Australian school holidays are just around the corner now and many parents will be tempted by the idea of an impromptu getaway. Abercombie & Kent have a range of new tour options that fit the occasion perfectly. Families can spend seven days on an ‘Australia’s Red Heart’ journey that explores around Uluru and Kings Canyon in absolute style, or there’s a range of itineraries for those wanting to head abroad. There’s an option to escape for six days to Thailand’s Soneva Kiri and enjoy decadent dining, villa living, spa treatments and sunshine from US$2665 per person, or those with older kids may prefer the idea of an eight-day ‘Five Star India for Less’ itinerary. The latter helps families explore the vibrancy of India, from the pink of Jaipur to the gleaming Taj Mahal, with prices from US$2785 per person.
Australia’s Red Heart (seven days)
From $2239 per person
For active family members there’s boomerang throwing, hiking around Uluru and Kings Canyon and quad bike adventures. For the more sedentary there is a stunning desert dinner under the stars and time spent with a local Alice Springs resident who points out constellations over billy tea. Children will be absorbed by a visit to the School of the Air and a traditional bush tucker experience.
Thailand – Hideaway: Soneva Kiri (six days)
From US$2775 per person
The island playground of Soneva Kiri on Koh Kood in southern Thailand is a luxury haven with villas that are beautiful and natural. Food is a highlight with a choice of restaurants, cuisines and melt-in-the-mouth menus. There’s also plenty to do on the land and in the water including father-and-son fishing trips, mother-and-daughter spa treatments, movie screenings, chocolate and ice-cream tastings, snorkelling and more. The children’s DEN nestled into the jungle landscape is even shaped like a giant manta ray.
Active Family Adventure in Croatia (nine days)
From $7670 per adult and $3695 per child
Croatia is one of Europe’s hottest summer destinations. Famous for its clear waters, palm-lined harbours and quaint fishing villages, it also has historic monuments galore. In Split, a resort hotel lets families soak up the sun and explore the ancient Palace of Diocletian, with families also enjoying a day of cycling along the Cetina River and time on the island of Hvar. In Dubrovnik there’s a walk along the old city walls, a visit to the sea Aquarium and a cable car ride up Mount Srd for spectacular views of the city.
Five Star India for Less (eight days)
From $2785 per person
This package includes the most iconic attractions in northern India: Delhi’s Red Fort, the impressive Agra Fort and Taj Mahal, the legendary Pink City of Jaipur, the 500 year-old hilltop fortress of Amber and the lakes of Udaipur. Perfect for families, the luxury Oberoi hotels and resorts are some of the best the country has to offer. Transport is in a private air-conditioned vehicle with expert guides on hand to bring the place to life.