TRAVEL

BUSY trains are being axed over a driver shortage, causing Christmas chaos.

Passengers planning to travel on Cross Country trains are today facing major disruption over the dwindling staff numbers – amid warnings from the operator.

A number of services between Manchester and Birmingham were cancelled on Sunday afternoon, with disruption expected until the end of the day.

It comes after a series of planned strikes by railway workers on CrossCountry Trains were called off.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) were due to walk out for the next four Saturdays in a dispute over pay and staffing issues.

The train operator had warned of significant disruption on all its routes if the strikes had gone ahead.

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However, the union has announced that the dispute has been resolved.

An RMT spokesperson said: “We have resolved the dispute with the employer and no strike action will now take place.”

RMT members previously walked out on December 6 and 13.

Shiona Rolfe, Managing Director at CrossCountry previously told The Sun, prior to the U-turn they were “disappointed for our customers” over the initial decision to strike.

Network Rail warned passengers to expect delays through Christmas and the New Year ahead of major £130 million works.

The disruption is set to last for a total of a month over the festive period, while crucial work is carried out.

Announcing a raft of festive network upgrades, Network Rail boss Helen Hamlin said: “The period between Christmas and New Year is the quietest on the railway and it’s the best time for us to do the major projects that will take longer than a night or a weekend to complete.

“That’s especially the case this year as we have some very big plans for improving the railway that will mean people may have to travel home on different routes after Christmas than the way they travelled out. 

“Thank you to everyone for your patience and understanding and for planning ahead.”

Dover delays

Meanwhile, families getting away for Christmas yesterday were hit with long delays as a massive IT glitch continued to cause chaos at Dover.

The technical issue at the French border control resulted in motorists being trapped in their cars for hours and missing their ferries.

The delays continued today, with ferry passengers grinding to a halt on the approach to the Kent port this morning as nearly 30,000 cars were estimated to embark on outbound sailings during the festive period.

Peak traffic at the port will be between 6am and 1pm, when P&O Ferries, which operates some sailings from the port, urged customers to allow extra time for their journey.

Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover, said: “To help ensure a smooth departure, we kindly ask all customers travelling with our ferry partners not to arrive any earlier than two hours before their scheduled sailing, just as you would if departing from a UK airport, and greatly appreciate everyone’s patience should there be any additional waiting time due to the high volumes of traffic.”

Sunday was forecast to be quieter than Saturday on the roads, but motorists were still facing delays on the M25 clockwise from Junction 15 to Junction 19 this morning.

A total of 3.5 million car journeys are expected on Sunday, according to RAC research, but motorists planning last-minute travel could face heavy traffic as 4.2 million getaways are predicted on Christmas Eve, which would make it the single busiest day over the period.

Drivers are being warned the worst hold-ups on December 24 will be between 11am and 7pm.

RAC figures suggest it could be the busiest Christmas getaway on record, with a total of 37.5 million leisure trips between Wednesday and Christmas Eve – the most in the week before Christmas Day since the company began recording the data in 2013.

Feeling in need of a cuddle? A Yorkshire farm offers an award-winning experience where you can cosy up to a Highland cow, as well as offering a unique glamping experience for an unforgettable weekend away

If you’ve got a loved one who adores Highland cows, then an award winning experience in Yorkshire may just be the perfect last-minute Christmas gift for them.

Dumble Farm, a working farm in Beverley, Yorkshire, offers a number of unique cow-themed experiences with their adorable heifers, and you can even stay overnight in a field right next to their cattle.

The farm recently took the gold award for Experience of the Year at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence for their Cow Cuddling experience, of which VisitEngland wrote: “This therapeutic countryside escape in East Yorkshire let’s you find your calm by getting close to the farm’s gentle Highland cows. This one-of-a-kind experience encourages mindful interaction as you enjoy the calming effects of stroking, brushing and cuddling these affectionate animals.”

Due to the nature of the site, camping and the cow experiences are for adults only, and no dogs are allowed. Guests can bring their own tent, caravan, or motorhome, or book one of the farm’s luxury yurts. This unique accommodation carries on the cow theme, with Highland cow print bedding and artwork, and guests can enjoy a cosy fireplace, running water, and access to a shared bathroom with a shower.

In the field next to the campsite, you’ll sometimes see some of the younger Highland cows grazing and wandering around, and according to the farm, they’re often “waiting for a welcome scratch on the chin”. Visitors can also access the cows’ shed, when experiences aren’t taking place, to meet the cows, and there’s also an area of woodland where you can meet the farm’s goats.

Cow Cuddling is no doubt the farm’s most adorable experience. Who could resist an afternoon of cosying up to these affectionate creatures? During the autumn months, it also offers Calf Handling, where you can get up close to young Highland cows, giving them a brush, leading them for a short walk, and of course, getting in cuddles.

There’s also a Cow Safari and Wildlife Tour, where you’ll be taken around the site on a colourful bus, with the opportunity to feed the herd from the safety of a trailer. Visitors can also book Herd it on the Grapevine, which includes a tour of nearby Laurel Vines Vineyard, a Cow Safari, and a picnic with a bottle of wine.

The farm is about a 15-minute drive from Beverly, a historic market town just north of Hull. One of its most recognisable buildings is the gothic Beverley Minster, which is one of the largest parish churches in the UK and larger than many cathedrals. Its origins are thought to date back as far as the year 700, although much the church that’s now standing was built in the 13th century in an ornate gothic style.

Beverley Bar, once the gate to the town, is still standing. It was built in the 15th century, and can be a tight squeeze for vehicles, with traffic lights keeping the road underneath single-file. On Saturdays, Beverly Market, which has run for centuries, still takes over the main square. Here, you’ll find local traders selling artisanal food, fruit and veg, arts and crafts, and many other items.

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To find out more about the farm – including camping and experience booking details – visit the Dumble Farm website.

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

Looking for a cosy UK weekend getaway this winter? This award-winning country pub ticks all the boxes, our writer Sam Kistamah found out on a recent stay there

Approaching The Gunton Arms, we quickly realised it’s not your average local. It is a pub, but one set in a 1,000-acre deer park near Cromer in rural Norfolk, kitted out in furnishings to rival posh department store Liberty and with walls covered in art by the likes of Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. And there’s a restaurant that’s in the Michelin Guide too. The deer park surrounds the 18th-century Gunton Hall, and The Gunton Arms was originally a farm that became the second house to Gunton Hall.

After careful restoration by art dealer Ivor Braka (hence the amazing collection), The Gunton Arms opened as a pub with bedrooms in 2011, and earlier this year was listed in the top 20 of The Good Food Guide’s best British pubs.

The food at The Gunton Arms

The Elk Room restaurant is dominated by a giant Irish elk skull, which hangs over an open fire. That’s where chef Stuart Tattersall cooks local fare, including venison from the deer park and beef from the Blickling Estate. Being four miles from the coast, The Gunton Arms also offers seafood, including a popular Cromer crab pasta dish.

We began with fried cod cheeks with caper and bronze fennel mayonnaise, and mixed beets with pickled walnuts and Binham blue. We loved the tender nuggets of cod with their zingy sauce, and the sweet beets were beautifully contrasted by creamy blue cheese and tangy slivers of walnut.

For mains, we devoured the sirloin steak, which had been perfectly cooked on the fire, and came with roast potatoes and a jug of Béarnaise sauce, and the roasted halibut special, accompanied by a buttery spinach and chive sauce and tasty Portland cockles. As keen dessert fans, we inhaled the Norfolk treacle tart with clotted cream and buttermilk pudding with honeyed fig.

The next day, we had lunch at The Gunton Arms’ sister pub The Suffield Arms, which serves outstanding Mediterranean tapas. Highlights included the corn ribs with mojito mayonnaise, and the white Andalusian prawns with garlic and chilli.

The rooms at The Gunton Arms

There are 16 rooms and we stayed in the stunning Rocksavage suite, which gave us some major inspiration for our own home renovation with its muted tones and carefully chosen pieces of art and dark wood furniture. Everything, from the marble bathroom with its roll-top tub to the sumptuous bed, oozed elegance. While the suite was traditionally decorated, we appreciated the Nespresso machine and Roberts radio, and the Norfolk Natural Living toiletries were a nice touch too.

What is there to do around The Gunton Arms?

You can explore the deer park but we were told not to approach the herd as it was rutting season when we visited – we loved watching them from the pub garden while enjoying a glass of chilled Gavi. The pretty seaside town of Cromer is a 10-minute drive away, and the pub is an ideal base for visiting the beautiful North Norfolk coast. With its towering sand dunes, Holkham Beach is a must-see spot that’s loved by the royals as it’s close to Sandringham.

How much does it cost to stay at The Gunton Arms?

Rooms at The Gunton Arms start from £145 per night.

Mirror reporter Julia Banim enjoyed a winter spa break at A-list favourite and foodie haven Carden Park, and a little bit of drizzle did nothing to dampen her spirits

With Christmas fast approaching, I was fortunate enough to enjoy a winter spa break at a hotel beloved by celebs, and I’m happy to say it’s not down south.

Nestled in the Cheshire countryside, Carden Park is reportedly a favourite of A-lister couples such as Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, as well as Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury. And the spa garden, complete with jacuzzis, fire pits, and heated glass pods, may well leave you feeling like you’re on a very high-end version of Love Island.

Back when I’m A Celebrity was filmed in North Wales during the pandemic, Carden Park even served as a plush eviction hotel for booted off campmates. It must have felt like a true haven for contestants after their insect infested ordeal, but what does this glam retreat have to offer for an average Joe such as myself?

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Situated in complete seclusion amid lush green grounds, it’s no wonder that stars favour this haven of relaxation, which feels a world away from the bustle of city life. But, with pretty Chester and the bargain heaven that is Cheshire Oaks just around the corner, shopaholics won’t have much to complain about.

If you listen carefully during the sweeping drive through the grounds, you may well hear the gentle putt of a golf ball, but today, I’m in no mood for sport. It’s time to completely unwind and put all the stresses of the dark and gloomy season aside.

The spa building is separate from the hotel, an elegant, immaculate building which smells heavenly. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the bathrobes are soft and fluffy. I’m here on a girls’ weekend with my mum and my sister, and I can’t think of a better place to natter the day away over some celebratory fizz.

Now, stripping to your swimsuit on a drizzly November day isn’t for the faint-hearted, but I can assure you that once you slip your shoulders under the waters of the vitality pool, you’re absolutely away.

The sky is clear and blue, and I can barely tear myself away from my tranquil spot for my spa treatment, a wonderfully indulgent 50-minute Time-to-Pause ritual treatment, which left my sunlight-deprived skin glowing and petal soft.

Admittedly, I sometimes struggle to drift off during spa treatments and find myself anxiously making to-do lists in my head, but here I found myself almost completely disconnected from the world.

It certainly helps that, after you’re done with treatments, you have a choice of relaxation rooms to unwind in before entering reality. This includes a sensory room, complete with soothing screen, and, my personal favourite, the deep relaxation room, where the crackling fire offered a very seasonal feel.

Famished from all my ‘lady of leisure-ing’, I head for lunch at Elements, where we enjoy matching, and tasty, Tandoori Chicken Open Sandwiches overlooking the spa garden, washed down with some of the most delicious peach mimosas I’ve ever had. Any future visitors should make sure to grab a portion of the salt and pepper chips – a truly sensational side, and even better than your favourite chippy.

Even in what can feel like the greyest time of the year, the floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light, and for a moment I feel as though we were back on holiday with a whole week of sunshine ahead of us.

The waiters also couldn’t be more lovely, even phoning down to the spa garden’s Bollinger champagne bar to ensure we had hot chocolate treats waiting for us when we returned. Very welcome when wearing flips in November.

Full from our hearty lunch, we head back down to the spa garden, to luxuriate in one of the glass pods with our hot chocs. Although we are already quite comfortable, a member of the bar staff came over with cuddly hot water bottles for us – a very sweet touch.

The bar is described as running in ‘all-weather’, and we certainly didn’t feel any less pampered for a bit of chill. That being said, we are Northern, and Southerners may well feel differently.

The afternoon soon melts away as we set about the very important task of trying out the spacious jacuzzis, plus the outdoor sauna, with its floor-to-ceiling window. It’s life I could very easily get used to. While we don’t mind a spot of drizzle, when it starts to rain, we head inside to the Indoor Thermal Suite.

While I would be more than happy with just the one sauna, Carden Park offers a relative gallery of thermal experiences, from a Finnish sauna to a Tepidarium, all encircling a sparkling ice fountain.

There are even two steam rooms to choose from – salt and aroma. I particularly enjoy the indoor vitality pool, which looks out over the garden and offers gorgeous therapeutic jets of bubbles.

I could happily float around gossiping in the vitality pool for hours, but it’s time to dry off and get glammed up for the next part of our dreamy day – dinner. We’re set to dine at Carden Park’s award-winning à la carte restaurant, The Vines, which has a swish yet welcoming feel.

Typically of me, I’ve forgotten my posh shoes and have to borrow some smart boots from my much more organised mum (this isn’t somewhere you stomp in with your muddy trainers!).

I am touched, however, by staff reassurances that they would have sorted me out with suitable shoes in a pinch, which definitely helps alleviate my embarrassment.

Carden Park Hotel is tastefully decorated, with a cosy feel perfect for blustery winter nights. But The Vines elevates this to a whole new level of elegance. Atmospheric, yet never daunting, we are made to feel at home, and there is a gently lively buzz to the room. The sort of sparkle you hope for any chatty girls’ night, albeit far posher than my usual Saturday.

The staff, are friendly and attentive, – an ongoing theme – while every single course on our taster menu is nothing short of superb. Even the freshly baked bread and butter is memorable.

There’s a real northern, comforting sense to the menu – the BBQ Cheshire Venison Loin is sublime – and there’s plenty of experimentation, with intriguing flavour inspirations from far and wide.

The roasted monkfish on the bones, served with bombay potatoes and a tasty coconut and kaffir lime sauce, is a real highlight. And I have to admit, even though I initially feel a little squeamish tucking into the chicken & rabbit galantine, this is dreamy.

Each dish is paired with a delicious drink, explained to us by the very knowledgable sommelier. I particularly love how creative these pairings were, with the sweet Hungarian Tokaji wine, which accompanies the caramelised apple pie, being my absolute favourite.

It’s always a surprise to me that this honeyed drink, which I can’t get enough of when in Budapest, hasn’t become fashionable among chic sorts in the UK yet.

In terms of my personal ranking, this is closely followed by the Brown Butter XO cocktail, served alongside the Banana & Popcorn Iced Parfait, which tastes like a desert in itself. There should be far more buttery cocktails in my opinion.

Although I try to pace myself, this is a table filled with temptation and I happily enjoy every drop. Really, is there a more blissful evening than sitting with two of your favourite people, enjoying a range of novel yet tasty treats? I think not.

When the time comes to leave the restaurant, I practically waddle to my room. I have a large appetite, and proud of it, but this hearty taster menu has defeated me. Thankfully, my room is clean, comfortable and with deep plush pillows. I’m soon enjoying the easy sleep of the truly rested.

Although I’ve enjoyed some lovely spa days in my time, I have to say nothing has ever come close to Carden Park. The setting is idyllic, the facilities are extensive, and every inch feels immaculate and well thought out.

Not to mention, the culinary experiences on offer are just as special as those found in the spa treatment rooms. Foodies, bring your appetites.

I will treasure my memories of Carden Park, and wholeheartedly recommend it as a winter bolthole, whether for a pre-Christmas getaway or January detox.

There are currrently plenty of packages on offer, including the Indulgent Spa Day pacakge for £299, and the A Little Winter Love Morning Spa Experience for £195. Find out more on the Carden Park website.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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The Seto Ohashi Bridge spans 13.1km, connecting Japan’s main islands of Honshu and Shikoku via five smaller islands. It took ten years to complete and is one of the most expensive bridges in history

A seemingly endless double-decker bridge links five islands whilst appearing to ‘soar into the sky’.

The two-tiered Seto Ohashi Bridge is a coastal landmark joining Honshu, Japan’s main island, to Shikoku set against the stunning Seto Inland Sea. Construction on the engineering wonder kicked off back in 1978 and the public were allowed over a decade later. Since then, it’s enabled millions to cross the Seto Inland Sea in just 20 minutes, slashing the previous ferry journey time of over an hour.

It’s not merely an engineering triumph. The bridge also draws in tourists. Bridge aficionados flock to vantage points like the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park to witness how the structure “soars both into the sky and distance”, as the Japanese tourist board describes it.

For those seeking a day trip, the park boasts gift shops, a rooftop viewing deck, Japanese gardens and a children’s playground. Visiting after dark offers even more breathtaking scenes as the bridge illuminates once dusk falls.

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In pure statistics alone, Seto Ohashi is extraordinary. The complete length spans 13.1 kilometres (8.1 miles), with the longest section, the Minami Bisan-Seto Bridge, stretching 1,100m. The bridges accommodate two lanes of motorway traffic in each direction (Seto-Chūō Expressway) on the upper level and one railway line in each direction (Seto-Ōhashi Line) on the lower level.

The scheme took a decade to complete at a cost of US$7 billion (£5.3 billion), utilizing 3.646 million cubic meters of concrete and 705,000 tonnes of steel. The construction of the bridge also took a great human toll. Despite safety measures such as nets and ropes, 17 workers tragically lost their lives over the decade-long build. Today, it stands as the world’s longest combined railway and road bridge.

If you’re an admirer of grand architectural feats and fancy a trip to see the bridge, the simplest route is likely to fly into Tokyo and then catch a train to Okayama. You can get up close and personal with the bridge by train, bus or car. From Takamatsu and Okayama, hop on the JR Marine Liner. Buses to Memorial Park depart from Sakaide Station and take about 20 minutes.

There are several points of interest along the bridge that might catch your eye:

Seijima

Once an island, Seijima is now linked to Shikoku via a land bridge. It’s a quaint spot, home to around 500 people who continue to uphold cultural traditions and festivals, like the Daishi Market and the autumn festival. Seijima is renowned for its abundant sea bream fishing grounds. In fact, tourist companies used to run boat tours complete with geisha for visitors to witness the spectacle of fishermen hauling in their nets.

Shamijima

Similar to Seijima, Shamijima was once an island but became part of the mainland during a land reclamation project. Its picturesque beach has been recognised by the Ministry of the Environment as one of Japan’s top 100. Here, you’ll find the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park and stunning views of the bridge.

Ogoshi District

Nestled to the east of Sakaide City, the Ogoshi district is beautifully situated on the slopes of Goshikidai Mountain, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. The area is a thriving hub for farming, particularly orange and lemon orchards. The Goshikidai Skyline, a route that meanders along the mountain’s plateau, offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Kagawa Prefecture

Once you’ve journeyed south to Shikoku, you’ll find yourself in the vibrant Kagawa. There’s an abundance to see, discover and, not least, savour here. Kagawa Prefecture is renowned as the birthplace of a famous udon noodle. Sanuki udon, known for its chewy texture, is thicker than other noodles.

This year has seen a raft of items banned from cruise ships, and if you’re planning on sailing away in 2026, make sure you don’t have any of these items in your luggage or you could risk having your possessions confiscated

While a cruise can be an excellent way to see the world, stepping on-board one of these giant floating resorts is very different to checking into a hotel. There are cruise etiquette rules to observe, and due to safety regulations and the close proximity to other guests, strict guidelines that passengers will need to follow.

In 2025, many cruise lines announced bans on common travel items, citing either safety concerns or antisocial behaviour. If you haven’t been on a cruise for a while, it’s worth double-checking with your cruise line what is and isn’t allowed in your bag.

Here are some of the items that have been banned in recent months and could end up being confiscated if you bring them on board.

1. Satellite internet

Onboard WiFi can be a big expense on top of the price of your cruise, especially for longer journeys or if you plan to use multiple devices. Some tech-savvy passengers have tried to avoid the cost by bringing devices such as Starlink Mini onboard, which provides internet via a satellite, but cruise companies have not been impressed by this ingenious hack.

Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian are among the cruise lines which banned passenger-owned Starlink devices, although some of their ships use the system to provide WiFi at a cost. Cruise lines have claimed that satellites could cause interference to the ship’s systems and problems with its own WiFi.

2. Travel routers

Many cruise WiFi packages can only be used on one device, leading some passengers to bring routers to use in their cabins, which allows them to connect multiple devices to a single connection. However, some cruise lines are cracking down on what was once a popular money-saving hack. There have been claims that these routers could cause cybersecurity issues on cruises, and many cruise groups on social media are full of passengers complaining that their devices were confiscated when trying to bring them in their luggage.

3. Clack fans

This rather strange ban was implemented by Carnival Cruises in the USA in response to a dance craze. The 2024 song Boots on the Ground by 803Fresh spawned a popular TikTok dance that became a staple on cruises, and involves using a paper clack fan to accompany the beat. However, the American cruise line banned them from nightclubs and indoor dance floors over safety concerns, although they can still be used in spaces such as decks.

4. Bluetooth speakers

If you’re dreaming of sitting out on your balcony blasting your favourite tunes, then you may be disappointed. Many cruise lines have now banned Bluetooth speakers, citing noise levels, annoyance to other passengers, and the possibility of blocking important safety announcements. Celebrity, Carnival and MSC all have speaker bans.

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5. Upside down pineapple stickers

According to Australian news outlet Cruise Passenger, upside-down pineapples, often used as a symbol that couples are interested in swinging, will no longer be allowed on cruises run by Carnival. When asked about the stickers, Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald wrote: “Thank you for mentioning that, those are definitely no longer allowed on the ships and they will be removed from any cabin door.”

Their guidelines for passengers wanting to decorate their stateroom door also state: “Items displayed during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendos/suggestions.”

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

From walking around in -32 degrees, eating Reindeer pizza, to having just a few hours of daylight – here’s what it’s really like to work in Lapland over Christmas

Lapland is one of the most enchanting and Christmassy places in the world during this time of year, with its snow-dusted forests and roaming reindeer. Yet, imagine if the Arctic wilderness was the backdrop to your working day? And we’re not talking about being Santa Claus.

Saul Vendrig Castillo compares his office to a ‘real-life snow globe’ as he spends the most wonderful time of the year in Lapland, Finland, as a TUI representative. His job is to help create unforgettable moments for families who visit the magical winter wonderland, and it certainly comes with its perks.

“Every day I’m surrounded by snow, excitement and pure joy. Kids step off the plane with their mouths open in amazement, and you can feel the Christmas magic in the air. It’s like working inside a real-life snow globe!”, Saul said.

“Lapland is one of the only places on earth you can experience the magic of gliding through snowy forests, wrapped up warm, with a majestic reindeer leading the way. It’s peaceful, magical and gives you time to soak up the Lapland winter wonderland.”

Yet, it can come with its challenges as he revealed: “In December, we get just over two hours of daylight, which means at 4pm, it can feel like bedtime.” However, that hasn’t stopped Saul from making the most of the local delicacies, including one that some might frown upon.

“Reindeer pizza is amazing, and much better than I expected! I can also highly recommend a liquorice cake with blueberry ice cream that I ordered a few days in a row, as it was so good,” said Saul.

His job in Lapland can range from greeting families at the airport, helping them with their snowsuits and boots, to organising thrilling outdoor excursions such as husky sleigh rides, reindeer safaris or snowmobiling.

“The children get to ride in sledges pulled by a team of energetic huskies. The sound of their paws on the snow and the speed of the sledge make it an unforgettable adventure. Everyone leaves smiling and talking about it for days,” he explained.

But he confessed that the most rewarding part of his job is seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they meet Santa. “When families visit Santa, it’s really special,” he shared.

“The children get to meet him in his cosy, twinkling cabin, tell him what they’ve been wishing for, and even receive a little gift to take home. The excitement in their eyes is priceless, and it’s magical for the parents to see too.”

Saul added: “When a child sees their first reindeer or throws their first snowball, that’s the moment you realise how special this job is. Then you take them to meet the Big Man, and their faces light up in a way you never forget. Parents often tell me this is the Christmas they always dreamed of giving their kids, so it’s really special to be a part of that experience.”

Currently in Lapland for his second season with TUI, Saul has picked up a few handy tips for those looking to visit the enchanting destination. He advised: “Make sure you bring lots of loose layers to wear under your snow suit as they trap the heat, whereas tight clothes can make you colder fast. And once you feel the chill, it’s hard to get rid of it, some days it can get to –32 degrees.”

He added that because Lapland only gets just over two hours of daylight in December, it’s best to “plan your activities with this in mind to really maximise those daylight hours”.

Additionally, Saul suggested: “For many people visiting Lapland, their bucket list goal is to see the Northern Lights, and my one piece of advice is to always be patient with them. They can be unpredictable, but they really are a sight to behold when they appear in the evening.”

During the summer season, Saul works as a TUI rep in various countries, including Greece, the Costa del Sol, and Mallorca. Yet, there’s something about Lapland, “The snow, the lights, the magic, the excited families always pull you back. There’s nowhere else like it,” he said.

If you’re interested in soaking up the festive merriment or planning a winter getaway for next year, TUI offers various packages to Lapland, departing from regional airports across the UK. The packages typically include flights, snowsuits, activities and transfers, and of course, the chance to meet Santa and witness the Northern Lights.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Prague has been crowned the cheapest Christmas market destination in Europe with £2 pints and £74 hotels, and it’s also one of the most photographed festive spots on the continent

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate Christmas market to explore this December, then you’re in luck. Hoppa has done the legwork for you and identified the most affordable destination to soak up the festive atmosphere.

The airport transfer experts have scrutinised dozens of European winter holiday spots, considering factors such as average accommodation costs, Tripadvisor reviews, and even the price of a pint.

And the European location that offers the best value for money this Yuletide is…Prague!

I agree with them after visiting the scenic city of Prague two years ago during the Christmas period. The Old Town Square has an iconic Gothic Church, a 20-Metre Christmas tree and is the most festive place I’ve ever experienced.

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It truly comes alive in December when the Christmas lights sparkle, locals sing traditional Czech carols and chalets sell everything from Trdelník (chimney cake) to hand-painted Czech Marionettes and puppets.

In addition to a visually stunning Christmas market, you’ll find an impressive 4,811 attractions to keep you entertained. With a score of 7.5 out of 10, the average cost of a 3-star hotel in Prague is a mere £74, and a pint will set you back just £2.17, according to secretldn.com.

The square is lined with eateries where you can sit back, enjoy reasonably priced food and drink, and indulge in some people-watching. Dinner with drinks typically costs between 250-400 CZK (roughly £8 to £14), with street food being even more affordable.

You can enjoy traditional dishes like Goulash, Svíčková (beef in cream sauce) or Vepřo knedlo zelo (pork, dumplings, sauerkraut) washed down with mulled wine, beer or Tatratea : A popular tea-based spirit.

In fact, the Christmas market is so picturesque that it’s been dubbed the most photographed Christmas market in Europe by various media outlets and Prague City Tourism.

There’s still ample time to visit – the market operates annually from late November until early January, transforming the square into a magical scene dominated by the towering Gothic spires of Týn Church and the Astronomical Clock.

One of the best aspects is that despite being only a two-hour flight from the UK, once you set foot in the Old Town Square, it feels as though you’ve travelled back in time. And you can get there for as little as £27 return (if you book well in advance), leaving plenty of spare change for a few £2 pints of beer.

The 10 most budget-friendly European winter getaway destinations:

Prague, Czech Republic.

Bansko, Bulgaria.

Sofia, Bulgaria.

Budapest, Hungary.

Tallinn, Estonia.

Kraków, Poland.

Tirana, Albania.

Belgrade, Serbia.

Bratislava, Slovakia.

Vilnius, Lithuania.

Keiko Agena likes to create moments of coziness — not just on Sundays, but whenever she possibly can.

“Oh, there’s my rice cooker,” she says when she hears the sound in her Arts District home. “We’re making steel-cut oatmeal in the rice cooker, which by the way, is a game changer. I used to have to baby it and watch it, but now I can just put it in there and forget it.”

In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.

The 52-year-old actor, who played music-loving bestie Lane Kim in the beloved series “Gilmore Girls,” delights in specific comforts like a bowl of warm oats, talking about Enneagram numbers and watching cooking competitions with her husband, Shin Kawasaki.

“It sounds so simple, but I look forward so much to spending time on the couch,” Agena says with a laugh.

It is time that she’s intentional about protecting, especially amid her kaleidoscope of projects. Over the last couple of years, Agena starred in Lloyd Suh’s moving play “The Chinese Lady” in Atlanta, acted in Netflix’s “The Residence,” showcased her artwork in her first feature exhibit, “Hep Tones” (some of her ink and pencil drawings are still for sale), and performed regularly on that L.A. improv circuit. And her work endures with “Gilmore Girls,” which turns 25 this year. Agena narrated the audiobook for “Meet Me at Luke’s,” a guide that draws life lessons from the series, and is featured in the upcoming “Gilmore Girls” documentary “Drink Coffee, Talk Fast.”

She shares with us her perfect Sunday in L.A., which begins before sunrise.

5 a.m.: Morning solitude

I like to be up early-early, like 5 a.m. I like that feeling of everything being quiet. I’ll go into the other room and do Duolingo on my phone. I am a little addicted to social media, so the Duolingo is not just to learn Japanese, but also to keep me from scrolling. Like, if I’m going to do something on my phone, this is better for me. I think my streak is 146. Shin is Japanese, from Oyama. So I’ve been meaning to learn Japanese for a while. For him and his mom.

Then I’ll do [the writing practice] Morning Pages. I don’t know when I learned about Julia Cameron’s book [“The Artist’s Way”] — probably around 2000. I know a lot of people do it handwritten, but I’m a little paranoid about people, like, finding it after I die. So if I have it on my computer and it’s password protected, I can be really honest.

Then a lot of times, I’ll go back to bed. Shin, as a musician, works at night, and so he wakes up a lot later. So I’ll fall back asleep and wake up with him.

9 a.m.: Gimme that bread

I don’t do coffee anymore because it’s a little too tough for my system, but I’ll walk with Shin to Eightfold Coffee in the Arts District. It’s tiny but very chill. Then we’re going to Bliss Bakery inside the Little Tokyo Market Place. We get these tapioca bread balls. If you make any kind of sandwich that you would normally make, but use that bread instead, it ups the game. It’s life-changing. The Little Tokyo Market Place is not fancy or anything, but it has everything that you would want. There’s Korean food. They have a little sushi place in there. You can get premade Korean banchan and hot food in their hot food section. They also have a really good nuts section. It’s just one big table with all these nuts, just piles and piles.

10 a.m.: Nature without leaving the city

We’ll go to Los Angeles State Historic Park near Chinatown. I like that place just because it’s very accessible. Like, they have accessible bathrooms and I’m always checking out whether a place has good bathrooms. We call it Flat Park because it’s a great walk. Like, you’re not really out in nature, but there’s a lot of greenery. You can take your shoes off and at least touch grass for a second.

11:30 a.m.: Lunch and TV cooking shows

One of my favorite salad-sandwich combos is at Cafe Dulce in Little Tokyo. A Korean cheesesteak and a kale salad. That’s always like a — bang, bang — good combo. So we might go there or Aloha Cafe, though it’s not fully open on Sundays. But I love it because I grew up in Hawaii. They have this great Chinese chicken salad and spam musubi and other Hawaiian food that is so good.

We’ll bring home food and watch something. Cooking competition shows are my cream of the crop. My favorite right now is “Tournament of Champions” because it’s blind tasting. To me, that’s the best way to do it. “The Great British Bake Off” is Shin’s favorite. He loves the nature and the accents as much as the actual cooking. He just loves the vibe, the slow pace of the whole thing.

I’m such a TV girl. I love spending time on the couch and eating a meal and watching something that’s appetizing with my favorite person in the world. I’m lucky because I get to do that a lot.

2 p.m.: Browse the aisles

I’ll go to this bookstore called Hennessey + Ingalls. I love art and architecture and design, but you can’t always buy these massive books. But you can go into this bookstore and look at them and it’s always chill.

If I have time, I’ll walk around art supply stores. Artist & Craftsman Supply is a good one. I’ll look at pens, pencils, stickers, tape, washi tape, different kinds of paper, charcoals. In my art, I try to find things that aren’t meant for that particular purpose, like little things in a hardware store that I’ll use it in a different way.

5 p.m.: Downtown L.A. in its glory

We really love to walk the Sixth Street Bridge. It’s architecturally beautiful and they’re building a huge park over there, so we’ll walk around and check it out, like, ‘Which trees are they planting? Can you see?’ We sort of dream about how it’s coming together. But the other beautiful thing about that walk is that if you go at sunset and you walk back toward downtown, it’s just gorgeous. Los Angeles doesn’t have the most majestic skyline, but it’s so picturesque in that moment.

6:30 p.m.: Cornbread and Enneagrams

I’ll head to the Park’s Finest in Echo Park. It’s Filipino barbecue. It’s just so savory and rich and a special hang. Their cornbread is really good. Oh, and the coconut beef, but I’m trying to eat less beef. They have a hot link medley. Oh my gosh, just looking at this menu right now, my mouth is watering. OK, I’ll stop.

One of my favorite things to do is ask friends about their Enneagram number. So the idea of sitting with friends over a good meal and asking them a bunch of personal questions about their childhood and what motivates them and what their parents were like and what their greatest fear is and then figure out what their Enneagram number is? That is top-tier activity for me.

9 p.m.: Rally for improv

Because I get up so early, if 9 o’clock, I’m ready to go to sleep. But I am obsessed with improv, so on my ideal day, there’d be a show to do. There’s this place called World’s Greatest Improv School in Los Feliz. It’s tiny and they just opened a few years ago, but the vibe there is spectacular.

Then there’s another place where my heart is so invested in now called Outside in Theatre in Highland Park. Tamlyn Tomita and Daniel Blinkoff created it together and not only is the space gorgeous — I mean, they built it from scratch — they have interesting programming there all the time. They’re so supportive of communities that are not seen in mainstream art spaces. It’s my favorite place. Sometimes I’ll find myself in their lobby till 12 o’clock at night. The kind of people I like to hang around are the people that hang out in that space.

11 p.m.: Turn on the ASMR and shut down

I am firmly an ASMR girl and I have been for years. I have to find something to watch that will slow my brain down. Then it’s pretty consistent. I don’t last very long once I turn something on. My eyelids get heavy and it chills me out.

LOVEHOLIDAYS has kicked off its end-of-year sale, with hundreds of pounds of savings on European and long-haul breaks.

The holiday sale runs until midnight on 8th February 2026, so there should be plenty of time to find dates and prices that work for your next trip abroad.

Shop the loveholidays winter sale

Holidaymakers can save up to £300 off selected packages to destinations across Europe, including Spain, Greece and Turkey.

If you want something further afield, the travel agent platform also features deals with up to £850 off selected long-haul destinations, including the Dominican Republic and Las Vegas.

If you’re weighing up a winter sun escape or planning for next year, this is a sensible moment to look, as there are plenty of deals on last-minute winter sun trips and summer 2026 breaks.

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The bonus is that you can secure a loveholidays deal you love with extremely low deposits from £19 per person.

Booking is flexible, and you can also use pay-monthly plans to spread the cost.

Early in a sale, you’ll usually get better room and flight options, and prices can shift as availability changes.

TOP 10 DEALS IN THE LOVEHOLIDAYS SALE

Don’t miss out on these fantastic travel deals in the loveholidays winter sale…

1. Algarve, Portugal: 7 nights at Plaza Real Atlantic Hotels from East Midlands, from £119pp in February 2026 – book here
2. Agadir, Morocco: 7 nights at Appart Hotel Igoudar from London Gatwick, from £149pp in March 2026 – book here
3. Florida, USA: 7 nights at Generator Miami, flying from London Gatwick, from £609pp in September 2026 – book here
4. Pattaya City, Thailand: 7 nights at Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel And Resort, flying from London Gatwick, from £659pp in June 2026 – book here
5. Majorca, Balearic Islands: 7 nights at INNER Hotel Rupit – Adults Only flying from Birmingham, from £249pp in March 2026 – book here
6. Andalucia, Spain: 7 nights at Hotel Granada by Pierre & Vacances, from London Gatwick, from £289pp in June 2026 – book here
7. Dalaman, Turkey: 7 nights at Belcehan Hotel, from London Stansted, from £389pp in July 2026 – book here
8. Crete, Greek Islands: 7 nights at Folia Apartments, from London Luton, from £419pp in August 2026 – book here
9. Florida, USA: 7 nights at Holiday Inn Resort Orlando – Lake Buena Vista by IHG, from London Gatwick, from £519pp in January 2026 – book here
10. Dubai, UAE: 7 nights at Hotel Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Autograph Collection, from London Stansted, from £559pp in June 2026 – book here

All loveholidays package bookings are ATOL protected for added peace of mind.

There’s also a Best Price Promise if you find the same holiday at a lower price elsewhere.

If you do spot your deal for less, loveholidays says it will refund the difference and add an extra £5 per person.

If you’re looking for some winter sun to soak up the rays on a golden sand beach engulfed with crystal-clear turquoise waters, there’s an idyllic destination just five hours from the UK

Amid the chaos of Christmas and chilly weather conditions, many of us are dreaming of jetting off to a warmer climate for some winter sun. One destination that has long been praised for its luxurious resorts and blistering 25-degree winter heat is just five hours away from the UK.

To help travellers uncover some of the best holiday getaways during the colder UK months, easyJet has released its ‘Winter Sun Index’. The airline compared factors such as flight and package prices, temperature, hours of sunlight per day, monthly precipitation levels, time difference, and the average cost of a beer and a meal for two, to highlight their top holiday destinations for some winter sun.

One desirable holiday hotspot, within easy reach of the UK, was Hurghada on the east coast of Egypt. The sun-soaked beach town is brimming with luxury resorts scattered along the shoreline, providing direct access to the crystal-clear waters where marine life thrives.

The turquoise sea is one of Hurghada’s most appealing factors, with scuba diving and snorkelling being undoubtedly popular pastimes here. Most resorts offer private areas along the golden sands for ultimate relaxation and convenience, but for those seeking more adventure, stunning desert landscapes are nearby, offering activities such as quad biking or Jeep safaris.

Located along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, easyJet found that Hurghada typically offers temperatures between 21C and 25C during the winter months, a stark contrast to the brisk highs of 6C we experience in the UK. Another factor making this destination rather desirable is easyJet’s findings that, on average, a pint costs just £1.75, while two people can enjoy a meal out for an estimated £26 – bargain!

Elsewhere, Hurghada basks in around 9-10 hours of sunshine every day, and there’s just a two-hour time difference compared to the UK, pretty much avoiding any signs of jet lag. Direct flights from London airports to Hurghada are just over five hours, with return flights starting from £154 with easyJet.

There are plenty of package deals available, making a spontaneous getaway even more effortless if you’re seeking that vitamin D fix. The Red Sea is renowned for its winter sun destinations, with Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt also remaining a popular choice for holidaymakers, thanks to its pristine sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters.

easyJet’s top 10 destinations for winter sun

1. Sal – Cape Verde
2. Hurghada – Egypt
3. Gran Canaria – Canary Islands, Spain
4. Lanzarote – Canary Islands, Spain
5. Agadir – Morocco
6. Fuerteventura – Canary Islands, Spain
7. Tenerife South – Canary Islands, Spain
8. Djerba – Tunisia
9. Seville – Spain
10. Paphos – Cyprus

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “As temperatures at home begin to drop and the days get darker, now is the perfect time to book an escape to warmer climes. easyJet’s unrivalled network and package holidays, offer a broad range of winter sun destinations across Europe and beyond, from Sub-Saharan islands to Spanish peninsula cities that are all easily accessible and affordable, for those looking to chase the sun on a budget this winter.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

ONE lesser-visited region in Spain has been named as one of the best places to visit next year.

It has a main city that holds bull racing events along with huge valleys, mountains and even a desert.

Conde Nast Traveller declared Navarra, also called Navarre, as one of the ‘Best Places to Go in Spain and Portugal in 2026’.

The publication said: “We often make a point of covering lesser-known sites in every region and in 2026 we want to encourage readers to check out a new project focused on rural areas in Navarra.”

The landlocked region located in northern Spain, shares borders with the Basque Country, La Rioja, and Aragon in Spain.

Its capital, Pamplona, is home to around 200,000 residents.

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And it’s famous for its San Fermín festival which is celebrated each year from July 6 to 14 with parades, music, dancing, and bullfights.

The most well-known event is called Encierro or Running of the Bulls.

It involves hundreds of people running in front of six bulls down a stretch of narrow streets which ends in Pamplona’s bullring.

The city also has a pretty Old Town, Cathedral, the Renaissance-like fort Ciudadela, Plaza del Castillo, and the Museum of Navarre.

It’s not just Pamplona, there are other smaller cities within the region, like Barañáin, Burlada, and Estella-Lizarra.

The region was even once an independent kingdom and known as the Kingdom of Navarre.

Eventually it as split with Lower Navarre merging into France, and Upper Navarre becoming a province of Spain.

Aside from the cities, Navarre also has a semi-desert region called Bardenas Reales which is around 162 square miles.

The desert has plenty of hiking trails and places to go biking – but unique rock formations aren’t to be climbed on themselves as they are part of an eco-system.

In contrast, part of Navarre encompasses the Pyrenean valleys.

It has high mountain peaks like Mesa de los Tres Reyes as well as green valleys, forests and even caves.

During the winter, the Pyrenean valleys become a great and popular spot for skiers.

From Navarre, travellers can easily get to other cities like San Sebastian and Bilbao, Madrid and Barcelona.

Here’s where to find the lesser-visited Spanish holiday destination that is now home to some of the best beer in the world…

A lesser-known holiday spot in Spain was last year declared home to the greatest beer in the world.

For four days last summer, professional beer sommeliers and experienced brewers gathered in Estoril, Portugal, for the World Beer Challenge.

The international contest declared which beers were the greatest in the world across a number of categories.

One of the winners of the 2024 gongs was Spanish beer Ambar Especial, which picked up a perfect 100/100 score from all 125 judges, who came from 29 different countries.

The beer is made in the city of Zaragoza in Spain and claimed the gold in the International Lager category at this year’s event.

It’s a city that is often overlooked by people heading to north Spain, with visitors more commonly heading to places like Barcelona, or the beaches of San Sebastian.

Plus, here’s another Spanish region undiscovered by Brits despite seaside views and ancient Roman cities.

And the Spanish coastal region with fewer than 2,000 Brits a year that has ‘endless’ beaches.

EASYJET is launching new flights to a sunny island loved by partygoers.

Ibiza is known for having a vibrant nightlife and sprawling, sandy beaches.

And from summer 2026, it will have new easyJet flights from London Southend Airport.

The first flight between London Southend Airport and Ibiza will take off on April 26, with there being twice-weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays from then on.

Seats and holiday packages for the route are already on sale, with one-way flights as low as £34 per person.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK country manager, said: “With this latest route and packages to Ibiza now available to book from London Southend Airport for next summer, we’re continuing to provide our customers across the region with even more choice and access to Europe’s most loved destinations at fantastic fares, and we can’t wait to welcome more customers on board next summer.”

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London Southend Airport business development director, Nigel Mayes said: “Ibiza is a firm favourite within our 8.2 million catchment – it caters to party-goers, culture enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike – so to be able to share this news now really does feel like an early Christmas present.”

Recently, Ibiza managed to secure the top three spots on the International Nightlife Association’s list for the best 100 clubs.

First place went to UNVRS, which is the world’s first-ever hyperclub.

The club only opened earlier this year and travel writer Katy Hastings went to check it out.

She said: “I joined thousands of revellers on opening night, which saw Carl Cox‘s return to Ibiza for a 14-week residency at UNVRS – his first on the island since Space closed in 2016.

“And it is MASSIVE. The club is so huge that you can easily lose your bearings in the underground network of corridors and dance rooms – helpfully, there is free Wi-Fi in case you lose your mates in the maze.

“But it is very, very slick. The main room is where all the magic happens, with a sound system that is crisper and clearer than any other on the island.

“Aerial acrobats perform high above the VIP balconies and main dance floor, where the Privilege swimming pool has been consigned to history.

“The immersive lighting was next level too, as the lights come towards you, instead of just vertically, making you feel almost connected to the stage and helps to overcome the feeling of so many people in one room together.

“The best bit was at dawn, when the screens behind the DJ decks turned off to reveal 12-metre cathedral-like windows showing off the spectacular sunrise over the island – well worth hanging on for, given the club stays open to 6am each night.

“And the famous Privilege dome? That’s been kept intact, and now houses a huge sculpture called the Tree of Life.”

Before opening as UNVRS, the building used to belong to another club called Privilege which could hold up to 10,000 people.

Second place also went to a spot in Ibiza, called Hï Ibiza, which was named the world’s best club by DJ Magazine last year.

Hï Ibiza features a number of different rooms, with luxury bars and outdoor terraces.

And then third place went to Ushuaïa, which is also in Ibiza.

The club is outdoors and located in a hotel grounds, with many events also involving light shows.

The club features a poolside stage and an open-air dancefloor.

All three of the clubs have been created by The Night League, so across the clubs there are similar features including a mini nightclub in the toilets.

In addition to the vibrant nightlife, Ibiza has a number of beaches and coves to explore, such as Cala Salada, which is a spot with a number of caves and crystal-clear water.

Alternatively, head to Cala Comte, which is often regarded as the best spot in Ibiza to watch the sunset.

Ibiza is also home to a number of markets, such as Punta Arabi Hippy Market and Las Dalias, with stalls selling local crafts, unique clothing and souvenirs.

Of course, there are a number of places to go hiking too, such as Parc Natural de ses Salines, which is a natural reserve with salt flats, flamingos and Las Salinas beach.

And if you fancy a day trip, you can catch the ferry to Ibiza’s sister island, known as Formentera, with Caribbean-like white sand beaches.

For more inspiration of where to travel in Spain, a beach city that’s the birthplace of paella is set to get new budget flights from the UK from £20.

Plus, these are five of the best Spanish foodie destinations with direct UK flights and cheap holiday packages.

WE all know Wowcher is good for offers, but did you know you could go on holiday for just £89 and it is all-inclusive?

Holidays really can add up – by the time you book flights, airport transfers, and accommodation, you may have already spent hundreds.

Then add in the costs when you are there, like eating and seeing paid-for attractions.

Often, holidays aren’t cheap.

But this is what makes all-inclusive so appealing, as it takes away that stress.

And Wowcher now has deals as cheap as £89 for an all-inclusive break away.

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For example, you could head to a four-star all-inclusive resort in Tunisia.

The package includes return flights, two nights at a four-star hotel and all your meals and drinks.

The hotel is the Occidental Sousse Marhaba, which has recently been refurbished according to Wowcher.

At the hotel, guests will find two outdoor pools, a wellness centre, direct beach access, kids’ pools, on-site bars, and a sauna and hammam.

Rooms at the hotel include en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and either have a garden or sea view.

When it comes to food and drink, you get your daily meals, snacks and drinks included.

One recent guest said: “Lovely hotel, good choice of food, staff very pleasant.

“Evening entertainment was good. We paid extra for a sea view and it was well worth it.

“Five min walk through the grounds to the beach. Has a lovely pool.

“You can book trips out by speaking to the lovely Lee who explains the trips in detail. We did the Sahara Explorer, it was amazing.

“Would return to this hotel. Sousse is a beautiful place.”

Nearby you can explore the medina of Sousse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are a number of souks as well, such as Sousse Medina Souk.

One recent visitor said: “Needs at least a couple of hours to soak up the atmosphere and wander.

“I love wandering around a souk. This one is easy to navigate and not overlarge.

“Also very pretty in parts as this is a very ancient medina area, where people have been trading and living since ancient times.”

History lovers should head to the Ribat of Sousse, a small fort that was built in the eighth century and has a tower boasting panoramic views.

Or head to the Sousse Archaeological Museum, where you can explore a collection of mosaics and statues, as well as sit in a pretty courtyard.

There is one date left in January, from January 18 to 20.

But there are several dates still available in February, including February 1 to 3, 8 to 10, 23 to 25 and 25 to 27.

Or for £99, you could head off on February 24 for two nights.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

Alternatively, you could head to Majorca in Spain, staying at the Bluesea Mediodia for £99 for two nights.

The hotel includes meals, snacks and unlimited drinks and your flights will be from either London Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol or Edinburgh.

At the hotel, there is a swimming pool, restaurants and beach access.

One recent guest said: “Considering the price and the services offered, I was very satisfied!

“The hotel is in an excellent location, very close to the beach. The food is varied and can satisfy both those with simple tastes and those who are more demanding.

“The rooms have air conditioning, which is a great plus during hot days.”

The hotel is just a 16-minute drive from Palma, so is a great spot for exploring the city, but also soaking up sunshine on the coast.

Dates available for the £99 offer include January 19 to 21, and the 26 to 28.

Or if you travelled in February, you could go on the 4 to 6, 23 to 25 or 25 to 27.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

For more getaway inspiration, there’s an all-inclusive hotel that’s just been named best in Europe with ten swimming pools, free childcare and Jet2 flights.

Plus, 10 winter sun holidays for all budgets – with 7 nights from £193pp.

A UK town dubbed the ‘Queen of the English Riviera’ is set to undergo a multi-million pound project.

Torquay in Devon is known for its many palm trees and sprawling beaches, leading it to being compared to the French Riviera.

And soon the town will undergo a number of projects to upgrade multiple areas as well as introduce new attractions.

Via the government’s ‘Pride in Place’ fund, Torquay’s Strand is one area that will be redeveloped.

There are also plans to introduce a ‘Festival of Torquay’ in 2027.

In total, 30 projects have been chosen for further consideration as part of the council’s 10-year aim to spend £20million on schemes that will make the town better, healthier and happier for those who live there.

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Other projects include restoring historic destinations in the town, such as The Royal Lyceum Theatre.

And for younger people, there are ideas of introducing a number of cultural spaces including a ‘Hidden High Street Creative Space’, a children’s society wellbeing hub, a creative and cultural space for young people and a Torbay Creative Exchange.

According to Torbay Weekly, Torbay Council interim place manager JonPaul Hedge said: “There have been so many brilliant ideas.

“And there are some super-quick wins in terms of delivery.”

Tracey Cabache of Torbay Communities said: “We need something to come forward in the first six months that is very visible for everyone to see.”

There will be a number of projects that aim to improve access to services in the town too, such as connecting different places, establishing a town centre drop-in for disabled and vulnerable people, opening a support and wellbeing hub, opening a number of community hubs and launching a homeless hostel.

The town will be tidied up as well, with more community bus information and opportunities to sponsor a path.

The Strand, which looks on to Torquay Harbour, could also see a large hotel in the future.

According to Willmott Dixon, the spot where a former Debenhams store stands could be transformed into an upscale hotel, with shops on the ground floor, a brasserie-style restaurant, a rooftop bar, fitness room and event space.

Willmott Dixon’s site states: “The food and beverage offering will showcase local produce, delivering a ‘Best of Devon‘ experience.

“The rooftop bar, accessible from The Terrace, is designed to become a destination in its own right, offering panoramic views of Torbay.”

Work is also being carried out on Torquay Pavilion, an Art Nouveau building that opened back in 1912 as an entertainment venue for concerts, theatre and cinema.

The Grade II-listed structure closed in 2012 and over the past months Torbay Council has been carrying out assessment works to understand the condition of the Pavilion.

That work is now complete and the council is now coming up with a proposal for the site.

Another site in Torquay that hopefully has a brighter future is where Living Coasts used to be located.

The tourist attraction, home to penguins and seals, closed back in 2020 and has been left abandoned since.

But now, ARC Marine – a reef technology company – has signed a long-term lease to use the site as a world-leading Marine Innovation Hub.

The projects in Torquay coincide with transformations in the other two towns that form the English Riviera – Paignton and Brixham.

For example, via the Brixham Town Centre Place Vision, Brixham is due to become a vibrant coastal community, according to Torbay Council, with a focus on its historic fishing heritage.

Proposals include more pedestrian links in the town, creating family areas and launching more street food and waterfront activities.

In other regeneration news, a popular London borough to get huge £10billion makeover with parks, restaurants and ‘flower amphitheatre’.

Plus, a historic city centre is set for £2.5billion revamp in the UK’s largest regeneration project.

New research has revealed the most sought-after postcodes in the UK, with homes in Wiltshire, South Glasgow and Wales typically selling in under a week, over 30 days faster than the average.

Scattered across the UK are numerous delightful locations, but there are 10 that have been named the nation’s most coveted postcodes. The areas are so desirable that properties are snapped up almost instantly.

To determine Britain’s most desirable postcodes, researchers examined housing competition, security and crime statistics, education standards, and job prospects to compile a comprehensive desirability ranking. The study, carried out by Origin, identified the top 10 postcodes that demonstrated well-rounded performance across all assessed criteria.

The findings revealed that SP9 in Tidworth, Wiltshire, emerged as the most desirable postcode throughout England, Scotland and Wales. The picturesque town, featuring an attractive high street, sits amid rolling countryside, with Salisbury Plain and the River Bourne close by, offering that classic English charm.

Homes in Tidworth are typically on the market for a fleeting 2.5 days before being snapped up, selling at a rate 15 times quicker than the national average of 38 days. It also prides itself on a low crime rate, with only 35.1 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants, and is home to first-rate local schools, with an impressive 89% achieving a “Good” or “Outstanding” rating.

The second most popular location was GU46 in Yateley, Hampshire, with properties in the town typically staying on the market for just 3.5 days before a “sold” sign is fixed on the lawn. The area boasts a low crime rate, 32.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, an array of top-notch schools, and convenient commuter links to London and other major cities.

Coming in third is G44 in South Glasgow, where properties are typically sold in under five days. The area boasts a strong job market, a low crime rate, excellent schools, and vast green spaces, including Queen’s Park and Pollok Country Park, making it an attractive destination for families, professionals, and students alike.

The CA27 North West village of St Bees is another postcode in high demand, with homes selling in an average of 2.8 days. With a crime rate more than 50% lower than the national average, it’s also one of the safest areas in the UK.

St Bees’ education standards are also above par, with 92% of schools achieving a “Good” or “Outstanding” rating. Its countryside setting has an allure that suits those seeking a quieter way of life, particularly for those who work remotely.

Elsewhere on the list, Origin found that properties in LL78, in the Isle of Anglesey, typically sell within a week, which is over 30 days faster than the UK average. This postcode shares the same low crime rate as St Bees, 30.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, and excels in education.

Moreover, its dramatic landscapes, idyllic beaches, and the historic UNESCO site of Caernarfon Castle, just a stone’s throw away, make this postcode the most sought-after in Wales.

Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin, commented: “At its heart, a home is an investment in quality of life, and there are so many factors that contribute to making a property desirable, from the local community to the quality of the schools.

“Having helped homeowners elevate their properties for over 20 years, we also know that a beautiful home with a high-quality finish is equally as important to buyers. All the areas in the list boast a host of incredible properties, from idyllic country residences to ultra-modern luxury apartments, making them the perfect locations for those seeking their dream home.”

Top 10 most desirable postcodes:

1. SP9 – Tidworth, Wiltshire
2. GU46 – Yateley, Hampshire
3. G44 – Southside, South Glasgow
4. CA27 – St Bees, West Cumbria
5. LL78 – Isle of Anglesey, Wales
6. CF44 – Aberdare, Wales
7. SE2 – Abbey Wood, South East London
8. SW6 – Fulham, Greater London
9. S10 – Broomhill and Crookes, South Yorkshire
10. NE6 – Walker and Byker, Tyne and Wear

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The most sought-after postcode in the UK has been revealed, with properties selling in this desirable town 15 times faster than the national average of 38 days

There are some charming areas nestled across the UK, but there’s one that has been crowned as the most desirable postcode. To such an extent that buyers looking to relocate to the destination must be quick, as homes sell almost immediately due to the high demand.

To reveal the UK’s most desirable postcodes, housing competition, security and crime rates, education quality, and employment opportunities were all analysed to create a desirability guide. The research, conducted by Origin, highlighted the top 10 postcodes that achieved balanced results across all evaluated factors.

This disclosed that the most sought-after postcode across England, Scotland and Wales was SP9 in Tidworth, Wiltshire. The quaint town, with its charming high street, is set within the sprawling countryside, with the Salisbury Plain and the River Bourne nearby, for that quintessential English allure.

One notable landmark includes St Mary’s Mortuary Chapel, which one visitor noted on TripAdvisor: “A lovely little church not far from Tedworth House. The building is beautiful, and you can look inside. I often take a look when walking in the area. There is a guest book you can sign, and it’s also really interesting to see where visitors have come from!”

There are plenty of sporting events and activities to enjoy in this small town, with the Tidworth Garrison Golf Club, Tidworth Polo Club and Saddle Club. It also boasts the 19th-century Tedworth House and a variety of shops catering to all necessities.

Moreover, it’s nestled among a stunning array of historical landmarks, such as Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, Avebury Stone Circle, Old Sarum Castle and Sidbury Hill, further enhancing its appeal to potential buyers. Properties in this area typically spend an average of just a mere 2.5 days on the market before being snapped up, selling 15 times faster than the national average of 38 days.

Tidworth also boasts a low crime rate of 35.1 incidents per 1,000 residents and is home to top-notch local schools, with an impressive 89% achieving a ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ rating. Additionally, the robust local job market is a magnet for professionals, especially those in the defence sector, with security hubs like Porton Down and Boscombe Down providing ample job prospects.

Top 10 most desirable postcodes:

1. SP9 – Tidworth, Wiltshire
2. GU46 – Yateley, Hampshire
3. G44 – Southside, South Glasgow
4. CA27 – St Bees, West Cumbria
5. LL78 – Isle of Anglesey, Wales
6. CF44 – Aberdare, Wales
7. SE2 – Abbey Wood, South East London
8. SW6 – Fulham, Greater London
9. S10 – Broomhill and Crookes, South Yorkshire
10. NE6 – Walker and Byker, Tyne and Wear

Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin, commented: “At its heart, a home is an investment in quality of life, and there are so many factors that contribute to making a property desirable, from the local community to the quality of the schools.

“Having helped homeowners elevate their properties for over 20 years, we also know that a beautiful home with a high-quality finish is equally as important to buyers. All the areas in the list boast a host of incredible properties, from idyllic country residences to ultra-modern luxury apartments, making them the perfect locations for those seeking their dream home.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

New research analysed nearly 500,000 ratings across more than 17,000 cities globally, with Italy claiming all three top positions.

When it comes to culinary delights, people often dream of indulging in pasta in Italy, savouring sushi in Japan or relishing tacos in Mexico. Indeed, for many holidaymakers, their trips seem to revolve around the local cuisine.

Now, a study by TasteAtlas has revealed the top destinations for foodies worldwide. The team analysed nearly half a million ratings from 17,073 cities listed on its database.

Interestingly, many of the top-rated locations are conveniently located not too far from the UK, with the majority of the top 10 situated in Europe.

Naples clinched the coveted top spot, thanks to its status as the birthplace of pizza, lasagna and macaroni. However, this picturesque city wasn’t the only Italian destination to make the cut, reports the Express.

Milan bagged second place, owing to its signature dishes such as risotto and panettone. And let’s not forget that Milan is also the home of Campari, perfect for those looking to wash down their meals with a refreshing tipple.

Italy dominated the top three, with Bologna securing third place. The city is renowned for its spaghetti bolognese, ragu and tortellini.

Despite the heavy Italian presence, other popular cities like Paris, Vienna and Mumbai also made it into the top 10.

However, the UK didn’t manage to secure a spot in the top 30, alongside other notable absences including Hong Kong, Barcelona, Ho Chi Minh, Bangkok, and Amsterdam.

Here are the top 30 best cities for food:

1. Naples
2. Milan
3. Bologna
4. Florence
5. Mumbai
6. Rome
7. Paris
8. Vienna
9. Turin
10. Osaka
11. Madrid
12. New York
13. Genoa
14. Nice
15. Lima
16. Jakarta
17. Kyoto
18. Gaziantep
19. Ferrara
20. New Orleans
21. Catania
22. Singapore
23. Venice
24. Istanbul
25. Tokyo
26. San Francisco
27. Lisbon
28. Guadalajara
29. Chicago
30. Philadelphia

Emma Groves, 35, from Belfast, was refused entry to Switzerland and detained at Zurich airport after making an easy mistake when packing

A woman was turned away from her holiday destination and held in custody after making one crucial error while travelling. Emma Groves, 35, from Belfast, made her way to Dublin Airport for a four-night break in Zurich, Switzerland on December 1 this year.

The pair dropped off their luggage and completed check-in before passing through security without any problems. Emma had reserved the Aer Lingus flight approximately three weeks earlier after spotting a hotel she fancied visiting on TikTok.

However, it wasn’t until the duo reached border control in Zurich that they discovered Emma had made a grave blunder which left her devastated. Following the loss of her passport several weeks beforehand, Emma had requested a replacement document, which arrived at her home.

Yet after discovering her original passport, she failed to destroy it and stored it in a drawer alongside her moisturisers and fake tan products.

Emma explained: “I had grabbed it [passport] the night before and give my passport to my boyfriend, he minds them because I do lose everything. Only the night before I thought ‘my goodness am I going to be able to travel, the gold has completely faded off’ this which is strange for it being a new passport. It was in a drawer with all my moisturisers and fake tans. So I did think it’s probably just rubbed off.”

Upon reaching the Swiss border, Emma discovered her passport had been flagged as cancelled. She recalled: “He just said ‘do you have another one’ and then it kind of clicked. The border police came and got me and my boyfriend.

“We went into this room and said we realised what had happened. I said I’ve got a new one but I’ve grabbed the old one so he said because it had been cancelled it was an invalid document.”

Emma was informed she would need to be flown back to Dublin before she could re-enter the country using her valid passport. Her boyfriend chose to remain in the country and await Emma’s return.

Emma found herself placed in a “weird” airport hotel, which she likened to a “mini prison”, containing roughly 20 beds separated by curtains.

She explained: “They put me in an airport hotel and I was in there for about three or four hours, but it was just like a room with a lot of beds in it separated by curtains. I just sat and watched Stranger Things get me through.

“It was scary enough in the hotel because there were a lot of people in there, and there kind of wasn’t really any security or even a locked door. It was a weird room.

“[In Dublin] we used a machine to drop off the luggage, but then we did have to go over to a desk to leave them, and she checked the passport and stuff. The passports were scanned so you’d think they would pick up if it was cancelled.

“Border security in Switzerland said I shouldn’t have been able to get that far. It wasn’t until like 6pm that they told me I’d be getting on the flight at 8pm.”

It’s understood that Aer Lingus verifies that a presented passport corresponds to the passenger’s identity and remains valid. In instances where a passport has been cancelled but remains in date, the discrepancy would be spotted upon entry to another country.

Emma was then accompanied around the airport by a chaperone before being boarded onto the aircraft first, as her passport had been seized. She was given a set of documents which stated she was denied entry and had her passport confiscated.

Upon her return to Dublin, her mother met her with her replacement passport, allowing her to purchase fresh flights to Zurich, which she described as an “expense she didn’t need”.

Emma explained: “When I flew over, I actually initially wasn’t going to bring the forms back, but my mum was like ‘just take them’, so I flew out fine but when I got to the Swiss border again the border control lady was like ‘oh this doesn’t make sense it says you’ve already been here but you haven’t left’.’I give her the forms and she was like ‘oh okay that kind of explains it’ and I got through.”

Emma was informed by border officials that she would face no future travel difficulties due to it being an honest mistake. A representative from Aer Lingus stated: “Passengers travelling with Aer Lingus are responsible for ensuring they have all relevant travel documentation and compliance with relevant laws and regulations of the countries they are flying to, from, or transiting through. Passports used for travel must be valid and in date. If a travel document is not valid for travel, passengers may be refused entry when they reach their planned destination, as was the case in this instance.”

A UK city has been hailed as home to ‘one of the world’s most scenic winter train journeys’

A city in the UK has been hailed as the backdrop for “one of the world’s most scenic winter train journeys“. National Geographic experts have lauded the route as “breathtaking,” promising travellers an eyeful of unforgettable vistas. In their roundup of Europe’s top 10, they said: “The holiday season may be the best time to ride the rails on these iconic routes through Germany’s enchanted Black Forest, and Norway’s frozen waterfalls.”

But it’s Scotland that truly steals the show with its mist-shrouded hills, serpentine lochs, and stark winter landscapes. For those hunting for a festive or winter escape, this rail journey delivers an unrivalled experience.

So, where in Scotland can you find this picturesque railway journey?

Stretching around 180 miles from Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William, the West Highland Line is your ticket to awe-inspiring scenery.

As the National Geographic expert elaborated: “Route: Glasgow to Mallaig. Often cited as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, the West Highland Line serves up raw, haunting beauty.

“It slices through Rannoch Moor, a sprawling peat bog, skirts Loch Lomond, and soars over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, (a spectacle long before the Hogwarts Express catapulted it to Hollywood fame).”

They added: ” Edinburgh and Glasgow both boast unique Christmas festivities worth checking out. Edinburgh’s markets spill across Princes Street Gardens under the watchful eye of the castle, while Glasgow is set to light up with a Christmas lights trail this year.”

Glasgow’s Christmas market

The Winter Wonderland Christmas market at St Enoch Square is set to run from 6 November to 24 December, boasting family rides, an ice rink, local vendors, and live music. As reported by Secret Glasgow, the event will feature the world’s first solar-powered observation wheel and a fully licensed festive bar.

Glasgow is also set to host its largest beer hall yet, accommodating up to 700 guests with pub quizzes, live music, and festive beverages on offer. The venue will be adorned with fairy lights and fire pits, serving mulled wine and winter cocktails in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

In lieu of the traditional Christmas Lights Switch-On, which has been cancelled due to redevelopment works at George Square, the city will instead showcase a festive light trail.

Key attractions include dazzling art installations along Sauchiehall, Buchanan, and Argyle Streets, as well as a grand Christmas tree and crib at the Cathedral Precinct, providing a perfect backdrop for festive photos.

Top 10 scenic train routes in Europe, according to National Geographic

1. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
2. Romantic Rhine Route (Germany)
3. Harz Narrow Gauge Railways (Germany)
4. The Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
5. The West Highland Line (Scotland)
6. The Rauma Line (Norway)
7. The Semmering Railway (Austria)
8. The Schwarzwaldbahn (Germany)
9. The Arlberg Line (Switzerland–Austria)
10. Munich to Salzburg (Germany to Austria)

If you’re looking for a completely unique weekend away, there’s a hotel with colourful themed rooms and lots of fun surprises, and it’s set in the UK’s coolest city with plenty to do nearby.

While staying in a hotel for the weekend can be nice, one criticism you can level at them is that so many hotel rooms look the same. They may be comfy, but it’s easy to get bored of the same beige style you get in every hotel room.

However, whatever words you use to describe Hotel Pelirocco, “boring” is not one of them. This boutique hotel has 19 rooms, each one with a different theme, and each room is its own colourful little world.

Set on a quiet square in Brighton, the hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy the UK’s coolest city. Brighton recently beat competition from cities such as Edinburgh and Manchester to cinch the title, thanks to its independent shops, unique restaurants, and lively music scene.

The hotel is just a 15-minute stroll from the North Laines, famous for its colourful shops including vintage stores, bookshops, record shops, and quirky cafes. There’s also The Lanes area, which has a more historic vibe with narrow cobbled streets full of pretty jewellery stores and designer shops.

Historic Brighton Pier is also just a short walk away, with old-fashioned rides, amusements, and stalls. And of course, there’s the iconic Brighton Beach, a long stretch of shingle that has a promenade full of clubs and bars, and becomes a lively area for nightlife as the sun goes down.

Hotel Pelirocco is set inside two converted Regency townhouses, with its historic façade blending in with the other buildings in a pretty square. However, once you step inside, it’s a maximalist’s dream with colourful walls covered in vintage art and posters. Downstairs it has a bar that hosts live music and events, and opens until the small hours for guests returning from nights out.

However, it’s the rooms that the hotel has become famous for, and themes range from David Bowie to pin-up girls and local artists. The Mod-themed room is perfect for visitors to Brighton who are there to see the city’s filming locations for Quadrophenia, while Do Knit Disturb is a room dedicated to knitting and crochet, with accessories including a knitted telephone.

Brighton has long been a destination for couples’ weekends, and the hotel has a cheekier side to it too. The Botanica suite, for example, comes with a dancing pole and a mirrored ceiling, among other surprises, and there are rooms such as Taboo with more romantic vibes.

The hotel also offers a range of extras that are perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, from Champagne to boudoir photography in your bedroom. And if you want to really surprise your other half, you can arrange for a hamper from independent store Lust!, which includes an array of toys for couples for a fun start to your break.

Find out more about the Hotel Pelirocco or book a room on their official website.

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

OFFICIALS have called for the new EES system to be urgently reviewed with some passengers facing three-hour queues at passport control.

The new Entry/Exit system is set to be up and running by April 10, 2026 for non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area – but there has been a concerns due to huge delays at the border.

The new EES system started rolling out from October 12, 2025, in order to replace manual passport stamping with digital checks for non-EU travelers.

It was designed to eventually reduce airport wait times by automating border checks with biometrics.

But reports have recorded waiting times of up to three hours – and many travellers have taken to social media too.

On December 18, one person said about Lanzarote on X: “Landed at 14.30, over 2 hours later still at airport. This new EEs just is working. Hundreds of people in queue then they stamp passports. Ridiculous”.

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On the same day, The Portugal Post reported three-hour queues in the arrivals hall at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport due to a glitch with the EES system.

It even added that “officials are now weighing whether to switch the system off altogether during Christmas”.

Earlier in the month, one traveller said: “The new EU Entry/Exit System is off to a great start at Prague Airport, with a 3+ hour queue wrapped around the entire terminal right now.”

The Airports Council International (ACI) in Brussels is calling for an urgent review of the entry-exit system (EES).

ACI has said that the capturing of biometric data from third-country nationals entering the Schengen area has resulted in border control processing times at airports increasing by up to 70 per cent.

It added that this has impacted the passenger experience especially in airports across France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain.

The ACI has said that multiple factors have resulted in delays which include regular EES outages.

It reported persistent EES configuration problems, “including the partial deployment or unavailability of self‑service kiosks used by travelers for registration and biometric data capture”.

There is continued unavailability of Automated Border Control (ABC) gates for EES processing at many airports, and the unavailability of an effective pre-registration app.

Another factor is an insufficient amount of border guards at airports.

Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI EUROPE warned: “Significant discomfort is already being inflicted upon travelers, and airport operations impacted with the current threshold for registering third country nationals set at only 10 per cent.”

Currently, one in 10 travellers has to go through the digital registration.

But by January 9, 2026, the percentage is due to be raised to 35 per cent.

Mr Jankovec has warned that unless the issues are resolved this “will inevitably result in much more severe congestion and systemic disruption for airports and airlines. This will possibly involve serious safety hazards”.

He added: “We fully understand and support the importance of the EES and remain fully committed to its implementation.

“But the EES cannot be about mayhem for travelers and chaos at our airports. If the current operational issues cannot be addressed and the system stabilised by early January, we will need swift action from the European Commission and Schengen Member States to allow additional flexibility in its roll‑out.”

For more on EES checks, here’s everything you need to know about them from a travel expert.

Plus, here’s all the worst travel chaos predicted for the UK over the Christmas period.