For parents, traveling without their children is a scenario that seems impossible at times. However, sometimes parents find themselves in a situation that looks too good to be true: Being able to vacation anywhere in the world without their kids! Where would you travel to if kids didn’t factor into the planning? Recently, men and women talked about this topic in an online discussion en route to revealing their favorite world destinations for a kid-free adventure.
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
For many parents, Las Vegas is the premier destination for anyone traveling sans children. Think of everything you can do in Vegas without the burden of kids: From nonstop partying to making your best impression of a degenerate gambler, a vacation in Las Vegas means unfiltered debauchery, something that can’t be done when you’re preoccupied with looking after your children.
2. Costa Rica
Many travelers consider Costa Rica the gem of Central America, which has an adventurous and exciting reputation that can only be fully realized if you travel without your kids! “Without question, go to Costa Rica,” advises one parent. “The trip can be as busy and laid back as you want. The people are so welcoming. The food is fantastic. We went to where the locals go, including the most incredible meal, and invited our driver to dine with us. This made all the difference. There are coffee plantations that will make you appreciate how your coffee gets to your coffee-maker.”
3. Key West, Florida
I’m convinced Jimmy Buffet wrote all his songs based on the city of Key West, and many believe there’s no more relaxing place in the world than Key West, Florida! Life moves a bit slower in this Florida town, but visitors and residents don’t mind. From the weather to the cocktails to the low-key vibes, Key West is ideal for anyone who wants to ditch the kids and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation for as long as humanly possible.
4. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has something for everyone, and like Costa Rica, it’s a place best experienced by couples unencumbered by children! “Visiting Bali is a must without kids, especially if you want to save some money,” reveals one mother. There are some very touristy (but cool) beach towns near the airport and to the south. Further north, Ubud has a really cool vibe in the middle of the jungle, and there are some awesome hikes and experiences, like waterfalls, temples, rice fields, and stunning beaches. Most importantly, we felt very safe everywhere.”
5. Chicago, Illinois
After I first visited Chicago, I knew it would be a city I’d return to over and over, no matter what my life circumstances were. However, whenever you visit a destination as vast as the Windy City, you immediately realize how hard it would be to navigate Chicago with kids traveling with you. Chicago is undoubtedly an adult-focused town with countless adult-minded activities and attractions, so it makes sense that any parent would love to visit if they didn’t have to worry about their kids!
6. Hawaii
Hawaiian vacations are typically expensive but become much cheaper once your kids aren’t in the equation! “If you haven’t been there already, you must visit Hawaii,” reports one man. Make Kauai one of your stops there. I would have no problem just staying in Kauai, but each island has unique attractions and charm.” As someone who recently visited the islands of Hawaii, I can confirm it’s a magical place loved by all.
7. New York City, New York
The Big Apple is far too hectic and overwhelming for young kids, so it makes sense that parents use any opportunity they can to visit without the children in tow! New York City is known as the city that never sleeps, and you know who doesn’t need sleep, don’t you? That’s right, parents don’t need rest when they don’t have to worry about watching their kids! If you want excitement, New York City always delivers in spades, so book a trip and don’t look back.
8. San Diego, California
As someone who lived in southern California for 11 years, I can honestly say there’s no city better than San Diego! It’s dubbed “America’s Finest City” for a reason — it has everything a visitor needs to have a memorable vacation (well, except a professional football team). Furthermore, San Diego is a perfect year-round destination due to its ideal climate. Even months like December and January see temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s, making Christmas on the beach a surefire possibility.
9. French Polynesia
Tucked away in the South Pacific Ocean, French Polynesia is famously hard to reach since direct flights are rare. But by all accounts, it’s worth the hassle! “I went on my honeymoon to French Polynesia, and my husband and I are currently figuring out how to go again without the kiddos,” confesses one woman. “It’s definitely a place to relax without the guilt of not bringing the kids because most tourists are couples. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip; it’s not a place you’re likely to go ever again because it’s so out of the way, but we’re trying. We visited Moorea and Bora Bora.”
10. Mexico City, Mexico
For some couples, the allure of eating delicious Mexican food and diving head-first into fantastic Mexican culture without kids around is a dream come true. “If I could go anywhere without my children, it would be Mexico City,” admits one husband. They have some absolutely amazing museums. The food is phenomenal. It’s close enough that you only would have one connection (if any). There’s excellent hiking and excursions nearby. It’s relatively inexpensive, so you can live it up. Did I mention the food?”
11. Charleston, South Carolina
Stepping foot in Charleston is like traveling to another country. History and modern amenities collide in this charming seaside town that has enjoyed a surge in popularity in the last decade. Countless people describe it as an “East Coast San Diego,” due to its picture-perfect beaches, excellent hospitality, and friendly people. With world-class bars and restaurants everywhere you look, Charleston is a perfect option for a kid-free adventure!
12. Miami, Florida
You can’t do much better than Miami for adventurous couples looking to let loose without their children around. Whether you want to hit the clubs in South Beach, take in the epic local Cuban-inspired cuisine, or relax on the beach and live the good life for a week, you have options in Miami. Although I’ve never visited, Miami is on my bucket list, whether I have kids or not!
13. Cape Town, South Africa
Although ravaged by controversy in recent years, Cape Town is nonetheless one of the more beautiful places to visit without children. In fact, many men and women confess it’s the favorite trip they ever embarked on! “If you want the adventure of a lifetime, consider visiting Cape Town, South Africa,” explains one man. “Once you arrive, tour the Garden Route. It’s very cheap and one of the most beautiful places on earth. The long flight may turn you off, though. But I think it’s worth it.”
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