Katy Holland: For me, the words 'activity' and 'holiday' don't go together

Are we there yet? My idea of a break is to lie in the sun with a good book

(PRESS PICTURE)

There's a clearly emerging trend for family holidays in 2011 – we're all looking for added value.

From watersports to cookery lessons, parents now expect a holiday to offer exhilarating and engaging new experiences for the whole family. I confess that I have problem with this. My idea of a break is to lie in the sun with a good book.

Which puts me at odds with my kids, who are always up for doing new and exciting things. So I considered myself lucky recently, when I found a holiday that matched our exact requirements.

Family specialist Mark Warner (0871 703 3887; markwarner.co.uk) is clever enough to provide everything families need: there are adventures, activities and new skills on tap. And the option to have as much do-nothing time as you like. Its newly acquired Sea Garden near Bodrum, Turkey, is the place to go for any family with a desire for both an active and passive holiday. The all-inclusive option means you get everything thrown in, from free cocktails for me to sailing, kayaking, windsurfing lessons and children's clubs for my kids.

This week you can get some good savings at many Mark Warner locations, including the Sea Garden. Until 14 February, the company is offering up to 30 per cent off. Combining discounts and free child places means a family of four could save up to £2,000. Now that's the sort of new and exhilarating experience I'm happy to try.

k.holland@independent.co.uk