Simple secrets to the perfect family holiday, according to kids

Sun, sea and satisfied kids - it's the time of year when we're dreaming of that picture-perfect family holiday.

But the secrets to a brilliant summer break with children may be simpler than we think. When kids were asked to describe their dream trip the results were refreshingly clear - free rein at the breakfast buffet (63%), plenty of waterslides (57%) and ice cream for lunch (58%).

The survey by Marriott Bonvoy also discovered what children don't want, with 39% naming boredom as the toughest part of a family break and 35% saying "no adult stuff".

"Kids told us they don't want complicated itineraries, they want freedom, fun and quality time spent with their families," said Andrew Watson, Chief Commercial Officer, EMEA at Marriott International.

"That's why family holidays are about more than just rooms and amenities; it's about creating places where everyone can relax, play and make memories together. If you're looking for inspiration for your next holiday this year, why not get the kids to plan it?"

The research also found that four in ten parents admit finding it hard to please everyone when planning a holiday, which may explain why 39% of people are letting children help. Around 72% said they would consider letting their kids plan the whole trip.

Kids' favourite destinations were Spain (33%), followed by Italy (18%) and Greece (16%), while parents' priorities included quality time together as a family (66%) and a stress-free break (47%).

Get your kids planning your next family holiday with Marriott Bonvoy here: https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/default.mi

The family holiday bucket list (according to kids):

A big pool with lots of waterslides (61%). Try The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino

A beach next to the hotel for swimming and building sandcastles (47%), which can be found at Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection

Sports and games (37%). Set on a private island, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa has a wide selection

A hotel close to home with swimming (36%). Staycation at Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club

A pirate ship in the middle of a pool plus waterslides (31%) at Algarve Marriott Salgados Golf Resort & Spa