In The Know: January

The Conrad Arrives In Corfu

As if we needed any more reasons to love family holidays in the Greek Islands, enter the shiny new Conrad Corfu. Opening this Spring, it’s definitely one to have on your radar for a European summer escape. The five-star property sits on a picture-perfect stretch of coastline at the southern tip of Corfu, with a lovely soft sandy beach perfect for children. While the hotel is seriously luxe, it’s also mega family-friendly, offering stylish rooms and private villas – many with their own pools – catering all families of all ages and sizes. There are several pools dotted around, including fun splash pools just for the little ones, plus a world-class spa where parents can head to for some serious R&R. Kids will love the well-thought-out, supervised kids’ club, packed with creative workshops, beach games and water sports galore. Plus, there’s tennis courts, a gym, and even an open-air cinema for magical movie nights under the stars

You don’t really need to leave the comfort of the hotel but if you want do venture out you’ll find Corfu is basically a family playground packed with charming villages, welcoming restaurants and crystal-clear waters perfect for kids to paddle in. All-in-all a pretty dreamy destination for an easy holiday with kiddos

Fly Direct To Phuket

Big news for families dreaming of sun, sand, and sea in Thailand. Virgin Atlantic is launching direct flights from London Heathrow to Phuket starting 18 October 2026. This means no more stressful stopovers or juggling connecting flights with tired kids to reach this idyllic island holiday spot. The flights run three times a week on the comfy Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner. With around 12–13 hours in the air, it’s not without the challenges of taking little ones on a long-haul flight, but at least it’s now door to door

And be sure when you get there that it will have been worth the journey. Phuket’s is great spot for families, packed with kid-friendly resorts (we love the Outrigger Phi Phi and the Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga Resort & Spa), beautiful beaches, fun markets and plenty of activities for all ages. This new route makes that all much more accessible with less travel stress. Tickets are on sale now so snap them up for some winter sun at the end of the year

Sea And Safari In South Africa With Club Med

Cape Town may steal most of the spotlight when it comes to South African beach holidays, but a brand-new resort is set to put a different stretch of coastline firmly on the family travel map. Opening in July 2026, the Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari Resort promises to showcase another side of this incredible country with a brilliant two-centre holiday that mixes laid-back beach time with unforgettable safari

The trip begins at the chic new beach hotel on KwaZulu-Natal’s beautiful North Coast, just a short drive from Durban. This is Club Med’s very first resort in Africa, but you can expect the brand’s trademark mix of great service, top-notch facilities and endless activities. Rooms are bright, modern and comfortable, with plenty of family-friendly options. There are kids’ clubs for all ages (from babies to teens), pools and sports including paddle boarding, tennis and cycling. There’s even Club Med’s first-ever surf school, where kids can learn to ride the waves. While they’re busy, parents can check out the spa or relax by one of the four pools. Dining is easy and relaxed, with multiple restaurants and varied menus

Once you’ve had your fill of sand and sea, it’s time for the adventure to continue at Mpilo Safari Lodge. Set within a huge private game reserve, her you can enjoy guided safaris, bush walks and the thrill of spotting the Big Five, all while staying in stylish, comfortable lodges. It’s worth noting that the safari lodge has a minimum age of four, as activities are designed for children who can safely enjoy game drives. But for families with kids old enough to join in, this all-inclusive, two-centre holiday offers an exciting, easy way to experience the very best of South Africa

Explore The Peak District

If you’re on the lookout for a rural escape with the kids, then be sure to check out The Hide. This chic-but-cosy new hotel sits right on the edge of the stunning Chatsworth Estate and is already shaping up to be a firm favourite for family breaks in the Peak District. Formerly an old roadside inn, it’s been beautifully transformed into a relaxed countryside stay that feels stylish yet unfussy—and genuinely child-friendly. Accommodation is cosy and practical, with family rooms and fun bunk-bed options that kids will love (and parents will quietly cheer). Interiors take their cue from the surrounding landscape, with warm colours, natural textures, and thoughtful details inspired by Chatsworth itself, one of the UK’s most famous historic estates. Food is also super child-friendly as The Hide Grill and Pizzeria serves up wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and a laid-back menu made with local ingredients and appealing to kids and their parents

But what really makes The Hide ideal for a weekend away is its location. You’re just minutes from Chatsworth House, the gardens, farmyard, and that brilliant adventure playground. Add endless walks, wide open spaces, and plenty of room for kids to run free, and you’ve got a family stay that’s all about fresh air and exploring somewhere new and interesting from a super-comfy base

The Winterwear Brand To Know

Whether you’re heading to the slopes this year or simply braving a frosty walk in the park, Roarsome is the name to know when it comes to kids’ cosy winter kit. This clever brand makes clothes that aren’t just seriously cute, but also tough enough to handle snow, sleet, icy winds and everything else winter throws their way

The snowsuits, jackets and salopettes are fully waterproof, wonderfully warm, and built to last – perfect for little skiers who might spend as much time rolling in the snow as they do skiing down it. We also love all the thoughtful, kid-friendly details. Think removable hoods, elastic cuffs, thumb mitts and easy zips that make getting dressed (almost) drama-free. There are also clever extras like lift-pass pockets and built-in boot covers, making alpine holidays that little bit easier. And let’s not forget the bold colours, playful prints and dino characters – brilliant for kids and a lifesaver for parents trying to spot them on the piste. Practical, playful and wonderfully warm, Roarsome really does nail winter dressing for kids

Dream Villas From Ikos

Luxe family-favourite Ikos is stepping things up again with the launch of brand-new Deluxe Villas at the property in Odisia in Corfu and Porto Petro in Mallorca – they dream for families who want a little more space without giving up the ease of all-inclusive luxury

At Odisia, the new three and four-bedroom villas are perfect for bigger families or multigenerational trips. Think roomy living spaces, private pools, sunny terraces and beautiful sea views. Best of all, you still get full access to everything Ikos does so well: multiple restaurants, kids’ clubs, beaches and activities are all included

Over in Mallorca, Porto Petro’s new Deluxe Villas offer the same winning combo of privacy and convenience. Set within beautiful gardens, these villas come with private infinity pools, outdoor dining areas and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. They’re brilliant for families who like to holiday together but also want space and the ability for little ones to sleep in their own room – ensuring a good rest for everyone!

Add in Ikos’ renowned kids’ clubs, flexible childcare, and excellent dining, and these new villas are a fantastic option for a stress-free, high-end family holiday