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26 inspiring holidays that will make you fall for Sri Lanka

26 inspiring holidays that will make you fall for Sri Lanka: Whether you want to relax on a palm-fringed beach or explore the Cultural Triangle, the teardrop-shaped island has plenty of options for gentle adventure. Our expert shares her favourites. For children, this experience-rich itinerary strikes a balance between gentle adventure and downtime, with stays in superb family-friendly boutique hotels such as Why House near Galle. This 12-night trip with the Sri Lanka specialist Red Dot Tours ticks off Kandy and the leopard-dense Yala National Park, though you’ll spend most of your time on the south coast between historic Galle (where cookery classes, cycling trips, lake boat trips and whale and dolphin-watching await) and Mawella, a soft-sand beach near Tangalle for sandcastle sculpting and playful dips in the sea. Details Twelve nights’ B&B from £3,200 per adult and £3,050 per child, including flights, experiences and a private guide (reddottours.com)

18 incredible holidays in India, from city breaks to spa retreats

The world’s most populated country has plenty to tempt, from diverse desert and mountain landscapes to atmospheric cities. Our expert has the pick of where to go. Family friendly trip to Kerala: With its beaches and boat trips, the state of Kerala is a good introduction to India for children. This family-friendly itinerary from Red Dot takes in mangrove forests, the golden sands at Marari (perfect for sandcastle building) and backwater cruises on a private houseboat. Digs en route include the charming luxury homestay, the Francis Residence in Cochin, and the Mundackal Plantation Homestay, on a working rubber and spice plantation. You’ll be taken around by a chauffeur/guide. Details Eleven nights’ B&B from £1,479pp (for children £2,050pp) including transfers and guiding (reddottours.com). Fly to Mumbai and take the train