Mother’s Day is right around the corner – 12^th May! Want to plan something special for your lovely mother? Skip the clichéd gifts this year and instead take her on a special getaway, one she deserves after everything she has done for you. Travelling with your mother as an adult is a great way to reconnect and a memorable way to thank her for all the years that she supported you by footing the cost. Escape from reality into paradise and show your mother all the beautiful places in the world she deserves to see! We’ve compiled a list of the best mother-daughter vacation destinations for a delightful time. Who knows, you might just come back having learnt a little bit more about the person who truly knows you best.

1. For a relaxing beach vacation – Maui, Hawaii

Everybody loves Maui, wonder why? No matter your age, nine or ninety, everyone can appreciate the beauty of this island paradise. Memories of a lifetime are sure to be made here while on your mother-daughter vacation.

Why not hike in a bamboo forest, drive on the road to Hana, go snorkelling with sea turtles at Maluaka Beach, catch the incredible sunrise at Haleakala National Park or learn more about the interesting history of Maui at a traditional luau? Or do what’s done best at Maui, sunbathing on the beach!

Mama’s Fish House is a local landmark in Maui and one that you shouldn’t miss the chance to dine at in the evening watching the sunset in brilliant shades. This is the perfect opportunity to get a photo as memorabilia of your travels.

2. For a wine & spa retreat – Calistoga, California

Napa Valley is undoubtedly the most talked about, but Calistoga is hands down the best place to stay in California wine country. Calistoga is only a short distance away from Napa, right at the base of Mount Saint Helen. When one thinks of a mother-daughter trip they think of iconic activities like spa days and sipping on Rosé and Calistoga has you covered.

There is no better way to celebrate the unique bond between a mother and a daughter than by taking a mud bath together. Some of the other spa treatment specialties in this Town are Volcanic ash and mineral baths. For a proper massage visit Calistoga Spa and Hot Springs. It isn’t an unusual sight to see people walking around town in spa flip-flops getting a myriad of treatments.

Kick off your shoes and stomp on some grapes at Grgich Hills Estate or go on a royal tour with a wine tasting at the Castello di Amorose. Travel to nearby Napa Valley and hop on the Wine Train – the Vista Dome is the most famous which will surely be one of the most memorable gourmet meals you’ll ever have along with impeccable wine.

3. For a picture-perfect trip: Tuscany, Italy

Calling all travellers is charming Tuscany with its stunning landscapes and lip-smacking food and wine. Take a bus or car ride from Florence to the countryside and avoid spending hours on end enroute.

Stay at a cosy bed and breakfast overlooking a vineyard and spend the day napping away to glory. A range of experiences can also be had at Tuscany such as exploring the close by medieval towns, a day trip to a winery or even whiling away time at an outdoor café.

4. For a bicycling adventure: Beaune, France

How about a mother-daughter cycling tour through Burgundy with exquisite wine and grand landscapes? An active vacation perfect for exploring the French countryside on a bicycle at your own pace stopping as you please to indulge in the world’s finest fermented grapes.

Your tour will start at the Place de la Liberation in the historical town of France, after which you will go past rolling vineyards and picturesque chateaus and arrive in the lovely town of Nuit-Saint-Georges. While breaking here you can sip on some Cru red wine made with Pinot Noir grapes and even go hunting for truffles at a local a farm.

The bicycle tour will end at Beaune, a fairy-tale town whose main square hosts an unforgettable Sunday market ever since the 13^th century.

5. For a plethora of experiences: Mexico City, Mexico

If you are in search of a destination that will provide you with the perfect blend of culture, history, art, shopping, and food, look no further because Mexico City is your answer.

Spend your days strolling through the historic city centre with a cathedral and impressive public square and visit museums and galleries or explore the floating city of Xochimilco. Mexico City is booming and has become a hot spot for foodies. Why not spend the day eating at the many famous places like Biko and Pujol?

6. For a shopping extravaganza: Dubai, UAE

No destination in the world can beat Dubai when it comes to luxury shopping. Dubai Mall is your one-stop shopping destination full of high-end boutique stores. Get ready to splurge on your mother.

Shopping is not the only thing Dubai has to offer, take her to see the majestic Dubai fountain or on a desert safari complete with a camel ride, traditional dinner and belly dancing!

7. For shamrocks and smiles: Ireland

Hasn’t Ireland always been top on your travel bucket list? This mother-daughter vacation will take you on a road trip from Dublin through Cork, Dingle, Killarney, and Galway. Delighting in the various sites along the way like Blarney Stone, Ring of Kerry and sheep roaming green hills in the countryside.

Take an easy hike to Charles Fort in Kinsale, spend the day at beautiful Killarney National Park, visit the historic sites of Dingle and finally head to Cliffs of Moher in Galway, where you can make merry in the numerous Irish pubs with playing local folk music.

8. For breathtaking views: Cape Town, South Africa

Looking for an epic vacation with your mother full of bonding? Cape Town is a fantastic choice! Hike or take a cable car up to the summit of Table Mountain for a view of the city down below.

Make time for the picture-perfect V & A waterfront filled with bars, restaurants, shops, and markets or simply spend the day lazing at the beach. Take home with you souvenirs from this unforgettable trip from Old Biscuit Mill which sells local artisanal products. You can also combine your Cape Town visit with a visit to Kruger National Park.

9. For an exotic city experience: Singapore

Singapore really does have it all for you and your mother from wildlife, amusement parks, and exotic experiences. Visit the Singapore Flyer and get a bird’s eye view of this magnificent city. A trip to Sentosa Island and Universal Studios will surely bring out the children in you.

One must not miss the chance to dine at the many incredible restaurants in Singapore. Markets and malls are umpteen to a dozen for those looking to do a bit of shopping as well.

10. For a trip steeped in history and spirituality: Cambodia

You won’t be able to deny the good vibes that emanate from Cambodia, leaving you and your mother in a state of peace and tranquillity. Cycle around Angkor Wat and drink palm juice. Journey in a river taxi and experience the country like a local.

Cambodia has an endless list of things one can partake in. Explore the smaller towns, jungles, and beaches and you and your mom will surely leave Cambodia with a wholesome experience.

No matter your choice, you and your mother and are sure to create lifelong memories on this trip that will not only strengthen your bond but also help you understand each other a little better. This is all the inspiration you need to start planning and start packing!