Travel Desk

Belgium: ‘I love the aromas of herbs and spices in mustard shops’

I fell in love with Belgian snacks when cycling the amateur version of the Tour of Flanders some years ago. The feed stations along the route were crammed with packets of Meli honey waffles and Meli honey cake. I ate so many that I suffered withdrawal symptoms after finishing the last of them at the end of the 167-mile route.

On return visits to Ghent, my first port of call is any local supermarket to buy a couple of boxes of the sweet treats. After stocking up, I head to the Tierenteyn-Verlent mustard shop on the Groentenmarkt. The 19th-century interior is like an old-fashioned apothecary filled with the soothing aromas of the spices and herbs used in the mustards they make fresh each day in wooden vats on the premises.

From there, it’s a short hop to Mokabon on Donkersteeg, a 1950s cafe that has seemingly been preserved in aspic with all the original sleek features, including a beautiful wooden bar, red walls and small round tables. At the front of the cafe is a small counter where they sell home-roasted coffee beans (they’ve been roasting since the late 1930s) that they then package in distinctive yellow and red paper bags.

Oh, and on that first visit, I also came home with a Belgian bike.
Andy Pietrasik

France: ‘Artfully arranged shelves are a siren call to drool’

The middle aisle of my local Lidl has nothing on French supermarket booty. I once bought six big saucissons in a hypermarché because they each came with a free Laguiole-style steak knife. Eventually, even the dog started turning his nose up at dried sausage treats.

You know what they say about French style; well, it carries on through to the shelves of French supermarkets, each brand artfully arranged with labels facing forward and issuing a siren call to linger and drool.

There’s the perfectly aligned Bonne Maman jam section offering typically Gallic flavours such as mirabelle intense, coings (quince), figues violettes (fig) and reines-claudes (greengage). Identifying the different types of fromages blancs, crèmes fraîches and creams could qualify as a specialist section on Mastermind. Then there are the cheeses: there are countless varieties from Normandy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.

But my favourite aisles, aside from the wines, are the tins and terrines: terrine de sanglier (wild boar), terrine de lapin (rabbit), pâté du dimanche (pork and duck liver); cassoulet made with duck and Toulouse sausages; and my all-time Proustian taste – confit de canard. Then a quick dash through the snack section reaps armfuls of Lay’s crisps, paysanne tapenade flavour (only in France); galettes au beurre (buttery biscuits); and Haribo Pik Dragibus sweets.
AP

Italy: ‘I have a weakness for sugared jellies and lemony beer’

As a child, I went on holiday abroad just twice – both times to visit family in Italy. That was the start of my love affair with Italian sweets. This is a country that loves a little something sugary and all shops, from big supermarkets to local alimentari, offer an Aladdin’s cave of candies. I have a particular weakness for fruit jellies and the joy of the Italian supermarket is that you can buy huge bags of them (my favourites are Dufour’s Big Frut range), each individually wrapped.

An entire village was built for a Disney film in the 90s and was left completely preserved long after the hit starring Robin Williams aired – and you can still visit it today

Malta boasts a rich history within the film industry and is home to numerous notable filming locations. Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and The Count of Monte Cristo have all been filmed in the small Mediterranean country. But there’s one, more obscure film, which has preserved its legacy for good on the island – Popeye.

The 1980 film starring Robin Williams and Shelly Duvall has been immortalised through the famous Popeye Village, a purpose-built film set which now serves as an open-air museum and theme park. I visited the attraction during low season to see how one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions continues to wow visitors.

Nestled in a stunningly wild and remote cove on the North-Western tip of the island, the attraction consists of a collection of around 20 rustic and ramshackle wooden buildings, featuring interactive exhibitions, actors and plenty of free activities to keep adults and children entertained.

The film, released in the UK in April 1981, received mixed reviews on its release and has fallen into relative obscurity in the grand scheme of Disney releases. It now has a 5.4 IMDb rating and a 60% score on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

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

The construction of the film set was a mammoth undertaking. It began in June 1979, with a crew of 165 working four months to build the village, which consists of 19 wooden buildings. Hundreds of logs and several thousand wooden planks were imported from the Netherlands.

While it looks amazing, the remote location of the set caused havoc for the filmmakers. Everything had to be shipped in, while the situation of the village meant it was regularly battered bt storms. In total, the budget ballooned to beyond $20 million, forcing the studio to eventually order an end to filming and a return to California with the footage they had.

I was initially skeptical about whether I would enjoy the excursion, having never seen the film and being unfamiliar with Popeye. However, once I saw the stunning cliffside view of the museum looming on my approach, it was clear that this was a special attraction.

For just 15 euros per person (around 13 pounds), the day out came in at staggeringly good value. Visitors could roam the set for as long as they like, with guided tours, puppet shows, and even a bag of fresh popcorn all thrown in for free.

There were mini-golf courses, play areas, and a cinema, all included. At a time when so many attractions can feel disappointingly overpriced and extortionate, it was refreshing to see an entry-free attraction go such a long way.

There were also actors dotted around the museum, interacting with people of all ages and providing atmosphere, entertainment, and of course, those all-important photo opportunities for visitors.

My visit was at the height of Malta’s low season, at the end of November, and I was blessed to have the weather on my side, aside from some fairly gusty sea winds. The views alone were worth the entry fee, with jaw-dropping vistas of waves rumbling in from the open Mediterranean and crashing against huge limestone cliffs.

Each house and ramshackle hut was expertly preserved and surprisingly explorable. Guests were encouraged to sit in the furniture, use props where they found them, and immerse themselves in the world that Disney created in 1980. Bars and cafes were aplenty, and I was hard pressed to find a single queue, thanks to the joys of the low season.

Time seemed to fly by as I explored the nooks and crannies and the abundance of exhibitions, and I ended up spending well over three hours at the village, with the day out becoming the highlight of the trip.

Now all that’s left for me to do is to watch the film.

Budget airline announces flights to Greek islands and European cities starting May 2026 with one-way fares from £44.99

Travelling to a European island destination with balmy winter weather and a stunning historic centre is about to become much simpler.

This week Wizz Air revealed the launch of six fresh routes from London Luton Airport, including one to Chania in Crete. One-way tickets start from £44.99.

The city is positioned on the northwest coast of the Greek island and is renowned for its 14th-century Venetian harbour, winding alleyways and waterside eateries. At the harbour entrance stands a 16th-century lighthouse showcasing Venetian, Egyptian and Ottoman influences.

In stark contrast to the UK, this week and next Chania is forecast to hit highs of 19C. Brian Dillon, a writer for the Express, recently explored Chania and was utterly captivated by the city. “The holiday destination enjoys stellar weather throughout August, September, and October, and my September trip there was filled with sunshine and scorching temperatures in the high 20s,” he wrote.

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“Compared to Spanish hotspots I have been to, such as Gran Canaria, Salou and Mallorca, Chania felt like an authentic taste of where I was. The aforementioned destinations that attract a huge number of Brits have very much adapted themselves to their visitors. However, Chania felt like the best of both worlds, with plenty for tourists to do but still a unique Greek charm, which was more than evident in the food.”

Brian was impressed not only by the climate, but also by the standard of cuisine he sampled, and the overall atmosphere of the island. “Food is perhaps the best way to immerse yourself in a place, and the food in Greece took me on a journey that I will never forget. Dining in Greek restaurants every night, I was blown away by the exceptional service and tantalising flavours I experienced each time,” he elaborated.

“From stuffed aubergine to the most delectable sea bass I’ve ever tasted, Chania’s culinary scene completely exceeded my expectations. Given its popularity among Brits seeking an affordable escape, I had braced myself for something a bit more kitsch. How wrong I was. There was no shortage of classic sun holiday entertainment, including an exhilarating waterpark, beach clubs and a boat trip that was the highlight of my stay.”

Starting next spring, Wizz Air patrons will have access to Chania and four additional Greek destinations – Mykonos, Rhodes and Zakynthos – from London Luton Airport. The airline is also introducing routes to the European cities of Bordeaux and Dortmund.

Flights to Mykonos will operate thrice weekly, while the other three Greek destinations will see twice-weekly flights.

The new routes to Greece are set to commence from 13 May 2026, just in time for the summer season. Fares begin at £44.99* and tickets are currently available for purchase on wizzair.com and through Wizz Air’s official mobile app.

These new routes come as Wizz Air continues to expand its operations at London Luton Airport, with the addition of a 14th aircraft to its Luton base. Wizz Air now services 60 destinations from this airport.

Yvonne Moynihan, managing director at W.

The representative from Wizz Air UK announced: “With holidaymakers already dreaming of their 2026 getaways, we’ve got an early Christmas gift for our customers: six brand-new routes from our London Luton base! These exciting additions will whisk travellers away to some of Europe’s most-loved destinations, including Greece’s stunning beaches. As London’s low-cost airline, we’re all about making those dream holidays affordable and accessible. And with our 14th aircraft joining the fleet at London Luton Airport, we’re giving UK customers even more flexibility and choice, because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like more holidays to look forward to.”

ZIPLINES, dolphins and unforgettable food – the island delivers one fine family hol, says Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley.

It’s 8.03am when my phone buzzes on the bedside table with a message that will lead me to one of the most breathtaking experiences of my life.

Dolphins have been spotted nearby, so it’s now my mission to wake my husband and kids and get them all to the boat as soon as possible.

Luckily, from our beachfront family suite at Le Méridien Ile Maurice on Mauritius’ north-west coast, we’re less than a 30-second walk to the golden sands and our waiting skipper (Marriott.com).

It means it’s not long before we’re out on the ocean with everything crossed, and soon enough, we catch our first glimpse of fins.

“Wanna jump in?” shouts the captain, cutting the engine, and I don’t need asking twice.

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I’m straight into the water, snorkel gear on, and gasp as I spot a pod of 19 spinner dolphins swimming right below me.

As I follow them, I spy a mother suckling her baby and soak up the sound of their squeaky chatter before they return to the surface, gracefully leaping out of the ocean right in front of me.

Special? The word doesn’t even come close. And it’s £120 well spent.

Winter Wins

Swimming with wild dolphins hadn’t crossed my mind when I booked our flights to Mauritius.

I just knew there were great August deals because of it being the island’s winter.

Winter here, of course, means temperatures in the mid-20ºCs and possible rain showers, but the chances of spotting dolphins where we are staying are actually higher during these off-season months.

Le Méridien Ile Maurice was given a swish makeover three years ago, and spacious, nautical-chic family suites come with freestanding baths and rain showers.

Giant, colourful bean bags are dotted along the beach – water shoes prove handy for the kids as it’s a little rocky – and paddleboard and kayak hire is free on the generous all-inclusive package.

As is waterskiing from the pier which, as my husband Andy finds out, is way harder than it looks.

The main pool still feels a tad tired, but the second family pool, with its giant flamingo inflatables and water hammocks, hits the spot.

As does the excellent cocktail menu.

Each of the three à la carte eateries offers signature creations with interesting ingredients, such as timur berry and tumeric syrup.

Shaking up our own watermelon and rum tipples (mocktails for the kids), while the sun sets and a DJ mixes chilled beats, certainly brings the happy to the Happy Monday sesh at beachside spot Waves.

It also serves up superb seafood, such as red tuna with strawberry gazpacho and sticky rice, while Kumin offers decent Indian cuisine and Jade nails pan-Asian dishes, such as beef lok lak alongside mouth-watering sushi.

One night, we feast at Jade’s teppanyaki table, sipping cocktails of tequila, plum sake, yuzu, chilli and ginger, as chef Edgar crafts a feast of Japanese soup, duck gyoza, lobster, black Angus steak and flambéed pineapple.

Edgar is soon declared “the coolest chef ever” as he throws up a raw egg and catches it in his hat.

But when he then pulls out a wind-up chick as a souvenir of our evening, he’s definitely secured fans for life, and the meal is worthy of the £32 supplement.

A lot to lychee

Of course, there’s a kids’ club, which is handily next to the beach volleyball court, so as the kids get kitted out with braids and henna tattoos, Andy joins fellow dads for a game.

Another day we take a cooking class and learn how to whip up a flavoursome Mauritian curry and rotis, before digging into the fruits of our labour with glasses of very gluggable, locally made lychee wine.

Our visit to Mauritius coincides with the Hindu festival Ganesh Chaturthi, so we jump in a taxi to the white sands of Mont Choisy beach, 15 minutes away, to enjoy the celebrations.

Locals carry incredible clay idols of the elephant-head god to the turquoise waters and the air is filled with the scent of incense and the beating of huge drums.

The feeling of joy and togetherness is all-encompassing.

Flying high

A few days later, I’m trying to hide my nerves from my six year old, Poppy, as we clip on to a zipline that will hurtle us across a river to the top of a waterfall.

When we land at the crest of the frothy, white water, we realise the only way back to solid ground is ziplining again across the ravine and I fear we may be in trouble.

But her confidence grows on the second ride and she begs to try more.

Sadly, she’s not old enough for many of the adrenalin-filled activities here at Vallé Advenature Park, which includes Mauritius’ longest zipline and the longest suspended bridge in the Indian Ocean, so I guess we’ll have to return one day.

But racing Andy and our son Raffy, four, down the mountain on a luge not long after gets more megawatt smiles from both kids, before we take snaps of the hill of 23 colours, a geological phenomenon of volcanic sands formed over millions of years.

Experiences at Advenature cost from £11 per person (Adventure.vallepark.com).

We can also hardly believe our eyes when we spot the number and size of the giant tortoises at nearby La Vanille Nature Park, and we all adore feeding them their favourite snack, scaevola leaves.

One even mistakes Andy’s leg for a twig and gives him a nip – ­much to the kids’ delight.

Later, having swung by the lemurs, iguanas and monkeys, the croc-feeding show feels a bit outdated, but there’s no denying the real crocodile nuggets at the cafe make a tasty lunch, £8, with Raffy wolfing them down, just like their chicken counterparts.

Entry costs £17 for adults and £12 for under-13s (Lavanillenaturepark.com).

Meanwhile, one thing is for certain – if I were to ask the kids if they’d like to repeat this adventure, they’d snap up the chance!

AS a golf buggy whizzes past me,  blaring festive tunes and with a fully decorated tree tied to the rear, it occurs I might be in possibly the most Christmassy place this side of Lapland.  

I am with my family on our first visit to the popular Kingdom Of The Elves experience at the five-star Bluestone Resort — seen by many as like a Center Parc, but ­better value. 

Every year the holiday park nestled in the breathtaking scenery of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park goes crazy for Christmas.  

And if you have ever wondered what it feels like to live inside a  snow globe then look no further than  Bluestone this winter. 

At the heart of the resort’s Christmas-themed experience is the Snow Dome — a huge glass- covered area transformed for the winter into a life-sized snow globe, complete with snowstorms several times a day, festive tunes, glittering lights and white dusted trees.  

It’s a breathtaking sight by day and night,  when it is lit up and has giant snowflakes projected on the side. 

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Even the resort’s year-round Blue Lagoon swimming dome gets a Christmas makeover, with candy-cane-coloured covers on the flumes, decorations and festive tunes pumping out on a loop. 

I was there with my husband, children aged 11, eight and four  and my parents. And we weren’t the only multi-generational family making the most of the Christmas spirit. 

Secret location 

Regulars arrived armed with their own festive decorations to dress up their holiday lodges. I even saw a large Christmas tree in one window. 

But the most fun is spotting the Christmas pimped-up golf buggies that guests use to zip around the eco resort’s 500 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside. 

Some accommodation, like our Platinum Carningli Lodge, comes with the use of a buggy but they can be hired for those that don’t. 

Our comfortable lodge had two en-suite master bedrooms and two twin rooms for the children, plus another bathroom. 

They are tastefully decorated and have fully equipped kitchens. Arranged in an “upside down” style, the large living area is upstairs, making best use of the tranquil views — especially from the glass-walled sun lounge.  

Kicking off our break we took my youngest to the charming Elf School experience. 

  Youngsters are ushered through a wooden door from The Hive soft-play and activity area to a delightful interactive theatre experience. 

Children move through a series of rooms helping some friendly elves along the way.  

Tasks include collecting letters to Santa, exploring a giant advent calendar and helping feed “belief balls” into a madcap machine. 

My daughter Estella was captivated. She was even given a special cape as an Elf School “uniform” (which she refused to take  off for the duration of our trip) and a graduation certificate at the end. 

But of course no Christmas weekend would be complete without a visit to the big guy himself. 

We headed to the Snow Dome for the all-important appointment at Santa’s Lodge.  

An elf in a decked-out golf buggy whisked us to a secret location where we wound our way through a wicker maze to a charming cabin. There, we met an extremely authentic Santa who surprised the children by dropping personalised details about them into their conversation — wonder how he knew those! 

It was a lovely experience and the kids were each given a gorgeous Christmas keepsake. 

Also a must is the resort’s Christmas panto. It’s Jack And The Beanstalk, but as you have never seen it before.  

Kids will love the silly jokes and parade of current pop hits with the lyrics tweaked for Christmas. 

Other special seasonal offerings at the resort at this time of year include the Elf or Reindeer Breakfast, where guests start the day by being serenaded with festive hits. 

These Christmas experiences do come at an extra cost, but there is plenty on offer for free, including a Reindeer Village Light Show, Jingle Jive dance party and Polar Postal, where Santa himself tours the resort on a tractor collecting kids’ letters. 

And of course Bluestone’s usual array of activities is on offer including the huge indoor soft play featuring the biggest bouncy castle I have ever seen. 

My eldest son also loved the Woodland Warriors laser tag, which comes at an extra cost. Zip wires, climbing towers and archery are also among the activities offered to keep kids busy. 

And when you need to refuel, there are lots of options, many found in Bluestone’s charming village area, with its quaint winding streets decked out for Yuletide. 

We enjoyed a delicious barbecue meal at the Farmhouse Grill. Also excellent was The Knights Tafarn pub. 

Everything from waffles to crepes and of course hot chocolates is available at the quaint wooden snack stands. 

And if you are able to give your little elves the slip for an hour, there is even a spa for grown-ups. 

With lovely surroundings, immaculate accommodation, yummy food and more Christmas spirit than you could shake a candy cane at, Bluestone really does feel a ho ho home from home. 

The Øresund Bridge has been connecting Sweden and Denmark for over 24 years, with around 70,000 people crossing daily.

For over 24 years, the 8-kilometre Øresund Bridge has been a vital link between Sweden and Denmark, offering a combined railway and motorway connection across the Øresund strait.

The bridge, a collaborative project between Swedish company Svedab and Danish firm A/S Øresundsforbindelsen, forms half of the journey from Sweden to the Danish Island of Amager.

Starting near the city of Malmo on the Swedish coast, it stretches to the man-made Danish Island of Peberholm, nestled in the heart of the strait.

From Peberholm, a tunnel completes the remaining journey to the island of Amager, home to Copenhagen airport, bringing the total distance travelled to around 16 km.

Work on the bridge kicked off in 1995, and it officially opened its lanes to traffic in July 2000. Just two years later, it was honoured with the IABSE Outstanding Structure Award.

Peberholm serves as a junction between the tunnel and the bridge.

It’s equipped with a motorway exit, restricted to authorised vehicles only, and a helicopter pad for use in the event of road accidents.

The bridge, which sees an average daily footfall of 70,000 people, came with a hefty price tag of around £3.4 billion. The cost is expected to be recouped by 2037.

Crossing fees vary depending on the type of vehicle. Motorcyclists are charged £25.68, passenger cars £50.77, and vans, motorhomes or passenger cars with a trailer pay a whopping £178.55.

The Øresund Bridge takes the silver medal for being the second-longest bridge in Europe, only surpassed by the 18.1km Kerch Bridge.

The latter stretches across the Kerch Strait, connecting the Taman Peninsula of Krasnodar Krai in Russia and the Kerch Peninsula of Crimea.

EUROSTAR has relaunched their winter snow trains this winter.

Eurostar Snow is their ski train that launches during the peak season to connect passengers to popular resorts.

Destinations include Chambéry, Albertville, Moutiers, Aime-La-Plagne, Landry, and Bourg St Maurice.

Anyone arriving at Bourg St Maurice will find coaches to resorts including Val Thorens, Val d’Isère, Courchevel, La Tania, Tignes, Meribel, or Les Menuires.

Brits will have to travel from London St Pancras to Lille, and make a simple change there.

The trains operate every Saturday morning at 9:01am, with the first train departing on December 20.

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The last train of the season from London to the ski resorts will be on March 28.

The return trips take place on Sunday, departing Bourg-Saint-Maurice at 10.54am and 1.45pm until April 4.

The journey takes around eight hours from London, with the return journey around nine hours.

Passengers can take a lot of luggage onboard too, which is great news for skiiers.

This includes two pieces of luggage up to 85cm, as well as one piece of hand luggage and either skis or a snowboard.

There is also food and drink at the Eurostar Cafe, and free WiFi onboard although can be very patchy in the tunnels.

Passenger can even bring their own booze onboard but there are limits – one 750ml bottle of wine or four 440ml beers or ciders.

All passport checks are done in the UK so you can head straight to the resort when you arrive.

And if you’re wondering about passport checks, they’re all done in the UK. You can just grab your bags and skis and step straight off the train and onto a coach.

Eurostar once had train routes to other places in Europe.

Eurostar once travelled to Marseille, taking six hours, although this was scrapped in Marseille.

A direct route from the UK also went to Lyon, taking four and half hours.

This ran four times a week in the summer from 2002 to 2014 before becoming permanent, only to be scrapped in 2018.

The UK to Avignon was scrapped in 2020 after 18 years, while direct trains to Disneyland Paris have also been scrapped.

The only two French routes remaining are Paris and Lille.

Here are some new routes Eurostar could soon be launching.

I’M LYING on my belly, strapped into a hammock-like harness, with twinkling lights ahead and carols drifting in the frosty air.

It would be relaxing if I wasn’t about to be launched face-first along England’s fastest zipline.

This is the Hangloose Adventure Night Flight – the UK’s only in-air Christmas light trail – at the Eden Project in Bodelva, Cornwall.

Most of us experience festive light shows on foot, but Hangloose Adventure has been raising the game – quite literally – since 2023.

Between November and January, thrill-seekers and families (children must be over eight) can soar above the illuminated biomes of the Eden Project at speeds of up to 60mph.

With a route 660 metres long and 96 metres high – roughly the height of London’s Big Ben – it’s not for the faint-hearted.

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Keen to check out this combination of adrenaline, festive magic and bird’s-eye-views of the eco-attraction, I check in at the Hangloose Adventure Centre.

I’m joined by my husband, while our four-year-old twins are keen to watch mummy “fly through the sky”.

Family and friends have a viewing area, complete with a TV showing the launch, and free hot chocolate.

My kids run off to see how many marshmallows they can cram into their cups, and I get kitted up.

First, I’m weighed. My instructor writes something down on a sticker and tells me to attach it to my coat.

It doesn’t show my actual weight but a code (“A19” for me) for staff on the launch tower to decipher.

He explains that everyone gets their own instructions for what to do with their arms during the flight.

I place my trust in the team as they pull the harness over my head and arms, wrap straps round my legs and fix on my helmet.

After a safety briefing, I’m good to go.

The wind hits my face and my heart lurches as I coast through the sky, picking up speed and whooping wildly

I jump into a van for the two-minute journey to the tower. I meet Zara who will be clipped in beside me – the double line set-up means you can take a friend, or meet someone new.

With her fear of heights, Zara has signed up as a personal challenge, and her hands tremble as proof.

Out of the van, we climb some stairs – dramatic music playing as we approach the launch deck.

I try to take my mind off what’s about to happen by focusing on the view – a transformed china clay pit now home to two massive biomes housing rainforest and Mediterranean plants.

They look like two huge igloos glowing red and blue under the night sky.

Lying prone, I’m given my arm instructions: “Arms out wide like a bird, all the way.”

Beside me, Zara is taking deep breaths. I take a giant gulp of oxygen, hear the countdown “3-2-1” and the click as we’re released.

The wind hits my face and my heart lurches as I coast through the sky, picking up speed and whooping wildly.

The hexagonal tiles of the biomes are beneath me, changing from green to pink with supersized snowflakes spinning through them.

I feel like an eagle, spotting lit-up Christmas trees and gleams of gold.

Soon I’m past the lights, gliding over a dark forest then finally come to a stop.

It’s over too soon – but I’ll be riding on this festive high for days to come.

EVER wanted to know what it feels like to step foot in a fairytale? Well, you can do at the world’s biggest castle.

Built over 700 years ago by the Teutonic Knights, Malbork Castle in northern Poland sprawls across 143sqm.

In fact, Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world with 30million bricks.

Known as Zamek w Malborku in Polish, the castle used to house the headquarters of the powerful Order of the Teutonic Knights, which was a military and religious group that controlled the Baltic region.

The castle is made entirely of brick and became a symbol of Brick Gothic style, which was typical of northern Europe.

The castle is split into three main sections: the High Castle, the Middle Castle and the Lower Castle.

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The High Castle was dedicated to religious life, serving as a monastery.

The Middle Castle was used to house the Grand Master and the Order’s administration while the Lower Castle was used as a logistical base, with bakeries, kitchens and a hospital.

Over the centuries, the castle has seen many historical events including passing through the hands of Poles, Swedes and Prussians.

And in the late 19th century, after a grand restoration project began, World War II broke out.

At this time, the castle was heavily bombed and a lot of it was left in ruins.

It wasn’t until after the war when the restoration works could be fully carried out.

Today, the castle is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are many different spots to explore at the castle.

Visitors can head on the Historical Castle Route, which includes seeing the entire castle and the exhibitions, taking around three-and-a-half hours.

Inside, visitors can explore the Hall of the Great Master, which features medieval frescoes and a large fireplace.

There is also the Chapel of Santa Ana, with a number of stained glass windows.

At the castle, visitors will also find the Amber Museum, which is home to a number of artefacts from the Baltic Region.

Tickets cost between £16.60 and £20.80 per person to visit.

One recent visitor said: “An amazing castle to tour.

“The audio guide is wonderful and guides you to all the rooms and gives interesting information.

“The restaurant is also worth a visit with super delicious traditional food.”

A second visitor said: “I’ve never done a self guided or audio tour before, but this was definitely an awesome experience if you’re into exploring historical sites.

“Each section had me engaged and excited for the next part of the tour.

“The whole experience was one I won’t forget and I really wish I could’ve brought my family to experience it with me.”

There are a number of other places to explore in Malbork, like the historic city hall building, Mariacka Gate – which is one of the last remaining 14th-century gates that was part of the castle’s defensive walls and Dino Amusement Park.

The nearest airport to Malbork Castle is Gdansk Airport, which is about an hour away.

Flights from London cost as little as £13 per way, in February.

If you are looking for another castle to explore, there’s also a UK castle that costs less than a hotel stay in London with indoor swimming pool, tropical gardens and private beach.

Plus, a famous UK castle is being turned into ‘world-class tourist attraction’ with £10million makeover.

ONE of the country’s busiest airports has started work on its $6 billion renovation project.

The expansion and enhancement plan includes rolling out a new vertical takeoff facility, facial recognition and other technological improvements, and putting customers first.

Orlando International Airport’s 10-year “Visioning Plan” which officially began on Wednesday, will see travelers impacted over the coming years but all for the greater good.

The project aims to see the airport more readily meet demand as it breaks passenger records year on year by focusing on customer experience, community, infrastructure, and people.

“This vision focuses and unites everything we do around one core purpose: delivering an exceptional experience for everyone who passes through our airports,” said the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) CEO Mr. Lyttle.

“We’re creating spaces that are more welcoming, efficient, and enjoyable, from the parking areas to the gate, so that every step of the journey feels seamless.”

The renovation will take place in five-year and 10-year phases, with completion scheduled for 2035.

For example, by 2030, The GOAA hopes to have developed at least one cargo processing facility and an FAA-approved on-airport AAM vertiport serving various commercial operators.

A vertiport allows for vertical take off and landing from electrical aircraft such as drones and air taxis.

“The development of vertiports will play a pivotal role in the advanced air mobility (AAM) transformation,” said Steer, an infrastructure and critical services global consultancy firm.

“These facilities aim to enhance the efficiency, accessibility, and safety of urban air transport, making it a viable alternative to traditional ground-based transportation.”

Meanwhile, it will also add an extra 8,000 parking spaces to the airport, install a new baggage handling system, and finish Airside 2 gate expansions by 2030.

The completion of Terminal C Phase 2 construction is scheduled for 2035.

Other elements of the renovation plan include the roll out of facial recognition technology rather than boarding passes, smart restrooms, improved lounges, including VR experiences, and enhanced wayfinding and flight information displays.

All of these changes should greatly improve the experience of all travelers, especially those visiting Walt Disney World.

However, as work begins on the refurbishment of the airport’s Gate Link vehicles, including to the tracks and electrical equipment, travelers have already been warned about disruption.

Passengers set to travel through terminals A or B can expect delays between the TSA checkpoint and their gate, the airport has said.

Gates 70 to 129 are affected with only one tram operating between them and the two terminals from December 7.

These gates are used by major airlines including Avelo, Southwest, Delta, Frontier, and Spirit.

The repairs and upgrades will last until fall 2027 with passengers having to wait longer for a tram or even use shuttle buses during overnight hours when no trams are running.

“While this project requires some temporary adjustments, the long-term benefits will enhance safety and ensure our Gate Link system serves passengers reliably for decades to come,” Lyttle said.

“Please allow additional time when arriving or departing MCO from these gates, and follow the directional signage, and information from our airport ambassadors,” the airport tells passengers.

It comes after another US airport has opened its brand new $1.7 billion departures terminal in time for the holidays.

WE’VE all seen the £99 Wowcher mystery holiday deals – with return flights and a hotel to a surprise destination – but is the gamble worth the money?

CYANN FIELDING finds out by putting the Mystery Christmas Market Trip for £99 to the test . . . 

IT could be a trip to Lapland or New York, but I was not kidding myself, it was more likely to be Europe.

Wowcher’s Christmas Market Trip costs £99 per person and you have to book for a minimum of two.

Your mystery holiday is then revealed and a travel agent contacts you within 72 hours to discuss your trip.

My destination was Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Having never been before, I was excited to hear back from my Wowcher agent.

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But when I got the call, I discovered a major catch.

The flight out from London would be late afternoon on November 25, returning very early on November 27 — giving me just a day in the city.

And to make matters worse, the hotel was two miles from the city centre.

But it was OK, the agent told me, because I could upgrade.

This was my “Ah-ha” moment — Wowcher had revealed themselves.

In order to get decent flights and a hotel close to your destination, you need to upgrade, and this came at an additional £43 per person.

Let’s say you were happy with the flights, but wanted a closer hotel, well you can’t just upgrade one element, you have to do both.

This is where the deal clearly makes its money. Keen to make the most of my holiday, I upgraded.

So now the two-night break was coming in at £142 per person, that’s £284 in total.

Flights were with Wizz Air, but when checking in you need to go through the travel agent check-in section, which took me a while to figure out.

Wowcher does a good job of sending you all your documents well in advance, as well as tips on how to check in for your flight.

The Rixwell Viru Square Hotel in Tallinn was fine, clean with a comfy bed.

Breakfast wasn’t included, which is probably the same for most hotels in the offer.

As this was specifically a Christmas market trip, we went to the market, and while it was small, it really did feel like a fairytale.

Wish come true

Set in the town square, it was nice to see stalls selling handcrafted gifts, and there was glogi — Estonia’s take on mulled wine — for sale.

The market’s Christmas tree steals the show, though.

Tallinn is home to the world’s first publicly displayed festive fir, which appeared in the town square in 1441. Traditionally, young unmarried people danced around it.

And it is believed that if you make a wish under the tree, it will come true.

While the trip was a lot of fun and the price with the upgrade did not seem excessive, when I broke down the costs, it was not the deal it first appeared to be.

When I checked on the day I spoke to the agent, if I had booked return flights myself for the same dates they would have cost £45pp, so £90 in total.

The hotel would have been £93.25 for two of us for two nights. So if I had done it all myself, it would have cost £183.25 for two people — more than

£100 less than I spent on the Wowcher trip.

Ultimately, most of the Wowcher mystery holiday experience is about the surprise, which, admittedly, is fun.

However, I am not sure it’s worth an additional £100.75.
Would I do it again?

Probably not. I think I would rather roll a die across a map and travel to wherever it lands.

That would more than likely be enough to give me the same thrill of the surprise Wowcher reveal. And for probably far less.

Wowcher said: “Our trips have the added reassurance of ATOL protection, rather than the lowest-priced alternative to booking everything separately.

“Flights are chosen from a set selection, and customers on two-night stays are guaranteed 40 hours in resort.

“Travelodeal has acknowledged the flight arrangements for this booking didn’t meet expectations and is offering a refund for any supplements, as well as taking steps to en­sure this does not happen again.”

DURING these cold, dreary months, I can’t get enough of the exotic escapism so many TV shows provide. 

Death In Paradise? I’d risk my life to be on the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe right now. 

The Good Ship Murder? Pfft, it’s not real killing, so get me on that cruise liner. 

And all I could think while watching Channel 5 drama The Sunshine Murders was, “Yes, I need to know who the culprit is, but would you look at that sunset!”. 

Sure, Nina Wadia’s character was whacked with a cricket bat off a cliff, but did you see that stunning white sand she landed on?  

The slaying took a back seat as I was seduced by the sights, scenery and shoreline. 

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So, lucky me, because I’ve been dispatched — with the cast — to the five-star Asimina Suites in Paphos, the hotel where the main characters stayed during their filming in Cyprus.

I hoped to see for myself why, of all the luxurious locations to pick from, this was such a killer setting. 

For starters, if you’re going to have “Sunshine” in a show’s title, it needs to be guaranteed. And 340 days of sun a year is as close as you can ask for.

Just ten miles from Paphos airport, which is a four-hour flight from London, the hotel overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. 

The water is Caribbean-like in colour and comfort — 24C in October means I can enjoy a sunrise swim without my nether regions feeling like they’ve just met a grisly end. 

It’s the ideal way to work up an appetite before turning cereal killer and slaughtering a mammoth breakfast buffet. 

The Asimina is a luxurious, adults-only (16+) resort, and my accommodation had a balcony, king-sized bed, en suite shower and bath, living area, two TVs, espresso machine and mini bar.  

With 111 suites — some with swim-up pools — four spacious bars and four restaurants, it never feels crowded.

Star of the show is the beachside, fine-dining-quality Kymata restaurant. Trust me when I say the food here is so good, you’ll be in mourning for your beach body. 

Ease the overindulgence guilt by chasing an ace at the onsite tennis court, visiting the decent-sized gym or joining the joggers on the beautiful coastal path. 

The Asimina takes a particular pride in its swanky alcohol offerings and it holds complimentary gin tastings and cocktail-making classes.  

With live music every evening and themed nights with the likes of Elvis tribute acts, there’s no shortage of entertainment, either. 

But it’s all geared to pure tranquillity. 

The heaven-sent Elixir Spa offers a variety of massages. 

And you can kill time in the free-to-use sauna, steam bath and heated indoor pool. 

The real gem is the hospitality, though. I’ve never met such attentive staff. 

There are B&B, half-board and full-board options, but the Ultra All-Inclusive means as soon as your glass is empty, it is quickly topped up. 

From the beachside cabanas to the poolside sunbeds, everywhere is peaceful. Everything and everyone is relaxed.  

Even the breakwaters in the bay mean the waves only very gently lap at the shore. 

But between the bliss of annihilating the cocktail menu, you can’t come to this Unesco World Heritage city without digging into its history.

The concierge can arrange taxis to the Archaeological Park, Paphos Castle and the Tombs of the Kings. 

And because Paphos was named European Capital of Culture in 2017, huge investment has brought an alluring contrast of modern alongside historical. 

The charming Paphos Old Town is a hub for shopping and dining; contemporary restaurants and bars sit comfortably beside authentic Mediterranean tavernas. 

Swim naked 

When you enter any of the homely eateries, you’re treated like royalty and served mouth-watering meze with mind-blowing meat platters. 

It was a revelation to me just how good the wine is in Cyprus. Take my word for it and head into the peaks of the Troodos Mountains for a tour of the modern Oenou Yi Winery. 

Sipping their rosé while looking out across the vast vineyards is as good as it gets. 

And you can’t go to Cyprus without seeing Aphrodite’s Rock. 

Legend has it that if you swim naked around it three times during a full moon, you’ll have eternal youth. 

But I hadn’t necked enough rosé for that. An eye-opening fact I learnt is that Cyprus is a hidden gem for golf.

The island boasts four sensational courses, with Elea Golf Club’s Par-71, overlooking the Mediterranean, designed by golfing legend Nick Faldo. 

And here’s something you won’t get in the Algarve — book for the right time of year (January to March), and you can go skiing up Mount Olympus in the morning, tee off at lunchtime, then sunbathe on the beach at sunset. 

The curtain comes down on my idyllic island break over dinner with The Sunshine Murders stars Peter Andre, Emily Corcoran and Dora Chrysikou. 

It’s clear — OK, Peter’s biased as his ­parents are Cypriot — that they’ve been just as wowed by Cyprus and the Asimina Suites as I have. 

Emily said: “The locations are very important in television and particularly in cosy crime. They almost become a character in the show. 

“We needed to find somewhere that gave that really great level of escapism for the audience, and we definitely found that.” 

Thankfully, Emily, who also writes the show, has plans for a second series. 

That is dead-good news, because I could murder a sequel to this trip. 

The country received just over 750,000 foreign tourists in 2019, making it one of Europe’s most underrated destinations.

When planning a getaway, it’s easy for travellers to overlook the fact that countless other tourists will likely have the same idea.

Anyone who has visited Paris’s Louvre Museum will be familiar with the heaving crowds shuffling forward to catch a fleeting glimpse of the somewhat underwhelming, yet undeniably iconic, Mona Lisa.

Or maybe you’ve wandered through Pile Gate in Dubrovnik, only to find yourself surrounded by fellow sightseers from every angle, rushing you through the increasingly busy tourist attraction.

But if you’re on the hunt for a European getaway with significantly fewer crowds, North Macedonia is the perfect place.

Stunningly underappreciated, this former Yugoslav nation nestled in the heart of the Balkans deserves a spot on your travel list before word spreads about its exceptional natural splendour, reports the Express.

One of North Macedonia’s crown jewels is the breathtaking and tranquil Lake Ohrid, among Europe’s most ancient and deepest lakes.

Nestled along the mountainous frontier between North Macedonia and Albania, this peaceful retreat has been hailed as “the most beautiful place on Earth” by Tripadvisor reviewer mani_kalai.

The reviewer went on to lavish further praise on the picturesque location, adding: “Amazing view, can take a boat trip to see the town view from the lake. Friendly local people, lots of bar[s], restaurants and shop[s].”

Based on figures from travel comparison site KAYAK, a double room in Ohrid typically costs around £52 per night – though prices can fluctuate significantly, with some accommodation available for as little as £30 a night.

A three-hour journey from the stunning Lake Ohrid brings you to North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje.

Best known as Mother Teresa’s birthplace, Skopje is an underappreciated and quietly charming European destination.

A perfect way to while away an afternoon in Skopje is wandering through the vibrant Old Bazaar, weaving through the cobblestone streets of this “astonishing place” as Tripadvisor reviewer Arsenie V. described it.

“Enjoy some rakia the way the locals do. I can assure you that you won’t get bored in this region because it is very lively,” they added.

Another essential sight in Skopje is the historic Stone Bridge, which links the Old Bazaar to the main square, effectively connecting the historic quarter with the modern city centre.

A 45-minute bus journey from Skopje to the stunning Matka Canyon costs just 35MKD (£0.50) each way, though the scenery is worth considerably more than the incredibly cheap fare.

Featuring numerous monasteries and caverns, Lake Matka is a stunningly picturesque spot that’s certain to become increasingly popular as word spreads.

Vrelo Cave is thought to be among Europe’s deepest, possibly even the world’s, and the lake offers excellent opportunities for various watersports. Other visitors can savour breathtaking views, dine at exquisite restaurants and embark on boat tours at this hidden gem of a destination.

ON the outskirts of the Snowdonia National Park is the small Welsh town of Bala.

It’s surrounded by the region of Penllyn with mountain landscapes, large valleys, lakes – and it has an award-winning hotel.

Bala sits at the tip of Llyn Tegid in Snowdonia which is Wales‘ largest natural lake at 3.5 miles long and the town is home to around 2,000 residents.

With its position on the lake, Bala is popular for watersports like sailing, windsurfing and canoeing.

For any keen hikers, the main mountain ranges, Aran, Arenig and Berwyn are less crowded than others in Snowdonia.

But other activities you can do in or around the town include scenic walks or the Bala Lake Railway, and visit local attractions like Caerau Gardens or the National White Water Centre.

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Bala is also home to the Palé Hall hotel which has a Michelin Star – an award that celebrates exceptional hotels with character, design and service.

It also has a Michelin Green Star, which recognises commitment to sustainability.

The hotel’s Henry Robertson restaurant has been awarded three AA Rosettes for its fine dining.

The hotel is inside a Victorian Manor house which dates back to 1871 and is set within 50 acres of gardens and parkland.

It has 18 hotel rooms and four garden suites – room rates start from £360 per night up to £1,200.

The largest suite is Harper’s Barn which sleeps between two and four guests and is tucked away in the grounds.

The two-level residence has two bedrooms, each with its own ensuite, a separate living room, kitchen, dining area, hot tub and a private garden.

There’s plenty to do there too, from wine tasting and cellar tour to fly fishing, clay pigeon shooting, pottery classes, as well as fine dining experiences.

The hotel’s restaurant is called Henry Robertson and offers various tasting menus as well as afternoon tea and Sunday lunch.

Visitors sing its praises on Tripadvisor too, one wrote: “Everything about this place oozes class and style without being pretentious or stuffy.

“An amazing country estate with beautiful rooms that makes for a lovely relaxing break.”

The lakeside town in Wales shares its name with a very similar place in Ontario, Canada.

Like the one in Wales, it surrounds Muskoka Lakes that even has the Bala Falls – a large waterfall in Canada.

For more places to visit in Wales, Llandudno was named one of the most affordable places for a beach holiday in the UK earlier this yea.

The Victorian seaside resort is a gem for anyone looking for a UK break on a budget thanks to its affordability, highly rated beaches and activities.

According to Which? Llandudno is rated as one of the top 10 seaside towns in the country.

Up against the likes of Salcombe, Whitley Bay and Newcastle, Llandudno came out on top for being budget-friendly and having incredible beaches.

It also has highly rated beaches with the North Shore Beach and West Shore Beach being known as the “Queen of Welsh Resorts”.

For more hotels, check out this one in Wales right by massive beach resort with medieval castle views and fancy spa.

And another huge Welsh hotel estate with championship golf courses and the country’s largest spa.

Hidden within the rolling hills of Derbyshire this town acts as the perfect getaway with stunning landscapes to explore nearby and a delightful town to stay in after your long walks

Sometimes, the most beautiful spots are just a stone’s throw away, and the Peak District is brimming with charming towns and villages, including this gem – perfect for those who love the great outdoors.

Nestled within the undulating hills of Derbyshire, one of the nation’s top spa towns is just an hour’s drive from the city of Derby. Perched on the fringes of the Peak District, Buxton serves as the ideal retreat, boasting breathtaking landscapes to discover nearby and a delightful town to reside in while you do so.

It holds the title of England’s highest market town but is best known for its ‘healing’ spa waters that flow through the region. For hundreds of years, visitors have flocked here to bathe in and sample the mineral-rich waters of Buxton, a tradition that continues today.

In fact, the water is so pristine that it’s bottled straight from the natural mineral springs that seep through the rocks. This gives us the famous Buxton water bottles that many of us have sipped and purchased over the years, all sourced from the historic St Ann’s Well.

A good two-hour walk from the town centre, or a short car journey, will take you to Three Shires Head, a renowned walking spot where Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire converge. Here, you’ll find stunning waterfalls and inviting pools perfect for wild swimming.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said: “Three Shires Head feels like a hidden world, with waterfalls, old packhorse bridges, and proper peace and quiet. It’s a stunning spot for a ramble, with views that make you stop in your tracks. A proper breath of fresh air.”

Yet the most beloved walking trail in the region remains the Solomon’s Temple circular route, which starts directly from Buxton Station. Walkers are treated to breathtaking rural panoramas as they wander through Buxton Country Park towards Grin Low’s peak, where the Victorian observation tower of Solomon’s Temple awaits.

One hiker described it as an “unexpected gem”, writing: “Was only expecting a view downhill of Buxton, but after a reasonably gentle walk up from town and the caves, you get a full 360′ experience at the heart of the Peak District and great views – distant hills, rolling plains and valleys. There’s a rocky outcrop just behind it, for those of us that admire that sort of thing (and it’s very photogenic).”

Those who favour snuggling up indoors will find the Buxton Crescent Hotel and Thermal Spa Hotel at the town’s centre – a Grade I listed five-star establishment featuring a rooftop swimming pool and extensive treatment menu. Next to this stands another architectural marvel, the mesmerising Devonshire Dome, which boasts a span greater than London’s renowned St Paul’s Cathedral.

A recent guest at the spa said: “The spa is to die for. So relaxing. On the whole I would recommend it. The icing on the cake is the champagne on arrival before check-in. I have never experienced that. We definitely will go again and recommend it to friends and family.”

WITH the alpine breeze whipping at my cheeks, I make my way to the bottom of the slope.

After clicking off my skis, I barely take two steps before I am greeted by the warming scent of fondue.

I am staying at Club Med Serre-Chevalier in the heart of the French Alps.

This eco-friendly resort is located at the foot of a stunning ski area featuring 250km of runs, 80 per cent of which are above 2,000 metres.

And Club Med’s ski-in, ski-out access feels like a little slice of ­luxury after working up an appetite on the slopes.

Each guest has their own locker in the ski room, which is decked out with a snowboard or skis, poles, ­helmets and boots, to make for a seamless transition from the breakfast bar to the snow.

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But in this all-inclusive resort — where even your lift pass and lessons are included — the food is the jewel in the crown.

Unlike many all-inclusive hotels that serve up beige buffets and cold platters, Club Med has perfected alpine dining.

The hotel boasts two restaurants, Le Vauban and Le Meije, which are guaranteed to satisfy the tastebuds.

Le Meije prides itself on traditional dishes — and its wild garlic fondue is a Club Med staple.

Our host Nicholas guides us through the rules of fondue as it bubbles away under the stove on the table.

We are told that white wine is the best pairing and that any bread lost in the cheese will earn a forfeit.

Fortunately, all the bite-sized pieces of bread made it into my mouth — perfectly accompanied by the salty charcuterie board and a crisp, dressed lettuce salad.

Meanwhile, Le Vauban offers all-day dining with dishes to suit every palate and desire.

It is not unusual to see whole swordfish being freshly sliced or melting raclette cheese being poured on to steaming hot potatoes at lunch.

Given we are in France, the dessert station certainly lived up to my expectations.

The chocolate fountain was jewelled with bright red strawberries and the miniature mille-feuille looked almost too good to eat.

After learning to ski as a child, I was banking on the fact that skiing was like riding a bike.

But I eased myself in gently with a beginner lesson run by the French Ski School (ESF).

I was greeted at the ski room by my English-speaking instructor Carolina, who took a small group of us on to the nursery slope.

Luckily, my muscle memory kicked in and the plentiful snow gave me the perfect conditions to get my confidence back.

By day three, I headed up the mountain with the intermediate group to put the lessons to the test.

Carving my way through the snow, I definitely caught the bug again and ended the day by skiing down to Club Med — weaving through the forests under a bright blue sky.

With tired ski legs, I was ready for my treatment at the Club Med Spa by Payot.

Nadia Payot is the woman behind facial gymnastics — 42 movements that are designed to sculpt and lift every muscle.

Fortunately, it does not require any more cardio.

I checked into the spa and headed straight to the steam room to open my pores and relieve my muscles after a day on the slope.

Following a herbal tea in the relaxation room, I was greeted by my therapist, who sources sensitive skin products to tackle the dryness caused by the crisp alpine air.

The 30-minute treatment included layers of oils, creams and balms which left my face suitably revived for my journey home.

But Club Med is truly the resort that never sleeps.

After all, the Alps’ microclimate means it boasts 300 days of sunshine a year.

Following a dinner of cheese and meats, we headed outside for what Club Med describes as just one of its “magic moments”.

The sky illuminated with fireworks as Champagne towers were covered with the gold liquid of Laurent- Perrier.

Toasting a week of snow, cheese and good company, we headed back into the warmth of Club Med — and swapped our skis for our dancing shoes to party into the early hours.

A FAMOUS shopping street will go car-free today as it transforms into a festive mile.

Visitors can enjoy an array of Christmas activities, inclusdung live music from musicians and choirs as well as arts and crafts and even a party bus.

Shoppers can enjoy a seven car-free hours on London’s Regent Street as it closes from 2pm until 9pm today.

Without the hassle of dodging cars and weaving crowded pavements, you can shop and even dance on a party bus well into the evening.

Festive mile

The stretch of street will turn into a winter wonderland, with fun activities available along the festive mile.

Parked up on Regent Street will be three vintage red buses with a different surprise in each.

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In one you can find The Spirit of Christmas Selfie Station where there will be an “Instagrammable” selfie spot on the top deck with the backdrop of the iconic angel light displays.

And on another vintage bus there is a disco from “Choose Love” where you can enjoy a boogie under flashing lights.

There will also be live music from choirs and DJs who bring the festive cheer.

And visitors can check out The Gift Wrap and Festive Crafts Bus where you’ll find everything from wreath making to children’s Christmas crafting.

Or if you’ve bought some gifts from the shops along Regent Street, take them onto the bus and take advantage of the free wrapping station.

Just show the receipt from a Regent Street or St James’s store and leave with a perfectly wrapped present.

This is the first time since 2020 that the busy shopping street has closed for a Christmas shopping afternoon.

On-site offers

Some shops are even holding special offers too, including NEOM where you can have a go on the spin-to-win wheel.

If you land on the right spot, you’ll get your hands on some goodies and enjoy a complimentary travel candle (with any £20 purchase).

And Marc Jacobs are having an exclusive in their shop with a DJ set and drinks.

66°North are giving out drinks to customers and if you choose to dine at Ziggy Green – the Soho Saint Brass Band will be playing in the background.

Here’s what you’ll find at Winter Wonderland this year…

Winter Wonderland in London – which was recently named the UK’s best Christmas market – will launch on November 14 and run for six weeks until January 1.

Santa Land has been revamped this year with a new interactive Elves Workshop experience.

Visitors can play puzzles, spin giant cogs and help the elves bring Santa’s toys to life. Families can also uncover hidden treasures and get Santa’s autograph.

Part of the revamped Santa Land will also be a free Santa’s Grotto experience.

Visitors will head off on a journey through the new Elves Workshop and see Mrs Claus before meeting the big man himself.

Completely new for this year is the world’s first street food market just for kids.

Known as Jingle Bell Bistro, inside elves have collected the top foodie finds from across the globe for kids to enjoy.

Whilst the Magical Ice Kingdom is nothing new, it will have a new theme this year – ‘A Mystical, Mythical Fantasy World’.

Visitors will be able to adventure through the Four Realms of Earth, Fire, Air and Water, which will all be made from 500 tonnes of snow and ice by sculptors from the UK and Belgium.

The Magical Ice Kingdom is rather chilly at -10C and it is one of Europe‘s largest ice attractions.

Over in the much-loved Bavarian Village – where there is usually live music, traditional German food and mulled wine – there will be a new Apres-Ski themed village.

Here visitors will be able to grab a festive-themed drink, bratwursts and enjoy live DJ sets.

The iconic Luminarie light arches were introduced to Winter Wonderland back in 2015, but this year will feature a new extension with an additional 50,260 LED bulbs.

It will also feature a market selling unique and traditional festive gifts.

This year the award-winning Cirque Berserk will return with their “most thrilling exclusive show yet” called Ignite.

It will include a number of daredevil performers, including motorbike stunts and fire acts.

Or head over to Bentley’s where there will be Christmas carols on the terrace which you can listen to while sipping on mulled wine or having oysters – which you can also take away.

For Christmas, The Choose love Shop will return to Regent Street as part of the charity’s 10^th birthday.

Free gift wrapping will also be available in-store on December 11, 14, 20 – all that’s needed is a valid receipt from a shop in Regent Street or St James’s.

If you’re not familiar with London, Regent Street is stretch of road in the West End that runs between Piccadilly Circus and St James’s Park.

And if you’re in the area, you can swing by Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for more festive fun.

This northern city’s Christmas market is back for another year, with more stalls, attractions and cosy festive feels than ever before – and I took a look around to see what this year had to offer

If you’re still feeling a little Grinch-like this December, then nothing will help get you in the festive spirit quite like a visit to a Christmas market. The twinkly lights, delicious smells, Christmas music and seasonal decorations are guaranteed to defrost even the most chilly feelings about the festive season, and help you feel a little more merrily inclined as we head into December.

To help kickstart the festive feels, I headed to Newcastle’s recently-opened Christmas market, which was named one of the UK’s best by Which?, who also said: “Newcastle might just be our favourite Christmas market underdog.” And as a resident of the North East, I have to say this year did seem bigger and better than ever.

Whether you’re looking for family friendly activities, a cute date night or a way to celebrate the countdown to Christmas with friends, there are plenty of different ways you can tackle the market and what it has to offer – with one thing in particular helping me feel a bit less Scrooge and a little more Santa. This year, the market made its comeback on 15 November and will run until 23 December, so you’ve still got plenty of time to hit the stalls and plan a family day out.

One of the best upgrades this year was seeing that more than 80% of the stalls are now run by independent businesses, all of which hail from within a 20 mile radius of Newcastle. That means less bratwurst and repetitive, generic displays, and more local, artisanal things to buy. This year the vendors will also have a more flexible approach, which not only allows part-time sellers and themed market stalls to take up space, but it also means that every time you visit there’ll be something new to see. There’s also the usual combination of items like jewellery, decorations and fashion pieces to buy, as well as pet stalls, vendors selling local cheeses, local products like Geordie Banger’s sausages, and foodie favourites from the likes of Red’s Mac and Cheese and Acropolis.

Outside of things to buy, my absolute favourite part is the Moosenwirt drinks tipi and the North Pole igloos that have been placed around Grey’s Monument. I pre-booked one of the igloos and was glad I had, as it offered some well-timed shelter from the downpour that hit. Not only are they enclosed, but they’re fully heated, with music playing and table service bringing you your drinks. You can even bring in your own food from the markets to enjoy around the table. While it’s generally advised that you pre-book these as they fill up quickly, you can sometimes get lucky with a walk-in.

Out of everything I ate and drank at the market, one thing in particular helped me get right into the festive spirit – the boozy hot chocolates. Now, you can of course get family-friendly, alcohol-free options for the kids and non-drinkers amongst you, but if you’re looking for something that’ll warm you up from the inside out whilst making you feel ultra-cosy and Christmassy, it’s these.

There are so many flavours to choose from, like Biscoff or mint candy cane, and each one comes topped with whipped cream, wafers and toppings related to your flavour of choice. We tried a few, and the Biscoff one was a firm favourite, especially when you add a shot of Baileys into the mix. You can also top up with things like Kahlua or coconut rum to create the perfect winter warmer. You can also get a little pup cup for your four legged friends, which went down a storm with my pug who accompanied us to the igloos.

If you’re looking to plan a full day at the Newcastle Christmas market, new additions this year include a huge family Festive Village at Old Eldon Square, which has a tipi with Santa’s Stories, an Elf Workshop, live stage performances, festive films, and fairground rides. The 50 foot ferris wheel is a brand new addition to this year’s market, which we also took a ride on to get a rarely-seen view of Newcastle.

I will say the rides are a little steep in price, with single adult tickets £5, £4 for children under 1.2m, and £15 for a family of four, but you get great views of iconic Newcastle locations like Grey’s Monument and St James’ Park, and it’ll be a fun experience for the family.

Overall this is a great day out whether you’ve got a family or are planning a more grown up visit. It is a little on the pricey side, especially if you’ve got a large family, but for an annual treat, I recommend going at least once this festive season.

On the summit of a snow-covered hill, two men sit on a patch of lichen, their backs against their snowmobiles. They are wearing thick padded clothing and hats with ear covers. One is scanning the valley with binoculars, the other is checking their drone. “We’ve got a speaker on it to play various calls. Thermal imaging helps. The dogs do the rest.” The younger of the two men, Elvjin, pours out tots of strong coffee for everyone. “The main job at this time of year is to keep the herd up here where we can see them,” he says. “When they start calving, the danger from bears, wolverines and eagles increases. We need to see them.”

If I had a mental picture of reindeer herding before arriving here in the mountains of western Sweden, it certainly did not involve drones and thermal imaging. But that is the aim of this trip: to see an authentic and little-known European way of life, which for centuries suffered repression and abuse, only to be swiftly cannibalised into tourist-trap Santa experiences – all sleigh bells and traditional embroidery.

Seeking some winter sun? With balmy temperatures even in December and a fascinating history and culture to explore, Malta ticks all the boxes, as our writer discovered

Some people aren’t cut out for enduring an entire British winter, so a short escape from the plummeting temperatures can provide a very welcome boost. Step forward Malta — one of the warmest winter spots in Europe and a wonderful place to spend a relaxing, culture-filled few days.

With a flight time of just over three hours from London, Malta achieves a comforting combination of feeling far away and yet rather Anglicised. It was previously part of the British Empire and became independent in 1964. There are the occasional red telephone boxes dotted about (probably used more for posed social media snaps than phone calls) and the ambulances look the same as British ones – plus they drive on the left hand side. English is widely spoken and yet the country has a strong identity of its own, rather than feeling like ‘Brits abroad’ territory.

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We visited in November and it was T-shirt and shorts weather, which is such a treat when you’ve been engulfed in warm layers plus hats and winter coats back in Britain. (But it is a bit of a shock to the system when you arrive at your home airport with a chill in the air and only your fond holiday memories to keep you warm).

What to do in Malta

A guided walking tour of Valletta is the perfect way to get a taste of the capital’s rich history and culture. Valletta is an elegant walled city which was established in the 1500s and has very attractive baroque architecture. Indeed, it is such a distinctive setting that it was used as a filming location in hits such as Gladiator and Game Of Thrones.

St John’s Co-Cathedral is an ornate affair, which houses Caravaggio’s 1608 painting, The Beheading Of Saint John The Baptist. Such is its popularity that it feels like a busy museum rather than a house of worship, but it is inspiring nonetheless. The Grandmaster’s Palace is also a sight to behold and visitors can take a stroll around its magnificent state rooms, courtyards and armoury. The British influence is strong here – a sign from December 1858 displays that the courtyard is named Prince Alfred’s Court, in honour of Queen Victoria’s second son.

Mdina is Malta’s former capital and is a 25-minute car journey from Valletta. It’s a wonderful place to visit at night thanks to the enchanting lighting, which makes the quaint cobbled streets look rather magical. It has a very tranquil atmosphere with beautiful panoramic views from some of the city walls. The only cars allowed in the city are those owned by residents, which makes it an extra-special place to take a moonlit walk without having to worry about traffic.

Where to stay in Malta

The Barceló Fortina Malta has so many amenities that you could actually have a very enjoyable stay without leaving the hotel complex. From a delicious breakfast at Stella’s Restaurant on the ground floor to a flamboyant cocktail in The Bridge bar, the hotel has quite a buzz about it – as well as a beautiful spa and wellness centre, a gym and an outdoor pool.

For those who aren’t well versed in the world of massages, the staff at the hotel’s spa are experts at putting you at ease – who knew that even your hands can feel fabulous after being massaged?!

The Barceló Fortina Malta is located on the seafront of Sliema, across an inlet from Valletta. It’s a lively area full of restaurants, bars and shops. Rooms with a balcony and a breathtaking view of the capital are certainly worth investing in, if finances allow.

Where to eat and drink in Malta

If you only want to fling on your holiday wardrobe and sashay over the road, then Tora in Sliema is the perfect choice for a first-night meal. Serving Chinese cuisine in a sophisticated setting, the tasting menu is a great way of sampling a variety of dishes. Vegetarians and vegans are also widely catered for.

Trabuxu Bistro in the centre of Valletta is an atmospheric venue ideal for lunch, if you want a restorative break from all that sightseeing. It has rustic charm and delicious dishes in abundance, plus a very relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

The Medina Restaurant is a popular venue in Mdina so it is well worth booking in advance. On offer is an eclectic menu with a Maltese flourish, which makes for an impressive and authentic dining experience with very warm and pleasant staff.

And what can you drink alongside all this fabulous food? We discovered a fantastic Maltese Chardonnay called Isis, which is very drinkable indeed. Cocktails are also a popular pre-dinner tradition here and The Bridge bar at the hotel has a variety of enticing options, so you can be as adventurous as you dare.

How much does it cost to stay at the Barceló Fortina Malta?

Superior rooms at the Barceló Fortina Malta cost from £140 per night, room only. The walking tour of Valletta can be booked here.

For alternative hotel options, have a browse on Expedia or Booking.com.

The town boasts a 98.7% cleanliness rate and beautiful beaches, yet remains one of the UK’s least visited destinations given its charm

One of the UK’s most remote and least visited towns is also one of its cleanest.

Lerwick, located in Shetland, is not only a stunning and secluded spot but also an exceptionally clean one. Recently, Lerwick was crowned as Scotland’s cleanest place, impressing judges with its pristine streets and well-maintained public spaces.

This town of 7,000 residents is the northernmost major settlement within the United Kingdom, nestled on the south-eastern edge of the archipelago. I had the good fortune to visit Lerwick when the second coronavirus lockdown restrictions were lifted – my first holiday after a peculiar and stressful two years. The journey there was no easy feat, and it remains challenging today.

While you can catch one of the few Loganair flights from Scottish airports to Sumburgh Airport, a more romantic, eco-friendly but undoubtedly lengthier alternative is to take the Northlink ferry from Aberdeen. We journeyed through the pitch-black night, tossed about by the formidable swell of the North Sea, reports the Express.

Without the aid of some potent over-the-counter seasickness tablets, I wouldn’t have slept a wink. But it would’ve been worth it. The town that emerged on the horizon, as the morning darkness lifted, was unlike any I’ve seen in the UK.

In fact, from a distance, I would’ve mistaken Lerwick for a town on the Norwegian or Swedish coasts if it’d appeared in a game of Geoguessr. However, as we neared the shore, the distinct Scottish character was unmistakable. Rows of dark grey houses and higgledy-piggledy 18th-century buildings adorned the seafront, with cobblestone streets weaving between them.

The locals of Lerwick are no strangers to solitude and self-sufficiency. The town’s first significant electricity supply was switched on in 1953, a good half-century after London. The tempestuous, capricious seas often lead to last-minute cancellations of cargo and passenger ships, sometimes for days or even weeks during the winter months. It’s during this season that one might feel the urge to escape the islands.

The relentless wind and perpetual chill classify Shetland as having a subpolar climate. Sunshine graces the islands merely 13% of the year, and when it does make an appearance, it seldom brings warmth. In fact, the highest temperature ever recorded in Shetland was a mere 25.8°C in 1991 – a full 15C below the UK record.

It’s somewhat tragic, considering the breathtaking beauty of Shetland’s beaches. One morning during our visit, we drove over a headland and gazed down into a bay where hundreds of seals were lounging on a long sandy arc under the feeble sunshine.

Had I not known it would turn my toes to ice, I would’ve stripped off and dived into the tropical-looking, bright blue waters. Shetland, known for its frequent rainfall and seal population, is also home to a wealth of sheep. Our visit in springtime was marked by the sight of frolicking lambs dotting the island.

We were fortunate enough to spot a newborn lamb that had fallen into a deep coastal hole, unable to scramble back up to its anxious mother. But fear not, little one.

My brave pal Joe was ready to descend and rescue the adorable woolly creature. While he may have violated David Attenborough’s ‘let nature take its course’ rule, Joe did manage to snap some Tinder-worthy photos from the adventure.

Situated further north than Saint Petersburg and three out of four Nordic capitals, and on par with Anchorage in Alaska, Lerwick experiences summer nights that never fully darken. Indeed, even at midnight, the sun seems poised to peek over the horizon, bathing the area in a soft twilight.

In stark contrast, winter days offer less than six hours of full daylight.

This is why Shetlanders have created traditions aimed at dispelling the gloomy darkness of winter nights. Their most renowned tradition is Up Helly Aa, a torchlit parade featuring groups of costumed participants, known as guizers, which culminates in the burning of a replica Viking galley.

This deliberate mayhem is, as you might anticipate from such a tidy community, swiftly followed by a thorough clean-up operation. Statistics published last year confirmed Shetland as Scotland’s cleanest location, achieving an almost flawless rating.

Keep Scotland Beautiful’s figures demonstrated that Shetland secured a 98.7 per cent cleanliness score, dethroning neighbouring Orkney from first place.

Brian Rae, operations manager at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “Our team of expert auditors carry out annual local environmental quality surveys at a random selection of sites across Scotland every year to monitor issues such as litter, dog fouling, fly-tipping, flyposting and graffiti. We have worked closely with colleagues at Shetland Islands Council, and the many hundreds of volunteers who take part in Da Voar Redd Up annually, and I’d like to thank them all for their efforts to keep Scotland beautiful.”

Yet despite its numerous attractions, the distance involved and unpredictable climate mean comparatively few visitors actually reach Shetland. Last year saw 89,000 people complete the trip.

Whilst this figure represents an increase of 9,000 from the post-pandemic year of 2019, the islands’ appeal, intrigue and spotlessly clean environment surely deserve far greater recognition.

Ludicrous prices at Christmas markets are causing disgruntled scrooges everywhere to pooh pooh the festive activity. Is this northern UK market worth your time?

York is many things – and one of them is a city that prides itself on doing Christmas right. As a northern city outside of Manchester, prices at the Christmas market were not obscene. However, they were, for me, very much not worth the cost.

Still recovering from the shock of seeing an “ethically sourced” whippet tree decoration for £16.25 at a museum shop – we headed to the city centre.

If you have ever found yourself leaning into the role of Ebeneezer Scrooge around Christmas, give this market a hard swerve. I found the prospect of shelling out £7.50 on a gimmicky hot chocolate infuriating. However, it would be stupid not to respect that these festive hot spots are popular for a reason.

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There was a distinct lack of aroma at this Christmas market. You might expect the warm, sweet scent of sugared nuts to perfume the air. Instead, the residual angst of frustrated parents and teenagers barging past pensioners dominated the atmosphere.

The main event – and the viral moment of the Christmas market – was the Chocolate Circus. By the gaggle of souls wrapped up to the nines waiting in the queue, you might think the masterminds behind Chocolate Circus had reinvented the wheel. They have not.

In fact, what you will be paying £7.50 for is a hot chocolate with a cookie on top. After a couple of sips of my (decent) hot chocolate through the candy cane striped straw, my (rock hard) cookie fell into the milky drink.

I looked in disbelief before wondering if it was worth digging in and fishing it out. Looking to my right and left, I did just that – refusing to let an estimated £5 disintegrate into milk. My life-saving efforts failed. A young, glamorous-looking couple watched on in apparent horror as I, in a strop, dumped it into the bin.

If you have children, visitors, or a significant Christmas bonus, then maybe the array of half an hour queues and sugary £15 treats will be up your street. Tommy Banks’ pies racked up quite the audience. The celebrity chef’s face is plastered over a double-fronted wooden shack with pies going for £9.90 a pop.

The spice bag queues – which were lengthy – also saw customers waiting half an hour to drop £12.50 on the Irish delicacy. It’s not difficult to conclude that I am simply not the right person for this kind of fare. I am happy with a sit-down and equally pricey pastry.

For parents, or fellow miseries, there is a beautiful cafe a stone’s throw away from the Christmas market. Peach coloured and beautifully quiet, Heppni, meaning lucky, sells an array of more subtle Christmas treats – including pigs in blankets croissants. I would recommend you camp out here as your happy-go-lucky counterparts enjoy the market.

York Christmas market – like all Christmas markets – is for those who are serious about getting into the festive season in mid-November and are prepared to back it up with cold, hard cash.