October Half Term
You may well be all set for the summer, whether you are planning to make your way to The Maldives, settle in Scotland, pop over the pond or wind your way down to the West Country, but have you thought about your October half term escape yet?
- 18th July 2018
You may well be all set for the summer, whether you are planning to make your way to The Maldives, settle in Scotland, pop over the pond or wind your way down to the West Country, but have you thought about your October half term escape yet?
If you are considering getting away, being ahead of the game can not only save you stress but money as well. Here are just some of our suggestions for family getaways in the Autumn…
South Africa
South Africa is a fantastic family adventure holiday destination with not only wildlife in abundance, but culture, history, natural wonders such as Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the Drakensburg Mountains and fine foods too, all combined with the comforts of modern hotels. Whilst you can enjoy a classic (importantly non-malarial) safari you will also find mountain biking, horse riding, bungee jumping, dolphin-watching and penguins on boulders beach.
Dubai
Dubai is an ideal destination for the family, the city does not only offer magnificent modern attractions but also provides some of the best family friendly hotels in the world. Offering a range of fantastic facilities including play areas, activity groups and family friendly swimming pools with exciting water slides and games there is something for everyone.
Outside the hotels the beach beckons with soft white sand and shallow, warm turquoise water. When sandcastle building has been exhausted, explore the souks, splash out in a water-park or take an excursion to the desert for some dune bashing and camel riding. Shopping, horse racing, camel racing, polo, scuba diving, dhow cruises, fishing and even skiing are also on offer and once the family have built up an appetite, the variety of dining options both in your hotel and beyond is hard to beat.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a fantastic holiday destination for older families and those looking for something a little less obvious than the likes of Mauritius. Of course you still have water sports a plenty, as well as picture perfect beaches, but it can also be an educating and fun experience to explore the islands’ pristine marine wildlife and coral reefs in addition to the islands interior and Stone Town.
On the water, windsurfing, kite-surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing trips, dolphin watching and diving are all in abundance. On land try exploring Stone Town, a colourful mix of African and Islamic cultures, take a photographic journey at dawn, a local craftsmanship tour or discover the islands infamous spices through culinary classes.
Seychelles
Families are attracted to the Seychelles by the soft, white sandy beaches and crystal clear warm waters along with excellent child care within many of the hotels. But there is more to these islands than just finding seashells and building sand castles, as children can learn about the resident nature populations as well enjoying the thrill of many of the adventures on offer.
Young children will enjoy interaction with wildlife, feeding local fish, catching crabs, guided island walks, glass bottom boat rides and more. Older children will enjoy hotel facilities such as tennis and beach football along with hiking and biking opportunities and a fantastic array of water sports such as fishing, canoeing. jet skiing and diving with the hundreds of brightly coloured reef fish, coral gardens and ship wrecks.
For an alternative family break think North East Brazil. With plenty of flights via Lisbon with TAP to Salvador and Natal, a delightful collection of experiences await.
Pipa is a low key sleepy town on the north east coast of Brazil, one hour south of Natal and with only a handful of hotels. Keep the family entertained with kite-surfing, sand buggies, boat trips, beautiful unspoilt beaches with marine turtles and dolphins not far off the coast.
Only a short drive from Salvador, the attractive beach village of Praia do Forte is home to the Tamar Turtle Sanctuary. Palm-lined beaches with sparkling white sands beckon a bucket and spade while castle ruins, canoeing, hiking and biking trails are all near by.
Spoil the children in a luxury beach hotel in Muscat or a little further down the coast, before heading out to a private luxury camp in the Wahiba Sands in order to explore the local culture and surroundings, meeting villagers, swimming in fresh water wadis and enjoying a spot of camel racing.
The Maldives make for the perfect family break for those who don’t like large hotels. Private islands boast private villas, and many go out of their way to cater for families, with kid’s clubs for children from the age of four, teen’s clubs and water sports galore. With the children occupied, Mum and Dad can enjoy the Spa, some diving or simply some peace. This is more than your average bucket and spade holiday.
Morocco is just a short hop from London yet a world away from our Western lives. A journey for the senses, for families who enjoy learning about different cultures Morocco hits the spot. Stay in characterful Riads or take comfort in one of luxury hotels in the Palmeraie of Marrakech, visit the mountains and the local Berbers and revel in the madness of the medinas.
Kenya
Yes, really! Kenya is just a little over 8 hours away, a short hop and skip out of Nairobi and you’re in the bush, the great plains of Maasai Mara or the lesser known Laikipia Plateau, just waiting to be explored and show off all they have to offer. Family safaris offer one of the most memorable and interactive holidays one can experience and with many of our lodges specialising in activities for children you can be sure this will be one trip you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Mauritius has long held fast as a family favourite. All singing all dancing hotels offer myriad of room combinations to assist with family sleeping arrangements while a majority of resorts offer inclusive child care for children from the age of four in addition to all the land and water activities one could ask for.
For more information on our ideas for family adventures or to book a holiday please call us +44 1608 638 777 or send us a message.