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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?

With just a handful of Winter Sun destinations open without quarantine either side, demand is soon going to outstrip supply and prices will soar.
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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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Family Life Travel

10 Easter Holiday Ideas For Families

With Easter falling early next year, it’s great news for skiers but warm weather in mainland Europe will certainly be quite a gamble. So, where do you go if you fancy some sun at that time of year?

Ed Burke from Seventy Ten Travel has shared all his experience and ideas with us today to bring so many ideas for the Easter holidays.

Seventy Ten Travel was started by Ed in 2015 having worked at t two large luxury holiday firms. It is is a dynamic and forward-thinking luxury tour operator, travel agency and concierge service. The difference is with Seventy Ten Travel is you are dealing directly with a small team. Ed and and his wife Rani started the business in 2015 later joined by business partner Rosie Kennedy a year later.

They are approved members of the Travel Trust Association, which means we uniquely offer 100% financial security on any experience you book which in this current erratic climate it is great to have this for peace of mind!

Family Road Trip and Safari to South Africa (best for children 4-14)

In my opinion South Africa is the best option for a first time family long haul adventure. With no jet lag, superb hotels and perfect late summer weather, you can really hit the ground running.

Cape Town the “Mother City” is full of interest for young and old, the little ones will enjoy the major sights like Table Mountain, The Waterfront, Cape Point and the Two Oceans Aquarium. From Cape Town, it’s about a 6 hour drive or a short flight to the Garden Route. You could stop for a night or two in Oudtshoorn the Ostrich Capital of the world (it will be worth it if Daddy takes an ostrich ride!).

On the Garden Route, you can have your fix of beach. But there is so much more; coastal forest walks in Tsitsikamma (you could try and spot the elusive Knysna Forrest Elephant), Ocean Cruises as well as Elephant, Wildcat, Bird and Monkey Sanctuaries. Now the kids are fully briefed on the animals, they can see them in the wild! There are many excellent family friendly malaria free lodges an easy drive from the Garden Route.

Tenerife (best for children 0-10)

Come Easter, you and the kids may well be exhausted! In which case you want an easy flight to warmer climes and an excellent family friendly hotel. Tenerife ticks all these boxes. It’s protected from the winds and the hotels are masters at creating an atmosphere that keeps everyone happy.

The best 2 options in Tenerife would be the Grand Hotel Bahia del Duque and The Abama, though they do charge a premium and will be very busy; the Roca Nivaria is a better value for money option. We also know some excellent options in Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.

Morocco (best for Children 4-14)

Early Spring is the best time to visit Morocco. It’s perfect if you want something culturally different, without going too off grid or sacrificing any luxury. There’s a host of superb family friendly hotels within the surrounds of Marrakech; many of which you needn’t leave for the week.

Though if you do, el-Fnaa square and the Souks will be an eye opening experience for the children. The Oasiria Water Park is a must for families of all ages. We can also arrange a day trip into the Atlas Mountains with lunch in a Berber Village, which is an incredible experience for young and old. If there are 2 or 3 families travelling together we know some superb catered villas.

Florida Road Trip (best for children 3-15)

I took my 3 and 6 year old on a road trip to Florida this summer. We had an amazing time but concluded it would be better weather wise over Easter or Christmas.

Regular direct flights make the travel easy and the jet lag is manageable. Miami, Disneyland, The Everglades and Gulf Coast are a must.

Read all about our Florida trip here

Oman (best for children 4-15)

In my opinion, Oman offers the most authentic and refined Middle Eastern experience. The friendly and laid back capital, Muscat, is easy to explore with little ones and there are some absolutely superb luxury family friendly hotels just up the coast.

The Gulf of Oman is rich in marine life (though April is a bit early for the turtle laying), so great for marine cruises, snorkeling or diving. If you’re looking for a mini-family adventure we can organise a desert camping trip or a luxurious night or two in the stunning Jabal Akhdar mountains.

Skiing – Saint Foy (best for children 3-12)

With snow already falling and an early Easter, 2018 promises to be a great year for Easter skiing. Our hot tip for families, especially first timers, is Saint Foy. This cute and quirky resort has great nursery slopes and excellent ski schools who magnify the fun.

There are some really lovely chalets and apartments, within a stone’s throw of the slopes, minimising the dreaded long walk or ski bus. For those with babies there are some excellent creches who will look after your loved one whist you hit the slopes.

Costa Rica (best for children 6-15)

If your children are curious; love nature and animals, then Costa Rica is just the ticket. For the curious there’s active volcanoes, indigenous tribes and a national sustainability blue-print that puts the world to shame.

For animal lovers: sloths, turtles, monkeys galore, toucans and even jaguars are common encounters. For nature lovers: there’s pristine rain and cloud forest, untouched beaches, winding rivers and tumbling waterfalls. All this comes with warm and welcoming people and excellent (very safe) food and drink. All in all the perfect enriching family destination.

Mauritius (best for children 0-15)

This idyllic Indian Ocean island has become somewhat of a luxury family hotspot over recent years. With a long history of first class hospitality, many of its iconic luxury hotels have embraced the needs of the modern family.

We are particularly excited about the reopening of the One&Only Le Saint Geran, after a full scale renovation. It’s always had the best natural location on the island and now will have the best facilities. Thanks to the extensive and excellent competition, the prices are very reasonable for a hotel of this standard.

Thailand (best for children 6-15 years)

April is the perfect time of year to visit Thailand. There are so many exciting options for a family holiday. You could do a simple beach break to Phuket, Krabi or the surrounding islands. (We would recommend escaping the hustle and bustle by going to one of the smaller islands, though this does involve a bit more travelling.)

Or you could add in a touch of adventure with a stay in the Khao Sok National Park just north of Phuket. Or to make it a trip of a lifetime, add in the awe inspiring Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Jet-lag can be a bit of an issue going out so we would recommend a minimum of 10 days to 2 weeks.

Cyprus (best for children 0-10)

If you want to stay within Europe and not travel too far, then the weather in Cyprus is normally quite a good bet. There are some excellent family friendly hotels which are excellent value for money if booked well in advance.

For beach lovers we would recommend the Anassa, whilst those with very young children may prefer the Almyra, much closer to Paphos, who offer a unique baby-go-lightly programme which covers any needs or requirements for travelling with very young children.

So many fantastic ideas, now to decide which one to book #wishfulthinking

Contact Ed on info@seventytentravel.com or call him on 020 8004 7937 and he will be able to help you with any ideas, itineraries or bookings at a fair price and a personal service.

Bon Voyage xx

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Travel

Essential Tips For a Child Friendly Holiday in Sri Lanka

Planning a family trip to Sri Lanka is a much more relaxed affair than in years gone by. A little thought is still required, though. Ailsa, the go-to-girl for all things family in Sri Lanka, has spent six years on the island with her two young daughters.

Here are her notes on travelling en famille…

ailsa

As Sri Lanka has developed, so has the option for holidaymakers to find most things they need while they travel. In more rural areas certain items are harder to find and with less English spoken, the language barrier can make it tricky.

What To Take :

I’d suggest all the usuals…sun tan lotion (though not overly-slopped as it damages the coral), mozzie spray, insect bite cream etc.

A small umbrella – good in the rain and the sun

Car seats (if you can fit one in) – aren’t too easily found so many drivers
won’t have them.

Disposable nappies – you can find them in most bigger supermarkets but the quality isn’t always great (powdered/formula milk is widely available)

How To Travel :

From Europe you have the direct/indirect dilemma – stopping in the Middle East or long-hauling it with Sri Lankan Airlines. Personally I always welcomed the chance to stretch the kids’ legs for a couple of hours mid-journey.

Once here you’ll likely be with a driver or, perhaps, jumping on the train. Just bear in mind that time and distance in Sri Lanka don’t correlate as you might imagine. Nip down the highway to Galle from Colombo and you’re done in an hour and a half. A ‘lesser’ journey between Colombo and Kandy can take you up to 4 hours. Well-stocked iPads are a (somewhat guilty) life-saver!

Train journeys, while wonderful, can be similarly lengthy. The most popular, from Kandy to Ella is stunning but you might do better to split it, either doing Kandy to Nanu Oya, or Nanu Oya to Ella, if you’re with young kids.

Sri Lanka

Where To Stay :

Set-ups obviously change from one place to the next so always worth checking what room
arrangements hotels can offer.

Ashburnham Estate has a great Family Room and two doubles that link privately which work well for families.

Sri Lanka

Gal Oya Lodge has a Villa with two bedrooms; again an ideal set-up.

Sri Lanka

Another favourite of ours, Coco Tangalla, has a really lovely two-room set up for families down by the beach.

Why House, near Thalpe, offers a beautiful suite – ante-room ideal for small children – from which parents can sip G&Ts on the terrace with kids asleep inside.

Sri Lanka

Best Beaches :

Sri Lanka’s beaches can look stunning but a surprising number have to be treated a little carefully when it comes to swimming.

The drop-off at Unawatana, near Galle, is a fair bit sharper than at, say, Mirissa.

Down south, the little beaches around Thalpe and Habaraduwa are gorgeous but can be
rocky in parts.

Weligama Bay is widely thought the best and safest beach for kids on that southern stretch. It’s a great spot for beginner surfers too.

At the right time of year, we’ve seen fewer places better for safe swimming than off Kalpitya on the west coast – try Palagama for starters.

Sri Lanka Beach

Enjoying The Food :

The locals love spicy food, but they are also very accommodating when catering for children. Most restaurants will serve simple food like omelettes, chips & vegetables etc. But for days when you are off the beaten track and it’s a struggle to be understood then the simple Sinhalese phrase “miris epa” (don’t add chili) is a really useful one, or “sarai (sa-rye) veddi epa” (don’t make it too spicy hot).

Sri Lanka

First Aid ‘Stuff’ :

Medical care is good in Sri Lanka – you won’t find many swanky GP clinics but access to very good doctors isn’t a problem. The island is now officially Malaria-free so Malarone, or anything similar, isn’t needed. In some parts, notably Colombo, Dengue Fever is a concern, though, so mozzie nets and spray in the late afternoon and evening are recommended.

Many Sri Lankans will also, of course, be very happy to recommend natural and Ayurvedic medicines. If you or the kids get too much sun then there are plenty of Aloe Vera plants to be found. In Sinhalese it’s “Kumarika” and if you ask anywhere you’re staying it’s likely they’ll have some in the garden and be very happy to provide it to soothe your or children’s sore skin. It’s the best!

For any more tips please email or visit www.toniclankacollection.com to book your family holiday to Sri Lanka.

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Travel

Family Friendly Holidays : Winter Sun

I doubt you are dreaming about winter sun this week (being hot and only September) but there are a few amonsgt us who know they have to book now to get the best deals at the most desirable locations in peak times, such as October half term and the Christmas holidays…

The lovely Amy at 360 Private Travel has put together 7 ‘winter sun’ holiday ideas for you and I. All you have to do is take your pick and give her a call (or the other way round), she is happy to answer any query!

CARLISLE BAY, ANTIGUA

– Luxury resort on Antigua’s south coast, set on a stunning white sand beach overlooking turquoise waters, surrounded by emerald green hills

– Very secluded and private, the perfect place to relax and unwind

– Excellent children’s club for kids aged 2 upwards

– Huge array of land and water based activities

– Spa

– 4 restaurants offering a variety of delicious dining options

– 8hr direct flight from UK

From £9400 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in December in a Balcony Suite, including flights and private transfers

RITZ CARLTON ABAMA, TENERIFE

– 5* Resort in a quiet and secluded part of Tenerife

– Huge beach and stunning island scenery

– Excellent children’s club for kids aged 4 upwards

– Plenty of activities for all ages, with interactive learning for children based on Land, Water, Culture and Environment

– Spa and excellent golf course

– Michelin Star dining

– 4hr direct flight from UK

From £7100 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights October half term in 2 connecting Deluxe Rooms, including flights and private transfers

SHANGRI-LA AL WAHA, OMAN

– Large secluded luxury resort set in a beautiful bay combining ocean and mountain views, but only a short drive from Muscat

– Large beach and pool complex

– Excellent children’s club for kids aged 4 upwards

– Plenty of outdoor and cultural activities for all ages, including exploring the souks and the desert landscapes

– Indulgent spa and dining to suit all tastes

– 7hr direct flight from UK

From £7175 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in October half term in a Family Room, including flights and private transfers

From £6175 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in December in a Family Room, including flights and private transfers

NIYAMA, MALDIVES

– Stunning private island resort set on a coral reef surrounded by crystal clear turquoise water

– Chilled out tropical island luxury

– Explorers Kids Club from 12 months upwards

– Lots of water based activities including sailing, scuba diving and snorkelling

– Top class dining and beach bars plus a waterside spa

– 13hr flight from UK, connecting in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

From £13,900 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in December in a Beach Suite with Pool, including flights and private transfers

THE ANDAMAN, LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

– Perfect tropical hideaway set in breath-taking surroundings

– Excellent for nature lovers as surrounded by unique wildlife in the national parks both on land and under the sea

– Young Explorers Kids Club from 4yrs upwards

– Hilltop spa and nearby 18 hole golf club

– Delicious Asian and western dining options

– 14hr flight from UK, connecting in Kuala Lumpur

From £4500 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in December in 2 connecting Deluxe Rooms, including flights and private transfers

FOUR SEASONS LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

– Luxurious family friendly beach resort

– Incredible setting on a white sand beach and soaring limestone cliffs

– Immaculate villas with plenty of space for all the family

– ‘Kids for All Seasons’ from 4yrs upwards

– Explore the nearby Geo Park by boat, spotting monkeys, birds and marine life

– Award winning spa and restaurants with excellent service throughout

– 14hr flight from UK, connecting in Kuala Lumpur

From £10,500 for 2 adults and 2 children. 7 nights in December in a Family Beach Villa, including flights and private transfers

FAMILY HOLIDAY TO SRI LANKA

– Sri Lanka is a wonderful family friendly destination – easy to travel around with welcoming locals, excellent hotels and a huge range of exciting adventures and experiences

– On arrival, spend your first night at The Wallawwa, just 15 minutes from the airport – tranquil oasis in a historical country house turned boutique hotel with friendly staff and delicious food

– Your private car and guide will drive you to the Cultural Triangle to stay at Ulagalla, one of the country’s most luxurious properties set in stunning countryside.. perfect for wildlife spotting and visiting the nearby cultural highlights such as Sigiriya and Anuradhapura

– Next stop is Taylors Hill in the tea hills near Kandy – simply stunning scenery and an opportunity to learn about the tea process as well as explore on foot or bike amongst the local villages and into the former royal city of Kandy

– Down to Yala, one of Sri Lanka’s national parks for a unique safari experience in this structured camp – spacious family tents and kids activities to help them learn about the natural environment. Plenty of opportunity for game drives to spot elephants, monkeys, crocodiles and the elusive leopards!

– Finish on the chilled out south coast at one of the most family friendly hotels, Why House – more like a private home with only a handful of rooms surrounding a huge pool set amongst the palm trees. Just a short stroll to one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka for a dip in the Indian Ocean.

– 10hr direct flight from the UK

From £11900 for 2 adults and 2 children. 14 nights in March or April, including flights and a private car and private guide.

Right, which one do you fancy? My pick is Sri Lanka, or perhaps The Maldives, but Antigua looks nice….

Amy 360 Travel

amy@360privatetravel.com

07703 784 468

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