Christmas & New Year
Whether you want a traditional white Christmas or to welcome in the New Year in style...
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Australia
Arguably the best place to see in the New Year in style is Sydney. Expect one of the world's most spectacular firework displays, against the backdrop of Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Enjoy a New Year's Day BBQ at Bondi before a scenic sunset walk to Coogee. Or head to 'Field Day' - a music festival in The Domain (also the venue for the fabulous free family Christmas Carol Concert). With a vibrant Santa Fest in Darling Harbour in the run up to Christmas Eve, concerts for children and spectacular light projections, why not arrive early and spend the entire festive period in the sunshine Down Under.
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Brazil
A visit to Brazil is great at any time of the year thanks to the fun-loving locals, but the partying takes on a whole new level for New Year's Eve. Join the Rio locals (cariocas), dressed in white as they celebrate on sunny Copacabana beach - the festive period here co-incides with their summer. For real wow-factor, book into the iconic Copacabana Palace - with a range of dining and party options and a private balcony from which to view the spectacular fireworks display below, it is hard to beat and you can enjoy your New Year's Day lie-in in sumptuous comfort before heading down to breakfast and then relaxing pool-side.
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Finland
For the ultimate Christmas present. head to Lapland in Northern Finland - a region of unspoilt wilderness, which must surely feature on everyone's bucket list. Enjoy reindeer-sleigh trips to see Santa, husky-sledding to witness the Northern Lights, snow-shoeing and snowmobiling and plenty of Arctic wildlife, whilst snuggling up in a cosy log-wood cabin of your very own, complete with Finnish sauna.
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South Africa
With overnight flights and a 2 hour time difference (no jet lag!), swap winter for summer in South Africa. Enjoy time by the pool, visit the penguins at Boulder's Bay and take a trip up Table Mountain. If you can squeeze in a 2 night safari in Sanbona perhaps, voila - you have the ultimate family half-term adventure!
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Sri Lanka
December to March is the best time to visit the south-west coast and Hill Country. Rates from £2,150 per person for 10 nights, including flights and driver/guide throughout.
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Thailand
If your idea of the perfect family holiday is a blend of beach, culture, scenery and wildlife, look no further than exotic Thailand for the perfect long-haul adventure. Rates from £2, 200 per adult, £890 per child for a 10 night holiday, including a stay at Elephant Hills, a luxury tented camp with plentiful elephant encounters, based on a family of 4 sharing a family room, including all travel.