04 November 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a stunning tropical paradise that offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and a plethora of activities for families. This July, I had the incredible opportunity to explore this island gem with my family of five, and it was an adventure we’ll cherish forever. Our home away from home was the magnificent Sugar Beach Resort at Flic En Flac, where we were delighted to have two interconnecting rooms. This setup was perfect for our family, allowing us to enjoy both privacy and togetherness. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with personalized service that made us feel valued and cared for. The resort itself is a paradise, boasting pristine beaches, lush gardens, and a plethora of amenities. We particularly enjoyed the diverse buffet, which offered an array of local and international dishes that catered to every palate. Dining with a view of the turquoise waters made every meal feel like a special occasion. The fantastic weather complemented our experience, allowing us to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoor activities. The weather was stunning for our entire stay. temperatures between 24-28 degrees, which was refreshing coming from a hot Dubai summer. Sugar Beach Resort offered a range of activities to keep our family entertained. We took advantage of the non-motorized watersports available, which included kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Picture this: my youngest was convinced they could out-paddle me in the kayak—let’s just say, it was a hilarious sight watching me try to keep up! One of the highlights was the complimentary trip on the glass-bottom boat, which allowed us to view the stunning underwater world without getting wet. It was a fantastic way for the kids to see colorful fish and coral reefs while learning about the importance of marine conservation. Although we had many plans to venture out of the resort, the kids enjoyed it so much that we ended up spending most of our time relaxing by the beach and pool. However, we did manage to visit Port Louis, the vibrant capital city. While I wish I had booked a guided tour to make the most of our visit, we enjoyed our adventure navigating the city on our own. Initially, it was easy to explore, but as the day progressed, the heat and the hustle of the city made it a bit hectic, especially with the kids in tow. Note to self: next time, plan for some air-conditioned breaks! One of our treasured memories during our trip was our visit to Casela Nature Park. Located just a short drive from Flic En Flac, this park is a true adventure paradise for families. As soon as we arrived, the kids were wide-eyed with excitement at the sight of the many animals, including lions, giraffes, and zebras. We opted for the safari tour, which was an absolute highlight. Riding through the park in an open-air vehicle allowed us to get up close and personal with some of the wildlife. The kids were thrilled to see the animals roaming freely in their natural habitat, and we loved capturing their excited reactions on camera! After the safari, we explored the park's many attractions, including the zip-lining course, which provided a thrilling view of the lush landscape below. Even my hesitant one took the plunge, and the joy on their face was priceless! For those looking to get even closer to nature, Casela offers animal encounters where you can feed and interact with some of the animals. When we ventured to the capital Port Louis, my fave thing we did was trying the local Creole food. You must try the fish vindaye—it's absolutely delicious! We stumbled upon a little street vendor who served the best dholl puri I’ve ever tasted. The flavors burst in your mouth, and I still dream about that meal! Don’t miss the chance to savor the vibrant street food scene; it’s a culinary adventure in itself. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and delicious food, what made this trip truly special was the time spent together as a family. We laughed, explored, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it was watching the sunset over the ocean or sharing stories around the dinner table, every moment was a reminder of the joy of travel. If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius with your family, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience: Pack sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen for everyone. Stay hydrated: With the tropical climate, keep water handy, especially for the kids. Take breaks: Don’t forget to schedule downtime between activities to recharge, especially with young ones in tow. Explore local cuisine: Make it a point to try the local Creole dishes and don’t shy away from street food—some of the best flavors are found in unexpected places! Our trip to Mauritius was more than just a vacation; it was an unforgettable family adventure. With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere, Mauritius is a destination that captivates the heart. If you're looking for a family-friendly getaway that combines relaxation and adventure, look no further than this island paradise.

26 May 2024

This past December, my family and I embarked on a festive adventure to the enchanting city of Prague. Travelling with my husband and our three children, aged 9, 7, and 2, we set off on December 9th to experience the holiday magic of this historic European city. Our stay in the Jewish Quarter right in Old Town proved an excellent choice, especially with young kids in tow, as it placed us right in the heart of Prague’s vibrant Christmas celebrations. Our accommodation in Old Town allowed us to be within walking distance of the city’s major attractions, which is something I highly recommend for families travelling with children. The convenience of being close to the sights made our trip less stressful and more enjoyable. Our hotel was charming, offering a cosy atmosphere that perfectly complemented the festive spirit of Prague. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the iconic Christmas markets in Old Town Square. The markets were a bustling hub of activity, filled with the sounds of Christmas carols, the scent of mulled wine, and the sight of beautifully decorated stalls. The food at the markets was delicious, with our favourites being the crispy Langos and rich, velvety hot chocolate. We spent many days wandering through the stalls, picking out unique ornaments and handmade crafts to take home as souvenirs. Walking across the Charles Bridge was a magical experience, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the Vltava River. The bridge is lined with statues and offers stunning views of Prague’s skyline. We enjoyed listening to the street bands playing festive tunes and browsing the small stalls selling souvenirs. It was a perfect spot for family photos, and our kids loved watching the boats pass underneath the bridge. A short walk from the Astronomical Clock, we discovered the intriguing Alchemist Museum, a hidden gem that fascinated both us and our children. The museum delves into the mystical world of alchemy, showcasing a rich collection of artefacts, potions, and historical exhibits that tell the story of Prague’s alchemical past. Visitors can explore the recreated alchemist’s laboratory, filled with curious instruments and mysterious elixirs. Our kids were particularly enthralled by the interactive displays and the chance to learn about the legendary alchemists who once walked the streets of Prague. It was both educational and entertaining, making it a memorable part of our trip. We were fortunate to experience warmer-than-usual weather for most of our stay, which meant we didn’t need the thermals we had packed. However, there were a few days of sleet and icy temperatures that reminded us we were indeed in the heart of winter. Despite the occasional cold, the festive atmosphere of Prague was ever-present. The streets were adorned with twinkling lights, and the air was filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and cinnamon. Prague is truly a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the Christmas spirit. The city comes alive with holiday cheer, from the smells of traditional Czech dishes wafting through the air to the beautiful sights of historical buildings draped in festive decorations. We were enchanted by the festive atmosphere, the delightful food, and the stunning sights that all came together to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Final Thoughts: Our Christmas holiday in Prague was nothing short of magical. The combination of beautiful sights, delicious food, and rich history made it an ideal destination for our family. Whether you’re strolling through the Christmas markets, crossing the Charles Bridge, or exploring hidden gems like the Alchemist Museum, Prague offers a unique and enchanting experience that captures the true essence of the holiday season. If you’re looking for a destination that screams Christmas, look no further than Prague.