Getaway with Families

Sitting under the sun, eating fruits, getting oil massage and indulging in some chit chats were what I referred to as a family vacation when I was a kid. The long summer or winter vacations or festive vacation also used to give the same vibe. I still remember how my parents used to take me and my brother to the Zoo and the Fun Park and I how thought of them as family vacation trips. In a way, they were but they were not a proper trip one could ask for. But I believe this is what family vacations mean to most of the Nepalese families. 

It is only in recent times that Nepali families actually started traveling and taking family holiday trips. It has become a phenomenon. Whether it’s a short weekend trip or long holiday trips, this high-speed phenomenon is growing. And in fact, it is the best idea to reinforce family bond. We get to see our parent’s fun side that we might otherwise never see, and parents also get to see our true funky side. Sharing a beer with your father as mom gives a dead stare is what you create. The anticipation in sight of mom and dad when they see the view of a mountain is what you create. The feeling of inner child bursting out when you see your parents dancing clumsily to a live music in some random bar is what you really create during family vacation trips. See how these memories are priceless. They stay longer in your memory than what happens during regular family dinners.

There is a saying: “A family that travels together, stays together.” There is no better way of knowing a person than when you are travelling with him or her. A study showed that people who came back from holidays felt closer to their families and though that the family was more social. Nevertheless, it’s great to go on family trips as it: helps to reinforce the family bond, helps you understand your family more deeply, and helps you create memories that will last forever.

“Since I have often started taking my children to new places, says travel enthusiast Saru Neupane, “I have noticed their sense of closeness and openness. They often show more respect for me and their father. I recommend that parents travel more often to understand and keep their children close to them.” 

Nepal as one of the most exotic tourist destinations has more vacation spots for both short and long trips, particularly for families. Some of the places include Ghandruk, Pokhara, Bandipur, Lumbini, Ilam, Manang, Mustang, Rara, Chitwan, Bardia, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Ghorepani, etc. And there are many more where you can enjoy the breathtaking views as well as experience amazing cultural and traditional encounters.

During lunch or dinner or casually, the families spend time together every day. But it is when they travel together, learn together, and share, the true bonding happens. And in traditional families such as ours, where members barely share their thoughts, family vacations are much needed.