Holidays

A Venetian masterpiece in Slovenia

Moments after stepping off the bus, I wanted to text my friend: “What have I done to you, why did you tell me to come here?” As I weaved my way through coach-party day trippers, my initial suspicions dissipated. I came to swim, but Piran offered so much more. Venetian squares provided a delicately ornate backdrop, while cobbled passageways housed bustling seafood restaurants, serving the day’s catch. The majestic Adriatic was made manageable by concrete diving platforms, fit for all ages. Naša Pekarna stocked delightfully crisp and filling böreks, and the bar/cafe Pri Starcu – owned by Patrik Ipavec, a former Slovenia international footballer – married warm hospitality with ice-cold beer and delicious early evening refreshments.
Alex

Vintage rock’n’roll, pop and soul in Berlin

A real discovery can be found in Neukölln, Berlin, if you love 1950s rock’n’roll, 1960s pop and classic soul music. A night out in Soul Cat, a 50s and 60s music bar, is a lot of fun and looks fabulous. There is a DJ who spins only vinyl records, and chairs and tables are moved to leave room for everyone to get up and dance. The bar stays open late and sometimes they have live bands. A great night out.
Richard Watkins

Lemkos culture in a Polish spa town

I crossed from Slovakia to the Polish spa town Krynica-Zdrój by bus in mid-May, too late for skiers and too early for tourists. My son arrived and we walked to the top of the ski run and then ascended a giant spiral wooden viewing platform (the Slotwiny lookout tower) that gave magnificent views over fresh green pastures and woodland stretching far into the distance. In these Beskid mountains live Lemkos – a Carpathian upland people persecuted before the last war and dispersed afterwards. We found rustic wooden benches covered in animal skins, enthusiastic folk music and robust cuisine at the excellent Karczma Łemkowska restaurant. A whole museum is devoted to prolific Lemko “naive” artist Nikifor, and the verdant central spa centre has several mineral and medicinal waters on tap – try Zuber or Słotwinka. It was a refreshing change of scene and palate, and a cultural education.
Martin

Brilliant beaches in Sardinia

My daughter booked our holiday this year in San Teodoro. I’d never heard of it. The town has three wonderful white sand beaches, and its vibrant centre was thronged every night with generations of locals eating and socialising. The world famous (and rammed) Costa Smeralda is an hour’s drive north, but San Teodoro offered a more authentic experience at a quarter of the price. Our hotel, the genteel Hotel L’Esagono, led directly to the beach and had a chic but friendly atmosphere.
Ciaran Kearney

A classic mountain railway in France

The Swallows’ Line (La Ligne des Hirondelles) is a little-known rural railway of the SNCF (French railways) tucked away in the Jura mountains, close to the Swiss border. It makes for a great day trip from Besançon, but may soon become a thing of the past, as the line from Dole (where the old town is worth a wander) to Saint-Claude (famous for hiking routes, diamonds and artisan pipe-making) is threatened with closure. The viaducts around Morez are photographic gems. Go before it’s too late.
Martin

A Baltic battleground in Finland

The Åland islands, in the Baltic, are part of Finland but culturally Swedish. The capital, Mariehamn, has a good maritime museum and some nice restaurants and it’s quite easy to get there thanks to ferries from Sweden, mainland Finland and Estonia. I found the countryside really attractive, with rocky inlets, woods and farms. At Bomarsund the ruling Russians set out rather half-heartedly to build a huge naval base in the first half of the 19th century. It was destroyed by the British and the French at the start of the Crimean war in 1854 during a naval action in which the first Victoria Cross was awarded – to a 20-year-old Irishman called Charles Davis Lucas. It’s free to explore the fort ruins but there’s a charge to enter the visitor centre.
Martin Lunnon

The only way is Essex

In July, we walked for five hours along an English coastline without seeing a soul or passing any habitation. Where were we? Essex. The Dengie peninsula is a secret world with expansive views, seals bobbing off shore, and clouds of butterflies serenaded by piping oystercatchers. The King Charles III England Coast Path meanders along the salt marsh flanking the Crouch estuary, where the skeletons of stricken vessels lie submerged. Start at 7th-century St Peter-on-the-Wall, one of the oldest churches in England, and walk into pretty Burnham-on-Crouch with its quirky houseboats, friendly pubs, museums and vineyards.
Cathy Robinson

Automotive perfection in Romania

An “unbroken grey ribbon of automotive perfection” was former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson’s description of the Transfăgărășan Highway. Romania’s second-highest paved mountain road (after the Transalpina) is inaccessible in winter and only opened five days before our journey in early June. Constant turns are required to conquer the steep southern section of the Carpathian mountains, but these provide excellent views, and we were able to reach the still snowy Bâlea Lake by car instead of cable car. Our journey may have been less exhilarating than Jeremy’s in his Aston Martin, but at least we took in the sights along the way including, to my great delight, five brown bears at the roadside.
Helen Jackson

Mansions and cats on an island near Istanbul

As the sun lowered in the soft July sky, two friends and I took a cheap ferry from Istanbul to the island of Büyükada. Cutting across the Sea of Marmara, urban combustion was replaced by an oceanic calm. Upon arrival, we walked in awe along mansion-lined, car-free streets, regularly stalling our meanderings to stroke one of the island’s many cats, and to gaze across the sea, back through the haze towards the distant city of 16 million people. On the ferry back at night, in high spirits, we plotted future expeditions to return to this most incredible of islands.
Will Brown

Winning tip: medieval manuscripts in France

Our Interrail trip took us to the French Alsatian town of Colmar – a history-packed, medieval, half-timbered melange of French and German culture, food and wine. Hidden in the town, behind the 14th-century Dominican church is the Dominican library. It’s free to visit and breathtaking. There are thousands of magnificent books, of which the 1,200 illuminated manuscripts are the highlight. Glorious 16th-century maps and translations of letters from Christopher Columbus are set alongside 13th-century books of psalms, Bibles and musical scores. Some documents date to the 8th century. Many are sumptuously decorated by hand in gold and brilliant ultramarine. It’s wonderful.
Wendy Holden

The AA examined parking charges at the UK’s top Christmas markets to reveal the most expensive places to park – one hotspot costs £44 for four hours

As hoards of excited gift-hunters head into town for Christmas markets this winter, new research from breakdown experts shows where drivers will pay the most to park for a short festive visit, as well as the cities where prices have risen the fastest since 2024.

The AA examined parking charges at the UK’s top Christmas markets to reveal the most expensive places to park – including cities hiking fees by 50 percent.

The breakdown recovery experts found that Leicester Square Christmas Market in London is the most expensive in the country for parking at an eye-watering £22.00 for a two-hour visit, as per The AA.

Covent Garden, Edinburgh, York and Greenwich also rank among the top ten most expensive markets to park at, with each costing over £10.00 for a two-hour stay.

York and Liverpool are the cities with the biggest parking price hikes since December 2024, each increasing fees by 50% – including a new ‘event day’ fee from York Council for 2025. Bristol, Greenwich and Birmingham also feature among the top price hikers.

One of the smaller Christmas markets, Leicester Square Christmas Market is a free entry festive pop-up in the heart of London’s West End. However, parking is not free and costs £22 for a two-hour stay.

Winter Wonderland is London’s most well-known Christmas market with over 150 rides and attractions including a free Santa’s Grotto, and the UK’s largest open-air ice rink centred around the park’s bandstand. A two-hour parking stay costs £21.

Differing from traditional German-style markets, Covent Garden’s free Christmas experience is a festive takeover of the Piazza, Apple Market, and surrounding streets, and it features 300,000 lights. Parking for two hours costs £16.

Taking place across East Princes Street Gardens, West Princes Street Gardens and George Street, Edinburgh Christmas Market is also free to enter. The market features a mix of alpine-style chalets selling Scottish artisan products and Christmas gifts. A two-hour parking ticket costs £14.

York St Nicholas’ fair is a charming, free-to-enter festive event is held in the city centre in Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square and is home to 75 alpine-style chalets offering handmade crafts, seasonal food, decorations and local produce. For two hours parking costs £10.60. York Council have introduced an ‘event day’ parking charge at the Coppergate Centre car park during the 2025 markets. Prices have increased 50% for a 2-hour stay and 29% for a 4-hour stay, although after 6pm there is a flat evening rate of £4.80.

“Christmas markets are a fantastic seasonal draw, but drivers should be aware that parking charges vary dramatically by city and by car park,” says Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year. “If you’re planning a short festive trip, check the latest local parking tariffs before you go and consider public transport or park-and-ride options in city centres where parking is most expensive.”

Motorists are urged to check prices before they arrive, as many councils and car-park operators publish rates online. You should book in advance where possible using pre-booked parking as this often works out cheaper. Consider park-and-ride or outer-ring car parks- a short bus or tram ride can be cheaper and faster during peak market times.

Look for evening rates as some car parks run special evening prices that may be cheaper for market visits. Drivers are also urged to pay attention to permit or event day pricing. Markets in central locations sometimes trigger event tariffs that are higher than usual, like those in York.

This past week, my dear friend Bob and I went to Griffith Park in search of a little bit of holiday magic in the hillsides. We were looking for bright red toyon.

In the fall and winter, toyons produce iconic red berries, a signal that the temperatures are lowering around L.A. and that winter is coming.

“Though the most common name ‘toyon’ is thought to be a Spanish alteration of the plant’s Ohlone name (“totcon”), Indigenous peoples around California have given the plant many names,” according to environmental nonprofit TreePeople. “It has also more recently been referred to as ‘California holly’ or even ‘Christmas berry’ due to it’s similar appearance to English holly in the winter months.”

For many Angelenos, myself included, toyon brings about a warm sense that the winter holidays are nearing too.

“During the fall season, after several months of growing and maturity, toyon fruits change color from green to red; it’s a signal to birds and other larger animals that a meal is ready for them,” wrote Jorge Ochoa, a professor of horticulture at Long Beach City College. “It is also during the fall that the hills of Griffith Park are adorned with striking red colors reflecting the many toyon plants growing in the hills of the park.”

Although Los Angeles County is warmer in the winter and thus doesn’t produce iconic scenes of a winter wonderland, you can easily drive nearby and find it, whether it’s by hiking past toyons, frolicking in the mountain snow or, as you’ll see here, catching a cosmic light show during Hanukkah.

If L.A. is your ho-ho-home for the holidays, I hope visiting these three natural places below helps you catch the holiday spirit, regardless of how you celebrate. Let’s sleigh these trails! (I had to!)

Bright red toyon berries in Griffith Park.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

1. For red berry bliss: Griffith Park’s Five Points-Beacon Hill Loop

The Five Points-Beacon Hill Loop is a six-mile moderate hike past several toyon trees, laurel sumac and California black walnut (with bright yellow leaves at the moment).

Friends of Griffith Park developed that trail option as part of the Griffith Park Explorer, 15 routes along more than 50 miles of trails in L.A.’s outdoor sanctuary. As someone who has gotten lost (or just forgot where I parked) in Griffith Park more than I will readily admit, I am grateful for these efforts.

Also, the Griffith Park Explorer makes it easy to discern which trails will provide the best red berry bliss! If you’d like to determine the best trail for your physical conditioning that has toyons, you can look at iNaturalist, a citizen science app, to see where toyons grow in the park and match that with the best Explorer trail.

That’s how I identified the Beacon Hill loop. As Bob and I started our hike, I quickly spotted red berries on the hillside. We also savored the quiet that Griffith Park offers just before sunset as the hillsides become blanketed in yellow, orange and scarlet light. At Beacon Hill, I paused and took in the clear views that winter brings. I felt grateful to be here now, which, to me, evokes gratitude and joy, two essential elements of the winter holiday season.

Distance: A six-mile loop
Elevation gained: About 1,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed? Yes
Accessible alternative: Bette Davis Picnic Area

The snow-covered road to the Buckhorn Campground in Angeles National Forest in 2024. The campground is a common spot for anyone near L.A. who wants to snowshoe and frolic in the powder.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

2. For snow-dappled trees: Buckhorn Campground trail

The Buckhorn Campground in Angeles National Forest is a special place to me, bringing me and my family joy every season. In the winter, it is often covered in snow, as it sits above 6,000 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Crunching over the snow-covered road into the campground this past March — the campground is closed for camping in the winter — I was transported back into a childlike sense of wonder. The evergreen conifers towered above, like giant Christmas trees for squirrels, deer and bobcats.

The view of the snowy mountains near Mt. Hawkins from Angeles Crest Highway in the Angeles National Forest on Nov. 23.

(Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

If you celebrate Kwanzaa, Buckhorn would be a great place to visit to observe multiple of the seven principles, including unity, as you and your friends and family slog through the elements together. (Microspikes recommended!)

And if you can’t make it up to the mountains, but still want to observe Kwanzaa with community, the annual Unity Run/Walk is scheduled for Dec. 27 at Balboa Park in San Diego. Either way, you can be in a natural environment hopefully in unity with each other and nature.

Distance: Varies
Elevation gained: 300 to 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to lower-level moderate
Accessible alternative: Large turnouts after snow along Highway 2 east of Camp Valcrest

A Perseid meteor streaks low in the sky in this 16-second exposure, as seen from White Tank campground in Joshua Tree National Park early on Aug. 12, 2024.

(Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

3. For cosmic candlelight: Joshua Tree National Park

On Dec. 21, during the second to last night of Hanukkah (and also the start of the winter solstice), the Ursids meteor shower will peak, allowing anyone watching to see around five to 10 meteors per hour, according to the American Meteor Society.

If you’re celebrating Hanukkah, you can experience your own cosmic Festival of Lights as the sky lights up during the meteor shower at Joshua Tree National Park. I checked, and there are still several campsites available at the park on the peak night. It’s also a great place to celebrate the winter solstice, lighting a campfire (if allowed under fire restrictions) and taking in the natural elements. There are endless hiking options too.

If you want to camp closer to home, you could try Chilao Campground in Angeles National Forest for a darker sky option. (Chilao is at 5,300 elevation, and it’ll be cold. And it is sometimes closed because of snow.) To check whether it’s open, you can call the Angeles National Forest office in Acton at (661) 269-2808. The office is generally closed Wednesday and Thursday, so another option is to call the Gateway District office at (818) 899-1900.

Either way, be prepared for an awe-inspiring light show, a beautiful way to be together with the people you love (who can also keep you warm, in body and spirit).

Happy holidays to you, my dear Wilder!

3 things to do

Members of Paddle LA and OC participate in annual Christmas paddles near Long Beach, dressing in festive costumes.

(David Sanchez)

1. Paddle past pretty lights in Long Beach
Paddling LA and OC will host an evening paddle from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday through Alamitos Bay to observe holiday lights near the water. Guests are encouraged to don holiday costumes and light up their boards with good cheer. All skill levels are welcome, but paddlers need to be comfortable in the water after dark and around slow-moving boats. Register at eventbrite.com.

2. Secure Fido’s ranger badge in Calabasas
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area will host its B.A.R.K. Holidays event from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at the King Gillette Ranch visitor center. Dogs and their owners can visit ranger-led booths and take part in a special swearing-in ceremony where pups will earn their official B.A.R.K. Ranger badge. Learn more at the park’s Instagram page.

3. Hike among native plants in Sylmar
Scorpio Gardens, a queer, Latinx-owned native plant landscape design company, will host a hike along the May Canyon trail from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday at Veterans Memorial Community Regional Park in Sylmar. Guests will first be guided in mindfulness and stretching before heading onto the trail. Hike leaders will help participants with native plant identification, discussing the roles the plants play in the larger San Fernando Valley ecosystem. The event is free, but donations are welcome. Register at eventbrite.com.

The must-read

(Ruthy Kim / For The Times)

In highlighting these hikes and natural places where you can celebrate the holidays, I don’t want to seem oblivious or excessively positive. It would be a massive understatement to say it has been a hard year for L.A. “In the past 12 months, we’ve witnessed homes destroyed by fire, families broken up by ICE, skyrocketing anti-trans hate and massive layoffs across the entertainment and media industries leaving thousands in our city unemployed,” wrote Times staff writer Deborah Netburn. Amid all this devastation, it is even more important to try to find joy. That was the message Netburn heard from experts she spoke to about how to still find joy this holiday season in L.A. Joy is an essential element of our lives, refilling our tanks not only to help us survive but also to keep doing good in the world. “The purpose of oppression, hatred and discrimination is to disconnect us and dehumanize us,” said Thema Bryant, a psychologist and minister at First AME Church in Los Angeles. “It is an act of resistance to say, ‘I’m not going to give all my peace to those who are working to stress me out.’”

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

For almost 20 years, the Mojave Desert Land Trust has worked to preserve prime desert habitat, protecting more than 125,000 acres of California desert. Recently, the trust acquired 1,280 acres at the entrance to Mojave Trails National Monument, a massive swath of federal land south of Mojave National Preserve that had been suffering from illegal dumping, graffiti and more. If you’d like to help support the trust’s efforts to protect the desert, consider attending a fundraiser at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Last Bookstore in Studio City. Barret Baumgart, author of “Yuck,” and Josh Jackson, author of “The Enduring Wild,” will discuss their books that underscore the importance of protecting our diverse desert landscape. Guests can imbibe free beer and buy signed books and limited-edition desert posters and tote bags. Half of sales will support the trust. 🏜️

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.

A court in Germany has ruled in favour of Ryanair and issued a series of rulings against claims company Flightright, prohibiting the firm from claiming customers encounter “hurdles” when contacting the airline’s customer service

Ryanair has won a won a key court battle against a claims company that passengers turn to get compensation for delayed and cancelled flights.

The firm called Flightright encouraged flyers to use their services when taking any sort of action against the low cost airline. But now a court in Germany has ruled in favour of Ryanair and issued a series of rulings against Flightright. The court has legally prohibited Flightright from claiming that customers encounter “hurdles” when contacting the airline’s customer service.

Experts said this ruling marks a significant point in the dispute between the Irish low-cost carrier and companies specialising in enforcing compensation claims under EU Regulation 261.

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Earlier this week the Hanseatic Higher Regional Court in the German city if Hamburg banned Flightright from telling passengers to ignore Ryanair entirely. Judges also ordered the company to admit it always puts a 14 percent “lawyer surcharge” on top of its advertised fee.

A huge £210,000 fine will hit every future breach of the ruling. Ryanair accused Flightright of misleading advertising and profiting from the misery of delayed travellers.

The airline says platforms like Flightright routinely take up to a whopping 40 percent of a €250 EU compensation payout meant for passengers. Ryanair’s marketing chief Dara Brady welcomed the verdict and told passengers to cut out greedy middlemen.

He said customers who go direct will receive 100 percent of their payout under EU Regulation 261.

He claimed Ryanair offered “a simple, transparent system that avoids rip-off fees”. EU rules promise €250 for delays on flights up to 1,500 kilometres and a tasty €600 for longer flights delayed more than three hours.

The verdict piled onto a list of previous legal defeats suffered by Flightright. Claims companies are controversial because they cherry-pick “easy wins” they can cash in on. They collect hefty commissions for filing paperwork while posing as consumer champions.

Industry insiders say Ryanair is less complicated than many rivals when it comes to issuing refunds. Ryanair is using this to humiliate companies that portray it as hostile to customers.

Travellers who refuse to deal with airlines directly can use Germany’s free arbitration service, which claims 80 to 90 percent success without fees. The ruling exposes the claims-industry model as a profit hunt fuelled by delay payouts, not public service.

On Flightright’s website, it claimed: “No one enjoys flight delays, but it’s important to know that you have rights! If your flight began in the EU, or landed in the EU with a European airline, you could be eligible to claim up to £520, depending on flight distance and delay length, no matter the ticket cost.

“The only conditions are that the airline must be responsible for the cause of the delay, and you must have reached the final airport in your trip with a delay of at least three hours.

JET2 has teamed up with Eurocamp to launch holiday park packages for the first time.

The new holiday park deals with Jet2holidays will launch from summer 2026.

Eurocamp – the UK’s leading European outdoor family holiday specialist – has parks across France, Italy and Croatia.

Each package includes return flights with Jet2 as well as 22kg baggage, 10kg carry-on baggage, car hire and accommodation.

In total, 32 parks have been chosen with locations ranging from pretty beaches to beautiful mountains and lakes.

The destinations can be found in the Paris area, South of France, Dordogne, Provence, Roussillon and Languedoc in France, Sardinia and Lake Garda in Italy and the Istrian Coast and Dalmatia Coast in Croatia.

Read more on travel inspo

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

You can leave the towels and bed linen at home too, as they are also included.

There will be a range of two and three bed mobile homes to book and each site will also have entertainment and activities.

Whilst the sites do differ, a lot of them do have pools and outdoor activities to choose from.

There are also different levels of accommodation to choose depending on your budget.

The most affordable is the Classic option, which are self-catered homes on the lower end of the price scale.

However the most popular option is Comfort, one level up from this.

Or you can splash out on Premium, Premium Exclusive, Ultimate or Ultimate Plus.

These all have extras such as free WiFi, larger living areas and outdoor spaces, or private hot tubs.

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy the launch was to offer “unforgettable outdoor holidays across Europe with Jet2holidays”.

He added: “We know just how popular Eurocamp is, and we are very confident that its appeal, together with the perks of a Jet2holidays package, will mean that this new proposition is a huge success.”

Ross Matthews, chief marketing officer at Eurocamp: “For this launch, we have curated a selection of 32 standout locations from our wider European network, chosen for their quality, location and strong alignment with Jet2holidays’ routes, pairing our premium outdoor accommodation with Jet2holidays’ award-winning service and flight network.

“Together, we are introducing an exciting new way for UK holidaymakers to discover Europe’s most beautiful regions.”

Eurocamp has 400 parks in total across a number of European destinations including France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

It’s latest expansion included 16 new sites across France.

Most of the parks tend to be self-catering and families can participate in a number of activities such as swimming, sports and games.

In other holiday park news, there’s a UK holiday park that’s a ‘better value Center Parcs’ with Christmassy Blue Lagoon and kid elf uniforms.

Plus, Center Parcs confirms opening date for newest UK holiday resort – its first in nearly 15 years.

Jet2 has partnered with Eurocamp to offer package holidays to European holiday parks in France, Italy and Croatia, allowing families to easily book their flights, accommodation, and car hire in one

Jet2 has unveiled a partnership with Eurocamp, a leading European holiday park provider, allowing travellers to book package holidays with accommodation in select parks across France, Croatia, and Italy for summer 2026.

Those booking through Jet2 can opt for a variety of mobile homes for their stay, bundled into a convenient package alongside a Jet2 flight. These package holidays come with bed linen, flights with 22kg checked baggage and a 10kg hand luggage allowance, ATOL protection, and the assistance of a Eurocamp representative throughout the stay.

A standout feature of Jet2’s Eurocamp packages is the inclusion of car hire at your destination, eliminating the need for coach transfers and providing an easy means to explore during your holiday. The price of your package holiday typically includes basic car hire, but you can choose to upgrade at checkout if you wish, and there are a few different providers to choose from.

Eurocamp accommodations are tailored for families, offering a selection of self-contained units from the Classic range of mobile homes to upgraded properties boasting private terraces and garden furniture, reports the Express.

Options include two- and three-bedroom mobile homes, ensuring parents have ample space and privacy when travelling with children. Amenities include well-equipped kitchens, BBQs, WiFi, and air conditioning, depending on the chosen package.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the highest grades of accommodation offer extras such as hotel-quality mattresses and hot tubs, guaranteeing a truly relaxing getaway.

Since Eurocamp accommodations come equipped with kitchen facilities, they can prove more budget-friendly than hotel stays. Nevertheless, if you fancy dining out, most parks feature on-site restaurants, takeaways, and other options for dining close to your mobile home.

There’s a wide selection of Eurocamps available, many boasting direct beach access or proximity to lakes and stunning mountain views. So, regardless of your chosen location, there’s typically loads to discover in the surrounding area.

Jet2 will be providing park packages across several French regions including the Dordogne and Provence areas, Lake Garda and Sardinia in Italy, plus Croatia’s Istrian Coast and Dalmatia Coast – all favourite spots for family getaways.

Within each park, you’ll discover numerous daytime activities, featuring energetic kids’ clubs and evening entertainment ranging from live performances to mini-discos. Eurocamp sites also boast swimming pools, with some having multiple pools, whilst larger parks may include waterslides and additional exciting outdoor amenities.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, commented: “The launch gives customers the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable outdoor holidays across Europe with Jet2holidays, including all the benefits of booking an award-winning package holiday with the UK’s largest tour operator.

“We know just how popular Eurocamp is, and we are very confident that its appeal, together with the perks of a Jet2holidays package, will mean that this new proposition is a huge success.”

Learn more about Jet2’s Eurocamp holidays and book online for summer 2026.

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

The city is home to one of the UK’s best Christmas markets with tourists regularly visiting each year to try the food and mulled wine

The enchanting city of Bath was recently crowned the world’s most beautiful during autumn, but its charm doesn’t fade with the seasons. According to consumer watchdog Which?, it also hosts one of Britain’s top Christmas markets.

The market is a winter wonderland complete with an ice rink and countless stalls to peruse. Most stallholders hail from the South West, showcasing a wide variety of goods – from garden decorations to handcrafted wooden furniture.

Shoppers can find everything from cosy knitwear to fragrances and even gifts for their pets.

Of course, no Christmas market would be complete without a feast of food, and Bath’s market doesn’t disappoint.

Visitors will be spoilt for choice with regional delicacies, festive flapjacks and more on offer, reports the Express.

But it’s not just the market that’s won accolades. Bath has been named the UK’s most picturesque city in autumn and winter by travel experts at Premier Inn.

The historic city has outshone global competitors like Chicago and Cape Town to take the top spot in worldwide beauty rankings.

Bath Abbey, rated the top local attraction by Tripadvisor, has been a sacred site for over a millennium.

Tripadvisor users have heaped praise on the abbey, with one visitor noting: “A beautiful and peaceful space to spend time.”

Another visitor shared their enthusiasm: “Visited more than once. So much to see and appreciate the history and architectural beauty.”

Whilst some tourists express frustration at being unable to swim in the Roman Baths themselves, the attraction comes alive through its captivating displays.

Amongst the intriguing artefacts housed at the Baths is a remarkable collection of curse tablets, where angry Romans etched their complaints seeking revenge from the gods before throwing them into Minerva’s Spring.

Although the ancient Baths remain closed for bathing, the Thermae Bath Spa provides adults with an indulgent spa retreat using the city’s naturally warm, mineral-enriched waters.

For anyone seeking a welcoming café, Bath features numerous comfortable venues, offering the opportunity to sample the famous ‘Bath Bun’, a sweet pastry topped with fruit and crystallised sugar.

Bath is celebrated for its impressive range of beautiful architecture, a characteristic that has secured the city’s position as a designated UNESCO site.

Tourists might spot recognisable locations throughout the city from hit programmes including Bridgerton, Poldark and The Sixth Commandment.

A British company has unveiled plans for a new ‘flying taxi’ service that would whisk passengers to the airport in a matter of minutes, but there are still some regulatory hurdles to overcome

A British firm has revealed bold plans for a ‘flying taxi’ service that will transport passengers to airports, with this cutting-edge travel option expected to cost no more than an Uber.

Vertical Aerospace claims its electric Valo aircraft, engineered to reach speeds of up to 150mph across distances of up to 100 miles, could provide swift and effective city-to-airport links, enabling travellers to bypass airport traffic jams. For instance, a journey from Canary Wharf to Heathrow Airport would take just 12 minutes by aircraft versus an hour by road.

The firm, which recently conducted flight trials at Cotswolds Airport, is now targeting airline-standard safety approval by 2028 before launching commercial operations in early 2029.

Vertical Aerospace has released images of its prototype aircraft, which it claims delivers a luxurious experience for up to six passengers, featuring ample baggage capacity. Pictures of the aircraft reveal a sleek, contemporary design with an interior boasting comfortable seating and big windows, reports the Express.

Despite the aircraft’s high-end appearance, the company intends to provide an affordable and accessible service. A spokesman confirmed: “Ultimately, the potential is for this aircraft to be a similar cost as hiring an Uber.”

Vertical has also announced its proposed route network at launch, which would initially link Cambridge and Oxford -Bicester with the capital as well as Heathrow and Gatwick Airport. Aside from airport transfers, the firm suggests these innovative aircraft could be used for emergency medical services, cargo delivery, and even defence operations.

Vertical confirmed plans to build seven aircraft in the UK for testing with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

In a statement, Vertical announced approximately 1,500 pre-orders for Valo. The company projected that manufacturing these aircraft could generate 2,000 skilled jobs in the UK by 2035.

Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, stated: “Electric flight will transform how cities move, and London is one of the best places in the world to prove it. With Skyports and Bristow, we have the aircraft, infrastructure and operational strength to lead this market. These plans show the commercial potential of services we aim to see operating following regulatory approval in 2028 and we look forward to bringing them to life with our partners.”

READ MORE: Exact easyJet and Ryanair seats to pick for extra legroom with no further priceREAD MORE: Avoid packing 4 particular items in your hand luggage – or risk delays at airport

However, gaining CAA approval could pose a challenge for these futuristic vehicles. At present, the CAA is conducting a consultation on vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft to ensure their safe operation within the UK.

The consultation commenced last month and will continue until the end of January 2026, inviting interested parties to share their views. This process will help establish safety standards for pilot licenses, aircraft, and landing sites, ensuring the proper regulation of VTOLs.

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

BRITS are ditching popular Greek spots for less-visited parts of the country for better value holidays, says TUI.

According to new data, Brits are heading to quieter spots in Greece including Samos, Preveza, Kefalonia and Halkidiki.

TUI is dubbing this surge in bookings to lesser-visited islands as the ‘Hidden Greece Revolution’.

Here are the ones you need to know about.

Samos

Samos is leading this change with bookings up by a staggering 118 per cent year-on-year.

TUI believes this is in part due to the extra weekly TUI flight from London Gatwick Airport.

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Samos is known for relaxing beaches, serene water and traditional tavernas, like Welcome Bar Restaurant, a TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award for 2025, where tourists can grab fresh seafood dishes including grilled cod and octopus.

One popular thing to see on the island is the monuments of Kings’, Priests and other significant figures.

And there are two UNESCO monuments on the island, including the ancient city of Pythagoreion and the ancient Temple of Hera, Heraion of Samos.

The island is also a great spot for keen hikers, with mountains, caves and ravines to explore.

For example, you could head to Mount Kerkis, which stands 1400 metres above sea level.

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there is plenty more to explore on Samos including the town, where you’ll find neoclassical buildings.

The island has several beaches too, including Tsamadou Beach, which is lined with pine trees and features clear water.

Alternatively, head to Kokkari Beach, which is located in a charming village.

A meal on Samos is likely to set you back around €10 (£8.76) and a beer around €4 (£3.50).

Preveza

Meanwhile, Preveza has also seen an increase in bookings, up 10 per cent.

It is the ideal destination for reaching Lefkada, meaning travellers can experience two destinations in one trip.

Preveza is located at the edge of the Amvrakikos Gulf and features a number of ancient sites as well as stunning landscapes.

In the Old Town, visitors can explore the historic port and get lost in a number of narrow, cobbled alleys that lead away from the harbour, with several traditional buildings too.

One key spot worth discovering is Saitan Bazar, which is a historic lane featuring tiny independent shops and cafes, that are covered in vines and known for having lively atmospheres.

For beaches, there is plenty of choice too, including Monolithi – which is one of Europe‘s longest sandy beaches, stretching between 13.5 and 15.5 miles long.

One recent visitor said: “Monolithi Beach is a long, beautiful, and mostly empty beach – perfect for those who enjoy peace and quiet by the sea.

“There is plenty of space to relax without crowds, as well as lots of natural shade near the parking area.”

A meal in Preveza is likely to set you back around €8 (£7.01) and a beer around €3 (£2.63).

Kefalonia

Kefalonia has seen growth, especially with couples and families visiting.

Caroline McGuire, The Sun’s Head of Travel – Digital, said: “I visited Kefalonia on a family holiday a few years ago, after looking for the ideal Greek island for a trip with a three year old. 

“The island in the Ionian Sea — a Hollywood star in its own right thanks to the 2001 film version of Louis de Bernieres wartime novel — ticked all the boxes and boasts what is often claimed as Greece’s best beach. 

“We spent a week on the island in mid-May and enjoyed everything it had to offer — without spending too much money. 

“Our timing (outside of school holidays) meant we were one of the few tourist groups on the island. 

“The weather was still perfect though. The average is highs of 21C in May and the same in October.

“There were no crowds, either. Looking out at Myrtos beach, which is regularly named one of Greece’s top five, it felt like we were being let in on a great secret.”

A meal on Kefalonia is likely to set you back around €13.50 (£11.82) and a beer around €4.25 (£3.81).

Halkidiki

In Halkidiki, another island seeing a boom, there are more stunning beaches, as well as secluded coves.

An amazing spot to explore is Mount Athos, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important centres of Orthodox monasticism.

It is known as the ‘Holy Mountain’ and is home to 20 historic monasteries, including ones that date back over 1,000 years.

In this region you can expect a meal at an inexpensive restaurant to set you back around €7 (£6.13) and a beer around €2.75 (£2.41).

Commercial director at TUI UK & Ireland, Chris Logan said: “What we are seeing is Brits exploring Greece in a whole new way.

“These picturesque islands offer incredible beaches, amazing food and fantastic value without the crowds allowing people the chance to truly relax and indulge.

“The demand shows travellers are ready to go beyond the classics and discover Greece’s hidden gems and TUI makes it simple, with flights, transfers, hotels and 24/7 support all sorted.”

For other places worth visiting in Greece, there is an island with 70 beaches that experts warn you should see before it gets too popular.

Plus, Wizz Air to launch six new routes with cheap flights to Greek islands and the capital of wine.

A proposed tax increase in one European country has sparked concern

Ryanair has blasted moves that could see passengers pay higher bills under moves to increase airport departure taxes in one popular European destination by as much as double the current rate. In Belgium, the current federal tax stands at five euros per passenger and will be increased to 10 euros per passenger from 2027, which may see costs pushed onto passengers.

On top of this, Charleroi Airport in Belgium will reportedly make passengers spend three euros on their flights, according to proposals made by the Charleroi City Council. Some European publications have speculated this will push competition onto cheaper flights in neighbouring airports such as Paris-Beauvais and Lille Airport.

Ryanair are furious. In response to the proposed tax change, the airline has already confirmed this week that it will cut one million seats from its Brussels Winter 2026/27 schedule.

Ryanair said this move will also affect 20 routes on the schedule while arguing that the move is in direct opposition to other EU markets such as Slovakia, Sweden, Italy, and Hungary, where it claims such taxes are being cut down to drive up tourism. Because of this, Ryanair is calling on both the Belgian Prime Minister De Wever and the Mayor of Charleroi, Thomas Dermine, to reverse the proposed plans.

Ryanair’s Jason McGuinness said: “The De Wever Govt has bizarrely decided to further increase Belgium’s already sky-high aviation tax by another +100% from Jan 2027, on top of the +150% in July last. These repeated increases to this harmful aviation tax make Belgium completely uncompetitive compared to the many other EU countries, like Sweden, Hungary, Italy, and Slovakia, where Govts are abolishing aviation taxes to drive traffic, tourism, and jobs.

“As a result of this second tax hike in just 5 months, Ryanair has been forced to cut -22% of its Brussels traffic (-1m seats), -5 aircraft from our Charleroi base (loss of US$500m investment), and 20 routes (13 from Charleroi & 7 from Zaventem) for Winter 26/27. Should the Charleroi city council proceed with its ill-judged proposal to introduce further taxes on passengers departing from Charleroi next year, these cuts will deepen as Ryanair will be forced to reduce flights, routes and based aircraft at Charleroi from as early as April 2026 with thousands of local jobs at risk.

“If Prime Minister De Wever and his Govt really wanted to revive Belgium’s economy, they should abolish this harmful aviation tax, not double it. Despite so many other EU countries taking this step to support their economies, Belgium is going in the opposite direction, driving up access costs and pushing airlines and tourism elsewhere.

“We urge Prime Minister De Wever to scrap this damaging aviation tax before Belgian’s traffic, tourism, jobs, and the wider economy collapse any further. Furthermore, the Charleroi city council needs to abandon its lunatic plans to increase taxes driving job losses with the effect of lowering payroll, VAT and corporate tax receipts for the local economy.”

Belgium receives more than 18 million tourists each year. According to the latest data from the British government, around 1.3 million Brits travel to Belgium each year.

The proposed doubling is reportedly designed to help finance airport infrastructure and meet new environmental requirements, according to Air Journal.

A POPULAR seaside town will be losing half of its direct trains to and from London next week.

Currently, there are four direct trains a day between London and Blackpool, operated by Avanti West Coast.

The service currently operates Monday to Friday.

However, they have confirmed that changes to the timetable means that the four daily services from Blackpool will be reduced to two – one in each direction.

The two routes being scrapped are the 9:39am London to Blackpool North service, and the 12:52pm Blackpool North to London service.

The routes that will continue to run include the 5:35am Blackpool North to London Euston route and the 5:40pm London Euston to Blackpool North route.

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Instead, they will be increasing routes between Blackpool and Liverpool as well as restarting a morning route from Manchester.

Avanti West Coast slammed the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) who are the economic and safety regulator, regarding the new restrictions being introduced.

An Avanti West Coast spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the Office of Rail and Road’s decision not to grant access rights from December for three weekday services that we currently operate, including the 09:39 London to Blackpool North service, and the 12:52 Blackpool North to London service.

“This will clearly impact those customers who already use these services.

“However, we will still be delivering even more services across our network from the start of the December timetable, including further additional trains on our Liverpool route.”

An ORR spokesperson said they “recognised passengers would be disappointed”.

However, they explained: “In every timetable change train operators bid to add or amend services, and we are informed in our decision making by what Network Rail tells us is possible.

“In this case, Network Rail provided evidence and recommended that ORR decline the applications to secure better reliability on the network as a whole. 

“We would welcome the opportunity to work with Network Rail and train operators should they consider that there is room for these services in future timetables.”

Several commuters who use the route have taken to social media to express their thoughts on the news.

One said: “Another kick in the teeth for Blackpool.”

Another added: “The reason why no one is using Avanti, is because the prices of their train tickets is crazy.

“Avanti trains are always cancelled or delayed. Get rid of them!”

News of the route cancellations come as a blow to the seaside town that is hoping to attract more tourists as it plans to spend £459,000 on revamping its major tourist attractions.

This includes the Winter Gardens, which first opened back in 1878.

A £300million project is also in the works to improve Blackpool’s Golden Mile, with a new indoor entertainment complex with rides, restaurants and bars.

Last month, passengers were left furious as Avanti revealed it would run an empty ghost train to London.

The rail regulator ruled that the weekday morning service from Manchester to London would run without passengers for five months.

A spokesperson for the ORR told the BBC that the decision was based on “robust evidence” from Network Rail, arguing that running the service with no passengers would allow more flexibility to better assist with “service recovery”.

However, this has since been reversed.

In other rail news, here’s the first look at the new Great British Railways trains being rolled out across the UK.

Plus, Eurostar reveals plans for direct trains from UK to new European country for first time ever.

A SPANISH holiday can still be found for a bargain – if you know where to look, that is.

Destinations like Turkey, Tunisia and Egypt are becoming more and more popular because of their affordability

Yet Spain is still one of the best holiday destinations on the cheap depending on which island you choose.

Fuerteventura is known for being the cheapest of the islands, both across the Balearics and the Canaries.

Some of the cheapest deals on the market are found on loveholidays, with a seven-night package with flight for just £169 each.

You’ll have to travel in March 2026, but that works out to just £24 a day, although you can currently secure it with a £19 deposit.

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Hotel choices include Castillo Beach or Castillo Beach Park Bungalows, both in the Caleta de Fuste area.

Want to go all-inclusive? You can upgrade at each hotel and instead pay £299pp or £339pp for the holiday, respectively.

Weather on the island remains high – its set to hit 23C this week, but even in the rest of winter it remains around 19C.

One of the most famous beaches on the island – of which there are around 150 – is Playa del Bajo de la Burra, also known as Popcorn Beach.

This is because of the rocks that look like small pieces of white popcorn.

Or there is Corralejo Natural Park, which you can explore by dune buggy, as well as the Acua Water Park.

Local tips

We spoke to TUI rep Samuel Gonzalez who was born and raised in Fuerteventura for his top tips too.

He recommended visiting Jandia, which has white sand beaches and was even been used in a few films like Star Wars and Wonder Woman.

Or for the best hidden gem, he said to go to the town of Betancuria which was once the capital of the Canaries and he calls one of the most “beautiful places in Spain“.

Travel expert

The Sun’s Head of Travel – Digital recently visited the island with her family as well.

Caroline McGuire said: “My hotel was on the seafront among the Corralejo sand dunes of Grandes Playas, it boasts sweeping views of the Atlantic ocean.

“The beach is one of the island’s most ­popular but it never felt overcrowded.

It’s not just the beaches, but the amazing amount of activities for kids too.

She continued: “We ended up in a big top in Puerto Del Rosario, celebrating Carnival with local families, with a pirate show laid on for the kids and a funfair out back, followed by a parade through the streets.

“The town has a twice-weekly crafts market, where we picked up some pretty jewellery, a handmade toy and a living cactus fridge magnet.

“We even took the boat out to Lobos Island, a protected islet with a large nature reserve and shallow bays, with paddling water 30 metres out to sea that was warm enough to splash about in for hours.”

Here’s everything you need to know about Tenerife and Lanzarote as well.

And here’s how to find Spain’s smallest inhabited island.

When you’re already paying hundreds of pounds for flights, baggage, transfers and hotels, it can be a kick in the teeth to then have to fork out for extra legroom on a flight

Experts have revealed exactly what seats to pick when flying with easyJet or Ryanair to get extra legroom for no further price. When it comes to booking a holiday, there are so many costs to think about including flights, hotel, transfers and excursions.

It’s clear why people have an issue with paying extra for an allocated seat when they could already be paying hundreds of pounds for the flights themselves and more for baggage allowance. For some people, paying for seats with extra legroom is an expense they’re just not willing to pay.

Experts at Which? have revealed that you don’t have to pay through the nose to have extra legroom on a number of aircrafts, including some used by easyJet and Ryanair. The expert explained that if you’re flying on a Boeing 737, used by Ryanair, you can choose one of 33 seats to get an inch of extra legroom.

She said: “Want more legroom on a flight? Just sit on the right. Take Ryanair for example almost all of their planes are Boeing 737 so choosing seats D, E or F in rows three to 15 will give you the most legroom.

“With easyJet, meanwhile, you should choose seats D, E or F in rows three to 13 if you’re flying on their Airbus A321neo. It will give you an extra inch of legroom compared to sitting in rows six to 17 on the left hand side of the plane.

“It might not seem like much, but it could make all the difference on a near five hour flight to Tenerife.”

The expert explained the reason there is extra legroom in these seats is due to airlines squeezing in an extra row on the left side of the plane by removing storage lockers.

She continued: “It might make the airlines more money, but squeezing in an extra row can leave us with less room.

“All planes are different, so it’s always worth checking before you book. Just head to Google Flights and type your destination and date in to find the model number.

“Then use seat plan experts AeroLOPA to find your aircraft’s configuration.”

Underneath the video explainer posted by Which?, one commenter warned other viewers about what they will find if they choose one of the seats with extra legroom.

They said: “What they don’t tell you is that there are no windows on those seats.”

EasyJet flies from major UK airports like London Gatwick, Manchester, Bristol, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Belfast. RyanAir fly from airports including London Stansted, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Belfast International.

EasyJet’s seat allocation involves paying to select a specific seat or checking in for free up to 30 days in advance, which assigns a random seat. Ryanair seat allocation is either free and random or reserved and paid.

The new Entry-Exit system (EES) has been rolled out across Europe, and UK holidaymakers have been warned to expect long queues at airports this festive season — here’s how to avoid delays

Brits planning a festive getaway have been warned to brace themselves for queues of up to four hours at European airports, following the launch of the new Entry-Exit system (EES) on October 12. The EES, which swaps traditional passport stamping for biometric checks, requires every non-EU traveller to undergo fingerprinting and facial scans.

This extra step, combined with the influx of passengers travelling during the holiday season, can cause significant delays when multiple flights land at the same time.

Early signs show that major hubs like Paris and Amsterdam are already struggling with congestion during busy times, and with Christmas fast approaching, more chaos is anticipated. Representing one of the biggest overhauls to European border control in years, the EES applies to all non-EU travellers — including Brits — entering the ‘Schengen area’ (29 EU countries including France, Italy, and Spain).

While registration only takes a few minutes per person, when multiplied by hundreds of passengers, it leads to lengthy queues.

This alert comes as winter holidays continue to rise in popularity, with 51% of Brits planning to jet off abroad between November and February. To help holidaymakers dodge the mayhem, travel guru Jane Bolton from ski holiday specialist Erna Low shares her top tips for navigating the new rules and ensuring a hassle-free trip, reports the Express.

Arrive well in advance

“Airport wait times can vary, but with the new EES checks, queues of up to four hours are expected at peak times,” Jane explains. “In the past, travellers were advised to arrive at the airport two hours prior to a domestic flight and three hours for an international flight. Now, it’s worth allowing more time than usual – especially during school holidays and weekends. I’d recommend arriving at least three to four hours before your flight to make sure you don’t miss it.”

Keep tabs on your departure airport’s latest information

Jane advises: “As the EES rolls out across Europe, it is unavoidable for airports to be at different stages of this process, given the scale of the system. Some major airports like Charles-de-Gaulle (France), Düsseldorf (Germany), and Rome Fiumicino (Italy) have already implemented self-service EES kiosks, while others will still be manually registering the biometric facial and fingerprint recognitions.

“Those doing it manually are expected to take longer, so check your airport’s website before you leave home to plan appropriately.”

Choose ‘fast track passes’ wherever available

With lengthy queues anticipated, passengers are urged to consider alternative time-saving options. The travel expert’s advice?

“Purchasing fast-track tickets for security is a great method for reducing the time needed prior to a flight. These tickets cost between £3 and £12 per person, depending on the airline, and can shave off hours within peak travel times. It’s a relatively small investment for peace of mind.”

Allow additional time when travelling with families

Jane explains: “Whilst the new system requires facial and fingerprint recognition, children under twelve are exempt from this requirement and instead must be linked to an accompanying adult who is registered on the system.

“For families or large parties travelling, allowing extra time at the airport is essential. This process will take longer than average, so plan ahead and keep all documents ready.”

Verify passport validity

Jane warns: “Since Brexit, many Brits have been caught out by new passport rules. Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your travel date and be valid for at least three months after departure.”

The travel specialist further adds: “The key date to look at is the issue date rather than expiration. For example, a passport issued in March 2015 and expiring in December 2025 won’t be valid for EU travel after March 2025. Checking this before you book is essential to avoid being turned away at the airport.

“Whilst the new entry/exit system may seem likely to cause chaos for your upcoming travels, holidaymakers should be assured that this process will, in the long-term, streamline your travel. Once registered, the travel process will become much smoother for those travelling within the Schengen area.”

The travel expert concludes: “If you check your passports, allow extra time for queues, purchase fast track where possible and check your departure airport for updates, your holiday should be off to a great start.”

From electronics to food, what you think is a harmless addition to your hand luggage could actually lead to frustration, delays, or even further checks

From gadgets to grub, what you perceive as a harmless addition to your carry-on could actually lead to unnecessary hassle, delays, or even additional checks. As holidaymakers gear up for their winter escapes, experts at Fulton Umbrellas have compiled a list of typical items that should be avoided in hand luggage, reports the Express.

While hand luggage is often the go-to spot for valuables or items needed during the flight, the company urges caution when deciding what to take on board. The first crucial piece of advice from the experts pertains to packing electronic devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.

Although rules can differ among airlines, passengers are generally advised to only stow electronics with batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh in their carry-ons. It’s also vital to ensure all devices are fully charged before packing them and that they are switched off, as this can help avoid any hiccups at security.

The company also underscored the importance of being mindful about the types of food items you choose to stash in your hand luggage. While it’s common for travellers to pack nibbles or souvenirs, foods like jams, soft cheeses, and chutneys fall under the 100ml liquid limit and could be seized.

Different countries enforce their own specific regulations regarding food, and some may impose extra restrictions on certain items. That’s why it’s highly recommended to research what’s allowed and what’s prohibited in advance, to avoid disappointment or issues with airport security.

Fulton Umbrellas also highlights that, although umbrellas generally pose no issue in hand luggage, larger styles-such as golf umbrellas-could be problematic. These larger umbrellas may be better suited for holding luggage, as they could present a safety hazard if they cause accidents while being handled in the confined space of your carry-on.

Plus, packing a large umbrella in the hold luggage frees up more space in your carry-on bag for other essential items, making your overall packing experience more efficient.

Lastly, the company cautioned fitness-conscious travellers about the potential downsides of packing protein powders in their carry-on. While these powders are not typically prohibited by airlines, they have the tendency to obstruct the view on X-ray machines, which can lead to delays during security screening.

As a result, those who pack protein powders in their hand luggage may find themselves facing more extensive checks, as security personnel will likely need to manually inspect the contents of their bags.

With so many rules, it’s always worth double-checking each airline’s guidance on luggage, as well as each country’s specific restrictions, before embarking on a trip.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

Since 1963, people have taken the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway on a 10-minute, 2.5-mile ride from its Valley Station, about 2,650 feet elevation, to its Mountain Station, at just over 8,500 feet elevation where passengers can continue their adventure in Mt. San Jacinto State Park.

My friends and I have experienced the kind of contradictory adventure this route allows: playing in the snow in the same weekend we visited an oasis shaded by hulking palm trees.

That’s always been the goal. As a 1937 Times story about the plan to build the tram explained, “the desert dwellers then would be able to whisk from one-piece bathing suit swimming under the ultraviolet ray sun at the Desert Inn pool to woolen undies and snowshoe land in an hour.” (Although the Desert Inn has since closed, you can find plenty of other Palm Springs hotels.)

The only hitch for anyone wanting to visit now is that the winter holidays mark one of the busier seasons for the tram, especially since it snowed at Mt. San Jacinto around Thanksgiving. Spots fill up quickly online and in-person lines can be long. Here’s what you need to know about snagging a ticket and planning a trip.

A day on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

(David Fouts / For The Times)

How do I get tickets for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

A limited number of each day’s tickets are available to prepurchase on the tramway’s website. Most tickets are sold in person, said Rachel Anderson, public relations manager at the tramway.

To avoid long lines on the weekends, Anderson said guests should arrive at 7 a.m., an hour before the first tram goes up at 8 a.m. The ticket booth opens at 7:30 a.m. “Otherwise, wait times can be several hours long during the holiday season,” she said.

Wait times are especially long closer to Christmas, when children are out of school and out-of-town guests are visiting Southern California.

The line’s length does ebb and flow throughout the day, she said, reaching its longest on the days around Christmas and New Year’s, and on weekends when children are out of school for their winter breaks. Weekdays are less busy, but can still see lines, she said.

The tram’s winter hours, which run from Sept. 2 to May 21, are: Monday through Friday with the first tram up at 10 a.m., last tram up at 8 p.m. and the last tram down at 9:30 p.m. On weekends and holidays, the last tram up is 8 p.m. and the last tram down is 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are $20.95 for children ages 3 to 10, $36.95 for older kids and adults, and $33.95 for adults 65 and older.

A balcony where guests can take in the breathtaking views of the desert below.

(David Fouts / For The Times)

What can I do once at the top?

Yodel, dance, eat snacks — the possibilities are endless!

OK, in all seriousness, you have a snack or enjoy fine dining on dishes like vegetarian lasagna or filet mignon, hike any part of the 50-plus miles of trails, snowshoe, cross-country ski or just vibe out among the Jeffrey pines.

The tram offers hikers who don’t feel like taking the strenuous Cactus to Clouds route: From the tram’s Mountain Station, you can hike 10 miles out and back, which shaves off about 10 arduous miles.

Can I bring my sled and dog?

Many visitors take the tram to go sledding. Anderson said small plastic sleds are allowed while inflatable rafts or sleds, and those sleds with metal, aren’t. (Rolling down hills on your own accord is just fine, though!)

Unfortunately, unless Fido is a registered service dog, you’ll need to leave your pup at home. Dogs are not allowed on the tram and generally are prohibited from trails in the park.

Other banned items include drones and outside alcohol (but can buy booze on site).

What’s the parking situation?

Parking is $15 for most vehicles, and lots open at 9 a.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. on weekends and holidays. A free shuttle bus takes visitors to the Valley Station, where they can buy tram tickets.

What else do I need to know?

I am personally a sucker for California trivia, so allow me to tell you more about the tram’s history and why it remains a unique opportunity to this day.

I wanted to understand how rare of an experience it is to ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, so I spoke to Peter Landsman, editor for LiftBlog, where he’s been compiling data on trams and ski lifts for about 10 years.

Landsman said the Palm Springs tram is special for multiple reasons, but in particular because the car rotates as it travels up and down the mountain, an experience found only on a few tramways across the globe.

Overall, there are only about a dozen tramways of similar builds in the U.S. — and not many are being constructed today. The recently completed tram in Big Sky, Mont., was the first new tram built at a North American ski area since 2008, according to Landsman’s blog.

The tram’s original construction cost, per a Times article on its opening day in 1963, was $7.7 million. That’s about $81.5 million in today’s money, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics inflation calculator.

“I would say $7.7 million wouldn’t get you much these days,” Landsman, who works in the ski industry, said. “That’s pretty remarkable.”

THERE’S a theme park in Europe named the word’s best – but it isn’t Disneyland Paris.

The huge Europa-Park in Germany was named Best Theme Park in the World at the Golden Ticket Awards.

It is the 10th time it has won the award – and with 100 attractions, I wasn’t surprised.

I visited the mega theme park last year, and was left seriously impressed by the scale of it.

Stretching across 230 acres, across the park are 15 country-themed lands placed on different destination around the world.

The area of Greece feels like you are in Mykonos, while the Switzerland area is like being in the heart of the Alps.

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There is a St Marks Square in Italy, as well as a pizzieria, while there are lands based on Norway, the Netherlands and Spain as well.

There is an England themed land too, which yes, has a British pub.

The extravagance of the park reminds me of a family-friendly Las Vegas, without the casinos and neon lights or course.

Among the 100 attractions are 13 rollercoasters, my favourite being new Voltron Nevera in the Croatia section.

Created by Mack Rides – behing Thorpe Park’s Hyperia – it has a record-breaking 105-degree beyond-vertical launch, the steepest in the world.

It is easily one of the most innovative roller­coasters I’ve experienced, not to mention the most terrifying.

The park also has Rulantica, a huge waterpark with 50 slides and attractions.

Heated to 32C, it even opened a new outdoor pool this year, which has a massive swim up bar with 150 seats.

And if that wasn’t enough, there are a whopping 50 restaurants and bars at Europa-Park – my favourite being the mad Eatrenalin.

Sat at a “floating chair” I was transported to different rooms for different dishes while surrounded by immersive displays.

It combines gourmet cuisine with modern technology – and I was sold.

Europa-Park is constantly expanding too – back in June, the new Wild West themed land Silver Lake City opened.

Along with four themed diners, there is even a 630-bed Tipi Town accommodation village.

Next year will see the opening of the Riverside Western Lodge, with another 120 rooms.

It might not have the recognition of Disneyland, but with so much for all ages, Europa Park should top any theme park-lover’s list.

It’s not just me who was impressed, with one money-saving mum saying it was perfect even in half term holidays.

Content creator TheTravelMum said: “The theming is incredible, and the queue times are absolutely amazing.

“A lot of the smaller rides only have one minute queues.

“The park is fantastic for thrillseekers but at the same time it caters to the little ones,

“This place is fantastic value.”

Entry to the park costs £52 for adults and £44 for children (4–11) and seniors.

Despite being in Germany, the park is near the border of France and Switzerland, so the nearest airport for Brits is Basel.

Return fares in November start from £39pp.

A POPULAR seaside resort has secured a massive £20million in funding ahead of a decade-long transformation.

The coastal resort, which has been ranked the “best for a short break” in the UK, will undergo a series of upgrades, including the revamping of community spaces.

The Victorian town of Hastings, which was previously praised as an overlooked holiday hotspot, confirmed the ambitious plans this week.

As part of the government’s Pride in Place programme, the project will “spark civic pride and breathe new life into the town”.

Planned works

Safer streets and revamped public areas are prioritised in the new works, as well as improvements to sports, leisure, and play facilities.

And heritage sites across the town will also be set for restoration as part of the plan to create “a Hastings for everyone”.

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Deputy leader of Hastings Borough Council Julia Hilton said the upgrades will be shaped “in collaboration with local people”, while Local MP Helena Dollimore praised the project for making Hastings “an even better place to live”.

Toursim

Hastings has received mixed reviews over the years, once vote the worst seaside town for a weekend to stay by Which?, it is now widely regarded as an underrated treasure.

While visitors have marked it down on value for money, and ease of getting around, artists and writers continue to flock to the town, turning it into one of the UK’s most exciting up-and-coming holiday destinations.

And from the old town to the stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone in this historic area.

The old town itself is rated number one on TripAdvisor, scoring 4/5 from more than 2,700 reviews, with visitors praising its independent shops, cafés, and buzzing character.

Tourists can walk the cobbled streets, enjoying vintage shops, a Tudor-looking pub, and five-star chippies and restaurants.

Hastings also boasts a number of music events, including the annual Hastings Beer and Music Festival, as well as playing host to well-known restaurants such as Yaaze Cafe Bistro & Meze Bar.

Music fans will also want to visit the Jenny Lind, which offers live performances and flamboyant local characters.

And Hastings Contemporary gallery is just around the corner – a nod to the town’s burgeoning art scene, with many tipping it to be the next Margate.

There are also pagan vibes in the area, with Jack on the Green festival ushering in the summer with incredible costumes, dancing, and music paraded through the streets.

To top off the unique experience, a huge puppet is then set alight on the West Hill.

The Prime Minister says catching a bus ‘shouldn’t cost the earth’

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a fresh message on public transport costs this morning, stressing that taking the bus ‘shouldn’t cost the earth’. His thoughts come after bus fares on thousands of routes in England were previously capped at £3 until 2027.

“Catching the bus shouldn’t cost the earth,” Sir Keir said on X, formerly Twitter, this morning. “That’s why we are capping bus fares at £3 and investing in new buses and stops.”

Earlier this year, the Government’s Spending Review revealed that its £3 bus fare cap would remain in effect until at least March 2027. This measure, which applies to most bus routes in England, was first introduced in January 2023. While the cap was initially £2, this was subsequently increased to £3 on single bus fares outside London from January 2025.

The Government has explained that participation in the fare cap initiative is voluntary, meaning some firms have chosen not to take part. Instead, local companies may offer ‘other types of tickets that are suitable’ for similar needs.

“Some types of routes are not covered by this scheme so they are not included, for example, coach services, school-only services or airport services,” the Government further advises online. “Fares are capped locally in London, so it is not included in this scheme. Routes listed as ‘not included’ in the national £3 fare cap may still offer a discounted fare as part of a locally run initiative.”

Despite this, residents of England who are considered ‘eligible disabled’ may obtain a bus pass for completely free off-peak local travel, thanks to the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS). Similarly, residents of England and Wales can obtain free bus passes upon reaching State Pension Age, or at the age of 60 in London specifically.

The regional disparity between London and the rest of England has recently taken centre stage in public debate, following a parliamentary petition that collected over 100,000 signatures. This campaign argued that the current situation is ‘unjust’ and free bus travel should be extended to all people over 60 in England.

The Department for Transport (DfT) responded to these complaints in February this year, stating that ‘any changes to the statutory scheme must be carefully considered for their impact on its financial sustainability’. However, the subject will soon be debated in Parliament on January 5, 2026.

The DfT response continued: “The ENCTS provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six. The ENCTS costs around £700 million annually and any changes to the statutory obligations, such as lowering the age of eligibility, would therefore need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability.

“Local authorities in England do have the power to offer concessions in addition to their statutory obligations, for example, by extending the age of eligibility for the older persons’ bus pass. These are additional local concessions provided and funded by local authorities from local resources, depending on the needs and priorities of each area.”

At the time, it also added: “Concessionary travel is a devolved policy area and as such, the eligibility age for the bus pass differs between the devolved nations of the United Kingdom. This means, in effect, that there are different schemes in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so the administrative arrangements are entirely separate.”

If you are reaching State Pension age or are considered ‘eligible disabled’ and are interested in applying for a bus pass, refer to the Government’s website for further information. You can also read the now-closed bus pass petition at Parliament’s website here.

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JOJO Siwa fans will soon be able to experience a holiday with the star as she is launching a cruise next year.

The American singer and dancer who rose to fame after appearing on the popular reality TV show Dance Moms, has created a cruise which will set sail from June 12 to June 15, 2026.

Fans will board Royal Caribbean‘s Utopia of the Seas and across three days be able to enjoy meet and greets, q&a’s, dance parties, Build-a-Bow sessions and even a dance class with JoJo herself.

For the first time, there will also be an Infinity Heart Concert at sea, as part of her tour.

Fans must book through the JoJoSiwaCruise.com website to access all the JoJo Siwa events, activities, concerts and exclusives.

JoJo said: “This is the most immersive fan event I’ve ever created, and I cannot wait to share it with you!”

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Other activities in the JoJo Siwa programme include a welcome party, a trivia session, Name That Tune with prizes, a photography and autograph session and finally, a farewell party.

Anyone who books directly through Royal Caribbean or another website will not get access to any of the JoJo Siwa programming.

Of course, the cruise also includes everything that Utopia of the Seas usually has to offer including pools, waterslides, sports courts and a day at CocoCay.

On day one of the cruise, guests will have half a day exploring the ship, where they can head off on a zip line over the boardwalk, play mini golf, rock climb, ice skate or explore the arcade.

For little kids there is also a Splashaway Bay children’s splash zone.

And if you get hungry, there are more than 20 dining options onboard the ship, with complimentary spots including the main dining room, buffet, pizza, cafes and quick-serve spots.

There is also the opportunity for some retail therapy with the Promenade shops.

Then on day two, the cruise will head to Nassau, in the Bahamas.

Day three will then be spent at Royal Caribbean‘s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, where there is Daredevil’s Peak waterslide, high speed waterslides, a wave pool and an adventure pool with obstacles.

The island also features several more chilled areas such as Oasis Lagoon – the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

From the island, guests can also participate in a number of other activities including snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Sailings start at $1,050 (£786.08) for an Interior Stateroom based on two people sharing.

A Boardwalk View Stateroom then costs from $1,212 (£907.36) for two people sharing and a Central Park View Stateroom costs from $1,282 (£959.77).

There is also a Oceanview Balcony Stateroom available from $1,337 (£1,000.95).

In other cruise news, there’s a new luxury cruise ship which you can live on forever – and it’s cheaper than a London flat.

Plus, the world’s best sports-themed cruises – with NFL games, F1 drivers and pickleball-at-sea.

Ahead of one of the busiest times to travel, the National Rail has issued a warning and outlined some of the changes that could impact your train journey during the festive season

Train travel changes to be aware of between Christmas and New Year

• Plan and check your journey before you travel
• There will be no National Rail services running on Christmas Day
• Most train operators will not be in service on Boxing Day. However, there will be very limited services on some train operators, including Chiltern Railways, London Overground, Merseyrail, ScotRail, Southern and Stansted Express
• Timetables could be subject to change during the festive period, including late-notice changes, which runs from Tuesday, 23 December, until Friday, 2 January
• No trains will run to or from London Liverpool Street station from Saturday, 27 December, to Thursday, 1 January
• No trains will run to or from London Waterloo Station or Vauxhall on Saturday, 27 December, and Sunday, 28 December
• Bus replacements will be in operation between Milton Keynes Central and Rugby/Northampton from Saturday, 27 December to Sunday, 4 January
• There will be an amended service between Preston and Carlisle from Wednesday, 31 December to Thursday, 15 January
• Bus replacements will be in operation between Carlisle and Lockerbie from Thursday, 1 January, to Wednesday, 7 January
• An amended service will be in place between Leeds and York from Saturday, 27 December, to Friday, 2 January
• No trains will run between Cambridge and Cambridge North, Bury St Edmunds, and Stansted Airport from Saturday, 27 December, to Sunday, 4 January
• Bus services will replace trains between Dalmuir and Balloch/Helensburgh from Saturday, 27 December, until Wednesday, 31 December

National Rail stated that there will be “lots of planned essential engineering works and upgrades taking place as Network Rail works to improve the railway” over Christmas and the New Year. This may result in changes to train timetables, so it’s best to check your journey before setting off.

For further details or to check your journey, you can visit the National Rail website.

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When I first came to London from Yorkshire in the late 1980s, I found the tube replete with bizarre novelties. Among them was the way most trains required me to sit sideways to the direction of travel, as on a fairground waltzer. Directly opposite me was another person or an empty seat, and while I knew not to stare at people, I did stare at the seats – at their woollen coverings, called moquette. I have since written two books about them, the first nonfiction, Seats of London, and now a crime novel, The Moquette Mystery.

I was attracted to moquette firstly because it, like me, came from Yorkshire (most of it back then was woven in Halifax), and whereas many foreign metros have seats of plastic or steel, moquette made the tube cosy. Yet it seemed underappreciated. The index of the standard history of the tube, for instance, proceeds blithely from Moorgate to Morden.

A moquette might last a decade or more on a particular vehicle, coinciding with a Londoner’s formative years, the design evoking forever after those tube rides to triumphs and disasters. For generation Z, the resonant one is likely to be Barman, introduced in 2010 to replace a range of moquettes deemed too diffuse. Therefore, our two-hour moquette tour begins on one of the many lines to use Barman: the Northern line, from Leicester Square to Charing Cross.

Barman is named after Christian Barman, publicity officer to Frank Pick who, as vice-chair of London Transport in the 1930s, commissioned the roundel symbol, the tube map, Charles Holden’s subtly modernist station architecture and many posters and moquettes. Barman was designed by Wallace Sewell (Harriet Wallace-Jones and Emma Sewell) and, unusually for moquette, it’s figurative; but it’s also mysterious. The landmarks it depicts seem suffused in a haze of blue rain, and the harder you stare, the more the top of Big Ben becomes Battersea Power Station – and is that Southwark cathedral looming ghostly behind the dome of St Paul’s?

At Charing Cross, we change on to the Bakerloo, which has a darker version of Barman, the same landmarks at night, perhaps. The sombre black, grey and brown colour scheme suits the crepuscular mood of these elderly trains; it is also historically valid. In the early 1920s, the first moquette widely applied on the underground – called Lozenge – was the colour of dried mud, a capitulation to the dirtiness of clothes in those days before widespread dry-cleaning.

In the late 1930s, Frank Pick commissioned brighter moquettes from leading textile designers, including Enid Marx and Marion Dorn. He favoured red and green – red symbolising the town, green the country – and he considered green serene. My novel is set in this golden age of the underground, epitomised by the lambent glamour of Piccadilly Circus station concourse, which features a sort of shrine to Pick, showing his watchwords in brass on the marble wall. These range from “Utility” to “Beauty”, and moquette has usually been filed under the first word, but the second applies to the best of it.

We go from Picadilly Circus to Green Park on the Piccadilly line – Barman again, but with a richer blue than on the Northern line. It reflects the line colour and the dark blue of the Underground roundel bar, which a transport designer once described to me as “the reassuring colour of an old-fashioned police lamp”.

At Green Park, we take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus. This unnamed moquette uses multiple V-shapes, evoking she who was not amused. The Vs are white, which shows the dirt, but the radiated light suggests diamond facets and alleviates the claustrophobia of this line which never comes above ground.

At Oxford Circus, we observe some Central line trains, waiting for a lucky break. Most have Barman, but some refurbished trains have a new red, black and grey moquette called Tuppenny, the Central having once been “the Tuppenny Tube”. It is reminiscent of a Central line moquette of the late 80s, my “home” line back then, when the red and black seemed consoling, like a coal fire.

I suggested to Paul Marchant, head of product design at Transport for London, that Tuppenny was “retro”. “Yes,” he said, “I was on holiday when it was commissioned!” A joke (I think), but moquette is meant to keep pace with London; it is not supposed to be retro. Currently, only two Central line trains have Tuppenny, so the odds are against our sitting on it while heading west to our next stop, Bond Street.

Here, we board the Elizabeth line for Paddington. Most moquettes have four colours, but on the luxurious, hi-tech Lizzy line, it has about eight. The designers (Wallace Sewell) were briefed to incorporate royal purple, a strident shade unlikely to be “serene” if emphasised. So it’s subsumed here amid others, representing connecting lines and suggesting train movements digitally represented in some futuristic signal box.

At Paddington, we board a Circle or Hammersmith & City line train heading east. We are now on one of the “cut-and-cover” lines just below street level. If you don’t know which lines are sub-surface, the moquette on those trains tells you. The colours of the small rectangles set against a black background denote the Circle, H&C, District and Metropolitan lines.

Moquette has a pile – tufts – that can be left as loops or cut for a more vivid colour and a velvety texture, and this sub-surface one is entirely cut, so it is not as hard-wearing as others. The seats near the doors (the most popular ones) are badly worn, with the backing fabric “grinning through”, to use the technical term. I am assured there are “big plans” to address this.

At King’s Cross we head south on the Piccadilly line to Covent Garden and the London Transport Museum. In the cafe, we sip the museum’s excellent coffee while sitting on seats covered with their own special moquette, which is red and green in homage to Frank Pick. In the museum shop, moquettes past and present are for sale as bags, cushions, pouffes and so on. That Londoners are willing to pay to have a symbol of public transport in their homes is a tribute to the legacy of Pick. As the man himself said: “The quality of our surroundings contributes to the quality of our own lives.”

Andrew Martin’s novel, The Moquette Mystery, is published by Safe Haven. To support the Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply