Travel Desk

A travel specialist has said some people are giving themselves ‘too much time’

Travellers can avoid ‘pointless’ time-wasting this spring and summer by knowing exactly when to turn up at European airports with enough time to get through the new EES checks. Getting the timing spot on could help passengers feel less worried about missing their flights if they find themselves stuck in lengthy passport control queues.

Travel specialist Kate Donnelly (@Thedonnellyedit) said: “There is a lot of mixed information out there, and some people are saying that you need to get to the airport four to five hours before your departure. This is absolute nonsense. You need to be at the airport a minimum of three hours before your flight.

“Firstly, the bag drop in most European airports only opens two hours before departure, in some cases it may be three hours. [So] getting there four to five hours before your flight just means you’re going to be sitting waiting for the check-in desks to open.”

Kate went on to explain that, once you’ve cleared security and duty-free, most airports should have multiple border control points, reports the Express. She said: “You need to wait for your gate to be announced in order to know which one you have to pass through.

“[Even] if you haven’t had to wait to check a bag (you’re travelling with just hand luggage) and you’ve gone straight through, you are still going to be sitting in the main airport waiting for your gate to be called. This is why getting there hours ahead of time is pointless.”

How much time should I allow myself?

Depending on which airline you fly with, some carriers open their check-in desks several hours ahead of departure. Getting your timing spot on will give you the best chance of sailing through the airport, even if there are potential EES-related delays.

Most airlines work to similar timeframes, though this can vary by route. For instance, airlines tend to open check-in desks for long-haul flights considerably earlier than for shorter trips, as they require additional time for security and document checks, including visa verification.

It’s worth double-checking directly with the airline operating your service, or you may receive guidance a few days before you’re due to depart. Below is some general advice on when some of the more popular airlines will begin checking passengers in:

• British Airways: Two to three hours before the flight
• easyJet: Two hours before the flight
• Jet2: Three hours before the flight
• Ryanair: Two to three hours before the flight (airport dependent)
• TUI: 2.5 hours before (short-haul) / 3.5 hours before (long-haul)
• Virgin Atlantic: Four hours before the flight

Some airlines – like Jet2, easyJet, TUI, British Airways, and Ryanair – offer a twilight check-in service for people catching early departures. Passengers who are staying close enough to the airport to arrive the night before can drop off bags at select airports the night before their flight, so they can head straight to security on the day of their flight.

What is the new EES system?

The European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) launched on October 12, 2025. This new digital border system has altered the requirements for British citizens travelling to the Schengen area, which includes the following countries:

• 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
• Switzerland

The UK, the Republic of Ireland, and Cyprus are not part of the Schengen area. EES does not apply when travelling to any of these countries.

If you are travelling to a Schengen area country for a short stay on a UK passport, you may be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph, upon arrival. No action is needed before you reach the border, and EES registration is completely free of charge.

EES registration will replace the existing manual passport stamping system for entering the EU. EES may require additional time per traveller, so travellers should be prepared for longer waits than usual at border control.

A POPULAR lido is set to offer all day sessions this weekend – where kids will be able to swim for free.

The Grade II listed venue also offers a number of adult-friendly swim sessions and an adventure course.

The National Lido of Wales, in Pontypridd, is hosting all-day sessions from May 2 to 4, ahead of the pool’s official summer season on June 1.

Kids under 16 will be able to enjoy the lido for free all weekend, while adult entry is priced at just £4.

The pool currently offers weekday and weekend sessions from 6.30am until 8.45am for early-morning swimmers.

Family fun sessions are also hosted only on weekends and bank holidays until the start of June.

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For an additional £3, visitors can purchase tickets for the inflatable obstacle course, Aqua Peddlerz and Water Walker, which includes floating zorbs – inflatable plastic balls that allow people to run on the water.

The area also contains an outdoor play section – a dedicated playpark with slides, seesaws, climbing and balancing equipment.

The historic venue, also known as Lido Ponty, has been nestled within Ynysangharad War Memorial Park since 1927.

Following its closure in 1991, the pool spent the intervening 24 years in a state of disrepair until its official re-opening in 2015.

Now it features a renovated main pool, an activity pool and a splash pool, which are all heated to 28 degrees.

The site is also considered the “earliest and best preserved lido” in South Wales.

WE ARE just six weeks away from the start of the World Cup and the UK’s capital is getting THREE fan attractions for watching the matches.

Launching across three London venues, Kick Off Club will open three new World Cup fanzones.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

One will be at the Outernet on Tottenham Court Road, another will be at Electric Brixton in South London and the third will be at Colour Factory in Hackney Wick.

Each fanzone won’t have food for sale, but you will be able to get drinks, including drinks packages.

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But the experience won’t just be your standard football screening, as there will be a surround sound system fully immersing visitors in each match.

Matches being shown at the Outernet include:

• June 16: France v Senegal – 8pm Kick off (access from 6.30pm)
• June 17: England v Croatia – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 19: USA v Australia – 8pm Kick off (access from 6.30pm)
• June 23: England v Ghana – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 24: Scotland v Brazil – 11pm Kick off (access from 9pm)
• June 27: England v Panama – 10pm (access from 8.30pm)

Electric Brixton

At the Electric Brixton fanzone, guests can expect Britpop-inspired football screenings with Indie music and a 90s theme.

Expect music by Oasis, Blur and Pulp booming through the speakers.

Matches being shown at Electric Brixton include:

• June 17: England v Croatia – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 19: USA v Australia – 8pm Kick off (access from 6.30pm)
• June 19: Scotland v Morocco – 11pm Kick off (access from 9pm)
• June 23: England v Ghana – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 24: Scotland v Brazil – 11pm Kick off (access from 9pm)
• June 27: England v Panama – 10pm (access from 8.30pm)

Colour Factory

As for Colour Factory, there will be a ‘Rave Energy‘ theme with lasers, smoke and a underground vibe.

There will be club lighting and DJ sets too, making it feel like the ultimate 90s laser rave.

Matches being shown at Colour Factory include:

• June 17: England v Croatia – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 23: England v Ghana – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• June 24: Scotland v Brazil – 11pm Kick off (access from 9pm)
• June 27: England v Panama – 10pm (access from 8.30pm)

All fanzones will then show the following:

• July 1: England (potential knock-out date) – 5pm Kick off (access from 4pm)
• July 5: England (potential knock-out date) – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• July 11: England (potential quarter-final date) – 9pm Kick off (access from 8pm)
• July 15: England (potential semi-final date) – 8pm Kick off (access from 6pm)
• July 9: (quarter final date, team tbc) – 9pm Kick off (access from 7pm)
• July 10: (quarter final date, team tbc) – 8pm Kick off (access from 6pm)
• July 14: (semi final date, team tbc) – 8pm Kick off (access from 6pm)
• July 19: (final date, team tbc) – 8pm Kick off (access from 6pm)

Tickets will be between £5 and £20 for groups.

Fans can pre-register for tickets, which then go on sale on May 5.

ONE of my favourite summer days out is on the south coast of Devon, where you’ll find the UK’s biggest waterpark.

Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark on Goodrington Sands beach in Paignton, Devon boasts several slides and pools and will reopen on May 2.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

In total, the park has 11 main waterslides and one of the latest additions to the park is a pirate-themed water playground, ideal for kids under 12-years-old.

Dubbed Shipwreck Island, visitors will find seven smaller slides, tipping buckets and interactive water features such as spray arms.

As a born-and-bred Devonian, Splashdown Quaywest was on my doorstep growing up and it still hold a huge draw nowadays, when the sun is shining.

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The park’s provision for younger kids has grown significantly in recent years, but they’ve always been known for their bigger rides – making it a fail safe day out for families.

When it comes to those bigger rides, visitors can head on Devil’s Drop – a black hole ride, with a 19.8metre vertical drop, making it the highest and fastest flume in the UK.

Alternatively, you can head on The Screamer – a high-speed steep waterslide.

And there’s Corkscrew – a waterslide where across 98 metres you’ll spin 360 degrees several times over.

And there’s a normal swimming pool area, if you just fancy a swim.

Tickets cost from £20 per person aged over nine years old or from £16 for those aged under nine years old.

Alternatively you can get a combined adult and child under five years old ticket, which costs from £24.

But what makes the waterpark an even better place to visit than most, is that it sits right next to Goodrington Beach, which is a long beach split into North Sands and South Sands.

Along the South Sands you’ll find lots of different spots to eat from kiosks to restaurants including Brewers Fayre Inn On The Quay – which has a large garden and great views of the sea.

In between the two beaches is a Premier Inn which also has incredible views of the coastline and is a great option if you want to extend your stay in the area.

Behind the Premier Inn you’ll also find Reach Outdoors, so if waterslides weren’t enough for you, you can head on a kayaking adventure or try out paddleboarding.

On North Sands, the beach is backed by Young’s Park with a boating lake where I have spent many days during summer holidays on giant swan pedalos.

And if that wasn’t enough, in the park there is also crazy golf and go karting.

On this side of the beach you can drop by Cantina for some food, which also has a huge garden to soak up the sunshine, while you dine on £5 cheesy chips (or even crabby or steaky chips).

Rather conveniently, it is also next to a play park if kids want to let off some steam.

After eating there, I would always venture back to the beach via Devon‘s Ice Cream Shop for a cone of locally made ice cream costing a few quid – the cappuccino crunch and clotted cream vanilla flavours are a must.

And if parents need a caffeine fix, coffee will set you back between just £2 and £3.

This end of the beach also has a number of B&Bs costing from around £79 a night – and you couldn’t be closer to the beach.

If you fancy a walk, Goodrington also sits on the South West Coast Path, which you can walk along to reach Paignton in as little as 20 minutes.

Paignton town centre has even more things to see and do for families as well, such as a huge play park, pier, arcades, cinema and often a sprawling funfair.

The airline advises passengers to avoid putting it in their hold luggage if possible

EasyJet says passengers should keep one type of item with them, ideally in their hand luggage rather than their check-in bags. All passengers can bring one small under-seat cabin bag per person on board for free. It can be a maximum size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (including any handles and wheels) and must be kept under the seat in front of you.

Regarding what travellers should keep in their hand luggage or handbags, the airline stresses the importance of carrying any medication so it’s always within reach. A statement on EasyJet‘s website reads: “We do advise you to pack your medication in your hand luggage where possible, especially if it is medication that you may need to take during the flight.”

In an additional note, the airline says: “If you pack medicines in your hold luggage, we do not require a letter from your healthcare practitioner.” It adds: “We’re unable to refrigerate medication on board.”

There are certain types of medication and equipment passengers can bring on board. EasyJet says: “If you need to bring medication with you, please pack it in your cabin bag wherever possible.” A letter from your healthcare practitioner is only required if you are bringing any of the following items on board:

• Liquids that exceed 100ml.
• Sharp objects such as needles.
• Oxygen cylinders and concentrators.
• Any medical equipment that may be considered as dangerous goods in the aircraft cabin, a list of which can be found here.

EasyJet explains: “The letter should confirm that this medication is prescribed to you and it’s necessary for you to bring the items on board. We do not require a letter from your healthcare practitioner for all other medications and equipment.”

These include gel packs and cooler bags to maintain the temperature of your medication. As well as food and specialist devices such as dialysis machines (subject to size regulations), CPAP machines and nebulisers.

If travelling with medication containing a controlled drug, EasyJet advises passengers to check with their doctor or pharmacist if their prescription contains a controlled drug, as some countries have strict laws regarding these medications. Controlled drugs are medications that are subject to high levels of regulation as a result of government decisions, such as Diazepam, Lorazepam, Codeine or Tramadol.

EasyJet said: “If you need to travel with medicine that contains a controlled drug, please check the embassy rules for the country you’re travelling to, as well as the entry requirements before you fly. You will need to prove your medication is yours, either with a prescription or a letter from your doctor.”

Crutches and walking frames can be brought on board. EasyJet’s cabin crew can store them and return them after landing. Walking frames can be stored on board if space is available, or they will be put into the aircraft hold and returned after landing.

Portable medical equipment can be brought on board in addition to your cabin bag allowance. Portable medical devices must be no larger than 56 x 45 x 25 cm, otherwise they will have to travel in the hold. If you need to carry a small portable medical device, such as:

• CPAP machines
• TENS machines
• Nebulisers
• Portable dialysis machines

EasyJet said: “Then this may be carried in addition to your cabin bag allowance, provided that it’s no larger than 56 x 45 x 25 cm and that you have informed our Special Assistance Team, at least 48 hours before your flight that you require an additional medical bag for your journey. Non-essential medical equipment which exceeds your cabin-bag allowance will be charged in line with our baggage policy and may need to be placed in the hold.

“If you need to bring several medical devices or a large piece of medical equipment, please contact our Special Assistance team at least 48 hours before your flight so that they can advise you.”

The project has been delayed by a year.

After multiple setbacks and delays, the opening of the world’s largest wildlife bridge has finally been revealed. Spiralling costs and building delays pushed the project back by at least a year.

Work has been underway on the bridge for four and a half years. Now, it has been confirmed that the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills, north of Los Angeles, will open on December 2.

The project leaders made the announcement on Earth Day. Managers said: “What a journey this has been! And we cannot wait to celebrate with you all.”

The main section of the bridge, which spans 10 lanes of the freeway, has largely been completed and landscaped. Work still left to do includes building over Agoura Road and connecting both ends of the bridge to the open space on either side.

It will eventually allow wildlife to safely pass through. California’s regional director for the National Wildlife Federation, Beth Pratt, has already seen some wildlife enjoying the bridge.

She told KNX News Radio: “I’ve recorded multiple species of butterflies up here. We’ve had, I think, eight species of birds.

“We’ve had red-tailed hawks and American kestrels fly by, so wildlife are already responding to it, even though it’s not connected to the landscape.”

The goal of the project is to reinvigorate the mountain lion population in the area. Animals that are frequently hit by cars on the freeway are also set to benefit, which include bears, bobcats, foxes, coyotes and deer.

The bridge has faced multiple delays and criticism. In 2022, the project broke ground with a $90million price tag (£66.5million) and was set to be completed by 2025.

However, reports today say the total has climbed to $114million (£84.5million), which has been paid for through private donations and public funds.

Project leaders have said near-record rainfall, which saturated the site in 2023 and 2024, delayed work. Project costs were also pushed higher due to inflation, labour shortages and the complexity of the project.

In a blog post, project leaders said: “The criticism often flattens a far more complicated reality. This is not a standard overpass. Engineers are effectively building a living ecosystem over 10 lanes of one of the busiest freeways in the country.”

It added: “Projects of this scale should be questioned, audited and debated—especially when it’s the public’s money being used.

“But they should also be judged on their purpose. In a region where wildlife populations face genetic isolation and frequent freeway deaths, doing nothing carries its own cost.

“The real question is not whether the crossing is ambitious—it clearly is. It’s whether Southern California is willing to invest in repairing the environmental missteps that made the project necessary in the first place.”

Money expert on his ITV show said ‘there is a big risk in those circumstances’

Martin Lewis has warned anyone booking their summer holiday that they won’t get their money back if their flight is cancelled and they’re unable to reach their hotel – provided they’ve booked in a particular way. During his Money Show Live on ITV last night, the financial expert was questioned by an audience member: ‘If my flight’s cancelled due to no jet fuel will you definitely receive all your money back even for your hotel booking as well.’

Mr Lewis clarified that travellers would forfeit their hotel booking fees if they’ve arranged it separately from their flights booked with operators like Jet2, TUI, Wizz, Ryanair, easyJet – as they won’t be protected by consumer regulations. He said: “No. And I think this is what people need to be very aware of. If you booked a package holiday where you booked everything in one, then under the package holiday regulations and rules and protections generally if your flight went you would get everything back.

“And so actually at the moment package holidays give you a certain level of extra security that you wouldn’t get if you did a DIY booking where you bought your hotel and flight separately.”

This is because there’s nothing amiss with the hotel reservation itself, he explained: “Because the point is if you lose your flight and you’ve DIY booked, there’s nothing wrong with your hotel. The issue is you can’t get there. Your hotel is still there. It’s not faulty. It’s not cancelling. So, you don’t have those consumer rights.”

If the hotel hasn’t done anything wrong, then travellers might look at how they’ve arranged their booking – but there’s little relief to be found there. He said: “So, you would then say, ‘What about using a credit card or debit card protection?’ It won’t work because there’s nothing faulty. And that’s just giving you the same replica rights that you would have with the retailer.”

Finally, people may turn to their travel insurance. Mr Lewis explained: “So, you then say, ‘What about travel insurance?’ This is the bad bit. We were checking 40 travel insurance policies. Of those, only a few would have covered you for the knock-on eventuality of your flight being cancelled due to jet fuel and then your hotel costs.”

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“Only about three or four and most of those were package bank accounts where it’s linked to your bank account. Only one standalone provider. So we need to be blunt at the moment. There is a big risk in those circumstances. If you’re booking, you want something with free or limited cancellation quite short before. So you could just cancel it. You should always talk to the provider.

“The reason this is important to know is if you are in that position once you understand you have no rights and they say, ‘Well, we’ll give you a voucher and you can come back in 6 months.’ You suddenly realise you’re doing well, not badly, right? If you didn’t have free cancellation and that this is going to be a problem if we get to that jet fuel shortage.

“Government are saying there isn’t one at the moment and they’re working on consolidating flights and doing things so there won’t be one, but people’s hotel costs if they book separately and other knock-on costs are potentially at risk.”

Laura Melling, a mum-of-two, is willing to take the fine and the potential hit to her children’s schooling. She claims she’s saving herself a fortune by going against the rules and taking her kids away as and when she pleases

A mum saves £3,000 on each family holiday by taking her kids away during term-time.

It’s no secret that holiday prices soar during the school holidays. According to Go Compare, the high demand for a break away with the kids during the Easter holidays saw trips rise by 9% compared to non-peak periods.

And with the ongoing war between Iran and the US causing fuel shortage scares, some airlines are raising fares to combat jet fuel price increases. It’s a never-ending battle, particularly for state school families who don’t have the luxury of the long holidays as those in the private sector.

In a bid to tackle absenteeism among kids whose parents want to jet away during term time, many schools now fine £80 per parent, per child for any unauthorized absences up to five days outside of official holidays.

Laura Melling, a mum-of-two, is willing to take the fine and the potential hit to her children’s schooling. She claims she’s saving herself a fortune by going against the rules and taking her kids away as and when she pleases.

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“It’s ridiculous, they’re my children – not the school’s,” the nurse, from Leyland, told creatorzine.com. “It works out cheaper to pay the fine than school holiday prices. I don’t feel guilty in the slightest. My kids are having the best experiences rather than sitting in a boring classroom.

“And we’re saving a fortune. It’s a no-brainer.”

Laura, 36, and her husband, Paul, 37, have shelled out over £500 in fines to date. But by jetting off during term-time, they’re saving themselves an estimated £3,000 per trip. And the mum to Lucy, eight, and Emily, seven, admits that teachers aren’t usually too displeased with their decision.

She said: “The teachers are usually supportive and say they wish they could do it. All the parents agree with me too. A few of them have followed suit after seeing us do it.”

So far, they’ve been to Egypt, Tunisia and France. And they’ve never paid more than £1,000 to get away for a week.

Earlier this year the family flew to Lapland. Instead of forking out £700-per-person for the flights in December, they went at the start of term in January, costing just £40-per-head. Their car hire was £189, rather than £545 during the school holidays and their accommodation came to just £500 instead of £1,900. In total, it saved them £2,946.

Laura added: “My kids are learning life skills. They learn in different ways when away, so we’re not neglecting their education. They have learning apps on their iPads and workbooks to complete.

“I would love to [take them out of school full-time], however, I don’t think our balance would cope; we need to work. My children are realising the world is a big place and they are now seeing different cultures.

“Everyone needs a break from the mundane, so being away gives us all time to relax and enjoy each other’s company without being stuck in a routine.”

Currently, parents whose children miss school without a good reason are initially given a fixed penalty notice of £80, which rises to £160 if not paid within 21 days. If the increased fine is then not paid within 28 days, or a child is off school three or more times within three years, the matter can be taken to magistrates’ court.

The court can fine parents up to £2,500, issue a community order, a parenting order or, in the most extreme cases, hand out a prison sentence of up to three months.

The Department for Education is attempting to tackle the scourge of absenteeism, which can impact a child’s prospects and disrupt the classroom.

Its spokesperson told the BBC: “Through our Plan for Change, we’re determined to give children growing up in our country the best start in life. But that can only happen if a strong foundation for learning is built through children regularly attending school.

“We have already made significant progress with five million more days in school in last academic year and 140,000 fewer pupils persistently absent. Poor attendance damages children’s prospects and term time holidays place the burden on teachers to support missed learning – affecting the entire class. That’s why fines have a vital place in our system, so everyone is held accountable for ensuring our children are in school.”

Travel fans swear by the ‘game-changing’ packing method that prevents creases and saves space in your suitcase

A traveller has shared a “game-changing” packing hack that prevents clothes from getting creased in your suitcase. The popular method was demonstrated in a TikTok video posted by womenswear brand Sophie Cameron Davies.

Taking to social media, @Sophiecamerondavies explained why dedicating a little extra time to packing your suitcase can save considerable hassle during your trip. The caption said: “If your suitcase is full of floaty dresses, silk pieces or anything remotely crease-prone, try this. No more steaming out wrinkles for half your holiday.

“It’s simple, space-saving, and actually works. Save this one – your future self will thank you.” As shown in the clip, the method sees holidaymakers fold their garments as few times as possible, ensuring they stay flat within the suitcase.

Sophie said: “Lay your clothes completely flat, don’t roll or overfold. Fill the full width of your suitcase right into the corners, and fold only once or twice max to avoid deep creases.

“Then just lay each piece on top of the other like a stack. It keeps everything smooth and compact, so simple but game-changing.” The video racked up thousands of likes.

It also prompted commenters to share their preferred methods, and it seems many are devoted to Sophie’s approach. One fan of the idea wrote: “I have packed like this for years and it’s honestly a game changer! Less folds = more space.”

A second fan replied: “I’ve been doing this more recently!” A third viewer wrote: “I always pack like this – never have to iron.” Adding to the praise, someone mentioned: “I’ve always done this and left them on hangers too. So once I arrive, hang straight up.”

There was more feedback. A social media user wrote: “I do this too ….makes unpacking at hotel sooooo much easier.” Others shared their own methods, with a viewer writing: “I use the other side for clothes as it’s flat and the side you have put the clothes in I use for toiletries and shoes, swimwear etc .. it works no creases.”

Another response added: “I do this but I lay each piece flat hanging from the sides. Lay items on top then flip the sides inwards and secure it.”

Not everyone was so convinced, though. A commenter wrote: “Then when you stand the case up everything will fall down,” someone defended the method but highlighted a different criticism, saying: “No, it doesn’t. I’ve packed like this – just a pain looking for things when arriving at destination.”

A travel expert has shared the specific seats that passengers repeatedly regret choosing

Booking a flight is often a crucial element of holiday planning, yet there’s one detail that frequently gets overlooked. Where you sit on the aircraft might not seem particularly significant at first glance, but if you’re embarking on a long-haul journey, you could well end up regretting your seat selection.

Seasoned travellers will attest that choosing the wrong seat can quietly derail your entire flight. Whether it’s being left without meal options, battling to get comfortable, or enduring non-stop disturbances, your seat can fundamentally shape your experience at 30,000 feet.

With this in mind, Andrea Platania, travel expert at airport transfer platform Transfeero, has disclosed that there are several seats passengers consistently regret selecting – and they’re not always the obvious culprits.

11A and 11F

The first pair of seats Andrea cautions against are 11A and 11F. He explains: “Seats like 11A and 11F are often overlooked when people are booking, but they’re right in that middle section of the aircraft where you lose a lot of the small conveniences.

“They don’t seem bad on paper, but in practice, they’re some of the least rewarding seats to be in.”

Given that cabin crew generally begin service from either end of the aircraft, passengers in these seats may discover that popular snacks, meals or even beverages have already sold out by the time the trolley arrives at their row.

On top of this, you’re positioned quite a distance from the lavatory, and manoeuvring in and out of these seats can prove awkward.

30E and 30F

“Seats like 30E and 30F are usually located very close to the toilets, and that brings a lot of disruption,” says Andrea. “It’s not just about proximity, it’s about the constant movement around you.”

He added: “You’ll often have passengers queuing in the aisle, standing near your seat, and moving back and forth. It can feel like you’re sitting in a corridor rather than in your own space.”

30A and 30F

The primary concern with these seats is comfort, especially when it comes to stretching out and reclining. “On many aircraft, seats towards the back, such as 30A and 30F, can have limited or no recline,” Andrea explains.

“That’s something people often only realise once they try to lean back and it doesn’t move. If you’re on a flight where you’re hoping to rest or even just sit comfortably, not being able to recline makes a big difference. You end up feeling much more tired by the time you land.”

Those seated in these positions are also likely to be amongst the very last passengers to disembark the plane, which could spell trouble if you’re in a hurry to catch a connecting flight.

Everyone knows Ryanair’s strict rules around the size and weight of your luggage, but there’s one bag type it won’t accept in the hold even if meets the other requirements for travel

Packing for a flight on a budget airline can be anxiety-inducing, as the baggage requirements seem to change all the time. It’s important to check for the latest luggage rules before you fly, so you can ensure you aren’t forced to pay additional fees at the gate.

However, some holidaymakers might not realise that there is more to luggage regulations than just the size and weight of your case. One particular type of bag, beloved by those who like to take lots of gadgets overseas, can not be checked into the hold on most airlines including Ryanair.

Smart bags, which are bags that have a built-in battery and USB charging port, cannot be checked into the hold on Ryanair flights if the battery is left inside them. There’s also a 100Wh maximum for batteries being carried in the cabin, so passengers should check the capacity before they fly.

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If you have a smart bag that you’d rather put in the hold rather than the cabin, Ryanair’s website states they “may be checked in as hold luggage only if the lithium battery is removed before the bag is checked in at the bag-drop desk or at the gate.”

It clarifies: “The battery must not be placed in the hold under any circumstances. The removed battery must be carried with you in the cabin and placed in small baggage that is placed underneath the seat in front of you or on your person. Removed batteries must not be placed in the overhead lockers.”

Some bags do not give the option to remove the battery, and Ryanair explicitly notes: “If the battery is non-removable the bag is not permitted as checked baggage.”

Ryanair recently updated its luggage policy for passengers bringing a free under-seat bag onboard. These bags can now be 20% larger, and can measure up to 40x30x20cm, whereas the old allowance was previously 40x25x20cm. Technically, these small bags have no weight restrictions, although they must be light enough for a passenger to handle and carry onboard.

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The budget airline also announced another upcoming change to its baggage policy. Ryanair CMO, Dara Brady, said: “From Tuesday 10 Nov next, Ryanair customers will see airport check-in and bag drops close 60 minutes before scheduled departure, instead of today’s 40 minutes.

“This will allow these 20 percent of our customers [checking baggage] more time to clear through airport security and passport queues, and get to their departure gate on time, especially during busy travel periods when some of these airport queues can be longer.”

It also floated a more tongue-in-cheek idea on its Facebook page, joking: “we’ll be charging yappers on our 6AM flights very soon” and proposing that people who get chatty on its early morning flights should be charged a fee for annoying other passengers.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Between the Trees, south Wales

Winner of the UK’s best micro-festival in 2025, Between the Trees returns to Candleston Woods in the spectacular Merthyr Mawr national nature reserve (between Cardiff and Swansea) this year. Designed to reconnect people to the natural world, the programme features science and nature activities, folk music and storytelling. Workshops in the Eco Hub include micrographia sessions – exploring the world of insects on the reserve – and nature crafts. The Seren area has plenty of new talks and walks on offer, including stories of Welsh witches and forage-and-taste outings. With camping spots next to a wild beach and huge dunes, the site itself will ignite plenty of awe.
27-30 August, weekend tickets £195 adults, £50 children, betweenthetrees.co.uk

Secret Wildlife festival, East Sussex

On peaceful, rewilded fields between a 75-acre wood and a quiet country lane near Barcombe, the Secret Campsite is bursting with nature, from nightingales to slow worms. The best time to soak it up is during the Secret Wildlife festival, when Michael Blencowe, also known as the Sussex Naturalist, will deliver non-stop nature activities to about 90 campers. Alongside drop-in bushcraft activities, guided walks from dawn to dusk, and a big communal barbecue, hands-on activities include moth trapping, building hedgehog tunnels, and a glow-worm safari. Each evening, the Seven Sisters Astronomy Group will help campers explore the universe, and the event closes with a Secret Cinema screening of the campsite’s camera traps.
26-28 June, weekend tickets including camping and all activities from £112 adults, £56 children, thesecretcampsite.co.uk

Isle of Wight Biosphere festival

The Isle of Wight Biosphere festival spans the island, showcasing the diverse species and landscapes of this Unesco reserve, from beaches and wetlands to chalk downland and woodland. Featured events include a freediving safari in seagrass meadows at Seaview led by marine photographer Theo Vickers, open days at Permaculture Island (as seen in Ben Fogle’s New Lives in the Wild), and a UV night walk exploring forest biofluorescence in Firestone Copse. Red Funnel offers discounted ferries from mainland England (£14, adults on foot) to celebrate the week.
27 June–5 July, mix of free and paid events, iwbiosphere.org

North Pennines NatureFest, County Durham

Coinciding with European Geoparks Week, North Pennines NatureFest promises a packed agenda of informative and interactive events across the North Pennines national landscape and Unesco Global Geopark. An adder exhibition at Bowlees visitor centre will showcase the region’s commitment to the venerable native species, and all ages are welcome to join ecological experts in a bioblitz “wildlife recording frenzy” at Housty Farm in East Allen valley. During the middle weekend, families are invited to a nature camp at Low Way Farm in Teesdale for a range of activities from bat detecting to birdsong walks.
23 May-7 June, events priced individually, nature camp from £30 adults, £20 children, northpennines.org.uk

Nuts About Nature, Norfolk

Local nature experts will guide activities and workshops during Nuts About Nature at Kelling Heath holiday park, a 120-hectare (300-acre) woodland and nationally rare open heathland near Holt. Coinciding with the unveiling of the park’s new red squirrel enclosure, guests are invited to become “acorn adventurers” for the weekend, taking part in activities including pond-dipping, nature crafts, and self-guided trails. The park’s countryside team will be on-site to answer questions about the park’s red squirrel population, conservation efforts, and the recently refurbished and enlarged enclosure.
5-7 June, tent pitches from £39.50 per night and 3-for-2 nights offer with code NUTSABOUTNATURE26; kellingheath.co.uk

Urban Wild, Southampton

Run by the Southampton National Park City initiative and part of its Youth for Climate and Nature scheme, Urban Wild 2026 will use communal events to explore the theme Reimagining Southampton. Designed to bring people closer to the city’s green and blue spaces while imagining a greener future, the festival will open with Urban Wild on the Common (24 May), featuring stalls, music and family activities on Southampton Common. Other activities are organised by community groups and include group bike rides, creative workshops, and wildlife identification sessions.
23-31 May, free, southamptonnpc.com

Orkney Nature festival

Organised by a committee of local volunteers, this weeklong festival will immerse visitors in Orkney’s unique wildlife, from puffins to Risso’s dolphins. Across the islands of Hoy and Birsay, guided walks visit seabird colonies clinging to cliffs, while RSPB wardens allow close observation without disturbance during guide-in-a-hide sessions. Other activities include snorkel safaris with Kraken Diving, an exploration of 5,000 years of people and nature at Skara Brae, and nature-inspired pottery sessions with Robin Palmer.
11-17 May, events priced individually, orkneynaturefestival.co.uk

Solstice festival, Cornwall

Nature the Artist – an initiative recognising nature as a recording artist and using royalties to fund conservation work – will take over Trematon Castle estate over the solstice weekend for the first time this year. Overlooking the Tamar estuary, live music, immersive art installations, talks and fire ceremonies will be led by the likes of female group Boss Morris, Alexis Taylor (Hot Chip), and Deb Grant (6 Music DJ). Nature immersion will be plentiful, with botanical guided walks, foraging sessions, and participatory workshops focused on ecology and seasonal change. The not-for-profit gathering will donate 100% of festival profits to EarthPercent’s nature restoration efforts.
19–22 June, from £260 for a weekend ticket, adults only, gardenoftomorrow.org.uk

Goren festival, Devon

Spread across the wildflower meadows and orchards of Goren Farm near Honiton, Goren festival is a family-friendly weekend celebration of music and nature. Pop-up stages will fill the farm with music all weekend and everyone is invited to get involved in the creative arts through workshops, open mic and fireside sessions. A nature zone will inspire and delight younger visitors with nature trails, bat walks, wildlife stands and a forest school.
3-5 July, weekend tickets from £44 adults, £29 children, camping pitch £18, gorenfestival.co.uk

Festival of Nature, Bristol

Organised by the Bristol Natural History Consortium, the Festival of Nature aims to inspire public action for nature and the climate through free events in Bristol, Bath, and online. As the UK’s largest free nature festival, hundreds of events are on offer, including guided wildlife walks, river and shoreline surveys, citizen science projects, seed planting, pollinator tracking and hands-on conservation activities. Among this year’s highlights are insect ID walks with Bath City Farm, family tree trails in Victoria Park, river dipping in Brislington Brook, online poetry-writing workshops, dementia-friendly allotment sessions, and a bioblitz species count at Stoke Park.
6–14 June, free, bnhc.org.uk

This beach stuns visitors with its white sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

The best bit of summer is unwinding on a spectacular beach with waves gently rolling onto the shore, seagulls crying above and sunshine beaming down. If this represents your ideal day, it’s essential that you discover the perfect beach to experience it on.

Fortunately, recent research has just ranked some of Europe’s finest beaches to identify the ultimate summer getaway destination. The study, carried out by airport transfer firm hoppa, has examined dozens of sought-after holiday destinations.

Each location was assessed based on its average three-star hotel price, journey time from airport to beach, and Google reviews to determine the very best options.

Taking the top spot as the finest beach for summer 2026 is Praia da Falésia in Portugal. Situated in the renowned Algarve area, this beach offers an utterly stunning day out, reports the Express.

The pale sand extends over 8km, protected by striking orange and white cliffs.

Those who visit the beach describe it as among the finest in the area, with one individual commenting on Tripadvisor: “The blend of the colours of the golden sand, the crystal blue sea and the imposing cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.”

Another said: “A wide expanse of golden and red sand, nice rock formations in the background and the waves here are gentle, perfect for swimming. It’s a popular beach, but due to its size, it’s a big, long beach; it never seems crowded even in high season.

“It’s a beach to most definitely check out if you’re planning a holiday to Albufeira.”

With lifeguards on duty and sunloungers available to hire, it caters to every need. Suitable for both families and couples, the beach’s generous size means it rarely feels overcrowded.

Europe’s best-rated beaches

• Praia da Falésia — Algarve, Portugal

• Platja de Muro — Majorca, Spain

• Myrtos Beach — Kefalonia, Greece

• Promenade des Anglais Beach — Nice, France

• Playa de Poniente — Benidorm, Spain

Dubbed a ‘Mediterranean masterpiece’ that’s like ‘stepping into a screensaver’, this unspoilt beach has been among the world’s best – and it’s just three hours from the UK with £28 flights

The world’s best beaches have been named, and there’s one pristine shore just three hours from the UK with turquoise waters and sugar-white sand.

Fteri Beach on Greece’s Kefalonia island is officially Europe’s most beautiful beach after it was named on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The stunning coastline of Fteri was ranked second-best in the world in the annual awards and was the only European coastline to secure a place in the top 10, while Entalula Beach in the Philippines took the top spot.

The votes were decided by a team of more than 1,000 travel experts, who noted that Fteri Beach was an “isolated and majestic Greek perfection”. They highlighted that its position tucked away in a secluded cove contributes to its “pristine and serene atmosphere,” which sets it apart from other tourist hotspots.

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The shore could easily be compared to those found in the Caribbean, thanks to its stunning white pebbles mixed with sand and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Its breathtaking scenes are only enhanced by the dramatic white cliffs that tower around the beach, adding to its secluded oasis beneath the Mediterranean sun.

The unspoiled beach is a haven for those looking for a quieter day at the beach and to admire some of the most picture-perfect vistas. Despite its more remote location, the beach is accessible by boat or by hiking down a steep trail, and the journey is well worth it to experience this little slice of paradise.

What’s more, the island of Kefalonia is just over three hours from the UK, and direct one-way flights start from just £28 with Ryanair, departing from London Stansted, according to Skyscanner. You can also fly directly to Kefalonia from various UK airports, including Birmingham, Manchester and Cardiff, so it couldn’t be easier to jet abroad to one of the world’s best beaches.

Those who have visited Fteri Beach have been blown away by its azure waters and views that have been compared to a computer screensaver. One fan shared on TripAdvisor: “Such beautiful waters are hard to see! Of course, it requires an effort because they are only accessible by a mountain path, but it is absolutely worth it!

A second commented: “Fteri Beach is the real deal – glistening turquoise water, towering white cliffs, and the kind of peaceful silence you want to bottle and take home. Swimming here feels like stepping into a screensaver, and the lack of crowds keeps the magic intact. It’s not just one of Kefalonia’s best – it’s a full-on Mediterranean masterpiece.”

However, due to its untouched location, travellers noted that there aren’t any facilities, including toilets, bars, or sunbeds, so advised visitors to take their own umbrellas and drinks. Many also mentioned that they reached the beach by booking a water taxi within about 5 minutes and were able to swim in the crystal-clear waters during a serene day out.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Barcelona is the ultimate city break. It’s less than two hours from the UK, compact, and yet absolutely full of things to do. Here are five suggestions from iconic sights to inexpensive trips

Barcelona continues to be one of the top city break picks for Brits. Not only does it offer short flight times, it’s a destination that packs in plenty to do. And as a bonus, you’ve also got sunny weather and sandy beaches to enjoy alongside history, culture, and authentic Spanish food.

If you’re one of the many Brits heading to Barcelona this summer, here are five things not to miss, and how you can make the most of your break.

1. Sagrada Família

What else can be said about the Sagrada Família? It’s a must-see, no matter how long you’re in Barcelona for. But there are different ways to experience this spectacular basilica.

Many people simply walk around the outside, but definitely get tickets to go in if you can. The interior is perhaps even more breathtaking than the exterior, bathed in colorful lights from stained glass and featuring high ceilings inscribed with hundreds of tiny emblems and intricate details. For this reason, it’s worth taking a small private tour of Sagrada Familia with priority entrance from £57 per adult, as your guide can tell you so much about the vision behind the building and point out all the things you’re bound to miss.

2. Casa Batlló

Another attraction that’s best enjoyed on a tour is Casa Batlló. This Gaudí-designed home is also packed with the little details that the architect became famous for, so again, a tour is really worth it. You can get Casa Batilo early access with audio guide that allows you to avoid the queues that build during the day at this famous attraction and learn about Gaudí’s creative process, his vision that sculpted his iconic architecture, and the history of this incredible home.

3. Funicular de Montjuïc

Montjuïc is a 176-metre high hill that offers stunning views across Barcelona. It’s a great place to see the skyline, appreciating the scale of the Sagrada compared to the buildings around it, and seeing where the city meets the sandy beaches. You can take a cab or bus to the top, but the easiest option is to take the metro. A ticket costs €3( £2.60) and takes you up the steep hill in just a couple of minutes. Visit at sunset and watch the sun go down and this buzzing city come to life.

4. Bouquet d’Alella

If you’ve enjoyed Catalan wines at your dinner table, why not see where the grapes ripen in the sun? Bouquet d’Alella is just a short drive from the city, and from this charming winery you can enjoy views across the countryside, take a tour and learn about the traditional methods of wine making still used today, before sitting down for a tasting under the shade of the knotted trees.

You can visit this winery as part of TUI Musement’s full day e-biking, wine tasting, and sailing experience, which costs £122 per person and includes tasting different varieties of wine, plus snacks, including the best pan con tomate you’ll find in Barcelona. You can also organise an individual visit or book your own tour.

5.

La Boqueria is an incredible place to try authentic Catalan cuisine. Voted the world’s best market, it’s a maze of stalls selling Spanish cheeses, jamón, olives, and lots of tapas dishes you can try as you wander around. It also has a selection of small, independent restaurants where you can sit and have lunch amid the buzz of this always busy market. You can opt for a Barcelona food market tour with tastings, or simply visit and explore the stalls at your own pace.

Book it

TUI offers 3 night city break packages to Barcelona staying at the 4* H10 H10 Madison Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, from £666 per person based on two adults sharing a classic double room travelling on Ryanair from London Stansted Airport on 15 September 2026. Price includes 10kg of hand luggage.