ChristingC

Set high on the lush hillside overlooking Koh Samui’s turquoise coastline, Samujana Villas always delivers a stay to remember. Returning for our third stay only reaffirmed why this remains one of our favourite luxury escapes in Thailand.

To celebrate Ever’s 12th birthday, we checked into Villa 30, an expansive five-bedroom residence designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living. The villa featured beautifully appointed ensuite bedrooms, generous entertaining spaces, a private cinema, fully equipped gym, and a stunning infinity pool that seemed to melt directly into the ocean views beyond.

What continues to set Samujana apart is the sense of space and privacy. Every corner of the villa was thoughtfully designed to embrace the panoramic sea vistas, from the oversized lounge framed by floor-to-ceiling glass to the tranquil terraces attached to each bedroom. Mornings began slowly with coffee overlooking the water, afternoons were spent poolside under the Samui sun, and evenings gathered around the terrace as the sky turned shades of gold and pink.

The service throughout our stay was exceptional. The team handled every detail with warmth and ease, arranging seamless transport, in-villa spa treatments, birthday surprises, and memorable dining experiences. Daily breakfast was beautifully presented each morning, while a private chef dinner on the open-air terrace became one of the highlights of the trip.

The kids especially loved the private cinema for cosy movie nights after long beach days, while we appreciated how effortlessly the villa balanced luxury with comfort for families travelling together.

For travellers seeking an elevated villa escape with breathtaking views, exceptional service, and complete privacy, Samujana remains one of Koh Samui’s most unforgettable stays.

Staying at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River offers a calm, design-forward retreat right in the heart of the city. Set along the river, the hotel blends Bangkok’s energy with a more relaxed, resort-style atmosphere. Open courtyards, water features and generous spacing create a sense of ease throughout, making it an ideal base when traveling as a family.

The design is a big part of what makes the hotel stand out. Created by Jean-Michel Gathy, the spaces are modern and polished but still warm and inviting. Natural light, layered textures and subtle Thai elements bring a softness that keeps everything approachable while still elevated.

We stayed in a family room, and it was one of those setups that just makes traveling easier yet decadent. There was plenty of space for all of us to spread out, and the kids’ tent was an instant hit. We loved the sumptuous bed, five star amenities, deep and calming bathtub, and personalized touches throughout our stay.

One of our favorite areas was the luxurious swimming pool. Set right along the river, it has a relaxed, resort-style atmosphere where you can easily spend an entire afternoon. Staff were attentive quick to settle us in the generous cabanas or sun loungers and offered refreshments throughout our stay.

Mornings were just as enjoyable, starting with a gourmet breakfast spread that caters well to both adults and kids. À la carte options ranged from heathy and light to classic Thai or decadent sweet treats.  I service was warm and friendly ensuring a smooth start to the day.

Getting around is also surprisingly easy thanks to the hotel’s complimentary boat, which runs to ICONSIAM and Sathorn Pier. It’s not only convenient, but also a great way to experience the river and see a different side of the city.

The team at the hotel is exactly what you’d expect from Four Seasons, warm, attentive and genuinely thoughtful without ever feeling over the top. The spa and fitness facilities featured modern equipment, offering a great balance of relaxation and wellness if you want to build that into your stay. Dining is a must for foodies ranging from award winning Cantonese cuisine to elevated Italian fare.

Overall, this is one of those hotels that really understands how to do luxury for families. It’s refined without being rigid, spacious without feeling impersonal, and designed in a way that makes traveling with kids seamless.

The Landmark Bangkok is one of those classic Bangkok stays that blends location, comfort and family-friendly flexibility with a polished, contemporary feel. Set right on Sukhumvit Road with the BTS Skytrain just steps away, it makes exploring the city incredibly easy, whether you are heading to shopping malls, restaurants or sightseeing across Bangkok. 

For families, the hotel works especially well thanks to its spacious suites and the option of connecting rooms. With 399 rooms and suites ranging from well-designed premium rooms to larger executive suites with separate living areas, there is plenty of space to spread out while still feeling comfortable and practical for travelling with kids. 

Dining is a highlight here, with multiple restaurants offering something for every mood. Atrium is perfect for relaxed buffet dining with a wide variety of international dishes, while Rib Room & Bar Steakhouse delivers a more elevated experience with city views and classic steakhouse favourites. 

The hotel also features a large outdoor swimming pool, ideal for downtime between exploring the city. For an added level of comfort, the Club Lounge offers panoramic skyline views, daily breakfast, all-day refreshments and evening cocktails, making it a great perk for families wanting a quieter space to unwind. 

As part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, The Landmark Bangkok is a reliable, well-rounded choice for a stylish and easy family stay in the heart of the city.  

The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok was an ideal base for our family during a busy holiday weekend in the city. Perfectly located, the hotel combines modern luxury amenities, impeccable service, and beautifully appointed suites. We stayed in the expansive Marigold Suite, which features a large lounge, a decadent bathroom, and a spacious master bedroom. There was more than enough room to accommodate extra beds for the children, and we especially appreciated the thoughtful personalised touches such as monogrammed slippers, kid friendly welcome treats, and a carefully curated turndown service each evening.

We highly recommend upgrading to Club Level for access to the hotel’s Club Lounge. Alongside panoramic city views, guests can enjoy warm, attentive service, daily activities, and a calm, private space to unwind. It became our go to for a relaxed breakfast, light lunch, or evening cocktail hour, where champagne, light bites, and sunset views made for an effortless end to the day.

Some of the highlights of our stay included afternoons spent by the swimming pool, which felt like a peaceful escape above the city, as well as a beautiful sunset ritual that allowed our children to experience a touch of local culture while taking in the skyline. Dinner at Lily’s at The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok was another standout, offering elevated cuisine prepared with fresh Thai ingredients in a refined yet relaxed setting.

The fitness centre and spa quickly became part of my daily routine, providing a well equipped space to keep up with workouts, followed by time to unwind in the sauna.

Despite being close to Bangkok’s main sights and shopping districts, the hotel still feels like a true sanctuary in the heart of the city. Every detail is delivered to a five star standard, and the team ensured not just a seamless stay, but a genuinely memorable one for our family.

For a tailored family getaway designed around your dreams, reach out to me at christing.chang@fora.travel. I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel, dedicated to crafting bespoke itineraries that combine comfort, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for every member of your family. Let me help you turn your next vacation into a seamless, extraordinary journey.

Our family look forward to our trip to Hanazono Niseko every year, drawn by its effortless blend of world class skiing and genuinely family friendly atmosphere. As part of the wider Niseko United area, Hanazono stands out for its modern infrastructure, including fast, comfortable lifts and an efficient gondola that makes getting around with children smooth and stress free.

The slopes are beautifully groomed and cater to all abilities, from gentle beginner runs to more challenging terrain, making it ideal for families with mixed skill levels. Beyond skiing, Hanazono offers a wonderful range of activities that keep everyone entertained. Snow tubing is always a highlight for our family, while simple touches like marshmallow roasting create those memorable après ski moments that children talk about long after the trip ends.

Adding to the appeal is the presence of the luxurious Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, which elevates the entire experience. With its ski in ski out convenience, exceptional dining, and beautifully designed spaces, it provides the perfect base for a refined yet relaxed winter escape. For us, Hanazono truly delivers the ultimate luxury family ski getaway.

Chalet Ivy Weiss is an exciting new addition to the Niseko luxury scene, and having previously stayed at Chalet Ivy properties, we were genuinely looking forward to experiencing this latest opening. Set beside Hanazono, the location is perfect for families, with easy access to some of Niseko’s best skiing while offering a quieter, more relaxed setting away from the busier Hirafu area.

Our Corner Suite was beautifully designed, blending contemporary alpine elegance with thoughtful functionality. The layout worked especially well for family travel, with a separate lounge and dining area that made it easy to unwind after a day on the slopes. For those travelling with children, the option to connect to a Premium Room is ideal, creating a spacious yet practical setup that balances privacy and togetherness.

Dining at Chalet Ivy Weiss is a highlight in itself. Breakfast is served as a refined set menu with both Japanese and Western options, thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. In the evening, the omakase experience is not to be missed, showcasing the chef’s creativity and deep respect for seasonal Hokkaido ingredients, each dish crafted with precision and care.

Beyond the suites and dining, the property offers a full wellness experience. The onsen provides a calming space to relax, while the spa and fitness centre add to the sense of restoration. With attentive service, ski valet convenience, and a strong focus on comfort, Chalet Ivy Weiss delivers a seamless and memorable stay for families and couples alike.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Snow-filled days and slow, cozy evenings at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono feel like stepping into a perfectly curated winter dream. Set in the heart of Hanazono Niseko, the hotel offers true ski-in ski-out access to some of the most pristine powder in the world, making it an effortless choice for families who want both adventure and ease.

Guestrooms and suites are spacious and refined, blending contemporary design with subtle Japanese touches to create a calm and luxurious retreat. Our Mountain View room offered plenty of space for a family of four, with an open dining area and lounge, a deep soaking bath, and thoughtful luxury amenities that made it easy to settle in and unwind.

Mornings begin with an exceptional gourmet breakfast buffet, where we indulged in fresh Hokkaido produce, made-to-order eggs, and a generous spread of both Western and Japanese options. From there, it’s straight to the slopes, made seamless by the attentive ski valet team who handle every detail with warmth and efficiency. The Hanazono lifts and gondola are just steps away, offering quick access to modern infrastructure, beautifully groomed runs, and Niseko’s world-famous powder.

After a full day outdoors, returning to the hotel feels like a reward in itself. The kids loved roasting marshmallows by the fire in between sledding runs, warming up with cozy hot chocolates. The onsen is deeply relaxing, while the indoor pool is perfect for families to unwind together. Ever and River especially loved the evening snow tubing, followed by fireworks under the crisp winter sky.

Evenings are best spent lingering over dinner, with live music and incredible Hokkaido cuisine adding to the atmosphere.

What truly sets this property apart is the service, intuitive, gracious, and consistently impeccable. For those seeking a family-friendly luxury ski escape, it is simply unmatched.

For a tailored family getaway designed around your dreams, reach out to me at christing.chang@fora.travel. I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel, dedicated to crafting bespoke itineraries that combine comfort, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for every member of your family. Let me help you turn your next vacation into a seamless, extraordinary journey.

We recently stayed at Hotel Sosei Sapporo and were completely charmed. This boutique luxury property beautifully blends heritage and modern design, with interiors inspired by a pioneer residence and a delicate mix of Japanese and Western elements that feel elegant, inviting, and effortlessly comfortable.

Our stay in the Executive Deluxe Room was a joy. The space was sleek, spacious, and thoughtfully appointed, with plush bedding, a large bathroom, and every detail designed for relaxation. The club benefits were a highlight, particularly the evening cocktails at The Bar Lounge, which quickly became a cherished ritual after exploring the city.

The hotel’s intimate scale makes it feel personal and special while still offering full amenities, including a well-equipped fitness gym and stunning dining spaces. Its location within Sapporo Factory is wonderfully convenient, with easy access to shops and attractions yet tucked away enough to feel peaceful.

We were celebrating our son’s birthday, and the staff truly went all out to make him feel special. From thoughtful touches to genuine, warm service, it was a celebration we will never forget. Breakfast each morning was another delight, showcasing fresh, seasonal Hokkaido ingredients alongside Western options, making every meal feel vibrant and memorable.

One evening, we enjoyed a family dinner at The Bar Lounge, where the cozy, elegant ambiance combined with excellent service to create a truly joyful experience. Hotel Sosei Sapporo offers stylish design, outstanding hospitality, and heartfelt touches that leave a lasting impression. We cannot wait to return.

I know budget and location are important when travelling with kids, so I was genuinely ecstatic to discover Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori and be able to recommend it to families visiting one of our favourite Japanese cities.

From the moment we arrived, it just felt convenient in the way you hope for but don’t always get. Stepping outside, we were immediately within walking distance of everything, especially Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, which quickly became one of our go to spots for quick bites, last minute shopping, and just soaking up the energy of the city. Whether we were craving ramen, coffee, or something sweet, there was always something nearby without needing to overthink it.

What really made the stay work for us was the room. Space is usually the biggest compromise when traveling in Japan as a family, but our corner room gave us breathing room, something I don’t take for granted. The kids had space to spread out, we had a proper table for easy meals in, and the natural light made it feel far more relaxed than your typical city hotel setup.

And then there were the little things that ended up meaning a lot, like the unlimited soft serve and coffee, convenient parking, friendly front desk, and even a pizza spot downstairs that offered in room deliver.

What tied it all together was the overall atmosphere, friendly, relaxed, and genuinely welcoming. Nothing felt complicated, which is exactly what you want when traveling as a family.

If you are visiting Sapporo with kids and want somewhere that balances comfort, location, and value without overthinking it, this is one I would happily come back to.

Set in the vibrant heart of the city, InterContinental Sapporo offers a refined yet welcoming base for families looking to experience one of Japan’s most exciting destinations. As Hokkaido continues to grow as a must see region, this five star property stands out as a luxury stay for families who crave luxury and convenience.

The hotel sits beside the peaceful Nakajima Park,  a beautiful green space that changes with the seasons. Our decadent guestroom overlooked the Toyohira River and featured sleek, modern interiors softened by natural textures and warm tones giving a sense of calm and serenity. The bathroom was a huge highlight, with a deep onsen-style bathtub making it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing, shopping, or skiing.

Dining at AuBlanc restaurant was a favourite for our family with local ingredients and seasonal flavours served throughout the day. The indoor pool provided a relaxing retreat for both adults and children and the hotel’s exceptional service ensured a seamless and comfortable stay.

With excellent transportation links and convenient parking, exploring the city is effortless. We were within easy reach of Sapporo’s shopping districts and local eateries, while also being well positioned for day trips to nearby ski resorts. Combining location, thoughtful design, and elevated comfort, InterContinental Sapporo delivers a polished and family friendly stay in one of Hokkaido’s most dynamic cities.

For a tailored family getaway designed around your dreams, reach out to me at christing.chang@fora.travel. I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel, dedicated to crafting bespoke itineraries that combine comfort, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for every member of your family. Let me help you turn your next vacation into a seamless, extraordinary journey.