Tips for Unusual Family Holiday Destinations

This list contains something for everyone, whether you are looking for a pristine environment, utter isolation, or genuine cultural interactions. According to a list of professional travellers, each of these locales is underestimated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

1. Shaxi, China

Shaxi is an ancient town that successfully integrates and preserves medieval commercial and Buddhist culture. Here, you can find: Intact ancient stages Temples Shops Alleyways Residences Village gates Ancient trees Ancient wells Ancient bridges Traditional fairs

Located midway between Lijiang and Dali in the Himalayan foothills, Shaxi offers a wonderfully maintained traditional way of life that provides a glimpse into a bygone period.

There is no pollution, no airport, and no traffic jams. Instead, you’ll find peaceful cobblestone lanes, stunning local architecture, and impressive courtyard villas. The local administration collaborates with a conservation team to secure a sustainable future for Shaxi's unique cultural heritage.

Shaxi Ancient Town was added to the World Monuments Fund's list of 101 endangered sites in 2001, alongside notable locations like Pompeii in Italy and the Great Wall of China.

2. Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is the largest city in northern Dalmatia and also a hidden gem. Visitors can enjoy exploring a historic town that is almost entirely pedestrian-only. The town streets are paved in marbles, making it particularly suitable for walking.

You can discover several medieval churches and Roman ruins, including the famed Church of St. Donat, which was built on an ancient Roman forum site.

Pro Tip: Mornings are a great time to visit this destination, as the city on a small peninsula is filled with activities.

3. Burma (Myanmar)

Burma, or Myanmar, has been at the top of many 'must-see' lists since it began to welcome visitors only a few years ago. However, it remains off the beaten path for many travellers, especially families with kids.

Bagan, located in Myanmar, is home to 2,200 temples and pagodas dating from the 9th to 13th centuries. This makes it a mecca for Buddhism and a location where kids can indulge their inquisitive and adventure-seeking nature.

The ruins offer an Indiana Jones experience for families interested in exploration. These atmospheric temple photos have inspired numerous family travel bucket lists.

Important Warning: Only children who are at least eight years old can go on the Bagan hot-air balloon ride.

4. Warwickshire

Warwick, located in central England, embodies the romanticized idea of the country lifestyle, complete with rolling hills and picturesque villages.

A narrowboat living experience is a great way to explore the area without needing to drive a car. You can enjoy the atmosphere of times gone by while cruising through historic towns like: Royal Leamington Spa Warwick Stratford-upon-Avon

While in Stratford-upon-Avon, don’t miss the chance to see Shakespeare's former home and the town theatre.

5. Assisi

Assisi has been a religious pilgrimage site and shrine for approximately 700 years before the Roman era. One of Italy's greatest relics, the body of Saint Francis, is housed in the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.

Saint Francis was a monk who renounced his father's wealth to become a hermit, moving into the countryside to spend time with the poor and live in the wilderness.

Assisi, situated on the slopes of Mount Subasio, overlooks the plains of Umbria. The citizens live in cave-like houses beside a fortress-like hilltop town, creating a magical approach to the town.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set out to one of these unique places, and have the time of your life!