Travel Desk

WRAP up warm and embrace the winter at Gulliver’s World.

Its fantastic Land Of Lights experience at its parks in Milton Keynes, Warrington and Rotherham is perfect for families looking to enjoy some fun after dark.

Fairytale characters welcomed us to Gulliver’s World in Milton Keynes, and I’m soon struggling to catch up with Finn, nine, and Isobel, seven, as they burst through the gates.

We’ve visited Gulliver’s World before during the day, and loved it.

The park is ideal for younger children, with gentle rollercoasters, log flumes and fairground fun, as well as rides for adrenalin-seekers, like Dragon Siege.

But this time, we’re here to enjoy the separately ticketed Land Of Lights — a joyful trail through illuminated lands, complete with giant light installations, larger-than-life lanterns and cute photo opportunities.

We start in Dinosaur Land, where the park’s life-size Jurassic monsters are joined by dazzling new residents, including a luminous T-Rex.

Alongside the brightly coloured beasts are some entertaining special effects.

Following the path through a fairy garden and animal farm, we wander, enchanted, open-mouthed through the Under The Sea exhibit.

Halfway through, we stop to toast marshmallows on a bonfire.

There is an extra cost of £5 for this, but my kids really enjoy it and it’s a great way to warm up.

There’s also a little food court, if you’re feeling peckish.

Bolstered by our marshmallow feast, we arrive at the Christmas-themed kingdom, complete with Santa and his elves.

And I’m just as captivated by it all as the kids, skipping along the sparkly path of lights.

To extend the fun, you can even stay overnight in one of the park’s themed cabins, which include a Wild West Saloon.

The next morning, we head into the park for some thrills.

The Land Of Lights may have been more relaxing, but Isobel is thrilled to finally be tall enough to take on Dragon Siege, and as we step off the ride, our cheeks have a different kind of glow.

It’s such a great way to keep everyone entertained — a weekend with something for everyone is a winter win.

I was so focused on looking ahead to make sure a mountain lion or bear wasn’t emerging from the fog that I didn’t notice the semitruck headed straight for me.

I simultaneously gasped and panicked.

Then my brain caught up with my body. I remembered I was hiking on a closed highway. And I was staring at, thankfully, stationary construction equipment. My heart rate slowed, and then I wondered aloud: “What’s this doing here?”

Last week, I hiked on a foggy, misty day along a 4.4-mile stretch of Highway 39 that’s been closed for almost 50 years, after massive landslides left the road impassable (and too expensive and dangerous to fix). It’s since been a popular hiking and biking route, offering a quiet escape and easy connection to the larger Angeles National Forest. But how long can this road survive the elements, especially with El Niño increasing the odds of substantial storms this winter?

In this week’s edition of The Wild, our weekly outdoors newsletter, I will try to answer that question, which per a recent Reddit discussion, is weighing on local hikers. I can say that, after reporting this out, I actually feel some hope about Highway 39’s future.

On Friday, I began my hike at the start of the highway’s current closure, which lengthens the journey from 4.4 miles to about 6 miles. I parked in a large lot just past the Crystal Lake turnoff.

The stretch of Highway 39 that runs from Crystal Lake to Islip Saddle was constructed by inmates from San Quentin and other prisons, opening to traffic on Nov. 6, 1961, according to Times archives. This was part of a long history of California using prison labor — or commonly referred to as “involuntary servitude” by civil rights groups — to construct its roadways. The state is said to have granted workers credits toward reducing their sentences based on the number of days they worked.

The road was quickly at odds with Mother Nature.

Rain during an El Niño winter caused a major landslide in January to February of 1969 near Snow Spring and then again, in February and March of 1978, according to a Caltrans analysis and Times archives.

The roadway has been closed since and remains one of the Caltrans L.A. office’s biggest headaches, as massive boulders frequently tumble down from the jagged mountain side, and landslides remain common. Caltrans, meanwhile, remains bound by state law to maintain the roadway to some degree.

After my mosey down the closed road, I can easily see why the road is such a headache to repair. A massive boulder blocked most of the right lane (the lane that drivers would take to travel from Azusa to Islip Saddle). Several hillsides had collapsed, sending heaps of scree onto the shoulder or roadway.

One of the biggest challenges, though, for Caltrans is 2.3 miles from the first gate where storms have almost washed out the entire road. The large hole, covered in a thick white material that appears to be plastic, has a steep drop-off into the valley below, resembling someone trying to build an infinity pool in the middle of the forest.

I was surprised to find an active construction project underway.

Highway 39 is often said by influencers and bloggers to be an “abandoned” highway, and although that’s inaccurate, Caltrans has actually tried to relinquish its responsibility of this troubled road. In 2012, the agency asked if either the U.S. Forest Service or Los Angeles County officials would take the reins. Both agencies essentially said, “No thanks!” with the U.S. Forest Service adding that its interpretation of the contract between the state and federal agencies was that Caltrans would actually have to remove the roadway and “return the area to the natural landscape,” according to Times archives.

All that‘s to say: Caltrans remains stuck with this road for the foreseeable future and thus has to keep working on it.

Caltrans spokesman Marc Bischoff said in an email that multiple severe winter storms between December 2025 and January 2026 produced higher-than-normal rainfall “that resulted in concentrated runoff down a slope at post mile 40.8 that eroded the slope, berm, and shoulder, and undermined and collapsed the roadway.”

“This section of highway must be repaired as soon as possible to provide access to emergency service response and maintenance vehicles,” Bischoff said. “Work includes excavation and removal of failed roadway and unstable slope material; disposal of material; reconstruction of the embankment; reconstruction of the roadway and shoulder with hot mix asphalt; and placement of erosion control mesh, turf reinforcing mat, fiber rolls, and hydroseeding to stabilize the disturbed slopes and reduce future erosion.”

But Caltrans has plans beyond emergency repairs.

For several years, Caltrans has studied how it should address the future of Highway 39. After weighing several options (including doing nothing) with other state and federal agencies, the agency will move forward with a plan (called Alternative 2) to reopen State Route 39 as an evacuation route for emergency service responders and maintenance crews only. Caltrans will continue to allow hikers and bikers “informal” access to the roadway, according to its January 2025 environmental impact report.

This project is in its design phase. Construction is expected to begin in winter 2032, Bischoff said.

Some of the challenges that Caltrans will face include that, “the highway ascends from an elevation of 5,560 feet above mean sea level (AMSL) at the southern end to 6,670 feet AMSL at the northern end where it intersects with SR-2. The project area is located in the San Gabriel Mountains, within the Transverse Ranges geomorphic province, which is characterized by a complex series of mountain ranges and valleys with dominant east–west trends. Most of the roadway alignment and immediate area is predominantly underlain by slightly to moderately weathered and moderately to intensely fractured igneous intrusive bedrock … Due to the geologic conditions, significant rockfall events have occurred at numerous locations throughout the project area,” according to its environmental impact report.

During construction, Caltrans might restrict access, though, when it is unsafe for hikers and bikers to pass through. I didn’t see any construction workers or signage barring access when I went. Please follow posted signage, as it’s generally there for your safety.

This closed stretch is even more important to hikers after a massive storm pummeled Angeles Crest Highway, leading Caltrans to close the roadway just past Three Points. (If you’re wondering about what El Niño could potentially do to Highway 2, check out my recent article.)

With the Angeles Crest Highway closure, hikers could take Highway 39 about six miles to Islip Saddle, rather than the 10-mile journey required by parking at the Angeles Crest Highway closure and walking that stretch of closed road.

Caltrans has tried for years to address Highway 39’s long-term future. The agency projects its current plan will cost an estimated $46 million.

Meanwhile, the agency remains bound by California Streets and Highway Code to maintain the highway. If El Niño brings storms that damage the road again, history suggests Caltrans will fix it, seemingly stuck in an endless loop of patchwork repairs for one of California’s most challenging mountain highways to maintain. That’s a strange silver lining to a bureaucratic nightmare.

3 things to do

1. Search for cephalopods in San Pedro
Educators from the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium will host tide-pool walks on Saturday (12:30 to 2 p.m.) and Sunday (1:30 to 3 p.m.) at the Point Fermin tide pools in San Pedro. Guests can attend a brief orientation and then head on a naturalist-led hike to see the animals in their natural habitats. Outdoor clothing and closed-toed sneakers are recommended. Learn more about the Saturday and Sunday hikes at cma.recreation.parks.lacity.gov.

2. Assist the land’s recovery near Altadena
We Explore Earth, a community-building outdoors nonprofit, is organizing a volunteer group to repair habitat from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Friday at Eaton Canyon Nature Area. Volunteers should wear close-toed shoes, long pants, work gloves and other protective gear, along with their own water and snacks. Park staff will provide hand tools. Sign up at signupgenius.com.

3. Seek out snowy egrets in Santa Paula
The Ventura County Resource Conservation District will host a free 3-mile walk from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday through the Santa Clara River Preserve (1368 Mission Rock Road in Santa Paula). A bilingual biologist will answer questions as guests meander the habitat, looking out for local bird species. Register at eventbrite.com.

The must-read

I often tell my wife as I return home that a hike felt “therapeutic,” but I mean it more in a holistic sense. I leave the trail often in an improved mood with more clarity — sometimes after talking through a problem with myself as the trees listen. But I hadn’t thought about meeting my therapist on the trail. Times staff writer Deborah Vankin recently explored the practice of walking therapy by taking a hike through Griffith Park with psychotherapist Ismary Colón Angueira, who specializes in the modality. “Bringing people back into relationship with nature,” Colón Angueira said, “is the bigger point of all this. In my ideal world, my clients continue walking after they stop seeing me. And they reconnect to this relationship with place. Being in nature is our birthright. It’s something that everybody has access to. And it’s healing.”

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

The Trans-Catalina Trail is a 38.5-mile journey across Santa Catalina Island, taking hikers through rugged landscape with incredible views of the island’s mountains, pristine coast and the Pacific Ocean. Planning a multi-day backpacking trip there is no easy feat, as visitors must pack for significant elevation gain and loss — more than 6,000 feet total, according to the Catalina Island Conservancy — on a route with minimal shade. Sports and outdoors store Sports Basement will host a free seminar about how to prepare for hiking the Trans Catalina Trail at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at its Long Beach location. Regardless of how long this trek has been on your adventure bucket list, this sounds like a great opportunity to learn more.

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

Yes, this old-school bakery and diner chain offers tons of delicious pies, but it also takes the rest of Thanksgiving seriously. At locations throughout L.A., including Long Beach, Cerritos and Montebello, you can order several heat-and-eat meals, including a whole turkey feast with an 11- to 13-pound bird ($199.99), a whole ham feast ($189.99), and a half ham feast for smaller gatherings ($104.99). Each comes with an array of sides, including smashed potatoes, homestyle stuffing and Southern-style green beans, plus your choice of pie. The larger meals feed six or more, while the half ham serves up to four. If you’re handling the turkey yourself, the Everything But the Bird package ($109.99) takes care of the sides. Individual turkey and ham dinners are also available, along with à la carte sides. And, of course, there’s pie — lots of it. Choose from classics like apple, pumpkin and pecan to boysenberry, banana-strawberry, pumpkin maple crunch and more. Orders can be placed online.

WITH top deals spanning now across three days – Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday – it can be hard to cut through it all to find the best offers.

And while you might be tempted to fork out hundreds on the latest gadget, the reality is you could get a holiday for the same price.

Fortunately, Jet2Holidays has revealed the bargain holidays that cost the same as some of the trendiest gadgets around at the moment.

So instead of getting a high-tech face mask to relax, why not book one of these six relaxing holidays instead?

Swap a Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl £273.99 for seven-nights in Portugal

While it might be tempting to get creating your own ice cream and acai bowls with a Ninja CREAMi Scoop and Swirl, this high-tech kitchen accessory will set you back around £273.99 this Black Friday.

Instead, book a trip to the Algarve in Portugal for a few quid more.

For £279 per person, you could stay at the three-star Parque Mourabel Oasis Village for a week.

The village has around 180 apartments and there are three pools, including a dedicated children’s pool.

You’d depart from Manchester Airport on November 28 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

And instead of making your own ice cream, you can have it made for you… by the sea.

Swap a Shark CryoGlow LED face mask £248.95 for seven-nights in Malta

If you fancy pampering yourself, you might be tempted to buy Shark’s LED face mask for £248.95 this Black Friday – but why don’t you opt for a holiday as a form of self-care?

For £299 per person, you could head to Malta, instead for seven-nights staying at the four-star Maritim Antonine Hotel.

The 280-room hotel sits on the slopes of Mellieha and has panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

It has three pools and an exclusive adults-only pool as well.

In Malta itself you can explore honey-coloured Baroque architecture as well as the fortified capital city.

You’d depart from London Stansted Airport on December 7 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

Swap a Sonos Beam soundbar (Gen 2) £335 for seven-nights in Turkey

Instead of listening to the sea through a Sonos Beam Soundbar for £335 you could listen to the real sea in Turkey.

For £319 per person, you could stay at the three-star Twenty Hotel for seven nights in the Antalya Area.

The hotel sits in the heart of the Old Town in Antalya and has an open air roof terrace which looks out to the Taurus Mountains.

Near the hotel you can head to the marina as well as explore Kaleiçi Old Town which is home to several ancient Roman ruins.

Then stop by Mermerli Plajı for a dip in the sea and some local food at one of the waterside restaurants.

You’d depart from Edinburgh Airport on December 11 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

Swap a Dyson Airwrap i.d. multi-styler and dryer £329.99 for seven-nights in Majorca

Instead of waving your hair with a Dyson Airwrap multi-styler for £329.99, opt for the natural beach waves you’d get in Majorca.

For £319 per person, you could spend seven-nights in Majorca, Spain, at the three-star Bellevue Bonita And Club Resort for seven-nights.

The resort is Europe’s largest family hotel complex, spanning 250,000 square metres.

The entire resort acts as a mini town with shops, restaurants and even a theatre.

The apartments all feature a modern interior and have different layouts ideal for families.

You’d depart from Bristol Airport on April 7, 2027 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

Swap a Sony PlayStation 5 console £389.99 for seven-nights in Greece

Instead of playing in a pretend world on a Sony PlayStation 5 console for £389.99 you could play in the real world but in Corfu, Greece.

For £399 per person, you could stay at the three-star Royal Garden Kavos for seven-nights.

The resort features different apartments and studios, as well as an outdoor pool with a deck area.

Nearby you can explore the town of Kavos, where there are a load of restaurants selling local cuisine.

And of course, you won’t be short of beaches.

You’d depart from Glasgow Airport on May 24, 2027 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

Swap a Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series ES701UK £549.99 for seven-nights in Gran Canaria

If you’re a big coffee drinker, a Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro for £549.99 could be tempting but why not drink coffee in the Canary Islands instead?

For £539 per person, you could stay at the three-star Cala Dor Gran Canaria for seven-nights in Gran Canaria.

The hotel features self-catering apartments with private balconies and many have sea or valley views.

In the complex, there is also a sun terrace, pool and children’s pool.

Nearby, head on a 15 minute walk to Puerto Rico Beach and the marina.

You’d depart from Glasgow Airport on May 29, 2027 and 22kg luggage would also be included.

FORGET your Sunday roast, why not try frozen sheep’s brain in a restaurant that looks like it has been plucked from a dystopian novel?

Well you can when you dine at the top 50 restaurants in the world.

The 50 has revealed the world’s best restaurants, spanning from Hong Kong to Barcelona.

And one spot in the UK has even featured on the list.

Placing 48th, Ikoyi restaurant in London has copper-cladded walls and oak furniture throughout.

When it comes to the food, the creators behind the restaurant – Jeremy Chan and Iré Hassan-Odukale – create dishes using herbs and spices from Africa and Asia and use different cooking techniques across the globe.

As a result, the cuisine is Canadian-Chinese-British with dishes on the menu including smoked jollof rice.

Though it isn’t cheap – the tasting menu costs £385 per person.

There is a smaller tasting menu, but that still costs £180 per person.

But these are the only two options – you cannot order a la carte, though you will get 12 to 14 courses.

As for the restaurants that came out on top overall, Wing in Hong Kong secured fifth place.

Chef-owner Vicky Cheng’s Wing restaurant focuses on local and traditional Chinese flavours.

You can expect dry-aged crispy Cantonese chicken, smoked pigeon with sugarcane and for dessert, a fruit trolley service with fresh mangoes, guavas and other tropical fruits.

In fourth place was Quintonil in Mexico City, created by chef Jorge Vallejo.

The restaurant serves up traditional Mexican flavours but uses modern techniques.

Dishes include wild mushroom chileatole soup and ice cream made with honey, papaya and lavender marmalade.

In third place was Alchemist in Copenhagen, which was noted for being a “meal unlike anything else”.

The restaurant itself has two huge bronze doors and then inside is like a “mystical world”.

There are no courses, but instead 50 ‘impressions’ which are divided into several acts.

Dishes include freeze-dried lamb’s brain served on a brain-shaped plate and ‘1984’ – a dish inspired by George Orwell with a realistic looking edible eyeball with caviar, peas, shrimp and pistachios.

You’ll have to fork out £624.34 for the six hour experience though…

Just missing out on the top spot was Gaggan in Bangkok.

Created by Gaggan Anand, Gaggan’s menu combines Indian cuisine with French, Thai and Japanese influences.

You’ll get an experience at this restaurant too, as diners are urged to eat with their hands and even lick the plate.

Dishes served in the past include ‘Yoghurt Explosion’, which was a spherical bitesized dish with sulfur salt and popping candy and charcoal samosas.

And the restaurant that came out on top was Asador Etxebarri in Atxondo, Spain.

The restaurant can be found in a quiet Basque village between Bilbao and San Sebastian.

Chef Bittor Arguinzoniz creates dishes on custom-made grills that the chef designed himself.

You can order either a la carte or the tasting menu, with dishes including baby eels and sea cucumber with green beans and milk ice cream with beetroot.

Several of the spots on the list are more of an experience with theatrics than a simple restaurant for a sit down meal.

In 29th place, for example, was Enigma in Barcelona – a restaurant that looks more like a high-tech spaceship on the inside with glass and metal walls making it look as if it were frozen.

Guests even have to enter a secret code to get into the restaurant.

Other spots to feature on the list that are just as breathtaking to look at as the food include Vyn in Skillinge which has views of the rolling hills and sea and Piazza Duomo in Alba, which is entirely pink inside.

BALPA has explained what happens on a plane during a bomb threat after suspected hoax alerts diverted Ryanair, Aer Lingus and Finnair flights across Europe on Thursday

The British Airlines Pilots’ Association has set out precisely what takes place on board an aircraft when a bomb threat is received. It follows further threats made against planes on Thursday. Thursday’s incidents marked the second wave this week, after several aircraft, including some departing from the UK and Ireland, were subjected to hoax security alerts earlier this week.

Thursday’s events led to numerous flights being diverted across Europe, including an Aer Lingus service from Dublin to Rome being forced to land in northern France and a Ryanair flight from London being diverted.

Joji Waites, BALPA director of flight safety, policy and regulation, said: “Aviation has historically been a target for bomb threats, but the industry has well-proven mechanisms for dealing with such threats.

“When a threat to an aircraft has been notified to the airline, the threat is passed to a team of assessors. These assessors use standard processes to grade the threat and decide whether the threat is Red (credible), Amber (partially credible) or Green (not credible). Amber is not considered an appropriate assessment if the plane is airborne.

“If the threat is assessed as not credible staff on the plane will not be informed of it. However, when a threat is assessed as credible (red or amber) the flight crew will be informed immediately and they will carry out company procedures for a credible bomb threat.

“From the moment the flight crew is notified of a credible bomb threat, commander of the aircraft – the captain – is in command and will make all the decisions, guided by the appropriate checklist, for the safety of their aircraft. Usually, if a plane is still on the tarmac that will mean an evacuation and if it is in the air, the priority will be to land the plane as soon and as safely as possible.

“Pilots are highly trained and skilled professionals. Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring passenger safety and keeping aviation one of the safest forms of transport there is.”

No fewer than eight flights were confirmed to have received bomb threats on Thursday, with services affected from Copenhagen, Helsinki, Madrid, Milan and Warsaw. Among those targeted was a Ryanair flight departing from London Stansted Airport bound for the Bulgarian capital Sofia, which was diverted and touched down safely in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, according to the Associated Press. The majority of affected aircraft were redirected to alternative airports for emergency landings, while others reached their intended destinations without incident.

With regard to the Dublin to Rome Aer Lingus flight, a statement from the French prime minister’s office confirmed that the A320 aircraft was diverted to the Evreux air base, where it landed safely.

“The 151 passengers and six crew members were brought to safety and the bomb disposal teams intervened,” the statement added. Aer Lingus said: “Aer Lingus flight EI402 from Dublin to Rome diverted to Normandy this morning as a security precaution. The flight landed safely and Aer Lingus will work to reaccommodate customers to their final destination as soon as possible.”

Finnish carrier Finnair confirmed that two of its flights — one departing Helsinki bound for Rome and another heading from Helsinki to Vienna — had also received “unfounded or hoax” bomb threats on Thursday. Both aircraft touched down at their intended destinations and passengers disembarked without incident, the airline stated.

In Rome, the Finnair aircraft was thoroughly inspected with nothing suspicious discovered, while checks on the plane in Vienna were still ongoing. The flight to Rome had 144 passengers and seven crew members on board, while the Vienna-bound service carried 177 passengers and six crew, the airline confirmed.

WizzAir revealed that two of its flights had also been subjected to bomb threats on Thursday — one travelling from Milan to Bucharest, which landed safely at its destination, and another due to fly from Milan to Warsaw, which was diverted and touched down safely in Vienna.

The airline said it was “co-operating fully with the relevant authorities” and taking “all necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone onboard”.

It added: “The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority.”

TRAIN travel in the UK is some of the most expensive in Europe – but there is a little known way you could save hundreds of pounds.

Some lucky Brits are able to buy cheaper tickets, thanks to railcards for students, seniors or even those aged 26-30.

But fall outside of those brackets and you’ll find yourself paying full whack to hop on a train, be it to get to the office or to see your friends and family.

Yet Trip.com has recently launched its own railcard, which anyone can buy to use on UK trains.

Called Traincard, it costs £25 and can only be bought on the app.

Yet it saves you 10 per cent on any trains, be it peak or off peak (even lucky railcard holders can buy it – you can stack it if with other railcards).

There is a caveat, which only allows you to use it on 30 trips in a 90 day period.

Yet after testing it out, I realised I would be saving £750 on my commute alone.

So lets break it down.

My daily commute costs around £70, and I travel from Kent to London three times a week.

A saving of £7 a day, which, with 12 journeys a month, means I can save around £84 a month.

The same can be saved for the second month I used it – so another £84 a month saving.

This then halved for the third month, as I maxed out the 30 day limit in 90 days, so a saving of £42 a month.

So overall, I saved £210 in three months on my commute.

Turn that into a year (buying a new railcard every 90 days) that’s a huge £840 saving.

Even taking off the £25-a-time railcard, that’s £740 a year.

You can easily save more too – I often travel to see my friends in Manchester, where one return trip costs £208.

With the Traincard, that is more than £20 saved.

Or say you are travelling as a family one weekend – the saving is per booking, not per person, so you could be saving even more.

You need the Trip.com app as you can’t use it on the website and there is a limit as you can only save up £25 per booking.

But in theory – if you maxed out the savings and the 30-day in a 90-day period bookings?

You could save up to £3,000 a year. Not bad money at all!

Brits looking for winter sun holidays that don’t require heaps of travel and a big dent in the budget may want to consider the Canary Islands for their next break

The Canary Islands may be particularly popular during the summer, but they hold their own year-round with balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine. For those who aren’t tied to school holiday dates, the bigger islands such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura can be ideal for a cheep and cheerful holiday where it’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors (temperatures can reach 24C in November), and sunny enough that you can forget all about the dreary British weather.

However, according to research from travel pros at the Post Office, there’s one island where you can particularly get the best value for your money for a break in winter 2026. Tenerife came out as the top spot from the Canaries in the Post Office’s ‘winter sun costs barometer’, which compared prices in holiday hotspots across a number of factors such as the price of a cup of coffee, a three-course meal with house wine, a local beer, and other food and drink.

Tenerife came eighth in the overall global rankings, but was the top Canary Island, followed by Lanzarote which was 11th overall. “Tenerife remains a popular choice for winter sun holidays,” the team behind the study explained. “It’s known for its warm weather, volcanic scenery and range of attractions.

“Visitors can explore Mount Teide National Park, take a whale or dolphin-watching trip, or relax on the island’s beaches. You’ll also find lots of resorts, restaurants and family-friendly activities. Tenerife offers a good mix of sunshine, convenience and value. It’s also one of the cheapest European destinations in this year’s report.”

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While the report looked at food and drink costs while out on holiday, it didn’t factor in prices of flights or package holidays to actually reach the destination. Still, the good news is that when there aren’t school holidays in the mix (for example, in November or early December), there are deals to be found. According to Skyscanner, you can find cheap flights from the UK to Tenerife starting from £26 each way (excluding extra hand luggage), while the likes of TUI, easyJet Holidays, Loveholidays and On the Beach all offer some tempting last-minute deals.

Given that the flight time is approximately four hours from most UK airports, it can also be an ideal destination if you want a break but don’t have the annual leave to commit to a full week or two’s getaway.

While Tenerife was the top of the Canaries in the rankings, when it came to Europe overall, it was Portugal’s Algarve that came out as the winner for the best value winter sun holiday. It came sixth in the overall rankings, followed by Spain’s Costa del Sol in seventh place. However the title of overall best value holiday went to South Africa’s Cape Town, which boasted some of the lowest average prices including local beer and three-course meals.

SOUTHAMPTON Airport is set to undergo a massive expansion and it is good news for travellers.

The airport has announced plans to expand its passenger terminal by 800 square metres, to handle nearly three times as many passengers per flight.

The expanded terminal would allow the airport to host larger aircrafts, capable of carrying around 200 passengers.

Planes at the airport currently, have around 70 seats.

The bigger planes would include Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s and could lead to new routes from the airport in the future.

Currently, inside the terminal up to 200 passengers may need to wait in a pre-controlled boarding area while other passengers get off the plane.

The expansion would also help with this, creating more space for passengers to move around.

The extension would be built in the area next to the existing terminal building.

Previously plans suggested that a passenger walkway would also be added to the airport, as well as a new domestic baggage reclaim.

The airport already underwent a runway expansion of 164 metres in 2023.

The airport currently serves between 800,000 to 900,000 passengers a year and heads to 15 destinations including Paris, Mallorca and Barcelona.

Airlines that operate from the airport include Aer Lingus, Easyjet, KLM and Loganair.

FANCY zooming across the streets of London taking in the Christmas lights like Kristen Scott Thomas? We’ve got just the ticket (literally).

But don’t worry, you won’t have to sit in one of the tuk tuks – instead, you’ll be getting the best view from the top of an open top bus.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + Thames sightseeing cruise included. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

You’ll cruise underneath the magical displays, avoiding the shopping crowds and get incredible views of London along the way.

What’s even better news is that The Original Tour has cut the price of its Christmas Lights Tour tickets by 20 per cent.

If you click here and enter the code FESTIVELONDON at checkout, adult tickets drop from £36 down to just £28.80.

Children’s tickets will drop from £22 to £17.60, and infants under two travel free.

The tour kicks off on Coventry Street, where you’ll climb aboard one of the Christmas-themed double-decker buses and hunker down in a seat on the upper deck.

The bus will head past illuminated London spots while a tour guide sprinkles joy telling festive facts and jokes along the way.

From the top deck, you’ll be able to see the golden angels of Regent Street and the beautiful canopy across Oxford Street.

While Oxford Street has been recently pedestrianised, you’ll still be able to go down a section of it by Marble Arch.

For anyone who loves window shopping, gaze upon the shopfronts of stores in Bond Street, and take in the buzz of Piccadilly Circus from the comfort of the top deck.

Get your cameras at the ready for when you cruise past Trafalgar Square as it’s home to a huge Christmas tree, gifted to the UK from Norway.

Whether you’re after a family outing, a date night under the twinkling lights or a solo day to yourself, the tour is suitable for everyone.

It lasts up to 90 minutes and will run from November 14 to January 3.

There are lots of times to choose from too with the first bus departing at 4:30pm and the last at 9pm.

Make sure to wrap up warm, and why not pick up a hot chocolate to stay cosy onboard?

There’s more…

If you buy a Christmas Tour ticket, it includes a daytime River Thames cruise too.

So you can have a full sightseeing day in London, one from the road, and another from the water.

Cruises start at four points in London; Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier, or the London Eye Pier, so there’s flexibility in how you plan the day.

Along the Thames River cruise you’ll lots of London landmarks including Big Ben and the London Eye.

If you still haven’t had your city fix, the ticket allows for SIX free self-guided walking tours.

Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter or learn the spooky secrets of Jack the Ripper, you can listen to them all on The Original Tour’s partner app at your leisure.

You’ll be able to explore the city for under £30 – and at Christmas, every saving helps.

The FESTIVELONDON code is valid to use right now through to January 3, 2027, so now’s the time to lock in your dates.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + Thames sightseeing cruise included. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

FESTIVELONDON expires on 03/01/2027 11:59pm (BST).

Terms and Conditions:
The offer is available from 12 October 2026 until 3 January 2027, with tours running daily from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The discount applies to adult and child tickets only, excludes family tickets and cannot be combined with other offers. Blackout dates apply and are from 21 December 2026 to 30 December 2026. Blackout dates are dates during which promotional offers cannot be used. More information can be found on the website at theoriginaltour.com.

*Prices correct at the time of publication.

There’s a deadline, and it only applies to certain families

Families are being urged to move fast if they want to cut the cost of their next holiday, with a rapidly approaching deadline to snap up a new easyJet discount.

The budget carrier and easyJet holidays have unveiled a brand new deal specifically designed to cover the cost of a baby’s first passport. Anyone who books a trip with an infant before November 26, 2026, can save £66.50 on their booking – matching the exact current fee for a standard online British child passport application.

The money-saving initiative arrives during what is traditionally one of the busiest periods of the year for new arrivals, and follows a whopping 10% surge in infant travel. In 2026 alone, easyJet has carried 22,000 more babies across its networks compared to the year before, with city breaks proving the most popular destination choice for young families venturing abroad.

With the cost of living continuing to squeeze household finances, the airline hopes the discount will give mums and dads one less thing to worry about. In a recent survey by the travel firm, three in four parents agreed the offer would make a holiday with a baby feel considerably more affordable.

How to claim the baby passport offer

The deal is simple, with no minimum spend required to unlock the savings. It applies to holidays booked with an infant aged under two years old at the time of travel, provided they are travelling on their very first passport.

Before the deadline hits you need to choose your holiday. Select an eligible break on easyJet.com/holidays, ensuring you include the infant on the booking.

You must confirm your booking before the deadline of November 26, 2026. The holiday itself must be completed by October 31, 2028.

When you reach the “extras” page online, input the promo code FIRSTPASSPORT. If you’d rather book through a high street travel agent, simply provide them with the code at the desk.

It’s worth noting that easyJet doesn’t apply for or pay for the passport directly. You still need to apply and pay for it yourself through HM Passport Office. The £66.50 is deducted straight from your total holiday bill, working as a direct discount rather than a government refund.

Please note there’s a strict limit of one promotional discount per booking.

Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said: “Travel has a unique way of bringing families together, and a baby’s very first holiday is often one of those moments parents remember for years to come. By covering the cost of a baby’s first passport, we’re helping more families start making those memories that little bit sooner.”

IF YOU are heading to one popular Spanish spot you better be on your best behaviour as a load of new rules are being introduced.

Tourists behaving badly by littering or spitting in public could now get hefty fines in the city of Valencia.

The rules, which if broken could get you fines of up to €1,500 (£1,251.29), also include not dropping cigarette butts, chewing gum or paper.

More serious offences such as spitting or urinating in public, could get you a fine of up to €3,000 (£2,502.57).

It comes as the city also revealed plans to cap tourist cycling groups to a maximum of 10 people.

Cycling is popular in Valencia with both tourists and locals and has surged over the recent years.

The previous limit was 15 people and now groups of more than 10 will have to split into smaller groups and be at least 50 metres apart.

The new rule applies to both bikes and e-scooters.

Other new rules crackdown on stag and hen parties as well, where if thy take place on public streets between 10pm and 8am from Sunday to Friday – and Saturday until 9:30am – groups could be faced with a fine between €750 (£625.64) and €1,500 (£1,251.29).

There are also new limits on wearing items representing human genitalia, and carrying inflatable dolls and other sexual props through public spaces.

These offences could be fined up to €750 (£625.64).

Authorities have said that the new rules are not meant to limit tourism, just to “better manage its activities and ensure that we can all share the streets in appropriate conditions”, reports Olive Press.

On weekends, 1st and 2nd streets between Alameda and Los Angeles swell with crowds of families, anime fans, sneakerheads and tourists and locals alike in search of ramen or sushi, manga and magazines, matcha, toys, Japanese crafts, groceries, traditional sweets, records, Shohei paraphernalia and vintage fashion.

This is Little Tokyo, one of the most walkable, vibrant neighborhoods in Los Angeles — a historic small town within a big city that has thrived, even if sometimes precariously, through waves of urban development.

The 300 block of 1st Street is known as the Little Tokyo Historic District, a nationally registered designation that’s the heart of the neighborhood. Here more than a dozen buildings preserve the pre-World War II streetscape and represent the social and cultural history of Japanese Americans in L.A.

The block is also an emblematic crossroads, where sweeping changes and cultural preservation converge.

“People want places like Little Tokyo,” says Kristin Fukushima, executive director of Little Tokyo Community Council, a nonprofit focusing on sustainable development for more than 5,000 residents and 400 businesses. “People identify with the culture and character of the neighborhood.”

In 1884 a cook named Hamanosuke “Charles Hama” Shigeta opened L.A.’s first Japanese-owned business, Kame, a 1st Street restaurant that stood where gift shop Bunkado is today. It was the seed of what’s now the largest Japanese American neighborhood in the U.S.

In the spring of 1942, Little Tokyo was emptied almost overnight, its residents forced from their homes and sent to incarceration camps. The businesses and institutions that survived and rose after the war remain part of its foundation, including confectionery shop Fugetsu-Do, Anzen Hardware and Far East Cafe, along with Buddhist temples such as Koyasan and Higashi Honganji.

Echoes of displacement resounded last summer when masked federal agents arrived in Little Tokyo and armored vehicles flanked the Japanese American National Museum — a memorial of historic trauma turned into a backdrop for immigration enforcement sweeps.

Meanwhile, generations of activists have helped save the neighborhood from being erased by eminent domain and real estate development. Every major monument and community space exists because of negotiation between activists, city government and corporate interests. “Asian American civil rights are a critical piece of the history here,” Fukushima says, referring to a movement that fought urban displacement, created services and allied with Black, Latino and anti-war groups for social justice.

The latest chapter of endurance is taking shape at the 1st Street North Residences, a mixed-use development with 100% affordable housing that used to be a city-owned parking lot. But before the 1950s the same land was a neighborhood of Japanese American businesses and homes for a growing Black community. Those buildings were demolished following evictions via eminent domain to make way for police headquarters. Now the project represents a reclamation.

Iconic Little Tokyo restaurant Suehiro and mochi maker Fugetsu-Do are expected to move into ground-floor retail spaces surrounding a cherry tree courtyard and the Go For Broke Monument, a black granite memorial honoring the more than 16,000 Japanese American men and women who served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Philip Hirose is a third-generation owner of Anzen Hardware, an institution that disappeared from Little Tokyo in 2023 but returned to its original location on 1st Street earlier this year. He also operates Azay, a restaurant his mother and late father founded. “Being in Little Tokyo where families have known each other for generations, there’s a lot of interconnectedness,” Hirose says. “You get a kind of gem.”

When asked what it’s like to be part of this neighborhood, one that’s rooted in a century of resilience and renewal, he says, “It feels like everything.”

The provided text discusses historical events surrounding Colon Day in Panama, which is observed on November 5. Following a declaration of independence, the Colombian government instructed its military troops to advance toward Panama. However, on November 5, 1903, residents living in Colon successfully persuaded the stationed Colombian forces to halt their march toward Panama City. Without this crucial intervention, the military might have gained a tactical advantage that could have crushed the independence movement. Additionally, the source briefly mentions other regional occurrences, such as earthquakes in southern Panama and independence holidays in Ecuador.

We’re giving away a stylish five-star retreat in the heart of Cognac, complete with Michelin-starred dining, rooftop views, and world-class heritage.

Swap the everyday routine for five-star sophistication in the heart of Southwest France! We’ve teamed up with Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa to offer one lucky winner a luxury stay at this breathtaking transformed landmark.

Once a bustling 19th-century cognac trading house, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa seamlessly blends historic French charm with sleek, contemporary architecture set across almost five acres of heritage-protected grounds.

What makes this stay special?

• Sophisticated sipping: Step into Bar 1838, atmospheric and rich in history, set within the former cooperage of Maison Monnet. Here, guests can sample from an extraordinary collection of over 330 Cognacs in an unforgettable heritage setting.
• Gastronomic excellence: Indulge in exceptional Michelin-starred cuisine at Les Foudres , or enjoy delicious casual dining right on site.
• Ultimate relaxation: Unwind in the fabulous spa and take a dip in the indoor-outdoor pool, designed for total tranquillity.
• Unbeatable location: Situated amidst the region’s most prestigious cognac houses, including the home of Jay-Z’s signature Cognac, you’re perfectly positioned to explore France’s rich heritage.
• Curated experiences: From idyllic countryside picnics and scenic bike rides to exploring vibrant local markets, every moment is crafted for a memorable getaway.

Beyond the hotel, you are perfectly placed to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and finest spirit craft of Southwest France.

To be in with a chance of winning this ultimate luxury retreat, simply fill in your details in the form below. If you can’t see the form, click here.

This competition closes on the 6th December.

There’s a celebratory mood in Belgrade, the Serbian capital. For almost two years protest has shaped everyday life as a student-led movement demanding accountability and an end to corruption gathered momentum after a concrete canopy at Novi Sad’s newly renovated railway station collapsed in November 2024, killing 16 people.

Demonstrations grew into a nationwide challenge to the government and finally, last month the student-backed list won an outright majority in parliamentary elections – a dramatic shift in Serbia’s political landscape. Crowds gathered in Slavija Square, and celebrations spilled into the streets and bars. The formation of a new government still lies ahead, but the city feels full of possibility.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Belgrade sits at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. With a large student population and a thriving creative scene, it has informal, sociable energy: cafe terraces fill during the day, while DJ bars and clubs keep the city moving late into the night. Historic streets, neoclassical and art nouveau buildings sit alongside modernist architecture, former industrial spaces and new waterfront developments.



As founder of Still in Belgrade I’ve spent more than a decade exploring the city’s art, culture and music scene – here are some of my favourite things to do.

What to do

I love walking around Belgrade’s old town and inner-city neighbourhoods. Dorćol is my favourite area. Its historic buildings and former workshops now house independent galleries, speciality coffee shops, lively bars and contemporary restaurants. Graffiti and murals animate its walls, there’s always an exhibition, gig or something happening.

I also enjoy wandering through Kosančićev Venac, stopping for coffee on its cobbled streets. Then there’s Savamala, on the banks of the Sava, with its waterfront restaurants at Beton Hala. Vračar, another historic inner-city neighbourhood, draws me back for its restaurants, elegant old villas and the Nikola Tesla Museum.

For a taste of everyday life, head to the food markets: Zemun Market at Masarikov trg 17, Kalenić Market at Maksima Gorkog 2B, and Palilula Market at Ilije Garašanina 5A. In and around the markets, coffee shops and street-food counters offer everything from roast pork, champagne and artisan bread at Pretop to traditional Serbian dishes such as ćevapi (kebab).

For art and history, start with the National Museum. Its collections span prehistoric finds from Lepenski Vir and the Vinča culture, artefacts from Roman sites across Serbia, and an extensive selection of Serbian and European painting.

Don’t miss Galerija Kula at Cetinjska 15, housed in a tower within the former brewery complex. It showcases local artists and designers, and its shop is worth browsing for striking posters and design objects. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCAB) is worth visiting for its architecture alone. A modernist gem designed by Ivan Antić and Ivanka Raspopović, opened in 1965, its rich collection traces the development of Yugoslav modern and contemporary art.

For shopping, I’d recommend Jane Doe, a vintage and design shop offering everything from former Yugoslav labels to high fashion and pieces by local designers. There’s also a tattoo studio.

Tours

For a closer look at Belgrade’s street art, take a walking tour and street art workshop with Ljiljana Radosević. It’s another way into the city’s history, revealing neighbourhood loyalties, political tensions and the humour that runs through everyday life. To explore a different side of the city, join a Yugoslav architecture tour by bike with Still in Belgrade Tours taking in the scale of New Belgrade, where broad boulevards, residential blocks and monumental buildings reflect the ambitions of the socialist era. You can trace the influence of Le Corbusier’s planning principles in the freestanding blocks, generous green spaces and separation of homes, workplaces and traffic.

Where to eat and drink

For traditional comfort food, Stara Hercegovina is the sort of place to arrive hungry and take your time. I usually order čorba, a hearty soup, followed by kolenica (pork knuckle) or pljeskavica, a grilled minced-meat patty, with a šopska salad of tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and grated white cheese. Leave room for tufahija, a walnut-stuffed poached apple, or a knedla, a sweet dumpling.

For a contemporary take on Balkan cooking, try Dragoljub. Familiar regional dishes get a creative twist, with plates made for sharing. There’s also an excellent indoor cocktail bar that gets going in the afternoon.

I love Koordinata, a fine-dining restaurant, next to the National Theatre, which takes a farm-to-table approach. The menu ranges from baked cabbage to river fish, octopus and duck, alongside alcohol-free cocktails and wines from across the Balkans.

Another favourite is Stories, a small, cosy restaurant on Pjarona de Mondezira, beside Kalemegdan Park. The focus is on Georgian cooking, including khinkali – dumplings with fillings such as veal, lamb or cheese and mint – and khachapuri, the wonderfully indulgent cheese-filled bread.

For cocktails and finger food, try the tiny Ćilim bar. It makes some of the best whisky sours and pornstar martinis in the city. Take a seat outside and feel the street vibe unfold. Oliver’s, a wine bar in the old town with a New York feel, is great, too.

Nightlife

Electronic music has been central to Belgrade’s nightlife for more than two decades. This is a city that likes to socialise, and visitors often warm to the locals’ hospitality as much as the music.

One of my current favourites is Esthetic Joys Embassy, with its retro Yugoslav-inspired interiors. A sister venue to a vinyl bar and restaurant in Armenia, it combines Japanese food with DJ sets. Another is BIFE, a cocktail and DJ bar tucked away in a former shopping centre in the city centre. Signature cocktails range from €8 to €10.

For a proper night of dancing, my favourite is Karmakoma. Its programme brings together internationally acclaimed DJs and producers with local talent, spanning techno, house and disco.

Stay

For a base in Dorćol, Pavilion Hotel & Social Club on Dobračina Street has doubles from about €89 a night. For a central base with a history of its own, Hotel Balkan, on the corner of Terazije and Prizrenska Street, dates back to 1860, although the building you see today replaced the original in 1936, with doubles from about €100 a night.

Things to know

Public transport in Belgrade is free, including buses, trams and trolleybuses. There’s no metro, but visitors can combine public transport with walking to explore the city.

Researcher and consultant Dragana Kostica documents the Serbian capital’s art, culture and music scene through her platform, Still in Belgrade

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — A U.S. cruise ship that forced all its passengers to disembark in Cambodia after suspending its operations last week has departed the Southeast Asian nation with only crew aboard, Cambodian officials said Wednesday.

The MV Odyssey, owned by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, had been on an around-the-world cruise when it suspended its planned three-year voyage due to the sharp rise in fuel costs.

It had been docked for a scheduled stop at the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand, when on Oct. 28 its 203 passengers were suddenly told they had to disembark within a few hours.

The ship left Sihanoukville late Tuesday with only crew and other personnel on board, said Tang Sochetkresna, director of the Tourism Department of Preah Sihanouk province. He said he didn’t know the ship’s next destination.

He said that nearly 100 passengers remained in Sihanoukville, while others were visiting other parts of Cambodia or had traveled on to other countries. Most of the ship’s passengers were Americans.

The ship, with its 650-passenger capacity, had 156 crew members on board, but it was not clear how many departed with the ship.

There has been no official announcement of future plans for the cruise ship. Media reports suggested that a creditor had taken over its management and was having it sailed to Singapore, Southeast Asia’s main maritime hub.

The abrupt end to the ship’s voyage has drawn widespread attention because it had touted itself as a floating home, combining long-term living at sea with global travel.

Several passengers said they had paid more than $300,000 for a suite for the lifetime of the vessel.

Villa Vie Residences said monthly fuel expenses per cabin that historically averaged $1,800 have reached an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in parts of Asia due to the war in Iran.

The company said it sought to reduce fuel consumption by slowing the itinerary and spending more time in port, but was unable to offset the surging costs.

Traffic has been curtailed in the Strait of Hormuz since the war in Iran began, squeezing supplies of all kinds of petroleum-based fuels, especially in Southeast Asia, and sharply increasing prices.

Passengers had said the company had been asking them for several months for contributions to keep the ship operating, and there has been an active debate on social media over whether its operation was ever financially viable.

Built in 1993 and operated under different names by several cruise lines over the years before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Odyssey was bought by Villa Vie Residences in 2023.

Its current cruise began in October 2024 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the ship had been refitted. A second cruise, along with the purchase of a second ship to operate in a similar capacity, had already been planned.

Cheang writes for the Associated Press.

Eurocamp has announced a major change affecting its popular Spain holiday parks from 2026 but it could be good news for Brits looking for a sunny getaway

Eurocamp parks (or parcs, as they call them) are already a firm favourite with Brits looking for cheap and cheerful getaways in the summer, with sites across plenty of popular destinations including France, Italy and Spain. Now, the holidays giant has announced it will be making a major change to a number of its Spanish locations, in what could be good news for holidaymakers.

That’s because for the first time ever, Eurocamp is going to be offering winter sun holidays, kicking off in 2026. While typically Eurocamp sites close for the winter, this year there will be three parcs remaining open throughout the colder months; Alannia Costa Blanca and Alannia Guardamar in Costa Blanca (home to Benidorm), and Alannia Els Prats in Costa Dorada (home to Salou), with prices from £452 per party during the quieter seasons.

It marks the first time that Brits can opt for Eurocamp breaks in Spain during Christmas, or even for February half term. However, they’re not the only destinations on offer. Eurocamp already has sites in the French Alps which are open during the ski season, as well as its Paris-Est location which is popular with Brits hoping to visit the French capital for its Christmas markets.

It’s not the only brand to offer up holiday parks during the winter months. For example, Center Parcs has a number of sites in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, including one park just a stone’s throw away from Disneyland Paris.

For Brits who are after winter sun but don’t want to commit to jet-setting off to far-flung Caribbean islands, Spain and its islands can be an ideal compromise. In fact, the popular country has 8 of Europe’s 10 sunniest cities according to research from travel pros at Holidu. Cities such as Cordoba or Malaga, in the southern part of Spain, are where you’ll likely have more luck given temperatures average 19C in November, while Barcelona keeps a balmy 15C although it does get cooler in the evenings.

Meanwhile the Canary Islands are famed for their year-round sunshine, and can enjoy temperatures of up to 23C as late as early December. So while it may not be warm enough for swimming in the sea, it’s still pleasant enough that you can enjoy the outdoors whether you wander along the bustling promenades, or want a lunch al fresco. (Not to mention the cooler mornings are ideal for those who want to kick off the day with a hike around those volcanic landscapes).

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WE MIGHT barely be in November but with the mornings chillier and the evenings darker it won’t be long before we press play on the festive films.

And one in particular – The Holiday (2006) – has one of the cosiest of cottages we all dream of staying in over the winter period.

While Rosehill Cottage might be fictional, the UK isn’t short of similarly beautiful cottages by any means.

So here are six that will give you the same feel as being in the movie’s cottage itself:

Philham Water Cottage, Devon

Nestled in the Devonshire countryside is Philham Water Cottage with a double bedroom and a lounge with a sofa bed.

Like The Holiday itself, you will find a roaring wood stove inside an open fireplace.

There’s WiFi, a TV and a DVD player too.

The cottage also has a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom, with a bath tub.

The website says it can host two individuals or a couple, however the cottage does sleep up to four people.

It costs from £95 per night, so £42.50 per person per night if two people were sharing or £21.25 per person per night if four people did stay.

Lew Quarry Cottage, Devon

Set in the grassy green fields, Lew Quarry Cottage, also in Devon, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

There’s also a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and free WiFi.

If you fancy enjoying a cuppa in the fresh air, there is also a garden with a cosy seating area.

And of course, the cottage has a grand fireplace.

Nearby guests can head to Lydford Castle and Launceston Castle.

A seven-night stay for two adults and two children costs £465, working out at £16.61 per person, per night.

Old Blacksmith’s Cottage, Lincolnshire

Old Blacksmiths Cottage in Market Rasen has one bedroom, alongside a shower room and fully equipped kitchen.

The cottage also has a private garden and parking.

Nearby attractions include Lincoln Medieval Bishops’ Palace and Lincoln Cathedral of St. Mary.

It costs from £320 for a seven-night stay for two people, working out at £22.86 per person, per night.

The Green House, Somerset

The Green House in the village of Nunney, Frome, is a quaint Grade II listed cottage that can sleep up to four people (though children under the age of nine are not allowed).

In the lounge there is a cosy fire, which guests can snuggle up by and admire the period features of the cottage.

In the chilly mornings make sure to head outside to the secluded terrace that overlooks the stream.

In the village – which is often dubbed one of the prettiest in Somerset – there’s also a pub and a small shop.

Nearby attractions include Nunney Castle and Cranborne Chase – an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Stays cost from £571 for seven-nights for four people, working out at £20.40 per person, per night.

The Cottage at The Feathered Nest, Cotswolds

Now if you really want to stay in a cottage that looks almost identical to Rosehill Cottage in The Holiday, book into The Feathered Nest’s cottage in the Cotswolds.

Known as ‘Little House’ it is part of The Feathered Nest’s pub site and dates back to the 15th century.

The cottage found in the village of Chipping Norton, has a double bedroom as well as a lounge area with a sofa bed.

There is a grand open fireplace and a sleek kitchenette too.

Your four-legged friend doesn’t have to miss out on this one either as it is dog friendly.

Stays are a bit steeper costing from £800 for two nights for four people, but if you stay from a Sunday to a Monday you get a discount making it £760 – or £95 per person per night… Maybe a good one for a friend group.

Blackbird Cottage, Dorset

Blackbird Cottage in Beaminster is dog-friendly and sleeps up to five guests.

This restored Grade II listed cottage boasts its original features across its three bedrooms and walled garden.

The ground floor of the cottage also features historic stone floors as well as a wood-burning stove to keep you warm.

You’d be a short walk from shops and pubs as well as a short drive to the famous Jurassic Coast.

If you stay for three nights, you can get a £50 discount working out at £526 total or £35.07 per person per night.

A HOLIDAY park left abandoned for two decades on the Isle of Wight is set to be transformed into the ultimate luxury coastal escape.

Previously known as Atherfield Bay Holiday Camp and abandoned since 2007, the site is now being redeveloped by Evergreen Escapes as the Isle of Wight Resort.

Overlooking Atherfield Bay, the new multi-million holiday park is set to open in April 2027.

According to the resort’s website, it will be a “peaceful haven, where sweeping sea views and star-filled skies go hand-in-hand with exceptional accommodation and five-star facilities”.

The multi-million pound project includes building 63 luxury lodges with sea views.

There will be two options – Elite and Signature.

Elite lodges will feature either two or three bedrooms sleeping up to six people, with an open plan living and dining space, as well as a private outdoor decking.

On the other hand, Signature lodges will be slightly more luxury, sleeping up to eight people across four bedrooms.

The living and dining space will be open plan like the Elite lodges, but guests can also expect pops of colour or feature walls.

All the lodges are dog friendly and if you do bring you beloved pooch, they will get their very own welcome pack.

There will be a welcome pack for the humans too though, with Isle of Wight goodies.

Each lodge will have Rituals smellies and luxury robes and slippers too.

All of the lodges will be be self-catered accommodation.

Also on-site will be an indoor swimming pool, – perfect for the colder winters months – as well as a sauna, steam room and a gym.

At the centre of the resort, The Wight Isle Lounge will serve hot drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks and fresh pizzas.

Local residents will also be able to use the entire holiday park.

And discounted ferry tickets will be available to staying guests.

Bookings are currently open for stays from April 2027, with 38 out of the 63 lodges available to rent (the rest will be for sale).

Geoff Cowley, CEO of Evergreen Escapes Group, said: “The Isle of Wight Resort will be a fantastic addition to the Island’s already thriving hospitality scene when it opens.

“Not just because we’re investing in high-end accommodation and facilities, but also because we’ll be investing in the resort team.

“We’ve already filled a number of senior roles but are actively looking for others to join us and showcase the best the Island has to offer for guests and owners alike.”

Evergreen Escapes also has plans for another 15 to 20 resorts over the next five years.

The Isle of Wight Resort will follow Evergreen Escapes acquiring Manor and Ashbury Resorts in Devon and Doublebois Lodge Escape and St Mabyn Lodge Escape, in Cornwall.

Savvy travellers are being urged to remove one overlooked item from their hotel beds immediately upon arrival, with a YouTuber warning it could be harbouring dirt from previous guests

A YouTuber has suggested there is one reason why savvy travellers should remove the bed runner the moment they step into a hotel room. The bed runner is a strip of thick, coloured fabric that stretches across the foot of the bed and features in many hotel rooms.

In a video on his YouTube channel, sblga, who boasts 61,000 subscribers, shared his thoughts on why it’s there. The bed runner exists largely to make the room more visually appealing.

This can be achieved if it is a bright colour, contrasting sharply against the white bedding. However, sblga hinted there was a further reason behind it, too, reports the Express.

Sblga said: “Think what you do when you walk into a hotel room. You throw your bag on the bed, you sit down to relax a little bit, still have your shoes on, and all of that happens at the bottom end. The runner is still there.

“It takes dirt so the white colour doesn’t. Okay, now think about that. Sheets get changed for every guest. The runner usually doesn’t. A lot of hotels wash them now and then. That’s why people who travel a lot take it off the bed first thing.”

The suggestion, therefore, is that because the bed runner isn’t laundered as frequently as the sheets, it’s more prone to collecting grime and bacteria from previous guests’ luggage and personal items.

Yet sblga isn’t alone in advocating for the removal of bed runners, as a housekeeping manager has also urged guests to whip them off the moment they step into the room.

However, sblga is not the only blogger to have warned about hotel room hygiene, with inventor and entrepreneur Lori Greiner suggesting there are three things in a hotel room people should never use.

In a video posted on TikTok, the 56-year-old said: “Never, ever use these three things in a hotel room.”

The three items she recommended avoiding were the soap and shampoo, the hairdryer and the kettle. Explaining her concerns about the kettle in particular, she said it was because some people had used them to clean their clothes.

She claimed: “This one is rough. Did you know some people have used the kettle to wash socks and small undergarments? So if you need hot water, call the front desk and ask for some.”

Lori said the hairdryer was a no-no because some guests “touch it with unwashed hands” and it “rarely gets deep cleaned in between stays”.

Meanwhile, Lori’s dislike of the soap and shampoo dispensers stemmed from her belief that bacteria inside them could be unsafe for people’s skin. She alleged: “Most of the time, they are just refilled – not cleaned out – which means bacteria can build up inside.”

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One woman is becoming a nomad, leaving her permanent home in favour of travelling around the world, staying in strangers’ houses, all while saving £1,500 a month with ‘no bills to pay’

Now more than ever, people are looking for innovative ways to travel around the world, all whilst saving some serious cash. It might seem impossible, but one woman is willing to give up her permanent home to make it happen, potentially saving herself around £18,000 a year.

Michelle, 63, is giving up her flat to travel around the UK and Europe, with hopes of venturing globally. While she’ll have no place to officially call home and a car packed with everything she owns, Michelle has the opportunity to stay at some rather lavish properties she otherwise couldn’t afford and will also save thousands of pounds every month.

So what exactly is Michelle doing to make this dream a reality? “I’m giving my time as a full-time house-sitter, looking after the pets, making sure the house and garden are cared for while the homeowners are away, and in exchange I get to live in their house and don’t need to pay the utility bills,” Michelle revealed. With just a membership fee to pay on house-sitting websites, alongside no rent or bills, Michelle will save up to £1,500 a month.

Michelle, who has already begun house-sitting before going full-time this year, typically looks after pets in homes while the owners are on holiday, all while staying somewhere new for weeks at a time. “The main focus of it is the pets, as it’s a nice alternative to putting dogs in kennels or cats in catteries. It keeps the pets happy at home in their normal environment,” Michelle shared.

Sometimes longer house sits are required, even for people without pets who simply want someone to keep an eye on their home while they’re away. At the time of speaking, Michelle had just begun a two-month house-sitting job in southern Devon at a 16th-century Devon farmhouse spanning 25 acres, with plenty more booked into her diary for the next six months.

She’s already made plans to send her furniture from her former flat to a charity shop and to have a serious clear-out, keeping only the necessities and sentimental mementoes. But there’s one aspect that has proved challenging.

“I love my clothes, and it’s quite tough to try and thin out my walk wardrobe. The default while house-sitting is comfortable clothing, so there’s not much call for fabulous ball gowns or sparkly tops, but you want to hang on to them.”

Michelle added: “The difficult thing is when it comes to getting rid of stuff, including the mementoes, which is really difficult.” Luckily, she will still have her car for additional storage, with the aim of fitting everything she needs in the boot.

On becoming a nomad in her 60s, Michelle shared: “Sometimes, it can be a bit challenging, particularly as I’m single and on my own. You can sometimes feel that you’re kind of on the periphery of society, but other times it’s very freeing, and I’m not in that Monday to Friday, 9 to 5. My life is changing, potentially every few weeks, and I’ll be somewhere new to explore.

“I try to find the balance between newness and familiarity, so I’ll have my favourite mug with me and a wool blanket, so you create these little rituals; that’s what home is.”

This won’t be the first time Michelle has willingly opted to stay in a stranger’s home, as she began house-sitting in 2017, when she lived in Cyprus, looking after pets across the UK, Italy, Spain, and France. She would often take her beloved dog, Eddy, with her, before they were forced to take a hiatus in 2020 amid the pandemic. But after Eddy passed away at Christmas, Michelle was eager to get back into house-sitting and become a full-time nomad.

“Having got back into house-sitting, I just thought, perhaps, becoming a nomad and primarily using house-sitting as a way of having a roof over my head would be something to try. I’m not in a position to buy a place for myself, or know where I’d want to be permanently, and I checked how much house-sitting I could get booked into the diary,” she explained.

Michelle is now booked up for the next six months, aside from two weeks over Christmas, where she plans to stay at a friend’s house before taking on another job. “It made me realise that there is enough demand out there for house-sitters, so rather than renting myself again, I can make house-sitting work full-time,” she added.

Additionally, Michelle can work from her laptop while travelling around house-sitting, with the option to sell on Vinted and eBay for extra income. And if there are times that Michelle has a gap in the diary, she’d happily book herself a holiday or stay at a friend’s house, who have all been “very supportive”.

Michelle uses a few websites to find house-sitting jobs that best suit her, including HouseSit Match, with dreams of expanding her house-sitting duties globally. “House-sitting allows me to explore different parts of the country and around Europe, hopefully. As well as looking after pets, it’s actually quite fun trying on other people’s lives, and it’s nice to be able to experience that,” she said.

Lamia Walker, founder of home-sitting service HouseSit Match, added: “Michelle is a brilliant example of how house-sitting can become a lifestyle, not just a holiday. She lives in some beautiful places that would otherwise be completely out of reach, and also takes rent and bills out of the equation at the same time.

“More and more people are discovering that house-sitting is an affordable way to travel, and many get hooked on the way of life. Michelle is a fantastic sitter, and homeowners rebook her again and again because she goes the extra mile for their pets. Every sitter on our platform is verified, so owners can feel confident about who’s looking after their home and their animals.

“Anyone who fancies a change of scenery should search online to see what house-sitting opportunities are available and where they could go next.”

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