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From the cultural charm of Chiang Mai to the quiet beaches of Sabah and the hidden islands of Singapore, offbeat destinations are redefining family holidays
Nestled in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly
Family holidays are no longer just about ticking off the most famous landmarks. Increasingly, parents are seeking destinations that combine discovery, comfort, and authentic experiences, places that allow them to slow down, connect with local culture, and give children safe spaces to explore.
According to Gabriele Lombardo, General Manager, Shangri-La Chiang Mai, families today are venturing beyond the predictable hotspots and finding joy in lesser-known destinations that balance adventure with reassurance.
Discovering Hidden Gems
While India has its share of popular tourist circuits, many families are looking abroad for fresh yet family-friendly alternatives. “In Asia, Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand stands out, it offers a rare mix of cultural immersion, lush nature, and gentle adventure that works beautifully for families,” says Lombardo.
Staying at Shangri-La Chiang Mai, for example, places visitors close to the city’s vibrant heritage while also offering resort-style comfort with spaces designed for both children and parents. Other family-friendly hidden gems include the Southern Islands of Singapore, just a short ferry ride away from the city, and the quieter beaches of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, where calm coves provide safe, relaxed days by the sea.
Planning Safely and Smartly
Venturing into offbeat locations doesn’t mean compromising on safety. Lombardo emphasizes that parents should always strike the right balance between adventure and reassurance. “Choose a trusted base with strong infrastructure and healthcare access, then branch out on easy day trips to offbeat spots,” he explains.
Simple planning tips such as checking transport timings, keeping activities age-appropriate, and carrying essentials like sun protection and water, go a long way in ensuring peace of mind.
A well-equipped resort with a concierge team, kids’ clubs, and indoor play areas also means that even if plans change, the holiday remains smooth and stress-free.
Activities Families Can Enjoy Together
One of the delights of offbeat destinations is the opportunity to enjoy simple, memorable activities that resonate with children and adults alike. “These places lend themselves to the joys children remember most picnics in open spaces, gentle nature walks, river cruises, or easy cycling trails,” notes Lombardo.
In Chiang Mai, families can explore lively night bazaars, try hands-on craft workshops, or join guided cultural experiences such as cooking classes where even kids can participate.
Why Offbeat Is Becoming the New Mainstream
While iconic landmarks will always attract travelers, more families are rethinking how they want to spend their holidays. Lombardo observes, “Instead of crowded hubs, families are seeking destinations that let them slow down, give children room to explore safely, and create meaningful connections.”
Chiang Mai exemplifies this shift: it offers the heritage of old temples and bustling markets alongside the calm of nearby mountains and the intimacy of local life. For many, the appeal of such destinations lies in the sense of discovery, a cultural town where everyday life unfolds, or a quiet trail perfect for family walks.
“These places are no longer treated as side trips,” Lombardo adds. “Families are making them the centerpiece of their holidays. With improved infrastructure and family-oriented hospitality, destinations like Chiang Mai are shaping the next generation of travel.”
From cultural immersion in Northern Thailand to relaxed coastal escapes in Borneo, offbeat destinations are opening up new possibilities for family travel. By choosing the right base, planning thoughtfully, and embracing local experiences, families can enjoy the best of both worlds: adventure and comfort, discovery and reassurance.
As Gabriele Lombardo concludes, the real joy of these journeys lies in shared experiences the moments when parents and children discover together, creating memories that go beyond the ordinary.
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi…Read More
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi… Read More
September 06, 2025, 18:21 IST
