CHEAP cocktails, mango sticky rice for £1.65 and trained monkeys picking coconuts – Koh Samui is nothing like the White Lotus fantasy I expected.
And that’s what makes it so brilliant.
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The Big Buddha statue dominates the skylineCredit: GettyThe island’s secret beaches are a delightCredit: GettySnorkeling through school of Indo-pacific sergeant fish in the ocean in Ko Samui, ThailandCredit: Getty
Sure, there are luxury resorts and picture-perfect beaches, but the real Thailand is in the busy beach bars flogging happy-hour deals, tiny restaurants with garish tablecloths, and the constant thump of Thai boxing promotions from crackling loudspeakers.
I stayed at the Anantara Lawana — where The White Lotus cast filmed bar scenes in its Singing Bird Lounge.
The hotel has a grand entrance with a gong that you hit upon entering, a private beach scattered with sunbeds, an infinity pool and a peaceful spa.
Some rooms have swim-up pools and I admit I’ve become partial to an outdoor shower — as long as it isn’t raining. In a hotel this perfect, with everything at your fingertips, it could be tempting not to leave.
My guide, Nong, called it “coconut island” — the island produces 200 million a year, many plucked by trained monkeys.
Over the next few days, he made sure I saw as much of the island as possible, though the furry labourers remained elusive.
Nong told me there are around 25 temples on the island — some are big tourist draws, others are tucked away in smaller communities where locals worship.
Most read in Beach holidays
Cheerful Buddha
We travelled all over Koh Samui hunting down these brightly coloured shrines.
At Wat Phra Yai sits the Big Buddha — a 40ft statue built in 1972 that dominates the skyline and can be seen from miles away.
Close by is the beautiful Wat Plai Laem complex, which has the 18-armed Guanyin and a cheerful Buddha statue.
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, and you can drive around the ring road in about an hour — though you’d be rushing past some of the best bits.
We made lots of stops along the tour to take in the views.
The beaches lived up to expectations — Chaweng is one of the most popular — but there are many pockets of coast where you’ll find secret sandy spots and likely be the only people around.
We also visited the Elephant Kingdom Sanctuary, where 16 rescued elephants live out their days in comfort.
From a skywalk, I watched them splash in pools and demolish piles of bananas.
The Sun’s Alice Penwill loved the mango riceCredit: SuppliedTucked away along the streets are places serving up pad Thai and spicy tom yum soup, with cocktails for £2Credit: Supplied
Koh Samui also works as a jumping-off point for the surrounding islands.
We took a speedboat to Koh Nangyuan, a tiny protected marine park about 45 minutes away, where white sand connects three little peaks.
While most claimed their patch of beach, I went straight into the water.
The shallows are packed with coral, rainbow parrotfish and bright yellow butterflyfish — it’s the kind of place that justifies getting up early for a boat ride.
I also paid a visit to the northern side of the island , for a cooking class in Bo Phut.
I’m a disaster in the kitchen, so I was wary to get stuck in.
Pay a visit to the rescued elephantsCredit: GettyWalton Goggins and Aimee Lou Wood in The White LotusCredit: Alamy
But Chef Lat was enthusiastic and welcoming, and soon had me chopping lemongrass and frying prawns.
He demonstrated how to create a chicken and ginger curry, stir-fried prawns with yellow curry and a sweet, spicy papaya salad.
My new favourite, though is a massaman chicken curry. You eat everything you make, too.
Our days exploring the island were brilliant, but it was the street food that kept pulling me away from the White Lotus life back at the resort.
Tucked away along the streets are places serving up pad Thai and spicy tom yum soup, with cocktails for £2.
As for sweet treats, mango sticky rice is a revelation and, at £1.65 from street vendors, you’d be mad to miss it.
When the humidity becomes unbearable, coconut ice cream is a girl’s best friend.
When everything tastes this good and costs this little, the infinity pool can wait.
GO: KOH SAMUI
GETTING/STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ B&B at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in a Deluxe Lawana room starts from £1,236pp, including return flights from Gatwick on November 3 via Singapore with Singapore Airlines. See expedia.co.uk. OUT & ABOUT: All activities can be booked through the Expedia app. A six-hour private island tour is £68.94pp, the Samui Elephant Kingdom Ethical Sanctuary and Skywalk Tour is £65.20pp, a day trip to Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao by speedboat starts at £48.13pp and the Thai cooking class is from £56.01pp.
But there are loads of other week-long stays that are under £200 this winter as well.
If you fancy the Algarve, you can spend seven nights Muthu Clube Praia Da Oura (with Liverpool flights) for £149; at Natura Algarve Club for £159 each (with flights from London Stansted) or in Balai Golf Village for £189pp (from London Luton).
Currently sitting at 19C this week, it remains around this temperature even in December.
Or if you want to fly from Newcastle, spend seven nights at Pebbles Resort in Malta for £149 each, or from Birmingham, seven nights in the Solana Hotel and Spa for £169 each.
AS the UK descended into the depths of winter, a warmer holiday could be on the cards.
But trying to find the best deal while still catching some sun can be hard, especially if flying from your local airport.
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Here are some of the best holiday package deals for seven of the UK’s most popular airportsCredit: Alamy
However, TravelSupermarket has revealed the holiday destinations with the cheapest average package deals from seven of the UK’s most popular airports.
With deals for as little as £225 each – and that includes seven nights and return flights – here are some of the best spots to go from your nearest airport.
Newcastle Airport
When it comes to Brits travelling from Newcastle Airport, you’ll want to head to Fuerteventura.
With deals on average being around £339pp, the Spanish island is often seen as one of the more affordable in the Canaries.
Other cheap destinations include Malta, with deals from £388pp.
Leeds Airport
One of the most affordable winter sun breaks if flying from Leeds Airport is Agadir.
Morocco is often one of the best destinations for a winter holiday, being one of the warmest destinations without a long flight.
The average package deal price comes in at around £413pp, when flying to the Moroccan city from Leeds.
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited last winter, saying: “It’s affordableluxuryat its finest, and the perfect place for a last-minute holiday with my closest gal pal.
Manchester Airport
Spain comes out on top if you are travelling from Manchester Airport.
The Costa del Sol’s Benalmadena has the cheapest average holiday prices, with seven night breaks around £481.
Other cheap average deals include Lara in Turkey for £513pp, or Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife for £537pp.
Birmingham Airport
Fuerteventura comes out on top as the biggest bargain destination, this time when travelling from Birmingham Airport.
You can spend just £350pp on average for a seven night holiday there.
Other cheap destinations also include Malta for £356pp.
Costa del Sol’s Benalmadena has the cheapest package holidays for Brits travelling from Manchester AirportCredit: AlamyFuerteventura is often named one of the most affordable Canary Islands.Credit: Alamy
London Airport
If you can get to some of the airports in London, you will normally find the cheapest deals here due to then having more airlines in operation.
The biggest bargain on the list, you can fly to Olu Deniz in Turkey with seven nights just £225pp.
With highs of 16C, and beautiful sandy beaches, it is even nicknamed the Turquoise Coast for its bright blue seas.
Other cheap packages include Alayna, also in Turkey, for £281pp, or Hammamet in Tunisia for £315pp.
Liverpool Airport
Sousse in Tunisia is the cheapest winter sun spot if travelling from Liverpool, with average holiday packages for around £290pp.
SPAIN’S Costas have long been British holidaymakers’ top choice for a summer getaway.
But that’s by no means all this captivating country has to boast about.
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A chef goes large and makes a huge paellaCredit: Getty
Its rich culinary scene comes alive in winter, with the northern regions revelling in truffle season while the Asturias readies its cider houses for an influx of visitors.
Anna Viladot, of Vueling, says: “Social media has influenced how people choose where to travel. For many, the food comes first and the destination follows.”
Whether it’s hearty stews in Santiago de Compostela or seafood in Seville that takes your fancy, Sophie Swietochowski has a winter escape guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.
STEWS IN SEVILLE
TRADITIONALLY a peasant dish, Andalusian stews are some of the heartiest out there, served with hunks of meat and beans that have spent hours bubbling away in spices. Seville is a great city to sample it in and the traditional, family-run restaurants do it best.
Book a well-located base, like the 4* Porcel Torneo – which puts you within easy reach of all the best spots – and go for a basic, room-only package so you can sample grub from all the best places.
A week room-only at the 4* Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17Credit: Unknown
The modern, practical hotel is just a short walk from the Guadalquivir river and a 15-minute drive from the Royal Alcazar, a former royal palace that’s a must-see.
For a true flavour of the city, book on to a 2.5-hour Flavours of Andalusia food tour, which costs just £31 with tastings (for details see getyourguide.co.uk)
GO: A week room-only at the 4H Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Seville, are from €38.99 one way at vueling.com.
BODEGAS IN BARCELONA
IN summer, Barcelona has a glorious sandy beach flanked by laid-back bars, but in winter when the crowds disperse, you can enjoy the city’s magic in relative solitude, sipping wine in charming bodegas.
Bodega J Cala, in the Sant Marti district to the east of the centre, is one of the best.
The Moxy is a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobbyCredit: marriott.com
The vermouth really packs a punch and you can chase it down with tapas. Make sure to try the anchovies.
Calcots are another famous food in Barcelona and the Catalonia region in general. The long onions, which are sweet in flavour, are generally griddled on an open fire.
Roll yourself back to The Moxy, a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobby.
GO: Four nights’ room-only at Moxy Barcelona, right, is from £328pp, flying from Birmingham on February 22.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Barcelona, from €35.22 one way at vueling.com.
APPLES IN ASTURIAS
FANCY a cider? The mountainous region of Asturias will have you guzzling it back like juice.
The apples are harvested in autumn and the cider houses open for winter, serving small glasses that are meant to be knocked back in one hit.
The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourselfCredit: hoteles-silken.com
Holidaymakers can follow the official cider trail, which visits some famous houses to explain how the apple-flavoured booze is produced to create one of three kinds: Natural, newly-pressed or sparkling.
Oviedo, a city that sits between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay, is one of the more popular areas to stay in thanks to its many hotels.
The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourself, and has a restaurant serving hearty local dishes (perfect for after a day of cider-drinking).
GO: Seven nights’ room-only is from £265pp including flights from Stansted on January 26.
IF you like a side of architecture and culture with your dinner, look no further than Malaga.
The southern coastal resort is loved for its vibrant beaches where travellers can soak up 30C sunshine during the summer.
Casual del Mar Málaga is modest, but cosy and well-located and just a short walk from the portCredit: casualhoteles.com
The winters are just as decent, rarely dropping below 17C during the day.
Mackerel, especially horse mackerel (jurel), is a popular and affordable fish here, prepared in various ways such as fried or grilled.
Grilled sardines are popular, too, traditionally skewered into a sardine kebab, scattered with salt and then scorched on wooden embers that gives them a deep smokey flavour.
El Espigón de Pepe, set back from the beach front, is an excellent place to try them.
Stay at the modest, but cosy and well-located, Casual del Mar Málaga, right, a 3H hotel a short walk from the port.
GO: Seven nights’ room only costs from £349pp including flights from Luton on February 4.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Malaga, from €30.23 one way at vueling.com.
ARROZ IN ALICANTE
THE southern region of Alicante has so much more to it than action-packed beaches.
If you’re a fan of classic Spanish rice dishes (arroz) then the ones here, piled high with seafood and charred at the edges, won’t disappoint.
The modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante is a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back wintersCredit: Sercotel
Book a stay in the modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante, a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back winters thanks to the wellness centre with a whirlpool, Turkish bath and sauna.
It’s home to one of the best golf courses in the region, where holes boast epic views.
The resort has some excellent restaurants, whose menus are littered with classic local dishes.
But if you fancy venturing out for the evening, Taberna del Mar, 15 minutes away by cab, dishes up some of the best home-cooked rice dishes in the area.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Hotel Bonalba Alicante, right, is from £259pp including flights from Manchester on January 30.
WE watched from our balcony as the sunset bled into the sky, transforming its blue hues into a vibrant shade of pink.
We weren’t expecting a visitor, but a sudden arrival only made this serene moment more magical.
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A seagull flies over the stunning Algarvian coastlineCredit: GettyFlights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two and a half hoursCredit: GettyFor those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride awayCredit: Getty
From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we lay. He seemed to be enjoying the views as much as we were.
We weren’t shocked by his arrival — after all, this was just one of many incredible wildlife interactions my partner and I had here on Portugal’s south coast.
As well as spotting dragonflies and lizards roaming between the hotel’s ten swimming pools, we stumbled upon dozens of turtles sheltering in the shady streams while walking down to the beach one day.
The wildlife is certainly a highlight of a visit to the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, in Portugal’s Algarve.
But it’s not the main reason holidaymakers head here. The sprawling resort is famous for its 18-hole golf course, one of the most challenging in the country as well as one of the most scenic, sandwiched between a beach and a nature reserve.
We were not here to practise our putting, though. Instead, R&R was at the top of our agenda.
With a state-of-the-art gym, huge spa hub and a health foods cafe which specialises in zero waste food, we couldn’t have picked a more appropriate place for our weekend of wellness.
Better still, at this time of year, flights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two-and-a-half hours.
We’d opted for a garden view room which overlooked the pool and an abundance of tropical greenery.
The suites here, which start at a bargain £116 per night, come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and a washing machine.
There’s also a modern living area and large balcony complete with padded armchairs for soaking up the last of the afternoon rays with a glass of fizz.
With such extensive cooking facilities, you needn’t spend a penny on meals out if you don’t want to. But, with our focus on relaxation, the hotel’s buffet restaurant, In Season, became our go-to.
Ripe goodies
Daily breakfasts here were an exciting affair, with a fresh omelette station stealing the show. The fruit bar piled high with ripe goodies, freshly-pressed juices and a vast bread and pastry selection kept us more than satisfied until lunch.
The dinner options at In Season are limited to a small but excellent spread of buffet foods including a delicious freshly cooked tuna served in a salsa verde sauce and scorched BBQ chicken skewers.
The pool area at Residences SalgadosCredit: UnknownThe suites start at a bargain £116 per night and come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and washing machineCredit: Vasco Celio
While the options for vegetarians were more limited, the salad bar and cheese plates more than made up for it with every salad topping you could think of plus a variety of dressings.
If you get the chance, make sure to visit the Italian joint in the neighbouring hotel, too — but don’t forget to book in advance.
Elsewhere, within the resort, there’s an Indian restaurant, pizzeria and, my personal favourite, Green Artisan cafe.
Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.
This wellness restaurant was our favourite of the bunch, serving made-to-order tropical fruit smoothies, healthy snacks and home-baked cakes, all made with natural and nutritious ingredients.
This isn’t where the wellness ends, though. Complete with hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and ice cold bucket shower, the hotel’s spa is an ideal spot for whiling away the hours in blissful peace.
Entry isn’t automatically included for guests but it is well worth the additional 20 euros, with access from 9am until 7pm.
Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.
If you’re travelling with little ones, there’s a small splash pool and outdoor play area, as well as a kids’ club for children aged between four to 12, which costs an extra 45 euros a day.
And for those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride away.
While it’s known for its wild party scenes, the old town is a pleasant place to take a stroll with colourful cobbled streets flanked by teeny shops and markets.
We booked a sunset boat cruise via GetYourGuide (£40pp, getyourguide.co.uk) which took us along the coast on a small yacht, watching the sun dip slowly behind the horizon while we bobbed peacefully on the water.
For those with a more adventurous streak, the local tour site has everything from Jeep tours and horse riding to parasailing and day trips to Seville for really decent prices.
We preferred to spend most of our days at the beach by the hotel, though.
During peak season the hotel offers a shuttle service to the sea, but why risk missing out on the wildlife?
From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we layCredit: Supplied
The walk only takes about 20 minutes through the hotel’s gardens, following various streams down to the sea.
AFTER 26 years heading up The Sun’s travel team – while bringing up three children – there’s not a lot I don’t know about family holidays.
After hundreds of trips together, I’m sharing my guaranteed winners – from our favourite campsites to the best foreign cruises.
Lisa Minot has been The Sun’s Travel Editor for 26 years, during which time she’s taken her kids on hundreds of holidays across the worldCredit: SuppliedLisa says Port Aventura theme park resort on Spain’s Costa Dorada offers up the best of all worlds for familiesCredit: SUPPLIED
With three kids, I’ve had the same problems as anyone who doesn’t fit the ‘two adults, two kids’ rule that most traditional travel companies work within.
Finding ways around booking two separate rooms – or being in group rooms where us parents have to go to bed at 7pm with the babies – became a mission.
This fabulous theme park resort on Spain’s Costa Dorada offers up the best of all worlds for families.
You get the fun and excitement of thrill rides across six distinct worlds, plus great themed hotels and, of course, all that sizzling Mediterranean sunshine to enjoy.
There’s also a separate Ferrari World and a water park with 50,000sq metres of pools, lazy rivers, slides and rides, including King Khajuna, one of Europe’s tallest free-fall body slides.
The six on-site hotels are also themed and have a huge variety of rooms that sleep up to eight, ideal for big families.
And with a host of very well-priced restaurants in the park and at the hotels, it really is possible to have a traditional family summer holiday with the added benefit of all that theme park excitement.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the Mexican-themed Hotel El Paso, including unlimited access to PortAventura park and a day pass for Ferrari Land, is from £429pp, based on two adults and two children sharing.
Lisa’s son soaks up the rays on a beach in the south of FranceCredit: SuppliedEurocamp’s La Baume on the French Riviera near Frejus has a huge pool complex and easy access to the glitzy towns of St Tropez and CannesCredit: Eurocamp
EUROPEAN CAMPING
WITH three kids and a limited budget when they were young, camping specialists like Eurocamp and Siblu were the answer to our prayers.
With mobile homes, tents and even treehouses sleeping up to eight at campsites across Europe, we loaded the kids and as much luggage as we could squeeze into the car and drove south for guaranteed sunshine.
You can even break up the long journey with overnight camping stays en route.
A roof-box meant I could pack all the essentials from food and drinks, bedding and towels, to inflatables and toys, so we weren’t shelling out on holiday.
When we were young, having our own space was just perfect. We could wear the kids out by day in the park’s pools and on nearby beaches, and when they were tucked up in bed, we could relax with a glass of wine or beer on the verandah.
Favourites included Eurocamp’s La Baume on the French Riviera near Frejus with a huge pool complex and easy access to the glitzy towns of St Tropez and Cannes.
We always preferred heading south for the warmer weather, but other favourites for half-term holidays include Duinrell in South Holland, which comes with its own theme park and water park and La Croix de Vieux Pont, Berny Riviere, just an hour from Disneyland Paris and Park Asterix.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering for up to six at Eurocamp’s La Baume is from £464 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See eurocamp.co.uk. Seven nights’ self-catering at Siblu’s Lac des Reves is from £294 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See siblu.co.uk
ALTON TOWERS
Lisa loves the fact that Alton Towers has something for every age, including its weatherproof waterparkCredit: Alamy
Of course, no list of fabulous family holidays would be complete without the UK’s number one theme park. I love the fact that Alton Towers has something for every age.
The little ones will adore CBeebies land – watch out for the UK’s first Bluey ride coming in 2026.
All ages will love the fantastic water park between the Alton Towers and Splash Landings hotels, while tweens and teens will go straight for the thrill rides.
And mum? Well, I just love a stroll through the stunning grounds with quiet, landscaped gardens and tranquil lakes – they make you forget you’re even in a theme park!
For families like mine, the huge variety of accommodation makes stays a breeze.
Rooms at the hotels – including CBeebies Land Hotel – can sleep up to five with a double bed, bunk beds and a pull-out truckle bed. All have great theming that will keep the kids entertained.
The Woodland lodges are also great for larger families or those who want to bring the grandparents or team up with friends. To really push the boat out, the whimsical Treehouses sleep up to eight and come with their own hot tub.
But my favourite probably remains the original Alton Towers Hotel, with its epic Explorers theme that sees a magical balloon ship anchor the bar and restaurant space, giving parents the chance to relax with a drink while the kids are entertained.
GO: Overnight breaks at Alton Towers start from £42pp and include room, breakfast, parking and evening entertainment. See altontowers.com.
Lisa sailed with her kids on Disney Wonder, one of the line’s original ships and it was a treat for both adults and childrenCredit: Supplied
DISNEY CRUISE LINES
IT’S fair to say no one does family cruises quite like Disney – and Sun readers agree, voting them their favourite cruise line in our Sun Travel Awards.
I’ve sailed with my kids on Disney Wonder, one of the line’s original ships, and this was definitely a treat for both adults and children.
I loved the Art Deco vibes and the fact that the ship was first and foremost a beautiful, luxury ship with plenty of places to enjoy adult-only time.
The kids could not get enough of the fabulous kids’ facilities – it was hard to drag them away from the clubs – and endless opportunities to meet their favourite characters.
While cruising with Disney could never be seen as a cheap option, for those who want to experience the magic without the theme park slog, it is definitely worth every penny.
The latest Disney ship to set sail will be the Disney Destiny. As the cruise line has grown ever more popular, it has grown more confident in making its incredible entertainment legacy a bigger part of the ship.
With Destiny, there’s a fabulous Heroes and Villains theme alongside the chance to enjoy some West End-style entertainment and even a water coaster across the top deck that pays tribute to some of its most feared baddies.
Combining a three or four-night sailing on any of Disney’s ships with a stay in Orlando must surely be the ultimate family bucket list holiday.
And with the Disney Dream returning for multiple sailings from Southampton next year, there’s the chance to get on board for all the magic without the pricey flights.
Royal Caribbean was the first cruise Lisa took her whole family on, when her youngest was just 18 months oldCredit: sbw-photo
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
ROYAL Caribbean was the first cruise we did as a family when my youngest was just 18 months old, and from then on, we were hooked on life on the open sea.
As my kids have grown, so has Royal’s incredible roster of family-friendly ships. And with the launch of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, last year, they reached peak family fun.
The new Surfside neighbourhood is a game-changer for parents with small children, a stay-all-day area with Splashaway Bay aqua park, and Water’s Edge, a kid-friendly infinity pool.
And parents can relax while their kids play with casual family-friendly dining and places to grab a drink.
The area features a beach-themed carousel, arcade and playground and it’s close to the ship’s superb Adventure Ocean kids clubs.
Older kids will love Thrill Island, the largest water park at sea, with a host of slides as well as Crown’s Edge, the hybrid ropes course and thrill ride that dangles you 154ft above the ocean.
And Royal have spent just as much time designing cabins that work for families, including the Surfside Family Suites, with balconies overlooking the neighbourhood and a ‘kids’ nook’ with bunk beds and a split bathroom to make getting ready easier.
Topping it off with multiple family-friendly shows and activities as well as their family-friendly private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Royal is the perfect starting point for family cruises.
GO: Seven nights’ full-board on Icon of the Seas is from £534pp, based on two adults and two children sharing. Departs Miami on September 19, 2026 and calls at St Maarten, St Thomas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Lisa’s children play on the beach during a trip to Butlin’sCredit: SuppliedLisa doesn’t believe there’s a kid in the country who wouldn’t love the heady mix of family fun on offer at Butlin’sCredit: BUTLIN’S
BUTLIN’S MINEHEAD & BOGNOR
I don’t believe there’s a kid in the country who wouldn’t love the heady mix of family fun on offer at Butlin’s.
With live shows, perfect pools and even a traditional fairground, youngsters will find a host of great activities for all ages from tots to teens.
We loved our stay at the West Lakes chalets at Butlin’s Minehead. Great for multi-gen holidays or for families sharing, the light, bright chalets sleep up to eight.
Working with online parenting forum Mumsnet, they have a nod to the traditional Butlin’s chalet, but with all the modern touches for today’s families.
There’s an open-plan lounge and diner with a high-spec kitchen as well as an outdoor veranda or Juliet balcony.
Perfect for the pre-schoolers, breaks start from just £39, which works out to £2.50pp a night, and include live shows with Peppa Pig and her new baby sister, Mister Maker and Fireman Sam, splash zones and soft play areas as well as unlimited rides in the Little Stars Fairground.
There’s also another reason to visit in term time, the chance to enjoy all-inclusive breaks that include alcoholic drinks, coffee and three meals a day.
GO: Four-night all-inclusive midweek breaks are from £399 for two adults and two children. See bultins.com
With theme parks, desert adventures and even a snow slope to keep them busy, you’re guaranteed to find something in Dubai to delight every ageCredit: Alamy
DUBAI
It may be known as a mecca for reality TV stars and influencers, but Dubai is actually a brilliant destination to take the kids.
With theme parks, desert adventures and even a snow slope to keep them busy, you’re guaranteed to find something to delight every age.
A great option for families is the Centara Mirage Beach Resort with its five restaurants, beachfront pool, water park and kids clubs.
But little ones are also spoiled with their own sweet-themed spa with edible treatments, gaming zone and an outdoor playground.
My kids adored the chance to visit the original Kidzania attraction where kids can role-play 40 different jobs from firefighters and pilots to doctors and dentists.
But most magical was the trip into the desert, where after a thrilling 4×4 dune ride, we watched an amazing falconry display and enjoyed dinner after dark.
GO: Four nights’ B&B at the Centara Mirage Beach Resort is from £717pp including flights from Heathrow in June 2026. See onthebeach.co.uk
TUI’s flagship Holiday Village AQI hotel in Sarigerme, TurkeyCredit: TUI
The huge resort on the country’s west coast has everything from Stage Academy drama classes, Football Academies and a Go Ape-style high-ropes course, to overwater, inflatable obstacle courses, chocolate parties and archery.
Then there’s the massive amphitheatre with a packed nighttime itinerary, video arcade, bowling alley and seven pools – including a mini waterpark.
Little wonder the hotel’s own sandy beach, with bath-warm sea water was empty most days.
Breakfast was enormous, with every taste catered for and lunch by the pool was equally impressive, with a huge 40-dish mezze selection.
But the best meal was dinner, with themed nights, when the entire menu was changed — our favourites being the Turkish and Asian evenings. Plus a separate kitchen for kid-friendly (and often healthy) food.
And finally, the almost guaranteed sun.
With prices from £673pp next May, including all-inclusive board, a family room and flights from London Gatwick.
Billund in Denmark, home to Lego House, truly is the perfect family short breakCredit: Alamy
BILLUND, DENMARK
An action-packed weekend break just over an hour from the UK, with creativity, wildlife and thrill-seeking all wrapped in sounds like a unicorn of a holiday – but Billund in Denmark truly is the perfect family short break.
The town Lego built, carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen invented the famous building bricks in the 1940s from his workshop in the town, and many of the global company’s offices are still there.
Yes, the two million annual visitors usually go there for the awesome Legoland and Lego House – easily two full days of building and rollercoaster fun.
But there’s also Aquadome, Scandinavia’s biggest waterpark, and Wow Park (tickets from £26.50), a huge treetop adventure in woodland spanning the size of 40 football pitches.
The town is so small that almost everything is walkable, it’s super clean and practically designed with families in mind.
Plus the flights take just 1 hour and 35 minutes currently from London Gatwick, and 1hour and 41minutes from Edinburgh to Billund on the newest flight route launching next year.
Lisa’s lot thought they had hit the big time when we stayed at the gorgeous Hunters Lodges at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales
HUNTERS LODGES, CELTIC MANOR
IF it’s good enough for American presidents, it’s good enough for the kids!
My lot thought they had hit the big time when we stayed at the gorgeous Hunters Lodges at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales.
This is top-tier self-catering accommodation with each lodge sleeping up to eight in four stylish en-suite bedrooms.
There’s a vast open-plan kitchen, living, and dining room with vaulted ceilings and a wall of glass looking out onto open countryside. The outdoor hot tub was used constantly by both adults and kids.
A great option for kids as they get a bit older, the resort itself has some fantastic outdoor adventure activities, including adventure golf, laser combat, ropes courses and archery as well as a large adventure playground.
Explore the 2,000-acre estate’s family-friendly woodland trails on a free, self-guided treasure hunt.
When rain stops play, there’s swimming in the resort’s two health clubs as well as a games room and indoor play area.
The resort can offer babysitting services and a day nursery as well as kids’ clubs in the peak summer holidays, allowing parents time to enjoy the championship golf courses or spas.
GO: Two-night stays in a Hunters Lodge start from £636per lodge, for up to eight adults plus two additional children, including a round of Adventure Golf and 25per cent off all indoor and outdoor activities. See hunter-lodges.com.
Not only that, but according to Tripadvisor, Sandbanks was the ‘world’s most sustainable beach’ for 2024.
The beaches were measured by a sustainable data partner along with Tripadvisor traveller reviews – winners stand out for their commitments to sustainability including transport options, waste disposal and water quality.
You might have seen their home on TV when the pair made an appearance on Celebrity Gogglebox.
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Their son, Jamie Redknapp even named his clothing brand ‘Sandbanks’ after the area.
Other famous residents who have lived, or live, in Sandbanks include Celia Sawyer, J.R.R Tolkien, John Lennon and Liam Gallagher.
Celebrities like Harry Redknapp and his wife Sandra live in SandbanksCredit: AlamyHarry Redknapp and wife Sandra live in SandbanksCredit: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Sky
WANT to snap up a holiday next year for less? TUI Black Friday sale has something for every budget.
Whether you’re looking to book some New Year winter sun or next summer’s break, there are great deals to be had.
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Las Teresitas beach is walking distance from Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife
With TUI, you can bag Black Friday discount codes for offers that cover departure dates from January 1, 2026 to October 31, 2027.
Simply bookmark the Black Friday sales page at tui.co.uk, browse the discount codes, apply them to the trip of your choice and save big.
The world is your oyster – but where to go?
Long haul or short?
It’s not too late to treat yourself to a winter holiday in the New Year – TUI’s Black Friday discount vouchers can be used for last-minute trips.
Tempted by the thought of some some sunshine? While we shiver at home, Florida is enjoying average temperatures of 25C – so hit the beach, tour Miami or visit Orlando’s theme parks.
Or soak up the sun in Mexico, explore Mayan ruins, laze on powder-sand beaches and stay in an incredible seafront hotel.
The Canaries are always a hit, winter or summer, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria ever-reliable choices.
Agaete – in the north of Gran Canaria – has some great beaches and natural pools, plus a quaint old town with a walled botanical garden.
Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, known for its turquoise waters
Greece is the word
How about one of the Greek islands? Corfu is a lush picture of cypress trees, olive groves and sun-bleached towns.
Make sure to fit in a trip to Paradise Beach, reachable only by boat.
Elsewhere, Rhodes has a breathtaking mix of dazzling beaches and ancient ruins.
Take the ferry to tiny island of Symi, which has a beautiful harbour and a striking 15th-century monastery on the waterfront.
Spain’s Balearics always deliver. Cala Galdana – a small, colourful resort set in a lovely cove in southern Menorca – has lots to keep the family entertained.
And of course Ibiza’s party scene, bohemian vibes and gorgeous sand are rightly legendary.
The Caribbean shores of Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
How to shop the deals
Book your next break now with the TUI Black Friday discount code BLKFRI, available to use when you open a myTUI account online.
With a myTUI account you can save up to £300* per booking on a package – including thousands of family-friendly getaways – from January 2026 to October 2027.
Once you’re set up, having your details stored online allows you to book that break swiftly before the deal is snapped up and disappears.
And if you already have dates and destinations in mind, that helps to narrow your search for the best deals.
Sign up for weekly emails and you’ll receive discounts direct to your inbox.
When you shop the TUI Black Friday sale, you’ll find unbeatable bargains… so what are you waiting for?
*Save £300 per booking when you spend £3,500 with code BLKFRI; save £300per booking including children aged 2 and over on TUI package holidays. Offer excludes city destinations operated on third-party flights. Discount is valid on holidays departing between January 1, 2026 and October 31, 2027. Minimum spend is £3,500. Room upgrades and flight extras on TUI flying will count towards your minimum spend. However, other extras such as insurance andTUI Care Foundation donations do not count towards your minimum spend.Saving is based on a minimum of 2 adults sharing. Offer is valid until midnight on December 2, 2025 when logged into a myTUI account. Offer does not apply to accommodation only, flight only, cruise and ski bookings. Offer is valid for new bookings only when logged into a myTUI account and can only be redeemed once. Enter code BLKFRI in upper case when on the holiday payment page of the TUI website. See tui.co.uk or the relevant brochure for booking terms and conditions. Offer is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. This promotional code is non-transferable and not valid in conjunction with any other discount code.
WHEN it comes to taking a break in autumn, many Brits look to escape the worsening weather at home with a sun-soaked getaway.
So we’ve found the sunniest beach in Europe – and it’s just over four hours from the UK.
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The beach just over four hours away from the UK gets 10 hours of sunshine in low seasonCredit: AlamyIt’s also known for its rolling sand dunes and high temperaturesCredit: Alamy
Saga Holidays has discovered Europe’s sunniest beaches during the low season, and coming in the top spot is Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria.
During the months of November to April it has just over 10 hours of average daily sunshine, and average maximum highs of 22C.
Playa de Maspalomas is just over two miles long and the waters are ideal for swimming and paddling.
Visitors can sunbathe on the sandy shore, but be warned that the beach is known for being windy thanks to it being so flat.
It’s also well-known for its golden sand dunes that look like a desert – which are made from the island’s breeze which moves the sand to create the spectacular shapes.
The dunes even have its own ecosystem with plants, animals and a lagoon – here you might spot waterbirds and the native Maspalomas giant lizard.
Near the beach is the Maspalomas Lighthouse, which was built in 1861, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants for families to enjoy too.
Behind the front row of eateries on the promenade are even more places to grab a snack and lots of souvenir shops.
It was well-loved thanks to its family-friendly facilities, as well as miles of rolling sands as well as watersport zones and designated nudist areas.
Tourists can walk over to the historic lighthouse just off the beachCredit: Getty You can fly to Gran Canaria from £16 and it will take around four and a half hoursCredit: Alamy
To get to the sunny beach, you need to head to Gran Canaria which you can do from £16 for a one-way ticket with easyJet.
As a whole, the island of Gran Canaria is a favourite of Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski.
She said: “I paid a visit to Gran Canaria for the first time this year – and it did not disappoint.
“The volcanic island is only a four-hour (ish) flight from the UK, yet it offers balmy weather that is worlds apart from those April showers back home, reaching highs of up to 23C in spring.
“I’ll be honest, I barely left the resort during my visit, but there’s no harm in that. Book yourself a plush all-inclusive hotel and it’s simply impossible not to unwind when you’ve got pina coladas being delivered to your sunbed every hour.
“Got children? That’s what the kids clubs are for. My resort, Paradisus by Melia, had an excellent one for all ages from tiny tots up to teens.”
A PRETTY town on a island in Greece has opened a new €3.5million (£3million) marina to visitors.
The brand new marina in Nydri, which is located on the Ionian island of Lefkada, is set to attract more tourists, visitors and yacht owners to the area.
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A town on the island of Lefkada in Greece has a new £3million marinaCredit: AlamyIt is hoped that the new marina will bring more tourists to the islandCredit: Alamy
Having opened back in April, the marina has 73 berths for yachts up to 15 metres.
The marina was developed to make access to the Ionian islands better.
While there is a small bridge from the mainland which makes the island accessible via car, the new marina should help to improve nautical tourism.
Deputy Maritime Minister Stefanos Gkikas, stated: “This project marks a vital development that will foster prosperity not only in Nydri but across the entire island of Lefkada.”
He added that the upgrades make the destination competitive with the likes of Croatia, Montenegro and Albania.
He said: “It is crucial for the Ionian Islands to experience such significant growth in maritime tourism.”
The project was also part of a wider development plan to expand marine tourism in the islands.
Other projects include adding a 100-berth marina in Vassiliki.
Nydri itself is a pretty resort town to explore, just under 10 miles from the main town.
The town curves around the bay and has a few quaint taverns and restaurants to explore.
Head to the harbour to see boats bobbing up and down on the water.
Or venture to Dimosari Waterfalls – a popular hiking spot that leads to Dimosari Gorge and its waterfalls, which you can even swim in in the warmer months.
As a whole, this island of Lefkada is known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece‘ thanks to its exotic, Caribbean-like natural landscape.
On the island, visitors will find sprawling beaches, such as Porto Katsiki which is bookended by dramatic cliffs and has soft, golden sands.
One recent visitor said: “Great beautiful beach with beautiful blue water! The road after is already an experience and beautiful views!”
The island’s main town is also worth exploring – it features lots of little alleys, a long promenade and several restaurants and bars.
Throughout the town there are a number of landmarks worth exploring too, such as the Church of Pantokrator and the Church of Agioi Anargyroi.
Or head to a museum, such as the Phonograph Museum, the Folklore Museum or the Archaeological Museum.
The island is littered with different accommodation spots, meaning there is something for every type of holidaymaker.
For example, you could stay at Armeno Beach Hotel from £72 per night.
The hotel has a restaurant, with free breakfast included and beach access.
In the island’s main town, there are a number of narrow alleys to explore with restaurants, bars and shopsCredit: Alamy
Alternatively, head to Lefkas Hotel, which has a pool and is a two minute walk from the sea – it costs from £43 per night.
The best way to get to Lefkada is by flying into Aktion National Airport, which is about an hour away from Lefkada.
Some airlines fly seasonally to the airport – for example, you could fly with easyJet from London Gatwick to Aktion Airport in April 2026 for £171 return.
Alternatively, you can fly into Athens and drive, which takes around five hours.
Flights from the UK to Athens in December cost as little as £28 return from London, £61 return from Bristol and £71 return from Manchester.
MONDAY night is DJ night at Hotel Ibiza and the bar/lounge area is filled with ambient house tunes as pink neon lights flash in time with the beat.
But despite the name of the place, we’re nowhere near the Balearic Island.
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Les Deux Alpes in France is one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in EuropeCredit: AlamyEnjoy snowboarding on the resort’s perfect slopesCredit: Getty – Contributor
We’re in Les Deux Alpes in France, one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in Europe, and the terrace outside looks across to the glistening peaks of the Parc National des Ecrins.
It’s the week before Christmas and a group of us have brought our teenagers for some festive fun on the slopes.
They’re not yet old enough to venture out alone into the resort’s bars and clubs, but they’re still keen to do their own thing so the entertainment here is ticking all the teen boxes.
While we sit at the bar, chatting with barman Costas as he expertly mixes our pre-dinner drinks, the kids have gone downstairs again for another game of air hockey.
The huge basement games room, which also has ping-pong, table football, arcade games and a dozen or so sofas to laze on, is proving to be a big hit.
But it’s dinner time and I know the restaurant buffet will easily tempt away Freddie, our 15-year-old, because it is serving lasagne — his favourite dish — among a host of other options.
Like most teenage boys, Freddie is a big eater and as I watch him tuck into his third portion I feel relieved that we went for the all-inclusive option.
Feeding a growing lad is expensive at the best of times but particularly so in a ski resort.
Luckily, the Hotel Ibiza offers a super deal throughout the winter season, with kids under 18 staying free when sharing a room with their parents at the same board.
You can go for B&B or half- board, but families usually make the most of the kids-go-free offer and splash out on all-inclusive.
It makes sense, especially when you factor in the drinks.
Soft drinks, wine and beer with meals, and a selection of spirits for pre- and post-dinner drinks are part of the deal, and Costas keeps them coming, along with bowls of peanuts and tortilla chips, until 10pm.
After that, you can carry on drinking at your own expense, but you’ll probably want to be tucked up in bed by then, exhausted by a day’s activity in the mountain air.
Fun for all the family at the Hotel IbizaCredit: SuppliedThe kids enjoying a game of poolCredit: Supplied
It was early in the season but already the snow conditions were good.
The sun was shining (Les Deux Alpes boasts above-average sunshine too) and with heavy snow and white-outs forecast for later in the week, we were making the most of the blue skies.
We loved the Jandri Express, the resort’s sparkling new state-of-the-art cable car that whizzes you up to 3,200m in just 17 minutes, half the time the old gondola took.
It takes up to 32 people at a time — 24 seated and eight standing — and gives you plenty of time to adjust boots or have a snack.
One morning we joined First Tracks, where you accompany the Ski Patrollers, who prepare the slopes daily, spending two hours learning about what is involved.
It costs €22 (£19.40) per person, including breakfast at La Toura Restaurant, and can be booked through the tourist office.
Best of all, it means you get to go up before the lifts open to the public and can be the first to ski down.
With freshly-groomed slopes to ourselves, it’s when we got our best photos.
We also tried yoonering — a bit like sledging but on a seat 20cm above the ground, with your legs stretched out in front to act as brakes, gliding down and leaning left or right to turn. It was easy to get the hang of it and went surprisingly fast.
We all loved it.
‘QUIRKY AND FUN’
On a few evenings we stopped off for a beer or a vin chaud at one of the bars near the bottom of the Jandri, but most nights we got straight on the free shuttle bus for the five-minute hop home and did our après ski back at the hotel bar/lounge, enticed by the all- inclusive drinks and the chilled out, family-friendly vibe.
The hotel’s decor somehow manages to make it cosy and cool at the same time.
There’s a retro, musical theme, with prints of rock and pop legends along the corridors and coffee tables in the lounge, which double up as Monopoly boards or glass-topped exhibits of Barbies and Action Men.
It’s quirky and fun.
Our room, one of 60, was a two-bed family one, with balcony and bath.
Each room comes with bath robes and slippers for the walk down to the basement spa, with its sauna, steam room and indoor heated pool all free for guests.
The food was excellent for a three-star hotel, particularly the evening meals, when you could take a bowl and help yourself from the salad or soup bar, followed by an array of hot meat, fish and veggie dishes, plus a surprising amount of veggie sides, which is often lacking in ski hotels.
The desserts were so generous that even Freddie agreed to share.
After dinner we’d sink into the comfy lounge sofas en famille and play cards or games.
One night after dinner, two of the younger children played Christmas songs on the grand piano and we all joined in — even the teens!
With only a few more years before they’ll probably be off skiing with their mates, it was a moment to be cherished.
View of the alpine village and mountain rangeCredit: Getty
GO: LES DEUX ALPES
GETTING THERE: Fly to Lyon with easyJet from Gatwick, with fares from £87 return this December. See easyjet.com.
Shared transfer from Lyon to Les Deux Alpes costs from £214 in total. See skifrance.co.uk.
STAYING THERE: The 3* Hotel Ibiza’s kids-go-free offer means a three-night stay for four people sharing a duplex suite is from £684 in total for B&B or £1,064 in total for all-inclusive. Call 0203 475 4756 or visit skifrance.co.uk.
There will be a site for motorhomes and touring caravans as well and plenty of open space for seasonal fairs, markets, festivals and events.
There is even space for a new hotel.
Plans suggest there could be a splash pad, minigolf, a pump track, a skate park, a multi-use games area, a basketballcourt, pocket parks, fitness trails, climbing walls, community gardens and various play areas too.
All of these elements would all be linked by a network of paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
Bridgend County Borough Council, which is behind the project, also revealed that there has been a lot of interest in setting up activities ranging from surf schools and saunas, to beach-based fitness training, outdoor yoga classes and so on.
The nearby sand dune habitats at Rhych Point are set to be carefully managed and restored as well, so that they can be used for educational and leisure purposes.
Griffin Park will treble in size under the plan and will feature a new ‘green corridor’.
The ‘green corridor’ will loop back to the seafront, which will feature stepped coastal defences as part of a new promenade creating better access to Coney Beach and Sandy Bay.
For local residents, there will be 980 new homes and these structures will be no more than four stories high.
The project aims to make 50 per cent of the housing affordable.
There will be additional car parking as well.
John Spanswick, council leader said: “The final Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration masterplan represents a hugely significant piece of work which has been many years in the making.
“While complementing other local developments such as the ongoing multi-million refurbishment of the Grand Pavilion, it reflects our determination to strike the right balance between housing and community facilities, tourism and leisure, opportunities for enabling new businesses to thrive and more.”
There are also fun fair rides planned, as well as numerous community spacesCredit: Bridgend County Borough CouncilThe regeneration also includes other projects such as the £20million Grand Pavilion redevelopmentCredit: Alamy
Cabinet secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: “This masterplan marks a bold and exciting step forward for Porthcawl, reimagining the seafront to deliver over 900 homes and new attractions that celebrate the town’s heritage.
“By placing local people at the heart of regeneration, we are not only protecting the town’s unique character but also unlocking its full potential as a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit.”
The amusement park officially closed in October, following 107 years in operation.
However, the Welsh government purchased the site back in 2023 to make sure the land could be used for the council’s waterfront regeneration plans.
The news follows the closure of the popular attraction, Coney Beach Pleasure Park, last monthCredit: Bridgend County Borough Council
The waterfront regeneration also includes other projects in Porthcawl such as the £20million Grand Pavilion redevelopment, £9 million on sea defenses, the £3million Cosy Corner transformation – a play area with a large blue whale, climbing nets, slides and ladders.
The Grand Pavilion – an art deco theatre – will be extended, with a new glazed rooftop pavilion with views of the Bristol channel.
Inside, there will be a new studio theatre and bar.
Another £11million is being spent on other projects in the area.
Next, the regeneration project will undergo a pre-planning application consultation on the final proposals due to conclude in January 2026.
