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Japan continues to soar in popularity with Australian families, but there's one destination that's still flying under the radar.

In this episode of the Family Holiday Destinations podcast, Jessica chats with Toni from Linkd Tourism about Okinawa - Japan's subtropical island paradise that's often described as the "Hawaii of Japan".

From turquoise waters and island hopping to unique culture, incredible food and a slower pace of travel, this episode explores why Okinawa feels surprisingly familiar to families who love destinations like Fiji or Bali, while offering an experience that's unmistakably Japanese.

Jessica and Toni discuss:

• Why Okinawa is often called the Hawaii of Japan
• How island hopping works across Okinawa's islands
• What makes Okinawa so different from mainland Japan
• Whether it's a good choice for a first family trip to Japan
• Family-friendly experiences beyond the beaches
• The easiest ways to get around with kids
• How Okinawa's famous Blue Zone lifestyle shapes the visitor experience
• Why more Australian families are discovering Okinawa now
• How to combine Okinawa with mainland Japan for the ultimate family itinerary

Plus:

• The latest travel trends reshaping Australian family holidays
• And this month's travel tip on creating a balanced Japan itinerary for families.

Links:

• From ‘Seatox Travel’ to Screen Sourcing: The Australian Travel Trends Shaping Family Holidays
• Australia Makes the World's Top 20 Theme Park Destinations for 2026
• Travel Loyalty is No Longer About Points - It's About Passion
• Family Holiday Destinations Website
• Okinawa Tourism

Support the show

Thanks for tuning in to the Family Holiday Destinations podcast! For more industry interviews, inspiration, family travel news and travel tips, visit our website at familyholidaydestinations.com. Until next time, happy travels and safe adventures!

Send us Fan Mail

Singapore is often seen as a stopover city - but what if its biggest strength for families is actually how easy it makes travel feel?

In this episode of the Family Holiday Destinations podcast, Jessica Palmer chats with Kimberly Spykerman from Singapore Tourism about why Singapore continues to stand out as one of Asia’s best family destinations.

From efficient public transport and compact neighbourhoods to nature spaces, food culture and family-friendly attractions, this episode explores why ‘ease’ has become such a valuable part of modern family travel.

Jessica and Kimberly discuss:
• Why Singapore works so well for time-poor families
• How it compares to destinations like Japan for first-time Asia trips
• New attractions families should know about
• Where locals actually take their kids beyond Sentosa
• Singapore’s balance of city life and green space
• Food experiences families shouldn’t miss
• A suggested 7-day Singapore itinerary for first-time visitors

Plus:
• Intrepid Travel launches new Premium Family tours
• Why Australians are prioritising travel emotionally despite rising costs
• Tokyo’s new family-friendly sumo experience
• And a reflection on how wellness travel is changing for families.

Support the show

Thanks for tuning in to the Family Holiday Destinations podcast! For more industry interviews, inspiration, family travel news and travel tips, visit our website at familyholidaydestinations.com. Until next time, happy travels and safe adventures!

Send us Fan Mail

What if caravan parks didn’t look - or feel - like caravan parks anymore?

In this episode of the Family Holiday Destinations podcast, I’m joined by Elysia Kelly from Trentham Waters - a brand-new resort-style holiday park that’s rethinking what family travel in regional Australia can look like.

From the moment you arrive, Trentham Waters is designed to feel different. Think considered design, curated experiences, and a focus on how families feel, not just where they stay.

In this conversation, we explore:

• How caravan parks are evolving to meet modern family expectations
• The shift towards experience-driven travel (even in regional destinations)
• What inspired the Palm Springs-style design and resort feel
• Why families are looking for more than just a place to park
• What this means for the future of road trips and holiday parks in Australia

One of the most interesting takeaways? This isn’t just about adding better facilities - it’s about completely rethinking the arrival experience, the atmosphere, and the emotional connection families have with a destination.

Whether you’re planning your next road trip or working in the travel industry, this episode offers a fascinating look at where family travel is heading next.

🎧 Listen now and discover why caravan parks might be the next big thing in family travel.

LINKS:

• Royal Caribbean's New Private Island in Vanuatu
• Yes, You Can Win Your Own Swedish Island - Here's How to Enter
• Japan Boom, US Cooling, AI Rising: The Key Australian Travel Trends for 2026
• Best Western Plus Pavilions Anaheim Review: A Budget-Friendly Stay Near Disneyland

Support the show

Thanks for tuning in to the Family Holiday Destinations podcast! For more industry interviews, inspiration, family travel news and travel tips, visit our website at familyholidaydestinations.com. Until next time, happy travels and safe adventures!