With the New Year well and truly embedded and 2016 becoming a distant memory, many of us struggle to find something to look forward to at this time of year. The one thing I never struggle with (and is on my mind since our last) is thoughts of our next family holiday. With so much emphasis on spending quality family time together, holidays are for some families the only time during the year that they get to ‘reconnect’. Whether you have a firm plan in mind of the type of holiday you want to book or can’t decide what or where you want to visit, don’t do anything until you’ve taken a look at my top holiday options.
To the Beach!
It can be really tricky to find a beach holiday suitable for the whole family particularly as your children’s ages need to be taken into account. A destination with a relatively short flight time should be considered and once there, amenities on the beach need to be readily accessible with access to shallow and safe water. Although there are many family friendly beaches at home not all of us are lucky enough to benefit from living in the warmer climates, so the best bet is to dust off your passports and opt for the guaranteed sunshine abroad.
Get Moving!
There are many holiday packages on offer where different activities can be incorporated into your family holiday abroad and you don’t necessarily need to be thinking ‘adrenaline junkie’! You may focus on one activity that the whole family can enjoy. As many of our children are turning into couch potatoes at home, family time can be the ideal opportunity to get them moving and motivated to try something new. In our family for example, every July, Wimbledon piques our interest in tennis. There are numerous destinations with tennis facilities and although your family may not have aspirations to be the next Andy Murray, professional coaching will be available either in group sessions or individually, tailored to your ability.
Walk this way!
Perhaps a choice for families with older children, a walking holiday is ideal for the whole family. It will allow you to embrace Mother Nature and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You may be a keen photographer in which case capturing stunning views and scenery will literally be at your fingertips with the added bonus that you’ve powered your way on foot to reach them! Whether you choose a walking tour or take the self-guided route, you and your family will benefit from the fresh air and exercise whilst spending valuable time together.
Pitch up!
Enjoying the great outdoors is the classic way to get back to nature. Camping comes in many different forms these days and it doesn’t mean that you have to be literally sleeping beneath the stars! A firm family favourite tried and tested over the years, camping remains one of the best-loved pastimes for children young and old! If sitting around a campfire and being without your home comforts doesn’t float your boat, don’t write it off just yet. Why not ‘glamp’ it up instead? Many high-end camp sites now offer the option to hire a yurt or bell tent which will incorporate its own ‘facilities’ where you can live at one with nature but also in the height of luxury.
Break for the City!
If you and your family are culture vultures, then a city break could be the perfect choice. With so many countries steeped in history the possibilities are endless. Whether its architecture, museums and galleries, sporting events or perhaps local cuisine you’re interested in, with a little research you’ll be able to find a destination tailored to meet your family’s expectations.