How to improve holidays with children

Han enough of of the festive season already? Then take your mind off it for a moment with a sneak preview of what's hot for 2008. There's a whole flurry of brand new exotic family holidays being launched, which promise to provide the perfect antidote to all that tinsel and turkey.

For starters, there's Tamassa, a new four-star family resort opening next month in Mauritius. Bookable through Tropical Sky (0870 907 9600; tropicalsky.co.uk), this is a good-value escape in the tropical sun. There's a wide range of children's and teen clubs, as well as lots of free activities and watersports. And with spa treatments and speedboat rides, the whole family won't be stuck for something to do.

There's also an exciting new opening in Antigua. The Verandah Resort and Spa (08701 609 644; verandah resortandspa.com) offers child-friendly luxury on its own palm-fringed beach. You and your mini beach bums can spoil yourselves rotten here. Take optional diving or windsurfing courses, or relax in the spa while the kids make themselves busy at their own private club, which includes a restaurant and a mini-cinema.

If you really want to escape from it all, how about the Iru Fushi Beach and Spa Resort in the Maldives (00 960 656 0591; irufushi. com)? This new luxury resort is due to open in May. Set on an idyllic island, it's accessed only by a 45-minute seaplane ride. They've thought of everything here, from resident childminders to private outdoor "garden" bathrooms.

That should give you something to look forward to as you tuck into your Christmas pud.