Transition year trips: the magic of parent-child holidays

Differing greatly from the tried-and-true family holiday, tailored parent and child holidays promise an utterly unique and memorable experience. Removed from the responsibilities of daily life, and in many cases, removed from the everyday dynamics of family life, holidays with just one parent and one child offer the chance to bond and create fantastic memories. On its own, travel vows cultural experiences, local adventures and unlimited learning. Paired with the precious relationship of a parent and their child, travelling as two-some vows memories to last a lifetime.

Deepening one-on-one bonds, this is a great opportunity for children to see their parents in a new light and as an individual. Vice versa, parents are granted the chance to learn more about their child through plenty of one-on-one experiences which sees benefits for the family as a whole. The most excellent opportunity for a parent-child trip is during transition year when your child’s world begins to expand with new experiences and responsibilities. As they begin the journey into adulthood, reconnecting and spending quality time together with your child at this age is a precious gift.

Here at OROKO, luxury holidays are tailored to each client, making for getaways that are perfectly curated to each parent and child pairing. Keep reading to learn about our favourite luxury parent-child trips that they’ll never grow out of.

Rightly earning its place as one of Europe’s adventure capitals, Iceland is the prime destination for pairs who are seeking endless adventure and geographical wonder. The undisputed adventure capital of Europe is accessible within a short flight, taking you directly to a destination where lava fields, thundering waterfalls, glistening glaciers and bursting geysers define the landscape. Each of our favourite Icelandic landmarks can be easily reached from cosmopolitan Reykjavik, allowing each day to begin and end in luxury.  On your arrival, head straight to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in the iconic lava fields outside Reykjavik, for some post-flight rejuvenation. You’ll then spend the next days together searching for the Northern Lights on a midnight cruise, setting off on a Jeep tour of the Golden Circle, snowmobiling over glacier-defined landscapes and exploring ancient lava tunnels.

Borneo is simply a paradise for wildlife lovers. From the rainforests of Sandakan to the riverside wonders of Kinabatangan, rare animal sightings are plentiful. Borneo is ideal for a parent and child who wish for a trip of a lifetime, travelling far away from everyday life and deep into the rainforest, reconnecting with both nature and each other. For a taste of modern Malaysian life, begin your journey in buzzy Kuala Lumpur where diverse cultures, iconic landmarks and glassy skyscrapers exist side-by-side. Leave the bright lights of the city for Sandakan and the Sepilok Nature Reserve, where together you’ll meet the playful orangutans at the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre before sailing upstream on the Kinabatangan River to your rainforest lodge. One of Sir David Attenborough’s favourite destinations, become fully immersed in the heaving rainforest of the Danum Valley before ending your journey with some beachfront relaxation on Gaya Island.

A veritable bonding experience and a bucket-list trip, trekking the ever-changing landscape of Mt. Kilimanjaro ties a parent and child together with the adventure of a lifetime. Here at OROKO, our favourite route is the Machame course, the most popular route and one that offers hugely diverse scenery. Spend a night in Moshi, resting and receiving a briefing before your journey begins. Climb at a slow and steady pace as you journey into the Tanzanian rainforest, trek through banana and coffee farms, admire wonderful views of Mount Kenya and eventually reach the summit after a number of nights spent overnighting in mountain camps. Finish your unforgettable journey with a spot of beachside bliss in Zanzibar. With the chance to witness the African sunrise from the skies, this journey promises an incomparable experience for a parent-child duo.

Vietnam is a cultural treasure trove that has retained its authenticity whilst embracing modern luxury. Diversity reigns in its religious landmarks, peaceful pagodas, frenetic streets and thriving night markets, promising a hugely varied trip with plenty of luxurious experiences. On a tour of Vietnam’s highlights, begin in the country’s lively capital of Hanoi. Explore the city’s ancient landmarks before leaving for spectacularly beautiful Halong Bay for a cruise of the pristine beaches and verdant islets. Next up is the ancient town of Hoi An, spending time gliding along the waterways and cycling the charming streets. Then, leave for Ho Chi Minh, discovering its magnificent architecture, traditional foods and war-related landmarks and monuments. A must on a trip to Vietnam, be sure to enjoy a cruise along the Mekong Delta, visiting the floating markets and riverside villages.

Known for its magnificent national parks, incredible biodiversity and excellent coffee, Costa Rica is an idyllic holiday for a parent-child duo with a keen interest in both rare wildlife and tropical adventure. Once-in-a-lifetime spectacles, such as jaguar hunting in the rainforest and mother turtles laying their eggs at nightfall promise to bring you closer together. First, learn a little Costa Rican history with a tour of San José before leaving for Tortuguero, home to turtles, three-toed sloths and alligators. Next, discover the exotic birdlife, mesmerising views and adventurous excursions in both Arenal and Monteverde. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary and dense cloud forest, ziplining and rope climbing across the tree canopy. Finish in the beachside resort of Tamarindo for some well-deserved relaxation.

An enchanting destination, Morocco whisks you away to a land of Middle Eastern customs, remote Berber villages and Arabian glamour, all just a short flight from home. Vowing a wonderful holiday for a parent and child seeking culture with a dash of adventure, the energetic cities, towering Atlas Mountains and desert landscapes promise the perfect backdrop for a holiday of a lifetime with your teenage child. Whether embarking on a whirlwind short break or a complete discovery, Marrakech delivers in more ways than one. Experience glamorous, cosmopolitan neighbourhoods and colourful Medina markets in the cities, bucolic beauty and remote villages in the mountains, 4×4 adventures and sunset bonfires amongst the desert dunes, and beach bliss in Casablanca.

Parent-child trips offer a world of possibilities and here at OROKO, we have the knowledge and experience to curate your perfect holiday. If you feel inspired, contact us at info@orokotravel.ie or call us on 01 260 0240.