Family Holidays

The Great Family Escape: Making Memories That Stick (Not Just Sand!)

So, What's the Real Story with Family Holidays?

(Hint: It's noisy, messy, and absolutely the best thing ever!)

Forget those tranquil solo trips or romantic couple escapes for a second. Family holidays are a different beast altogether—a beautiful, chaotic, sticky-fingered adventure where the soundtrack is a mix of excited squeals, "Are we there yet?", and the occasional meltdown (sometimes yours, sometimes theirs!). It’s about swapping spreadsheets for sandcastles, deadlines for diving into the pool, and seeing the world anew through the wide, wondering eyes of your kids.


As a seasoned traveller (and someone who’s survived many a family trip!), I can tell you this: travelling with children isn't just about 'taking them with you'. It’s a chance to build a treasure chest of shared memories, face mini-adventures side-by-side, and teach them that the world is a big, amazing, wonderfully diverse place. It might require more snacks and military-level planning, but the rewards? They're immeasurable.

Why Braving the Airport with Buggies is Totally Worth It

It’s not just a holiday; it’s building your family’s adventure story, chapter by chapter.


Let’s be real, the thought of navigating airports, long journeys, and different time zones with kids can bring on a cold sweat. But pushing through that initial hurdle opens up a world of incredible experiences that enrich not just their lives, but yours too. Here’s why I passionately believe family holidays are the best investment you can make.

Unplugged Quality Time You Just Can't Get at Home

Life is busy. School runs, work, clubs, homework... real, uninterrupted family time can be rare. A holiday forces you to disconnect from the routine. Suddenly, you're eating every meal together, playing games, exploring side-by-side, and actually talking without the ping of a notification interrupting every five minutes. It's pure connection gold.

The World is the Best Classroom Ever

Forget textbooks! A family holiday brings geography, history, and culture to life. Trying new foods (even if it's just a different flavour of ice cream), hearing a new language, seeing a famous landmark they've only seen in pictures—these experiences stick. It builds curiosity, empathy, and a sense that the world is bigger and more exciting than their own backyard.

You're Crafting Those 'Remember When...' Moments

These trips are the building blocks of your family lore. The funny mishap with the foreign directions, the day they were brave enough to try snorkelling, the silly song you made up on a long car journey—these become the stories you laugh about around the dinner table for years to come. It’s about creating that shared history, the inside jokes that bond you together.

Ready for your family adventure?

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Hotel Parkview Resort

Antigua, West Indies

3.5 stars • 10/10 Exceptional
Dhaka (DAC) - Antigua (WI)
$999.99 $1999.99
Per Traveler
From Tue, Nov 26, Sat, Nov 30 (4 nights)
20% Off

Central plaza Resort

Kegalle, Sri Lanka

3.5 stars • 10/10 Exceptional
Dhaka (DAC) - Antigua (WI)
$999.99 $1999.99
Per Traveler
From Tue, Nov 26, Sat, Nov 30 (4 nights)
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The Eleven Hotel and Resort

Essaouira, Morocco

3.5 stars • 10/10 Exceptional
Dhaka (DAC) - Antigua (WI)
$999.99 $1999.99
Per Traveler
From Tue, Nov 26, Sat, Nov 30 (4 nights)
20% Off

Royal Beach Resort

Maldives, Indian Ocean

3.5 stars • 10/10 Exceptional
Dhaka (DAC) - Antigua (WI)
$999.99 $1999.99
Per Traveler
From Tue, Nov 26, Sat, Nov 30 (4 nights)

My Family-Tested, Kid-Approved Getaway Spots

Finding the perfect family destination is about balancing everyone's needs – sunshine for the grown-ups, fun for the kids, and maybe a decent coffee for sanity! Here are three places that consistently deliver smiles all around.

Majorca, Spain: The Crowd-Pleaser That Always Delivers

Don't knock the classic! Majorca is a family holiday superstar for a reason. Gorgeous, safe, sandy beaches perfect for little ones? Check. Family-friendly resorts with splash pools and kids' clubs? Check. But my insider tip: escape the main resorts for a day and drive up to the charming old towns like Pollença or Sóller. Ride the vintage wooden train, grab an ensaimada (local pastry), and show the kids a slice of real Spanish life beyond the bucket and spade.

Crete, Greece: Myths, Magic, and Mini-Adventures

Crete is brilliant because it offers so much variety. You've got stunning beaches (Elafonissi's pink sand!), fascinating Minoan history (Knossos Palace – tell them the Minotaur story!), and delicious, kid-friendly food. My family favourite? Stay near Chania with its beautiful Venetian harbour, but hire a car to explore the quieter western beaches or take a boat trip to see the turtles. It feels like a proper adventure, but with great facilities always nearby.

Orlando, Florida, USA: More Than Just a Mouse!

Yes, the theme parks are epic and a rite of passage for many families. But Orlando offers more! My tip: balance the park chaos with some Florida chill. Rent a villa with a private pool for essential downtime. Explore the amazing natural springs nearby (like Wekiwa Springs) where you can swim in crystal-clear water and kayak. And definitely check out ICON Park for amazing views and fun restaurants away from the main Disney/Universal bubble.

My Top 6 Sanity-Saving Secrets for Family Travel

01

Become a Master Snack-Packer

Never, ever underestimate the power of snacks. Pack more than you think you need. Familiar treats from home are comforting, prevent hangry meltdowns during travel delays, and save you a fortune on overpriced airport Pringles.

02

Involve the Kids in the Plan (Even a Little)

Let them choose one activity, research a fun fact about the destination, or pick which colour suitcase they want. Giving them a small sense of ownership gets them excited and more invested in the trip (and might reduce complaints!).

03

Embrace the Downtime – Don't Over-Schedule!

Kids (and adults!) get overwhelmed. Trying to cram in five activities before lunch is a recipe for disaster. Build in proper downtime – lazy mornings, afternoons by the pool, or just quiet time reading or playing. A relaxed pace is key.

04

Screen Time is Not the Enemy

Honestly! That tablet loaded with games or films can be your best friend on a long flight or during a grown-up dinner. Don't feel guilty. A bit of screen time that buys you peace and quiet is absolutely fine. You're on holiday!

05

Choose Your Base Wisely

Think about what works for your family. An apartment or villa gives you space, a kitchen (essential for fussy eaters or early breakfasts), and often a washing machine. A hotel might offer kids' clubs and easy entertainment. Consider location – being walking distance to a beach or playground is priceless.

06

It's Okay to Split Up Occasionally

If you have different interests (or energy levels!), it's perfectly fine to divide and conquer for an afternoon. One parent takes the thrill-seeker to the waterpark while the other takes the bookworm to a quiet café. Everyone gets what they want, and you regroup happier.

Go Make Those Memories!

Family holidays aren't always perfect Instagram moments. There will be bumps, tantrums, and maybe even lost teddy bears. But amidst the chaos, there's pure, unfiltered joy. It’s the shared laughter, the wide-eyed wonder, and the feeling of being completely connected as a family unit, exploring the world together. These are the days your kids (and you!) will remember forever. So pack the bags, grab the snacks, and go make those stories.