It doesn’t seem like 5 minutes since the schools broke up for Christmas but half term is nearly here; the half term week falls on either 11th – 15th February or 18th – 22nd February 2013. If the recent bad weather has got you yearning for a holiday, don’t worry as there’s still plenty of time to book a break away for you and the kids. Take a look at some of these February Half Term Holiday Ideas to get your creative juices flowing…don’t forget to share your own suggestions!
UK
Great for: A simple change of scenery
You won’t escape the bad weather but with so much to see in your own back garden, a holiday in the British Isles provides a simple change of scenery and so much more. We often overlook the delights of home but there is so much choice of things to see and do in the UK that choosing where to visit can be tough! Consider a journey north to Northumberland where the landscapes are punctuated by rising peaks and historic (and sometimes haunted) castles like Alnwick Castle, perhaps better known as Hogwarts in Harry Potter. Head west to Wales where the collaboration of beaches, mountains and valleys will enlighten everyone regardless of the weather! The midst of the country will capture everyone’s curiosities with caves and caverns and teach you about the past with a visit to historic villages like that of Eyam which was overrun by the Plague. Family in tow, spend this half term exploring your own country and you might be pleasantly surprised, plus there’s no foreign languages or unusual food to contend with! Thumbs up or thumbs down for a staycation?
Canary Islands
Great for: Hot weather and family entertainment
The winter months are when the Canary Islands truly shine, boasting balmy temperatures and golden beaches. The islands offer so much more than sunshine and sand however; there is plenty to see and do. If you like to combine beach days with activities, this is the ideal destination for you. Tenerife is easily at the top of the list and boasts a range of accommodation at busy seaside resorts like Los Cristianos and Playas de Las Americas plus quieter areas slightly inland. Activities include several animal parks like Loro Parque and the Monkey Park, the towering volcano Mount Teide and alien like lava fields on the journey there plus shopping, boat trips and more. This destination will tick all the boxes, particularly for families with slightly older children who like a bit more action.
What’s your favourite childhood holiday memory?
France
Great for: Accessibility and variety
France is a great destination for a last minute family break that won’t break the bank. Much of the reason for this is that it is so accessible; if you’re a reasonable distant from London, the Eurostar is a viable option, if you live near the coast you can jump on a passenger ferry and if you live elsewhere, there are a host of cheap flights on offer. Getting around once you’ve arrived is cheap and easy too. If they love museums and you want them to experience the French culture, the bustling streets of the capital (plus the prospect of Disneyland Paris) will fit the bill, whereas kids with plenty of energy to burn will be right at home on the snow-capped peaks spending their days learning to ski. The rolling countryside and the southern coastal resorts should be considered too, for their family friendly offerings. Don’t forget the many camp sites in idyllic surroundings with plenty to see and do from Chateaux to theme parks. France has enough diversity to keep kids of all ages engaged and entertained and it won’t take long to get there.
A holiday during the February could be just what the doctor ordered, both for you and the kids, allowing you all to return to work and school to tackle the new term refreshed and rejuvenated.
Help out other readers and leave your suggestions and February half term holiday ideas in the comments section below! Feel free to share your favourite memories too!
