Travel Desk

A NEW luxury train experience is coming to the UK later this year.

A new carriage will appear on the British Pullman named Celia, after the fictional character created by director Baz Luhrmann and cinematic designer Catherine Martin.

According to the duo, Celia is a West End icon from the 1930s who once played Titania in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Set in an original 1932 Pullman carriage, Celia will boast a cocktail bar, lounge, dining and entertainment area that feels as if you are heading back to the 1930s.

Up to 12 guests at a time can experience the carriage via private and bespoke events.

The carriage is designed to create a luxury private dining experience, as well as showcase the train carriage’s historical charm.

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During the day, Celia will be a reception carriage and then in the evening it will turn into the “most refined venue”.

When guests reserve Celia for an event, a Guest Experience Curator will plan each detail.

Passengers will also get private luxury transfers within Greater London to and from London Victoria.

And there will even be a personal chef, butler and steward.

On the menu, passengers can create their own brunch, lunch and dinner menus.

Welcome drinks, such as a seasonal cocktail or champagne, will also be provided.

And to elevate the experience even more, there will be bespoke activities available to book.

Baz Luhrmann said that Celia is based on a woman who, after a Sunday matinee of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, headed off with her friends to escape the crowds and head on the British Pullman.

Baz said: “From the moment someone receives an invitation, or chooses to board Celia, they should be drawn instantly into her world and be swept into the glamorous, mysterious life of the actress for whom the carriage was named.”

He added: “Celia also has the capacity to transform into a performance space; I have no doubt a musical artist could have great fun staging an unplugged session or making an album announcement there.

“And of course, we’ll be fitting out the carriage with a terrific sound system and speakers to support that.”

On the idea behind the carriage, Catherine Martin revealed that once they had Baz’s character of Celia, the interior design of the carriage was based on Celia’s life story.

Baz added: “We’re both devoted lovers of slow travel as there’s an undeniable magic and romance to these kinds of journeys.

“It’s a form of travel that lends itself to being told in the most evocative and cinematic ways.”

The Belmond British Pullman usually travels day and weekend journeys around Britain.

In other rail news, here’s the UK train journey that feels like the Hogwarts Express with stunning views along the way.

Plus, picturesque English town is getting new £27m train line for first time in 60 years – and it will cut journey times by an hour.

Disney Cruise Line has confirmed the Disney Wish will sail from Southampton for the first time in summer 2027 with European itineraries – and I’ve been onboard to review the incredible ship

Mickey Mouse fans across Britain, it’s time to dust off those iconic ears – because we’re about to welcome an unprecedented wave of Disney enchantment next summer.

In a historic first, the Disney Wish cruise liner will set sail from British shores. Launching from Southampton, the flagship vessel of Disney Cruise Line’s Wish class fleet is confirmed to embark on a series of sun-drenched European voyages throughout summer 2027.

This maiden European adventure will feature sailings ranging from three to 10 nights, departing from the UK, Spain or Italy, with exciting new ports of call including Zadar in Croatia, Trieste close to Venice in Italy, and Hellesylt in Norway.

Having recently experienced the Disney Wish firsthand with my other half and our two year old, I was absolutely thrilled when this announcement dropped – especially since I’ve already been daydreaming about our next voyage. Here’s my guide to the standout features aboard the Disney Wish, and exactly why I’ll be at the front of that virtual queue when bookings launch later this month.

The entertainment

Adults, prepare to unleash your inner child aboard the Wish (whilst, in our experience, your little one also literally unleashes theirs). This isn’t your typical cruise offering a single show, a handful of activities, and then leaving you lounging aimlessly poolside.

Instead, expect an action-packed schedule brimming with spectacular performances, trivia contests, deck celebrations, live musical acts, and two cinemas screening the freshest Disney releases alongside timeless favourites. For those preferring a more relaxed approach, there’s ample poolside real estate – and the onboard spa continuously tempted us throughout our stay.

The ship’s top deck boasts several pools, a feature I particularly appreciate as it prevents overcrowding in one spot. However, being someone who can’t sit idle for more than a couple of minutes, I made a beeline for the AquaMouse water slide.

With its twists, turns and initial surprises, it’s easy to see why it’s dubbed Disney’s first sea attraction – it wouldn’t feel out of place in a theme park!

Deck parties are another must-add to your schedule. On the day of embarkation, Mickey Mouse and his pals host a ‘Sail Away’ party on the top deck that’s well worth attending. Expect lively music, dancing and a grand countdown before the ship’s horn blares out a Disney melody!

One evening is always dedicated to a pirate theme. Dress up, meet characters like Captain Hook, and join in the fun with Mickey and friends at parties featuring spectacular fireworks at sea (Disney Cruise Line is the only cruise company permitted to offer this).

A visit to the theatre promises a fantastic show, whether it’s the charming ‘Seas the Day’ performance, or West End-calibre productions of The Little Mermaid and Aladdin.

The Kids’ Club

Families must give a big cheer for the exceptional kids’ club, known as the Oceaneer Club. Included in the cruise package, it boasts zones inspired by Marvel, Star Wars and the Disney Princesses.

We barely saw our friends’ children all week; they were utterly smitten with the place!

The Oceaneer Club caters to children aged 3 and above, so our toddler was a tad too young but there were open house hours where he could scamper about, including ‘Toddler Time’ which provided a fantastic space for him to burn off some energy.

A handy hint for other parents; the Small World Nursery accommodates babies and toddlers under 3. You’ll need to book and it’s an additional $10 per hour, but it does afford you that much-needed breather if you fancy a trip to the spa or an adults-only bar!

Character encounters

An often overlooked benefit of a Disney cruise is the ease of meeting the characters. Besides the shows, there are plenty of chances to meet your favourites throughout the day, with queues typically lasting around 10-15 minutes.

Characters roam the ship, and you can also join dance parties where they’ll have a little jig with the kids – a truly delightful interaction. For princess fans, it’s worth trying to secure a spot for A Royal Gathering; this is free but fills up fast, offering you the opportunity for meet and greets with the likes of Cinderella, Belle, Moana and Rapunzel.

The food

Disney cruises operate on an all-inclusive basis, and even with my most valiant attempts, I’m fairly certain I didn’t manage to sample every single dining venue on offer. Beyond the Marceline Market eatery featuring a conventional buffet spread, passengers can indulge in pizzas, tacos and barbecue fare at the Festival of Foods street food-inspired zone, or help themselves to the self-serve ice cream stations.

For dinner service, Disney has a ‘rotational dining’ system which eliminates the scramble for bookings; you’re guaranteed a table at each of the ship’s three restaurants. There’s a Frozen-themed venue complete with live entertainment and abundant character meet-and-greets, the sophisticated 1923 which exudes elegance whilst paying homage to legendary Disney pictures, and the Worlds of Marvel restaurant where guests become immersed in an interactive superhero escapade.

Whilst these are all covered in your fare, additional premium options are available for an extra charge. Brunch at the Palo Steakhouse proved to be a genuinely memorable experience for our party.

Reservations are required, but this adults-only establishment truly embodied fine dining, with the cuisine being utterly exquisite. Pastries, pizzas, brunch staples such as Eggs Royale and puddings all feature on the bill of fare.

A cautionary note; it’s unlimited dining and those servings are substantial – I genuinely believed I might never manage another morsel. (This proved incorrect the instant I spotted the Inside Out inspired confectionery shop, where I constructed an ice cream creation that I suspect has left me on a sugar rush ever since).

For those partial to an evening drink, there’s a variety of options. The Bayou lounge offers live music, exquisite cocktails and a relaxed vibe, while Nightingale’s is an adults-only bar.

However, it was the themed bars that kept drawing me back – from the Star Wars-inspired Hyperspace Lounge, where you feel as though you’re journeying through space, to the pirate-themed Keg and Compass pub, where you can enjoy a proper pint.

My verdict

I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the Disney Wish; it truly caters to everyone. It’s a sophisticated ship with ample adults-only areas for those seeking tranquillity, but there’s also plenty of room for families.

The overall atmosphere is fantastic, and it’s definitely one I’ll be keen to book again. Plus, on a personal note, the extra sprinkle of Disney magic worked wonders for us; amidst all the excitement and fun during the day, our two year old actually managed to sleep through the night!

Want to book it for yourself? The Disney Wish will embark on 3, 4 and 5-night European sailings in summer 2027. Bookings open on February 23, 2026. For more details, visit disneycruiseline.com.

A plane passenger has sparked a debate after bringing up an unspoken ‘middle seat rule’ that she demands all fliers follow, but some people have claimed she’s being ‘cheeky’

Nobody relishes being stuck with the middle seat on a plane. We all have our preferences when it comes to flying, and for virtually everyone, that means either bagging the window or aisle seat, while the dreaded middle spot remains the universally unwanted option for most travellers.

The middle seat earns its poor reputation because it offers none of the perks associated with its neighbours. You’re denied the scenic views enjoyed by window-seat occupants, and you miss out on the additional legroom that comes from stretching into the aisle. What’s more, if you’re flying solo, you’ll typically find yourself sandwiched between two strangers.

One woman has recently taken to social media to argue that there should be an unwritten “rule” observed by all air travellers, granting middle-seat passengers a modest degree of comfort – though whilst many backed her stance, others branded her simply “cheeky”.

Australian Molly Wroe posted a video on TikTok documenting her middle-seat ordeal on a recent flight. Throughout her journey, she found herself trapped between two male passengers who wouldn’t allow her access to either armrest – which she insisted violated a crucial unspoken aviation etiquette.

She questioned: “Who’s gonna tell these men I get both arm rests because I’m in the middle??”

She reinforced her position in the caption, stating: “Middle person gets both armrests.”

This unofficial etiquette surrounding the middle seat has been debated before. It’s frequently suggested that passengers occupying the window and aisle seats shouldn’t monopolise their inner armrests, given they already benefit from an outer armrest plus the additional perks of avoiding the middle position.

Consequently, many argue that the middle seat passenger ought to have access to both armrests flanking their seat, as they’re denied the privilege of a decent view or extra legroom. This was precisely Molly’s argument in her video – though not everyone saw eye to eye with her stance.

Several commenters on her clip branded her “cheeky” for expecting access to both armrests. They contended there’s no “airline rule” stipulating the middle seat gets armrest priority, suggesting instead that she should simply ask her neighbouring passengers if they’d mind shifting their arms.

One person questioned: “Why would you get both, and they both get zero?” Another remarked: “Absolutely not, one each, which is fair; there are no rules regarding arm rests.”

A third commented: “Why don’t you tell them instead of filming? It’s not an official rule that the middle seat gets both armrests.”

However, others leapt to Molly’s defence, insisting it’s an unwritten rule rooted in basic courtesy. Whilst it’s neither a legal requirement nor an airline regulation that’s actively enforced, most passengers would willingly relinquish the armrest out of compassion, recognising that the middle seat is utterly miserable and warrants some degree of comfort.

One commenter remarked: “Everyone in the comments is not getting it, but you’re right. It’s an unofficial rule, but it’s just polite. Middle gets nothing, so they get both armrests. The window and the aisle each get their outer armrest and all the other perks.”

Another contended: “The window seat gets one armrest and the window, aisle seat gets one armrest and obviously the aisle to get up whenever they like, and the centre seat gets no window, no getting up when they like and BOTH armrests. THAT’S THE RULE ON ANY AND ALL AIRLINES.”

A third added: “They both have one on the outside, one gets the window, and one has free access to the toilet. Would seem fair to me.”

WATFORD may not be top of your staycation bucket list, especially after it was named one of the UK’s worst big towns.

Ranked poorly by The Telegraph, it was slated for its its ‘concrete centres and bad vibes’.

They might not like it, but as a local – I’m 30 mins down the M1 from there – I feel the need to jump to its defence.

I look at the town with an air of nostalgia because – believe it or not – some of the highlights of my childhood were spent in Watford.

In my teens, it was the closest thing to an action-packed city we had, unless we wanted to trek into London, which quite frankly was a cost my pals and I didn’t want to incur, plus our parents all worried about our safety in the big smoke. 

Days were spent at the Harlequin shopping centre, which had all the top high street shops but without the London crowds. Mum would take me here in early school years to buy new shoes from Clark’s.

PICTURE PERFECT

Pretty English town with one of the most beautiful streets in the UK

BY THE RIVERSIDE

English town called the ‘Gateway to Cornwall’ with one of UK’s best pubs

I’d watch the Disney movies in shoe heaven while mum and the shop assistants liaised over styles and measured how much my tootsies had grown.

I spent weekends as a season ticket holder watching Watfords now distinctly average football team play on its home turf, stopping for chippies to celebrate (or commiserate) post game.

When I turned 17, my pals and I graduated from the shops to the clubs and bars.

In the 2000s party glory days, we’d grab our glad rags and the tallest platform heels we could find, starting at Vodka Revolutions where shots were cheap as chips, then heading on to one of the mega clubs like Oceana or Area (both now gone).

We wouldn’t walk between venues, instead we’d hop on a bicycle tuktuk, just like the fairy-light clad ones you find in London, only cheaper. 

Top Golf was another cherished activity at the weekends.

The experience is still there today, home to a lively bar and several putting stations.

You don’t have to be good at golf to play, the aim of the game is to whack the balls into targets laid out on the vast green ahead.

Admittedly, I don’t visit Watford as frequently nowadays as most of my time is spent either close to my office in London Bridge, or my hometown, when I’m not off travelling the world.

But it still holds a charm nonetheless. And well worth a visit.

For starters, the is where the UKs leading Harry Potter attraction is, Warner Bros Studio Tour.

Potter fans will be blown over by what’s on offer here and you can pick up some wizarding treats seen on screen and read in the books, like butterbeer, before getting a first hand look behind the magical scenes seen on screen.

Don’t forget to pull a squealing mandrake out of the dirt and explore the Dursley’s house in Privet Drive.

There’s a decent restaurant scene now, too.

Humo is a great option for meat lovers with grubs scorched over an open flame.

The shopping is still decent – and less busy than those in London!

And little kids can take advantage of a Vue cinema and pottery painting while older ones test their nerve at indoor go karting or ninja warrior adventure.

So even if Watford is a little rough around the edges and not the prettiest place to look at, it’s still got it perks. 

One things for sure, you’ll never get bored. But I do wish they’d bring back those booming clubs

A cabin crew member met the love of her life on a flight to Tenerife after he helped her in an awkward moment – the couple are now happily married and about to celebrate their 25th Valentine’s Day together

Back in June 2001, flight attendant Alexis Milford-White went to work as usual, expecting nothing out of the ordinary as she boarded the TUI flight to the Canary Islands. Ready, as always, to assist her passengers.

Little did she know she was about to meet her future husband Stuart at 30,000 feet in the sky while he was heading off on holiday with his friends.

One simple act of kindness on his part “broke the ice” and the pair began meeting up regularly. Just two months into their fledgling relationship, Alexis was struck down with a debilitating illness, which is when Stuart really proved their love was the real deal.

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It was during a routine Boeing 757 flight from Manchester airport – where 32-year-old Alexis was based – to Tenerife that the lovebirds first encountered each other. Stuart, 24, was sitting in the emergency exit row and travelling on holiday with friends. He’d already struck up a conversation with the cabin crew member who had caught his eye when an unfortunate, clumsy moment saw him step in to save her blushes.

“We got chatting throughout the flight, and at one point he even helped me when I dropped the money from duty-free sales all over the cabin floor,” Alexis said. “It was one of those moments that just broke the ice”.

Thankfully, Stuart acted on his feelings and asked for Alexis’ phone number, messaging her shortly after, even though he was soaking up the sun with his pals. “Three days later, I got a text from Stuart, and that was it,” she said. “We stayed in touch throughout his holiday and would talk on the phone for hours, sometimes up to 12 hours at a time.”

Alexis, who had dreamed of being a flight attendant since she was a little girl, landed her role after taking a leap of faith and quitting her bank job. She believed her career path was “meant to be,” just as when she managed to work on Stuart’s return flight home from Tenerife, which she said “felt like fate.”

During the journey, the pair had the chance to make plans to meet when they got back in the UK. Although there was some distance between their homes, with Stuart living in Birmingham and Alexis in Preston, they made sure they hooked up weekly.

However, it was after just two months into their new and exciting relationship that Alexis became seriously ill with a spinal bacterial infection, which meant she could no longer walk. Such a debilitating health battle, with the challenges it brought, may have signalled the end for many new couples. But it only cemented their commitment.

Alexis was forced to give up work for a long time as she learnt to walk again using water rehabilitation, but Stuart was right there by her side. “Without hesitation, Stuart left his training in Birmingham to come and be with me,” she said. “He was an amazing support and it became clear very quickly we were meant to be together.”

After six months, he moved in with Alexis, and the huge Disney fans married in 2004 at Disney in Florida. They’ve been inseparable ever since and are about to celebrate their 25th Valentine’s Day together.

Alexis is now back working for TUI and thinks her travelling means they make the most of their time together. “We’ve had our ups and downs like any couple,” she said. “But if it wasn’t for that flight, we wouldn’t be together. I went to work that day thinking it was just another shift, and instead, I met my husband, and he’s my rock. Even after all these years, it still amazes me that love found us in the sky.”

Paul was being transported to Rome as a prisoner on a ship that had sailed from Adramyttium in modern-day Turkey. On the journey, the ship had been damaged by storms and was driven aground in Malta.

Paul was made welcome by the islanders. When making a fire, Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake and the locals were astonished that he suffered no ill-effects.

Paul then healed the father of an island official, after which many islanders would come to Paul to receive healing.

While under guard as a Roman prisoner, Paul stayed on Malta for three months, leaving for Rome on a ship that had sheltered in Malta over the winter.

Paul is the patron saint of Malta…. and snakebite victims.

The day is a time for family gatherings and observed by religious ceremonies and processions, particularly at the Church of St. Paul Shipwreck … 

The donkeys are pissed off. Put upon, out of work and victims of decades-long systemic abuse, it’s time, they have decided, to protest.

The donkeys, metaphorically, are us.

At least that’s the premise of “asses.masses,” a video game played by and for a live audience. It’s theater for the post-Twitch age, performance art for those weaned on “The Legend of Zelda” or “Pokémon.” Most important, it’s entertainment as political dissent for these divisive times. Though the project dates to 2018, it’s hard not to draft 2026 onto its narrative. Whether it’s unjust incarceration, mass layoffs or topics centered around tech’s automation of jobs, “asses.masses,” despite generally lasting more than seven hours — yes, seven-plus hours — is a work of urgency.

The audience cheers various decisions made during the playing of “asses.masses” at UCLA Nimoy Theater.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

And for the audience at the Saturday showing at the UCLA Nimoy Theater, it felt like a call to arms. Citizens executed in the street for exercising their right to free speech? That’s in here. Run-ins with authorities that recall images seen in multiple American cities over the past few months? Also in here, albeit in a retro, pixel art style that may bring to mind the “Final Fantasy” series from its Super Nintendo days.

In a city that’s been ravaged by fires, ICE raids and a series of entertainment industry layoffs, the sold-out crowd of nearly 300 was riled up. Chants of “ass power!” — the donkey’s protest slogan — were heard throughout the day as attendees politely gathered near a single video game controller on a dais to play the game, becoming not just the avatar for the donkeys but a momentary leader for the collective. Cheers would erupt when a young donkey reached the conclusion that “I kinda think the system is rigged against everyone.” And when technological advances, clearly a stand-in for artificial intelligence, were described as “evil, soulless, job-taking, child-killing machines,” there were knowing claps, as if no exaggeration was stated.

“Our theater is supposed to be a rehearsal for life,” says Patrick Blenkarn, who co-created the game with Milton Lim, interdisciplinary artists from Canada who often work with interactive media.

“We grew up in a radical political tradition of theater,” says Patrick Blenkarn, right, who co-created “asses.masses” with Milton Lim.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

“We grew up in a radical political tradition of theater, where this is where we can rehearse emotional experience — catharsis,” Blenkarn says. “That is what art is supposed to be doing. We have been very interested in the idea that if we come together, what are we going to do and how are we going to do it? What we are seeing in your country, and other countries, is the question of how are we going to change our behavior, and will the people who currently have the controller listen? And if they don’t, what do we do?”

Video games are inherently theatrical. Even if one is playing solo on the couch, a video game is a dialogue, a performance between a player and unseen designers. Blenkarn and Lim also spoke in an interview prior to the show of wanting to re-create the sensation of gathering around a television and passing a controller back and forth among family or friends while offering commentary on someone’s play style. Only at scale. And while I thought “asses.masses” could work, too, as a solitary experience at home, its themes of collective action and reaching a group consensus, often through boos or shouts of encouragement, made it particularly well-suited for a performance.

The UCLA Nimoy Theater played host to “asses.masses” this weekend.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Beginning at 1 p.m. and ending shortly after 8 p.m., coincidentally, says Blenkarn, the length or so of a working day, not everyone made it to the “asses.masses” conclusion. About a quarter of the audience — a crowd that was clearly familiar with the multiple video game style represented in “asses.masses” — couldn’t stand the endurance test. But in a time of binge-watching, I didn’t find the length prohibitive. There were multiple intermissions, but those became part of the show as well, as there was no set time limit. Blenkarn and Lim were asking the audience, via a prompt on the screen, to jointly agree upon a length, emphasizing, once again, the importance of collective cooperation.

And “asses.masses” holds interest because it, in part, embraces the animated absurdity and inherent experimentation of the medium. While often in a retro pixel art style, at times the game shifted into a more modern open-world look. And the story veers down multiple paths and side-quests — some requiring wild coordination such as a rhythm game meant to simulate donkey sex, and others more tense, such as “Metal Gear”-like sneaking, complete with the donkeys hiding in cardboard boxes.

Audiences vote, often by cheering or booing, on choices in “asses.masses.”

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

The way “asses.masses” shifted tones and tenor recalled a game such as “Kentucky Route Zero,” another serialized and alternately realistic and fanciful game with political overtones. Other times, such as the surreal world of the donkey afterlife, I thought of the colorfully unpredictable universe of the music-focused game “The Artful Escape,” a quest for personal identity and self-actualization. The donkeys in “asses.masses” are an ensemble, often trying to steer the audience in different directions. As much as some push for a protest as a way for communal healing and progressive action, others take a cynical outlook, viewing that path as “intellectually compromised” by a “commitment to past ideals.”

The goal, says Lim, is to create a sort of game within a game — one that’s being played with a controller and one of debate among a crowd. “It’s not about having a billion endings,” Lim says. “We understand it’s a theater show, and we as writers have objectives for what we want it to go towards. But the decisions people make in the room really matter. The game is half in the room and half on the screen.”

The audience, for instance, can play a role in keeping certain donkeys alive. Or what jobs a group of renegade donkeys may choose. Our audience voted for the donkeys to enter the circus, at least until they were deemed obsolete and sent to detention centers, which felt uncomfortably of the moment. Such topicality is what drew Edgar Miramontes, leader of CAP UCLA, to the show, despite his admittance to being largely unfamiliar with the world of video games.

“It doesn’t shy away from the nuances of when organizing happens and what we’re seeing in our world right now,” Miramontes says. “There are instances in which a donkey may die because, in organizing to achieve their goals, these things happen. We have seen this in our Civil Rights Movement and other movements and the current movement that’s happening right now around ICE.”

The Nimoy event, part of UCLA’s current Center for the Art of Performance season, was the 50th time “asses.masses” had been performed. The show will continue to tour, with a performance in Boston set for this upcoming weekend and it will reach Chicago later this year. Our donkeys on Saturday didn’t solve all the world’s inequalities, but they did live full lives, attending raves, engaging in casual sex and even playing video games.

A player celebrates during “asses.masses,” live action theatrical video game.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

The show is an argument that progress isn’t always linear, but community is constant. As one of the donkeys says at one point, “If you aren’t doing something that brings you joy, do something different.”

“In case anyone is like, ‘I don’t want to be lectured at,’ or I don’t want to do all this work, it feels like you’re just having fun with friends,” Lim says. “Maybe revolution doesn’t always look like just this. Maybe it’s also this.”

And like many a video game, maybe it’s a chance to live out some fantasies. “We do beat up riot cops in the game,” Blenkarn says, “in case anyone is hoping for that opportunity.”

Across East and Southeast Asia, and throughout diaspora communities in Los Angeles, Lunar New Year marks a season of renewal. It’s a time of deep reflection and collective gathering, as homes are refreshed, elders are honored and streets fill with lion and dragon dances.

Food is central to the celebrations, with dishes chosen as much for what they represent — abundance, unity and good fortune in the year ahead — as for how they taste.

This year ushers in the Year of the Horse — and not just any Horse, but the Fire Horse, a particularly dynamic pairing in the lunar calendar. The timing couldn’t be better. The horse is traditionally associated with energy, momentum and reinvention, and when paired with the fire element, which amplifies passion and action, this year speaks to our desire to move, create and reclaim a sense of possibility — even in the wake of devastating wildfires, immigration raids and widespread uncertainty.

While Lunar New Year officially kicks off on Feb. 17, celebrations in Los Angeles will take place all month and into the next, with banquet-style feasts, limited-time collaborations and cultural performances. Whether you’re seeking a symbolic meal or a lively street celebration, here are 25 festive ways to ring in Lunar New Year across L.A.

Paul says the flight attendant admitted it was ‘unacceptable’

A vegan plane passenger has slammed Virgin Atlantic after being served ‘the worst meal’ he’s ever had – a pitiful sandwich with three slices of ‘mouldy’ veg. Paul Booker was flying from Cancun, Mexico, to London Heathrow after a 10-day holiday with his friend.

The 55-year-old was towards the end of his 10-hour flight when he was served breakfast, included as part of the flight, and opted for the vegan sandwich. However, when he was given the meal, Paul was appalled at the standard and quality of what he was served, and claims a red-faced flight attendant said it was ‘unacceptable’.

Shocking photos show two slices of courgette and a solitary slice of ‘rotten-looking’ pepper slapped on the bread. Retired civil servant Paul, who has been vegan for 10 years, claims he was left hungry after being served the ‘pitiful’ sarnie on the £600 flight, with the only alternative being a fruit salad pot.

Virgin Atlantic have apologised and said all customers, including those with specific dietary requirements, ‘should receive food that meets our usual high standards’. Paul, from Minehead, Somerset, said: “There was no way that was going anywhere near my mouth because it looked like it was rotten.

“I have had bad food on a flight before but not from this country but this was a joke. I showed it to my friend, and to be honest it was almost like shock laughter. The first thought was how little there was in there, it wasn’t until then we looked at it closer and we saw the state of the vegetables that were in there and [I felt] just disgust, absolute disgust.

“It is certainly up there as the worst meal I have ever had, it’s certainly the worst offering I have ever had.”

Disgusted, Paul showed the sandwich to the flight attendant who he claims was embarrassed by it before handing him a pot of fruit salad instead. Paul said: “I called her [the flight attendant] over and I said ‘is this all you’ve got? Have you got an alternative I can have?’ and I showed her and she was absolutely shocked by that.

“She looked at it and said, ‘that’s terrible, that’s not acceptable at all’ and to contact Virgin when I got home. It had this amusing writing on the box, ‘we found love in a hungry place’. I thought ‘there’s an irony for you’. I certainly didn’t find love there, but I was certainly in the hungry place, it was more of a kick in the teeth.

“Then in front of me, thin strips of courgette and a bit of pepper that just looks rotten. The problem is that when you are on a flight they only take a limited amount of food with them and then they will only take a limited amount of specialist meals with them.

“If that meal isn’t quality checked before they send it out onto the plane and you are 10,000 feet in the air then you haven’t got any other choice.”

Disgusted, Paul shared a picture of his sarnie on social media branding it ‘pitiful’ and ‘mouldy’. Paul wrote: “This was the pitiful vegan offering that I got on a £600 Virgin Atlantic flight from Cancun to London today.

“The piece of red pepper actually looks mouldy. Even the stewardess was shocked, and seemed genuinely embarrassed. Needless to say, I didn’t eat it!”

After lodging a complaint Paul was offered a £100 voucher to use on Virgin holidays and flights. Paul said: “£100 isn’t going to go anywhere on a Virgin holiday or flight. I just wanted some acknowledgement from their in-flight catering team, and something properly financial would be nice.

“Something to make me feel a bit more valued. Their £100 voucher, not only is it not a lot of benefit to me but also doesn’t cost them anything. They could’ve given me £500 and it wouldn’t be a drop in the ocean to them.”

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “We never want to disappoint our customers, which is why it’s disheartening to hear that Mr Booker was unhappy with the meal served on his flight from Cancun to London Heathrow. All customers, including those with specific dietary requirements, should receive food that meets our usual high standards.

“We take complaints like this seriously and we have offered Mr Booker a £100 voucher. We have also shared all feedback with our catering teams to ensure standards are upheld.”

A MAJOR European airline has introduced strict new luggage rules, with huge fines for rulebreakers.

Spanish airline Iberia is cracking down on passengers who travel with non-standard shaped luggage.

This can mean any bulky or irregular shaped items, which can also include soft luggage if it doesn’t fit the usual shape.

The new rules were rolled out last month since January 28.

The website states: “Starting today, January 28, an extra charge may apply for checking in irregularly shaped baggage.

“Irregularly shaped baggage is defined as any item whose shape, material, or dimensions may interfere with the airport’s automated systems (for example: soft bags, plastic packages, round or oval bags, or non-rigid packaging).”

PACK IT IN

Ryanair warning to any Brits jetting off with Xmas presents in their luggage

Taking flight

Hand luggage sizes explained: Each major airlines baggage allowances

The airline warns that the bag will be assessed at the special baggage check in counter.

The maximum fine is £125, for anyone on a connecting long-haul flight to America or Asia.

Brits are more likely to be fined around £55 for a flight from the UK to Europe.

Passengers could even have the bag refused if it is said to fail any “operational or security reasons”.

Or, it might have to travel on a later flight in “exceptional cases”.

The Sun has contacted Iberia for additional comment.

Last year, Ryanair changed its hand luggage for the better.

The airline increased the size of the free bags that can be taken into the cabin from 40cmx20cmx25cm to 40cmx30cmx20cm.

This means the overall capacity increased from 20 litres to 24 litres.

Here are some other hand luggage rules to be aware of.

We’ve rounded up some of the best suitcases to buy ahead of your summer holiday.

And here are our best underseat cabin bags.

A small town has been crowned the world’s most welcoming city in the world, boasting Renaissance architecture and world-famous wine

The “most welcoming city” in the world has been unveiled – and it’s a mere three-hour journey from the UK. According to data from Booking.com, several British cities have made the cut for their hospitality towards holidaymakers, with Harrogate taking the crown as the UK’s most welcoming city.

However, the title of the “world’s most welcoming city” goes to the Italian town of Montepulciano. Nestled amongst the Tuscan hills, this town offers a wealth of heritage that belies its small size.

Montepulciano is a quaint town with a population of just 14,000 residents, perched on a hill overlooking lush countryside bathed in Italian sunshine.

Since World War 2, tourism has played a crucial role in the local economy, with the town’s history stretching back to the Renaissance era.

The town’s intriguing past is reflected in its architecture, which was shaped by the Renaissance period, earning it the esteemed title of the “Pearl of the Cinquecento”.

The buildings were meticulously designed by architects of the time, making a stroll through the narrow lanes feel like a journey back in time.

Among Montepulciano’s architectural gems is the grand Duomo, built between the 16th and 17th centuries.

The town’s celebrated city hall was also crafted by renowned Renaissance architects hailing from nearby Florence, reports the Express.

Montepulciano is a remarkably pedestrian-friendly destination, with most of its streets designated as car-free zones.

If you’re eager to immerse yourself in the town’s lively atmosphere, take a leisurely walk along the main street, which stretches for just under a mile and is lined with charming local independent shops and plenty of eateries.

In addition to the small-town charm that Montepulciano naturally exudes, its food and drink scene also draws visitors from all over the world.

The town is surrounded by a rich wine heritage, with its renowned noble wine being granted protected status within Italian gastronomy.

And if that wasn’t enough, the town holds some hidden gems and ancient traditions that have stood the test of time.

One such tradition is the ‘Bravio delle botti’, where participants roll a massive wine barrel through the town’s streets, a custom dating back to the 14th century.

To get to Montepulciano, Brits can fly to nearby Perugia, with Ryanair offering direct flights.

UK travellers can fly directly to Perugia from London Stansted Airport, with flights taking roughly three hours to reach the sun-soaked region, before continuing on to Montepulciano.

However, Ryanair isn’t the only airline connecting British tourists to Perugia, as British Airways also runs a service from London Heathrow Airport to Perugia.

It’s worth mentioning though, that the Heathrow service only operates seasonally, while the Stansted service runs throughout the year.

The complete list of Booking.com’s Most Welcoming Cities on Earth is as follows:

• Montepulciano, Italy
• Magong, Taiwan
• San Martín de los Andes, Argentina
• Harrogate, United Kingdom
• Fredericksburg, Texas, United States
• Pirenópolis, Brazil
• Swakopmund, Namibia
• Takayama, Japan
• Noosa Heads, Australia
• Klaipeda, Lithuania

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

Walking up a winding trail in the Dobratsch nature park in Carinthia, surrounded by picturesque snowy slopes dotted with pines, we hear shrieks coming from round the corner. The path is as wide as a one-way street but Birgit Pichorner, the park ranger I’m taking a tour with, motions for me to move to the side, where we watch a couple with wide grins glide past on a wooden toboggan.

We have seen families out hiking with young children and speed walkers pacing for the summit, while on a trail above us, four skiers are zigzagging up one of the nature park’s designated ski touring routes. For residents of Villach, the southern Austrian town at the foot of Dobratsch, this is very much their Hausberg, a much-loved “locals’ mountain”, says Birgit.

Until 2002, it was a ski resort – Birgit points out the slopes where she learned and later taught her kids to ski – but after successive bad winters at the turn of the century, the town faced the same choice as many ski resorts across the Alps today, as the climate crisis brings higher temperatures and reduced snowfall. Bring in the snow guns and supplement your natural snow offering with the fake stuff? Or chart a different path?

The environmental cost of Maschinenschnee, as the Austrians call artificial snow, is high – it’s energy- and water-intensive, with many resorts pumping water up from the valleys to service their slopes. It also negatively affects these fragile ecosystems by introducing potentially pathogenic and stress-tolerant bacteria to the snow, meltwater and soils, according to the hydrologist Prof Carmen de Jong.

At Dobratsch, residents were worried about the effects the Maschinenschnee would have on the cleanliness of their drinking water, which is funnelled through the mountain’s karst limestone system. They decided it wasn’t worth the risk, so closed the ski resort and instead developed a community-focused nature park.

Along with providing affordable year-round outdoor recreation for local people and tourists – accessed by a €5 bus from Villach or by paying a slightly higher fee at one of the parking spots – the nature park designation protects the local flora and fauna. This includes mountain hares, chamois, ptarmigan and black grouse, with schoolchildren regularly taking part in educational classes on the mountain.

Visitors are encouraged to avoid specific “nature zones” and stick to the trails, which are prepared for them daily. There are three winter hiking routes, ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how hard you want to work; four ski touring routes, ranging from an-hour-and-a-half to three hours; plus a cross-country circuit and a toboggan slope.

We plan to hike a two-hour route to the summit (2,166m) via the Dobratsch Gipfelhaus, though we modify our route slightly when the fog comes in – depriving us of views of nearby Slovenia and Italy – and visit another hut near the summit instead, which used to house the old ski lift. It’s such a beautiful wintry landscape and a treat to be hiking on real snow. There isn’t enough to require snowshoes today – I’m in snowboard boots, though Birgit is fine in walking boots – but the snow still makes that lovely squeaking sound under my feet, making me feel nostalgic for winter holidays past.

The problem with fake snow, aside from its environmental and financial impact (the cost of producing it has forced many ski resorts to push up their prices), is that it’s not very nice to walk on, let alone ski or snowboard on; it’s more like ice and much harder and heavier than natural snow. Before I came to Carinthia, I spent a few days in St Anton in the west of the country, where the whirr of multiple snow cannons puffing out clouds of white mist like dragon’s breath was a constant, even at night.

I had the discombobulating experience of snowboarding down ribbons of white pistes surrounded by muted-green hills, and riding through the mist feels unlike any weather I’ve ever experienced; it’s lighter and less powerful than rain but grittier than real snow. When it lands on your jacket it has none of the intricate beauty of a snowflake and disappears almost instantly.

But it’s easy to see why ski stations are resorting to snow cannons to keep the lights on. St Anton had last seen proper snow in November yet was almost fully open for the New Year holiday crowds, which is no mean feat, and many local businesses will, of course, depend on that tourist spend.

I visit the small mountain village of Mallnitz, about 50 minutes on a scenic train from Villach, for a day’s snowboard touring with Klaus Alber, a mountain guide who also runs the Hotel Alber. The hotel has been in his family for four generations, and Klaus, who greets me in lederhosen despite the temperature hovering at -10C, has noticed the dramatic effects of the changing climate on the valley first-hand.

Pointing to the hotel windows, he tells me the snow used to pile up to halfway most winters, but in recent years it’s barely covered the pavement. “Now we get long periods of cold, dry weather with no snow,” he says. The village’s small ski resort Ankogel, which doesn’t yet have snow cannons, is closed due to a lack of snow.

“Guests come because they want to ski, but we encourage them to be flexible and enjoy the nature as it is. If there’s no snow in December, we can hike to a summit, that’s still a very nice thing to do,” he says, adding that it forces him to be more creative and find new activities for guests, such as snow touring, where you hike up a mountain using adhesive “skins” for grip, then ski or snowboard down.

We set out in the Hohe Tauern national park, amid a wild, high mountain snowscape of extraordinary beauty. Klaus thinks we may find some good conditions for touring, as there was a recent dusting of snow, which has softened the snow that fell earlier in the season, and he’s right.

Climbing across a series of gentle spines, with sweeping views of a dramatic amphitheatre-like range to our left, it’s clear we have this entire glacial valley to ourselves – the polar opposite of factory farm skiing at a purpose-built ski resort. But it’s not just the setting; the true pleasure of the day comes from being in this landscape with wonderful natural snow all around. It looks so much brighter than its human-made equivalent, dazzlingly so under blue skies and sunshine.

After a couple of hours, we reach the Hagener hut at 2,446m, and Klaus points to an area of snow-covered wilderness that was nearly turned into a ski resort in the late 1960s, before the area became a national park – a resort that today would no doubt be debating the choice between snow cannons or closure.

After snacks and hot sweet tea, we begin our descent with no tracks in the snow ahead – Klaus thinks we’re the first people to do the route this winter. The snow will become bare and patchy lower down, but it feels amazing to be making swooping turns in this upper section, where it’s deep enough to spray in arcs across my face, a holy grail in snowboarding, but so rare these days if you only go to the mountains once a year.

It’s an experience you can only have with snow that’s fallen from the sky, and one that could never be approximated by a machine. The tears behind my goggles aren’t just from the cold.

This trip was provided by Visit Villach, National Park Region Hohe Tauern and Austria Tourism. A snowshoe hike at the Dobratsch nature park with a ranger costs €30 including snowshoe and pole rental, naturpark-dobratsch.at. A day’s ski or splitboard touring with Klaus Alber in the Hohe Tauern costs €240 a person (minimum two people, then €60 per extra person), tauernclimb.com

Sam Haddad writes the newsletter Climate & Board Sports

The historic island of Syros in the Cyclades is home to a cat sanctuary where volunteers from around the world can stay for free in exchange for caring for animals – and it’s been described as a quieter alternative to Santorini and Mykonos

Holidaymakers can seize the opportunity to live on a stunning Greek island with free accommodation, breakfast, and utilities in return for volunteering at a cat sanctuary and assisting with animal care. The position is based on the historic island of Syros, situated in the Cyclades within the Aegean Sea, where the Syros Cats sanctuary operates.

Since the 1990s, the sanctuary has led the way in feline welfare, implementing trap, neuter and return (TNR) schemes, overseeing animal health, and facilitating the safe integration of stray cats within the local community.

The sanctuary welcomes volunteers from across the globe to join its team and embrace animal care while discovering life on a Greek island. They are seeking volunteers who are physically capable, responsible, healthy, and self-sufficient, able to commit to staying for at least one month.

Applicants must be prepared to dedicate five hours daily, five days a week, to vital duties. These include cleaning living areas, preparing and serving meals, socialising kittens, and providing a secure, nurturing environment for the cats.

Those with veterinary expertise or experience handling feral cats are especially encouraged to apply, though the programme welcomes anyone prepared to roll up their sleeves, demonstrate reliability, and genuinely interact with the animals. In exchange, volunteers are provided with free lodgings, breakfast, and access to amenities, enabling them to fully concentrate on their tasks while basking in the Mediterranean sun, reports the Express.

The sanctuary’s efforts have revolutionised the dynamic between the island’s inhabitants and its cat population. Richard Bowell, co-founder of God’s Little People Cat Rescue, which works in partnership with Syros Cats, stated: “We want to show the world that we really care about animals. The way we treat them reflects something of our own humanity.”

As a result of these endeavours, the local community now regards cats with respect and pride, marking a significant departure from the apathy or animosity previously displayed.

Syros is often touted as a quieter, less touristy alternative to more renowned Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. YouTubers Katie and George from Intersection Voyage highlighted the island’s allure during a recent trip: “Every year, millions of people travel to Greece’s most famous islands, Santorini and Mykonos. However, after travelling to both Santorini and Mykonos, I have come to realise that there are some other, way less commercialised islands, which are amazingly rich in history and scenery.”

They added: “We will be spending the next three days on one of Greece’s most historic and beautiful Greek islands, exploring hidden cave churches, local beaches, unique cuisine and the island’s famous tourist attractions.”

Reflecting on their experience, they said: “Looking back on this island, there was something just magical about it. It was unique and authentic and it had something for everyone. I found the locals were extremely kind and generous and were always willing to help if you needed it. We didn’t even scratch the surface of how many hidden places there are to see.”

Applications for the 2026 volunteer season are now closed, but those keen to participate in 2027 can apply when registration reopens in September 2026 via the official Syros Cats website or sign up to their newsletter for updates.

A flight attendant has revealed the one clothing item you should never ever wear on a plane and instead leave sitting in your suitcase as she claimed it’s ‘unhygienic’

If you’re planning on going abroad for a holiday or any other type of trip, the outfit you choose to wear on the plane might not be the most important thing to try to decide, but it should be. What you decide to wear on a plane can deeply impact your comfort levels as you’re sat in a cramped airplane seat for hours.

While it may seem like a simple thing to decide, it can prove to be more complicated than originally expected. While jeans often feel overly restrictive, opting for shorts and sandals risks leaving you shivering throughout the journey. If you’re currently struggling with this wardrobe decision for an upcoming flight, there are some crucial advice you should take notice of.

Taking to TikTok, one creator named Cher, who boasts over six years’ experience as a flight attendant, has recently shared her expert recommendations to her 24,000 followers. She highlights specific items of clothing that passengers should keep packed away in their luggage rather than being worn on travel days.

“Outfits I surprisingly approve of as a flight attendant,” she said at the start of her video, before she went on to first explain the clothing items to avoid wearing on a flight.

She went on to firmly argue that wearing shorts aboard aircraft should be ‘illegal’, as it exposes your legs to the ‘gross’ seats – having previously disclosed they’re rarely properly sanitised, meaning you never known what might be hiding on there.

Flight attendant’s perfect travel outfit

So what should you wear on a flight? Cher’s recommended outfit comprises loose, comfortable trousers, trainers, a simple T-shirt and a jumper providing shoulder coverage. This combination suits both gentlemen and ladies, allowing you to utilise any suitable items already hanging in your wardrobe.

“This is the perfect travel outfit no matter what,” she declared.

It ensures you appear presentable while remaining comfortable and shielded from the ‘gross’ seats and frequently chilly cabin temperature.

Nevertheless, should this ensemble not appeal to you, alternative options exist. Cher suggests two better alternatives, with the first one being a long maxi dress.

“Any variation of a long dress like this is cute, and your legs are covered, they’re not touching the seat,” she elaborated.

She also explained that wearing a long maxi skirt could be another approved outfit, but saying to also stay away from sandals as she ‘wouldn’t have her toes out’.

“But with trainers, this would be perfect,” she told viewers.

Cher continued to suggest any outfit featuring a matching set with a long skirt and top is an excellent choice for those wanting to appear stylish yet comfortable at the airport. This could also work for men, who could opt for matching sets of trousers and a top.

So there you go – some simple yet chic outfit ideas for your next flight!

WHY leave the Valentine’s Day fun to couples?  

Without a significant other, you can splash your hard-earned cash on yourself – and what better way to spend it than a blow-out trip? 

Sophie Swietochowski shares the best long and short-haul destinations for singletons, plus tips for solo travel from destination experts at British Airways. 

NEW YORK 

EVEN when solo, it’s impossible to get bored in the Big Apple. It was British Airways’ most searched-for route last week and has long been a hit among independent travellers. 

Some of the typical tourist attractions are worth it, while others can probably be skipped if you’re strapped for time and cash. 

The must-dos, according to BA’s Destination Manager Nicole Lawson, are The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a Broadway show. 

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Last-minute tickets can be picked up for a fraction of the usual cost from todaytix.com, and those who are part of the BA loyalty scheme can collect Avios on tickets. too. 

Free activities bring just as much joy, though, Nicole explains, with a wander through the vast Central Park and crossing the Brooklyn Bridge both top of her must-do list.  

Solo dining is rarely an issue in the city, thanks to bar-style seating at many restaurants. Take advantage of happy hours, where you can get discounted drinks or oysters for $1 at certain hours of the day. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow from £437 return. 

AMSTERDAM 

ITS walkability, café culture and proximity to the UK makes this city a great spot for travellers going on solo adventures. 

According to Katie Williams, Destination Executive at British Airways Holidays, singletons should make a beeline for Museumplein – a square in the city centre renowned for its museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh and Stedelijk museums. 

Then, take a stroll around the neighbourhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp, to soak up markets, galleries and boutique cafes.  

Instead of heading to a restaurant, Katie recommends the Foodhallen – an indoor market in Oud West with stalls serving everything from sushi and burgers to local delicacy, bitterballen. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow start from £71 each way.  

BARCELONA 

SOLO demand for this Spanish city has rocketed, with British Airways reporting a 93 per cent increase in searches compared to last month. 

Home to a sandy beach just a short stroll from the city centre with world-class restaurants and cracking shopping, it’s a great spot for anyone who’s not coupled up.  

Sara Di Lenardo, BA’s Destination Manager, recommends grabbing a hop-on, hop-off bus ticket on day one to help familiarise yourself with the area. 

Then tick off Antoni Gaudi’s famous church, the Sagrada Familia, which is finally due to be completed this year after more than 140 years under construction. 

Solo travellers may also find the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, crammed with wonky boutiques and diddy tapas bars, less overwhelming than the main touristy strips like Las Ramblas. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow are from £48 each way. 

GENEVA 

BACHELORS and bachelorettes seeking escapism will appreciate the tranquility of the Swiss city.  

For those not used to travelling solo, the city is simple to navigate on foot and has an easy-to-use tram system, with day trips to the Alps more than doable. 

A lakeside stroll should definitely be on the bucket list, says BA Destination Manager Nina McMaster, with the water reflecting a picture of the nearby looming mountains.

You’ll be able to treat yourself to much better sweet Valentine’s treats than you’d get back home, too, with skilled chocolate makers found throughout the city. 

Nina suggests buying a Choco Pass (around £38), which gets you a tasting plate from five different chocolatiers — you can pick which ones you want to visit. 

Wine tasting is big here, too. And if you’ve got a bit of spare cash, there are some top notch wine tours on offer with viator.com. A three-hour tuk-tuk tasting tour costs from £176. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow start from £60 each way. 

LOS ANGELES 

FOR those seeking some self-care, few places in the world do wellness better than LA – home to glorious hiking trails, sun-drenched beaches, epic spas and workout classes that keep the A-listers shipshape.

The temperature is in the mid-20s right now, so it’s no surprise this was British Airways’ tenth most searched-for route last week. 

What should you get stuck into first? BA’s Destination Manager Robyn Harvey-Jones suggests a cycle from Santa Monica to Venice Beach –– it’s a very easy route, passing trendy coffee shops and quirky restaurants on the way. 

Even if you don’t have a full wallet, walking along Rodeo Drive and the tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills should be on your list, just for the people-watching.  

And for the best views of the world-famous Hollywood sign, hike up Runyon Canyon. It takes around two hours and is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow are from £424 return. 

Londoners can save more money on weekend breaks to five popular UK cities by opting for one particular method of transport over the train, new research has revealed

New research has revealed that anyone travelling from London to five UK cities can save up to £48 per journey, simply by making their journey via coach instead of the train.

The study, conducted by minibus and coach hire company SMC Coach Hire, analysed travel costs from the capital city to major UK destinations, comparing ticket prices against total mileage to identify where passengers are facing the most expensive rail fares.

The research showed Cardiff as the prime location for making travel savings. While a train journey from London Victoria to the Welsh capital costs an average of £61.39, the equivalent coach journey is just £13.35, a staggering saving of £48.04.

At just 10p per mile, opting to travel by coach offers a fraction of the rail cost for the 131-mile trip.

The top 5 best value routes

The North and Scotland also showed significant disparities, with long-distance travellers set to gain the most from making the journey on a coach:

1. Cardiff: £48.04 saving (£13.35 coach vs £61.39 train)
2. Aberdeen: £47.69 saving (£47.80 coach vs £95.49 train)
3. Leicester: £41.74 saving (£7.35 coach vs £49.09 train)
4. Glasgow: £37.34 saving (£39.45 coach vs £76.79 train)
5. Newcastle: £26.79 saving (£19.50 coach vs £46.29 train

However, distance doesn’t always have a direct impact on the savings. Leicester, one of the shortest routes on the list at just 89 miles, ranked third for total savings. Passengers can make the journey for as little as £7.35 by coach, compared to nearly £50 via rail.

1. Cardiff – train price to London – £61.39, train per mile – £0.47, coach price to London – £13.35, coach per mile – £0.10, approx distance (miles) 131.33, price difference – £48.04
2. Aberdeen – train price to London – £95.49, train per mile – £0.24, coach price to London – £47.80, coach per mile – £0.12, approx distance (miles) 398.15, price difference – £47.69
3. Leicester – train price to London – £49.09, train per mile – £0.55, coach price to London – £7.35, coach per mile – £0.08, approx distance (miles) 89.38, price difference – £41.74
4. Glasgow – train price to London – £76.79, train per mile – £0.22, coach price to London – £39.45, coach per mile – £0.11, approx distance (miles) 345.20, price difference – £37.34
5. Newcastle – train price to London – £46.29, train per mile – £0.19, coach price to London – £19.50, coach per mile – £0.08, approx distance (miles) 247.73, price difference – £26.79
6. Derby – train price to London – £38.19, train per mile – £0.34, coach price to London – £11.85, coach per mile – £0.10, approx distance (miles) 113.09, price difference – £26.34
7. Bristol – train price to London – £37.99, train per mile – £0.36, coach price to London – £13.35, coach per mile – £0.13, approx distance (miles) 106.38, price difference – £24.64
8. Leeds – train price to London – £43.89, train per mile – £0.26, coach price to London – £21.30, coach per mile – £0.13, approx distance (miles) 169.47, price difference – £22.59
9. Nottingham – train price to London – £35.89, train per mile – £0.33, coach price to London – £13.35, coach per mile – £0.12, approx distance (miles) 109.35, price difference – £22.54
10. Brighton and Hove – train price to London – £24.69, train per mile – £0.53, coach price to London – £5.40, coach per mile – £0.12, approx distance (miles) 46.89, price difference – £19.29
11. Manchester – train price to London – £31.29, train per mile – £0.19, coach price to London – £12.75, coach per mile – £0.08, approx distance (miles) 163.22, price difference – £18.54
12. Liverpool – train price to London – £30.19, train per mile – £0.17, coach price to London – £11.85, coach per mile – £0.07, approx distance (miles) 178.62, price difference – £18.34

Stephen Chesters, Director at SMC Coach Hire said: “With the cost of living still a major concern for many, these figures highlight just how much ‘rail tax’ people are paying for their commute or weekend breaks.

“Choosing the road over the rail isn’t just about the journey; it’s about keeping nearly £50 extra in your pocket. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s or looking ahead to a half-term break for the family, coach travel is a great alternative to save some money.”

A MAJOR new safari park could be coming to the East Midlands.

The “ambitious” planning proposal would see bears, wolves, and even lynxes arriving to a 1,000-acre woodland.

Wild Rutland Partnership hopes to open a new nature conservation and wildlife park in Rutland, near Leicester.

If given the green light, Wild Rutland would house Eurasian brown bears, lynxes and wolves inside holding pens, with animal lovers able to see the mammals from various different viewing platforms.

The proposed safari park would be built on a huge site stretching from Burley Wood to Oakham bypass.

A barn already on the land is expected to be refurbished to house small reptiles and insects.

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Plus, Wild Rutland is also seeking approval of its Visitor Village.

This would consist of a main reception area with a shop, a café, a restaurant, an indoor play area, as well as an education and exhibition building.

There will also be 22 self-catering guest lodges and a communal dining area for visitors who wish to stay the night.

A decision by the council is expected to be made in May.

CEO of Wild Rutland, Hugh Vere Nicoll, said: “Wild Rutland aspires to be an exemplar model of conservation-led ecological-tourism – one that restores heritage landscapes, reconnects people with nature and sets a benchmark for sustainable land management in the UK.

“Wild Rutland is driven by a team with a deep knowledge and respect for the site and the local area, working with experts in the fields of restoration, conservation, education, tourism, attraction development and management.”

Wetherspoons opened its first pub outside the UK and Ireland at Alicante Airport on Monday morning, and Mirror News food editor Joe Rintel was there to sample the menu and prices

Anyone familiar with Benidorm will tell you it’s Continental Europe’s undisputed capital of British cuisine.

Stroll along the strip and you’ll encounter more Full English breakfasts and Sunday roasts than you could possibly tackle during a week-long break. This fine tradition of potatoes and gravy continues at Alicante Airport, where the first Wetherspoons beyond UK and Irish shores welcomed its inaugural customers on Monday morning.

I witnessed the historic moment as the first punters crossed the threshold, with Daz Sunderland becoming the maiden paying customer to savour a pint of lager. Dubbed Castell de Santa Bàrbera after a neighbouring mountain fortress, the establishment features several gestures towards its Spanish setting, including bilingual menus, a ‘Spanish tortilla’ offering, and multilingual staff who switch effortlessly between languages.

However, it remains unmistakably British at heart. The menu predominantly features quintessential British fare, accompanied by pints of Stella and tins of Old Speckled Hen.

Here’s a sample of what’s available (prices in euros):

Beer

Five beers are available on draught. As this Spoons is more compact than typical UK high street branches, tap capacity is restricted. Consequently, there’s no ale – just lager. This makes perfect sense given Alicante’s typically balmy climate.

The draught selections include:

• Cruzcampo Especial 4.95
• Amstel Original 5.95
• Stella Artois 5.95
• Guinness 7.50
• Leffe Blonde 7.95

Wine

Where else at an airport can you secure a glass of wine for barely more than £3? You’d struggle to locate cheaper 125ml servings of the fermented grape anywhere else across Europe.

• Viña Lobera Verdejo Ecológico 3.65
• Cune Rueda 4.95
• Viña Real Rosado 6.75

Mixers

Regarding spirits and mixers, Spanish Spoons operates a fixed-price structure (except for certain premium selections). It charges €6.95 for 25ml with a mixer, and €9.95 for a double. This includes:

• Beverly peach liqueur
• Disaronno amaretto
• Malibu
• Southern Comfort
• Gordon’s
• Gordon’s Pink Gin
• Tanqueray
• Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla
• Bacardi Carta Blanca
• Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold

On the drinks front, there’s one notable absence. The establishment doesn’t provide complimentary tap water; instead, customers are directed to buy bottled water.

For those who adore Spoons’ grub, you’re in for a treat. The menu features several Spanish touches, though largely consists of familiar British favourites. Here’s a sample of what’s available:

Breakfast

• Traditional breakfast: Fried egg, bacon, Lincolnshire sausage, baked beans, two hash browns, slice of toast 10.25
• Small breakfast: Fried egg, bacon, Lincolnshire sausage, baked beans, hash brown 8.25
• Large vegetarian breakfast; Two fried eggs, three vegan sausages, baked beans, three hash browns, portobello mushrooms, tomato, two slices of toast 12.95
• Vegetarian breakfast: Fried egg, two vegan sausages, baked beans, two hash browns, portobello mushrooms, tomato, slice of toast
• Small vegetarian breakfast: Fried egg, vegan sausage, baked beans, hash brown, tomato 10.25
• Scrambled egg on toast 5.95
• Beans on toast 4.95
• Vegan beans on toast 4.95
• Vegan spread, white bloomer toast
• Two slices of toast with butter and jam 450 kcal 3.95
• Fresh fruit and yoghurt 7.95

Small plates

• Broken eggs 10.95
• Garlic prawns 12.45
• Spanish tortilla 4.95
• Nachos 10.95
• Bowl of chips 4.95
• Bowl of chips with curry sauce 6.95
• Cheesy chips 6.95
• Loaded chips 9.95
• Burgers
• Classic beef burger 12.95
• Classic cheeseburger 13.95
• Breaded chicken breast 12.95
• Crunchy chicken strip burger 12.95
• Korean crunchy chicken strip burger 12.95
• Vegetarian burger 12.95
• Chicken dishes
• All-day brunch 12.95
• Vegetarian all-day brunch 12.95
• Sausages, chips and beans 11.95
• Vegan sausages, chips and beans 11.95

What do you think goes in a classic English fry-up? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

It’s crazy how often this happens.

It’s a stunning yet treacherous stretch of coastline where cars and motorhomes are routinely hauled from the waves after becoming partially or fully submerged. Over the past four decades, local farmer Dafydd Davies says he has repeatedly deployed his John Deere tractor to rescue vehicles from the infamous Traeth y Graig Ddu (Black Rock Sands).

His dedication to saving stranded vehicles stems from his own harrowing experience 40 years ago. In 1980, whilst working on a new silage pit at his farm, he endured a horrific accident with a JCB bucket loader that left him trapped against a concrete septic tank.

“I lost my eye but I was very lucky I didn’t lose my life,” he told North Wales Live. The traumatic experience heightened his awareness of potential hazards and sparked a determination to give back to the community, including offering his land for air ambulance landings.

“That incident made me much more aware of risks – even now I can sense accidents about to happen. It also made me want to give something back to the community – I volunteered my land for air ambulance landings,” he said.

This sense of responsibility also led him nearly a decade ago to assume the role of beach guardian at the beach in Gwynedd, north-west Wales, one of the few beaches where driving is allowed. Extracting cars from the advancing tide or liberating them from soft dune sands has traditionally been a job for local farmers, and when the previous guardian retired, Dafydd enthusiastically volunteered.

Vehicle owners sometimes react swiftly enough that their cars and motorhomes can be rescued. However, on occasion, all Dafydd can manage is to recover the ruined vehicle to avoid an environmental disaster.

Sometimes, his wife Kathryn, a former nurse, takes the hit from such episodes, such as when a pink VW campervan was consumed in 2020. The van and its transporter, taken to the beach for a 1970s-themed photo session, were devoured by a rapidly advancing tide after becoming trapped in the sand.

“I always remember the date – September 14 – as it’s my wife’s birthday,” Dafydd recalled. “I’d booked a meal at a restaurant but my mobile rang and we had to go to the beach instead. I usually get there in 18 minutes but by the time we arrived, it was too late – the tide was coming in too fast. Instead, I drove the tractor to the restaurant, had a meal, then I went back to the beach. It was around 2am when I finally got home.”

The devastated owner, from Cheshire, put losses at £60,000.

During a typical summer, approximately six to 10 vehicles meet their fate on the Gwynedd beach. However, it’s believed up to 30 cars and motorhomes required rescue last year in 2025, as the beach is hugely popular and amongst the few where motorists can drive their vehicles onto the sand.

Locals are familiar with the unpredictable character of a shoreline whose tempting shallow waters are ideal for bathing and aquatic pursuits yet conceal a lurking danger for unsuspecting drivers. The very characteristic that renders the beach perfect for recreational activities – its gradual incline – also creates a hazard by allowing tides to rush in rapidly.

But visitors are less familiar with the dangers. And while there are plenty of warnings displayed on the beach regarding the possible dangers, they cannot be positioned where motorists typically park at low tide close to the waterline. Those who pay for parking are given a leaflet outlining tide schedules and beach safety guidance, including recommendations on parking and even details about weeverfish.

“But it’s human nature, they don’t read the leaflets or look at the signs, and they park where they want. If the tide is high in the morning, all the cars park higher up the beach and, if the sand is dry and soft, that’s when people need pulling from the dunes,” said Dafydd.

The problem intensifies when the tide retreats and the more compact sand tempts motorists to travel further out, only to be taken by surprise when the sea returns. “However when the tide is out and the sand is harder, that’s when people park further out. Before they know it, the sea is coming in.”

During sweltering weekends, you could see 1,000 cars or more scattered across the beach, as well as queues extending more than half a mile back into Morfa Bychan village, essentially transforming the beach into a vast improvised parking area. Last year, the council began shutting the beach gate at 8pm, theoretically reducing late-evening rescues, though this didn’t always work as intended.

One one occasion, Dafydd was preparing to attend a wedding reception: “We were dressed and just about to go out the door to a wedding party. I drove to the beach while my wife went to the party alone. A family from Birmingham were stuck on the beach. As they reported it quickly, I was able to save their car – they were very grateful – and I made it to the party by 9pm. Only once the clock ticks past 8pm during the summer can I finally relax.”

Recent years have introduced a new complication to Dafydd’s coastal rescue work: the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) poses a significantly more difficult challenge than recovering conventional petrol cars.

“Electric vehicles are so much heavier because of their batteries,” he explained. “You take a basic Honda EV – it weights 2.2 tonnes. Not only do they sink further into the sand, it requires more power and traction to pull them out.”

Nevertheless, like numerous farmers, Dafydd feels he has a duty to support his local community. Some clear snow from roads, whilst others rescue motorists stranded by flooding.

“I enjoy it,” said Dafydd. “I like the idea of giving something back. My son, Owain, who works with me on the farm, has done a couple of beach jobs, which means I can now get away for a day if I need to. But not for too long – helping others gives me great satisfaction.”

With a palace, a castle and ancient volcano all within visiting distance of each other – it’s no wonder this Scottish city has been voted as the UK’s number for a break

The UK’s best city break has been revealed, and it’s famous for its beautiful buildings, historic castle, and even Harry Potter links.

From historic streets, to cultural spectacles, to iconic landmarks, scenic views or vibrant food scenes, the UK has a fantastic range of amazing cities for travellers to choose from but Sykes Cottages has revealed some of the highlights across the nation after a study revealed that 49 per cent of Brits choose cities for their top five breaks.

Edinburgh, which is also hailed as the UK’s most walkable city, took the top spot in the rankings. This bright and bustling city seamlessly combines the historic and the modern with Edinburgh Castle, one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, and Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the monarch originally built as an Abbey in 1128 connected by the Royal Mile, the historic spine of Edinburgh’s Old Town and the city’s world-famous Fringe Festival, one of the greatest celebrations of modern art and culture in the world.

As well as hosting the Fringe, Edinburgh is also the city where J.K Rowling lived when she was writing the Harry Potter books and people can visit The Elephant House café which is where the legendary wizard was first created.

There’s a wide array of accommodation too whether you’re looking for cosy holiday cottages or cheap hotels, although it’s worth noting that some popular seasons such as the Fringe can see prices surge in some areas.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

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Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

For major Harry Potter enthusiasts, the city also offers a Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour which allows people to explore Edinburgh through the lens of Harry Potter.

With storytelling, the written word and art and culture playing such a prominent part in the city, its contributions were recognised in 2004 when it became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.

Visitors can wander through the city’s cobbled streets and take in its incredible architecture and street designs, or hike up to Arthur’s Seat and enjoy the amazing views from atop the ancient volcano.

Calton Hill is also a must visit and is included in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The panoramic skyline views from the hill are renowned and pictures taken from there are regularly used in photographs or paintings of the city. The hill features the neoclassical landmarks including the National Monument, Nelson’s Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

One reviewer of the city said: “Absolutely love Edinburgh, amazing city! So many gorgeous restaurants and cafes, lots of different vibes but I love the laid-back café culture Edinburgh does so well. Arthur’s Seat is great to climb and has gorgeous views across the city.”

Another said: “Edinburgh is a fantastic place to visit – the Royal Mile and the Castle are definitely worth a visit and there are some spectacular bars and restaurants that we thoroughly enjoyed.”

Do you think Edinburgh is the UK’s best city break? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

From the vast sandy surf beaches of the Gower to the peaks of Eryri national park (Snowdonia), Wales has no shortage of world-class natural attractions. But we’d love to hear about some of your favourite under-the-radar discoveries, whether it be a perfect hiking or biking trail, an intriguing small museum or attraction, or just an unexpected diversion which turned into the highlight of your trip.

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on Monday 16 February at 10am GMT

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

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