Traveling with young children can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it involves long-haul flights across different continents. As a permanent resident of the United Kingdom who hails from the quaint sugarcane farming community of Ingham, Australia, I have navigated these challenges annually with my family. Our journey home involves multiple stopovers, and while exhilarating, each pause on our way back to Australia from London offers its own unique set of experiences. Below, I explore some of our adventures in different Asian cities, detailing the pros and cons of each stopover for families.
Seoul, South Korea, has become one of our favorite layover destinations, thanks to its vibrant street food culture and family-friendly accommodations. Upon arrival, we marveled at the bustling Myeongdong district, where the aroma of Korean barbecue and tempting fried delicacies filled the air. Our stay at the cinema-themed Hotel28 was particularly memorable, as they welcomed our children with gift packs and free mini-bar snacks. Korean Air made the flight experience seamless by offering kid-friendly meal options and specially designed headphones for the little ones.
However, the city’s heavy traffic can be a severe drawback. Navigating through Seoul’s sprawling urban landscape took much longer than expected, especially during rush hour. On one occasion, we barely made it to the airport in time for our flight, a near-miss that was both stressful and disheartening. Moreover, while many locals speak English, language barriers can arise, particularly when communicating dietary restrictions. A pragmatic approach—such as translating key phrases ahead of time—can alleviate confusion and ensure a smoother dining experience.
Next on our tour was Bangkok, Thailand—a vibrant metropolis that served as a gateway to stunning beach destinations. With an affordable flight to Krabi just a short distance away, we were drawn to the allure of Thailand’s renowned coastlines, opting for a week at the ShellSea Krabi resort. Here, our children relished in the tranquil atmosphere: our youngest peacefully snoozing by the pool while our older child engaged in Thai boxing lessons and local scavenger hunts.
Yet, Bangkok’s frenetic energy presents challenges for families. The relentless traffic jams and polluted air can detract from the enjoyment of exploring this culturally rich city. Although we found our arrival and departure smoother than in Seoul, the city’s overwhelming pace can be daunting for adventurous families. Choices should be made based on individual comfort levels; if a quieter experience is preferred, perhaps head directly to quieter coastal areas.
Dubai: Extravagance and Adventure
Dubai, renowned for its luxury and grandeur, was a standout stop between our longer flights. Our time in this opulent city was filled with unforgettable moments, especially at the Aquaventure Waterpark and during our visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa. Staying at the 25hours Hotel was an adventure in itself, offering a lively atmosphere and incredible amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning views.
The family’s cultural experience was heightened by participating in a festive iftar buffet during Ramadan, where local delicacies were abundant. But as with any travel destination, there are considerations: the costs can be staggering. Family passes for attractions are far from budget-friendly, and one must plan accordingly to manage expenses without diminishing the experience.
Returning closer to our starting point, Singapore remains a top contender for the best stopover location. Prior to having children, we luxuriated in a club room at the Mandarin Oriental, enjoying perks like late checkout and elaborate breakfasts—an irresistible idea for future family trips.
The true charm of Singapore lies in its extraordinary ease of navigating with kids. Changi Airport, rather than merely a transit point, has become a destination, featuring butterfly gardens and koi ponds that captivate children. However, it should be noted that Singapore lacks the buzzing energy of cities like Seoul or Bangkok and can be pricier than other stops. Nonetheless, its cleanliness and accessibility make it an excellent choice for families seeking a quick and enjoyable break.
As a family, we cherish our adventures across Asia, but each destination comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Partners in our travel journey, our children have grown accustomed to the excitement of stopovers, absorbing both cultural experiences and the reality of travel as we connect our homelands. Festivals in Dubai, street food in Seoul, beach days in Krabi, and the wonders of Singapore serve as memorable chapters in our family saga—each journey informing the next. Understanding both pros and cons ensures a strategy for future travels, allowing us to embrace the world one flight at a time.