Travel Desk

FANCY a cheeky getaway over the coming months? Then you’re in luck, because we’ve searched high and low for the best holiday packages under £99.

Think comfy hotels, poolside cocktails and trendy beach resorts – all for less than your weekly food shop.

So whether you want a sunny weekend away or a city break with plenty to see and do, these absolute steals will fly you out and put you up with change from £100.

Have a spa break in Budapest for £69pp

Budapest is one of Europe‘s best destinations when it comes to getting bang for your buck.

Hungary‘s capital is known for its stunning buildings, cheap street food and its famous public baths.

And we’ve found a deal that puts you up in a 4-star central hotel – with breakfast and flights included – for under 70 quid per person.

Spend your days sightseeing at the beautiful Buda Castle district and admiring the impressive St. Stephen’s Basilica for free.

Then head to the market stall by Astoria Station to grab a giant authentic chimney cake for only €2 (£1.76).

And if you want a dip in the luxurious thermal baths, the cheapest way to do so is to buy an afternoon ticket for the Palatinus Thermal Bath.

It costs just 4000 HUF (£9.20) to enter.

Wowcher offers two nights’ stay with breakfast at the swanky 4-star Atrium Fashion Hotel for £69 pp, on multiple dates in January and February.

Return flights from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted and Manchester are included.

Holiday in Malta for £87pp

St. Paul’s Bay in Malta is the country’s largest resort, full of shopping, snorkelling and endless dining options.

This Qawra stay offers a base that’s calm and tucked away, yet still within walking distance of the bars and glitzy nightlife.

Take your pick of cafes and restaurants on Qawra promenade, or visit the free Salina Nature Reserve to spot rare birds whilst kids can play in the colourful park.

The rugged shoreline also has many secluded, unspoilt beaches.

One of the prettiest is Imġiebaħ – where your steep hike down is rewarded by crystal-clear waters.

But the heart of the action is Qawra Point, with its huge beach, casino and Classic Car Museum.

The Qawra Point Holiday Complex is an aparthotel with a rooftop terrace, sunning area and swimming pool – and it’s just 500m from the beach.

Loveholidays offer a two-night, room-only stay at the resort for just £89 pp from 14-16 January, with return flights from Birmingham or London Luton.

Sun yourself on the Costa del Sol for £85pp

On the Beach have an offer ideal for a quick weekend break in the sun – an apartment that’s 150m away from a sandy golden beach in Spain.

Benalmadena in sunny Costa del Sol is a great place to visit if you’re into exploring pretty Spanish old town streets – or just lazing on the beach with a cheap cocktail in hand.

Beaches Playa de Santa Ana and Playa de Arroyo de la Miel are gorgeous stretches of soft sand lined with palm trees.

Plus, the pretty Paloma Park is well worth a visit, filled with luscious greenery and exotic plants.

There’s loads of pretty sites to admire too, like Colomares Castle that was built and dedicated to Christopher Columbus.

Or walk through the winding streets of the Old Town for traditional bright white houses dotted with blooming flowers, and pick up a couple of Andalusian souvenirs.

Food and drink is super cheap here – head to Bonanza Square for the best deals, including a three-course Chinese dinner at Chino Panda for under €8.95 (£7.86).

On the Beach offer two nights’ self-catering stay at Doramar Apartments for £85 pp, from 12-14 January with return flights from London Luton.

Soak in the sights of Amsterdam from £59pp

Amsterdam is a top spot among Brits for a European city break – and for good reason.

There’s so much to see and do, from river cruises to the stunning Royal Palace and Van Gogh Museum.

But there are loads of free museums and experiences people don’t know about.

Swap the expensive tickets for the free Rijksmuseum sculpture gardens, or visit the quirky Mouse Mountains with its mini indoor rollercoaster.

You could even spend an entire day wandering the picture-perfect canals, and hop onboard the “Poezenboot” to experience a free floating cat sanctuary.

Wowcher is offering a two-night, room-only stay in the 4-star stylish XO Hotels Blue Tower for £59 pp, from 14-16 January.

The deal includes return flights from Bristol, Edinburgh, Manchester, London Gatwick, London Luton or London Stansted.

Get a bit of seaside action in Albufeira for £99pp

Albufeira in Portugal‘s Algarve is a vibrant coastal city that’s perfect for a spot of sunbathing and dolphin spotting.

The sprawling coastline has brilliant beaches like the trendy Praia da Oura with its cheap beachside bars, or the peacefully quiet Praia São Rafael.

There’s also the family-friendly Praia dos Pescadores with an abundance of loungers, inflatables, and water sports – and it’s only steps away from the town centre.

Albufeira Marina has a promenade packed with activities, like go-karting, Segways and bowling.

And there’s of course plenty of seafood restaurants and buzzing bars.

Head to the strip in the afternoon to make the most of happy hour deals – try out Coco Loco between 3 – 7pm for €2.50 (£2.20) pints and €5.50 (£4.83) cocktails.

Loveholidays offer a two-night, room-only stay at the Vale Carros by Umbral for £99 pp on multiple dates in January and February.

The deal includes return flights from Manchester or Luton airport.

Soak up some winter sun in Marrakech for £89pp

You can spend two nights in a stunning guest house with a giant pool in Marrakech for just £89 per person including flights.

This guest house is just 30 minutes from Marrakech’s city centre, with its UNESCO-listed Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

This is a city square unlike any other. The famous market area comes alive with street vendors, musicians, performances and the mouth-watering smells of Moroccan food.

Stroll through the Medina to snoop in the busy souks, with colourful buildings, artwork and clothing at every turn.

There’s also plenty of unique free things to do that will make unforgettable memories – such as listening to traditional storytelling at The World Storytelling Cafe or a free concert at Cafe Clock in the Kasbah.

And when you’ve taken in all that the bustling city of Marrakech has to offer, this guest house is perfect for blissful chill time by the pool.

They even have a shuttle which runs twice daily, to take you to and from the city.

And with Marrakech staying nice and hot year-round, there’s no bad time of year to book.

Loveholidays offers a two-night stay at the Guest House Qodwa for £89 pp, with breakfast included. The price includes return flights from London Stansted, leaving on 7th or 8th of December.

Have an action-packed holiday in Majorca for £90pp

On the doorstep of Majorca’s biggest waterpark, 100m from a gorgeous sandy beach, and a 10-minute drive from the airport, you get more than your money’s worth at the BLUESEA Mediodia hotel.

This hotel is just steps away from Playa de Palma beach, a dreamy 4m stretch of bright sand and turquoise Mediterranean waters.

It’s hard to beat El Arenal when it comes to Spanish beach resorts.

The beachfront is pristine, plus you’re never far from a balneario (wooden beach huts offering food, drinks, toilets and showers).

There’s no shortage of restaurants either, with everything from English to Chinese cuisine on offer.

There’s plenty of beachside bars for cheap drinks, and for some authentic Spanish goods – the nearby Mercat de l’Olivar is the largest market in Palma.

Plus, the walk up to Bellver Castle offers spectacular 360° views over the Bay of Palma.

On the Beach offers a 2-night stay at BLUESEA Mediodia for £90pp, with flights and breakfast included. Rates available on multiple dates in January, flying from London Gatwick.

Albania, £99pp

Just a two-minute away from Durres Beach (the largest in Albania), this affordable stay in Tirana is a budget-friendly base for exploring the capital city.

And at 4 nights for £99 in one of the trendiest holiday hotspots, who can say no?

Albania is becoming an increasingly popular country for Brits to visit for a spot of sun, thanks to its stunning beaches and rock-bottom prices.

Data from Loveholidays shows that bookings to Albania increased by 224 per cent compared to last year, proving just how popular this hotspot has become.

Durres Beach is a 10km stretch of sand with inviting warm and shallow waters, with plenty of water sports available like kayaking and paddle-boarding.

Plus, Albania is notoriously affordable when it comes to food and drink, with a beer typically costing just over €2 (£1.76).

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recommends visiting Cosmo Restaurant, the highest-rated eatery in Tirana serving up freshly-caught seafood.

After visiting the beach, there’s plenty more to see and do in the area, such as admiring the monuments of Skanderbeg Square and climbing the pyramid of Tirana.

Loveholidays offers a four-night, room-only stay at the Enles Hotel at £99pp for multiple dates in January, including return flights from London Stansted.

YOU’VE heard of the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell – but you may not have heard of this other magnificent site that’s in the middle of the city.

It has over 600 years of history and is now an incredibly impressive Art Nouveau Site worthy of being just as famous as its grand neighbours.

Sant Pau is a former hospital turned historical attraction found in the Eixample district of Barcelona.

In fact, it’s only 6 minutes away from the famous Sagrada Familia.

The site was previously called the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau – as it was a working hospital up until 2009.

The impressive complex was built between 1901 and 1930 and was designed by Catalan modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

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But its history dates back 1401 when six medieval hospitals in Barcelona merged to form the Hospital de la Santa Creu – was transformed into a modernist complex years later.

The site is made up of 16 pavilions which are connected by underground tunnels and was designed to be a “garden city” for the sick.

Inside are lots of open spaces and natural light as well as pretty gardens which were constructed in the hope of promoting healing.

The layout was revolutionary at the time with Lluís Domènech i Montaner believing that a natural and beautiful environment would help the recovery of patients.

The design of multiple pavilions also helped to stop the spreading of diseases.

The building is the largest Art Nouveau complex in Europe, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 and it’s considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful hospitals.

Due to its role as a hospital, Sant Pau isn’t as well-known as other nearby sites – and it gets approximately 375,000 visitors each year.

In comparison, the Sagrada Familia gets around 4.5 million visitors per year, as does Park Güell.

It wasn’t until 2014 that the site was restored and reopened as a museum and cultural center.

If you’re wondering what happened to the patients when the hospital closed – they were transferred next door into a modern facility.

Inside are beautiful decorations like mosaics, stained glass, and glazed tiles which visitors can marvel at.

Quite often there are events held there too – the site recently held the Sant Pau International Chamber Music Festival.

Over Christmas it’s been lit up with lights, 18 interactive instillations and of course, there’s a huge Christmas tree.

For those who want to explore it at their own pace, you can do so with a self-guided visit and a map for guidance at €11.90 (£10.44).

Guests can also take a guided tour and on Saturdays at 10.30AM tours will be taken in English.

You can buy tickets from €21 (£18.42) or €5 (£4.38) for children between 3-11 years old.

Plus, check out this abandoned Victorian church that has been turned into one of the UK’s most beautiful swimming pools.

And this eerie Victorian-era asylum is being transformed into a luxury 5-star hotel and spa.

I’M on Cloud Nine, floating blissfully between infinity pools and saunas, with panoramic views of a perfectly still lake.

I am at the Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa Hotel in the Lake District.

The rejuvenating adventure promises to refresh my senses and entire being. It does.

I hop between the two-tiered heated outdoor infinity pools and explore three sauna set-ups – eucalyptus, salt and natural mineral – then move between a number of pools at different temperatures.

Finally, I meander over to the bar, where I find an enticing range of cocktails, mocktails, beers, soft drinks and upmarket snacks.

Luckily, my luxurious suite at the hotel’s Winander Club is only a short plod away, behind and above the main hotel with views of mighty Lake Windermere.

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Those staying in The Winander Club area of the hotel not only benefit from fancy rooms with luxury additions such as freestanding bath tubs, they also enjoy exclusive dining spaces.

You won’t be short of decent food options in the hotel, though, even if you are staying in the main area.

There’s fine-dining cuisine at the W Restaurant and chunky ciabatta sandwiches and bar snacks in the very cosy public bar.

My favourite, however, was the popular Blue Smoke, with its centrepiece wood-fired grill.

Think steaks, fish served whole and maple-glazed salmon fillet all dished up with The Blue Smoke’s special chunky chips and slaw.

I’m still dreaming about my starter of butterfly king prawns, which were the size of fingers of Bownessie Monster – the myththical creature said to inhabit Lake Windermere.

Visitors could easily spend a weekend holed up in this cosy spot but the real highlight of the hotel is its location in the rolling Cumbrian countryside.

After a hearty full English brekkie – special mention to the very tasty Cumberland sausages – I got ready to explore the charms of Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere.

But be prepared to queue if you want to take a boat trip across Lake Windermere.

Most depart from Bowness, serenely gliding over the water alongside the paddle boarders and private boats.

If that doesn’t take your fancy, this time of year is great for a stroll.
Autumnal hues

As I strapped on my walking boots and struck out up the fells, I soaked up the glowing autumnal hues on the hills.

Ambleside is also well worth exploring.

This busy but quaint town has many upmarket shops and boutiques alongside local businesses ranging from homemade-chocolate stores and lambswool outfitters to traditional watering holes.

There’s even a Michelin-rated restaurant in the cellars at The Old Stamp House where Lake District bard William Wordsworth once worked as Distributor of Stamps.

As the sun began to set over Windermere, trimming the hills with a fiery orange, it was back to the Winander Club for a sundowner.

The perfect way to end a day.

GO: Standard Willow rooms at The Low Wood Bay & Spa cost from £216 per night.

Thermal journey spa packages cost from £60p.

See englishlakes.co.uk.

A COMMON passenger mistake is causing huge problems on flights – and even causing planes to divert.

Earlier this week, a United Airlines flight was forced to land in in Dublin rather than London.

The cause? A laptop sliding down the side of the seat.

While this may not seem like a large cause for concern, airlines warn against any technology that falls down the side of the seat.

This is due to them potentially being damaged if they fall into the seat reclining mechanisms.

If a passenger then damages the laptop by reclining, it can lead to the batteries in them catching on fire.

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And it’s not just laptops, but mobile phones can also cause this problem.

Back in 2018, crew were forced to extinguish a fire onboard a Qantas flight from Melbourne to LA after a plane stuck between seats set on fire.

And in 2020, a British Airways passenger’s phone caught o fire after it slipped down while she slept, and she then reclined without realising.

When it come to laptop issues, just last year a United flight from Zurich to Chicago had to emergency land in Ireland after a laptop got stuck in the seats.

Patrick Smith, a pilot, and author of Ask the Pilot previously warned about the dangers of this.

He said: “If you’re in an electrically controlled lie-flat seat, of the type common in first or business class, there are a number of nooks and crannies into which your phone can slip – beyond your reach and down into the mechanisms that control the seat’s various positions.”

Passengers are urged to alert flight crew if any of their devices fall down the side of the seat.

If they can’t be retrieved, then the seat shouldn’t be reclined until the plane has landed.

In British Airways‘ latest onboard safety announcement, they warn: “If you do lose your device within your seat, please don’t move your seat yourself.

“Ask a member of crew for some help.”

A rise in onboard fires has also been caused by portable charges, leading ot many airlines banning the use of them.

Most recently, power banks are no longer allowed to be used on a number of Australian airlines, and must not be put in the overhead lockers.

Other airlines like Emirates are also not allowing passengers to use them during a flight, and encourages the use of the in-seat charging instead.

Only Korean Air fully bans power banks being taken onboard, after one of their aircraft was decommissioned due to fire damage caused by one.

Back in 2020, a passenger’s laptop was destroyed after someone reclined their seat onto it, crushing the screen.

I WATCH the sun slowly drop away behind the sandy horizon, as the sky transforms into a dozen magical shades of yellow and orange.

My tour group had decided to make a quick photo stop ahead of our dune-bashing tour in the Qatari desert, with aptly named driver Basham.

And we were so glad we did.

This is my first time visiting the Middle East and a 4×4 excursion across the vast sands is the perfect start to my stay in Doha, Qatar’s capital.

After soaking up the sunset, I’m led back to my huge vehicle by Basham who spends the next 30 minutes putting both car and passengers through their paces.

It’s an exhilarating experience, soaring over the ridges of the tall dunes and veering towards the edges of sandbanks at ferociously high speed.

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Doha certainly isn’t short of action-packed day trips for adrenaline junkies.

If the dune-bashing isn’t your thing, visitors can also get their kicks at Doha Quest, an indoor theme park that is home to more than 30 rides and attractions including the world’s tallest indoor rollercoaster Epiq Coaster.

If you’re more of a sun worshipper, the Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park at the Hilton Salwa Beach Resort will be the place for you.

There are 30 thrilling slides and rides here, although the lazy river is the most addictive in my opinion — I could spend hours bobbing around on the water, floating serenely around the park.

But if you prefer an adrenaline hit, there are spine-tingling rides here, too.

I swear that I saw some airtime on the Whizzard Mat Racer, a sheer-drop slide that sends riders plummeting towards a blue foam mat.

Qatar isn’t just about thrills and spills, though.

The Middle Eastern country is also a hub for major sporting events, including Formula 1.

Experiencing the Qatar Grand Prix up close is a must for any petrolhead — and I was able to do just that through a package booking with Qatar Airways, a global partner of Formula 1.

Affordable luxury

The airline rolls flights, hotel and F1 tickets into one, making it much easier for Brits who have maybe never visited Qatar before.

I relished every second of watching drivers such as Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and Lando Norris speed around the circuit, lap after lap.

You can be sure that I jumped at the chance to go on a pit-lane walk, too, which took me past the teams’ garages where I could take hundreds of pictures and videos.

And you would be a fool to miss out on a tour of the track in a huge open-top truck before the race gets under way — I was able to feel all the twists and turns that the racers would be experiencing during the race, although at an admittedly much slower speed.

After all that excitement, I was grateful that my hotel, the Hilton Salwa Beach Resort, has just over two miles of private beaches, where I could flop on a sun lounger with fantastic views over the glittering Arabian Gulf.

Even the most basic room here feels luxurious, thanks to the huge wooden headboard towering behind the plush bed, a spacious sofa area where holidaymakers can relax to the max after a day of snoozing by the pool, and glass double doors opening on to a large balcony.

That’s the real highlight of Doha — luxury has a much more affordable price tag. Rooms here cost from around £188 with breakfast, which considering the quality and detail is impressive value.

The food is high-end, too. For classic Qatari and Middle Eastern flavours, head to the on-site Levantine restaurant, where you can pick up some excellent kofte for under £20.

If you’re looking to really push the boat out, though, the Raffles Doha hotel will blow your socks off.

Rooms cost from £335 per night here, but this is still a a lot less than most other hotels in the Raffles chain, including The OWO in London where rooms can cost just shy of £1,000 per night.

Raffles Doha occupies half of the prestigious Katara Towers. These U-shaped buildings are a symbol of Qatar’s national seal, representing traditional scimitar swords.

It’s the height of luxury, from its grand lobby all the way through to its suites and restaurants — and the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion.

Decked out with hardwood floors, mirrors and golden motifs, my spacious suite was a luxurious haven — and even came with a personalised butler service.

The huge floor-to-ceiling windows offered fantastic views over the Arabian Gulf and, if you can brave the morning heat, a warm brew on the terrace is the perfect way to start your day.

I was too focused on heading to downstairs to eat at L’Artisan, a restaurant that whips up the very best breakfast omelettes I’ve ever eaten.

You might want to keep food to a minimum if you’re heading out dune-bashing, though.

THE top bars across the globe have been named and in the top spot is one right here in the UK.

Now, you might think the world’s best bar would be in London but it’s actually in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The boozer called Panda & Sons secured the number one spot of the Top 500 Bars list this year.

Founded back in 2013, Panda & Sons is a ‘hidden’ Prohibition-style speakeasy, according to Time Out.

Top 500 Bars said: “Panda & Sons is the brainchild of famed Scottish bartender Iain McPherson.

“It’s a table service cocktail bar, that’s all about friendly Scottish service in an intimate and cosy surrounding. Their cocktail menu offers exciting drinks using the latest techniques, including their very own called ‘Switching’.

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“Their technique Switching is where you isolate the water from spirits and swap it with another non-alcoholic liquid.”

To get inside you have to find the secret door, which is behind a bookshelf underneath a barbers.

Once inside, you can find cool panda themed decorations throughout the place.

It won’t break the bank either with cocktails for around £9, but of course, you can go for a fancier drink with some costing up to £15.

It’s a popular spot having amassed a solid Tripadvisor rating of 4.5 out of 5 with lots of visitors complimenting its ‘super friendly’ staff and ‘unique’ drinks menu.

One visitor even said they were “literally the best drink I’ve ever had in my life” and that when they went to the bathroom the bartender kept their drink in the fridge so it would stay cold.

If Edinburgh isn’t your local spot – there were other UK bars hat also made the top 10.

Tayēr + Elementary in London came in seventh place, followed by The Connaught Bar in 13th place.

Also in London making the rankings was Scarfes Bar (21) and Satan’s Whiskers (22), while lower down was Kwant (108), Three Sheets Soho (115), Kol Mezcalería: London (118).

Along with Panda & Sons, Hey Palu, which is also in Edinburgh also made the list in 148th place.

The bar describes itself as an ‘intimate stylish cocktail bar in the heart of Edinburgh Old Town, accompanied by a killer playlist’.

The drinks menu focuses on Italian Aperitivo along with modern yet classic cocktails,

SCHOFIELD’S BAR in Manchester came in 224th and Lab 22 in Cardiff in 306th, while The Milk Thistle in Bristol in 315th.

Nestled near Peak District National Park, this charming Derbyshire village is bursting with character and offers the perfect pit stop after a day of hiking around Mam Tor

Tucked away near the Peak District National Park, this picturesque rural village provides an ideal stopping point for ramblers exploring Derbyshire, with numerous welcoming pubs just a short stroll away.

Located next to the renowned Mam Tor, a 517-metre peak within the national park, Castleton ranks among the most spectacularly positioned villages in the region. The settlement is encircled by breathtaking vistas of limestone and gritstone escarpments, which regularly draw visitors from cities including Sheffield and Manchester.

Numerous visitors pause in the village either before or following a day’s trek up the hill, where a stone-paved footpath guides walkers along a circular route spanning roughly three miles. The moderately challenging ramble typically requires up to two hours – an expedition well worth rewarding with a refreshing beverage afterwards.

One recent rambler shared on TripAdvisor: “I finally decided to pay Mam Tor a visit to walk up to rather than just driving past it. It’s so dominating on the horizon as you drive through Castleton. Now, you can walk up to it from a variety of paths. The tourist path from the official Mam Tor car park is a popular one; however, you pay for car parking there, and it usually gets busy.”

At its core sits a thoroughly English village, packed with pubs, tearooms, bakeries and shops, ideal for leisurely browsing. Highly-rated drinking establishments in the village include The George, Ye Olde Nags Head, 1530 The Restaurant and the Bulls Head. All within a stone’s throw of each other, these pubs provide the perfect haven after a hard day and maintain a cracking atmosphere throughout the year. Ye Olde Nags Head, believed to be the oldest in the area, has been serving pints since the 17th century. One satisfied punter left a review, stating: “The pub is lovely, warm and welcoming. The staff were very friendly. The building is old and tired in places, but it’s part of the character of the place.”

In addition to the beer selection, the village boasts a high number of cafes for its size, offering passers-by a cuppa and a sweet treat. Regardless of the weather, both locals and tourists pack the rooms for a hot beverage and their locally baked cakes, biscuits and other treats – delicious and totally Instagram-worthy.

Castleton is believed to be the only place on earth that possesses the precious Blue John stone, found within several of its hidden gem caverns. There are four caves in total, open for anyone to explore, including Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine. The most frequented is the Peak Cavern, nestled beneath Peveril Castle and amusingly dubbed ‘the devil’s arse’. Eager explorers flock to the site for tours lasting over an hour, detailing its history and showcasing the intricacies of the underground hidden gem.

Vienna is a city that is perfect for a long weekend away, and as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, it could be the perfect time to visit the Austrian capital

Just over two hours from London lies a capital city boasting enchanting and romantic Christmas markets, perfect for a picturesque weekend getaway. As the temperature dips and evenings grow longer, a long weekend in Vienna, Austria’s bustling capital of nine million residents brimming with festive spirit, could be an ideal quick holiday.

Vienna is approximately two hours and 15 minutes by plane from London, and its compact layout coupled with excellent transport links make it easy to explore even when you’re feeling a bit knackered. MyLondon reports the top attractions in this Austrian gem.

What to do in Vienna

First on your list should undoubtedly be the Christmas Market at Rathausplatz. This historic square transforms into a winter wonderland that’s not to be missed.

The market is one of the most renowned in Europe, attracting millions of visitors annually. You’ll be dazzled by twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating a magical backdrop that’s sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

With over 150 stalls, the market offers everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats. You can indulge in traditional Austrian pastries like Vanillekipferl (vanilla cookies) and Lebkuchen (spiced cookies), as well as warming mugs of Glühwein (mulled wine).

You’ll also enjoy the cheerful sounds of carol singers and other live performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. The ice rink is another major draw for people of all ages.

A visit to Hundertwasser House is an absolute must. This creative masterpiece by renowned architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser was completed in 1985. The extraordinary apartment block features a kaleidoscope of colours, shapes and undulating lines.

Across from this striking building sits Hundertwasser Village, where stepping inside feels like entering an entirely different world that could easily be Willy Wonka’s residence. The area boasts red brick archways, vintage lamp posts, and charming alcoves housing petite boutiques.

After all that exploring in Vienna, you’re bound to build up quite an appetite, which is where Bier and Bierli comes in. Offering mouth-watering schnitzels, fresh salads, and a variety of beverages, it’s hardly surprising the establishment has earned 4.4 stars on Google.

One satisfied customer raved: “Such a lovely experience today! We had both lunch and dinner here and both times food and service deserved 5+*. Staff is very helpful and friendly. Service is quick and professional.”

Cheapest flights from London to Vienna

Multiple options exist for travelling from London to Vienna. However, the standout option is the Wizz Air flight which departs London Luton at 5.10pm, arriving at 8.25pm Vienna time.

At the time of writing, tickets cost just £20.59.

Flights can be reserved via Skyscanner, whilst lodging options are available on Booking.com.

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I sat stock-still on a bench fashioned from a fallen silver birch, scanning the woods for a sudden movement or a flash of blue. Deer and kingfisher visit this secluded copse and its stream, and I hoped to spot at least one of them. There was a rustle in the undergrowth, but it was only a more familiar winter visitor: a cheery robin.

It was a chilly day for wildlife-watching, but that didn’t matter to me – I was inside a sizzling sauna, gazing out of a large picture window. In fact, I was soon sweating so much, I nipped out to the icy-cold shower to cool off. The next time I overheated, I braved a plunge in the cold-water tub.

EXCLUSIVE: Kelly Williams and her family spent an adrenaline-inducing four days at PortAventura World as the Costa Dorada theme park celebrated its 30th anniversary

There’s something special about a really good theme park that makes it feel timeless. Places where parents get to be kids again, and children’s laughter (and screams) fill the air.

So when PortAventura World in Spain announced its 30th anniversary celebrations, it seemed like it was the perfect excuse for an autumn escape. With our three children – aged 15, 11 and three in tow – my partner and I packed our sense of adventure and set off for a few unforgettable days of rollercoasters, shows, and sunshine.

Our base for the trip was Hotel Gold River, one of PortAventura’s on-site themed hotels. Stepping into the lobby felt like walking onto a film set where we half expected John Wayne to burst through the saloon doors at any moment.

Our room overlooked a Wild West “main street,” and each morning we’d wander past the clapboard façades to reach the park entrance. The convenience of staying on-site made all the difference – no parking wars or traffic jams, just an easy stroll to the day’s adventure. Plus, it helped that the plentiful breakfast buffets ensured we were well-fuelled and ready for the day ahead.

PortAventura is divided into several themed lands that celebrate different parts of the world, and exploring them felt like a global journey without the jet lag. Dining here is half the fun, too, as each “continent” offers a different culinary world. Even the snacks feel part of the story.

We began in Mediterrània, where Spanish music floated across the waterfront and the scent of paella drifted from the restaurants. From there, we crossed over into Mexico, where we celebrated the Day of the Dead before braving the towering Hurakan Condor drop tower.

In China, we took on the legendary Dragon Khan, a twisting roller coaster that roars through the air, weaving around our park favourite – Shambhala. If there’s anywhere to start rollercoaster training your kids, it’s definitely here. Thanks to our Express Passes, we were able to skip the ride queues – perfect for keeping the excitement high and the meltdowns low.

But if fast rides aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty else to do. Over in the Far West, the kids delighted in the old-fashioned shooting galleries and funfair games. The log flumes and water rapids are also a giggle (if you don’t mind getting drenched).

There are parades and shows aplenty for people who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground. Not to mention meet-and-greets with characters from the past, including Woody Woodpecker and Bert and Ernie. The little one was mesmerised by the Sesame Street characters and the 3D dark ride – Street Mission where he kicked butt at shooting at 3D cookies – even beating me!

The park’s newest attraction, Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence, was a highlight for the older two. Inspired by the action-packed film, this is no ordinary coaster.

It’s a fully enclosed, multi-directional ride that hurls you into darkness with sudden twists, drops, and reversals you never see coming. We screamed, laughed, and stumbled out slightly dizzy but exhilarated, unanimously declaring it among our top five favourite rides of the trip.

This year, the entire resort buzzed with celebration, adorned with banners marking 30 years of thrills and family fun, along with themed menus to boot. But no visit to PortAventura World is complete without a detour to Ferrari Land, we couldn’t wait to test Red Force – Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, which rockets from 0 to 180 km/h in just five seconds.

The kids’ faces when they climbed off said it all – pure, speechless awe. We spent time exploring the interactive exhibits, racing, simulators, and child-friendly driving zones, where even our three-year-old braved Junior Red Force.

Each evening we returned to Gold River, dusty, sun-warmed and grinning. From our window, we could see the distant glow of the park lights fading into the night – a perfect backdrop to the hum of tired excitement that only a day at a theme park can bring.

PortAventura’s 30th anniversary turned out to be more than just a milestone for the park, it became a celebration for our family too. A few days of laughter, adventure, and shared memories that reminded us how good it feels to play, to explore, and to be together. Our only regret was that we couldn’t be there for longer.

I was sure the magic in me had died long ago, as a burned out 35-year-old dad – so was the hype over the ‘most magical place on earth’ even real?

As a sceptical 35-year-old and rapidly approaching my grumpy dad era, I wasn’t convinced that the Disney magic would win me over on a recent trip to Walt Disney World.

Well, I was about to very quickly be proven wrong. As I touched down in Florida, I was sure that I’d be the quietly excited, loudly exhausted adult that looked forward only to the thrill rides and breakfast buffets.

I’m getting used to being wrong; Walt Disney World isn’t just for kids. It sneakily rewires grouchy grown-ups, too.

Somewhere between a zippy run on the first ride of the trip – a hello-goodbye to Dinosaur before it closes for good in February 2026 – and an unexpectedly emotional meet-cute with Eeyore at the Crystal Palace’s character dining experience, the magic found me once again. It’s not just the experiences either; I couldn’t help but be swept up by the infectious enthusiasm of other parkgoers.

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge was my base, with its huge beds and views of giraffes from the rooms. After keeping jet lag at bay and sinking into the first full night of sleep I’ve enjoyed since becoming a parent three years ago, I was ready for my first taste of Disney magic and headed to Animal Kingdom park. (Walt Disney World is actually made up of four theme parks; Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT and Animal Kingdom).

The new Zootopia experience, ‘Better Zoogether!’ set the tone for the rest of the week. Launching just as Zootopia 2 hit cinemas, the attraction was a sugar rush of fun, silliness and wholesome humour. I found myself unable to resist chuckling along and wasn’t ready for some of the clever effects that made for some fun surprises (I won’t spoil them here though!).

Next on the itinerary was a trip to the themed Pandora – The World of Avatar, where I was taken aback. The spectacular surroundings immersed me in a land unlike any other experience I’d had before.

That ended up being the theme of the week; every attraction had its own way of absorbing you in the world it represented and the story it told the guests. In World of Avatar, the visually stunning Na’vi River Journey and then the truly groundbreaking Avatar: Flight of Passage were great examples of how you can get swept into those worlds.

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A self-professed fan of all things from a galaxy far, far away, I was always going to enjoy the attractions in Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars themed land, but Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance was arguably the best of the narrative-driven attractions I’ve ever been on. Each time I thought the ride was either ending or taking a certain direction, it both physically and thematically shifted.

Wandering around these massive playgrounds built to resemble the stunning worlds of blockbuster movies was the one thing I was most excited for. They lived up to the hype and then some – seeing the Millennium Falcon in Galaxy’s Edge, not knowing it was coming, literally took my breath away.

But there was another heartwarming feeling I didn’t expect. I was transported back to my younger self. All of the characters wandering the resort – whether it was Kylo Ren, Buzz Lightyear or the various Disney Princesses – encapsulated all the charm and wonder I felt as a boy.

Is this what it feels like to be a ‘Disney adult’? If it wasn’t, then the shows – including the delightfully camp Villains: Unfairly Ever After – and stunning fireworks displays got me as close to becoming one as I’m ever likely to.

The thrill rides too were truly brilliant – the Tower of Terror was my personal favourite, offering a unique adrenaline rush that I couldn’t help but laugh the whole way through, and TRON Lightcycle/Run was as fast and exhilarating as you’d expect. As a huge Marvel fan, the Guardians of the Galaxy ride lived up to the hype – not even a touch of motion sickness could dampen the feel-good vibes.

Then there’s the food. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to come to a theme park and enjoy fine dining. But tastes and smells of culinary excellence from across the world were truly astounding here. From the uniquely moorish bread at The Boathouse in Disney Springs – if you know, you know – to the opulent Hollywood Brown Derby’s upscale dinners, you don’t have to simply eat fast food all week. But if you choose to, the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater restaurant in Hollywood Studios has a unique diner experience.

But the most magical experience of the week had to be the Happily Ever After fireworks display. Being sat in front of Cinderella Castle as the night sky engulfed everything around it became a spectacular memory I’ll never lose. The combination of a medley of Disney’s greatest uplifting musical numbers and a truly impressive fireworks show made for a surprisingly emotional evening.

It was at this point that I truly shed the stressful reality of modern life as a father of two – all the pressures melted away as I got lost in the wonder. Well played Mickey Mouse, well played.

Just another theme park? Not on your life. I’m completely converted and can see why some people will return for holiday after holiday; the magic within me was relit all over again.

Book the holiday

Stay two weeks at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort from £3,343 based on two adults and two children sharing a Standard Room, arriving on 17 August 2026. Includes Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket, Memory Maker worth $210 and complimentary transportation. Based on bookings made by 31 March 2026. Excludes flights but these can be added to your package to save £500 per booking when booked by 26th February 2026. Find out more and book at disneypackages.co.uk.

With the festivities in full swing, parents across the nation are busy planning trips with the kids to visit Lapland UK, but one mum booked the real deal in Finland and saved £500

Lapland in Finland is one of the magical destinations during this time of year, offering visitors the chance to meet Father Christmas, witness the Northern Lights, and feed reindeer among the enchanting snow-covered landscape.

One parent has booked a trip to Finland for an extra touch of jolly merriment and managed to save a whopping £500 – making it cheaper than a visit to Lapland UK.

Ahead of the festivities, Jen Carr, 36, from Nottinghamshire, was originally planning a trip to the UK-based winter wonderland with her six-year-old son, her friend and their son, having previously visited Finland with her family. However, as she was looking into prices, she discovered that a trip to the UK destination in either Ascot or Manchester could set them back a whopping £1,100.

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Jen told the Mirror: “I was asking on my socials how much people were spending on Lapland UK because I know it can be quite competitive to get certain tickets, and the prices get ridiculous. A few families told me that they’d spent over £1,000 on Lapland UK, just for the day ticket and a hotel.”

Determined not to let the expense ruin their Christmas plans, Jen thought: “Surely you can go to the real Lapland for that?” This led the mum-of-two to research cheap flights on Skyscanner to Lapland, Finland, from various locations in the UK and for different dates in December.

Jen discovered that the cheapest airports to fly from were Birmingham and London Stansted. She booked direct, return flights from Stansted to Finland, departing on Monday, 15 December, for £103 per person (£412 in total), with hand luggage only.

While the group of four will need to drive two and a half hours to the airport from Nottinghamshire, they’ve managed to find a hack to save even more money. “We found somebody’s drive that we can park on rather than having to pay for airport parking, and they’re going to drop us off at the airport,” Jen explained.

With the flights booked, Jen looked into accommodation options for a two-night stay. “As we’re booking late, a lot of the accommodation in the little city, Rovaniemi, where everybody stays, was pretty much booked up, so it’s really, really expensive,” she explained.

“But we were able to find a room at a reindeer farm, which is about an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi, and it was super cheap.” The room cost £187 for two adults and two children, for a two-night stay.

“Whereas in this little city that everybody goes to, it was around £2,000 for two nights, like really insane prices,” Jen added. As they are staying an hour away from the main Lapland area, they looked into a car hire and booked one for £147. This will also see them drive from the Finland airport to the reindeer farm.

“We thought, it’s in the middle of nowhere, so it’s going to be forestry and snowy. There are going to be reindeer there, and we might even see the northern lights because it’s in the middle of nowhere. We thought that, actually, a lot of it would be free, and we could go sledging as they have sledges there. So we’re not going to have to spend a huge amount.” Jen added that the four of them will be sharing one room, which also features a small kitchenette where they can cook their own meals, and there will be a shared bathroom.

“Most people will just look into staying in Rovaniemi, but looking further out, it’s probably going to be quite nice. It won’t be as busy or touristy.”

In terms of what they’ll get up to during their stay, Jen explained that they’ll arrive quite late in the day.

“So we have the full day, and then we have a morning before we fly home in the afternoon. W’re going to see what there is to do around where we’re staying, do some sledging and feed the reindeer. Then I think we’ll drive to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi,” she continued.

“I’ve been before, so I’m familiar with the area. It’s free to go in, you can go sledging, there are some playgrounds, and it’s quite cheap with lots of little activities. You can see Santa Claus for free there, which we’ll do in Santa Claus Village.”

To keep the costs even lower, they’re going to do a little supermarket shop for their meals, making sandwiches or noodles for lunch and pasta in the evenings. The savvy mum added. “We’re also taking our own marshmallows to toast because there are lots of open fires where you can toast marshmallows, but they’re really expensive to buy there.

“Hot chocolates are also really expensive there, so we’re going to take some flasks and our own hot chocolate to make before we go out. Then we can just sit around a little fire with some hot chocolate and marshmallows, and it won’t cost us anything.”

The saving hacks allowed them to pay just £149 per person, including flights and two nights’ accommodation, which is cheaper than many Lapland UK day out tickets. During their winter getaway to Lapland, their only other costs are expected to be petrol for the hire car, their supermarket shop and a few activities.

Offering advice to others looking to save on their next getaway, Jen shared: “It’s research and being a bit flexible, being willing to step out of the box a little bit and go a bit further afield. Maybe travel from an airport that isn’t the closest one to you and try to travel without luggage, because once you add checked-in luggage, you’re adding hundreds of pounds onto the trip. Then just think about the little costs that would add up, like the hot chocolate and the marshmallows, or take a packet of noodles or two. It’s all the little bits that you can save on.”

Jen Carr, family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum, shares the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week on her website. You can also read Jen’s e-book.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

The Foreign Office has issued a warning to Brits who are planning on heading to a popular European winter holiday spot in the coming weeks, as they could be at risk of hospitalisation or even death

British holidaymakers planning their dream winter getaway in the coming weeks face potential hospitalisation or even death, according to Foreign Office warnings. More than 20 million people flock to the European destination each year, with over one million of those being UK travellers.

Renowned for its tranquil landscapes and stunning mountain views, Switzerland remains a favoured destination for those keen on winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. However, the Foreign Office has warned that some Brits may be engaging in ‘risky’ activities that might not be covered by their insurance policies.

Being inadequately prepared could result in serious consequences for both your well-being and your finances, particularly if you haven’t been careful about selecting the right insurance cover for your trip. In certain circumstances, you might find yourself liable for more than £3,000 if you lack proper travel insurance protection, and that’s excluding medical expenses and hospital bills.

Foreign Office guidance warns: “Adventure sports can be risky. British nationals in the Swiss Alps have been involved in accidents and have been hospitalised or died. Check the company you are using is well-established and that your travel insurance covers any specific activity.

“For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous (for example, off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding or BASE jumping), you could get into difficulty and need emergency rescue. Adventure sports can be risky. British nationals in the Swiss Alps have been involved in accidents and have been hospitalised or died.

“Check the company you are using is well-established and that your travel insurance covers any specific activity. For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous (for example, off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding or BASE jumping), you could get into difficulty and need emergency rescue.”

Making sure you’ve got the right cover for your winter holiday

If you’re planning a trip to a ski resort this winter, it’s crucial to make sure any activities you intend to participate in are covered by your travel insurance. When sorting out your policy, ensure you’re fully clued up on any exclusions included in the policy and when you won’t be protected.

It’s also vital to consider medical costs, and when your insurance policy will foot the bill for you, especially if you plan on using rental gear, as this likely won’t be covered. Moreover, those hitting the slopes off-piste without a guide may not typically be covered by their insurance.

According to SOS 144, a helicopter rescue in the Swiss Alps can cost as much as 3,500 CHF (£3,293).

LIVE the alpine dream in a national park, says writer Siobhan Ludlow.

The Yorkshire Dales is the perfect destination for great views and tranquility.

THE PAD

Can’t make it to the Alps this season?

Soak up views of the Yorkshire Dales National Park from the cosy Swiss Ski Station Pod at Catgill Farm instead.

This beaut is decked out with cute alpine touches and comes complete with a ski-lift gondola to sip tipples and snuggle up in, a wood-fired hot tub and a three-in-one fire pit/barbecue/pizza oven.

Lap up more lush countryside vistas from the master bed, while kids will love the bunks.

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From spring, Cat’s Kitchen serves up frothy cappuccinos, £3.50, and bacon butties, £5, alongside giant Jenga and Connect 4, and there are walks aplenty from the doorstep.

Don’t forget to pop by to pat the farm’s friendly alpacas, too.

EXPLORE

You’re only a 15-minute walk from the Bolton Abbey estate and majestic Priory ruins, which date back to the 12th century.

If you’re brave enough, take on the stepping stones across the River Wharfe, then follow the fun “welly walk” with its obstacles and balance beams.

Travel back in time (which your tummies will thank you for) with a full English aboard a vintage steam train on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway.

Tickets cost from £25 for adults, £20 for kids (Embsay boltonabbeyrailway.org.uk).

Later, get your history fix exploring Skipton Castle and its pretty castle woods.

Entry costs £10.70 for adults, £6.90 for over-fives (Skiptoncastle.co.uk).

Meanwhile, a five-minute walk from Catgill, Hesketh Farm Park is brilliant for little ones, with its giant sandpit, tractor rides and plenty of animals to pet and feed.

Tickets cost £8 for everyone over two and it reopens in spring (Heskethfarmpark.co.uk).

REFUEL

Reward yourselves for hikes with a mouth-watering côte de boeuf with triple-cooked chips, seasonal greens and red wine jus, £95 for two people, at The Devonshire Arms, just 15 minutes’ walk away (Thedevonshirearms.co.uk).

Meanwhile, Tea On The Green in Bolton Abbey village offers great coffee and traybakes, but the soup with a home-made cheese scone, £9, is an absolute winner (Teaonthegreen.org).

And don’t leave Yorkshire until you’ve been transported to ’50s America at nearby Billy Bob’s Parlour.

Kids will have a riot in the brilliant playgrounds, and you’ll all love its Round The Campfire fluffy pancakes, £10.25, topped with rocky road and Kansas toffee-crunch ice cream, toasted marshmallows, mallow fluff and shards of cinder toffee.

Oh, and not forgetting the dollop of hot fudge sauce, too (Billybobsparlour.com).

BOOK IT

Stays in the Swiss Ski Station Pod at Catgill Farm cost from £189.99 per night (Catgillfarm.co.uk).

IF you want a thrill on water, then how about trying the world’s tallest waterslide?

Called RIG 1938, its found at Meryal Waterpark in Qatar.

Having only opened last year, it stands at 85m tall, meaning it currently holds the Guinness World Record for tallest waterslide.

But it isn’t actually one slide – and is actually a structure made up of 12 slides.

Others include The Fractionator, where you can pick your own music as you go down.

This slide also holds a record, being the world’s tallest body slide.

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IN FOR A RIDE

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Or there is Vertigo, with a 76m drop, as well as The Broiler which is more like a water rollercoaster with twists and turns

Meryal Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Qatar.

And if you aren’t a slide enthusiast, then there lots of other attractions to choose from, with nearly 70 in total.

Across the six-acre resort, there are also lazy rivers, wave pools and toddler splash parks.

You can even book a cabana for the day which includes bottles of water, towels and snacks.

For dining options, guests can choose from kid-friendly menus to Italian, Asian and international restaurants.

One tourist said it was the “world’s best waterpark”.

They added: “We love water parks and we have been to Atlantis, Siam Park, Volcano Bay etc … but this place is our number 1.

“Seriously amazing.”

Another agreed, saying: “Fun waterpark for all ages. Crazy slides and very safe.

“The rides were very thrilling. Kids enjoyed it. By far the best waterpark in the world.”

The park is open from 10am-6pm, from November to February, closing on February 26, 2026.

Tickets cost 100 Qatari Riyal (£21) if you book online, while cabanas start from 599 Qatari Riyal (£126).

Guests staying at the nearby Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North hotel get free entry to the waterpark.

If you want to find the world’s best waterpark, Siam Park in Tenerife is often named one of the best.

For the biggest indoor waterpark in Europe, head to Poland to find Suntago.

Ryanair claimed its Prime subscription scheme was a ‘no brainer’ for frequent flyers, but it failed to attract anything like enough customers and has now been ditched

Budget airline Ryanair has announced the immediate closure of a loyalty scheme to new customers after failing admitting it was loss-making.

The no-frills carrier only launched its £79 a year Prime subscription in March, offering free reserved seats, free travel insurance and access to 12 annual (one per each month) member-exclusive seat sales.

It claimed that “Prime” members who took a dozen flights per year would save up to £420 , or more than the times the cost of the subscription Ryanair said the scheme was limited to 250,000 members on a first come, first served basis.

But the Irish airline has now announced it will be scrapped after just 55,000 people signed-up.

Ryanair said all those existing members will continue to get exclusive monthly low fare offers until October next year, but no new members will be allowed to sign up.

Dara Brady, Ryanair’s chief marketing officer, called the scheme a “no-brainer” for frequent flyer when launching it back in March.

But speaking now, he said: “Over the years, customers have asked for a Ryanair members scheme, so we trialled this ‘Prime’ scheme over the last eight months.

“To date, we have signed up over 55,000 Prime members, generating over €4.4m (£3.86m) in subscription fees. However, our Prime members have received over €6m (£5.26m) in fare discounts, so this trial has cost more money than it generates.

“This level of memberships, or subscription revenue does not justify the time and effort it takes to launch monthly exclusive Prime seat sales for our 55,000 Prime members. We are grateful to our 55,000 Prime members who signed up to this Prime trial over the last eight months, and they can rest assured that they will continue to enjoy exclusive flight and seat savings for the remainder of their 12-month membership.”

He went on: “With over 207m passengers this year, Ryanair will continue to focus on delivering the lowest fares in Europe to all our customers, and not this subset of 55,000 Prime members.”

Ryanair recently made a change so that passengers have to use to use digital boarding passes only. Since November 12. passengers will no longer be able to download and print a physical paper boarding pass. Instead, they will have to use the digital boarding pass generated in the “myRyanair” app on their mobile device -smartphone or tablet -during check-in process to board any of its flights.

IT’S 11pm and I’m at the all-night cafe in pyjamas and slippers, unsure whether to order six or eight chocolate-chip cookies.  

The lady next to me, by contrast, is dressed in a glamorous ballgown and buying an espresso. 

Peering down into the Piazza below — my eight cookies in hand — I spy a lively crowd who are throwing their best shapes to dance music at the silent disco. 

A cruise is like no other holiday. 

While I was preparing myself for a girls’ night in, with room service and a movie, other passengers were rolling out of glitzy restaurants and heading off in search of late-night fun in the Piazza or pouring out of the theatre after another West End-style show. 

Couples were taking a stroll around the outside deck in the warm Mediterranean air and the casino’s bright lights were still drawing in crowds.

SEAS THAT BARGAIN

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CRUISE ALONG

I went on UK cruise launching first Caribbean holidays with island hopping

Where else can you get such varied fun rolled into one small(ish) space? 

That’s why, when it came to deciding our girls’ trip this year, a voyage on the high seas came out on top.

My work pals and I can’t take credit for coining the girls’ trip at sea. 

More and more women are swapping long weekends sipping pina coladas in Marbella for action-packed sailings. 

And major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, have begun flogging packages designed solely for female groups — championing the on-board shopping and sleek bars and the appeal of the multiple destinations in one trip. 

Princess Cruises’ Suzanne Korff says: “It’s the ultimate girls’ trip — the perfect blend of luxury, laughter and adventure, all with incredible value.”  

It’s certainly true that cruises offer more bang for your buck — a huge perk in a time when people are more cash-strapped than ever.

My week’s Mediterranean sailing on board Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess cost my pals and I around £900 per person.

When we weren’t pounding the sunny streets of Palermo in Sicily, or gobbling up pizza in Naples, we were aboard the 21-deck ship soaking up the sun.  

That included not just our flights and cabin, but all of our food and all the entertainment — from Broadway musicals in the large theatre to Celtic bands in the traditional Irish boozer. 

When we weren’t pounding the sunny streets of Palermo in Sicily, or gobbling up pizza in Naples, we were aboard the 21-deck ship soaking up the sun.  

And there were plenty of places to gather for a good dip and gossip.

There are two sparkling pools on the Lido deck, complete with plenty of loungers, as well as a fantastic Wake View pool with infinity edge overlooking the back of the ship. 

Mixologist tricks 

For those chillier, early-morning swims, the indoor/outdoor pool in the glass-ceilinged Dome was perfect — again with plenty of places to chill with your pals. 

Those wanting to really up the ante can splash out on a suite, which will give you access to the Sanctuary Club.  

Think your ultimate Mediterranean beach club but with a chilled, tranquil atmosphere and cushioned beds and loungers, scattered between hot tubs. 

There’s also a decent-sized pool, as well as a bar that can whip up all manner of cocktails, including an excellent frozen daiquiri.

Some afternoons, a DJ or live singer appear, perfect to lull you into a serene snooze while you tan.

But the highlight of this exclusive zone is undoubtedly the prosecco wall.

Several times a day, during the afternoon, guests are encouraged to ring a large bell protruding from a plant-covered wall.

Moments later, a hand will emerge from the shrubbery, as if by magic, clutching a complimentary flute of prosecco for the bell-ringer.  

On sea days, the magical wall even serves up mimosas from 9.30am to 11am. 

Of course, drinks can be delivered directly to your sunbed. Food can be ordered anywhere within the Sanctuary Club, too, so you really needn’t lift a finger. 

But with 30 restaurants and bars on board, you would be mad not to dine around.  

Among complimentary options are Soleil and Eclipse dining areas, each serving a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner in a grand two-level setting.  

For something more casual, The Eatery is Sun Princess’ take on a buffet, where you can flit between Mexican, Italian, American and almost every other cuisine imaginable.  

Elsewhere there’s sushi, pub grub and a gelateria, all included in the price of your cruise. And that’s before you get to the specialty joints, for which guests pay extra.  

Spellbound, created in partnership with American arts venue Magic Castle, is a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar where mixologists perform tricks. 

The teppanyaki restaurant is well worth the dosh. Sat at a horseshoe-shaped bar, around a huge steel griddle, we watched as our chef turned dinner into a show — tossing eggs with a flick of his fish slice and transforming an omelette into a snake that slithered before our eyes. 

The magic did not end there, though. What makes this cruise ship truly stand out lies behind an unassuming door on the eighth deck.

Spellbound, created in partnership with American arts venue Magic Castle, is a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar where mixologists perform tricks. 

Welcomed into a cosy, low-lit room with a flickering fireplace and panelled walls covered in black-and-white photographs, we were transported back in time to the roaring Twenties.

We were listening as an ominous voice recalled the story of a family of magicians — when suddenly the wall ahead slid open, revealing a hidden bar. 

Every detail within, from paintings that follow you while you walk, to the ghost of a pianist who even takes song requests, has been carefully schemed. 

And the sorcery doesn’t end there. Smoke-billowing cocktails are accompanied by card tricks — leading up to a grand finale that will have you gasping in awe. 

Not even the sunrise view from our cabin balconies could top that magic. 

Now a popular tourist attraction, this abandoned ‘ghost town’ was once home to a bustling community – but it was only 15 years before most of the members vanished

This town has been abandoned for nearly 130 years. That hasn’t stopped visitors from flocking over the years to take in the eerie “ghost town” that was, for a brief period, home to a bustling community filled with optimism for their future – before their collective dream rapidly collapsed in just 15 years.

Something about abandoned places has long captured people’s imagination. From urban explorers venturing to long-forgotten theme parks and hotels, to tourists taking trips to visit ghost towns like this one, there’s something that really draws people towards a forgotten space.

This ghost town is especially poignant due to the nature of its inception. With a new industry opening up the possibility of wealth and prosperity for anyone who was adventurous enough to come and work hard to make it happen, only for those who took the plunge to be left disappointed, and forced to give up their home nearly as quickly as they had settled in.

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Custer in Idaho is located in the stunning scenery of the state’s Challis National Forest and was once a gold mining town, where at one stage 600 people lived and worked, hoping to strike on the precious metal and secure their fortunes. Some of the structures there date all the way back to 1879, and by 1896, the community was the largest it would ever be.

The fortunes of the gold mining in Custer swiftly turned, and it was nearly totally abandoned just a few years later, with only two families reportedly daring to remain by 1911. Many people in the gold mining town had been employed at a large stamp mill, and when the business collapsed, they had no choice but to abandon ship and leave to seek their fortunes elsewhere.

Most of the once bustling community stands exactly as it did over a century ago, when it was in use, from the eight saloons where people would meet to relax, a shoe store, and a place of worship, as well as a very small Chinatown, which also provided laundry services. Part of the National Register of Historic Places, perhaps part of the draw of tourists to Custer is how emblematic it is of the so-called American Dream, which offered immigrants a chance at new prosperity. Even if the town was not a long-term success story, its former residents may have hoped for.

Seasonally, tours throughout the historic town are offered, and the former school has been restored and turned into a museum filled with artefacts regarding the area’s history. Nearby, there is another draw, not just the stunning hikes and immaculate scenery: the area plays home to natural hot springs, which are well worth a visit.

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WITH the temperatures dropping, the thought of being cosy couldn’t be more appealing – and there’s an English holiday cottage that’s the ideal place for just that.

Located in Weston-under-Lizard in Shropshire, you will find a little cottage called Hansa.

Looking as if it has been ripped from the pages of Hansel and Gretel, the cottage sits off-grid within 200 acres of Shropshire woodland.

This Victorian gothic lodge was built to originally host lunches for the Earl of Bradford, but now is somewhere you can stay.

And according to Unique Stays, it has a ” fairytale otherworldliness”.

It is surrounded by woodland with lots of wildlife and views over a vast lake.

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Guests enter the lodge through a small porch with benches and twisting tree branches.

On the inside, the original dark wood panels from 1856 cover the walls and above you rests a chandelier covered in metal ivy.

There are then two green velvet chairs and a plush double bed complete with a green throw.

The green colour palette is continued in the small kitchen with a four-ring hob, gas oven, fridge, small freezer and a Nespresso machine and there is a sleek, paler green tiled bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower as well.

Inside the main bedroom area, there is also a table and chairs, a desk and a woodburner.

Guests can park on a gravel drive and then the cottage can be reached via a woodland track.

In addition, guests get a welcome hamper full of local treats to enjoy during their stay.

And you will also get marshmallows for the fire, logs and kindling, a BBQ Grill Egg with a pizza stone, smart TV, Bluetooth speaker, Wi-Fi, iPad, two vintage-style bicycles, his and her Hunter wellies and a rowing boat to use during your stay.

Just outside of the lodge, there is another table and chairs for outdoor dining and a woodfired hot tub.

Babes in arms are welcome with cots available on request, as are up to two dogs which will be charged at £60 each, per week.

The cottage sleeps up to two people and costs from £1,450 per week or £1,095 per short break.

One recent visitor said: “Hansa was a brilliant home to stay in and I can’t sing the owner’s praises enough.

“The cupboards were stocked with everything you could possibly need, there were fresh eggs, milk, bread and even a hamper of goodies from both sweet treats to a full on cheese board with something bubbly to wash it down with.

“They really thought of everything!”

Another visitor said: “Hansa is a special place, we couldn’t have chosen a better calming little house to chill.

“Thank you for letting us stay in this fairy-style house, where it was warm, cosy, we had everything we needed.”

For things to do nearby, the cottage sits in a sprawling 26-acre estate that has seen battles of the 1642 civil war and even former King Charles II shelter in The Royal Oak of Boscobel House parkland after he fled the Roundheads.

In Weston-under-Lizard itself, guests will find Weston House – a 17th century manor house with a vast art collection and restaurant.

The site also hosts a number of events throughout the year.

Tickets to the house cost £11 per person.

Just a 30 minute drive away you could head to Dudmaston Estate in Quatt – a 17th century National Trust house with a Modern Art collection, pretty gardens, play areas and a second-hand bookshop.

Alternatively, also 30 minutes away, is The Bear Inn, in Hodnet, located inside a former 16th century coaching inn.

The friendly pub serves comfort dishes such as monkfish with mushroom, chicken wing, leek and madeira for £28, rose veal, ox cheek tart with carrot, ale and jus for £29 and goats cheese gnocchi with beetroot, chestnut and broccoli for £22.

It takes just an hour to drive from Birmingham to Hansa lodge.

For more holiday cottage and lodge inspo, here is the secluded English cottage where your garden is the beach and people say it ‘doesn’t even look real’.

Plus, stunning cottage is crowned ‘Best for Beaches’ in UK and you can book for £27 per person, per night.

A new trainline proposal could see 39 major European cities linked, potentially cutting carbon emissions for travellers and slashing journey times exponentially

Say goodbye to short-haul flights. A new trainline system has been proposed that could see 39 major European holiday destinations linked for the first time, in what has been dubbed the ‘European Tube’. The proposal has been made by 21st Europe – a think-tank based in Copenhagen – and the ‘Starline’ system could revolutionise travel across the European continent, slashing carbon emissions exponentially, and offering much faster journey times than the trains currently in place.

The 39-stop system has been noted to be similar to the ‘Welsh Tube’ that has been proposed, which will see 105 miles of South Wales linked by tram-style trains. The Welsh offering has been in the works for over a decade and is reportedly set to cost a whopping £1,000,000,000 to complete.

But the designers of Starline are dreaming so much bigger than that with their Euro tube proposal, not just hoping to make travel itself easier, getting rid of the need for carbon-heavy, short-haul flights, but to create a sense of cohesion and connection across Europe itself. Something that they say is currently sorely missing with the existing infrastructure, which they say lacks a “unifying vision”.

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The proposal could cut carbon emissions by an incredible 95 per cent, massively increasing the continent’s chances of actually reaching net zero, by providing new links in Europe all the way from Turkey, the UK, to Ukraine, with a visually striking network of deep blue trains.

For sustainably savvy travellers, the proposal is likely to be music to their ears, with there being some major drawbacks when it comes to interrailing in the current set-up. Some of these issues, the think tank points out, include “complex ticketing, inconsistent service, and outdated stations [which] make rail feel fragmented.

In 2023, a whopping eight billion people chose to opt for a high-speed train journey, but only a small fraction of these – nine per cent – saw passengers actually cross an international border, something this proposal is hoping to resolve.

Five lines have been proposed to range across the vast continent, one going from Naples to Helsinki, another from Lisbon to Kyiv, a third from Madrid to Istanbul, one from Dublin to Kyiv and, finally, a line from Milan to Oslo. Much like the London Underground, this would see passengers able to make swift changes to navigate the continent at major stations.

No detail has been too small in this proposal, which has renewable energy at its heart. From the blue trains and yellow interiors mirroring the European flag, the think tank has called it an exercise in “identity making” as much as a provision of easy-to-use, low-carbon travel.

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