Travel Desk

Dubai being ditched by Brits for ‘classier’ alternative without the overcrowding

More than 240,000 Brits live in Dubai, but others are now considering moving to an alternative city in the United Arab Emirates according to a UK entrepreneur in the Persian Gulf

It’s estimated that more than 240,000 Brits have relocated to Dubai, making them one of the largest expat communities currently living in the United Arab Emirates. Drawn by benefits such as year-round sunshine, tax-free salaries and a buzzing lifestyle, many have no intention of returning from the Persian Gulf.

However, as the destination grows increasingly popular with influencers, some claim Dubai is rapidly becoming “soulless” and are seeking to escape the “Dubai Depression”, as it has been dubbed by international residents. According to one British entrepreneur in the region, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is quickly emerging as the new hotspot.

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Dubbed the ‘nature Emirate’, it features 42 miles of coastline along the spectacular Arabian Gulf and while it provides many of the advantages of Dubai, it avoids its congestion and excessive tourism – for now at least.

“The British are moving directly to Ras Al Khaimah,” Ben Moss disclosed. “It used to be that they’d move to Dubai first and spend a year or two there then potentially move to Ras Al Khaimah.”

Now, however, the businessman maintains that when speaking to people back home, they tell him they’re more keen on relocating to the appealing alternative.

“You know you’re doing something right when you’re attracting the British,” he commended the destination. “That’s because the British are fantastic people who you want in your city. Rak’s definitely doing something right to attract them directly.”

In a follow-up video, Ben shared one of the main reasons he’s settled with life in Ras Al Khaimah. “You can just pop down to the beach and go for a nice swim,” he revealed. “The water is beautiful here.”

When it comes to the best spots to reside in Ras Al Khaimah, Ben highlighted Mina Al Arab, Al Hamra and Al Marjan island. “These are where all the fun and action is happening,” he gushed.

Ben disclosed he’s currently living in the Deira Corniche, roughly 30 minutes away. “You have this amazing mountain backdrop and it’s a very affordable place to live,” Ben boasted of the area.

“However, if you’re an expat you are definitely going to want to get as close to that casino as possible and Mina Al Arab is proving to be super cool.”

Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism website proudly states: “With a rich heritage spanning over 7,000 years, the city offers one of the UAE’s most authentic historical and cultural experiences.

“Visitors can explore its long-standing traditions, diverse cultural sites, and archaeological wonders that reflect its ancient past. This Emirate is not only a symbol of Arabian history but also a welcoming destination that encourages cultural awareness and understanding.”

It goes on to say: “Ras al Khaimah is celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes, which include pristine beaches, lush mangrove forests, vast terracotta desert dunes, and the rugged Hajar mountains.”

“Home to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s tallest mountain, this Emirate provides spectacular highland scenery and fresher conditions, approximately 10 degrees cooler than at sea level. Renowned for its open and hospitable character, Ras Al Khaimah also features a wide array of attractions, from upmarket resorts and boutique accommodation to genuine Emirati cultural encounters.”

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Inside the huge new Gladiators experience launching in the UK this spring

IF you have ever wanted to take on the Gladiators yourself without having to go on TV, you’re in luck.

A new Gladiators experience in launching in the UK this year, and you can even meet some of the famous characters while there.

Illustration of an indoor arena layout for an obstacle course.
A new Gladiators experience is launching in the UK

Gladiators Experience will take over some of the Birmingham NEC, with a new 10,000sqm attraction.

The website states: “Live out your Gladiators dreams as the iconic television show explodes into action with Gladiators Experience.

“Aspiring Contenders can step into the Arena to test their mettle in their favourite events – including the legendary Eliminator and loads more.”

The 75-minute experience includes a full free play of the entire attraction.

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This includes some of the popular events from the TV shows such as:

  • The Wall – six Contenders race to hit the button at the top
  • Duel – two Contenders battle with pugil sticks on platforms
  • Hang Tough – Contenders swing across a grid of rings to reach the finish
  • Unleash – Four Contenders sprint a racetrack to tag a flag
  • Eliminator – the famous uphill travelator

There will even be meet and greets with a number of Gladiators, which will change per session.

A gift shop, food court and soft play will also be part of the attraction.

Tickets are on sale with the experience running from May 2 to August 31, with sessions running every half an hour from 10am to 6pm.

You can book a variety of tickets, from Spectators who just come and watch (with access to the soft play and food court) to Family Contender tickets for up to 9 people.

Or splash out on a VIP ticket which includes a full Contender ticket as well as a uniform, medal and highlight reel video.

Spectator tickets start from £17.50 for kids and £22.50 for adults (with £2.50 processing fee) while Contender start from £39.50 for kids or £44.50 for adults (each with £4.50 processing fee).

Meet and greets cost £35 while Accessible Companions enter for free.

In the mean time, here are 30 other travel experiences to try.

And we tested the Race Across the World The Experience – here’s our thoughts.

Illustration of a "Gladiators" themed entertainment venue with various red and black obstacle courses and activity zones.
The event runs from May to August

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The English manor that looks more like a French chateau to open huge new woodland playground

DESPITE being in the UK, you could be easily mistaken for thinking you were in France when visiting Waddesdon Manor.

And the French Renaissance-style chateau in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has revealed plans for a huge new woodland playground this year.

Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire is opening a new woodland playground this yearCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel
It will feature climbing towers, tunnels and slidesCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel
There will be a zip line tooCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel

Built back in the 1870s by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, the Manor opened to the public in 1959 and is still home to the Rothschild collection of paintings, sculptures and artworks.

And now the grand home is opening a woodland playground.

The new playground will boast giant wooden towers, climbing trails, bridges, tunnels, slides and more.

Pictures also show there will be a zip line as well.

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Using natural materials, the new attraction hopes to connect kids with nature.

The new play area – which will be free to use – will open this year, though an exact date is yet to be revealed.

Meanwhile, from the end March, visitors can see the House as it reopens for the season.

Inside the Manor, you’ll be able to explore a collection of 18th century French decorative arts including furniture, porcelain and carpets.

In fact, the Manor is home to over 15,000 objects.

And if it is a sunny day, the gardens are well worth exploring as they are in the style of French formal gardens.

There’s even an Aviary which is home to rare and exotic birds.

You can head to the Wine Cellars onsite too, which features a collection of more than 15,000 bottles.

The estate also often hosts events such as family trails.

And for when you are feeling peckish, there is an cafe onsite serving light bites and drinks.

Waddesdon Manor features a large French Renaissance-style chateau that belonged to Baron Ferdinand de RothschildCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel
Inside the manor, there are over 15,000 objects including porcelainCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel

A ticket to the house and grounds costs £25.50 per adult and £12.50 per child.

But if you are a member of the National Trust then you can visit for free.

One recent visitor said: “An incredibly beautiful building. It is worth visiting at least once, but be sure to visit.

“Different types of birds, flowers, and palm trees will delight your eyes.”

Another added: “I think this was my most enjoyable National Trust visit.

“One of many Rothschild properties in the area but must be the jewel in the crown.”

In other attraction news, London’s best family attraction that ‘feels like it was created for kids’ to get huge new nature playground.

Plus, a huge new wooden play attraction is set to open at historic English house with den building, zip lines and racing slides.

An official opening date for the park has not been announced yetCredit: Facebook/Where To Go With Kids – Days out & Travel

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New $21 airport surcharge in place for ALL Americans from today under ‘no permission, no travel’ rule

A NEW $21 airport surcharge is now in place for American travelers flying to a popular destination.

It’s due to the introduction of an electronic permit – which is mandatory from today for visitors.

Visitors to Britain from 85 countries must now show an electronic permit before boarding their flight, cruise, coach or train tripCredit: Getty
If you’re flying to Heathrow (above) in the UK, you’ll need an ETA – advanced permission to visit the country – unless you’re in transit, said the Home OfficeCredit: Getty

Visitors to Britain from 85 countries must now obtain an electronic permit in advance of their trip.

This includes those taking flights, or booked on cruises, coaches and even rail journeys.

Those failing to do so will be barred from traveling, the UK interior ministry warned.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme requires all visitors who do not need a visa to enter Britain to buy a pre-travel permit online at a cost of $21.57.

The scheme was introduced three years ago, and extended to European visitors last April, but has not been strictly enforced – until today.

Airlines will stop passengers from boarding flights if they do not have an ETA, eVisa or other valid documentation, the interior ministry also warned.

The UK is trying to beef up border security checks.

It’s following the likes of Canada, the US, and other countries which already use the system.

What is the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme?

An ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK

It is not a visa or a tax and does not permit entry into the UK – it merely allows a person to travel to the UK.

Visitors can find more information about applying for an ETA on Gov.uk

It lets you travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family or certain other reasons for up to six months.

It currently costs Americans $21.57 to obtain one.

Those without an ETA will be banned from boarding their flight, ferry, coach or train for travel to the UK.

An ETA lasts for two years and is linked to your passport.

If your passport has expired or changed, you’ll need to apply for a new ETA.

EXEMPTIONS:

There are some people who do not need an ETA, for example if you have:

  • A current British or Irish passport
  • Permission to live, work or study in the UK

“The ETA scheme is a vital part of our work to strengthen the UK’s border security,” said migration minister Mike Tapp.

It will “help to deliver a more efficient and modern service that works for both visitors and the British public,” he added.

An ETA lets you travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family or certain other reasons for up to six months.

Visitors will usually need an ETA rather than a visa if they’re traveling from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or certain other countries.

Each person traveling needs an ETA, including babies and children.

It covers visits for tourism, business or short-term study.

The UK government has strengthened immigration security screening for their borders with the introduction of ETA, the Electronic Travel Authorisation schemeCredit: Getty

“We are making improvements to deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year,” said the Home Office.

“Visitors without an ETA will not be able to board their transport and cannot travel to the UK, unless exempt.

“Eligible visitors who take connecting flights (transiting) and go through UK passport control need an ETA.

“Those transiting through Heathrow and Manchester airports who do not go through UK passport control do not currently need an ETA.”

Those who have booked cruise trips to the UK will also have to obtain an ETA (stock image)Credit: Getty
Those boarding trains to the UK, for example Eurostar in France, must also have the ETA – unless they already have a current British or Irish passportCredit: Reuters

Flyers have complained the new system’s introduction has already caused delays at some airports.

Plus, there are fears it’ll muck up schedules when traveling to the UK over Easter, as it can take several days for requests to be processed.

British citizens with a second nationality risk being blocked from entering the UK as a result of the new rule, the Home Office has confirmed to British newspaper The Guardian.

There are already plans to hike the price of the ETA to $27 at an unspecified future date.

How and when to apply for the UK’s ETA

Avoid websites that imitate the UK government services as they might charge more to apply

HOW TO APPLY:

You can apply for the ETA online or through the UK ETA app.

The app is available for iPhone and Android phones.

Download the UK ETA app via:

You’ll need:

  • The passport you’ll travel with
  • An email address
  • A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
  • When you apply, you’ll need to upload or take photos of the face of the person applying

It should only take ten minutes to apply on the official app.

  • Take or upload a photo of the passport you will use to travel to the UK
  • Scan your face with your device, if it has a camera. Children aged nine and under will not be asked to scan their face
  • Take or upload a photo of yourself
  • Answer a set of suitability and criminality questions about yourself
  • Pay for your application ($21.57 for those traveling from the U.S.)

WHEN TO APPLY:

It is recommended that people apply for an ETA at least three working days in advance of travel to the UK.

FRAUDULENT WEBSITES:

People can verify if they hold a valid ETA status using the official Check My ETA service on Gov.uk

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Woman posts month’s worth of clothes to Dundee for just £2.29 to dodge Ryanair’s £30 luggage charge

A woman smiling and hugging a large bag of what appears to be popcorn with a "Lidl" logo on it.

A SAVVY passenger dodged an airline’s luggage charge by posting her belongings instead.

Laura Poole flew from Bristol to Glasgow on Sunday and would’ve had to pay £30 to take her clothes.

InPost parcel locker with white doors and black frames.
Laura Poole avoided paying a £30 Ryanair baggage charge by using InPostCredit: Alamy

But she swerved the baggage charge, which was more than the cost of her £25 flight.

The 33-year-old cleverly packed a sports bag with most of the clothes she was taking on her trip.

Laura then shoved it in a Lidl carrier bag and dropped it off at an InPost locker.

She sent the parcel three days in advance 380 miles from Bristol to Dundee, where she was travelling to after landing in Glasgow.

The postage cost Laura just £2.29, roughly the price of a cup of coffee.

And the parcel was delivered to a Tesco Express locker a short walk from her hotel in Dundee.

She joked that she was “quietly protesting baggage fees”.

In a post on social media, she wrote: “I’m flying Bristol to Glasgow on Sunday. My flight cost £25… cabin baggage fees £30. That’s more than my flight.

“Can I afford baggage fees? Absolutely.

“Will I pay them? F*** no! (On principle)

“Packed up my gym bag with 60% of the clothes I’m taking, shoved it in a Lidl bag, then dropped it off at an Inpost locker to be posted up to Dundee and will arrive at the Tesco Express near my hotel the day I arrive, £2.29!

“And I have one less bag to carry. I did this at the end of last year too.

“It’s so good! I’m quietly protesting baggage fees.”

Laura was hailed for her smart travelling and attracted thousands of comments on social media.

One person said: “This is genius! I’m flying to Edinburgh and I hate sleeping without my own pillow. I’ll be posting myself some clothes that I can miss for a few days.”

Another wrote: “Omg Laura. This is brilliant.”

A third said: “You are so smart well done.”

Laura Poole holds a large blue and white package.
The savvy traveller posted her clothes from Bristol to Dundee for just £2.29Credit: Laura Poole/Facebook

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World’s first Bluey rollercoaster to open in the UK next month

THE WORLD’S first Bluey rollercoaster will be in the UK and it has announced its launch date.

Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! will open on March 28 at Alton Towers Resort theme park in the West Midlands.

Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! will open on March 28 at Alton Towers Resort theme parkCredit: Alton Towers

The new ride will be in CBeebies Land at the park and is based on the episode where Bluey and Bingo dress up as grannies called Janet and Rita.

The ride will be themed on the two characters causing chaos.

Recent images, that revealed a first look at the ride, show both of the characters dressed as grannies.

The ride is specifically designed for preschoolers and young families.

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Howard Ebison, vice president of Alton Towers Resort said: “Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! is all about celebrating energy, play and those everyday moments families love about the show.

“It’s playful, unexpected and unmistakably Bluey – and we can’t wait to welcome families from March 28 to experience the world’s first Bluey coaster right here at Alton Towers Resort.”

In addition to the new ride, guests will also get the chance to meet-and-greet Mum (Chilli), Dad (Bandit), Bluey and Bingo.

There will be a live show experience as well inside the Big Fun Showtime at the park.

And, if you really want your visit to be all about Bluey, you can stay in new Bluey-themed hotel rooms at CBeebies Land Hotel.

Sun writer, Hannah Ferrett, stayed in one of the already-open Bluey rooms.

She said: “The hotel has done a great job.

“The kids slept in Bluey and Bingo’s room, complete with bunk beds, the recognisable watermelon rug and the cartoon dogs’ pretty Himalayan rock salt night light — a nice touch for little ones.

“The bathroom had pictures of Bluey and her sister plastered across the walls.

“My partner Dan and I were in Bandit and Chilli’s room, which had a king size bed, TV and lots of pictures of Bluey and Bingo as puppies, much to the delight of our kids.”

The new ride will be in CBeebies LandCredit: Alton Towers Resort

The room is one of 13 in total that have been designed with kids in mind.

Other rooms include Postman Pat, Bing and Octonauts.

Attractions in CBeebies Land include Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop where visitors join Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail as they explore the garden and try to figure out a series of puzzles.

There’s also the In The Night Garden Boat Ride where you head through a real Night Garden and see the characters.

A pass to visit CBeebies Land costs £32 when booked in advance, though you can also grab a £29 toddler and parent pass.

Children under 90cm tall go for free.

In other theme park news, a popular UK theme park is set to demolish much-loved ride – with plans for new attraction.

Plus, Thorpe Park to close its popular waterpark for GOOD after 35 years.

Alton Towers already has Bluey character meet-and-greets and hotel rooms inspired by the popular showCredit: Alton Towers

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How to have a Center Parcs-style holiday without actually staying there

WITH its subtropical waterpark, outdoorsy activities and handy restaurants, Center Parcs is a dead cert for a family friendly break. 

Yet sky-high prices, especially during school holidays, mean it’s out of reach for many.

Center Parcs is a fun family holiday – but there is a way to do it on a budgetCredit: Siobhan Grogan
Swap pricey Center Parcs lodges for this holiday rental nearbyCredit: Air bnb
There are some great nearby waterparksCredit: boxendpark

There is a way to enjoy a virtually identical break in the same picturesque British region as one park without breaking the bank though.

I live less than ten minutes’ drive from Woburn Forest, the newest and most modern Center Parcs in the UK, set across 357 acres of woodland in Bedfordshire an hour from London.

But you don’t need to stay on site to enjoy woodland walks, sporty adventures and cosy self-catering accommodation, especially if you know the locals’ favourite spots. 

Upper Wood End Farm is a 15-minute drive from Center Parcs and is surrounded by fields full of sheep and horses, with rural rambles on the doorstep.

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The two one-bedroom holiday cottages sleep up to three people each, so more than enough space for small families, along with a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor patio for morning coffee.

A four-night midweek break in the Easter holidays for a family of four costs £552 – a fraction compared to the £1,429 for the same dates up the road at Woburn Forest.

If you need a bit more space to yourself, families can rent The Acorn, a new two-bedroom detached house sleeping five in nearby Clophill.

Along with countryside views, there are two excellent pubs in walking distance and local free-range eggs in the fridge.

A three-night stay for a family of five over the Easter weekend costs £655 – you’d have to fork out £1,549 to scoff your Easter eggs at Woburn Forest instead. 

Of course, neither have a subtropical swimming dome or water slides, but you can still take the family swimming for less.

Flitwick Leisure Centre is a mile from Center Parcs and has a 25-metre pool where adults can swim for £6.15 while five to fifteen-year-olds cost just £3.30.

It also has squash and badminton courts for hire plus a full schedule of workout classes from yoga to aqua aerobics, starting at £4.90 for a 30-minute lesson.

For something more high adrenalin, Box End Park is a 20-minute drive and has two lakes for stand up paddleboarding and waterskiing.

There’s also a fantastically fun inflatable aqua park open between April and October for £17.50 for one hour or £60 for four people. 

If you’d rather stretch your legs on dry land, there are countless walking trails to choose from.

A three-mile public footpath runs through the forest around the entire outer perimeter of Center Parcs or head to Millennium Country Park and Forest Centre, which has scenic walking routes around a lake, a nature reserve and bikes for hire.

It’s free to access every day of the year but parking costs £2 for three hours.  

Extra activities don’t come cheap in Center Parcs itself, but you can find plenty of similar ones all within ten-minutes’ drive of Woburn Forest so you can have just as much fun staying off-site.

You can also walk the public footpath around Center Parcs for freeCredit: Siobhan Grogan
There is loads to do in Ampthill Park, also free to visitCredit: Siobhan Grogan

Arrowdox has weekend archery sessions for £25 for 90 minutes, there’s pottery painting from £10 an item at the friendly Crafty Little Things and horse riding at Flitwick’s Little Ranch Riding Centre costs around £20.

The nearby 160-acre Ampthill Park – once used for hunting by Henry VIII – has a large children’s play area with a zipwire, a lovely café and free-to-use outdoor tennis courts.

One of the best things about skipping Center Parcs to stay nearby is that you won’t be stuck eating in onsite chain restaurants such as Starbucks or Café Rouge.

The pretty Georgian market town of Ampthill is five-minutes’ drive away and is chockful of independent restaurants.

This includes the family-owned Fratelli for unbeatable pizza and pasta, American barbeque and burger joint Big 10 – Smoke & Grill and several gastro pubs including The Prince of Wales Ampthill, which serves food all day every day. 

For the best caffeine fix, follow locals to Wooden Hill – just round the corner from Woburn Forest – which roasts its own beans on site and has a small café selling coffee and homemade cakes.

You could even splash out on posh fine-dining at Eileen’s by Steve Barringer, a former runner-up on the BBC’s Masterchef: The Professionals.

After all, with the money you’ve saved on your budget break, you can definitely afford a few extra treats. 

How much can you save with a non-Center Parcs holiday?

Based on a mid-week break from March 30:

Center Parcs Woburn Forest

  • Accommodation: £1,429
  • Swimming: Free
  • Yoga class: £11
  • Squash: £13
  • Tennis: £14
  • Archery: £18
  • Pottery painting: £5 + from £15 an item
  • Americano coffee: £3.75
  • Dinner: Mains from £13.25

= £1,522

Staying off-site

  • Accommodation: £552
  • Swimming: £6.15
  • Yoga class: £8.85
  • Squash: £11.55
  • Tennis: Free
  • Archery: £25
  • Pottery painting: From £10 an item
  • Americano coffee: £3.20
  • Dinner: Mains from £11.95

= £628.70

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Five sunny destinations where you can get a drink from £1.30

There are ways to make your money go further on a winter sun break

Sun-starved Brits can escape the winter chill and get more bang for their buck in a number of luxury destinations – including one where you can buy pints for just £1.30. With the pound performing strongly against key foreign currencies, a travel money expert said there are five destinations where you can get more bang for your buck.

Mike Wiltshire, travel money expert at H&T Group , has crunched the numbers. In London, the average pint now costs around £6.50, although can easily exceed £8 in central areas, a mid-range three-course meal for two is approximately £80, and a coffee nearly £4.

TOP FIVE DESTINATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GET MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands (19% increase in searches in last month)

Just a manageable four-hour flight from the UK, the Canary Islands offer mild winter temperatures of 18-22 degrees Celsius, golden beaches and a range of resorts to suit all budgets.

With the pound trading strongly against the euro, Brits can enjoy more meals, drinks, and activities for less. It’s the perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand and scenic landscapes without leaving Europe.

COSTS

Pint: €1.50–€2.50 (£1.31–£2.19)

Mid-range ( dinner for two: €40–€50 (£35 -£44)

Coffee: €1 – €1.50 (£0.88–£1.31)

**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = € 1.14 (EUR)

2. Algarve, Portugal (51% increase in searches in last month)

For Brits seeking a short-haul European escape, the Algarve is a classic winter destination.

With flights taking between two and three hours from major UK airports and mild temperatures of 15-18 degrees Celsius, it’s another ideal location for some winter sun.

With the pound strong against the euro, holidays here are surprisingly affordable. From dining out to exploring local attractions, there are endless options to explore.

COSTS

Pint: €2.97 (£2.60)

Mid-range dinner for two: €52.80 (£46.31)

Coffee: €2.14 (£1.88)

**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = € 1.14123 (EUR)

3. Antalya, Turkey (40% increase in searches in last month)

The coastal city of Antalya boasts warm winter weather, averaging around 12-18 degrees Celsius, as well as affordable luxury, thanks to the generous Turkish lira.

From the UK, you can reach Antalya in four to five hours, making it an accessible long-haul option.

From stunning beaches to rich history and all-inclusive resorts, Antalya is ideal for sun-seekers wanting an exotic feel without the hefty price tag.

COSTS

Pint: ₺140 (£2.59)

Mid-range dinner for two: ₺2,000 (£37.00)

Coffee: ₺136.59 (£2.53)

**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = ₺ 54.0513 (TRY)

4. Koh Samui, Thailand (18% increase in searches in last month)

Koh Samui, a tropical island off Thailand’s east coast, offers a relaxing beach escape with soft sandy shores and sparkling turquoise waters.

For the more adventurous souls, the island offers an array of experiences – from exploring temples and historical sites to enjoying sports like paddleboarding and hiking.

December usually marks the start of the dry season, with temperatures averaging between 17-23 degrees Celsius, making it an excellent time to visit.

The pound is currently strong against the Thai baht, meaning your spending goes further on food, markets, and excursions.

Whether you fancy lounging on a beautiful beach, exploring different food markets, or visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, Koh Samui delivers a unique winter sun experience.

COSTS

Pint: ฿70 (£1.72)

Mid-range dinner for two: ฿1,000 (£24.63)

Coffee: ฿67.86 (£1.67)

**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = ฿ 40.60661 (THB)

5. Cape Town, South Africa

For those willing to travel further afield, Cape Town provides summer weather during the UK winter, with temperatures around 25-30degrees Celsius.

With searches for South Africa Safari searches a breakout term on Google, the pound goes far against the South African rand, meaning accommodation, dining out, and activities offer exceptional value.

From the iconic Table Mountain views to beautiful beaches and wine tours, Cape Town is a beautiful destination for a long-haul winter sun adventure.

COSTS

Pint: R50 (£2.45)

Mid-range dinner for two: R800 (£39.20)

Coffee: R39.20 (£1.92)

**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = R 20.41123 (ZAR)

Mike Wiltshire said: “With the sterling strong against so many currencies a trip further afield this winter will feel even more enjoyable.

“A winter sun holiday isn’t just about escaping the cold, it’s a chance to sample local cuisine, discover new cultures and make memories in places you may not normally get to visit. Whether you’re seeking a short-haul European escape or a far-flung tropical adventure, now is the perfect time to make the most of the exchange rates.”

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Popular Spanish beaches closed due to ‘faecal contamination’ ahead of Easter

Two Spanish islands have closed beaches due to the presence of ‘faecal contamination’ and both are in hotspots that are expecting large numbers of Brits for the Easter break

Two popular beaches on Spanish islands have been closed off due to an unpleasant, stomach-churning water issue.

Due to the presence of ‘faecal contamination’ just weeks ahead of the peak Easter season, two sandy stretches that’ll see huge numbers of visiting Brits in the coming weeks have been shut down.

The first beach to close to the public is in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, a popular spot in the spring thanks to its warm weather. An area known locally as the ‘small beach’ closed yesterday (March 24), with reports from local news outlet Canarian Weekly showing barriers in place preventing people from entering the sea.

Officials have said in a statement that the closure will last for 48 hours while laboratory results are analysed. Tests showed an elevated level of intestinal enterococci, a type of bacteria found in human and animal gastrointestinal tracts.

However, public health officials have said that nearby beaches, including Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo, are still open. Local government organisation Ayuntamiento de Yaiza is expected to give updates soon.

On another popular tourist island, Majorca, a beach in Cala Millor, has been closed after a broken pump led to a sewage spill. According to Majorca Daily News, locals reported seeing large amounts of wastewater running from the promenade and into the waters of Platja Petita.

The incident was reported yesterday, with the spillage continuing into the night. While the situation is now described as ‘under control’, the beach will remain closed for two to three days.

Cala Millor is found on the east coast of Majorca, and this tourist resort is particularly popular with Brits thanks to its long sandy Blue Flag beaches and large number of bars and nightclubs.

It’s not the first time the Balearic Islands’ beaches have faced closure due to contamination. Earlier this year it was revealed that incidents of ‘faecal contamination’ had doubled in 2025, with 92 cases recorded in 2025 alone.

Of the 92 incidents, 20 resulted in bans on swimming and bathing, while the other 72 led to advisories that warned visitors not to enter the water.

While a recent report by the Marilles Foundation showed that, overall, 70% of the Balearics’ beaches received an excellent rating for water quality, the figures varied between islands. In the little-visited island of Formentera, 100% of its beaches were rated as excellent, and in Menorca, the figure was 80%. In Ibiza, 63% were excellent, while 32% had a good rating and 5% were sufficient. According to the report, all the areas of insufficient water quality were in Majorca, highlighting Albercuix in Pollensa and Cala Egos in Santanyí as two particular areas of concern.

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The foundation, who raise awareness of marine conservation, has recommended tighter monitoring of the number of beachgoers and boats. At the moment, only Menorca keeps track of numbers, although plans over the next three years are to implement a new project using sensors to monitor numbers at 150 beaches, which is set to cost the islands €4 million (about £3.5 million).

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The cheapest family holiday destinations under three hours from UK that are over 20C this Easter

WITH Easter around the corner it’s time to think about booking a holiday – so we’ve found both the cheapest destinations and the hottest.

The numbers have been crunched and this is where you want to go if you’re looking for an affordable break from just £520pp – with temperatures over 20C.

The Algarve is one of the cheapest and warmest places for a break this EasterCredit: Alamy
Lanzarote comes in a close second with the average at £758ppCredit: Alamy

TravelSupermarket has analysed average seven-night family holiday prices and average March high temperatures to find the best and cheapest destinations.

At the very top is Portugal’s Algarve where family holidays average at £520pp, and in March there are average highs of 21C.

The region in southern Portugal is known for having beautiful golden beaches, some with huge limestone cliffs as well as plenty of fresh seafood.

Some of the most well-known towns in the Algarve include Albufeira, Faro and Lagos.

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Direct flights to the Algarve can take as little as two hours 45 minutes – so you won’t be spending long on a plane either.

If you fancy going slightly off the beaten track, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey explored tiny islands off the coast of Faro.

She said: “Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta, is often called the Caribbean of Portugal thanks to its golden sandy beaches. It takes just 20 minutes to get there, with ferries costing barely a few euros.

“I was one of the few tourists who was on the island, walking around the boardwalks that stretched across the deserted sand. No-one lives on the island, and there is just one restaurant, Estamine.

Most of the food served is from the nearby area, and I enjoyed a range of oysters, octopus and prawns, while sampling the local wines.

With loveholidays, a family of four can stay at the Monica Isabel Beach Club during the Easter holidays on an all-inclusive package for seven-nights from £379pp.

The 3-star hotel in Albufeira is steps away from the beach with two swimming pools and a buffet restaurant.

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket said: “These four destinations are the ones where the maths works on both fronts.

“The Algarve in particular is a standout — it’s the most affordable option and still comfortably clears the 20°C mark, which for late March is genuinely impressive.”

Coming in second place when it comes to cheapest holiday destinations during the Easter holidays is Lanzarote.

The island offers year-round sunshine, sandy beaches and plenty of towns and natural wonders for sightseeing.

Lanzarote has an average price of £758pp and average high temperatures of 23C.

Sun Travel found a deal with loveholidays at the Blue Sea Costa Teguise Gardens from March 30 to April 6, 2026 from £499pp.

This is for a family of four with an all-inclusive package – the hotel has a outdoor swimming pool with a children’s swimming area and it’s within walking distance of three local beaches.

Agadir in Morocco has the perfect blend of beach and city

In third place is Agadir which has an average price of £765pp and average highs in March of 24C.

The city in Morocco has a combination of culture, sandy beaches, and endless sunshine – even in March.

It’s a popular spot for water sports, sailing, boat trips, hiking and cycling.

Another must-do in Agadir is explore the souks to check out the many stalls selling traditional Moroccan goods – and souvenirs.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey also recently visited Agadir, and here’s what she made of it.

“Rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1960, the sprawling city nestles against the Atlantic Ocean and its palm-lined wide roads feel more Miami than Morocco.

“No wonder the South African country looks set to be a holiday. hotspot as Brits look past Spain next year.

“I’m staying in Taghazout, a surf town with an ever-growing number of modern beach-side resorts, just 13 miles north of Agadir and its sizzling souk.

“One of the newest resorts is the five-star adults-only Pickalbatros White Beach, which features pristine white marble steps, manicured gardens and a huge airy lobby offering views of the beach through giant glass windows – it’s affordable luxury at its finest.”

Fuerteventura is also affordable and has average highs of 22C in MarchCredit: Alamy

And finally the fourth cheapest is Fuerteventura which has an average price of £800pp and average highs of 22C.

Some of the most popular and family-friendly spots on the island include Corralejo and Caleta de Fuste.

TUI rep Samuel Gonzalez was born and raised in Fuerteventura added: “When it comes to beach day fun, look no further than Corralejo .

“The lively resort has plenty of beaches including the Grandes Playas which has golden sands and bright blue waters.”

Visitors should make sure to visit ‘Popcorn Beach’ in a village called Majanicho.

Majanicho is a small, off-the-beaten-track village known for surfing, a calm lagoon, and it even has a unique beach made of coral – often called “Popcorn Beach”.

The beach near Corralejo is covered in white, popcorn-shaped algae fossils called rhodoliths rather than sand.

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire visited the island during February half-term when temperatures were as high as 25C.

For more on Easter holidays – these are the cheapest all-inclusive holidays Sun Travel has found from just £179pp.

And here’s where to find guaranteed sun this Easter – with highs of 28C and UK flights from 3.5 hours.

The sunny Algarve is the cheapest place for families to go this EasterCredit: Alamy

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English Riviera to have ZERO Blue Flag beaches this summer

BRITAIN’S answer to the Mediterranean with sandy beaches and palm-tree-lined promenades, won’t have a single Blue Flag beach this year.

Devon‘s English Riviera, formed of three towns – Paignton, Brixham and Torquay – will lose all of its Blue Flag beaches this year after the local council agreed to scrap the scheme.

The English Riviera’s top beaches will lose their Blue Flag awardsCredit: Getty

At a recent meeting, Torbay Council agreed to leave the internationally recognised scheme which awards high-quality beaches.

While the English Riviera stretches across the South Devon coast, every single one of its awarded beaches sits under Torbay Council’s control.

There are six beaches in total with the award including Broadsands Beach in Paignton; Oddicombe Beach in Torquay; Preston Beach in Paignton; Torre Abbey Sands in Torquay; Breakwater Beach in Brixham and Meadfoot Beach in Torquay.

One beach – Oddicombe in Torquay – has even held a Blue Flag status since the scheme launched 38 years ago.

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The council has said that the decision has been made as local leaders believe the scheme wasn’t meeting the bay’s needs anymore and that it had become too expensive, reports theBBC.

The scheme has recently updated its criteria to include a requirement for designated zones for swimmers, surfers, boarders and motor boats at each beach.

However, for smaller coves, Torbay Council believes this is unpractical.

Councillor Martin Brook said: “I think the Blue Flag lot have shot themselves in the foot.

“Places all over the country are going to pull out of the scheme.”

The council is now planning to introduce a new scheme that would be run locally called the English Riviera Beach Standards (ERBS) scheme.

ERBS will replace the Blue Flag scheme, managing all of Torbay’s 25 beaches and coves and it would cost £260,000 less to run.

It will also allow the council to test the water standards more frequently.

The beaches will be accessed against three categories.

The first is ‘excellence’, which celebrates the highest-quality beaches in the area – ones that consistently have a great visitor experience.

The second category is ‘quality’, which looks at what unique offerings each beach has.

The beaches include three in Torquay, two in Paignton and one in BrixhamCredit: Getty

And the third category is ‘natural’, which highlights unspoilt beaches in the region.

Each beach will be assessed every year under the new scheme.

According to the council, the scheme will also allow water to be monitored more often, there to be a stronger focus on environmental protection and sustainability, visitor experience to be improved, be better value for money and more accurately present Torbay’s coastline.

Councillor Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said: “Torbay’s coastline is central to our identity, and these new beach awards will highlight just how deeply we value and protect it.

“By creating a locally designed system, we can focus on what truly matters to our communities, our visitors and our environment.”

Under the new ratings current Blue Flag beaches Oddicombe, Meadfoot, Torre Abbey, Broadsands and Breakwater would all move into the ‘excellence’ category.

Then in the ‘quality’ category, Maidencombe, Anstey’s Cove, Goodrington North and Goodrington South beaches would feature.

And finally, Watcombe, Petitor, Babbacombe, Peaked Tor, Corbyn Head, Livermead, Fairy Cove, Oyster Cove, Saltern Cove, Armchair Cove, Elberry Cove, Churston, Fishcombe, St Mary’s Bay, Beacon Cove and Hollicombe beaches would be in the ‘natural’ category.

The local council is now planning to introduce their own schemeCredit: Alamy

The council added how Paignton and Preston Beaches will currently not be categorised due to a multi-million waterfront upgrade project taking place.

Locals are skeptical about the idea of a new scheme though, with one person commenting on social media: “Is the blue flag recognised across the globe?

“Why replace (your words) something that has been around for over 40 years. Unless you look to make cut backs on facilities.”

Another added: “Why have a local system that means nothing to our visitors…. Stick to the Blue Flag system that is known throughout the UK.”

The new scheme is set to come into force on March 2, with the former £11,000 Blue Flag budget being used to set up the scheme.

In other beach news, world famous UK beach closed to the public after storm damage.

Plus, our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

The decision comes as requirements for Blue Flag awards has changedCredit: Getty

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Top US attraction to open first indoor adventure park in the UK – with 16 slides & ‘flying’ coaster

A POPULAR attraction found across America is finally making its way to the UK.

Slick City Nottingham will have the world’s first UV AirGlider – a gravity-powered aerial coaster that makes you feel like you are flying.

Slick City in Nottingham will open on March 12Credit: Google maps

Slick City already has 95 sites across America and the Nottingham site will mark the company’s first amusement park in Europe when it comes next month.

Inside the new attraction, there will be a mix of dry slides with different drops and twists.

For example, you could head on Fast Lane – a four-lane slide that has been built for friendly competitions with high-speed sliding.

Then there’s Royal Flush – a slide that features a sheer drop and then you spin around in a massive bowl, that will feel like you’re in a flushing toilet.

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There’s even one slide – Avalanche – that is meant to make you feel as if you are skiing downhill, just without the snow.

Alternatively, you could head on Big Wave, which first has a steep drop and then builds speed as you slide back and forth along a blue half-pipe.

Then on the UV AirGlider, visitors will be strapped in and gravity will propel them along a track – with a ultra-violet theme – hanging in the air to make them feel as if they are soaring through the sky.

There’s a freestyle air court and sport air court as well, which are specifically designed with a cushioned and bouncy base making them the ideal spots for parkour tricks.

The attraction – which will span over 4,600sqm – will be designed for children aged four-years-old or over, with children under 12 needing an adult with them.

But there will be a soft play area for little ones aged three-years-old or younger.

And parents can sit back in the onsite cafe with a coffee as well.

The Nottingham site will be the company’s first standalone indoor slide park in Europe.

Slick City launched back in 2021 and has grown rapidly, with Keely Buchanan, park manager at Slick City Nottingham saying “it’s pure adrenaline for every age”.

Many people have taken to social media to express their excitement for the opening, with one person even asking whether there will be adult-only sessions, which is something the company does at its American sites.

It will feature 16 slides and a glider coasterCredit: Google maps

There are a number of different ticket types available including 90 minute and 120 minute sessions.

For a 90 minute session, admission costs £19.95 per person.

If you want 120 minutes of fun, then it will set you back £24.95 per person.

You can also add on the AirGlider, which costs £4 for one ride or £10 for three rides – though the three rides must be used by the same person.

It is worth noting you will also need to grab a pair of CitySocks, which cost £3 a pair – but you can keep and re-use them.

In other attraction news, these are the 20 most-visited attractions in England that are completely free to enter.

Plus, a new ‘floating park’ with sauna and lido to open in popular London district – in huge £5billion upgrade.

Visitors can purchase tickets for 90 or 120 minute sessionsCredit: Google maps

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Banned food and drink that’ll get you stopped at every UK airport

Holidaygoers returning home need to be careful about what they bring back

With the February half-term still underway for many regions across the country, plenty of families will be eagerly packing their bags for some much-needed winter sun. For anyone keen to bring back goodies for their friends and relatives, there are certain rules they need to follow to avoid being stopped at UK airports.

In a recent warning by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the government agency urged holiday-goers to be mindful of what they try to bring back home. In a post on Facebook, a statement reads: “Travelling back from a half term trip abroad?

“To protect UK farmers and animals from diseases like Foot and Mouth, meat and dairy products can’t be brought into Great Britain. Check the rules before travelling.”

There are numerous guidelines on the Gov.uk website regarding bringing food into Great Britain, including rules on meat, dairy, fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and pet food. You can bring the following into Great Britain from any country without any restrictions:

  • bread, but not sandwiches filled with meat or dairy products
  • cakes without fresh cream
  • biscuits
  • chocolate and confectionery, but not those made with a lot of unprocessed dairy ingredients
  • pasta and noodles, but not if mixed or filled with meat or meat products
  • packaged soup, stocks and flavourings
  • processed and packaged plant products, such as packaged salads and frozen plant material
  • food supplements containing small amounts of an animal product, such as fish oil capsules

There are restrictions on bringing meat, dairy, fish and animal products and fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into Great Britain from abroad. If you’re bringing in any food or animal products protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), you may need to apply for a CITES permit.

Meat, dairy, fish and animal products

The rules on bringing meat, dairy, fish and other animal products depend on the country you’re bringing it from. From the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, you can bring in the following for personal use:

  • fish
  • poultry, for example, chicken, duck, goose and any other products made from these meats
  • other animal products, for example, eggs and honey

Due to recent and ongoing outbreaks of animal diseases in the EU, there are rules about bringing in most meats and all dairy products. You are allowed to bring in a maximum of 2kg per person of powdered baby milk, baby food, or special food required for medical reasons. You can only bring these items if they don’t need to be kept cold before using, and they must be in branded, unopened packages (unless you are currently using them).

There are restrictions on meat, dairy and animal products for human consumption. You cannot bring in any of the following:

  • cheese, milk and dairy products like butter and yoghurt
  • pork
  • beef
  • lamb
  • mutton
  • goat
  • venison
  • other products made from these meats, for example sausages

If you’re bringing food from a country outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, the following rules apply. You cannot bring in:

  • meat or meat products
  • milk or milk-based products, except powdered infant milk, infant food or special food needed for medical reasons

You can bring in up to 2kg per person of:

  • honey
  • powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food (including pet food) needed for medical reasons – you can only bring it in if it does not need to be refrigerated before use, and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless in current use)
  • live mussels or oysters
  • snails – these must be preserved or shelled, cooked and prepared
  • frogs’ legs – these must be the back (hind) part of the frog with the skin and internal organs removed
  • insect protein

You can bring in up to 20kg per person in total of fish, including:

  • fresh fish – must be gutted
  • fish products
  • processed fish – must be dried, cooked, cured or smoked
  • lobsters
  • prawns

You cannot bring in caviar unless you have a CITES permit.

Fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds

The rules on bringing fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds depend on the country you’re bringing it from. From the EU, Switzerland or Liechtenstein, you can bring in the following for personal use:

  • fruit
  • vegetables
  • nuts and seeds

From other countries outside the EU you cannot bring in most fruit or vegetables unless you have a ‘phytosanitary’ (plant health) certificate for them. You can get a certificate from the plant health authorities in the country you’re leaving. You can only bring in the following without a phytosanitary certificate:

  • pineapple
  • kiwi
  • coconut
  • citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit
  • kumquat
  • persimmon
  • durian
  • curry leaves
  • banana and plantain
  • mango
  • dates
  • passion fruit
  • guava
  • processed and packaged plant products, such as packaged salads or frozen plant material
  • peeled and processed nuts or nut butters
  • certain grains, such as rice

Pet food

The rules on bringing pet food depend on the country you’re bringing it from. From the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland. You cannot bring in pet food if it contains meat or other animal products from pig, cow, sheep, goat or deer.

You can bring in pet food made with other ingredients (for example, chicken) if it is commercially packaged with the manufacturer’s name and address. You can bring up to 2kg per person. From countries outside the EU you cannot bring in pet food, unless your pet needs it for health-related reasons.

You can bring in up to 2kg per person of pet food needed for health-related reasons, from any country. The pet food must:

  • not need to be refrigerated before use
  • be in branded, unopened packaging (unless it is currently in use)

Your pet must be travelling with you. You should have evidence that the pet food is needed for health-related reasons, such as a letter from your vet. Contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) if you want to bring in more than 2kg of health-related pet food per person.

You’ll need to provide:

  • details of why you cannot buy the specific pet food in Great Britain
  • a letter from your vet confirming your pet needs this specific food

Check if you need a CITES permit

You may need to apply for a permit or certificate if you’re bringing any food or animal products protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) into Great Britain. This includes foods such as caviar and eel fillets and beauty products containing caviar extract. Check if you need a CITES permit.

You can apply for a CITES permit online. When travelling to Great Britain, you’ll need to arrive at one of the ports or airports that handles CITES items. Border Force can seize your items if you do not have a CITES permit and they think you’ve brought them into the country illegally.

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Wednesday 25 February National Day in Kuwait


This text traces the evolution of Kuwait from a modest fishing community to a significant regional trade hub under the long-standing Al-Sabah dynasty. While the nation initially sought British protection to avoid Ottoman rule, it eventually achieved full independence in 1961. Although the country officially became sovereign in June, the National Day holiday was rescheduled to February to avoid the intense summer heat. This modern celebration now honors the 1950 inauguration of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah rather than the literal date of the British departure. The source also places this history within a broader global news context, mentioning various international political and financial events from early 20 … 



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The incredible countries loved by Brit expats with year-round sun, £341 rent & beers for 83p

DREAMING of swapping British grey skies for year-round sunshine?

Good news: moving abroad to a place by the beach may be easier than you’d think, plus you can even save hundreds of pounds on rent every month and cut the cost of food, beer, and tax.

Polly made the move to Barbados after the pandemic wiped out her travel business back in the UKCredit: Supplied

From European coastal cities to Caribbean islands, these expat hotspots provide year-round sun, and your money can stretch much further.

Here’s our pick of sunshine spots with affordable rent, cheap drinks and laid-back lifestyles – plus how to actually go about moving there in 2026.

Portugal

With 300 days of sun a year, world-class cuisine and a laid-back vibe – why would you not want to move to Portugal?

It turns out many Brits have been asking themselves this question. In fact, the country is becoming an increasingly popular choice for British expats.

Portugal has recently overtaken Spain in the rankings for most desirable relocation spots for Brits, according to 1st Move International.

And it’s no surprise this European hotspot is becoming so popular to relocate to, with plenty of postcard-perfect towns to explore and an extensive, stunning coastline.

From the cobbled streets and grand cathedral of Faro Old Town, to kayaking through Benagil Cave, there’s plenty to explore here that feels worlds away from the UK grind.

The Algarve has long been a popular choice for Brits to settle down in, with its golden coves, affordable bars and a sizeable expat community.

And with around 3000 hours of sun a year, and beaches like Praia da Marinha on your doorstep, the southernmost tip of Portugal is pretty hard to beat.

Plus, one of the best parts about this region is its affordability.

A bottle of local beer will only cost you €0.95 (83p), and a meal at a restaurant averages just €13.68 (£11.97) according to data from Wise.

Those looking for a younger crowd and a trendy feel can opt for the country’s capital, Lisbon.

Hop on the vintage yellow tram and spend your days stopping off at magnificent castles, strolling the city’s lively, narrow streets and finding treasures at flea markets.

In the evenings, the capital glows orange with dramatic sunsets. These views are best enjoyed outdoors at a tapas bar, with a glass of local wine and some affordable petiscos (small plates) to snack on.

Expat Lauren Clark relocated from busy London to laid-back Lisbon, and reflected on just how much cheaper her day-to-day has been.

And rent in this region is inexpensive, too. We found charming, traditional apartments from just €400 (£350) per month on the “Rightmove of Portugal” site, Idealista.

Expat Lauren relocated from busy London to laid-back LisbonCredit: Supplied
Praia da Marinha in the Algarve could become your local beachCredit: Getty
Lisbon’s pretty pastel streets are best explored by its eléctricos, or tramsCredit: Alamy

“I have been amazed how my money has been able to go further compared to back home.

At many bars, restaurants and quiosques, you can still purchase a top-quality house white or red for just a few euros.

“A ride on a regional train service – such as from the 40 minutes from Lisbon to Caiscais – will set you back only a couple of euros.

Meanwhile, the monthly ‘Navegante’ travel pass gives you unlimited use of public transport – including the famous trams – in the capital area for less than £30 per month”.

Barbados

Ever wished you could ditch the work desk to sip from coconuts on the white sandy beach of a tropical island?

It’s safe to say that the views working from Barbados beat those of back home.

Plus, relocating to Barbados may be easier than you think – especially if you already work remotely.

With the Welcome Stamp visa, you can spend a year on the island as a non-national working remotely for businesses based elsewhere in the world.

Mullins Beach in Western Barbados is known for green sea and leatherback turtle-spottingCredit: Getty

You must receive an income of at least £36,000 per year to receive this renewable visa, plus individuals must make an initial payment of £1,500.

But once you’ve bagged your Welcome Stamp, you can enjoy your lunch breaks on the beach and spend weekends exploring the island.

Some of the very best beaches include the lively Mullins Beach, as well as Paynes Bay, popular among sun-seekers and green sea turtles alike.

Top-quality rum cocktails can be found at beach bars dotted around the island, whilst local Bajan food can be enjoyed at affordable spots like Fisherman’s Pub in Speightstown.

And with a beer averaging BDS $5 (£1.83) and the average meal costing you BDS $40 (£14.67), you can laze on the sands without stressing about spending too much money.

“Once you know where to go, you can get a fish cutter sandwich for around 18 Barbadian dollars” (£7) says expat Polly Gould.

Post-work drinks could look like rum cocktails on the beach in BarbadosCredit: Alamy
Polly Gould says she feels ‘extremely blessed’ every day to live on the island of BarbadosCredit: Supplied

“In the evening, you can pop to Oistins (Barbados’ smallest town known for its Friday night Fish Fry) for fish, salad and sides for $35 BDS (£12.87).”

“The island is small and easy to get around, and people are really friendly and welcoming,” agrees fellow expat Nicola.

“The weather is a constant 30°C or thereabouts all year round, the white sand beaches and crystal clear aquamarine seas are stunning, and it’s still possible to get off the beaten track, which we love.”

Plus, the rent here can be super affordable too, even for beachfront properties.

We found apartments overlooking the sea of Silver Sands beach from £684 a month on rental site Terra Caribbean.

Cyprus

Cyprus sees hot summers with highs of 30°C and mild winters reaching 14°C, making it a year-round winner for sun seekers.

Top beaches include the turquoise crescent of Coral Bay frequented by families, as well as Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, which is popular among party-goers.

Pair this with beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of historical sites to explore, and you won’t be short of things to do in this slice of Mediterranean paradise.

“In the summer it’s a hive of activity – boat trips along the coastline, buggy and jeep safaris in the Akamas, amazing fresh food in the family-owned restaurants” says expat Anna Warburton.

“In the winter it’s a select group of locals and expats – it’s like living in a real life soap, like Emmerdale but much warmer and with less murder.” 

Areas such as Paphos are popular for brilliant beaches and great value for money when it comes to property, whilst Limassol has lots of job opportunities and a luxury-feel marina.

The Blue Lagoon of the Akamas Peninsula is reachable by boat from Latchi Harbor in PaphosCredit: Getty
Brit expat Anna Warburton swapped life in the UK for the holiday hotspot – where she enjoys year-round sunshine with her cat RichardCredit: Supplied

Plus, apart from the change in surroundings and warmer temperatures, a move here won’t feel like too much of a change.

Cyprus uses the same plug socket style as the UK, and cars drive on the left hand side of the road.

In fact the country has lots of familiar favourites from the UK, including M&S supermarkets and even a Wagamamas restaurant. So you won’t be missing your home comforts!

In fact, Brits enjoy Cyprus so much that they make up the second-largest population of non-national residents after Greek expats.

According to Wise, the average restaurant meal costs just €15.00 (£13.12) whilst a bottle of local beer will set you back just €3.00 (£2.60).

Plus you can find apartments to rent from as little as €390 (£341) per month on popular Cyprus marketplace site Bazaraki.

Australia

You may have seen old friends and colleagues cropping up all over Australia on your Instagram feed recently, and there’s a reason everyone seems to be flocking out there.

The ‘Aussie effect’ is certainly real – and may leave you more relaxed, upbeat and with more sun-kissed skin than ever before.

It’s no surprise that days spent surfing, sunbathing and exercising can leave you looking and feeling more youthful.

And with influencers and celebs like Love Island star Patsy Field ditching the UK for a life down under, it seems a lot of Brits have followed suit.

Sunny Perth has the highest population of English residents in Australia, with almost one in ten Perth residents being born in England.

Nearly one in ten Perth residents were born in EnglandCredit: Getty
A post-work surf session isn’t a rare occurence in sunny SydneyCredit: Getty

Perth blends sugar-white beaches such as Cottesloe with street art and sculptures, giving the city a relaxed and artsy feel. Plus, trips to Rottnest Island to spot quokkas are an adorable perk of being based here.

Sydney is another popular choice. Here you can enjoy an equally exciting and healthy lifestyle in a major city where the beach is your backyard.

5am run clubs rule the mornings, whilst post-work routines can look like a dip in the Bondi Icebergs before debriefing the day with your mates on the beach. Is there any better way to fast-track that sun-kissed glow?

The trendy bars of Melbourne, the South Bank of Brisbane, the burnt orange sunsets of the Gold Coast – the options are endless in this vast and varied country.

Expat Lewy (lewyp23 on TikTok) and his partner moved to Adelaide in South Australia, and has since raved about his relocation.

Lewy described leaving the UK to escape miserable weather and negative people”, and now enjoys sunny weather, a cheaper cost of living and a salary increase since relocating.

“It’s highly likely that we will never live in the UK again because it cannot offer us the life we’ve got now”, he said in one TikTok video.

There are multiple visa options when it comes to relocating to Australia, including a Work-stream permanent visa if you manage to land sponsored employment.

And with the Skills in Demand visa having launched in December of 2025, it has now become even easier for skilled workers to make the move.

If your profession makes the list of skilled occupation shortages, you may be able to land this four-year visa. Occupation shortages include midwives, electricians and headteachers.

We’ve found studio apartments to rent in Perth from as little as £460 per month on Australian rental site realestate.com.au.

Spain

Spain remains a solid choice for Brits relocating abroad for a spot of sun and an inexpensive lifestyle.

As the country with the most Blue Flag beaches in the world, there’s no shortage of stunning shores to pick from if you want to live by the beach.

Benidorm‘s Playa de Levante has an unbeatable upbeat atmosphere, whilst the scenic Playa de la Caleta in Cádiz sits between two castles.

La Caleta in Cadiz is sandwiched between two impressive castlesCredit: Getty
Relax in Spain at tapas bars, where great beers and wines can cost less than €3 (£2.60)Credit: Getty

But Spain’s appeal goes far beyond its beaches. The country offers a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, excellent food, and a strong expat community – all whilst being just a short flight from the UK.

Whether you’re after a relaxed retirement or a vibrant city scene, there’s a corner of Spain to suit every type of expat.

The Costa del Sol remains one of the most popular areas, with destinations like Marbella, Estepona and Nerja offering sunshine for more than 300 days a year.

Think palm-lined promenades, bustling tapas bars and a social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet new friends and fellow expats.

Costa Blanca is another solid choice thanks to its affordable lifestyle and charming seaside towns.

Places like Alicante and Torrevieja blend a beachy lifestyle with modern amenities, with many drawn to the relaxed pace and easy access to shops and transport links.

For those looking for city life, Barcelona and Madrid offer a completely different side of Spain.

Barcelona is buzzing with bold architecture, busy markets and a thriving cafe culture, whilst Madrid boasts elegant boulevards and classy late-night dining.

Food and drink across Spain is often far more affordable than in the UK.

Bright and colourful houses line up along the beach in the old town of Vila Joiosa, AlicanteCredit: Getty
Relocating somewhere sunny doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult with these picksCredit: Getty

A glass of local wine at the neighbourhood bar is part of the daily rhythm rather than a special occasion, and costs between €2 – €5 (£1.75 – £4.40) on average.

And with a local beer averaging at €3 (£2.60) and a cappuccino costing just €1.90 (£1.66), there’s no need to worry about spending too much whilst you’re out socialising.

“On average, most retirees can live comfortably on around €30,490 (£26,500) per year, covering housing, utilities, food, healthcare, and leisure” says Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International.

“Those opting for coastal or rural areas typically find their money goes further than in major cities.

“Almería, Granada, Murcia, Lugo, and Torrevieja are some of the cheapest places to retire in Spain”.

Idealista is a popular site for properties to rent in Spain, and we’ve found apartments listed for as little as £447 per month in Costa Brava.



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Spain holiday island warning as threat of plague grows worse

Concern about a plague is growing in the Canary Islands, with officials on alert in the sunny Spanish holiday hotspots of Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura

The threat of a plague is growing in four Spanish holiday hotspots.

Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura have seen clouds of locusts descend in recent days. While the short-horned grasshopper breed is not harmful to people, it could pose a threat to agriculture, including vineyards, if the situation escalates into a plague, as happened 20 years ago.

Videos have been posted on social networks showing hundreds of locusts flying around the countryside. The insects have arrived from the western Sahara due to recent wet but warm weather. The locusts have hit several parts of Lanzarote, including the popular tourist locations of Arrecife, Costa Teguise, Famara, Uga and Tahíche.

There have also been swarms on the other Canary Islands, including in the north of Tenerife. Twenty years ago, a plague of this insect affected Lanzarote, wreaking havoc on crops and people’s daily lives. At that time, the number of locusts was so large that teams of firefighters were called in to eliminate them.

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The locust is an insect that, over the centuries, has arrived from the African continent with the winds from the east, along with the suspended dust of the Sahara Desert.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), it is the most destructive migratory pest in the world and, in response to environmental stimuli, it can form dense and highly mobile swarms.

They have the capacity to destroy crops by ingesting their weight in food each day. A swarm of one square kilometre can contain up to 80 million adults and has the capacity to consume the same amount of food per day as 35,000 people.

Lanzarote’s government has already mobilised its environmental services, which will be vigilant for the next 48 hours. Leaders are confident the swarms will not escalate into a plague.

“The next two days are going to be key. If they are adult specimens that have arrived exhausted, they will die and nothing will happen. If we see copulations, that would mean that they are reproducing. We would have to see it between this afternoon and tomorrow,” said the head of the Environment of the Cabildo, Francisco Fabelo.

“We already experienced this in 2004, and at the end of the eighties, there was another similar episode. On both occasions, it was very striking, with specimens all over the roads, but they did not cause damage inside.”

The Canary Islands experienced one of the most serious episodes of desert locust in October 1958, when large swarms from Africa devastated crops on the islands and, especially, in the south of Tenerife, in municipalities such as Arico, Fasnia, Granadilla de Abona and the Güímar Valley.

Tomato and potato plantations suffered significant damage and the plague forced the mobilisation of planes from the Ministry of Agriculture to fumigate from the air, while residents and farmers tried to combat the insects from the ground with rudimentary methods such as bonfires, noise or poisoned baits.

A similar episode had already occurred in 1954, when another swarm devastated more than 10,000 hectares of crops on the islands. Agricultural leaders on the islands say they do not fear another repeat and have stressed the islands have the means to combat the problem.

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Quintessential English town is like stepping back in time

Petworth in Sussex features cobbled streets, 40+ antique dealers, and a 700-acre park with a 17th-century stately home housing an internationally significant art collection

At this time of year, there’s nothing quite like strolling through a picturesque UK town before settling into a welcoming pub. There’s one particular spot that’s absolutely worth the journey.

The unspoilt English town of Petworth in Sussex feels like a step back in time, boasting charming cobbled lanes brimming with antique emporiums. Independent shops nestle amongst the streets, alongside cafes, delis and inviting pubs that create the perfect setting for an idyllic day out.

Petworth Antiques Market alone houses over 40 dealers, where you can uncover everything from exquisite furniture pieces to ornaments and an array of home accessories.

When hunger strikes, drop into The Hungry Guest delicatessen on Middle Street before heading out to explore the expansive 700-acre Petworth Park, which sits beneath the magnificent 17th-century Petworth House.

Inside, guests can wander through the 17th-century stately home and discover a treasure trove featuring an internationally significant collection of art and sculpture. You might even recognise it from films such as Napoleon, Rebecca, and Maleficent, as well as its appearance on Netflix’s Bridgerton.

One Tripadvisor reviewer remarked: “Pretty Petsworth. Petsworth House is a beautiful period home with an amazing Mural up the staircase. The artist who painted the mural can be found hiding behind one of the pillars in the painted mural. A favourite of Turner – the famous artist who used to stay here and paint. The grounds and lake are really pretty.

“The Town nearby has some beautiful medieval houses, which are antique shops, as well as a great antique market. A great place to walk around and have afternoon tea. One of my favourite historical towns.”

Another visitor said: “Our first visit to Petworth and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Although the house isn’t particularly impressive from the outside, the artwork within certainly is worth viewing. We did a guided tour with an extremely knowledgeable gentleman, which was greatly enjoyable and informative.”

They added: “I’m not even a great art fan, but he brought everything to life. Afterwards, we enjoyed a coffee in the cafe and a lovely walk around the estate in the sunshine. I would say it is more suited to adults than children, but we really enjoyed our visit.”

Petworth lies just over half an hour’s drive from Chichester and roughly 50 minutes from Portsmouth. If you appreciate nature and wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for the hundreds of deer roaming freely throughout the grounds.

The grounds represent one of the finest surviving examples of English landscape design by celebrated architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. From this location, visitors can take in breathtaking views across the South Downs, with the estate providing an ideal viewpoint.

It’s also an ideal destination to leave behind the chaos of everyday life for an invigorating stroll. Worth noting too that Petworth received such acclaim, it was recognised as one of Britain’s most scenic towns by Condé Nast Traveller earlier this year.

So if you’re considering a day trip within the UK, Petworth makes for a charming and peaceful excursion this winter.

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World famous UK beach closed to the public after storm damage

ONE of the UK’s most popular beaches has been forced to close to the public indefinitely.

Access to Durdle Door beach, famous for its unique rock formation and fossil hunting, remains shut until further notice due to storm damage.

The path to Durdle Door beach in Dorset has been closed after storm damageCredit: Alamy
Recent storms swept away part of the steps onto the beachCredit: Alamy

The beach on the Jurassic Coast has been closed after storms destroyed part of the steps.

The bottom section was swept away leaving a steep drop.

Lulworth Estate announced that the path to Durdle Door beach has been temporarily closed for “public safety”.

A spokesperson told the BBC: “Weather conditions may continue to affect the coastline and the Lulworth Estate team encourages everyone to exercise caution and respect temporary closures put in place for public safety.”

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Visitor access to nearby Man O’ War beach remains open.

Lulworth Estate said storms had resulted in “significant disruption to coastal access” and the safety of visitors remained its “highest priority”.

There’s no timeline for the reopening of the path – but Lulworth Estate said it would provide updates.

The beach is a popular spot with approximately 500,000 visitors going to see the impressive coastline every year.

Last summer, Durdle Door was named by National Geographic in the list of must-see beaches, which includes some in Australia and the Seychelles.

National Geographic declared Durdle Door as a beach “worth travelling for” because of its “showstopper” shore and rock formations.

Some have even compared Durdle Door to beaches overseas.

One person wrote on Tripadvisor: “Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door: Reminded me of the Algarve in Portugal!”

Another added: “You don’t feel like you are in the UK. It seems more like Portugal or California.”

Sophie reveals why Durdle Door is one of her favourite spotsCredit: Sophie Swietochowski

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski reveals what it’s actually like to visit Durdle Door – and why you should visit when it’s back open.

She said: “Despite the Jurassic Coast being one of the most well-known spots for rambling in the UK, it has managed to remain gloriously peaceful.

“I barely passed another soul during a Sunday hike along the rugged coastal path above Durdle Door a few years back – only a herd of cows munching on the unkempt grass at the top of the cliff.

“Admittedly, things grew a little busier as I approached Lulworth Cove. But that’s no surprise with a horseshoe-shaped pebble bay and turquoise waters that could rival those in the Caribbean.

“Make sure to wander over to Fossil Forest while you’re here too, where you can observe ripples of an ancient sea floor within the rocks and fossilised remains of old tree stumps that date back to the dinosaur era.”

For more beaches, here are our 26 must-visit ones for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

And here are five British beaches that are even better in winter – with warmer waters, most sunshine hours and no tourists.

The path down to Durdle Door is currently closed due to storm damageCredit: Alamy

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Woman avoids £30 Ryanair charge with £2.59 ‘Vinted’ method

The extra baggage charge would have been more than half what she paid for the tickets

Woman uses Vinted method and Lidl bag to avoid £30 Ryanair charge

A woman avoided paying a £30 luggage charge on Ryanair thanks to a simple hack that cost her just £2.59. Laura Poole, 33, paid a tiny amount to send her clothes in the post, rather than adding £30 to the cost of her flight by checking a bag in as excess luggage.

Laura says she has “better things to spend her money on” and swerved the additional charge by squeezing her outfits into her gym bag, wrapping it in a Lidl carrier bag and dropping it off at her local Tesco Express InPost locker. She flew to Glasgow from Bristol on February 22, paying £57.48 for her return flights.

Staying in Glasgow for a month on a business trip, she shipped “at least” five outfits including suit jackets and dresses – all for just £2.59. Dropping her parcel off on the Thursday evening before her Sunday morning flight, Laura’s parcel arrived safely in Glasgow just after she arrived.

Inspired by Vinted and their parcel shipping process, Laura says she has received comments from trolls saying she us “stupid” but has also been hailed a “genius” online.

Ryanair’s baggage fees are famously dynamic—they change based on your route, travel dates, and, most importantly, when you buy them. The general rule is: the later you wait, the more it costs. If you forget to book online and show up at the airport, you can expect to pay at the highest end of those ranges (up to £60 per bag).

If your bag is already checked but weighs more than your purchased allowance (e.g., your 20kg bag actually weighs 22kg) you will pay £11 more per kilo. If you try to take a bag to the gate that is too big for your allowance (like a “cabin bag” when you only paid for a “small personal item”) you can pay £75 for the bag to be put in the hold.

Laura, a public speaker and trainer, from Cardiff, said: “I have better things to spend her money on. I actually did it before, this is the second time I’ve done it. So I knew it worked. “I got the idea from Vinted because they’re using InPost lockers for that. I was curious and thought ‘I wonder how much it is?’

“If it’s only that much for postage on Vinted it can’t be as much as Royal Mail. I’ve always been really frugal and am part of the FIRE community – financial independence and retire early. Lots of people are super frugal and I have better things to spend my money on than really expensive baggage fees.

“I’m here for a month this time as well and I thought I’m going to need more than a backpack, so I got my gym bag, stuffed it with clothes and wrapped it in a Lidl bag and taped it up. People on Vinted send stuff in anything – I thought ‘that’ll do’.”

Laura also packed enough clothes to last her two to three days in her cabin backpack. “I would not post anything that I loved,” she added. “For example I’ve got a scarf I’ve had for 10 years and my grandad’s t-shirts – who is not around anymore. That stuff goes in my backpack.

“Obviously I don’t want to lose my clothes and there are lots of clothes in there. It’s insured for up to £50. My thought process is if anything goes wrong, or it doesn’t arrive in time, I’ve got time to buy new clothes. I do public speaking so I need to look good. Suit jackets, trousers, all sorts I threw it all in, dresses as well.

“I must have at least five different outfits and then loungewear and stuff as well”.

Sharing her plans on Facebook, her post went viral. Laura said: “There are always trolls whenever anything goes that big and people are always negative, but overall I’ve never been called a genius so much in my life.”

She will use the InPost locker system when she returns from the trip next month and will save another £27.41.

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More than one million Brits to be affected by new passport rules from TODAY

NEW passport rules are being introduced from today – and anyone breaking then could be banned from their flight.

From today (February 25), dual national passport holders can no longer use their foreign passport to enter the UK.

New passport rules have been introduced for dual nationals todayCredit: Alamy
Dual nationals will no longer be able to use their foreign passport to enter the UKCredit: Alamy

Affecting as many as 1.2million people who hold more than one passport in the UK, they must now use a valid British passport when arriving into the UK.

Anyone without this must instead have a certificate of entitlement, which costs £589.

Passengers trying to enter the country by plane, ferry or train without this risks being banned from travelling.

Home Office spokesperson previously explained: “From February 25, 2026, all dual British citizens will need to present either a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid delays at the border.”

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Many have slammed the new rules, which were only announced earlier this month, for not allowing enough time for people living abroad to buy a new passport.

New British passports can take up to three weeks, while first time applications can take as long as 10 weeks.

The government suggested that airlines may allow passengers to travel with an expired passport, however this is at their own discretion.

A spokesperson told The Sun: “At their own discretion, carriers can accept an expired British passport as alternative documentation.”

Not only that, but it must be no older than an expiry of 1989 or later.

They also confirmed that anyone who previously held a British passport, but it has now expired, can instead get an emergency travel document to enter the UK instead.

The new rules are in line with the electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which has also launched from today.

Any non-British national must now may for the £16 ETA to enter the country.

Lasting up to six months, it will be required from people who are from destinations like Europe, the US and Australia.

Anyone who is a dual national cannot apply for an ETA under the new rules.

Brits will not need an ETA when returning to the UK.

Here are some other passport rules you need to be aware of.

And we explain how to apply for your child’s first passport.

Anyone without a British passport or certificate will not be able to enter the UKCredit: Alamy

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Rolling hills, rich heritage and great pubs: a car-free break in Leicestershire | England holidays

Fallow deer are grazing under ruined brick walls in the house where Lady Jane Grey was born. It’s a moody spring day at Bradgate Park in Leicestershire and there are few visitors. Instead, there are fieldfares in the hedges and skylarks singing in the mist. I’m walking, through bracken and craggy outcrops, towards Old John Tower, a folly that looks like a giant beer mug on the hill ahead.

It sometimes feels as though England’s much-photographed beauty spots get more booked up and overpriced every day. But there are scenic corners of the country that still fly under the insta-radar and Charnwood, around Loughborough, is one of these. The largest borough in Leicestershire, Charnwood is the area between Leicester and the Nottinghamshire border. Its gentle wooded hills and well-kept villages offer country walks to gourmet pubs and cafes. It’s like a cheaper, quieter Cotswolds with better transport links.

The Navigation Inn in Barrow upon Soar. Photograph: Terence Wright/Alamy

An hour and a quarter by train from London or 50 minutes from Sheffield, Loughborough is easy to reach. The town makes a good base for a Charnwood holiday, with several immersive, weatherproof experiences and easy rural connections by bus, rail and steam train.

The atmospheric landscapes around popular Bradgate Park are just a few miles south of Loughborough. Bus 154 winds past thatched and half-timbered cottages, rugged granite chimneys and drifts of garden snowdrops. Outside the Badger’s Sett pub, near Cropston Reservoir, you can hop off the bus into Causeway Lane, a quiet stony track leading to Bradgate Park with wide views over the water.

Next morning’s mist turns to rain and I head to the UK’s last remaining bellfoundry for a tour. Fifteen minutes’ stroll from the cafe-lined lanes around the market, the museum was relaunched in 2024. Inside the foundry, there are showers of sparks from a metalworker’s bench, a smell of wood shavings in the bell-wheel workshop, and an 18ft-deep sandpit for cooling casts.

Loughborough is home to the UK’s last working bellfoundry.
Photograph: John Keates/Alamy

Loughborough Bellfoundry has made bells for cathedrals around the world, from York Minster to Sydney’s St Andrew’s, including Britain’s biggest church bell, Great Paul, for St Paul’s Cathedral. Shiny new and refurbished bells are destined for churches in Truro, Paisley, Betws-y-Coed, Stow-on-the-Wold. Guide Lianne Brooks is a keen bellringer, ringing in four church towers each week. “One pull on a rope and I was hooked,” she laughs. As she demonstrates on the foundry’s bells, the metal vibrates with a low seismic hum. The bellfoundry’s museum has a £5 entry fee for adults, and tours are available from £20.

The 1950s-style heritage Great Central Railway (GCR) station, a couple of minutes away, includes another packed museum and a Brief Encounter-esque refreshment room. With a whistle and whoosh of steam, we’re off, past banks where badgers live, to 1940s-themed Quorn and Woodhouse station. There’s a Naafi-style cafe, with a blazing log fire and radio playing wartime songs, in an old air-raid shelter under the railway bridge.

More than 700 volunteers work on GCR, doing everything from shovelling coal to serving tea. “Dig for Victory” says a sign above trackside gardens, where pink-and-lime-green rhubarb unfurls in pale spring sunshine. Drivers are training new recruits. “If one of us old buggers suddenly collapses, we’d need someone to take over,” says chief fire inspector Ken Scriven, a long-term volunteer driver and former mainline fireman.

The Great Central Railway in Loughborough. Photograph: Simon Pocklington/Alamy

GCR has ambitious schemes, with planning permission granted in 2025, to link the railway through to Nottingham, one of Europe’s biggest heritage rail projects. The photogenic stations feature regularly in TV series, from The Crown to Happy Valley. Much of the recent Netflix drama Seven Dials takes place on board one of GCR’s steam trains. Rolling on towards Leicester, we cross the bullrush-framed Swithland Reservoir, where dining cars pause to watch swans glide over sunset waters (GCR day tickets £24/£13 for adults/kids).

I’m staying at Burleigh Court on Loughborough’s crocus-carpeted university campus on the edge of town (doubles from £75, room only). At night I can hear tawny owls hooting from nearby bluebell woods. The Sprint Bus links the campus with the town centre and railway station every 10 minutes. There’s art on the walls by Loughborough students, carpets made from recycled bottles, and a spa with a decent-sized pool. A £4.5m refurb in autumn 2024 introduced the stylish new Fifty Restaurant, where half the meals are plant-based, and a bar, named after Lionesses Carney and Scott, both Loughborough alumnae. Cocktails include sustainable drinks using leftover veg. I sip a chocolatey purple Beet the Waste while a fellow-drinker braves the Cauliflower Colada.

John’s House is Leicestershire’s only Michelin-starred restaurant

Leicestershire’s only Michelin-starred restaurant is John’s House, a beamed, brick building on a working farm in the village of Mountsorrel, 20 minutes from Loughborough on bus 127 the next day. “It’s a good job he can cook,” jokes John’s brother Tom Duffin; “he was bugger-all use on the farm.” Nearby, the sheep are loudly hungry. “I hear that noise in my nightmares,” grins a young farmworker, lugging a bag of feed. The farm’s hogget, with locally foraged hen-of-the-woods mushrooms, features in today’s lunch (three courses, £49). Fresh venison arrives from Bradgate Park. The evening’s tasting menu (from £100) includes fallow deer with walnut wine as well as Tom’s potatoes with smoked eel, crispy chicken skin and lovage. Stonehurst Farm itself has a nostalgic smell of baking and wet straw. Tom’s daughter, soil scientist Zoe, shows us round pens of rare curly-headed Leicester Longwool sheep and gingery Tamworth pigs, destined for summer hog roasts. Tiny orange piglets are climbing over a spotted sow. There are Easter lambs on the way and a new indoor play barn.

At drier times of year, it’s a pleasant two-mile walk from Mountsorrel along the river to the pub-rich village of Barrow upon Soar. Today, the Soar has spilled onto the floodplains, leaving a duck-dotted lake where the path should be. Luckily, it’s not much further by road, taking a path known as The Slabs. Stepping out of icy drizzle into the fire-warmed Blacksmith’s Arms feels miraculous. An elegant mushroom wellington with deeply savoury mash goes well with golden beers from Charnwood Brewery. Trains from Barrow-upon-Soar station are hourly and take only five minutes to get back to Loughborough. Outside the window are boats on willow-hemmed waterways and flocks of wintering geese.

This trip was provided by Discover Charnwood

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Futuristic rail project could allow travel from London to Paris in 20 minutes with passenger pods

The way we travel could be changed forever following a futuristic rail project with rapid journeys from London to Paris within 20 minutes, and to Amsterdam in a mere 22 minutes

In a glimpse into the future of travel, a journey from London to Paris could take just 21 minutes, thanks to an innovative rail project.

As it stands, the fastest train journey from London to Paris takes two hours and 16 minutes, thanks to the efficient Eurostar which departs from St. Pancras International. However, if a futuristic rail project comes into fruition, the trip could be reduced to 1/6 of its current length, thanks to a hypothetical rail service that’d travel at more than 600mph.

This ultra-high-speed service would be made possible with hyperloop technology, which would involve passenger pods travelling through low-pressure tubes. In addition to the 21-minute journey to Paris, it could also provide transport from London to Brussels in 20 minutes, to Amsterdam in 22 minutes, and Berlin in just over an hour, reports the Telegraph.

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Yet the concept isn’t new and was brought to the spotlight in 2013, when entrepreneur Elon Musk published a white paper on the hyperloop, a proposed transportation system. Musk previously labelled it a ‘fifth mode of transport’, and work has been underway in Europe on making this hypothetical engineering marvel a reality.

The European Hyperloop Center (EHC) in Veendam opened in the Netherlands two years ago, offering a 420-metre hyperloop test tube that runs adjacent to a train track. There have been successful hyperloop tests, and engineers have achieved a “zero-moving-parts lane switch” by enabling the pods to alter their course without mechanical track adjustments.

While it was conducted at 55mph, The Telegraph, which visited the European Hyperloop Center, said it was a “turning point” for hyperloop. The inventive project could revolutionise how we travel and is said to feel like flying rather than boarding a standard train.

The managing director of the Hyperloop Center Veendam, Kees Mark, told the Telegraph: “To think that we could be having coffee in Paris in under an hour from now is a huge mindset shift. It’s more like flying. That’s one of the benefits of hyperloop – there’s no wear from moving parts.”

But there’s a long way to go for the ultra-fast transport, with the project facing major setbacks and a bundle of technical difficulties. It can also present some health and safety concerns.

In 2023, Virgin Hyperloop in the US halted passenger operations amid safety concerns, a complicated regulatory process, and substantial financial difficulties. One of the project’s investors, Richard Branson, withdrew after the company failed to reach its goal of 700mph, achieving only 107mph during the first human trial.

The number of passengers the hyperloop service could carry is another hurdle compared to a standard rail service. Hyperloop pods are designed for low-capacity, high-frequency travel, typically holding 28 to 40 passengers per capsule. However, because they are designed to operate every 30 to 120 seconds, they aim to achieve high hourly throughput despite small cabin sizes. Some designs suggest up to 50 passengers, but smaller, faster-moving pods are generally prioritized for efficiency

At this point, the project is still very much in the experimental stage, and it could be years before the form of transport is introduced for use, but with tests well underway, could this be the new normal?

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