It’s the end of the year, and everyone is making a list and checking it twice and not just the one that they are sending to Santa. So, our Family Getaways editors thought that this would be the appropriate time to share what we believe to be some up-and-coming family destinations. While old favorites such as Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean will always be popular, a few new destinations should be tempting family travelers in the coming years.
1. Asia. “I think that Asia, particularly Southeast Asia, is going to become more popular with families. Several tour operators are focusing on the far-flung destinations of the region. Children can now travel with mom and dad to Borneo, Thailand and Cambodia with Asia Transpacific Journeys, learning about other lifestyles and traditions at a young age.” — Janeen Christoff
2. Greece. “I’m going to go out on a limb and say Greece. Sure, there’s political upheaval, but Adventures by Disney added a Greece itinerary for next year, cruising the Med is still hugely popular and all the problems could ultimately mean more value for U.S. families.”— Kenneth Shapiro
3. Europe. “While it’s not necessarily emerging, I think that Europe is going to experience a surge in family travel in the coming year. The Floriade 2012 World Horticulture Expo is taking place next year with a roster of family-friendly activities and, because of the economic woes in the euro zone, there could be a more friendly exchange rate.” — Mindy Poder
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4. Exotic Cruises. “Families are cruising together more than ever, and they are going both close to home and to very exotic locations. We are seeing families exploring Europe together, including reunions based on going back to their roots or multigenerational travel visiting World War II sites with grandparents. In addition, Asian-Americans are having reunions with other members of their families on Asian cruises, and families with branches in South America are reuniting on cruises there. With the return of widespread cruising on American rivers next year, families can even trace American history in the Heartland.” — Marilyn Green
5. Fiji. “Families are bound to discover that the Fijians are among the best babysitters in the world. Almost every resort in Fiji offers some kind of complimentary kids’ club, with many offering extensive and elaborate programs such as snorkeling, spearfishing, crab hunting and other excursions just for kids. Outside of kids’ club hours, parents can also enjoy extremely affordable babysitting rates that can start as low as $4 per hour.” — Monica Poling
“I think that Australia and the South Pacific are going to be big destinations for families in the coming years.”
— Lori Knowles, mother of two
What destination do you think is up-and-coming in 2012?
30% South/Central America
25% Australia/South Pacific
25% Asia
20% Africa
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Children can learn about other cultures in Southeast Asia. // © 2011 Thinkstock
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