Kids of all ages will be wowed by this varied, vibrant city, writes Alexia Santamaria [with pic byline]
Though Australia and the Pacific Islands are convenient when your little ones are tiny, the idea of a long haul flight isn't anywhere near as daunting once they reach primary school age. A few games, a couple of movies, some meals, a fuel stop and sleep means 20 to 30 hours passes pretty fast. This year we braved flying to the Northern Hemisphere and took our boys to London for three weeks. Here are my thoughts if you're contemplating this amazing city for your family holiday next year.
Split your time
Staying in Central London is pricey but worth doing for a few days. We stayed right in the heart of things for two nights at Le Meridien in Piccadilly Circus, and it was perfect. We walked everywhere and the kids really got a good feel for London life. With the temperatures being as high as they were this summer, having a pool was a godsend too - great for breaking up long days. The rest of the time we spent in West London. Out of the centre, accommodation is more affordable and if you hire a car, attractions like the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Legoland, Windsor Castle and Thorpe Park are an easy drive.
Plan ahead
It's easy to think like a Kiwi and just rock up and wing it, but some popular UK attractions book up well in advance so if there is anything your kids absolutely want to do, look at locking those ones in before leaving New Zealand. You can freestyle the rest.
Orientate yourself early
Everyone laughs at the Hop-on Hop-off buses bursting at the seams with tourists in caps, backpacks and sensible walking shoes, but they really are a great way to get your head around a busy city like this, when you arrive. A cheaper option (no commentary of course) is to jump on a regular bus which will take you past all the main sites so you can get your bearings. Route 9, 11 and 24 all pass a good many of the must-sees.