On the way there, you might like to borrow some of the diversionary tactics described at activitiesforkids.com/travel/travel_hints.htm.
babygoes2.com
I've mentioned it before and I probably will again, because babygoes2.com - which celebrates its first birthday in April - really is the best British-based site for the parents of babies and toddlers. New sections on Cuba and child-friendly activity holidays and spas have just been launched.
Mumsnet.com
mumsnet.com/bigissues/travel.html
Has a little more advice on travelling with older children. "The world over, babies demand little more than regular feeds, hugs, naps and nappy changes", reassures the site, which includes an easily printable section on teaching your child to swim.
Family Fun
Run by Disney, and with no shortage of advice on visiting "the best vacation spot" in Florida, this is one of the biggest US "family travel" websites. It tends to favour American destinations and the two-parent family model, but has its uses, particularly if you intend to visit a national park.
Travel With Kids
Also worth a look. For a less corporate vision of family America, try gorp.com/gorp/eclectic/family.htm.
Time Out City Guides
The formula timeout.com/cityname/kids will find recommendations for keeping children entertained in most of the cities Time Out covers.
Air at Alton Towers
It's unlikely to convey much of the excitement of riding Air, Alton Towers' latest ride, but you can book your session at this site and even schedule it via text message. Thorpe Park (thorpepark.co.uk) has a similar taster of "the world's first 10-looping rollercoaster", Colossus. Theme park lovers will also enjoy themepark insider.com.
Britain for Less
visitbritain.com/uk/britain forless
Cheaper places to stay and free attractions from the British tourist board. The department for education (dfee.gov.uk/ parents) has spent quite some time assembling a list of educational outings to enhance your children's familiarity with the National Curriculum.
Skiing with kids
ifyouski.com/Information/ Kids
One to keep in mind for next winter.
Children's London
thisislondon.co.uk/html/visitors/childrens/top_direct.html
Still the best and most up-to-date guide to exploring London with children, the Evening Standard's site lists events and exhibitions as well as the usual museums, parks and attractions. There's also a section on restaurants and cafés that welcome kids.
Britain Express
britainexpress.com/London/london-kids1.htm
Has some good ideas and offers a reasonable introduction for those unfamiliar with the capital.
Edinburgh Kids' Pages
Pupils at an Edinburgh primary school designed and wrote these pages, in which they explain where they like to eat, play, visit and watch sport in Edinburgh. Manchester's pages (manchester.gov.uk/visitorcentre/children.html) are helpful too, if a little less colourful.
