Simply Travel

Specialist Reports Just For Families With Specialist Childcare Operators Offering Childcare Simply Travel 

	Simply Travel
King's House, Wood Street, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1UG			MAP
tel: (020) 8541 2223

A collection of more interesting and local style self-catering properties which are also of decent quality, at a range of destinations around the Mediterranean. Originally an independent, now part of the Thomson group so the personal touch is less evident.

Where

Capicciolo in Corsica, Zakynthos and Crete in Greece and Akyaka in Turkey, plus a flying nanny service to the Algarve.

Style

Accommodation in surrounding properties, generally independent, with a central point for childcare and water activities. At Capicciolo there is a water sports centre as well.

Childcare Offered

Shrimps for six months to five years, largely playing inside the creche property or in an enclosed area outside. Toys and games are provided as well as equipment such as steamers, sterilisers, changing mats, and high chairs and cots are also available. There is a quiet room for toddlers needing to sleep. Children remain for most of the day in the play area or indoor nursery.

Sea Urchins for five to 10 years. There is a playroom of games and toys, a small library of children's books and a TV with suitable videos. Child go on daily expeditions to the surrounding country/beach. At other times the club aims to encourage activity, creativity and skill development.

Both operate 9am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 5.3pm five days a week. This is bookable in half or full days. Lunches are not provided as the operator prefers parents to bring food they know the child will eat. This is kept refrigerated in the kitchen. Snacks and drinks are provided but parents are asked to make up any bottles required during the day and leave them as well. All children over the age of two are given their own Shrimps or Sea Urchins rucksacks and teeshirts. No specific figures are given for carer to child ratios. Outdoor areas are shaded but carers make a point of reminding parents to ensure their children have suitable clothing and sun cream.

At Akyaka there is an enclosed garden with children's paddling pool.

At Zakynthos there is a play area with swings, climbing frame, seesaw, sand pit etc. At Capicciolo there is a swing, climbing frame, paddling pool, sand pit etc.

On the Algarve NNEB qualified nannies (complete with box of toys) can be booked for five full or half days. The service is available between June and September for up to three children of six months-plus.

Cost of Care

Five full days pre booked £160, half days £100. For infants to two years there is a supplement of £20 per five half days, £30 per five full days. Rates on the spot are around 20-30% higher.

Other Facilities for Families

None listed.

Sample Price

A week at an apartment sleeping two to five people with access to a shared pool would cost from £470 per adult in high season. Discounts of up to 30% are available for children under 16 during low and mid season at some properties. Under twos on the date of return cost £50 without an airline seat.