Travel

After a picturesque speedboat ride through the Indian Ocean we arrived at an island oasis, Taj Coral Reef. The natural island is completely walkable and has a distinct feeling of being on your own private island. Our spacious and rustic beach villa came complete with a marble bathroom, outdoor shower, relaxing terrace and direct access to the sandy beach and clear blue waters. Service was impeccable at Taj Coral Reef from check-in and restaurants to the detailed turn down service. Mornings were spent indulging in a decadent breakfast and swimming in their refreshing infinity pools and afternoons were occupied with beach lazing and snorkeling. Daily feedings meant we saw an abundance of marine life everyday. The kids came in close contact with stingrays, reef sharks, and friendly herons. The food is a true highlight at Taj, with the Indian and local Maldivian flavours as our favourites. We had such full days and restful sleeps during and made so many unforgettable memories. A perfect getaway for couples or families seeking a restful and beautiful resort.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma is the perfect little island escape in the Maldives. After a short boat journey you’ll find yourself in a white sand beach paradise with all that you had hoped for during your stay. We loved our cozy beach house complete with picturesque views from the balcony, relaxed private space downstairs, and only a few steps to the clear blue waters and white sand. The best part about the resort is all the activities offered ensuring you’ll get the most out of the country’s beauty and marine life. You can sign up for anything from surf lessons to dolphin cruises, snorkelling tours, and even night fishing. Our kids loved the splash pool at the kids club and snorkelling with turtles alongside their expert guide. Sunsets are epic whether they’re enjoyed from the beach or the luxurious sunset cruise, and the food was delicious and varied for all palettes. We often get asked about affordability in the Maldives and I truly believe Holiday Inn Kandooma is one of the best options. There’s no shortage of postcard worthy beaches and you’ll see all the marine life you can imagine. A variety of room categories ensures you will find something within your budget and is very suitable for larger groups. Their dining packages are perfect for groups or families and you can even add the Stay Spirited package to enjoy wines and cocktails throughout your stay. A lively and friendly resort we would love to visit again.

We kicked off our month in the Maldives at the fun and idyllic Finolhu. The beautiful island boasts stunning villas over the turquoise water, long white sand beaches and epic views, as well as mouthwatering dining options. We were instantly in awe of our dreamy and luxurious water villa complete with a large relaxing deck, decadent bathroom, a plush oversized bed, and steps straight into the ocean. Long sunny days were spent exploring the marine life, lazing in the lively main pool, splashing in the clear blue water, and indulging in a variety of cuisines and cocktails. The kids couldn’t get enough of the family friendly Oceaneers Club, where children were entertained with a full schedule of activities. The friendly staff made sure they had an unforgettable time doing everything from snorkeling and cooking classes to meeting a real life mermaid. Highlights included the mouthwatering seafood at the resort’s Crab & Fish Shack, cocktails at sunset, the picturesque sandbar, and the friendly and accommodating staff. A Maldives resort that offers luxury and fun for everyone from couples and groups of friends to families big and small.

https://www.finolhu.com

Ski holidays are a new family favourite, and Ever is at the perfect age where’s she’s excited and eager to learn the sport. When we heard Club Med had new locations in the French Alps, we couldn’t resist checking it out. Club Med Grand Massif Samoens Morillon is easily accessible from Geneva Airport where we arrived and transfers are seamlessly arranged by the resort to ensure your comfortable and safe arrival. The scenic drive had us immediately falling in love with the alps and serene surroundings, and the grand and luxurious resort was equally impressive. As soon as we entered the vast lobby, with views of the sun setting behind the mountains, we knew we would have an amazing time. The always helpful and friendly staff ensured our check-in was seamless had quick, and were extremely informative about the all-inclusive system and layout of the resort. As a family with young children, we always value a comfortable and spacious room and ours was perfect. The two bedroom suite incorporated a modern and stylish master bedroom with access to a private outdoor space and views, while the kids room held two single beds and was playfully set up for siblings go share.

Although comfortable, we rarely found ourselves in the room as there is always so much to do on a Club Med holiday. Kids over the age of four can join the ”Mini Club” for free, which includes a full day of activities and free ski lessons. Ever put on skis for the first time that trip and within a few hours was confidently gliding down the bunny slope. Each instructor was patient and encouraging, and constantly kept us updated on her progress. The Mini Club staff also arrange plenty of indoor activities as an alternative to skiing or outside play at the fun playground. They can keep the children during meals for parents that are on the slopes all day and even put on a ”Princess Show” in the evenings.

As a family we loved swimming in the refreshing pool, with the mountains as a back drop and were truly spoilt with French fare at all their dining venues. The kids couldn’t get enough of the juicy burgers and wood-fired pizzas and Dan and I indulged in the vast cheese selection and amazing wine. Lift passes and ski lessons are also fully inclusive for adults and you can use the pass to ride the gondola into the quaint local town. Parents can also indulge in cocktails at the bar or a spa treatment while the kids are occupied, and there were so many stunning outdoor areas to play and admire the unforgettable scenery.

Our experience was enjoyable and busy throughout and we were able to truly bond as a family in a one of a kind place. Club Med always do a great job in keeping families of all ages happy and occupied and we could not have asked for more during our first ski getaway to the Alps.