Warmer together: a family guide to warm-weather holiday destinations

Hua Hin, Thailand: Royal coast charm

This historic seaside resort town offers families a perfect blend of Thai culture and beachside relaxation. Once a summer retreat for Thai royalty, Hua Hin maintains its elegant charm while offering many family-bonding activities.

The famous night markets come alive during festive seasons, with the Cicada Market offering creative workshops where children can try traditional crafts while parents explore local art and cuisine. The iconic Hua Hin Railway Station, with its distinctive Thai-Victorian architecture, provides perfect family photo opportunities and glimpses into the town's royal heritage.

Families can spend mornings exploring the pristine beaches, take afternoon visits to nearby vineyards, or enjoy a splash at the Vana Nava Water Jungle. For cultural immersion, visit the beautifully preserved Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, known as the "Palace of Love and Hope," or take a family cooking class to master local specialties. Adventure seekers can explore Khao Takiab's monkey mountain, where friendly local macaques entertain visitors, or take a day trip to the stunning Phraya Nakhon Cave, where sunlight streams through an opening to illuminate an ornate royal pavilion.

Where to stay: Experience the magic at Anantara Hua Hin Resort, a tropical paradise that captures the essence of an ancient Siamese village while providing modern family comforts.

Mui Ne, Vietnam: Between dunes and waves

This unique coastal destination offers a warm-weather holiday destination with unexpected backdrop where desert meets sea. The famous red and white sand dunes become nature's playground, perfect for sandboarding and sunrise photography sessions. Local fishing villages welcome families at dawn to watch the colourful fleet return with the day's catch, whilst children delight in seeing the traditional round basket boats.

Take a family trek through the Fairy Stream, where multi-coloured rock formations and cool waters create natural entertainment. Visit the nearby dragon fruit farms, glowing pink during harvest season, or explore the Po Shanu Cham Towers for a cultural touch. Local markets offer hands-on experiences making traditional Vietnamese paper lanterns and trying regional specialities.

Where to stay: Make Anantara Mui Ne Resort your base for exploring this unique corner of Vietnam.

Downtown Dubai: Urban desert wonderland

Dubai during the festive season is perfect for family looking for a warm-weather holiday destination with a grand entertainment. The Dubai Mall transforms into an entertainment hub with its massive aquarium, ice rink, and indoor theme parks. Take the family to Global Village, where holiday celebrations from around the world come together in a spectacular cultural festival. The Dubai Garden Glow and Dinosaur Park light up the evening with illuminated sculptures perfect for family photos.

Morning desert safaris offer gentler temperatures and activities suited for all ages, from camel rides to falconry displays. The Dubai Fountain shows take on a festive theme, whilst traditional abra rides on Dubai Creek provide a peaceful contrast to the city's glittering energy. Don't miss the Miracle Garden's seasonal displays or the family-friendly beachfront at La Mer.

Where to stay: Experience the city's magic at Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel, your gateway to urban adventures.

Tozeur, Tunisia: Saharan adventures

The Sahara provides an otherworldly backdrop for a warm-weather holiday destination for family celebrations. Explore the ancient medina of Tozeur, where dates and desert roses become unique holiday gifts. Visit the Tozeur Zoo, home to desert wildlife, or take a family adventure through the nearby palm groves on a traditional horse-drawn carriage.

The geological wonders of Ong Jemel and Mos Espa (famous for their Star Wars connections) offer incredible family photo opportunities. Local guides can introduce children to traditional oasis agriculture, whilst evening storytelling sessions under the stars bring desert legends to life. Don't miss the chance to visit a traditional Berber village or take a gentle camel trek suited for all ages.

Where to stay: Make memories at Anantara Sahara Tozeur Resort & Villas, where desert magic meets family comfort.

Ubud, Bali: Cultural heart of paradise

Ubud's holiday season blends spirituality with family adventure. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, where long-tailed macaques entertain young visitors, or take a family-friendly cycling tour through emerald rice paddies and traditional villages. Local art galleries offer batik-making workshops specially designed for children, whilst the Bali Bird Park and Reptile Park provide interactive wildlife experiences.

Join a traditional dance performance at Ubud Palace, or take a gentle rafting adventure down the Ayung River. Morning markets become treasure hunts for exotic fruits and handcrafted souvenirs, whilst butterfly parks and organic farms offer educational entertainment. Don't miss the chance to participate in a traditional blessing ceremony or try your hand at gamelan music.

Where to stay: Centre yourself at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, perfectly positioned for cultural discovery.

This festive season, discover how warm-weather destinations create their own kind of holiday magic. Whether it's stargazing in the Sahara or releasing lanterns in Thailand, these extraordinary places prove that family traditions can be as unique as the destinations where they're made.