Being in the military is rewarding but also stressful. Next time you have time to take vacation and get off base, take your family somewhere new. Whether you are based in Germany or South Carolina, there are many relaxing getaways near military bases. Here are Tripping.com’s 7 best military travel destinations for your next vacation.
Check Out These Military Vacation Destinations
1. Okinawa Island, Japan
If you’re stationed in Japan, consider going on vacation to Okinawa Island (unless you're there already!) Okinawa Island has an airport on it, called Naha Airport, which makes it easier to access than some of Japan’s other islands. On Okinawa Island, you can spend days relaxing on the gorgeous beaches. Okinawa Island is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you’re stationed on base in North Carolina, try taking a relaxing vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Spend some time outdoors with Downwind Sails Watersports. You can spend the day on the water by going kayaking, parasailing, or renting jet skis or sailboats. Try going on a Carolina Safari Jeep Tour, where you can relax and experience nature and history away from the crowds. Take your family to Family Kingdom, which is a large amusement park right by the water.
3. Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is located in the Bavarian Alps and is a great destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. Zugspitzplatt is the tallest mountain in Germany, at an impressive 2,962 meters. The area is known for being a top skiing destination in Europe during the winter, and is also a great place to go hiking if you are vacationing during the summer.
4. Jeju, South Korea
Jeju, South Korea is a beautiful place for a getaway and even has sea urchin soup. Jeju is known for its’ beaches, such as Hamdoek, Shinyang, and Jungmun Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take your family on a walk through Manjang Cave, which is a cave formed by cooling lava.
5. Galveston, Texas
If you’re stationed in or near Texas, try going to Galveston on your next vacation. With 32 miles of beaches, there’s plenty of opportunity for relaxation and escaping from the stresses of everyday life. Try going to Schlitterbhan Galveston Island Waterpark for a day to go on water rides. You can also take the family for a hike through Galveston Island State Park or on a tour through Moody Gardens.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Go on a unique family vacation while you are based in Europe. While in Prague, you can take your kids to the DinoPark to see life-sized models of dinosaurs and to the Prague Zoo. At the Prague Zoo, your kids can feed animals in the Children’s Zoo and explore the Valley of the Elephants and the Africa House. Another entertaining spot for kids is the Mirror Maze, which is a maze filled with fun mirrors that change your appearance.
7. Vianden, Luxembourg
Vianden, Luxembourg is a very family friendly city that isn’t too far from military bases throughout Europe. Travel to the Indian Forest, which is an adventure park in the midst of the forest. You can see a castle in the distance as you go along a skywalk or zip line. After viewing the castle from afar, check out the beautiful Chateau de Vianden in person.
This article was written by Colleen Regan.