Why go? Family holidays don't get much easier than flying into a sunny island fringed with coconut palms and a gorgeous blue sea. With its lush rainforests, lilting reggae music, delicious fish and laid-back people, the Caribbean is a place where both children and parents can really relax. You can take your pick from islands that have a British, French, Dutch or Spanish flavour, with landscapes that range from dreamy pancakes of sand to magnificent volcanic peaks. Many hotels offer a creche or children's club, along with watersports and activities, and there's plenty of excursions if you like to explore.
Best for Teaching your child to swim in blissfully warm water. A holiday with a fixed budget - book into an all-inclusive resort and most costs will immediately be taken care of.
Best avoided Some resort areas can be congested and noisy. September and October is the peak of the hurricane season.
Need to know Prices are lower from April to November. Book early for half-term holidays. US dollars are widely accepted.
TC Tip Antigua and Barbados are ideal islands for an easy holiday with young children. If you have teenagers, consider visiting Jamaica, St Lucia, or St Vincent & The Grenadines.
Some of the content of the magazine refers to flights or prices from the UK. At Travel Counsellors Ireland we can source flights from Ireland and provide full quotes in Euros. Please call me for latest availability and prices.