Out of the Ordinary Spring Breaks From Dubai

Got the travel bug, mama? So do we and luckily we’ve got a new contributor on board to help sate our wanderlust cravings. From Nepal to South Africa, the very Sassy Adele has got us covered for the upcoming spring break (with a cheeky family package deal thrown in for each fab vacation!).

Kathmandu, Nepal

Although a destination not considered by many for travelling with kids, Kathmandu is a fun holiday spot for adventure seeking families. Direct flights operate from the UAE in less than 4 hours. March is the start of Spring with good visibility of the mountains and flowers in bloom.  The magical Himalayas cradle the Kathmandu Valley as can be seen by a 1-hour panoramic flight. Plan a morning hike among the rice paddies or a forest reserve, and visit temples and monasteries in the afternoon.

Stay at the Hyatt Regency with amazing views of the city or go more urban at the Gokarna Forest Reserve.

Sassy Mama Tip
The kids will love the friendly Nepalese kids.

 A family package is priced at AED 4185 per person for a family of four, including economy flights on Oman Air to Kathmandu (Direct flights on FlyDubai at an additional surcharge of AED 490 per person), 5 nights and breakfast in a standard room at the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, return airport transfers and a Mount Everest Panoramic flight.

Rome, Italy

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Walk the city, eat pizza, pasta and fresh produce. I have never tasted tomatoes as good as those in Rome! Families that love art and literature will love a holiday here. Although recommended for families with slightly older kids, there is no reason that a stroller cannot be pushed over cobblestones. Our summer holiday in 2014 with my 11 month old at the time, was one of the best ever.  Italians love kids, and kids love the attention – and the Italian food. The list of things to do is endless, from visiting the Pantheon to Colosseum.Daily direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi make it very accessible. March and April is a good time to visit, as temperatures are on the rise and crowds are fewer. Gran Melia is in a perfect location and stunning views.

Sassy Mama Tip
The kids will love Gelato after a day soaking in history.

 A family package costs AED 5420 per person for a family of four, including direct flights on Emirates Airlines to Rome, six nights and breakfast in a standard room at Kolbe Hotel, return airport transfer in a licensed minibus and a full day ticket for a hop on hop off bus.

Koggala, Sri Lanka

Not surprising to see Sri Lanka on every recommended list for travel from Dubai. Flights are frequent, short and reasonable. Accommodation varies from beach hotels to  eco villas to yoga retreats. The tourism industry is thriving, and we can see why.

Sri Lanka has so much more to offer than an island lifestyle. Yes, the beaches are an attraction in itself, but so is the wildlife, the food, the vegetation. But most travelers are in love with the hospitality the Sri Lankans offer. The tranquility of Tisara Villas will be a perfect fit for holistic families and nature lovers. From here you can do day tours to the colonial city of Galle, cruise the Madu Oya River or visit a tea estate.

Sassy Mama Tip
The kids will love the short tuk-tuk ride to the beach.

Priced at AED 3860 per person for a family of four, you’ll get direct economy flights on Emirates Airlines, 5 nights with breakfast and dinner at a two bedroom villa at Tisara Villas, a return airport transfer in a licensed minibus along with a full day tour (Galle, a cruise on the Madu Oya River and a visit to a tea estate).

Cape Town and beyond, South Africa

I am not biased in saying (or typing this) but Cape Town is one of my favorite cities in the world.  A frequent visitor, I always leave revived. Emirates operate 2 direct flights daily to Cape Town. Suitable for kids of all ages. Penguins on Boulder Beach will entertain little ones and the Skywalk at Kirstenbosch Gardens will challenge older kids. Quirky shops and culinary experiences are on demand in the Cape Winelands, and this goes hand in hand with petting farms or cycling through the vineyards. Cottages at Babylonstoren make this a chic farm family escape within a short distance from Cape Town.

Sassy Mama Tip
The kids will love the themed cupcakes (the best I have ever tasted) from Cookie Monsters to Minions. Mamas will love the Petit Fours at Charly’s Bakery.

A package for a family of four is priced at AED 8720 per person including direct economy flights on South African Airways/Emirates Code, 5 nights and breakfast at a two bed cottage at Babylonstoren Farm Hotel and 5 days car hire. 

All of the Travel Counsellors prices quoted above are for departure in March 2015, subject to availability. Family of four includes two adults and two children.