1) LEGOLAND® Florida
LEGOLAND® Florida is the USA’s newest interactive family theme park – having just launched this month (October 2012). Of course, the 15-acre park is one of only five LEGOLAND parks in the world and is dedicated to families with children between the ages of two and 12. There are more than 50 rides, shows and attractions for family fun – which you can find out more about here.

2) Paphos, Cyprus
The lively town of Paphos is always a family favourite, especially since there are so many things to do here like diving, golf, Jeep tours, rock climbing, wine tasting and vineyard tours, and even kite surfing. There are two hotels in particular which tailor their activities specifically to kids: The Almyra and Annabelle Thanos Hotels – located next door to each other. They lay on all manner of parent friendly services, including a Baby-Go-Lightly pre-order service, crèche, twilight babysitting services, and kids’ and teens’ clubs.

3) Kruger National Park, Africa
What kid wouldn’t get a kick out of camping in the Kruger? From spotting one of the Big Five by 4X4 to listening to the sounds of the wild round the campfire, the 4-day Call Of The Kruger is a must do for families hankering after a real adventure. The small group safari also includes the option of a thrilling night’s game drive, younger safari goers having the chance to whet their volunteering appetite at a cheetah rehabilitation centre within the national park. Find out more at Acacia Africa.

4) Arizona, USA
Children as young as six can saddle up with their own guide on a ranch break in Arizona where everything from the pool to the accommodation is “disability accessible” including the riding, and family horseback trips ensure quality time is spent with everyone from tots to teens. Country music, campfires and game nights make for great evening entertainment, and parents can be assured of some R&R while their older brood are out loping down a sand wash or exploring the beautiful desert landscape astride their trusty steed. Check out Ranch Rider for more.

5) Cape Town, South Africa
Book a four-day break in Cape Town and you could find the family embracing all manner of wildlife, such as whales and penguins, and beautiful scenery like Table Mountain. And, of course, no South African trip would be complete without a safari. Try the Big Five Safari in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve spotting lions and elephants with Bush Baby Travel.

6) Montego Bay, Jamaica
Check out Round Hill Resort and Villas in Jamaica, which is well known for providing luxury, child friendly holidays with their complimentary Pineapple Kids’ Club and 7-Up Club. Day to day activities couldn’t be brighter, including reggae lessons, water sports and nature walks. The resort is even laying on some special discounts and free meals for kids under 12 this half-term and there’s even a nanny service. But don’t just take our word for it. Go to The Essential Holiday Collection for details.

7) Jolly Beach, Antigua
If you’re looking to catch some serious sun with the kids this autumn half term, then join the in the family friendly island of Antigua’s celebration of Independence Day which promises an unrivalled week of cultural fun. Try the Jolly Beach Resort & Spa for some great October deals with families in mind. The resort overlooks some of the most beautiful beaches on the island and has a Kidz Club while laying on family friendly activities, including a Pirate Night, beach picnic and treasure hunt.

8) Puerto Pollensa, Majorca
Although the whole island is beautiful, a great base for families is Puerto Pollensa on Majorca’s north-west coast, which is a chic, low-rise resort with an array of stylish restaurants and accommodation. One of the highlights is the decorative Pine Walk, a tree-lined promenade that snakes alongside the beach through the length of the town. The sheltered town beaches benefit also have calm and shallow waters perfect for younger children. Direct Line Holidays do some great deals at this time of year.

9) Olympos, Turkey
This part of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is a great place to take the kids for a memorable half-term holiday. Ever better, if you book with Hostels Club, you can all sleep in a tree house – probably every child’s dream! With Kadir’s Tree Houses, for example, there’s also a seafood restaurant and snack bar and plenty of activities for kids, including volley ball, table tennis and scooter and bike hire. If you don’t fancy the thought of sleeping in the trees, though, there are more comfortable bungalows and plenty to do nearby in a land that’s steeped in Lycian history and has some of the most picturesque, unspoilt scenery imaginable.

10) Makadi Bay, Egypt
Why not enjoy a luxury five-star escape to Makadi Bay with its private, sloping beach and own shopping mall? It’s a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy some truly tranquil surroundings. The Makadi Palace Hotel, in particular, is famed for its beautiful, extensive gardens and offers a fab all-inclusive package with return flights from Manchester. Find out more from Red Sea Holidays.

For cheaper last minute online currency, check out live rates at MyTravelMoney.co.uk which can often arrange airport pick-up.

*Availability is subject to change.

The post Family friendly breaks for half term appeared first on MyTravelMoney.co.uk.

Here are a few of our favourites:

1) Alton Towers
Alton Towers is Britain’s biggest and best, with everything you might expect from an adventure park… roller coasters, boat rides, arcades, ghost trains and its own water park. Book a short break in one of its own hotels in Alton, or find a budget Premier Inn or the likes nearby to save some cash.

2) Legoland
Legoland in Windsor won the 2011 Silver British Travel Award for Best UK Theme Park and with good reason. It spans 150 acres of parkland and has more than 55 interactive rides, live shows and workshops to keep the kids amused – all via the wonder of Lego. What’s more, families can now stay on-site after the Legoland Windsor Resort Hotel officially opened its doors in March this year. And, if you’re travelling in July you can witness the potential breaking of a new world record for the tallest Lego tower.

3) Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Lancashire is another great park. Try the new Nickelodeon Spongebob ride, test your mettle on the Pepsi Max or famous Big Dipper, or visit one of the Hot Ice shows. And while you’re in Blackpool, which is one of Britain’s best traditional seaside resorts, be sure to visit the Tower, see the zoo and pace the promenade for lots of cheap and tacky souvenir gifts.

4) Paultons Family Theme Park
Paultons Family Theme Park in New Forest is the only one to feature the loveable TV character, Peppa Pig, with her own version of kiddie friendly rides and attractions. But, don’t worry, there’s plenty for the older kids too. Try The Cobra, Raging River Ride or, if you’re intrepid enough, The Jumping Bean.

5) Loudoun Castle
Loudoun Castle is Scotland’s premier family theme park which has lots of thrill seeker rides like the Twist N Shout and the Pirates-of-the-Caribbean-themed Black Pearl. It’s not too far from the seaside town of Ayr, which has a fantastic coastline and plenty of shops.

6) Flamingo Land
Yorkshire’s Flamingo Land is just non-stop fun, with lots of white knuckle rides and even its own zoo. The animals themselves are well worth a visit and range from the Brazilian Tapir to Lemurs and Lions. In fact, there are more than 120 different species to behold at Flamingo Land, which is only open for the season until November 4 – so hurry or you’ll miss the fun!

7) Chessington World of Adventures
You’ll find no less than nine different themed parts of Chessington, which is within easy driving distance of London and is celebrating its 25th anniversary year. The resort has its own zoo and Sea Life Centre, which features Blacktip Reef Sharks, Jellyfish, Rays and more. Perhaps the best news of all, though, is that tickets start from as little as £20 per person when booked at least seven days in advance.

8) M&Ds
M&Ds in Strathclyde, Scotland, is a thrill-seeker’s dream. It’s full of daredevil rides and attractions for kids and adults brave enough to test their mettle. Other attractions include bingo, bowling and Amazonia, M&Ds’ very own indoor rainforest. Find it near Hamilton, just a short drive from Glasgow.

9) Landmark
According to the Scottish Thistle Awards, Landmark near Inverness is the ‘perfect family day out’ and we’d certainly have to agree. Tucked away in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll find this super theme park which is great for families who love the outdoors. It has its own Wild Water Coaster, a Runaway Timber Train and plenty of climbing activities to tackle – like in Ant City, for example.

10) Storybook Glen
Enter the magical world of make-believe at Storybook Glen for a chance to get up close and personal with your favourite nursery rhyme and fairytale characters for there are more than 100 of them on display. Explore 28 acres of gorgeous scenery, complete with secret waterfalls and exotic animals. Although this theme park caters for all ages, it’s particularly special for small children.

The post Best British Theme Parks for Summer Thrills ‘n’ Spills appeared first on MyTravelMoney.co.uk.

Once you’ve booked your flights for the much-needed family holiday you’ve all been dreaming of, you’re probably wondering how on earth you’re going to keep the kids entertained on-board. Well, it’s pretty simple. Just follow these sure-fire tips to happy travelling and you should be able to sit back and relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment:

1. Take lots of travel games for the flight and be sure to pack them in your hand luggage. Magnetic versions of Snakes & Ladders are ideal for younger kids, while older children can while away the hours playing chess or backgammon with dad.

2. Pick up some comics or magazines at the airport which will keep the kids busy for at least half an hour. Basically, the more things you can arm yourself with to hold their attention, the better!

3. Pack some bumper colouring books and pencils for the younger ones and more challenging word searches, crossword puzzles, Sudoku and logic problem books for teens.

4. Provide plenty of drinks and snacks throughout the flight and make sure you pick them up before you reach the departure gate as they’re always really expensive on-board. You do need to buy them after security, however, as any liquids will have to be binned as part of the luggage search.

5. Encourage your children to nap on the flight so they’re refreshed to take on the rest of the trip at the other end.

6. Talk about what you are going to do when you get there which will build up their anticipation and make the flight feel like less of a chore.

7. Quash their popping ears with lollypops and boiled sweets, or chewing gum for the older ones.

8. Take hand santiser, or baby wipes, with you – the water on-board the aircraft (i.e. in the toilet) comes from the holding tank and generally isn’t that clean. You don’t want to start your holiday with tummy bugs.

9. Think about the potential for nausea beforehand and either invest in some acupressure bands, which you can get from most pharmacies, or some children’s travel sickness medicine.

10. If you’re child has had a cold or sinus infection recently, get them to use a Vick inhaler before the plane takes off to avoid any sore heads as the altitude and cabin pressure increases.

Finally, make sure you’ve done a travel money comparison before you hit the airport, where the rates at the last minute kiosks can be astronomical.

Happy travelling!

The post How To Keep The Kids Happy On International Flights: 10 Top Tricks appeared first on MyTravelMoney.co.uk.