7 Things to Do with Your Child in Asia Before They Grow Up

Things your kids will love to see…almost as much as you will.

Kids see the world differently. Their minds are little sponges, soaking up each moment and storing it away to enjoy and remember for years to come. Here are 7 experiences in Asia that are sure to leave a lasting impression, and best of all, they’re not just fun for children…

1. See the temples of Angkor, Cambodia

Your first real brush with history as a young’un is unforgettable, and there’s no better place for it than the sprawling Angkor Archaeological Park, home to the famous Temple of Angkor Wat, and Ta Prohm. Giant tree roots, stone piles, and hidden corners make an incredible playground for kids. Just try to go early in the morning before the heat gets too fierce.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Siem Reap, Cambodia: $4,575

2. Go on a Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo, Singapore

All manner of creatures weird and wonderful come out at night, and the Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo is one of the best possible ways to see them. Walk or take a tram ride through 8 geographical regions of the world to marvel at one-horned rhinos, sloth bears, tapirs, and much more.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Singapore: $1,456*

3. Visit Tokyo Disneyland, Japan

“Welcome to the Kingdom of Dreams and Magic!”. Who can say no to that? If your child bores of the myriad of rides and entertainment at Disneyland (impossible!), take to the streets of Tokyo for a sensory overload of colours, food, lights, and trinkets. The Japanese capital is also home to fantastic kid-friendly museums such as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Tokyo: $3,881*

4. Release a lantern at the Loi Krathong festival, Thailand

Thailand’s Loi Krathong, or festival of lights, happens each year around November. Across the country, Loi Krathong ceremonies are held where you and your tots can release floating lotus-shaped lanterns across water, carrying your wishes and bringing good luck. The largest ceremonies are in Chiang Mai, where thousands of lit paper lanterns are released spectacularly into the sky.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Chiang Mai, Thailand: $3,481*

5. Kick back in Ubud, Bali

Ubud is safe and family friendly, as well as quieter and cooler than Bali’s busy coastal resorts. Explore the rice paddies, and check out the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, just 10 minutes from the centre of town. Kids will also love the colourful Balinese cultural shows, with traditional costumes, singing, and dancing.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Denpasar, Indonesia: $3,811*

6. Swim with sea turtles, Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands

Two main islands form the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia: Perhentian Kecil (small); and Perhentian Besar (big). The latter is better catered to families. Take a water-taxi and a picnic to Turtle Beach, to play on a pristine white sand beach and snorkel with the sea turtles in crystal-clear water.

Return flights from Hong Kong to Kota Bharu, Malaysia: $3,999

7. Explore the markets in Hoi An, Vietnam

The historical port town of Hoi An is more laid back than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, and very pedestrian friendly, making it perfect for tiny feet. When those feet tire, hop on a rickshaw tour to hidden food markets, and see your little ones’ eyes boggle at the busy Hoi An fish market. Let them pick out fabrics or materials for custom-made clothes or shoes, then take a boat trip along the river .

Return flights from Hong Kong to Da Nang, Vietnam: $3,120

Top tip: Looking for even more inspiration? Use KAYAK.com.hk’s Explore tool to find flights from Hong Kong to destinations in Asia. Explore helps you discover the best places to go within your budget, and lets you narrow your searches down according to destination, activity or timeframe.

* Fares are based on travel searches on KAYAK.com.hk made in August, from Hong Kong to destinations abroad for travel dates 17-24 of October 2015, with the exception of Thailand, which is for travel dates 21-28 November 2015. All searches are based on return flights for one adult and one child (2-11yrs).