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12 Family-Friendly Destinations With Affordable Attractions You Must Experience

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Iyesha Maria •  Jun 11, 2019

Travelling is one of the best ways to spend time with your family ❤️ It's the time we update each other about everything that's going on in our lives without the interruption of work, school, or other daily commitments.

Credit: Giphy

But planning a family getaway isn't always easy since everyone is of different ages and with varying interests. And to do everything that everyone wants to do can be expensive when totalled up. One of the best ways is to find affordable alternatives will please everyone to ensure every single person in the family has a great time during your travels ?

We've compiled affordable activities in across 12 different countries that would interest everyone from the adventurer, the shopaholic, the culture enthusiast, and the excited kids for a fun-filled family getaway!

Do note that:

*Prices are based on searches for June 2019

*Note some prices are seasonal and are subject to change (such as exchange rates).

P.S. If you're looking for a Southeast Asian getaway for two instead, check out these places for under RM1200 (accommodation included).

1. Gold Coast, Australia

THINGS TO DO

1 - Feed colourful rainbow lorikeets

Credit: @currumbinsanctuary on Instagram

If you don’t want to pay the $49 admission price to see all the Aussie animals and the adventure side of the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, twice per day at 8am and 4pm you can feed the wild lorikeets for free! Rainbow lorikeets are native to Austalia and are extremely friendly to visitors.

Price: AUD49 (but at 8am and 4pm, you can feed the wild lorikeets for free!)

Address: 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin QLD 4223, Australia

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm daily

Website | Facebook | Instagram

[P.S. Looking for the best food in Brisbane too? Here are 10 attractions in Brisbane that are near halal food!]

2 - Shop at Surfer's Paradise Beachfront Market

Credit: @syazrulnizam on Instagram

With over 100 vintage and artisanal stalls, paired with live entertainment and the sound of the waves, all of you will enjoy the chill atmosphere at The Esplanade ? It doesn't get more Aussie than that!

Price: Free

Address: The, Esplanade, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia

Opening hours: Every Friday, Sunday and Wednesday 4pm - 9pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram

3 - Laze by the beach

Credit: @abel_chrr on Instagram

You can't visit Australia and not visit their beaches! The ocean and the beaches are a large part of their lifestyle. Ask most Australians living by the coast and almost every one of them will say that having a beach near their living area is a necessity. Bring your own food and have a picnic by the beach! Laze about, and enjoy the sun or beautiful sunset there ?

#HHWT tip: Remember to wear sun protection if you're out during the daytime. The heat there can get pretty intense during summer.

Price: Free

Suggested beaches:

  • Surfer's Paradise
  • Main Beach
  • Broadbeach
  • Mermaid Beach
  • Miami/Nobby Beach
  • Currumbin, Bilinga, and Tungun Beach

4 - Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Mt Coot-tha

Credit: @myat1999 on Instagram

Mount Coot Tha is a suburb and a mountain in Brisbane that's popular with the locals and tourists alike. And with a stunning view like that, we'd be pretty excited for it too! The lookout deck offers a panoramic view of Brisbane's entire CBD all the way to Moreton Bay ?

Price: Free

Address: Mount Coot Tha, Queensland 4066 Australia

Opening hours: 24 hours

[P.S. Planning your trip to Brisbane soon? Here are 8 tips for every Muslim family to conquer Gold Coast!]

COST BREAKDOWN (excluding food and accommodation)

  • Feed colourful rainbow lorikeets - FREE (at certain times)
  • Explore surfer's paradise market - FREE
  • Laze by the beach - FREE
  • Enjoy a panoramic view at Mt Coot Tha - FREE

TOTAL COST: Free ?

2. Hong Kong

THINGS TO DO

1 - Ladies Market (Tung Choi Street)

Credit: @niina_gabriellan on Instagram

A one-kilometre stretch of vibrant market shopping ? Explore the market and experience the true Hong Kong market atmosphere. Although the market is named 'Ladies Market', the place sells everything from souvenirs, clothes, bags and shoes. Your pricing will depend on your haggling skills ?

Price: Free

Address: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok

Opening hours: 11am - 11.30pm

Website

[P.S. If you feel like having a zen walk through Hong Kong's scenery instead, here are 8 spectacular walking trails you must check out!]

2 - Visit the Hong Kong Space Museum

Credit: Hans Hansson on Flickr 

Conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, you'll be able to spot this museum immediately with its egg-shaped structure! Spend a few hours exploring the planetarium and it's hall of science, hall of astronomy, and check out their impressive collection of meteorites too ?

Price: standard ticket $HK20 (FREE on Wednesdays), free for children under 4 years old accompanied by an adult with a ticket

Address: 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 1pm - 9pm, weekends 10am - 9pm, closed on Tuesdays

Website | Facebook

[P.S. Here are 8 useful Cantonese phrases every Muslim traveller should know before going to Hong Kong!]

3 - Symphony of Lights

Credit: Chris Hoare on Flickr

A jaw-dropping show every visitor must see when visiting Hong Kong, and the best part? It's free! The Symphony of Lights has been apund since 2004 and it is one of the world's most spectacular light shows. Every year, the show expands to encompass more buildings, lights and music for wonderful evening entertainment ?

FYI, currently, the music for the light show is by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra!

Price: Free

Address: The best viewing locations along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, between the Avenue of Stars and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Time: Every night at 8pm

[P.S. Planning your Hong Kong trip soon? Here's a 4 days 3 nights itinerary for a family-friendly Hong Kong getaway!]

4 - Tai Yuen Street (Toy Street)

Credit: @steve2037 on Instagram

Although this street is filled with toys, chances are you'll get more excited about the toys than your kids! Walk down the street and see toys that will bring back a sense of nostalgia, simple toys such as yo-yos, and figurines from decades ago, way before the iPhone and iPad phenomena hit our shelves.

Price: Free

Address: Tai Yuen Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island

Opening hours: 11am - 7pm daily

Do make sure you check out our Hong Kong halal food guide too for an even better travel experience. No need to miss out on droolworthy roast duck or dim sum anymore ?

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Ladies Market - FREE
  • Hong Kong Space Museum - Free on Wednesdays or HK$20 on other days
  • Symphony of Lights - FREE
  • Tai Yuen Street - FREE

TOTAL COST: Free. Your only expenses will be food, transportation and accommodation ?

2. Tokyo, Japan

THINGS TO DO

1 - Ueno Park

Credit: Chuck Moravec on Flickr

One of the most popular destinations in Japan, and one of the largest parks in Tokyo. This stunning park hosts the most people during the cherry blossom season where it is one of the best viewing spots ? Take a stroll through the park and enjoy its beautiful scenery. Or bring your own food and enjoy a picnic there, it is a fairly common practice to do that. Inside the park are also museums and temples too that you can visit if you wish.

Price: Free

Address: 5-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan

Opening hours: 5am - 11pm daily

Website

Don't miss out on awesome authentic Halal food in Tokyo too - from the best yakiniku to the tastiest sushi, we've got you covered!

2 - Meiji Shrine

Credit: @kaviesha86 on Instagram

Right in the middle of Tokyo city is a lush green forest, and nestled inside the lush green forest is the serene Meiji Shrine. Its atmosphere contradicts the busy city of Tokyo. Explore the spacious shrine and find locals performing rituals and prayers, or souvenirs for tourists. On weekends, you might even see marriage processions!

Price: Free (500 Yen to enter the inner garden)

Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

Opening hours: 5am - 6pm daily

3 - Tokyo Metropolitan Government building

Credit: @minaolengisaara on Instagram

Probably not the place to be if you're afraid of heights, but if you're not, be prepared to be amazed by Tokyo's amazing skyline from the observatory deck ? On good days, you may even be able to see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Dome!

Price: Free

Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan

Opening hours: weekdays 8am - 6.45pm, closed on weekends

Website | Facebook | Instagram

[P.S. Check out these 9 accommodations in Tokyo near halal food too]

4 - Toy Museum

Credit: @textilehive on Instagram

One for the young ones! Just around the corner from the Tokyo Fire Museum is another museum that’s worth checking out. Housed in a former elementary school, the three-storey Tokyo Toy Museum really is a hands-on playing field for kids. Apart from a room full of simple wooden toys that everybody is free to play with, there’s the Toy Forest, where kids can choose to play in a big dollhouse or jump into a sandbox-like area filled with more than 20,000 wooden balls.

Price: 800 JPY (adults), 500 JPY (6 months old through elementary school), and 1200 JPY (child + adult pair ticket).

Address: 4-20 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku Tokyo 160-0004

Opening hours:  10am – 4pm (last admission at 3.30pm). Closed every Thursday.

Website Facebook | Instagram

[P.S. If you're heading to Tokyo with kids in tow, check out these 12 kid-friendly places with halal food nearby]

4. Auckland, New Zealand

THINGS TO DO

1 - Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

Credit: @petiediee on Instagram

Experience a marine journey at the SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's and discover aquatic diversity up close ? Everyone will enjoy a trip here, kids and adults alike. Meet a sub-Antarctic penguin colony, the world's biggest species of stingray, and get up close to New Zealand's largest collection of sharks. And don't forget to visit their live jellyfish display, and learn about the marine centre's work with rescued sea turtles ?

Price: Online purchase - NZ$32 adult, NZ$22 child

Address: 23 Tamaki Dr, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand

Opening hours: 9.30am - 5pm daily

Website | Facebook | Instagram

[P.S. Planning your first trip to New Zealand? Here are 9 essential tips for every Muslim traveller]

2 - Check out the view from Mount Eden

Credit: @leahholtx on Instagram

Just 4km off Auckland's CBD is Mount Eden, one of New Zealand's cone of a dormant volcano (don't worry, it last erupted 15 000 years ago). Once you reach the peak, be amazed by the amazing 360 degrees view of Auckland's CBD and it's surrounding areas. The are multiple paths that lead up to the top depending on your level of fitness, ranging from beginner to intermediate.

Price: Free

Address: Mount Eden, Auckland

Opening hours: 7am-8.30pm in summer and 7am- 7pm in winter

[P.S. Exploring the North Island? Check out this 8 days 7 nights Muslim-friendly itinerary to get started]

3 - Watch a free movie at Silo Park (during summer)

Credit: @zena_oconnor on Instagram

Visit during the summer and you'll get to experience a free outdoor film experience where movies of all genres are projected onto the iconic Silo 7. The event invites people of all ages, families and friends to come and join. Bring your own mats, pillows and food (if you prefer), find a spot and enjoy the show under the urban sky!

Price: Free

Address: Corner Beaumont Street and Jellicoe, Jellicoe St, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand

Opening hours: (Normally end December till March) Friday 5pm - late, Weekends 12pm - 6pm

Website | Facebook Instagram

[P.S. Checking out the South Island instead? Try this 8 days 7 nights itinerary for your ultimate New Zealand trip!]

4 - Head to the art galleries

Credit: @oliviaroseeverts on Instagram

New Zealand is home to some of the best art in the world, thanks to its strong Maori influence. Travellers can enjoy many of these art exhibitions for free around the CBD are in certain galleries. Some galleries also feature international artists that are worth having a look at too.

Suggested art galleries:

  • Auckland Art Gallery
  • Gow Langsford Gallery
  • Fresh Gallery
  • Teh Tuhi Centre for the Arts

5 - Visit Parnell Rose Garden

Credit: @rachaery on Instagram

An amazing walk in a beautiful rose flower garden, what more can you ask for? It's not often you get to explore a garden filled with colourful roses of all kinds ? Not to mention that the place is super insta-friendly too - great for the family vacation portrait!

FYI, every year in November the park hosts the Parnell Festival of Roses too, bringing in flowers from all around the world together with food and live entertainment.

Price: Free

Address: 85-87 Gladstone Rd, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand

Opening hours: 24 hours

Website | Facebook

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium - NZ$32
  • Check out the view from Mount Eden - FREE
  • Watch an outdoor movie at Silo Park - FREE
  • Head to the art galleries - FREE
  • Visit Parnell Rose Garden - FREE

TOTAL COSET - NZ$32 per adult

5. Xi’an, China

THINGS TO DO

1 - The Terracotta Warriors

Credit: @jluisramos on Instagram

One of the must do's in Xi'an, visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses! If you think they look familiar, you're probably right, they've been featured in a number of movies such as The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. The Warriors are one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The army was made to as a form of funerary art to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in his afterlife. It is estimated that there are more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses!

Price: 120 CNY

Address: Lintong, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China, 710612

Opening hours: 8:30am–5:30pm; 8:30am–5pm (off-peak)

Website 

[P.S. Did you know that Xi'an is one of China's Muslim-friendly destinations?]

2 - Xi'an's Ancient Wall City

Credit: @ejhadventures on Instagram

The first thing you'll see when you enter Xi'an is the enormous ancient city wall which surrounds the old city. The City Wall is the most complete city in China that has survived time, and it is also of the largest military defence system in the world, similar to the Great Wall of China. The old city has a total of 18 gates but not all are open for visitors, but no biggie since no matter which gate you come in from you can still explore the entire place!

P.S. You can rent bicycles to explore the place too!

Price: CNY 54 for adults, CNY 27 for children between 1.2 and 1.4 meters (3.9 - 4.6 feet); free for children under 1.2 meters.

Address: China, Shaanxi, Xi'an, Beilin, 陕西

Opening hours: 

South Gate: 8 am - 12am,

East/North/West Gate, Hanguang Gate, Wenchang Gate,  Heping Gate, Zhongshan Gate, Shangde Gate: May - Oct 8am - 7pm; Nov - Apr 8am - 6pm

3 - Muslim Street

Credit: @swetlanatravelingtheworld on Instagram

Think you won't be able to find Muslim-friendly food in China? Well, think again because Xi'an boasts one of the largest population of Muslims in the world. The Muslim Quarter is a number of intersected streets selling food and street snacks, and it stands out for is strong Muslim cultural atmosphere. Between exotic Muslim-friendly food to mosques, every Muslim traveller should drop by to check out the community there.

Address:90 N Guangji St, Zhong Lou Shang Quan, Lianhu Qu, Xian Shi, Shaanxi Sheng, China, 718900

Opening hours: around 8am - 11pm

4 - Shaanxi History Museum

Credit: @peakay99 on Instagram

The Shaaxi Provincial Museum is a tribute to Shaanxi's glorious imperial past. The main building was constructed in a grand and elegant manner emulating the Tang Dynasty's architecture. Unknown to many outside China, Shaanxi serves as an important place in China's history as it was the country's capital for over 13 dynasties! The museum boasts a huge collection from Western Zhou Dynasty, teracotta figures, gold, silver and murals.

Price: March 1 to November 30: CNY150, December 1 to end of next February: CNY120

Address: 91 Xiaozhai E Rd, Xiao Zhai Shang Ye Jie, Yanta Qu, Xian Shi, Shaanxi Sheng, China, 710065

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm daily, closed on Mondays

Website

5 - Xi'an Botanical Garden

Credit: Gerly R. Buatana on Facebook

At over 43 hectares, the Xi'an Botanical gardens is a massive space comprising of over 4,000 species of flowers and 11 areas. Explore themed gardens such as the Silk Road Garden, Qinling Garden, Children's Garden, Forgotten Garden, Hundred Flowers Garden and more! Definitely, a stunning place that the entire family will enjoy exploring ?

Price: Usual days: CNY 10, During flower shows: CNY 20

Address: 17 Cuihua Rd, Xiao Zhai Shang Ye Jie, Yanta Qu, Xian Shi, Shaanxi Sheng, China, 710065

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm daily

Website

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Terracotta Warriors - CNY120 per person
  • Xi'an'S Ancient Wall City - CNY54 per person
  • Muslim Quarters - FREE
  • Shaanxi History Museum - CNY 150 (peak season price)
  • Xi'an Botanical Gardens - CNY 20 (during flower shows)

TOTAL COST - CNY344 per person

6. London, United Kingdom

THINGS TO DO

1 - Visit free museums

Credit: @k8yates on Instagram

One of the great things about the city of London is the number of free access it has to multiple museums ? Make your trip a fun and educational one at these museums. And fret not, London's museums are full of interactive activities for the young ones. Long gone are the days when museums were known as boring and dull!

Do not that some exhibitions within the museum may require a fee.

Suggested museums:

  • The British Museum
  • National History Museum
  • National Gallery
  • Science Museum
  • Tate Modern

2 - Watch the changing of the guard

Credit: @gabriellaksz on Flickr

One of the top popular free event in London so you must head there early to secure a good spot to see the change of guards. The spectacular display of soldiers dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats takes about 45 minutes including precision drills and bands playing music!

Price: Free

Address: Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK

Time: 10.45am daily

Website | Facebook

3 - Visit platform 9 3/4

Credit: @tiffany_matineau on Instagram

Didn't get your Hogwarts offer letter? Fret not, you can make your way there at Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station ? Drop by the station and take a quick photo with your best magical wizardry pose by the trolley embedded halfway into the wall. There's also a Harry Potter souvenir shop next to it so you can buy your props to get a witchin' photo for the 'gram!

Price: Free

Address: Kings Cross Station, London N1C 4TB, United Kingdom

4 - Portobello Road Market

Credit: @cherylxe on Instagram

London may be of one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. How London Bridge or Big Ben magnets have we seen on fridges? Too many. Portobello Market is the place to get unique gifts for loved ones, and for ourselves ? Find unique, vintage, handicraft, artisanal, or basically one-of-a-kind pieces at the market! Everything from small souvenirs such as handmade key chains to vintage film cameras!

Price: Free

Address: 306 Portobello Rd, London W10 5TA, UK

Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday 9am - 1pm, Friday & Saturday 9am - 7pm

Website | Facebook

5 - Cruise the Thames

Credit: Henry Burrows on Flickr

When the family just wants to enjoy the day relaxing with minimal walking, take a cruise down the Thames River instead. All you have to do is get on the boat, and watch as you pass by almost all the iconic destinations in London ?

Price: starts at GBP10.25 (adult) at City Cruises

Address: Multiple locations - Westminster/London Eye to Greenwich, Westminster to Tower, Tower to Greenwich

There are multiple operators. City Cruises are one of the popular top ones around.

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Visit free museums
  • Changing of guards
  • Visit Platform 9 3/4
  • Explore Portobello Market
  • Take a cruise down the Thames - starts at GBP10.25 for an adult ticket

TOTAL COST - GBP10.25 per adult

7. Malacca, Malaysia

THINGS TO DO

1 - Jonker Walk

Credit: Katja Hasselkus on Flicker

Melaka (also known as Malacca) is Malaysia's top heritage site due to its historical significance with the Dutch, the Spanish, and the Portuguese. Jonker Street (or Chinatown) is one of the main tourist hubs in Melaka and is filled with various things to see such as antiques, food, museums, mosques, and temples! At night, during the weekends, the street morphs into a long stretch of stalls selling everything from souvenirs, food to electronics.

Price: Free

Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka

Opening hours: Regular stalls open at different times while the night market operates on Fridays and weekends at 6pm - 12am.

2 - Melaka River Cruise

Credit: @jfoo_photography on Instagram

The Melaka River is how the town flourished centuries ago because of the state's strategic location for maritime traders, and a river cruise is one of the best ways possible to explore the town at a leisurely pace. The entire riverway had a major facelift a few years back and is now an enjoyable scenic view. Some of the places to look out for during the cruise are Stadthuys and the Red Square, Bastion Middleburg, Jonker Street, Kampung Hulu Mosque, Church of St Francis Xavier, Eye On Melaka and Kampung Morten. You’ll also see colourful murals that illustrate Melaka’s unique history and culture on some of the newer buildings.

Price: Foreigner 12 years and above RM30, foreigner below 12 years RM25, Malaysian 12 years and above RM25, Malaysian below 12 years RM15

Address: (PPSPM) Aras 9, Bangunan Graha Maju, Jalan Graha Maju, Melaka

Opening hours: 9am - 11.30pm daily

Website | Facebook Instagram

3 - Dutch Square

Credit: @tannideb on Instagram

Melaka's iconic Dutch Square is a must-visit for every traveller visiting the town. You'll see large red terracotta dutch buildings that were built in the 16th century and a large central fountain. The place is one of the oldest surviving parts of the town too. Not just that, around the around are plenty of colourful rickshaws that you can hire to take you from place to place, or for a short tour of Melaka town ?

Price: Free

Address: Bandar Hilir, 75200 Malacca

Opening hours: 24 hours

4 - Be a pirate at the Maritime Museum

Credit: @hawa212 on Instagram

Since Malacca was once a prominent port for maritime traders, it's no surprise that the place features a maritime museum. Explore a replica of a Portuguese ship that displays the olden culture and goods that were traded. The museum itself is split into three different sections representing the different ruling eras that the town went through - the Melaka Sultanate, the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British rule.

Price: Adult with MyKad RM5, Adult normal price RM10, Child with MyKad RM3, Child normal price RM6

Address: Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9am - 5pm, Friday 9am - 6.30pm, weekends 9am - 7pm

Website | Facebook 

5 - A'Famosa Fort

Credit: @hannahaniff on Instagram

One of the top photo spots in Melaka because of it's unique heritage looks. The fort was built in 1511 and used to be a large settlement in town. But now, only one gate, the Porta de Santiago remains. The fort is not only one of the earliest European architecture in Malaysia, but also in the whole of Asia!

Price: Free

Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka

Opening hours: 24 hours

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Jonker Street - FREE
  • Melaka River Cruise - starts at RM30 for foreigners
  • The Dutch Square - FREE
  • The Maritime Museum - RM10 for forigners
  • A'Famosa Fort - FREE

TOTAL COST - RM40 per adult (for foreigners)

8. Colombo, Sri Lanka

THINGS TO DO

1 - Colombo Dutch Museum

Credit: Jean-Louis Leroy on Flickr

What looks like an old abandoned building from the outside actually boasts one of the loveliest courtyards in the city. The museum was built in the 17th century and has been used as a residence for the Dutch governor, a military hospital, a police station and a post office! Once you're inside you'll find many old Dutch artefacts such as coins, glassware, weapons, ceramics, and furniture.

Price: Adult Rs500, Child Rs300

Address: Prince Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays 9am - 5pm, closed on Sundays and Mondays

Website | Facebook

2 - Pettah Market

Credit: @laura.g.g.n on Instagram

One of the most hectic shopping districts you'll ever visit, yet you'll want to venture more and more to find more goods and experience the atmosphere. There's no better way to learn about a culture than to see them on-the-go at the market! Find everything from fresh produce, souvenirs, and electronics there.

Price: Free

Address: Keyzer St, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9am - 7pm, closed on Sundays

3 - Galle Face Green Promenade

Credit: @zaranaseem on Instagram

Galle Face Green is a half-kilometre promenade that is a favourite for families and picnickers. Take your time and enjoy a leisurely stroll by the seafront, or pick a spot and relax while enjoying the view. During kite season, the sky is filled is colourful kites of all shapes and sizes too. There are plenty of stall selling snacks and canned drinks along the promenade and if you're worried about the hygiene, just drop by one of the many hotels along the promenade for a quick refuel.

Price: Free

Address:56 Colombo - Galle Main Rd, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 24 hours

4 - Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

Credit: @sanjayveludas on Instagram

The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most prominent and significant Buddhist temples in Colombo. And oddly enough, it's also the home to a number of vintage cars, Chinese statues, swords, and a bunch of other items you wouldn't think to find in a temple. The temple architecture itself boasts a mixture or Sri Lankan, Chinese and Thai architecture.

Price: Free

Address: 61 Sri Jinarathana Rd, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 6am - 10pm daily

Website | Facebook

5 - Viharamahadevi (Victoria) Park

Credit: @yanagladun on Instagram

The largest park in Colombo was once named Victoria Park but was renamed in the 1950s after the mother of King Dutugemunu. The park is a hit with families and couples because of its amazing flower blooms from March to early May. Kids will enjoy running around exploring the place and the playgrounds provided ? Occasionally, you'll even see a snake charmer or two there.

Price: Rs20 for adults

Address: Colombo 07, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 7am - 6pm daily

Website

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Colombo Dutch Museum - Rs 500 (adult)
  • Pettah Market - FREE
  • Galle Face Green Promenade - FREE
  • Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - FREE
  • Viharamahadevi Park - FREE

TOTAL COST - Rs500 per adult

9. Singapore

THINGS TO DO

1 - Discover art in Little India

Credit: @lolicalisi on Instagram

One of the most vibrant places in Singapore, Little India is a must-visit for every visiting traveller. Though not as modern and high-tech as the newer attractions, it still boasts some amazing colourful architecture that will up anyone's Instagram game ?

Shop the boutiques, enjoy South Indian vegetarian delights, or explore mosques and temples nearby - there's plenty to do in this little district!

Price: Free

Address: Little India, Singapore

2 - Be amazed by modern art at the ArtScience Museum

Credit: @suradegh on Instagram

Young or old, you will be amazed by the ArtScience museums that combines art with modern technology ? Explore exhibitions of deep-sea life creatures, life along the Yangtze River, and Future World. The ArtScience museums take a whole new level to display it's information through light displays and interactive exhibitions. The entire family will be in awe.

Price: starts at SGD19 for an adult ticket

Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974

Opening hours: 10am - 7pm daily

Website | Facebook | Instagram

3 - Gardens by the Bay

Credit: @brynamk on Instagram

Singapore definitely took its gardens to a whole new level with Gardens by the Bay. The large and futuristic attraction offers multiple gardens showcasing plants from different climates all around the world! Explore impressive skywalks and manmade waterfalls too ?

Price: Free for outdoor garden, other attractions in the area starts at SGD8.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

Opening hours: 5am - 2am daily (outdoor garden), different attractions differ in operating hours

Website | Facebook | Instagram

4 - Chinatown

Credit: @andyadressa on Instagram

A total contrast to Singapore's modern architecture is it's very own Chinatown where buildings have remained as low-rise with lots of red and gold across the neighbourhood, living up to its Chinese ancestral heritage. The busy place is bustling with activities from boutiqes. eateries, and temples for travellers and locals to explore ?

Price: Free

Address: Chinatown, Singapore

Opening hours: Shops vary in operating hours

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Little India - FREE
  • ArtScience Museum - SGD19 (adult)
  • Gardens by the Bay - FREE
  • Chinatown - FREE

TOTAL COST - SGD19

10. Yogyakarta, Indonesia

THINGS TO DO

1 - Borobudur Temple

Credit: @dewisetyaningsih1910 on Instagram

A truly magnificent monument, Borobudur is the single largest Buddhist structure anywhere on the planet. You’ll be amazed by the scale of the place and the amount of detail you can find in the amazing structure. It’s no surprise that Borobudur was recognized as a UNESCO heritage site in 1991.

Price: IDR475 000

Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

Opening hours: 6am – 5pm daily

Website | Facebook | Instagram

2 - Prambanan Temple

Credit: @alya.mufi on Instagram

Indonesia’s largest Hindu site with a deep and mystical history. There are eight small temples and eight shrines that are built on a platform that was initially built to mark the return of Hinduism in Java after a long period of Buddism. Exploring these places are a definite must for every traveller visiting Yogyakarta.

Price:  IDR600 000 (for a combo ticket of Borobudur and Prambanan)

Address: Jl. Raya Solo – Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia

Opening hours: 6am – 5pm daily

3 - Jomblang Cave

Credit: @cynthialee_0317 on Instagram

One of the natural highlights of Yogyakarta, Jomblang Cave is a 90-minute drive from Yogyakarta city and is perfect for a day trip. The cave isn’t really a cave but instead its a part of a cave complex within  Gunung Kidul. There are three parts to the cave for tourists to see which is the large huge sinkhole, a long tunnel and the central cave (Goa Grubog). This is definitely one for the adventurous!

Interesting fact – The cave was used as a film location for the Amazing Race!

Price: IDR500 000

Address: Jetis Wetan, Pacarejo, Semanu, Gunung Kidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55893, Indonesia

Opening hours: 8am - 2pm daily

Website

4 - Taman Sari

Credit: @dpentalia on Instagram

Taman Sari (or Water Castle) is one of the top places to visit in Yogyakarta. The site is the former royal garden of a Sultanate of Yogyakarta from the mid-18th century. The building architecture also shows a mixture of western and Asian design as requested by the sultanate. Explore a bathing space, resting space, underground tunnels and a hidden mosque!

Surrounding the Taman Sari is a village area with over 3000 residents. Explore the village and find plenty of local coffee shops, and stalls selling local handicrafts.

Price: IDR15 000

Address: Wisata Taman Sari, Jl. Tamanan, Patehan, Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55133, Indonesia

Opening hours: 9am - 3pm daily

5 - Kalibiru National Park

Credit: @nurhid.unyun on Instagram

Located 450m above sea level, Kalibiru Park is a popular destination for travellers looking for a quick getaway from the big city! The local residents took an initiative in 1999 to restore the forest and the National Park was opened in 2008 to the public. There are plenty of things to do there from enjoying scenic walks (multiple paths ranging from 1.5km to 7km), treetops with stunning views, and flying foxes. At the highest point of the national park, you can soak in the beautiful scenery of Yogyakarta City!

Price: IDR10 000 entrance fee (on weekends) Note that there are extra fees to visit Photo Spots and certain activities.

Address: Kalibiru National Park

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm daily

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Borobudur Temple - IDR475 000
  • Prambanan Temple - IDR600 000
  • Jomblang Cave - IDR500 000
  • Taman Sari - IDR15 000
  • Kalibiru National Park - IDR10 000

TOTAL COST - IDR1,600,000

11. South Korea

THINGS TO DO

1 - Explore Seoul Forest

Credit: @hellocclivia on Instagram

A huge park in Seoul that features five unique separate areas - the Cultural Art Park, the Ecological Forest, the Nature Study field, the Wetlands Ecological Field, and the Han River Riverside Park. Each section has its own purpose such as protected natural wildlife habitat (you can feed deers here), flower gardens, playgrounds, outdoor classrooms and even a skate park! It's a great place to take the family for a day out when the weather is nice and sunny to explore all these areas in the park ?

Price: Free (1000 won to get a cup of deer feed from nearby vending machines)

Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 24 hours (some parts are closed on Mondays)

Website | Facebook | Instagram

2 - Dongdaemun Market Toy Alley

Credit: @meamizuno on Instagram

This 'Toy Street' is the place to go to pick up a few knick-knacks for the young ones, or for the young friends back home. The street is filled with affordable toys that kids will enjoy!

Price: Free

Address:524-11 Changsin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: around 8am - 7pm (shops may vary)

3 - Gyeongbokgung Palace

Credit: @pat.lam.33 on Instagram

Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see when visiting Seoul. The expansive compounds of the palace show you a glimpse into the lives of the Josean Dynasty royals during its time. The place has been destroyed multiple times due to war and rebuilt again and again. Bring the family out for a day of palace exploration, there's plenty to see from the architecture to all the different halls in the large palace.

P.S. They also have a change of guards ceremony!

Price: Aged 7 to 18 - 1,500 won , aged 19 to 64 - 3,000 won

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: Wednesdays to Mondays 9am - 6pm, closed on Tuesdays

Website | Instagram

4 - N Seoul Tower

Credit: @jinjin329 on Instagram

Located on the peak of Namsan, the Seoul Tower is one of the most popular attractions. You can walk up (or take a cable car) to the top of the hill and enjoy a magnificent view of Seoul from the top, or better yet head to the top of the tower and get an even higher view. Though the view form the base is already spectacular as it is. At the base of the tower, you'll also find a deck filled with padlocks on the railing. Each padlock is placed there by locals and tourists as s sign of eternal love for their partners.

Price: Free to the tower base, 10 000 won to the observatory

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 10am - 11pm daily

Website | Facebook 

5 - Myeongdong

Credit: @luckysung70 on Instagram

Shop till you drop at Seoul's best shopping district! Even if you don't feel like shopping, the window displays are good enough to warrant a look. Bring the family over for a day of exploring Myeongdong and find goods that you won't be able to find elsewhere such as beauty masks for EVERY part of your body, quirky fashion designs, and plenty of unique souvenir shops.

Price: Free

Address: 83-9 Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 11am - 10pm or later (shop timings differ)

COST BREAKDOWN

12. Bangkok

THINGS TO DO

1 - Grand Palace

Credit: @raniradylla on Instagram

Bangkok's Grand Palace will make it to every travel list when searching for 'Things to do in Bangkok', and with it's vibrant, extravagant and intricate design, you will definitely agree. The grand palace was built in 1782 and has been the home of the Thai King, and the Royal court. The palace complex itself is huge and will take a few hours to properly explore. There are multiple courts used for different purposes for the royal family.

Price: 500 baht

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand

Opening hours: 8.30am - 3.30pm daily

Website

2 - Marble Temple (Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Rajawarawiharn)

Credit: @averedjoe on Instagram

A visit to Bangkok without visiting the Marble Temple is almost blasphemous. If you visit early in the morning (before sunrise), you'll see monks getting on with their day - collecting alms, praying and doing other duties. The main attraction of the temple is its impressive use of marble pillars and marble courtyard. In certain times of the day, the marble acts like a mirror giving a surreal-like reflection of its own facade.

Price: 100 baht

Address: 69 ถนน พระรามที่ 5 Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300, Thailand

Opening hours: 8am - 5.30pm daily

3 - Visit Markets

Credit: @aisyahrani on Instagram

Thailand is known for its variety of markets, including the world-famous floating market! No trip to Bangkok would be complete without visiting at least one of them. Unlike some of the markets in Malaysia and Singapore, the markets in Bangkok are massive and would require at least a few hours if you intend to explore the entire place. Find souvenirs, electrical goods, clothes, knockoff goods, and in certain markets - even cars!

Suggested markets:

  • Chatuchak Weekend Market (some stalls may be closed until further notice due to a fire accident in June 2019)
  • Pratunam morning market
  • Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
  • Jatujak Green Night Market
  • Artbox
  • Talad Rod Fai

4 - Lumpini Park

Credit: @thorada on Instagram

For a relaxing day with the family in Bangkok, take a leisurely stroll and chill at Lumpini Park. The tranquil park is a great place to escape the bustling city of Bangkok and to reconnect with nature. You'll find many locals enjoying their time at the park doing recreational activities such as jogging and aerobics ?

Price: Free

Address: Thanon Rama IV, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand

Opening hours: 4.30am - 9pm daily

Website

COST BREAKDOWN

  • Grand Palace - 500 baht
  • Marble Temple - 100 baht
  • Street Markets - FREE
  • Lumpini Park - FREE

TOTAL COST - 600 baht per person

And there you have it, affordable activities for the family across 14 different countries ? With proper planning, almost anything is doable, even travelling with a large family under a budget. It's time to round up the fam bam and get them packing on your next family adventure!