Travel Desk

YOU’RE in the Alps for a ski holiday – you’ve got your gear, your lift pass and the optimism that you won’t wipe out on a blue run as kids whizz past you.

But what if skiing on a skiing holiday is optional?

What if there’s an Alpine world that doesn’t require you to throw yourself downhill at speed?

The wild and wonderful phenomenon of après-ski only gears up after the lifts stop — and the party gets going.

Après-ski is no small affair — this is not just drinks before dinner.

In the Three Valleys area of the French Alps, après is a daily festival and feels like a way of life.

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Picture this: a live band steps on stage ahead of a DJ surrounded by strobe lights, crowds are dancing on the tables (in ski boots) and bobble hats are thrown in the air.

This melee of strangers is swaying together, drinks in hand, as revellers sing at the top of their lungs.

This is a kind of Alpine Glastonbury, where people swap flower crowns and flags for puffer jackets and goggles.

And the best part? You don’t have to ski or snowboard to enjoy it.

The Three Valleys is known for some of the best slopes in the world, with almost 600km of pistes, as high as 3,000 metres, to pick from.

But interconnected Valleys resorts Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens also showcase thousands of music gigs.

The magic is thanks to London and Méribel-based agency Après Ski Bands, which books more than 3,500 such events per season across 130 venues.

These aren’t bog-standard cover bands — they’re high-energy pros, picked in X Factor-style auditions in the UK, who turn ski resorts into concert venues during winter.

In five days in the Alps, I saw nine superb acts without even trying — starting with party band Magnolia, ending with DJ and MC duo Rio & Rhymes and acts in between including emerging alt-rock talent Pattern Pusher and diverse après heroes The Wingmen.

For folk fans, there’s guitarist Chris Quinn, who opened for the Jools Holland Orchestra, and singer-songwriter Albert Jones, who appeared on BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Performing in the Alps is hard graft, as musicians play up to 140 dates in a single season.

At Lodge Du Village in Méribel alone, there are 900 live gigs each winter — with Mondays to Wednesdays often wilder than Saturday nights (free shots for those who arrive early).

Le Rond Point — or Ronnie — in Méribel is one of those places where you show up for one drink and suddenly it’s four hours later, and you’re leading a conga line and wearing someone else’s unicorn onesie.

And let’s not forget ultra-Insta La Folie Douce, a venue likened to Ibiza in the snow. If it sounds like an attack on the senses, that’s because it is.

But if partying isn’t really your thing, there are other things on offer in the Valleys.

For a touch of luxury, hit a hotel spa or soak in your chalet’s outdoor hot tub with a glass of fizz, watching skiers from a distance.

If you want to be on the white stuff minus the face-planting, then snowshoeing or sled-dog walking are great for exploring at a gentle pace.

Then, of course, there is the ultimate Alpine sport — eating.

Food here is an attraction in itself, with Méribel’s Le Cro Magnon and La Terrasse du Village delivering everything from hearty Savoyard to refined French-British fusion.

If you come to the Alps and don’t eat fondue, tartiflette or raclette, did you even visit the Alps?

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And now it’s not just a winter thing, with resorts shifting towards year-round tourism, meaning the party doesn’t stop when the snow starts to melt in April.

Whether you’re dancing on tables, belting out rock anthems with a crowd of strangers, exploring snowy forests, or eating your bodyweight in cheese, you’ve made it down a black run to holiday heaven.

A ‘major incident’ has been declared after multiple people were stabbed on board a train in Cambridgeshire that was heading to London King’s Cross. Here’s everything we know so far

A horrifying knife attack unfolded on a high-speed train heading towards London last night, leaving ten people hospitalised, nine of whom have life-threatening injuries.

The incident took place on Saturday, 1 November, on the 18.25 service from Doncaster, South Yorkshire, to London King’s Cross. Police received reports at 7.39pm that “multiple people had been stabbed on a train”, and armed police, paramedics, air ambulances and transport police rushed to Huntingdon station, where the train made an unscheduled stop for assistance.

While the train stopped at Huntingdon, some passengers said the attack took place shortly after the train left Peterborough station in Cambridgeshire, which is around 50 minutes from London. British Transport Police confirmed that 10 people were taken to hospital, with nine believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries. There have been no fatalities.

READ MORE: Huntingdon train stabbings: Counter-terror police investigate as ‘major incident’ declaredREAD MORE: Huntingdon horror as person ‘hanging out train door bleeding’ after mass stabbings

The terrifying train attacks are said to have involved a man carrying a large knife. Two people have been arrested over the stabbings, and one suspect is believed to have been shot with a taser.

Passengers recounted scenes of panic as people trampled over each other and hid in toilets to escape the carnage. One witness told The Times there was “blood everywhere” and people were getting “stamped” on by others as they tried to flee. “I heard some people shouting we love (you).”

Witness Olly Foster told the BBC he initially heard people shouting “run, run, there’s a guy literally stabbing everyone”, and believed it might have been a prank related to Halloween. He quickly realised it was not a prank when he noticed his hand was “covered in blood” as there was “blood all over the chair” he had leaned on.

An older man “blocked” the attacker from stabbing a younger girl, leaving him with a gash on his head and neck, Foster said. Passengers around him used jackets to try to stop the bleeding. Although it lasted 10 to 15 minutes in total, Foster said the incident “felt like forever”.

Another witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared the horror moment he saw a person “hanging out the train door bleeding”. They told The Mirror: “I was waiting for the 8:10pm train to Kings Cross when I spotted the train on the platform. I spotted someone hanging out the train door bleeding.

“I looked further up the platform and see people running towards me bleeding and panicking. I saw someone in a hoodie running towards us so I shouted for everyone to leave the station immediately, so I got people out the station with me and to a place of safety.”

In the early hours of this morning (2 November), the incident was escalated to a “major incident” and counter-terrorism police were brought in to support the investigation. The station remains closed with numerous train services cancelled.

British Transport Police said in a statement: “We can confirm that at 7.42pm today (1 November) British Transport Police were called to reports of a multiple stabbing on board the 6.25pm train service from Doncaster to London King’s Cross.

“Officers immediately attended Huntingdon station alongside paramedics.

“Armed police from Cambridgeshire Police boarded the train and arrested two people in connection to the incident who have been taken to police custody.

“Ten people have been taken to hospital with nine believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries. One is being treated for non life-threatening injuries. There have been no fatalities.

“This has been declared a major incident and Counter Terrorism Policing are supporting our investigation whilst we work to establish the full ci

rcumstances and motivation for this incident.”

As an investigation is underway, it is unclear at this time what caused the incident. In regard to this, Chief Superintendent Chris Casey issued a statement, which read: “This is a shocking incident and first and foremost my thoughts are with those who have been injured this evening and their families.

“We’re conducting urgent enquiries to establish what has happened, and it could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything further.

“At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident.

“Our response is ongoing at the station and will be for some time.

“Cordons are in place and trains are not currently running through the area, and there are also some road closures.”

A ‘major incident’ has been declared after multiple people were stabbed on board a train in Cambridgeshire that was heading to London King’s Cross. Here’s everything we know so far

A horrifying knife attack unfolded on a high-speed train heading towards London last night, leaving ten people hospitalised, nine of whom have life-threatening injuries.

The incident took place on Saturday, 1 November, on the 18.25 service from Doncaster, South Yorkshire, to London King’s Cross. Police received reports at 7.39pm that “multiple people had been stabbed on a train”, and armed police, paramedics, air ambulances and transport police rushed to Huntingdon station, where the train made an unscheduled stop for assistance.

While the train stopped at Huntingdon, some passengers said the attack took place shortly after the train left Peterborough station in Cambridgeshire, which is around 50 minutes from London. British Transport Police confirmed that 10 people were taken to hospital, with nine believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries. There have been no fatalities.

READ MORE: Huntingdon train stabbings: Counter-terror police investigate as ‘major incident’ declaredREAD MORE: Huntingdon horror as person ‘hanging out train door bleeding’ after mass stabbings

The terrifying train attacks are said to have involved a man carrying a large knife. Two people have been arrested over the stabbings, and one suspect is believed to have been shot with a taser.

Passengers recounted scenes of panic as people trampled over each other and hid in toilets to escape the carnage. One witness told The Times there was “blood everywhere” and people were getting “stamped” on by others as they tried to flee. “I heard some people shouting we love (you).”

Witness Olly Foster told the BBC he initially heard people shouting “run, run, there’s a guy literally stabbing everyone”, and believed it might have been a prank related to Halloween. He quickly realised it was not a prank when he noticed his hand was “covered in blood” as there was “blood all over the chair” he had leaned on.

An older man “blocked” the attacker from stabbing a younger girl, leaving him with a gash on his head and neck, Foster said. Passengers around him used jackets to try to stop the bleeding. Although it lasted 10 to 15 minutes in total, Foster said the incident “felt like forever”.

Another witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared the horror moment he saw a person “hanging out the train door bleeding”. They told The Mirror: “I was waiting for the 8:10pm train to Kings Cross when I spotted the train on the platform. I spotted someone hanging out the train door bleeding.

“I looked further up the platform and see people running towards me bleeding and panicking. I saw someone in a hoodie running towards us so I shouted for everyone to leave the station immediately, so I got people out the station with me and to a place of safety.”

In the early hours of this morning (2 November), the incident was escalated to a “major incident” and counter-terrorism police were brought in to support the investigation. The station remains closed with numerous train services cancelled.

British Transport Police said in a statement: “We can confirm that at 7.42pm today (1 November) British Transport Police were called to reports of a multiple stabbing on board the 6.25pm train service from Doncaster to London King’s Cross.

“Officers immediately attended Huntingdon station alongside paramedics.

“Armed police from Cambridgeshire Police boarded the train and arrested two people in connection to the incident who have been taken to police custody.

“Ten people have been taken to hospital with nine believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries. One is being treated for non life-threatening injuries. There have been no fatalities.

“This has been declared a major incident and Counter Terrorism Policing are supporting our investigation whilst we work to establish the full ci

rcumstances and motivation for this incident.”

As an investigation is underway, it is unclear at this time what caused the incident. In regard to this, Chief Superintendent Chris Casey issued a statement, which read: “This is a shocking incident and first and foremost my thoughts are with those who have been injured this evening and their families.

“We’re conducting urgent enquiries to establish what has happened, and it could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything further.

“At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident.

“Our response is ongoing at the station and will be for some time.

“Cordons are in place and trains are not currently running through the area, and there are also some road closures.”

LOVE a buffet but fancy something a little more luxury? Well, we’ve found the spot perfect for that with the world’s biggest buffet just a few hours from the UK.

Les Grands Buffets in the south of France is so in demand that it often has a seven-month waiting list.

The luxury buffet dates back to 1989 and welcomes 400,000 brave diners each year.

That’s around 600 people each day, for lunch and dinner.

Whilst not exactly your budget buffet, it isn’t too outrageously priced either at €65.90 (£57.38) per person.

The inside of the restaurant is so vast that visitors are handed a map upon entering – there are four dining rooms in total.

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One of the rooms – called Salon Dore Jean de la Fontaine – was created by the same people who restored the Palace of Versailles, so as you can imagine, is pretty extravagant.

In fact, around 18,000 gold leaves have been added to the finishings in the room.

Another – the Tente d’Apparat Jean-Baptiste Nolin – is a tented room that pays tribute to Louis XIV.

If you’re a glutton for punishment, you can even weigh yourself before and after to see how much food you have consumed.

All of the food served at the buffet is inspired by 19th century chef Auguste Escoffier, who is often considered one of the masters of traditional French cuisine.

In total, there are 150 entrees, main courses and desserts at the buffet.

One section of the restaurant is a seafood buffet, with dishes including a royal seafood platter, fish soup and smoked salmon.

Bottomless lobster is also available.

At the foie gras buffet, guests can help themselves to a range of different duck foie gras, including ones with pepper or creme brulee.

Then there is also a pâté en croûte buffet and a cooked meat and terrine buffet.

For main dishes, guests can enjoy a range of options such as veal, snails,a roasted leg of lamb, scallops, quail stuffed with foie gras, suckling pig on a spit, omelettes, salmon, beef fillet, beef stew, onion soup, squid, wild boar stew, gratin dauphinoise… The list goes on.

Les Grands Buffets is home to the largest cheese selection in the world, in a restaurant with over 100 varieties of cheese.

When it comes to sweet treats there is a cake section, with a towering chocolate fountain.

Classic desserts make an appearance as well, such as creme caramel and black forest gateau with candied cherries.

Flamed desserts are available too, like crepes, rum bananas and baked Alaska.

Or opt for some classic ice cream or sorbet.

The restaurant has over 32,000 reviews on Google, equalling an average rating of 4.5 stars.

One recent visitor said: “You don’t come here just for the food.

“It’s about the whole experience which is totally ridiculous and fun.

“While it wasn’t the best buffet food I’ve ever had, the showmanship and atmosphere really do make up for it.”

Another added: “It is a feast for once in a lifetime.”

The restaurant is located in Narbonne, a town in south France on the Canal de la Robine.

If visiting, the town has some other lovely spots to explore such as the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur, which started construction back in the 13th century but was never finished.

For some history, head to the Archbishop’s Palace which is home to a number of archaeological and art museums.

And if it is sunny, you can explore Plage de Narbonne beach which has golden sand and clear waters.

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In other buffet news, these are the little-known way hotels are trying to make you eat less at the breakfast buffet.

Plus, 10 tips to enjoy your holiday buffet without gaining extra pounds – from plate size to eating that dessert.

Want to see the most beautiful scenes in one trip? A must-do country European road trip will take you to six countries, where you will see the sea, mountains, castles and breath-taking views

Hopping on a plane and getting to your holiday destination in hours is a luxury, but one thing that everyone should do at least once in their lives is a road trip.

TikTok account Living Our Memories shared the perfect itinerary, where the key stops included France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium. The total route is 23 hours and 49 minutes, non-stop.

Gathering over a million views, the couple, who shared their travels with their 5K followers, captioned the video: “An epic road trip across 6 countries you must have to do at least once in your life.”

Champagne, France

First stop, the French region of Champagne, known for its scenic vineyards. Located in the northeast of France, their sparkling white wine is what makes them so well-known. Visitors can see the cities of Reims and Épernay, as well as the villages like Hautvillers and Méry-sur-Ay.

Wine lovers can make a pit stop and tour the famous Champagne houses such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. Those who prefer adrenaline can do some outdoor activities such as biking through the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.

Stausee Steg, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein’s turquoise waters in the middle of the most gorgeous greenery scenes, facing the mountains. It’s the perfect place for a swim in the lake or a picnic with your loved ones.

If you’re feeling sporty or want to capture the perfect shot, you can hike the mountains and get the perfect scene. According to AllTrails, it’s best to bring water shoes for those who plan to swim or walk near the rocky edges.

Lake Eibsee, Germany

Nature lovers will love Lake Eibsee in Germany. The waters are crystal clear with views of the Zugspitze mountains.

Some of the activities for visitors are hiking the 7.5 km (4.6 miles) walk around the lake, as it provides stunning views. You can also rent a boat or a canoe to explore the lake and the surrounding islands. If you’re brave enough, you can also swim in the waters – but it’s super cold.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Located in Bavaria, Germany, in the foothills of the Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is just the exact layout as the ones in the Disney movies. In fact, it’s best known for the inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

The 19th-century historic castle overlooks the narrow Pollat gorge, and it’s close to the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes. Therefore, it makes it an ideal place to visit on the way to the upcoming location of the road trip.

Tickets cost 20 euros (£17.36), but children under the age of 18 can access the castle completely free of charge.

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Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg’s tourism has increased over the years, making it the perfect place for a city break or a day trip. The city has a unique blend of history and culture, with a lot to offer to visitors and locals alike.

Its historical sites include UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous landmarks such as the Grand Ducal Palace and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The best thing about Luxembourg is that you can enjoy it all year round, and the public transportation is free.

Dinant, Belgium

To conclude the road trip, what better way to do it than in Belgium? A more tranquil side of the country, with beautiful scenery and history. Its most popular tourist attraction is the Maison Leffe. The town’s location is also ideal along the River Meuse, as it overlooks the water and the pastel-coloured houses.

Visitors can walk through the cobbled streets, take a boat tour and even participate in water activities such as kayaking on the nearby Lesse River.

Bruges, Belgium

Perfect for a city break, a small yet fulfilling town with a lot to offer. If you’re a fan of medieval settings, this is the place for you. However, its popularity comes with big crowds and higher costs.

Bruges is also famous for its Belgian waffles, fries, chocolate and beer – so, come with an empty stomach to indulge the best sweet and savoury flavours.

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As a former airport employee, I attempted the viral travel hack that allows passengers to successfully get on the plane by showing up 35 minutes before boarding starts

Everyone loves a holiday, but going two to three hours early to the airport can lead to you waiting for hours until the departure time – and that’s not fun.

According to Hoppa, airlines advise passengers to show up at the airport at least three hours before their departing time for international flights or two hours before any domestic flights, to ensure a smooth check-in process, such as dropping off your luggage, and avoiding any potential queues in security.

Working at the airport made me realise that there’s no need to show up hours earlier at the airport. As excited as one can get to begin their holidays, the airport isn’t a place to hang out. If I can give you a tip now, it’s to make sure your electronics and liquids are packed accordingly.

But there’s a trick for those who want to skip the long waiting hours, and it’s called the ‘airport theory’ – but there’s a catch.

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What is the ‘airport theory’?

Earlier this year, a so-called ‘airport theory’ went viral on social media, where passengers showed up to the airport 35 minutes (or even 15 minutes on some occasions) before their flight started boarding. Yes, it works, but there’s a catch that a lot of people miss.

During my holidays in Spain, I showed up at the airport less than an hour before the flight departed. No bags to check in and a digital boarding pass, I went through security in under five minutes. Lucky me, I was familiar with the layout of the airport, and I had minutes to spare to grab a coffee before heading to the departure gate.

The catch is that this only works for those travellers who don’t have to check in any luggage. If you have a big-sized bag to send off, you must show up at the check-in counters before they close, which is usually an hour before the flight departure time.

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It’s also important to note that the waiting times at the airport can vary depending on the time of year. Therefore, it’s worth double-checking the status of your flight, as well as the distance between the security checkpoint and the gate.

Another secret from me is that if you ever show up late to the check-in counter and have a bag to drop, speak to an airline agent. In the majority of cases, the check-in agent will charge you a late drop-off fee to take your bag, which is better than leaving it behind!

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Sleigh rides in Zakopane, Poland

Saddle up for sleigh rides, strap in for a 220-metre illuminated toboggan run, and prepare to get lost in an ice-carved maze at the Snowland theme park in Zakopane, as Poland’s winter capital sparkles up for the season. Pair a snowy walk through the Chochołowska valley with a visit to the Chochołowskie thermal baths, with outdoor pools, sauna, balneotherapy and massage treatments. Stay at the Hotel Aries, which mixes classic Alpine design with Zakopane touches (local wine and traditional dishes in the Halka restaurant, furniture and rugs by local craftspeople), and don’t miss the world’s largest snow maze and the Palace of the Snow Queen in the Snowlandia theme park, which has individual chambers sculpted from snow and ice by local artists.
Doubles at Hotel Aries from £165 B&B. Zakopane is around two hours from Krakow by bus; the hotel is a 1km taxi ride from the station

Snowmobiling in Montenegro

A winter adventure doesn’t have to mean hurtling downhill at breakneck speed. Montenegro’s Durmitor national park offers snowmobiling through the Sinjajevina and Bjelasica mountains, white-water rafting and snowshoeing trails. Žabljak makes an ideal base. The highest small town in the Balkans, it is surrounded by glacial lakes that freeze in winter, and Black Lake (3km away) is a famous viewing point for the park’s spectacular night sky. Cosy Hotel Soa has a wellness centre with a hammam and Finnish sauna, and a fire-lit lounge with dramatic mountain views.
Doubles at Hotel Soa (hotelsoa.com) from €98 B&B. Žabljak is two and a half hours from the capital, Podgorica, by bus

Lakes and valleys in Slovenia

Discover a different side of the Alps on a four-night break to Slovenia, which combines one night in the buzzy capital, Ljubljana, with time exploring the forested landscapes and snowy peaks of the Triglav national park, Lake Bled and the Logar Valley. The scenic train ride through the Julian Alps from Bohinj to Most na Soči, on a rocky crest overlooking the Soča and Idrica rivers, is a highlight, as is a visit to Kranjska Gora, where the fairy-lit chalets and snow-capped pines feel straight out of the Austrian Tirol. After exploring, there are two nights in the peaceful Logar Valley, latticed with hiking trails, with thermal spa treatments on offer at the Hotel Plesik.
Four-night break from Untravelled Paths £974pp, B&B, including all transfers and excursions.

Trains and trekking in St Moritz, Switzerland

It’s all glitz in St Moritz, right? Well, no: perhaps surprisingly, it is possible to enjoy the glorious landscapes of the Upper Engadine without spending a fortune. Randolins, set above the resort on the Suvretta hillside, is one of Switzerland’s snow sports hotels, offering everything from cross-country skiing and horse-drawn carriage rides to snowy hikes from the door, along with an expansive wellness centre (including an 80C Finnish sauna) and two restaurants. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the region’s spectacular mountain railways; both the Glacier and the Bernina Express – which climbs to 2,250 metres – stop at St Moritz station. Booking in advance is essential for both.
Doubles at Randolins from £174 B&B. There are direct trains from Zurich to St Moritz (four hours)

Snowshoeing in the Lechtal, Austria

Few places can beat Austria for snowy landscapes, and there is plenty of Tirolean countryside to explore away from the busy ski resorts. This week of guided walking is tailored to take advantage of the trails that provide the best conditions on any given day, with snowshoes offering opportunities to access pristine sections unreachable in normal walking boots. Lunches are in traditional mountain Hütten (perhaps a cheesy Käsespätzle with crispy onions, or a bowl of Gulasch) and base is the charming Hotel Grüner Baum, in the high Alpine village of Bach im Lechtal. The highlight is a torchlit evening walk, with plenty of warming Glühwein.
A week’s guided walking from Ramble Worldwide, departing in January 2026, from £1,189pp half-board, including transfers, equipment and a tour leader

Cheese caves and chateaux in Annecy, France

Surrounded by dramatic peaks, and with a direct train connection from Paris (four hours), Annecy is that rare thing – a lake town that offers as much in winter as in summer. Boat trips run all year, while the voie verte greenway offers easy cycling and walking along the western lakeshore. Catch the bus to the Aravis mountains, where reblochon cheese is made and matured in cheese caves at the village of Manigod (guided tours available). The nearby Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard is spectacular; 1,000-year-old turrets soaring up out of the forest. Stay at newly opened La Cour du 6 in the old town, with a sleek, art deco feel to the elegant rooms.
Doubles at La Cour du 6 from €100

A farmstay in the Trentino, Italy

There are just three bedrooms at Pimont Alpine Chalet, a gloriously tranquil esercizio rurale, a traditional farmstead surrounded by the rough-hewn peaks of the Adamello Brenta nature park. Days begin with an organic, locally sourced breakfast – including homemade bread, cakes and jam – in the cosy stube, which becomes a firelit lounge in the evening. The emphasis at Pimont is on slow-paced exploration. The owners are mountain guides who can accompany guests on hikes or advise on the best trails for independent walking. The nearby ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio offers ice-skating on the frozen Conca Verde lake, with dog-sledding through the surrounding forest.
Doubles at Pimont Alpine Chalet from €180 B&B. The nearest station is Trento, an hour and a half away by car

Sleigh rides in Sweden

Snow White herself wouldn’t have turned her nose up at Gammelgården; a picture-perfect cluster of restored log buildings, some dating back to the 1600s. Perched high up in the Sälen mountains, in the unspoilt Dalarna region 250 miles (400km) north-west of Stockholm, it’s the kind of place where it’s easy to settle in front of the fire and not move for days. There’s also plenty to do, with reindeer walks, dog-sledding, sleigh rides and snowmobile excursions, while back at base, a visit to the 400-year-old waffle cabin is not to be missed. Carnivores will love the evening menu, with a focus on local game (reindeer tataki or venison sirloin), but there are fish dishes and a veggie option too.
Doubles at Gammelgården from £110 B&B. The nearest train station is Mora, with direct bus connections to Sälen (two hours)

Hiking and hearty mountain food in Germany

Sandstone cliffs, dramatic gorges, flat-topped mesas – it’s a mystery as to why the spectacular landscapes of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains in eastern Germany remain so under the radar. This self-guided walking tour through “Saxon Switzerland”, as it’s called, takes in quiet villages of timber-framed cottages and dense pine forest, cloaking the peaks that sweep up to the sandstone spires. The trip begins in the spa town of Bad Schandau, home to the spectacular, 11-metre-high Kuhstall rock gate and the beautiful Lichtenhain waterfall. En route, expect hearty lunches of Spätzle (noodles), sausage and lentil soup, and marzipan cakes, at traditional Berggasthofs (mountain inns).
Five-night breaks from Walks Worldwide (walksworldwide.com) from £619 half-board, including luggage transfers, GPX and walking maps. Departures between November and March

Culinary Vercors in France

Active breaks are all very well, but sometimes a winter holiday needs nothing more than good food, great views and an indulgently comfortable place to stay. Opening for its winter season on 12 December, the lovely Hotel du Golf – a converted farmhouse in the village of Correncon, tucked away in the Vercors national park, ticks all the boxes. Its restaurant, Asterales, won a Michelin star this year, the wood-panelled bedrooms are chic and unfussy, and the hot tub, pool and sauna are a cocoon of warmth after a foray outdoors. Foodies should book a table at Palégrié, where everything is cooked over an open fire, and Le Clariant, an isolated, self-sufficient restaurant, buried deep in the Vercors forest.
Doubles at Hotel du Golf (hotel-du-golf-vercors.fr) from €156 B&B. Correncon is 40 minutes’ drive south of Grenoble

Bethany Clarke and her best friend Simone White were backpacking together around Southeast Asia when they drank bootleg shots laced with methanol – and it proved tragically fatal for Simone

A woman has died after unknowingly drinking shots laced with methanol.

Bethany Clarke, 28, from Orpington, southeast London, went backpacking around Southeast Asia with her best friend, Simone White, 28, last year.

Both the women drank the bootleg alcohol, and tragically it proved fatal for Simone.

Bethany and Simone started their backpacking in Cambodia and went from there to Laos. They had spent the day tubing down the river – a popular tourist activity – before returning to their hostel for a night of drinking.

Bethany said: “We had methanol-laced shots. We had five or six each, just mixing them with Sprite.

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“The next morning, we didn’t feel right, but we just assumed it was a hangover. It was strange though – unlike any hangover I’d had before.

“It felt like being drunk but in a way where you couldn’t enjoy it. Something was just off.”

Despite their condition, they continued on with their plans, heading to the Blue Lagoon and kayaking down the river again.

Bethany added: “We were just lying on the backs of the kayaks, too weak to paddle. Simone was being sick off one of them. Neither of us wanted to swim or eat – which, we later learned, are early signs of methanol poisoning.”

It wasn’t until hours later, after they’d boarded a bus to their next destination, that things worsened, with Bethany fainting and Simone continuing to vomit.

Eventually, they were taken to a local hospital – one that Bethany described as “very poor”.

She said: “They had no idea what was wrong, they talked about food poisoning, but we hadn’t eaten the same things. It didn’t make sense.”

Still confused and deteriorating, the women made it to a private hospital. But by then it was too late.

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Bethany said: “They told me they’d do all they could to save her. She was having seizures during dialysis.”

When Simone’s condition worsened, her mother, Sue White, flew out to Laos, arriving just as her daughter was being wheeled into emergency brain surgery.

Bethany said: “Her brain had started to swell, and they had to shave her head. The surgery relieved the pressure but caused bleeding and the other side started swelling.”

The results confirming methanol poisoning wouldn’t arrive until two weeks later. By then, Simone had died.

Bethany said: “On an emotional level, it’s been a lot to process. Sometimes I still think, ‘Why don’t you reach out to Simone for that?’ and then I remember I can’t.”

Bethany has channeled her grief into campaigning for change and awareness. She said: “People still aren’t aware and don’t know the signs to look for.

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“The government aren’t doing enough to educate British citizens about the signs of methanol poisoning.

“In Australia, where I live now, they have a big TikTok campaign and signs in all the airports.

“There’s a lot more work to be done in the UK – we’re behind. Anywhere there is organised crime, the opportunity exists – even in the UK.

Bethany also reckons there will be more deaths until people become more aware.”It’s highly likely we’ll see more deaths unless the UK government acts in a more radical way,” she said.

“It has to be in people’s heads – stick to canned drinks. But bottles can be more risky because the cap could have been replaced.

“Any spirits can be a risk. I say ‘steer clear, drink beer’ which rolls off the tongue.”

READ MORE: Limoncello poisoning victims’ parents reveal they bought booze that killed couple

Just recently, the Foreign Office added eight further countries to the risk list for methanol poisoning due to risks associated with counterfeit or tainted alcoholic drinks.

The list already covered Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica and Fiji.

Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia and Uganda were now included in the list following incidents.

Methanol poisoning results from methanol being added to drinks such as cocktails and spirits to up the volume and cut costs.

Signs of the poisoning include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion – and more distinctive symptoms, such as vision issues, can develop between 12 and 48 hours after consumption.

The beautiful seaside town is perfect for a winter getaway. The town has a pier, sandy beaches, a number of attractions and is famous for its crabs.

The summer season has come to an end, and many Brits are now setting their sights on a winter escape. While seaside towns are a hit for holidays during the balmy months, they also offer fantastic getaways during the colder, darker days.

Winter visits provide a unique ambiance, ideal for tranquil seaside strolls, snug pubs, and fewer crowds. The town of Cromer, situated 23 miles north of Norwich, has been hailed as the perfect alternative to more frequented spots like Brighton or Bournemouth.

For those seeking a quieter coastal retreat during the off-peak months, this Norfolk town could be just the ticket. This vibrant seaside resort boasts sandy beaches, a pier, and a plethora of attractions. The high street is brimming with art galleries, independent shops, and pastel-coloured buildings.

The Norfolk Coast Path, which offers sweeping views of the rugged Norfolk coastline, is easily accessible from Cromer and is an ideal route for families to explore. The historic Grade II listed Victorian Pier, home to the world’s last end-of-pier theatre, hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including a Christmas Show that always draws both locals and visitors alike, reports the Express.

Cromer is also renowned for its Cromer crab, celebrated for their sweet and flavourful meat, caught in the chalky waters off the North Norfolk coast. The town honours its unique seafood heritage with the annual Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival.

Within the town centre, visitors will discover numerous shops, restaurants and pubs. The 14th century St Peter and Paul church dominates the skyline, boasting Norfolk’s tallest church tower at 160 feet.

History enthusiasts frequently visit Cromer Museum, which offers captivating exhibits about the area’s past, including the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed, known as “Britain’s Great Barrier Reef”, and the wartime story of how the Government planned to destroy the pier to prevent it being used as a landing strip by Britain’s enemies.

The town also houses a Banksy artwork that materialised on a sea wall in 2021, forming part of the elusive artist’s Great British Spraycation tour of Norfolk and Suffolk.

Referencing Cromer’s crab fishing heritage, the piece depicts hermit crabs, with one occupying a shell whilst displaying a placard reading “luxury rentals online” – believed to comment on local housing concerns. The council has protected it with resin coating against weather damage.

TripAdvisor reviews from tourists are overwhelmingly favourable, with many highlighting the town’s charm and available amenities.

GrahamN66 said: “First visit to Cromer, summer 2025. It is a gem, as it says itself! Excellent, long sandy beaches with shingle at the top. Just great, even if loads of people are using it, there is always space and it is just lovely. Amazing sunsets, facilities, all within easy walking distance – would totally recommend.”

Anglian Wanderer shared: “Cromer is one of those places I return to time and again, and it never loses its charm. The beach is as beautiful as ever, with wide stretches of sand, fascinating rock pools at low tide, and postcard-worthy sunsets.

“What I love most about Cromer is an unspoiled seaside town full of character, charm, and community. If you want fresh sea air, real coastal beauty, and a town that feels like a well-kept secret, Cromer will win your heart.”

Cutiepie19 said in: “Stayed at Hotel facing pier in Cromer. The place is beautiful. Visited its museums and church. Coffee shops are delightful. Lots of places to stop off and enjoy. Quaint little streets full of delightful independent and main street shops.

“Lots of cute food places and pubs. Very, very clean too. Gorgeous pier which is very well maintained. Beautiful prom to walk along and admire the view out to sea. Spotless beaches. Highly recommended.”

A day out at a theme park isn’t just a summer activity. Many parks will be open for Christmas-themed fun, and you’ll find fun, festive activities to suit all ages

Looking for a festive day out for all the family? Many theme parks will be opening their doors for the Christmas season with a range of activities for all the family. In addition to themed days out, some parks will also be offering special short breaks, with extras such as Santa visits and evening entertainment and even the chance to enjoy a festive-themed sleepover at the on-park hotels. Here’s a round-up of some of the most popular theme parks in the UK and what they’ll be offering this November and December.

Alton Towers – Magical Days Out

From £18 per person

In the run up to Christmas and the New Year, Alton Towers offers Magical Days Out starting at just £18 per person. While it’s a cheaper way to visit the park, it’s worth noting that only CBeebies Land and Mutiny Bay are open, plus a couple of the bigger rides, so you don’t expect all the usual thrill rides to be available.

However, the park is set to be decked out in festive decorations, and visitors can enjoy Christmas-themed shows such as Hey Duggee Live: The Christmas Badge!, which is bound to be a hit with the younger members of the family.

Families can also book a Santa Sleepover at one of the park’s on-site hotels, starting at £91 per person. This includes a one-day theme park ticket, a visit to Santa’s grotto, a traditional pantomime, and a festive dinner and entertainment for the whole family. Booking the Santa Sleepover also gives you access to the on-site waterpark and crazy golf.

Find out more on Alton Towers’ official website.

Gulliver’s – Christmas and Land of Lights

From £27 per person

Three of Gulliver’s theme parks will be offering Christmas events: Rotherham, Milton Keynes, and Warrington, with a selection of Christmas rides and attractions open during this time. What’s available over the festive period varies by park, and some of the activities on offer include festive breakfasts, Santa’s grottos, Christmas shows, Elf workshops, and more, with a variety of packages available.

Each park will also have a Land of Lights attraction – a spectacular light trail that opens during the winter. Tickets for this attraction are sold separately and start at £13.75 per person.

For more information and dates visit Gulliver’s website.

Drayton Manor – Christmas Wonderland

From £20 per person

Drayton Manor say they’ve unwrapped their “biggest and most magical Christmas plans ever”. The Midland-based park, which is best-known for being the home of Thomas Land, will open on selected dates from November 22 to December 31 with most of the park’s rides open.

There will also be a range of themed attractions for family days out. Fans of Elf on the Shelf can enjoy Elftoria, with the cheeky creatures taking over the park and adding a mischievous touch to your day. Children can even take part in pranking workshops and enjoy a live elf show.

Kids can visit the Castle Grotto, which will include a story-time experience with Mrs Claus and a visit to the man in red, while Thomas Land will be decked out in seasonal decorations and have festive family shows. In the evening, families can board the Twinkling Express, a gentle journey surrounded by Christmas light trails.

Find out more about Christmas at Drayton Manor here.

Paultons Park – Celebration of Christmas

From £20 per person

Paultons, perhaps most famous for being the home of Peppa Pig World, will be turning their park into a Christmas wonderland. On selected dates through December, visitors can visit Peppa and friends in their festive clothing, enjoy Santa’s Christmas Wish show, or enjoy festive-themed menus in the park’s cafes.

If you prefer thrill rides, the Tornado Springs are will be also be open as well as selected rides in Lost Kingdom and Critter Creek.

Book or find out more about Christmas at Paultons here.

Chessington – Christmas Village

From £32 per person

Chessington’s Christmas village ticket will include a selection of the park’s rides, as well as access to the zoo and SEA LIFE centre. Visitors will be able to enjoy a Christmassy silent disco, wander through a snowy trail, and see the elves making toys in their workshop. Of course, there’s also a visit to Santa to give him your Christmas list.

Visitors can stay for longer by booking the on-site Safari or Azteca Resort Hotel, and there’s even a range of VIP experiences that can be added onto your package to create unique Christmas memories. Book an elf wake up call, with a small pre-Christmas gift for the kids, or take part in a reindeer encounter and see Santa’s helpers up close.

But the fun doesn’t stop once January comes round. Chessington now offer a themed Christmas Room, which will be a permanent fixture in their hotel year-round. No matter when you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy a decorated tree, Christmas crackers, hot chocolate, and even a decorated Christmas parking space. It’s perfect for the Christmas obsessive in your life.

Find out more about Christmas at Chessington and book tickets here.

Planning ahead of time could make your holiday much, much more affordable

Regardless of whether you’re planning a quick getaway this winter or later into next summer, you will more than likely be looking for ways to save some cash. Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to shave off money on your holiday is by cutting costs before you’ve even booked your flight.

A variety of things could factor into the upfront cost of your flight, such as what time you book it, what seats you get, and what time you plan on jetting off. However, more often than not, it’s always a good idea to book your flight in advance to save some cash.

Generally, it’s best to book your flight between three and nine months in advance to get the best price while also avoiding booking one last minute, as you may find your costs go up significantly.

Cheapest time to book flights

Your flight price may change significantly depending on what day of the week it is set to depart. According to data from Skyscanner, Fridays and Sundays are generally the most expensive days of the week to fly out of the country.

Meanwhile, Tuesdays are generally the cheapest day to book a flight. However, if you’re determined to have a weekend flight, it may be slightly cheaper to fly out on a Saturday instead of a Friday.

Different airport both departure and arrival

You may find that you save money signifiacntly by arriving at a different airport, generally the lesser popular one, according to Which?. This is because higher-traffic airports tend to be more expensive for arrival flights rather than smaller and quieter airports.

However, you may find that the cheaper airports will be a significantly longer distance away to your hotel than the closer, more expensive one. Overall, you should calculate how much transport to the hotel will cost you at both the different airports and compare that to how much you’ll save on your ticket to see if it’s a big enough saving to take the extra time commuting.

Avoid hidden extras

While budget airlines tend to provide a cheaper upfront ticket cost, you may find that costs will pile on from all the extras being offered, some of which you may believe were initially included in the upfront ticket price. For example, you may be charged extra for carrying any luggage that doesn’t fit under your seat – which may cost much more than you think.

While this is a common practice at airlines like Ryanair and easyJet, other airlines such as British Airways and Jet2 don’t commonly charge for cabin luggage but may have a higher upfront cost as a result.

Avoid airport rush hours

You may find that the cheapest time to depart from any given airport is in the early hours of the morning. You tend to be offered cheaper prices at this time as the airport will generally be less busy than the peak daytime hours.

Otherwise, if you’re not the type to wake up super early, you can still save some cash by departing in the later hours of the night. In fact, the industry tends to call flights heading out at this time red-eye flights and your itinerary may even have a red-eye logo which shows that your flight is heading off during this money-saving period.

Compare flights

If you want to quickly find the cheapest flight possible for any given location, it may be a good idea to use a comparison site such Skyscanner or Kayak can provide all the prices for flights heading to where you want go. Furthermore, many of these sites can allow you to add extras to help you better calculate your costs, such as adding a car hire or hotel. Many sites also allow you to add nearby airports so you can potentially save money by heading to the same area but a different, cheaper airport.

From gorgeous Getxo to the City of Love, you won’t want to come home from these mint mini-breaks

SPAIN – Palacio Arriluce Hotel, Getxo

Commissioning Editor Martha Cliff and fiancée Lauren found foodie heaven near Bilbao.

THE PAD

Perched on a striking cliffside overlooking the Bay of Abra in Getxo and with a beauty of an outdoor pool, this 18th-century boutique gem sits in a palatial setting and offers the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance.

Craving vistas of the rolling Basque mountains? You’ve got it. Want to gaze at boats bobbing in the harbour? No problem. A city view more your vibe? It’s got that, too.

Be sure to eat breakfast – think other-worldly Spanish tortilla and Iberico ham – on the terrace to take full advantage.

Meanwhile, come dinner at Delaunay, try local specialities such as grilled kokotxas (hake chin) on stewed spider crab, £35, and Iberian pork shoulder with passionfruit, £31.

WAIL OF A TIME

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TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Eye-squintingly-rich chocolate mousse and pumpkin ice cream, £15, will seal the deal.

Return to your room – one of just 49 – and find home-made chocolates and lavender spray to aid a sublime slumber.

EXPLORE

The bustling city of Bilbao is a 20-minute metro ride away.

Join a three-hour walking tour with guide Saioa to learn about the history and architecture, £21 per person (Smartinbilbao.com).

Before you leave, head to Gran Vía, Bilbao’s shopping hub, and sample the famous butter buns, £2.75, at Pastelería Arrese.

Back in Getxo, stop by Bizkaia Bridge – the oldest transporter bridge in the world – and enjoy views of Bilbao from the 45-metre-high walkway.

Entry costs £9 per person (Puente-colgante.com).

REFUEL

Make sure you’re there on a Thursday to join locals in Getxo for “pintxo pote”, a foodie’s dream bar crawl and Basque country tradition.

Restaurante Ixta Bide offers four pintxos (small savoury snacks) – our fave was pintxo de txaka, akin to a mini crab sandwich – and two vinos for a mere £9.

Just don’t expect to bag a seat! Wind your way up the steps of Algorta to reach Arrantzale and finish on its perfectly salted pork belly (Arrantzale.com).

While day-tripping, step into one of Bilbao’s oldest bars, Café Iruña, just a hop from Arbando metro station.

Dating back to 1903, the beautiful tiling is reason enough to visit, but coffee for just £1.75, is a big pull, too.

Or opt for a glass of the local txakoli white wine, £2.70, instead (Cafeirunabilbao.com).

DON’T MISS

The works inside Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum are, of course, breathtaking, but the building itself and its surrounding sculptures – including Puppy, a massive dog made of flowers by American artist Jeff Koons – are worth the trip alone.

Entry costs £13 (Guggenheim-bilbao.eus).

BOOK IT

Double rooms at Palacio Arriluce Hotel cost from £249 B&B (Palacioarrilucehotel.com).

Fly to Bilbao from London Gatwick and Heathrow with Vueling from £56 return (Vueling.com).

FRANCE – Hôtel Dame des Arts, Paris

Creative Director Mark Hayman and wife Margaret fell for cocktails and culture in the French capital.

THE PAD

This sleek bolt-hole in the city’s Latin Quarter has shaken off its Holiday Inn past to channel full Hollywood glamour.

Think rich woods, bamboo accents and pretty palms, with rooms that feel like film sets, thanks to glass dividers, velvet finishes and luxe bathrooms made for long soaks.

Downstairs, Pimpan serves up bold Franco-Mexican fusions on a leafy terrace – highlights include beef tartare with piquillos, £12.50, lamb shoulder with harissa, £25, and hibiscus-poached pear, £11.

But the real scene-stealer is the rooftop bar, where 360-degree skyline views stretch from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Cœur – even locals come here for the vistas.

Order a Spritz del Arte (Aperol, mango liqueur, rum and prosecco), £17, or the punchy Uno Mas margarita, £14, pop on your biggest sunglasses and watch the city turn blush at sunset.

There’s also a sauna and a gym kitted out with sculptural wooden equipment for those partial to a designer workout.

EXPLORE

First time in Paris? Glide down the Seine aboard the Batobus – this hop-on-hop-off riverboat is a relaxing (and photogenic) way to tick off major sights like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre.

A day pass costs £17.50 (Batobus.com).

Once on dry land, seek out legendary bookshop Shakespeare And Company – get lost in the maze of tomes and grab an iconic tote, £13 (Shakespeareandcompany.com).

For more treasure-hunting, swing by the flea market off Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine – a weekend haven of vintage mirrors, mid-century ceramics and nostalgic postcards.

There’s no entry fee, just bring cash and your best haggling game.

Then head to the Panthéon, a neoclassical gem where Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie lie in dramatic crypts beneath a rooftop dome offering jaw-dropping views.

Entry costs £10 per person (Paris-pantheon.fr).

REFUEL

Lively, retro-chic Brasserie Dubillot’s espresso martinis, £10.50, are a must, but equally good is the sausage and mash with truffle sauce, £16, steak-frites, £21, and the perfect crème brûlée, £8 (Lanouvellegarde.com/brasserie-dubillot).

Craving something casual? PNY serves next-level burgers with aged beef, brioche buns and toppings like smoked cheddar and pickled jalapeños, from £11.50 (Pnyburger.com).

Or just nab a pavement perch at Café Saint-André for a croque monsieur, £10.50, a glass of sancerre, £7, and some world-class people-watching.

DON’T MISS

Notre-Dame cathedral is one of Paris’ most iconic buildings for good reason.

Step inside to take in its Gothic arches, stained glass, and newly restored grandeur.

Entry is free, but book a time slot (Notredamedeparis.fr).

BOOK IT

Double rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts cost from £226 per night (Damedesarts.com).

Psst…

Fancy something a little more party? Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoods, with captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheel.

Suave rooms come with huge tubs, rain showers and espresso machines, from £304 per night (Rixos.com).

Downstairs is Azure Beach Club with its large pool, pumping soundtrack, outdoor gym and private beach (Azure-beach.com/dubai).

The breakfast buffet is, in true Dubai style, eye-poppingly big – you can even blend your own fresh peanut butter.

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Plus, you’re half an hour’s cab ride from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for that classic Dubai selfie – viewing platform visits cost from £37 per person (Burjkhalifa.ae).

When you’re craving a chilled day, head to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for lobster linguine, £37, and burrata pizza, £17, with excellent Whitsunday spritzes – an exquisite blend of grapefruit bitters, strawberry shrub, pink grapefruit, citrus vodka, Aperol and prosecco, £14 (Byronbathers.com).

WE all love a city break, but heading to the main European capitals can give your bank balance a battering.

The Serbian capital of Belgrade offers all the history and grandeur for a fraction of the price.

With beers or coffees in local cafes from £1.50, meals with wine in a decent restaurant for £15 and hotels from £40 a night, it’s perfect for those tourists looking to expand their city-break horizons without spending a fortune.

WHY SHOULD I GO? One of Europe’s oldest cities, its architecture tells its history from Roman and Ottoman to Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav.

Catch up on its recent history at the Museum of Yugoslavia, home to the tomb of Josip Broz Tito, founder of socialist Yugoslavia. The Belgrade Fortress is free to enter and offers panoramic views of the Danube and Sava rivers.

Elsewhere, the Sava Lake offers water sports, tennis and cycling, with restaurants and bars perched on the shore.

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STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Public transport in Belgrade is free, making it easy to hop on and off the buses and trams. However, walking around the city means you can stop and rest at the traditional kafanas (coffee houses).

The main cobbled street in the city — Skadarlija — is regarded as the city’s “bohemian quarter” and is a great spot to enjoy a drink.

A walking tour of the Red Star Belgrade football stadium is not to be missed, even for those not familiar with the club. Take a walk through the famous tunnel which at 787ft is the longest pre-match walk in Europe.

Fans can get a taste of what the players go through as they are transformed into gladiators with the thumping chants from the stands.

ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? Tara National Park is a four-hour drive from the city for those wanting to escape the hustle.

Lake Perucac offers floating houses that allow guests to wake up on the water and look over to the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The national park has the largest population of brown bears in Serbia.

Also worth a hike is the path up to the viewpoint known as Banjska Stena, soaring above the Drina River.

Kayaking down the river also gives the best views of the worldfamous Drina River House.

The hut, first built by swimmers wanting to rest, is perched on a rock in the middle of the water and has been rebuilt multiple times. It’s definitely an Insta-worthy picture.

WHERE SHOULD I EAT? Belgrade is without doubt a city for meat eaters. For an authentic lunch, head to Drama Cevapi in the heart of Belgrade’s Dorcol district for grilled meat and fresh flatbreads.

The cevapi — minced sausages with a mix of beef, lamb or pork — come in generous portions of five from £3, and flatbreads just 45p. If you fancy a smarter dinner, Iva New Balkan Cuisine shows off traditional Balkan recipes with a stylish twist.

Beef ribs with a celery and apple cream, honey and mustard seed glaze or pork belly with kohlrabi salad, pickled beetroot and crackling will set you back just over £10.

The main cobbled street in the city — Skadarlija — is regarded as the city’s ‘bohemian quarter’ and is a great spot to enjoy a drink

Meanwhile, Restoran Uzelac is a short taxi ride from the city centre where spit-roasted lamb is served by the kilo.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY? There’s a bed for every budget.

The Stari Grad district is best for a central location and the five-star Square Nine is great for those with deep pockets.

The gold-fronted building gives a cool oasis from the busy streets and features a wellness spa with a 59ft swimming pool.

Expect luxury linen and cashmere throws, with rooms from £300 a night. But there are also some fantastic budget options.

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Boatel Charlie is set on the Danube. It is a chic barge with contemporary interiors that has rooms from £43 a night.

The neighbourhood of Dorcol is the place to stay to meet the locals, with multiple coffee shops and markets.

SOMETIMES all you want is an affordable holiday, with a bit of warm weather, without having to hop on a long-haul flight.

And if you don’t want to venture too much further than Spain, we’ve found the island which is hottest in the cold winter months.

When it comes to the highest temperatures, Tenerife comes out on top.

This is because of its proximity to Morocco, with flights around 4hr30 from the UK.

Temperatures can be as high as 22C in winter, while the UK is shivering in highs of 7C.

Flights are super cheap – easyJet has routes to Tenerife from Manchester from £20.49 or London Southend from £29.

TRIP OR TREAT

Bargain deals for half-term holidays from just £109pp with balmy 28C temps

CHRIMBO WIN

Enter these travel comps before Xmas to win £2k holidays, ski trips & spa stays

Ryanair has bargains from London Luton for £18 each way.

Or you can find seven-night holidays for under £200 each – loveholidays has breaks from £189pp and £199pp in December which includes your hotel and flights.

Even if you want a treat, you can stay in a five-star hotel for just £359pp which includes seven nights at Best Semiramis.

But what can you do on the island?

We’ve spoken to experts and travel writers on the best ways to spend a week in Tenerife.

The hidden gems

Rick Cosgrove, a professional compere at many of the island’s bars, said: “Rincon del Pollo restaurant on the second floor of a little shopping centre, at the entrance to the massive Los Cristianos market.”

He continued: “It serves amazing Canarian-style chicken, home-cooked chips and great salads, for around €30, with drinks.

“El Cini in Los Cristianos is a little fish restaurant hidden up an alleyway where you will find the locals queuing too, with swordfish steaks from €11.”

When it comes to the best, local-loved beaches, he said: “La Tejita, near the airport in the south of the island, is the largest sandy beach in Tenerife and used mainly by locals due to being so windy.

“Two of the black sand beaches loved by locals are Playa san Juan, up the coast from Costa Adeje, and Las Galletas beach, not far from Los Cristianos.”

The beaches

Rick added: “I love both Puerto Colon and Fanabe beaches. These two coves are next to each other in Costa Adeje in the south of the island, and are ideal for beach lovers.

“Puerto Colon has a lot more going on, as it’s next to the marina and all sea excursions in the south tend to depart from here, so there is a plethora of bars, cafes and restaurants to serve your needs.”

Meanwhile, Kitty de Graaf, a travel consultant and blogger on the island, said: “Tenerife South is perfect for a beach holiday with more hours of sunshine and stunning beaches like Playa de las Vistas in Los Cristianos, and Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje.”

The food

Rick recommended any of the restaurants from the Venture Group if you’re looking for “posh nosh”.

He revealed: “It has around 12 restaurants in the south of the island including Empire Steak House and Mrs Miyagi’s – a Thai fusion spot in Playa de Las Americas.

“The Sea Horse in Fanabe is another favourite of ours, offering oversized tapas, with all dishes between €7-12 and probably the best sunset in Europe overlooking the island of Gomera.”

Katie Honcu, a freelance photographer, said: “Restaurante Roque Las Ánimas in Taganana, north Tenerife, is my top place for delicious local food at great prices. (A rustic restaurant with mountain views, selling Canarian food, dishes from €4).”

Other recommendations included Mesón Era Las Mozas for meat eaters, Restaurante Salitre for fish lovers, and Meson Castellano for an upscale experience.

The local spots

Katie said: “Roque Bermejo and Roque de Taborno, on the northern tip of the island, are excellent hiking spots away from the crowds that offer unique Canarian landscapes with stunning views.”

Tara Scarlata, who works for a local chain of bars, said: “Roca Negra Sunset Club in Playa Paraiso is a perfect place for sitting on the rocks at sunset with a cocktail (cocktails from €9), or El Puertito beach.”

The budget attractions

Rick revealed: “The Wally Trolly is a train that drives on the roads and takes families and small children all over the south of Tenerife.

“It gives you a great perspective in seeing actually how large an area the south is, and is very popular with families. (adult tickets €9 and kids tickets €5)”.

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Kitty said you can get tickets to the Pyramids of Güímar on the east coast that features six stepped pyramids and a poison garden, with more than 70 toxic plants from across the world, and to see it it just €10pp.

The must-do activities

Rick said: “This has to be Siam Park – the world’s number one water park – I love the incredible waterslides, but my partner Shelley is more into sunbathing, which she can do with the hundreds of sunbeds surrounding the huge wave pool.”

Meet the experts…

Our panel of Tenerife experts all live, own businesses or work in the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands…

Rick Cosgrove, 52, (pictured above) is a compere, working numerous bars between Los Cristianos and Adeje. Him and his partner Shelley (also pictured above), who is an award winning singer on the island, have a YouTube channel together, Rick and Shelley.

Kitty de Graaf, 53, draws on her passion for travel and writing and her experience in the tourism industry with her website Tenerife Insider Tips, where she serves as a travel consultant. She’s lived in Tenerife nearly 30 years.

Katie Honcu, 28, is a freelance photographer specialising in real estate. She’s lived in Tenerife for six years.

Tara Scarlata, 39, is administrator at TRISK Group – Beer Garden, San Eugenio and Mustang Sally’s, Fanabe Beach. She’s lived in Tenerife 10 years

Many Brits are now looking for a comfortable staycation to take this autumn. The main challenge that many dog owners face when arranging a holiday is considering who will care for their pe. But they needn’t fret any longer if they’re reserving one luxurious collection of cabins

Plenty of people are currently searching for the ideal spot to enjoy an autumn getaway. The bright summer holidays are behind us and numerous

Brits are now choosing to book a comfortable staycation within the UK instead. The main challenge that many dog owners face when arranging a holiday is considering who will care for their pet. But they needn’t fret any longer if they’re reserving one luxurious collection of cabins situated in The Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, which is completely dog-friendly. The Roost Luxury Cabins all feature a private sauna, outdoor bathtub, log burner and fire pit. There’s also all the kitchen kit you’ll require – a kettle, toaster, induction hob, microwave, mini-oven, fridge (with small freezer) and a dishwasher.

Plus pots, pans, crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils, washing up liquid, dishcloths, tea towels, cooking condiments, fresh ground coffee plus various teas and fresh milk.

All your bed linen and extra fluffy Egyptian towels are provided too, and there will even be some homemade brownies awaiting you.

Those bringing pets are permitted two small dogs or one medium sized dog.

The venue explains: “We leave a blanket, towel, poo bags, water and food bowel and a treat for each dog.

“If you pooch has got a bit muddy on all those lovely walks, we provide doggy towels and have a dog wash area behind the site office.”

They also provide details on canine-friendly pubs and eateries nearby.

There’s a fee of £30 for one dog (£40 for two dogs) per stay. This must be paid by card to the proprietor before arrival.

Discussing their dog-welcoming approach on their website, The Roost Luxury Cabins state: “Don’t leave your best friend behind! Here at The Roost we love dogs. The cabins are dog friendly with secure garden areas and all your doggy needs are catered for.

“Your pooch will be spoilt with their own handmade truckle bed.”

The establishment shared a video on its TikTok account showcasing the cabins, which rapidly became popular, gathering over 93,000 likes.

A dog was visible outside the lodge as the footage started, before revealing the outdoor bathing facility. The snug sleeping quarters were then displayed, accompanied by glimpses of the charming garden and external sauna.

Text overlay stated: “Call me crazy, but I would choose this with the dog over a fancy hotel.”

One viewer declared: “Oh my God, this looks INSANE!”

Whilst another commented: “Omg love this! Will have to take a look.”

A third remarked: “Looks like my sort of heaven.”

Visitors planning to book should be aware the location requires a minimum 2-night booking and check-in is restricted to Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

Rates are generally £499 per two nights but may fluctuate based on the date.

Whilst the establishment welcomes dogs brilliantly, families with children might prefer alternative accommodation as the cabins are exclusively for adults. Guests can select between two distinct cabins – The Nook and The Nest, with further information available on The Roost Luxury Cabins website.

The accommodation currently boasts a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, drawing from 112 reviews.

One guest commented: “We have had a really relaxing and enjoyable week in this amazing cabin! Loved the sauna and hot tub and sitting on the swing seat enjoying the peace! A beautiful place in a wonderful location.”

Meanwhile, another visitor remarked: “A perfect place to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. Everything is beautiful and the soak tub and sauna made it super relaxing. We loved explore the local area and will definitely be back.”

What attractions can be found close to the cabins?

Outdoor and nature

• Beechenhurst and the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail: Explore art installations in a woodland setting.
• Go Ape: Enjoy high ropes courses and zip-lines in the trees.
• Forest of Dean Cycle Centre: Rent bikes for various woodland trails.
• Dean Forest Railway: Ride a steam train through the forest.
• Perrygrove Railway: A family attraction with a miniature railway and treehouses.
• May Hill: A prominent hill with a distinctive cluster of trees on top, offering great views.
• Wye Valley: Explore canoeing, kayaking, and walking opportunities along the river.

History and heritage

• Hopewell Colliery: Take an underground tour of this working free mine.
• Clearwell Caves: Explore this ancient and unique underground attraction.
• Dean Heritage Centre: Learn about the local history of the Forest of Dean.
• Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum: Discover the history of the regiment in Gloucester.
• Museum of Gloucester: Explore thousands of exhibits on the city’s past.
• Jet Age Museum: See aircraft and aviation equipment in Gloucester.
• National Waterways Museum: Learn about waterways in Gloucester.
• Coleford Great Western Railway Museum: A museum dedicated to the railway.

Other attractions

• Gloucester Cathedral: A magnificent cathedral in Gloucester with famous cloisters.
• Nature in Art: Explore art exhibitions and a sculpture garden.
• Sudeley Castle and Gardens: Visit this historic castle and its extensive gardens.

MY early summer holiday a distant memory, the Costa del Sol seemed just the ticket for some autumn sunshine.

Leaving behind rainy Blighty, I was soon lying by the pool in Spain lapping up the rays — and throughout our stay in the first week of October temperatures ranged from 26C to 28C.

We were in the Ramada Hotel and Suites resort near Fuengirola, next to the beach and just half an hour from both Malaga airport and party town Marbella.

It comprises beautiful self-catering apartments spread over five areas — and TEN pools.

The main pool is adjacent to the resort’s most popular cafe and bar, Zac’s, and has a lively vibe.

But I found the one closest to our apartment, in the Sierra Marina area of the resort, was an oasis of calm, with a lovely sea view and a quiet, respectful group of holidaymakers.

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Another bigger pool, served by a bar and restaurant, is on sister site the Wyndham Grand which shares its facilities, including a gym and spa, with the Ramada.

I indulged in an hour-long facial which was a wonderful way to kick off a relaxing holiday. My daughter enjoyed a circulation-boosting massage, and there were numerous other tempting treatments to try.

The massage with bamboo sticks, which sounded more painful than it was, came recommended by a fellow guest.

While there are plenty of places to eat out, I prefer a little independence on holiday and our apartment offered everything we needed to get the best of both worlds. As well as its two comfy bedrooms and bathrooms, there was a roomy lounge and kitchen, with dining table, cooker and large fridge.

But its finest feature, given the glorious weather, was the large balcony overlooking the Mediterranean — big enough for a table with six chairs, two comfy armchairs and a parasol, so we could enjoy casual lunches of fresh bread, meats and cheeses bought from the on-site store.

There were also plenty of options for eating out, from budget-friendly Zac’s to Restaurant El Tajo — not owned by the resort despite being on site, and serving authentic Spanish food including a lip-smacking paella which has to be ordered 24 hours in advance.

We particularly enjoyed the Wyndham site’s Safari restaurant which offers a huge array of gorgeous tapas — I thoroughly recommend the baked provolone cheese — as well as dishes to suit all tastes, from pasta to fish and steak.

There is also a lounge bar for late-night drinks, hosting singers most nights, as well as other live entertainment including the popular Flamenco night at the poolside bar.

The sprawling, hilly nature of the resort means a lot of walking — I easily hit my 10,000-step target every day.

But for those less able or willing to get about there is a handy road train you can hop on and off at various points across the complex.

Away from the resort, the town of Fuengirola is a 30-minute walk or €9 taxi ride and its pretty squares are teeming with bars and restaurants.

Perfect off-peak getaway

Half an hour away is also Puerto Banus, a stunning marina lined with designer stores and restaurants and packed with yachts worth millions.

It is a hangout for the glam Marbella crowd and well worth a visit — although prices here are sky high.

But I recommend leaving the main marina by taking the stairs to the coastal path, where restaurants line the clifftop and you can watch the spectacular sunset over the sea while enjoying a meal of locally caught fish and seafood.

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife.

Its narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets are lined with unique boutiques and jewellery stores and lead to the stunning Plaza de los Naranjos (Square of Oranges) which, good to its name, is lined with fruit trees as well as beautiful flowerbeds.

But closer to our resort, nestled in the mountains above Fuengirola, was the biggest treat of the holiday — the village of Mijas Pueblo.

One of the “white villages” typical of this southern Spanish region of Andalucia, it welcomes visitors into a main square overlooked by the beautiful town hall.

Behind the square are quaint narrow streets of white buildings, with picturesque blue flowerpots adding a splash of colour.

Brightly painted crockery and leather bags are sold in tiny stores and upstairs terraces in many of the eateries offer a view over the main square, mountains and sea.

Another highlight for me was the La Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena (Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock), a tiny but beautiful church carved into the natural stone of the mountain by friars in 1548.

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Along with its warm weather, the Costa del Sol has an average of just 35 days of rain a year, most of which falls between November and January.

It’s also a golfer’s paradise, with 70 courses, and with year-round sun is the perfect off-peak getaway.

Transport for London (TfL) has announced a number of closures and service changes across the network in November, including the London Underground, London Overground and Elizabeth line

There’s set to be a month of travel chaos as Transport for London (TfL) announces a series of closures across its network for maintenance work. The disruptions will mostly take place over the weekends, with some starting from today (1 November), while others will affect late-night weekday commuters.

The Elizabeth line will face 11 disruptions throughout November, while services on the Mildmay line in East and North London will be altered. The DLR timetable will also be changed, with trains halted at various locations almost every weekend, reports My London.

Passengers are being urged to plan their journeys in advance and use the TfL journey planner to avoid confusion. Here’s the full list of planned track closures, including those set to cause disruption this weekend.

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London Underground closures

Bakerloo line

• Sunday, 9 November: No service from Stonebridge Park to Harrow & Wealdstone until 7.45am.
• Saturday, 29 November: Sunday, November 30: No service from Queen’s Park to Harrow & Wealdstone.

Metropolitan line

• Saturday, 15 November:Sunday, November 16: No service from Harrow-on-the-Hill to Uxbridge.

Northern line

• Saturday, 8 November – Sunday, 9 November: Trains will not stop at Angel station.
• Friday, 28 November – Saturday, 29 November: No service from Hampstead to Edgware during Friday Night Tube.
• Saturday, 29 November – Sunday, 30 November: No service from Golders Green to Edgware, including during Saturday Night Tube.

Piccadilly line

• Saturday, 1 November – Sunday, 2 November: No service from Acton Town to Heathrow, including during Saturday Night Tube.
• Saturday, 1 November – Sunday, 2 November: No service from Rayners Lane to Uxbridge.
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: No service from Acton Town to Uxbridge.

London Overground closures

Liberty line

• Sunday, 23 November: No service from Romford to Upminster

Lioness line

• Sunday, 9 November: No service from Willesden Junction to Watford Junction until 7.45am.
• Saturday, 29 November – Sunday, 30 November: No service from Euston to Watford Junction.

Mildmay line

• Sunday, 2 November: No service from Willesden Junction to Richmond all day.
• Sunday, 2 November: No service from Willesden Junction to Clapham Junction until 9.30pm.
• Sunday, 9 November: No service Willesden Junction to Clapham Junction.
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: No service from Gospel Oak to Richmond and Shepherd’s Bush.
• Sunday, 16 November: No service from Camden Road to Stratford after 10.15pm.
• Saturday, 22 November – Sunday, 23 November: No service from Gospel Oak to Richmond and Shepherd’s Bush.
• Monday, 24 November – Thursday, 27 November: No service from Stratford to Camden Road westbound after 11.45pm.
• Wednesday, 26 November – Thursday, 27 November: No service from Willesden Junction to Stratford eastbound after 11pm.

Weaver line

• Sunday, 9 November: No service from Liverpool Street to Enfield Town, Cheshunt and Chingford until 10.15am.
• Monday, 10 November – Thursday, 13 November: No service from Hackney Downs to Enfield Town and Cheshunt after 10.45pm.

Windrush line

• Monday, 3 November – Thursday, 6 November: No service from Highbury & Islington to New Cross, New Cross Gate and Clapham Junction after 9.15pm.
• Sunday, 16 November: No service from Surrey Quays to Clapham Junction.
• Sunday, 16 November: No service from Highbury & Islington to Dalston Junction after 10.15pm.
• Monday, 24 November – Thursday, 27 November: No service from New Cross Gate to Crystal Palace and West Croydon after 11.30pm.
• Sunday, 30 November: No service from Surrey Quays to Clapham Junction.

Elizabeth line closures

• Monday, 3 November – Wednesday, 5 November: Reduced service between Paddington and Maidenhead and at Heathrow Terminal 4 after 10pm.
• Monday, 3 November – Wednesday, 5 November: Trains will not stop at Acton Main Line, Hanwell and West Ealing after 10.30pm.
• Sunday, 9 November: Reduced service between Paddington and Maidenhead and at Heathrow Terminal 4.
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: No service from Paddington to Abbey Wood and Stratford.
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: No service from Hayes & Harlington to Heathrow.
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: Reduced service between Paddington and Maidenhead.
• Sunday, 23 November: No service from Liverpool Street (National Rail platforms) and Whitechapel to Shenfield
• Sunday, 23 November: No service from Paddington to Ealing Broadway until 7.45am.
• Sunday, 30 November: No service from Paddington to Ealing Broadway until 7.45am.
• Sunday, 30 November: Trains will not stop at Woolwich until 10am.
• Sunday, 30 November: Reduced service between Paddington and Maidenhead and at Heathrow Terminal 4.

DLR closures

• Saturday, 1 November – Sunday, 2 November: No service from Tower Gateway to Shadwell
• Saturday, 1 November – Sunday, 2 November: No service from Canning Town to Beckton
• Saturday, 15 November – Sunday, 16 November: No service from Canning Town to Stratford International.
• Saturday, 22 November: No service from Stratford International to Woolwich Arsenal.
• Saturday, 22 November: No service from Poplar to Beckton.
• Saturday, 22 November – Sunday, 23 November: No service from Tower Gateway to Shadwell.
• Saturday, 29 November – Sunday, 30 November: No service from Bank/Tower Gateway to Canning Town/Lewisham
• Saturday, 29 November – Sunday, 30 November: No service from Canary Wharf to Stratford.

Tram closures

• Saturday, 1 November – Sunday, 2 November No service from Wimbledon to Therapia Lane

THE UK is full of pretty towns and villages – but this one is home to one of the best pubs in the country.

According to the Good Food Guide this restaurant is a place where you’ll get some of the tastiest food in the country – and the village has lots to see too.

Dedham is in Essex, right on the border with Suffolk and it sits on the River Stour which passes through the north tip of the village.

It’s filled with tearooms, restaurants and a pub called The Sun Inn which has an award-winning wine list and two AA rosette awards.

Speaking about The Sun Inn, the Good Food Guide said: “As slices of English heritage go, Piers Baker’s 15th-century yellow-washed coaching inn right in the heart of Dedham is nigh-on perfect.

“There’s a sense of seasonality too in menus that offer a winning mix of updated pub classics and more inventive, Italian-accented dishes built around prime seasonal ingredients.

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“White the Sun is an emphatically laid-back place, there’s no corner-cutting.”

On Sundays the pub serves roast dinners including beef, port and celeriac all with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables Yorkshire puddings and gravy.

They also serve up breakfast, kids meals as well as a Christmas menu.

You can stay at the pub too in one of the seven rooms – which for bed and breakfast starts at £185 (based on two people sharing).

Some of the rooms are dog-friendly, and all have big beds and ensuite bathrooms.

The River Stour, which begins west of Great Bradley in Cambridgeshire, and ends in the North Sea at Harwich passes through the village.

It’s often used for canoeing and kayaking with picnickers setting up along the bank during the summer months.

Dedham is a village on the outskirts of Colchester, which was once the country’s ‘oldest town’.

Colchester was given city status just two years ago as part of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

It was one of the very first Roman cities, and it’s history stretches back thousands of years.

Here’s more from on Sun Writer who swapped the Cotswolds for a less-crowded but equally quaint weekend in Essex’s most perfect market town.

Plus, here’s England’s smallest town which has riverfront pubs, man-made beach and its own train station.

Quaint British villages with toy-town cottages, car-free roads and cosy pubs – handpicked by our travel writers

Harrogate, North Yorkshire – Hope Brotherton, Travel Reporter
For the last few years, my annual trip to Harrogate has been an immovable fixture in my calendar. The Victorian spa town is the perfect place for a little bit of R&R thanks to its history of spa tourism, which is very much alive. Head to The Harrogate Spa at the DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel if you’d like a pamper, which is a personal favourite of mine. Make sure to overindulge at Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms where a glass of pink champagne and a huge scone are almost compulsory.

Lavenham, Suffolk – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
One of my favourite villages I’ve ever visited in England is Lavenham, which is beautiful in autumn. Said to be the best preserved medieval village in the UK, it is known for two buildings – the 600-year-old Crooked House and the De Vere House, which featured in the Harry Potter films. Warm up at The Swan Hotel, which has its cosy Weavers Spa onsite.

Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor
Perched atop a craggy cliff, overlooking a dinky shore, Robin Hood’s Bay seems like something from a fiction tale or a North Yorkshire postcard. In summer, you’ll find dogs sprinting along the sands, while owners tuck into fresh crab sandwiches from the beachside hut and little ones fish for treasures in the rock pools. I prefer the village in winter, though, when the weather takes a turn and nature comes alive with the grassy dunes dancing in the wind and moody waves thrashing on the rocks.

Hay On Wye, Wales – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel – Digital
When I first set foot in Hay-On-Wye, I couldn’t believe I’d left it until my late thirties to visit – what a waste of a few decades. The small town on the Welsh borders that sits on the River Wye is probably best known for hosting the annual Hay literary festival, and it’s definitely a book-lovers paradise – with more than 20 book stores to explore. They sit among the many antiques shops, which sell everything from fabulous Welsh rugs to toy soldiers, trinkets and beautiful furniture.  There are so many things to browse that I could probably waste a whole week on second-hand shopping alone. 

Letchmore Heath, Hertfordshire – Lisa Minot, Head of Travel
This quintessential little village may seem very familiar to some. It’s tiny – with just 150 houses, a village green, a pond and a lovely pub, The Three Horseshoes. But with Elstree Studios just up the road, it has been used as a set in countless films, in particular the 1960s British horror movie, Village of the Damned. Its close proximity to London – just half an hour away on a train from nearby Radlett or Elstree and Borehamwood station – means it’s easy to get to.

Over 5 million California residents — including 2 million children — rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits that cover essential food such as fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy, bread and snacks. Those funds are on hold as the federal shutdown continues, putting economic strain on the 1 in 8 Americans who rely on SNAP benefits, during a time of year when budgets are already tight as many prepare for holiday gatherings and gift giving.

But Angelenos are stepping up for those in need, from neighborhood nonprofits and community centers to local restaurants and chefs, offering grocery delivery, mobile farmers markets, grab-and-go meals and Thanksgiving spreads.

Here are 40 food initiatives happening across Los Angeles County this November, from free chicken rice porridge on Sundays to a communal Thanksgiving feast. Be sure to read details carefully; some events are open to all with no registration required, while others require advance sign up with proof of income and residency.

Times staff writer Kailyn Brown contributed to this report.