Best Travel Destinations for Family Reunions

After two long years of border closures, lockdowns, and travel uncertainty, many of us are longing for meaningful reunions with family members. Sure, you could all gather at dad’s place or spend another weekend down at the beach, but why not change things up and plan the ultimate family reunion­—an overseas holiday!

With so many incredible bucket list destinations in the world to discover, now is the perfect time to finally turn your travel dreams into reality. Epic travel experiences are best shared with loved ones, of course, so now is the perfect time to plan an amazing trip with your family.

A 2021 survey by travel search engine KAYAK found that 43% of travellers feel that missing out on travel made them want to travel more, with almost 20% saying they aren’t waiting any longer to book that bucket-list trip post-pandemic. So, if you and your family can’t wait to travel again, you’re in good company.

Here are the five best travel destinations for family reunions, because there’s no time like the present!

Why Have a Family Reunion Overseas?

The impacts of the pandemic have made us realise how precious time spent with loved ones is, especially for those who were separated by state or national border closures. After dreaming of having the opportunity to travel freely again, the time has finally arrived, so why not make the most of it?

There’s a popular trend now of families reuniting overseas, as it’s a fun and meaningful way to travel while also catching up with family or friends. The intergenerational travel industry has never been bigger, with plenty of destinations that can cater to the interests and abilities of travellers of all ages. Round up the adult children, the grandkids, or all of the cousins to reunite while also experiencing a bucket list travel destination together—what could be better!

What Are the Best Travel Destinations for Family Reunions?

If you’re planning an overseas family reunion, which destinations are best to visit?

Here are five amazing bucket list family travel ideas that offer luxury, adventure, and plenty of unique experiences for all ages of traveller that you can share together—an ideal way to make up for lost time.

Of course, we know how it can be sometimes when the entire family gets together, so each of these destinations also caters well to solo travel, just in case you need a few days to yourself before flying home.

1. Antarctica

If there’s one place that travellers can’t wait to explore, it’s Antarctica. The allure of the great white continent, the South Pole, and the epic Antarctic wildlife are irresistible.

Many who visit Antarctica for the first time say that the experience is life-changing, shifting their perspectives on the world, the environment, and the planet as we know it. So, it becomes such a more powerful journey when you share it with the ones you love.

An Antarctic cruise is an amazing way to connect with family, as guests have the choice of relaxing on deck and soaking up the views or getting out there and having an adventure on the ice, catering to all fitness levels. No matter how you spent your day, you can all come together in the ship’s lounge over dinner to share stories and reconnect.

And no matter how old (or young) you are, we guarantee you’ll jump for joy when you see your first penguin or seal on your Antarctic adventure!

2. Patagonia

The rugged beauty of Patagonia is just perfect for families who love both adventure and luxury. Set in both Argentina and Chile, this inspiring region is known for its glaciers, volcanos, fjords, and mountains.

As a family, you can enjoy mouth-watering Patagonian cuisine (think fresh seafoods, hearty meat dishes, and Argentinian wine), after an exciting day of hiking in Torres del Paine National Park, horseback riding, or spotting wildlife.

Oh, and we mentioned luxury—Patagonia is home to plenty of world-class lodges that cater to groups, with spacious accommodation and welcoming hospitality. For something truly unique, book a stay in the EcoCamp Patagonia, the world’s first geodesic dome hotel.

3. The Arctic

Planning to catch up relatives in Europe or North America? If so, why not book a family adventure to the Arctic, as it’s accessible from both Norway or Canada. An Arctic cruise is a great way to observe the famous Northern Lights and the dramatic beauty of the region.

As you travel, you’ll come across reindeer, sea birds, walrus, and even polar bears. Like Antarctica, an Arctic cruise is suited to all levels of fitness and abilities, as each journey allows you to choose your own adventures each day. Take it easy or work up an appetite sea kayaking.

No matter how you like to travel, an Arctic cruise can suit every family.

4. Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos, in Ecuador, couldn’t be better for a family reunion, especially if your family has tuned in to a few David Attenborough documentaries during lockdown. The biodiversity and wildlife of the Galapagos is unlike anywhere else, thanks to each island’s isolation from one another.

Giant tortoise, lava lizards, marine iguanas, and sea lions are just a few of the majestic and unique creatures that you and your family can observe in the Galapagos. The incredible wildlife, pristine environmental conditions, and its safety also means that the Galapagos is a great destination if you’re travelling with children.

5. Peru

Perhaps most famous for Machu Picchu, a 15th-century Inca citadel, Peru is one of the most popular South American destinations—for good reason. Within Peru, you can cruise the Amazon, stroll the cobblestone streets of Cusco, or visit the mysterious Nazca lines, to name a few.

Peru is a great destination for families of all ages, as the country has an established infrastructure, low crime rates, and delicious cuisine.

If you and your family are ready to explore Peru, our Signature Peru itinerary might be just what you need, with each package offering flexibility and daily departures for groups of any size.

Make the most of this year with an amazing family reunion—what could be better than an epic family trip!