Fancy a chic city break with kids, but without the holiday research headache?
Travel experts Mr & Mrs Smith have curated a clutch of luxurious urban hotels that are ideal for families with kids without compromising on class. From Bangkok’s impressive Oriental Residence to the gorgeous Nell Hotel & Suites in Paris, these inner-city escapes promise both sophistication and fun…
Click through the gallery to check out these chic city break ideas
Striking a successful balance between high calibre and laid-back, it’s no wonder The Berkeley is one of London’s most renowned luxury hotels. Pleasingly, however, it’s also one of the city’s best for families. Elegant, understated rooms can be interconnected, meals are happily adapted for little ones and generous welcome gifts will thrill them on arrival (especially the cuddly Berkeley Bear). And guaranteeing a splash of fun, the heated rooftop pool overlooks leafy, neighbouring Hyde Park.
Smith extra: A bottle of champagne on arrival
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Flanked by serene parkland, Oriental Residence boutique hotel is a surprisingly restful retreat in the heart of Bangkok. And stays at these chic, spacious apartment-style suites are ideal for families: young ones will stay entertained at the kids’ pool or in the games room; parents can look forward to a well-deserved cocktail as they admire the impressive Bangkok skyline. Set out on foot to explore the area, a laid-back neighbourhood of leafy boulevards, open spaces and roadside stalls that belie Oriental Residence’s busier surroundings. And, after days out, retire to bright and airy Café Claire to sample its menu of gourmet comfort food.
Smith extra: Daily breakfast for two at Café Claire
DestinationBCN in the centre of Barcelona is your Catalan capital home-from-home, a perfect base for exploring with your children. Gaudí’s near Disney-esque townhouses, the mind-boggling Sagrada Familia and the enchanting Turó Parc are all within easy reach, and the hotel’s various apartment sizes, with their sleek style and superbly equipped kitchens, make staying a pleasure. The hotel’s concierge has a full arsenal of family-friendly activities up his sleeve: picnics in Park Güell, gastronomy tours sampling Barcelona’s sweetest treats and even kayaking can be arranged.
Smith extra: A plate of crunchy chocolate-covered galettes, seasonal fruit and a bottle of water on arrival
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The stylish, white apartments of Nell Hotel & Suites might be minimalist in design, but they’re snug enough for families to feel right at home. You’ll find kitchenettes equipped with essentials, sofa beds and spacious layouts (perfect for extra cots). In fact, young ones under seven will be thoroughly entertained with the hotel’s Little Prince-themed pack, featuring toddler toiletries and colouring activities for family bonding sessions. There’s also an impeccable concierge, ready with advice for exploring your plum location in the arty 9ème arrondissement.
Smith extra: For BlackSmiths, a half bottle of rosé; SilverSmiths get a home-made cake from La Régalade Conservatoire too; GoldSmiths get a half bottle of champagne
Refusing to be outdone by its Upper East Side setting, The Surrey hotel is grand, debonair – and unexpectedly child-friendly. Its Michelin-starred Daniel Boulud restaurant, sultry bar and acclaimed Cornelia Spa all hold their own among New York City’s finest and, from the glamorous rooftop bar to the spacious and well-appointed rooms, the hotel has cultivated a grown-up sensibility for the whole family. And thanks to its location, the Surrey is a fountain of family entertainment: it’s close to the famed Museum Mile, Central Park and other local attractions.
Smith extra: A bottle of wine
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Featured image courtesy of The Surrey
