Warm winter destinations in Europe
Hi There!
Traveling with your husband and child sounds awesome. Being a mom I know it can be quite challenging traveling with a young child so I've included a few tips I found about traveling with children which you may find useful. As requested I've provided a list of European destinations which have mild weather and some things you can do there.
Read on to see my tp picks for you and your family!
(Source: Rock Cohen)
TURKEY
Your research on the net is spot on Turkey has two distinct weather type:the coast has moderate winter temperatures and hot, humid summers, and the inland areas have extremely cold winters and excessively hot summers.
Istanbul during December is cold and wet ,here is a temperature chart
(Source: Istanbul Weather - Istanbul, Turkey Forecast - TripAdvisor)
With the exception of İstanbul, Turkey doesn’t really have a winter tourism season. Most accommodation along the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Sea and in some parts of Cappadocia is closed from mid-October until late April.So if you do visit the coast most of the resorts are shut.
Istanbul "storm" (Source: Tinou Bao)
For further info click here
So the weather in turkey during December is unpredictable to say the most. Here are few milder European destinations ,which i am sure will be perfect for not only you and your husband but also your child
Canary island would be a perfect destination with sun kissed beaches and a year long spring. Canary Islands are an archipelago of Spain situated just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa.
Isla de la Palma, Canary Islands 1992 (Source: Peter Forster)
It's all too easy to land in the Canary Islands and, feeling the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair, scurry straight to an idyllic beach resort or quiet rural retreat, not to be heard from again until the morning of your flight out. Yet while were sunbathing, swimming, sailing, snorkelling and strolling, the real Canaries are chugging along in the background.
(Source: Canary Islands Travel Information and Travel Guide - Lonely Planet)
The weather in Canary Islands is one of eternal spring with temperatures ranging from18°C in the winter to about 24°C in summer.
Weather
Yes, it really is like a permanent spring in the Canary Islands, with a particularly benign climate putting a smile on your face as soon as you hit the tarmac. Mean temperatures range from 18C in the winter to about 24C in summer. Daily highs can easily reach the mid-30s in summer. Even on a hot day at the beach, however, it can be pleasantly cool higher up, and the snow atop Teide is a clear enough reminder that, in winter at any rate, some warm clothing is essential.
(Source: Weather in Canary Islands - Lonely Planet Travel Information)
Isla de la Palma, Canary Islands 1992 (Source: Peter Forster)
for further information click here
Canary islands with its luscious beaches and awesome weather has a lot to do which will also keep your child involved.Here are a few child friendly activities with links which you can follow.
The beach dunes of the protected Parque Natural de Corralejo stretch along the east coast for about 10km from Corralejo. To add to this unique spot Corralejo has the most beautiful beaches in Canary islands .
Dunas de Corralejo (Source: Guillén Pérez)
A dune landscape
This park is situated on the island of Fuerteventura, in the municipal district of Corralejo, and is a sand field of great geomorphological unity and of great scientific interest.
Corralejo Nature Reserve is an extensive dune field which extends from Puerto Remedio beach to La Salina. The only exception to this dune landscape are the Mountains of los Apartaderos and Roja. It constitutes a habitat with numerous protected endemic species.
(Source: Nature reserve in Spain: Parque Natural de Corralejo | Spain.info in english)
For further information click here
Although Canary islands have abundant beaches but this one ideal for children as it is not too crowded and is frequented more by the locals than the tourists.It is situated in Arrecife, for further info on Arrecife click here
Playa del reducto (Source: Iker Larrañaga)
This lovely beach just outside the island's capital is studded with palm tress. A series of reefs close to the shore form a kind of sea-water swimming pool, making this a good spot for calm, relatively safe bathing. Playa Reducto tends to attracts locals more than tourists and has a friendly atmosphere with a pretty lively after dark scene.
(Source: Playa El Reducto | Simonseeks)
Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago just under 400 km north of Tenerife, Canary Islands, in the north Atlantic Ocean and an outermost region of the European Union.The archipelago comprises one of the two Autonomous regions of Portugal (the other being the Azores located to the northwest), that includes the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo, the Desertas and the Savage Islands.
Madeira (Source: Madeira)
Today, it is a popular year-round resort, being visited every year by about one million tourists,[7] noted for its Madeira wine, flowers, landscapes and embroidery artisans, as well for its annual New Years celebrations that feature the largest fireworks show in the world, as officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, in 2006.The main harbour in Funchal is the leading Portuguese port in cruise liner dockings,[10] being an important stopover for commercial and trans-Atlantic passenger cruises between Europe, the Caribbean and North America.
Madeira is currently the second richest region in Portugal, after Lisbon, with a GDP per capita of 103% of the European average.
Madeira - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (Source: Madeira - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)
Most people who live here feel that Madeira has the best weather whole year round.temperatures during December range from 19 degree Celsius to 15degree.Here is an average weather chart.
Madeira Island: Typical Annual Weather Pattern (Source: Madeira Island: Typical Annual Weather Pattern)
For more info on weather click here
There are many unusual thing to see and do here, however Madeira does not have beaches so swimming is restricted to the hotel swimming pool.
Because of its unique location in the mid-ocean the island of Madeira is blessed with the presence of visiting whales and dolphins, which has only recently been recognized as another asset to this beautiful holiday destination.
Apart from this breathtaking whale and dolphin spotting experience you will also get a glimpse of ocean wandering sea birds, some of which are found nowhere else in the world!
The Race is On (Source: Ricardo Liberato)
The adventure starts immediately after leaving the marina, looking for feeding frenzy involving seabirds, whales and dolphins or for just a school of dolphins willing to play around the boat. Wherever the most exciting activity with cetaceans is, we will find it for you.
Depending on time and weather there will be a chance to swim and snorkel on a wonderful bay in Ponta de Sï Loureni, where you can try the crystalline water of this Nature Reserve or, before that, if dolphins invite, i.e. depending on their behavior you can swim with dolphins for no extra cost.
Tour days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday
Departure times: 10am and 4pm
Typical duration: 2h to 2h30
Tour Languages: English, Spanish and Portuguese
Friendly advices: Take a warm & waterproof jumper, appropriate footwear, sun protector and hat
Photography: Allowed and recommended. There is a possibility of your equipment getting wet with salt water spray.
(Source: Whale and Dolphin Watching in Madeira by Madeira Wind Birds)
here are some links on the various tours:
A trip to this park would be something which your daughter would really love.
duck (Source: Christina Spicuzza)
The recently opened Aqua Park is located about 16 km northeast of Funchal, close to the airport. This attraction sets out to cater for the entire family and has two swimming pools, one of which is reserved for children. The park can cater for 1,000 people and has five toboggan slides, four other water slides, a highly recommended black hole and a river which meanders around the pools. Facilities include changing rooms, lockers and a bar and there is no objection to refreshments being brought on site.
(Source: Aqua Park in Madeira - Portugal - A Portugal Attraction)
For info on fees and other details click here
Some other sites near the Aqua park which is child friendly would be
These are just a few of the beaches and bathing pools which you can visit.
(Source: Tim Walker)
If you are looking for coconuts and golden sandy beaches, then with it's black volcanic sand, Madeira Island is probably not the place for you. However, the island's beaches are popular for their high standards, crystal clear water and pleasant temperatures.
And golden sand may be found in Calheta and Machico where it has been imported especially!
With many of Madeira's beaches being pebbled, comfort is not a word that immediately comes to mind. Beach mats are always a good idea!
But there are also some wonderful sandy beaches and excellent pools. The jewel in the crown is of course the 9 kilometre golden beach of Porto Santo. Whatever your preference, find it here using our beach map!
Beaches and Pools of Madeira (Source: Beaches and Pools of Madeira)
Here are some of the most famous ones:
- Lido: the lido swimming pool complex is the best here with a sea water pool which is filled everyday.
- Ponta Gorda:This is the latest bathing complex and has two swimming pools
- Santa Cruz: After enjoying the rides in the aqua park you and your family can take a dip in the Santa Cruz bathing complex
- Porto Santo: with its 9 kms sandy white beach it is a bathers paradise and is the only beach to do so in Madeira
For more such attractions click here
The charming Aeolian Islands are a travelers dream come true ,however it is very popular and must be visited in the off season and December would be perfect for that.
The Aeolian Islands are volcanic-origin archipelago located just a few miles off the northern coast of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
cefalu beach in the early morning (Source: betty x1138)
Stunning cobalt sea, windswept mountains and a charming film about a postman go some way to explaining why the Aeolians (Isole Eolie) are the European Holy Grail for island-lovers. The seven islands of Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Alicudi and Filicudi are part of a huge 200km volcanic ridge and lie between the smoking stack of Mt Etna and the threatening mass of Vesuvius above Naples. Collectively, the islands exhibit a unique range of volcanic characteristics, which earned them a place on Unesco's World Heritage list in 2000. This is an area of extraordinary natural beauty but, unfortunately, the word is out, so visit out of season if you can.
(Source: Aeolian Islands Travel Information and Travel Guide - Italy - Lonely Planet)
Famed for perfect weather and a series of active volcanoes with numerous craters. Lipari and the aeolian islands have a strong tourism industry. They are easily reached by ferry or hydrofoil from Sicily or Italy. Throughout the month of December daytime temperatures will generally reach highs of around 16°C that's about 60°F. At night the average minimum temperature drops down to around 11°C, that's 53°F.
(Source: Climate profile for Aeolian Islands | Holiday and Travel | MyWeather2.com)
Here is a list of a few things to see and do in Aeolian islands
Experience the beauty and calm of the island on the Salina Relax boats and have the most amazing time.The island of Salina is magnificent.
(Source: Dave Ellis)
Here is a review from a fellow traveler:
this boat trip was of the highlights of our trip, and great value for money
5 of 5 stars Reviewed July 7, 2011
We paid 70 euros each for a 12-hour trip with Salina Relax boats. We visited the islands of Panarea and Stromboli, with time to ourselves on each island, There were also several stops along the way so that we could swim in the clear blue Mediterranean. The price included a delicious lunch and dinner, both prepared on board. After dinner we watched while Stromboli threw up huge sparks of fire into the night sky. Make sure you take a warm jacket, it got cold on the boat in the evening. The crew didn't speak a lot of English, but went out of their way to look after everyone, even finding squabs so that 2 small children could sleep in the cabin.
Visited June 2011
(Source: TripAdvisor)
For further info mailto:salinarelaxboats@yahoo.it
This the smallest of the Aeolian islands however it has the most beautiful beaches.
If you want to swim, walk or take boat trips around what is probably the most beautiful of the Aeolian Islands, come in spring or autumn. The hotels are generally pretty expensive, but Pippo and Maria (00 39 090 983060) have perfectly nice rooms to rent in a quiet part of the village.
Be sure to take the 40-minute walk to the dark gold sandy beach of Zammar and the magnificent bay of Cala Junca beyond, at the foot of a promontory topped by the foundations of Bronze Age huts.
(Source: The Escape guide: The Aeolian Islands | Travel | The Observer)
panarea (Source: Florent)
For further info click here
Lipari is the largest island and in summer, the most crowded. Dominated by Mount Chirica, Lipari has an area of almost 37 square kilometers. It's almost 10 kilometers in length and Lipari Beach about 5 kilometers wide.Marina Lunga is the beach area nearest the city of Lipari. The easiest way to get to Lipari is from Milazzo.
Contorno de Lipari - 1 (Source: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo)
Lipari is the widest, the most popolous and, except Salina, all the others islands belong to its municipality.
You can reach Lipari by the sea in two ways: ferries arrive to Marina Corta, boats to Sottomonastero.The island of Lipari is very complex from the geological and volcanogical point of view: endogenous manifestations are fumaroles (in Bagno Secco), solfataras and hot springs (in San Calogero). The island of Lipari is an ideal climatic resort and an ideal place for holidays thanks to its mild weather and its breathless landscape. Do not miss the boat round trip with its beaches, grottos, bays.
The center of the village is situated between Marina Lunga and Marina Corta and its heart is the castle, the old bishop palace and the Cathedral.
Lipari counts about 9000 inhabitants living in the suburbs of Pianoconte, Acquacalda, Quattropani e Canneto.
(Source: Lipari - Lipari Island - Lipari Hotel - Lipari residence - Lipari Last minute - Lipari vacations)
for further info click here
This is Spains Most Southern most region with beautiful climate,intoxication sights, mouthwatering food and warm people.
Spain's most southerly region is the true home of typically Spanish experiences. Bullfighting, tapas, flamenco, the guitar itself, all began in Andalucia and remain deeply embedded here. Other aspects of Spanish life take on their most extreme forms here: Andalucian fiestas are the noisiest and most colourful , Easter processions have more pageantry, the summer heat is more broiling, the people are at their most vivacious, fun-loving and family-oriented. The coastal tourist resorts are the most densely crowded in the whole country, though you may be able to find a beach to yourself along the Costa de Almera if you're lucky
(Source: AndalucÃa Travel Information and Travel Guide - Spain - Lonely Planet)
(Source: Toprural)
Andalucía has an excellent climate for those who like guaranteed sunshine all year round. Spring and autumn are lovely seasons - midday temperatures are around 30ºC. In July and August the temperature regularly reaches 40ºc and often more inland. Even in December and January coastal temperatures can reach 20 to 25º, perfect for sunbathing.
Weather in Andalucia (Source: Weather in Andalucia)
For further info click here
Here are a few things to do
The water park at Granada would be perfect as it has simulated artificial waves which your daughter will freak out on.
(Source: Sarah Boerger-SMith)
There are two wonderful water parks within easy travel distance of Granada city. The one in Granada, Aquaola water park, has stunning views over the city and the one in Almu ecar has lovely views out to sea. Both have cafes, wave pools, a great fun mixture of slides, Black Holes, chutes and a host of different things to do. The water parks can easily provide the whole family with a wonderful day out.
(Source: Top ten things to do in Andalucia to make your holiday perfect....)
An unique experience for both your child and you, horse riding in this beautiful country with awesome weather is a must.These are just some of the activities that are available:
- Guided Tours, trecking on horseback for 1 hour, 2 hours, half day or full day.
- Camp-out Rides through the National Park.
- Night time outings by the light of the full moon.
- Week long trecks to explore the plains and mountains.
- Individual and group horse riding lessons are also available.
(Source: Fresco Tours)
For further Info visit The Los Aloyos Equestrian centre
If you enjoy horse riding - no matter what level of skill you have - you will certainly love it here with the dry climate and wonderful views.
Just a few minutes drive away at Dilar are the Inicia stables where there are professionally trained trecking horses. Both beginners and experienced riders are catered for.
(Source: Top ten things to do in Andalucia to make your holiday perfect....)
For further info on activities in Granada Click here
The beaches are amazing with crystaline white sand backed by dunes and pine wood.
(Source: El Portil. Beach. Sunset. Huelva. Andalucía. Spain)
For more info on beaches and other beach related activity click here
Air India (Source: Cliff)
A return flight from New Delhi to The Canary Islands during your indicated trip dates will cost about $1200 per person (Your 2 year old will travel for free)
You can see all the available flights to the area here
A return flight from New Delhi to Madeira, Portugal during your indicated trip dates will cost about $1950 per person (Your 2 year old will travel for free)
You can see all the available flights to the area here
A return flight from New Delhi to Naples, Italy during your indicated trip dates will cost about $800 per person (Your 2 year old will travel for free)
From Naples you can catch a connection via ferry or hydrofoil to get to the Aeolin Archipelago (no air traffic except for personal helicopters can be accommodated on the Islands)
You can see all the available flights to the area here
A return flight from New Delhi to Madeira, Portugal during your indicated trip dates will cost about $857 per person (Your 2 year old will travel for free). There are several airports in the area, I have indicated the very cheapest option which connects New Delhi, India and Malaga, Spain
You can see all the available flights to the area here
Here are some travel tips which will make it easier to travel with your Kid:
Packing: Packing for kids is a long drawn process as you have to remember so many things .Always carry enough clothes as kids tend to make a mess, don"t forget the medicines especially for ear pain and fever.Here are a few useful links
Where to sit on the plane:Its very important to find good seats if you are traveling with a child,here are some useful links
What to do in the air: Its very important to know how to tackle situations in the air here are a few tips
For more info on traveling with kids visit these sites
Explore related trips
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This is something your child will love Camel Safari Park La Baranda has 70 camels and is located in a lush property with palms and avocado and citrus trees it also has a restaurant, bar and small zoo.Welcome to the oasis of a thousand palm trees located 12km from Playa del Inglés
Camel (Source: Tony Hisgett)
Camel Safari in Gran Canaria (Source: Camel Safari in Gran Canaria)
For further info on Gran canaria click here