Travelling across the world with young children can seem daunting. However, there are lots of good reasons to plan a big trip whilst your children are still little. Before the age of two, most airlines allow babies and toddlers to sit on your lap, meaning that you don’t need to book an extra seat for them. Travelling outside of school term time also tends to be less expensive. Plus, exploring the world together offers amazing sensory experiences for little ones and creates unforgettable memories. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite family-friendly long haul travel destinations below.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort 

The luxurious InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is situated within close proximity to Hanifaru Bay in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Raa Atoll. The resort offers three Family Beach Pool Villas, located just steps away from the beach and the kids club: Planet Trekkers. All of the villas have a private plunge pool, as well as a spacious garden. The ‘Planet Trekkers’ programme for ages 4-12, offers mini marine biologists the opportunity to explore the wonders of the Indian Ocean through arts, crafts, and mini expeditions. Parents can enjoy some relaxation on the breathtaking beach, head out on an excursion to Hanifaru Bay, or spend time snorkelling and adopting their own Manta Ray. (Also shown in main image).

maldives.intercontinental.com

Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa

Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa is tucked between the vast lagoon off the west coast of Mauritius and the characteristic relief of Le Morne Brabant Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A unforgettable holiday destination, the 5-star resort is situated in an exceptionally beautiful natural setting. With lush gardens, its golf course nestled between mountain and sea – and among the very few to be set in the heart of a hotel in Mauritius. But nothing can quite parallel the long stretch of white sandy beach and warm, crystal-clear waters – offering families a tropical escape where all activities take place right in the middle of nature.

beachcomber-hotels.com

Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences

Nestled in St Lucia’s breathtaking hillside, the recently renovated Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences offers personalised daily itineraries for children, making it an ideal destination for young families. Daytime activities for ages 4-12 include guided nature walks to explore Labrelotte Bay’s ecosystem, yoga sessions, Creole dance classes, and horseback riding adventures, arts and crafts (including making Carnival costumes), beach games, talent shows, and pool parties. And the fun doesn’t stop there. In the evening, there’s starlit beach storytelling sessions led by Jacquot the Parrot, cosy beachside movie nights with comfy pillows and blankets, as well as disco glow parties, limbo lessons, and so much more.

windjammer-landing.com

Oliver’s Travels Villa Pacifica, Punta Mita, Mexico

Oliver’s Travels Villa Pacifica’s striking bougainvillea-red facade faces the sea. This extravagant villa sleeps up to 14 guests and includes five sumptuous havens in the main villa, as well as two gorgeous cabanas, all featuring vibrant splashes of red throughout, courtesy of renowned architect, Pepe de Yturbe. The villa encompasses a total indoor-outdoor experience with signature fold-away walls and sits on the seafront, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque view of Los Rachos Beaches. Villa Pacifica is perfectly set so that guests can enjoy the heavenly amenities of the Punta Mita resort, from Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses, to tennis, horse riding and a rejuvenating spa – endless activities for the whole family to enjoy! 

oliverstravels.com

Lepogo Lodges Family Villa at Noka Camp, South Africa

One for children aged 10 and above, Lepogo Lodges’ Noka Camp, is one of Africa’s few entirely not-for-profit safari lodges. The luxurious safari camp, set within the 50,000-hectare, malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness Reserve and home to the ‘big five’, offers an array of child-friendly activities. Set over 385m2 and sleeping up to five people, the family villa perches atop a 100ft cliff overlooking the winding Palala River and the endless bush ahead, all without compromising on privacy. The luxurious residence comprises of a master and a children’s suite – each with its own en-suite bathroom – separated by a large family living area. There’s also three outdoor decking areas and a large infinity pool, allowing children to splash around and spot elephants basking in the river below while parents enjoy a sundowner or two.

lepogolodges.com