Family holidays are fabulous! They give us the chance to banish the daily routine and spend some quality time relaxing and reconnecting with those we love the most. But deciding where to go can be somewhat of a challenge. It can be tricky to find a location that ticks all the boxes; good food, good weather, activities for the kids, entertainment for you. The list is endless!
Whether you travel frequently as a family or you’re saving up for your big annual break; we’ve found some top destinations for you to consider in 2017. From long-haul havens to short-haul hotspots, we’ve got something for every budget. So where will you go?
1. Kerala, India
If a destination boasting balmy days, an exotic culture and a rich historical heritage appeal to you. Take the kids to Kerala in Southern India and prepare to be blown away. As well as golden beaches fringed with coconut trees; Kerala offers house-boat cruises along its legendary backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and tea farms to keep children entertained.
2. Majorca, Spain
A little closer to home lie the ever-popular Balearic Islands, drifting in cobalt-blue seas. Majorca is a popular option for families thanks to its beautiful scenery and idyllic beaches. Choose the quieter areas in the north and east of the island if you travel during peak times; avoiding some of the more notorious party hotspots of the south and you will find mouth-watering cuisine, picturesque towns and all the sun, sea and sand you could wish for.
3. The Algarve, Portugal
Another excellent, family-friendly beach destination that won’t break the bank. The Algarve offers resorts, hotels and private accommodation a-plenty with a wide range of attractions to keep all generations entertained. Whether water sports, golf or theme parks are more your style; you’ll find it here along with world-class food and ribbons of stunning coastline.
4. Florida, USA
Why not make 2017 the year that you grant every child’s greatest travel wish and take them to Florida, home of the mighty Disney World and Universal Studios? It’s certainly a trip that they’ll never forget. But the Sunshine State isn’t all Mickey, Minnie and the cast of Toy Story, there are wildlife and water-parks to discover as well as sugar-spun beaches and the glittering city of Miami.
5. Cancun, Mexico
A boost in direct flights have pushed Mexico into the limelight for the annual family holiday with the resort town of Cancun offering an excellent range of family-friendly restaurants and hotels right by dreamy Caribbean beaches. A Wet ‘n’ Wild waterpark as well as ancient Mayan ruins just a short drive away complete this perfect family holiday package – entertaining and educational!
6. Sri Lanka
If you’re looking for an exotic adventure that doesn’t break the bank, consider Sri Lanka with its regal temples, traditional villages and picturesque tea plantations. Whether you want to play in the Indian Ocean, explore the local culture or discover wildlife such as tigers and elephants, you’ll find what you’re looking for on this paradise island.
7. Dubai, UAE
Long renowned as a playground of luxury hotels and shopping malls, Dubai also offers a diverse range of entertainment to suit families of all ages. From world-class theme parks (nothing in Dubai is done by half) to desert safaris, from indoor ski resorts to mouth-watering food courts, this city has become a veritable wonderland for family fun.
8. Costa Rica, Central America
If your children love animals, consider a trip to Costa Rica, a natural paradise that offers volcanoes, waterfalls, jungle and all the wildlife that comes along with. With mischievous monkeys, beautiful birds and cuddly sloths to look out for as well as a variety of activities from rainforest canopy zip-lines to bathing in natural hot springs to choose from, there won’t be a dull moment.
9. Chamonix, France
One for the winter sports enthusiasts, the Alpine resort town of Chamonix is an excellent place to teach children how to ski, thanks to its five different beginner areas and inexpensive hourly tickets. Stay near the pedestrian district for the best access to family-friendly restaurants and all the conveniences of the resort.
10. The Lake District, UK
Even if money’s too tight to mention, a fun-filled family escape is still possible – particularly if you decide to explore one of the natural wonders you can find right on the doorstep here in the UK. A staycation in the Lake District offers a chance for you and the kids to get back to nature on long scenic walks and bike rides amongst breath-taking scenery. You can even bring along your furry four-legged family member, too!
Wherever you holiday as a family this year, be sure to book the right travel insurance policy for your trip. That way you know that even if a setback occurs, you and your loved ones are covered.