Getting fit and healthy is far more fun when done together with loved ones, and family holidays offer perfect opportunities to bond through fitness. From thrilling adventures to more calming pursuits, here are some sporty escapes that will satisfy everyone in the family.
Mountain bike in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is arguably the fastest growing mountain biking mecca in South-east Asia. With its varied trails that offer interesting discoveries and encounters with ancient temples, friendly hill tribes, and challenging mountain peaks, it’s easy to see why. Head to Doi Inthanon – the highest point in Thailand – for an all-day epic trip filled with mountainous views, high alpine ridges, refreshing waterfalls and gorgeous sunsets. Thrill seekers should definitely try the Numb trail in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, which features an adrenaline-inducing, 100 per cent downhill ride.
Have peace of mind while you ride to your heart’s content with travel insurance from AIG – SAFRA members enjoy 20 per cent off the purchase of any single trip plan.
Hike in New Zealand
Hiking is a great family activity – and an all-round workout – as it encourages teamwork and communication while navigating trails, and offers quality bonding time away from distractions. New Zealand, with its varied geographical features across thousands of miles of trails, is a walker’s paradise. On the North Island, tackle the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19km day hike where you’ll journey past an active volcano crater, turquoise green lakes and panoramic views of the Central Plateau. On South Island, try the 10km Hooker Valley Track, one of the most popular walks in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – expect to see fascinating icebergs and glaciers, and majestic mountains.
Accommodation-wise, book yours through Agoda, where SAFRA members get 8% off. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/agoda
Practise yoga in Bali, Indonesia
Go ohm as a fam with a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga retreat in Ubud, which has a reputation of being the spiritual and cultural centre of Bali. As a family is likely to comprise members with varied interests in yoga, a customised package can be arranged which encompasses other activities – for instance, massages or healthy cooking classes – in addition to yoga. While there’s a plethora of yoga studios in Ubud, a possible pick is The Yoga Barn, one of the first and most popular studios in the enclave.
For an exciting contrast, spend some time in party-centric Kuta, where surfing is a popular activity.
Stay at the 5-star Ramayana Suites & Resort – Kuta, where SAFRA members enjoy special rates starting at 1,350,000 IDR nett per night for a Premier Suite with breakfast for two persons.
Run in Brisbane, Australia
Lace up your running shoes and put in the miles as a family at one of the oldest and most anticipated running events in Australia, the Brisbane Marathon Festival. It’s also one of the most inclusive, with something for everyone, including a 2km “mini-marathon” for children as young as four years old, a 5km walk, and the marathon itself. Bonus: The event will be held in June in 2024, when the winter weather in subtropical Brisbane will be comfortably cool.
Book your hotels and transfers, including post-race excursions and discovery tours, through Klook, where SAFRA members enjoy $15 off all activities with a minimum $200 spend.
Scuba dive in Maldives
Maldives may be more popularly sold as a romantic destination for honeymooners, but it’s a scuba diver’s dream come true too, with its enchanting reefs teeming with marine life, and dreamy white beaches for that post-dive bask. With PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) discovery programmes for children as young as eight to specialist courses for enriched air and wreck divers, it’s easy to get dive-certified as a family on the islands if needed. If you’re headed to paradise, note that the months of August to November are considered the best time of the year to see manta rays and whale sharks, while the January to April period offers great visibility.
Here are more ways to stay fit and healthy while travelling!
Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, shopping, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for three years at the price of 1 year ($43.20 inclusive of GST)! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too – 1st dependent pays $5.40/year, and it’s free for the 2nd dependent onwards. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.
Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!
