As children return to school and autumn nights draw in, it’s the ideal time to start planning your next family holiday to an exciting location. Or two. Or three.
Whether you’re looking ahead to next summer or dreaming of some winter sun over the next few months, consider a dual or triple-centre stay. These expertly-curated Carrier itineraries combine cities and deserts, beaches and safaris, island adventures, and more, and are the perfect way to maximise your trip and take in the many different sides to each country or region.
The earlier children catch the travel bug, the more their love for the world around them will grow and a memorable family holiday is the best place to start. Meticulously crafted to offer authentic, unforgettable experiences in every location, these are some of Carrier’s best family adventures to start planning now.
In partnership with Carrier.
Middle Eastern Magic in Dubai and Oman
Dubai is holiday heaven for families. Accessible and wholeheartedly welcoming of children, it’s a dream destination to take little ones. All eyes have been on the spectacular launch of Atlantis The Royal, an ultra-luxe space offering something for everyone with its sheer array of activities – from the spa to the beach club – making it a superb resort to keep as your holiday base. Kids, and adults, will love spending a day at the on-site Aquaventure Waterpark, experiencing thrilling waterslides, playing in splash zones, or braving the exciting but safe ‘snorkel with sharks’ experience. Next it’s on to Oman, to experience a very different side to the Gulf region with a stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay, arrival by an exhilarating ride in a 4×4. Packed with local charm and culture, this striking hotel is located just beyond the mountains of the country’s Musandam Peninsula. Carrier recommend exploring the region by mountain bike, or taking a village trek to unearth the lives of local people in Sabatyn, Oman. An adventure that will stay with the family for years to come. The final leg of this eight-night Middle Eastern tour takes you back to the United Arab Emirates with two nights at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah. This desert oasis offers privacy and space at villas with private pools that overlook the stunning desert landscape. Dine on the sand dunes, explore the Equestrian centre, or meet some of the beautiful birds of prey at the Falconry school in this traditionally-inspired, luxury resort.
Unforgettable Adventures in Africa
South Africa remains one of the most popular tourist destinations and it’s not hard to see why. With a fantastic mix of cultural and outdoor activities, one of the most thrilling combinations is a city and safari duo – taking in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town followed by game spotting in the African bush. Kick off your trip with a four night stay at the One&Only Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront. Incredibly family friendly, this hotel is designed with families in mind. Spacious suites, a marvellous kids’ club, babysitting services, an excellent pool, a children’s dining menu: the list goes on. While here, Carrier will help you book everything from beach trips to whale watching cruises or neighbourhood tours. Next, it’s time to see a different side of Africa as you travel north to the remote Tswalu Kalahari, one of South Africa’s largest private game reserves. Discover the wilderness with expert safari guides who share their knowledge with guests as they encounter colonies of meerkats, Kalahari black maned lions, as well as zebras, lions, giraffes and cheetahs. If you’re lucky enough, you may even encounter rarer species such as a roan, sable or desert black rhino. After your adventures it’s back to base to relax in five-star surroundings as you regale stories of the wonders you’ve spotted around an evening campfire.
City Sights and Beach Escapes In Thailand
Fly east to Thailand, for a cultural adventure that the whole family will love. Start at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok from where you can explore Thailand’s biggest and most colourful city. Try local cuisine or take a tuk-tuk downtown, soaking up the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Bangkok and its bustling streets before heading back to unwind in your spacious suite at this grand dame hotel. Next it’s on to beautiful Chiang Mai, in the country’s north. Check into the elegant 137 Pillars House, a home-from-home and a convenient place from which to visit the city’s many temples and historic buildings. Despite its grown up appeal, this boutique residence is surprisingly child friendly, and families will always feel welcome. In a holiday full of exciting contrasts, spend the final leg of your journey far from the buzz of the city – at the stunning beachside resort, Banyan Tree Samui. A tropical sanctuary overlooking the azure Gulf of Thailand waters and nestled amid the jungle of a private bay; children will love the kids’ club, pool and water sports while parents can enjoy yoga, the fitness centre and the well-appointed private villas. As well as tremendous hotels, its the thrilling one-off experiences that set this one apart. Learn to drive a tuk-tuk, go bamboo rafting, take a helicopter tour to enjoy a magical bird’s eye view and enjoy archaeological site visits of Wiang Kum Kam. These are what will give you and your family the “pinch me moments” for an unforgettable trip.
Island Experiences in Sri Lanka
For a tropical island holiday that offers so much more than just a beautiful beach (although you’re guaranteed to find that too), visit Sri Lanka. Begin your 12-night trip at the Wallawwa Hotel, a luxurious, converted manor house. Allow Carrier to organise a family visit to the famous Ceylon tea region with an interactive and guided tour. Or, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Central Highlands, an area of breathtaking natural beauty bursting with outdoor activities; take in the views as you trek the hills, bike the countryside, or visit one of the many mountain waterfalls. Next, it’s on to your very own cabin in the jungle at Uga Chena Huts. A secluded paradise with room for just 28 guests, this five-star property has so much to offer families: take a tour of Ruhuna National Park to see leopards and reptiles, or go humpback whale and dolphin watching. Maybe try a surf lesson or even spend the day on the water with local fisherman, learning about their way of life. Carrier can also arrange an exclusive private safari in the Yala National Park where you may spot the elusive leopard – the only place in the country where they roam freely. With direct flights from the UK, this Indian Ocean island is an excellent option for an accessible yet luxurious escape, and an exciting destination for adventurous youngsters keen to see the world.
Desert Dreaming in Abu Dhabi
The ‘jewel’ of Abu Dhabi hotels, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is a majestic property where opulence comes as standard. Set on its own 1.3 kilometre private beach, and with an award-winning spa, take time to relax on the first part of this special journey. Of course, kids will more likely want to enjoy all the fun that’s on offer – including the thrilling Aqua Fun Park and the Kids’ Play Zone where they can try their hand at everything from arts and crafts to tennis. An Arabian adventure isn’t complete without a visit to the desert and your next location, Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, ticks that box. This five-star resort has been voted the world’s most Instagrammable hotel: one look at the spectacular property – rising from the sand dunes and encased in palm trees – and you’ll understand why. Check into a large family villa and spend your days playing with your little ones in the shaded family pool, or drop them off at the cool kids’ club to try out the climbing wall, trampolining, and more. Teens have their own chill out space too, complete with Playstation, snooker table and table tennis. To really soak up the atmosphere in this breathtaking location we recommend you try the camel trek or stargazing in the desert with an astronomer. No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without a fun day out for all the family to nearby Yas Island, home to theme parks such as Ferarri World and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi.
- Luxury Family escapes taken from Carrier’s latest collection. Order a personal, complimentary Carrier brochure here.
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