Embarking on a family holiday to one of the world's most sought-after honeymoon spots might seem daunting, given the long distances and steep costs involved. However, Jenna Carr, a family travel expert from Nottinghamshire, is on a mission to prove that paradise is within reach for parents travelling with children.
Dispelling Myths About Family Travel
Jenna, 37, who regularly jets off with her husband João and their two children, one-year-old Luca and six-year-old Leo, aims to challenge the notion that dream destinations are off-limits for families. She also counters the polished social media portrayals of harmonious trips, emphasising that real family adventures are rarely as perfect as they appear online.
Affordable Luxury in the Maldives
In her new book, Yes, You Can Travel With Kids, Jenna outlines strategies for enjoying luxurious breaks with young children without overspending. One standout example is her family's three-week trip to the Maldives last year, which cost just £4,500—a fraction of the typical £8,000 to £10,000 for a week at a resort.
She explains, 'There are lots of local islands in the Maldives that have the exact same gorgeous beaches, amazing food, and beautiful sunshine. It was paradise, but it was 10 per cent of the cost of staying at a resort.' By opting for local islands over pricey resorts, her family saved significantly, with hotels costing as little as £30 per night compared to £300 at luxury spots.
Top Local Island Recommendations
Jenna highlights several budget-friendly Maldivian islands that offer authentic experiences:
- Maafushi: A popular choice where her family stayed for four nights at Triton Hotel and Spa for £151.50, averaging £37.90 per night with breakfast included.
- Dhiffushi: A quieter, less commercialised island with stunning beaches and warm hospitality.
- Guraidhoo: Provides an authentic Maldivian village experience.
- Other great options include Gulhi, Thoddoo, Fulidhoo, Ukulhas, and Feridhoo, each offering unique charms from tranquility to vibrant marine life.
Global Savings Strategies
Jenna's cost-cutting tactics extend beyond the Maldives. For instance, on a recent Abu Dhabi trip, she saved £2,600 by travelling on a Tuesday instead of a Saturday during half-term, despite missing two school days. She notes, 'For £2,600, you have to make the decision as a parent, but it was worth it for us.'
She also advocates for 'destination dupes'—similar locations that offer comparable experiences at lower prices, such as choosing Abu Dhabi over Dubai. Additional tips include booking food-inclusive packages and considering alternative departure airports; her family saved £1,000 by flying from Gatwick instead of Manchester for a Sardinia holiday.
Realistic Expectations for Family Trips
In her book, Jenna stresses the importance of practicality over perfection. 'It isn't going to look like a Jet2 Holidays advert where your kids are running off into the sea giggling with ice creams,' she says. By sharing honest insights, she hopes to make travel more accessible and less intimidating for families.
Overall, Jenna encourages parents to embrace the chaos of family travel while using smart strategies to create magical, affordable experiences. Her book, Yes, You Can Travel With Kids, is available for preorder on Amazon from February 12.
