Whether you’re trying to please teens or toddlers, here are the best mid-autumn break for you
As the leaves begin to change and October approaches, so does another golden opportunity for a family getaway. And while the autumn half-term holiday may only be a week long, this short window offers a great chance to find some sun or fun before the winter takes hold.
It’s the longest, toughest term of the school year, so a break is a good tonic for kids, as well as a chance to get out and active without worrying about overly scorching sunshine. Not that there isn’t still some warm weather to be found without having to fly too far.
Start by working out what your family wants to get out of the week. For some high-octane fun, consider a trip that takes in theme parks or water parks. Want to make it a bit more educational? Perhaps Egypt and the Pyramids – or Iceland for a real-life geography lesson. Active families might consider a relaxed walking or cycling itinerary in Andalucía or southern Italy – and October is a wonderful time for introducing the kids to a new city like New York. Just want to splash about in the sun? Then head for the Canaries, where temperatures are in the 20s. If you can’t face the hassle of flying, then jump on a family-friendly cruise from Southampton.
Of course, your holiday choice will not only be driven by your interests and your budget, but also by the age of your children. Older teens will have very different expectations and energy levels to younger offspring. For families with young children, a hotel with kids’ clubs can work well, while for older teens a games room and onsite watersports can provide excellent opportunities to improve skills and make new friends.