As we have only one child, aged 7, finding destinations where there is a reasonable probability of meeting other children of a similar age is always tricky. We don't really want to go down the holiday club route as we like doing things as a family but we do realise that children need company their own size particularly during a fortnight. We've had reasonable success in Norfolk and Cornwall during the last 2 years but are going to the Med this year. Anyone any tips??

It can be difficult for children to meet others of similar ages whilst on holiday. If you are not keen on a resort holiday club, it may be worth considering an activities holiday, where children (and adults) can try their hand at an activity and meet others at the same time. Sunsail offer a range of clubs throughout Europe, as well as further a field.

I've got an only, and I agree. Without other (english speaking!) children of the same age and gender it gets very tedious for them. I know you want to spend quality family time together, but not 24x13! Two weeks is a long time for a kid. I would definitely second the idea of an activity holiday, if you pick carefully. It depends on how much activity and what kind. Water sports are great, as they are on the Med (eg, Sunsail/Neilson/Mark Warner) but can be pricey. Not sure about Neilson, but Sunsail, for example, when we went, included the cost of watersports, and I didn't do any as I was too scared (it wasn't the Med, it was the Atlantic), so I don't think I got my money's worth. However, my son and husband absolutely loved it, and couldn't wait to rush off after breakfast every morning, rejoining me for lunch and at the end of the day. The children's activities were very well organised, and seemed very safe, and the kids loved learning how to do something exciting and cool like sailing etc. However, there are also companies that do mountain based activities, in the Alps, Dolomits and Pyranees, and of course there are also holidays that specialise in things like surfing and bicycling. Seven is probably the youngest age for such a holiday, but it's certainly something to think about as they get older. They are certainly ideal for teens.