Little Explorers, Big Discoveries: Top Picks for Your Child’s First Overseas Holiday

Little Explorers, Big Discoveries: Top Picks for Your Child’s First Overseas Holiday

By Hariharan U

Published on November 17, 2025

There’s something heartwarming about watching a child hold their first passport, a tiny booklet filled with big dreams. This Children’s Day, parents can turn that excitement into a lifelong memory by planning their child's very first trip abroad. With curated family-friendly holidays, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel make the experience smooth, safe, and full of wonder. Here are some delightful destinations that promise fun, learning, and adventure for young travellers.

Japan

Japan is a dream come true for kids, with its mix of futuristic wonders and cartoon magic. Little travellers can visit the Pokémon Centre in Tokyo, ride the Shinkansen, and enjoy a full day at Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Osaka. Winter brings the enchanting Sapporo Snow Festival, where giant ice sculptures and snowy play zones make the experience feel straight out of a storybook. Robot cafés, cherry blossoms, and samurai tales add even more charm to the journey.

Singapore

Compact, clean, and incredibly kid-friendly, Singapore is perfect for a first-time international holiday. Sentosa’s beaches, Universal Studios, and attractions for all ages make it a favourite. Places like Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Zoo spark curiosity and offer memorable learning moments. Easy to explore and safe for families, Singapore keeps both parents and children relaxed and excited.

Switzerland

For children who dream of snow-covered landscapes, Switzerland offers postcard-like scenery and endless fun. Families can ride the Glacier Express, enjoy the snowy world of Jungfraujoch, and visit chocolate-making spots for a sweet experience. Peaceful cities and scenic routes make the trip both calming and playful.

South Africa

South Africa turns storybooks into reality with safaris at Kruger National Park, where kids can spot elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat. In Cape Town, families can enjoy beaches, take the cable car up Table Mountain, and meet penguins at Boulders Beach. It's the perfect mix of adventure, learning, and family bonding.

Dubai

A short flight from India, Dubai is an action-packed playground for kids. From indoor skiing at Ski Dubai and marine life encounters at Dubai Aquarium to stunning views from Burj Khalifa, the city offers something exciting at every stop. Theme parks at Dubai Parks & Resorts including LEGOLAND and Motiongate, add extra joy to the trip.

Abu Dhabi

Calm, elegant, and full of enriching experiences, Abu Dhabi is ideal for families with younger children. Highlights include Louvre Abu Dhabi, Emirates Park Zoo, and entertainment zones like Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World on Yas Island. With clean beaches and open spaces, the city offers a peaceful yet playful holiday.

Sri Lanka

 Visa-free and close to home, Sri Lanka is a lovely choice for a first international getaway. Kids can enjoy the scenic train ride to Ella, spot elephants in Minneriya, and spend sunny days building sandcastles on Bentota’s beaches. Warm hospitality and good value make it a stress-free pick for parents.

Australia

Australia brings wildlife and outdoor fun together for curious young travellers. Families can meet kangaroos and koalas at Featherdale Wildlife Park, explore the Sydney Aquarium, and relax at the Gold Coast’s beaches. The country’s laid-back pace and family-friendly attractions make the experience comfortable and memorable.

France

France is a sweet blend of fairy tales and culture. Disneyland Paris is the highlight for most kids, while river cruises on the Seine, picnics near the Eiffel Tower, and colourful Parisian carousels add magic to the trip. It’s a charming destination for children who love stories, castles, and imagination.

South Korea

Vibrant and modern, South Korea is full of fun surprises. In Seoul, kids can enjoy Lotte World, themed streets, K-pop-inspired attractions, and hands-on workshops. A short flight to Jeju Island offers beaches, nature trails, and lava caves making the trip exciting and varied.

A child’s first overseas trip is much more than a holiday, it’s a doorway to curiosity, joy, and shared family memories. With Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel offering customised itineraries, support with visa and bookings, and stays designed for comfort, families can enjoy a smooth and magical start to their little one’s travel story. That first passport stamp often becomes the beginning of many more adventures to come.


Poltrona Frau Unveils Infinitamente 2.0 Dining Table by Roberto Lazzeroni at Milan Design Week 2026

Poltrona Frau Unveils Infinitamente 2.0 Dining Table by Roberto Lazzeroni at Milan Design Week 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on July 16, 2026

Italian luxury furniture brand Poltrona Frau has unveiled Infinitamente 2.0, a new sculptural dining table designed by Roberto Lazzeroni, marking a new chapter in the evolution of the Infinito family. The latest creation was presented during Milan Design Week 2026 and joins the brand’s permanent collection following the limited-edition Infinito table launched in 2021 and the Infinitamente table introduced in 2023.

Designed as an expression of timeless elegance and Italian craftsmanship, Infinitamente 2.0 expands the original concept into an extra-large dining table measuring over three metres in length and capable of seating up to twelve guests. The design continues Poltrona Frau’s philosophy of creating furniture pieces that transcend trends and become part of personal stories, memories, and everyday experiences.

At the centre of the design is a distinctive staggered double-oval marble top, inspired by the symbolism of infinity and the complementary balance of Yin and Yang. The sculptural form represents harmony, continuity, and connection, making the table a statement piece designed for contemporary spaces focused on gathering and shared experiences.

The table’s two helicoidal bases feature softly chamfered surfaces upholstered in Pelle Frau® ColorSphere® Impact Less leather, showcasing Poltrona Frau’s renowned craftsmanship. The leather application technique draws inspiration from luxury automotive interiors, reflecting the brand’s expertise in combining traditional artisan skills with advanced manufacturing processes.

Infinitamente 2.0 offers a wide range of marble options, including Bianco Carrara, Calacatta, Arabescato Venato, and Ombra di Caravaggio, available in polished, semi-polished, and naturally polished finishes. Each marble top is crafted from a single slab divided into two sections and reinforced with technical mesh to improve resistance against bending, breakage, and impact.

A stainless steel blade insert elegantly completes the connection between the two marble sections, adding both structural strength and visual refinement. The different surface treatments enhance the natural character of the stone while improving durability and resistance for everyday use.

The table base is constructed using MDF and birch plywood components, with internal beech pins and metal plates ensuring stability and strength. The leather-covered supports create a contrast between the natural richness of marble and the warmth of handcrafted upholstery.

Infinitamente 2.0 represents the continuation of Roberto Lazzeroni’s exploration of sculptural furniture design. The original Infinito table, presented in 2021 as a numbered limited edition, featured an exclusive Rosso Lepanto marble top sourced by Poltrona Frau and positioned as a collectible objet d’art. The 2023 Infinitamente edition further developed the concept with a white Versilia marble top and multiple size variations.

With the new Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau transforms the artistic vision into a permanent collection piece designed for luxury residences, hospitality environments, and sophisticated interiors worldwide.

The table debuted exclusively on April 14, 2026, at the Poltrona Frau flagship store on Via Manzoni 30 in Milan during Milano Design Week. It will subsequently become available through selected Poltrona Frau stores globally and the brand’s European e-commerce platforms.

Part of Haworth Lifestyle, Poltrona Frau continues to represent the intersection of Italian design heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury. Founded in 1912, the brand has built a global reputation for premium furnishings, leather craftsmanship, custom interiors, and collaborations with leading international designers.

Through Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau reinforces its commitment to creating enduring design pieces that celebrate material innovation, artistic expression, and the timeless value of handcrafted luxury.


Spain Set New FIFA World Cup Record as Final Hospitality Prices Spark Debate

Spain Set New FIFA World Cup Record as Final Hospitality Prices Spark Debate

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 16, 2026

Spain secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the second semifinal played on Tuesday, July 14, at AT&T Stadium, Arlington.

Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, while Pedro Porro added the second goal in the 58th minute, sealing a confident win for La Roja.

With the victory, Spain also created FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first team to keep six clean sheets in a single edition of the tournament. The result sends Spain into the final, where they will face the winner of the semifinal between England and Argentina on July 19.

While the action on the pitch has captured global attention, discussions around the FIFA World Cup final have also centred on ticket pricing, particularly the premium hospitality packages.

For fans looking for the most exclusive experience at MetLife Stadium, FIFA is offering a pitch-side lounge hospitality package priced at USD 57,500 per person. The package has become one of the most talked-about hospitality offerings of the tournament.

FIFA has also released an additional batch of World Cup final tickets priced at USD 32,970 each, adding to the ongoing debate over affordability. Many supporters have expressed concerns that the pricing places the final beyond the reach of regular football fans.

Although premium hospitality experiences have long been a part of major sporting events, the pricing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final has sparked widespread discussion, with many questioning whether such packages are accessible even for dedicated supporters.


FIFA 2026: Argentina Defeats Switzerland 3-1 While Australia's Hospitality Sector Sees Growth

FIFA 2026: Argentina Defeats Switzerland 3-1 While Australia's Hospitality Sector Sees Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 14, 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 continues to create excitement both on and off the pitch, with Argentina and England securing important victories, while Australia's hospitality industry is witnessing a noticeable rise in consumer spending during the tournament.

Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the next stage after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time. The match finished 1-1 at the end of regulation after Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead from a Lionel Messi assist before Dan Ndoye equalised for Switzerland in the second half.

Argentina sealed the win in extra time with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. Switzerland's challenge became tougher after Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation following a VAR review.

In another fixture, England registered a 2-1 victory over Norway to continue its FIFA World Cup campaign.

Away from the action on the field, the tournament has also delivered a strong boost to Australia's hospitality sector. According to new insights from ANZ, Australians have spent more than $7 billion during the FIFA World Cup period so far, with increased spending across food, dining and entertainment categories.

The data shows spending on takeaway food rose 6.75%, while cafes and restaurants recorded a 5.5% increase. Spending at bars and hotels grew 5.2%, and purchases of sporting apparel increased 9.3%, highlighting the positive impact of the tournament on consumer activity.

The trend closely reflects the 2022 FIFA Men's World Cup, when ANZ customers spent more than $11 billion, with notable growth across takeaway food, cafes and restaurants, sporting apparel, takeaway alcohol, and bars and hotels.

The findings suggest that major sporting events continue to influence consumer behaviour, even when matches are played overseas or during early morning hours.

Commenting on the trend, Joanna Gurry, Managing Director, Data & Analytics, ANZ, said:

“Whether Australians are gathering with friends at home, heading to their local pub to watch a match, or showing support through purchasing sporting merchandise, we're seeing spending patterns that seem to reflect the excitement and social connection major sporting events create.”

Although Australia's Socceroos have exited the tournament, hospitality venues continue to report strong customer turnout.

To support football fans, the Sydney City Council has declared the FIFA World Cup and the upcoming Sydney Marathon as special events, allowing eligible businesses to operate with extended trading hours. Non-licensed businesses can open early to serve fans during the remaining FIFA World Cup matches.

The extended trading schedule is as follows:

  • Wednesday, July 15: From 4:00 am

  • Thursday, July 16: From 4:00 am

  • Sunday, July 19: From 6:00 am

  • Monday, July 20: From 4:00 am

The latest figures highlight how global sporting events continue to benefit the hospitality sector by driving footfall, boosting food and beverage sales, and encouraging consumers to gather for shared match-day experiences.

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