tales of travel

While I have always enjoyed planning trips for families, having my own children has opened my eyes to the difficulties and joys of traveling with children. Done right, there are few things more satisfying that seeing your child’s excitement at connecting with a culture, landscape or experience completely exotic to her. Southeast Asia is a fantastic family travel destination with landscapes and activities to excite every family member and friendly locals that make the cultures accessible.

One of the challenges to family travel to Asia however is finding family-friendly hotels. Often times even luxury properties don’t offer two-bedroom suites or won’t confirm adjoining rooms ahead of time. Or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. So I’ve developed my own list of go-to properties that provide top-notch family accomodation for reasonable prices across Southeast Asia.

1. TUBKAAK RESORT (KRABI, THAILAND)

The two-bedroom, two-story Tubkaak Suite offers a chic yet practical getaway for the whole family. The lower level features an open plan with access to the private pool. The upper level has a gorgeous master bedroom and a spacious twin bedroom. Learn more here.

2. ORCHID CRUISE (HALONG BAY, VIETNAM)

I always recommend Orchid Cruise for families desiring a Halong Bay experience. Not only do they offer a “family cabin” (really two adjoining double and twin cabins) but they are the only ship currently permitted to depart from Dinh Vu Port. This departure location cuts down the drive from Hanoi from 4 hours to 2 hours (all the difference when you have young kids in the car) and it allows passage to more remote parts of the bay, far away from the crowds. Learn more here. 

3. KIRIDARA POOL VILLA MEKONG (LUANG PRABANG, LAOS)

You really can relax on a family vacation when you book this villa. This lovely three-bedroom home and its private infinity pool overlook the Mekong River and come equipped with a private butler, full kitchen and personal chef, on request. Learn more here. 

4. VERANDA HIGH RESORT (CHIANG MAI, THAILAND)

This luxury property tucked away just outside of Chiang Mai offers a selection of family-friendly villas to accommodate families of all sizes. Private terraces, dining areas and plunge pools make it easy to relax and enjoy as a family. Learn more here. 

5. PARK HYATT (SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA)

The Park Hyatt’s gorgeous Two-bedroom Pool Suite is the perfect home base for a family of four exploring Angkor. The private tropical garden and plunge pool are just what’s needed after a full morning touring the ruins in the hot sun. Learn more here.