Living the dream on pristine islands and snorkelling in crystal-clear sea
Little Riverside Hoi An is a boutique riverside hotel with traditional style, rooftop pool and easy access to Hoi An’s old town and nearby beach.
We believe your family holiday should feel like a real break – not just more on your plate.
That’s why we handle every detail for you and help you make the best choices without any stress. We’ll recommend the destination that’ll suit you all best, the rooms that actually work (we’ve stayed in them ourselves), and sort out the nitty-gritty logistics. You won’t have to think about a thing and avoid those teenage moans and groans.
You’ll travel with first-rate guides and private drivers, and stay in characterful hotels. Most importantly, our team know how to add those magical, just-for-you touches that turn a holiday into a lifelong memory.
With ETG, every element is designed for your family – luxury, ease and adventure all built in.
“Schools Out!” Teenagers will be more relaxed once exam stress is behind them, and with six weeks to play with, this might be the best time of year for a big trip together – especially before they fly the nest.
Sri Lanka works brilliantly at this time and is arguably the ultimate country for an immersive family holiday.
The European summertime is the best time to head to Indonesia and Borneo. Think exotic wildlife, dramatic volcanoes and knockout beaches: primed for maximum memory making. Borneo is one of Asia’s top spots for seeing animals in the wild, plus there are some incredible, off-the-beaten-track cultural experiences to excite eye-rolling teens.
Though there’s a higher chance of rain than during the ‘dry season’, don’t rule out Cambodia. The lily ponds around Angkor Wat are in full bloom, and the scenery is gorgeously green. For balmy beach time, pair with the dry east coast of Thailand or Central Vietnam.
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Bali
This suggested trip is designed to give families a truly immersive experience of Bali and Lombok without too many stops or long transfers.
The accommodation enhances the immersive nature of the trip without breaking the bank, and it‘s family-friendly throughout (but not in the all-inclusive, ‘Kids Club’ sense of the term).
The Ayung River
Exhilarating white-water rafting
Ubud
Delve into the heart of Balinese culture in the countryside, away from the crowds
West Lombok
Live the dream and relax on the beautiful beaches
Ella
This itinerary has been crafted specifically for families (with older kids and teens), drawing on our own experiences of travelling with our kids in Sri Lanka. We’ve designed it to include some top spots, both on and off the beaten track, while carefully planning each route to eliminate travel fatigue. The trip begins and ends with a stay along the south coast.
Yala National Park
Spot elusive leopards and sloth bears on a private safari in Yala’s quieter Block 5
The Pekoe Trail
Totally immersed in nature and culture on a scenic walk along the Pekoe Trail, meeting local tea pluckers
Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary
Witness the magic of elephant feeding at Udawalawe’s conservation sanctuary
Mawella Bay
Relax on the tranquil shores of Mawella Bay, ideal for swimming and kayaking
Bangkok
Island hopping and some lesser-known spots on Thailand’s East Coast: at its prime during the UK summer months.
Bangkok
Cycling through mangrove forests and dining at a hidden restaurant
Songkhla Lake
Watching tropical birds flit by on Thailand’s largest lake
Thai islands
Living the dream on pristine islands and snorkelling in crystal-clear sea
Hanoi
Vietnam has an extensive network of domestic flights, so it’s tempting to fly around all over the place and pack loads in. But travelling a little more slowly by train can be hugely rewarding and fun! This holiday includes an overnight journey and two-day trains as you traverse the country from Hanoi to the Central Coast. You’ll stay in some great spots along the way including a luxury beach resort in an idyllic location.
This trip suggestion works particularly well for families travelling in Spring and Summer since this is the best time to visit Phong Nha Caves and the Central Coast. It avoids the southern part of the country, where the weather is less favourable in the summer months.
Street food tour
Slurp noodles in the hustle and bustle of the capital Hanoi
Coastal beauty
Enjoy a breathtakingly beautiful beach resort on a remote peninsula in Phu Yen province
Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
Adventure in the limestone karst landscape of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
Borneo
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Bali
Encounter Borneo’s amazing wildlife, journey through Java’s volcanic landscapes visiting impressive temples, and finish with an idyllic stay on an exclusive tropical island.
Kalimantan
Staying in the Borneo rainforest to see orangutans and other wildlife
Java
Exploring the countryside and the magical temples of Indonesia’s cultural heartland
The Karimunjawa Islands
Living the dream at an exclusive, tropical island hideaway
Agra
Our ‘Classic Rajasthan with the Taj’ itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.
We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.
Iconic sights
Marvel at the timeless magnificence of the Taj Mahal, the disorderliness of Delhi and colourful Jaipur
Fort Barli
Escape the madness into the gorgeous surrounds of Fort Barli and the Rajasthani countryside
Lake Pichola
Stay on the banks of Lake Pichola in romantic and laid-back Udaipur
Battambang
This three-week itinerary, designed for families, is a fun and original way to explore Cambodia’s diverse regions. As every journey is overland, you will soak up the atmosphere as you travel. You’ll find yourself immersed in the various sites and scenery, enthralled by stories from the past and inspired by ordinary people, purposefully embracing their future.
Mountain camping
Camp under the stars, surrounded by nature in a sacred mountain range near Siem Reap
Eco experience
Get completely off the tourist trail in Mondulkiri
Explore Angkor
Marvel at the magnificence of Angkor and discover secret corners of the temple complex on a guided cycle ride
Close to the equator, Asia is ideal for winter sun en famille: whether you’re keen to embrace Christmas or escape it entirely.
Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, southern Vietnam and western Malaysia are warm, dry and sunny, with lush green landscapes from the recent monsoon. Rivers, waterfalls and lakes are full, perfect for exploring floating communities like Cambodia’s Tonle Sap and Laos’ 4000 Islands.
It’s also a great time for Sri Lanka and The Maldives. The Maldives has clear seas for snorkelling and pairs well with Oman or Sri Lanka for added culture. For a once-in-a-lifetime family adventure, consider boating around ravishing Raja Ampat in Indonesia.
Southern India has excellent weather and a unique Christmas spirit. Northern India can be chilly, but Rajasthan stays crisp and clear so it’s a popular time to visit.
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Bangkok
A little bit of everything in ‘The Land of Smiles’: from Bangkok’s sizzling street food and countryside cycles to off-the-beaten-track idyllic beaches of warm water and golden sands.
Bangkok
Sample sizzling street food with a fun foodie guide
Chiang Mai
Meet free-roaming elephants and learn about how they’re protected
Koh Yao Noi
Glorious beach time on an unspoilt island with great snorkelling
Bangkok
A beach and jungle-focused family adventure, hopping through Southern Thailand. Ideal for couples or families who love nature and island life. Expect plenty of fun, great food, hands-on experiences, and some unusual but quality hotels throughout.
Khao Sok National Park
Sleep in a treehouse hotel, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle
A tropical Thai island
Slip into island time on a little-known Thai island, far from the usual crowds
Bangkok
Discover calm oases and tucked-away treasures within the buzzing city
Hoi An
This holiday is ideal for second-time visitors to Vietnam or adventurous families who want to discover the country beyond the typical tourist trail. Vietnam has epic scenery, but many visitors miss much of it; on this holiday, you’ll explore by raft, river, train and bike, taking in the mountainous North, the limestone caves of Phong Nha and the central coast. The suggested itinerary entirely skips the major cities, although we can include them in your bespoke holiday proposal.
Hoi An
Discover ancient traditions or hit the beach on the coast near Hoi An
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Cycle past dramatic limestone mountains and explore caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Paddle past terraced paddy fields as you raft along the river in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Colombo
Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for groups of friends and family, whether it’s two families travelling together, a multigenerational group, or long-lost relatives reuniting from the UK and the Antipodes! The destination offers something for all ages, complemented by unique accommodations perfect for these gatherings, from private villas to boutique hotels and tea bungalows, small enough to book exclusively.
Villas in Sri Lanka are typically exquisitely designed and offer ample space to unwind and connect. With separate bedrooms, spacious living areas, and outdoor spaces, usually with private pools and lush gardens, they provide privacy and exclusivity, perfect for bonding without interruptions. Most villas also have dedicated staff, including chefs and housekeepers, ensuring tailored dining experiences and excellent service.
Scenic train journeys
Travel through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Kandy to Haputale.
Yala National Park
Enjoy a private safari in Yala National Park’s quieter Block 5, home to leopards, sloth bears, and crocodiles.
Kalukanda House
Spend several days at Kalukanda House, a private, peaceful retreat within a stone’s throw of an excellent little surf beach, ideal for family relaxation and adventure.
Colombo
Explore the cultural heart of Colombo with a private tuk-tuk tour and walking experience through its historic neighbourhoods.
Cultural Triangle
This two-week itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to include memorable family experiences in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Along the way, you’ll stay in unique, boutique, family-friendly accommodation where you’re ensured not only comfort and a great location but also an adventure.
You’ll travel in Sri Lanka with your own private chauffeur-guide. The route has been planned to minimise travel but ensure you can take in national parks, ancient cities, villages and hill country. The Sri Lanka tour can be as adventurous or relaxed as you wish. For the last part of the holiday, kick back in a villa on a beautiful, white sandy island in The Maldives.
Safari experience
Head out on safari with your naturalist guide in Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest national park
Adventures in The Cultural Triangle
Cycle the backroads to Polonnaruwa, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and discover local life in the countryside
The Maldive s
Swim and snorkel in The Maldives’ turquoise waters. The best possible way to relax at the end of your holiday
Battambang
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
Angkor exploring
Explore secret corners of the magnificent Angkor temple complex with your brilliant local guide
Eco experience
Explore the organic farm and experience the fantastic ethos at the Smiling Gecko project in the countryside near Phnom Penh
Beach bliss
Spend time snorkelling, swimming and relaxing whilst based at an idyllic beach on tropical Koh Rong
Alleppey
Gain a great insight into the variety Kerala has to offer as you travel south to north over three weeks. You’ll have the opportunity to stay in different types and styles of accommodation, ranging from tea bungalows to a plantation mansion, houseboat, treehouse and tents, to name a few.
Spend your days among tea and spice plantations, relaxing in rural settings, spotting wildlife, cruising along the Alleppey backwaters, visiting local markets and getting to know the towns that make Kerala tick. Finish on a remote beach to round off your journey through ‘God’s Own Country’.
Cruise the backwaters
Get a real feel for life on the backwaters as you cruise through the canals on a houseboat for two nights, watching local life pass by
Birdwatching
Wake up on the banks of the river Periyar where you’ll have the chance to spot over 120 species of birds
Safaris
Track elephants and tigers on safaris and boat rides through the Nagarhole National Park
Borobudur
A transformative journey through Indonesia’s cultural and scenic spots, ending on a high in ravishing Raja Ampat.
Borobudur
Watch the magnificent Borobudur Temple arise from morning mist in the cultural heartland of Java
Indonesian Borneo
Drift through the rivers of Tanjung Puting and see orangutans up close
Raja Ampat
Revel in the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of a pristine pocket of paradise
It’s quite possible to dodge the festive season completely, swapping turkey and the King’s speech for a picnic on an island with wildlife sightings. But, if you’re apprehensive about missing out, most hotels celebrate, and the bigger the resort, the more elaborate the festivities will be. Don’t be surprised to find Santa skipping around the swimming pool in Thailand or a Vietnamese choir singing carols in the hotel lobby in Ho Chi Minh City! The celebrations will often centre around Christmas Eve, and bigger resorts usually hold a festive dinner.
Trying to wind up work, finish the school term, pack for a holiday, and then consider Christmas shopping can be overwhelming. But don’t panic; because from Colombo to Saigon and from Chiang Mai to Muscat, your consultant will be able to give you suggestions on unusual presents you can pick up along the way. Travelling at this time could even put the fun back into Christmas shopping!
In the springtime, you’re spoilt for choice. Your trip could coincide with Solar New Year, celebrated across much of Asia. Laos, Cambodia and parts of other countries like Sri Lanka and Vietnam mark it with colourful festivities and Buddhist rituals.
In Thailand, Songkran is a national holiday and seriously good fun, especially the water festival, when whole streets turn into one giant, joyful water fight!
For wildlife lovers, it’s a great time for safari in Sri Lanka. It’s also the start of the dry season in Borneo and Sulawesi, where you can spot rare creatures like black crested macaques and Yoda-like tarsiers.
Vietnam is warm and dry from top to toe, though southern Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia can get very hot (so we’ll plan sightseeing early or late in the day). And in Oman, it’s sunny but not yet scorching; a sweet spot for exploring.
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Oman
When planning a family holiday, it’s unusual to be able to include mountain, desert and beach in one trip. But, in Oman, you can do all three with ease. This holiday immerses you in the remarkable scenery, includes the best family-friendly hotels and is packed with experiences to wow all ages.
The following suggested itinerary includes a fun-filled week exploring the desert and mountains with your own private guide, then 4 days enjoying beach-life in Muscat.
Canyon adventures
Gazing down into an impossibly deep canyon in the Jabal Akhdar mountain range
Cool down in Wadis
Jumping and splashing through cooling pools and streams as you follow the valley path through one of Oman’s tropical wadis
Sleep under the stars
A taste of the traditional Bedouin way of life as you camp overnight among the atmospheric dunes of Wahiba Sands
Bako National Park
This is the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime Borneo holiday. It covers everything that makes Borneo special, from its renowned wildlife to its lush rainforests
Get off the beaten track
Getting away from modern life as you travel to the most remote part of Sabah
Wildlife spotting
Listen to the call of gibbons and peek through rainforest vines to see orangutans swinging in the trees on an adventure in Danum Valley.
Mount Kinabalu
Climbing 4,098 meters to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Hanoi
This holiday weaves on and off Vietnam’s well-trodden tourist trail. You’ll get an insider’s view of the main cities and visit some of the country’s most beautiful rural locations. The accommodation ranges from an eco-resort in the mountains to a beach hotel and a lovely homestay.
The itinerary is for all ages, but it’s a good option for families looking for an active and immersive holiday at Easter. Spring is a good time to visit both Phu Luong in the North, Hoi An on the Central Coast and the Mekong Delta in the South.
Ninh Binh
Cycle through paddy fields and explore the caves and limestone mountains of Ninh Binh province
Mekong Delta
Explore the tropical tributaries of the Mekong Delta and spend the night in a homestay.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Paddle past idyllic steeped paddy fields as you raft along the Cham River in Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
Cultural Triangle
This is an action-packed holiday, perfect for families with a sense of adventure, with an exciting mix of off-the-beaten-path places and touches of luxury. Made for travellers who enjoy pushing the boundaries a little and want to experience the ‘real’ Sri Lanka (while staying in some lovely hotels along the away).
Wilpattu National Park
Spot leopards, elephants and sloth bears on peaceful safaris in the serene and lesser-visited Wilpattu National Park
Knuckles Mountains
Set off on a thrilling hike through the lush forests and waterfalls in the Knuckles Mountains
Surfing
Catch a wave in Sri Lanka’s Ahangama and Weligama surf hotspots, perfect for all skill levels
Farm visit
Experience rural Sri Lanka with a guided farm tour and meet local families in the heart of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
An overland exploration of North and Central Thailand. Snake through rural communities by rail, stay in riverside lodges in jungles, and relax on pristine beaches.
Phrae
Snake through the northern hills towards Phrae Muang Pi Forest Park
Bangkok
Going behind the scenes on Bangkok’s backstreets, including a cooking class in a hidden garden restaurant
Koh Kood
Relaxing on the tropical jungle island, close to the Cambodian border
February: We’re big fans of travelling to Asia during the February half term. The weather is excellent, yet you’ll avoid the peak school holiday prices. Travelling in February makes the dreary winter months fly by, and the first daffodils and longer days will be ready to welcome you by the time you get back! Thailand, Sri Lanka, The Maldives and Oman are top picks for February since they all have great weather and direct flights.
May: An extra bank holiday means May is a good time to travel for those looking to minimise annual leave. There will be fewer visitors and excellent low-season offers in the Maldives and Sri Lanka; the humidity and rain begin to increase as you head into June, but rain clouds tend to blow over quickly, and it’s a good time for surfing.
October: Oman comes firmly back into its own as the perfect destination for the October half-term when the heat is starting to fade across southern Europe. Rajasthan is another exciting option with clear desert nights and pleasant daytime temperatures. It’s also possible to spot wildlife in India; the national parks will have just reopened after the rainy season.
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
The most important (but all-too-often overlooked) part of planning a family holiday is taking the time to figure out where your family is ‘at’ right now.
What are the driving motivations of each family member as far as their next holiday is concerned?
What does a ‘brilliant holiday’ even mean to each of you?
All your answers will help our Travel Team curate a bespoke holiday that’ll hit all the right notes.
Depending on appetite for adventure, we have three types of family holidays:
Level 1: Exotic, but Not Overwhelming
Whether you’re seasoned travellers or new to Asia, we’ll help plan a trip that balances discovery with downtime. You decide how much exploring to do, while we design every detail, from the destination to the perfect hotel, so that the whole family feels relaxed and inspired for more.
Level 2: Broaden Their Horizons
You want your kids to experience the world, but without rushing. We understand the need for a pace that lets everyone enjoy without pressure. Our carefully planned trips mix immersive cultural experiences with space to breathe. It’s about broadening horizons, then coming home bonded together and refreshed.
Level 3: Big Adventures, Bigger Memories
Fancy following wild orangutans through the jungle or living with a remote tribe? We know how to create unforgettable family adventures, whether you’re nurturing young explorers or making memories before the kids fly the nest. ETG’s big adventures rekindle that wide-eyed wonder for family members of all ages.
Our experts know what works well for families (and what really doesn’t). We’re constantly refreshing our curated collection but here are a few of our top picks: from glorious villas to exciting jungle lodges.
Indonesia, Tabanan
A Balinese retreat. Deeply authentic, beautifully placed within paddy fields.
Highlights
Sweeping views,
Community-focused ethos
Best for
Solo
Couples
Families
The Deep South, Sri Lanka
Wild Coast’s cluster of luxury cocoon-shaped tents sit amongst bushland on the edge of Yala National Park and the rugged southern coastline.
Just a 10-minute drive away from the Palatupana park entrance, Wild Coast provides a convenient and unusual base from which to access the most popular areas of the park. The lesser-visited zones can also be reached within 45 minutes or so.
Highlights
Luxury tents,
Safari access
Best for
Couples
Families
Wildlife Lovers
Rustic retreat where you can experience the best of this tropical jungle location. Sleep up high in a treehouse within a canopy.
Highlights
Sleep high up in a jungle canopy
Best for
Families,
Couples
Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Quality thatched-roof villas and outdoor adventures on a peaceful bend of the River Kwai.
Highlights
River villas,
Pristine nature
Best for
Families
Couples
West Coast Islands, Thailand
Tranquil, boutique, undiscovered. And what’s not to like about an infinity pool with views over the Andaman sea dotted with fantastical limestone karst islets?
Highlights
Thatched villas,
Beachfront pool,
Watersports
Best for
Families
Friends
Couples
Sri Lanka
Gal Oya Lodge is located in the heart of the Gal Oya National Park, not far from Sri Lanka’s most sizable inland body of water, Senanayake Samudraya. This wonderfully serene lake is surrounded by forests teeming with colourful wildlife.
All the teak and mara wooden furnishings have been locally and lovingly handmade and the building’s open-plan architecture maximises the panoramic mountain views.
Highlights
Scenic spot,
Sublime swimming pool,
Amazing activities
Best for
Families,
Couples
Lombok
Excellent property on a quiet stretch of beach in lovely Lombok. Sensational sunsets.
Highlights
Spellbinding scenery
Best for
Solo
Couples
Families
Hoi An, Vietnam
Highlights
Rooftop pool,
Riverfront setting,
Short walk to old town
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Solo Travellers
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As early as possible! It’s the only way to ensure the best flight prices and accommodation- trust us, they book up quickly. If at all possible, ten months to a year in advance is ideal. Booking your next summer holidays the September before, for example, is a good idea. You don’t necessarily have to plan out all your experiences and activities so far in advance, but pinning down the flights and hotel early is essential.
Absolutely! We think all of our destination countries are more than suitable for travel with children- in fact, many of us have travelled with there with our own children and had fantastic experiences. Read our blog post, ‘How difficult is travelling around Asia with kids?’ for more details.
Sadly not. They are exceptionally rare, and almost unheard of when it comes to family travel. The reality is that only way to get the best possible deal is by booking as early as you can.
Insider Tip: Generally speaking, rates increase by approximately 10% year-on-year. HOWEVER, some hotels will agree to honour their current rates for the next year if the client books early enough – certain resorts in the Maldives, for example, will grant this.
Yes, we partner with a wide variety of hotels that have connecting rooms and other family-friendly amenities to suit both your tastes and child safety expectations. Our experts are well-versed in the best hotels with pools (a sure-fire way to keep teens happy!), and other family-friendly features.