How We Spent Our Family Vacation: 19 Days Across 3 Continents With a Kid in Tow

Condé Nast Traveler

by Jordi Lippe-McGraw

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Taking a family vacation to multiple continents might seem daunting, but this ambitious 19-day trip across Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand proves that global exploration is possible—even with a young child in tow. The journey was made feasible by strategic use of airline miles, allowing the family to book business-class seats for long-haul flights and enjoy comfortable travel despite the extensive itinerary. From Amsterdam’s cultural highlights to Singapore’s vibrant food scene and Australia and New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, this adventure shows how to blend kid-friendly activities with enriching experiences for all ages. The trip was motivated by a desire to create lasting memories before school schedules took over. The family started in Amsterdam, where they soaked up the city’s charm—canal cruises, iconic museums like the Van Gogh Museum, and even a thrilling football match at Johan Cruijff Arena. Singapore followed as a colorful midpoint, offering adventures like HydroDash waterparks, street food tours, and Peranakan cultural insights. Australia became the heart of the trip, with stops in Brisbane and other destinations that balanced relaxation and exploration. By meticulously planning logistics and maximizing travel rewards, the family demonstrated how to make an ambitious itinerary work. Their approach highlights the importance of balancing structured plans—like museum visits and sports events—with flexible, kid-friendly activities. This story inspires families to think big when it comes to travel, showing that with careful preparation and a focus on shared experiences, even the most extensive journeys can be both enjoyable and memorable. For readers interested in travel, this story underscores the value of strategic planning and the joy of exploring diverse destinations together. It also emphasizes the importance of choosing kid-friendly activities that keep young travelers engaged while offering adults opportunities to explore cultural and culinary interests. By blending adventure with comfort—like booking business-class flights for better rest—the family proved that luxury travel is achievable even on a tight budget, making global exploration accessible for families at any stage.

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Originally published on Condé Nast Traveler on 2/24/2026