land of Madeira, Portugal, and enjoying a vintage tram ride in Porto, this country is a winning destination for family vacations. And my daughter was particular that she wanted to stay at the Martinhal Sagres in the Algarve region. She wanted to see the fishing port and the beaches. In fact, the Lisbon to Algarve road trip and staying at Martinhal Sagres would be a great combination.  For me, the coastal route works better as the route will pass through beautiful beaches, cliffs, and small fishing villages.  There is even an inland route, passing through plains, mountains, and different towns.  Moreover, though a little far away (more than 3 hours from the Algarve), I would love to add the Dino Park Lourinhã to the itinerary.  It is the largest open-air museum in the country, and the models of dinosaurs and other creatures here are scientifically proven.  2. Jordan  With Petra as the epicenter, Jordan offers diverse family-friendly attractions, including the red-sand deserts and the Dead Sea. Jordan also has beautiful beaches. Furthermore, this Arabian country in the Middle East offers unique cultural experiences. Also, the food here is tantalizing. However, this time, if we visit Jordan, we would love to stay in glamping pods. These offer wonderful experiences to stay in nature and have the best stargazing experience.  I know it would not be as great as stargazing at the Great Barrier Island that I had on my solo trip.  Still, it will be a great start for the kids. The kids would also love Wadi Rum for the camel rides and Bedouin camps. The best time to visit Jordan is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the desert heat is manageable enough for the kids to actually enjoy Wadi Rum instead of hiding from the sun. 3. Amsterdam  “The clog bikes are so cool, mumma!” Yes, exploring a city like Amsterdam on a clog bike is so much fun. This is the best way to cover the windmills. Furthermore, the canal tours with audio guides are entertaining and educational for the curious kids. Also, if you want a more classical experience, the museums and tulip fields will never disappoint you. The NEMO Science Museum, the Van Gogh Museum, and Madame Tussauds Amsterdam are some interesting places to visit for kids. Also, it has the Anne Frank House. Moreover, Amsterdam is one of the most pet-friendly destinations in the world. So, we can even take Bruno with us. If you want the tulip fields in full bloom, plan the trip for mid-April. If you are visiting it any earlier, you will mostly get green stalks and disappointed kids. 4. London  London is a classic! It offers endless opportunities as one of the best family holiday locations for kids and seniors. If you just consider the museums in the city, it will be a busy trip for the kids. Also, London has Buckingham Palace, one of the most iconic European landmarks. Furthermore, the Thames River Cruise, the London Eye experience, and visiting the Tower of London will be great experiences for your kids in London. Moreover, we are all Potterheads. So, when in London, visit Platform 9 ¾ and various filming locations of the Harry Potter movies. London works well almost any time of year. However, I find the time toward late spring most delightful. It is before the summer crowds hit the Tower of London and the Harry Potter studio tour lines double. 5. Tuscany, Italy  Tuscany is a unique choice when it comes to good family holiday destinations. My daughter is growing up really fast, I must say. I did not expect her to be so mature with her choices. My daughter also had her suggestions regarding the accommodation. She wanted to stay at the Paradu Eco Resort, Tuscany, which is close to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Also, she wants us to explore Tuscany, its beautiful countryside, and the beaches on cycles. For us (the adults), hitting the vineyards on the way will be a lot of fun. I am surely going to grab some wines home and make the evenings more happening. Furthermore, I am going to take them to the Leonardo Museum in Florence and Pinocchio Park in Collodi for sure. Want to learn how to have the best Tuscany experience? Read our guide on unique things to do in Tuscany. September is our pick for Tuscany. The grape harvest is on, the summer heat has broken, and the cycling routes through the vineyards are far less crowded. 6. Costa Rica  Costa Rica is perfect for a relaxed beach vacation. It is a year-round destination with white sand beaches and long stretches of palm trees. Furthermore, the waves here are just perfect for surfing and swimming. I think Santa Theresa will be the ideal place for the kind of vacation experience we want as a family. Also, Costa Rica has independent and boutique hotels and services, offering you tailored experiences.  On the other hand, the healthy cafes here serve food that nourishes, and they are even conscious about eco-sustainability. It is still pristine and does not have a large commercial presence or establishments. Also, Costa Rica has independent and boutique hotels and services, offering you tailored experiences. On the other hand, the healthy cafes here are serving food that nourishes, and they are even conscious about eco-sustainability. Moreover, you will find many zipline areas and beautiful waterfalls near the beaches. Thus, enjoy a vacation filled with adventures, fun, and relaxation. I know covering all 30 national parks will not be possible. I am at least going to take them to the Arenal Volcano so that they can explore the trails and spot the famous monkeys and sloth bears here. Manuel Antonio will be another great choice for visiting the Damas Island Mangrove Estuary, enjoying the beach vibe, and walking through the national park. Costa Rica's dry season, December to April, is the safer bet for a beach-and-adventure trip.  The green season brings dramatic afternoon downpours that can wash out a day of ziplining. 7. Peru  Machu Picchu is reason enough to choose Peru as one of the best family vacation spots in the world. Furthermore, we have plans to visit Cusco on the way to visiting Machu Picchu.  I have plans to learn how to make chocolates and do some textile shopping there. Also, Cusco is in the heartland of the Incas.  As the capital of the Incas and a sacred valley functioning as the gateway to Machu Picchu, it is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.    Furthermore, the Peruvian cities stand out with their unique charm. For example, Lima is a gastronomic hotspot, Iquitos is the Amazon Gateway, and Arequipa has a distinct colonial charm.  Moreover, Nazca is the place where you will experience the mystery of the desert.  Machu Picchu is best visited May through September, during the dry season. In this season, the trails hold up better, and the views aren't swallowed by cloud cover. 8. Dubai  I think most kids these days have Dubai on their priority list. My son is not an exception. It is the country where culture and glamor, or history and futuristic developments, meet. Dubai is also the number one destination on our list of best places to travel with kids. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, with 33000 marine animals, is the main attraction for kids interested in marine life. Furthermore, they can experience adventure and thrill in a safe environment at the Jungle Bay Waterpark, Aquaventure World, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and KidZania. Moreover, Dubai has the heritage neighborhood of Al Fahidi (Bastakiya), and a boat ride across the Dubai Creek to the Spice and Gold Souks will be an ideal cultural experience for kids in Dubai.  Skip Dubai's brutal summer entirely. November through March is when outdoor attractions like the Aquaventure Waterpark are actually bearable for kids. 9. Florida  Are you planning an early spring break? Florida is surely one of the best family vacation spots in the world. I mean, every kid, even we, wants to visit Disney World. However, Orlando just does not have Walt Disney World. It is the “Theme Park Capital of the World.” It has Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Furthermore, Florida is beyond the theme parks and curated entertainment of Orlando. It has the Everglades National Park. Your kids will love spotting dolphins, turtles, and alligators here. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, Florida has the Kennedy Space Center at Merritt Island, the Florida Museum of Natural History at Gainesville, and the Norton Museum of Art at West Palm Beach. Moreover, with Little Havana in Miami, the history of Cuban immigration after the 1959 revolution, and the San Carlos Institute in Key West, Florida, brings a slice of Cuba to the USA.  Early spring, before the crowds and the peak heat, really is the sweet spot for Florida. It is part of why it made our spring break shortlist in the first place. 10. Kenya  Now, Kenya is the country that my son has picked as one of the best family vacation spots in the world. His focus, however, is the Masai Mara. He, of course, wants to meet the Masai tribe and have an immersive wildlife experience. “We will stay in camps or the safari lodges. These are eco-friendly accommodations with all the modern amenities. However, you can consider them as an extension of the wild nature of the Masai Mara. You never know when an elephant or a lion will be dancing at your doorstep. The best time for a Masai Mara safari is during the Great Migration, from July to October.  However, we're leaning toward the shoulder season instead, for smaller crowds and better rates. 11. Bali  I feel happy when I see that my daughter has picked certain traits for me. She loves places that have stories and history, and where the shift of energy is palpable. With the Canggu rice terraces, beaches, and different historical landmarks, Bali caters to every type of traveler. I know it’s a cliché, but it is the truth!  However, my son was more eager to visit the Waterbom Bali, the topmost waterpark in Southeast Asia.  Children will also love the Bali Bird Park, Ubud Monkey Forest, Bali Zoo, and the Bali Treetop Adventure Park.  Also, my daughter especially wants to visit the Ulun Danu Beratan Water Temple at Munduk Bali, the Tirta Gangga Water Palace in Amed Bali, and the Uluwatu Beach.  Bali's dry season, April to October, is the one to aim for. In these months, the rice terraces are still green, and you won't lose beach days to sudden rain. 12. Portland  Portland in Oregon is ideal as a fun family travel destination. You can explore the large city on a cycle. Furthermore, the high-energy city has breweries and museums. Also, the spirit of the city is quite spontaneous, aligning with its slogan on the Portland walls and the bumper stickers. Furthermore, the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Japanese Garden are two major attractions in the city. Summer, from June to August, is when Portland really shows off. The breweries have patio season going, and the Japanese Garden is at its most photogenic. Quick Questions Parents Ask For A Family Trip With Kids  If you are a parent and you are traveling with toddlers or teenagers, here are some quick answers to help you plan the trip better.  1. What Is The Best Country For A Family Vacation With Young Kids?  Amsterdam and Costa Rica are the easiest for planning a family vacation with kids.  Short travel times between the key attractions make these countries very stroller- and toddler-friendly.  2. What Is The Best Family Destination For Teenagers?  Dubai and Bali are the best countries for a family trip with teenagers.  These countries offer enough adventure activities. So, teenagers get the independence to explore without feeling the restrictions of tagging along on a parent's trip. 3. What Are The Ideal Destinations Good For Multi-Generational Trips, With Grandparents Along?  Tuscany and Portugal are the best destinations for multi-generational trips.  These countries offer a slower pace, shorter drives between stops, and plenty of quiet corners to rest between excursions. 4. How Far In Advance Should We Book A Family Trip Like These?  The time needed for planning the trip in advance will depend on the destination you choose.  For example, for countries such as Peru, Kenya, and Dubai, you will have to book at least 4-6 months in advance.  Flights and the decent eco-lodges fill up fast in these locations, especially in the peak seasons.  However, Portugal and Amsterdam are more forgiving; 6-8 weeks is usually fine. Choosing The Best Family Vacation Spots: It’s A Wrap  Looking at this list now, I can see so much of my kids in it. My daughter's pull toward history and quiet, beautiful places, and my son's love for adventure and a little bit of chaos! That is the thing about letting your children pick the destination. You stop traveling for them and start traveling with them.  Next up, we're debating whether to let them pick the budget too. Wish us luck!

BY  Ankita May 23, 2024

Are you and your family looking for different kinds of fun? If yes, then Ventura Amusement Park can be the best choice for you.  This amusement park in Cancun offers a unique experience with activities for all ages. You can experience different kinds of adventure in this place. As Ziplines, thrilling slides to high altitudes, everything is present here.  You can spend some memorable days of your life once you visit this place. Additionally, you just have to make sure that you do not make things too complex from your end. Top 5 Amusement Parks In Cancun  There are several Amusement parks Cancun in Mexico, but among them, you have to select the best amusement park that can meet your needs. Some of the popular Amusement parks in Cancun are as follows:-  1. Xcaret Theme Park The Xcaret theme park is one of the best amusement parks that you must visit once in your life to remove your boredom. This amusement park is present in Playa del Carmen. There are certain features of this amusement park that make it the best place to visit here:-  It comprises underground rivers.  You will get a beach area and lagoon to roam about.  Enjoying the coral reef Aquarium can make this place the perfect place for a hotspot.  You will also get the privilege to enjoy the dance shows.  Caves & cultural entertainment adventure is one of the best things about this place.  The best time to visit this place is Monday to Sunday between 8:30 am to 10:00 pm.  2. Xelha Water Park  The Xelha Water Park is another one of the best Amusement parks Cancun in Mexico that can make your holiday memorable. Riviera Maya is the place where Xelha Water park is located. There are certain features present in this waterpark that allow visitors to enjoy this amusement park. Some of its core features are as follows:-  Scenic Light house.  Cliff of courage.  River tour Xela.  Enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico with fun-filled activities.  The opening hours of this amusement park are between 9:00 am to 6 pm, Monday to Sunday.  3. Xplor Adventure Park  The Xplor Adventure Park is one of the best amusement parks that you can explore in Cancun. You should ensure that you follow the correct process from your end while reaching your traveling goals. Some of the key features of this amusement park are as follows:- It forms a part of Xcaret.  You can witness the highest Zip lines of river Maya.  Explore the Zipline circuits.  Enjoy the Hammock ride.  Spend some time on amphibious vehicles.  Witness the spectacular view of the jungle adventure. The opening hours of this amusement park are between 9:00 am To 5:00 pm Monday to Sunday, and 5:30 pm to 12:00 am.  4. Xenotes Fun Park Xenotes Fun Park is one of the best Amusement parks Cancun in Mexico that can make your holiday memorable. There are certain factors about this park that make this park worth memorable all year round. Features of this park are as follows:-  Its location is in the Yucatan peninsula.  Kayaking is one of the best activities you can enjoy in this place.  Rappelling into cenotes is another best option that you can maintain here.  All the adventure and tranquility are combined here.  The opening hours of this adventure amusement park are between 9 am to 6 pm.  5. Xoximilco Party Park  Xoximilco Party Park is one of the best amusement parks that can boost the scope of your adventure all day long. Some of key places and features of this amusement park that you must not miss at your end are as follows:-  Traditional and lively Mexican fiesta.  You can enjoy the cultural experience of this place like music, dance, and food.  Opening hours of this place vary from time to time. So, you have to check the opening hours from your end.  Ventura Park Main Attractions Every corner of this amusement park in Cancun is full of adventure. As it has numerous attractions for the visitors who will visit here. You should visit this place once to experience the best attractions of this place.  Explore the main attractions and get ready for an unforgettable day full of laughter, adrenaline, and special moments. Wet'n Wild This water park is an oasis of fun under the Cancun sun. It offers a variety of water slides that guarantee exciting adventures for all ages. Wet'n Wild is the ideal place to cool off and experience moments of pure adrenaline. This is because it has fast descents and also gentler rides for the little ones, Aaah! Ventura For the adventurous at heart, this amusement park in Cancun features Aaah! Ventura. Most of the time, this Zipline offers an exciting zip line circuit. This will make you fly over the park. The suspension bridge will help you to challenge your fear of heights. You just have to experience the thrill of this place.  Fun World Specially designed for the little ones, Fun World offers a children's roller coaster perfect for children's first experience with this type of attraction. In addition, they can enjoy a classic carousel, mechanical games and play areas that will provide them with hours of safe entertainment adapted to their size. Grand Prix Step on the gas at the Grand Prix go-kart track, where you can compete against family and friends in a thrilling race. With double go-kart options, even the little ones can join in the fun, always safely alongside an adult. This attraction at Cancun amusement park in Cancun is an excellent way to instill a spirit of healthy competition in a controlled and safe environment. These attractions make Ventura Park a fun-filled and adventurous destination for the whole family, ensuring that everyone from the youngest to the oldest will find something exciting to do. Unique Experiences In Ventura Park Do you want to live unique experiences in this amusement park in Cancun? We tell you what options you have: Underworld: If you like technology, you can enter the world of Underworld, where virtual reality transforms the way you play and explore. Go on immersive adventures with the Star Wars Battle Pod experience or navigate the challenges of a laser maze. This area of the park is ideal for those looking for a cutting-edge, interactive experience. Hurricane: For adrenaline seekers, Hurricane offers a roller coaster with thrilling climbs and dizzying descents. The tight curves and intense speed make it a thrilling place to test your courage. It is a perfect choice for those who want to experience vertigo and excitement in a safe and controlled environment. The unique experiences at this Cancun amusement park offer exciting opportunities for those looking for more than traditional attractions. Promotions And Special Passes In this amusement park in Cancun, you will find several types of passes: Fun Pass: gives you access to multiple attractions including Wet'n Wild, where you can enjoy water slides and pools, and Fun World, perfect for the little ones with its children's roller coaster and carousel. Ideal for a day of family fun. Platinum Pass: In addition to all the advantages of the Fun Pass, the Platinum Pass includes access to Aaah! Ventura, with its thrilling zip lines and aerial adventures, and additional benefits such as unlimited soft serve ice cream and access to the buffet and national open bar. It's perfect for those looking for a full day of adventure and unlimited convenience. VIP Pass: the most exclusive level of access, which includes all the features of the Platinum Pass plus premium experiences such as Swim with Dolphins and access to virtual reality in Underworld. This pass is the ultimate option for those who want the most complete and luxurious experience in Ventura Park. On the other hand, this amusement park in Cancun offers significant discounts for buying online. This allows you to save on your passes by planning ahead. Plan Your Visit To Ventura Park When planning your visit to Ventura Park, it is important to consider a few things to ensure that your day is as pleasant and smooth as possible. What to bring? Swimsuit: don't forget your swimsuit to enjoy Wet'n Wild's aquatic attractions. Sunscreen: essential to protect you from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities. Towel: although the park offers towel rentals, you can bring your own for convenience. Waterproof camera: to capture the fun moments without worrying about water. Comfortable shoes: ideal for walking around the park and participating in attractions such as Aaah! Ventura. How To Get To The Park Ventura Park is located on Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 25, Hotel Zone, Cancun, Mexico. It is conveniently located near other tourist attractions. You can use your favorite map app to get precise directions to the park. Here, you will get the opportunity to park the car. You can drive directly to the park. You cannot make your selection and choices in grey.  Final Take Away  Planning ahead will help you maximize your time and make the most of your visit to this Cancun amusement park. I think you will enjoy reading this article and if you want to experience the best of this park, then you must visit here.  You can share your views and opinions with us in this regard. This will help us to know your take on this matter. Enjoy your holiday by visiting the best amusement park Cancun in, Mexico. 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BY  Sibashree Mar 9, 2026

Almost a year ago, on 26th March 2025, Xinhua shared a photo of the fishing trawlers in Negombo. Those further gave us an idea about the lives of the fishermen in Negombo.   On a personal level, that photo took me back to my days in Negombo.  Now, many often miss the cultural insights Negombo offers. I mean, if you consider the Tamil culture in Jaffna, or the cultural things to do in Kandy, you also need to experience what Negombo has to offer.   Otherwise, you will not understand how it has kept the soul of a fishermen’s port city alive beyond the glitz and glamor of the prominent international hotels and shops.   Also, Negombo is very close to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport. The distance is less than 9 km, and the travel time is around 20 minutes.   So, as expected, it has all the amenities for tourists. However, as always, luxurious facilities have never been the draw for me while visiting a place.   I am the happiest exploring the Ritigala Forest Monastery or climbing the Sigiriya Rock and finding the history at every corner.   So, my reason for a visit to Negombo was not what people usually think of. And in today’s blog, I will introduce Negombo to you through my lens.   How Did I Reach Negombo From Colombo?   I took a tuk-tuk to reach the Colombo Fort railway station from my hostel. Then, I got a train ticket for 80 LKR.   The train was not overly crowded, and traveling solo, and as a believer in the LowDownUnder travel philosophy, I quite enjoyed the train ride.   However, if you want to avoid the hassle, you can also take a bus from Colombo to Negombo.   Where Are The Things To Do In Negombo?   First, I want to highlight that traveling to Negombo has now become easier if you are traveling from India.   The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has started a package called “SHRI RAMAYANA YATRA EX MUMBAI.”   From 21st March 2026 to 27th March 2026, it will be a 6-Night and 7-day package.   The package tour conducted in association with the Sri Lankan Airlines will cover destinations such as Colombo, Dambulla, Trincomalee, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.   This tourism package starts from Rs. 71,800/ for adults and Rs. 30,100/ for children.   Now, with traveling becoming easier, you can plan the things to do in Negombo better.  1. Exploring The Negombo Fish Market  I was up at 5 AM as I had to visit the local fish market.   I got into a minivan with my guide, and as we entered the market, the sight of bright silver fish and their smell occupied my senses.   My guide took me through the stalls of tuna, machete, and shark. Then, he drew my attention to the ships filled with fish reaching the market and the heavy bargaining game.   A fish market may not be the most attractive place to visit when you are in Negombo.   However, if you want a true cultural experience and understand the livelihood of the local people, it is the go-to place.   From the fish market, my guide took me to a beach used primarily for drying fish. The intense smell is not for everyone, but many times, I had a similar experience back home.   2. Visiting The Dutch Fort At Negombo  The Dutch Fort was close to the “fish drying beach.” Now, the Dutch Fort is used as a prison.   The fort is constructed with coral stone and granite.   And around the fort, I found many wildflowers blooming.   This simple scene was a moment of learning for me. I once again understood how the universe functions.   It does not matter whether it’s a prison or a temple. A flower can bloom anywhere, and it will always be beautiful.   However, I wanted to have a better view of the Dutch Fort. I climbed up the old clock tower and got a better perspective and better shots of the fort.   3. Visiting The Angurukaramulla Temple  After a trek to the Sigiriya Rock and the Pidurangala Rock, I visited the Angurukaramulla Temple. Like the Sigiriya Rock, for this Buddhist Temple, you also need to make an entry through the mouth of a lion.   The lion rests below the 6-meter-tall Buddha statue.   The temple has magnificent statues and beautiful murals. Also, it has a rich library with scriptures and murals.   So, it is a great place to visit in Negombo if someone is studying the Buddhist religion and literature.   However, walk carefully as you may come across snakes (rat snakes).   4. Birdwatching On The Dutch Canals  I ended my morning at the Dutch Canal. It was relaxing and enriching at the same time to look over the lagoons.   I decided to make more of the moment and got into a boat.   It was surprising to say the least. Also, I did not expect to meet so much wildlife immediately after leaving the dry land.   I saw a huge monitor lizard resting on the shoreline, and then kingfishers, cormorants, and herons in flocks kept accompanying me throughout the journey.   However, it was not just the wildlife. I saw a reflection of my home and country during the boat ride.   People were attending to livestock, children were bicycling, and some were even playing cricket.   Again, there were some abandoned hotels and buildings, standing as a witness to the civil unrest and the stories of human resilience in Sri Lanka.    5. Exploring The City On Foot  Negombo is very walkable, and it reminded me of my days in Jaffna. I used to randomly pick a direction along the main coastal road and just walk.   You may call wandering aimlessly in a lesser-known place unsafe. However, I think that you have not seen a city until you have walked through it.   Also, after visiting Jaffna and other places of historical and cultural significance, Sri Lanka felt like home to me.   They spoke a different language. However, they were warm and welcoming, just like anyone I would randomly come across in India.   Also, after years of experience, I can say that walking is the only way to find those hidden gems, the best bakery around the corner, or the eatery that has been around for around 100 years.   This was more evident during my Jaffna food tour.   Moreover, while walking across the streets of Negombo, I got to interact with the local fish sellers and food vendors. In addition, I found a big mosque near the backstreet.