Adventure Together
Temple ‘raids’ in ancient UNESCO sites, wildlife safaris on desert islands, luxury cruising across Maldivian seas – family holidays can take many forms, but they should, above all, be fun. Full of exciting activities, imaginative meal times and plush spaces you can all stretch out in. Opportunities for you to spend time together and moments where you follow your own paths. Add in a backdrop of spectacular natural beauty and you’ve got a family adventure you’ll cherish forever.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
On the salt-domed savannahs of Sir Bani Yas Island, herds of giraffe, Arabian oryx and gazelle roam free. More than 13,000 indigenous animals call the island home, including endangered and vulnerable species from across the Arabian Peninsula. This rugged wonderland sets the scene for game drives and nature walks that crisscross desert and golden beach. Hiking paths uncover knotted mangroves, ancient wadis and archeological ruins dating back to the 7th century.
After exploring the island’s spectacular terrain, dine under desert skies or take a Middle-Eastern cooking class together. Then retreat to an Emirati oasis at Desert Islands Resort, Al Sahel Villa Resort or Al Yamm Resort, nestled within the island’s sun-baked landscapes.
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Up north in the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort hosts encounters larger than life. From your mountainside suite, you’re steps from an award-winning sanctuary where rescued logging and circus elephants spend their days peacefully in the jungle. Join a resident elephant and mahout ambling through scrub on their daily walk. Watch elephants bathe in a forest stream. Or embark on an ELE learning experience and delve into pachyderm biology and behaviour. At the end of the day, relax in a family suite enjoying breathtaking views over three different countries.
Dhigu, Maldives
Take off on a private yachting quest aboard a luxury craft with a private captain and crew. Pack a gourmet picnic basket and lunch on a pristine sandbank. Watch sunset from the deck with canapes, chocolates and Champagne. Spot dolphins as you cruise across the atoll. Enjoy the freedom of the open seas, then relax in a spacious family villa at Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, complete with your own private pool and idyllic ocean views.
Phuket, Thailand
Tropical Thailand is a paradise for families, with Phuket in particular ideal for a multi-generational getaway. Inhabiting a hillside on the island’s northwestern shores, Layan Residences offers capacious private houses, just made for family getaways, complete with big infinity pools and live-in butlers. Plan a fun family day where local culture comes to you. Set up a Spice Spoons Thai cooking class in your residence and whip up your favourite dishes for a delicious family feast.
Algarve, Portugal
Golf and spa for adults, aqua park and dedicated clubs for the kids – Portugal’s dazzling southern shores serve up diversions for all ages. Head out on a boat trip along the craggy coastline, searching out dolphins cavorting through the waves. Cruise into the stratified Benagil Caves, explore rock formations scattered along sandy beaches or just soak up the sunshine on a far-flung beach. Make your base Anantara Vilamoura and enjoy the Algarve’s myriad attractions at your door.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Cycle beyond ancient Khmer ruins on a family adventure through the countryside and see what farming life is like – buffaloes and all. Breathe the cleanest of air and enjoy lush views across hills, palm groves and rice fields. Go by Vespa or vintage jeep, then continue your expedition by kayak, with a paddle through the ‘floating’ villages of Tonle Sap lake. Stay near the Angkor Wat complex at Anantara Angkor, the closest luxury hotel to the UNESCO site, and find family serenity in a spacious garden suite.
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