Here’s the pick of our exciting options for families seeking far-flung holidays this year. We’ve got an increased presence in America, plenty of gorgeous villas in Sri Lanka, and would thoroughly recommend Thailand for families. What are you waiting for?

h2hotel Healdsburg, California

1. USA. Kids are more than welcome at the eco-chic H2Hotel in Healdsburg, California, where you’ll find a pool, bikes for family cycling trips , babysitting, suites, and a brilliant bookshop for children nearby.

Kurland Near Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route, South Africa
2. South Africa. Kurland is a small, luxurious hotel with pools, loft rooms for kids, a spa, polo stables and that special touch for families. It’s on the Garden Route so near to wonderful wineries and wildlife, and South Africa is a great long-haul destination for families as you won’t have to contend with jet lag!

Golden Buddha Beach Resort Andaman Sea, western Thailand

3. Thailand. For those wanting sun, sand and seclusion, Golden Buddha Beach Resort in Thailand is a wonderful spot, especially if you have a young family. i-escape’s editor-in-chief visited last year and reminisces fondly about the sea kayaking, the beaches and the wonderful, child-friendly staff.

Taprobane Island Weligama, Sri Lanka

4. Sri Lanka. We have so many options to choose from in Sri Lanka. One of the quirkiest has to be Taprobane Island, just off the south coast, where you can arrive by elephant and spend your days writing, painting, swimming and eating tropical fruit. The house sleeps 10. Or try one of our newest family-friendly spots, Tisara Villas, near Galle.

Nikoi Island Bintan Islands, Indonesia

5. Singapore. Well, not exactly Singapore – 2 hours from the stopover city is Nikoi Island, a private resort that’s fantastic for families, with stunning design to wow parents and a host of kids’ activities, including treasure hunts and kids’ clubs. We especially like the dressing-up box themed around pirates and mermaids.

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