For as long as I can remember we have spent Xmas at home and it has always been brilliant.

As a child we were quite a distance away from close relatives so it was usually a quiet but very enjoyable family affair. Back then we had far less in the way of toys, food etc but it was always a happy time.

In contrast, when my children were young there would be massive family get togethers and we would all muck in and celebrate the festive season. Looking back I sometimes wonder how we coped with all the food and cooking, but we did nevertheless and it was good to have the family together at this special time.

Now times have changed. The children are grown up and sadly a lot of the family are no longer with us.

This has prompted me to rethink Christmas.

Having weighed up all the pros and cons I think it would be an excellent idea to take advantage of some great deals being advertised at the moment.

I have found one such Xmas Break for under £300 for 3 days in a hotel in Torquay.

This includes a programme of entertainment for all the family with carols and of course Xmas Dinner with all the trimmings. In fact celebrations go on throughout the week and into the New Year.

So can anyone please advise me. Have any of you decided to opt out and go away for a change. I would be really interested to get your views?