Say hello to the Cochrans – Kev, Kat, their one-year-old daughter, and their dog – who took a bold step and moved from the US to Spain for a year-long sabbatical. Their story is filled not just with travel memories, but with honest, hands-on advice for anyone planning a family sabbatical abroad.

Written by Chloe @ThatHolidayMum

Taking a family sabbatical before your child starts school for the first time can be especially meaningful. Starting school is a big milestone — not just for your child, but for the whole family.

Thinking about moving from the UK to Portugal with kids? Guest contributor Abby (@the.sunnysidestory) shares her honest, real-life story of relocating to Portugal as a family, including what sparked the move, what surprised them most, and how day-to-day life actually felt once they arrived. From navigating the practical bits like settling in, routines and finding your feet in a new country, to the emotional side of starting fresh, Abby’s experience is a reassuring read for anyone dreaming of a slower, sunnier chapter abroad.

Sometimes the best family trips are the ones you never saw coming. Guest contributor Jennifer (@multigenerationalfamily_travel) shares seven worldwide destinations that surprised her family in the best way, from Moraine Lake in Banff National Park to tropical shores, iconic wonders and wild national parks. Expect practical, family-friendly inspiration with that “we need to go there” feeling, plus bucket list moments you can actually do with kids (and grandparents) in tow.

Traveling through Spain as a family offered more than sightseeing—it became a shared journey of discovery. Here Morgan aka @m_michellesantana talks about her families travel and discovery in Spain.