When the Earth Shakes, We Rethink Our Travels: Safe, Inspiring Adventures Closer to Home
- boatcaradventures
- Apr 20
- 3 min read
In the early hours of this week, a powerful earthquake struck the South Pacific, prompting tsunami warnings across several island nations. While authorities have since lifted the alerts and damage remains under assessment, the natural disaster is a sharp reminder of how unpredictable long-haul travel can be.
For many families dreaming of faraway adventures, such events spark an important conversation: Where can we explore that's thrilling, educational, and safe—without traveling across the world?
The answer? Right here in the UK and across Europe.
Rediscovering Local Adventure Tourism
In the shadow of recent global events, British families are increasingly turning to unique family adventures that don’t require a 12-hour flight or complex travel insurance policies. The UK is a treasure trove of stunning coastlines, wild countryside, ancient landmarks, and hands-on experiences that bring history and nature to life.
From wild camping in Scotland’s Highlands to canal boat trips through the heart of England, and rugged beach hikes in Wales, the options are endless—and they’re all accessible by car.
For the more adventurous at heart, there's a growing trend of experiential travel. This means ditching the screen-time in favour of wind-in-your-hair, mud-on-your-boots kind of holidays. Think 4x4 overlanding, eco-camping with kids, or island hopping across Europe’s inland lakes and rivers. These aren’t just holidays—they’re unforgettable bonding moments for families who dare to do things differently.
From London to Lisbon, by Land and Water
After the South Pacific quake, many travellers are searching for “safe family destinations in Europe” or “alternative travel experiences near the UK.” One of the biggest perks of European travel is just how accessible it is. Families can set off from London and reach Amsterdam, the Black Forest, or the sunny shores of southern France—all within a few days’ drive.
Travel trends show that more families are skipping airport chaos and exploring Europe by road. And for those craving the road less travelled (and even the river less paddled), there’s a new movement growing across the UK and Europe—amphibious overland travel.
A few intrepid families are already hitting the road in rugged, water-ready expedition vehicles that turn ordinary road trips into full-blown expeditions. While not mainstream yet, these adventures are becoming popular on social media, with families showcasing their journeys through rivers, remote backcountry roads, and wild campsites most of us didn’t know existed.
Why Choose Europe for Your Next Family Getaway?
Europe isn’t just convenient—it’s full of diverse family travel destinations that balance culture, nature, and safety.
Croatia’s national parks are bursting with waterfalls and hiking trails ideal for kids.
The Dolomites in northern Italy offer a taste of Alpine adventure with family-friendly mountain huts.
The Netherlands is flat, bike-friendly, and packed with quirky family campsites.
Bulgaria’s wild side offers open landscapes, traditional villages, and hidden gems for off-the-beaten-track travellers.
Whether you're keen to swim in a glacial lake, sleep under the stars, or paddle down a peaceful river, the best adventures are closer than you think.
Building Resilience Through Travel
When natural disasters hit, we’re reminded of the fragile beauty of the world—and of the importance of sharing it with our children while we can. Travel isn't just about ticking places off a list; it’s about building resilience, empathy, and awareness in young minds.
That’s what next-gen family travel is all about.
Across the UK and Europe, a few pioneering families are leading the way in slow travel, adventure with kids, and eco-conscious exploring. They've swapped suitcases for rooftop tents, hotels for hammocks, and long airport queues for scenic detours along coastal roads.
While their journey may be powered by a rather special vehicle—half-boat, half-car—the heart of their mission is one any family can follow: to live curiously, travel boldly, and raise children who love the world and want to protect it.
Safe, Smart & Soulful
If the earthquake in the South Pacific has made you rethink your travel plans, maybe that’s a blessing in disguise. It might be the perfect time to try a UK glamping retreat, a French farmhouse escape, or even a European road trip adventure that lets your family reconnect without distractions.
After all, you don’t need to cross oceans to find adventure. Sometimes, the best journeys start just beyond your driveway.
So grab a map. Pack the kids. Load the snacks. Whether you're in a motorhome, campervan, or something a little more amphibious, there's a continent full of unforgettable memories waiting just around the corner.
Follow the stories of families redefining adventure and discovering Europe one road, river, and campsite at a time. It’s not just travel—it’s a lifestyle.
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