ESCAPE NEWS

All you need to know for a fun and stylish family getaway.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
The Sharks and Pirates play area
The Sharks and Pirates play area

All you need to know for a fun and stylish family getaway.

TRAVEL

FUN AND FROLIC

If your kids love theme parks (which child doesn’t?), a trip to Hong Kong is in order. Spend the day visiting Hong Kong Disneyland or Ocean Park, then continue the fun indoors at Gold Coast Hotel Hong Kong. Its whimsically designed rooms have themes like Dinosaur, Safari and Pirate. Little ones can also participate in treasure hunts and children’s workshops. Room packages start from about $506 per night for a family of four, with a complimentary family tea set, and access to the Water Park, Outdoor Kids Island and Sand Pit. www.sino-hotels.com/hk/gold-coast/en.

Travel in style with Jujube’s diaper bags
Travel in style with Jujube’s diaper bags
BAGGING RIGHTS

Chic mums on the lookout for a lightweight diaper bag that doesn’t compromise style for function will love Jujube’s new Coastal Collection. Named after coastal destinations like Palm Beach and Cape Cod, the vibrant prints—think palm trees, sailboats, lobsters—will keep your spirits high. Treated with anti-microbial and anti-stick coatings, these machine-washable bags come with handy compartments that are perfect for organising all the things you need to be a supermum on the go. Available at Mothercare.

Dessert fit for a princess
Dessert fit for a princess
The Princess Kitty room at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
The Princess Kitty room at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
SPRING DELIGHT

Japan’s bustling capital has a pulsating energy that’s irresistible no matter what your age or interests. Sanrio fans will adore the two Hello Kitty-themed rooms at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo. Children under the age of five stay free of charge, and the hotel also provides free shuttle services to Tokyo Disneyland. looking for a different cultural experience can check out two exhibitions between February to March 2017: The Hinamatsuri exhibition features 6,500 hanging dolls and special menus at nine of the in-house restaurants, while the Bonsai exhibition includes traditional pots, paintings and, of course, bonsai. www.keioplaza.com.

Hina Dolls
Hina Dolls
Fresh fare awaits
Fresh fare awaits
CULINARY TRAILS

Foodies will not want to miss the 25th edition of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, from March 31 to April 9, 2017. As part of the opening weekend, Yarra Promenade will be transformed into a culinary playground, bringing French street food to the heart of Melbourne. Other festival highlights include cooking masterclasses, a food race and a food truck fair. www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au.

Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers’ poolside
Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers’ poolside
BACK TO NATURE

For a short holiday that’s off the beaten path, visit Bandung, Indonesia. Ranca Upas is an underrated camping ground full of rustic appeal with waterfalls, lush greenery and biodiversity on its nature trails. Here, you’ll find a Deer Conservation Park and Ranca Upas Smart Camp Adventure, an adventure park with a treehouse, shops and themed restaurants.

If camping is not your thing, Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers is great for families looking for kid-friendly activities. Kids can try horse riding or play at the outdoor playground with staff chaperones, while parents can attend yoga lessons in their downtime. www.rancaupas.com, www.sheratonbandung.com.

Feed deer at Ranca Upas’ conservation park
Feed deer at Ranca Upas’ conservation park