Kids love different types of animals, here in the UK we have to go to the zoo to get up close to the weird and wonderful species around the world (don't get me wrong, a zoo always goes down very well) but what's better than choosing a destination for your family holiday where your kids can really experience these animals and take back great memories.
Here at Original Travel our Asia team have put together what we believe to be the top six destinations to see the coolest and most awesome animals. 'Don't you mean Africa?' I hear you say. NAY! I said Asia....
1. India...
India is quickly top trumping Africa, home to far more than the Big 5, India has the Asian equivalents. The Asian rhino is a particular favourite of mine. Tigers and lions, Asian elephant, Asian rhino, bison (gaur) and leopard... In addition to the above, India is also home to sloth bear, Himalayan black bear snow leopards, clouded leopards, red pandas, rare Asiatic wild asses and the extremely rare pygmy hog.
2. China...
Head to Chengdu to see the giant panda's and actually have the opportunity to hold a baby panda. As you all know the panda is extremely rare, and promoting awareness of these animals is essential. Being able to see the giant panda for yourself is a once in a lifetime experience!
3. Borneo...
Simply a must-do, Borneo has for a long time been the ideal family holiday location. Home to several of the world's most endangered species, including the infamous orang-utans, Sumatran rhino, extraordinary endangered proboscis monkey, Bornean clouded leopard and pygmy elephants (quite possibly one of the sweetest animals).
4. Thailand...
Riding an elephant has to be one of the best things I have ever done and kids LOVE it. Thailand is one of the places to do this. These majestic animals are incredible, you can feed them, ride them bareback and help to wash them. An incredible adventure that you and your family can all experience, nothing compares to this (and, no, riding a camel is in no way close).
5. Japan...
Japan is home to the Japanese macaque also known as Japanese snow monkey. These crazily cute looking monkeys are great, you can get right up to them whilst they enjoy the hot springs, people have actually even got in with them (although I can't say I would jump at this opportunity).
6. Maldives...
The Maldives is arguably one of the best place to go snorkelling and diving in the world. Your children do not even have to go swimming to witness the amazing marine life, so much of it is in the shallow the shallow water close to the beach, including small sharks (don't worry they don't bite and are very shy), sting rays, amazing coloured fish and even turtles. Dolphins are abundant around all of the islands, and if you are into diving, manta rays and whale sharks are best seen in the Baa Atol in August. Contact Original Travel
