Raising Little Explorers: Why Traveling with Kids Is Worth It

If there’s one thing I know about parenting, it’s that kids will remember experiences more than stuff. And what better experience is there than showing them the world? Different cultures, new languages, food that may or may not end up being thrown on the floor—it’s all part of the adventure.

I want my kids to grow up knowing the world is bigger than their backyard. To make friends from different places, to see landscapes that take their breath away, and to understand that there are a million ways to live a life. That’s why, once I tackle my fear of enclosed spaces (hi, planes), we’ll be traveling a lot.

So if you, like me, dream of raising little globetrotters, here are some of the best kid-friendly travel destinations in 2025—whether you're into cities, nature, resorts, or road trips.

1. Japan: The Ultimate Mix of Tradition & Tech

Best for: Culture, food, and mind-blowing experiences

Japan is one of those places that kids and adults equally love. Where else can you visit ancient temples, eat the best ramen of your life, and then spend the afternoon in a Mario Kart-themed amusement park?

🌸 Must-do with kids:

• Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea (arguably better than the ones in the US!)
• TeamLab Planets – an immersive digital art museum where kids can run through glowing water and touch interactive walls
• Shinkansen (bullet train) ride – because what kid wouldn’t love zooming at 300 km/h?
• Animal cafes – owls, hedgehogs, and even capybaras, because why not?

✈️ Travel tip: Japan is stroller-friendly but expect a lot of walking. A baby carrier will be your best friend in train stations and busy streets.

2. Costa Rica: A Nature Lover’s Dream

Best for: Wildlife, adventure, and eco-friendly stays

If your kids love animals and adventure, Costa Rica is the place to be. Rainforests, volcanoes, waterfalls—this country is basically a giant outdoor playground.

🐒 Must-do with kids:

• Arenal Volcano & hot springs – because soaking in thermal water while watching a volcano is just cool
• Sloth Sanctuary – because sloths are the most relatable animal ever
• Jungle night tours – for kids who love creepy-crawlies (and parents who can handle it)
• Beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula – warm, calm waters and soft sand, perfect for little swimmers

🏡 Where to stay: Eco-lodges with family-friendly options are everywhere—choose one with a pool and kids' activities.

3. Scotland: Fairytale Castles & Epic Road Trips

Best for: Storybook vibes, outdoor fun, and history lovers

If your kids have ever dreamed of living in a castle, Scotland is their place. Plus, it’s one of the best spots in Europe for a scenic road trip—hello, dramatic cliffs and cute highland cows.

🏰 Must-do with kids:

• Edinburgh Castle – knights, dungeons, and unbeatable city views
• Loch Ness boat tour – because maybe, just maybe, Nessie is real
• Harry Potter train ride (Jacobite Steam Train) – actual magic on rails
• Glencoe & Isle of Skye – jaw-dropping nature, perfect for kids who love to run wild

🚗 Travel tip: Renting a campervan could be a fun (and surprisingly budget-friendly) way to explore.

4. Thailand: Budget-Friendly Paradise for Families

Best for: Beach lovers, easygoing travel, and amazing food

Thailand is one of the best places to travel with kids on a budget. Family-friendly hotels, delicious food (hello, mango sticky rice), and plenty of fun activities—it’s got it all.

🏝️ Must-do with kids:

• Elephant Nature Park – an ethical sanctuary where kids can feed and bathe rescued elephants
• Island hopping in Krabi or Phuket – stunning beaches with shallow, warm water
• Chiang Mai’s lantern festival (Loy Krathong) – pure magic watching thousands of lanterns float into the sky
• Floating markets in Bangkok – ride a boat and eat fresh coconut ice cream!

🏡 Where to stay: Thailand has some of the best family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs (meaning: free babysitting while you get a massage). Win-win.

5. Canada: The Ultimate Outdoor Playground

Best for: Road trips, mountains, and spotting wild animals

Canada is massive, and no matter where you go, there’s something for kids. If you love nature + space + wildlife, this is your spot.

🐻 Must-do with kids:

• Banff National Park – unreal scenery, hiking trails, and even a gondola ride up a mountain
• Whale watching in Vancouver – because nothing beats seeing an orca in the wild
• Quebec City’s Winter Carnival – an actual snow festival, complete with ice castles and sleigh rides
• Prince Edward Island – beautiful beaches and the setting of Anne of Green Gables for little bookworms

🚗 Best way to travel: Rent a car or camper and road trip it. Canada is made for scenic drives.

Final Thoughts: Where Will 2025 Take You?

Whether you’re a city explorer, a beach bum, or a mountain lover, there’s a perfect destination for every family. The best part? Kids don’t need luxury—they just need experiences.

So, here’s to 2025 being the year of epic family adventures, new cultures, and (hopefully) flights that don’t involve total meltdowns. 😉

Where’s the first place you’re heading with your little ones?