When travelling long-haul between Australia and Europe with kids, the benefits of a stopover are many. As well as offering the chance to explore another part of the world, it’s a chance to spend some extra quality time with the family and refresh and recharge, before tackling the next leg!
All travel-loving parents know how painful a long-haul flight with kids can be – from restless rugrats who want nothing more than to run up and down the aisles during meal service to those determined to spend the whole flight kicking the back of the seat in front.
Throw crossing time zones into the mix and things get even more challenging. The best way to minimise jet lag (and ensure you arrive at your destination with your sanity in check) is to book a stopover of at least 24 hours — as opposed to a layover, which is typically less than a day.
Here are seven unique Australia-to-Europe stopover destinations your family will love.
Dubai
Want some major show and tell bragging rights? Take the kids for a ride to the top of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, which stands at nearly 830 metres high, for epic views over the biggest city in the United Arab Emirates.
Teens and tweens will love hitting the shops at the Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall, where you can also go snow-skiing indoors! Dubai also boasts the world’s largest water park, Atlantis Aquadventure, a LEGOLAND theme park and the international-themed Global Village Dubai.
For a cultural experience, visit Jumeirah Mosque, hop aboard a traditional Abra boat to cross Dubai Creek or book a tour to fly kites in the desert.
🌴 KEEP EXPLORING: What to see and do in Dubai with kids
Where to stay
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai is the ideal place for some family fun in the sun, with two lagoon-style pools, a lazy river, epic waterslides and a splash play area for little ones. The Resort, which has more than 600 rooms and suites (some with those highly desirable bunk beds), also has three kids’ clubs catering to children of different ages and seven restaurants.
Visa requirements
Australian passport holders are eligible for a 30-day tourist visa on arrival to Dubai. For more information, visit UAE Federal E-Government Portal.
Oman
Kids will have the time of their lives sandboarding and dune bashing in the Wahiba Sands desert and exploring ancient forts, palaces and castles in the walled city of Muscat on an Oman stopover. There are also some gorgeous rocky beaches to go swimming, as well as the oasis-like Wādī Banī Khālid and incredible Bimmah Sinkhole.
As the oldest continuously independent state in the Arab world, the Sultanate on the border of Saudi Arabia also offers culture and heritage in spades. Explore an Omani village and souk – and see some pretty gnarly weapons on display – at the Bait Al Zubair museum, and visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is the largest in the country.
🐪 KEEP EXPLORING: Top attractions in Oman for families
Where to stay
Just 15 minutes’ drive from Muscat International Airport, the centrally-located Centara Life Muscat Dunes Hotel has 71 rooms and suites, a rooftop pool and restaurants offering Middle Eastern, Thai and international cuisine.
Close to attractions like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the 152-room Centara Muscat Hotel Oman in the CBD has a rooftop pool and a separate children’s pool.
Overlooking the ocean just five minutes’ walk from the Al Mouj entertainment hub in North Muscat with Oman’s only 18-hole PGA standard golf course, Al Hail Waves Hotel is another
Visa requirements
Australian citizens visiting Oman for up to 14 days for tourism may be eligible for a free-of-charge entry visa, subject to certain conditions and requirements. More here
Good to know
It’s important to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religion when visiting Oman. Dress modestly in public places (which includes shopping malls and tourist attractions). Be sure that the tops of your arms and legs are covered, and avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts. More about Omani laws and customs
Qatar
Angry Birds World, anyone? Riding the rollercoasters and other amusment rides and playing laser tag at this theme park in Doha Festival City Mall is one of the highlights of a visit to this small nation near the United Arab Emirates.
Sail in a traditional wooden dhow to Al Safliya Island, see colourful spices, textiles and pottery being sold at the beautifully restored Souk Waqif, which is also home to a Falcon Hospital where you can learn about the birds’ cultural significance, and discover the country’s history at the National Museum of Qatar, which is housed in an architecturally-designed building inspired by a desert rose.
You can also marvel at the impressive works on display at the Museum of Islamic Art and Qatar Islamic Cultural Center, journey into outer space at Al Thuraya Planetarium and be wowed at the Museum of Illusions.
Where to stay
Conveniently located on the Corniche promenade with rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha makes a great base. Around 25 minutes’ drive from Hamad International Airport, it has a large indoor pool, a kids’ club and a range of family-friendly apartments to choose from.
Visa requirements
Australian passport holders can apply for a tourist visa on arrival in Qatar. You may be asked to show proof of your accommodation for the duration of your stay when you reach Hamad International Airport. More here
Good to know
Visitors to Qatar should dress modestly in public to cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid commenting on Qatari culture, government or businesses online while in Qatar (including reviewing hotels or restaurants on social media).
The legal drinking age in Qatar is 21 and alcohol is only available to visitors at licensed hotel venues. It’s also illegal to import it into the country, so skip the duty free shopping on this trip. More here
Sri Lanka
Dreaming of tropical beaches and intruiging cultural experiences? Schedule a stopover in Sri Lanka, where families can explore the bustling city of Colombo. Modern architecture mingles with ancient wonders like the Gangaramaya Temple, while kids will delight in spotting exotic animals at Dehiwala Zoological Gardens and delving into history at the National Museum of Colombo.
Galle Face Green Promenade is the place to enjoy street food, kite flying, and spectacular Sri Lankan sunsets. For a true taste of lush Sri Lanka, book a mini-escape in Bentota, a stunning seaside resort town 90 minutes south of the city.
🐘 KEEP EXPLORING: Travelling in Sri Lanka with kids
Where to stay
Beachfront NH Bentota Ceysands Resort is a superb choice for families, nestled between Bentota River and the Indian Ocean. Wood accents and rich colours fill the welcoming family rooms and suites, some of which feature bunk beds.
Direct access to the water makes it easy to squeeze in a river kayak safari, or relax in the expansive pool for a more low-key break. The resort also has a games room and kids’ club to keep young guests entertained, and a selection of on-site restaurants serving up sumptuous Sri Lankan cuisine.
Visa requirements
Visitors to Sri Lanka need to apply for an eVisa and an application fee applies. Sri Lanka has also introduced Digital Arrival Cards which can be completed three days prior to travel.
Good to know
Sri Lanka has conservative dress and behaviour standards. It’s illegal to disrespect Buddhist images, including posing for photos with Buddha statues or wearing tattoos, jewellery or clothing associated with Buddhism. Seek local advice before photographing places of worship or government buildings, which may be off-limits. More here
Bangkok
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a sensory delight for travelling families. Get the most out of your stopover by travelling on the hop-on-hop off Chao Phraya River Tourist Boat which connects some of Bangkok’s top attractions. Don’t miss the majestic Grand Palace complex, the gold reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and the inspiring Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the city’s most prominent riverside landmark.
You may not have time to explore all corners of Thailand, but you can visit Sooksiam, a ‘village’ that captures the art, food and culture of all 77 provinces in one place. Venture deeper into the local cuisine at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where goods are sold from traditional long-tail boats.
🍜 KEEP EXPLORING: 24 best things to do in Bangkok with kids
Where to stay
Nestled in the heart of the shopping distance, the five-star Centara Grand at CentralWorld offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline. The hotel features lavish dining options with a rooftop bar, SPA Cenvraree, state-of-the-art fitness centre and generous pool with a sundeck. The upscale CentralWorld and Siam Paragon malls are only minutes away, as is the BTS Skytrain station connecting you with all the city’s top attractions.
For a refreshing Bangkok break, consider the Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel Bangkok. Located above the Watergate Pavillion Shopping Mall, this hotel offers comfortable contemporary rooms, including family suites with bunk beds. Dine at the rooftop restaurants with mesmerizing city views or unwind at the spa to create your ideal stopover experience.
The four-star Centra Phra Nang is a great-value option for families. Located in old part of Bangkok, close to the Chao Phraya River piers, Khao San Road and the Grand Palace, it’s a fantastic base to explore the best of the city’s cultural highlights.
Visa requirements
Visitors to Thailand for tourism purposes can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days on arrival (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year).
Good to know
Vaping and possession of e-cigarettes (including refills) is illegal in Thailand, as is smoking on many beaches in tourist areas. Official taxis are a good way to get around, but be wary of overly friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers offering tours – instead, book tours in advance or enquire at your hotel for recommendations.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis with plenty of history to discover. Start your journey with two remnants of French colonial architecture: the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon and the Central Post Office, designed by the same architect who built the Eiffel Tower.
Nearby Ben Thanh Market is the place to shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs and delicious street food – though you’ll spot many restaurants serving phở, bánh mì and spicy bún bò Huế throughout the city. Grown-ups and older kids will find the War Remnants Museum a poignant experience, while the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Show is a must-see slice of Vietnamese culture for all ages.
Where to stay
Decorated in Spanish Mediterranean style, Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne is a picturesque resort just a few hours east of the city. Guests can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this ‘Explorer’s Playground’ themed resort while still being within reach of Ho Chi Minh City’s attractions. And there’s no shortage of kid-friendly perks including a fabulous water park, playground, kids’ club and endless on-site entertainment. Add a SPA Cenvaree and all-day dining restaurant, and this Vietnamese coastal resort is a must-visit destination in itself.
⛵ KEEP EXPLORING: Why Mui Ne is Vietnam’s ultimate hidden gem for families
Visa requirements
Australians need to apply online for an eVisa to visit Vietnam. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for multiple entries.
Good to know
It’s safest to use prearranged hotel transfer services at Vietnamese airports, or take metered taxis from clearly marked ranks with staff. You may need to show your luggage tags when leaving the airport, so keep your airline luggage receipt handy.
Osaka
Start your Japanese journey at the iconic Osaka Castle, the most enduring symbol of Osaka’s history and cultural heritage. The surrounding park is especially photogenic during cherry blossom season. Head to Universal Studios Japan for thrilling rides and attractions themed after your family’s favourite films and take in one of the world’s largest aquariums at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
In the evening, take a stroll along the bustling streets of Dotonbori entertainment district. Famous for its nightlife, neon lights, and street food, sampling the takoyaki and okonomiyaki is a must. If you’re lucky, you can time your visit to experience one of Osaka’s festivals, like Tenjin Matsuri in July or Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, Japan’s largest float festival, held in September and November.
🏯 KEEP EXPLORING: What to see and do in Osaka with kids
Where to stay
In the heart of Osaka’s entertainment district, the Centara Grand Hotel Osaka offers a premium stay with direct access to Namba Station. Family rooms feature a shower and bathtub, with king-size Simmons bed and bunk beds for the kids. The ground-floor Platform 2 Café is a delightful place to start the day, and after a long day of sightseeing, guests can unwind at the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurants. Options range from smokehouse and steakhouse fare to home-style Thai cuisine, all with views of Osaka’s dazzling skyline.
Visa requirements
Australians are eligible for Japan’s visa exemption scheme for short-stay tourism (up to 90 days).
Good to know
Cash is preferred in Japan, but credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in cities. Japan has strict restrictions on bringing medication into the country, including some that are common in Australia (such as certain ADHD or cold medications, even with a prescription).
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In partnership with Centara Hotels and Resorts
Opening image: Happy family playing in the desert of Dubai
