Lapland vacation tips - Amethyst mine

What to wear in Lapland: Family packing list

The first time I had to pack for an extreme cold weather trip, I felt like I was learning a different language. While there are lots of Lapland packing tips online, it still felt like there was a lot to get my head around in terms of exactly what to bring and how much. I … Read more

Taking surfing lessons in St Ives.

15 things to do in St Ives, Cornwall (with or without kids)

St.Ives has been on my bucket list for years – the idea of a charming artsy surf town is one that obviously beckoned. But it took until my fourth decade to finally get there. Thankfully, the long wait was worth it. Parking issues aside, it’s a dream of a holiday destination for adults and kids … Read more

View from 13 St Margarets, Carbis Bay

Review: 13 St Margarets, Carbis Bay (Aspects Holidays)

St Ives is one of the UK’s most special beach destinations with a charming town centre, buzzy art scene, and turquoise waters that have you questioning what country you’re in. Its popularity means there are plentiful accommodation options, from boutique hotels to camping to self-catering apartments. On our recent visit, we were invited by Aspects … Read more

Special places to stay with kids in France

This is a handy page where you can see all our recommended special places to stay in France with kids. We also have plenty of France itineraries and destination guides for planning a your perfect France trip. As you know, it’s part of my job at Bridges and Balloons to seek out the most special … Read more

Kids running at the Marqueyssac Garden.

Things to do in the Dordogne with Kids

To my shame, before I went to the Dordogne, I’d somehow labelled it as “boring”.  It’s popular with British retirees, so I think that had somehow muddled my perception. Regardless of where I got it from, I was wrong. With golden-stone villages, turreted castles, gorgeous rivers and fields of sunflowers, the Dordogne feels like stepping … Read more

Kids enjoying smores at Outdoorsy Hill Country.

Where to go in October with kids

October is one of my favourite times to go away – a chance to embrace Autumn or have a final hurrah of sunshine before the winter sets in. Here are some ideas for places to travel in October with kids. 10 places to travel in October with kids Texas I love being in the States … Read more

Vikings

How to get the most out of Puy du Fou with kids

Puy du Fou is one of the most impressive and bonkers places I’ve ever been. Voted the best theme park in the world several times, it’s one of France’s most popular attractions, drawing over 2 million visitors a year. It’s an immersive world of spectacular live shows where history, myth, and theatre collide on a … Read more

Country Kids Resort – Europe’s most charming all inclusive

The words “all inclusive” have come to suggest a certain vibe – huge resorts with every bell and whistle you can think of. While convenient, I’ve never heard one described as charming. But this one-of-a-kind boutique family resort in France is exactly that. It’s re-defined what all-inclusive can look like – and I don’t think … Read more

Roque Gageac.

A beautiful Dordogne road trip itinerary

The Dordogne is France at its storybook best – a land of medieval villages, turreted castles, golden-stone towns, and a river that winds through it all. It’s one of those places that feels almost too perfect, like stepping into a fairy tale. Add canoe rides, lively markets, and countryside brimming with sunflowers, and you have … Read more