When it comes to holiday planning, Canberrans are clearly a passionate bunch - especially when it involves travelling with family or following their taste buds abroad. We recently asked 217,000 of our friends on the Canberra Noticeboard Facebook group two simple questions: Where’s the best overseas holiday destination for families? And where do you go when food is the main event? The responses were inspiring, varied, and full of personal insight. Here’s what we learned.
Family Travel: Islands, Castles, and History Lessons
Not surprisingly, Fiji was the most frequently mentioned family destination. Locals like Leigh praised the variety of resorts in Denarau. Kartika put in a good word for the Outrigger on the Coral Coast. While Sue-Ann offered a heartfelt recommendation for Castaway Island - a lesser-known paradise with a top-notch kids’ club, great snorkeling, and exceptional service for families with dietary needs. For longer stays, the apartment-style accommodation at the Wyndham stood out as a practical option with all the comfort of home.
Phu Quoc, a Vietnamese island in the Gulf of Thailand, was one of our hidden gems. With its peaceful beaches and upscale resorts like Vinpearl Resort & Spa, it’s gaining popularity as a family-friendly retreat. One commenter who had worked in Vietnam highlighted the island's night markets and laid-back charm - ideal for combining relaxation with cultural immersion.
And then there’s Thailand’s Khao Lak, where one Canberra local recommended The Sands Resort, complete with an aqua park and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great reminder that Southeast Asia offers more than just backpacker trails - it’s a goldmine for memorable family holidays.
For something more educational and immersive, Jenny shared her plans for a European history tour with her 7-year-old, covering Ireland, Poland, and Italy. From Blarney Castle to Pompeii, it’s a remarkable way to bring history to life - proof that travel with kids doesn’t always have to mean kids’ clubs and waterslides.
Travel for the Tastebuds
When it came to food, the responses were passionate and often deeply personal. One place kept popping up: Vietnam. From banh mi and pho to the must-try local beer halls (bia hoi), Vietnam earned glowing praise from several commenters. Michael, who lived there for two years, encouraged travellers not to fear street food - he swears it’s fresher than what you’ll find in some hotels. The low down? Stick close to locals, eat with your hands, and always leave room for iced coffee.
Other Southeast Asian standouts included Penang, Malaysia, with its legendary crab curry and roti canai, and Thailand, where street food in Bangkok or Chiang Mai can be just as memorable as some of the finest restaurants.
For those leaning towards Europe, Italy and Spain held strong. Tuscany was a standout for its slow lunches and rolling vineyard views, while San Sebastian, Spain, earned a nod for its tapas scene. And yes, Mexico also made multiple appearances - from roadside taquerias to the Michelin-starred El Califa de León taco stand in Mexico City.
Some comments highlighted food with a cause: KOTO in Hanoi, for instance, which trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality while serving delicious meals - a food experience that nourishes both body and soul.
What We Learned
From the reefs of Fiji to the night markets of Vietnam, Canberrans are choosing destinations that combine comfort, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're travelling with kids or chasing the world's best pho, there’s a sense that the journey is just as important as the destination. And sometimes, the best travel tips don’t come from guidebooks - they come from your neighbours.
To learn more about Glide Online Travel Clinic and how we can assist ahead of your next overseas trip, visit us here.