Krabi BeachKrabi

As frequent travelers, my partner and I were determined not to let the birth of our son-and being five months pregnant-stop us from continuing to enjoy overseas travel. So after a few days research,we booked a tropical Thailand holiday and set of with our 14-month old son, Jayden.

Armed with teething gel, nutritious snacks and toys, we boarded the flight to Phuket and on to Krabi. Miraculously, 10 minutes after take-off our little man was fast asleep! If only we could sleep so soundly.Thailand's province of Krabi is a beautiful destination, and home to extraordinary scenery. Towering limestone cliffs just out of emerald seas, and lush forests burst forth with flora and fauna.

Exhausted by the time we arrived, we were relieved after a short taxi ride to the luxuries Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort. After settling into our large, Comfortable room-which had conveniently been set up with a travel cot we'd pre-booked-we took Jayden for his first dip in the pool.

We spent the rest of the day nestled by the fabulous infinity pool, ordering dinner poolside before retiring for a well-earned sleep.

One of the highlights of the resort was that it had a resident baby elephant named Raja who, to the children's delight, visited each day to play and be fed bananas. Jayden enjoyed this so much that our next adventure was elephant trekking, a favouritefor kids and a must for adults as well.

Nosey Parker's Elephant Camp is a 10-minute drive from the resort. Here, we climbed aboard Bing, a seven-year-old gentle giant for a less strenuous way to see the landscape.

Swaying from side to side, we enjoyed the beauty of the panoramic views through the rainforests and streams deep in the spectacular jungle. While on our ride, we were lucky to see some of the many monkeys living in their natural habitat, which our guide mimicked-much to Jaydens amusement. A dip in the natural springs, followed by a traditional Thai Lunch, made this the most fantastic family day out we've ever had together!

Back at the resort, the beauticians at the Mandar Spa took a liking to Jayden. So after a tiring day, we indulged in a one-hour massage while the ladies cuddled and fussed over him. A great way to unwind for a restful night's sleep.

Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi IslandsWaking early, we set off to the world-renowned Phi Phi Islands, an hour and a half by boat from Krabi. As we approached by ferry, the sheer limestone cliffs rising like fortress walls among the azure seas made for a majestic sight.

We couldn't believe our luck when approaching Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort and Spa nestled among swaying coconut palms and overlooking an endless stretch of tranquil beach. The word paradise doesn't do this resort justice-it really is completely out of this world!

Our private Beachfront Junior Suite Bungalow with its own garden populated by butterflies was perfectly situated right on the beach. It was a real treat to have breakfast served on your very own private terrace.

I sat back and relaxed, capturing nature's beauty and looking out the window across the turquoise waters of Loh Ba Gao bay and the distant islands beyond. Out front, Jayden chased tiny crabs, swam and buried Dad in the sand!

The next day was dedicated to sightseeing. We organised a family-friendly cruise to Maya Beach, which is Thailand's superstar. It was the location for the Hollywood movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, As expected, the beach itself was postcard perfect with classic white sand and sunlit crystal water making swimming here pure bliss.

The surrounding area was full of marine life and exotic tropical fish. At Monkey Bay, the coral was just below the surface with brightly coloured fish darting centimetres from your mask-like snorkelling in an aquarium! This must-do family trip ends with a fresh Thai packed lunch on a glorious and secluded beach.

We spent the rest of the time soaking up the atmosphere. I read my first novel since Jayden was born. We lazed on our private beach deckchairs, surrounded by coconut trees while our angel happily made sandcastles.

Like most people, we love to be pampered, so after spending a day in the sun, we headed to the resort's Wana Spa. The clinic is set on a hillside overlooking the ocean in jungle vegetation. I treated myself to a facial and came out feeling relaxed and refreshed.

By dinner time Jayden was exhausted and tearful, but the waiter was delighted to take him for a tour of the kitchen. After our fabulous meal of pad thai and chicken curry, Jayden was returned to us a picture of contentment. He happily received mashed up banana and chicken nuggets from the kids menu.Food for children was in ample supply and I didn't need to use most of the tinned things I'd bought from home.

Phuket

Phuket ZooSadly, it was time to leave Phi Phi, Arriving in Phuket for a flight back to Sydney, we took the opportunity to visit Phuket Zoo. Set in lush tropical gardens, this zoo allows you to get close to various exotic animals with the monkey, crocodile, and elephant show a must-see. Jayden had his photo taken with a monkey, tiger and macaw, snapshots and memories we will treasure forever.

Thailand is an excellent family-friendly destination with countless places to take children for family activities. Whether it's a swim in a hotel pool, an elephant trek in the jungle, snorkelling at Maya Beach or a trip to the zoo. There's something for children and adults alike.

A remarkably easy introduction into the world of travel with a baby, the warmth, of the Thai people and their love of children combined with the beauty of the country made this trip the holiday of a lifetime!