Hi Alison,
Don't think I can advise you on that because it really depends on what you are looking for.
I remember when I first took my two boys on holiday abroad at the ages of 10 and 11 and didn't know what to expect or anything as I had never been abroad either. I took them to a hotel and it was hard to track them down. They were entertained all day and had made so many friends that I didn't see them much in the evening either (not sure if it is still like that though) and I only saw them at meal times and to put them to bed. I admit I was dreading it in one way going full board because I had two very fussy kids but in the whole week there was only once that they did not like a meal so can't complain there. I took them on a couple of trips and the guide on one wanted my youngest one back the next week for free as he had been so entertaining - his saddle broke on a donkey but he hung on and on and on.
There are so many rental properties here and complexes that most of them are half empty all year round, so if you are looking for something relaxing and the possibility of a private pool without the expense of a villa then go for one of the many apartments on a complex. Although if you search enough you will more than likely find you could get either BB, half or full board at the same cost of flights.
The choice is obviously yours and you know your kids better than anyone. My two were hyperactive so it was a blessing that I went to a hotel as I would have been pulling my hair out otherwise by the end of the week.
