Suggestions for a last family holiday

[Brodpit]

We want to go away next June to celebrate the end of degrees, A levels, GCSEs, major birthdays and an anniversary with 2 DC in their early 20s, 2 DC having just done their exams. It’s possibly the last time we can go away as a family without accompanying BFs/GFs so it’s got a bit of a last hurrah about it.

I don’t want to be too perfect about it but I do want it to be great! Looking at a budget of up to £15,000 for two weeks.

Successful holidays in the past have included the north east coast of the US and Interrailing.

Any suggestions?

15k wow what about Disney USA

What do you do on holidays? Hike, ski, sun bake on the beach, scuba dive, explore museums, try locals foods, see historical sites??? Sorry, but the NE coast of US and interrailing provides no clues to me of your interests at all. Any idea where you'd like to go or avoid?
If you are into trains, there is the Ghan in Australia. That would provide an option to swim with whale sharks on the West coast along with the many other things Aus has.
The in laws did a train trip from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. Possibly the Orient express, but not sure.
Safari and/or see wild gorillas
Thailand, Loas and Cambodia

I said about the previous successful ones because there was something for everyone and every day offered several different things - food, history, art, different cultures, sun, scenery. The DCs were wowed by Washington DC and NYC but also enjoyed staying in the Amish countryside and kayaking in France, exploring Venice, seeing the Coliseum. So nothing too sporty but not too quiet.

Definitely not a Disney family.

Australia is probably too far and expensive for 2 weeks. Possibly one from Thailand, Laos, Cambodia though… I’m not sure that the DC would appreciate the Orient Express but I would love that!

Vietnam? Everyone I know who has been (singles, couples, families with generally older kids) have loved it. Lots to see and cheap when you get there. Side trips possible to Cambodia or Thailand,

That budget would go far in South Africa. June is Winter in SA, which is the best time to see wildlife. Cape Town (lots to do and see) and a stay at an exclusive game lodge?

There's a great 2 week Exodus holiday to Vietnam and Cambodia that would be within budget.
Or look at Inside Japan for amazing affordable self guided tours.

Would that budget really go a long way in South Africa for 6 people? It's only 2.5 k pr person including flights. I've always assumed SA was beyond our budget.

I'd look at Japan. So much to see for everyone's taste and very easy to travel around

We are doing a very similar holiday for similar reasons in 3 weeks time and going to Thailand. Spending slightly more than that but going to Bangkok, Chang Mai, elephant sanctuary, and then a beach for 5 days....not sure of the Thai weather in June tho. We booked through Trailfinders and they have been excellent.

We did a similar thing recently and went to Japan. Best holiday ever - loads of history, art, hiking, anime and amazing food etc for well within your budget.

Not sure of the cost but friend with four kids in the same boat (last holiday just as a family) went to Costa Rica and they all thoroughly enjoyed it.

A Kenya safari holiday!?

Or I've also seen Japan mentioned! Japan would be incredible. I want to go there just for the universal and Mario world!

I'll be doing something similar in a couple of years and my first choice is Costa Rica. It was recommended by family who went last year and had an amazing time

We are planning to go to Japan next year with DC who will be 19 & 18. It ticks all the boxes, perfect for young adults. I think Vietnam and Cambodia would also be good.

We did Singapore and Vietnam this year with similar age DC and was amazing. Book independently for much cheaper options and flexibility, both countries v easy to get around and well set up for tourism. Singapore airlines had recently started a new Gatwick service which was significantly cheaper than the Heathrow one.

Flights will be your big outlay so research that carefully for the best deal.

We are doing Japan next year. Costa rica was awesome when we visited and Def worth considering!

Look at Yucatan. You have the Aztec ruins, several sites, including one you visit on bikes, Playa del Carmen, Isla de las Mujeres.

Closer to home, would ensure you spend less on flights and more on gorgeous hotels and yes it does make a difference. Also more money for excursions, private tours, driver, ...
A Sicilian holiday with a week on Sicily then sailing around the Eolian Islands with a skipper. Sicily is gorgeous. Taormina, Siracusa, Etna, ... way better than Amalfi Coast.
Or Greece, a combo of Meteora, Athens of course, Epidaurius and then a week on Crete, staying near Elafonissi, ground down the Samaria gorge, Knossos, ... stay on the south coast, near Paleochora.

Don't forget to check the dates of prom before you book. Your children might want to go

Would your budget strech to a holiday in China?
(Link is only an example for itinerary.)

www.exodus.co.uk/trips/china-holidays/culture/essential-china/acd

Japan is amazing with older children. They get the cultural and societal differences, and will enjoy the quirkiness too of all the automation and cosplay outfits.

Route 66 in America

Cruise - river cruises can visit cultural places, or Caribbean cruise , cruise to Iceland/Scandinavia

Mark Warner/sunsail holidays - learn to sail, windsurfing etc

Twin centre in Singapore and Thailand would be my vote. Great for kids of those ages and loads to do. Your budget should cover a nice villa/hotel for all of you, seeing elephants, temples, snorkelling etc.There’s also loads to do in Singapore and a universal studios.

South Africa is fabulous but June is too cold IMO, better to go in our winter and safari is going to be very expensive as you’ll need 2-3 rooms so not sure your budget would cover unless you went very basic.

Everyone I know who’s been to China has hated it by the way so worth bearing in mind.

Concur on people I know not having enjoyed China though one of my DCs is going in Feb so we will see.

We are a family of six so I think if fewer of us, we would have probs done Costa Rica but it was a bit out of budget.

We were quoted £45k for flights alone over Xmas for a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar 😳

That sounds like such a wonderful and meaningful trip to plan! With a budget like £15,000, you have plenty of fantastic options to create a memorable "last hurrah." If you enjoyed the northeast coast of the US, why not consider Florida's Gulf Coast for something a little different? Naples, in particular, offers beautiful beaches, charming neighborhoods, and great activities for all ages.
One idea is to include a boat rental Naples as part of your itinerary. It’s a fantastic way to explore the stunning coastline, enjoy some quality family time, and even try activities like dolphin watching or snorkeling. Naples also has excellent restaurants and shops, so there’s something for everyone.
You could pair it with a few days in Miami for a more vibrant city vibe or even the Florida Keys for a laid-back tropical feel. Whatever you choose, it sounds like an unforgettable celebration is on the horizon! Let us know what you decide