Best Family Holiday Destinations Abroad

If you are interested in a family holiday destination abroad, here are some options:

Gambia: Gambia is an excellent choice for a family holiday destination. It has beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions that are suitable for families.
Dubai: Dubai is a popular family holiday destination with plenty of entertainment options, including water parks, amusement parks, and indoor ski slopes.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and friendly people, making it a great destination for families. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as elephant sanctuaries and night markets.
Florida: Florida is a classic family holiday destination with famous theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Studios, as well as beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
Italy: Italy is a great destination for families with older children who are interested in history, art, and culture. It has plenty of museums, ancient ruins, and historical sites, as well as beautiful countryside and beaches.
Spain: Spain is a family-friendly destination with a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and plenty of activities for kids, such as water parks, zoos, and amusement parks.
Costa Rica: Costa Rica is an excellent destination for families who love nature and adventure. It has plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife watching.
South Africa: South Africa is a fantastic destination for families who love wildlife and nature. It has plenty of national parks, wildlife reserves, and outdoor activities, such as safaris and whale watching.

These are just a few examples of the many family holiday destinations abroad. Each destination has its unique attractions and activities that can be tailored to the needs and interests of your family.

Among all the countries from the above list, Gambia has an edge especially when it comes to winter, how far you have to travel and affordability.

It gets a lot of tourism from the UK in winter and holidays such as half term.

Gambia can be a great destination to visit during half term, which usually falls in late October or early November in the UK.

Here are some reasons why:

Good weather: During half term, Gambia’s weather is usually warm and dry, with an average temperature of around 30°C. This makes it a great destination for families looking to escape the cooler weather in the UK.
Cultural experiences: Gambia has a rich cultural heritage and visiting during half term can provide an opportunity for families to experience and learn about Gambian culture. From visiting local villages and markets to learning about traditional crafts and music, there are many activities that can provide a unique and enriching experience for families.
Beach activities: Gambia has a long coastline with beautiful beaches that offer a range of activities for families. From swimming and sunbathing to water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sunshine and the sea.
Wildlife: Gambia is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, hippos, and crocodiles. Half term can be a good time to visit as it falls during the dry season, when wildlife is more easily spotted and wildlife reserves are more accessible.

Overall, Gambia can provide a great combination of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and good weather during half term, making it an attractive destination for families.

What do people say about Gambia as a valuable destination abroad?

People really rank Gambia high based on their experiences and expectations. Here are some common things that people say about Gambia:

Friendly people: Many visitors to Gambia appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. Gambians are known to be very friendly and hospitable, which makes the experience of visiting the country more enjoyable.
Beautiful beaches: Gambia has some beautiful beaches that attract many visitors. The long stretches of sandy beaches and clear waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Affordable: Gambia is considered to be a budget-friendly destination compared to other popular holiday destinations. Visitors can find affordable accommodation, food, and activities in the country.
Cultural diversity: Gambia is home to different ethnic groups, each with its unique culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about the diverse cultural heritage of the country through music, dance, art, and festivals.
Wildlife: Gambia has several national parks and wildlife reserves where visitors can see a variety of animals and birds. The Abuko Nature Reserve is a popular destination for nature lovers.
Safety: Gambia is considered to be a safe destination for visitors. The country has a low crime rate, and the locals are known for their friendly and peaceful nature.

Here are a few British visitor reviews of Gambia:

“I had an amazing time in Gambia. The weather was perfect, the people were friendly, and there was so much to do. I especially enjoyed visiting the local markets and trying the delicious food. I would highly recommend Gambia as a holiday destination.” – Jane from London
“Gambia is a hidden gem. It’s not as well-known as some of the other holiday destinations, but it’s definitely worth a visit. The beaches are beautiful, the wildlife is incredible, and the locals are some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met. I would go back in a heartbeat.” – Mark from Manchester
“I was a bit hesitant to visit Gambia at first, but I’m so glad I did. The country has a rich history and culture, and I learned so much during my trip. I also enjoyed relaxing on the beach and taking in the beautiful scenery. It was a wonderful experience.” – Sarah from Birmingham
“Gambia is a great destination for families. There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, such as visiting the monkey park or going on a river cruise. The locals are very welcoming to children, which made the trip even more enjoyable.” – Tom from Leeds

Here is a 7-day plan for a family holiday in the Gambia from the UK:

Day 1: Arrival in Banjul

Upon arrival in Banjul, you will be met by a representative from your hotel or tour operator who will transfer you to your hotel in the coastal town of Kololi.
Spend the day relaxing by the hotel pool and acclimatizing to the warm weather.

Day 2: Explore the Gambia River

Take a boat trip along the Gambia River, passing through mangroves, birdlife and fishing villages.
Stop off at the historic Juffureh and Albreda villages, where you can learn about the history of slavery in The Gambia.

Day 3: Visit Kachikally Crocodile Pool

Head to the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, where you can see and touch the crocodiles.
The pool is considered sacred, and according to legend, the waters have mystical healing powers.

Day 4: Visit Makasutu Forest

Explore the Makasutu Forest, which is a private reserve on the banks of the Gambia River.
The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds, and you can take a guided walk through the forest.

Day 5: Visit Tanji Fishing Village and Beach

Visit the Tanji Fishing Village, where you can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch.
Afterward, head to the nearby Tanji Beach, which is a beautiful and quiet stretch of sand where you can relax and take a swim.

Day 6: Visit Abuko Nature Reserve

Spend the day at the Abuko Nature Reserve, where you can see a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, baboons, and a wide range of birdlife.
The reserve has several trails for walking and hiking, and there is also a small museum where you can learn about the ecology and conservation efforts in the region.

Day 7: Departure

Spend the morning relaxing by the pool or taking a last-minute visit to the local markets to purchase souvenirs.
Depart for Banjul International Airport in the afternoon.

This itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences and the age of your children. Make sure to check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing and sun protection. Enjoy your trip!

Best Family Holiday Destinations Abroad