While parents of littles fret about logistics, the number of attractions they can visit in a day, and tired toddlers throwing those dreaded tantrums, parents of older kids have a different set of challenges they have to navigate when going on a trip with their children: choosing activities everyone will be into, catering to strong preferences, and making sure that no one ends up being stuck on their phones and doing their own thing all throughout.
While we can always find something interesting to do in every single destination on the planet, the key to creating a memorable vacation with your older kids is to keep their interests and personalities in mind.
Here are a few ideas to keep in mind for your next trip with your older kids – whether still studying, already working, or with families of their own!
Honestly, with older kids, one does not really have to overthink or go overboard with activities and itineraries. Chances are, they’ll appreciate a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to enjoy a good breather with their folks, with their favorite places nearby.
For a quick getaway, a staycation is a perfect way to enjoy a change of scenery, unwind and recharge, without the logistics of packing for specific activities or long trips. If you choose to stay in the city, most family-friendly hotels are located near malls for your convenience. And if you want that wee bit of adventure still, choose a hotel in a city you don’t often frequent!
Here are some fantastic hotels within Metro Manila that offer 1- or 2-bedroom suites, perfect for enjoying together while still enjoying separate spaces:
Conveniently located across Ayala Malls Manila Bay (you can literally cross to the mall from the hotel), this Seda branch has an awesome rooftop pool where you can enjoy the cityscape while soaking up the sun.
Contact: (02) 5304 8888
From hands-on pizza-making sessions to creative sip-and-paint evenings by the beach at sunset, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Little ones can stay entertained at the Kiddie Corner, supervised by the resort’s attentive babysitters, giving parents a chance to unwind by the pristine beach. Don’t miss the indulgent Chocolate Hour every afternoon at 3 PM—an absolute treat for kids and adults alike.
Contact: (036) 288 2256
Nestled comfortably in the Ortigas distract, Joy Nostalg is a few minutes’ walk from The Podium and SM Megamall. One thing we love about their suites – there’s a TV in the bathroom!
Contact: (02) 5318 7888
Situated nearby the Glorietta malls, Discovery Primea is a serene escape within Makati. Their poolside area is actually peaceful and intimate, and their infinity pool boasts a gorgeous view of the city skyline.
Contact: (02) 7955 8888
Located in the “BGC” of Quezon City, Solaire North is a walking distance from Vertis North and boasts the same luxe amenities as its original counterpart in the South.
Contact: (02) 8888 8888
Just minutes away from Alabang Town Center and Festival Mall, Somerset Alabang is a great launchpad to exploring the South while enjoying the comforts of the hotel experience. Pro tip: They’ve got gorgeous sunset views here!
Contact: (02) 8643 0999
If your older kids are into nature, glamping (or camping, if you’re all feeling really adventurous!) might be more up your alley. It’s also a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some fresh air.
Here are some great glamping and camping spots to consider!
One of the first hotels to offer glamping, Nayomi Resort is an easy way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors within the confines of a hotel property.
Contact: (02) 8871 7558
This riverside destination offers an array of fun outdoor activities for guests, making it a favorite even for companies that want to make their team-building exercises more memorable. Their glass cabins are a welcoming and modern surprise in the midst of lush greenery.
Contact: 0906 026 7988
One of the first to offer glamping in Laguna, Glamping by BLOC offers tiny house living in “glamping” setting. We just love the look of their modern boxed houses set up along the freshwater lake!
Contact: 0936 969 9644
For those who don’t mind the no-frills camping experience, 3 Springs Mountain Park in Tanay is a great destination. All you need is your reliable camping gear to enjoy the place’s open spaces, clear skies, and cool weather. You can even set up a bonfire to keep you nice and cozy on cooler nights.
Contact: 0917 132 5720
For the hardcore camping enthusiasts, WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds could be your perfect match. Located on the Antipolo side of Rizal, this campsite is truly off-the-grid, ideal for disconnecting from your gadgets and truly communing with nature.
Contact: Facebook page
The best way to bond together is to do something for the first time as a family unit! Put your heads together and think of activities you’ve always wanted to do (or have been scared to try!) and make it the central part of your family vacation!
Here are some places you can go to for unique and (perhaps?) once-in-a-lifetime family activities:
Managed by the local government of Danao, this extreme adventure park has every possible activity to get that adrenaline rush! Past visitors swear by their bungee jump, while their zipline is known as the longest and tallest one in the country. Also not to be missed are caving, cliff diving, trekking, and the scenic and thrilling glass cliffwalk!
Got a competitive clan? You’ll probably enjoy some good ol’ paintball. Global Gutz’s Southwoods branch is owned and operated by the famous Splash Island. Apart from paintball, they also offer archery tag – another great activity to indulge that drive for winning!
And, for our bonus item: a food tour! If you belong to a family of foodies, you may want to hit up Binondo and sign up for Ivan Man Dy’s iconic Big Binondo Food Wok. If you’ve never really explored this historic city, food is a great way to get to know it. Check into any of Manila’s famed hotels and you’ve got yourself an interesting and fun weekend away with the family.
These days, it’s not that difficult to find and experience fantastic art – they’re no longer contained in isolated museums, but are creatively displayed all around us: on streets, walls, in interiors, through installations, and more!
If your older kids appreciate creative pieces, why not curate an out-of-country trip focused on art appreciation? Here are a few cities known for their immersive art:
Melbourne isn’t just home to over 100 galleries; the city itself is teeming with amazing art! From roaming the city’s Arts Precinct to marveling at a breathtaking street art, there’s always an Instagrammable corner to be found.
More than just K-pop, beauty, and makeup, Seoul is also actually home to a few creative spaces that are fun to explore! Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a great place to start, as well as Kring – Creative Culture Space in Gangnam.
If you’re up for heading out of the city, just on the outskirts of Seoul is Heyri Art Valley in Paju. A creative neighborhood filled with galleries, aesthetic cafes, and shops, a trip to this place is actually worth an entire weekend of exploration. The structures themselves are pieces of art!
Don’t underestimate this small city – it’s actually known for its creative parks! Head to Taipei to tour its creative districts and take home some trinkets and art pieces you can display in your home.
Must-visits include Huashan 1914 Creative Park, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Syntrend Creative Park, and Four-Four South Village.
Last, but not the least, a great way to get your older kids excited about traveling with the family is letting them take the lead in planning out activities! Set a budget and let your kids get creative in proposing destinations, tours, and places to stay.
Not only will they be invested in the trip; it’s also a great way to get to know your kids and explore their world and their interests.
What are some of your tried-and-tested travel tips and ideas for holidays with older kids? Let us know in the comments below!