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Sandakan, Malaysia
Base yourself near the Kinabatangan River for incredible wildlife — proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and orangutans are regularly spotted. Stay at one of the riverside lodges like Sukau Rainforest Lodge for the full experience. Don't miss an early morning river cruise at dawn when wildlife activity is at its peak.
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Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Labuan Bajo is the gateway town on Flores island for accessing Komodo National Park and its famous Komodo dragons. Book a liveaboard for an overnight trip covering Pink Beach, Padar Island viewpoint and snorkelling at Kanawa or Manta Point. The town itself has a lovely waterfront with great seafood restaurants for the evenings.
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Singapore, Singapore
Universal Studios on Sentosa Island is a must-do for the kids, and the nearby S.E.A. Aquarium is also excellent for a family day. Explore the colourful neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Little India, and don't miss a hawker centre meal at Maxwell or Lau Pa Sat. The Marina Bay Sands skypark offers stunning city views worth the entry fee.
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Bangkok, Thailand
Start your Thailand leg in Bangkok with a visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho's famous reclining Buddha — both are fantastic with kids. Take a long-tail boat along the Chao Phraya river and explore the vibrant street food scene around Khao San Road or Chatuchak Weekend Market. It's a brilliant sensory introduction to Thailand before heading to the islands.
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Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is perfect for families with its ethical elephant sanctuary experiences — Elephant Nature Park is highly recommended for a full-day visit. Explore the walled Old City with its dozens of beautiful temples and enjoy a Thai cooking class together as a family. The Sunday Night Walking Street on Wualai Road is a wonderful evening outing with great street food and crafts.
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Koh Lanta, Thailand
Koh Lanta is one of Thailand's most relaxed and family-friendly islands with long sandy beaches like Long Beach and Klong Dao that are ideal for children. The island has a great mix of budget and mid-range resorts right on the beach with calm waters safe for swimming. Take a snorkelling day trip to the Koh Rok islands for stunning clear water and coral — one of the best snorkel spots in southern Thailand.