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Warm weather has arrived. School is out and the kids are in need of a new adventure. Parents are ready to get away, too–it’s time to take advantage of that PTO. What better way to bring the family together for some summer fun than in one of the world’s top family-friendly destinations?
You’re ready to start planning, but with so many interesting destinations to choose from, selecting the right location can be challenging. That’s where EBONY comes in. These are our top picks for the best family-friendly destinations for your summer vacation. Pack your bags and get ready to have a blast exploring new locales and making memories with the people you love most.
San Jose, Costa Rica
The Central American country of Costa Rica is all about la pura vida—the pure life—and appreciating the gorgeous nature all around you. Offering an abundance of family-friendly activities, San Jose is an excellent choice. Younger children will delight in seeing sloths, monkeys, coatis and more at the Costa Rica Animal Rescue. Older kids will have a ball horseback riding, kayaking and rafting. Children of all ages can enjoy the city’s world-class museums–Museo Nacional, Museo de los Ninos and the Jade (archeological) Museum are just a few. You and the fam might also spend some time browsing markets like El Mercado Central and Mercado Municipal de Artesania, where you can support local artisans by shopping for unique handmade goods.
Accra, Ghana
Explore the beauty of Ghana with a trip to its capital, Accra. The city is home to numerous monuments and sites dedicated to Ghana’s independence. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Black Star Gate and Independence Square were erected in tribute to the revolutionary leader Kwame Nkrumah who led the movement to freedom, as well as to all the freedom fighters who lost their lives to make it a reality. Nature-loving families will find great beaches like Labadi, Bojo and Laboma, while the expansive Kakum National Park and picturesque Aburi Botanical are not far from the city. Accra is also one of the best places to learn more about the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Castles like Elmina, Cape Coast and Fort James tell the history of the horrific institution and display artifacts from this era of time.
Sydney, Australia
Australia’s largest city may be known primarily for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, but it has so much more to offer. Many of its beautiful beaches, like Balmoral and Shelly, have calmer waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There are many fantastic museums perfect for families, including the Australian Museum, the Museums Discovery Center, the Powerhouse Museum and the Australian Museum of the Magical Arts. And no trip Down Under would be complete without seeing and learning about the unique wildlife found in the region. Symbio Wildlife Park, Koala Park Sanctuary, the Australian Reptile Park and the Sydney Zoo are all great places to do so.
Provinciales, Turks and Caicos
If white sand beaches and pristine azure waters are what you seek, consider Provinciales, Turks and Caicos, a favorite destination among families from all over. Here, expect sun and fun on the shores of beautiful beaches like Long Bay, Taylor Bay and Grace Bay, which consistently ranks as one of the top beaches in the world. Discover the island’s many species of marine life while snorkeling at Bight Reef or Smith’s Reef. See the native Turks and Caicos Islands Rock Iguana at Little Water Cay nature reserve island. Or, kayak or paddle board your way through a guided ecotour to observe stingrays, turtles, starfish, sharks and other animals in their natural habitat. Sailing, wakeboarding and kiteboarding are other fun activities available in this Caribbean paradise.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of Europe’s most family-friendly destinations with pretty much all you could ask for in a city: pleasant weather, delicious food, and tons to do and see. Get a taste of Lisbon’s history and incredible architecture touring well-preserved sites like Sao Jorge Castle, Carmo Convent, Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Lisbon Cathedral. Check out some animals at the Tapada Nacional de Mafra park, Lisbon Zoo, Oceanarium or Quinta Pedagogica de los Olivares animal park. The science lovers in your family will have a blast at the Pavilion of Knowledge, an interactive science and technology museum, or observing constellations, planets, moons and more at the Calouste Gulbenkian Planetarium. Or, simply stroll around and discover the beauty of the city for yourself. From colorful tiles adorning the walls to quaint balconies covered in flowers, there is beauty all around.