Dreaming of a Caribbean holiday but don't have the funds? One savvy parent may have the perfect budget-friendly recommendation for you.
Earlier this year, 'The Travel Mum' took to TikTok to share her love for what's been dubbed the 'Caribbean of Europe', claiming its picturesque coastlines and cultural hotspots make it an ideal destination for children and adults alike.
What's more, return tickets often start from '£30' with some airlines, though this largely depends on the time of year. "We have been told this is the 'Caribbean of Europe', let's check it out," The Travel Mum told her 406,000 followers.
"Ok, so with the most beautiful crystal clear blue sea, the white sand and even some naughty piggies on the beach, I can see where the Caribbean comparison comes from. We have spent two weeks exploring this beautiful island by car and by boat, and I can honestly say we are in love with this incredible place.
"We have done this road trip with our five-year-old son, our 12-week-old baby and my parents." Sardinia is an island west of the Italian peninsula and just north of Tunisia.
It boasts numerous bays, coves, and even Italy's only pink sand beach, Spiaggia Rosa. The mainland and Sicily, which hosts one of Europe's most active volcanoes, are just a day trip away, too.
The Travel Mum embarked on her trip in July, using Avios points to purchase £175 British Airways flights for four people from London Gatwick to Cagliari. Nevertheless, she highlighted the perks of going off-season for cheaper hotels and flights.
For instance, she reportedly saw returns ranging from £30 to £60 for October, name-dropping budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair. As of now, Ryanair is also showcasing last-minute return tickets for early April 2025 for between £30 and £51. However, such prices are subject to change.
It is also worth acknowledging that Sardinia has three major airports, with Cagliari Elmas Airport being the largest and most southern. Meanwhile, both Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport and Alghero Fertilia Airport are farther north.
The Travel Mum's trip itinerary consisted of several components, including four nights in Nora, four in Mori family village, two in Cala Gonone and three in Golfo Aranci. The family then spent one final night in Cagliari again before flying home the next day.
Overall, she said one of her best days was heading for a boat tour in La Maddalena, northern Sardinia. Lunch and drinks were included in the price, and the boat wasn't too crowded either.
Her holiday blog claims the total trip cost just under £1,800 for a family of four. That's the equivalent of roughly £128 per day. "Honestly, there has been something for everyone," she continued on TikTok.
"With some delicious Italian food, a Caribbean-esque coastline and lots of great places to explore, there is no doubt you need to save this post and add Sardinia to your bucket list."
In the caption, she added: "Preferred it to the Caribbean, to be honest. Don't want to fight anyone about which is the best, but I have a special place in my heart for Italy.
"The combination of a gorgeous island, white sandy beaches and delicious Italian food is a winner for me."
