Teenage Kicks - Keeping Older Children Happy on Holiday

LONDON, September 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Stuck between the ages when they need looking after, to the time that they can go on holiday by themselves, there's nothing harder than coming up with ways to keep teenagers entertained on holiday. Here's a run-down of some top island destinations that provide exciting age-appropriate activities.

1. Lanzarote Holidays

Lanzarote, the easternmost Canary Island, is a famously family-friendly place and it's safe to let your teenagers explore the island by themselves. Slightly older ones will appreciate the nightlife in the neon-lit streets of Puerto del Carmen. There are also some great opportunities for quad biking and karting, particularly good if your teenagers are reaching the age when they are starting to think about learning to drive.

If they love the ocean, there's a host of water sports that they can try on holidays to Lanzarote, including windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing and scuba diving.

2. Tenerife Holidays

Holiday makers have been booking cheap Tenerife holidays for almost 50 years so this Canary Island has had plenty of time to build up a good range of activities for youngsters. The volcanic landscape and the awe-inspiring 12,195ft high Tiede Mountain will satisfy any budding geographers for days. And thrill-seekers who dare to paraglide off it are rewarded by staggering views of the island.

Teenagers will also love a visit to the Villalba Hotel. Those who love a pampering can enjoy a Turkish bath amongst other spa treatments, while the more adventurous ones can take to the intrepid climbing wall.

3. Gran Canaria Holidays

People of all ages will be wowed by the dunes at Maspalomas. One minute you're in a resort, the next you seem to be trekking through a full-on desert. You can even have a camel ride if the teenagers are tiring of the trek, and there are always the crystal-clear waters to refresh you afterwards. If they aren't fans of the sea, cheap holidays to Gran Canaria also provide access to some incredible water parks - a safe and easy fun-filled day for all of you.

4. Ibiza Holidays

The 'white isle' isn't just reserved for hordes of clubbers - Ibiza holidays can cater for the whole family. If they are old enough it would certainly be a shame for them not to experience some of the super clubs, but they might have to be supervised from a distance!

Younger teenagers can take to the seas for some amazing trips on glass-bottom boats or white-knuckle rides on the jets. Teens will also love searching through the markets, with each stall packed with unusual trinkets and hip holiday clothes.

Remember, teenagers hate being cut off from the internet, so put smiles on their faces and make sure you choose accommodation with Wi-Fi access. Wherever you choose to go, start the day in a good mood and get them planning their own holiday activities on the web.

Thomas Cook Children's Charity  is committed to making dreams come true for sick and disadvantaged children in the UK & Overseas - to find out more about the work we do visit our website.