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Recommendations for international trips with hard-to-please teenagers?

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Desislava_K
Joined:
26.10.2021
Posts: 1073
Topic Starter
30.01.2025 19:57
We are planning our next big family vacation for next summer, but I'm struggling to find a destination that will keep my 14 and 17-year-olds engaged. They aren't really into museums or long historical tours anymore, and they mostly want things that are 'Instagrammable' or offer some adventure. We’ve looked at Japan and Costa Rica, but I’m worried about the language barrier or it being too rugged. Has anyone had success with specific cities or countries where there's a good balance of shopping, cool food spots, and outdoor activities? I'd love to hear about places that didn't result in them spending the whole time on their phones in the hotel room.
13 replies in this topic
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jacek_bg
Joined:
28.01.2022
Posts: 1895
07.02.2025 04:12
Honestly, don't write off Japan just because of the language barrier. Tokyo is incredibly easy to navigate with Google Maps and most menus have pictures. My 16-year-old loved the themed cafes and the shopping in Shibuya.
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Stasi_B
Joined:
08.05.2020
Posts: 1949
21.02.2025 18:59
In reply to a previous post
I second the Japan suggestion! It is the definition of 'Instagrammable.' Just make sure you get a portable Wi-Fi device so they can post as they go.
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anonimen_bg
Joined:
01.01.2024
Posts: 2298
17.04.2025 11:47
Have you considered Iceland? It’s basically one giant photo op. If they like adventure, you can do glacier hiking or snorkeling between tectonic plates. It’s expensive, but everyone speaks perfect English.
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Maks_D
Joined:
15.04.2022
Posts: 2035
29.04.2025 13:57
In reply to a previous post
Iceland is cool, but if they want shopping and 'cool food spots' like the OP mentioned, it might be a bit too quiet outside of Reykjavik.
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Zuzi_P
Joined:
18.12.2019
Posts: 1385
01.06.2025 12:04
We took our teens to London and it was a massive hit. No language barrier, great thrift shopping in Brick Lane, and lots of 'aesthetic' cafes. Plus, they can take the Tube everywhere by themselves if they need space.
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SivaMishka
Joined:
08.04.2023
Posts: 618
10.06.2025 07:58
Seoul, South Korea is the way to go. It’s like a more futuristic version of Tokyo. The street food is amazing, and the skincare shopping is a dream for that age group.
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Kevi_M
Joined:
27.10.2021
Posts: 495
14.07.2025 15:56
Good luck, teenagers are a tough crowd lol. I feel your pain.
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agata_k
Joined:
01.04.2023
Posts: 1737
03.08.2025 16:15
We did Costa Rica last year. If you stay at a nice resort in La Fortuna, it isn't 'rugged' at all. You get the rainforest and ziplining but with a high-end pool and great Wi-Fi at the end of the day.
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Ameli_Z
Joined:
19.07.2020
Posts: 88
23.08.2025 02:39
I think the key is letting them choose one 'main' activity each day. If they have some skin in the game, they complain way less.
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Fabi_W
Joined:
23.05.2020
Posts: 1874
08.09.2025 03:56
In reply to a previous post
That's exactly what we did in Barcelona! My daughter chose a brunch spot she found on TikTok and my son chose a stadium tour. We actually had a great time.
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anonimen_bg
Joined:
18.03.2024
Posts: 792
22.10.2025 19:48
What about Singapore? It’s super clean, very safe, and everyone speaks English. The Gardens by the Bay looks like something out of Avatar-very Instagrammable.
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Kevi_M
Joined:
26.11.2024
Posts: 1976
04.12.2025 08:59
Berlin is another good one if they are into 'edgy' vibes. Lots of street art, cool vintage stores, and a very relaxed atmosphere.
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Yani_Z
Joined:
27.03.2021
Posts: 1197
09.03.2026 09:39
In reply to a previous post
Whatever you choose, just make sure the hotel has a gym or a really good pool. Sometimes they just need an hour to do their own thing away from the parents.

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