Happy Father’s Day!

To celebrate this special day, we asked the devoted dads on our team to share their most memorable family travel experiences.

Father’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the important role fathers play - not just through their support and guidance, but through the memories they help create.

And what better way to build memories than by exploring natural wonders, or enjoying a city break together?

Read on for travel tips from the dads of Brightsun Travel - and maybe even find some inspiration for your next family adventure!

Arizona, United States of America

I first visited the Grand Canyon during my university years, and the memory of it stayed with me. So, when the chance came to return - this time with my family - I wondered if it would feel the same. In truth, it was a different kind of joy. Watching my children’s faces light up as they took in one of the Seven Wonders of the World was a moment I’ll never forget. Would I go again? Absolutely - maybe next time with the grandchildren.

Deepak Nangla, Managing Director

The Netherlands

I went on an early Father’s Day treat with my two girls this year on a coaching holiday through the Netherlands during tulip season and honestly, it was one of the best trips we’ve ever had! We wandered through the Keukenhof Gardens, surrounded by endless tulips, took a relaxed canal cruise through Amsterdam, and explored brilliant spots like Madurodam and Zaanse Schans. Every day brought something new to discover, but what really made it special was just spending proper time together and having those little moments where you realise how lucky you are. These are the kind of travel memories I’ll hang onto forever.

Parul Jadav – Head of Ground Products 

The Maldives 

One of my most cherished memories as a father is from our family holiday in the Maldives. We were out on a boat when a pod of dolphins suddenly appeared, dancing through the water beside us. My daughter burst into laughter and squealed with excitement, her eyes wide with amazement. She jumped up and down, pointing and shouting, unable to contain her joy. I just watched her - completely in awe of how something so simple could light her up from the inside out.

Later that evening, as we walked along the beach, she couldn’t stop talking about the dolphins, replaying every second like it was the best day of her life. And maybe it was. For me, seeing the world through her eyes in that moment made the entire trip worth it. That kind of pure happiness... that’s what fatherhood is all about.

Hasan Mutlu – Commercial Director for Ireland 

Saudi Arabia, India, Europe & Beyond

Living and working in Saudi Arabia while my family were based in India was never easy emotionally. So, when they visited me each summer, even the simplest moments became deeply meaningful. Something as routine as an evening drive to pick up groceries or shop for clothes was often a joy to savour. On weekends, we made the most of our time together with early morning drives along the Corniche, stopping for breakfast with the sea as our backdrop - those moments were always a pleasure.

Over the years, we’ve also created beautiful memories together in Goa, the hill station of Taif in Saudi Arabia, and Dubai. More recently, we explored the historical and cultural richness of Italy - Rome, Pisa, and Florence - and the charm of Portugal, visiting Lisbon, Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima, Cascais, and Sintra. Each destination offered its own unique blend of culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes.

There are many places we’d love to return to, as we have only scratched the surface in some cities. We’re also eager to discover new destinations on our travel list - weekend getaway hotspots like Amsterdam, Budapest, Prague, Naples, Reykjavík, and Tallinn are all waiting to be explored!

“Come hail or snow – make the best of times!”

Danilo De Noronha – Travel Consultant 

Happy Father’s Day from all of us at Brightsun!