Credit: Anantara
When it comes to family holidays we often tend to choose destinations fairly close to home. It’s what we’ve always done, it’s what we know, it’s what we’re used to. However, the fateful transition from child to ‘Kevin the teenager’ is a big moment in a parent’s life.
Whilst your kids might not live up to the moody stereotype, the concept of a summer holiday to the Med, Norfolk or Devon may no longer excite the younger members of your family. Either they’re too old for that kind of trip, or their classmates have gone somewhere more ‘cool’, and their expectations are higher than ever. This may sound a bit cheeky, but given today’s family options, they may have a point.
The rest of the world is ever closer with a growing network of direct flights to further-flung destinations that make for a holiday with a real difference. Not only will the kids be incredibly excited but we bet you’ll be smiling, too. Here are our top 5 holiday destinations for teenagers in Asia with expert tips from our own travels with teens:
1. Thailand
ETG Travellers, The Gomez family
Thailand offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture and beach relaxation. Up in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has a wealth of adventurous experiences for activity-loving teens. You can take a trek through them to find wild elephants or if that’s not your thing, you could take on white water rafting. Thai cookery and the famous Saturday Walking Street market will also cater for foodies in the family.
The capital Bangkok has a fun range of experiences. Visit magnificent Wats that act as the major landmarks of the city or ride along the river by old Siamese junk boat to taste dishes in floating markets. There’s plenty to see and do.
Round up your trip on the beaches of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui: they’re as beautiful in real life as they are in the pictures. Various family-friendly resorts are also on offer, with accommodation in villa style properties or boutique style hotel rooms with interconnecting rooms. You’re sure to be pleased with the top-notch service, luxurious surroundings and idyllic setting.
Click here to see family holiday ideas for Thailand >>
Celebrating Christmas in Thailand is pure magic. If you’re set on a beach stay, you’ll need to book a year in advance. Once beach retreats are gone, they’re gone! Holly, Head of ETG Travel Team
2. Cambodia
Family snorkelling in Cambodia
You don’t need to have teenagers with an interest in history or architecture to draw some serious gasps from your family during a visit to Siem Reap, the capital of Cambodia. The Angkor Wat temple complex here was the seat of the Khmer kingdom from the 9th–15th centuries and is incredibly well preserved. It’s like entering another world exploring this jungle paradise, from giant trees growing out of the ruins, to the elaborate carvings and the sheer size of the huge, sprawling site – like a theme park but the real thing. Which makes it understandable that it was featured in the Lara Croft movie Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie. Cycle at your own pace or explore with a guide. It’s close to Siem Reap so easy to get back to your hotel when the family has had enough.
Click here to see family holiday ideas for Cambodia >>
To avoid teens getting ‘templed out’ when exploring Angkor Wat, we’ll combine your visit with a cycling tour or a boat trip—don’t do temples all day.” Melissa, ETG co-founder
3. Sri Lanka
Not a bad place to play cricket…at Kumu Beach
At just over 10 hours by direct flight from London, Sri Lanka is closer than you think. Sri Lankan airlines have an overnight flight which means you can fly all the way there and potentially sleep en route. There is a range of experiences here that will get everyone excited. Spot elephant herds and leopards in the country’s beautiful national parks. Scale a huge UNESCO heritage fortress and watch the sunset over tropical forests. Play a spot of cricket on the beach and tuck into mellow coconut curries. With a laid-back, open and friendly culture to boot, it’s the perfect place for a family holiday with a difference.
Click here to see family holiday ideas for Sri Lanka >>
I always recommend taking over a family-friendly villa – not only can be it be more cost-effective than multiple rooms in a hotel but it also feels exclusive and you’ll have plenty of space. Especially good for a multi-generational getaway. Sam, ETG co-founder
4. Bali, Indonesia
Tirta Empul temple, Bali
The island of Bali in Indonesia has become a popular ‘gap year’ destination but that doesn’t mean you can’t go to the island with the kids before they leave the nest. With incredible beaches, mighty volcanoes, delicious food and a colourful Hindu culture – it makes for a fantastic family destination. There are great diving schools, surfing schools and luxurious resorts to relax in and will earn the kids great bragging rights when they get home.
Click here to see holiday ideas for Bali >>
Indonesia is a bit of a dark horse when it comes to go-to family holiday destination but it deffo delivers. Our clients rave about their trips there. Holly
5. Malaysian Borneo
For those looking for wildlife, there could be no better destination than Malaysian Borneo. It is not only the most accessible region of the island but offers exceptional off-the-beaten-track adventures without having to stray too far from the beach. Explore the stunning caves of Mulu National Park, attempt to trek the formidable Mount Kinabalu or really get back to nature by staying in a remote jungle lodge. As we all know, adolescence can be hard: teenagers are often under a lot of pressure and edging ever closer to the trials and tribulations of adult life. But what better way to provide total escapism and instil that sense of sheer, childlike joy than spotting an orangutan in its natural habitat?
Click here to see family holiday ideas to Borneo >>
Borneo makes for an epic holiday that’ll go down in your family history books. But, be warned, this needs to be booked at least a year in advance if you want your top choices of jungle lodges and activities. Sam, ETG co-founder
FAQS & Expert Guidance on Family Holidays in Asia with Teens
When should I book a family holiday for the best availability?
Melissa: “For ‘Christmas, Easter, and summer (‘peak seasons’ that align with school holidays), we recommend booking 9–12 months ahead. The best family-friendly rooms go quickly, and the top guides get booked early, too.”
Key Booking Tips:
✔ For better prices and fewer crowds: Travel just before or after peak season.
✔ For last-minute flexibility: Vietnam and northern Thailand often have good availability into the UK autumn term.
Which countries are best for family travel, and when should we go?
Best Time to Visit Each Destination:
- Sri Lanka – West & south: Dec–Apr. East: May–Sep.
- India – Oct–Mar for Rajasthan & Kerala.
- Thailand – West coast (Phuket, Krabi): Nov–Mar. East (Koh Samui): Jun–Sep.
- Borneo – Mar–Oct is best for wildlife spotting.
- Vietnam – South: Dec–Apr. North: Oct–Apr.
- Cambodia – Nov–Mar is best, but May–Oct is great for fewer crowds.
Destination Tip:
Melissa: “April in Cambodia is hot. We’re talking 40°C+ at the temples—so Easter travel there can be challenging.”
How do I get the best value on my family holiday?
Aka how can we make a long-haul family holiday a little more affordable?
✔ Travel in the shoulder season – Better prices, fewer crowds, great weather.
✔ Consider villas instead of multiple hotel rooms
✔ Use local transport – Sam: “Overnight trains in India, Thailand or Vietnam save a night’s accommodation and add to the adventure.”
How do I get my teenager interested in the trip?
✔ Involve them early – Melissa: “Let them help pick activities or join a planning call with us. They’ll feel more invested.”
✔ Give them some independence – Holly: “Even an hour exploring a market alone can make a difference.”
✔ Balance structure & freedom – Plan activities but leave downtime for flexibility.
Why should I travel with a tour operator like ETG?
Aka what are the benefits of booking through a travel company and not independently?
✔ Family-friendly hotels that actually work – Not just ‘family-friendly’ by name, we’ve stayed at the hotels we recommend (no need to trawl through TripAdvisor).
✔ Guides who engage teenagers – Whether they love history, adventure, or food, our great guides will keep a smile on your kid’s face. They’re basically a built-in best mate.
✔ A balance of structure & freedom – Sam: “We ensure the trip runs smoothly, but there’s space to do things at your own pace. We’ll ensure you’re all kept safe at all times.”
Are these destinations safe for families?
Melissa: “Yes! We work with trusted guides and hotels and adjust plans as needed.”
What’s the best way to handle long-haul flights?
Sam: “A fun layover makes all the difference—Singapore’s Changi Airport has butterfly gardens and a rooftop pool.”
Final Thoughts
Travelling with teenagers doesn’t have to mean eye-rolls and headphone battles. With the right support and planning, it’ll be one of the most rewarding trips you’ll take as a family. Promise!
If you’d like to talk to a travel specialist about scoping out your holiday plans, do give us a call on 020 3642 6772 or email us here.
You can see some examples of the kinds of trips we organise by looking at our website. All our trips are tailor-made though, so can be changed to suit your exact needs.