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Before answering this question, it is important for you to be aware that travel to Australia in 2021 may not be possible for foreign nationals as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic. Australia has been extremely cautious in their handling of the pandemic and have virtually shut-down international borders. Australia appears to be following a very risk-averse approach to re-opening tourism and so you may not be able to travel this year in December.

It is true, sharks are common in Australian waters, but the ocean is not overrun with them. However, it is good to be aware of potential risks when travelling, and especially so when on a trip with kids.

If this can reassure you – some Australian coasts have put in place government-run shark-control programs with nets and drum lines to protect you in the waters. Other states like NSW and WA have also launched shark smart apps and regular updates are provided on their Twitter pages, so do make sure to check through their feed before heading to the beach.

Where can you not swim in Australia? The most dangerous beaches in Australia

The most dangerous beaches to swim in Australia are the ones that are un-patrolled. However, it is true that even some patrolled beaches in Australia are deemed to be dangerous too. In total, the state of New South Wales records the most amount of attacks, while Western Australia sees a higher number of attacks that have been fatal. Here are some beaches to avoid swimming at in Australia:

• Fraser Island – Sharks, poisonous jellyfish, high waves and strong currents
• Darwin – Jellyfish (between Oct and May), crocodiles
• Tamarama Beach (Sydney) – Strong currents

Water safety tips in Australia – How to stay safe at the beach in Australia?

• To stay safe from potential risks, make sure you’re always swimming in patrolled areas. The safest beaches to swim at in Australia are the ones where you can find lifeguards – that way, you’re sure that regular patrolling takes place in the water. A shark alarm also goes off when a shark is sighted at sea.
• It is also important to remain within the stretch of water in between the red and yellow flags, avoid swimming too far from the shoreline, in river mouths or at dusk, and it is best to swim in a group rather than alone.
• Please do take signage seriously– if shark signage has been put on the beach, avoid swimming at all cost as this means that there have been shark sightings in the surroundings.
• If you’re at a patrolled beach, you can note down the lifeguard’s phone number and the emergency services in Australia can be reached by dialling 000.

The safest beach in Australia

With the number of lifeguards on patrol every day, Bondi Beach is not only a tourist hotspot but also deemed to be Australia’s safest beach.

Yes, you can still visit some indigenous tribes in Indonesia. In fact, tribal tourism has been on the rise in Indonesia, with curious travellers on a quest to visit something unusual, see even exciting. However, we have to admit that only a few indigenous tribes in Indonesia are safe to visit, as some still prefer staying untouched and unseen by tourists.

In Bali itself, you can visit the Bali Aga/Bali Mula tribe which worships the powerful forces of nature. Or, 4 hours from Jakarta, you can take a trip to the Baduy Tribe – they are also known as ‘The Indonesian tribe that rejects technology’.

Having said that, having only 4 extra days to visit indigenous tribes in Indonesia is not something we would recommend. To discourage and minimize the impacts of mass tourism and ensure the trip is conducted in the most ethical manner, we highly recommend travellers to consider a long-term visit rather than just a short sightseeing trip. It is important to remember that indigenous tribes are not tourist attractions or a commodity.

Alternatively, Indonesia is home to a plethora of religious, local heritage and cultural sites for you to visit within such a short span of time without disrupting one’s way of life.

Is it safe to visit indigenous tribes in Indonesia?

Not all indigenous tribes in Indonesia are safe to visit, so it is important that you follow recommendations from your travel agency or tour guide to ensure you’re making the right decision.

Taking all this into consideration, it is also important that you book your tour to visit indigenous tribes with a reputable travel agency or local tour guide in Indonesia. You need to make sure that it is conducted in the most sustainable way. Only when done ethically, can it bring economic benefits to the indigenous tribes, otherwise you might be contributing to exploitation.

In order to stay safe while visiting indigenous tribes, do also make sure to always be respecting one’s way of life, without being judgemental. It is also recommended to always ask for their permission if you intend on taking pictures. Please avoid making them fit in your lifestyle as this might create unnecessary dependency on tourism.

Packing list to visit indigenous tribes in Indonesia – What to bring?

Most of Indonesia’s indigenous tribes live deep down in the jungle, away from your comforts, therefore it is important that you pack adequately. Here are some must-haves to bring on your visit to the indigenous tribes in Indonesia:

• Sunscreen (Very important!)
• Mosquito/insect repellent (Very important!)
• Malaria pills
• Hat/caps
• Reusable water bottles
• Trekking shoes

Hanoi is an excellent choice of destination, and it’s definitely possible to see the city in two days. I would recommend staying in the city centre to minimise travel time and maximise your sightseeing time each day.

The best way to see Hanoi in two days is to start the hop on hop off bus tour. You’ll be taken through the key sights in the city with the option of getting on and off whenever you like. Hanoi is famous for its ancient architecture, so what better way to get a whistlestop tour than by bus. Make sure you don’t miss the perfume Pagoda – a variety of Buddhist temples built into the rock and the Dong Xuan market where you can buy souvenirs and try the local street food.

If you’re not a fan of bus tours, I’d highly recommend that you book a walking tour or something that will get you fully accustomed to the city.

After the first day, you should look back and go back to any places you may have missed or visit anywhere that looked interesting. You could see an attraction or book onto a local food tour.

Dubai is a fantastic travel destination with an excellent transport network. There are a variety of ways to travel from Dubai Airport to the Grand Millennium Hotel. The distance between the two destinations is 9.4 miles. Dependent on traffic, the quickest option would be to hop in a taxi or book an airport transfer. This option could take you as little as 14 minutes! You could also think about hiring a car in Dubai, which would save you money on a transfer and other journeys during your trip.

The cheapest option to travel between Dubai airport and the Grand Millenium Hotel is via the Metro. Board Metro line 3 from Terminal 1 on the red line to Business Bay Metro Station 1 before changing onto the F41 OR F14 bus to Lake Central Tower 2. This option will take you around 46 minutes. You could also catch the bus straight from Dubai Airport. Board the CO1 BUS for 13 minutes before changing onto bus 27 at Dnata 2 and travelling to Dubai Mall. The issue with this option is the 25-minute walk from Dubai mall to your hotel.

It’s a great idea to stop off in Canada during your big USA trip. There are plenty of budget accommodation options in nice areas all around Toronto.

The majority of areas in Toronto are lovely, especially for solo travellers. I would recommend that you book somewhere in the downtown core. China town is a good budget option with plenty to do and see, and West Queen West has an incredible atmosphere.

Guesthouses are usually the cheapest option for a private room, starting at £30 with a shared bathroom. A budget double room with a private bathroom starts at £44.

You should also consider a private room in a hostel. This way you can have privacy and a social atmosphere. Prices start at around £27. However, most private hostel rooms in Toronto have shared bathrooms. There are plenty of social activities for backpackers in Toronto, so you can meet people without staying in a hostel. I recommend that you book onto a walking tour or book onto a pub crawl.

Singapore might not be a typical choice for a honeymoon destination but can still be great choice because of the number of accommodation options that offer that extra special touch. Singapore has some of the best hotels in Asia, with many going above and beyond for their guests. You could opt for one of the most famous hotels in Singapore, guaranteed to give you a once in a lifetime experience. The Marina Bay Sands hotel is a perfect choice, with panoramic views of the city and a romantic rooftop pool. If you’re able to stretch your budget, the Raffles hotel is one of the most historic and luxury hotels in Singapore, surrounded by gardens and a stunning outdoor pool. Rooms are elegantly decorated, and staff are on hand for anything.

New York is an excellent destination for families with many family-friendly accommodation options. There are many lovely areas to stay in New York, and the area you pick depends on what you plan to do during your visit to New York. Anywhere nearby Central Park is perfect for families, with huge expanses of grass, wildlife and bike hire. Times Square is also a popular option where you can visit Bryant Park, visit Gullivers Gate or go on a trip to the New Victory Theatre, and be at the heart of New York. To save you a significant amount of money, you should look for somewhere where 6-year-olds stay free.

The Residence Inn by Marriott is a popular option, located very close to Times Square. There is a complimentary breakfast, and you’ll have stunning views across New York. Another popular option is The Gallivant in Times Square. The kids can go in a bunk bed, so they don’t have to share a double, and you’ll be in the heart of the city. The spacious rooms are great for families. Wherever you decide to stay, there are some fantastic family accommodation options all over New York and I can provide you many more options if you get in touch. Feel free to call or email me. Safe travels!

The Maldives does have a reputation across the world as an expensive, luxury and once in a lifetime destination.

Many guesthouses have opened on many of the Maldives islands in recent years, giving budget travellers a place to stay. You’ll also have the chance to stay on an island that has people living there, as opposed to a private island. Being an island, food can be slightly more expensive, so opt for a guesthouse that offers a complimentary breakfast. Most guesthouses also offer excursion booking for very reasonable prices.

If you’re planning on seeing more than one island, you’re also in luck. Local ferries between the islands are very budget-friendly, and you’ll be able to view the fantastic scenery along the way.

I am able to book clients in budget option guest houses in the Maldives, and any budget I book for you have the added benefit of being financially protected by ATOL as well as having the security of the package travel regulations.

Sri Lanka is a fantastic place to visit. I’m sure you’ll have a great time. The distance between your two hotels is 72.5km, which would be 1 hour, 15 minutes driving time. You have a variety of options for your journey, which vary in price and journey time. The most scenic route to take is the train from Ambalangoda to Mirissa. Catching a train in Sri Lanka should be high on your bucket list. As opposed to other transport options, you’ll travel right along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka with panoramic views out to sea. The train route stops in the town of Weligama after a 57-minute journey. You’ll be just 3.5 miles from Mirissa, where you can book a transfer or hop in a tuk-tuk straight to the Glamour Hotel, Mirissa.

You could also book a private transfer. Transfers usually start around $47. Many Tuk Tuk drivers in Ambalangoda will also be keen to take you for approximately £14. However, be aware that the journey won’t be as comfortable if you have luggage and you’ll be exposed to the open air. Travelling by Tuk Tuk on such a long journey is also not as safe, but it’s definitely a bucket-list experience.

The final option available to you is to catch the local bus from Ambalangoda to Mirissa. However, buses can get very crowded, and the journey will take anywhere from 2 hours to 2.5 hours.

Thailand is an excellent choice of destination both for all varieties of travellers. There are various options to travel between Krabi Airport and Koh Lanta to suit all budgets.

Journeys involve a drive from Krabi Airport to Krabi Port, a ferry and then a transfer to your accommodation once you arrive in Koh Lanta. The cheapest option to travel from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta is by bus. The journey takes around 2.5-3 hours, including the ferry ride. You should look for a bus which will also take you to your accommodation once you arrive at Koh Lanta. If not, there are always plenty of local services at the port offering very reasonable rates for a transfer.

You could also get a private taxi from the port for an affordable price. Ferries run frequently, so you don’t need to worry about the journey to Koh Lanta.

A faster but more expensive option is a private speedboat transfer. You’ll be picked up by a minivan from Krabi airport before enjoying a scenic 15-minute speedboat ride to Krabi and a transfer straight to your accommodation. The total journey time is around 45 minutes.

As a family, I recommend that you choose either the speedboat option and a direct minivan or taxi straight from the airport to your accommodation to save multiple stops and waiting time for you and your daughter.