Travel

Soho, one of London’s most lively areas is the perfect choice for shopping, nights out, and an abundance of restaurants during the holiday season.  With the shops and Christmas lights of Oxford Street and Regent Street only a short walk away and plenty of the city’s hottest restaurants on their front step, The Nadler Soho is an ideal home while staying in Central London.  We loved their spacious rooms perfect for families or couples who crave cozy ambiance, delightful staff, and boutique hotel charm.  Our room overlooked Soho’s bustling streets while being tucked away from the noise and action.  The small kitchen area was incredibly useful for preparing quick breakfasts or snacks for our kids and we found it so hard to choose between the delicious eateries surrounding the hotel.  We spent early evenings in their welcoming lobby and enjoyed a complimentary happy hour while staff helped us plan our dinner options or sightseeing ideas for the next day.  Make sure to check out Pizza Pilgrims just across the street and head over to Old Compton Street for a bustling area of London that almost never changes.  Piccadilly Circus’ bright lights were just around the corner and our kids loved visiting the infamous Rainforest Cafe before catching a show nearby.  Choose The Nadler Soho next time you are looking for a well priced yet stylish and friendly option at the heart of Central London.

Located in one of London’s most beautiful areas, Royal Lancaster London is one of our favourite hotels in the city.  The convenient Hyde Park location is not only perfect for families with children, but also incredibly romantic as the seasons change.  Our visit in Spring saw fluffy pink cherry blossoms surround us during each walk, and in Autumn we were in a sea of picture perfect vibrant orange leaves.  The Spires Suite is truly one of the most unique rooms allowing for panoramic views of the city and park, luxurious and stylish furnishings, decadent separate bedroom and bathroom, and enough space for those travelling with two children.  We loved waking up to London scenery before heading downstairs for their mouthwatering and indulgent breakfast buffet.  Afternoons were spent sightseeing and shopping, as everything was only a short ride away from the hotel’s front steps.  Their knowledgeable concierge was able to suggest exciting activities for our children and we couldn’t get enough of the local pubs in the area.  Everything from the friendly staff at reception to the meticulous turn down service and detailed children’s amenities ensured we had a seamless five star stay, making travelling with our kids an absolute dream.  For a taste of British charm and luxury head to Royal Lancaster London for your next stay.

After a week of exploring Mallorca, we wanted to spend the final few nights in the main town, Palma de Mallorca.  The charming and historical town is full of vibrant shops, local eateries, and stunning castles to keep the whole family interested and occupied.  We loved staying at Ocho Hotel & Kitchen located at the centre of the bustling city.  The boutique eight room hotel features stylish suites complete with separate bedroom, open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area, and the most Instagram worthy decor you’ll see in Spain.  We found it almost impossible to part with the plush decadent beds and spent cozy mornings making our own home cooked breakfasts in the fully equipped kitchen.  The lounge was spacious enough for our little family of four and we couldn’t get enough of the novelty of showering in the millennial pink bathroom.  Each room features cute terraces overlooking the quaint town streets, and our location was perfect for exploring the surrounding areas by foot.  A playground was only a few streets away and we stumbled upon plenty of authentic tapas spots serving local fare.  Their restaurant, OCHO Kitchen, is a must dine while visiting Mallorca, serving a mouthwatering modern menu of local ingredients and elevated flavours.  The impeccable Scandanavian decor seen throughout the hotel is also evident in the dining room and bar making it a perfect spot for romantic date nights and lively family dinners.  An ideal choice for travellers looking for luxurious and modern serviced apartments at the heart of Palma de Mallorca.

Set in the stunning Malloran countryside, Cases de Son Barbassa is an idyllic and tranquil getaway for families and couples looking for Spanish culture and scenery.  After picking up a rental car and taking the relaxing and scenic drive to Capdepera, we were instantly welcomed the friendly boutique hotel.  The minimalist hotel is housed in a traditional Finca and still holds a distinct, quaint charm seen throughout the property.  Our romantic suite featured dreamy natural light, exposed wooden beams and stone walls alongside expansive country views.  Quiet afternoons were spent with a book in the cozy library, or lounging by the picturesque pool.  The spa offered a variety of treatments, and we loved the ambient bar for a quiet evening drink before heading to dinner each night.  The stunning restaurant was ideal for all day dining.  Breakfasts were enjoyed on the breezy outdoor terrace overlooking olive groves and the calm scenery.  Evenings we dined on a mouthwatering menu in the unique glass dining room where all the dishes were locally sourced and abundant with Spanish flavours.  The hotel makes their own olive oil on the grounds which was a delicious treat to take home at the end of our stay.  There were plenty of beaches and small towns nearby and we loved visiting local areas for a true taste of Spanish culture.  A perfect choice if you are craving an escape from busy city life and want to experience Majorca’s scenic countryside.

Playa de Palma, a lively stretch of beach in beautiful Majorca, is an ideal choice for a fun family getaway.  Whether you are craving peaceful sunsets and delicious seafood or active water sports and relaxing days by the pool you’ll find it at this picturesque destination.  For our first time on the island we chose popular Spanish brand, Iberostar and couldn’t wait to try their luxurious five star resort, Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma.  The decadent resort boasts modern, sleek design, optimal location, and mouthwatering fare.  The kids were just as impressed as we were by our lavish suite with sweeping seaviews . Sleeping arrangements were perfect for a family with small children, and Ever and River throughouly enjoyed having their own area for sleep, entertainment, and play.  The sumptuous bathroom allowed for long releaxing baths and we couldn’t get enough of the captivating view which was visible from the decadent king size bed and spacious balcony.  To ensure our stay was carefree we opted for their all inclusive option which includes three mouthwatering meals a day and drinks poolside and at the bar.  We loved the delicious daily buffets full of local fare and seafood and highly recommend their modern Spanish restaurant, Marea.  Our relaxing three days passed far too quickly with serene mornings poolside and fun afternoons at the beach, decadent meals and nightly live music at their main bar, spectacular sunsets, and unforgettable memories.  A perfect choice for families and couples looking for relaxation and luxury at the heart of Majorca.

 

Grab your kids and loved ones and spend a few days in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.  Barcelona is home to stunning architecture, beautiful museums, sandy picturesque beaches, and mouthwatering Spanish fare.  It’s perfect for families looking to inject both fun and culture into a holiday or just hit the beach and shops on a sunny day.  We loved making the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel our base during our stay in the city.  The location was ideal forexploring the lively La Rambla, sipping wine and devouring tapas in authentic eateries, and only a short ride to Barceloneta Beach.  Gaudi’s Casa Mila is only a short stroll away and you can even spot the famous Sagrada Familia from their rooftop bar.  After a long day of sightseeing we always enjoyed a drink and delicious bites at their restaurant, Rumbo Bar & Eatery before heading back to our spacious two bedroom suite.  The staff at Renaissance always go out of their way to welcome guests and make our kids feel right at home with treats, games, and fun toys to keep them occupied.  The concierge service is unbeatable, where you can get information about anything from museums and child friendly activities to the best restaurant or bar in the neighbourhood.  We were so sad to leave after a few days at what felt like a cozy home away from home.  Renaissance Barcelona is the ideal choice for families looking for comfort, seamless service, luxurious amenities, and convenient location.

Barcelona holds a special space in my heart, so I was naturally excited to go back with my family and show them one of my favourite cities.  Alexandra Barcelona Hotel is located at the heart of the city, only a short walk from La Rambla, plenty of shops, cute tapas eateries, and unforgettable Gaudi architecture.  The modern, stylish rooms were a relaxing home away from home with amazing attention to detail to ensure a comfortable stay.   Our large space boasted a plush king size bed, decadent bathroom, and picturesque terrace perfect for enjoying the ambiance of the romantic city.  Their restaurant Solomillo is a must dine spot for meat lovers and we all truly enjoyed the juicy cuts of steaks and amazing service.  We loved our time at Alexandra Barcelona Hotel and would highly recommend to families or couples looking for five star luxury at a perfect location in one of Europe’s most lively and alluring cities.

What better way to explore Rome than having a base at the historical centre within walking distance to all the beautiful sights of the city.  Palm Suite by Palazzo Manfredi is ideal for families, with spacious suites boasting separate bedrooms, large living areas, a small kitchen space and chic dining table.  We loved the modern meets classic design and were literally a few steps from the famous Colosseum and Roman Forum.  Our continental breakfast each morning was enjoyed in the light and airy dining space and we were treated to stunning views of the Forum and Rome’s majestic streets.  Ever and River couldn’t get enough of the charmingly European neighbourhood and we couldn’t fault our amazing dinner at mouthwatering Aroma Bistro located at Palazzo Manfredi.  You won’t be short of things to do and Palm Suite will ensure personal service and a perfect home away from home during your time in the eternal city of Rome.

Club Med Opio en Provence was our family’s third Club Med holiday and definitely met all our high expectations. Part of our trip around Europe was in the South of France, so when we heard Club Med had a stunning Provence location, we couldn’t turn down the opportunity to check it out. We visited in October, just as the weather was entering Autumn and perfectly breezy and sunny. I fell instantly for the picturesque olive groves, expansive French countryside views, and romantic sunsets which could be viewed with a glass of wine from their serene terrace at the bar. The highlight of Club Med is always how happy our kids are during their stay. Every parent knows a happy and occupied child means a relaxed holiday and Club Med always delivers in this category. At Club Med Opio, Ever and River were able to participate in the Creactive Circus by Cirque du Soleil as part of the varied Mini Club activities. Ever honed her trampolining skills, hung on a flying trapeze, and even tried a bit of juggling. The GO’s (Club Med’s friendly hosts) kept River endlessly entertained with active games, climbing frames, and even karaoke. Each day the Mini Club had a different schedule and they could take your kids all day or just for the activities that they wanted to join. Ours loved the circus, daily parties, face painting, dress-up and performances, and so much more. Dan and I had plenty of time to relax by the pool, enjoy an evening drink, take long walks around the grounds, and even get in a few workouts while the kids were occupied. Your kids can dine with the Mini Club in their own private room, so Dan and I took the opportunity to have a date night one evening while Ever and River ate pizza and put on a performance for the dining room. There were big smiles from our family all day and we couldn’t have asked for a more accommodating stay.

The resort is comprised of relaxing rooms featuring balconies and terraces, two mouthwatering restaurants, a large main pool with activities and abundant sun loungers, and a more relaxed zen pool which is adults only. A golf course surrounds the resort for those who play, and adults and children are all able to participate in the Cirque du Soleil sessions. The mouthwatering fare served at each restaurant was varied, French inspired, and even boasted plenty of fresh seafood. I loved the use of local ingredients and service throughout every area of the resort was impeccable.

Club Med Opio en Provence is an ideal choice for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for relaxing and beautiful scenery in a high end all inclusive experience. We couldn’t recommend it more to families who want a holiday for all ages.

This picturesque resort is only a short speedboat ride from the international airport and one of the most stunning we’ve seen in the Maldives. Grand Park Kodhipparu was our last stop during our three weeks in the country and we couldn’t have asked for a more memorable end to our trip. The luxurious yet rustic water villas had all the boho touches I crave and I loved the Bali inspired design accents in both the rooms and restaurants. The overwater net was an ideal touch for us and the children, and we loved being only steps from the turquoise ocean. Every morning we woke to uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean and plenty of marine life to keep us in awe. The house reef is easily accessible , even for young children, and you’re sure to spot reef sharks and an abundance of bright fish. Ever and River enjoyed afternoons in the fully scheduled kids club while we indulged in a tropical cocktail or two. We loved the dining options which included mouthwatering cuisine from all over the world, and the buffet at their main restaurant, The Edge, changed every morning and evening to ensure our tastebuds were never bored. The resort staff went out of their way to make sure our every need was met, which made it extra hard when it came time to say goodbye. A perfect choice for families or couples looking for all the beauty and luxury of the Maldives in a unique and beautiful resort.