Christmas and New Year are magical, no doubt, but after a seemingly endless season of shopping, cooking and clearing up for vast armies of family and friends, there is something wonderfully indulgent about fleeing the frost and holiday fervour up north for a much-needed dose of sunshine and luxurious holidaying down south. From the islands of Malaysia to South Africa's breath-taking Garden Route, Sydney's harbour hotspots to the unrivalled decadence of Seychellois' five-star hotels, a family-friendly holiday in a hot climate can be just the tonic after months wrapped in multiple layers and inadequate quality time together with your nearest and dearest.