Travel Desk

GINGERBREAD has become a staple of Christmas – and there is a town in the UK that is considered the home of it.

Ormskirk is a market town in Lancashire sitting around 13 miles from Liverpool.

The town has its very own gingerbread history which dates back to the early 1700s when “Gingerbread Ladies” would sell their homemade spiced goods from baskets.

These were especially popular with travellers at coaching inns and later railway passengers.

Ormskirk gingerbread was even rumored to be enjoyed by King Edward VII.

While the gingerbread we buy in shops usually has a distinct taste and snap, Ormskirk Gingerbread is very different.

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In texture, it’s dense, chewy and cakey, and has a speckled appearance because it’s made from treacle and candied peel.

If you fancy a taste, the gingerbread is still sold in Ormskirk today in places like Mr Thompsons Bakery which is at the bi-weekly food market.

Every year, the town even holds its very own gingerbread festival to celebrate the biscuit history of Ormskirk.

Usually it takes place in summer with the last being held on July 13, 2025.

There are lots of free family activities, and stalls selling handmade treats and gifts – all of which is themed around gingerbread.

Of course having a bite of gingerbread isn’t the only reason to visit Ormskirk in the wintertime, there’s plenty of other places to see.

If wrapping up for country walks is what you prefer to do in winter, then head to Rufford Old Hall.

The National Trust Tudor and Jacobean house that’s around 500 years old sits on the outskirts of Ormskirk.

Here are period rooms to explore along with a cosy Victorian tearoom which serves afternoon tea, cakes, scones and tray bakes.

There’s also a secondhand bookshop, garden and woodland, and the site has a two mile circular walk too from the hall along the Leeds and Liverpool canal.

Ormskirk holds a market every Thursday and Saturday that’s one of the oldest in the country.

It’s one of the UK’s oldest and most traditional markets having been open for almost 700 years.

There you’ll find around 100 stalls selling baked goods to clothing and gifts.

When it comes to cosy pubs, there are plenty in Ormskirk like The Kicking Donkey which is another great winter spot as it has an open fire and hearty meals.

On Sundays the classic country pub serves up roast dinners from beef brisket to gammon and turkey, to pork belly and chicken from £16.75.

One visitor said: “Lovely traditional pub, real fires and candles, amazing food and service and fabulous negroni.”

Other popular spots include Tiny Tavern Ormskirk, The Cricketers, Lost and Found and The Buck I’th Vine.

Here’s UK’s longest seaside village that’s surrounded by countryside & is the best for winter walks…

Sat on Devon‘s Jurassic Coast, Branscombe stretches around 3.5 miles long and is known for its pebble beach, thatched cottages and historic buildings.

The village features a mile-long high street running through its centre and it is surrounded by rolling hills with grazing sheep.

Alex Gwillim, local travel expert at Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays, said: “Branscombe is one of Devon’s most picturesque villages, and its cosy aesthetic paired with wellness-inspired activities makes it ideal for those looking for a staycation that prioritises self-care.”

And she isn’t wrong; Branscombe boasts amazing coastal walks like the South West Coast Path.

“Situated along the South West Coast Path, Branscombe makes the perfect starting point for a winter walk through woodland, beaches, and clifftops.

“From here, you can explore the Beer head loop or venture further along the coast to Sidmouth.”

And of course, Branscombe’s beach is a top spot to explore, with pebbles and often quieter during the autumn and winter months.

Alex added: “The mile long beach is ideal for a dog walk or simply clearing your head.”

Visitors can also get a glimpse of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast at the beach, with dramatic cliffs.

For little ones, there are plenty of rock pools to explore and fossils to find, including early reptiles, plants and marine life.

After exploring the beach, make sure to visit The Old Bakery and The Forge, both of which are National Trust sites.

For more on staycation breaks during winter, check out one Sun writer’s favourite seaside town in winter which is overlooked by a famous neighbour.

Plus, here’s one of the UK’s best seaside destinations to visit in winter – with beachfront pubs and stargazing nights.

A woman was left bitterly jealous after she noticed that children can do one thing on flights that adults cannot, and she said it means they’re practically in first class

Flying as an adult is usually a pretty cramped experience, of course, unless you’re lucky enough to be sitting in first class getting fed delicious food and wine until you reach your destination. However, the average person is not in that privileged position and is actually more likely to be in the middle seat, trying to navigate whether their seatmates will be kind enough to let them have the armrests on either side.

However, one woman pointed out that every time young children fly with a family member, they’re practically “in first class”, joking that they don’t understand “how good they’ve got it”.

TikToker @elkekahler videoed herself on the flight, looking shocked, as she flipped the camera around to show young children lying down in a seat, using luggage as a pillow so they were as comfortable as possible.

They were covered in blankets and fast asleep – a far cry from the experience of most adults, who know how tricky it is to get some shut-eye in the air.

She flipped the camera back onto herself as she looked mortified, and jealous the youngsters were able to lie down and sleep.

Over the top of the video, she hilariously played the song ‘Glamorous’ by Fergie, which contains the lyrics “we’re flying first class, up in the sky, poppin’ champagne, livin’ my life in the fast lane”.

It’s safe to say that these kids were definitely living their best lives when they were able to sleep properly and land in a whole new country without any stress.

Someone in the comments joked that they needed a “tutorial” on how to do that because they wanted to try it for themselves, but if an adult attempted it, their feet would likely be hanging far off their seat and being constantly knocked by the trolley service.

“They’re gonna hate it when they get older and have to sit on aeroplanes normally,” one woman pointed out.

“I’m 19 and still do this,” a woman shared, saying that they were “short enough” to get away with it. But imagine giving it a go only to realise you were too tall? You’d likely be feeling pretty embarrassed.

“My mum prepared the same for my sister and me when I was younger. I can confirm that it’s the comfiest ever,” a TikTok user boasted.

A flight attendant shared: “I used to operate this type of aircraft for Emirates, and we would always have to tell them not to do this because of safety.”

Referring to the blankets, she added: “There is a high risk that you’re not allowed to bring these onto the plane.”

Although it looks like you could make something similar out of a suitcase and a pillow, it’s not confirmed what they actually did.

UNIVERSAL has finally been given the green light to open a theme park in the UK.

The famous film studios has been given planning permission to start building the theme park.

A Special Development Order (SDO) has been granted by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, which allows the theme park to skip local planning procedures.

This means it will allow it to be built in the suggested location near Bedford.

Expected to start works in January 2026, the park could open as soon as 2031.

It will be the first Universal theme park for both the UK and Europe, with current resorts only across the US and Asia.

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Local Labour MP Mohammad Yasin praised the “landmark moment,” adding: “The confirmation of planning permission for the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex is transformational and will be felt for decades to come.”

Estimated to cost £6.6billion to build, it could attract as many as eight million visitors a year.

Little is currently known about what kind of themed lands and rides would open at the UK Universal.

Rumours suggest James Bond, Paddington and Lord of the Rings, Minions, Jurassic World, and Back to the Future.

It is unlikely to include Harry Potter due to licensing rules and the nearby Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction in the nearby Leavesden.

Set across 662 acres, there will be four ‘zones’; the Core Zone, Lake Zone, West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone.

The Core Zone is likely to be the entrance area, as well as where the theme park and waterpark will be.

Plans also include a 500-room hotel.

More accommodation and business hotels will be at the Lake Zone, as well as an entertainment complex ans convention centre.

Then both the West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone will be where guests arrive by train and car, with restaurants and hotels.

This is also like to be where the Entry Plaza area will be, as well as the parking and a 500-room hotel.

The park is expected to stay open all year round, unlike other UK theme parks like Alton Towers and Thorpe Park which only open on select dates like Christmas and New Year.

Not only that but it would have much longer opening hours, suggested to be 7am to 11pm.

It will also have a free-to-visit area where guests won’t need a ticket to enter.

Also included in the theme park plans are a new train station to cope with demand.

The new station would be part of the East West Rail (EWR) line, with train links to Oxford to Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford.

In the mean time The Sun’s  Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski visited Universal’s huge new £7bn theme park this summer.

Courtney Bardell, 25, said the family-of-five faced two-hour waits for rides as well as pushing and shoving in crowds after forking out over £270 to visit London’s Winter Wonderland

A young girl was left in tears after an exhausted Santa “refused her entry” to his Grotto during a “disappointing” visit to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, her mum has claimed.

Mother-of-three Courtney Bardell, 25, claims her children were “upset” following a disastrous outing to the popular London market last Saturday (12). She said the family-of-five endured two-hour queues for rides alongside aggressive jostling in crowds after spending over £270 on travel, attraction passes, and food.

However, the event’s organisers have said that admission to see Father Christmas is paused at ‘peak times’, and that the grotto’s workers also have scheduled breaks.

The stay-at-home mum, who attended with partner Connor, 26, and daughters Harlie-Mae, six, Lucia, four, and Essie, one, insists she won’t be returning to the festive event. Courtney, from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, said: “I expected it to be busy but I didn’t expect it to be as busy as it was.”

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“I expected them (the kids) to see Santa and get a gift from Santa. It was advertised that Santa’s Grotto would be open until 6pm but we got there at about 3pm and the staff said ‘Santa’s had enough’. Harlie-Mae started crying because she wanted to see Santa. You could see through the glass that other children were getting to see him.”

Courtney said that her family arrived at 2pm and were instantly taken aback by the sheer volume of visitors.

She added: “The kids couldn’t even walk without getting pushed over. My six-year-old was asking me after half an hour ‘when are we going home?’. You also get advertised a meal which we assumed would be in a sit-down restaurant but there weren’t enough tables at all, so you’re getting pushed while you’re trying to eat.”

Courtney has since shelled out £35 to take the children to a local grotto after Harlie-Mae labelled her day at Winter Wonderland as “rubbish”.

“We’ll probably just go somewhere local next time”, she added. “It’ll save the disappointment.”

In a statement from Winter Wonderland, a spokesperson said: “Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s priority is the safety of all our visitors. To manage visitor flow, we operate specific entry times and a ticketing system to help guests enjoy the event comfortably.

“We understand there can be queues during particularly busy periods and work to clear these as quickly as possible. Santa’s Grotto operates with scheduled breaks, and admissions may be paused at peak times.”

Courtney isn’t the only one to be left disappointed by her Winter Wonderland experience this year. A woman who ordered a hot chocolate at the Hyde Park attraction was left floored by the price, and took to TikTok to show how she managed to spend £70 on food and drink during her trip.

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However, there are cheaper alternatives such as Christmas markets in Europe. The cheapest Christmas market in Europe was recently revealed as Poznan in Poland, which is just a two hour flight from the UK. Visitors can book hotel rooms for as little as £30 a night, and pints are about £2 in this underrated city.

Another option closer to home is Newcastle Christmas Market, recently named one of the best in the UK by readers of Which? It was recently praised for having a large number of independent traders, the majority of them being local to Newcastle, and groups can pre-book igloos in the city centre and enjoy food and drink service with somewhere to shelter.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

The top of the tower had disappeared in the mist, but its bells rang clear and true, tolling beyond the abbey gates, over the slopes of frost-fringed trees, down to the town in the valley below. Final call for morning mass. I took a seat at the back of the modern church, built when the Abbey of Saint Maurice and Saint Maurus relocated to this hill in Clervaux, north Luxembourg, in 1910. Then the monks swept in – and swept away 1,000 years. Sung in Latin, their Gregorian chants filled the nave: simple, calming, timeless. I’m not religious and didn’t understand a word, but also, in a way, understood it completely.

Although mass is held here at 10am daily, year-round, the monks’ ethereal incantations seemed to perfectly suit the season. I left the church, picked up a waymarked hiking trail and walked deeper into the forest – and the mood remained. There was no one else around, no wind to dislodge the last, clinging beech leaves or sway the soaring spruce. A jay screeched, and plumes of hair ice feathered fallen logs. As in the church, all was stillness, a little magic.

I’d come to Luxembourg by train, with the notion of finding a frozen fairytale. This tiny grand duchy, about the size of Dorset, has a ridiculous number of castles – as many as 130 (depending on your definition). It’s the legacy of being sited at the heart of western Europe, suffering centuries of incursions. Some of these castles have been restored for visitors; some are places you can stay at (with lower rates off-season). Add in rimy forests, chanting monks and the fact all public transport is free – maybe the most magical thing of all – and my hopes Luxembourg would make an atmospheric winter break were being fulfilled.

My walk ended at Clervaux Castle. It dates from the 12th century, but was destroyed during the second world war’s desperate Battle of the Bulge, which played out in these cold forests in December 1944. The castle has since been rebuilt and now houses the 1950s Unesco-listed photo exhibition The Family of Man. It was almost empty as I moved between the 503 images, taken by the most prestigious photographers of the age, depicting normal people in all life stages, the ordinary rendered extraordinary. There are no captions or locations; each photograph is its own whole story, containing multitudes. It was incredibly uplifting.

You can’t spend the night at Clervaux Castle, but 10 minutes away by (free!) bus is Chateau d’Urspelt, where you can stay. When I arrived, this castle looked Disney-cute, fairy lights dripping from its white-washed turrets. Eighty years ago, it was quite different. The US 1st Battalion 110th Infantry had its HQ here in December 1944, before being overwhelmed by German forces. After the war, Urspelt fell further into ruin, until 2005, when a local entrepreneur decided to restore it and turn it into a smart hotel. I skipped the snazzy spa, and the ice rink sparkling in the courtyard, but relished a fruity Luxembourgish pinot noir in the low-lit bar, which hides like a speakeasy in the castle’s historic cellars.

One of the country’s most impressive castles is Vianden (less than an hour from Clervaux via a free bus), a beast of a bastion, lording over the River Our, on the German border. It was constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries on Roman foundations, altered multiple times, left to rot, then, from the 1970s, painstakingly restored to its medieval pomp. On a pallid winter’s day, it was crowd-free. I rattled around its vast state rooms and marvelled at the layered history visible in the visitor centre, which is built around past excavations.

It’s not just the castle that gives Vianden its fairytale feel. There’s the winding river, the tight-pressed wooded hills and the village itself, with its remnants of 13th-century walls and pretty, cobbled main street. I opted to escape reality entirely in the Ancien Cinéma cafe, a former movie theatre where you can grab a coffee, sit on a couch and watch whatever’s on the big screen, surrounded by film paraphernalia.

My final stop was a castle unlike any other. Chateau de Clémency, close to the Belgian border, is a five-room guesthouse and the 2025 winner of Luxembourg Tourism’s Best Host award. Dating back to 1635, it was only ever a small residential retreat, with no military function. When Pascal Zimmer – former judoka, self-taught tailor and architect, and restorer of historic buildings – bought it 20 years ago, it was a proper mess, in need of either demolition or renovation. He saw the property’s true value and he liked the staircase – “You could say I spent €400,000 on some stairs …” he confessed, pointing out the stone pleasingly worn by 400 years of footfall.

“When you think about castles, you think of Windsor or Versailles. But this is a Luxembourgish castle, not so expansive, not so well done; you can’t restore it in the same way.”

So, to that end, Clémency is Pascal’s own artistic vision. Each room has a different theme, from belle époque “Peggy’s” to the “Roaring 20s”. “Tribute” pays homage to the local steel industry on which Luxembourg’s wealth is built. “My father was a miner,” Pascal said. “He was a humble guy; he’d say all he wanted was a small, clean room. This is a small, clean room.” A patchwork blanket covers the bed, while the bathroom is black polished concrete, a nod to life underground. I stayed in “Sherlock”, a Holmesian fantasy suite; the lounge was a steam-punkish curiosity shop of moody portraits, scientific implements and stuffed cats.

There isn’t much to do in the town of Clémency itself, although that hardly mattered. It was only 40 minutes by public transport (did I mention: all free!) into Luxembourg City, a capital perched on a precipitous rock, like something from a storybook. It was a shorter hop to Bascharage, where I got cosy in D’Braustuff, a gemütlich brewery-brassiere serving Luxembourgish classics – I tucked into a hearty wäinzoossiss (traditional sausage). But when darkness fell, I was also content to stay in my castle with a book – the shelves were full of Agatha Christie and Conan Doyle – and enjoy an alternative winter’s tale.

The trip was provided by Luxembourg tourism board and Byway, which can arrange bespoke itineraries including Eurostar tickets, Interrail passes and accommodation. Château de Clémency has doubles from €99. Château d’Urspelt has doubles from €174

North Macedonia is a little-known country that sits north of Greece – and it’s one of the most mountainous countries in the world, with stunning views and a rich history

A hidden gem nestled in stunning mountains lies just three hours from the United Kingdom. Boasting emerald-green peaks and snow-capped summits, North Macedonia presents travellers with an opportunity to explore territory largely untouched by mainstream tourism.

Positioned directly north of Greece, North Macedonia is steeped in rich heritage spanning Byzantine, Ottoman, and Yugoslav periods. This landlocked nation achieved independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, adopting the name North Macedonia in 2019 after resolving a lengthy naming row with Greece.

It ranks among the world’s most mountainous countries, with over 85 per cent of its territory dominated by peaks, reports the Express. Mount Korab, situated on the Albanian frontier, soars to 9,030 feet (2,752 metres). The rugged landscape has become integral to daily life for North Macedonia’s inhabitants.

“When I enter my car, whichever direction I want to drive, I have a mountain in front of me and a mountain behind me,” local resident Frosina Pandurska-Dramikjanin told CNN.

The entire country houses 2 million people, marginally fewer than Birmingham’s population. Whilst those in the tourism sector believe the nation has tremendous potential, they remain cautious about excessive visitor numbers.

Aleksandar Bogoevski, owner of Sustainable Adventure Travels, added: “Approximately one million passengers are transiting Macedonia during the summertime. They don’t stop, I think there are so many other things that can be seen.”

One of the country’s star attractions is Lake Ohrid, which spans the Albanian border. The North Macedonian portion of the lake earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979, with the surrounding region added the following year.

Ohrid town ranks among the globe’s most ancient human settlements and houses the oldest Slavic monastery, St Pantelejmon. According to UNESCO, the lake supports roughly 200 plant and animal species.

The Šar Mountain range, positioned along the northwestern Albanian frontier, provides North Macedonia’s visitors with countless walking and hiking opportunities.

Mountain villagers still practise age-old shepherding traditions known as transhumance. This ancient custom involves guiding sheep on seasonal journeys to villages during winter months before returning them to mountain peaks come summer.

Food enthusiasts exploring North Macedonia will encounter a delicious blend of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Turkish flavours.

The country’s signature dish, Tave grave, features mainly baked beans prepared in a clay vessel. Other beloved meals showcase fresh ingredients, barbecued meats, and pastries.

Skopje, the nation’s capital, houses approximately 526,000 residents and lies within the Skopje Valley beside the Vardar River.

YouTuber Drew Binksy branded Skopje amongst the “weirdest cities in the world” due to its dramatic riverside monuments. During his trip to North Macedonia, Drew was completely charmed by Lake Ohrid.

In a video he gushed: “Anyways, the coolest lake in Europe is called Ohrid. It’s a really clear freshwater lake.

“You can go diving in it, cliff jumping and just have a day on the water. It’s really, really awesome. That’s my favorite thing about [North] Macedonia by far.

“Overall, it’s just a really chill, cool, small country, easy to road trip, Balkan vibes, good food. I highly recommend North Macedonia. I actually think it’s super underrated and it’s one of my favorite Balkan countries.”

A direct flight between the UK and Skopje takes between three and three-and-a-half hours.

The pretty market town was crowned Best Place to Live in the country in 2012 and won the Irish Tidy Towns Competition three times, yet few tourists make it there

The UK is home to some truly stunning villages and towns. From cobbled streets winding through rolling countryside to clifftop whitewashed hamlets and fairy-tale cottages scattered across the landscape, Britain has it all.

But travel just a bit further afield, and you’ll discover places that could easily rival – or even outshine – the best of what Britain has to offer. Westport in County Mayo, Ireland, is one such gem. Getting there couldn’t be easier, with Ryanair, British Airways, and Aer Lingus all flying into Knock, the closest airport to Westport. From there, it’s just an hour’s drive west to this coastal Heritage Town.

The journey itself is a treat, with the scenery becoming increasingly dramatic as you near the Atlantic and the mountains loom larger. Croagh Patrick, known as Ireland’s “Holy Mountain,” sits just five miles from town, its distinctive cone-shaped peak dominating the skyline above Clew Bay.

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The mountain draws both pilgrims and tourists alike. Every year on the last Sunday in July, worshippers make the gruelling climb to the summit, where they visit a chapel, attend Mass, and often perform acts of devotion – some even tackling the ascent barefoot or on their knees.

If that sounds a bit too intense for a relaxing break, don’t worry – there’s plenty to keep you entertained in the town itself. Westport boasts a beautiful Georgian town centre, while stone bridges span the tree-lined paths that run alongside the River Carrowbeg.

The town is remarkably pristine, offering an exceptional quality of life. Westport has triumphed in the Irish Tidy Towns Competition three times – in 2001, 2006, and 2008 – and was named Best Place to Live in Ireland by The Irish Times in 2012.

It comes as no surprise that Westport is home to a wealth of outstanding pubs. Venues like Matt Molloy’s, MacBride’s, Porter House, and JJ O’Malley’s are all reliable choices and regularly feature traditional Irish bands in the evenings.

When the weather’s nice, tourists can wander along the Quay before making their way to The Point. “This is a fabulous place to meet locals on a nice day as they swim in the shallow waters of Clew Bay. I sat at a table and laughed as they chatted with each other, calling to friends who were not in the water. It was a kick to be a fly on the wall and witness friends and neighbours giving each other a hard time and laughing and gossiping,” notes travel blogger Wander Your Way.

Many tourists staying in Westport opt to explore destinations beyond the town centre, immersing themselves in the dramatic beauty of the countryside. A popular local saying in Clew Bay claims there’s “an island for every day of the year.”

In reality, there are roughly 120 designated islands, alongside countless smaller submerged limestone drumlins that appear when the tide goes out.

Clare Island is the largest of the true islands, its majestic silhouette looming on the horizon like a giant humpback whale. The short ferry crossing from Roonagh Pier is essential for visitors, providing spectacular walks and vistas. Clare attracts birdwatchers in their droves, who come to spot kittiwakes, fulmars, peregrines, guillemots, and the most charming of all – puffins.

For those prepared to travel further offshore, Inishturk beckons, billed as a “little piece of paradise,” according to the local tourism authority. Must-sees include the golden sands of Tra na nUan and Curraun, Ireland’s sole offshore-island natural lagoon, dramatic sea cliffs, and uncommon wild flora.

Westport is a treasure that’s difficult to fault, commonly considered a combination of Ireland’s best natural attractions with welcoming culture and streets that remain pleasantly uncrowded.

“I am a huge fan of Westport and County Mayo, perhaps because my wife’s cousin owns the Clew Bay Hotel and Madden’s Restaurant. I highly recommend both. Renting bikes in Westport and riding the Great Western Greenway is fantastic, love it. It’s a charming little town with excellent restaurants and pubs,” one devotee recently posted on Reddit. Another person enthused: “I second Westport! My wife and I had our honeymoon there (years ago, and in Clew Bay Hotel too! ) and frequently return. The people in the restaurants, bars, and shops are all so welcoming. If you’re not a fan of the pubs (and the music), there are plenty of interesting and easily accessible walks and cycle paths nearby. Can’t wait to go back!”.

A third observer noted: “It really does seem magical out there, lots of outdoor activities and seems less busy with tourists.”

Sarah typically works on Christmas Day. She has devoted countless Christmases to caring for newborns on the same emergency neonatal unit where her own baby was born prematurely this year

This is the heartwarming moment Sarah Alcock found out that her husband had nominated her for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

Christmas for the 35-year-old doesn’t tend to be spent tucking into a roast, opening presents and relaxing with the family.

In fact, Sarah typically works on Christmas Day. The Oakwood, Derby mum has missed out on many a festive day at home due to work nursing shifts at Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham, where her own baby was born prematurely this year.

Born at just 25 weeks, weighing 1lb 12oz, the eight-month-old will be celebrating her first Christmas this year, but with staffing pressures mounting, she has volunteered to step in again to help her fellow colleagues out.

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Her husband, Dave, a marketing manager, from Oakwood, Derby, wanted to recognise how hard Sarah works, so he nominated her to win a break with easyJet.

“She’s a hero. Her work doesn’t stop just because it’s Christmas, so she has to go there regardless of the date,” he explained.

Alongside Sarah, NHS nurse Nicky Starkowitz and care home manager Niccii Gillett, who also selflessly work every Christmas, were gifted holidays as part of a campaign by tour operator easyJet Holidays to recognise the UK’s hidden heroes.

Nicky faced a breast cancer diagnosis in August this year and tragically, her four-year-old son Raffi was also diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain cancer in March. Her husband Neil said: “With everything going on this year we haven’t managed to get away or get the opportunity to do anything as a family together.”

Nicky added that “just to go away somewhere, as a family, and have time away together would be so nice”.

The holidays are a special easyJet Holidays escape, to give recognised key workers quality time with friends and family in the sunshine. They have been gifted to Christmas heroes after new research by easyJet Holidays found over 10 million Brits will be spending time apart from their families due to work commitments this year.

Nearly a third (28%) of key workers also feel that they haven’t taken a proper break in the past year, with nearly a quarter (22%) not likely to have a choice over whether they can work on Christmas Day or not.

Matt Callaghan, Chief Operating Officer at easyJet Holidays, said: “At Christmas especially, we’re reminded how many people quietly put others first, often sacrificing precious time with their own families. Our key workers do this year after year, and our communities simply wouldn’t function without them.

“This is easyJet holidays’ way of saying thank you – giving a few of these Christmas heroes the chance to properly step away, rest, and spend quality time together, whether that’s in the sunshine or exploring a new city. It’s about recognising the people who give so much, especially at this time of year.”

The easyJet Holidays poll uncovered the professions we feel most grateful for at Christmas, with nurses, paramedics, care workers and delivery drivers among them.

Just under a quarter (23%) of Brits say they leave out a gift for the postal workers at Christmas, while over a fifth (22%) say they do the same for binmen.

Six in ten also say Christmas makes them feel more generous towards others, with 51% saying they compliment others more during the festive period, while more than three in ten (31%) check in with their neighbours.

Top 10 professions Brits feel most grateful for at Christmas:

1. Nurses (46%)
2. Paramedics (39%)
3. Doctors (38%)
4. Care workers (29%)
5. Firefighters (27%)
6. Police officers (23%)
7. Delivery drivers (22%)
8. Retail staff (20%)
9. Postal workers (17%)
10. Hospitality (16%)

SUNLOUNGERS are a staple of any beach holiday, in fact holidaymakers won’t remember a time before them.

The lounger was first established in the late 1800s and looks a lot different to how we know them – and in fact, were founded in a small town in Germany.

Warnemünde on the Baltic Coast is recognised as being the home of the first sunlounger.

In 1882, basket maker Wilhelm Bartelmann from Warnemünde had an idea to help a woman suffering from rheumatism to enjoy the beach.

Wilhelm created the chair by basket weaving to provide a protective cover from the sun and wind.

Due to the high demand, Wilhelm and his wife founded the first beach chair hire company near the lighthouse in Warnemünde.

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With the sunlounger’s success, beach chairs then popped up in seaside towns neighbouring the North and Baltic Seas.

For anyone heading to Warnemünde, you’ll still be able to find the woven-style chairs, called Strandkorb, on its beaches.

Warnemünde sits just outside of Rostock and is known for its marina and being a cruise-ship stop and it’s beach that is almost two miles long.

One recent visitors wrote of the beach on Tripadvisor: “Finest white sandy beach behind a generously laid out, wide promenade. You could fill hourglasses with this sand.”

Another called it “one of the best beaches in Europe” and a third said: “The beach in Warnemünde is one of the most beautiful beaches on the German Baltic coast.

“Everything here is open and spacious. The sand has a Caribbean feel to me. We always enjoy coming here.”

Other sites include the Warnemünde lighthouse which was used for more than 100 years.

You can visit the area around the lighthouse for free, but going up the lighthouse tower costs a small fee.

Visitors can then climb up 135 steps to the top for panoramic views over the coast.

Other places to explore is the teapot-shaped building called Teepott with restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops, and Alter Strom, which was the old trade route into Rostock.

Now it’s lined with fishing boats and on the shore are seafood restaurants, and cafes.

While there are no flights to Warnemünde, you can easily get there via water as plenty of cruises make a stop there.

P&O Cruises offers two itineraries around Northern Europe and Scandinavia that makes a stop in the German port town.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines also offers a route to Warnemünde for example on its ‘Enchanting Landmarks of the Baltic’.

It starts from Copenhagen to Warnemünde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga and Tallinn.

For more breaks in Germany, this is a European island Brits won’t have heard of that’s like ‘travelling to the 1970s’ with white sand beaches and beer tours.

And here’s a tiny European holiday island that used to be a spa resort where cars are banned.

A POPULAR Spanish beach city is set to get new flights from the UK.

Valencia is known for its vibrant culture and being the birthplace of paella, and soon the city will get new Wizz Air flights from London Gatwick Airport.

The new flights will be daily and launch on March 29, next year.

Return flights will cost from £40 per person.

Wizz Air also recently announced that there will be a route between London Luton Airport and Valencia, starting in March next year as well.

This route will operate five times a week.

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It takes just under three hours to get to Valencia, which experiences high temperatures of 17C during the winter months and 300 days of sunshine a year.

The city features a charming old town – also known as Ciutat Vella – home to Gothic architecture including the cathedral where you can climb the bell tower and the Silk Exchange – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For history lovers, there is also St. Nicholas Church, which is often dubbed as Valencia’s ‘Sistine Chapel’ due to its Baroque frescoes.

Visitors note the ornate ceilings inside and the light show that takes place, called ‘The Light of Saint Nicholas’, which highlights the numerous Baroque frescoes.

It costs €15 (£13.15) per person to visit.

Head to El Carmen too, to see medieval walls and experience a vibrant nightlife.

Of course, there are pretty beaches too, such as beaches Malvarrosa, which is the best-known beach in the city and has lots of deck chairs for hire, kiosks selling drinks and inviting waters.

For a bite to eat, make sure to visit Mercado Central, which is Europe‘s largest fresh produce market.

Visitors can pick up a variety of produce or grab a takeaway, including fresh oysters and raw shrimp with lemon juice and chilli.

One recent visitor said: “Everything was fresh and very tasty.

“We did a little shopping for vegetables and meats and drank Aqua di Valencia at two different stands, before finishing with empanadas and a roll with jamon and queso.

“The market itself is very large, with interesting architecture both inside and outside.”

Other top foodie destinations in the city include Fum De Llum, where diners can try the tasting menu for €28 (£24.53) with citrus-marinated tuna tartare, Iberian pork shoulder and a number of homemade desserts.

One visitor said: “As I walked in, I was instantly greeted by a delicious aroma that filled the air, creating a wonderful atmosphere for my experience.

“The generous portions only enhanced my enjoyment, and it was clear that the ingredients were fresh.

“Each bite was packed with authentic flavours that transported me to a special place.

“I left feeling thoroughly satisfied and pleased with my choice, eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to indulge in such a delightful meal.”

And if you happen to be in the city on March 19, you’ll get to see Las Fallas – a festival where giant cardboard sculptures are burned.

In 2026, Las Fallas will celebrate its 10th anniversary and will last 19 days.

The festival dates back to the 18th century when carpenters used to burn pieces of wood.

Next year, the city will also be hosting Gay Games from June 27 to July 4.

In total, there will be more than 3,000 people involved in the games across 37 events.

And later in 2026, the Sorolla Museum at the Palace of Communications will open.

The new museum will feature more than 220 works by the famous Valencia painter, Joaquin Sorolla.

There are also hotels for all budgets, including the adults-only Axel Hotel Valencia, which has city views and a spa and costs from £106 per night.

Alternatively, you could stay at the Vincci Mercat, which is less than 100 metres from Mercado Central, from £125 a night.

For more inspiration on where to travel to in Spain, these are five of the best Spanish foodie destinations with direct UK flights and cheap holiday packages.

Plus, a couple has been to Benidorm over 100 times – they go back for Christmas for Chinese buffets and unlimited drinks for £16.

A UK Safari Park is set to open eight new lodges where guests can sleep amongst the giraffes, following “overwhelming demand.”

Riding high on the success of its current lodges, the Safari Park near Bewdley in Worcestershire is set to raise the bar with four new Giraffe Lodges, and four brand-new Rhino Lodges.

The expansion will let guests wake up nose-to-nose with some of their favourite animals, a stay that’s truly un-herd of.

Guests can peer out of their lodges at West Midlands Safari Park to views of the animals.

The site currently features four lodges with views of the giraffes and four of the rhinos, with more being added to meet growing demand.

The new Giraffe Lodges will sleep six people, allowing animal lovers to come eye-to-eye with the eight giraffes from the balcony on the upper floor.

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Keen-eyed guests may even be able to spot zebras, antelope and buffalo from their lodgings.

The new two-storey Rhino Lodges will be set in a brand-new area of the park, giving guests a fresh perspective and a closer look at the park’s white rhinos.

Visitors can unwind on private balconies as the animals roam just beyond their windows.

Each lodge boasts modern comfort with a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience, with elegant interiors, spacious living areas, and panoramic views.

One guest raved about the experience on TripAdvisor: “Couldn’t fault it at the Giraffe Lodge.  

“We were so close we could even hear the giraffes humming after the park closed and it was quieter.”

Stays also include a three-course dinner and breakfast, along with exclusive after-hours access to select areas of the West Midlands site.

The park also offers lodges overlooking the cheetahs, elephants, red pandas, tigers, lions, hippos and white lions.

Work is already underway to expand the venue’s award-winning luxury accommodation, increasing the total number of lodges to 38.

Safari Lodges manager, Nolan Armstrong, said: “Our Giraffe Safari Lodges have been incredibly popular since they opened, so we’re thrilled to be adding four more to meet demand.

“They are definitely a guest favourite and continue to sell out.

“We’re equally excited to introduce our new Rhino Safari Lodges in a brand-new area, giving guests another incredible opportunity to get up close to these magnificent African animals.”

The new Giraffe Lodges are expected to open in Spring, while the Rhino Lodges will be available later in the year, with bookings already open.

Giraffe Lodges are available from £509 per night for two guests, and the Rhino Lodges start at £449.

If you’re bored of theme parks with long queues and greasy food, a new ‘luxury’ theme park will be opening in 2026 that promises a much more upmarket experience including “five-star hospitality”

A day out at a theme park is hardly what you’d call a luxury experience. While it’s nice to enjoy a day of family-fun, having to queue for 30-second rides and fight the crowds isn’t exactly relaxing.

However, an upmarket resort chain now aims to elevate the average theme park experience. Billed as “the world’s first-ever luxury theme park”, BON (beauty of nature) is set to open in autumn of 2026 for guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta in Mexico.

There are ambitious plans for this new theme park, which will eventually have multiple lands including 23 attractions, 25 restaurants, lounges, and shops across the site. It’ll feature both thrill rides and family-friendly options, as well as immersive experiences and playgrounds.

Guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta, a resort featuring a 5-star hotel, golf course, and direct beach access, already have access to select attractions within the theme park. The park recently opened Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ, a spectacular water-based show that takes place in a custom-built theater costing $ 200 million (£ 148 million) for an immersive dinner experience. The theatre is surrounded by a wrap-around aquarium for a 360-degree undersea experience.

Two of the theme park’s seven planned lands are also open for guests to preview. There’s Wonder Bay, which includes a lake show and seasonal celebrations. Until January 11, a Christmas theme is in effect, featuring decorations, live performances, and festive meet-and-greets.

Adventure Valley is also open, featuring the serene Carousel of Colors and the family-friendly Time Quest. There’s also Tempest Towers, a ride that takes you to new heights before plunging you down, and Kids Cove playground with plenty for them to explore. Some of the park’s shops and restaurants are also open, offering visitors a glimpse of what the park will be like.

Once fully open, visitors will be able to enjoy rides such as the Tecuani Beast, set to be Latin America’s only double-launch coaster. This will have top speeds of 65mph and more airtime than any other rollercoaster in the region. Another attraction will be the floral-themed Floresta Drop, which will be a family-friendly ride.

There will also be a variety of eateries offering an elevated experience compared to the typical theme park fare. This includes authentic Mexican cuisine offerings, sushi restaurants, and American-style grills.

The park will also feature numerous surprises around every corner, including costumed entertainers, light shows, fireworks, and much more. The company VidantaWorld, who already have two beach resorts in Mexico and a mega yacht, want to create a “multi-generational” experience, with something for all ages.

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The news comes as a popular European theme park is set to get a new world based on the Harry Potter series. LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany confirmed the creation of a new Wizarding World based on J.K. Rowling’s popular franchise. Details will be released in the next 12 months and are set to include Harry Potter themed accommodation.

Disneyland Paris is also set to get a brand new attraction, and has confirmed that the World of Frozen, based on the Frozen movies, will open on March 29, 2026. The area is set to include a brand new ride, character meet and greets, new shows, and exclusive food and drink.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

FROM snowy countrysides to festive city spots, Christmas movies have taken inspiration from a variety of UK locations.

And while the North Pole may be far out of the way, you can get into the spirit by visiting these iconic film spots a little closer to home.

Before you snuggle up to watch your go-to Christmas classics, why not go one step further and visit the exact spot where it was filmed this festive season?

A variety of festive favourites were shot on-site here in the UK, from the star-studded Love Actually to Christmas comedy Nativity!

If you find yourself near any of these famous film locations, celebrate the Christmas season by stepping into the shoes of your favourite festive characters.

Shere, Surrey

This picturesque village hit the big screen when it was featured in The Holiday back in 2006.

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The quaint area consists of historic timber-framed buildings and medieval charm, nestled in the idyllic Tillingbourne Valley.

It played home to Kate Winslet’s Iris who famously swaps homes with Los Angeles resident Amanda, played by Cameron Diaz.

Shere provides the romantic backdrop for Diaz as she finds love with Jude Law during her festive getaway.

And the village also featured in the Bridget Jones franchise, which is often considered another Christmas classic for Brits.

Snowshill, Cotswolds

The quintessential Cotswolds village also featured in Bridget Jones Diary, the first installment of the hit series.

In fact, the film and the entire franchise opens with with Bridget turning up at her parent’s house in Snowshill on a wintry New Year’s Day.

And it is in the same town where the quirky protagonist has her first on-screen encounter with her eventual husband Mark Darcy.

Due to the film’s success and the idyllic scenery, many people now stop for a photo outside the village church or one of the quaint houses that appear in the film.

As a result, Snowshill has established itself as one of Britain’s most popular Christmas film locations.

Brighton Pier

While the iconic seaside attraction may be associated with summer fun, it also has ties to the festive season.

Fans of the animated film The Snowman may recognise the historic pier from the famous Walking In The Air scene.

The main characters can be seen flying over the historic pier as they make their way to the North Pole.

While the sequence may be brief, it is perhaps one of the most famous associated with the beloved classic.

Hogwarts Great Hall

Another children’s classic is of course Harry Potter, a film series often associated with and watched around Christmas.

And while witches and wizards may be akin Halloween characters, the cosy grounds of Hogwarts are perhaps the most enticing when they are decked out for the festive season.

Now fans of the film can step into the magic by visiting the Warner Brothers Studio in Watford.

A quick trip from London, this studio tour offers a stunningly detailed look into the making of the movies, and what better time to visit than in the lead up to Christmas when the Great Hall set is adorned with decorations?

Covent Garden

And in the heart of London is of course the famous Covent Garden, which many argue is the home to the city’s best Christmas tree.

While it is already on most tourist lists, the festive season marks the best time to visit this popular spot.

With a famous Christmas market and choir performances, there’s plenty to get you in the spirit at this time of year.

And fans of the 2019 rom-com Last Christmas are sure to spot many filming spots inside this famous square, which feature heavily in the film.

Emilia Clarke’s Kate works as an Elf in a fictional year-round Christmas shop at this location, while the famous karaoke scene was shot at nearby pub The Harp.

St Luke’s Mews, Notting Hill

And if you’re a fan of Christmas rom-coms, you’ll want to pop over to Notting Hill too.

The beautiful cobbled street of St Luke’s Mews plays the backdrop to arguably the most famous scene from the festive flick Love Actually.

Whether you lap up Mark’s (Andrew Lincoln) cue card love confession to his friend’s new wife, played by Kiera Knightly, or cringe at the iconic scene, you’re sure to recognise this famous street.

While this street it located just off Portobello Road, home to the world’s largest antique market, it is still a residential area so remember to be respectful when visiting.

Coventry Cathedral Ruins

Another British Christmas classic is of course Nativity!, which primary school teacher Mr Maddens, played by Martin Freeman, as he attempts to stage a production of the Nativity.

After telling a white lie to impress his ex, Maddens soon finds himself in the midst of a media storm surrounding the school play.

The mayor even allows the class to perform the highly-anticipated show at the historic ruins of Coventry cathedral in an atmospheric climax to the film.

Paddington Station

And who can talk about beloved British festive flicks without mentioning Paddington?

The iconic bear famously made his way from Peru to the Paddington area of London, after which he was named.

Visitors can visit a statue of the bear at his namesake station, which provided the backdrop for one of the most important scenes in the 2014 film.

Elm Hill, Norwich

The picturesque area of Elm Hill in Norwich features heavily in Netflix’s Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey.

Snowy scenery provides a backdrop for the adventure of an old toy maker and his granddaughter.

The cobbled streets, multi-coloured houses, and quaint shops of the town provide the perfect setting for movie magic.

And they also ensure the perfect shot on Instagram, whether you’re a fan of the film or not.

Birdsall House

And finally, this Malton mansion plays home to the Christmas family in 2021’s Father Christmas Is Back.

Kelsey Grammer plays James, the father of Joanna, played by Elizabeth Hurley, who he abandoned years ago.

The festive family flick follows them as they attempt to navigate Christmas together, with many scenes set at the stunning Birdsall House.

This beautiful country house is surrounded by glorious Yorkshire countryside and is a popular wedding venue, with private guided tours of the property are available.

A HUGE airport that is set to become a central hub in Poland in the next six years has been renamed.

Work is still yet to begin on the major airport that was originally called Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, or CPK.

Last week, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the previous name for the country’s upcoming airport, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, will no longer be used.

He said: “We won’t be using a name that our predecessors discredited,” adding that the planned new airport is intended to serve as “the largest hub in this part of Europe.”

Instead, the airport will be referred to and renamed as Port Polska.

Mr Tusk added: “Everyone who lands there, everyone who uses this airport, everyone who shops there should know: yes—this is the heart of Europe, yes—this is Port Polska.”

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The airport hub has been in the planning stages for many years with work set to begin in 2026 with the first stage of completion set for 2032.

The Polish government estimates put the total cost of the Port Polska project, including the airport and associated rail links, at around PLN 131 billion (£27billion).

The enormous hub will be built in Baranów which is about 25 miles from Warsaw where the current biggest airport in the country is; Warsaw Chopin Airport.

Eventually, Warsaw Chopin Airport will be replaced by Port Polska.

The 450,000sqm airport will have just two runways at first – a third will open by 2045, with plans for long-haul flights.

Inside, the passenger terminal will operate across three levels. On level two will be ticket and baggage check-in, security control, arrivals and departures for the Schengen zone.

Level one will be home to most of the arrivals and departures for the Non-Schengen zone, transfer centres, and passport control.

Level zero will have coach gates for both Schengen and non-Schengen zones, baggage reclaim and an arrivals hall.

It expects to welcome around 34million passengers in its first year, but will grow to as many as 60million.

Building work is set to start next year, and the airport has been designed by Foster + Partners – behind London‘s the Gherkin and the Battersea Roof Gardens.

The huge airport will have other transport links too like an underground train network which will connect it to Warsaw and Lodz.

Holidaymakers in Warsaw will be able to get to the airport in just 20 minutes by train – the airport will also open a bus station for travellers.

Once open, Port Polska will take on some of the world’s biggest transport hubs like London Heathrow which welcomed a record 83.9 million passengers in 2024.

And Dubai International Airport handled 70.1 million passengers by late 2025.

This airport will be the world’s biggest airport – with 185million passengers a year…

King Salman International Airport in Saudi Arabia is set to surpass all other airports in size, including the current biggest airport in the world which is also in the country.

The 22sqm airport will feature six runways – up from two – parallel to each other and will be built around the existing King Khalid International Airport.

It will approximately be the same size as Manhattan in New York – or twice the size of the city of Bath, in the UK.

And now the airport has moved into its construction phase. The airport will be designed by Foster + Partners, a UK firm which is behind London‘s famous Gherkin.

Inside, travellers will be able to explore 4.6sqm of shops. A lot of features in the airport are set to include high tech, such as climate-controlled lighted.

Travellers will have plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor spaces with greenery and vast glass windows, ideal for a bit of plane spotting.

Foster + Partner’s is also developing the Wadi Loop, which will connect the airport to other developments allowing travellers to access different sites more easily.

It will eventually accommodate up to 120million passengers each year, which is then expected to rise to 185million by 2050.

And the number of aircraft takeoffs will rise from 211,000 per year to over one million.

In total, the project is estimated to cost around $30billion (£22.5billion).

If you’re travelling over the Christmas period, check out if you will be affected by the travel chaos predicted for the UK over the festive season.

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A WORLD famous destination, often referred to as the unofficial eighth Wonder of the World, could be getting a new theme park.

The Ontario government has launched a new Destination Niagara Strategy which is a multi-billion dollar plan to transform Canada‘s top tourist spots into even better destinations.

As part of the strategy, Niagara Falls could become the ‘Las Vegas of the North’ with the possible creation of a new theme park.

Other plans include redeveloping the Ontario Power Generating Station into a new tourist destination.

A huge wheel ride that visitors can see the falls from is also part of the project – and could be similar to the London Eye with views of the River Thames.

The Niagara Parks Marina will be updated, with plans of opening a restaurant, shop and outdoor patio area.

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Work is already being carried out to convert the historic Toronto Power Generating Station in a five-star hotel – a first in the area.

The hotel is on the banks of the upper Niagara River and will have a craft brewery, museum, a spa, art gallery and a theatre.

In addition to this, there could be “multiple world-class casinos”, as well as “entertainment and top-tier dining options”.

Niagara’s casinos already attract over five million people and generate around €500million (£373million) every year.

The report states that it would “create new, world-class attractions, boost local arts and culture and improve the region’s transportation network.”

It hopes to welcome as many as 25million visitors a year, and double the region’s tourism.

It could even create $3billion (£2.3billion) for Ontario’s GDP.

Premier Doug Ford said: “Niagara is home to the world-famous Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic tourism destinations on earth, along with a host of world-class restaurants, wineries, hotels, cultural events and so much more.

“Our Destination Niagara Strategy will unlock the region’s full potential, supporting workers and creating new opportunities for tourists and families from Ontario and around the world to come and experience the best that the region has to offer.”

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West said: “This transformative investment in Niagara as a world-class, four-season tourism destination is another example of how our government is protecting Ontario.

“This critical support for our regional tourism strategy will not only attract more visitors from coast to coast across North America, but from around the globe.”

In the future, the destination could see even more new attractions and visitor experiences – though details are limited.

More money will be invested in cultural events too and improving transport options in the region.

Also in the years ahead, there could be a new Niagara River Line attraction, which would be an electric tram through Queen Victoria Park.

Visitors would board capsules that would be suspended, allowing them to see Niagara Falls from a new angle.

Back in August, a new Niagara Takes Flight experience opened.

The $25million (£18.7million) flying theatre experience allows visitors to go on a journey along the Niagara River corridor, soaring across 34.8 miles of parkland including Lake Ontario and the edge of Lake Erie.

A recent visitor said: “This was the most fun we had at Niagara Falls!

“This simulation makes you feel as if you are really experiencing this adventure!”

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IF YOU love a Christmas market but don’t know which one to visit, I hopped on a £20 mystery day trip to see where I’d end up.

What with buying presents, decorating the house and sorting social plans, December can quickly become synonymous with decision fatigue,so figuring out which festive market you fancy can be a step too far.

So when I saw a local coach company was offering a £20 mystery midweek market trip a fortnight before Christmas, it seemed the perfect solution. 

As I waited to be whisked away from a bus stop round the corner from my house, I was hoping for somewhere like York or Bath.

I’ve never visited either at this time of year, so I quite fancied seeing the historic streets filled with charming wooden stalls and glittering lights as darkness fell.

Most Christmas markets in my neck of the woods only open at the weekends, so going midweek meant fewer options to choose from. 

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It wasn’t long before the guesswork was over and it became apparent we were heading to Birmingham, which boasts the UK’s biggest German market, with stalls running from Victoria Square all the way down New Street to the bullring.

I was at university in the city when the market, inspired by Frankfurt’s festive fayre, first launched, back in 2001.

I’ve only been back to the market once since I graduated and found it too crowded and overpriced, so I was a bit disappointed when I realised where we were going.

But even though Brum’s market wasn’t on my list of festive favourites, going there midweek was actually a really good call.

There were plenty of market-goers milling about to create the right atmosphere, without feeling like you had to fight through hordes of shoppers just to look at the stalls or buy a bratwurst. 

Even better, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has reopened since my last visit, making the perfect place to get a bit of peace when the hustle and bustle of the market got a bit much.

It’s a lovely building, home to the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite artwork in the world, and the perfect backdrop for the wooden stalls and huge Christmas tree in the square outside. 

I thought prices seemed more reasonable this time too.

A stein containing a double pint of beer was £12.50, which was pretty similar to how much a couple of beers would cost in a city centre pub.

A ride on the carousel was £5 a go. 

You must check out the stalls and helter skelter tucked away in the cathedral grounds.

We also really loved the feel of the Gingerbread Christmas Bar at the bottom of the German market down in the Bullring, with its winter woodland of real trees and views out over the church of St Martin.

Would I recommend a mystery midweek market trip?

If you’ve got your heart set on a particular place or vibe, then it’s probably not for you as you need to go with the flow and be able to make the best of wherever you find yourself. 

But if you’re happy to see where you end up and just want to leave the planning to someone else, then this could be a brilliant way to get your festive fix.

It’s also a good way to check out if the infamous £99 mystery holiday deals you sometimes see on Wowcher might work for you.

If you fork out £20 and don’t enjoy your mystery day out, then it’s easier to chalk it up to experience than if you’ve spent £100 for antisocial flight times, horrible hotels and the realisation that you could have booked the same break for less elsewhere.

It depends on your spirit of adventure and whether you love the unknown or like to plan every trip down to the last detail.

My last mystery coach trip was a summer day at the seaside when I ended up in Southend, which boasts the UK’s longest pier.

It can be a great way to visit somewhere new that you’d never even consider as a destination or a place you’ve been before and written off.

So why not add a mystery day trip to your Christmas wishlist and see if Santa pops a ticket in your stocking?

For more festive market trips, here’s what the UK’s best Christmas market is like – and it’s had a glow up.

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WHEN it comes to A Place in the Sun most house hunters are on the lookout for a bargain along the Spanish coast.

But actually, there are plenty of affordable spots to be found outside of Europe – from beautiful Caribbean islands to cities less than an hour to huge theme parks.

Sun Travel got the inside scoop from A Place in the Sun presenters Laura Hamilton, Jean Johansson and Craig Rowe on where Brits should look in 2026 for cheap property outside of Europe.

Jean told us: “If you can stretch to the Caribbean, St Lucia has blown me away – and it’s quite cheap compared to Europe to eat out.

“If you want a paradise lifestyle, you can fly out this time of year and get beautiful weather. It’s so laidback too and everyone slows right down.

“The last time I was there for A Place in the Sun, one couple had a budget of £200,000 and they bought an amazing two-bedroom apartment on a little island that you have to get to via a water taxi – it was just absolutely idyllic.

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“If you’re willing to have that Caribbean way of life and something a bit different, your money can go far.”

Another destination that is becoming more popular with Brits as being an affordable holiday spot is Thailand.

Craig said: “I’ve not done any shows in Thailand yet – I think the show may have gone there a long time ago, but that’s somewhere else I think has great value property.

“It might be far, around 14 hours on a plane, but in terms of investment, and perhaps if you’re retiring and can stay there for months at a time, it’s a great option.”

Property prices can vary in Thailand depending on the destination with Chiang Mai being more affordable than the beachside property in Phuket.

Once you get there, the likes of food are so much cheaper – you can pick up a meal from as cheap as 150baht (£3.55).

But out of all destinations, there was one that every presenter mentioned as being one of the best places to invest – and for a good price next year.

Laura told us: “Florida is a place offering exciting opportunities and it’s always been a place we’ve visited on A Place in the Sun.

“I filmed there just before Christmas and it’s quite interesting. In Florida there are lots of properties that 20 years ago were prime luxury houses along the 192 route which is within 30 minutes to the Disney Parks.

“The location is still amazing, but the houses are a bit tired, so the rental opportunities are incredible. In terms of being able to make properties over and add value to them, I think that’s an exciting market.”

Jean added that she did some Florida shows last year where she headed to Fort Lauderdale.

“I think Florida’s always been popular and it’s nice for us to get away from Orlando and away from the Disney parks.

“Fort Lauderdale is a dream with the classic American lifestyle up there – locals start their day with a coffee on the beautiful promenades and there’s a lovely community feel.”

According to Palm Paradise Realty Group, some of the most affordable areas in Fort Lauderdale include Lake Aire Palm View and Flagler Village where the average property price is $343,000 (£255,543).

New episodes of A Place in the Sun will return from Sunday 21 December, and you can catch up on previous episodes on Channel4.com.

A Place in the Sun experts reveal coastline worth buying on NOW where you can ‘still get bargains’ – and flights are £15…

When we asked Laura Hamilton, Craig Rowe and Jean Johansson where exactly Brits looking for a holiday home should buy right now in Europe – they all had the same answer.

Laura Hamilton, who has been working on the show since 2012, explained: “There are still places in Spain which are great places to invest, especially around Costa Tropical.

“The area has increased in value and is still going up. It’s the opposite side of Málaga to Marbella and Puerto Banús, and it’s much cheaper.

“If you go out to a bar or a restaurant, the prices will be significantly cheaper but still great quality.”

Laura revealed that the Costa Tropical has accessibility to both the mountains and the beach.

She added that it’s marketed so that “you can be on the slopes in the morning and beach in the afternoon”.

To get from the beaches to the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains takes just an hour and a half in the car.

Laura continued: “I love that part of Spain and the scenery around Granada is spectacular. If you love the beach, skiing and hiking then it’s a stunning part of Spain – but prices are on the rise.”

Also in southern Spain is the region that presenter Craig Rowe recommended and like Costa Tropical, the region sits between the coast and Sierra Nevada mountains.

Craig told us: “Costa Almería in Spain is really good, especially for anyone on a lower budget.”

Jean Johansson, who has been working on the show for seven years, the same question, she agreed with her colleagues.

Jean said: “It’s got to be Murcia and the south of Spain because you can still get bargains there.”

“When I started on the show seven years ago the area wasn’t as popular at all, but now people are really understanding the value for money.”

For those jumping in to buy a property abroad, one woman who was on A Place In The Sun and bought her dream Spanish home for £45k – I have one regret and need to warn others of pitfalls.

And another presenter from A Place in the Sun took on her own renovation project on the Costa del Sol.

A woman has shared how an ‘entitled’ plane passenger tried to ban her from reclining her seat on a plane – and it has sparked a debate on whether it should or shouldn’t be allowed

A woman has slammed an ‘entitled’ plane passenger who tried to ban her from reclining her seat during a flight. She explained how she simply wanted to relax on the flight, knowing she could end up with back pain otherwise, and decided to recline her seat back to help with this.

However, the 5ft 2ins woman sitting behind her had a thing or two to say after she reclined her chair soon after take-off. She said on Reddit: “I tried to recline my seat and it popped back upright. I tried again and realised the lady behind me was shoving my seat forward.

“I tried again and she yelled at me that I couldn’t recline my seat. I was very shaken up by the interaction, so I just stayed upright for like 10 minutes until I could see a flight attendant nearby.

“I was able to quickly recline and have my chair click into place so she couldn’t shove it forward.”

It was at this point that the woman raised her voice at her, causing everyone on the plane to turn their attention to the pair.

She said: “I told her everyone on the whole plane gets to recline their seat. She said I was reclining too far back, though…

“I told her my seat was in the same position as the person sitting in front of me and kind of held my hands up at her through the little gap between the seats, and then sat back. She didn’t try to talk to me again.”

Sharing her regret, she says she wishes she’d called over a flight attendant to deal with the situation rather than facing the woman directly.

She added: “The whole thing made me so uncomfortable. Even the tall guy whose knees were jammed into the seat in front of him was getting involved, telling her she needed to calm down.”

Commenting on her post, one user said: “It’s such a doomed situation all around. Some people you are literally crushing their legs, and it’s horrifically uncomfortable to sit fully upright if you nod off. Airplane hell.”

Another user added: “I was shocked on a German train when I noticed the recline function in the seat worked by sliding the seat forward… this allowed the person to recline all they wanted, but into their own space.

“I still have no idea why this doesn’t exist in airplanes, as it would fix the problem once and for all. Want to recline? Sure… into your own space!”

A third user said: “As a tall person with long legs, it’s not that I don’t want them to recline, it’s that there is physically no room for the chair to come back any farther.

“Usually, I am flying domestically, and the options for buying a seat with more legroom don’t exist on many of the flights.”

IF you’re off to Scotland on a £9.50 Holiday, here’s something to excite your taste buds.

Surrounded by sea and with rolling fertile lands, this beautiful country produces much of its own food, from seafood to hearty haggis.

It’s also home to over 150 malt and grain distilleries, with countless whisky-tasting opportunities for those who like a tipple.  

You can’t miss the opportunity to sample haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), traditional fish and chips or Scottish porridge.

And you can’t go wrong by starting the day with a full Scottish breakfast, with The Bandstand Bar & Restaurant in Nairn highly rated for theirs.

Another local speciality is Cullen Sink, a warming, thick soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, which you can sample at somewhere like Garden Cafe Pitlochry. 

And that’s just the start. We’ve spoken to Scottish locals and holiday park staff to find out the best places to eat and drink – from sea-view restaurants to community-run cafes by the beach. 

Here are some places to check out on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday…

Best cheap eats

Morvyn Cattanach, General Manager at Sandylands Holiday Park in Ayrshire recommends Doon the Beach, a community cafe just behind Stevenson Beach.

She said: “It’s a cabin that they’ve done out as a cafe – a wee hidden thing that people might not know about.

“It’s the perfect place to get a cup of tea after a walk on the beach. And it’s really budget friendly – we got two soups, two drinks and a bag of dog treats for £10.”

In the Highlands, Milk Bar cafe and The Auctioneers pub, both in Inverness, are highly rated for their good value food and drink. 

Best dog-friendly cafe

If you have a pooch in tow, Morvyn Cattanach recommends heading to the coastal town of Irvine.

She said: “There’s a lovely cafe called GRO right next to the harbour where you can take your dog. It’s a great breakfast and brunch place – my favourite is avocados and eggs on toast (£9.80).”

The menu also features a “doggy section” with everything from sausages (£3) to “puppuccinos” (£2.50) for hounds. 

Best local pubs

Christopher Hill, Administration Manager at Tummel Valley Holiday Park in Perthshire, says Pitlochry is the place to find a variety of great pubs.

He said: “My favourites are The Old Mill Inn, Victoria’s and The Auld Smiddy Inn.

The Old Mill has a great setting, with a watermill outside and a nice beer garden.

The Auld Smiddy is a traditional pub with great food and a kids’ menu. There’s also the inn at the Moulin Hotel, which has a traditional brewery and cosy fire.”

Best for families

Adele Murray, a Scottish blogger originally from Aberfeldy in Highland Perthshire, says: “One of my family’s favourite pubs is Ailean Chraggan – or “The Crags” as locals call it – in Aberfeldy.

“It’s great for families, with a beer garden and outdoor play area. The Scottish Mussels are delicious and come from the west coast (£9.50 as a starter, £18.95 as a main), but I’ve also eaten pigeon and duck here – the food is great.”

The children’s menu includes garlic ciabatta (£3.50), mac and cheese (£6.25) and more.

Meanwhile, The Tree House in Ayr is a good option for families, with a genuinely good children’s menu and a laid-back vibe.

They also offer activity packs to keep kids entertained, and regular offers like steak nights for less than £15.

Best place for whisky tasting

The Scottish Sun Travel Editor, Heather Lowrie recommends The Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry, the Highlands.

She said: “It’s one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland.”

One-hour tours cost from £19. Heather added: “Blair Castle, home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries with its spectacular grounds, is just seven miles away and worth a look.

“You can even go segwaying there with Segway Ecosse and take in Hercules Garden, Diana’s Grove and St Brides Kirk.”

Further north, Lossiemouth in Moray is another good option for sampling the country’s finest malts, with plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants in the town.

Heather said: “Whisky drinkers will love it as it’s in the famous Speyside whisky area, and close to a few of Scotland’s most famous distilleries including Glenfiddich, Macallan and Tamdhu.” 

Best restaurant

Overlooking the Moray Firth, Sun Dancer is a modern bar and restaurant – the perfect place to watch the sunset beside a panoramic window.

Make the most of one of the offers, like “boozy brunch” Saturdays (£35pp for two courses and four cocktails, pre-booking essential).

Meanwhile, The Bistro in Ayr is a traditional Scottish restaurant that is highly rated for its dishes, which range from duck leg croquettes (£7.95) to hand-pressed burgers (£16) and butcher’s cut steak.

BRITISH Airways Holidays has revealed what travel will look like in 2026 – from new destinations to trending trips.

Teaming up with Globetrender, it has released its 2026 Travel Trends Report.

They have named eight of their “rising stars” which have seen a surge in searches for 2026 compared to 2025.

The biggest jump is Bermuda, which has seen a 38 per cent increase in searches.

This was followed by St Kitts (31 per cent), Turks & Caicos (22 per cent) and Grenada (20 per cent).

Yet some of Europe made the list, with searches to Crete up 18 per cent.

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Otherwise Costa Rica (15 per cent), Nashville (13 per cent) and Antigua (8 per cent) are on the up too.

The most popular search destinations are some of the more well-known destinations, set to remain big in 2026:

1. New York
2. Orlando
3. Dubai
4. Maldives
5. Barbados
6. Las Vegas
7. Cancun
8. St Lucia
9. Dominican Republic
10. Antigua

Along with destinations, they also looked at some of the trend when it comes to what kinds of holidays people are booking.

This includes Stream Parks (theme parks combining physical attractions with AR) and Neurosurfing (more wellness based holidays).

Andrew Flintham, Managing Director of British Airways Holidays, said: “I always look forward to what our annual Travel Trends Report will reveal.

“It’s clear the prevailing interest in wellness culture is continuing to impact the way we holiday, with many of our trends leaning into this overarching movement.

“I wasn’t too surprised to learn of The Valueverse, and the ever-increasing demand for new ways to collect and spend points. We’re excited to make these trends a reality for our customers.”

Globetrender founder Jenny Southan added: “In a world shaped by economic pressure, digital saturation and rising social fragmentation,
holidays are becoming spaces of transformation – opportunities for people to test new identities, restore mental balance and discover forms of joy that everyday routines suppress.

“This shift marks a profound redefinition of what a holiday is for: not just escape, but expansion.

“The findings in this report show a British traveller who is more experimental.”

Here are 10 other destinations set to be big next year, according to Skyscanner.

We’ve also revealed how to take six holidays in 2026 for under £1,000, all in.

And there are some places to avoid for a holiday next year – here’s the full list.

Even though Visalia holds the title of being the oldest city in the San Joaquin Valley, it’s more likely a place you’ve passed through on your way to visit General Sherman or the infamous carved Tunnel Log. Many Angelenos don’t even know how to properly pronounce its name.

But Visalia (say it: vai-SAY-lee-uh) — a place long known as “the gateway to the Sequoias” for its proximity to Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks — is becoming a destination in its own right.

The 151-year-old Central Valley city has been working hard to shed its bucolic stereotypes and reinvent itself as a cosmopolitan oasis with hip boutiques, craft breweries and a revamped downtown. Changes started happening about five years ago when the Darling Hotel opened in the bones of the former 1930s Tulare County Courthouse annex. The Art Deco boutique hotel offers chic accommodations, catering to design-savvy travelers. Nowadays, downtown’s East Main Street, which plays host to tchotke-laden antique stores and patio dining, is a vibrant, walkable hub. At First Friday Downtown Art Walks, people can groove to a steady playlist of popular tunes thanks to a speaker system the city installed along the sidewalks. And although its Chinatown has been dismantled for years, many Chinese restaurants and a sizable Asian population remain, along with some of the community’s original Asian-inspired architecture along Main Street.

With farmlands nearby, farmers markets are held not once, but twice a week in Visalia’s downtown area, while local farms offer pick-your-own visits and plenty of restaurants make use of the local and seasonal produce at their disposal (seek out the honey glazed shrimp made with locally grown walnuts at Canton Restaurant as well as the berry pies and fruit preserves at the Vintage Press Restaurante).

Counterculture types will find respite at music and vintage store Velouria Records, cult film fans can catch free and low-cost screenings at the historic Visalia Fox Theater and paranormal-enthusiasts can chase spirits on ghost tours or late-night jaunts to the notoriously haunted Visalia Public Cemetery. There is even an extensive underground tunnel system — once used to operate gambling joints and opium dens — that still exists below downtown. Some people still find their way into them — those who aren’t deterred by massive spiders or trespassing charges, that is.

The city comes together for annual events, such as the twice-yearly downtown Wine Walk, the culinary extravaganza Taste of Visalia or the wintertime tradition Candy Cane Lane Parade, which celebrates its 79th anniversary this month. Also notable: Visalia became the first city in the United States to be designated a Certified Autism Destination in 2022, training at least 80% of its guest and public-facing staff in autism and sensory disorders.

As the city continues shucking its former reputation as a drive-by dot on the map, SoCal residents seeking a weekend escape only a few hours away would do well to take note. There is plenty of natural beauty to be found in the area, and one doesn’t have to drive into the higher elevations of the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains to get some adventure time in. Rent a boat or a kayak at nearby Lake Kaweah, strap on a helmet and do some whitewater rafting in Three Rivers or wander through preserved wetlands that have been untouched for centuries.

It might not be the first place on your California vacation bucket list, but Visalia is worthy of a visit — and with its rapidly changing cityscape, will likely have more to offer with each passing year.