It's time to embark on a unique adventure with your loved ones. We understand the joys and challenges of travelling with young kids, and that's why we've scoured the globe to bring you a list of hidden gems to explore during this special time. These destinations offer the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and family-friendly experiences, and they're sure to create cherished memories for your family. Join us as we unveil these incredible countries to make your Hari Raya holidays truly unforgettable, only with Have Halal, Will Travel!
Your next adventure awaits! Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to explore breathtaking destinations, get insightful travel tips and itineraries!
1. Maldives
Yep. Maldives is an amazing destination to head to for your Raya holidays! April is the best time to visit the Maldives as the weather will be slowly transitioning to the monsoon season. That means that prices for hotels and flights there will be the LOWEST. There are also a ton of family-friendly hotels that you can check out here! It's not only a destination for couples but for families as well! Many of them have kids' clubs and family rooms that will be a blast for your kids. You can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet while your kids have fun bouncing around the playrooms or go on guided adventures to see the scenery.
2. Japan
Cherry blossoms are still in bloom during this season and this is a great time to visit! With a majority of people getting ready to travel during the June period, not many visitors will populate Japan, meaning a lot of must-see tourist attractions won't be as crowded. However, do take note of any public holidays happening in Japan as this can cause a surge of traffic! Check out our articles on cherry blossoms here and our guide here to find out which part of Japan will have these beautiful blossoms dotting the area.
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, with its lush landscapes and rich culture, offers a fantastic family-friendly adventure. Start your journey in Colombo, the capital city, and explore its vibrant markets and beautiful temples. Then, head to the cultural city of Kandy, where you can visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where your children can watch these majestic creatures up close, bathe them in the river, and learn about their conservation.
4. Australia/Western Australia
Australia's weather will head towards the more cooling autumn season in April! If you're looking for more cooler weather, this is the place to be! With amazing scenic views and bustling cities, there's never a dull moment when you're in Australia!
Psst.. how about visiting Western Australia while you're at it? Harbouring some secret destinations and gorgeous spots, there are a ton of places in WA that will make your jaw drop. Head down to Perth and mingle in the cafes, or take a road trip down the many highways for an unforgettable experience. The Coral Coast Highway is a must-do with world-heritage sites dotted all along the area.
Here's a Muslim-friendly guide to Perth's iconic markets or tips and tricks for a perfect family road trip!
5. Thailand
Coming back around to Southeast Asia, Thailand is the hotspot for shopping, with the iconic Chatuchak market or the plethora of floating markets all around the country. Use that hari raya money to treat yourself to a massage, or visit the temples that immerse you in the spiritual part of Thailand. Ayutthaya is a must-see if you're heading to Bangkok as you'll be able to see the wonderful architecture of the old capital. A UNESCO World Heritage site that truly deserves its title!
If you're fine with crowds, Songkran will be happening from 13 to 15 April 2024. This world-famous water festival ushers in Thailand's New Year and is bound to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
6. South Korea
Last but not least, the ever-popular South Korea! Similar to Japan, April's tourist traffic is pretty low, and the weather is not as cold as in winter, with spring upon them. Enjoy the many parks and nature trails around the country. Or if you're a city girl, enjoy the bustle of Seoul as you drop by the many quaint cafes along the area. Try out their animal cafes, such as the Sheep Cafe or Meerkat Cafe, to see these adorable critters up close. There are plenty of ways to get into the filming of TV shows or attend a K-Pop concert that might be happening at the same time. Nonetheless, there's a ton to do in South Korea!
Here's a guide to Muslim-friendly food in South Korea! And some itineraries to help you get started!
We've rounded up the best places to head down to during Raya holidays! If you're done with visiting, why not drop by any of these countries to enjoy a different Raya celebration this year!