I recently took my two toddlers to Turkey for a long weekend, and I'm here to tell you whether it was worth it or not. First, let me address the elephant in the room: toddlers. Ask any parent, and they'll tell you that life with toddlers is a whirlwind of exhaustion and mild desperation. My husband and I, with our two energetic toddlers (aged two and four), had just survived a challenging eight months. We'd moved houses, endured surgeries, and needed a break. But with our sanity barely intact, we wondered if a four-hour flight to Turkey was worth it for just three nights.
The Flight
We chose an early flight to Dalaman, departing at 7:20 am on a Friday, as it was the cheapest option. The early start was necessary because we needed to be at the airport at least 90 minutes before boarding to drop off our bags. While it might be tempting to travel without checked bags, I strongly advise against it for the sake of your stress levels. Security was a breeze, thanks to the new scanners at Gatwick, and we survived the flight. The four-year-old was fine, but the two-year-old refused to nap, making her less than fine. Thankfully, the flight was full of understanding parents, and we all made it through together.
The airport we landed at was immaculate and surprisingly efficient. We were through security and with our bags in half an hour. This efficiency meant we arrived at XO Cape Arnna at 3 pm, just in time to enjoy the splash pad before it closed at 5 pm. It was a refreshing change from the usual airport chaos.
Choosing the Right Hotel
When planning a short break with toddlers, it's crucial to prioritize relaxation and entertainment. I decided to give myself a break and chose an all-inclusive resort with stunning scenery and plenty of activities. This decision was a game-changer, as it meant we didn't need to leave the resort, which was a godsend given our energy levels. I refused to put pressure on myself to see every attraction, as I know all too well the daily pressure parents face.
The Resort: XO Cape Arnna
XO Cape Arnna exceeded our expectations for the kids. It offered everything my son desired, from chips and ketchup to a beach and a slide. The small waterpark and splash pad were a hit, and the bigger waterslides for older kids were a bonus for my husband and me. The resort also provided a unique touch with a teepee set up in our room and evenings filled with entertainment, watersports, swimming pools, and even a trapeze.
However, I found the kids' club a bit disappointing. It was well-designed with a soft play area, but there was minimal supervision, and much of the activity was indoors. I was particularly concerned about the vlogging room, which seemed out of place in a kids' club.
Thinking of the Adults
XO Cape Arnna truly shines when it comes to catering to adults. The resort offers an adults-only area with a pool, bar, and restaurant, a well-equipped gym, and a spa. The buffet restaurant, The Resort Gastro, was impressive, offering a vast selection to cater to every taste. The a la carte restaurants, while welcoming children, were more adult-oriented, which was a welcome change.
Cheating the Time Difference
One unexpected challenge was the late opening hours of the a la carte restaurants, which didn't open until 7 pm. This would normally be a deal-breaker, but the time difference played to our advantage. By keeping the kids on British time, we ensured they were ready for dinner at 5 pm in the UK. The menus were dominated by burgers, chips, and chicken schnitzel, which the kids adored. While we weren't thrilled, we managed to sneak in some fruit at breakfast.
The Verdict
Despite my initial doubts, the trip to Turkey was incredibly rewarding. The all-inclusive nature of the resort meant we didn't need to leave, providing a much-needed mental break from daily life. It was a fleeting respite, but it was exactly what we needed. While I tend to get bored at all-inclusive hotels, this trip proved that a short break can be just as refreshing and enjoyable.
Practical Information
Rooms at XO Cape Arnna (https://xocollection.com/) start from £475 on an all-inclusive basis. It's a perfect destination for families seeking a relaxing and entertaining getaway.
