Travel bound 2 autumn 2018

ISSUE TWO / AUTUMN 2018

GREEN HONG KONG EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

HAWAII ISLANDS

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR FAMILIES

TOP 20

family SHORT HAUL

ADVENTURES

SURFING IN TAI WAN

+

FOOD AROUND THE WORLD

Trust your family holiday to a family travel specialist

To find your Travel with Kidz accredited family travel specialist, visit travelwithkids.com.au A TravelManagers Australia brand

TRAVEL PLANNING

Why you need a travel consultant Dreaming of an overseas holiday but don’t have the time to work out the finer details?

Or do you want to get away, but need ideas about where to go and what to do? The right travel consultant will create the perfect trip plan... all you need to do is turn up and enjoy the holiday, writes Sophie Cullen.

Thanks to the internet, families who love to travel have access to thousands of deals, making that passage overseas easy to organise. But those simple-to-book trips don’t necessarily turn into amazing holidays. Here’s why advice from a travel consultant will turn your holiday dream into a reality.

• Inspiration: Acting as advisers, travel consultants can accompany you through every step of planning, offering as little or as much input as you want. They can help you decide where to visit, what type of holiday you want, and what activities you’d like on your agenda.

• The bespoke itinerary: Is your family into active adventures? Are you working with a budget? Do you all just need to get away and unwind by some fabulous pool? A travel consultant has inside knowledge and industry access, allowing them to create a customised trip that won’t pop up in a Google search.

• Expertise: Many travel consultants specialise in a certain field, so you can trust that your cruise connoisseur or Europe expert knows all there is to know – and has probably tested it out firsthand.

• An advocate: Consultants will back you up when it comes to negotiating with providers.

They will push for that family suite so you don’t have to book an extra hotel room.

• A single point of contact: Having one person to manage all your bookings comes in handy,

especially if flights are cancelled or tours fall through.

• Extra time: The internet is a great planning tool, but it throws you an overwhelming number of options. It’s useful to have a professional working on your behalf – to handle the logistics, sift through the small print, and understand what you’re entitled to with different packages.

• Huge savings: Consultants have access to industry rates and are well versed in price comparisons and hidden fees. They can sometimes offer manageable payment plans, or will keep your bookings on hold for a few days while you make up your mind. Families suddenly find themselves able to afford those bucket list destinations, because their consultant wrangled room combinations or upgrades from suppliers.

• Peace of mind: You can rest assured that your plans are secure, leaving you with nothing to worry about except enjoying your break and spending quality time as a family.

Since 1995, Travel with Kidz specialists have been helping families create stress free, safe and memorable holidays, understanding that families have specific needs. Travel Bound recommends families book their custom holidays with an accredited Travel with Kidz specialist. Go to travelwithkidz.com.au to find your closest family travel specialist.

Welcome Hi and welcome to our second issue of Travel Bound, a magazine created for families who love to explore. In this issue we spotlight close-to-home overseas destinations and we hope you enjoy reading the magazine as much as we enjoyed creating it.

The Travel Bound team CEO Janeece Keller COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Natasha Keller EDITOR Tatyana Leonov STAFF WRITER Sophie Cullen DESIGNER Caroline Mackay

Contact @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

The thrill of heading overseas with the whole family never gets old. Experiencing new cultures, enjoying different activities, sampling local foods – and doing this together as one unit – creates for one unforgettable experience.

My first trip overseas was to Hong Kong, as a stopover on our family move to Munich for Dad’s work. I remember looking out the window as we flew between the buildings to land at the old Hong Kong airport and thinking that no city could ever look so big and shiny!

It was close to 10pm when we checked into our hotel, and then we went out for dinner and hit the shops. To a seven-year-old girl who already loved shopping and food, Hong Kong seemed like the ultimate in indulgence. To this day I still love Hong Kong – the shiny new skyscrapers mixed with Chinese markets and traditions – and there are still pockets of its British colonial past. I have to admit, I take any opportunity to have an extended stopover there when possible.

We lived in Germany for some time and got to know Europe, but once we moved back to Australia we tended to stay close to home,

4 / For families who travel

holidaying in places such as Fiji and Hawaii.

In this issue, we have island getaways covered with Hawaii (turn to page 28) and the South Pacific region (go to page 44); we’ve narrowed down the best overseas ski spots for snow bunnies (turn to page 34); we’ve even included offthe-beaten track holidays. Surfing in Taiwan anyone? Flick to page 58 for the story.

Of course, there are so many great and diverse adventures for families, and in our top 20 list (from page 12) we highlight some of our favourites – from island hopping in New Caledonia to learning about giant panda’s in China to icy adventures in New Zealand – our hot list will inspire you to get planning.

We also understand that sometimes you only have a short while in a destination, so we’ve included 48‑hour itineraries for seven amazing cities (flick to page 66) and explained why breaking up a long journey with a stopover is family travel gold (go to page 78).

I hope you enjoy reading this second issue of Travel Bound and that it inspires you to plan your next overseas adventure.

Happy reading.

Janeece Keller

Contents

66.

28.

City itineraries We’ve sorted out 48 hours of fun in these buzzy overseas cities.

22.

58.

Driving adventures with a baby in New Zealand.

Take the kids on a different kind of adventure.

ROAD TRIP

Hawaii islands The ultimate guide for families.

SURFING IN TAIWAN

34.

62.

06.

Where to ski and play in the snow overseas.

Explore the world through epic events.

Travel inspiration through news bites and fun ideas.

40.

78.

11.

Get out and explore the outdoors.

Breaking up a long flight with a stopover is family travel gold.

SKI RUNDOWN PINBOARD

HONG KONG’S GREEN SPACES

AUTUMN QUIZ

Think you know it all? Take our quiz and find out.

12.

44.

These short haul overseas experiences will blow your mind.

So many diverse islands at our doorstep.

TOP 20

20.

BALI BLISS

Why a resort holiday is great for families.

THE SOUTH PACIFIC

52.

FOOD AROUND THE WORLD

Try these tasty treats when on the road.

AUTUMN CALENDAR

STOPOVER SPOTLIGHT

80.

TALK TO THE EXPERT Your travel questions answered.

83.

QUIZ ANSWERS

How many questions did you answer right?

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P I N B OA R D Arabian

ADVENTURES

• In summer, temperatures can soar to a sizzling 50°C. Visit during the milder months of November to February, although this is also peak tourist time.

• Food fans should try a camel burger and fresh camel milk. Other local delicacies include biryani stews, hummus, shawarma and falafel.

• Given that the population is predominantly Muslim, factor the weeks of Ramadan into your planning, as eating and drinking in public is restricted during daylight hours.

• Dress conservatively and respectfully during your visit, especially when entering mosques.

Fly with the falcons, dream of the desert, and cavort with the camels in this colourful land of contrasts. Venture where arid sands meet fertile plains, skyscrapers brush shoulders with ancient fortresses, and Islamic, Persian and Arabian cultures and histories fuse together. The United Arab Emirates is a unique destination perfect for intrepid families.

Bordering Oman, Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf, the UAE consists of seven federated, monarchical emirates or principalities. The most popular with tourists are Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the latter operating as the capital.

IMAGE: UNSPLASH: PIOTR CHROBOT. WORDS: SOPHIE CULLEN.

TOP TIPS

ADVENTURE IN

Abu Dhabi Start your explorations at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which houses the world’s largest chandelier and Persian carpet. For a hint of history, head to the Heritage Village.

If thrills and spills are more your style, brave the world’s fastest rollercoaster at the largest-ever indoor theme park, Ferrari World.

Animal lovers will relish the chance to encounter hyenas, ostriches, and more crazy critters at the Al Ain Zoo and the Arabian Wildlife Park. Make a point of watching a falconry demonstration, a popular pastime originating from desert hunting customs, or visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital which receives over 11,000 of the feathered patients per year.

Maybe your family prefers to soak up the sights and sounds by wandering the streets? For an exciting assault of the senses, delve into a traditional souk or street market. Abu Dhabi’s most famous is Central Market, although the region is also home to smaller souks dedicated to selling perfumes, Persian rugs and spices.

DISCOVER

Dubai

Buzzy Dubai is famous for its opulence and skyline, but a few days in this busy region will also illuminate a rich and diverse underside guaranteed to enchant visitors of all ages.

Shake it up and try indoor skydiving, indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates, or an underwater high tea and theatre experience at Atlantis The Palm. The Dubai Miracle Garden is also a lovely excursion, as is the Dubai Museum.

While Mum and Dad squeeze in some shopping, check out the real dinosaur fossil at Dubai Mall, which is thought to be around 150 million years old.

Any of the beaches will provide a brilliant break from the hot sun, and you’ll have great fun splashing your way through Atlantis The Palm’s Aquaventure, or learning to kite-surf at Kite Beach.

DID YOU KNOW? • Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, one of the tallest buildings in the world. It has 163 floors, is nearly 830 metres tall, and holds several world records for the highest restaurant, longest elevator, and biggest automated fountain.

• Abu Dhabi is the biggest emirate of the UAE, counting for nearly 90 percent of its land mass.

• A huge chunk of the population (an estimated 80 percent!) is made up of ex-pats, making the UAE a multicultural melting pot.

NEWS BITES

TOP 3 OBSERVATION DECKS IN ASIA 01.

SHANGHAI FINANCIAL CENTRE As a city within a city, the Shanghai Financial Centre is one of the tallest buildings in the world at 492 metres (Shanghai Tower, opened in December 2017, stands at 632 metres high). Check out China’s fastest growing place from high above, and don’t forget to pop into the art gallery at the top. Be careful, though – it’s incredibly popular and frequent smog in the air means you have to pick the day carefully!

02.

SKY100 HONG KONG Hong Kong is a bustling city full of life – and home to more than 3000 skyscrapers! Why not take a trip up to the observation deck on the 100th floor, grab some delicious food, and check out the amazing art installations, including a 3D model of the city

8 / For families who travel

03.

TOKYO SKYTREE The naming of this monumental tower was a country-wide decision that saw lots of names come and go, until everyone finally settled on ‘skytree’.

There’s a shopping centre inside with special Skytree goodies, and locals believe the view is even better at night.

NEWS BITES

TOUCH DOWN

JET LAG TIPS Jet lag can be a real downer, resulting in tantrums, sleepless nights and exhaustion – and that’s just Mum and Dad! With these tips, you’ll have your head back in the game before you know it.

LIMBER UP

CALL HALF TIME

Make sure the whole family is well rested before your departure. You might like to adjust bedtime by an hour or two in the lead-up to make a head start on switching time zones. Talking to your kids about time difference is a simple way to help them understand and manage their own jet lag.

Make the most of stopovers.

Consider breaking up your trip by adding a day or two between home and your destination to overcome jet lag in increments.

Even a stopover of a couple of hours can be put to good use.

At Singapore’s Changi airport, for example, there are games rooms, flower gardens, complimentary movies, and even free bus tours for longer layovers.

DRINKS BREAK Before, during and after your flight everyone should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Mums and Dads should avoid alcohol, and be careful when it comes to coffee. Everyone should steer clear of sleeping pills.

When you arrive, make sure you eat at local meal times and stay awake until a reasonable hour. Have short daytime naps, if necessary, but nothing more.

Plan a couple of recuperation days into your itinerary after landing to give everyone time to adjust before seeing the sights.

JUNIOR SQUAD Babies are a whole different ball game. Given they already sleep irregular hours, in many ways bubs can be easier to manage.

Mum should be prepared for her milk to be out of whack when it comes to feeding time.

INTO THE HOME STRETCH Sadly, the process is no easier on the way back. The same rules still apply though, and by this stage, you’ll be an old hand.

GAME PLAN Organise your flights carefully and choose your seats wisely.

Some families prefer to fly overnight and sleep onboard, whereas others opt to land at night and go straight to bed.

Some families want plenty of legroom and aisle access, while others would rather curl up near a window somewhere with an easy walk to the toilet.

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NEWS BITES

5 GREAT

CRUISE HACKS Cruising and families can be a perfect holiday match, but a few simple hacks can take your cruise experience from good to great!

1. MOTION ON THE OCEAN

5. SHAKE RATTLE AND ROLL

If you or your kids are prone to motion sickness, book a room that is located mid-ship where there is less motion.

Check with your doctor before you leave about kid-friendly motion sickness prevention options... for just in case.

With the usual rock and roll of the water, it’s not unusual for drawers to open and close during your time aboard. Bring some duct tape with you to keep them closed. You might especially appreciate this tip during the night when the drawers are more likely to wake you when they bang closed.

2. PACK IT It can take a while for your check-in luggage to arrive in your cabin on embarkation day, so be sure to pack swimmers in a carry-on bag – so the kids can jump straight in the pool.

3. SUPER POWERED Cruise ship cabins generally have limited power outlets, so pack a small surge-protected power strip with additional USB ports for charging phones, tablets and camera batteries.

4. KEEP IT CLEAN To prevent the spread of illness, wash your hands often and use antibacterial gel to get a deeper clean for both the kids and your hands.

10 / For families who travel

NEWS BITES

AUTUMN QUIZ Think you’re the brainiest one in the family?

Test yourself by taking the quiz below and find out how much you really know. Flick to page 83 for answers.

O1.

06.

Which Asian destination is famous for the sweet treats, Portuguese tarts?

What is the name of the spring festival in India that is celebrated with technicoloured powder?

02.

What is the national sport of India (the answer will surprise you)?

03.

What is the friendly welcoming phrase in Hawaii?

07.

Vietnam is the world’s largest producer of what nuts?

08.

How many islands make up Fiji?

04.

09.

Jackie Chan may be famous for martial arts, acting and stunts, but what is the musical talent he also possesses?

What country used to be called Siam?

05.

Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world and is also the official border of which two countries?

The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings were both filmed in New Zealand.

Who wrote the books?

10.

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HOT LIST

our top 20

sh o rT

HAUL A DV E N TURE S

Score ultimate brownie points by taking the kids overseas.

From stomach-dropping roller coasters to jungle bamboo rafting and ancient Asian temples, here are 20 of the best close-to-home family adventures, writes Jennifer Ennion.

12 / For families who travel

HOT LIST

Experience river life in Vietnam

01.

Give your children an eyeopening experience they’ll never forget, with a cruise down the Mekong River, in Vietnam. There are countless tour operators who’ll pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you down the muddy-banked Mekong to see how villagers live. Most tours will also stop for lunch at a local restaurant and call into a rice-paper factory.

Get Your Guide is a reputable company to book through.

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HOT LIST

02.

Ski the ‘Alps of Korea’ With the 2018 Winter Olympics recently shining a light on South Korea, there is no better time to explore beyond your favourite ski slopes and visit the ‘Alps of Korea’. Most of the resorts are in the Gangwon-do region and one of the best is Welli Hilli Park Resort (formerly Sungwoo Resort). There are 20 runs catering to all levels, and a terrain park for the experienced skiers and snowboarders in the family. The best time to go is from mid-December to the end of February.

04.

03.

Breakfast with orangutans in Singapore Breakfast dates don’t get much better than dining with the beautiful orangutans at Singapore Zoo – just watch your bananas. The zoo is the only place in the world where you can enjoy your first meal of the day with these intelligent creatures.

Dine on fresh fruit and eggs before snapping a selfie with one of the resident orangutans. The Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife runs from 9am to 10:30am daily, with the orangutans appearing between 9:30am and 10am.

14 / For families who travel

Escape Thailand’s humidity for an hour by floating down Lam Ru River, on Phuket island, aboard a bamboo raft. Race each other as you travel around bends along this cool, freshwater river on a giant raft. Sharing the raft with only one other traveller and a local guide, there is plenty of space to stretch your legs as the refreshing water washes over you.

There are a handful of operators along the river, but try Komol’s Corner Bamboo Rafting Khao Lak.

05.

Cycle in Samoa Learn about village life in Samoa by taking the family on a cycling tour. You can hire bikes and head off on a selfguided journey, or join a group tour and pedal past some of the island nation’s top attractions, such as Afu Aau Waterfall.

Be sure to also call into Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, dedicated to the Scottish author who penned Treasure Island.

IMAGES: JENNIFER ENNION, KOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION, SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD.

Try bamboo rafting in Thailand

HOT LIST

Learn about China’s giant pandas Animal-loving families will be in their element at China’s famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Watch panda cubs wrestle and play in their spacious, leafy enclosures, before making your way through the park to the adult pandas munching away on bamboo. Be sure to also visit the playful red pandas.

06.

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HOT LIST

Visit a school in Fiji

07.

08.

09.

Taste Sri Lanka

Get muddy in Vanuatu

One of the best parts of travelling is trying new food and Sri Lanka is a destination for the tastebuds. Head to Pettah Market (also called Manning Market) in Colombo and sample some kothu rotti, a traditional Sri Lankan snack that’s a mix of vegetables, egg or meat, with green chillies. The market is busy, so be sure to stick together and make a meeting point in case someone gets lost. But don’t be deterred – the sounds and smells of the market will have everyone buzzing with excitement.

16 / For families who travel

Forget relaxing poolside at a swish resort and get dirty exploring Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, in an open-top buggy. The whole family will get a kick out of travelling across Efate’s rolling cattle properties, and you won’t be able to hold back the laughter when you’re inevitably splattered with cow paddies and mud. Buggy Fun Rental guarantees a very messy Jungle Safari Tour, which will also see you driving through rural villages and meeting friendly locals. Children aged over six are welcome.

IMAGES: JENNIFER ENNION.

Encourage your kids to go back to the classroom for a day with a trip to a Fijian school. Excursions to Malomalo Primary School, on Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu, are run through InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa and give travellers the chance to meet local children and teachers, and check out the classrooms. You’ll likely get to play sport with the kids, too. The visits are weekly during the school term and you’re encouraged to take your camera.

HOT LIST

10.

11.

12.

Island hop in New Caledonia

Go cruising in the Cook Islands

Get a culture fix in Cambodia

Cruising is one of the easiest and safest holiday options for families, so this list wouldn’t be complete without including one of the best. P&O Cruises is a popular choice for parents wanting a budget-friendly, fun vacation with sun and sand in mind. Travel aboard Pacific Eden on its A Taste of New Caledonia itinerary. Over eight nights you’ll visit the beautiful Isle of Pines, Mare and Noumea, where swimming and snorkelling are top priorities.

If big ships aren’t for you, try a local cruise in the Cook Islands.

Koka Lagoon Cruises offer glass-bottom boat tours around Muri Lagoon, on Rarotonga. Go snorkelling in the aqua water, learn how to climb coconut trees, and try crab racing on this fun family excursion. You’ll also enjoy a barbecue lunch on a secluded island, all to a soundtrack of ukuleles.

If you want to go beyond beaches and introduce the family to another fascinating culture, you can’t go past Siem Reap in Cambodia.

This is where the famous and beautiful Angkor temples can be found. Angkor Wat is the most impressive in regards to size, but if you don’t want to deal with the crowds, head to Bayon Temple. Young kids especially will love the smiling faces carved in stone at this Buddhist complex.

13.

Stay in luxury in Bali If you prefer to take things easy while holidaying and enjoy the finer things in life, then Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, is for you. This resort combines luxury for parents with plenty of fun for kids at its Jimba Club. The club caters for children aged four to 11, with coconut bowling, kite flying, Balinese dancing, and crab hunting just some of the fun activities for little people. familytravel.com.au / 17

HOT LIST

If you love the Jungle Book then you’ll be enthralled by India’s mesmerising Ranthambore National Park, in Rajasthan. The park is teeming with wildlife (hyenas, sloths, leopards) but it’s the elusive Bengal tiger you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for. Intrepid Travel’s 10-day Northern India Family Holiday tour will have you searching for the majestic tigers as you enjoy a couple of game drives through the park. The minimum age for children is five.

14.

Under the sea in the Solomons The Solomon Islands has a reputation for some of the most spectacular scuba diving in the world, which is why we’ve put it on this list for snorkelling. It’s rare everyone in the family is scuba certified, and, if you have small children, it’s nice to enjoy underwater fun with them with a simple snorkel and mask. With more than 5000 kilometres of reef, you’ll be in awe as you spot turtles, rays, and neon-coloured sea slugs.

16.

Ride a camel in Abu Dhabi Looking for more travel inspiration? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

18 / For families who travel

No visit to Abu Dhabi would be complete without a desert safari.

Pick from a half-day, full-day or overnight adventure that will see you riding a camel over the sand dunes surrounding this amazing city. Catch sunset across the desert, enjoy a barbecue feast, get a henna tattoo, and unwind at day’s end while watching Arabian belly dancing.

IMAGES: INTERNATIONAL ANTARCTIC CENTRE, INTREPID TRAVEL, JENNIFER ENNION.

Meet a Bengal tiger in India

15.

HOT LIST

18.

Get icy in Japan

17.

Go for a spin in Dubai

Aussies are crazy for Japan’s powder, but you don’t have to love skiing to enjoy a snowy adventure there. Every winter, a fantastical ice village is built at Tomamu, Hokkaido. Enjoy fondue in a restaurant made of ice after taking a ride down an icy slippery slide. Dress warm as the temperature drops to -30°C. The Ice Village is open from December to mid-March.

After a few days in Abu Dhabi, take the kids to Dubai, a one-and-ahalf-hour drive north. There, you’ll find IMG Worlds of Adventure – the largest indoor theme park ever built. From dinosaur carousels to thrilling roller coasters with startling twists and drops, there is plenty to entertain the entire family. Marvel fans will get a kick out of riding the stomach-churning Thor Thunder Spin, while parents will enjoy flying through the sky on a 360-degree, 3D Hulk spaceship.

20.

Slip and slide in New Zealand

19.

Watch nesting turtles in Malaysia Malaysian Borneo is known for its orangutan rehabilitation centre, but it’s also a great place to see nesting sea turtles. Leatherback, green, hawksbill and olive ridley turtles are all drawn to this island to lay their eggs on its beaches. Your best chance of spotting them is in Terengganu and on Pangkor Island between April and September.

You don’t have to visit in winter to experience an icy blast in New Zealand. The International Antarctic Centre, next to Christchurch International Airport, will give you the chills with the Antarctic Snow and Ice experience. Kids will love the icy slides and taking part in a ‘polar plunge’ ice-water challenge. You will also get to meet little blue penguins. familytravel.com.au / 19

BALI

BaliBliss Discover an easy all-inclusive holiday with Club Med Bali.

Bustling streets, delicious food, stunning beaches, and beautiful Indonesian culture... who wouldn’t want to visit Bali? With direct flights from Sydney and a travel time of less than seven hours, Bali is a great place for the whole family. Discover what Bali bliss really means at Club Med.

vaccinations (including Club Med), so bring them along.

Finally, book your transfers before you arrive and take the worry out of finding transport to your resort.

BEST SPOTS FOR FAMILIES IN BALI We recommend families stay at a resort out of the hustle and bustle of Kuta, as the busy streets can be challenging to navigate with children.

Accommodation with kid-friendly services or a kids’ club is ideal, but be sure to check staff are qualified in childcare services.

Get the family up to date with their vaccines. In Bali, it’s recommended you have a Tetanus and Diphtheria shot, as well as Hepatitis A. At some kids’ clubs, you will need a record of your child’s 20 / For families who travel

• Temple of Tanah Lot: Take the family on an adventure to a traditional Indonesian temple.

• White water rafting: Take a thrilling plunge in a raft down the Ayung River and through the Indonesian jungle.

• Ubud Monkey Forest: Get up close and personal with the macaques in the mountains.

• Waterbom Bali: With loads of waterslides and rides for all ages, it’s a great place for fun in the sun.

BALI

TRAVELLING WITH YOUNGER CHILDREN Babies and tots can have just as much fun as the older kids. When choosing a resort with childminding facilities, be sure to pick one with a small staff-to-children ratio to ensure little ones are properly taken care of. Don’t forget to find out what activities are on offer ahead of time. Resorts such as Club Med have detailed event information available on the resort App (available for free download), so you already know the kids will have a great time.

For babies, check if the resort you are staying at includes services specifically for babies.

Club Med Bali includes a Baby Welcome pack of a cot, potty, bathtub, baby products and a bottle warmer.

WHAT ABOUT THE BIG KIDS? We get it, with teenagers it can be all good one day and chaos the next. Choose a resort with a dedicated teens club to allow older kids to socialise with kids of similar age. Also, consider booking a second adjoining room to give your teens some space on holiday (you might need it too!).

DON’T FORGET ‘ME TIME’ Choose a resort with an adults-only pool, such as the Zen pool in Club Med Bali, so you can unwind and take time for yourself. Cocktails and holidays go hand in hand, so indulge and order a cocktail – or two – with lunch. Then book a massage at the spa before going exploring. Bliss!

Book your next Bali escape at Club Med Bali on clubmed.com.au or contact your preferred travel agent.

• Don’t be afraid to haggle at the markets to get that souvenir – the Balinese are used to it and you’ll have fun doing it too!

• Make sure you lather the kids (and yourself) with sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy.

• Don’t feed the monkeys – they might look friendly, but they can bite.

• Not everyone gets ‘Bali belly’. Drink sealed bottled water to keep the family free of sickness. Also, you can trust resorts such as Club Med Bali to provide you with fresh gourmet food all day long.

• Finally, don’t forget to have fun! A Bali holiday is the perfect occasion to let your hair down, forget about all daily chores, and just enjoy your surroundings. They say happy kids make happy parents – we truly believe you’ll come back home with a big smile and a mind full of great memories.

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TOP TIPS

Don’t forget the floaties and aqua nappies, as everyone loves playing in water. Finally, even if your toddler can walk, bring a stroller, as with uneven footpaths and crazy motorcyclists, it will be easier to push them around.

NEW ZEALAND

ROAD TRIPPING (WITH A BABY) New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty has the world’s best sunrises, so it’s lucky that Amy Nelmes Bissett road tripped the East Coast with a young baby and didn’t miss a single one.

As we zip out of Auckland in our rented Mitsubishi Mirage, an amusingly poor choice of vehicle for a seven-day road trip of New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born To Run’ comes on the radio. A good omen, we decide.

Our open-road smugness is only interrupted by the sound of a gurgling baby. That’s the thing about travelling with a fourmonth-old, sometimes you just forget they’re back there.

“Are you crazy?” was asked by our nearest and dearest a near four million times, moving from a joking question to a serious accusation as we etched closer to our first road trip with our little one.

22 / For families who travel

But as we weave through Auckland’s leafy suburbs and onto the Southern Motorway, Max is already the perfect roadie companion, falling into a deep milk-induced slumber, despite being squashed between two suitcases, a bassinet, pram and New Zealand’s supply of wet wipes.

He stays snoozing until we arrive in Mount Maunganui, or as the locals call it ‘The Mount’, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Auckland, where we spent our first night, purchasing all the wet wipes, and all the nappies, and a few new toys to be whipped out when life on the road got a little tedious.

The first stop is Main Beach, a stretch of idyllic white sand,

which has been voted the second best beach in the South Pacific.

But we all know that New Zealand is synonymous with stunning scenery, but really, it’s the pies the locals should be shouting about.

We burn our mouths on the legendary mince and cheese pies from Mount Maunganui Bakery as we sit on bean bags at Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club, which also offers baby-changing facilities.

After a night’s sleep at Papamoa Beach Resort, we witness our first Bay of Plenty sunrise, a delicious swirl of purples and pinks. That’s the joy of being a new parent, being up for sunrise is never an issue.

The other norm, we realise, as we continue down the coast two days later, is the endless feed

NEW ZEALAND

and nappy pit-stops, which are surprisingly more of a blessing than a hindrance and become mini-adventures.

Ohope, a teeny tiny beach town, comes into our life just as we all need recharging.

Milk for one, coffees for two.

We take our lattes from The Quay Cafe and sit on the grass verge overlooking the beach and children’s park, filled with zipping pint-sized locals.

Our next stop, before entering Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve, is Opotiki, a town straight from yesteryear, where we spot Maoris riding horses through the high street, a truly mesmerising sight for Max who starts to giggle.

It’s a quintessential Kiwi experience, only pipped as we enter the gorge. Pine trees and fern protectively encase the 144-kilometre twisting stretch of road from Opotiki to Gisborne, with the green-on-green foliage only broken by an icy blue ravine running through its heart.

We stop halfway for a picnic, packed in Opotiki, as the gorge offers plenty in stunning views but little in snacks or amenities.

Picnic blanket in place, Max lies back, enjoying some nappyfree time, enchanted by the movement of the trees and the sound of the passing river.

We finally glide into Gisborne as the small city glows orange as the last light of night vanishes,

"WE WITNESS OUR FIRST BAY OF PLENTY SUNRISE, A DELICIOUS SWIRL OF PURPLES AND PINKS. THAT'S THE JOY OF BEING A NEW PARENT, BEING UP FOR SUNRISE IS NEVER AN ISSUE." and exhausted, we all fall into rare but invited deep sleep. That’s the Zew Zealand fresh air for you.

Gisborne is special for many reasons, with plenty of incredible wineries in the area, but it’s also the first city in the world to see the sun each day.

So, the next morning, we arrive at Wainui Beach, and as the first rays of the new day slip over the ocean, my husband and I give each other a knowing smile that says, road tripping with a baby isn’t so daunting after all. familytravel.com.au / 23

NEW ZEALAND

AUCKLAND

Mount Maunganui Papamoa beach resort

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NEW ZEALAND

BAY OF PLENTY NEW ZEALAND

ohope

opotiki

Waioeka Gorge

GISBORNE

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NEW ZEALAND

+5 MORE GREAT NEW ZEALAND ROAD TRIPS THE ADVENTURERS

FOR LITTLE ONES

Sandboarding, four-wheel driving and every type of water sport, Auckland to Cape Reinga – at the top of the North Island – is the perfect road trip for the family who can’t sit still. Action packed from the start, this fiveday tour – which could really be pulled out to two weeks if you wanted – offers a true Kiwi experience. If you are lucky, you’ll even get to swim with dolphins in the Bay of Islands.

Fly from Auckland to Rotorua to discover some of the country’s most unique places, which are especially welcoming to tiny tots. Rotorua, with its natural hot pools, is perfect for babes learning to swim. And then onto Waitomo Glowworm Caves to see the spectacular caves come to life. The last stop is Taupo, a hub filled with family-friendly eateries which overlook the idyllic lake.

If you’re not so confident about life on the road, then the threeday Auckland to Coromandel on the East Coast is a perfect introduction. A five-hour loop in total, offering some of the best beaches in New Zealand, with camping, kayaking and fishing all on offer. The famous hot water beach in the Coromandel reaches temperatures of 60°C, making it perfect for little ones not quite ready for the chilly New Zealand waters.

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IMAGES: TOURISM NEW ZEALAND.

TRAINING WHEELS

NEW ZEALAND

THE SKI BUNNIES Fly into Queenstown in winter and see the fjord land come to life. Whip around the stunning scenic roads of Queenstown before heading up to Lake Wanaka, where a crystal blue lake sits at the centre of a small ski town. The four-day trip takes you to Mount Cook, the country’s largest mountain, before retracing back to Queenstown.

SURVIVING CAR TRAVEL WITH KIDS 1 . PLAN, PLAN AND PLAN SOME MORE You might have to kiss away the days of freewheeling down the freeway and casually finding somewhere to put your head for the night. Road tripping with children requires plenty of pre-planning and a good idea of your itinerary before leaving. A top tip is ensuring your tour stops offer basic amenities.

2. Extra time is always needed

NATURE LOVERS Starting in the west of Auckland with bush walks around Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, this road trip is perfect for nature-loving kids. The next leg is a fourhour drive up the west coast to Waipoua Forest to visit the towering kauri forest, including Tane Mahuta, the country’s largest kauri tree. And then head to the East Coast to stop at Whangarei Heads, the home to treks with the best view, before returning to Auckland five days later.

Ready to hit the road? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

When it comes to travelling with children, expect the unexpected. A three-hour drive can take five. A fivehour drive can take seven. Or plans can be completely scuppered with an impromptu spew session. So, keep your car packed with plenty of drinking water, wallto-wall snacks, baby essentials like nappies and wet wipes, and last but not least, a first-aid kit.

3. THE BOREDOM TOOLS Children get bored easily and before you’ve even left the drive, there are often echoes of, “Are we there yet?”

Swap sugary snacks for an endless supply of healthy snacks, suitable for their age. And as a back-up have a few new toys to pull out when the little one is simply over life on the road.

4. PRECAUTIONS It’s advised that small babies should only be in a car seat for two hours at a time, and need regular breaks.

But even for small children, long journeys can be boring and tiresome – so ensure there are plenty of pit stops and avoid back-to-back long driving days. Also, either purchase sunshades or buy a small amount of black cloth and sticky back tape, which will help with day time naps on the road. familytravel.com.au / 27

HAWAII

IMAGE: HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY.

ALOHA FOR ALL AGES

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HAWAII

WITH SIX MAIN ISLANDS TO CHOOSE FROM, THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE IS PLOTTING WHICH HAWAIIAN ISLAND (OR TWO) TO VISIT, WRITES

MICHELE BIGLEY.

familytravel.com.au / 29

HAWAII

MY TODDLER WAS WHINING FROM THE BACKSEAT. WE HAD JUST BEGUN THE THREE-HOUR JOURNEY TO HANA, MAUI’S TROPICAL PARADISE, LOCATED AT THE END OF A RIBBON OF ROAD THAT CLINGS TO CLIFFS ATOP THE RAGING PACIFIC.

Back at the beach, I longed for the days of exploration without my clan, when I could just hop in the back of someone’s pickup and ride toward adventure. I was bemoaning my sentence, this life of travelling with young humans, when a mum laid a towel on the chair next to mine and said, “Mine are grown, and I sure do miss travelling with them.” In the distance, my husband held the boys’ hands as they jumped over the lapping waves, laughter mixing with the light breeze ruffling the coconut palms.

This was the Hawaii they needed.

And if I admitted it to myself, this was the Hawaii I needed.

A WORD TO THE WISE Don’t make the same mistake I did and force the drive to Hana on kids before they are old enough to enjoy it – the best age for this trek is at least six. If you opt for the long (over three hours with stops) drive, book a couple nights in Hana’s luxe Travaasa Hana resort to get to know the sweet community at the end of the storied road. In Hana, hit up the Bamboo Forest hike on the backside of Haleakala, play at Hamoa Beach, and try to spot local celebrity residents Woody Harrelson and Weird Al Yankovic.

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AGE-APPROPRIATE EXPERIENCES Developmental stages are no joke. Not only do our kids develop as humans, but they also develop as travellers. Parent travellers are also developing.

The travellers we are with our babies is different than when they are teens, or (gulp) grown up.

This learning curve takes practice, and there’s no better place than Hawaii.

I work part of the year in America’s tropical wonderland, so my kids have grown into travellers by visiting almost every island in the archipelago. And while my job often requires them to travel to places we might not otherwise lug them (like the Road to Hana), we use their developmental stages as guides to craft our itineraries. Naps mean reading-time on the hammock. Excess toddler energy means lots of beach days. Early bedtimes give us adult time on the lanai. Moody tweens mean delivering big ticket experiences like night swims with manta rays. Youthful scientists need opportunities for lava-spotting. With the right itinerary, Hawaii’s islands make a fantastic playground for all ages.

HOW TO CHOOSE? With six main islands to choose from, the biggest challenge is plotting which one (or two) to visit.

Above all, as a parent you want a select an island that appeals to you – your picky eater will still be finicky in Oahu, but you can delight in seafood ramen and a Mai Tai and then feed her another muesli bar from your purse. With outstanding

IMAGE: HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY.

My husband fastened his palms tighter around the wheel as I pointed out a waterfall plummeting into a pool. Saying he wanted to vomit, my kindergartener rolled down the window. The two-year-old started crying. Twenty minutes into this ‘once in a lifetime’ journey and we were making a U-turn.

I was crushed.

HAWAII

POIPU BEACH, KAUAI

beaches, hiking, and eating on all islands (really, you can’t go wrong), here’s a handy guide to ageappropriate highlights throughout the state.

BEST ISLAND FOR NEW PARENTS When the parents are happy, so are the kiddos.

And sometimes all parents need is a massage and some chillaxing at a pool overlooking the cobalt sea. While Lanai, a privately-owned former pineapple planation, might not feel like a tropical paradise with its pine trees and rocky geology, the newly renovated Four Seasons Manele Bay provides a lovely retreat complete with poolside popsicles and a shallow splash pool. Need a break from all that pampering?

Hike down to Manele Bay and take turns snorkelling with angel fish.

BEST ISLAND FOR NEW SWIMMERS With waterfalls gushing along the side of the road, abundant gardens awash in colour, and a warm ocean, families flock to Kauai for its laid-back vibe. Rent a condo from Rosewood Properties (scoop one up near Lydgate Park) and let your new swimmers explore the lavarock enclosed ocean pools. Swim with sea turtles, monk seals, and maybe spot an eel at sunny Poipu Beach. On the lush North Shore, teach your kiddos to surf at Hanalei Bay or frolic in the shallow clear waters of Anini Beach (if you’re hungry, pop by Duane’s Ono Char-Burger for a fix of the island’s best burger). Keep an eye peeled for the chickens that run free all over the island – my boys love to count them from the car, and chase them when we’re on foot. familytravel.com.au / 31

HAWAII

WAIKIKI BEACH, OAHU

Biking, hiking, snorkelling and surfing are hallmarks of the Maui travel experience. Sure, new parents can laze in a posh resort like Napili Kai Resort – Maui’s got some of the best on the planet – but the reason families return to this isle is for the adventure. Families with tweens and teens should hike into the dormant volcano Haleakala just before sunset—know that it’s

GETTING AROUND Interisland flights are expensive, and other than cruises, island hopping by boat proves a challenge. Splurge on an epic holiday by stitching together a couple islands. Know that you need a car to fully explore all isles, save Lanai.

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cold, so dress appropriately. Surf Kihei’s swells.

Snorkel Napili Bay searching for the state fish (the humuhumunukunukuapuuaa). Climb Lahaina’s massive banyan tree, gobble up some shave ice, then cap the day off with arguably the state’s best tribute to Hawaiian culture, the Old Lahaina Luau.

BEST ISLAND TO BLOW KIDS’ MINDS Watch new earth sizzle to life on the Island of Hawaii and your tween will snap out of his moodiness. The planet’s show-stopping volcano, Kilauea, is not only expanding the archipelago’s largest isle, but also forming a new island!

Whether you opt to stay on at the luxe Mauna Kea Resort on the sunny Kohala Coast, or Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in tropical (read: rainy) Hilo, spending a day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes

IMAGES: HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY.

BEST ISLAND FOR ACTIVE KIDS

HAWAII

natural and human history at the Bishop Museum – don’t miss the lava-making exhibit.

Introduce them to cuisines of the world in Chinatown’s Pig and the Lady for family-style eats like LFC chicken and tur duck en pho.

Head over to Waikiki to SUP with travellers from around the globe. Motor to the North Shore for a surf lesson with big wave champ Makua Rothman. Taste authentic Hawaiian cuisine at Helena’s Hawaiian Foods before heading back to the family-centric pool at the new Alohilani Resort.

National Park is a must. Add in a night swim with the manta rays, zip-lining over forest, stargazing from the visitor’s center on Mauna Kea (or families with older teens can explore the snowy peaks atop the state’s tallest mountain), tide-pooling for sea cucumbers at Kapoho Beach, and a kayak trip through the flume caves and your child won’t care about her Snapchat feed.

S H A V E I C E , MAUI

BEST ISLAND FOR A CULTURAL IMMERSION With Asian, the USA, European, and Latin American sensibility, urban families adore the cultural stew of Oahu. International art galleries, fashion boutiques, and celebrity chef outposts appeal to pre-teens tired of sunbathing. Teach them about Hawaii’s

Want more Hawaii islands inspiration? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

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SNOW

Ski adventures

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SNOW

From the rugged mountaintops of New Zealand and Japan to some quirky, lesser-known spots, here's where to go for your family snow holiday this year, writes Sophie Cullen.

Some people love beach getaways, others crave pampering and relaxation, then there are city jaunts and cultural adventures.

Even if yours is a tranquil troupe, picture sipping on a velvety hot chocolate – perhaps mid board game – enjoying the fabulous views of snow-capped peaks.

For those seeking a fun-filled escapade, the snow beckons, where long smooth runs and powder-white snow will keep adventurous families entertained for days.

The good news is that a snow holiday is the perfect all-ages holiday, so why not fly to an exotic overseas destination for just the right mix of thrills, spills and chill this year?

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SNOW

THE FAVOURITES The Land of the Long White Cloud tops the charts for Australians following the frost overseas.

New Zealand The Land of the Long White Cloud tops the charts for Australians following the frost overseas. On the North Island lies the majestic Moun Ruapehu, an active volcano with two ski resorts, both with plenty of lifts, trails, and ski and snowboard lessons for all abilities.

Ruapehu’s Turoa resort offers excellent season pass deals, which are of better value the earlier you purchase them.

The passes include awesome additions like night skiing, après ski discounts, and first tracks permits giving you free reign over the untouched slopes before everyone else.

One of the best bits about skiing in New Zealand is their bounty of ‘club fields’, including Tukino Club on eastern Ruapehu. These fields are non-profit public ski hubs that are often cheaper than the commercial resort equivalents in Europe or North America.

On the South Island, Queenstown provides a handy home base for easy access to the ski fields of Coronet Peak, Cardrona and The Remarkables.

An earlybird season pass will grant your family unlimited access to these famed summits. Of the three, Cardrona, is the only one to provide onsite accommodation, although it is a quick drive from Queenstown and shuttles run frequently. All of the ski fields have great options for beginners and young families, with family gear hire packages, learner slopes, and expert childcare programs and ski schools for

36 / For families who travel

kids as young as three months and as old as 15. Investigate further to find your ideal match with the right pass deals and the right mix of gentle slopes and advanced terrain to suit your family.

Mount Hutt, also on the South Island, has been named New Zealand’s best ski resort at the World Ski Awards three years running. It is true to its title, offering a dedicated area for beginners, fantastic ski and snowboarding programs, and early learning centres for infants. Best of all, at this picturesque destination budding boarders and smaller skiers aged 10 and under ski free all season!

Japan You’re bound to find fellow Aussie families making the most of the direct flights, affordable airfares, trivial time difference, and vast number of ski resorts in this winter wonderland.

Japan’s snow is the real deal; it travels across the Sea of Japan from Siberia before tumbling on Japanese mountains between December and April. Many resorts get more than 10 metres of snow per year, making this eastern Asian ski haven great for off-piste and soft powder skiing.

There are two main ski destinations.

Hakuba, on the south island of Honshu, is a convenient two-hour trip from Tokyo by bullet train. The 11 resorts here are connected by a

SNOW

The small print free shuttle service and offer world-class kids’ clubs and ski schools. Add the charm of local food and traditional accommodation, complete with tatami mats, futons and sliding shoji screens, and all bases are covered!

Hakuba is also ideal for a variety of après ski and rest day options. If you aren’t already snowed under when it comes to winter sports, try snow rafting, snowmobiles or forest snow shoe tours. And definitely squeeze in a peek at the snow monkeys of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and at the ancient Samurai fortress of Matsumoto.

An alternative destination nearby is Shiga Kogen, one of Japan’s biggest mountain resorts, which also resides in the Nagano ski region.

The second hot spot to feel the freeze is Niseko, Japan’s most popular resort for international skiers. In the 2016 season, it attracted close to 43,000 Aussie powder hounds who made the most of over 15 metres of snowfall. Niseko is well loved for its friendly staff, three huge terrain parks, great creche and babysitting services, and handy prebooking options. You can also take a reindeer sled ride, which will keep novelty high even on your days off.

01.

Having the right gear is important as small hands and feet get cold very quickly. Warm gloves, well-fitting boots, sunglasses and spare socks are a good start, although it is equally important not to let the littlies overheat.

02.

03.

Even if you have snow on the brain, keep culture on the cards as well – the destinations we’ve mentioned have ancient temples, wildlife encounters, snow walks, and historical sites a stone’s throw away from the slopes.

Before you embark on any international getaway, travel insurance for your family is a must. When skiing, it is even more important to check terms and conditions, as snow and ski sports often require an extra premium.

04.

Bring plenty of snacks and keep hydrated.

Don’t be afraid to call it quits when the going gets too tough or tiring. Many ski resorts and terrain parks will have snow play areas for kids who want to toboggan or build a snowman.

05.

SNOW

The Surprises Perhaps you’re a family of old hands on the lookout for something new and unexpected? Within the AsiaPacific region alone there are enough destinations off-thebeaten path to fill up your ski seasons for years to come.

South Korea’s wintry capital, Seoul, has several noteworthy ski resorts nestled in the Taebaek Mountains. Just two hours’ drive northeast of Seoul lies the famous Pyeongchang ski district.

World Ski Awards 2017 labelled the Intercontinental Alpensia Pyeongchang as South Korea’s best ski hotel, so investigate for yourself between November and April.

A little further east and you’ll land in Yabuli Ski Resort in China, the site of the 1996 Asian Winter Games. Make the most of the longest slopes in Asia, or of Club Med Yabuli, which offers kid-friendly activities, such as ice skating and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Take on some monumental mountains by speeding down the Himalayas in Kashmir, India. This one is reserved for teens and grown-ups with considerable experience

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under their belts, as the Gulmarg Ski Resort is uncontrolled, off piste and best tackled with a trained ski guide.

Next door in northern Pakistan, adrenaline junkies will find Malam Jabba hotel and chairlift on the glacial mountains known as Hindu Kush. Called the ‘Switzerland of the East’ by Queen Elizabeth II, this spot has faced a turbulent history and was only reopened in 2011 after being destroyed by the Taliban in 2006.

To tone down the intensity, venture indoors in either Dubai or Singapore for ground-breaking ski options beneath a roof. Ski Dubai has a 400-metre-long slope, a snow tube, the world’s first indoor black run, and even resident penguins, all inside the Mall of the Emirates.

Singapore’s Urban Ski boasts a ski simulator, which works a bit like a treadmill, with single and group lessons for eager young powder-hounds available.

Take on some monumental mountains by speeding down the Himalayas in Kashmir, India.

SNOW

Want more ski inspiration? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

familytravel.com.au / 39

HONG KONG

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HONG KONG

HONG KONG’S

GREENER SIDE Known for its dizzying skyscrapers and big-city buzz, Hong Kong is an intoxicating place to visit by any account. Just beyond the bright lights, however, a less hyped – and equally captivating – experience awaits intrepid families and travellers, writes local Nissa Marion.

Visitors to Hong Kong are often surprised to discover that the dense and bustling city, famous for its shopping, dining and nightlife, is also a popular destination for naturelovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Almost 70 percent of the territory is unspoilt natural terrain, with 40 percent of it officially protected by the government. Rugged mountains rise from sandy beaches and sleepy villages to heights of almost 1000 metres, and are criss-crossed by a network of world-class hiking trails and country parks. Yet the entire region covers an area only one-quarter the size of Sydney, making its natural wonders uniquely accessible to both locals and visitors.

The very first of these wonders can sometimes be seen before you even set foot on the ground; on a clear day, flying into Hong Kong International Airport from the west, a keen eye might spot one of the famed pink dolphins that inhabit the surrounding waters! The endangered dolphins can be viewed up close via regular boat tours – just be sure to go with a reputable operator such as conservationminded Hong Kong Dolphinwatch, who offer educational talks on every trip.

The dolphin trips run in the morning, so on the way back, consider a detour to sleepy Tai O, one of the most unique traditional fishing villages in Hong Kong. The village is a maze of canals and stilt houses, with plenty to discover along its winding boardwalks and waterways. Find your way back to Central by bus and ferry for unbeatable views of the coastline and city.

ABOVE: Tai O, Lantau Island

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HONG KONG

Back on dry land, a visit to Kadoorie Botanical Farm and Garden, on the steep northern slope of Tai Mo Shan, is perfect for families with young children. Sprawling over 148 hectares of organic farming terraces, landscaped gardens and natural forest, the Farm encourages visitors to explore their relationship with nature. Join seasonal events, from cherry-blossom viewing in spring to wild animal encounters and mindfulness workshops, or just have a wander and a picnic.

Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy a visit to Mai Po Nature Reserve, a wetland park on the China border that sees tens of thousands of migratory birds each winter, and is home to a plethora of local wildlife year-round. Wellmanaged walking paths and bird hides allow visitors to explore at their leisure.

It’s a good idea to call ahead, as the WWF-run conservation area has a daily visitor quota.

With younger children or shorter itineraries, Repulse Bay beach is right on Hong Kong Island, just 20 minutes by bus or taxi from the chaos of Central, and has plenty of play areas and facilities to ensure a stress-free beach day for all.

With such diverse terrain, it’s no surprise that Hong Kong offers some mighty fine hiking, including plenty of 42 / For families who travel

ABOVE: Kadoorie cherry blossoms

"WITH SUCH DIVERSE TERRAIN, IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT HONG KONG OFFERS SOME MIGHTY FINE HIKING, INCLUDING PLENTY OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAILS.”

family-friendly trails. One of the best known – and for good reason – is the Dragon’s Back, named for the undulating mountain ridge that it follows. Do it for the unbeatable views across Hong Kong Island, and reward your efforts with cold drinks and local snacks at Big Wave Bay beach, where the path finishes.

IMAGES: HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD, KADOORIE FARM.

If your visit falls during the warmer seasons, then your what-to-do-first is a no brainer. Head straight for one of Hong Kong’s many stunning beaches and soak up the subtropical climate. For the adventurous, Tai Long Wan beach in Sai Kung sets the gold standard. The beach is accessible only by hike or boat, but worth the effort; surrounded by lush green hills and completely secluded from civilisation, its white sands and warm clear waters are unparalleled.

ABOVE: Cheung Chau Island

MORE YEAR-ROUND

OUTDOOR FUN IN HONG KONG SPRING: Hop on a ferry to one of Hong Kong’s outlying islands for a chilled-out day trip that leaves the urban bustle behind. One great pick is Cheung Chau, a quiet, barbell-shaped pedestrian island with winding trails and a charming village where you can try traditional local snacks.

Start early to avoid crowds on the popular trail, but feel free to linger over lunch; like so many of Hong Kong’s green experiences, your trip back to the city is only a short bus or taxi ride, leaving plenty of time to plan out the next day’s adventures.

Want to learn more about Hong Kong? @BoundRound @BoundRound

SUMMER: For the ultimate Hong Kong summer experience, hire a junk boat, pile on some drinks and snacks, and spend the afternoon cruising and splashing in the warm waters of the South China Sea. For extra credit with the kids, ask for the inflatable slide or banana boat option to enhance the experience!

AUTUMN: Rent bicycles near the Sha Tin MTR station and take in the coastline on two wheels.

Take advantage of the well-paved, easy bike paths along Tolo Harbour, and stop for food at one of the local eateries along the route.

WINTER: Visit one of the many organic farms that dot Hong Kong’s New Territories, and pick your own strawberries to bring back. Many of the farms are family-run businesses, and other activities on offer range from baking bread to petting baby goats.

info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au / 43

O F PA R A D I S E

Need a resort holiday? Your choices will seem endless. Want to cruise? This is a great way to experience different cultures. Just want to relax

n o m o l So nds Isla

Take a step back in time in the Solomon Islands, an archipelago made up of 992 islands. With a history dating back many millennia, there are numerous pre-European cultural monuments to explore, including the 13th century Bao megalithic shrine complex and the 14th Century Nusa Roviana fortress and shrines.

Though a predominantly Christian country, traditional practices are still performed, especially in the inland Kastam villages.

With a stunning natural landscape of emerald forests, tropical islets, pristine reefs, lagoons, and extinct volcanoes that pop up dramatically from the ocean, the Solomon Islands is a truly unspoiled paradise.

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on your own patch of sand? There are too many beaches to count.

Venture into this paradise and you’ll be rewarded with rich encounters with friendly locals, rides down gushing waterfalls, snorkelling in some of the world’s best reefs, cultural entertainment aplenty, and sunset cruises that seal the deal.

Here’s our guide to some of the amazing countries and activities for families in the South Pacific.

“The Solomon Islands are like no place on earth. There’s nothing like staggering out of your Robinson Crusoe-style wooden bungalow in the morning to dive into a lagoon filled with giant clams, colourful coral and fish (including Nemo!), especially when that lagoon is encircling a tiny island that is yours and yours alone to enjoy.

At Oravae Cottage in Gizo privacy in paradise is an affordable reality.”

Laura Waters Travel writer

IMAGE: DEBORAH DICKINSON-SMITH.

Romantic beaches, heritage and culture, worldclass snorkelling, amazing natural wonders... the South Pacific has it all and more. A collection of idyllic islands scattered over the world’s biggest ocean, each of the countries offer a truly unique experience – and there’s no shortage of fun to keep families entertained (and relaxed).

Cookslands

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

I

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to paradise with the family, The Cook Islands is a remote, yet accessible, archipelago of picture-perfect islands that pepper the Pacific with 100 shades of green and blue so vivid they almost look painted. Here, some of the fun activities to try.

“I grew up in the Cook Islands and the vibe of the place has barely changed from three or four decades ago.

Rarotonga’s tiny – you can drive around it on a scooter in 35 minutes – but there’s so much to do there, yet nothing is ever a long way away.

There are lagoons to swim at, waterside cafes to lounge around at, and the best bars in the South Pacific.

Other islands are nice to visit, but Rarotonga is somewhere you fantasise about living.”

Craig Tansley Travel writer

SNORKELLING AND DIVING Koka Lagoon Cruises and Kia Orana Cruise Company can take you on a guided snorkelling tour, or you can simply hire some gear and wade in off the beach. The best place to snorkel in Rarotonga is a little patch of coastline across the road from The Raritongan Resort and the Big Fish Dive Centre. In Aitutaki, before you go exploring the clam farms in the lagoon, visit the Aitutaki Marine Research Centre to learn all about their conservation programs.

ISLAND HOPPING On the main island of Rarotonga, explore Muri Lagoon with Koka Lagoon Cruises. The crew will point out pretty fish and giant clams before taking you to Rock Island to show you their coconut tree climbing skills. On Aitutaki Lagoon, the Kia Orana Cruise company can take you on a totally different island-hopping adventure, with plenty of stories about each little island’s history, as well as the opportunity to get your passport stamped at tiny One Foot Island.

GET ON YOUR BIKE On Rarotonga, you can take a guided cycling tour with Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours. On Aitutaki, pushbikes (and scooters) are available to hire at most hotels and guest houses.

SHOWTIME Resorts generally hold at least one cultural performance a week, and if you miss out on the show at your resort, visit the resort next door. If you’re lucky you’ll be given a drumming lesson and asked to join in a traditional dance. familytravel.com.au / 45

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

i j i F

Fiji’s breathtakingly beautiful coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, family‑friendly resorts, welcoming locals, and relaxed island vibe make it one of the Pacific’s favourite holiday destinations – it’s little wonder families flock to Fiji! Here, just a few activity options to keep families entertained.

H O R S E R I D I N G AT N ATA D O L A B AY If you’re looking for something different to do, horse riding on the beach is a fun experience for the whole family.

SABETO MUD BATHS Kids will love getting completely smothered in mud from head to toe, then jumping into the geothermal hot spring pools to wash off (before doing it all over again).

MARKET EXPERIENCE Get immersed in the local way of life by going to the local markets in Nadi.

CRUISE WITH CAPTAIN COOK

Sinead Phillips Family travel specialist, Travel With Kidz

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VITI LEVU’S KULA ECO PARK Walk on the wild side with all creatures furry, feathered and fishy.

SIGATOKA RIVER SAFARI Travel on a custom-built safari jet boat to explore authentic Fijian villages.

IMAGE: DEBORAH DICKSON-SMITH.

“I just love Castaway Island in Fiji! Enjoy dinner at their barefoot restaurant where the food melts in your mouth and let the kids be entertained by the wonderful staff in kids’ club. The beach bures are stunning and we snorkelled from the front of our room and relaxed in the hammock while our little one collected coconuts. Easy and enjoyable for everyone.”

Captain Cook Cruises offers various multi-day cruises of the Yasawa Islands, with special mealtimes for families as well as kid-friendly daily activities during school holidays.

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

“To truly experience Fiji, stay on both the main island of Viti Levu and an island like Castaway. On Vitu Levu you’ll see the ‘real’ rural Fiji, including village life. The islands offer dazzling white sand beaches, snorkelling and dolphin safaris, and the feeling that you really are a castaway in the beautiful South Pacific. Fiji is accessible, safe, friendly and welcoming. The Fijian love of children is legendary, making it a dream destination for parents who can relax in the knowledge their kids are enjoying the best of childcare. Happy kids, happy parents!”

SA N D D U N E S U R F I N G AT SIGATOKA Grab a boogie board and launch yourself off the top of the huge sand dunes along the coastline.

NAIHEHE CAVE Explore the beauty of Fiji’s interior as you learn about the fascinating history of Fiji’s largest cave system with Sigatoka Off‑Road Cave Safaris.

ZIP FIJI Kids as young as five can soar through the jungle canopy with Zip Fiji, which operates both in Nadi and Pacific Harbour.

ENJOY A LOVO Enjoy a night of traditional Fijian entertainment with a lovo (food cooked in an underground oven) accompanied by meke (songs and dancing).

TIVUA ISLAND Take a day trip out to Tivua Island on one of Captain Cook Cruises’ tall ships, for a day full of snorkelling, kayaking and lazing around on the beach.

SWIM WITH SHARKS Awesome Adventures Fiji can take you on a trip to Barefoot Kuata Isand in the lower Yasawa Islands, where you can snorkel with reef sharks at a nearby reef.

Donna Parkin Outrigger Resorts PR – Australia/New Zealand/Fiji

TOP 3 LOCAL DISHES TO TRY IN FIJI In Fiji, you’ll probably find most days you eat at the resort you’re staying at, but there are a few local dishes that you simply must try.

01.

Traditional Lovo: A traditional feast, baked in a hole in the ground on hot stones, usually with pork, fish and a selection of root vegetables, including taro and kumara.

02.

Kokoda: This local delicacy is raw fish marinated in limejuice and coconut milk – think sushi, but better. You’ll usually find it on the menu at your resort.

03.

Fijian Curry: Almost 40 percent of Fiji’s population is of Indian ethnicity (descendants of workers who came over with British colonialists). Fijian curries have a distinct flavour – try the goat or fish curry – southern Indian in style and absolutely delicious.

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w e N a i n o d e Cal

Just two hours from Australia, New Caledonia offers families a taste of the tropics with a French twist.

Surrounded by the world’s second largest reef, the archipelago of islands that form the Loyalty Islands is one of Mother Nature’s most dazzling masterpieces.

There are a huge variety of underwater experiences for every age, from swimming and turtle spotting to snorkelling, shark feeding and diving. There’s even the more unusual sea walking – an activity that requires you wear a diving suit and helmet to walk the sea floor.

The islands are like nowhere else on earth. The tropical setting of bone white sandy beaches, retina-searing blue waters, mountain rainforests and swaying palms are colourfully accessorised with baguettes, Peugeots and the lilting sounds of French accents.

The capital, Noumea, is where this cultural collision is most evident. Set on a hilly peninsula, Noumea is the largest city in the South Pacific and offers a little slice of Europe with its alfresco cafes and luxury boutiques.

In Noumea you’ll also find indigenous cultural centres, where you can explore the nation’s rich and intriguing history, plus an aquarium, gardens, and plenty of other attractions the kids will enjoy.

The Isle of Pines, famous for the long and lanky pines that cover it and its brilliantly blue water, is another haven for families in search of paradise, while laidback Lifou and unaffected Mare offer a more authentic experience of island life for intrepid families.

a u p a P Guinea New

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

Tonga

Papua New Guinea’s unique and largely untouched culture is intriguing. Travel, though, can prove challenging with no roads between Port Moresby (the capital city) and other towns. However, the effort is worth it as the locals adore kids and the country is packed full of wildlife, including unique bird and mammal species found nowhere else on earth – which can be viewed in the wild or at Port Moresby Nature Park. Papua New Guinea is also home to The Kokoda Trail, one of Australia's most important WWII battle sites.

The South Pacific’s only remaining Kingdom, Tonga is jaw-droppingly beautiful, and it offers plenty of unforgettable adventures for visitors of every age.

The main island of Tongatapu is home to the Royal Palace, blow holes, surfing, the ancient Ha’amonga ‘a Maui – the Stonehenge of the Pacific, and the Tongan National Cultural Centre.

In Vava’u, families can experience an authentic Polynesian lifestyle – think village feasts piled with tropical fruit and fresh seafood cooked underground in an umu pit, as well as explorations of the cathedral-like Swallows Cave at Maninita’s to view marine life, stalactites and centuries-old Tongan engravings.

Active families can take on adventurous pursuits such as sea kayaking and diving.

There’s also all that incredible warm, clear water for swimming and snorkelling.

Vava’u is one of the few places in the world where you can not only spot migrating humpback whales – but swim with them too. Every year between July and October, about 1000 whales gather in the warm tropical waters of Tonga, so whale encounters are common.

“Papua New Guinea can be a difficult place to travel, especially as over 800 languages are spoken there, but more cruise lines are offering itineraries that suit all travellers, including families. You will experience a land and people so diverse and completely unlike anywhere else in the Pacific! You can climb volcanoes or experience authentic cultural ceremonies that aren’t simply put on for tourists.”

Lisa Smyth Freelance writer and communications consultant

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u t a u n a V

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

With its diverse ancient landscape and welcoming locals who have smiles as dazzling as its warm blue water, Vanuatu is a must for families. Here, just some of Vanuatu’s highlights.

U N D E R WAT E R W O R L D A Melanesian feast is something no family should miss. These massive feasts of traditional dishes, usually made in an ‘earth oven’, also include fiery and fascinating displays of local custom dancing.

PONY CLUB Club Hippique, just 10 minutes from Port Vila, offers horse riding adventures for all ages and levels. Ride through rainforest, along a sandy beach or by a waterfall, or take advantage of the cooler evening hours and enjoy a stunning sunset ride.

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Take the short flight from Port Vila to Espiritu Santo, the largest of Vanuatu’s 83 islands. Covered in lush jungle it is surrounded by stunning white-sand beaches and crystalclear waters.

WET AND WILD For thrills and spills in the water, Wet ‘n’ Wild Vanuatu in Port Vila offers loads of fun for everyone. You’ll find zorbing, a giant water slide, Segways, go-kart racing and sling shot rides to get the adrenaline pumping.

CHASING WATERFALLS Take the walk up and through lush tropical jungle across slow-flowing streams and over smooth boulders to the top of stunning 30-metre Mele Cascades, where you can plunge into one of the natural waterholes.

IMAGES: DEBORAH DICKSON-SMITH, VANUATU TOURISM OFFICE.

FABULOUS FEASTS

SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

SHOP LIKE A LOCAL The Port Vila Market in Efate is lively spot where Ni-Vanuatu women from villages around the island gather in their brightly coloured, floral smocks to sell fruit and vegetables. There is also an array of jewellery, carvings and shells, and fresh local food.

SET SAIL A cruise on Efate’s Havannah Harbour on the Coongoola, a timber sailing ketch, is packed with family fun. With plenty of stops to paddle and snorkel the reef, a delicious beach barbecue lunch, and a visit to a turtle conservation rookery on Tranquillity Island Resort, it’s a perfect day for families.

BATHE IN CHAMPAGNE Champagne Bay, on the east coast of Espiritu Santo, is one of the prettiest beaches in the Pacific, with a backdrop of jungle-strewn mountains, startlingly white sand and neon blue water.

EXPLOSIVE ADVENTURES Enjoy a close encounter with an active volcano at Tanna Island’s Yasur Volcano, around a 45-minute fight from Port Vila. There is no other place in the world where visitors can stand on the edge of a live volcano and see nature’s pyrotechnics in action.

T R A D I T I O N A L C U LT U R E The heart-stopping warrior’s welcome at Iarofa or Ekasup Cultural Villages in the capital Port Vila – where the Ni-Vanuatu people share demonstrations of traditional local customs, hunting and cooking – will have your kids squealing in delight.

“Vanuatu offers more than just a resort holiday for children, it is an adventure – active volcanos to climb, waterfalls to feel, the world’s only underwater post office, and beautiful blue holes to swim in.

Vanuatu’s many cultures make every island a unique destination with lots of exploring for kids to do, on land and under the sea.”

Ben Bohane Vanuatu-based photojournalist and TV producer

Want to learn more about the South Pacific? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au / 51

PHOTO ESSAY

d o o f around t

e h

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d l r o w

PHOTO ESSAY

Pho When in Vietnam, you must try pho.

The Vietnamese noodle soup originated in Northern Vietnam in the 1880s, but today it is eaten all over the country – usually locals will eat it for breakfast, but visitors will find it anywhere and at any time. The hearty soup is made with plenty of rice noodles, beef or chicken, a variety spices, and topped with a generous handful of fresh herbs.

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PHOTO ESSAY

POKE Poke essentially means to slice and refers to diced pieces of raw fish – a popular Hawaiian dish with Japanese roots.

Originally poke was limited to just a few ingredients, but today poke often refers to colourful poke bowls laden with fish or other seafood, alongside vegetables and rice. Shoyu (a Japanese soy sauce) completes the equation.

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PHOTO ESSAY

Shawarma Shawarma refers to the Middle Eastern dish of meat or poultry served in a pita.

The protein (usually lamb, beef or chicken) is marinated, then slow roasted on a spit for hours to acquire a delicious flavour and tenderness. Once the meat is ready it is wrapped in the pita, and usually topped with garlic sauce, tahini or hommus.

pAD THAI Usually served as a street food or at casual restaurants, Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s most renowned dishes. Thin rice noodles are stir fried with eggs, tofu, tamarind puree, garlic, fish sauce, shrimp and lime juice, then crowned with bean sports and peanuts for extra crunch.

There are many varieties of the recipe, but one characteristic always remains the same – it’s always delicious.

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PHOTO ESSAY

Soft serve Soft serve originally hails from America, but in Japan visitors can try a number of unique soft serve ice-cream flavours, such as matcha tea. The powdered green tea made its way to Japan from China in the 12th century, but is now an indispensable part of Japanese food culture.

Egg tarts

IMAGE: KATE STELLA.

Some say these delicious egg tarts originated in Hong Kong, others say that they are a take on the Portuguese pastel de nata (what we know as Portuguese tarts). Whatever the influence, the Macanese egg tart is a must-try in the local food scene when visiting Macao.

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PHOTO ESSAY

PAVLOVA No-one knows for sure where the pavlova originates from (both Australia and New Zealand claim it as their own), but we do know that in 2010 the Oxford English Dictionary said the meringuebased dessert was invented by Kiwis.

New research challenges the theory, but either way, it’s an iconic kiwi desert.

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IMAGE: TAIWAN TOURISM BUREAU.

TAIWAN

58 / For families who travel

TAIWAN

TAIWAN… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT Surfers have helped popularise the sport everywhere from San Jual del Sur in Nicaragua to Nias Island in Indonesia, but families who surf are now looking further afield. The island nation of Taiwan is on our radar as a great place to travel with teens in tow, writes Carla Grossetti.

“This is epic,” says my 14-yearold son Fin, who within minutes of arriving at Jinzun Harbour on the east coast of Taiwan is applying a fresh coat of wax to his 5ft thruster. “Yiewww,” shrieks a Japanese traveller who joins Fin as they gingerly descend down a concrete canyon of bollards before jumping into the East China Sea.

Compared with surf destinations such as Indonesia and Hawaii, Taiwan is a surprising surf locale in that it’s still small enough to be insulated from the chaos and crowds that prevail in major surfing hotspots. And it’s precisely this reason that sets Taiwan apart as a holiday destination that will draw families who enjoy a fuss-free holiday clad in shorts and thongs.

vibe, with surf books, posters, retro prints and a lounge room filled with bronzed surfers from around the world.

That “yiewwww” my son receives is part of the universal surfing vernacular – and this welcome, as he paddles out into the line-up, is as warm as the seas. Despite being the start of winter, it’s temperate enough to surf in board shorts, which makes Taiwan a magnet for those chasing the winter sun. It’s one of many reasons that the tiny fishing village of Donghe in the County of Taitung has transformed itself into an off-the-beaten-path surf town in the past decade.

A small explosion of international interest is thanks, in part, to the fact the township has hosted the Taiwan Open of Surfing since 2011, which is a WQS (World Qualifying Series) event.

“I’ve worked all over Taiwan, but there’s something special about Donghe. I know the people in the line-up and the neighbourhood is small and the surf is the best,” says Hsun, who like many of his friends in the village, wears many hats. Hsun works at the local surf shop, runs surfing lessons for beginners, and hosts visitors at his hostel.

We’re being chauffeured around the East Coast of Taiwan by local surfer Hsun Chien, who recently opened a surf hostel – called Yeah Surf House – which he and his girlfriend Chucky Tsai also call home. The hostel has a walled garden and bar and, of course, a laidback surf

While guests at Yeah Surf House sleep in a dorm, the Wishingwell B&B on the fringes of town has adjoining rooms for families who like to combine surf and travel, but don’t want to share a room.

As Hsun tells it, Taiwan is dotted with surfing spots that break year-round. While the betterknown spots are Daxi in eastern familytravel.com.au / 59

TAIWAN

WAI’AO PARAGLIDING 95 Shikong Road, Toucheng Village, Yilan Country www.facebook.com/ilanfly

GROUP SURF LESSONS Available at WaGaLiGong, which is also a surf hostel in Donghe. Guests can also hire a board and a wetsuit from here: www.wagaligongtaiwan.com

SCUBA AND SNORKELLING TRIPS Trips on Green Island can be arranged via: www.greenislanddiving.com; www.greenislandadventures.com is also a useful resource.

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Hsun says it’s the very intimate nature of Taiwan’s surf scene that makes a family holiday in Taiwan so appealing. The diversity of the language and culture on the island has also influenced its identity and makes for a beguiling mix of cultures and colourful expats (mostly surfers).

On a spare afternoon in Taiwan, Hsun steers us around to some of the region’s best surf spots where we see tourists from Hong Kong learning to surf on 7ft foam boards. Hsun also

detours down dirt roads to visit breaks tucked away from the main town. We visit the Donghe River Mouth and talk tides, offshore winds and the arrival of a super typhoon and how that may impact on the waves.

My son Fin says the best thing about surfing in Taiwan is the uncrowded waves. “I got so many waves today,” grins Fin, after his second session at Jinzun Harbour. “Did you see there were just two other guys in the line-up?”

Surfing stoke aside, when there’s no swell or low swell, paragliding is another sport gaining popularity in Taiwan, with the Luye Highland in south-eastern part of the country offering visitors weighing more than 30 kilograms the chance to take to the skies. The aerial view over the emerald waters of the

IMAGES: CARLA GROSSETTI, TAIWAN TOURISM BUREAU.

FACT FILE

Taoyuan City and Jia le Shui along the Kenting Coast for more experienced surfers, spots such as Nanan Beach Break and Chenggong in Taitung County offer very forgiving waves that are friendly for beginners during a low swell.

TAIWAN

TAIWAN IS DOTTED WITH SURFING SPOTS THAT BREAK YEAR-ROUND… SPOTS SUCH AS NANAN BEACH BREAK AND CHENGGONG OFFER VERY FORGIVING WAVES THAT ARE FRIENDLY FOR BEGINNERS DURING A LOW SWELL.

exciting cultural precincts, and an influential arts scene.

Teens will be transfixed with the quirky boutiques where metal heads hang, cool cafes that make a thoroughly decent brew, and low-key eateries.

East China Sea is breathtaking and offers a great glimpse into the geological forces that formed the island and the Central Mountain Ranges of Taiwan. It’s also a great spot from which to indulge your inner ornithologist.

Green Island, which is about 33 kilometres to the east of Taitung City, also offers oceanic experiences that the whole family will enjoy: from diving and snorkelling in the azure seas to warming up in the Zhaori Hot Springs, one of only three saltwater thermal pools in the world.

With snorkel mask on, my son and I slip into the sea and flipper around transfixed

by the scene underwater: the sun is dancing, throwing shadows that bounce off the sand as a school of colourful fish glide past and there’s a range of corals that shimmer in shades of purple, pink, green and blue. Although the island is quite small, a fun option is to rent a scooter to take in the breathtaking coastal scenery: park your bike and ramble through the rainforest to breathe in the quiet of an abandoned Taiwanese indigenous settlement or ooh and aah over the 33-metrehigh Luydao Lighthouse.

What’s also surprising about Taiwan is that Taipei has bloomed into a cultural capital with high-profile architecture,

As our time in Taiwan draws to a close, a quick interview with my teenage son reveals that the abiding allure of the region is, as suspected, the consistency of the surf, the uncrowded waves, and the friendly locals in the line-up.

And in classic grommet style, Fin, who has consumed his body weight in dumplings in between surfs, adds that the little pinched parcels of xiao long bao are also a major drawcard.

Want to learn more about Taiwan? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au / 61

CALENDAR

EVENTS RUNDOWN Heading overseas? Why not plan your holiday around one of these exciting events?

16–18 MARCH, NEW ZEALAND

MARCH

WOMAD

8–30 MARCH, ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI FESTIVAL 1 MARCH, CAMBODIA

MEAK BOCHEA DAY The commemoration of Buddha’s first disciples is expressed through colourful flags, lotus flower processions, traditional costume, and drumming on this special day. Visit Wat Phnom in Cambodia’s capital to see Meak Bochea in its vibrant glory.

The 2018 incarnation of the biggest annual festival in the Arabian Gulf marks the Year of Zayed, the 100th anniversary since the birth of the national founder. This year’s country of honour is India, and the busy programme lists dancers, musicians, artists, and spokespeople of both international and local origin in a harmonious multicultural fusion.

1–2 MARCH, INDIA

HOLI FESTIVAL Falling on the day after the March full moon, this event isn’t known as the Festival of Colours for nothing. The biggest parties can be found in Delhi, Mumbai, Mathura and Vrindavan, where you will see the famous throwing of colour powder and colour water.

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This international celebration of music, art and dance in New Plymouth is famous for its relaxed vibe and vibrant diversity. Families can camp or glamp for the full three days, or just pop in to visit Kidzone or Global Village for great craft, produce and food stalls.

1–31 MARCH, HONG KONG

27–31 MARCH, BHUTAN

HONG KONG ARTS MONTH

PARO TSECHU FESTIVAL

Jam-packed with music concerts, public installation art, ballet performances, and everything in between, you are sure to find a show or exhibition to suit your taste. There are even circus performances!

Picnic lunches and dance rituals are prominent fixtures of this Buddhist spring festival, which typically unfolds in monasteries and or fortresses. Similar festivals are held around the nation on different days of the year determined by the lunar calendar.

CALENDAR

APRIL

14–17 APRIL, CAMBODIA 2–8 APRIL, INDONESIA

BALI SPIRIT FESTIVAL Anyone over 12 years can access the entirety of this yoga, music and dance festival in Ubud, Bali.

For the younger ones, there is a fantastic kids space, as well as a special community and family day with family yoga workshops, kids’ performances and hula hooping.

KHMER NEW YEAR FESTIVAL To celebrate the closure of harvest season, people visit temples for special ceremonies, return home to spend time with family, and play traditional games. Excitement peaks on the final day when there are Royal processions and elephant races in Phnom Penh.

13–15 APRIL, THAILAND

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL

5 APRIL, CHINA

QINGMING FESTIVAL Marking the advent of spring and the sowing season, Chinese families celebrate this festival by paying respects to their ancestors, wearing willow branches and spending the day on a fun spring outing. The best bit for kids? There is kite flying!

APRIL, DUBAI

AL MARMOOM HERITAGE FESTIVAL A revival of traditional culture and the centrality of the camel to Arabian life, this is a spectator sport like no other! Bring along binoculars to witness the energy and intensity of camel racing at this unique family day out.

5–7 APRIL, DUBAI

MIDDLE EAST FILM AND COMIC CON A t this international event you can get celebrity autographs from the likes of Karl Urban, recognisable from Star Trek and Thor: Ragnarok, encounter your favourite super heroes and super villains in full costume, and buy and trade merchandise from hundreds of stalls.

Thailand’s solar New Year doubles as an awesome water festival best experienced in Bangkok’s widespread water fights and street parties. Be warned – you will get wet!

27–29 APRIL, BORNEO

WORLD HARVEST FESTIVAL 2018 Hosted by Sarawak Cultural Village, this event in the Malaysian state of Sarawak in Borneo, involves music, theatre and dance performances – as well as beauty pageants, ironman championships and cooking workshops.

27 APRIL, 3 & 10 MAY, COOK ISLANDS

29 APRIL & 26 MAY, VIETNAM

TE MIRE URA DANCER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION

DANANG INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS FESTIVAL AND COMPETITION

On Rarotonga, you’ll find a dance extravaganza complete with amazing costumes, choreography and crowds.

Tourists are wholeheartedly welcomed to this cultural event, to either spectate or show off their onstage talent.

Down by the Han riverside in the coastal city of Danang, the night sky is lit up with a kaleidoscope of colour as teams from around the world battle it out on a starry stage. Each firework night for this year is themed either as wood, metal, earth or water.

13–14 APRIL, SRI LANKA

SINHALA AND TAMIL NEW YEAR FESTIVALS This joint celebration of Avurudu or New Year is a symbol of multicultural harmony between Sinhala Buddhists and Tamil Hindus – and occurs nation-wide. The festivities include drumming, special meals, blessings and traditional games.

30 APRIL, VIETNAM

REUNIFICATION DAY This holiday celebrates the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong victory in 1975, which prompted the reunification of Vietnam.

Marches, music, and a series of festivals commemorate this historic event.

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CALENDAR

M AY

MAY, THAILAND AND LAOS

15 MAY, PHILIPPINES

BUN BANG FAI Also known as the Rocket Festival, this age-old event celebrated in Laos and Thailand’s northeast is biggest and best at Yasothon. You’ll find parades, dancing, music, and a competition for firing homemade rockets, which are usually made of bamboo and intended to bring rain down from the sky to the rice fields.

PAHIYAS FESTIVAL 4–6 MAY, BORNEO

SABAH FEST Past and present fuse together in this cultural expression of local folklore, dance, song and food, which takes place in the northern Malaysian state of Sabah on the island paradise Borneo.

VARIOUS DATES & LOCATIONS

VESAK DAY Associated with Buddha’s birthday, Vesak Day is celebrated on different dates in Buddhist countries around the world and can often incorporate candlelit processions, pilgrimages, offerings, and a water ritual.

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Thanksgiving and hopes for prosperous harvests set the tone for one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines. If you are not in the province Quezon, then luckily for you, Pahiyas coincides with other harvest festivals around the country.

CALENDAR

STAYING IN AUSTRALIA? Do not fret, there are plenty of domestic events to keep families entertained this autumn.

2–19 MARCH, COTTESLOE

10–18 MARCH, CANBERRA

SCULPTURES BY THE SEA

CANBERRA BALLOON SPECTACULAR

The middle ground between Perth and Fremantle, Cottesloe Beach is a favourite with locals and tourists alike, and is brought to life by the quirk and colour of sculpture installations.

29 MARCH–2 APRIL, CANBERRA

ROYAL EASTER SHOW

NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL

Wood chopping, show bags, bike races, horse shows, and all the old favourites return in 2018 for this annual, national celebration. Crowds come from far and wide for a schedule filled to the brim with animals, art, food and shopping.

Indie, country, blues, and acoustic blend on the stage and the dancefloor at this relaxed festival of all things folk. The introduction of Kidzfest means there are now workshops, dressups, and special performances just for littlies.

23 MARCH–3 APRIL, SYDNEY

9–12 MARCH, ADELAIDE

WOMADELAIDE Boasting a spectacular line-up of performing greats, this international celebration of arts and culture is particularly family friendly thanks to KidZone, where kids can get their face painted, dress up, and have an immersive interaction with music and movement.

The sight of hundreds of colourful hot air balloons in a crisp, clear Canberra sky is breathtaking. Pack a picnic and enjoy the view as spectators, or buy a ticket and be one of the lucky few to fly sky high!

4–15 APRIL, GOLD COAST

25 MAY–16 JUNE, SYDNEY

2018 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

VIVID SYDNEY

This large-scale, international celebration of sport and harmony is hosted by Australia’s very own Gold Coast in 2018. Spectators and sportspeople from 70 countries and territories will combine for a week of entertainment festivals, ceremonies and healthy competition!

This unique festival illuminates Sydney Harbour and skyline with mesmerising light installations and music performances. You can participate in workshops and seminars, or wander with the crowds around a city transformed into a night-time wonderland.

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HOURS in HAVE A CITY STOPOVER OR MINI HOLIDAY PLAN IN THE WORKS? Read on for how best to spend two days exploring these exciting overseas cities.

CITY ITINERARIES

ABU

DHABI

DAY ONE MORNING: Morning is a great time to discover

AFTERNOON: Visit Ferrari World and tackle the

the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque before the crowds or heat (if you’re travelling in the warmer months). As soon as you approach the magnificent mosque you will understand why the TripAdvisor community has voted it the number two most amazing landmark in the world.

world’s fastest rollercoaster, or if you have really young ones, there’s plenty of play equipment for them. It’s all undercover, so great whatever the weather. If Ferrari World is more Dad’s bag than Mum’s, the great thing about Yas Island is Ferrari World is connected to Yas Mall, the second largest mall in the region. Found in Yas Mall is Fun Works, an indoor play and learning centre where kids can be accompanied or checked into the kids’ club.

LUNCH: Head to Yas Island, choose one of the

many restaurants for a quick lunch, then go to Yas Waterworld. The park draws on Abu Dhabi’s heritage and has ‘The Lost Pearl’ as its theme.

Visitors follow the story of a young Emirati girl on a quest to find a legendary pearl as they make their way around the attractions, which include a souk and pearl-diving exhibits. The park spans an area of around 15 football pitches, with 43 rides, slides and attractions.

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EVENING: Grab dinner at ROGO’s Rollercoaster

Restaurant at Yas Mall, where meals are delivered by rollercoaster. The kids will be enthralled and you’ll be glad for some peace and quiet as they marvel at every meal that’s delivered.

CITY ITINERARIES

AS SOON AS YOU APPROACH SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE YOU WILL UNDERSTAND WHY THE TRIPADVISOR COMMUNITY HAS VOTED IT THE NUMBER TWO MOST AMAZING LANDMARK IN THE WORLD.

DAY TWO MORNING: With the time difference, you’ll find that everyone is awake quite early, so make the most of this and head out on a desert safari. Arabian Nights Village is a good option.

They have a 7am to noon desert safari, where they pick you up from the hotel (Marriott Al Forsan, Yas Viceroy and Emirates Palace all stand out for kids) for dune bashing, camel riding and sand safaris.

LUNCH: Return to your hotel and choose one of the restaurants onsite for a delicious meal before continuing on with your adventures.

IMAGE: UNSPLASH: JUNHAN FOONG.

AFTERNOON: Following a fantastic morning in

the desert, experience the opposite of the cool breezes that pass through the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Book the kids into a workshop at the Children’s Museum, and let them see their art enlarged on a giant screen.

EVENING: If you fancy some fast food Emirati

style, take the kids to Shish Shawerma, for delicious tender meat, fries and sauce mixed around in a pita pocket and toasted. familytravel.com.au / 69

CITY ITINERARIES

P H U K E T

DAY ONE MORNING: Visit Phuket Aquarium and get up close with deep-sea creatures. Walk through the tunnel (once, twice, or several times) to enjoy manta rays swimming around you and admire a variety of sea life located in various tanks. Don’t miss the turtle hatchery while here. Then, take a boat from Panwa Cape to Koh Hey (Coral Island) for snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding.

AFTERNOON: Head to Phuket Old Town

for a leisurely stroll to explore Sino-Chinese Architecture, shrines, Buddhist and Chinese temples, beautifully preserved shop houses, a variety of museums, and dainty coffee shops.

Be sure to take a coffee or smoothie break at whichever cafe takes your fancy.

EVENING: Rawai Beach is a launching point for

LUNCH: Plan ahead and pack a picnic to enjoy

under a huge bamboo hut among hornbills at the picturesque Banana Beach. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers for a refreshing post-lunch dip in the shallow blue waters.

70 / For families who travel

day boat excursions out to Phuket’s surrounding islands and home to many restaurants specialising in quality local seafood. Choose an eatery and enjoy a fresh seafood feast while enjoying stunning sea views.

CITY ITINERARIES

HEAD TO PHUKET OLD TOWN FOR A LEISURELY STROLL TO EXPLORE SINOCHINESE ARCHITECTURE, SHRINES, BUDDHIST AND CHINESE TEMPLES.

DAY TWO MORNING: Visit one of the zipline adventure

AFTERNOON: Time to relax! Parents can

parks for an adrenaline-filled treetop excursion.

Flying Hanuman is considered to be one of the best, a state-of-the-art zipline course equipped with 16 ziplines, as well as several sky bridges, spirals, rappels and staircases. Kids will love soaring from tree to tree over jungle vegetation below.

indulge in a traditional Thai massage or fit in a spot of shopping, while kids can get their creative juices flowing with arts and crafts activities at Hands on Arts studio.

LUNCH: Find a casual local eatery or food cart and order the popular Thai dish of Pad Thai while watching locals go about their day.

EVENING: Siam Niramit Phuket is a huge

and captivating performance highlighting Thailand’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

Book a dinner and show package to enjoy a buffet-style feast before the spectacular performance.

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CITY ITINERARIES

DAY ONE

crab, black pepper crab, chicken rice, dim sum and prawn noodles, as well as popular desserts like ice kachang, chendol and soya bean curd.

MORNING: Find a local cafe for the iconic

AFTERNOON: Explore the Cloud Forest and

breakfast favourite, Kaya toast. Then, enter a futuristic world of high-tech interactive artworks at Future World, where 16 spectacular art installations are brought to life and evolve in real-time. Be immersed in a world of art, science, magic and metaphor through a collection of cutting-edge digital installations.

Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay, an iconic Singapore attraction located in the heart of the city. The awe-inspiring space includes the Avatar-like 16-storey Supertree Grove and two enclosed domes – the Cloud Forest with the world’s highest enclosed waterfall; and Flower Dome, the world’s largest freestanding glass greenhouse.

LUNCH: Head to Chinatown for a colourful mix

of old and new culture and soak up the delicious smells, heritage temples and streets lined with old shop houses. Immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture at the Chinatown Heritage Centre and Tang-styled Chinese Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, before heading to Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, for local dishes such as chilli 72 / For families who travel

EVENING: Enjoy Boon Tat – Singapore’s famous ‘satay street’ – for an unforgettable alfresco night dining experience. This portion of street, adjacent to Lau Pat Sat, is open between 7pm to 2am each night, with stallholders selling mouthwatering satay and other Malay delights, such as mee goreng and barbecued chicken wings.

IMAGES: SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD

SINGAPORE

CITY ITINERARIES

EN JOY B OON TAT – SINGA POR E’S FAM OU S ‘SATAY ST R EET’ – FOR AN UNFO R GETTAB L E ALF RE S CO NIGH T DINING E XP ER IENC E.

DAY TWO MORNING: Start the most important meal of

the day in the good company of jungle friends.

Singapore Zoo is the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with orangutans.

The award-winning breakfast program allows you to take photos with charming animal guests as you enjoy a buffet spread. Then, get out and explore. The site is home to more than 2800 animals representing over 300 species of mammals, birds and reptiles. Rainforest Kidzworld offers a multitude of activities that encourage kids to satisfy their curiosity and learn through self-discovery.

LUNCH: Haji Lane is Singapore’s original hipster neighbourhood that’s filled with one-ofa-kind boutiques and cosy cafes. This colourful

conserved area is where Malay royalty once resided, and it’s steeped in rich culture and history. Stop by Selfie Coffee for light bites in the jungle-themed cafe with doodle tables for young travellers.

AFTERNOON: Head over to Universal Studios

Singapore, Southeast Asia’s first movie theme park. Explore the thrilling world of Movie Magic in seven zones, including Far Far Away, SCI-FI City and The Lost World. Each zone is filled with movie-themed attractions and state-of-the-art rides such as Madagascar: A Crate Adventure, Shrek 4D Adventure, and the Jurassic Park Rapids.

EVENING: After dinner at Universal Studios

Singapore head to Skyline Sentosa Night Luge, where the tracks come alive with flashing lights and vibrant colours. Take the Jungle Trail for a mystical forest adventure, then try the Dragon Trail for illuminated disco thrills. familytravel.com.au / 73

CITY ITINERARIES

AUCKLAND

MORNING: Arrive at Auckland Airport and head

AFTERNOON: See the vines from a different

to your accommodation in the Auckland CBD. Grab a flat white from one of the many cafes in town and take a stroll along the Auckland Waterfront before catching a ferry to Waiheke Island.

perspective with EcoZip on Waiheke Island.

EcoZip is a series of ziplines with big sea views and views out across vineyards down into the lush native Waiheke bush forest.

LUNCH: Enjoy lunch at one of Waiheke Island’s

EVENING: After a beautiful cruise back to

award-winning vineyards, such as Cable Bay. Of course, while there, sample some of the wine the Island is famous for while taking in the stunning views back to city.

the city head to Britomart, one of Auckland’s liveliest precincts, for dinner. Ortolana offers an incredible farm-to-table menu, with all produce for the restaurant grown just 30 minutes away on the restaurant’s own farm.

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IMAGE: TOURISM NEW ZEALAND.

DAY ONE

CITY ITINERARIES

G R A B S O M E BR E A K FAST BE FO R E BE I N G PI C K E D U P BY AOT E A R OA D I E S FO R A H A LF- DAY TO U R O F AU C K LA N D ’ S WI LD WE ST COAST.

DAY TWO MORNING: Grab some breakfast before being

AFTERNOON: Time for a bit of adrenaline

picked up by Aotea Roadies for a half-day tour of Auckland’s wild west coast. Visit the Waitakere Ranges visitor centre and learn about the area, and sample some wine from a lesser-known wine region, before heading to the black-sand beach Muriwai to check out the gannet colony.

before the trip home. SkyJump is an incredible rush in the heart of the city and New Zealand’s highest jump. Head up the Sky Tower and take in the 360-degree view before taking the leap of faith 192 metres above Auckland.

EVENING: With one’s feet firmly back on the

LUNCH: Head to Ponsonby, one of Auckland’s

coolest suburbs, for a bite to eat. Ponsonby Central boasts a number of delicious eateries, from burgers to pizza to ramen to Argentinian barbeque. Check out the organic market while there.

ground, finish the weekend at Depot Oyster Bar and Eatery, just a stone’s throw from the Sky Tower. One of Auckland’s best, Depot serves up an amazing array of fresh seafood at the raw bar – washed down with perfectly matched New Zealand wine, of course. familytravel.com.au / 75

CITY ITINERARIES

O

K

DAY ONE MORNING: Graze on an extensive breakfast buffet

at the centrally-located Shinagawa Prince Hotel before heading out to Shinagawa Station just across the road. Using Tokyo’s smart card – Pasmo – for train and bus travel as well as shopping, head to Tsukiji Fish Market. The world’s largest fish market has an array of seafood, as well as fruit and vegetables, so wildly different to the Western world it will leave both children and adults wide-eyed. If you think your family is up to it, book a tour to see the famous 5am tuna auction.

LUNCH: From Tsukiji Fish Market walk a few blocks

to Tsukiji Tama Sushi, Harumi-dori branch for a sushimaking lesson with an expert chef. Kids will love donning a chef’s hat and coat before grappling with creating the elegant little balls of rice and seafood.

Marvel at $1000 knives that slice fish like butter, 76 / For families who travel

Y

O

and follow your teacher’s advice to the letter when wrapping a sushi roll in seaweed. Finish up by dining on the very sushi and sashimi platter you created, and leave smiling with a commemorative photo and hand-made tea mug.

AFTERNOON: Take the subway north to Oshiage

to ascend Tokyo Skytree, the highest freestanding broadcast tower in the world. Using your pre-booked tickets, take the 50-second lift up the 634-metre-high tower before marvelling at spectacular 360-degree views over Tokyo stretching 70 kilometres into the distance. Pinpoint Tokyo landmarks with the help of signs around the expansive deck (even Mount Fuji will be visible on a clear day). Ascend to the second viewing deck for an even higher viewpoint and challenge yourselves to walk across the glass floor while looking down. Back on ground level, there are plenty of child-friendly shops in the surrounding mall selling toys, clothes and souvenirs, plus a planetarium and large aquarium.

WORDS: BRONWEN GORA.

T

CITY ITINERARIES

EVENING: Stroll Tokyo Bay’s pretty waterfront on

Odaiba, a large artificial island filled with glittering shopping malls, restaurants and attractions. Let the kids choose between indoor theme parks, including a Madame Tussauds wax museum and the Legoland Discovery Centre. Explore the DecksTokyo Beach mall and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, then quell hunger pangs with the many different styles of Japanese ramen served up at the ramen food theme park on Aquacity shopping mall’s fifth floor.

DAY TWO MORNING: Harajuku is the centre of youth

culture and where Tokyo’s fashion-forward gravitate. Kids will adore walking along Harajuku’s renowned Takeshita Street, where colourfully dressed young Japanese browse shops bursting with over-the-top clothes. Be sure not to miss the stalls selling gigantic balls of rainbow cotton candy bigger than your head, as well as numerous outlets selling the area’s famous crepes. Unwind afterwards at one of Tokyo’s famous cat cafes, the Cat Cafe Mocha, patting and playing with over a dozen beautiful purebred cats over a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

LUNCH: Experience the latest in Harajuku youth

culture firsthand at the Kawaii Monster Cafe.

Designed to resemble a monster eating Tokyo, the cafe is a colourful cacophony of crazy designs in the spirit of the trend for everything ‘kawaii’ or cute. Kids will delight in the cake-shaped merrygo-round and ‘monster girl’ waitresses dressed head to toe in flamboyant costumes.

AFTERNOON: Change the pace and visit

the tranquil grounds of nearby Meiji Shrine.

Walk beneath 12-metre gates and down paths lined by towering cedar trees to the shrine complex, Japan’s most-visited religious site.

Have cameras at the ready to capture images of Japanese children elaborately dressed in traditional kimonos (after asking the parents permission, of course) who have been brought to the shrine for a special blessing.

EVENING: Ignite your children’s imagination with

F ROM TS U K IJ I F IS H M AR K E T WALK A FEW B LOC KS TO TS U KIJI TAM A S U S H I, HARUM I-DOR I B R ANC H FO R A S US H I-MAK ING L ESS ON WIT H A N EX P ERT C H EF.

an experiential dinner at Tokyo’s famous Ninja Restaurant, created in honour of Japan’s ancient fighters legendary for their amazing stealth. The evening starts with a ‘ninja’ ushering you inside a dark corridor where they must magically douse a ‘fire’ with the wave of an arm and conjure up a drawbridge to mend ‘broken’ stairs. Once inside the cave-like restaurant, diners are seated in private booths, served delectable food, and later enjoy a tableside performance of magic tricks performed by a ‘ninja’. familytravel.com.au / 77

STOPOVERS

STO P OV E R

S L E E P OV E R S Breaking up a long flight with a stopover is family travel gold, but you can get a lot more out of it than just a decent night’s sleep. Add a night or two in a stopover city, and you get to explore a whole different destination – another region, another culture, and an excuse to cram a whole lot more fun into your itinerary, writes Jac Taylor.

ABU DHABI The souks (markets), the beaches, the desert...… this is a city where the best of the region is easy, accessible and wonderfully cosmopolitan.

MIDDLE EAST TASTE TEST If you’re curious about the sands and sparkle of the Middle East, but not ready to commit to a holiday there, a stopover at these destinations will give you a delicious taster:

78 / For families who travel

DUBAI The original stopover destination (pictured above), there are often stopover packages to be enjoyed from airlines and travel agents. Plenty of local experiences, from falconry in the desert to four-wheel driving the dunes, can be included very easily, so shop around.

DON’T MISS: Spending a half-day refreshing the whole family at Wild Wadi water park – there’s even an uphill water slide. Book tickets in advance to skip the queues.

IMAGES: UNSPLASH: DAN FREEMAN, FABIO H, RYAN MIGLINCZY.

DON’T MISS: Visiting the massive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (pictured left) around sunset to see the minarets turning rainbow colours, and the magnificent new Louvre museum – an architectural and cultural feast. It’s worth noting that a twonight stop here gets your first night’s hotel stay for free with Virgin Airlines.

ASIA PACIFIC ADVENTURES Starting with a stopover is a perfect way to see if the kids are up for the sensate explosion of Asia, or enjoy one of the more easy-going stopovers you’ve ever had, in Auckland.

AUCKLAND A trip to the Pacific Islands can start with a little Kiwi fun, and since the city itself is only 25 minutes from the airport via the 24-hour SkyBus, it’s pretty easy to do.

DON’T MISS: The shopping and restaurant wonderland of Britomart, catching a 10-minute ferry to the galleries and beaches of cute little Devonport, or taking in some outdoor cinema at Silo Park in summertime.

A city that’s been a cultural, historical and travel hub for millennia, Singapore has got the stopover down to a very fine art. Singapore Airlines’ Singapore Stopover Holiday packages include hotel stays, complimentary hop-on, hop-off buses, and admission to more than a dozen major attractions.

DON’T MISS: The sound and light show among the giant, spectacularly alien-seeming Supertree structures in the Gardens by the Bay – and stroll the Skyway 22 metres above the ground between them.

Need more stopover inspiration? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

Key stopover cities make the most of their temporary tourists by providing online stopover guides. Plan out your visit with a little online research and you’ll be amazed how much you can see and experience in a short period of time.

Jet lag with kids in tow is a shocker, but a stopover helps you time your flights roughly in tune with established naptimes and mealtimes. Keep in mind that getting used to the time difference takes about a day for every time zone crossed.

It’s also worse travelling eastward than west, so if you only have time in your itinerary for one stopover in total, include it in the eastward leg.

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STOP TIPS

SINGAPORE

Flights with overnight stopovers are often offered more cheaply, since they take longer to get you where you’re going. Couple that with stopover deals or packages – or even free overnight hotel stays included by some destinations, agents and airlines – and you could be looking at the cheapest holiday add-on ever.

EXPERT ADVICE

EXPERT ADVICE

Talk to the expert What overseas destinations do you recommend for a first overseas family trip and why?

One of my top recommendations is Fiji. It’s close to Australia with access via direct flights from every major East Coast city and Adelaide. It’s a quick flight too – so easy to manage with little people.

In Fiji, holidaying is generally a comfortable experience for families. There are no language barriers; there’s a decent selection of food on offer, ranging from hotel buffets to casual eateries on the street; and the people are just divine – considered to be the friendliest in the world by many!

What do you do when you travel overseas?

I love to cruise! You only need to unpack once, budgeting is easy as everything is included, there are no long haul flights involved because most Australian cruises leave from Sydney, and parents get a break with fantastic kids’

clubs on board many of the big ships.

Apart from the comfort and convenience of living on a huge ship, another big plus is that many cruises visit a number of overseas destinations, so families get to experience a range of cultures while on the one holiday. South Pacific cruises are especially popular with Australians, as many of the island countries are easily accessible by cruise ship.

What are your main points of advice for families venturing overseas?

Always talk to the children before leaving to make sure they know what they’re up for to avoid any potential problems; if you’re doing a lot of travelling on your trip instead of a ‘flop and drop’, then schedule in rest days to rest and recuperate; and get to know your travel agent, as they will be the best ones to tailor your holiday for your own unique situation.

Melanie Whyte is a Travel with Kidz family travel specialist and is based in Devonport, Tasmania.

With more than 15 years of experience as a travel agent, Melanie is passionate about helping families plan their perfect trip. She has visited 42 countries (and is still counting), and also loves exploring her home state of Tasmania with her family.

To contact Melanie call 1300 540 161 or 0408 266 631. Alternatively, send an email to melanie.whyte@ travelmanagers.com.au.

EXPERT ADVICE

What can families do to make long plane journeys easier?

Pack snacks in little containers, take activity books with pencils, download a few movies before you go, and try and get a window seat so kids can watch the comings and goings at the airport before you take off (and enjoy the great views that come with jetting off and landing).

Check if your airline allows a Fly LegsUp or similar product (a hammock designed for adults and kids to elevate their legs, which can also act as a bed for little children).

How far in advance would you suggest families book overseas travel and why?

As far in advance as possible, but not too soon because often the special rates aren’t released more than 10 months in advance.

Booking early ensures you get the pick of the bunch with availability, as opposed to having to settle for what is left.

What are your tips for packing hand luggage?

Always pack the things you can’t live without in hand luggage – special teddies/ blankies; take the one snack you know your kids will be

82 / For families who travel

happy with in case you can’t buy it; pack all chargers in your own hand luggage; take noisecancelling headphones; pack a spare full set of clothes for spillages; and you can never have too many wipes! Let the kids get involved in packing their own hand luggage so they have a say in what they can’t do without.

What is your advice when it comes to choosing travel insurance?

Always ensure you have travel insurance! Many credit cards have insurance attached if you paid for the holiday using that same credit card, but ensure you have read the Product Disclosure Statement, paying particular attention to medical evacuation, coverage of family members, standard policy excess, and coverage for preexisting medical conditions.

What kind of planning do families need to do when it comes to travelling abroad?

Get a good travel agent!

Take copies of everyone’s passports and email them to an email account that can be accessed overseas if need be. Ensure global roaming

has been set on your phone.

See a qualified travel doctor about immunisations as the recommendations differ for children. Take school work if you’re away for a length of time during term. Register your stay with www.smarttraveller.gov.au and ensure someone at home has a detailed copy of your itinerary. Speak to your bank to ensure they will allow overseas transactions – and give someone at home authority at the bank to act on your behalf (this can usually be done by a signed letter before you go).

What is one thing you never leave home without when travelling with the family and why?

The kids! Apart from the obvious things like passports and tickets, it’s always my phone. With that I can take pictures, access my itinerary, and keep family members posted on our progress. Don’t forget Teddy as well!

Looking for more travel advice? @BoundRound @BoundRound info@familytravel.com.au familytravel.com.au

QUIZ ANSWERS

01.

07.

AUTUMN QUIZ ANSWERS Keen to see how many of the questionsyou answered right?

Read on to find out.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Macao.

Hockey.

Aloha.

He’s a classical singer and has released 20 albums!

5. J.R.R.Tolkein.

6. The Hindu festival of Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours.

7. Cashews (and also black pepper, interestingly).

8. There are 322 islands and over 500 small islets that make up Fiji.

9. Thailand.

10. China and Nepal.

familytravel.com.au / 83

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Let 20 of our local families show you around Australia See all the family experiences online and vote for your favourite to go in the draw to win monthly prizes at: boundround.com/FamiliesOfAustralia

THE BLAIRS

THE LUSTIGS

THE CHISHOLMS

THE O’BRIENS

THE EDENS

THE MACKS

THE EPHRAIMS

THE MITCHELLS

THE FLECKERS

THE NELSONS

THE GIBSONS

THE ROBERTS

THE GLOSSOPS

THE SMITHS

THE HILLS

THE SOLIMANS

THE JOYCES

THE WAINMANS

THE KENNEDYS

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