Travel

Staying at The Okura Tokyo felt like discovering a serene retreat in the heart of one of the world’s busiest cities. From the moment we stepped into the elegant lobby, the blend of classic Japanese design and modern luxury immediately caught our eye. Our Corner Room on the Prestige Tower Club Floor offered incredible city views. Seeing Tokyo Tower glow in the distance every morning made waking up feel truly special. The room was spacious, thoughtfully designed, and perfect for our family with comfortable bedding, a large bathroom, and every detail carefully considered.

The hotel’s location made exploring Tokyo effortless. We wandered to Meiji Jingu Shrine, soaked up the energy of Harajuku and Shibuya, and tried viral ramen in Shibuya, which quickly became a family favorite. A trip to Ginza added a touch of refined shopping to our adventures. After full days of sightseeing, returning to the calm, elegant spaces of The Okura felt like the perfect way to recharge.

Dining at the hotel is exceptional. We savored a beautifully curated omakase at Yamazato and a refined French tasting menu at Nouvelle Epoque, each meal a celebration of seasonality, precision, and elegance. Evenings spent with my husband in the Club Lounge, sipping champagne and chatting about our day while Tokyo sparkled below us, became a cherished ritual.

The hotel is equally welcoming for families with its indoor pool, gym, and spa, while the concierge made navigating the city simple and stress-free. With breathtaking views, thoughtful rooms, and seamless service, The Okura Tokyo is more than a hotel. It is a luxurious home above the city, where family adventures and quiet, indulgent moments can be enjoyed in equal measure.

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 stayed at InterContinental Osaka with our two children during the holidays, and it remains one of the most effortless luxury stays for families in the city. Located in the heart of Umeda, just steps from Osaka Station, the hotel makes getting around Osaka incredibly easy, whether you are heading out for sightseeing, shopping, or day trips beyond the city.

The design throughout the hotel is modern and calming, with subtle Japanese influences that soften the urban setting. Natural materials, clean lines, and floor to ceiling windows create a sense of quiet above the city, with beautiful skyline views from nearly every space.

We stayed in a Two Bedroom Residence, which felt far more like a private apartment than a hotel room. Having two separate bedrooms, a generous living and dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen made traveling with children feel comfortable and unhurried. It was the kind of space where mornings were relaxed, and evenings felt like coming home rather than returning to a room.

The residence also included two bathrooms, a deep soaking tub, and rain showers, along with sweeping city views that made even downtime feel special. Access to the indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and traditional Japanese bath added another layer of ease, giving both the kids and adults space to unwind.

Dining at InterContinental Osaka is polished but approachable. We especially enjoyed NOKA Roast and Grill, where breakfast and dinner offered plenty of variety for the whole family in a relaxed setting.

InterContinental Osaka is a smart choice for families seeking space, comfort, and convenience without sacrificing luxury. Thoughtful service, residential style accommodations, and an unbeatable location make it a place we would happily return to on future trips to Japan.

We visited Waldorf Astoria Osaka over the holiday season with our two children, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like the kind of place that understands how to do luxury with family. Rising above the city in Osaka’s evolving Umekita district, the hotel is directly connected to Osaka Station, making arrivals and departures refreshingly seamless when traveling with kids. Yet once inside, the energy softens. High above the streets below, the hotel feels calm, cocooned, and quietly festive during the holidays.

The design is elegant but warm, blending contemporary lines with subtle Art Deco references that nod to the Waldorf Astoria heritage without feeling formal or untouchable. Throughout the public spaces, lighting is soft, materials are rich, and everything feels intentionally comfortable. Peacock Alley quickly became our natural meeting point, a beautiful, relaxed space where we could pause between outings, enjoy a coffee or afternoon tea, and let the children settle into the rhythm of the stay. During the holidays, it felt especially inviting, with a gentle sense of celebration rather than overt spectacle.

Our room setup was ideal for traveling as a family. The connecting rooms gave us the space and privacy we needed while still feeling close, something we always look for when traveling with children. The rooms themselves felt serene and residential, with floor to ceiling windows framing Osaka’s skyline, plush beds dressed in crisp linens, and a calming palette that made it easy to unwind after full days exploring the city. The bathrooms were equally thoughtful, finished in marble with deep soaking tubs and walk in showers that turned even quick routines into moments of calm.

Dining at the hotel felt elevated yet easy. Jolie Brasserie offered a refined but approachable setting, and breakfast quickly became one of our favorite parts of the day. The semi buffet was beautifully presented, with excellent pastries, breads, and fresh options for the kids, while the à la carte selections and quality coffee made mornings feel indulgent for us. In the evenings, Canes & Tales provided a quieter, more intimate escape for my husband and me, a polished, speakeasy style bar where the cocktails were as thoughtful as the atmosphere.

Wellness was seamlessly woven into our stay. The indoor pool was a highlight for the children, while the spa and gym offered moments of restoration and routine without ever feeling overly structured or formal. Everything was calm, considered, and designed to fit naturally into family travel.

What truly set Waldorf Astoria Osaka apart was the service. The team was attentive without being intrusive, genuinely warm, and especially accommodating to our children. From helpful concierge recommendations to thoughtful turndown service at night, every interaction felt personal and intuitive, the kind of hospitality that makes a stay feel effortless.

Waldorf Astoria Osaka is not just a beautiful hotel. It is a place that allows families to experience luxury together, comfortably and thoughtfully. For us, it was an elevated urban retreat that balanced design, service, and ease, a memorable holiday stay in the heart of Osaka that felt both special and genuinely livable.

Contact me at ChristingC@gmail.com if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

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Swissôtel Nankai Osaka turned out to be an exceptional choice for our family of four and a stay we would happily repeat. Traveling with two children, location matters more than anything, and this hotel truly excels. Sitting directly above Namba Station, it made arriving from Narita Airport remarkably easy and completely stress free. Being able to step off the train and straight into the hotel removed so much of the usual travel fatigue and set the tone for a smooth, enjoyable stay.

From the moment we arrived, everything felt effortless. The lobby was welcoming and calm, and check in was quick and efficient, which we greatly appreciated after a long journey. The atmosphere strikes a wonderful balance between polished and relaxed, making it feel comfortable for families without losing its sense of sophistication. Our guestroom was modern, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, with enough room for all four of us to unwind. The city views were a constant reminder of Osaka’s energy and added a special touch both during the day and after dark.

Mornings quickly became something we looked forward to thanks to breakfast at Table36. Starting the day high above the city with panoramic views felt special every time. The buffet offered an impressive mix of Japanese and international dishes, ensuring everyone in the family found something they loved. Quality, variety, and attentive service made breakfast feel unrushed and enjoyable, even with children in tow.

Dining within the hotel was another major plus. Table36 transitions beautifully into an evening destination, ideal for drinks or dinner with its dramatic skyline views and excellent steak offerings. For a more traditional experience, Hana Goyomi delivers refined Japanese cuisine in an elegant yet family friendly setting. Having such strong dining options on site added both convenience and flexibility to our days.

We stayed on the Executive Floor and found it well worth it. The Executive Lounge provided a quieter breakfast option, a lovely afternoon tea, and a relaxed evening cocktail and snack service that felt indulgent without being formal.

With Dotonbori and endless shopping just a short walk away, Swissôtel Nankai Osaka gave us a front row seat to the city while still feeling like a comfortable retreat for our family. It is an ideal choice for parents traveling with children who want convenience, comfort, and an authentic Osaka experience.

Contact me at Christing.Chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation

Hyatt Place London City East is a hotel that blends comfort, creativity and thoughtful service in a way that feels both modern and warmly personal. I stayed here on a mother daughter trip with my little one, and from the moment we checked in, it felt like the perfect base for our festive London getaway. We loved returning each evening to our contemporary guestroom, complete with a private balcony and sweeping views of London’s ever changing skyline. The bespoke street art found throughout the hotel added such a fun, East London vibe, reflecting the neighbourhoods of Aldgate, Whitechapel and Brick Lane just outside the door. With 276 rooms and panoramic views from the sixth to ninth floors, the hotel feels connected to the city while offering a retreat high above the buzz.

Breakfast quickly became one of our favourite morning rituals. Guests can choose between a hearty spread at Sotto Cucina and Bar or the elevated rooftop setting at Pocketsquare Skyline Bar and Terrace, where panoramic city views accompany your first coffee of the day. Both were delicious, and we also loved returning to Sotto for dinner after full days exploring London’s Christmas magic. The warm hospitality, great food and stylish setting made each meal feel special.

The location of the hotel was ideal for our festive plans. We spent our days Christmas shopping, admiring the magical lights across the city and meeting up with friends and family. We also highly recommend visiting the Tower of London’s A Storybook Christmas, which is only one stop away on the tube and was a magical experience for both of us. What truly made our stay extra memorable were the thoughtful touches at the hotel, including nighttime hot chocolates and cookies delivered to our room, and personalised tips for discovering local gems. Being just a few minutes from Aldgate East and Whitechapel stations made getting around London simple and stress free.

The hotel’s SHe Travel Club Gold Award in 2025 felt especially relevant for our trip. As a mother traveling with my daughter, it gave me such peace of mind knowing the hotel prioritises safety and comfort for female travellers. Combined with pet friendly policies and a team that celebrates individuality, Hyatt Place London City East stands out as one of London’s most thoughtful and forward thinking hotels.

This is a place that captures everything I love about East London: creativity, warmth, sustainability and effortless style. It made our mother daughter Christmas trip feel even more special, and I know we will be back.

Contact me at Christing.Chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation

The Residence and Villas Phu Quoc offers the kind of peaceful, luxurious retreat that immediately feels like home, especially for families, couples or groups who love having extra space and comfort while traveling. During our stay, we settled into a spacious two bedroom pool villa that struck the perfect balance between modern style and warm, welcoming design. The open living areas made it easy to relax together, while the large bedrooms offered plenty of privacy when we needed downtime. Having a fully equipped kitchen was incredibly convenient, especially for slow mornings, and the outdoor area quickly became our favourite part of the villa. Our private pool, surrounded by lush greenery, felt like our own hidden escape and we spent many relaxed afternoons soaking up the sun on the comfortable terrace.

The property offers a wide range of villas, which makes it perfect for multigenerational trips or friends traveling together. The kitchen and outdoor spaces add so much flexibility during longer stays and the complimentary shuttle made exploring the surrounding area simple and stress free.

Guests also have access to two beautiful pool areas. The Residence pool is peaceful and secluded, ideal for quiet lounging, while the beachfront pool at the sister property Andochine offers a stunning oceanfront setting. We found ourselves drifting to Ando Beach Bar almost every evening. The sunsets were unreal, the cocktails perfectly mixed and the atmosphere incredibly relaxing. It quickly became our nightly ritual.

Dining at the resort was another highlight. Our dinner at Sabai Sabai, the on site Thai restaurant, was unforgettable with authentic flavours, fresh ingredients and a refined yet relaxed ambiance that made the experience special.

The beachfront at Andochine is calm and serene with soft sand and soothing waves that make it easy to spend hours unwinding. The location of the resort is also ideal, just a short drive from the lively night market where you can graze on local snacks, shop for souvenirs and soak in the energetic vibe of Phu Quoc after dark.

Overall The Residence and Villas Phu Quoc offers the privacy of a villa stay with the added perks of resort style amenities. It is a perfect choice for travellers who love spacious accommodation, thoughtful touches and easy access to both island relaxation and local adventures. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, savour the moment and immediately start planning your return.

Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc sits along the beautiful stretch of beach on the northern side of the island, and it immediately feels like a resort designed with families in mind. The grounds are spacious and peaceful, and the setting offers a relaxed balance between beachside calm and easy access to some of Phu Quoc’s most popular attractions.

During our stay we chose a suite, which gave us plenty of room to unwind after long days in the sun. The layout felt comfortable for a family, and it was nice having a space that allowed everyone to spread out without feeling cramped. The resort itself is large and beautifully maintained with gardens, wide pathways, and areas that feel open and inviting.

The pool area quickly became one of our favourite parts of the resort. It is enormous and perfect for families, with waterslides that kept the kids completely excited from morning until late afternoon. The beach is just a few steps beyond the pool and is calm, clean, and ideal for children. We spent many easy afternoons watching the kids splash at the shoreline while we relaxed on the sand.

The kids club was another highlight of our stay. Our children loved the obstacle course and the selection of games, and the friendly staff made each visit fun and engaging. It gave them something active and creative to do each day and gave us a little time to unwind knowing they were happily entertained.

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc is its location. The resort is incredibly close to VinWonders, VinSafari, and Grand World, and the free shuttle made getting to all three completely effortless. It removed the stress of transportation and made our outings smooth and easy.

Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc gave our family a comfortable, fun, and well-situated base for exploring the island, and the mix of great amenities and convenient access made the trip feel seamless from start to finish.

Tucked along a peaceful stretch of Phu Quoc’s golden coastline, Cassia Cottage offers a rustic and soulful stay that is ideal for families seeking authentic island charm. The resort blends natural materials with lush tropical gardens, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate and deeply connected to the local surroundings. Families will appreciate the relaxed beachfront location, where gentle waves and soft sands provide a welcoming place for children to play and parents to unwind.

Mornings at Cassia Cottage begin with delicious and authentic breakfasts, featuring fresh tropical fruit, Vietnamese favorites, and homemade baked goods enjoyed with beautiful sea views. Lunch at The Malabar quickly becomes a daily ritual, thanks to its breezy setting, bright and flavorful dishes, and refreshing drinks. It is also one of the most stunning spots on the island to watch the sunset, offering a perfect view of the sky as it glows over the ocean.

When relaxation calls, the resort’s tranquil pools offer quiet corners surrounded by greenery, creating a soothing escape from the midday sun. Sun loungers are placed right on the beach for the most idyllic vibe and variety of activities are available including volleyball and kayaking. The spa provides natural and holistic treatments that allow parents to fully unwind while the children enjoy pool time or explore the gardens.

Cassia Cottage delivers simple luxury, warm local hospitality, and a calm seaside rhythm that makes it a perfect choice for families who want an authentic and peaceful escape.

Nestled along the pristine shores of Vietnam’s Emerald Bay, JW Marriott Phu Quoc blends barefoot luxury with a whimsical narrative that brings families into the enchanting world of the former Lamarck University. Designed by the visionary Bill Bensley, the resort feels like a beautifully restored seaside academy, where each department has been transformed into suites, restaurants, and dreamy social spaces. Families will love the expansive suites and villas, many offering sweeping ocean views that make sunrise mornings and sunset evenings unforgettable. The playful, academic-inspired décor sparks curiosity in children and adults alike, turning every corridor into a story.

Dining becomes a highlight of the stay, thanks to an impressive range of culinary experiences. The resort’s signature Pink Pearl, a lavishly designed mansion-style restaurant, stands out with its elegant atmosphere and refined tasting menus. Meanwhile, the other dining venues offer everything from vibrant Vietnamese dishes to relaxed coastal meals that are ideal for families seeking variety and comfort.

The resort’s beachfront location provides endless opportunities for both relaxation and play. Calm turquoise waters and soft white sands make it especially family-friendly. Scattered across the grounds are numerous tranquil swimming pools, each offering its own serene charm, spacious family pools, quiet adult corners, and photogenic lagoon-like settings perfect for lazy afternoons.

With its imaginative storyline, luxurious setting, and thoughtful family amenities, JW Marriott Phu Quoc delivers a one-of-a-kind escape where parents can truly unwind and children can explore a world as magical as it is beautiful.

Contact me at Christing.Chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation

New World Phu Quoc Resort was the ideal getaway for our family of four. Set along one of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, it blends modern style with a relaxed, family friendly vibe that made our stay feel effortless from beginning to end. We settled into a stunning three bedroom private pool villa, spread over two spacious floors. Each bedroom had boasting its en suite and balcony or terrace, giving everyone a little corner of calm. The soothing design and private pool quickly became our favourite quiet retreat after busy days.

The resort grounds are expansive and perfect for families. The main pool is huge, with plenty of loungers and shaded spaces for relaxing while the kids splash nearby. The beachfront is just as impressive wide, clean, and beautifully calm, ideal for swimming or lazy afternoons under an umbrella. Our little ones were obsessed with the interactive waterpark and spent ages at the kids club, which offers crafts and activities that kept them excited daily.

Dining at the resort was consistently excellent. We loved casual lunches at The Bay Kitchen, beachside bites at Coco Beach House, and relaxed dinners at Lua Grill & Bar. There’s also the lively Starry Nights buffet, complete with live music and fresh seafood, which made for a fun family evening.

When we wanted a break from the sun, the games room, bowling alley, and karaoke kept everyone entertained. And with Sunset Town just a short ride away, we ended our trip with the spectacular Kiss of the Sea show a highlight for all of us.

New World Phu Quoc Resort combines spacious villas, great food, and endless family friendly activities in a dreamy beachfront setting. It was the perfect balance of relaxation and fun for our family.

Contact me at Christing.Chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation