Who doesn’t love a hotel? The starchy slide between those crisply laundered sheets, the treat-sized treasures lined up in the mini-bar, the forceful deluge that spurts from a gigantic showerhead.

But when travelling with a little person (or two), these luxuries, although still very nice, become less of a priority. Suddenly, location, facilities, kids’ clubs and suitable dining options take on a whole new importance.

Sure, there are many great hotels around the world, but how many of them can really say they cater to families?

Thankfully, however, they do exist – hotels that don’t compromise on luxury while catering to families in a major way. You can have your cake and eat it too.

Look for these great family-friendly features:

• Waterparks

Throw a waterpark into the mix, and your little ones will be satisfied for hours, if not days. And in some cases, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your hotel to get stuck into all that watery fun.

Check out: Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket and Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

A walk down to the expansive stretch of sands of Karon Beach that fringe the resort will take you through the landscaped water park with its meandering lazy river and waterslides, children’s pool with waterslide for the younger guests.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya is an exciting ‘Lost World’ themed five-star resort, a destination in its own right with an extensive water park, slides, lazy river and waterfalls.

• Great value

Many people are put off travelling with their children because of the hefty price tag a family adventure carries. But there are hotels out there where kids can stay and eat for free. Sound too good to be true? Maybe… But believe us, it’s not!

Check out: Centara Karon Resort Phuket

A fun place for families, the resort has a kids’ club with daily activities and three children’s pools for the younger ones to splash in, two waterslides and pool games. Tennis and football are also available, while the E-Zone is geared up with video games. Kids stay for free in all of Centara’s Thailand properties.

• Prime locations

The effort involved in getting a family to the beach can take the sheen off what should be a fun day out – packing all the necessary supplies, getting everyone there, finding something suitable to eat, and then the inevitably chaotic journey back at the end of the day. But if you’re staying right on the beach, then half the battle is won. Make life a little easier for yourself, and more fun for everyone.

Check out: Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi

Right on the beach at Pai Plong Bay, this property backs against the dramatic limestone formations that have been synonymous with Krabi, with spectacular ocean views. A short boat ride from the main resort, you’ll be secluded from the tourist throng but still within east access of a variety of attractions like

• Family-friendly rooms

It’s all very well having breathtaking views across the ocean and a choice of five different pillow types. But are cots or child beds provided, is there enough space for playtime and is the room safe for a wandering little person? Fortunately, some hotels are catching on to the different needs of families paying them a visit.

Check out: Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives

With rooms as luxurious as these beachfront villas and overwater bungalows, you’ll probably be surprised to hear that there are a number of family-friendly options too. Special villas for families have bunk beds in a children’s area, ensuring that everyone has space and privacy, and childproof locks to the terrace.

In many of the Centara properties there is double/double bedding available.

• Kids clubs and entertainment programs

It’s lovely to spend time with the kids on holiday, but sometimes relaxation time by the pool just isn’t on their agenda – they need a little extra stimulation. Here’s where Camp Safari comes in – kids aged between four and nine will be given a number of activities to complete keeping them occupied while you enjoy a few indulgent hours all to yourself. In collaboration with Carpe Diem Entertainment Company, Centara have rolled out an action packed programme of fun games and activities free of charge for adults and children in selected 4 and 5 star properties. In and outdoor activities are held seven days a week and include kids yoga, kids aqua dances, puzzle contests, cooking classes, movie time, pool games, fishing, pilates, darts, archery, aerobics, latino fitness, pirate disco, treasure hunts, mini fashion shows to name only a few.

Check out: Centara Seaview Resort Khao Lak

On top of the popular Camp Safari offering, this resort also offers its smaller guests a range of activities from painting and games to mobile making. There’s also a dedicated kids pool and an E-zone where they can play video games.

• Great dining

It’s always good to have options when dining out with your family, especially as kids can be notoriously fussy eaters. Fortunately, many resorts now offer a range of restaurants, as well as bar food and in-room dining. Many also offer special kids menus which cater specifically to those younger palates.

Check out: Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui

Centara Hotels & Resorts has implemented a new “beach bar” concept across a number of properties such as Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui and Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. Coast is an all-day destination combining a tranquil beachside setting with a bar and grill restaurants. To help create the perfect tropical beach atmosphere, Coast makes a point of always playing the latest in imported ambient music, favoring modern jazz and electronica styles.

To sell Centara Hotels & Resorts with more confidence refer to the Travel Industry Guide or complete the Centara e-learning modules to become a Centara Ambassador.

And don’t forget, kids stay and play for free at all Centara resorts!