Travel Desk

Doctors initially said Lottie Perks was just dehydrated and should rest at home

A mum says she was ‘dismissed’ as being ‘overly anxious’ by doctors until her daughter’s holiday stomach bug turned out to be her appendix bursting – and potentially fatal sepsis. Lottie Perks, now 20, began experiencing ‘crippling’ stomach pain, coupled with vomiting just days into a holiday.

24 hours later she was back to normal and the family got back to enjoying their holiday in Brazil, but on arriving home in London it was clear Lottie was unwell.

“She began shaking uncontrollably and I noticed her lips, hands and feet were freezing cold,” said mum Laura. “Her feet were white and her lips were blue. And her temperature was weirdly very low. Her face and limbs were swollen and flushed.

“I had been trying to trust the doctors before this and convince myself they were right. But, at this point, it was clear something was very wrong. I was terrified.

“And then, she collapsed in my arms as her eyes rolled back in her head. Her blood pressure plummeted and her heart rate raced dangerously high. I thought this was the end.”

Laura had also experienced a bout of sickness after returning from the trip in April 2025, so the family assumed Lottie had contracted the same bug. But just hours after coming home, the stomach pain and vomiting started again, coupled with bleeding and diarrhoea.

They went to A&E but nothing was found to be wrong. Laura said: “She was very pale, weak and physically could not stop vomiting even though there was nothing left in her. Lottie was placed on an IV drip for three hours while being observed, but was ultimately discharged with a gastro bug, as her blood tests showed normal levels of inflammation.

“That night, and the next day, she didn’t improve and became much weaker. I called the hospital and asked if it could be appendicitis, but they said everything was fine.”

Laura rushed her daughter back to hospital and begged for her to be seen again. Doctors allegedly claimed she was simply dehydrated and that they needed to leave the hospital – until an unusual rash was spotted.

After further checks, Lottie’s legs had started to turn a mottled purple and her body was severely swollen. A CT scan was ordered and it was found that her appendix had burst, causing sepsis.

Laura said: “I knew something was clearly wrong and before they took me seriously, I felt powerless. She had emergency surgery, but it was too late, the sepsis had spread. When she collapsed in my arms, that was her going into septic shock.

“And the start of her organs ceasing to work. I thought she’d be OK after the operation But the look on the surgeon’s face afterwards told me otherwise.

“When they explained about the sepsis and septic shock, and said they’d done all they could do, I felt powerless.”

Doctors rushed to give Lottie antibiotics, as there was a one hour window before her organs would start to fail completely. As nothing else could be done, it was a waiting game for a week.

Luckily, the teen recovered and was slowly taken off medication, as well as machines, keeping her alive. And, despite her life being on the line, she managed to return to university and pass her first year with flying colours.

Now, she still suffers with bouts of sickness, stomach pain, dizziness, fatigue and difficulty keeping warm. The emotional toll is felt by not just Lottie, but her mum, too.

To help raise awareness, the pair are working with Sepsis Trust to warn others of the signs to look out for. And, to never dismiss whether worrying symptoms could be sepsis.

Laura added: “Sepsis doesn’t need a cut, injury or an appendix bursting. It can be from something as simple as a virus. The symptoms are so subtle and confusing; but can become fatal so quickly.

“Having that one question in your mind when advocating for a loved one could save their life. We both suffer from nightmares following the experience. It’s difficult to look at photos from that time.

“And it’s hard not to associate the trip with what happened. We’ve always enjoyed relatively adventurous holidays and discovering further away places.

“But this has definitely put on the radar the possibility of a medical emergency while we’re away. And so, as a family, we haven’t been away too far since. We’re trying not to let the worry and her vulnerability take over too much from enjoying life.

“It’s forever changed us, but we’re so incredibly lucky to have caught it just about in time. I was treated like an overly anxious mother – but that’s what saved my daughter’s life.”

Lottie added: “Initially, I was very scared. I tried to stay calm and thought it was probably a gastro bug or food poisoning. It quickly turned into frustration because I was in so much pain and it was clearly where my appendix was.

“There was a lot of fear; I was terrified. Genuinely feeling like you’re dying and can’t explain or get anyone to understand was [infuriating].

“I still don’t think I really understood what was happening while I was in the ICU. I remember being frustrated that I couldn’t go up to the normal ward. But this was obviously because my organs weren’t fully functioning on their own still.

“Another part of the recovery that was quite frustrating was the loss of all my muscle. I remember just doing one lap of the ICU when I was well enough and being completely exhausted and my legs feeling so tired.

”Going from being someone quite active, and having to come to terms with this new situation, was quite a shock. Looking back on it now, I just feel incredibly lucky and almost proud of my body for managing to push me through it.

“But that gratitude and appreciation also comes with a huge frustration that it could’ve been avoided or acted upon sooner. And I wouldn’t have had to have been in that position in the first place.

“But it taught me a lot and I’m obviously very grateful for all the doctors and nurses that helped me. I have learned to advocate for myself better and to speak out when something isn’t right.

“I also felt frustrated as just being young and female meant that so many things masked it – from doctors thinking I could be pregnant, toxic shock syndrome, period cramps. I wanted to explain that as women, we know what’s normal for us, and this clearly wasn’t normal.

“I understand that various possibilities needed to be ruled out; but I wish someone had considered rapidly progressing sepsis as one of those a little sooner. That said, I am well aware that I am one of the very lucky ones. I’ve been shocked to read all of the ways it could have ended differently.”

On the shores of Douglas Bay, I could barely see the sand. Crammed on to the beach, on every available inch, were tourists bustling for the best spot. Luckily, I wasn’t there at the same time. I was looking at a black and white photograph taken some 135 years earlier, displayed in the Manx Museum in Douglas, the Isle of Man’s capital. When I’d stepped off the ferry earlier that day, the crescent-shaped beach was still there – but the crowds weren’t.

The self-governing British Crown dependency in the Irish Sea has always been a haven for outsiders. From the early hunter-gatherers who ventured here in 6500BC, to the Irish Celts (who brought over Christianity in the fifth century) and Vikings who established Tynwald (one of the oldest continuous parliaments in the world) to the Victorian tourists who transformed it into a popular holiday destination.

Tourism boomed after the advent of steamboats in the 1830s, bringing hundreds of thousands to the island. Visitor numbers rose from 60,000 a year in 1863 to 350,000 by 1887. Last year, there were 329,613 visitors.

I’d come here to try out Inntravel’s new self-guided walking holiday, a four-night, single-centre package with a booklet full of hikes to try each day and a Go Explore Heritage Pass, which offers unlimited public transport and entry to many attractions. It promises a car-free adventure using footpaths and heritage railways to explore more than just the coast.

Arriving in Douglas by ferry from Heysham, Lancashire, early on a Sunday morning, the capital was barely stirring. Along the promenade, black guillemots and herring gulls outnumbered people. Grand Victorian hotels, painted in bold blues, greens and yellows, lined the waterfront. The Tower of Refuge sat on its tiny islet, illuminated by a sliver of sunlight cutting through the cloud.

I climbed aboard the island’s 150-year-old horse-drawn tramway. Tourists shared benches with local people carrying shopping bags as children squealed with delight as the horse trotted along the seafront.

Swapping literal horsepower for electricity, I boarded the narrow-gauge railway towards Groudle Glen. Taking Inntravel’s advice, rather than heading there directly, I hopped off at a request stop near Garwick Beach, a woodland-backed pebbled cove on the Raad ny Foillan (the Way of the Gull), a 100-mile coastal path that circles the island and is well-known to long-distance hikers.

The variation on this walk was that the trail led inland through Ballannette nature reserve, where wrens loudly trilled from the brush and greylag geese bobbed across the lakes. The path then diverted to the ruins of St Adamnan’s church with its Celtic crosses dated from between the seventh and 10th centuries. Finally, I reached the fairytale setting of Groudle Glen, where the wheel at the watermill churns and the sunlight spools through the tree canopy of beech, birch and larch.

That evening I settled into the Halvard hotel, a 20-room boutique property in the heart of town, dining at its restaurant, which makes pub grub (burgers, pasta, stew) with local Manx ingredients, served with views of the sea.

The next day I headed west on another Victorian legacy: the island’s steam railway. At the Level, a request stop so short only passengers in the last carriage can disembark, Gore-Tex-clad hikers stepped off the train clutching walking poles. But with my insider guide in hand, I continued to Port Erin and rejoined the Raad ny Foillan. Purple spring squill and bright yellow gorse lined the path as it climbed and fell in a rollercoaster of colour, rabbits darting at my feet.

Soon I reached one of the island’s highlights: the Calf Sound, where the Calf of Man, a small island separated from the mainland by half a mile of sea is home to a colony of grey seals, accessed by boat trip.

My route continued along the water but then diverted inland to Cregneash, one of the last strongholds of the Manx language – a type of Gaelic – and the oldest open-air folk museum in the British Isles (founded in 1938). Here, costumed guides explain traditional crofting life while rare four-horned Manx Loaghtan sheep graze nearby and prehistoric stones stand in a circle above the village – things I would have missed had it not been for my recommended detour.

Rejoining the coast, I reached the Chasms, where the remains of an 1898 tourist cafe – which had to run with no water or electricity – cling dramatically to the cliffs. Though it closed in the 1960s, walkers and climbers still come to peer down into the sea-carved fissures below. I finished the day with the daily catch and chips in Port Erin before catching the bus back to Douglas, stomach and heart full.

For my last full day I placed my trust in the Inntravel guide again and headed to Peel, the island’s medieval capital, where the remains of Peel Castle dominate St Patrick’s Isle, connected to the mainland by an artificial causeway. Wandering amid ruins, I listened to tales of former residents – including monks, kings, the military and the Moddey Dhoo (the legendary black dog said to haunt the castle’s ramparts) on an audio guide, included with the Go Pass.

Lunch was a paper tray of queenies – locally caught scallops simply pan-fried in butter – from the Fish Bar stall at the harbour before I climbed to Corrin’s Folly, built in 1806 by a wealthy landowner. Once more my guidebook took me away from the well-known coast and inland, to Knockaloe, site of one of the largest first world war internment camps in the British Isles – now just fields. More than 23,000 internees passed through its once barbed-wire perimeter, including Joseph Pilates, who developed his eponymous exercise system while interned here. I followed directions to a bus stop to head home, wandering through pretty woodlands and along the banks of a stream.

Back in Douglas that evening, sampling locally brewed beer at Wine Down, it was easy to imagine those black-and-white photographs filling with colour once more. But perhaps the Isle of Man’s greatest success will not be resurrecting its Victorian heyday, but rather offering the chance for travellers to explore without ever turning an ignition key. Given the climate crisis and rising carbon emissions, that makes this place feel less like a throwback and more of a glimpse into the future of sustainable travel.

The trip was provided by Inntravel. The new Highlights of the Isle of Man four-night self-guided walking break costs from £621pp, including B&B, return transfers and public transport pass

The provided text details the vibrant cultural traditions of Carnival Monday in Grenada, beginning with the early morning J’Ouvert celebrations featuring devil-themed masqueraders and satirical performers. As the day progresses, the focus shifts to the Short Knee bands, who are recognized by their unique costumes and the symbolic use of talcum powder to thank donors. The festivities culminate in a large afternoon parade through the capital, where elaborate costumed bandsdance to calypso music. Led by the Carnival King and Queen, these modern groups showcase the artistry and energy of the island’s national festival. Ultimately, the source serves as an informational guide to the specific rituals, a … 

More than 780 flights were scheduled to depart from Sydney Airport on Tuesday, with almost 140 of these flights expected to face delays of about 45 minutes

Passengers at three major Australian airports have been warned of flight disruptions amid strong winds.

Several flights leaving from Sydney were cancelled on Tuesday, August 11, with more delays expected throughout the day.

A spokesperson for the airport told a local news site: “Strong winds are affecting operations at Sydney Airport and flight delays are expected throughout the day.”

Passengers were advised to check the latest status of their flight before heading to the airport.

A spokesman for carrier Qantas also told the news site that that two flights from Melbourne and one from Brisbane were cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Passengers on the flights have been rebooked onto other services.

More than 780 flights were scheduled to depart from Sydney Airport on Tuesday, according to Airservices Australia’s daily plan.

Almost 140 of these flights are expected to face delays of about 45 minutes, a local news outlet reported.

The ground delay program will be in place until 2pm due to the strong winds.

A Melbourne Airport spokesman said it had also been hit with delays and cancellations, though operations remained “relatively normal”

Close to 620 flights were scheduled to depart Melbourne Airport on Tuesday. Almost 200 flights will face delays, according to the Airservices Australia plan.

The travel disruptions come after two passenger jets narrowly avoided a ground collision at Sydney Airport and major flight delays throughout the weekend.

The close call followed days of chaos for thousands of travellers through the hub, as control tower staffing issues delayed more than 100 international and domestic flights.

MANY of the UK’s top breaks this summer are afloat – and you can climb aboard all of these boats with zero experience.

Jacob Lewis picks seven of the best experiences on the water.

TURN up at Wroxham, get a simple, five-minute briefing, and you are ready to set off, steering your own boat down the River Bure.

Aim for Horning or Salhouse Broad, moor up at a riverside pub, and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading back down the waterway.

Wroxham Boat Hire charges £40 for an hour, £70 for two, £100 for three and £130 for four. See wroxhamboathire.co.uk.

Broads Tours, also in Wroxham, start at £20 an hour if you want to keep it cheaper. See broadstours.co.uk.

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“Self-drive” on Windermere, Bowness

THIS is the cheap, no-planning option, perfect for spur of the moment sailors.

Hire a little electric motorboat or a traditional wooden rowing boat straight off the pier then go in search of the quiet bays the big day-trip boats sail straight past.

The motorboats take up to six, have roll-back hoods for when the weather hits, and need no expertise, from £46.

The four-seater rowing boats are a clinker design barely changed since the 1800s, and come with full training and buoyancy aids, from £28.

See windermere-lakecruises.co.uk for details.

Narrowboat over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wrexham

THOMAS TELFORD’S aqueduct carries the Llangollen Canal 126ft above the River Dee in an iron trough and, yes, you pilot your own boat across it.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is genuinely terrifying looking over the edge.

Anglo Welsh’s base at Trevor sits right beside it, with day boats for up to ten people from £155 and short breaks running on to Llangollen.

Don’t want to steer? The Seren Fach trip boat does the crossing in 45 mins from Canal Wharf in Trevor.

Adults from £10.58. Details at anglowelsh.co.uk.

Dolphin spotting in Lyme Bay, Dorset

THE Jurassic Coast is a big draw for dinosaur fossil hunters, but if you head out to sea instead, you may see all manner of aquatic creatures.

A full day’s cruise will give you the chance to spot white-beaked dolphins, basking sharks and the wonderfully odd sunfish – which lolls about on its side at the surface like it’s sunbathing.

An expert naturalist is on board to point out what you’re actually looking at.

Tea and coffee are included but you need to bring your own lunch.

From £135pp with Naturetrek, on Sept 16. Details at naturetrek.co.uk.

Cruiser on Lough Erne, Fermanagh

LOUGH Erne is 800sqkm of island-studded water, dotted with castles and ruins, and you can spend a day pottering about in your own boat.

No experience is needed, as tuition, charts, buoyancy aids and fuel are all included, and every boat has a front cabin with inside steering so you’re not stuck in the rain.

Manor House Marine at Killadeas charges £80 for a half-day or £110 for a full day on a boat taking six, and £110 or £150 for one with room for eight.

Find out more at manormarine.com/day-boat-hire.

Camping skiff on the Thames

STRAIGHT out of classic novel Three Men In A Boat, skiffs are rowing boats around 26ft long, and at night a canvas cover turns the whole thing into a snug tent sleeping three.

You’ll cover 12 to 20 miles a day and you don’t need to have rowed before.

Moor up along the towpath and you’re never far from a riverside pub.

Thames Skiff Hire’s boats are over a century old and have appeared in hit films, including Harry Potter.

Four days for two costs from £320 on a Walton round trip, £440 one-way from Henley to Walton, or £570 for the prettiest run, Lechlade to Oxford. Details at skiffhire.com.

Learn to crew a racing yacht, The Solent

THIS is for anyone who’s messed about in boats a bit and now wants to take it to a whole new level.

Two days out of Mercury Yacht Harbour on the Hamble aboard a 33ft racing yacht, with a professional coach teaching you every job on board, from steering the thing to hauling up the big billowing sail at the front.

You sleep on board and come off it ready to crew in a real club race.

It costs £385pp via SailTies Adventures, with dates from now until October. See sailties.net/adventures.

COPS are warning beachgoers not to dig holes “deeper than the knees” due to the risk of serious injury or even death.

Police have said that while the activity might be good fun, families should be wary of digging too deep and trapping people or pets in the sand.

In a statement on Monday, cops said: “Digging on the beach is part of the fun, but large, deep holes in soft sand can be incredibly dangerous.

“A hole can collapse without warning, trapping anyone inside under heavy sand in seconds.”

They added that even “fit and healthy adults” can get buried and struggle to escape, as they advised the public to “keep holes shallow”.

The update continued: “Deep holes also pose a serious trip hazard for children, beachgoers, and emergency services responding to incidents.

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“What takes minutes to dig can take seconds to turn tragic.”

Filling in holes before leaving is essential for ensuring the beach stays safe, they added.

It follows an incident at Skegness in Lincolnshire on Saturday, where a large hole ranging approximately three to four feet wide and 12 to 15 feet deep was discovered.

HM Coastguard Skegness said at the time: “Whoever dug this hole was incredibly lucky that it didn’t collapse in on them.

“Sand is surprisingly heavy and can give way without warning, especially in deep holes.”

It added: “A collapse can trap someone beneath the sand and may lead to serious injury or even death.

“Deep holes can also be a hazard to other beach users who may not see them.”

It is not the first time holidaymakers in Lincolnshire have caused mischief on the beach.

Last year, a team of three coastguards had to fill in a hole on Sandilands Beach that was over two metres deep.

Elsewhere in Cleethorpes, sunseekers at the popular seaside town were warned in April not to dig holes in the wet sand, due to the “avalanche effect”.

Coastguards deputy station manager Shaun Lee said the sand can keep “collapsing” and end up burying people.

“We don’t want to be the fun police – just be aware of what you are doing if you are digging holes,” he said.

THERE’S just a few weeks left where you can get FREE kids tickets for some of the UK’s top shows.

London Theatre’s Kids Week is running until August 31 where kids can go for free – ideal for school summer holiday fun.

Any child aged 17 or under will go free to the theatre when accompanied by an adult who pays for a full- price ticket and two additional children can then also attend for half price.

In total, there are 54 shows participating in Kids Week and here are some of the top offers remaining before the promotion ends:

Wicked

Wicked has been around in the West End for a while, but thanks to the recent Hollywood blockbuster adaptations, there is no better time to go and see Wicked on stage than now.

You can expect amazing visuals, memorable and heartfelt songs and a storyline that is great for both kids and adults.

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Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding said: “Wicked was the very first West End show I ever watched, and it did not disappoint.

“Not knowing what to expect from a West End show, Wicked blew me away.

“It has breathtaking sets, detailed costumes, emotional and inspiring songs and dramatic effects that will leave your mind blown.

“To date, it is still one of the best West End shows I’ve seen.”

Adult + child ticket costs from £46

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Little kids will love The Tiger Who Came to Tea, adapted from the popular book of the same name.

You can expect songs and audience interaction throughout the show.

Adult + child ticket costs from £17.46

Six

Based on the six wives of Henry VIII but with a modern twist, Six The Musical is ideal if you love catchy songs.

The musical transforms the 500-year-old rhyme ‘divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived’ into a competition about which of the wives deserves to be the group’s lead singer.

Adult + child ticket costs from £54.50

Matilda

Matilda is a great family option that will be loved by both kids and adults alike, with a powerful storyline about imagination andcourageg, and remains one of the capital’s most popular family shows for a reason.

Travel reporter Cyann Fielding, who recently saw the show, said: “I have to admit – while I loved Roald Dahl growing up, Matilda was not my favourite story of his.

“But any excuse to see one of his stories on stage, and I’ll be there.

“And now I take everything back – the stage show is better than the film and does the book justice, with an amazing stage set and catchy songs that will get your hips moving in your seat.

“The fact that most of the performers in this show are children just make it all the more impressive.

“Definitely will be loved by both parents and children alike.”

Adult + child ticket costs from £52.50

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games: On Stage is one of the newer theatrical productions on this list.

The immersive show brings Suzanne Collins’ dystopian world to life, and you can expect special effects as well as aerial stunts.

Adult + child ticket costs from £36.88

Disney’s Hercules

You’ve not got long left to watch Hercules, as the West End production will end at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on September 5.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “Zero to Hero, Go the Distance, I Won’t Say I’m in Love – I was hit with a wave of nostalgia when I went to see Hercules at Royal Drury Lane.

“The production of the Disney film has everything you want from a musical, fabulous dance routines, comedy, tragedy and a bit of cheese too.

“The highlight has to be The Muses, a group of five goddesses, and they have the voices of them too.

“Their incredible outfits dazzled with every number – and each time they took to the stage, they were met with rapturous applause.

“I’d go back purely to see them sing A Star is Born.”

Adult + child ticket costs from £41.66

Beetlejuice The Musical

Debuting earlier this year, Beetlejuice The Musical combines comedy with the storyline of Tim Burton‘s 1988 film.

You can expect a load of dark humour, neon sets and vibrant costumes.

Adult + child ticket costs from £40

Travel expert Simon Calder has named the lush ‘Emerald Island’ a must-visit destination, featuring stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and meals starting from just €10 per person.

Travel expert Simon Calder has shared his top recommendation for a stunning European getaway that won’t break the bank. Simon highlighted a lesser-known Greek island as his personal “choice” for a budget-friendly holiday.

The beautiful Greek island of Thassos, frequently dubbed the ‘Emerald Island’, is distinguished by its lush landscape, setting it apart from many of Greece’s more arid islands. The moniker describes Thassos’ dense pine woodland, olive groves and other greenery, with forests stretching almost all the way to the coast.

What’s more, the island’s beaches are surrounded by remarkably clear, shallow waters that shimmer in shades of turquoise and emerald, particularly under the Mediterranean sun.

On the island, there is a striking contrast of green and blue. Thassos is noticeably greener and more lush, creating a beautiful contrast between its forested hills and bright blue coastline.

Thassos history

Thassos has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Greeks from Paros settled on the island, which later grew prosperous thanks to its marble, gold mines, olive oil, wine and thriving trade.

Traces of its ancient past can still be found around Thassos Town, including the remains of an ancient theatre, agora and sanctuary.

Food

Thassos offers a classic Mediterranean style of cooking, combining fresh local produce with seafood and hearty dishes from the island’s mountain villages.

The island is also known for its honey, locally produced olive oil, olives and wine.

Some of the traditional foods visitors can try include:

• Goat and lamb – Mountain villages are known for cooking goat and lamb slow-cooked or roasted over a spit.
• Fresh seafood – This includes sardines, anchovies, prawns, sea bream, mullet, squid and octopus. These are often simply grilled or fried and served with olive oil and lemon.
• Gouna – One of Thassos’ more distinctive specialities, gouna is traditionally made with mackerel that is salted and dried before being grilled.
• Tatarka – A seasonal vegetable dish made with fresh vegetables, herbs and leafy greens, traditionally enjoyed during spring and early summer.
• Stuffed courgette flowers – Courgette flowers may be filled with ingredients such as cheese and egg before being fried.
• Local cheeses – including feta, kasseri, myzithra and anthotyro.

Prices in Thassos

Food and drink in Thassos remain relatively affordable compared with some of Greece’s more expensive islands, such as Mykonos and Santorini.

Although prices can be higher at beachfront restaurants and popular tourist spots.

Visitors can expect to pay around €12 to €25 (£10.26 to £21.38) per person for a typical taverna meal, while a gyros, souvlaki or casual lunch can cost around €5 to €10 (£4.28 to £8.55).

Meanwhile, fresh seafood tends to be more expensive, particularly at waterfront restaurants, while beers typically cost around €3 to €6 (£2.57 to £5.13). Those looking for a cocktail at a beach bar can expect to pay roughly €8 to €12 (£6.84 to £10.26), while local wine can offer good value compared with more premium bottles.

Speaking on ITV’s This Morning about Thassos in 2024, Simon said: “Absolutely lovely. It’s in the North. It’s really different from all the other ones.

“It’s got great features. It’s got this wonderful mountain in the middle. You have to get a little ferry across to there from Kavala, but once you do, it’s just absolute heaven.

“Loads going on. It’s got proper Greek stuff, ancient remains and things like that. And of course all those lovely tavernas you just want to sit in.”

Getting to Thassos

Simon warned holidaymakers that a ferry crossing to the island is unavoidable, as there are no direct flights operating from the UK.

That said, getting there from the UK is fairly straightforward. Travellers can fly to Kavala International Airport (KVA) on the northern Greek mainland, then head to Keramoti, where ferries run regularly to Thassos.

The crossing itself takes around 35 to 40 minutes.

Another option is to fly from the UK to Thessaloniki Airport, which offers a wider range of flights, then continue by road to the coast and take a ferry to Thassos.

While the journey is longer than travelling via Kavala, it can be a convenient alternative depending on flight availability and fares. During the summer months, some UK travel companies also offer package holidays and seasonal flights, making the island easier to reach.

Flight times

• London to Kavala: around 3 hours 25 minutes on a direct flight from Stansted.
• London to Thessaloniki: around 3 hours 10–25 minutes on a direct flight, depending on the London airport.

For a true sense of getting away from it all, few things rival an island escape. We’d love to hear about your favourite under-the-radar islands in Europe, whether it’s a remote Scandinavian archipelago or an airport-free Mediterranean outpost that’s managed to avoid the package holiday crowds.

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 17 August at 10am BST

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. For more information please see our terms of service and privacy policy.

Share your travel tip using the form below.

If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.

For a true sense of getting away from it all, few things rival an island escape. We’d love to hear about your favourite under-the-radar islands in Europe, whether it’s a remote Scandinavian archipelago or an airport-free Mediterranean outpost that’s managed to avoid the package holiday crowds.

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 17 August at 10am BST

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. For more information please see our terms of service and privacy policy.

Share your travel tip using the form below.

If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.

FORGET the crowds of Spain and Italy – there’s a country in Europe which has actually seen a DROP in tourists this year.

It was even dubbed the ‘new Croatia‘ thanks to its one seaside town along the Adriatic Coastline.

Official stats have revealed that the number of foreign tourists who visited Bosnia and Herzegovina in the first half of 2026 decreased by 3.2 per cent on the year to 582,541.

The country had previously been revealed as a top holiday spot for 2025 and even called the ‘new Croatia‘.

Thanks to it being lesser-visited then its neighbour, Bosnia and Herzegovina was described as a “less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik” by a team of travel experts at Wild Frontiers.

In comparison, Croatia welcomed more than 7.6 million visitors during the first six months of 2026.

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But in a world where destinations are suffering from overtourism, the fact Bosnia and Herzegovina has fewer tourists means it’s an ideal time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

It’s cheap too – in fact the country’s capital, Sarajevo was named as the best-value destination in Europe by the Post Office Travel Money earlier this year.

It calculated that a two night’s stay across a weekend for two people would cost an average of £248.29.

This includes three-star accommodation, food, drink, a three-course evening meal, travel cards and attractions including a visit to a museum, art gallery and sight-seeing tour.

As for what to do there, the city is named one of the best for its food scene.

One traditional dish is called Bosanski Lonac which is essentially a stew packed with chunks of meat and vegetables.

Another is cevapi – these are flatbreads filled with grilled meat, and burek, flaky pastries filled with cheese, spinach or even sour cherry for dessert.

The best part is that eating out is very cheap for a capital city.

According to Wise, a meal at a restaurant can cost as little as £4.41 and visitors can enjoy a local beer from £1.76.

Flights are cheap too if you book in advance – with Wizz Air next April, Brits can fly to Sarajevo from £25 which takes just 2hr40.

Something to do in Sarajevo is head to its enormous thermal spa.

Ilidža Thermal Riviera is one of the largest thermal complexes in the Balkans and has been built on the hot spring of Ilidža.

Guests can take a dip in its indoor and outdoor swimming pools as well as children’s pool which has a slide.

There’s even a small go-karting area, trampolines and a Tropical Garden Restaurant – tickets into the complex cost as little as 8 KM (£3.51).

There’s also a nearby amusement park in the city centre called Sunnyland which has an Alpine Coaster zip lines and giant swings.

It’s found on Olympic Mountain Trebević which is a 10-minute drive from the city centre.

Entry to the park is free with visitors just having to pay for the rides and activities.

While most of Bosnia and Herzegovina is landlocked, it does have a short 12-mile coastline with beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Sea.

All of the coastline surrounds the pretty town of Neum which has bars and cafes along the promenade.

The town is considered an ‘anomaly’ as on a map, it sits along the Croatian coastline, but it’s actually in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Historically, the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik) ceded the land to the Ottoman Empire in 1699 via the Treaty of Karlowitz.

Other must-visit spots include the Ottoman bridge in Mostar which is around an hour’s drive away from Neum.

The bridge sits over River Neretva and is considered masterpiece architecture from the 16th century.

For anyone feeling brave, you can actually jump off the 7-story high bride which is a 450-year-old tradition.

Historically, it was a way for young men to prove their courage – but nowadays anyone can do it as it’s managed by officials at the Mostari Diving Club.

There are also more natural wonders including Kravica Waterfall.

Visitors have called it ‘magical’ and ‘surreal’ with one even comparing it to looking like ‘a scene from Jumanji‘.

AFTER spending years working in travel, I’ve realised some of Europe’s best purpose-built family resorts are the ones you’ve probably never even heard of.

While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with the classics, I’ve found stacks of alternative resorts that deliver everything families love about those hot spots – but they are a lot quieter, and a fraction of the price.

Think wide beaches, shallow water, proper family hotels, and massive waterparks – just without the overwhelming crowds or the inflated peak-summer price tag.

So, I’ve narrowed it down to eight resorts that hit all the non-negotiables for parents: short UK flights, quick airport transfers, walkable beaches, and stress-free dining with toddlers in tow.

8. Petrovac, Montenegro

If you want to try something genuinely different without sacrificing convenience, Petrovac is a proper hidden gem.

Tucked along Montenegro’s coast, it’s practically built for families with young kids.

The whole resort centres around a calm, horseshoe-shaped bay protected by small offshore islands that keep the sea remarkably still and safe for paddling.

There’s a completely pedestrianised, traffic-free promenade where kids can run around freely while you finish dinner, lined with casual, welcoming tavernas where children are treated like royalty.

Tivat Airport sits just 40 minutes down the coast, meaning you aren’t subjecting tired kids to a massive transfer coach journey after landing.

I found seven nights at the four-star Hotel Rivijera from £568pp, based on a family of four flying direct from London Gatwick on August 22 on a bed and breakfast basis.

Montenegro deal

Hotel Rivijera, Petrovac

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and breakfast

From £568pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

7. Cala’n Bosch, Menorca

Menorca is the undisputed king of low-stress family travel, but Cala’n Bosch is the specific resort I recommend time and time again.

Everything revolves around a central marina packed with seafood spots and ice cream parlours, where children can watch the boats coming and going while you enjoy a relaxed meal.

The beaches are sheltered, slope very gently, and stay shallow for ages, making them ideal for little swimmers.

Plus, the whole resort is exceptionally compact and flat, so you can easily walk everywhere without ever needing a hire car or bus.

You’ve got Aquarock Waterpark right in the centre of the resort for a change of scenery, and Mahón Airport is under 45 minutes away.

A family of four can bag seven nights at Club Ciudadela from £493pp, with flights from Manchester on August 25 on a self-catering basis.

Menorca deal

Club Ciudadela, Cala’n Bosch

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• Self catered

From £493pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

6. Nessebar, Bulgaria

Most people looking at Bulgaria default straight to Sunny Beach.

But just ten minutes down the coast sits Nessebar – a historic, UNESCO-listed town that delivers the exact same value with a much calmer atmosphere for parents.

It serves up the best of both worlds: a charming, stone-paved old town packed with ice cream parlours and bakeries, flanked by long, wide stretches of soft, golden sand that slopes gently into the sea.

It gives families that proper, classic beach holiday feeling, but with dirt-cheap dining and a far less chaotic night-time vibe than its noisy neighbor.

Burgas Airport is a breeze at just 25 minutes away, and Aqua Paradise – one of Eastern Europe’s biggest waterparks – is right on your doorstep too.

There were plenty of hotels to choose from, but in terms of value, I couldn’t get away from this one: seven nights all-inclusive at the Sol Nessebar Resort from just £675pp, based on a family of four flying from Manchester on August 25.

Bulgaria deal

Sol Nessebar Resort, Nessebar

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• All inclusive

From £675pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

5. Gouves, Crete

Gouves is one of those places families stumble across by accident and then end up booking for five years straight.

Sitting just 15 minutes from Heraklion Airport, it delivers one of the shortest transfers anywhere in the Greek islands – a total lifesaver after a four-hour flight with young kids.

Trust me, I know this one from experience.

The resort layout is super-relaxed, with flat, quiet roads lined with family-run tavernas and mini-marts, alongside sheltered sea walls that break up the waves and create pancake-flat, shallow swimming lagoons.

For easy day trips, you’ve got Dinosauria Park and Watercity Waterpark all sitting less than a 10-minute drive down the road.

And the best part is the price, because I managed to find seven nights with breakfast at the Despo Hotel from £398pp, with direct flights for a family of four from London Gatwick on August 25.

Crete deal

Despo Hotel, Gouves

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and Breakfast

From £398pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

4. Tigaki, Kos

Kos often gets overshadowed by Crete and Rhodes, but Tigaki deserves way more attention for families with buggies and toddlers.

The sand beach stretches uninterrupted for miles and the water stays waist-deep forever.

The entire resort is completely flat making it an absolute dream for pushchairs, scooters, and little legs that get tired quickly.

It has that quintessential, laid-back Greek island charm where parents can relax while the kids play safely on the sand right in front of the taverna tables.

Kos Airport is barely 20 minutes away, and the massive Lido Water Park is right down the road when you want a break from the ocean.

For just £580pp, I found seven nights all-inclusive for a family of four at Hotel K Ilios and Farming, flying direct from London Gatwick on August 19.

Kos deal

Hitel K Ilios and Farming, Tigaki

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• All inclusive

From £580pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

3. Cala Millor, Majorca

Cala Millor on Majorca’s east coast is the ultimate substitute for a stress-free Spanish break.

It’s home to an enormous, Blue Flag sandy bay with crystal-clear, shallow water, backed by a massive, palm-shaded pedestrian promenade lined with wooden playgrounds, shaded cafes, and flat cycling paths.

It’s made for effortless family days out, giving you all the incredible facilities, beach games, and amenities of the island’s famous mega-resorts, but with a much more relaxed, authentic island feel.

Palma Airport is also around an hour’s transfer.

It’s a little further than other resorts, but all via the main highway, making it a stress-free, fairly straight drive.

And I’ve picked out seven nights at the four-star Garbi Cala Millor from £548pp, based on a family of four flying direct from Gatwick on August 20 and staying half board.

Majorca deal

Hotel Garbi Cala Millor

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Half board

From £548pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

2. Porec, Croatia

If you fancy trading standard package resorts for quaint old towns, Porec in Croatia is easily one of the best family bets in Europe.

The centre is completely pedestrianised and packed with waterfront pizzerias and street performers that keep kids mesmerised.

Instead of scorched, open sand, the coastline here is lined with lush, fragrant pine forests that run right down to the clear swimming bays.

This means tons of natural shade so young kids can swim and play all day without getting overheated.

Pula Airport is less than 45 minutes away, and Aquacolors Porec – one of Croatia’s biggest waterparks – is sitting right outside town.

And I found a deal for a family of four, spending seven nights at Hotel Istra Plava Laguna from £513pp, with flights direct from London Luton on August 25 on a half board basis.

Croatia deal

Hotel Istra Plava Laguna, Porec

• Seven nights
• Luton flights
• Half board

From £513pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

1. La Pineda, Spain

If Salou has always appealed for the theme parks and beaches, but you wish the town itself was quieter and easier to navigate with children, La Pineda is an absolute cheat code.

Sitting just five minutes down the Costa Dorada coast, it boasts a massive beach with super-shallow water, backed by a flat, green promenade that’s ideal for pushchairs and evening strolls.

It’s ideal for families who want a chilled base, but still want easy access to world-class attractions.

Reus Airport is an absolute dream at just 15 minutes away, and you’ve got Aquopolis waterpark right inside the resort itself.

There is also PortAventura World theme park that’s a quick 10-minute taxi ride down the road (named one of the best in the world).

I clocked seven nights at Hotel Best Sol D’Or from £473pp, for a family of four departing Birmingham on August 25 on a room-only basis.

Spain deal

Hotel Best Sol D’or, La Pineda

• Seven nights
• Birmingham flights
• Room only

From £473pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

The waxy scent that drifts up the escalators at the Los Angeles Central Library is immediately familiar to anyone who remembers the Mold-A-Rama.

The novelty vending machines mold souvenir sculptures — a train car, a gorilla, a bust of Abraham Lincoln — in under a minute, filling a two-sided mold with hot plastic, then hollowing it out with compressed air.

Christina Rice, the senior librarian who oversees the Los Angeles Public Library’s photo collection, made it her personal quest to find and install one in the Central Library after a patron asked for pictures of machines at sites across the city, which disappeared in 2006 after their operator exited the market and sold them to private collectors.

The Mold-a-Central fills a two-sided mold with hot plastic, which is then filled with compressed air, to make a sphinx souvenir.

(Eric Thayer/Los Angeles Times)

At first, Rice wasn’t sure what he was talking about, but when it clicked, “it was such a strong visceral response,” she said. “I loved these machines when we would go to the zoo. It was a must-have every time.”

In fact, the last mold she purchased was a black panther from the Los Angeles Zoo, shortly after she graduated high school. Other L.A. souvenirs included a replica bandshell from the Hollywood Bowl and a tiny pagoda from the Chinese Theatre.

Rice saw an opportunity in the retro tech to get new people into the library or encourage existing patrons to explore other departments or collections.

It was a hunch that took her six years to see to fruition, but the library’s very own “Mold-a-Central” now sits in the alcove of the lower fourth floor. Visitors can trade $5 for a small black sphinx, a replica of sculptor Lee Lawrie’s Belgian black marble and bronze sphinxes that flank the north staircase on the library’s second floor. Pittsburgh sculptor Brian McGuire custom designed the mold and is also working on a replica of the 1926 Central Library building.

It’s been a hit. Visitors who’ve been drawn by nostalgia or curiosity to see it — and smell it — for themselves have molded over 3,000 sphinxes so far. During the library’s Centennial Festival in July, the machine had a consistent wait, churning out 255 figures in a single day. J.H. “Tike” Miller, the Illinois inventor of the Mold-A-Rama, was inspired by a broken figurine in his nativity scene. Department stores only sold them in sets, so he and his wife Shirley began making individual figures for sale in the late 1930s.

The Mold-a-Central makes sphinx souvenirs modeled after the black marble and bronze sphinxes that flank the north staircase on the library’s second floor.

(Eric Thayer/Los Angeles Times)

Olivia Gill, left, Ryan Gill and Thomas Gill use the Mold-A-Central. The souvenirs cost $5.

(Eric Thayer/Los Angeles Times)

In the 1950s, Miller began making figurines — often of dinosaurs and space aliens — using plastic injection molding. When his company went bankrupt in 1959, Miller licensed the technology to Aramark, then known as Automatic Retailers of America Inc. It spun off a separate division for the venture and worked with Miller to produce the first Mold-A-Rama machines.

The concept debuted at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, with figures including the Space Needle and Alweg Monorail, then rolled out in several test markets, including Southern California. The Los Angeles Times described Mold-A-Ramas as “a diabolical cross between a jukebox and a pinball machine” that cost $3,600 apiece, or about $39,500 today.

After a bigger splash at the New York World’s Fair in 1964, Mold-A-Ramas proliferated across the U.S., popping up in zoos, museums and anywhere tourists might exchange a coin for a toy.

Though Mold-A-Rama President Ben A. O’Dorisio predicted a future in which they’d eventually sell household goods and even apparel, high maintenance costs led Aramark to dissolve its Mold-A-Rama division and sell its machines just a few years later.

Today, most operational machines are concentrated in the Midwest and the South, split between two companies that have amicably divided their territories: Illinois-based Mold-A-Rama Inc. and Unique Souvenirs Inc. in Florida, which operates machines branded Mold-a-Matic.

Unique Souvenirs owner Tim Striggow bought the family business from his grandfather, Eldin Irwin, who purchased several machines from Aramark and other operators starting in the late ‘60s and traveled with them to fairs and carnivals. It was Striggow’s uncle who operated — and removed — L.A.’s machines.

The Mold-a-Central has been popular, with more than 3,000 sphinxes made.

(Eric Thayer/Los Angeles Times)

Striggow sold Jack White two machines for his Third Man Records stores in Nashville and Detroit, and supplied the library with its machine. It cost $32,000 and is expected to pay itself through souvenir revenues within a couple years. As Mold-A-Rama and Mold-a-Matic are both trademarks, the library’s machine is called Mold-a-Central for the Central Library and features new graphics by Studios Number One, Shepard and Amanda Fairey’s design studio.

Though new to the library, the Mold-a-Central is still a vintage machine, and Rice knew that before she could persuade the library to invest in one she’d have to find someone who could service it. She asked Gary Hall, general manager of Angels Flight, L.A.’s 124-year-old funicular, who suggested one of its mechanics, Hirschel Riley.

“Hirschel agreed immediately, and I think it’s safe to say he has fallen in love with our Mold-a-Central machine,” Rice said. “When we first got the machine and opened it up, my head nearly exploded and I wondered if I had bitten off more than I could chew, but for Hirschel, it’s been a piece of cake compared to [Angels Flight].”

Though the library offers 3D printing — a far more modern sculpting method — at its Octavia Lab, Rice finds even teenagers are interested in slide projectors and older technology during her photo collection tours, proving there’s still space for the analog in today’s digital world. She hopes Mold-a-Central will inspire a “whole slew” of similar vintage machines to return to L.A.

They are out there. Quentin Tarantino told Variety he had a production designer track one down for an opening shot of “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood” at the Chinese Theatre before he rewrote the script. After changing course, he stored it in his garage.

Charles Wright was shot twice and had surgery at a hospital where the power went out

A UK man had to drive 300 miles with a bullet in his foot after being shot at during a road trip. Charles Wright was travelling alone when he says two armed men attempted to stop his Toyota Yaris.

The 40-year-old initially slowed down but claims he spotted one of the men preparing an AK-47 and quickly accelerated away. Charles, from Buxton, Derbyshire, says two shots were then fired at his car, with one bullet hitting the road before ricocheting underneath the vehicle.

It then became lodged in the heel of his right foot, which was on the accelerator at the time. Charles says he didn’t initially realise he had been shot. He had fractured the same foot playing football earlier that day and assumed the pain was connected to that injury.

Instead, he carried on driving, eventually covering around 300miles over roughly 24 hours with the bullet still embedded in his foot. The incident happened during Charles’ latest adventure through Ethiopia, where he spent 32 days travelling in his one-litre Toyota Yaris.

Charles has been travelling on and off for around 15 years and has driven 48,000km through more than 34 countries. But he claims being shot in the foot was only the start of his ordeal.

Charles says he was later shot at for a second time after following Google Maps at a junction in Awash. He claims two federal police officers suddenly emerged from bushes before a large plastic water container was thrown towards his car.

The officers then allegedly opened fire at his tyres, with Charles estimating that four or five shots were fired. Having already been targeted earlier in his journey, Charles says his instinct was to keep driving rather than stop. He managed to travel another four kilometres with a destroyed front tyre before becoming stranded in the desert.

Other police eventually found him after locals reported seeing a Westerner in the area. Charles claims his phone was taken and that, despite his fractured foot and gunshot wound, he was made to run through the desert.

He says he remembers officers laughing as he struggled. When he later returned to his car, Charles also discovered his penknife and some cutlery were missing. With the car disabled, he was unable to continue to Addis Ababa for treatment and instead had the bullet removed at Dawa Haya Hospital in Awash.

Charles praised medical staff for successfully removing it without him developing an infection. But he said the roughly two-hour operation became terrifying when the hospital suffered a power cut. For around ten minutes, Charles claims staff continued the procedure using mobile phone flashlights, with no apparent emergency lighting or immediate generator backup.

He said: “As the patient lying there awake, watching phones and door handles being touched during surgery was terrifying because my immediate concern was infection and potentially losing my foot.”

Charles claims his ordeal continued following the operation when he was effectively kept at a hotel for around six days with an armed officer stationed outside. He says he was never given a clear explanation for why he was being held or when he would be allowed to leave.

Eventually, people he knew within the tourism industry helped apply pressure and he was released. Charles claims it was not his only detention during his time in Ethiopia, saying he was jailed three times during his 32-day stay.

Crossing the border out of the country was one of the biggest moments of relief of his life. He said: “There were several moments during Ethiopia when I genuinely wondered whether I would make it out.”

Charles has travelled by road through 31 African countries and says his experience in Ethiopia was fundamentally different to anywhere else he has visited on the continent. However, he stressed that it was his personal experience and said he also met several Ethiopians who went out of their way to help him.

He stopped short of telling people not to visit the country but urged anyone considering a trip to research the risks carefully. Charles advised travellers to be particularly cautious around checkpoints, police encounters, prices, theft and visa issues.

He is now recovering from his injuries and changes the dressing on his foot every couple of days. Charles has been advised not to walk normally on it yet but hopes to recover over the coming weeks. His car survived the ordeal too, despite being left with at least two bullet holes.

Charles says he refused to abandon the tiny car that has been his travelling companion for years. He now plans to take several months off to recover and repair the Yaris before continuing his adventures, although he no longer intends to travel further north through Africa.

The family holiday has been left in doubt after she discovered her daughter’s passport did not meet strict travel rules

A singer has issued a plea for help after discovering at the last minute that her daughter’s passport could fail strict travel rules. Rules mean there must be a set amount of time available on a passport or the holder will not be allowed to travel.

Under rules following Brexit people travelling to EU countries, except Ireland, along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City must have at least three months left on their passports after the day they plan to leave, warns ABTA. The passport must also have been issued less than 10 years before the date of arrival at the country.

Musician and singer Philippa Hanna turned to Facebook to seek advice after her family holiday to Portugal appeared to be in jeopardy. The Christian music star who has toured with mainstream artists including Lionel Richie, Leona Lewis, Anastacia and Wet Wet Wet, told how she had just discovered that her daughter, Ozma’s, passport would not meet these rules.

She said: “GUYS!! We need help. Do I know ANYONE who works for or is connected to the passport office or something even close? We need emergency advice ahead of our family holiday tomorrow?”

She later went on to explain: “I just found out Ozma has 5 weeks less than needed on her passport for flying to Portugal.” She then added: “We’re only going for 5 days so the week fast track wont work. I’m just wondering if there’s any way of getting an extension or a special permission or something.”

One follower suggested she contact her MP who might be able to speed up getting a new passport. Gayle Hunter, who said she was a former duty manager at an airline, said: “They’re normally strict at least 3 months after the last day you’re leaving on passport. An MP can get you a new one in three hours under parliamentary privilege.”

However this was disputed by another poster who said he worked in the airline industry and travelled extensively. John Dinsdale said he had been stung by the rule himself, and insisted an MP would be unlikely to help. He said: “There is a parliamentary/MP escalation route, but it only applies for compassionate reasons (family death, serious illness) not for holiday travel, so it won’t help here.

“You could try contacting the airline to ask if they’ll allow “OK to board,” but I doubt that’s your best option. Even if they agreed, Schengen countries require a minimum of 90 days’ passport validity, so Portugal border control could still refuse entry on arrival.

“For an airline to allow to board they would need authorisation from the Portuguese immigration department first. If you’re refused entry, the airline will face a fine (amounts vary by country), and you’d likely be liable for the cost of the return flight, airlines won’t board anyone without valid travel documents in the first place.

“I’ve actually been on the receiving end of this myself, I can’t get an ESTA for the US because of my travel history, apparently America don’t like Iraqi stamps in passports, so I know firsthand how strict airlines are about not boarding anyone without the right documents. It’s not something they’ll bend on.

“Realistically, a new passport won’t be issued in time even by fast track. I’d contact your travel insurer now to ask about cancellation/rebooking cover, I know this is not what you want to hear, but it’s the most likely outcome.”

What the government says

So what are the rules? According to the government there are steps you can take – but it usually still takes some time.

It advises: “You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long.” It explains there are 2 ways to apply for an urgent passport.

1 day premium

According to the government website the earliest you can get an appointment is 2 days after you apply. It says: “You’ll need to hand in your old passport at your appointment. Your new passport will be ready to collect from the passport office 4 hours after your appointment.

“You can only use this service to renew an adult passport. It costs £239.50 (or £253.50 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport).”

1 week fast track

With this one the earliest you can get an appointment is the next day after you apply. It advises: “Your new passport will be delivered to you by courier 1 week after your appointment.”

You can use this service to:

• renew a passport
• change personal details on your passport (for example your name, place of birth or gender)
• replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport
• get a child passport

It costs £192 for an adult passport (or £206 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport). A child passport is £156.50 (or £170.50 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport).

Is there anything any faster?

It advises: “If you need to travel urgently for medical treatment, on government business, or because a friend or family member is seriously ill or has died, call the Passport Adviceline instead.”

People told by officials that cars are also permitted go through crossings under specific rule – even when green crossing light is on

The Foreign Office has issued a warning for anyone visiting one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations this summer. Italy is one of the most popular holiday hotspots – with 4.8 million visits in 2025 according to the Office of National Statistics.

However, a new alert has been put out by officials at the Foreign Office for anyone crossing the street. It said that people in the UK are used to being able to get across safely when lights are on red.

But it explained that in Italy this could be dangerous – as drivers are allowed to turn right when the green pedestrial crossing sign is on. And the Foreign Office said people can also be fined for crossing the road.

In today’s update it said: “Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, especially in the larger cities. Take care when crossing roads. Pedestrians should cross roads at a crossing. You can be fined for crossing the road if you are within 100 metres of a pedestrian crossing but do not use it. Drivers do not always stop, even though they are required to. The green pedestrian crossing signal also allows cars to turn right on to the crossing, so cross with caution.

“Exercise caution in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, including in road underpasses. Emergency exits in vehicle tunnels are for emergency use only if you need to leave your vehicle and should not be used as pedestrian routes.”

In terms of crime, the Foreign Office advice is that compared to the UK petty street crime is higher. It said :”Crime levels are generally low but there are higher levels of petty crime, particularly bag-snatching and pickpocketing, in city centres and at major tourist attractions. “

Advice includes:

• keep sight of your belongings at all times
• beware of thieves using distraction techniques
• avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
• leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place such as a hotel safe

Cars can also be targeted: “Thefts from parked cars is common across the country. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle, even out of sight in the boot, for any length of time.

“Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car. “

For more information on safety from the Foreign Office about Italy click here.

WE ALL like to be beside the seaside and the UK is home to some wonderful seaside spots.

With the UK summer still giving us heaps of sunshine, what better way to spend a day out?

And Uber has revealed the top 10 bucket-list beaches to visit this summer, as part of UberSeaside, where you can get discounted local rides to head to overlooked beaches.

So here are their top spots you should visit this summer.

Lantic Bay, Cornwall

Dubbed one of Cornwall’s “best kept secrets”, head to Lantic Bay where you’ll find white sand and crystal clear waters.

Owned by the National Trust, the cove never gets crowded making it the ideal spot to sunbathe in peace.

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Swimming is not recommended at the cove though, as they can often be strong rip currents.

The beach itself can be accessed by a 20 minute walk from a National Trust car park.

One recent visitor said: “Lantic Bay is absolutely stunning – one of the most beautiful spots I’ve visited in Cornwall. The walk down is definitely long and steep, so good footwear is a must, but once you reach the bay, it’s completely worth it.

“Crystal-clear water, peaceful surroundings, and incredible views. It felt like a little slice of paradise. I would definitely do it again!”

Pedn Vounder, Cornwall

Also in Cornwall, you could head to Pedn Vounder, set between the cliffs of Treryn Dinas.

The beach itself boasts turquoise water and white,sand making it look more like it is somewhere in the Mediterranean.

A recent visitor said in an online review: “Possibly the best beach in the UK!

“At low tide, the fairy pools open up around the rocks and are just magical! It was quiet, even in July and is definitely worth the walk down. Going back up is much easier.”

Chapman’s Pool, Dorset

Chapman’s Pool is a secluded beach that rarely gets crowded.

The stoney beach is home to crystal clear waters that are often calm enough to go snorkelling in.

When on the beach, make sure to have a look at the rocks as you may spot some fossils.

The beach is about a 20 minute walk from a free car park.

Mupe Bay, Dorset

Also in Dorset on the Jurassic Coast, you can head to Mupe Bay.

The beach is a mix of sand and shingle.

It is also surrounded by dramatic chalk cliffs and there is also the Fossil Forest nearby.

Expect far fewer crowds compared to the busier Durdle Door.

Achmelvich Beach, Highlands

Up in Scotland, you could head to Achmelvich Beach which is an award-winning white sand beach with clear water.

It is also the ideal stop off if you are travelling on the North Coast 500 route, as it is just three miles from the route.

While at the beach you can head swimming or have a go at different water sports.

A number of visitors have compared the spot to looking as if it is in the Maldives or in the Caribbean.

Botany Bay, Kent

Botany Bay is one of the more well-known spots on this list, but is still stunning to visit.

When the tide heads out, the beach is a great spot to go fossil hunting as well as exploring the numerous rock pools.

Often called one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, Botany Bay is also one of the warmest beaches in the UK in winter thanks to its location on the Channel.

And it gets the least rain in the country too!

Singing Sands, Isle of Eigg

Another spot to visit in Scotland is Singing Sands Beach.

This is found on the northwest coast of the Isle of Eigg.

It is known for its white sand that makes a ‘singing’ noise when you walk on it.

The beach also boasts views of the neighbouring Isle of Rum.

Luskentyre, Isle of Harris

Often named one of the best beaches in the UK and Europe, Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, features miles of white sand and turquoise water.

The beach is often quiet with no crowds as well.

One visitor said: “Breathtaking beach felt like I was in Maldives!

“A must visit! Loved the stunning scenery! If you don’t visit you are really missing out!”

Traeth yr Ora, Anglesey

Over in Wales, you could head to Traeth yr Ora in Anglesey – a large beach with a mix of sand and shingle.

The nearest parking is around a mile away so it is a bit of walk to the beach, but this usually results in it being quiet.

The beach is also known for being a great spot to watch the sunset.

If you are there at low tide, you might be lucky enough to see a shipwreck emerge from the water.

Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire

Also in Wales, you could visit Marloes Beach which stretches for over a mile.

Cliffs surround the beach and at low tide you will find lots of small rockpools to explore.

From the beach, you can often spot seals in the water too.

A recent visitor said: “Wow. This absolutely is the most beautiful beach I’ve ever been.”

MORE eruptions from a volcano in Europe has resulted in sudden flight cancellations in Sicily today.

An ash cloud drifting into airspace means that flights cannot land or take off at Catania Airport on the Italian island.

Following an eruption over the weekend and change in wind direction, an ash cloud from Mount Etna has affected airspace in Sicily.

Due to safety reasons, flights departing and arriving into Catania Airport have been cancelled or delayed until 5pm local time.

Impacted airlines include Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air.

Operator SAC said: “Due to Etna’s eruptive activity and the associated release of volcanic ash into the atmosphere, the airspace corresponding to the ash cloud southwest of the volcano (Sector C1) has been closed. Arrivals are suspended until 5:00 PM.

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“As the situation is significantly affecting operations, passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport.

“The situation is being constantly monitored, and further updates will be provided depending on the evolution of volcanic activity and weather conditions.”

One Brit travelling home from Sicily over the weekend also faced disruption, he wrote on X: “Had a superb holiday in Sicily

“Getting home was interesting.. Catania flight cancelled due to Etna → 3hr taxi to Palermo → flight cancelled → slept at airport → Rome → taxi to Naples → Gatwick → taxi to Luton. Only a day late but very happy to be back at the nest.”

Palermo Airport, Sicily’s other major aviation hub located on the northwest coast, remains unaffected, with flights operating as scheduled.

It’s not the first time this year that there has been disruption at the airport following eruptions on Mount Etna.

Last month, the volcano erupted for 10 days leaving hundreds of passengers stranded in Sicily.

Holidaymakers had to seek hotel allocation, while others travelled elsewhere to get home.

Flights to Italy’s fifth busiest airport have been suspended and advice has been issued for any Brits who are due to fly to the Mediterranean island in the next few days

An eruption at Europe’s largest and tallest active volcano has led to the closure of one of Italy’s busiest airports, throwing travel plans into chaos for many Brits.

Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and over the weekend it was spotted bellowing smoke and ashes into the atmosphere, forcing the suspension of arrivals into nearby Catania-Fontanarossa Airport.

In a statement posted today on its official website, airport officials said: “Due to Etna’s eruptive activity and the associated release of volcanic ash into the atmosphere, the airspace corresponding to the ash cloud southwest of the volcano (Sector C1) has been closed. Arrivals are suspended until 5:00 PM.

“As the situation is significantly affecting operations, passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport. The situation is being constantly monitored, and further updates will be provided depending on the evolution of volcanic activity and weather conditions.”

Initially, the airport allowed a small number of landings until the early hours of this morning, before the decision was made to suspend flights completely. Other airports on the island are currently unaffected.

Airlines with routes from the UK to Catania include British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, and Wizz Air, and passengers who have a flight booked to the airport should immediately check their flight status on its official website. Passengers may see flight delays, diversions, or cancellations to their itineraries, and airlines should be getting in touch with any holidaymakers affected by the change.

Volcanic activity on Mount Etna has often affected flights to Catania, due to its location just 29 miles from the volcano, and passengers are sometimes re-routed to other Sicilian airports such as Palermo. Similar cancellations and diversions were seen at Catania just last month, with a two-day closure on July 5 and 6.

It’s worth noting that at the moment, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) doesn’t have any warnings in place about visiting the island, it simply advises “Check with your travel provider or Catania airport before travelling.” Other than any exclusion zones close to the volcano, Brits are still free to visit the island, but should look out for local emergency updates.

While flight delays of over three hours often allow passengers to claim for compensation, a volcanic eruption usually comes under ‘extraordinary circumstances’, which means a claim is unlikely to be successful.

However, passengers from the UK to Sicily are still covered by the Denied Boarding Regulation, also known as EU Regulation 261/2004, meaning airlines need to assist them during delays. For a flight to Sicily, this would come into force for any delay over three hours.

Airlines need to provide two free phone calls or emails to each passenger, meals and refreshments that are appropriate to the time of day and delay length – usually given as vouchers – and hotel transfers and accommodation if the delay is overnight.

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PLANS for a new multi-million pound private island in the Maldives have been revealed.

The premium exotic complex could span 155 acres on the ocean, with an underwater railway and a “deep-water lagoon”.

A zero-land private island in the Maldives has been put up for sale by a Canadian brokerage, and it can be bought in its entirety for £335million.

The development has not yet been built and will only be constructed if a buyer can be found.

In computer-generated images by Private Islands Inc, The Adaptive Atoll is a 155-acre Maldivian resort that would be nestled away in a secluded setting of the Indian Ocean.

Inside, it would be made of a number of fortresses and holiday homes, all connected by an underwater rail network.

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Private Islands Inc. even offers additional mini-islands that connect on demand, allowing owners to add modular spaces such as a 30-bunk guest pavilion or a dedicated kids’ club.

To accommodate the most high-profile of clients, the layout of the island would allow for fly-in capabilities, meaning the most elite can arrive via seaplanes and private helicopters.

Private Islands Inc. boasts around 800 islands in its portfolio, usually set at around a $1million (£745,000) price point.

Some, especially in Canada, Belize, and the Americas, can cost under $500,000 (around £370,000), such as Grape Cay in Nicaragua that spans the size of two American football fields.

Mr Krolow, the chief executive and founder of Private Islands Inc., told The Telegraph:  “At the end of the day, if you want island ownership in the sense that it’s yours, you’re there and there’s no one else, it’s possible.

“And you don’t have to be super rich, but you do need to be a little crazy.

“You need to have a set of balls, and you need to have been bitten by that island bug.”

A THEME park in the UK has been forced to close at short notice due to a water outage.

Chessington World of Adventures confirmed that anyone heading to the park will have their tickets “revalidated” for a future visit.

The water outage was reported by Thames Water, which said a burst water main was affecting the KT9 area.

While repairs are underway, the park will be closed for the rest of the day.

Chessington said in a statement: “Due to a water outage in the local area affecting our operations, Chessington is closed today.

“All tickets booked for today will be automatically revalidated under our Return Promise and can be used on a future date.

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“We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.”

Families had already arrived at the park for the day with the park opening at 10am before closing after just one hour.

However, one dad called it “utter shambles” as many were forced to wait outside of the gate.

Another said they had spent “hundreds on an overnight stay and fast passes” before the park closed.

The theme park is one of the most popular in the UK, with around 1.5million visitors a year.

And with the summer holidays in full swing, this is likely to affect thousands of people.

Anyone who had plans to visit the park today has been told not to go.

The Return Promise allows families to visit the theme park on a different day, in the event that the park has to close.

It isn’t the only chaos for Brits going holiday today, with train disruption affecting anyone going to both London Gatwick and London Heathrow airports this morning.

And Catania Airport in Sicily has been forced to suspend flights following a weekend of chaos caused by the eruption of Mount Etna.

A significant change could come into force from next month that would impact Brits travelling to parts of Europe, with threats of more potential airport chaos – unless it’s pushed back yet again

Brits could face a fresh wave of airport chaos when new restrictions kick in for travel to parts of Europe – unless officials introduce allow further delays.

Earlier this year, British holidaymakers began to face significant travel disruption as they grappled with the new European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES), which was fully implemented across airports on April 10, 2026. There were reports of grueling queues of up to four hours and missed flights as Brits needed to create a digital record and register their biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph, on arrival in a Schengen area.

Thankfully, some restrictions were eased, and member states, including France, Portugal and Spain, were given the option to temporarily “lift biometric registration” until the end of summer to ensure there is “some relief for the worst-case scenario”. Greece was one of the countries that opted to waive the EU requirement for Brits to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border control.

Uku Särekanno, deputy executive director of Frontex, which helps to manage the external borders of the EU, explained in June: “We have until the end of the summer, the possibility during the tourism season to lift the biometric controls or the biometric registration temporarily.

“If there is a peak hour, you see that there are hundreds of people queuing, their queues are getting too long, then member states still have the possibility to lift biometric registration. The EU has considered, for the period of summer, to make sure that there is still some relief for the worst-case scenario.”

However, any flexibility that has been in place for the EES, or that is still in effect, could come to an end.

According to Frontex, the offer of eased measures for the digital border system is set to expire on Sunday, 6 September, potentially leading to longer airport queues and travel disruptions.

However, there have been calls to extend the full rollout of the EES beyond 6 September, for fear it could spark further airport chaos, even though it comes after the summer holidays.

According to The Times, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, has privately reassured that the EES checks could still be paused after the current 6 September deadline, when needed. It’s also been reported that Apostolos has also made similar assurances to the UK, indicating that an extension of the flexibility could be possible, following a meeting with British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander.

“We want everyone to have the summer holidays they deserve – and yesterday’s meeting shows everyone is pulling in the same direction, “Heidi said following the meeting on 14 July. “I was reassured that the EU commissioner for transport understood the concerns of holidaymakers and recognised the need for us to work together.”

The new digital border system is required for the initial arrival at an airport border within the Schengen zone and replaces the traditional manual passport-stamping process. Once the first registration has been completed, the EES remains valid for three years.

Countries within the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The EES system is not required for travel to the Republic of Ireland or Cyprus, as neither country is part of the Schengen area.

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