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Travel

Dreaming Of A Holiday? Here’s Why You Need To Book Now

Most of us are resigned to not going away this winter. For the bold who are considering a holiday, I asked travel industry expert and founder of Seventy Ten Travel, Ed Burke, about the best ways to make this happen. Ed shared with me some advice (and some pretty sweet deals!) for those of us who desperate to get away and fill the Christmas or half-term holidays.

Why book now?

  1. With just a handful of Winter Sun destinations open without quarantine either side, demand is soon going to outstrip supply and prices will soar.
  2. There is currently unprecedented flexibility for flight and hotel bookings. The BA book with confidence guarantee gives you free changes or credit until April 2022. Many hotels are waiving deposits and allowing refunds if new restrictions apply. So you can book now with no financial risk or commitment.

 

At Seventy Ten Travel, we are offering some of the most flexible package booking terms in the country. Meaning you won’t have to pay anything until absolutely necessary and any payments are refundable should new travel restrictions come into place. And now is the time to book.

You can make plans with absolutely no financial risk, even now as things change all the time. We keep on top of all the risks and regulations and keep you updated all the way – saving you the stress.

If anything changes whilst you are away, we are on hand to sort everything out whilst you continue to enjoy your well-earned time away.

We can also help with obtaining Covid-19 tests which can be delivered to your home and Covid proof travel insurance!

You might also like: 10 Fashion Picks To Brighten Up Your Autumn

As Boris said, it will be a long winter, many of you will want to get away, but if you leave it to the last minute it will be difficult and most likely more expensive.

Many minds will now be turning to Christmas.

If “the rule of 6” is still in place then many families will not legally be able to get together in the UK… so why not arrange to meet up abroad. We can help with hotel and villa ideas in destinations both warm and cold.

So, where can you go this winter?

Direct Flight – Without Quarantine 

Caribbean

Antigua or St Lucia are currently the best options, both require negative PCR tests taken within 7 days of arrival into the country. In St Lucia stays are limited to Covid-19 Certified hotels which we have access to. There are some beautiful family-friendly resorts on both islands, two of our favourites below. I visited Antigua last year with my family and was lucky enough to stay at Carlisle Bay and Jumby Bay as well as The St James Club and Nonsuch Bay – all very special hotels in their own right. Read here for more info!

7 nights Blue Water Antigua, in a Cove Suite, all-inclusive with BA flights and transfers departing 12th December from £6,900 for a family of 4.  

7 nights Viceroy Sugar Beach, in a Luxury Villa, all-inclusive with BA flights and transfers departing 12th December from £10,900 for a family of 4. 

For a larger gathering, there are some excellent serviced villas we can offer!

Seychelles

Seychelles is now open to UK travellers with no quarantine measures either side on submission of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure. It’s a truly great option for families, a veritable “Garden of Eden” and will bring out the Attenborough in your children!

7 nights Constance Ephelia in a two-bedroom beach villa, B&B with BA flights and transfers departing 12th December from £9,950 for a family of 4. 

 

Madeira

The beautiful Portuguese island may not be front of mind for families, but it’s stunningly beautiful and culturally much more interesting than the Canaries. The four-hour flight from London is also very manageable with a mask and the temperatures are pleasant year-round. Reids Palace is the best hotel on the island with great kids facilities.

7 nights Belmond Reids Palace in connecting rooms, B&B with BA flights and transfers departing 12th December from £4,990 for a family of 4.  

Italy

This winter presents a unique opportunity for a winter city break. Italy is currently putting the rest of Europe to shame in its control of a 2nd wave. In normal times, Rome and Venice will be busy with tourists, particularly over the holidays. Many museums and attractions are open, though hardly needed as these cities are open-air museums in themselves.

You might also like: 12 ‘School Run’ Trainers To Keep Your Feet Comfy On The Move

Direct Flight – With Quarantine on return*

If you’re fortunate enough to be able to self-isolate for 14 days on your return home, there are some really great options available. We can point you in the right direction for appropriate travel insurance which will cover you even if the FCO advice advises against essential travel (which it will if you have to self isolate).

Maldives

We think it’s a little absurd the Maldives is not on the travel corridor list. It seems the perfect “Covid-19” destination. Nearly all rooms are standalone villas, perfect for isolation. There is no mixing between hotels and there are robust hygiene and safety procedures in place. BA are operating their direct service 3 days a week.

7 nights Lux South Ari Atoll all-inclusive in a Beach Villa, with BA flights and seaplane transfers departing 12th December from £10,400 for a family of 4.  

Oman

Oman is traditionally very popular for winter sun, thanks to balmy winter temperatures, relatively short flights and beautiful resort hotels. Oman has some pretty robust arrival procedures we can talk you through. This is made more bearable by some unprecedented special offers. The Shangri-La is a proven winner for families!

7 nights Shangri-La Al Bandar half-board in connecting rooms, with BA flights and transfers departing 12th December from £5,900 for a family of 4.

East Africa

There’s never been a better time for a safari. Huge crowds are now a thing of the past and the invaluable conservation work and anti-poaching is primarily funded through tourism.

Tailor-made Kenya or Tanzania Safari – starting from £10,000 for a family of 4

For more information, visit SeventyTenTravel.com

*correct as of 17/10/20


Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, baby and business recommendations.

Travel

Luxury Staycations The Whole Family Will Absolutely Love

I know we all deserve a change of scenery after being cooped up in the house for so long. I’ve picked out my favourite family getaways from around the UK and now all I can say is my next holiday can’t come around soon enough! From beachside retreats to the most glamorous of glamping trips, all of my picks have the Great British countryside in common.

Black​ Pig Retreats, Dorset

Tried and tested, Black Pig Retreats is perfect for those of us who like the idea of camping but really love a hot shower and comfy bed at the end of the day. The luxury Safari tents – complete with hot running water, a wood burning stoves, and king-sized beds – are the definition of glamping. I went along with the kids and have to say the whole family loved it. Check out my review here.

Find out more on BlackPigRetreats.com 

Home Farm Glamping, Hertfordshire

Another glamping option I recommend is Home Farm Glamping. It’s handy how close it is to London and you don’t even need a car to visit. That doesn’t mean you compromise on the great outdoors experience though, Home Farm is surrounded by 150 acres of countryside with nature trails, lakes and woodlands. I can almost smell the fresh air!

Find out more on HomeFarmGlamping.com

Wisteria House, Ticehurst

One worry about booking a week in the countryside is whether the kids will be entertained. Wisteria House makes my list because it gives you the best of both worlds; you’re out in the calm and beautiful Sussex countryside but Go Ape is three miles away and Hastings is just under twenty. A good mix of day trips and country walks will leave everyone feeling refreshed. Plus, the cottage has been newly (and fabulously) refurbished by Becky from Bricks & Stitches.

Find out more on AirBnB.co.uk

Sandways Beach House, Camber Sands

I love that this gorgeous house is minutes from the beach. As soon as you step through the door, you can crank down the gears into relax mode. The house sleeps ten, which is ideal for getting away with the whole extended family or teaming up with your friends with their children in tow. My favourite things about Sandways are the huge windows that let in so much light, the cosy fires from the log burner and the huge trampoline that should keep the kids entertained for hours (fingers crossed!!).

Find out more on CamberHolidayCottages.co.uk

Wittering Beach House, West Sussex

Walks, water sports and that wonderful West Sussex coastline: what more could we ask of a staycation? Wittering Beach House gives the whole family a chance to switch off from the outside world with its four bedrooms meaning there’s space for the grandparents too. I’m dreaming about wholesome family walks, splashing about in the sea and topping off each day relaxing in the garden with bbq’d food and a cool glass of wine.

Find out more on WitteringBeachHouse.co.uk

A Tree Tent at Pennard Hill Farm, Somerset 

Pennard Hill Farm literally takes glamping up a level with its Tree Tent. The glamorous pod, suspended between two trees, gives a unique twist to the camping experience. Step from the pod across a rope bridge and you’ll find a fire pit, kitchen, shower and loo. There’s no WiFi or electricity in the pod, so the only thing left to do is cosy up and relax in your treetop tent.

Find out more on PennardHillFarm.co.uk

Luxury Farm Cottage, Aberdeenshire 

The Scottish countryside is just beautiful and Torphins is a great place to blow away the cobwebs. This luxury farm cottage is located on a working farm, so you can truly switch off from the city and immerse yourself in country life. I’m also hopeful activities will be back to normal by the time the holidays come round as local things to do include whisky tasting, horse riding and castle tours. 

Find out more on AirBnB.co.uk

Luxury Highland Lodge, Aberdeenshire

Another Scottish gem, this lodge is ideal for getting away with all your family and friends (up to 20 people!). The scandi-chic interiors are just to die for, not to mention the sweeping vistas visible from each direction. I can just imagine going out on long hikes, cooking huge feasts and spending hours sitting by the fire.

Find out more on AirBnB.co.uk

The Boat Shed, Lymington 

I’m in love with the design of the boat shed, especially when it’s lit up at night with fairy lights… It has one bedroom and is just divine for a romantic escape or a tiny family break. Soak up the seaside with walks on the beach and wandering about this nautical village, before snuggling up in this lovely little hideaway. 

Find out more on NewForestEscapes.com

Coastguards Cottage, Isle of Wight  

For peace and quiet, a seaside cottage under a minute from the beach is exactly what’s needed and what Coastguards Cottage provides. This place sounds fantastic for families in summer with options to go kayaking, crabbing, birdwatching and paddleboarding.

Find out more on NewForestEscapes.com

The Farmhouse, Cotswolds

Fish & Pips are my favourite luxury escape experts, so I’ve picked out two of their places for my staycation list. First up is The Farmhouse, an absolutely sublime Cotswold-stone house. It has eight beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, a drawing room with open fires, a huge state-of-the-art kitchen and its own boules court.

Find out more on FishandPips.co.uk

The Barn, Suffolk 

The Barn is just perfect for a family getaway and only a couple of hours from London. Pull on your wellies and explore the countryside or blow away the cobwebs with a family bicycle ride. There’s also tennis, clay pigeon shooting, archery and paddleboarding on the lakes. Something to keep everyone entertained!

Find out more on FishAndPips.co.uk

Fashion Places Travel

Our Stay in Fish&Pips Luxury Chalet in Meribel

Happy New Year! Slightly stumped how to share one of the best weekends I have had in years, without sounding like a boastful txxxxr. Well, here goes! Within my usual style of sharing brilliant businesses and brands with you, it’s now time to turn my hand to a wonderful company, Fish&Pips who we went skiing with to Meribel Village before Christmas.

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To get you up to speed, Fish&Pips are two lovely ladies, who out of a shared love of special places to stay, friendly service and delicious, freshly prepared food have become the luxury escape experts for both chalet and Summer holidays.

Holly & Philippa

Otherwise known as Holly Chandler (the ‘Fish’!) and Philippa Hartley (the ‘Pips’!), they go back a long way and are life-long family friends.

After we’d finished university at Edinburgh and Brighton (respectively) it became clear that our visits to career advisers had told us nothing in comparison to what our next few seasons in the Alps would teach us. It’s what we love, and it’s what we do best. Through many years of working together in the Alps and holidaying with various chalet companies, we know what works, what doesn’t, what’s important and what isn’t.

MERIBEL VILLAGE

Alex and I were lucky enough to be invited to stay in one of their 13 different chalets in Meribel Village in the Three Valleys.  (FYI, they have 6 catered chalets, 6 self-catered and 1 serviced)

Meribel Village

I know, we couldn’t believe it either!

INFORMATIVE & FRIENDLY STAFF

We were met off the plane in Geneva (only 1.20hr flight from Gatwick) by one of the lovely Fish&Pips drivers who swiftly drove us up the mountain to our chalet.

LUCINDA IN THE SNOW

Despite driving in the dark, his confident driving put me at ease on the winding roads, which I must say is a rarity driving through mountainous regions.

On arrival we were greeted by chalet girl Carla, who was very welcoming and smiley.

Carla

All of their team members are welcoming and friendly whilst remaining professional and attentive. They have a wealth of local knowledge about the resort so were able to ask lots questions about the conditions, the resort and the chalet.

Speaking of the Chalet – wow. Alex and I actually got the giggles at how luxurious it was. Chalet Baita , one of their catered chalets, has recently been designed to a very high spec.

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The communal living area was cosy and inviting with beautiful views overlooking the pistes (and hot tub on the left!)

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Our bedroom was very ‘alpine chic’. There was also a noticeable amount of storage – something that is usually lacking when unpacking bulky ski stuff!

Master Bedroom

NEVER GO HUNGRY

After we freshened up, it was time for some bubbles and canapés.

Hand Picked Wine

Handmade from scratch by brilliant Chef George, The Mini Croque Madams were a taste sensation!!! Everything is sourced locally so have failed trying to recreate them at home!

Croque

All of their catered chalets have professionally trained chefs working in them. They have a partnership with The Abinger Cookery School and Adam Byatt who owns the Michelin starred Trinity Restaurant in Clapham Old Town.

Salmon

There’s no chance of going hungry, with a wide choice of breakfast options (7 breakfasts in total, of which 2 are continental) and each evening you have canapés followed by a 4 course meal for 6 of the nights that you stay.

That’s not forgetting the afternoon tea upon returning from skiing…

Afternoon Tea

and a cheeseboard each evening…

cheese board

and we were packed off with a home made energy bar each morning!

EXCELLENT SUPPLIERS & PARTNERS

Their pre-holiday care and concierge service is also what sets them apart. They work with an amazing bunch of suppliers and will recommended and help organize anything you might need during their stay from Ski School or childcare to transfers and massages.

I want to give a special mention to the guys at Marmalade Ski School After a few hours of private lessons with them, my style and confidence improved.

They are also wonderful with kids. Ok, my kids weren’t with us – I could just tell they would be great!  They can turn their hands to expert skiers who want to go off piste to beginners straight out of nappies.

Marmalade

(and well versed with jokers – as above!)

Slide Candy were a brilliant boutique company that fitted our boots and ski’s in the comfort of our chalet. I have never had such a comfortable feet on the slopes!

Meribel

TOP RESTAURANTS

It was lovely being in a resort with experts who knew where to go (and how to get there!)

I especially enjoyed our lunch on the piste and the fun company of the instructors and Fish&Pips ladies.

Lunch

APRES SKI

It was especially spoiling to have a long lazy lunch with no responsibilities  to deal with afterwards, like the usual picking the kids up from school… I ‘may’ have got a little carried away with the apres ski one or two nights on the Genepi but we were there for the opening nights of the Folie Douche and Lodge Du Village so needs must.

Lodge Du Village

ECO PLEDGE

Another notable aspect of Fish&Pips is their pledge to reduce their environmental impact reduce consumption and waste, educate others and plant more trees. They have joined forces with the amazing team at ‘One Tree At a Time’ to do so to help make the chalet industry greener and we want to set a template for others to follow.

SUMMER TOO!

Fish&Pips can also look after you for your summer holiday too. Stay in one of their hand-picked hotels or beautiful villas in Cyprus, Portugal, Croatia, Menorca and Mallorca and let them look after every detail of your holiday so no detail of your trip is left untouched.

Mallorca Villa Canacati

Now that would be something to look forward to!

For any information, pricing or just initial chat, contact the friendly team at Fish&Pips

Sales and Booking +44 (0) 1306 264005

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Reviews Services Travel

Family Transfers : Take The Hassle Out of Your Journey To & From The Airport

We have all had the dilemma when the taxi has arrived without the correct car seat you definitely ordered. Only one thing for it – to take your own, which is a massive inconvenience – who wants to lug that across continents? Family Transfers is a company that specialises in making your trip as hassle free as possible.

THE OUTWARD JOURNEY

We were lucky enough to review this service, starting in Hampshire at 4am at the beginning of the Easter Holidays. With an early flight booked and a way to drive to Stanstead it was brilliant to have a car to pick us up – with all the correct sized car seats for our three kids aged 8, 6 and 4.

Car Seats

A comfortable 8 seater arrived quietly in our drive ahead of schedule and Jorge our quiet and helpful driver leapt up to take the suitcases as soon as we appeared. We spaced the children out, seat belts on, radio off, perfect temperature and within half an hour all of us were asleep.

Packing

As they drive you straight to the drop off point there was no tassel of finding our designated parking space for the week.  Although I will hand it to Stanstead it is a well oiled machine and very organised, it is still quite far from the terminal to walk with kids – especially when it is so fresh first thing in the morning.

THE RETURN JOURNEY

On our return, Jorge had our flight details so met us off our slightly delayed flight.

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He immediately took control and loaded the bags onto a trolley (and maybe one or two kids!)

Trolly

It was very helpful to have an extra pair of hands when dealing with tired hyper kids. My kids seem to go potty in an airport! Jorge pushed the trolley all the way to the car that gave us extra hands to guide the kids.

Stanstead

He delivered us home safely without a hiccup and I can honestly say it was such a joy having the transfer both ends sorted.  It is just another area to tick off your list when you are travelling that you don’t have to worry about.

Now for the next holiday….

NOT JUST AIRPORTS

They aren’t limited to airports – ports and train stations too or you could even hire a car and driver for the day and do a sight-seeing tour.

familytransfers.com

Use LONDONMUMMY10 for 10% off all bookings. Valid until end of June.

 

Days Out Travel

A Lovely Countryside Stay : The Wellington Arms, Stratfield Turgis

After a few weeks back into the routine of clubs, parties and admin at the weekends – it’s nice to get away from it all and have a change of scene. The problem is – if you type into your search engine ‘family hotel near London’ quite a few appear. That’s why it’s good to have a personal recommendation and I have one for you!  The Wellington Arms in Stratfield Turgis, Hampshire was refurbished at the end of last year and has recently just opened up 25 new bedrooms too.  Situated less than a mile from the M4, Junction 11, so only an hour from Central London it is the perfect destination for a quick weekend in the countryside.

Wellington Arms

 

With stylish interiors and a plenty of space, there area few different areas to relax and eat, whether you would like formal dining, eat at the bar or even reserve your own area for a private event (they have a HUGE screen that would be fun to watch a match on!)

We had decided on having a large lunch as we had friends visit for drinks in the evening.  The sharing platters at the bar went down very well indeed!

The bedrooms were well equipped with a mini bar (very important) TV (a real treat to have the opportunity to watch daytime tv) and I especially loved the metro chic bathrooms with the huge slipper bath which I emerged myself in for the good part of an hour.

We stayed as a couple but as we are familiar with the area, I can highly recommend the Wellington Country Park as a lovely family day out. Situated close by and around a lake, there is an adventure playground, a dinosaur park, a magical train, jumping cushion, go carts and a lovely cafe.

If you are feeling really adventurous, book a lesson at Wellington Riding  It is a beautifully appointed well equipped equestrian centra, again very close to the Wellington Arms. Go for a coffee and watch a lesson at the indoor riding school or stock up on your tack in the wonderful equestrian shop.

wellington riding

Before you head back home, be sure to stock your cupboards, fridge and freezer  at the Wellington Farm Shop. The fresh produce is magnificent and it is one step above your normal farm shop, with a lovely interiors shop, cafe, playground and a few animals dotted around!

Wellington Farm Shop

wellingtonarmshampshire.co.uk

Photo Credits : Milly Fletcher

Travel

The Ultimate Tuscan Villa For All The Family

What does a family friendly villa actually mean – it may have ac cot and a high chair but is it actually suitable for the whole family – not just young kids?  Margherita Piliero, owner of La Pratola a stunning, classic Tuscan villa, has been anticipating the needs of families for years and has perfected the art of a stress free, relaxing home away from home.

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Margherita makes sure that in addition to groceries on arrival, breakfast delivery each day and in house chefs, they can pre-make organic baby food in individual portions, so you don’t have to bring a whole suitcase full of shop bought pouches (and therefore avoid your baby becoming addicted to them – yes that has happened to me after a holiday!)

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The villa is fully kitted out for all ages so children and adults are entertained from the moment they arrive. There is a heated pool, full sized pool table, football table, outdoor toys and games (badminton, cricket etc) plus jigsaw puzzles, board games, colouring books, lots films via Netflix and an extensive video library.  There is also a gym and most of the villa is fully air conditioned, so you can keep up your fitness (or get fit!) whilst on holiday.

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Even though we try not to work on holiday, these days it is unrealistic not to have to check the odd email or document and you really don’t want to be standing on top of a hill waving your phone around trying to find a signal!

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The Wifi at La Pratola is as good as you can find anywhere in Tuscany throughout the property and by the pool, plus there is an Apple Mac printer provided if you need it. For those wanting to give work a miss, the wifi enables you to stream music and dvds throughout.

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Safety is crucial especially for younger children so the property has locks on all windows and gated pool.

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Margherita says they can also make dinner in the evening so the parents can put kids to bed and relax in peace on terrace, and then be served food and wine by their accomplished chefs.  Alternatively there is a babysitting service if you wish to go out.

 

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From the villa there is so much to do for all ages, here is Margherita’s guide to venturing out around La Pratola.

BABIES & TODDLERS

There is a lovely park in Radda in Chianti about 20 minutes away, where you can grab an ice-cream and watch the kids play whilst having a drink at the Colle Bereto wine bar opposite.

5-8 YEARS

There are wonderful woods nearby to explore and build dens in or visit the lake.

At the villa, guests can make their own pasta or pizza – the chefs will fire up the pizza oven.

Pasta Making

9 – 12 YEARS

Visit the Armoury Museum in Monteriggioni  (about an hour away). Try on metal helmets and play with real swords.

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TEENS

There are fantastic guided cycling tours suitable for the whole family. You can take bikes onto the quiet ‘white roads’ of Chianti, with a support vehicle as back up.

Horse riding and go-karting is also very popular with their guests and can be easily arranged.

The museums in Florence are notorious and well worth a day trip (it is about an hour and a half’s drive).  She would suggest seeing the statue of David (can be done in under one hour), for a fashion oriented visit go to the very modern Gucci Garden Museum, or for the more academic visit the extensive map room in Palazzo Vecchio.

For more information or to book please go to www.lepratola.com or you can contact Margharita on direttore@lepratola.com or 07543 648271.

If you quote The London Mummy on booking you will receive a complimentary bottles of Chianti wine and Franciacorta Champagne on arrival!

Activities Services Travel

Start & End Your Family Getaway Without Breaking a Sweat

When planning a family holiday the main elements to consider are destination, accommodation and which flights or airline to choose.  However, how you start and end your trip are equally important.  Travelling with little ones can be very tiring and stressful not least because everything seems to take twice as long when you’re wrestling with luggage, pushchairs etc. as well as making sure the kids are happy and safe.  The team at Family Transfers will give you a recipe for a stress-free and happy start to your holiday.

How Can Family Transfers Help You?

Supply a family-friendly driver

All our drivers are chosen for their child-friendliness. Their main aim is to get families safely to their destination.  Some little ones don’t particularly relish even the most comfortable of car journeys and our drivers are totally understanding of this!

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Someone who can help with the bags

Our drivers understand that you only have two hands and those are best employed in keeping your children safe and happy, so they will help with the bags so you are free to tend to your excited little travellers.

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A spacious and comfortable vehicle
We only use large vehicles with plenty of space for the whole family and also the luggage…no need to feel crammed in!
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The correct car seats matched to your children’s age and size
Safety and comfort are key and never more so than with regards to the car seats we provide.
In our London fleet we only use Maxi Cosi car seats ranging in stages from 0-12 years.
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Reliable, on-time service
We will be there when we say we will and get you to your destination on time.  And we do all this so that you can enjoy your holiday from the moment you leave home!
Property Travel

Winter Holiday Ideas From Road Trips to Luxury

For many families, the main objective for a winter holiday is to escape the miserable weather and have some quality family time away from the humdrum of the daily grind.  Happy children equate to happy parents – so you want somewhere fun for them, whilst still being a bit spoiling for you – without breaking the bank! Ed from Seventy Ten Travel has very kindly collated some ideas for ‘winter’ holidays. If you are looking to get away at Christmas, Feb Half Term or Easter – this is for you!

Everyone’s idea of a holiday is different. For parents in need of some r&r, then a beach resort with inclusive activities for children is just the ticket.  Alternatively for families that like to keep on the move then a road trip might be a good way to go.  Many families are also looking to make travel an educational experience, be it learning about different cultures and religions or by bringing history to life. Finally, there are those sporty families that can’t sit still, needing to be kept active and busy up to the point of exhaustion.

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LUXURY BEACH RESORTS

We detail below our top resort picks in different corners of the world, this list is by no means exhaustive and we do have some more affordable options up our sleeve.   All of these are serviced by convenient direct flights, so are perfect for a 7 night escape….

Carlisle Bay, Antigua

With luxury family rooms directly in their own little section on the perfectly protected beach, Carlisle Bay is a world leader in stylish understated luxury. Ever popular with couples and families, everyone is guaranteed a happy time. The occasional all-inclusive offers are recommended.

Al Bustan, Muscat

Re-opening next month after a year long renovation, the new water based kids playground will provide endless entertainment for the little ones, whilst you can enjoy the state-of-the-art opulent surroundings, one of the best beaches in Muscat and a brand new water sports centre.

O&O Saint Geran, Mauritius

Having re-opened last year, we have had nothing but absolutely amazing feedback from families staying in this iconic hotel, with hands down the best location on the island.

Ritz-Carlton Abama, Tenerife

This top notch resort has all you could wish for, giving no reason to leave it’s welcoming confines.  Beautiful family friendly rooms, out of this world restaurants, more pools than you can shake a stick at and a small beach.

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FAMILY ROAD TRIP

Once the kids reach a certain age a good road trip opens up a new world of exciting options. Turn a holiday into an adventure that creates lifelong memories.

South Africa

The perfect Autumn, Winter or Easter family getaway.  To get the most out of this beautiful country, you really need to get out on the open road!

Fly directly into Cape Town and spend a couple of days exploring and learning in this magnificent city. Then get in your car and take the short drive up to the Winelands, where there is now a whole host of fun family activities on offer, from cycling to picnics, from wild swimming to lazy brunches.

Take the stunning drive, through the mountain passes of the Karoo to the quaint town of Oudtshoorn – the ostrich capital of the world. Then have some beach time on the Garden Route, before the highlight …  a big 5, malaria free safari in the Eastern Cape.

Sri Lanka

Although we wouldn’t advise driving yourself, the undoubted best way to explore this stunning and diverse country is by car with a driver. Careful route planning is key, as there are two distinct monsoon seasons. We pride ourselves in searching out the authentic experiences and avoiding the crowds.

Take a guided bike ride through a traditional village meeting locals who are genuinely glad to see you.  Walk through the tea fields and swim in hidden waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of the cultural triangle.  There’s the option of a safari in one of the country’s many wonderful National Parks and some time on the beach is a must.

The South West coast delivers stunning scenery, a wide range of hotel and villa options to suit all tastes and a plethora of activities including surfing, sailing, whale watching and not forgetting a bit of cricket too!

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INTREPID EXPLORERS

Northern Vietnam

If you’d prefer to travel on foot than by car then our Winter months are the perfect time of year to be trekking through the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam.

Ranging from light and easy day treks with a base at one of Sapa’s comfortable hotels or Eco lodges, to multi-day treks. Overnight stays on treks over a number of days will be in hill tribe villages.

Here you are always warmly welcomed; traditional dress is still worn, buffalo are farmed in the valleys and the mountainsides are terraced for miles with lush green rice paddies.  A truly authentic and exhilarating experience.

Rice fields on terraced of Mu Cang Chai, YenBai, Vietnam. Rice fields prepare the harvest at Northwest Vietnam.Vietnam landscapes.

Costa Rica

If you want to take a walk on the wild side, then why not explore the hugely varied but easily navigable ecosystems of Costa Rica. Crammed with wildlife, no wonder it’s the world’s premier eco-tourism destination.

Stay in authentic haciendas, white water raft into pristine rainforest camps, hike up active volcanos, zip-line through the cloud forests, spot Sloths in the Tortuguero and finish with some time on the beautiful Pacific coast where you can surf, snorkel, sail, and kayak – if you’re not too exhausted.

EDUCATIONAL HOLIDAYS

Cambodia

Being home to the world’s largest religious monument certainly does make Cambodia a strong contender for any family looking for an educational and cultural trip.

Not only are the temples of Angkor Wat absolutely fascinating -giving a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Khmer civilization, but they are also exciting as many are still surrounded by jungle and some are even in amongst the trees which makes for some great exploring!

Italy

The Winter months are actually a great time to visit the European cities of culture; especially February half term when crowds will be at a minimum.

Get the imagination flowing with stories of Gladiators and Centurions in Rome, then astound them with the beauty of the Renaissance in Florence, before finishing in Venice, a city that will never fail to intrigue even the most wondering minds.

Florence

ACTIVITY ENTHUSIASTS 

Skiing

If you’re thinking of a family skiing holiday this season, our first piece of advice would be to book as soon as possible – as prices will only get higher and availability even scarcer.

Ed visited Megeve late last season and was incredibly impressed with all the hotels and the general set up for families.  If the season is anything like the last it will be perfect all the way through to Easter, though in normal seasons it’s better over February half term.

If you’re looking at the Easter Holidays, it might be a safer bet to go slightly higher – somewhere like La Plagne, which is an excellent all round family resort with lots of great options for all budgets.

Father with his son skiing and enjoying the view of Swiss Alps, Hoch Ybrig, Switzerland, Europe.

New Zealand

Often referred to as the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand is a true active enthusiast’s paradise. With vast areas of beautiful National Park such as Fiordland in the very South of the country which is famous for their mighty Milford and Doubtful sounds.

To Abel Tasman at the North West tip of the South Island which hugs the rugged coastline and covers large forested areas with idyllic quiet coves and bays all to yourself.

You have so many options to either traverse by foot or get on your bike(!) both in the North and South Island; this is the ultimate time of year to travel to NZ so availability can be tight in the peak months, but there’s till space to be found.

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