Boomerang tourism and the best family locations for 2024/25

The art of the holiday is changing. As we deepen our trek into the 2020s, so do we deepen our trek into new cultural moments, domestically and internationally – with new modes of holiday just one facet of a multi-dimensional shift forwards.

Between unique and of-the-moment holiday trends like ‘picklecore’ and ‘sportcations’, we have something more evergreen settling in: ‘boomerang tourism’, which takes the notion of adult children returning home to roost and applies it to our travel plans. The cost-of-living crisis has made boomerang tourism an inevitability, but the concept also creates a great deal of potential for multi-generational families experiencing new destinations together. If you’re anticipating your own boomerang holiday, where should you bear in mind?

Iceland

Iceland is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet, being quite literally a land of ice and fire. As well as being a northern nation exposed to the temperatures and conditions of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is a volcanic nation – its landmass directly fed by volcanic eruptions. The same volcanic activity feeds hot geysers across the nation.

These incredible natural phenomena are a draw for everyone, whether you wish to explore the harsh near-alien landscape of Iceland’s rural limits or watch a geyser’s explosive eruption. There are hot springs to languorously dwell within, Northern Lights to catch in the winter months and a great deal of wildlife to enjoy to boot. If you’re looking for quality time with your adult family, there are few better places to get it than the quiet, mad majesty of Iceland.

Greece

On nearly the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the heat, blazing sunshine and calm quietude of Greece – a hotbed for activities of almost every demeanour, especially known for its historic contributions and unassailable year-round weather.

Greece is especially well-poised for family activity holidays, being a nation with everything from calm seas to vertiginous mountains. You could surf, swim, snorkel or ski depending on your final destination, and do a great deal more besides with the right travel itinerary. This is all before acknowledging the incredible food and drink that Greece has to offer, whether you’re staying on the island of Santorini or the mainland.

Kyoto, Japan

Japan is a culturally fascinating country, and one which draws up to 30 million visitors each year. Whether you have a hankering for exploring Japan’s cultural history or cultural present, there’s a wealth to explore – and for all the family too – in Kyoto.

Kyoto was once Japan’s capital, but today sits as a hybrid city combining futurist present with traditional past. Temples, tea houses and bamboo forests rub shoulders with skyscrapers and other urban districts, truly giving your family the opportunity to experience everything there is to experience in urban Japan.

Mitra Msaad

Editor in Chief