Holidays with children

Planning a family holiday is all about striking the perfect balance for every generation.  In the first of our 2023 series of family holiday blogs we have highlighted some of the best destinations, in our view, for happy holidays when travelling with younger children.

Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort, Lanzarote

Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel resort caters exceptionally well for both adults and children with a range of facilities and activities aimed at keeping both happy. The hotel is located on the balmy island of Lanzarote which enjoys a temperate climate year round making it an ideal spot for term time travels with younger children.

The hotel’s soft sandy beach is ideal too. The children’s park, Kikoland, offer 10,000 square metres of space filled with sporting facilities for children of all ages including the Cooky House which caters for babies and if you’re travelling with teens, they will have lots of fun hanging out at the Teeny Club.

Whilst the children are busy, adults can enjoy the Thalasso Spa Centre and a romantic dinner at one of the hotel’s eight restaurants.

St Peter’s Bay Resort, Barbados

St Peter’s Bay Resort is set on a tranquil beach on the north west coast of Barbados.  Each stylish beachfront residence offers a home away from home.  Here is a choice of one, two, three of five bedroom residences, perfect for families of all sizes.

The freshwater lagoon style pool is a draw throughout the day and a generous array of watersports includes kayaking and paddleboarding.  The children’s activity centre is fantastic.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Mexico

The all inclusive Grand Velas is an easy going and carefree spot to relax, play and unwind. It’s not just the pristine white beach or the sparkling infinity pool with waiter service that everyone will like.

There’s a magnificent 85 acres surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and lush Yucatán jungle to explore as well as a full programme of activities to suit every member of the family from beach volleyball to pilates, from bike tours to eco tours.

Of course, the baby to teens clubs will entertain the children if the adults are looking for some peace and quiet.

Porto Sani Halkidiki

Greece is a summer holiday dream when it comes to family travel.  With a flight time of just over 3 hours, mainland Greece, specifically Halkidiki in the north is a winner known for its mountainous landscape, fragrant pine forests, Blue Flag beaches and turquoise waters.

Porto Sani, Halkidiki overlooks Sani Marina and is just a short walk to the hotel’s two beaches.  Take advantage of the ‘Babe Club’ where trained staff will look after your little ones on the beach for up to 30 minutes at a time. Here are several academies for older children during the summer including a football academy for 5 to 14 year olds and dance academy for 4 to 17 year olds.

An enclave of low rise bungalows give the resort a village feel yet similar to a private club.  The wider Sani resort includes 23 restaurants and 13 bars so there is plenty of choice for a two week holiday.

Kili Safari, Kenya

An African safari is perceived as one of life’s ultimate travel experiences which is extremely special when enjoyed safely by children.  There are many lodges that will not take very young children for valid reasons however by carefully choosing a lodge dedicated to family safari travel, you can enjoy a really fantastic holiday.

We like Kili Safari in Kenya which offers a 5 night itinerary packed with interest and an exciting overview of Kenya and her wildlife.  The lodge can also offer exclusive safari vehicles for sole use of families at an additional charge.  Horseriding and cycling are also on offer.

Whilst game drives will involve some early starts, Amboseli is home to an abundance of mammals and over 400 species of birds, bound to inspire the youngest conservationist.  The plains allow the wandering of lions, cheetahs and vast herds of elephants and the backdrop of Kilimanjaro is stunning. During your stay you will venture into the world-famous Masai Mara, one of the world’s most enthralling wildlife theatres. The reserve plays host to countless species, including the ‘big five’ (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and the incredible spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration.

From the bush consider extending your family adventure to a beach destination such as Mombasa, Lamu, Zanzibar and Mauritius are available.

For more information on any of the destinations featured in this blog or to chat about your next family holiday, do get in touch or pop in and see us at 23 The Parade, Claygate.