We’re getting to the point in our family life where we are craving a family holiday abroad. We knew it would be a while before we could afford/cope with a trip with both boys on a plane, but both my husband and I are getting ‘cravings’ for a proper getaway.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, Bear doesn’t have the sort of personality I can cope with on a long journey. He’s energetic, bubbly, loud, easily annoyed and although he’s a bundle of joy, others may not see him as that.

So for our benefit (and the benefit of other passengers!) we’ve stuck to UK breaks for the last 3 years. Don’t get me wrong. We adore exploring our country and will continue to do so, but we just want a bit of sun, sea, sand and swimming!

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Living in Essex means we can head to London on family days out pretty cheaply and quickly. We took Lamb a few times when he was younger, however we haven’t quite plucked up the courage to take Bear yet.

He’s been to London but not for a full day out. So I think it’s time we thought about family friendly things to do in London, and plan a day out there.

London is like a treasure trove for places to visit. Whether you want a park to play in, a museum to learn in, or something fun and exciting, there’s an array of choices to think about.

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Summer is just around the corner and if you are still yet to book your family holiday, now is the time to get yourself down the travel agents and find the best deal for you. More and more families are now leaving it to the last minute in the hope of bagging a late deal. It’s easy to see why with plane tickets and hotel rooms available at cheap prices.

If you are still a little unsure about where you and your family are headed this summer, take a look at our dream holiday destination list below. You might be inspired!

Barbados

The Caribbean, arguably the most beautiful place in the world although it certainly isn’t cheap to get to at the best of times. Barbados is a dream holiday destination for lots of families, much down to the sunny beaches, clear sea and fantastic weather. 

Dubai

The playground of the rich, Dubai has a reputation formed largely due to the wealth of its residents, making it one of the Middle East’s most popular holiday destinations. It isn’t uncommon to see sports cars driving through the streets of this bustling city. The only time when Dubai becomes somewhat quiet is during the holy month of Ramadan, which is when local residents observe a fast and pay their Fitrana. At all other times of the year, Dubai is one of the most active cities in the world.

Spain

Spain’s coastal cities and islands make for a fantastic family retreat for two reasons – the weather and how cheap it is to holiday in the country. If you look in the right place, you can easily bag a good seven-night all-inclusive stay at a four-star hotel for under £500 per person. That is a bargain when you consider the cost of travelling to other countries.

Portugal

Right next door to Spain is Portugal, which again makes for a truly fantastic family holiday. The Algarve, while being at the more expensive end of Portuguese holiday destinations, is a must-visit for any family or couple. Alternatively, Madeira, the island just off mainland Portugal, is a good budget summer holiday destinations. The island is most noted for being the birthplace of Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, and it is at the airport where you will be greeted by the infamous not-so-life like bust.

Florida

If you do have a little more budget to play with, then no doubt that you have looked once or twice at Florida. Home to Universal Studios and Disney World, this is another one of those dream holiday destinations that you have to do at least once. If you are headed to Florida, it’s worth checking the weather, as storms and hurricanes are known to pass through the area, and also that you make use of car hire. You don’t want to be completely reliant on public transport in Florida.

We are desperate to visit Universal but we’ll just have to wait until we save lots of pennies!

Australia

Finally, with the long school holiday in the summer there isn’t any better time for families to make the trip down under to Australia. It’s a long flight, so be prepared for tears and make sure to pack their favourite gadgets loaded up with games and movies to watch; otherwise it is going to feel like an even longer flight. As Australia’s seasons differ to us, the summer is when the country is at its coolest, but still comfortably warm enough for us folk to walk around in shorts and sandals, even if the locals do keep their jumpers on.

So there you have it, our top summer holiday destinations. Whether you are looking to book now or waiting until the very last moment to bag yourself the deal of the century, we hope you have a good trip…and don’t forget to send a postcard!

~A~

* Collaborative post