Travel Desk

A hotel housekeeper has shared the one thing she always does when staying in a hotel room and it’s left many people spooked by the idea. So have you done this before?

You check in, drop your bags, and collapse onto what appears to be an immaculate, freshly-made bed. But beneath the perfectly plumped pillows and crisp white sheets, it might not actually be as clean as it looks.

Regardless of how much guests splash out on their hotel room, most will have one non-negotiable expectation – the room has been spotlessly cleaned since the previous guest checked out. From fresh bed sheets to a sparkling bathroom, a housekeeper’s workload can be gruelling. But guests have been left stunned to discover that some everyday hotel room items are virtually never washed – including a common item on the beds.

Taking to TikTok, a housekeeping manager named Margarita left her followers shocked after posting a video demonstrating the very first thing she does upon arriving at a hotel room during her own personal stays.

“POV: You’re a Housekeeping Manager staying at a hotel,” read the on-screen text, as two women were filmed standing inside a hotel room.

Armed with tissues in each hand, the pair proceeded to remove the bed runner from the foot of the bed, placing it on the luggage rack well away from where they’d be sleeping. One of the women couldn’t disguise her look of revulsion as they carried out the task.

People disgusted to learn some items are ‘never cleaned’

Numerous hotel housekeepers have previously revealed that bed runners are rarely laundered, unlike the rest of the bed linen, which is washed thoroughly after every guest checks out.

Experts have previously voiced their concerns about bed runners, explaining that their purpose is to catch dirt, shoe scuffs, and germs from luggage, bags, and outdoor clothing placed at the foot of the bed.

Because it serves as a dedicated barrier against outside grime, it can accumulate dust and microscopic dirt left behind by previous guests staying in the room.

Margarita was far from alone in her views, as the comments section quickly filled up with others sharing that they always do exactly the same thing, with one person questioning: “I mean, why aren’t they washed after every guest?”

Another argued: “If it’s a hassle to clean or replace they just shouldn’t have them in the rooms. I don’t need decorative pillows or bed runners.”

A third person added: “Should be a law that all decorative décor like pillows or bed runners need to be washed after each guest or just not provided.”

A number of passengers needed medical treatment after the accident near the Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, south-eastern Mexico

A group of backpackers including several Brits cheated death when their Mexican tour bus was stopped by a single bollard – as it rolled towards a terrifying 1,000m drop. They paid for a tour of the Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, south-eastern Mexico, in July and, after walking around to take in the view, boarded their tour bus at the top of a steep drop – when it started rolling backwards.

The group say they feared they were headed for the canyon and many of them started diving off the bus headfirst to save themselves. Luckily, the bus hit a bollard and came to a stop before going over the edge.

But many of the passengers have been left traumatised by the near-death ordeal, with some suffering physical injuries and needing hospital treatment. James Gamble, 30, from Portsmouth, said: “I honestly thought I was going to die. It was hands-down the most terrifying experience of my life.

“Everyone was diving off the bus headfirst, thinking we were headed for the canyon. I just imagined the bus tilting backwards with nothing I could do.

“It was horrific. I didn’t stop shaking for an hour afterwards; people who weren’t even on the bus were crying and having panic attacks.”

James says that one passenger, Madeleine Glen, had tried to grab the handbrake as the bus was rolling, but it was already up. Several passengers were hospitalised following the terrifying incident after injuring themselves fleeing the bus.

Sophie Badelt, 22, from Switzerland, hit her head on a parked car as she dove from the moving bus and was bleeding profusely. A British nurse from another tour of the canyon helped to bandage her head while they waited for an ambulance.

Brit Hugo Evans, 20, was also injured in the ordeal and bandaged at the scene by paramedics. He said: “I dove out of the van, headfirst – that was the only option. I was in a blind panic. I thought we were going to die for sure.

“I hit my head on the floor and there was a lot of blood. I thought we were headed for the cliff. Everyone was freaking out when Sophie was screaming… She was drenched in blood. It was terrifying.”

The tour left on July 9 and cost 600 Mexican Pesos (£25.66) per person. All the passengers have since been refunded, and Sophie says that she has been compensated for her medical bills after weeks of back-and-forth.

There were three Dutch passengers – Britt van Engelen, 28, Yesol Sihn 29, and Floris van Neer, 30. Also onboard was Belgian tourist Hanne, 23, and Australian pair Garrison Hamlin, 28, and Brodie Hampson, 28.

James, a former journalist, says he stayed on the bus until it came to a halt and that he has been left shaken by the ordeal. He added: “We took some photos of the canyon at the viewpoint and were told to get back on the bus. The van was parked on a hill and I was sat near the back.

“We all piled back on the bus and, as the last people were getting on, we started rolling backwards. Maddy tried the handbrake, but it was already up and panic set in within seconds.

“Then there was an almighty crash as we hit the bollard and the five of us still on darted off the bus. The first thing we saw was Sophie lying on the floor, crying desperately for help and with blood seeping out of her head.”

The tour operator was approached for comment.

Cabaña Verónica, Spain

A good mountain hut, I reckon, should be small and only accessible on foot after considerable effort. Throw in a bit of historical interest and I’m bound to be happy. In which case, Cabaña Verónica in the Picos de Europa is a fine start to this list. It sleeps six, and at 2,325 metres requires a two-hour trek from the nearest cable car station, never mind road. It has incredible views and a friendly custodian who keeps things in good order. Yet the real attraction is that this place was formerly a gun turret of a US navy battleship that was scrapped in Bilbao in 1960. An enterprising engineer, Conrado Senties, had it carried up on horseback and reassembled on a plug of rock in the middle of nowhere. Don’t ask why, just enjoy the eccentricity.
€15, reservarefugios.com

Låktatjåkko, Sweden

An absolute gem just over 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 1,228 metres up a mountain, Låktatjåkko is well placed to deliver that other essential experience of a decent hut: cosy conviviality while surrounded by frequently hostile conditions. When I visited, it was hard to find the hut because it was coated in thick ice and half-buried in snow. The snug timber-clad lounge is the perfect spot to sit in front of the fire and read old accounts of Arctic explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen (there is no phone coverage). The kitchen bangs out endless plates of waffles with cloudberry jam and cream as well as more substantial fare. Be warned, however: in winter the chances of being marooned are quite high and the skiing can be a serious challenge due to extreme cold and fast-changing mountain weather.
From 515 Swedish kronor (£40), laktatjakko.se

Gaustatoppen, Norway

Like many other huts belonging to the wonderful Norwegian Trekking Association, this place is small, well-run and traditional. It’s the route up to it that is astounding. You enter a mountainside, take a thundering old-school funicular railway one kilometre inside the granite, then wander through tunnels of military-grade concrete, before exiting through a blast-proof steel door and climbing down a short way to the hut. All that startling infrastructure is the cold war relic of a Nato communications station now doubling up as a museum and underground route to the hut, which dates back to 1893. This unique means of access gives the hut an advantage: you can stay in winter (weekends only) on the summit of the highest peak in Telemark province, Gaustatoppen, a popular ski resort, and then ski down. When I was there, the view was about 10 metres into thick mist. On a clear day, however, they say you can see one-sixth of Norway.
From 1,550 Norwegian kroner (£122), dnt.no

Chata pod Rysmi, Slovakia

The Tatra mountains have some excellent huts, but this is my pick. Close enough to the summit of Rysy (2,501 metres) for an early start to catch dawn on the top, it is traditional, well-run and basic. The weather here can take a brutal turn at any time of year and, like all the best huts, this is in precisely the right position to be a genuine bolthole. If it looks younger than its 1933 start date, that is because it has been destroyed several times by avalanches and rock falls, which is also why it only opens 1 June to 31 October.
€65, chatapodrysmi.kst.sk

Kredarica on Triglav, Slovenia

This is, in many ways, a standard, old-fashioned mountain refuge, but Kredarica has the great advantage of being the last potential stop en route to the summit of Slovenia’s highest peak, Triglav (2,864 metres). Given that every Slovene feels compelled to visit the summit at least once in their lifetime, this can be a busy place in summer, especially as the views are magnificent. The hardcore, however, savour its spartan winter comforts, when the dormitories are unheated bunkholes for those about to tackle the final, rather tricky ascent to the top (ice axe and crampons essential).
€30 half-board, triglavskidom.si

Le Refuge de Ciottulu di Mori, Corsica

One of the attractions of Corsica’s epic GR20 long-distance footpath is its unapologetically old-fashioned mountain huts. No emergency helicopters swooping in when the G&Ts run out: this is gruff, mule-supplied, mountain hospitality. Ciottulu is a good example of the genre: bare bones dining room and a dormitory with communal sleeping benches for 26. Its ambience is more like a bothy set at 2,000 metres in a vast stony panorama with a slightly unpredictable caretaker.
€15, le-gr20.fr

Breiðuvik, Iceland

The east of Iceland is home to a scattering of superb huts like this one. Breiðvik is actually on the coast and has the usual bunk rooms and well-appointed kitchen. The location is the big attraction: a wild, desolate coastline of volcanic sand beaches and abandoned villages. Together with 39 other locations, Brieðvik is part of a useful network run by the Icelandic Touring Association.
11,500 Icelandic kronur (£70), ferdaf.is

Scotland’s mountain bothies

The UK has always remained aloof from the continental urge to build something cosy on a mountain top. We are much happier sitting inside our leaky waterproofs eating soggy sandwiches. The Mountain Bothy Association is doing a little to encourage us away from such Spartanism, but not too much. Most are former cottages for miners or shepherds; many now have a fireplace or even a wood burner. In some, there are a few supplies left on a shelf by previous guests. I have a soft spot for the hard charms of the least comfortable, where you may find only a stone bench and an open doorway. A few have become over-used and afflicted by visitors who don’t understand the ethos of mucking in, sharing out and cleaning up. For that reason, I’m not sure it’s worthwhile picking out any particular bothy (pictured is the Elphin Bothy in the Assynt region of Sutherland), suffice to say that the roster contains some absolute classics. Go and find them.
mountainbothies.org.uk

Rifugio Nuvolau, Italy

The Dolomites are so blessed with exceptional huts and Nuvolau is one of the best. Only accessible on foot, it was originally built in 1883 as a bequest from the Baron Richard von Meerheimb, the man who coined the term “psychodrama”, something he may have dreamed up while watching a Nuvolau sunset. The impeccable location is famous for its stunning shifts in light and colour. Inside is a dining room that serves excellent food, including a three-course dinner; upstairs is a small dormitory.
€51 B&B, rifugionuvolau.it

Rifugio Lagazuoi, Italy

Many huts in the Dolomites have learned that economic survival is via tourists rather than hikers and climbers. Lagazuoi is one of them. Built as a climbers’ refuge, it has expanded over the years and been connected to the road by cable car, which enables coach parties to stay. And yet, it remains magnificent. The south-facing terrace is lovely and there are fantastic walks all around, not least through the tunnels and terraces of the first world war frontline that lie on the cliff face below. Mount Lagazuoi (2,835 metres) was one location where the Austro-Hungarian empire faced off against Italians. Many years later, in 1965, Ugo Pompanin, a local Alpine guide and rock-climbing pioneer, recognised the potential and built the first hut, which, several additions later, is still run in great style by his son Guido.
From €85 with breakfast, rifugiolagazuoi.com

Butlin’s is known for its redcoats and fun-filled entertainment but it is the first time that I have visited the holiday site for a themed weekend

If you grew up in the 1990s, there’s something rather special about spending a weekend surrounded by the music, fashion and nostalgia of the decade. That’s exactly what I found at Butlin’s 90s Weekend in Bognor Regis — a fun-filled break that brought back plenty of memories, while offering all the comforts of a modern resort.

We stayed at the Ocean Hotel, which was one of the highlights of the weekend. Our room was comfortable, modern and, best of all, came with views overlooking the sea. Waking up to that view certainly made getting out of bed a little easier, and the hotel provided a relaxing base between all the entertainment and activities.

Our stay also included Premium Dining, with breakfast and dinner included. There was a good variety across the weekend, including Mexican food on Saturday and Indian food on Friday, while Sunday brought the ultimate comfort food in the form of a traditional roast dinner.

Breakfast was very much what you would hope for from a hotel buffet, with a full English, pastries and the usual selection of cereals, fruit and other breakfast favourites. There was plenty of choice, so nobody was going to leave the restaurant hungry.

One of the highlights was Saturday morning’s bottomless brunch, which gave us two hours of food and drinks. It was a great way to start the day and fitted perfectly with the party atmosphere of the weekend.

The entertainment was, of course, a huge part of the experience. On Friday evening, we watched a Madness tribute act, which had the crowd up and enjoying plenty of classic hits.

Saturday night brought a Take That tribute act, providing another dose of 90s nostalgia and plenty of singalong moments.

One part of the weekend that we noticed was a pop up celebrating friendship. Dubbed the UK’s very first Celebrant of Friendship, it saw friends get together in a series of marriage-style vows to turn “we should catch up” into “we do”.

There were a number of ‘Frien-do’ ceremonies in a Chapel of Friendship that we witnessed at the Big Weekenders with many people celebrating and happy to pose for a photo.

I even joined in at one stage holding a plaque that “we do” with two of my friends on the weekend away.

One thing I did miss was the silent disco, which saw people making their way around the resort.

From what I could see, it looked like one of the most entertaining activities of the weekend, with plenty of people getting involved. It was probably the one thing I wished I had made time for.

There was also something wonderfully nostalgic about simply being at Butlin’s for a 90s-themed weekend.

Between the music, entertainment, food and atmosphere, it felt like a chance to switch off from everyday life and have a bit of fun.

For me, the Ocean Hotel room and sea view were another major highlight, giving the weekend a comfortable and relaxing element alongside all the lively entertainment.

Overall, Butlin’s 90s Weekend delivered exactly what I was hoping for: nostalgia, entertainment, plenty of food and a great excuse to relive some of the best music of the decade.

Whether you’re a committed 90s fan or simply looking for a fun weekend away, it’s an experience that’s difficult not to enjoy.

STANDING on the deck with an Aperol spritz in hand and watching the beautiful Sicilian city of Messina fade into the distance, I feel like I am living the dream.

And indeed we pretty much have been since me, my husband Alistair and our 15-year-old twins Riley and Harris set off from the port of Barcelona on a seven-night Mediterranean cruise.

As first-time cruisers, from the moment we step on to NCL’s 2,100-room, 18-deck Norwegian Epic – which underwent a massive refurb last year – it is brilliant fun.

Having checked on to the ship, we head to deck 15, with its two pools and three waterslides, to wait for our luggage to be delivered to our balcony state cabins.

Here, we take a peek at our fellow passengers – an eclectic mix of young and old from America, Canada, the UK and everywhere in between – as we settle on sunloungers with drinks and enjoy the live music, while waiting to depart.

Leaving Barcelona, we pass another ship and everyone cheers and waves to our fellow cruisers.

WAIL OF A TIME

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The party atmosphere makes for the most lovely holiday vibe.

All decked out

With so much to do on the ship, you could never be bored.

There are 16 restaurants, including brilliant inclusive eateries such as the buffet Garden Cafe and the waiter-serviced Manhattan Room and Spice restaurants, plus seven speciality options, which we can dine at as part of our free-at-sea package.

For our first night we opt for Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, which we talk about for days afterwards.

There, we tuck into starters including sushi and spare ribs before mains of black pepper beef with broccoli, melt-in-the-mouth snapper, chicken and prawn chow mein, and egg fried rice, all washed down with sake for me and Alistair.

Our cabins have super-comfy twin beds pulled together into doubles, a sofa, shower and toilet, as well as tonnes of storage space and a TV.

We barely feel the boat move as we fall into a deep sleep, waking the next day in Marseille, where we decide to spend our first full day exploring the ship’s decks from top to bottom, taking advantage of enjoying the attractions while most guests are on shore.

Riley and Harris are delighted to find a Starbucks, while I love the serene Mandara Spa with its 50 different treatments, and we all gasp at the huge gym.

There is also teenage club Entourage, as well as Epic Theatre, where evening shows take place.

We particularly enjoy Red, White & British – a show of covers from Brit artists through the decades.

Plus, there’s a video arcade centre and a huge casino, as well as countless bars.

Exploring done, we head to the pool to test the water slides, including the 200ft bowl slide.

Excursions – which start from £37 per person – can be booked via the NCL app pre-departure or on board, and save you having to find your own way around new destinations.

However, our second stop is Villefranche-sur-Mer, a pastel-coloured coastal town where the shingle beach is just a stroll from where we disembark the ship’s tender, making a beach day a no-brainer.

Afterwards, we hit the town’s cobbled backstreets and pretty shops, marvelling at the handmade jewellery in Jour De Plage and eclectic clothes in cute Le Shopping De Nat on Rue de l’Église.

The station, with regular trains to nearby Nice and Monaco, is a stone’s throw away though, and many of our fellow cruisers set off to explore those cities instead.

Pisa The Action

That evening, we try Cagney’s Steakhouse, where we feast on jumbo shrimp cocktail or lobster bisque, followed by ribeye and fillet steaks served with a choice of sides – we love the parmesan truffle fries.

For dessert, the seven-layer chocolate cake is divine.

Our first excursion of the week is the following day when we arrive at Italy’s Livorno and take a coach to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa in all its glory.

Close by, we happen upon amazing pizzeria Santa Maria, where an extra-large pepperoni pizza costs £16.50 and feeds Alistair, Harris and me, while Riley plumps for a focaccia sandwich with mozzarella, £7 (Ristorantesantamaria.com).

The day ends with a trip to the historic seaside town of Viarregio, where we cool off with a dip in the crystal-clear water.

Opting to go it alone in Messina – as the port is located right in the city – we pop into the stunning Messina Cathedral, home to the world’s biggest, most complex astronomical clock, which stands 60m tall inside its bell tower.

Feeling suitably cultured, we then grab a taxi to Capo Peloro, a beautiful beach on Sicily’s north-eastern tip, where the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas meet.

Just Our Vibe

Back on the ship, both teens decide to chill in their rooms, so Alistair and I grab the opportunity to head to Vibe Club, an oasis of adults-only calm on the 18th deck with four-poster sunbeds and a hot tub, where we sip cocktails as we say our goodbyes to Messina.

Dinner that night at the Teppanyaki is our stand-out meal of the week.

We feast like kings on miso soup and seaweed salad, and marvel as the chefs sing songs, catch eggs for the fried rice in their hats and cook up a storm.

My steak-and-prawn combo is delicious, as is the sake-based wasabi cocktail I wash it down with.

We finish the night at our favourite bar, Shaker’s Martini Bar, where I’ve developed a taste for the Dirty Martinis, and my whole gang love their nightly live music.

Our last full day cruising is spent on the stunning Amalfi Coast, where our excursion takes us past Mount Vesuvius and to the Phlegraean Peninsula, so we can snorkel above the Roman resort of Baia, with its marvellous mosaics that now lie submerged up to 13 metres below the sea, before relaxing on the golden sands.

It’s an Italian bank holiday, and at the nearby beach club dozens are drinking prosecco, eating whitebait cooked in a huge metal vat of oil and dancing to their hearts’ content.

This couldn’t be a more fitting end to our cruise – pulling up in the port of Civitavecchia, near Rome, the next morning, we’ve laughed, danced, eaten, drunk and experienced some of the most beautiful places in the world.

DEEP in the forest, I’m watching tiny, rare frogs swimming and croaking (more of a weird squeak, really) in a flooded chamber at ancient Roman city, Bouthroton.

This is not what I expected in “the Maldives of Europe”.

Apparently someone, somewhere posted online a couple of years ago that Albania has some fabulous beaches with turquoise water like the Indian Ocean paradise islands, and the nickname stuck.

I’d long been intrigued by what was a communist totalitarian state until the mid-Nineties and had thought of it more as “the North Korea of Europe”!

So when I was on holiday in nearby Corfu, and discovered full-day tours operated, I jumped at the chance to see for myself.

The good-value trips are run by Tui-owned Musement and mine started at 7.30am with a 30-minute coach transfer from the hotel to the port, then a 75-minute ferry across to beach resort Sarandë in Albania, a coach pick-up there and a few hours of guided sightseeing.

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After a coffee pitstop, the coach headed south to the uncrowded, unspoilt Butrint archaeological site and its surrounding national park.

I’d heard of Butrint’s large lake but was not aware of its history, with human habitation here dating back thousands of years.

However, this visit took my group back to a “mere” 800 BC and the Unesco-listed ruins of Bouthroton founded by Greeks and taken over by Romans.

There’s a lot of walking on rough tracks in the forest and a fair few steps, so trainers are best.

Enthusiastic guide Lindita was a mine of information about the ancient forum, amphitheatre, public baths, aqueduct and almost 3,200ft of encircling walls, up to 23ft high.

A 4th-century earthquake affected sea levels, and the city was finally abandoned in the Middle Ages, with high tides causing flooding – but creating a habitat for those noisy little Greek water frogs and cute terrapins.

On to the adjacent national park, with Lindita explaining about the lake (actually a lagoon), which is linked to the sea by a 1.6-mile channel.

The rich birdlife includes the magnificently-named short-toed snake eagle while the mussels in the lake are hailed as Europe’s best.

Before the ferry back to Corfu, we had a brief photo stop at Sarandë’s Lëkurësi Castle – on an 800ft hill with outstanding views – and time for a chilled Albanian beer at a seafront bar.

The downside? It’s a 12 hour-plus day, with an agonising 2hr 10min journey back from the port to my hotel as other guests were dropped off. Still, I saw a lot of Corfu.

And while my included lunch was OK, I’ve never been on any excursion where water is not provided.

On the bus back to Sarandë – and from the ferry – I did spot some lovely beaches, but is Albania “the Maldives of Europe”? Hmm, not atoll. And there is a huge amount of unsightly hotel construction around Sarande and nearby Ksamil.

But the trip is an enjoyable, insightful taste of Albania and I’d definitely think about a holiday there. Maybe I’d even get to see a short-toed snake eagle.

Albania day trip from Crete, from £67pp plus port tax of 20Euros pp.

EUROCAMP has hundreds of resorts across Europe – but there is one that has been backed by mums as being the best.

Found in Holland, Duinrell has a lot to shout about including a theme park as well as a huge indoor and outdoor waterpark.

With all this, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the top-rated Eurocamp resorts for families – and it was voted as such on Mumsnet.

Its main draw is the enormous theme park which is completely free for guests with over 40 rides and attractions.

It has high thrill rollercoasters like The Falcon which is 72 feet tall with vertical drops, loop the loops and a top speed of 43mph.

There are other more family-friendly rides like log flumes, bumper cars, slides and climbing towers.

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Something else that makes it so popular is the enormous waterpark which has a total of 21 waterslides and huge swimming pools which are both indoor and outdoors.

The complex has a lazy river, a wave pool and an outdoor Tiki pool with tipping buckets and fountains which is open in the summer months.

Inside is where families will find the Playa waterpark which is especially designed for little kids up to 12 years old, with four waterslides for children.

Guests will need to pre-book time slots and pay up to €15 (£12.88) per person for the waterparks.

Activities don’t stop there either, as families can spend hours in its arcade which has over 80 games.

There’s mini golf, air hockey, classic arcade games, including eight immersive racing simulators.

In the comments, one previous visitor wrote: “We love Duinrell…I would do at least a week as loads to do.”

Another added: “This is an absolutely brilliant place!! Everything about it is spot on! Between the accommodation and the theme park, it’s all fantastic.”

A third said the waterpark was the “best we’ve been to!”

The park has eating options too from a creperie to an Italian restaurant and at the bars there’s entertainment like discos, karaoke and talent shows.

As for a place to stay the Eurocamp has a selection of ultimate holiday homes which can sleep up to eight across three bedrooms.

They have fully kitted out kitchens with open living areas and spacious bedrooms.

When the sun shines there’s an outdoor decking and a barbecue too.

For eight people to stay in an Ultimate 3-bedroom cabin next May for seven-night works out to £1,327.48 or £23.70pppn.

The Eurocamp is just outside The Hague, meaning that luckily for Brits it’s very easy to get to as it sits in between Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Flights to Rotterdam can be as quick as 50-minutes and heading to Amsterdam can take just one hour.

The cities can also be reached by the Eurostar in three hours and 15 minutes.

For more Eurocamp resorts, here are 10 with pools, waterparks and beaches.

And this Eurocamp in France has a huge kids club and laid back vibes.

VISITING one of Portugal’s top golfing regions without an ounce of experience of the game was certainly a nerve-racking move.  

But I needn’t have worried. 

The Algarve is so much more than a golfer’s paradise — but it’s also the perfect place to learn.  

With a nature park that’s home to a 37-mile lagoon and salt marshes frequented by flamingos, otters and Mediterranean chameleons — plus breathtaking island beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean — this beauty spot is a haven for anyone seeking R&R. 

I was staying at the 4H Magnolia Hotel in Quinta do Lago, a lavish complex tucked away within the Ria Formosa Nature Park that features four hotels and a private villa estate spread across 2,000 acres. 

While the complex may be luxury, the price tag needn’t be. The Magnolia, one of the entry-level hotels, is affordable yet stylish and oozes retro glamour with its Palm Springs theme.  

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Is this village the most autumnal English destination EVER?

A bright pink, neon ‘Welcome’ sign sits above the entrance, which is flanked by two cactus plants. Outside you’ll find a pool around which palm trees and stripey yellow sun loungers are dotted. Inside, the rooms are light, airy and unfussy.  

Staying here means you’ll also get access to the same shared facilities as the fancier hotels within Quinta do Lago, like the 5H Conrad.

This includes a gigantic lake with an inflatable obstacle course and watersports galore, plus a beach boardwalk that leads you straight down to the turquoise sea.

While golf is far from the only activity available to guests, the three championship courses are undoubtedly a big selling point to many.  

The legendary South Course has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times and each of the pristine fairways is backed by wildflowers and umbrella pines — pretty hard to resist. 

So it wasn’t long until I found myself at the driving range, picking up a club for the first time.  

Confronted with pyramids of perfectly-stacked golf balls, I wondered how many I would get through before I made a decent shot.  

But a beginner’s lesson from coach Callum had me swinging like a pro in no time, with simple drills and explanations that I could take away with me.  

If golf isn’t your sport, though, you can also try your hand at tennis, cycling, padel and Pilates. 

Many of these activities are at The Campus, which looks more like a glam beach club.  

It has a flawless football pitch on one side, and a patchwork of blue and orange sports courts on another.  

These grounds have been run on by elite athletes, including Chelsea and Everton footballers, during warm weather training camps, so you can be sure that the facilities here are top-notch. 

But despite its championship status and the reel of famous faces that have visited, I soon came to understand that Quinta do Lago is a place to relax and try new things, not one where you’re expected to step up to the plate and perform. 

If your aching muscles need soothing, then head to the wellness centre, which offers a sauna, steam room and plunge pool.  

There’s also Dano’s Sports Bar, a chillout spot where you can order wings and beers then sink back into a beanbag to catch a game on the big screen. 

I fuelled up on Caesar salad and bites of pizza before trying my hand at padel, which is basically tennis’s cooler, younger sibling. It’s a lot less strenuous and makes for easy rallies — ideal for beginners. 

My days at Quinta soon fell into a relaxed routine: wake up, spend the morning and afternoon trying new sports, go for a dip, then relax with dinner and cocktails. 

To fuel the body for all that sport, guests can pick from 14 dining spots spread across the resort and available to all guests. 

For an unbeatable breakfast, Pure backs on to the eighth hole of the North Golf Course and serves up freshly-squeezed juice and protein pancakes on a sun terrace shaded by pines.  

For lunch by the lake, stroll over to The Shack, where you can grab bites such as burgers and crispy fish tacos.  

And for a classy evening meal, I recommend Casa do Lago or Bovino — the former offers delicious fish from local markets, while the latter serves up juicy steaks and bold Portuguese red wines to match. 

Looking for the perfect way to end your night? Follow the boardwalk to its end to find Gigi’s, a cocktail bar that will happily shake up anything you like, and enjoy views of birds dipping down into the marshland. 

I left Quinta do Lago with not just a golden tan, but some muscle definition that I hadn’t seen in a while (a pleasant change from the usual extra holiday pounds) and a newfound love for golf — if you can’t beat them, join them. 

Holidays here feel like a health retreat that is actually fun and the exercise feels easy. There’s zero pressure to be perfect.  

Whether you want to spend your days down at the driving range, sipping cocktails by the beach or trying to master the splits in Pilates, this Portuguese playground is the place to do so.  

Who knew breaking a sweat could feel so incredibly glamorous?  

A MEMBERS club loved by the Royals is opening a new location in a historic English town.

It will feature restaurants, bars, a 25-metre pool, racquet courts and even direct access to the River Thames.

A new “reimagined” country club from the Soho House brand is set to come to Windsor, situated directly along the River Thames from next year.

Located less than 45 minutes from central London, Soho River House will also be home to a Health Club, riverside restaurant and Vinyl Bar.

The main house, a Victorian mansion within 35 acres of land, will feature 93 bedrooms designed for members who wish to extend their stay overnight.

The Health Club comes with a gym dedicated to all members’ fitness needs as well as a novel Lazy River feature, which offers cold plunges designed for muscle recovery.

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The location will also hold the first Soho House Racquet & Rowing Club with padel, tennis and pickleball courts.

For those wishing to try their hand at rowing, the site will come with boat storage, a dedicated staging area, and direct access to the river through a launching ramp.

The Lazy Lawn overlooking the Thames also provides the perfect lounging spot to catch some much-needed sunrays.

Every week, the club is set to host a number of events for members – including live performances and “One Night Only” dinners with well-known chefs.

Expected to arrive in 2027, those interested are able to register their interest online to keep an eye out for upcoming applications.

Soho House has 14 other locations in the UK, including sites in Manchester, Somerset and East Sussex.

The brand is loved by both Royals and celebrities, with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry having their first date at 76 Dean Street, a Soho House location in London back in 2016.

The provided text details the history and significance of the Day of the Glories of the Chilean Army, a national holiday celebrated annually on September 19th. This observance originated from military parades that began in 1810 and was formally established as a holiday in 1915 to honor the bravery of soldiers throughout the nation’s history. The source highlights key historical milestones, such as the creation of the National Army and the development of O’Higgins Park, which serves as the traditional site for modern military exercises. Additionally, the text clarifies that this event is distinct from the Chilean Navy’s specific commemorative day held in May. Today, the holiday serves as a tribute to the professionalism … 

WE stroll along the soft sand, taking in the afternoon sun as the shallow waters wash over our feet.

Ahead of us, kids are tucking into ice creams, and along the harbour wall, a crowd is at the ready with crabbing lines, dangling them one by one into the sea.

Here in Weymouth, on Dorset’s south coast, you get traditional amusement in, well, spades.

It is the quintessential Victorian resort, although its popularity dates back further, to King George III, whose first of many visits was in 1789 after doctors recommended sea bathing for his health.

In those days, he would not have been able to enjoy the Pirate Ship or spinning Paratrooper now found on the sands.

Nor could he have sunk a cold beer from the many bars and restaurants along the esplanade.

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He might, however, have been able to enjoy a donkey ride, a traditional seaside treat that’s still on offer here.

I was staying at The Ocean Guesthouse, just steps from the main beach — and its quirky nature (and owner) set it apart from the crowd.

Hotelier and former Londoner Maxine Gilroy has previously appeared on Channel 4’s reality B&B competition Four In A Bed where she was likened to TV characters Pat Butcher and Peggy Mitchell.

Her loud and infectious laugh backs that up and it most definitely adds to the cheer of the place.

Stepping into her guesthouse is like stepping back in time. Every wall, tabletop, windowsill and mantelpiece features antique objects, as varied as voodoo-esque dolls, telescopes and ship steering wheels.

Many of them have come down the generations from her grandparents’ vintage shops round the capital.

Our room had a ship theme, which was fitting considering it has a lovely bay window with harbour views.

Being in such a prime location means it’s easy to potter around the town, with plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs on your doorstep.

For sheer portion size, a large cod and chips from Bennett’s fish and chip shop could probably do Mum, Dad and a couple of little’uns. It was pretty tasty too.

Or if you’re keen for a fancier version of this seaside staple, Catch At The Old Fish Market offers a fine dining experience with a tasting menu of fresh-caught local seafood.

For a proper good pint, the Old Rooms Inn sits just across the river from The Ocean Guesthouse and is reachable by Town Bridge, which opens up every so often for boats to pass. I’d recommend taking the novelty route and making the two-minute crossing by row boat.

For a more lengthy jaunt in the water, Weymouth And Portland Boat Trips offers hour-long adventures.

As the name suggests, we travelled from Weymouth quayside to Portland — which despite being an island, is connected to the mainland by Chesil beach.

Known for its quarries and white Portland limestone — which was used to build the likes of Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and the British Museum — Portland is a gorgeous place to spend the day with shallow coves for swimming and sunsets to die for.

Keep your eyes peeled for the harbour — you may recognise it as the location that hosted the sailing events at the London 2012 Olympics, and regular contests still take place there.

On our journey, we saw Team USA practising windsurfing in preparation for the 2026 iQFOiL World Championships, which took place this month.

If you prefer to stick to dry land, then Nothe Fort, a ten-minute walk from the guesthouse, is a must.

Built in the 1860s, the building is as fascinating as what’s inside.

Kids will love it too, even if they aren’t into history — there are ramparts and tunnels to explore, military outfits to try on and cannons fired from the parade ground.

Exhibitions run throughout the year and special events take place during October half-term, too, with daily “mouse hunts”, spooky bingo and pumpkin golf.

Even King George III would approve of that.

OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of your favourite holiday hotspots – as well as some lesser-known gems.

This week, our sights are set on Amsterdam, a city that has long been loved by Brits but changes every time we visit.

As the Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor, and someone who goes to Amsterdam most years, Sophie Swietochowski said: “There’s so much more to Amsterdam than its winding canals (although they are a big selling point).

“Amsterdam’s laidback cafe culture is the reason why this city holds such a special place in my heart – venture a little way from the busy hub outside of the main train station, you’ll find quiet cobbled streets lined with traditional brown bars where locals spill onto the pavements.

“Here is where you can pick up a local pint (£3.50) and the well-known bar snack bitterballen (deep-fried balls of stewed meat) usually served with a tangy, mustard dipping sauce for around €6 (£5.16) . They’re delicious and addictive.

Here are some of our other top recommendations for a trip to the Dutch city.

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Amsterdam has more than 1,200 bridges, and most visitors spend the day walking over them.

Go under them instead: hire a small private boat and tour the city from the water, mooring up for a bite to eat, or for an hour at whichever attraction you drift past.

Back on land, start at Museumplein, the square behind the Rijksmuseum — the national museum of the Netherlands — then walk on to Vondelpark, at its best in late spring and summer when the park is in full bloom.

Its open-air theatre stages free shows through the summer, though it is worth booking ahead.

HIDDEN GEM

Waterlooplein, the city’s oldest flea market, has traded on the same square since 1893 and opens Monday to Saturday.

Saturday brings the biggest spread of stalls — huge brass bells, turquoise jewellery, vintage cowboy boots — and the best odds of turning up a treasure for the wardrobe or the home.

BEST VIEW

A short walk from Amsterdam Centraal is OBA Oosterdok, the largest public library in the Netherlands.

Browse the shelves by all means, but the real reason to stop is the seventh-floor terrace, where a small panoramic viewpoint looks south over the city.

Entry is free, and the outdoor terrace opens roughly April to October.

RATED RESTAURANT

Cantine de Caron sits in the old machine building of the Westergasfabriek, on the edge of Westerpark, and the raw industrial shell does much of the work.

This is French cooking from TV chef Alain Caron and his sons: bistro classics with a Mediterranean lean, served in a busy, unstuffy room with the chefs at work in an open kitchen at the back.

Dishes are built to play flavours off each other — black garlic espuma, cured egg yolk, feta foam — and the wine list runs through the major French regions. In summer, ask for the terrace facing the park.

BEST BAR

Cafe Twee Prinsen, a few minutes from the Anne Frank House, is one of the best wine bars in the city.

On a sunny day it is a brilliant spot to take a wooden stool outside by the canal and order a few small plates with a bottle or two.

Inside, it is the massive wine collection in chilled glass cabinets that you notice first.

The wine is the draw, but the small plates are the underdogs: cheese, sardines swimming in oil with a wedge of lemon, butter beans in red sauce.

HOTEL PICK

Leonardo Hotel Amsterdam Rembrandtpark sits on the edge of Rembrandtpark, a 15-minute tram ride from the centre.

Its Floor17 terrace, 85m up, is billed as the tallest rooftop in Amsterdam — a stylish spot for a drink and a long look at the skyline.

Rooms cost from £93 per night on a room-only basis. See leonardohotels.co.uk.

New mandatory entry requirement for UK travellers is about to come into force

British passport holders could be turned away at the border in Spain, France, Italy and several other destinations due to a post-Brexit scheme set to launch later in 2026.

Once the initiative comes into effect, UK holidaymakers will be required to pay for a digital travel authorisation document to gain entry to around 30 European nations. British travellers will need to register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will soon become an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals visiting a specific group of 30 countries.

With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, travellers can enter these European countries as often as they wish for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Originally, the ETIAS was expected to cost around 7 euros per person, however it has since been confirmed the fee will be nearly triple that amount, coming in at 20 euros per eligible traveller.

Those aged under 18 or over 70 are exempt, meaning a family of four travelling with two children would pay 40 euros in total. Once the scheme is up and running, failing to hold a valid ETIAS could see you refused entry to any of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, 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 scheme has faced numerous delays, and it is now anticipated that ETIAS will be launched over the next few months. The ETIAS is stored electronically against the passport.

While the vast majority of applications are expected to be approved “almost immediately”, if the system detects an error in your ETIAS submission, it could face rejection. Reasons for ETIAS applications being refused are reported to include holding an invalid passport, being considered a “risk” or having a Schengen Information System (SIS) alert, submitting an incomplete application, or failing to attend a mandatory interview.

Should your ETIAS application be turned down, you have the right to lodge an appeal.

FANCY jetting off for a budget-friendly weekend away this autumn?

You’re in luck – we’ve done all the research for you and hunted down 10 brilliant European city breaks that all come in at £99pp or less.

These deals include your return flights and hotel, plus we’ve even found the best free and cheap things to do in each area – from free true crime walking tours to cheap thermal baths.

From soaking up last-minute 28°C sunshine to spooky lantern-lit bridges and impressive Gothic castles, here’s 10 of our favourite city breaks from as little as £59pp.

Rome – £69pp

Few cities pack in the wow factor quite like Rome, and an autumn visit means you can stroll its streets without breaking a major sweat.

You could tick off the Colosseum, boutique shopping, tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain and enjoying some of the best pasta of your life, all in one day.

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel make for an easy excursion to top off your experience (€20 entry), but honestly half the fun of Rome is getting lost in its backstreets and stumbling upon tiny trattorias and pretty cafes.

One of the best affordable activities is sitting with a cappuccino e cornetto (coffee and a croissant) for as little as €2, and simply watching the world go by.

Just make sure you do this before midday to avoid strange looks from locals – it’s tradition to only drink your cappuccino in the afternoon!

This Wowcher deal gets you flights from London, Manchester, Bristol or Edinburgh plus two nights at a four-star hotel from £69pp.

Krakow – £89pp

If you like exploring classical architecture during the day and partying hard by night, Krakow’s the break for you.

Spend your morning wandering the cobbled Main Market Square and stopping for an obwarzanek krakowski (3.50 Polish Zloty, or around 75p) which is a delicious, ring-shaped braided bread.

After your snack, take a slow climb up to Wawel Castle for sweeping city views, and make sure not to miss a trip to St Mary’s Basilica, a burnt orange building hiding an intricate interior of vibrant blue and gold walls.

When it gets dark, head on a group bar crawl to tick off even more of the city and make some new friends along the way.

This pub crawl with GetYourGuide costs £24 and includes a full hour of unlimited drinks.

We found a Krakow break from £89pp, which puts you up in a central hotel that’s under 15 minutes’ walk from the Old Town, Main Market Square and St Mary’s Basilica.

Lisbon – £69pp

Sunshine pouring through narrow streets, vintage yellow trams gliding effortlessly uphill, creamy pastel de natas for breakfast at a trendy cafe – it’s hard to beat a Lisbon break.

For some free sightseeing, head to the Baixa and Mouraria districts to wander through colourful, tiled buildings and find tiny, lively bars that spill out onto the streets.

One of the best ways to see this city is to hop on the Tram 28 route at sunset and take a ride through the winding Alfama district, where you can hop off at Graca to catch the sun sink behind the city skyline.

This under £70 deal includes a two-night stay in the picturesque Old Town, plus return flights from Bristol, Edinburgh, Manchester or London.

Budapest – £79pp

Defined by its beautiful domed architecture and thermal spas, a break to Budapest feels a lot more expensive than it actually is.

When the chill of autumn starts to kick in, there’s nothing better than chomping on a hot chimney cake (around 900 HUF, or £2.15) to enjoy with a warming cup off coffee.

Better yet, go for a soak in one of the city’s many thermal baths, which start at only 3,000 Hungarian Forint (£6.84) at the Dandar baths.

In the evenings, treat yourself to a cocktail with a view in a crumbling ruin bar, or opt for a river cruise along the Danube.

There you can soak up the signature golden glow of the Hungarian Parliament Building from the water at night.

This £79 deal includes a stay at the Marmara Hotel Budapest, a four-star spot that’s only a 15-minute walk from the riverfront and the fairytale Buda Castle.

Prague – £59pp

For an affordable city break with all the spooky vibes this autumn, head to Prague.

Here you can soak up the views of the Old Town Square, with its astronomical clock and Gothic spires, while Prague Castle looms over the entire city.

Cross the lantern-lit Charles Bridge at night and admire its 30 sculptures on each side, then warm up in one of the city’s countless cosy beer halls or pubs. At Restaurace U Mlynare you can grab a local pint for 39 Czech Koruna (£1.37).

The deal we found gets you flights plus a stay at the Royal Court Hotel, which has its own swanky bar, restaurant and spa services. For £59pp, you really can’t complain.

Dublin – £99pp

Autumn might just be the best time to visit Dublin, with the city’s abundance of cosy pubs appearing all the more inviting when you’re ducking in from the rain on a chilly night.

Temple Bar may get all the attention, but the real fun is had in the pubs of Camden Street, where you’re bound to get chatting to locals within minutes.

On a clear day, pick up a bag of oats from supermarket Dunnes for around €1 and head to St Stephen’s Green to feed the friendly ducks and stroll the gardens.

Finish your visit by perching on a park bench to enjoy an oozy, jammy sourdough doughnut from The Rolling Donut (which sits just opposite the park entrance), or gun for a table in busy Beanhive to enjoy a colourful cappuccino that looks more like a work of art.

If the weather‘s not on your side, the Museum of Literature Ireland sits just on the outskirts of the park, and contains the first copy of Ulysses as well as some juicy handwritten letters from famous writer James Joyce.

This £99 city break includes a stay at the Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin, a city centre hotel with a gorgeous black-walled bar lined with mirrors and dotted with plush velvet seating.

Vienna – £79pp

Vienna is all about grand and elegant architecture that looks all the more impressive in moody autumn weather.

This city is all imperial palaces, art galleries, gilded concert halls and quaint coffee houses that feel like stepping back a century or two.

One of these architectural marvels is Schonbrunn Palace, a huge, Baroque masterpiece of a building that boasts 1,441 rooms. Visiting the grounds and gardens is completely free, but if you want to step inside tickets start from €42 (£36).

The Belvedere is another must-visit, where you can see famous Gustav Klimt painting The Kiss glittering in all its glory (entrance €23, or £19.70).

The gift shop here actually has super affordable souvenirs, which is a rarity for fancy museums and galleries. Plus the on-site cafe feels more like an attraction itself, with classical paintings, a giant crystal chandelier and pastries that could rival those found in a French patisserie.

This Vienna break includes a stay at the 4* Hotel Exe Vienna in the Museum District, putting you within walking distance of Vienna Volksoper, Volksgarten, and the Historical Museum.

Porto – £99

Colourful riverside houses, pretty cobbled streets, and more wine cellars than you can visit in one trip – Porto is built for cosy autumn strolls.

Wander down to the Ribeira district for the postcard views of the Douro river, and to snap pictures of the impressive, industrial Dom Luis I Bridge.

The Livraria Lello bookshop is a famous must-visit spot, with a winding wooden staircase and an impressive stained glass ceiling.

If you’re visiting in spooky season, you may want to take the Dark Porto Free Tour, where you’ll learn about the mysteries, legends and gripping true crime stories.

This £99 Porto break puts you up in the Porto Domus Hotel, which is a short walk from Santa Catarina Street, the city’s main shopping street.

The hotel is also a five-minute walk from the waterfront and its wine bars, so you’re never far from a good view or a good glass of port.

Valetta – £99pp

Malta might be best known as a summer holiday spot, but autumn still offers sunshine with temperatures hitting 28°C in September, plus fewer crowds and very low prices.

The capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage city, with honey-coloured limestone building, baroque churches and an impressive Grand Harbour which makes for a fantastic free day of sightseeing.

Take a boat trip to the ancient Ggantija Temples of Gozo (which are older than Stonehenge and the pyramids!) or simply spend an afternoon strolling St Paul’s Bay’s seaside promenade.

Malta also has some of the clearest diving and snorkelling water in the Mediterranean if you fancy giving it a go before the cold weather properly sets in.

And to see more of that sparkling water, head out on a day trip to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay with water that is almost glowingly blue.

This Malta holiday deal includes a stay at your pick of the 4* Canifor or Paradise Bay Hotel, plus breakfast and your return flights.

Venice – £69pp

A Venice city break may be the epitome of romance, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Get lost in a maze of canals and pretty stone bridges, before popping into a cosy bar to grab an Aperol spritz and watch the gondolas glide by.

Autumn is a fantastic time of year to visit, with St Mark’s Basilica (€10/£8.56) and the Rialto Bridge (free) far less rammed than they are in peak summer.

For an experience where you’ll truly get some bang for your buck, go for a pasta cooking class – as you can tick off a fun activity and your dinner both in one.

This pasta, tiramisu and wine class costs £34pp and is rated 4.9/5 stars by happy holidaymakers – and packs in dinner, dessert and a drink.

This deal gets you flights plus a stay at your pick of the Elite Hotel Mestre Venice or the Hotel Plaza Venice, both of which are stylish, four-star options.

Known as MEHKOs, microenterprise home kitchen operations come in many shapes and sizes. They are coffee shops, barbecue joints, supper clubs, backyard tea parties, pickup-only pizzerias and everything in between. For some of these operators, it’s a passion project, and for others, it’s their only source of income.

MEHKOs were first legalized by state lawmakers in 2019, spurred by advocacy from nonprofit organization the COOK Alliance. Riverside County was the first in the state to adopt the program in 2019. MEHKOs were greenlighted in L.A. County in May 2024, and since then over 400 licenses have been approved. While informal backyard restaurants are nothing new in L.A., the program offers a legal, health-department-approved pathway for many existing home kitchens to thrive.

MEHKOs can only sell up to 30 meals per day and no more than 90 meals per week. They’re also not allowed to advertise with signs on their homes or front lawns. And unlike commercial restaurants, where line cooks will often prep ingredients for the rest of the week, MEHKOs can only serve food that was prepared the same day.

“A home kitchen is not designed or required to have the same commercial infrastructure, such as ventilation systems, grease interceptors, specialized wastewater systems,” said James Dragan, who oversees initiatives including the MEHKO program at the L.A. County Department of Public Health. “The limits are important because of the food safety perspective.”

When dining at a MEHKO, be flexible. It might not be as easy as just placing an order. These home businesses are often open just a few days per week with limited hours, and might only accept orders placed in advance. For example, Palestinian home kitchen Mid East Eats — one of L.A.’s first MEHKOs — currently only offers private dinners and monthly supper clubs. It was previously open for walk-ins with a larger menu, but the format was difficult to sustain and would often create food waste.

“I want to continue doing my private dinners because that’s my favorite thing to do,” said Mid East Eats founder Sumer Durkee. “It’s satisfying to me and feels like home, and people leave feeling so happy.”

MEHKOs can serve as a relatively low-cost stepping stone toward opening a brick-and-mortar and offer one-of-a-kind food experiences, even in a city with as rich a culinary vocabulary as L.A. These eight home kitchens, all of which offer dine-in service, are a great starting place to discover the city’s burgeoning MEHKO scene.

IF you want a historic stay in one of the UK’s coolest seaside towns, we’ve found one of the best.

Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Margate‘s The George & Heart House.

Where is The George & Heart House?

You couldn’t ask for a much better spot from which to explore Margate.

Across the road are the Old’s Town’s vintage shops, cafes and pubs while just a five-minute walk away is the beach as well as the Turner Contemporary art gallery and retro amusement park Dreamland, both of which are free to enter.

Margate train station is a ten-minute stroll from the hotel.

What’s it like?

Sat on the edge of Margate’s Old Town, this revamped 18th-century coaching inn is full of character.

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The charming interior features exposed brickwork, velvets, fringes and drapes with eco-friendly up-cycled furniture and a colour scheme of pink and dark green.

What are the rooms like?

There are six compact rooms designed by Kent creatives, all with their own unique style and names.

Among them, Burley & Field has Art Deco and Oriental influences while Home Alone With Mrs Jones is a riot of 1970s Biba-style imagery.

There is also the plush and spacious Heritage Suite, where I stayed, which takes up an entire floor.

It comes with two bedrooms and a big living space complete with a small kitchen area, two sofas, wall-mounted flatscreen TV and a dining table.

Double rooms with breakfast cost from £90. See georgeandheart.com.

What is there to eat and drink?

Definitely eat here. The restaurant delivers mainly pub classics, including burgers and fish and chips, but also more elaborate dishes such as pork Milanese.

I had the halibut in a tomato and caper sauce with new potatoes and tenderstem broccoli which was perfectly cooked and delicious.

In the summer you can also dine in the pub’s airy Stables Courtyard.

The breakfast is continental, including juices, muesli, fruit, croissants, ham and cheese.

What else is there to do?

The hotel has a Zen Den, which offers massages and facials by appointment, but can also be used by guests for morning stretches or meditation.

Is it family friendly?

The hotel’s two-bedroom Heritage Suite sleeps four, so works for families.

Is it accessible?

Due to being a historic pub, the hotel is not wheelchair accesible

OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of your favourite holiday hotspots – as well as some lesserknown gems.

This week we shine a light on a Turkish delight: Istanbul’s Karaköy neighbourhood, set on Istanbul’s European side and once a centre of trade, culture and maritime activity.

Today its heritage architecture sits alongside contemporary galleries, independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

With the Bosphorus waterfront on its doorstep, it’s an ideal base for discovering the city’s many layers.

Known as Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhood, The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, who visited, said it felt like a “trendy pocket of an otherwise busy, but beautiful city”.

For trainspotters, it’s also home to Karaköy station which features the historic Tünel  – the second-oldest underground railway in the world. 

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MUST SEE  / DO

Start at Galataport, Karaköy’s transformed waterfront district stretching along the Bosphorus.

Once part of Istanbul’s historic working port, the promenade is now home to restaurants, shops and cultural spaces, including Istanbul Modern, with views across the water towards the historic peninsula.

From here, wander into Karaköy’s backstreets before climbing towards neighbouring Galata, where cobbled lanes and historic buildings lead to the landmark Galata Tower.

HIDDEN GEM

Tucked between Karaköy and Galata, the Kamondo Stairs are one of the neighbourhood’s most distinctive architectural details.

Built by the influential Kamondo banking family in the 19th century, the sweeping stone staircase curves elegantly between the old banking streets, creating one of Istanbul’s most photogenic corners.

Their unusual design makes them easy to miss among the surrounding historic buildings, but they’re well worth seeking out while exploring the area on foot.

BEST VIEW

For one of Istanbul’s most popular panoramas, head up to Galata Tower.

From its elevated position above Karaköy, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views across the Golden Horn, Bosphorus and historic peninsula, taking in the domes and minarets of the Old City and ferries crossing between the European and Asian sides.

Time a visit for late afternoon to watch the city begin to glow below.

RATED RESTAURANT

For street food heaven, head to Mumhane Street. 

Mehmet Usta’s fish wraps are a local favourite – mackerel grilled over open coals spiced with pomegrante molasses, sumac and herbs and rolled tightly in thin flatbread.

For a sit-down delight, head to Karakoy Lokantasi for Turkish home-style dishes and traditional mezes including slow-cooked lamb.

BEST BAR

Unter on Mumhane street was one of the original venues that helped transform the Karakoy district.

By day, it’s a buzzing cafe, by night it transforms into a vibrant neighbourhood bar for craft cocktails and wine.

For more rooftop views, head to The Bank Hotel’s Roof Bar on Bankalar Street for sunset drinks.

HOTEL PICK

Hovagimyan Hotel & Suites is a boutique bolthole in the heart of Karaköy, housed within a landmark building.

Meticulously restored, each of the 20 suites is  individually furnished with Art Nouveau and Art Deco antiques.

Each also comes with a fully-equipped kitchen. 

Moments from the Bosphorus waterfront and Galata Tower, head to The Penthouse, the top-floor bar for the best panoramic views.

Rooms from £213per night in September. See hovagimyan.com.

A HUGE expansion at a major American airport that was supposed to open this year has been pushed back to 2027.

New York‘s John F. Kennedy International Airport in America is currently undergoing one of its biggest-ever transformations costing £7.1billion.

The centre of the project is the New Terminal One, which was expected to open before the end of this year but has now been pushed back to the first quarter of 2027.

The airport has confirmed that testing is needed before the terminal opens to passengers.

Once open, the terminal – which will have replaced the old one – will have 13 gates plus a temporary gate in its first phase of opening.

When the first phase is complete, the airport will move on to the second phase, which includes demolishing the former terminal.

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The second phase will also add nine gates, making a total of 23 gates at the completed terminal – 22 of which will be for wide-bodied planes commonly used for long-haul, international flights.

The 241,548sqm terminal will be the largest at the airport and inside there will be 27,871sqm of shops, restaurants and six lounges.

One of those lounges is Air France‘s largest lounge outside Paris, spread across two floors.

Inside the lounge, there will be seating for up to 400 travellers, with different dining areas celebrating French food and a bar with French wines and Champagnes.

Other spaces inside the terminal will include an “indoor green space” and “family-friendly amenities”.

And travellers will be able to spot a variety of public art installations too.

Airlines that will feature at the New Terminal One include Air France, KLM, Etihad Airways, LOT Polish Airlines, EVA Air, Turkish Airlines, Air New Zealand, Air China and Philippine Airlines.

The project forms part of an even larger £14.2billion transformation at the airport, where there will also be a new Terminal 6 and upgrades at three other terminals.

Airlines at Terminal 6 are expected to include JetBlue, United Airlines and other Star Alliance carriers.

At Terminal 4, there will be 10 new gates and an expanded check-in and arrival area.

Terminal 8 will then undergo a £300million upgrade, including adding new gates and transforming the retail spaces.

New York is a popular destination among British travellers, with around one million Brits heading to the city each year.

Flights between the UK and New York typically take between seven and eight hours and cost from £380 return.

THE SUMMER holidays are in the rearview mirror now, so it’s likely you’re already daydreaming about next year’s getaway.

As for where to book, these spots have been revealed as the trending destinations for 2027 including one place in Europe with tropical-looking beaches, and another country with highs of 30C even in winter.

Advantage Travel Partnership, a UK-based consortium of independent travel businesses has said Albania as the destination to watch for 2027.

The country is much lesser-visited by Brits than the likes of France, Spain and Greece – but it has so much to offer, including beautiful beaches and hot summers.

One spot along the Albanian Riviera called Ksamil is regularly labelled the ‘Maldives of Europe,’ for its stunning coastline.

The village is in the south of Albania very close to Corfu – in fact on a clear day you can see across to the island.

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Ksamil has white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and offshore islands that you can swim to from the mainland, giving it similar attributes to the Maldives.

The easiest way to get to Ksamil is actually to fly into Corfu Airport and take a quick ferry crossing across.

Another spot in Albania that is loved by singer Dua Lipa is the seaside village, Dhermi, which in the summertime is called a ‘bustling seaside paradise’.

It has pebbled beaches, beach clubs, a historic old town, and one of the biggest attractions is Pirates’ Cave.

Albania during the spring sits around the mid-20s, and during summertime can be over 30C.

There are direct flights from London Heathrow, Stansted and Luton to the country’s capital, Tirana, which start from £30.

Visitors to Albania have been steadily rising, previous statistics reveal that tourists visiting Albania nearly doubled from 6.4million in 2019 to 11.7million in 2024.

Other places that the data revealed are on the up next year include Egypt, an affordable winter sun hotspot.

The country and particularly Red Sea resorts attract Brits in the later part of the year thanks to its high temperatures.

In October, Egypt can still bask on the beach in 30C heat – meanwhile the UK’s average is around 10C.

In recent years, Egypt has been named the ‘best value for money’ destination, according to the Post Office Travel Money.

According to Wise, a beer in Egypt can be as little as 50EG which is 77p.

Coffee can be as little as 54p and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs an average of £2.75.

Earlier this year, Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK&I named Egypt as one of their “most in demand destinations.”

He named Sharm El Sheikh as a popular spot for couples with its blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and world‑class reefs.

Hurghada is a spot that’s “especially popular with families thanks to its impressive all‑inclusive offering, shallow beaches, and brilliant snorkelling”.

Nearby Marsa Alam is also gaining in popularity thanks to its “pristine beaches, exceptional diving, and a more laid‑back atmosphere”.

There are plenty of direct flights to Egypt from the UK, particularly in the winter months, with an average flight time of just over five hours.

Two other on-the-rise destinations for 2027 include Hong Kong and Vietnam.

The Sun’s Business Affairs Editor James Flanders visited Vietnam last year where he was delighted to find beers for £1.

James said: “From the moment I touched down in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, I knew my trip would be unforgettable.

“The city doesn’t just welcome you — it wraps you in its embrace with the hum of motorbikes, the aroma of street food, and a culture so vibrant you can’t help but fall in love. 

“My favourite memories of Hanoi, however, were on Train Street. This narrow alley is famed for its railway, which runs straight through the centre, so close to the tiny cafés flanking the street that you can feel the rush of air when the carriages whoosh past.”

Outside of the capital, one popular activity is kayaking along Ha Long Bay which has emerald waters and is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

No one will be disappointed by the food and drink scene in Vietnam, James enjoyed Huda beer, crispy fried spring rolls, and a stir-fried rice noodle dish for less than £8. 

PROPER pubs have propped up British life for centuries – safe, soothing sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Some call them ‘spit and sawdust’ boozers, others call them ‘Old Man’ pubs.

But you get the idea – no fuss. No frills.

They don’t complicate or change things. Just a quiet well-kept pint, a vacant stare into the middle distance, a nice chat and that comforting feeling that everything will probably be alright.

In a proper pub there’s no piped ‘muzak’, no Sky Sports swooshing at you, no cutlery or cloths on the tables, and absolutely no QR codes.

There might be a dog. There should be a piano. If there’s a dog playing a piano, that’s even better.

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And once you’re in, there should be no real reason to ever leave.

I make up half of Thinking Drinkers, and we have searched high and low for the best boozers around, so here are my top 10 Proper Pubs that every passionate pub-goer should visit:

The Oxford Bar, Edinburgh

Edinburgh is packed with decent locals. But few do proper, no-nonsense pub quite like The Oxford, a favourite of crime writer Ian Rankin and his hard-boiled detective Inspector Rebus.

There’s none of the tartan tat or tourist rubbish here. Just a solid mix of locals, writers and drinkers, all rubbing along nicely.

Grab a stool, order a beer or a whisky, and settle in. It’s exactly what a pub should be.

A pint here is likely to set you back between £4.50 and £6, and there’s plenty of things to do nearby including the National Galleries of Scotland and Edinburgh Castle.

Southampton Arms, North London

A sign outside proudly declares “Ale. Cider. Meat” – and that’s exactly what you get at this cracking Kentish Town boozer.

The 16 taps pour only beer and cider from genuinely independent producers – but don’t panic, this is not a Gen Z hipster hangout or a pub for beer bores who won’t stop talking to you about hops.

Inside you’ll find tables, chairs, a piano and plates of meat (and cheese). There’s no Wi-Fi and no bookings.

A pint here costs from £4.97, which is definitely a welcome price in London – and nearby, make sure to visitHampsteadd Heath for a nice autumnal walk.

The Dyffryn Arms, Wales

Perched on the edge of the Preseli Hills, this place is absurdly old-fashioned and basic.

Known simply as ‘Bessie’s’, after its legendary landlady, it’s less a pub and more a tiny front room.

Ring the bell, the hatch opens, and you’re served one beer and one beer only — Bass.

Inside there are a few chairs, a couple of tables and a portrait of a youthful Queen Elizabeth.

Outside, just a bench. The locals chat in Welsh. There’s no toilet. Yet somehow, it’s perfect.

A pint here will set you back between £4 and £5.50, and in the surrounding are, a head off on a riverside walk or take a short drive to the coastal town of Fishguard.

Birch Hall Inn, North Yorkshire

Tiny but brilliant, this white-washed North York Moors pub is officially the smallest in Yorkshire — and yet huge in character.

The boozer is split into two very basic rooms with a proper old-school sweet shop between them.

Hikers and holidaymakers rub elbows here over a range of well-kept ales, pork pies, pickles, stotties and the pub’s famous “beer cake”.

A pint here will cost you between £4 and £5.50, and in the surrounding area, take a walk to Beck Hole – a pretty village with woodland walks to small ponds and waterfalls.

Wenlock Arms, East London

While all the streets around it were getting levelled by the Luftwaffe during the Second World War, The Wenlock Arms wasn’t having any of it – the bombs didn’t dare touch it.

And, from the looks of things, neither has anyone else.

Built in 1836, this unwaveringly traditional East End institution has a reassuringly retro feel with some of the best beer the British isles has to offer.

A pint at this watering hole usually costs between £4.50 and £5.80, and if you are looking for something else to do in the area, head for a wander along the Regent’s Canal Towpath.

The Evening Star, Brighton

Just a one-minute walk from Brighton train station, this cosy city centre local is a theme pub…

The theme is sitting down and drinking really nice beer.

Dating back to 1854, there’s not much here beyond some chairs, some tables and a small bar serving a range of really good independent ales, ciders and lagers.

The cheapest pint here will cost you £4.80 (Burning Sky – Plateau), and nearby there’s the Brighton Toy and Model Museum or you can walk to the beach.

Peveril Of the Peak, Manchester

Peveril of the Peak was once used as a brothel by American soldiers during the Second World War.

It sits defiantly wedged amid modern office blocks and new-fangled flats, with a classic green-tiled exterior.

As for the inside, the historic triangular tavern is perhaps the most beautiful looking boozer in Manchester complete with darts, pool and a jukebox.

A pint at this watering hole will set you back between £5.50 and £6.80, and Manchester Art Gallery is nearby if you are looking for something else to do in the area.

The Bell Inn, Aldworth

Low- beamed with a massive oak fireplace and a flagstone floor worn by generations of thirsty walkers, this cracking 16t-centuryy country pub is a terrific time-warp of a place.

The beer garden bursts into a perfectly English oasis of calm in the summer, but in the winter, the boozer oozes with cosy charm.

The beers are served spot-on and the food is simple yet superb – warm crusty rolls stuffed with ham, ox tongue, cheddar, stilton or crab, with little pots of mustard and chutney on the side.

You can get a pint and a roll for less than £15.

Fat Cat, Sheffield

Once you’ve sat down here, you’ll struggle to leave this delightful, unpretentious ‘drinker’.

It is just one of several superb pubs to be discovered in the Steel City.

Cosy and carpeted, it’s like stepping into someone’s living room – albeit a living room that serves a great range of real ales from a handsome looking wooden bar.

A pint at the Fat Cat costs from around £4.20, and for somewhere to head after, just across the road is the Kelham Island Museu, m which showcases the steelmaking history of the city.

Free Trade Inn, Newcastle

Boasting beautiful views over Newcastle and across the River Tyne, perched halfway up a hill, this quirky yet canny, frills-free boozer oozes charisma.

It has friendly folk behind the bar, a free jukebox and quality ‘craft’ ales.

You can grab pizza at the boozer too for around a tenner.

A pint here will cost you from £4.50, and nearby, make sure to head on the Victoria Tunnels Tour – this underground 19th-century wagonway has had several lives as a route for coal wagons and then laterana air-raid shelter during World War II.

AS the days get shorter and the temperature drops, there’s nothing like a relaxing autumn staycation to break up the long wait until Christmas.

But finding a weekend away that doesn’t cost a fortune can be a challenge – especially with the summer holidays having already taken a chunk out of our bank accounts.

Wowcher has just slashed the prices on a huge range of autumn mini breaks, with UK holiday deals starting from £34.50 per person.

From Peak District spa breaks, to 18th-century manor houses, to staying inside a full-on castle, here’s our top pick of affordable Wowcher staycations this autumn.

Halloween murder mystery break for 2 – £78pp

Is there anything more perfect for spooky season than a Halloween-themed murder mystery break?

This offer includes an overnight hotel stay with breakfast, a three-course dinner, and of course, a fully immersive story where you’re part of the action.

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The murder mystery breaks take place all over the UK, and you can pick from hotels in London, Norfolk, the Midlands, Scotland, Yorkshire and more.

The Halloween Murder Mystery break deal is on sale for £78pp, saving 29% off full-price.

Book a Halloween murder mystery break for 2 for £78pp

4* Peak District Countryside Spa Stay for 2 – £89

An overnight escape with breakfast, spa access, and the stunning Peaks on your doorstep. What’s not to love?

Stay overnight at the Three Horseshoes Country Inn & Spa, a cosy, traditional red-brick hotel which hides modern and stylish rooms inside.

The on-site Mill Wheel Spa has a unique stone bath for a healing soak, plus mud chambers, a sauna and treatments such as bespoke facials catered to your skin type.

A stay here with Wowcher costs £89 for two people, working out to £44.50 each.

Book a 4* Peak District Countryside Spa Stay for 2 for £89

Castle stay with breakfast and dining experience – £129

Bag a fairytale-like autumn break with this stay in a medieval-style castle surrounded by misty woodlands.

Peckforton Castle in Cheshire is a Grade I-listed Victorian country house designed to look exactly like a castle, containing 48 unique bedrooms and two restaurants.

Peckforton has plenty of history hidden within its walls for you to explore. It was built in the mid 19th century for a wealthy family, and has its own dry moat, towers, gatehouse and a porthcullis.

This stay costs £129 for two and includes dinner, bed and breakfast, and saves you up to 51% when compared to booking direct.

Book a castle stay with breakfast plus a dining experience for £129

Gulliver’s Resort stay and play package – £169 (£42.25pp)

Join in the fun of the ‘Fright Fiesta’ at Gulliver’s this October with a short break at Gulliver’s Warrington.

The festival-style event sees a street parade take to the theme park, as well as costume character meet and greets and a ‘Spooky Dance Party’.

Families can also hop aboard the Trick or Treat train that chugs around the park, or enter a spooky Ghost House full of live action scares.

The deal includes an overnight stay at the park for up to four people, plus park entry on your arrival day for £169 (£42.25pp).

Book a Gulliver’s Resort stay and play package for £169 (£42.25pp)

North Wales retreat for two with Prosecco – £69

This mini break at Welsh countryside inn The Hanmer Arms comes with breakfast and Prosecco, making for a cosy overnight retreat.

This hotel is in Hanmer, North Wales, a quiet and pretty village with a medieval church and a vast glacial lake nearby.

The hotel itself is a 19th century Georgian inn and pub, serving local ales and generous portions at the Sunday carvery.

The offer costs £69 for two, working out at £34.50pp and saving you 45% off booking direct.

Book an overnight stay for two with Prosecco at The Hanmer Arms for £69

Shropshire manor house spa break for two – £99

This Shropshire spa break deal is on sale for £99, which is the lowest rate this break has ever reached on Wowcher.

With this deal, you and a loved one can sit down to a fancy dinner, make use of the hotel spa facilities, retire up to a cosy room and come back downstairs for a Full English breakfast in the morning.

The 4* Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa is an 18th-century manor with 15 acres of gardens, so you’ll have plenty of landscaped grounds to roam during your stay.

This overnight spa hotel break costs £99 for two people, working out to £49.50pp.

Book a Shropshire manor house spa break for two for £99

Prices correct at the time of publication.

Sam Catling lived the dream by ditching a supermarket job for a supposedly fun role as a cruise ship entertainer. He opens up about his day to day life on a cruise ship, the long hours he worked, and how much he took home each month

Working on a cruise ship is the kind of job everyone fantasises about now and again. And when Sam Catling was just 18, he landed what many people would consider a dream role – a cruise ship entertainer.

Sam, now 38, now shares his memories of his time at sea, as well as interviewing others from across the maritime industry in his podcast Deck Tales, and he’s even written a book, Seems Like Smooth Sailing, that gives an unflinching account of what it’s like to work at sea for months on end.

He jokingly refers to himself as a former ‘trolley wally’ and says his CV consisted of a paper round and a job collecting trollies at Asda when family members suggested he’d be a great cruise ship entertainer. His mum and granny had just come back from a cruise and had chatted to onboard entertainers about how they got into the role, before suggesting the idea to the outgoing Sam.

He spoke about how he managed to land the role, despite his lack of previous boating experience: “I used to get The Stage magazine delivered to my newsagent on a weekly basis, and I kept looking through the ads, and eventually I saw one that said ‘now receiving applications for entertainment hosts’ so I applied.

“The first question was ‘What previous experience do you have working in entertainment?’, and eventually I wrote ‘Ive had extensive experience pushing trolleys around Asda car park for the past two years’.”

With a drama GCSE and a few workshops under his belt, Sam soon found himself in Gibraltar on a boat that was in dry dock, attending two weeks of rehearsals as the ship was refurbished. In addition to entertainers such as himself, who did events from game shows to karaoke, there were a show team with West End-style performers who Sam said were a “triple threat” with dancing, singing, and acting skills.

The job was gruelling, with Sam revealing he worked seven days a week. Visits home were extremely rare, crew stayed on the ship the duration of their contracts, which for Sam’s first cruise was six months. The days were long too, with Sam admitting he became “quite the social drinker” due to his schedules requiring him to sit down and socialise with guests.

His shifts would often finish past midnight, and he’d head to the crew bar after work until 2am, before getting up at 7am to face the next day. Sam said he became skilled at power napping: “Between your different activities that you’d host I was down in my cabin having a power nap. If I had an indoor cabin I’d just close the door and you were in pitch black darkness, so it was really easy to just have a 30 minute nap.” But he admitted: “You wouldn’t know what time of day it was because you’re cutting out all the sunlight.”

His accommodation was included, as was food and expenses, and Sam said: “You’re not paying rent, your food’s taken care of, you’ve no heating and electric and gas bills and all of that stuff. It’s all taken care of, which is nice! You don’t have to worry about all those things. But then you are spending money when you go ashore, you know, going to eat out, because after a couple of weeks of being on board you are sick of the food.”

Sam revealed that, when he worked on ships around 2006, he was taking home about £1,200 to £1,300 a month from working seven days a week. Accommodation was shared, and Sam said only managers and the top talent such as the main singers in the shows would get their own cabins.

Despite this salary being representative of a job over 20 years ago, cruise ships don’t pay much more now. According to career site prospects.ac.uk, which advises students on employment routes, those with little experience shouldn’t expect big money for their long hours: “Entry-level cruise ship jobs, such as hospitality, housekeeping, retail, or waiting staff positions, typically pay around £1,000 to £1,500 per month, often with accommodation and meals included.”

But it claims that experienced crew can get decent salaries at sea: “With experience and progression into specialist or management roles, salaries can rise to between £2,000 and £4,000 per month. Senior officers, entertainment managers, engineers, and technical staff may earn considerably more.”

Sam worked on cruise ships for four years, and nowadays he runs his podcast, which he describes as his “passion” with over 60 episodes available, as well as taking on handyman jobs and occasionally working as a TV extra.

“I want to continue doing this until I’m an old man, because there’s 70% of the planet that’s covered in ocean, so I don’t think I’m going to run out of guests anytime soon. The podcast started with just being a platform for cruise ship crew, but now it’s something else. It’s cargo ship captains, I’ve spoken to a pirate, I’ve had a deep sea salvage scuba diver and tugboat captains.”

He added: “I just really wanted to drill down into something unique and authentic, and within a specific niche that people might not know about; the stories at sea that most people don’t hear. The public might not have an interest in ships, but people are still people, and the stories that happen at sea are there for everyone to hear about.”

Listen to Sam’s Deck Tales podcast here.

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