Phuket, Thailand
Flight time: approx 12 hours direct
If you’re anything like me, the idea of internal transfers after a long-haul flight, jet-lagged (and desperately trying to sympathise with children who feel the same), put me off travelling to Thailand during the school holidays. But in October 2026, Virgin Atlantic will launch the first non-stop flight to Phuket from the UK, and I for one have already booked.
Thailand has certainly been having its moment in the spotlight thanks, in large part, to season three of White Lotus (Four Seasons Koh Samui was where most of the filming took place), but it’s also incredibly family-friendly. Avoid Bangkok and head straight for the beaches in Phuket for a few nights before island hopping between Koh Yao Noi, Krabi and famous Koh Phi Phi – all spots we’ve listed in our guide to the best islands in Thailand. Bonus? Some of the cheapest nicest hotels in Thailand are also among the best suited to children. After just a few days in paradise, the travel time will be forgotten.
Where to stay: Choosing where to stay in Phuket is a toss-up between an all-villa hotel like Trisara with its private pools and beach views, and a resort with a kids’ club and food the children will definitely eat, such as Rosewood Phuket. If you’re planning to venture to neighbouring Koh Yao Noi, Six Senses is the place to book, and on Krabi there’s a beautiful Banyan Tree on the beach.
Maldives, Indian Ocean
Flight time: approx 12 hours plus a transfer from Male
LUX* South Ari Atoll, Sarah Bannerman
If, like me, you always considered the Maldives a destination for couples, think again. We had the pleasure of visiting in February last year, and I’m not sure I could have chosen a more perfect destination to go to with children. The travel time, of course, feels a lot. It’s 12 hours to Male and then a transfer, but I intentionally chose an overnight flight and hotels in easy (ish) distance to the mainland. There are options just a half-hour plane or boat ride away. Since having a family, I’ve struggled with the idea of not being able to explore a new place as much as I want to, but here, this felt achievable, and I actually relaxed. At the bigger family-friendly resorts, there are activities to keep all parties happy, and there’s no need (or option) to go anywhere else. My image of the Maldives as a place to simply lie in the sun was forgotten. We went on a boat at sunrise to spot dolphins, snorkelled with turtles, tried a cookery masterclass and cycled around the island. Granted, this isn’t going to be many people’s annual destination of choice, but it’s a trip I’ll never forget.