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Why Turkey Tops My List for Family Holidays – And How Planning Ahead Can Save You ££

I know I’m lucky to have enjoyed some incredible holidays – from Asia to Africa, a taste of Australia, and the start of my European adventures. Now that we have two Small People in tow, our next trip to the Serengeti is on pause – but it’s still firmly on the bucket list.

With the Big-Small starting school this September, we’re entering the world of fixed travel dates and, yes, that infuriating school holiday price jump(!). Whether for myself or my clients, one destination I always consider when looking for great value and quality is Turkey.

Our Favourite Turkey Travels

Two of our best-ever trips were to Turkey – both for weddings, with a luxurious hotel holiday either side. Belek, Antalya, Izmir, and Alanya have all left their mark on us, thanks to warm hospitality, amazing food, and stunning hotels.

One standout stay was at Gloria Serenity. We went pre-kids and treated ourselves to a swim-up room. It was everything you hope All Inclusive will be – with incredible service, great food, and a vibe that was both sophisticated and family-friendly. (We still remember the parade of grandparents pushing sleepy toddlers!)

Even now, the Gloria Group is still one of my go-tos when hunting for the perfect family-friendly option with a little extra luxury.

Redefining Luxury (When feel Outnumbered by Toddlers)

Now, with two young children – and our youngest needing her own seat come November – I’ve had to rethink my version of ‘luxury’. Letting go of those little extras is hard… but my love of deal-hunting (and my access to brilliant suppliers) is paying off.

What works for me can also work for you.

Why I Love to Plan Ahead

Planning early can make those luxe touches and smart upgrades much more affordable – especially for families.

Some people still hope for last-minute bargains. And yes, they exist – but they usually mean paying in full right away, which isn’t ideal if you haven’t set money aside. Not to mention, last-minute often means fewer flight and room options.

When you book early, you:

• Lock in your trip with a deposit
• Spread the cost with manageable payments
• Avoid interest (unlike using a credit card)
• Have more choice on flights, rooms, and extras

This makes a huge difference when holidaying with children, where costs can snowball fast.

Is there really a benefit to using a Travel Agent?

Is There Really a Benefit to Using a Travel Agent?

I used to wonder this myself – but with first-hand experience now, I can honestly say: absolutely, yes.

Working with a travel agent means getting personalised service, backed by access to over 100 trusted partners – including business-to-business platforms that aren’t available on public booking sites. One of the biggest surprises in this industry? Just because Booking.com or Expedia says a hotel is sold out, doesn’t mean it actually is.

Those platforms absolutely have their place – and I’m proud to be partnered with both to expand my options for clients. But the travel industry is huge, competitive, and ever-changing. Sometimes, the best options are the ones you won’t find on your own.

That dream hotel you’ve saved on Instagram? I may still be able to secure it for you – and often with exclusive perks. No promises, but I will always try.

My Top Picks for May 2026 (Turkey Edition)

If you’re considering a family holiday to Turkey in May half-term 2026, these are some incredible deals I’ve sourced – not available on the big-name sites, and with flexible options and deposit plans available. Prices listed are total price for seven nights and include:

✈️ Dates: 22–29 May 2026
📍 Region: Antalya, Turkey
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Based on: 2 adults + 2 children under 5
🧳 Includes: Day flights (no late landings), hold + cabin luggage
🍽️ Board: All Inclusive

Susesi Luxury Resort

Family Triplex Room with a Pool View, with two bedrooms, a living room and with even more space.
4.7 on TripAdvisor.
£5,776
** If you are flexible on flight times, I can reduce this further by over £1,000

Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek

Ever a popular one with families of all ages and sizes. This resort offers so many different room options. A Family Suite would be my top choice with two bedrooms with separate bathrooms, seating areas and balconies with a view.
4.8 on TripAdvisor
£6,734
**Prices can be reduced by £1,000 if you can be flexible around flights.

Xanadu Resort Hotel

Another firm family favourite with 4.8 on TripAdvisor, these offer a more financially accessible two-bedroom option for families with either one or two bathrooms.
£4,908.56
**Prices can be reduced by £1,000 if you can be flexible around flights.

Let’s make your next school holiday your kind of luxury.

If one of these catches your eye, drop me a message and I’ll tailor a quote just for your family – whether that’s different airports, other room types, or including older children.

* Sarah @ Sarahnity Travel is an Independent Travel Agent affiliated with Inteletravel whom hold ABTA P7384. Inteletravel are appointed agents with suppliers that hold ATOL. Some promotions and links are to other Affiliate services (e.g. Amazon, Expedia, Viator and Get Your Guide) where you will make bookings directly with those platforms and I may receive a small commission for any purchases or bookings made through those links. Please note that all prices quoted are generated from a live booking system and are therefore subject to change until deposit/payment is received and booking confirmed.