The Bucket List Family, known for their captivating travels and adventures, has become a renowned source of inspiration for families looking to explore the world together. After Garrett Gee sold a successful app to Snapchat for $54 million, he and his wife Jessica began their journey of traveling the globe with their three children, aiming to encourage others to discover new cultures and experiences.
They have explored nearly 100 countries, enjoying unforgettable activities such as swimming with whales in Tonga and breakfasting with giraffes in Kenya. Jessica has released a travel guide, “National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel,” which details 50 family-friendly adventures and offers practical tips for traveling with kids.
Featured Destinations
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Bali, Indonesia: The family embraced local culture by volunteering with a foundation for orphans. Jessica recommends private villa rentals like Pandawa Villas for comfort and convenience.
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Cape Town, South Africa: With breathtaking landscapes and rich history, Jessica emphasizes the importance of teaching children about social issues encountered during their travels. A private ocean-view home on Clifton Beach offers ideal accommodation.
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Cappadocia, Turkey: Known for its unique landscapes and magical hot-air balloon rides, the family enjoyed the serene mornings filled with breathtaking views. Staying in cave hotels is a recommended experience.
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Chiang Mai, Thailand: During the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, the family participated in releasing lanterns, fostering connection and responsibility within their travels. Stay in luxury resorts or budget-friendly hotels.
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Chilean Patagonia: The picturesque Torres del Paine National Park offers guided family hikes and horseback riding, showcasing Chile’s diverse landscapes and hospitable people.
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Fiji: Renowned for its beautiful beaches and warm locals, Fijian hospitality stands out. Jessica provides a variety of accommodation options from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels.
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Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: A unique wildlife experience, boat charters provide a great way to explore the islands while accommodating families with young children.
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Greece: Featuring stunning historical sites and delectable cuisine, Greece offers diverse experiences suitable for both family vacations and romantic getaways.
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Kyoto, Japan: A blend of tradition and modernity, Kyoto is perfect for family exploration. The Ritz-Carlton and ryokans provide comfortable and unique accommodations.
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Marrakech, Morocco: With vibrant markets and beautiful desert landscapes, Marrakech offers an inspiring trip. Family-friendly accommodations like the Four Seasons ensure a relaxing stay.
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Queenstown, New Zealand: Known for its stunning views and adventure activities, Queenstown is a personal favorite of Jessica, ideal for family-friendly exploration.
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Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: Combining jungle and ocean for a rich adventure experience, Santa Teresa provides numerous outdoor activities perfect for families.
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Scottish Highlands: For a personal connection, Jessica enjoyed tracing her family roots in the scenic Scottish Highlands, with accommodations like the Highland Club Scotland.
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Tanzania: A safari experience presents an opportunity for families to connect with nature and wildlife. Jessica emphasizes the importance of family-friendly lodges.
Traveling with Babies
Jessica advises that the best time to travel with infants is between two and nine months, highlighting the importance of safety, flexibility, and comfort on the road. She shares invaluable tips on preparing for family travel, including accommodations with kid-friendly amenities and maintaining open communication.
Ultimately, the Bucket List Family offers insights into balancing adventure and family time while gaining new perspectives and experiences around the globe. Their journey emphasizes that the real adventure lies in the shared moments and resilience developed together.
