The first half term of the school calendar is always a tough one. The kids haven’t quite settled back into school life yet and it’s so cold that you don’t know what to do with them at home. That’s why the October half term is so perfect for a weeklong getaway. But what destinations are ideally placed to offer solace during this cold school break? Here are some family holiday ideas for October half term.

Tenerife

With its year-round warm weather, Tenerife in the Canary Islands is a great destination for your Autumn family holiday. Not only does it feature one of the world’s very best water parks in Siam Park (open 365 days a year) but it’s a location with just enough home comforts that younger children won’t feel overwhelmed. There are hundreds of great family hotels to choose from in Tenerife but it’s the Hard Rock Hotel that stands as perhaps the most fully featured and family orientated. It’s like staying in a Disney resort but without the high prices!

Antalya

If you’re on a budget but still fancy some Autumn sun then consider Antalya, Turkey id ideal. It has dozens of water parks, theme parks and aquariums. The temperature is also generally a steady 20 degrees around November. That’s considered a warm summer day in the UK! Flights to Turkey are very affordable. You also get a lot of bang for your buck when it comes to accommodation. All-inclusive holidays are particularly popular.

Family cruise

Consider a family cruise from Southampton with dozens of destinations to choose from. Whether you desire a gentle and more picturesque cruise of the Norwegian Fjords or a sunny cruise around the Mediterranean, the port of Southampton hosts most of the world’s biggest cruise lines and will have a cruise suitable for all family needs. Southampton itself is also a charming port city with lots of activities to keep the kids entertained, so you could even have a long weekend in the city before setting off.

Autumn staycations

Of course, you might not feel like travelling for hours this close to Christmas and might prefer something a little closer to home. If a trip abroad isn’t on the cards, consider an Autumn staycation to the Cotswolds or The Lake District. You should be able to find a log cabin with a wood fire and a hot tub that will keep the family toasty and the amount of country walks you’ll find to keep you entertained should make it a hit with everyone.

Disneyland Paris

There are few places on earth quite as well catered towards families as Disneyland. While it might once have been a lesser park compared to its American siblings. Disneyland Paris has grown in stature in recent years and with the addition of the Marvel land, Avengers Campus, it’s not probably the most perfect family getaway in Europe for families with young kids and parents that refuse to grow up. October is one of the best times of year to go in my opinion as you have all the amazing Halloween decorations, making Disney look even more magical! Note, however, that it will be more expensive during the school breaks, for obvious reasons.

Cyprus

And finally one of my favourite family destinations, Cyprus! Autumn sunshine, sea, beaches, family-friendly restaurants, what’s not to love?

Whatever you decide to do, be it going away or just having quality time together as a family, have the best time together.

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