TRAVEL

IF you fancy some winter sun but don’t want to travel far, then Malaga could be the city break for you.

The city gets up to six hours of sunshine per day in January, average highs of 17C and what’s even better is you can be there in under three hours.

Winter is a hard time for Brits as during January we can get just one and a half to two hours of sunshine each day.

Compared to the UK in the winter months, Malaga gets around five to six hours of daily sun and averages over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually.

Meanwhile, the UK gets around 1,350 to 1,500 hours of sunshine each year.

In the winter, Malaga can get an average of four times more sun than the UK.

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So, if you want a spot of sun, you can jet off to Malaga in under three hours.

One-way flights in January start from £15 with Ryanair from Stansted Airport – so you won’t even have to spend a lot to get there.

According to Wise, you can get a local pint of beer for as little as €2.50 (£2.17).

A cappuccino is estimated to cost €1.90 (£1.65), and the price of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can be as little as €12 (£10.40).

Malaga is the sixth largest city in Spain and it has it all, a beautiful city and incredible sandy beaches so you can enjoy the sunshine anywhere.

The most popular beaches include La Malagueta which is beyond a palm-tree lined promenade and is a great spot whether you want to sunbathe or paddle in the water.

Another is La Caleta which sits between Malagueta and Pedregalejo.

For quieter spots, head further out to fishing villages like Pedregalejo & El Palo which are known for their family-friendly, urban beaches with shallow and calm water.

For some culture, you might fancy heading up to the top of Gibralfaro Castle for incredible views across the port and city.

This fort was built in the 14th century to house troops and protect the Alcazaba – entry will cost €7.

You can’t miss the Malaga Cathedral either, the huge monument stands in the middle of the city.

It was originally built in 1528 and visitors can even explore inside or head up to the rooftop.

While in Malaga, pop into the Picasso Museum – as the city is the birthplace of famed artist Pablo Picasso.

When it comes to shopping, check out the bustling pedestrian streets like Calle Larios for big brands.

For modern shopping malls, there’s Muelle Uno on the waterfront promenade.

There are vibrant old town areas with independent shops on streets like Andrés Pérez.

Check out on Sun Writer’s top eats in Malaga…

The Sun’s Assistant Consumer Editor Lana Clements recently visited Malaga – and here are her top eats…

Lana said: “Almost all tastes are catered for on the beachfront, but seafood should be the order of the day here. Make sure you have at least one serving of pil-pil prawns, which features on most menus here.

“I loved Majumi Beach Club, which has a relaxed vibe and dishes up some excellent local grub. Try the sardines, which are grilled on an outdoor fire. The tomato salad with anchovies is also a hit with visitors.

“For a nice evening meal, Los Marangos in the old town serves top paella, tapas and other authentic dishes from the region. Picasso Bar Tapas has a really buzzy atmosphere.

“As the name suggests, you can enjoy tipples such as fruit-loaded sangria alongside tapas-style nibbles. Or if you’re looking for more of a party vibe, there are plenty of late-night venues in Torremolinos including Irish bars and karaoke venues.

“I preferred to take advantage of the Cosmos Sky Bar at my hotel — Hotel Costa Malaga — which poured me freshly shaken cocktails while I soaked up the excellent views from the rooftop.”

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A POPULAR European tourist spot is now charging tourists to enter – but it is not necessarily a bad thing.

The famous Juliet balcony located at Casa di Giulietta in Verona, Italy,dates back to the 1930s.

Over the decades, it has become a romantic tourist attraction and now a new fee, introduced on December 6, prevents visitors from just walking into the courtyard.

They must now purchase a ticket from the museum inside Juliet’s House.

It costs €12 (£10.50) to enter the courtyard now and only 100 people at a time will be able to enter.

The ticket includes access to the museum inside, as well as stepping out onto the iconic balcony – although you’ll only get 60 seconds on the balcony.

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While many see going to the courtyard as a novelty, as an eager literature student I was buzzing to visit a few years ago.

The courtyard isn’t large and in the streets leading up to it you can expect a constant flow of people, so expect crowds – though this may change with the new fee.

It is a magical place, and while it might not be full of famous art or objects, it certainly deserves to be protected.

Ultimately, the fee will better protect the courtyard as well as the visiting public.

The experience overall will be more enjoyable too as you won’t have to battle as many people to get a glimpse of the balcony.

No one enjoys being squashed in the middle of a crowd and it is even worse when you get elbowed in the stomach – so the new limits will prevent this too.

The overall flow of people will be better as well and of course, the fee discourages vandals from damaging the site.

With less crowds, there will also be more space to gain a full perspective of the courtyard, which in my opinion is when you get to see the destination’s full impressiveness.

The new fee isn’t too expensive either, and for the price you will also be able to explore inside the museum where you can see rooms full of period costumes, painting and antique furniture all from the 16th and 17th centuries.

You can even have your own moment as Juliet by standing on the balcony.

The fee will ultimately help to keep the site open and in a good condition for future generations to enjoy as well.

The house has been associated with William Shakespeare‘s Romeo and Juliet for a long time, and with that, tourists have visited the famous courtyard in their hundreds.

The courtyard also has a statue of Juliet, which was placed there in 1972.

Today, Juliet’s House is among the most visited spots in the city.

The whole city of Verona oozes romance and does feel like you are stepping into the scenes of Romeo and Juliet itself.

The lane walls are saturated with scribbles, names and notes – layer upon layer of visitors from years gone by.

You spend a couple of moments walking through the shadowed alleyway before you emerge in the courtyard, illuminated by the golden sunshine.

Don’t expect the courtyard to be empty unless you get there bang on 9am when the courtyard opens or catch the last few minutes before it closes at 7pm.

And don’t try on Mondays, as it is closed.

In one corner, you will find the small balcony itself – where you really can picture Juliet standing.

Below is her statue, which is supposed to give you luck if you touch her breast – hence its golden colour, compared to the rest of the bronze statue.

Similar to the film Letters to Juliet, you will also find small pieces of paper with writing wedged into cracks in the walls.

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As a kid born and raised in Southern California, the idea of autumn leaves and winter snow were novelties. Though just a three-hour drive from my family’s town, the wooded San Bernardino Mountains felt like another world, so much so that when a mountain guide once asked 10-year-old me where I was from, I told him “California,” as if we’d left the state entirely.

Cascading ponderosa pines and Douglas fir trees sweep the Transverse Ranges toward Big Bear Lake, which sits in a valley that the Indigenous Yuhaaviatam called Yuhaaviat, Place of the Pines. Big Bear’s tourism story starts in the 1860s, when a short-lived gold rush in Holcomb Valley left behind roads, cabins and a frontier myth that later drew tourists. In 1884, a dam built for irrigation flooded the valley and created the alpine lake that still defines the region.

Angelenos have been making the drive to Big Bear for more than a century, chasing cooler air in summer and snow in winter. As early as 1912, day-trippers and film crews in Model-Ts wound up the mountain roads, using Big Bear’s forests as both a quick escape and a Hollywood back lot.

By the 1920s Pine Knot, now known as Big Bear Village, was filled with lodges and storefronts to greet Los Angeles motorists escaping summer heat. The region’s first ski lift arrived in 1938, while post-World War II highways, film shoots, and the Hollywood set turned the once-remote valley into a four-season resort through the 1960s. To this day, Big Bear maintains its small-town feel with a population of just 5,000 even though it sees more than 7 million visitors a year.

For my parents, who loved to ski, Big Bear was more affordable and closer than Tahoe (meaning less time in the car with two squirmy kids) and had just enough amenities to keep us warm, fed and happy. Over the years, locals have held tight to its character, resisting abject luxury development while defending the habitats of local wildlife. Thanks to those efforts, the place still carries a bit of Howard Johnson-era Americana charm.

Whether traveling solo or with friends and family, a weekend in Big Bear makes for a quaint but restorative winter getaway, whether or not you hit the slopes. Pack your sweaters and boots and be careful taking the curves of Highway 18.

Shelley Quijada, 35, bought a two-bedroom sea view apartment with a rooftop pool and a gym for just £54,000 in Egypt, where the family has been loving the ‘slower pace of life’

A family has waved goodbye to “miserable” Britain and relocated to Egypt in pursuit of “365 days of sunshine” securing a two-bedroom apartment with sea views and a pool for a mere £54,000. Shelley Quijada, 35, made the leap alongside her husband, Luis, 39, and their 14-year-old daughter to Sharm El Sheikh last October, drawn by bargain prices and a laid-back lifestyle.

The Derby-based business coach and social media agency boss is now pocketing an incredible £887 monthly on household bills and slashing £260 off her grocery expenses. The pair have purchased a two-bedroom flat boasting ocean vistas, plus access to a rooftop pool and on-site gym, all for just £54,000.

After stumping up a £27,000 deposit, they’ll fork out £1,125 monthly over the next two years before becoming completely mortgage-free. On top of that, the couple snapped up a studio flat for £24,000 cash, which they intend to let out.

Shelley explained: “We always knew we wanted to move abroad, my husband’s from South America, and I’ve always preferred the sun. After going on holiday to Egypt a few times, we fell in love with the peaceful feel of it.”

She added: “As soon as I got off the plane I would immediately feel relaxed. I prefer the slower pace of life.

“There are 365 days of sunshine, you can’t go wrong. It’s so much cheaper as well. We can live a very nice life here for a quarter of what people normally spend in the UK.

“We bought a studio apartment for £24,000. People immediately think it’s going to be horrible because of the price, but it’s beautiful.

“The most expensive meal out we’ve had was £17 for the three of us and our food shop is now £65 cheaper per week. All we did in England was go to Primark or the cinema and now we can go quad biking, boat trips and snorkelling.

“I can’t see myself moving anywhere else now. Egypt has got everything you could possibly want, the heat, the cheaper prices, the more relaxed way of life.”

Shelley and Luis, who’s in property, had harboured ambitions of relocating overseas for some time, given Luis hails from sun-drenched Venezuela and isn’t keen on Britain’s dreary climate. Spain was their initial consideration, but after several Egyptian getaways, they were captivated by the perpetual warmth and unhurried lifestyle.

Back in Britain, the pair brought in a combined £2,600 monthly and regularly spent every penny, forking out £550 on rent and £917 covering household expenses. Come October 2025, the family departed their Derby residence for Sharm El Sheikh, where Shelley reckons they settled in “straight away”.

Their daughter currently learns at home, though there’s a possibility she’ll attend a British institution in the area from next year. While bidding farewell to loved ones proved difficult, Shelley noted her relatives were thrilled to have a compelling reason to venture abroad more frequently.

Since Shelley operates remotely, she has the flexibility to work from any location, and the pair also leverage their social media presence to arrange local excursions for clients. The couple snapped up a “beautiful” studio flat for a mere £24,000, which they intend to let out, and have secured a two-bedroom apartment with sea views, complete with a rooftop pool and gym facilities, for only £54,000.

Whilst the family are thoroughly enjoying their Egyptian lifestyle, they’ve encountered several cultural adjustments, including poor road safety standards and locals inflating prices at markets, mistaking them for holidaymakers.

“It does take a bit of being used to, but it’s all a fun experience,” she remarked. Back in Britain, Shelley revealed that she and her loved ones were “never out past 6pm” and would typically spend evenings watching Netflix.

These days, blessed with Egypt’s magnificent climate, the family now pass their afternoons by the seaside and their evenings browsing shops and visiting juice bars until 10pm. “Our lives have completely changed for the better,” she declared.

In Britain, the household would fork out £100 weekly on food shopping, but their current grocery bill amounts to merely £35. Their Egyptian utility costs total just £30 monthly and they’ll own their property outright within two years.

“It’s all fresh produce from the market,” Shelley said. “The potatoes have literally just been harvested.”

The family also enjoys dining out at “healthy” restaurants once weekly, with their priciest meal costing just £17 for all three of them. This represents a massive saving compared to the £100-plus bills they regularly faced back home.

In Egypt, their monthly expenditure sits at around £800, which covers weekly restaurant visits and twice-monthly activities such as snorkelling in the Red Sea. The family intends to remain in Egypt permanently, with no plans to return to the UK.

She documents her journey on @movingourlifetoeg.

Shelley’s bills in the UK and Egypt

Weekly food shop in UK: £100

Weekly food shop in Egypt: £35

Utility bills in UK: £917

Utility bills in Egypt: £30

Rent in UK: £550

Rent in Egypt: £0

Mortgage: £1,125 for two years and then mortgage-free

The Islands off County Mayo are a hidden paradise, with natural wonders and pristine beaches accessible by boat from Ireland’s west coast

Rural Ireland is more than just sprawling green fields and coastal retreats – there’s a hidden island that could easily be mistaken for a tropical paradise.

The Inishkea Islands, nestled just 3km off the coast of County Mayo, are a true Irish treasure, boasting an abundance of natural beauty. The islands also play host to one of the most stunning beaches in the country. The name ‘Inishkea’ is believed to have been derived from Saint Kea, an ancient saint who once lived on the tiny island, adding an intriguing layer of mystery to its allure. But it’s the island’s natural splendour that truly captivates visitors, from its diverse wildlife to idyllic swimming spots and lush greenery.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to observe a flourishing seal colony, a variety of seabirds, and other marine life frolicking in the waves. Above all, the beach is a favourite spot for visitors, with its soft white sands inviting relaxation and leisure. The Inishkea Islands actually comprise two separate islands, Inishkea North and Inishkea South, divided by a narrow channel. The larger of the two, Inishkea North, boasts a higher elevation and is larger with expansive heather and willow landscapes.

To access these breathtaking spots, you’ll need to set sail on a boat journey. Fortunately, daily boat trips and guided tours to the island are readily available. The majority of these excursions are organised by locals and run throughout the summer season, with Belmullet Boat Charters operating departures from Belmullet.

The location boasts several important historical landmarks, including a Christian monastery featuring beehive huts next to St Colmcille’s Church. It previously formed part of a thriving monastic community and was later converted into stone dwellings that housed a fishing village.

Whilst no one has inhabited these structures or the island since the 1930s, the remains stand as a testament to the area’s rich heritage for visitors. Though there are believed to be some people on the islands, they aren’t regarded as permanent year-round residents and typically only visit during the summer period.

One recent tourist posted a review on TripAdvisor, writing: “We had a fabulous trip to Inishkea with Belmullet Boat Charters. It’s a stunning island with lots of space to wander around through the abandoned village, up to the highest point where you can see the sea all around, and a swim at one of the beaches with beautiful white sand.”

Another visitor said: “We had a great day. The ferry trip was lovely, about 50 minutes to the island. Kea also filled us in on what we were seeing while sailing. The island was just gorgeous; we swam and walked for 2 hours. Then we returned to the ferry and went on to see the cliffs, seals and cormorants.”

A half-moon of golden sand in Sicily

Forty miles east of Palermo, the magnificent Sicilian resort town of Cefalù juts out beneath dramatic cliffs. The town has a perfect half-moon beach of golden sands melding into the gorgeous clear turquoise sea. Medieval lanes of stones in a diamond pattern lead up to a lively square offering great Italian food. It’s fronted by a beautiful Norman cathedral with twin towers and Byzantine mosaics inside.
David Innes-Wilkin

A calm lagoon in Portugal

From Faro, head east away from the more touristy haunts and, between Olhão and Tavira, you’ll find the charming fishing village of Fuseta. This whole stretch of coast is a natural park protected by sand spits and islands, which make for miles of calm lagoon waters. Take a water taxi to a range of completely deserted spots and get picked up at a prearranged time, or you can call when you’re ready to return to civilisation. Highly accessible but blissfully remote.
Julia

Atlantic rollers on Algarve shores

The mile-long Porto de Mós beach near Lagos in the western Algarve is true heaven. Watching the Atlantic rollers hitting the beach is awesome and mesmerising. After a dip or surf, a pint or two at Campimar beach shack is well earned. It’s also a great restaurant in the evening for local seafood, wine, and enjoying views of scudding clouds and hypnotic waves.
Philip Webster

Greece’s Fourni islands are unsung bliss

The Fourni islands in the north Aegean are a long-favoured holiday destination of Athenians. They have many coves and beaches and appear to be popular with wild campers. Petrokopio beach was one of our favourites – it’s the site of ancient marble quarries and has wonderful white stones. Kampi is one of the most popular beaches and is backed by tamarisk trees. Here, visitors can laze in a Fellini-like tableau. For solitude, take a trip in a fishing boat to Thimena island and visit Paralía Kerameidioú bay with its quiet, relaxed restaurant. Fourni is still relatively cheap to visit and there are plenty of places to stay. It can be reached from Piraeus on the ferry to Samos.
Jake Blay

Riga’s perfect ribbon of sand

A few miles west of the Latvian capital of Riga, the beach from Jūrmala to Bigauņciems is a perfect ribbon of sand running along the shores of the Baltic. The pine forests of the Ķemeri national park run right up to the sand, and offer an extensive network of trails. We walked for hours, savouring the soundtrack of calling cuckoos and singing wood warblers. Visit in early and late summer for long daylight hours and comfortable temperatures.
Dylan Miller

Winning tip: cider by the sea in northern Spain

As an alternative to the scorching Spanish south, head to Gijón in Asturias. San Lorenzo beach has a lovely promenade for strolls and a vibrant surf scene, whereas Playa de Poniente offers tranquil waters and rock pools where you can search for crabs. While at Poniente beach, have lunch at Tierra Astur, which serves typical Asturian dishes and has lovely good-value local cider. Don’t miss the aquarium nearby. Visit in late July for an amazing airshow over San Lorenzo – just remember the earplugs!
Oksana Memedova

Yosemite’s firefall — the winter convergence of sunbeams and falling water that has drawn growing crowds to the national park’s Horsetail Falls — will be different this year. At least for those hoping to plan a trip.

When skies are clear and Horsetail Falls is flowing, the firefall phenomenon happens in mid- to late February as the setting sun illuminates the falls for a few minutes before disappearing, giving the water a lava-like orange glow. A hazy or cloudy evening can dramatically reduce or destroy the effect. Yet since photographer Galen Rowell captured a striking image in 1973, thousands of visitors (many of them photographers) have made the journey, vying for the ideal position, prompting various safety measures. By 2021, rangers were using reservation requirements to thin the crowds.

This year, firefall views are considered mostly likely to take place Feb. 10-26, and a reservation is not required to see it or to visit Yosemite in February. Instead, park officials aim to limit crowds by restricting car and foot traffic. As the Mariposa Gazette reported, Yosemite National Park Superintendent Ray McPadden said that “a bunch of boots on the ground is going to be our principal strategy.” With these changes, here are a few things to know if you’re hoping to experience the glow.

Where to park

Rangers are urging visitors to park in the Yosemite Falls parking area (just west of Yosemite Valley Lodge) and walk 1.5 miles to the viewing area near El Capitan Picnic Area. If there’s no parking available at Yosemite Falls, rangers say, visitors should park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and use the free shuttle (which stops at both) to get to Yosemite Falls parking/Yosemite Valley Lodge, then begin the walk.

What to bring

Expect snow and ice, and bring warm clothes, traction devices for your boots and a headlamp or flashlight for the 3-mile round-trip walk, rangers advise.

Visitors gather near Horsetail Falls in Yosemite in 2019.

(Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

Restricted areas

To make more room for pedestrians, Northside Drive will have one lane closed to vehicles between the viewing area and Yosemite Falls parking. Parking, stopping or unloading passengers will be prohibited between Lower Yosemite Fall and El Capitan Crossover (but vehicles displaying a disability placard will be allowed greater access). On busy weekends, rangers say, they may close Northside Drive entirely for about 30 minutes following sunset.

Rangers say the park’s Southside Drive will be open to vehicles, but parking, stopping, and unloading passengers will be prohibited between El Capitan Crossover and Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. In addition, pedestrians will be banned from walking on or adjacent to the road in that area.

Also, from Cathedral Beach Picnic Area to Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, the area between the road and the Merced River (including the river itself) will be closed to visitors. El Capitan Crossover, the road that connects Northside and Southside Drives near El Capitan, will be open to vehicles, but parking, stopping and unloading passengers will be prohibited. The Yosemite National Park website includes a detailed map of the Horsetail Fall viewing area and restrictions.

TRADITIONAL just got a stylish upgrade at this family and dog-friendly pub nestled in the small town of Chertsey.

Enjoy a day out at Thorpe Park before filling your belly in The Crown’s classic gastropub.

Where is The Crown Hotel?

You’ll notice the kerb appeal of this Young’s pub with rooms as you pull off the M25 into the small town of Chertsey.

It’s perfectly placed to visit Thorpe Park or Chessington World of Adventures.

Closer still is Brooklands Museum, where we spent the day enjoying motoring and aviation history

The Crown is only a 10-minute walk from Chertsey Train Station, with a local museum and amenities all accessible on foot.

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AND RELAX

The sprawling country resort with a £10million spa and award-winning restaurant

PEACEFUL KNIGHTS

I stayed in the new Knight Lodges at the UK’s ‘most beautiful castle’

However, to really take advantage of the beautiful Surrey surroundings and family days out, driving would be best.

Free onsite parking is on a first-come, first-parked basis.

What is it like?

An old-time local favourite, The Crown Pub and Hotel has been newly renovated so that its 49 rooms serve you with the best of traditional and cosy.

The historic building has stood on this village site since 1899, but has been home to an old Coaching inn since the 16^th century.

Head Chef Marek and Landlady Shannon ensure that your pub fare is served up with a personable elegance in front of a roaring winter fire or in the summer cocktail garden.

What is there to do in and around the hotel?

Live music and a host of well-kept ales compliment the gastro pub menu and welcome you in after a long day exploring.

Thorpe Park is a 16-minute bus ride away, or instead, why not take the quieter path and walk along the Thames to explore the beautiful Surrey countryside.

Next time we stay, I’m aiming to coincide with one of Brooklands Museum’s classic car events.

What is there to eat and drink at The Crown Hotel?

The menu celebrates the classic British gastropub, and the portions will not disappoint.

We started with plump Fowey mussels in Aspall cyder cream (£9.50) and crispy duck leg croquettes (£8.50) with a damson plum ketchup.

We followed with venison Gamekeeper’s pie (£24) and a pork T-bone (£20), partnered by a decadent cauliflower cheese.

The beer garden hosts “Blanche’s Oven”, with gourmet pizzas from £10.

There are special nights like game butchery evening, partnered with Jeremy Clarkson‘s brewery, whose beers are also stocked in the bar.

Landlady Shannon holds regular Tap Chats to discuss the pub’s favourite beers.

What are the rooms like?

We were upgraded to a vast “Bigger Comfy” room with plenty of space for the whole family, a lounge area with a TV, work space and a Nespresso coffee machine.

The 49 rooms were recently refurbished with earthy tones, and there is a “brand new” feel to both the accommodation and the bar and restaurant area.

Book direct and you can even request a late checkout of 1pm, subject to availability.

How much is The Crown Hotel?

Double rooms at The Crown start at £110 per night.

For four-legged friends, you can pay £20 per night for up to 2 of your pups to stay in a dog-friendly room with a complimentary welcome hamper.

See crownchertsey.co.uk.

Is it family friendly?

If you have little ones tagging along, under twos go free, and an extra bed can be added to your room for £15 a night for guests aged 2-14.

Do note that on Fridays and Saturdays, live music in the bar area keeps the dance floor jumping until midnight, but rooms can be requested in the annexe.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Ground floor, accessible rooms can be arranged on booking, and there are disabled bays in the on-site car park.

I screamed in glee on Monday when I spotted the smooth rock that forms a natural waterslide just off the Dawn Mine Trail north of Altadena. Water rushed into a deep pool where I’d swum with my dog, Maggie May, several times.

I hadn’t returned to the trail along Millard Creek since the Eaton fire last January, and I was eager to see how the area was doing. I was relieved to find lush California bay laurels growing amid thick sagebrush and other native plants. (And sure, there was a bit of mustard.)

The U.S. Forest Service updated its Eaton fire closure order last week, opening access back up to several beloved spots. That said, the reopening comes with multiple caveats.

For one, Chaney Trail, the road that leads into Millard Canyon, remains closed by the L.A. County Department of Public Works. Elizabeth Vazquez, a public information officer with the county public works department, said workers are repairing guardrails damaged by the Eaton fire. The road is scheduled to reopen this spring once that work is complete. Until then, visitors can park outside the gate and trek inside to reach the trails.

That said, because multiple agencies have Millard Canyon gate keys, you might get lucky like your local outdoors reporter and find the gate open. (And hopefully you don’t get locked in.)

The sun blankets the mountains near the Mt. Lowe Motorway in a red light.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Additionally, Eaton Canyon Natural Area remains closed, regardless of what your hiking app says. (The app I use claims it is open!)

To add to the confusion, the Forest Service, which has seen massive job cuts under the Trump administration, hasn’t yet updated the Angeles National Forest website to reflect the recent reopenings. You will notice that discrepancy when you visit some of the links I’ve included below.

A view of sunset from the Mt. Lowe Motorway.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

That said, per the forest service’s order, these trails in and around the Eaton fire burn scar are open (albeit with some caveats that I will explain):

Millard Creek is flowing swiftly after January rains.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Sun casts shadows through the trees along Millard Creek.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

As a reminder for when you’re out exploring, State Route 2, including Angeles Crest Highway, through Angeles National Forest remains closed to vehicle traffic from 3.3 miles east of Newcomb’s Ranch to Big Pines Highway. The road was seriously damaged during the recent rainstorms, and there aren’t any estimates on when it will reopen.

🚨The following roads, trails and other areas remain closed, per the Eaton fire closure order: 🚫

Please use great care as you return to these trails. Although trail crews have donated hundreds of hours to their repair, not all work is complete. Along with swift river crossings, you might run into hazards like downed trees or washed-out trails. I like to tell myself when I’m frustrated over needing to turn around that, “The mountains will be there.” It is a reminder that I will almost certainly have another chance to try again.

A trail crew member of the Mt. Wilson Bicycling Assn. moves earth on the Valley Forge Trail during a work day last year.

(Jay Marion)

3 things to do

1. Complete trail work north of Altadena
The Mt. Wilson Bicycling Assn. needs volunteers to work on the Mt. Lowe Railway Trail and Middle Sam Merrill from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Volunteers will hike or bike 2.75 miles to the staging area at Cape of Good Hope before hiking farther into the forest to perform trail work. RSVP at eventbrite.com.

2. Restore trails in Baldwin Hills
The Nature Nexus Institute and Black Girl Environmentalist’s L.A. Hub will co-host a community habitat restoration event from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Volunteers will learn about native plants and wildlife as they work. Some work might be off trail. Learn more, including how to RSVP, at the group’s Instagram page.

3. Spot the stars above South El Monte
The Whittier Narrows Nature Center will host a stargazing event from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday at 1000 N. Durfee Ave. in South El Monte. The free event will feature three telescopes, allowing guests to try to spot Jupiter and other planets. The event is free and open to all ages. Learn more at the center’s Instagram page.

The must-read

A park visitor explores the abundant wildflowers on Henderson Canyon Road in Borrego Springs in late December.

(Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

When Times photo editor Raul Roa and a friend visited Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in late December, they were delighted to discover the desert floor blanketed with bright sunflowers, deep pink desert sand-verbena and basket evening primrose. Roa wrote that they even spotted the desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata), a native perennial herb known for its large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers. Could this early explosion of flowers mean we will have a superbloom this spring? Jennifer Koles, a nature enthusiast and former docent at Irvine Ranch Conservancy and Orange County Parks, said it’s not a guarantee, but that folks can see it as “an early delight in the desert.” She added, “It all comes down to precipitation.”

For regular updates, flower fans can visit the Anza-Borrego Foundation’s website or call the Wildflower Hotline at (760) 767-4684.

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

I’ve gotten several emails from readers who want to know when trails in the Santa Monica Mountains will reopen after being closed because of the Palisades fire. At present, these trails and areas at Topanga State Park remain closed: Rogers Road Trail, Bent Arrow Trail, Josepho Spur Trail, Rustic Canyon Trail, Lower Topanga Day Use Area and Trails, Temescal Canyon Trail, Bienveneda Trail, and Temescal Ridge Trail between the El Medio Connector Trail. Trail crews are busy at work repairing these routes, which you can read more about in last week’s Wild. Dash Stolarz, a spokesperson at Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, told me that all MRCA parks that were affected by the Palisades fire are open except for Temescal Gateway Park. “I wish I knew when Temescal Gateway Park and its trails will open to the public again,” she said. “Soon, but not yet.” I will keep following up with park officials and report what I find in The Wild, as I know these trails are important to a lot of you too!

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.

Correction: In last week’s Wild, two photo captions listed the incorrect years that the Rubio Canyon Trail Crew completed its work. The photos were taken in December 2025.

Budget airline easyJet may be best known for its no-frills flights but bosses say its luxury arm is doing a roaring trade – and have even taken one booking for nearly £100,000

Budget airline easyJet’s new luxury holiday arm is booming – with one getaway costing a cool £100,000.

The carrier has launched an offshoot for customers who are happy to fly no-frills to their destination, and spend the money saved on a top-end hotel instead.

Garry Wilson, boss of easyJet Holidays, told the Mirror it was taking hundreds of high end bookings a week.

The average booking is £3,000, compared with around £800 for the firm’s other package holidays. But Mr Wilson revealed the most expensive booking it has had so far was worth £97,000 for a group of 13 people.

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EasyJet Holidays, a fast growing arm of the airline, launched a new Luxury Collection in October last year, described as “a market-leading proposition comprising five-star holidays designed for travellers seeking ultra luxury experiences.”

Around 100 “world renowned hotels” are on offer, all with a minimum 4.5 rating on Google and Tripadvisor.

Customers also get 26kg luggage allowance and a dedicated bag drop, fast-track security, speedy boarding and pre-selected seating for a smoother airport experience.

And whereas ordinary easyJet passengers have to make their own way when they arrive at their destination, those booking a luxury break are whisked from the airline to their hotel by premium private transfers.

EasyJet Holidays only launched in 2019 but has already grown to three million customers a year and 10% of the market.

“It is really resonating with customers,” said Mr Wilson, about the new luxury arm. He went on: “If you were to say to a customer on the street describe an easyJet holiday hotel, they will not say five star. Customers are getting really good value in the best hotels.”

Mr Wilson said the launch also made sense because customers were often booking an easyJet flight, especially if flying a regional airport, and then the hotel separately.

The Luxury offering is currently only available to UK customers but will be rolled out to Europe next year.

From Egypt to the Algarve, these holiday hotspots promise blue skies and balmy weather as easyJet Holidays reveals the most sun-reliable spots for your Easter getaway.

If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked escape this Easter, you might want to set your sights on Egypt. Sharm El Sheikh, a Red Sea favourite, has just been named the most reliable destination for sunshine over the Easter holidays.

The new ‘sun-reliability index’, compiled by easyJet Holidays, analysed 25 years of climate data, factoring in average high temperatures, sunshine hours, rainfall, and affordability to help you find the perfect destination to go this Easter. Following the analysis Sharm El Sheikh topped the list, boasting a 98-100% chance of sunshine, highs of 30°C, and up to 11 hours of sun a day.

Sal in Cape Verde came in a close second, offering Caribbean-style turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and almost zero chance of rain in April. Gran Canaria took third place, with pleasant 23°C temperatures and just a 5-15% chance of rainfall.

Stuart Wright, customer director at easyJet Holidays, said: “After making it through the dark winter months, we know many of our customers are relying on April’s Easter break to catch up on some much-needed vitamin D.

“For those chasing warmer weather at this time of year, nearby destinations across Europe and North Africa can be brilliant options and are well worth considering.”

Other top picks include Hurghada in Egypt, just across the Red Sea from Sharm El Sheikh, with highs of 28°C and a sun reliability score of up to 98% which is perfect for snorkelling and water parks.

Morocco’s Agadir offers sandy beaches and 24°C sunshine, while Marrakech, just three hours inland, delivers highs of 27°C and a 90-95% chance of sun, ideal for exploring its vibrant markets.

For families interested in history, Paphos in Cyprus ranks highly, with around 87% of April days bringing reliable sunshine and temperatures in the twenties. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Tombs of the Kings.

Closer to home, the Algarve in Portugal and Sicily in Italy remain popular spring escapes. Faro in the Algarve boasts up to 88% sun reliability and 22°C warmth, ideal for coastal walks. Sicily offers easy hikes and stunning views of Mount Etna, with eight to nine hours of sunshine a day.

Stuart Wright added: “We know how important it is for customers to feel confident when booking a sunny Easter getaway.

“Which is why we’ve launched our new sun-reliability index to give customers extra reassurance when choosing where to go, helping set them up for a brilliant holiday experience.”

THE TOP EASTER SUN HOLIDAY SPOTS FOR 2026

1. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Average highs: 28–30°C | Sunshine: 10–11 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 98–100% | Rain likelihood: <5%.

2. Sal (Santa Maria), Cape Verde

Average highs: ~25°C | Sunshine: ~9 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 95–100% | Rain likelihood: 0–5%.

3. Gran Canaria (South)

Average highs: ~22°C | Sunshine: 8–10 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: ~95% | Rain likelihood: 5–15%.

4. Tenerife South

Average highs: 22–23°C | Sunshine: 8–11 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 90–93% | Rain likelihood: 7–10%.

5. Paphos, Cyprus

Average highs: 21–23°C | Sunshine: ~9 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 85–87% | Rain likelihood: 13–15%.

6. Hurghada, Egypt

Average highs: ~28°C | Sunshine: ~10 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 95–98% | Rain likelihood: <10%.

7. Marrakech, Morocco

Average highs: 26–27°C | Sunshine: ~9–10 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 90–95% | Rain likelihood: ~10%.

8. Agadir, Morocco

Average highs: 23–24°C | Sunshine: ~9 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 90–93% | Rain likelihood: 10–15%.

9. Algarve (Faro), Portugal

Average highs: 20–22°C | Sunshine: 7–8 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 85–88% | Rain likelihood: 12–18%.

10. Sicily (Catania/Palermo)

Average highs: 20–23°C | Sunshine: 8–9 hrs/day | Predominantly sunny days: 80–87% | Rain likelihood: 15–20%.

The airline is not happy and has said so in no uncertain terms

Ryanair has announced major changes at a European airport that serves three UK cities. The airline has revealed it is making cutbacks that will affect one European airport that serves passengers to and from Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

The airline will reduce the number of seats on offer at Charleroi in Belgium by by 1.1m in 2026 – with another planned 1.1m seat cuts in 2027. The move comes after the company criticised Charleroi City Council for what it said were plans for a €3 tax per passenger departing from Charleroi from April 2026.

It also attacked “the silly Belgium government” and blamed it for announcing a five-fold increase in passenger taxes from €2 in Jan 2025 to €10 in Jan 2027. The firm said in a statement: “These tax increases are silly when other EU countries including Sweden, Slovakia, Hungary, Italy and Albania, have abolished Aviation Taxes to grow traffic, tourism and jobs. Belgium’s tax rises will now send traffic and jobs to other, more competitive, EU countries.”

Ryanair currently offers flights to and from Charleroi and Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Their website shows currently that many flights are on offer this month alone to and from the UK cities. Ryanair has yet to say which destinations will be affected by the reductions.

Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary said: “Only the Belgium Govt could be so silly to raise Aviation Taxes five-fold, at a time when Sweden, Hungary, Italy, Slovakia and Albania are abolishing their Aviation Taxes. These taxes have failed, and have damaged air travel and tourism in many EU countries, which is why they are being scrapped.

“In Belgium however, the De Wever Govt seems determined to fail, while others are succeeding. Having enjoyed Ryanair’s low fare growth at Charleroi and Zaventem Airport over the last 20 years, the Govt has now decided to raise aviation Taxes (by 5-fold!!) at a time, when almost all other EU States are abolishing them.

“What these silly politicians don’t understand is that aircraft and passengers are mobile. If Belgium wants to tax passengers, then they simply switch to lower cost, non-tax, destinations, like Sweden, Italy, Hungary, Slovakia and Albania. Belgium’s loss will be to the gain of these lower cost, tax-cutting States.”

Ryanair criticises changes as ‘idiotic’

The airline said in a furious statement announcing the reduction in seat numbers that “Ryanair calls on Prime Minister De Wever to reverse these silly tax rises, which will damage Belgium’s competitiveness, and cost Belgium millions of passengers, thousands of flights, and thousands of jobs in tourism and support industries.

“While almost every other EU country is abolishing Aviation Taxes, it makes no sense for Belgium to increase passenger taxes 5-fold, when these taxes have failed in every other EU State. Ryanair, which is Belgium’s largest airline, carrying 11.6m passengers to/from Belgium in 2025, will now cut this figure to (10.6m) in 2026 (if Charleroi Council goes ahead with its €3 tax plan) and will cut further to 9.6m passengers in 2027, if the Belgium Govt doesn’t reverse this idiotic 5-fold increase in passenger taxes.

“The competitiveness of European Aviation is already being damaged by Europe’s mad ETS tax scheme, which taxes only intra-EU flights, while exempting all non-EU flights, and Belgian citizens/visitors cannot be asked to pay even more of these unfair and damaging taxes.

“As many other European States have shown, taxing air travel loses traffic, routes and jobs. If the Belgium economy really wants to grow, then the Govt needs to scrap these silly travel taxes, and allow low-fare airlines – led by Ryanair – to return to growth in Zaventem and in Charleroi, instead of cutting over 2m seats, which is what we now plan to do over the next 2 years.”

The Charleroi City Council has reportedly rejected Ryanair’s suggestion to cancel the tax. Instead, reports say the measure has already been approved and is in the 2026 budget.

A WINTER sun destination five hours from the UK has just completed a major airport modernisation project – and announced more for the future.

Vinci Airports in Cape Verde has just completed the first phase of its airport modernisation project costing €80million (£69.3million).

And, a further €142million (£123million) will soon be invested.

Vinci has been responsible for Cape Verde’s airports since 2023, including four international airports (Praia, Sal, São Vicente, Boa Vista) and three domestic airports (São Nicolau, São Filipe, Maio).

The first phase involved improving the runways at both Sal and São Nicolau airports, modernising terminals, and installing self-service check-in counters.

The second phase will see a €142million (£123million) investment across the airports including increasing each airports’ passenger capacity over the next three years.

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There will also be terminal expansions in this phase, as well as new shopping areas and the runway will be extended at Boa Vista.

The hope is that the updated airports will promote tourism as well as improve movement between Cape Verde’s islands.

In November, easyJet announced it was adding a third route from the UK to Sal in Cape Verde from Bristol Airport.

The new route will commence on May 1, 2026, with flights operating on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with fares from £129.99 per person.

The airline already flies to Sal from London Gatwick and Manchester airports.

TUI also launched a new route to the winter sun destination last year.

Flights from East Midlands Airport to Boa Vista depart twice a week on a Wednesday and Saturday during the summer season and then once a week on a Wednesday during the inter season.

The airline added an additional flight on a Wednesday from London Gatwick to Boa Vista and an extra Saturday service from Bristol Airport to Sal.

Cape Verde is known for its warm temperatures, dramatic landscapes and golden beaches with crystal clear waters.

And everything is relatively cheap on the islands.

For example, a mid-range three course meal for two people costs around £39.28.

Coffee will set you back just £1.53 and a pint will set you back between £1.65 and £2.59.

Sal in Cape Verde has also just been named the second best escape for a winter sun holiday, according to the ‘sun-reliability index’ which has collected climate data from the last 25 years.

The island is the most popular tourist destination in Cape Verde, with the main international airport.

Visitors can experience the sunny paradise, with soft sand beaches and only a slight chance of rain during April, according to the ‘sun-reliability index’ compiled by easyJet Holidays.

You could also head to Santiago, which is the largest of the islands.

The island features a diverse landscape with lots of rare birds and 38 endangered plant species.

There is even a 500-year-old tree on the island called the Kapok tree, which is around 40 metres tall, making it the largest tree in Cape Verde.

At the other end of the spectrum, the smallest Cape Verde island is Brava, which is also known as the ‘Island of Flowers’ due to its green valleys, volcanic craters and vibrant flora.

In addition to the increased spending on Cape Verde’s airports potentially attracting more airlines to the islands in the future, island hopping could soon also be easier.

This is because Cabo Verde Airlines has launched new planes to travel between Sal and Boa Vista.

During the winter, Cape Verde can reach temperatures up to 27C, making it the ideal winter sun destination.

For more winter sun destination inspiration, these are the cheapest winter sun destinations from your nearest airport – with seven-night holidays to Turkey, Tunisia and Spain.

Plus, five winter sun holiday destinations where you can get more for your money – and the expert guide to each.

DESPITE axing a number of flights to France Ryanair has announced it will be returning to a lovely French city for spring 2026.

Tours is the largest city in the region of Centre-Val de Loire where you’ll find a Renaissance-style old town filled with restaurant, bars and wine tours.

Budget airline Ryanair has announced it will be restarting its route from London Stansted to Tours.

It was one of the services axed last winter along with Tours to Strasbourg, Brive and Bergerac – which have also recently restarted.

Flights will run between March 29 and October 21 on Wednesdays and Sundays and tickets are available to book now.

One-way tickets start from £41 and the journey time is just one hour 25 minutes.

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Tours is known as the gateway for exploring the Loire Valley region known for huge castles and historic towns sitting around the Loire River.

Tours Val de Loire Airport is just 17-minutes from the city centre where you’ll find plenty to do.

First, there’s the pretty Old Town called Place Plumereau which has towering half-timbered buildings – some dating back to the 15th century.

It has lots of al fresco cafes, restaurants and bars.

Lonely Planet previously named Place Plumereau as the best place in the country for an aperitif.

From here you can easily walk to the basilique Saint-Martin and le Grand-Marché.

The towering Cathédrale Saint-Gatien is a must-see with enormous stained glass windows – and it’s free to enter.

The French Gothic cathedral was built between 1170 and 1547 and is still used by the Roman Catholic Church.

On a sunny spring day, head to Le prieuré Saint-Cosme, a priory with ruins of Ronsard’s home – he was a famous French Renaissance poet.

Now it’s a peaceful spot with green spaces that one visitor described as being a “haven of peace”.

The Loire Valley in general is known for producing great wine too so while you’re there, make sure to book onto a wine tour.

You can book onto the Loire Valley Wine Tour with Get Your Guide from £126 per person.

It will take you to two vineyards and pair wines with local cheese with a minimum tasting of 10 wines.

Just outside of Tours is the very beautiful Château de Chenonceau – one of the best known in the Loire Valley.

The beautiful castle has a huge moat, well-maintained gardens and inside are rooms full of Renaissance furniture, tapestries and gallery paintings.

Entry into the castle costs €19 (£16.48) for adults and €15 (£13.01) for children between 7-18 with discounts for those over 65 years old.

The castle holds night walks on summer weekends in the gardens which are lit up during the evenings.

And of course as Tours is set around the River Loire, there are often chances to take boat trips or go canoeing to see the city from the water.

Ryanair has announced it plans on axing flights to Belgium…

Ryanair recently announced it’s set to scrap more flights across Europe which will affect more than two million passengers…

The budget airline has slammed plans to raise passenger taxes across Belgium.

In response, the airline has said that 1.1million seats will be axed across Charleroi Airport this year, followed by another 1.1million in 2027.

Currently, Ryanair carries 11.6million passengers to and from Belgium, making it the largest airline operating in the country.

This means this will drop to 10.6million in 2026, followed by 9.6million in 2027. The airline said they would only reverse this if the tax plans are scrapped.

Charleroi City Council is set to introduce a €3 per passenger tax from April 2026. And the Belgium government is set to increase the passenger tax from €2 to €10 by January 2027.

For more on French holidays, check out this resort that you can get to by ferry with a kids’ club and laid back vibes.

Plus, the underrated French city that has a ‘bit of everything’ with picturesque beaches and new cheap hotels.

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing in California has been years in the making, with the aim of reducing wildlife deaths on the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills

While global temperatures dipped in 2025, fears persist over the continuing effects of global warming and climate change on communities worldwide.

Wildlife remains a major cause for concern, with countless species under threat from shifting habitats and deteriorating environmental conditions.

Yet despite these obstacles, many organisations and campaigners are striving to create safer conditions for animals across the globe. One method involves building infrastructure that enables wildlife to move around, or safely across, man-made barriers.

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing stands out as a leading example. Currently under construction northwest of Los Angeles, it will become the world’s largest animal crossing once completed.

The £68 million megaproject is being built over the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills and has been decades in the planning,reports the Express.

Work finally began on site in early 2022, with expectations that the bridge would open in early 2026. However, that launch date has now been pushed back to November 2026, according to KTLA 5. The delay has been blamed largely on the weather, with storms battering the region and causing significant setbacks.

Beth Pratt, a spokesperson for the project, said: “[The storms] caused us to have to redo work as this occurred when contractors were constructing the massive supports and doing the groundwork around them, which required much soil compaction. They had to redo this multiple times because of the muddy mess.”

However, while the scheme’s completion has been delayed by almost a year, there is optimism that its benefits for local wildlife will remain intact, with projections suggesting it will dramatically reduce the number of animals killed by vehicles.

A comparable crossing on Interstate 80 near Salt Lake City in Utah is reported to have cut animal-to-vehicle collisions by 77 per cent.

Beth, who also serves as California’s regional director for the National Wildlife Federation, added: “We found solutions … we knew we had to find a way because failing wasn’t an option. The future of the area wildlife was at stake, and we could not let this mountain lion population go extinct on our watch.”

The bridge is named after Wallis Annenberg, a philanthropist who was instrumental in the project and who died last year at the age of 86.

In addition to supporting environmental causes, Wallis was a passionate advocate for science and education initiatives. In a statement released to the Los Angeles Times following her death, her family said: “Wallis transitioned peacefully and comfortable this morning to her new adventure.

“Cancer may have beaten her body but it never got her spirit. We will hold her and her wisdom in our hearts forever.”

Holidaymakers are turning their backs on the usual hotspots in Spain and Greece for a breathtaking stretch of the Albanian Riviera, now dubbed ‘Europe’s Maldives’

Those looking to enjoy gorgeous sun-kissed scenery this summer could do well to look beyond the tried and trusted favourites of Spain and Greece, in favour of Ksamil, a glorious stretch of coastline known as ‘Europe’s Maldives’.

With turquoise waters, majestic mountains, and budget-friendly prices, Ksamil is on the Albanian Riviera and is quickly becoming a popular destination for Brits, drawn by its beauty, balmy weather, and pints with prices as low as 77p.

It’s perhaps no wonder that 120,000 Brits make the journey to Albania every year, with some destinations as close as three hours away. With plenty in the way of picturesque coastal towns and tranquil beaches, this is a true underrated gem, with one charming seaside village in particular capturing the hearts of wanderers.

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Hailed as the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ by The Telegraph, which praised its “palm trees, dazzling beach, azure sea and thatched parasols”, Ksamil is situated in the Riviera of southern Albania, where it forms part of Butrint National Park.

Pretty enough to enchant even the most seasoned of holidaymakers, Ksamil’s white sand beaches and summer time highs of 30 °C make it a sunbather’s paradise. Crucially, it’s also very reasonable, with apartments as low as £20 a night, with three-course dinners available for as little as £17.

A top destination among both domestic and foreign tourists, both Ksamil Beach and Albania’s Ionian Coast further north were included in the Guardian’s 20 best bargain beach holidays back in 2013, and in the years since, a notable tourism boom has led to the construction of more hotels.

Indeed, as reported by DW.com last May, more than 11.7 million overseas tourists visited the Balkan country in 2024, with officials estimating this number to rise to 15 million by the close of 2025 — a figure almost four times the country’s population.

In a bid to compete against more established tourist destinations, Albanian hotel owners are reportedly now looking to build a deeper connection with visitors by offering cultural experiences such as food tasting and folk dances. Meanwhile, those who’ve fallen for Albania have been sharing their top tips online.

According to the travel guide 48 Hours in Europe: “Ksamil’s beaches reminded me of Greece’s. The majority of them are privately owned and back onto restaurants and cafes that supply beach lounges and umbrellas that cost a couple of euros for the day (if you come after 3pm, it’s cheaper).

“Make sure you get there early in summer, as the spots go quickly (and the best ones appear to be cheekily reserved for the locals). Once you’re settled in, you can swim in the calm azure water or lie around reading and eating the doughnuts, fresh fruit and other sweet treats that locals wander around selling.”

Culture vultures will find plenty to enjoy, with the natural wonders mingled with plenty of historical sites, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gjirokastër, the former fortress of a sultan, to Apollonia Archaeological Park, filled with ancient Greek and Roman ruins.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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WORK has started on an enormous airport which once completed will be the biggest in Africa.

Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) will welcome as many as 110million passengers when it’s fully operational.

Ethiopian Airlines Group has started work on Bishoftu International Airport which is around 25 miles southeast of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

The estimated cost is $12.5billion dollars or £9.31billion.

When the first phase is completed – which is set to be in 2030 – the airport will be able to handle 60million passengers.

At this time it will feature two parallel runways and a 660,000-square-meter terminal.

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Later stages will see the airport expand to have four runways and parking for 270 aircraft.

Once fully built it will be able to accommodate 110million travellers – making it the biggest in Africa and one of the world’s largest airports.

It’s being designed by Zaha Hadid Architects which have done other projects like the London Aquatics Centre in Stratford, known for its wave-like roof.

Bishoftu International Airport will feature a large forecourt with gardens, water features and pedestrian pathways.

Outside will be covered areas filled with shops, coffee stops and restaurants.

Inside will be light thanks to its ‘daylight filtering ceiling’ and open-plan departure lounges.

There will be escalators to each level, as well as lots of greenery and plant walls.

Comfort is key as Ethiopian Airlines has estimated that up to 80 per cent of its passengers will move between destinations without leaving the airport.

Due to this, alongside the airport will be a new airside hotel.

It will have 350 rooms, dining and entertainment zones, and outdoor gardens and courtyards – and will make the transition to the airport easy for passengers.

Cristiano Ceccato de Sabata, director of aviation at Zaha Hadid Architects, said: ‘Bishoftu International Airport is a visionary project for Ethiopia and Africa as a whole. Airports bring people together and bridge national divides.

“ZHA is honored to be part its development—connecting every region of the continent as Africa’s global gateway.”

While yet to be confirmed, it is likely to have more long-haul flights – current routes to Ethiopia operating from London Heathrow.

Direct flights to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport take seven hours and 45 minutes and a one-way ticket in January starts from £441.

One-way flights from London Gatwick in January start from £338.

The world’s biggest airport is set to open by 2030 – with 185million passengers a year…

King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is set to surpass all other airports in size, including the current biggest airport in the world which is also in the country…

The 22sqm airport will feature six runways – up from two – parallel to each other and will be built around the existing King Khalid International Airport.

It will approximately be the same size as Manhattan in New York – or twice the size of the city of Bath, in the UK.

And now the airport has moved into its construction phase.

The airport will be designed by Foster + Partners, a UK firm which is behind London‘s famous Gherkin.

Inside, travellers will be able to explore 4.6sqm of shops.

A lot of features in the airport are set to include high tech, such as climate-controlled lighted.

Travellers will have plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor spaces with greenery and vast glass windows, ideal for a bit of plane spotting.

The airport was announced back in 2022 and is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman‘s Saudi Vision 2030 – which is set to make Riyadh into a major hub for transport, trade and tourism.

It will eventually accommodate up to 120million passengers each year, which is then expected to rise to 185million by 2050.

Plus, check out the airport that was named the best in the UK that beats London Heathrow and City by miles.

And check out the mega £27billion airport set to open in 2032 as ‘Heathrow and Dubai rival’ reveals new name.

Globetrotting YouTuber Dan Grec has travelled to five continents and an incredible 65 countries in his 4×4 vehicles and has named the three nations that really blew him away

A globe-trotting YouTuber who traded his desk job for a life of adventure in various 4×4 vehicles has named three countries that left him utterly spellbound. Originally hailing from Australia, Dan Grec relocated to Canada after studying engineering 20 years ago.

However, while chained to his office job, he found himself daydreaming about “all the adventures that are possible out there”. Dan decided to turn his dreams into reality and began saving up. He eventually took the plunge, quit his job, sold all his possessions and boldly “hit the road to Alaska”.

But this was just the beginning. After having “such a good time”, he chose to head south and drive all the way to the southernmost tip of South America over two years, crossing 17 countries.

His adventures have since taken him across the globe. He’s now traversed five continents and an impressive 65 countries, including 35 nations in Africa. Yet, when asked to pick his favourites, three stood out.

Dan, who has even written a book about his thrilling escapades, said: “I’ve driven my own 4×4 vehicles through 65 countries on five continents. I don’t aim to visit every country on earth or anything like that, but I do love to explore and get as remote as possible. I plan to keep going.

So, when quizzed about his favourite destination, Dan responded: “Which country? Oh, that’s like asking for a favourite child.

“It depends so much on the weather, on how exhausted I am at the time, who I happen to bump into and a million other things that are more or less random.”

Gabon

Dan’s first recommendation was Gabon. He said: “I will say that Gabon in West Africa is an incredible country with extremely friendly people, tons of wilderness to explore and incredible wildlife. “

Located on the Atlantic coast in the subregion of Central Africa, Gabon, also known as “Africa’s last Eden” – is a sparsely populated nation boasting thick rainforests that are home to chimpanzees and mandrills.

But that’s not all adventurous travellers might encounter on the country’s white-sand shores, as gorillas and elephants can apparently be seen too.

Other must-see attractions include Loango National Park and Ivindo National Park. The capital city, Libreville, features The National Museum of Arts, Rites and Traditions of Gabon, the Arboretum de Sibang, and the lively marché Mont-Bouët market.

Typical yearly temperatures in Gabon hover around 26C, with January reaching a slightly warmer average of 27C. The optimal time to travel is during the dry spell from May through September.

British tourists can anticipate a journey of roughly 10 hours and 58 minutes from London to Libreville, according to Booking.com.

Iceland

Dan went on to say: “Iceland has by far the most stunning landscapes I’ve ever seen.

Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”, this Nordic island nation is hailed for its staggeringly beautiful volcanic vistas, waterfalls, and geothermal activity, including the famous Blue Lagoon spa.

Located between the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans, lava fields cover the land in Iceland, and hot water beneath the ground is harnessed to supply heating.

Travellers can hunt for the Northern Lights, explore the capital city Reykjavík, or embark on the Golden Circle route, whilst other attractions include the South Coast, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Eastfjords, and the spectacular Skógafoss Waterfall.

Iceland’s average yearly temperatures swing from a bracing -1C during winter months to 11C in summer. British holidaymakers face an average journey time of 3 hours 21 minutes one way (London to Reykjavík).

Argentina

Rounding off his list, Dan confessed: “I loved Argentina so much I seriously looked into getting residency. “.

A South American nation of diverse landscapes in the continent’s southern cone, Argentina spans 4,000km from its north, where it’s sub-tropical, to the sub-Antarctic southern region.

Famously the home of football icon Diego Maradona, Argentina is also known for the tango, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, and literary figures including Jorge Luis Borges.

Additional must-see destinations across this enormous nation include its vibrant capital Buenos Aires, Misiones Province, the Iberá Wetlands (where capybaras might make an appearance), and Patagonia’s striking scenery.

Average yearly temperatures fluctuate by region, though visitors heading to Buenos Aires can anticipate typical daytime temperatures around 18C.

UK holidaymakers can anticipate an average flight duration of 18 hours, 43 minutes one way (London to Buenos Aires).

A study comparing the cost of living in six European countries found this gorgeous place was the most affordable for British expats, despite higher energy costs

YourOverseasHome examined the price of everyday necessities across six European nations alongside the UK, with one breathtaking country emerging as the clear winner for British expatriates.

Jet-setting can raise numerous queries, from which drinks to steer clear of mid-flight to precisely what airport security scanners detect.

Travel specialists at eShores gathered the most searched-for travel queries and exposed the most widespread misconceptions.

YourOverseasHome revealed: “Despite there being a few cities and towns that have reputations for being expensive destinations, Italy is by far the cheapest place to live long term when you’re not spending like a traveller.

“This is despite the fact that energy costs more in Italy!”.

“Of course, we acknowledge the fact that the true cost of living will vary significantly from region to region, but to live in a run-of-the-mill town or village outside the usual tourist hotspots, Italy is apparently the most reasonable.”

Whilst electricity bills might be steeper in Italy, food shopping is typically far more budget-friendly compared to the UK.

Seafood, confectionery and gin cost more than twice as much in Britain as they do in Italy, though iceberg lettuce was most economical in the UK.

Brits might also slash their housing expenses in Italy, where the cost of decorating materials or hiring a domestic cleaner falls below UK rates.

Electronic goods like televisions or Amazon Alexa Echo Dots came with smaller price tags in Italy compared to Britain.

UK residents could also grab a cappuccino at an Italian café for merely £1 on average, versus roughly £3.20 back home.

Nevertheless, dining out proved most affordable in Spain, where a three-course meal would only cost someone around £13 typically.

Dental visits were most budget-friendly in Spain, running about £21.50 against Germany’s £50.

Britons might also cut costs on entertainment by relocating overseas, with cinema tickets carrying much steeper prices in the UK than in the other nations examined.

Yet certain items remained more affordable in Britain, with paracetamol retailing for nearly 10 times the cost in Italy.

Greece recorded the steepest fuel charges at £86 for 50 litres of unleaded petrol versus the UK’s £81.

In Portugal, British emigrants could make savings on petrol, where the equivalent quantity of fuel costs approximately £78.

Christopher Nye, chief editor at YourOverseasHome.com, commented: “We know that thousands of Britons are considering moving abroad, more so than ever! UK natives are looking to jump ship to avoid high energy costs and neverending price rises.

“But if you’re moving under the assumption that you’ll be getting more for your money, you could very well be jumping from the frying pan into the fire, as prices have shot up across the eurozone too.”

Following the UK, Germany was ranked as the next priciest place to reside, with Spain and France trailing behind.

63-year-old nurse Denise Elliott suffered serious burns after placing a cup of coffee that didn’t have a lid on a ‘flimsy’ Ryanair tray, in an incident she says left her ‘lost for words’

A nurse who suffered serious burns during a Ryanair flight has now been awarded an £4,350 out-of-court settlement, in what she’s termed “an absolute shocker”.

Denise Elliott, 63, had been flying with friends to Majorca from Bournemouth when she was given a coffee cup without a protective lid, with the steward informing her they’d run out.

According to Denise, from Southsea, near Portsmouth, she then placed the cup on the tray table, which she has blasted “as clearly not fit for purpose”. It comes as lawyers are seeing a spike in holidaymakers suffering these sort of injuries due to sloping tray tables on planes.

The holidaymaker said: “Ryanair said that I lied about there being no lids, but that’s just not true as other people heard him say that. I don’t know what happened after that as, the next thing I knew, the coffee was all over my thighs. I didn’t knock it; otherwise, it would have gone sideways and not into my lap. Those flimsy trays on Ryanair planes are clearly not fit for purpose, but I also think those little grooves that keep your cups in are more dangerous than helpful.”

Holiday disrupted before she and pals so much as touched down in sunny Spain, medical professional Denise claims she was even forced to perform first aid on herself, and has criticised attempts made by staff to treat her injuries.

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Denise shared: “I assumed the stewards on the plane were first-aid-trained, but that was not the case. I put my dress over my lap to help, but I needed something absorbent covered in cold water so I could douse the temperature out of it (the burns). I asked them for a towel, or something like that, but they said they didn’t have anything on board like that, so I had to do my own first aid. When they did bring something, they first brought me some dry paper towels, and I was lost for words.

“After that, they came back with some wipes, but it turned out they were surface wipes, which, of course, contain alcohol. Eventually, somebody came up with a bottle of burn gel. We asked to keep it for a second application, but the steward said that wasn’t possible, and it had to go back into the first-aid kit. It was an absolute shocker.”

Denise’s flight injury claim, made under the Montreal Convention, which governs international air travel, was taken up by Hudgell Solicitors, specialists in overseas accidents. From the outset, Ryanair denied liability and ended up agreeing to a £4,350 settlement shortly before going to trial.

According to Denise: “I didn’t want to make a fuss, but what really got my goat was Ryanair’s lack of urgency. It was never about money, but they didn’t listen and just kept batting my questions away – that’s what made me pursue a claim. Hudgells did a great job, and I was really happy with the result, but what upsets me the most is that I genuinely don’t think Ryanair will ever change.

“Luckily, I know about first aid, but imagine if it was a child or an elderly person? Who knows what might have happened? My advice if this happens to anyone is to keep fighting and don’t give up, as you’ve got nothing to lose.”

Meanwhile, Tracy Stansfield, senior associate solicitor for Hudgell Solicitors, issued the following statement: “It’s always a daunting prospect, taking on a household name like Ryanair, but the corporate giants of this world are just as accountable for their actions as the rest of us.

“Denise believed in the truth, and we were glad that she achieved a degree of closure for what happened on that flight, which is becoming an all-too-familiar story for holidaymakers. Over the last few years, we have noticed a growing trend of holidaymakers suffering in-flight burns, often because of sloping tray tables on planes. For the sake of their customers, this is something Ryanair and other airlines need to urgently fix.”

The Mirror has reached out to Ryanair for additional comment.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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A MEGA theme park with record-breaking rides has officially opened its doors.

The £740 million Six Flags, which is home to the world’s fastest, longest, and tallest rollercoaster, welcomed its first customers on New Year’s Eve.

Six Flags Qiddiya City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is finally open for business after four years of construction.

Included in the park’s 28 attractions is Falcon’s Flight, which is the longest, tallest, and fastest rollercoaster in the world, measuring 639 feet and reaching speeds of 155mph, according to Six Flags.

Thrill-seekers can also ride the Sirocco Tower, the tallest free-standing shot ride in the world with a maximum height of 475 feet tall.

Meanwhile, the Iron Rattler is the tallest tilt coaster in the world at 208 feet tall and Spitfire is the world’s tallest inverted triple-launch rollercoaster.

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The Sea Stallion is the world’s tallest and fastest rider-controlled coaster, measuring 39 feet and reaching speeds of up to 44mph.

And the 173-foot Gyrospin is also open for business, offering visitors the chance to ride the tallest pendulum ride in the world.

The “record-breaking rides” sit across the park’s six themed zones – coral-inspired Discovery Springs, steampunk Steam Town, the “firefly-lit” Twilight Gardens, treasure-hunt landscape the Valley of Fortune, Grand Exposition, and the action-packed City of Thrills.

There are also 29 dining options available for visitors, offering a “culinary fusion celebrating Saudi tastes and global flavours”, as well as 25 themed shopping outlets.

The theme park is the first Six Flags to open outside North America and the largest in Saudi Arabia, with unlimited access adult day tickets starting from £64.

Construction started in December 2021, shortly after Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) announced the £742 million contract.

The park is the first operational part of Qiddiya City, a desert entertainment complex in the Tuwaiq Mountains on the outskirts of Riyadh.

Further plans for the city include a Formula 1 racetrack, a World Cup stadium, and the Aquarabia water park set to open in March.