TRAVEL

LEAVE the kids at home – because these cruise ships are pulling out all the stops for the grown-ups.  

TUI has announced that its Marella Discovery 2 will permanently switch to an adults-only vessel from winter next year.  

And it’s not the only cruise line to make this move either.  

Oceania put an 18-plus rule in place for travellers in January, while Fred Olsen made its Borealis ship adults-only at the beginning of the year.  

Sophie Swietochowski picks the best adults-only cruises to book now for 2027.  

SPAIN

Marella Explorer 2  

ALL hands are on deck as TUI’s Marella Discovery 2 is set to transform its children’s spaces into a chic speakeasy, escape room, karaoke room and arts and craft area.  

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This change is scheduled for next winter, but the Marella Explorer 2 is already over-18s only.  

The ship’s features include a “press for bubbles” button at its champagne and prosecco bar Flutes. There’s also the 19th Hole sports bar themed around golf, plus a luxurious spa that has been designed in partnership with wellness brand Champneys.  

If you book now you can bag nearly £500pp off a Spanish Sights sailing, which calls at Palma in Majorca; Palamos, Castellon and Cartagena in Spain; and Gibraltar.  

GO: The seven-night cruise costs from £1,097pp, departing Malaga on May 26. The price includes flights from Gatwick. See tui.co.uk.  

ROME TO BARCELONA

Allura  

THE Oceania cruise line oozes so much sophistication you’ll question why it ever allowed kids on board in the first place.  

Its bars are elegant, its entertainment spaces glitzy and the food surpasses that on most other cruise lines.  

Its newest vessel, Allura, is no exception. Cruisers’ favourite restaurant, Jacques, delivers delightful soufflés and tableside steak tartare.   

There are cooking classes in a swish kitchen and one of the most chic libraries I’ve seen at sea.  

The week-long Rome to Barcelona cruise has port calls including Florence in Italy; Cannes and Provence in France; Palma de Mallorca; and Valencia and Barcelona in Spain.  

GO: The seven-night Rome to Barcelona sailing costs from £1,939pp, departing Rome on October 22.   

See oceaniacruises.com.  

EASTERN CARIBBEAN

Brilliant Lady  

IF raucous fun and debauchery are what you’re after, try Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady.  

Guests can enjoy Scarlet Night, where the ship transforms into one mega party, with performances and late-night dancing in the pool, plus Loteria Gigante, a modern bingo involving shots of tequila and Mexican food.

And that’s barely scratching the surface of the wild shows and theatrical restaurants.  

There is space to unwind, too, including a spa, complete with a mud room, salt room, sauna, steam room and more.  

Right now, an Eastern Caribbean sailing is cracking value, with a free $600 bar tab for anyone who books an Inside or Sea Terrace room via Iglu Cruises.  

The cruise departs Miami and calls at St Maarten; Tortola; US Virgin Islands; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Bimini, Bahamas.  

GO: The ten-night Eastern Caribbean & Bimini Beach Club cruise costs from £793pp, departing Miami on January 11. See iglucruise.com.  

NORWAY

Aurora  

AURORA is one of two P&O Cruises’ ships that are adults-only. It is more intimate than P&O’s other vessels, sleeping 1,800 guests, so is great if you’re up for meeting like-minded travellers.  

Its Crystal pool, with a retractable roof, is one of the highlights, meaning you can swim and relax whatever the weather. Plus there’s the Playhouse Cinema featuring 200 proper cinema seats.  

You’ll love the British feel to this ship, too. There’s a homely pub culture on board and many of the boozers offer live music, quiz nights and TVs showing the latest sports games.  

The cruise line is very affordable, with a 14-night Norway sailing costing less than £1,500pp, without the need to shell out on flights.   

The ship departs Southampton and spends a few days at sea before pulling into Alesund, then Bodo, Narvik, Tromso and Haugesund.  

GO: The two-week Norway cruise departs Southampton on March 19. See pocruises.com.  

ISLES OF SCILLY

Spirit of Discovery  

SAGA Cruises has nailed the midlife market. Its ships and itineraries have been specifically designed with age 50-plus travellers in mind — and although you can expect to pay a slight premium, cruisers won’t need to lift a finger.  

Unlike other cruise lines where you’ll have to shell out extra for speciality restaurants or booze, these come included in the price, as does travel insurance, and you’ll also be chauffeured from your door to port.  

Every cabin has a balcony, and solo travellers are extremely well looked after.  

Next year, the cruise line will be celebrating 30 years of sailing so is bringing premium wines on board for the occasion. And those who book early can bag up to 35 per cent off the original fare.  

Included in this offer is the Isles of Scilly and Celtic Sea Escape which calls at Falmouth, Isles of Scilly and Cork.  

GO: The six-night Isles of Scilly and Celtic Sea Escape on Spirit of Discovery costs from £2,306pp, departing Dover on June 27. See travelsaga.co.uk. 

DON’T have enough time or money to head to the Costa Del Sol at the moment? How about Croydon instead?

In just over a month, the Centrale’s multi-storey rooftop will transform into a ‘lively urban seaside escape’ just in time for summer.

The event is returning for its third year in a row from August 7-31 and will be ‘bigger than ever’.

It’s open seven-days a week and is completely free to enter.

There’s lots to entertain the entire family from its giant sand pit, splash park with spaces for babies, life-size chess, fairground rides and chill-out areas with shaded seating.

When it’s time to eat, there are street food vans and sweet treat stops too for donuts and candy floss.

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This summer there is something new as it is launching a new experience called ‘The Beach Club’.

It’s an adult-only event with an ‘after-hours programme’ taking place every Thursday between 5-8PM for the entire month.

There will be DJs, live music and plenty of cocktails.

The Beach Club will have a different theme every evening too with events like garage DJ nights, drag-hosted lip sync battles and pre-carnival dance acts.

There will also be more relaxed sip & paint sessions to music bingo.

Dominique Stagg, Centrale & Whitgift’s Marketing, PR & Events Manager says: “We created Costa Del Croydon to give Croydon residents a free summer experience right in the heart of the town centre.

“Over the last two years it’s become a real summer focal point for the community, with families returning time and time again.

“This year we’re excited to introduce The Beach Club nights, creating a new social experience for adults alongside the daytime family offer.”

While the experience is completely free to enter – it’s advised to book in advance to save a space and avoid disappointment.

Pre-bookings will be available from July 31 – for more info and to book a free ticket, head here.

A NEW floating hotel is coming to the capital – and guests say being onboard makes you feel like you are famous.

If you have ever found yourself at the Excel London, then you might have noticed there is a giant yacht parked up at the edge of the water.

This is actually the Sunborn hotel, which has been there since 2003, but will soon be replaced with a glossy new yacht.

The new yacht will be bigger than the previous as well, with 225 rooms in total over six floors, which is 100 more than in the current Sunborn.

The yacht will be 134 metres long and also boast a rooftop bar, hotel spa and two-level lobby bar.

If that wasn’t enough there will also be an à la carte restaurant and outdoor terrace with views of Canary Wharf.

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The yacht will be built offsite and then brought to Royal Victoria Dock where it will stay.

Hans Niemi, CEO of Sunborn International said: “We want to create something at the forefront of hotel design and guest experience.”

“The new London yacht hotel has been part of the company’s long-term plans and was made feasible by the current hotel’s high demand and occupancy rates.

“We also have an important environmental goal, to build a low carbon, environmentally friendly hotel, which is something which we can achieve with our new-build yacht hotels, using new innovation, sustainable materials and partnerships we’ve developed over recent years.”

In regard to the current Sunborn, you can currently stay onboard for around £151 per night.

One guest even said: “Made me feel like someone famous!”

The company is also hoping to open other floating hotels in the future, including in Vancouver, Canada and Spain.

The Canadian destination would be in Coal Harbour and boast 250 rooms, as well as a restaurant, bars and cafés and a spa.

On the other hand, the Spanish destination would be in Seville and is yet to have planning approved.

THERE’S nothing better than a day on the beach – and your hotel is right around the corner.

Well, these are some of the highest-rated beach hotels with thousands of reviews on Tripadvisor and solid ratings – not to mention they’re all under £100 per night.

The View Hotel, Eastbourne

One of the highest-rated beach hotels in England on Tripadvisor is The View Hotel in Eastbourne.

It’s literally steps away from the beach – and those with a room at the front can get incredible coastline views.

To make the most of the beach, make sure to head to the hotel’s Vista Bar Cafe on the seafront where you can munch on fish and chips or indulge in afternoon tea.

On Tripadvisor, it has a rating of 4.5 with over three thousand top reviews with some visitors have calling it the “perfect hotel” and another said it’s an “Eastbourne delight”.

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A double room at The View Hotel for two adults can be booked from £98 per night.

Hotel Pelirocco, Brighton, England

You won’t be getting a standard stay at the Hotel Pelirocco – the quirky spot in Brighton calls itself England’s “most rock n roll hotel”.

Inside it has themed rooms that are based on the likes of Star Wars, Leigh Bowery, Dolly Parton and David Bowie.

Its location means it has easy access to Brighton’s pier, lanes and it’s a one-minute walk to the beachfront.

On Tripadvisor the hotel has a rating of 4.6 with over a thousand ‘excellent’ reviews.

One guest said it’s “not to be missed” and that they’d “seen pictures online but these do not do the hotel or room justice!”

A room at the Hotel Pelirocco in Lord Vader’s Quarter for two adults can be booked from £94 per night.

The House at Ramsgate, Kent, England

The seaside resort of Ramsgate has sandy beaches, vintage ice-cream parlours and shellfish stalls.

If you want to make the most of being by the seaside, check out The House at Ramsgate.

The boutique hotel is inside a Georgian building with sea view and harbour view rooms that range from cosy queen rooms to family suites.

There’s an on-site bar and restaurant too that’s open seven-days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

On Tripadvisor, the hotel has a rating of 4.7 with 754 overwhelmingly positive reviews and guests have called it an “absolutely gorgeous hotel” with “beautiful views”.

A Queen Room at The House at Ramsgate for two adults starts from £95.

Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth, England

Hotel Miramar in Bournemouth describes itself as the ‘best sea view hotel in Bournemouth’ – so it’s ideal for a coastal escape.

Inside are plenty of rooms and suites, some of which have sea views and you can reach the beach by foot in under 10-minutes.

It has a fine dining restaurant called No 43 and the Ocean Bar and Terrace is the must-sit spot for evening meals.

On Tripadvisor, it has a rating of 4.4 and 1,500 top reviews.

One visitor called it a “charming seaside stay” and the beautiful building with pillars and balconies as “stunning”.

A standard double room at the Hotel Miramar for two adults starts from £99.

Llandudno Bay Hotel, Wales

In the “Queen of Welsh resorts” is the Llandudno Bay Hotel.

It sits right on the promenade so you won’t get much closer to the sea than that.

Rooms vary from single sea view rooms all the way to king rooms which have huge bay windows overlooking the beach.

According to the hotel manager, you might even spot a dolphin from your room and dogs are welcome at the hotel too.

The hotel has a rating of 4.2 and over a thousand positive reviews.

Some guests describing it as “just perfect” – another described the views as “stunning”. Double or Twin Room for two adults starts from £90 per night.

Cardigan Bay Guest House, Aberystwyth, Wales

Sitting on the Aberystwyth seafront is The Cardigan Bay Guest House.

The spot offers simple stays and some rooms have huge beach facing bay windows with accommodation ranging from single rooms to a three-bedroom apartment.

On Tripadvisor it has a rating of 3.8 out of five – one visitor called it a “lovely little guesthouse”.

A double room with private bathroom at Cardigan Bay Guest House for two adults starts from £60 per night.

The Ship Inn, Tresaith by Marston’s Inns, Wales

Tucked away in the Welsh town of Tresaith is The Ship Inn pub which also has four rooms all with views across Cardigan Bay.

It sits on the Welsh coastal path and is minutes away from Tresaith Bay which is considered one of the nicest beaches in the country which has a waterfall that drops directly onto the sand.

All four rooms have en-suites and as the pub is just downstairs, pop down anytime for a hearty meal before bed.

On Tripadvisor it has a rating of 3.8 with 236 ‘excellent’ reviews.

One visitor called it a “lovely little traditional hotel right next to the beach” another described it as being “simply perfect”.

A double room with at the Ship Inn for two adults starts from £78 per night.

Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa, Scotland

On the outskirts of Dundee is the enormous Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa.

It has 96 luxury en-suite rooms, three separate 18-hole golf courses and a spa with a heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and a 15-station gym.

Thanks to its coastal location, front-facing rooms have sweeping views of the North Sea.

On Tripadvisor, the hotel has a rating of 4.1 out of five with over a thousand ‘excellent’ reviews.

One described it as being “posh without being pricey” and as having “beautiful views that don’t disappoint”.

A standard double room at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa for two adults starts from £94 per night.

Millport Pier Hotel, Millport, Scotland

On the Isle of Cumbrae is a family-run hotel in the quaint seaside town of Millport.

The Millport Pier Hotel has 10 rooms from standard doubles to suites and panoramic views of Newtown Bay and Millport Bay.

On Tripadvisor, the Millport Pier Hotel has a rating of 4.3 with one visitor saying it is a “wee diamond of a place” and one of the “best wee hotels ever.”

A double room at the Millport Pier Hotel for two adults starts from £90 – and it include breakfast.

Bayview Bed and Breakfast, Stonehaven, Scotland

The location is unmatched at Bayview Bed and Breakfast, especially in its ocean view rooms that look out across the North Sea.

Not to mention that each room is self-contained with a private entrance so it won’t even feel like you’re staying at a hotel.

Some are right on the beachfront and they come with private terraces along with little bistro sets so you can enjoy the views all day.

However guests say that if you want to the best views, book the penthouse apartment.

On Tripadvisor, the hotel has a rating of 4.7 out of five. One visitor even wrote in their review: “I really didn’t want to come home.”

You can book a double room with private entrance for two adults from £85 per night.

What you need to know about boarding pass policies for the UK’s biggest airlines, including the carriers that have gone completely paperless and the destinations that require a printed pass

Getting your hands on your boarding pass was once a straightforward affair. You’d turn up at the airport, check in at the desk, and a member of staff would hand you a printed copy.

These days, however, with increasing numbers of passengers choosing to check in online and airlines offering digital boarding passes, the whole process can feel rather bewildering.

If you haven’t got the airline’s app, do you need to download it? And if you choose to use a digital boarding pass, what happens should your phone go missing or your battery gives out?

Here’s what some of the UK’s biggest airlines have to say about boarding passes and what’s expected of you when you travel with them, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Ryanair

Ryanair has confirmed it has “moved to 100% Digital Boarding Passes (DBP)”. This means you’ll receive your boarding pass via the Ryanair app once you’ve checked in — which can be done either through the website or the app itself.

All travellers will be required to download the Ryanair app and check in online, with reminder notifications sent 48 and then 24 hours before departure. Any passenger who fails to check in online will face an airport check-in fee of €/£55 for most flights, or €/£30 for flights departing from Spain.

Once you’ve checked in, your boarding pass should appear automatically within the Ryanair app. Should you lose your phone or your battery runs flat after checking in, Ryanair confirms it will print a replacement boarding pass free of charge.

Travellers departing from certain airports in Morocco are still required to have a printed boarding pass. Ryanair explain: “Passengers flying from Morocco must check in online as normal and then present their DBP at the airport to collect a printed boarding pass, with the exception of those flying from Marrakech, Fez, Agadir, Tangier, Nador or Oujda, where you can now use your digital boarding pass on the Ryanair app.”

Jet2

Jet2 provides a paperless option for its flights and package holidays. By downloading the Jet2 app, passengers can access documents such as boarding passes all in one place.

Jet2 advise that “you can save boarding passes for up to eight passengers on one device.” It added: “When using multiple boarding passes per device, please make sure your group stays together at the bag drop, security, gate and when boarding the plane.”

For those who prefer the peace of mind that comes with a printed boarding pass, Jet2 explains you can: “Log in to Manage My Booking, then select ‘Get boarding pass’. From here, you can either get a PDF boarding pass sent to you or save it to your device. No need to print – just show the pass on your screen when you get to the airport.”

TUI

TUI explains: “if you’re flying with TUI Airways (flight numbers starting with TOM or BY), you have a choice. TUI Airways accepts both digital and paper boarding passes.”

It clarifies that passengers who would rather have a printed boarding pass should be sure to use A4 paper, ensure their copy is legible with no tears or damage, and that the barcode is clearly visible, as it will need to be scanned at the airport.

It’s important to bear in mind that not all TUI package holidays involve TUI Airways flights. If you’ve arranged a package holiday but the flight is operated by an airline such as Ryanair or easyJet, you’ll need to verify the regulations for the particular airline you’re travelling with.

EasyJet

There is a list of airports that don’t accept mobile boarding passes on easyJet’s website, including Antalya and Izmir. The majority of these are located in Egypt, Turkey, and Tunisia. If you’re travelling to one of these airports you should check in online and print a boarding pass.

That said, for most easyJet flights, the airline suggests downloading its app to keep all your trip details in one place. It says: “For more convenience and to access your boarding passes offline, you can download mobile boarding passes directly to your Apple or Google wallet.”

For those who prefer a paper boarding pass, these remain perfectly acceptable, with easyJet’s website stating: “The best way to store your boarding passes is to use the free easyJet mobile App or you can choose to print them out. You cannot use a PDF scan of your boarding pass on your mobile device as the airport security team will be unable to scan them.

“If you lose your boarding pass don’t worry, you can simply print them again. If printing, make sure the entire boarding pass is clearly printed.”

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

The little-known spot has been crowned the UK’s ‘best hidden gem beach’ and boasts over two miles of golden sand, ‘excellent’ azure water, unmatched views — and no crowds.

As temperatures continue to soar across the UK, thousands of Brits are gearing up to flock to the coast over the coming months. In an ideal world, that beach would boast a sandy shoreline, crystal-clear waters and not a crowd in sight. And while it might sound like a pipe dream, one UK beach apparently delivers all of that and more.

A little-known beach has claimed the top spot in new research compiled by outdoor specialists at Millets, who analysed average sunshine hours, typical temperatures and water quality at UK beaches with fewer than 500 reviews, in order to uncover the nation’s finest ‘hidden gem’ beaches.

For those looking to dodge the masses while also being treated to spectacular scenery, stunning landscapes and turquoise waters, there’s one UK beach that reigns supreme, reports the Express.

Warkworth Beach, Northumberland

Warkworth Beach has been named the UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beach. Tucked away in Northumberland, Warkworth Beach lies less than a mile from the picturesque medieval village of Warkworth, nestled between Birling Carrs and Amble Breakwater.

Visitors to the village often overlook the nearby breathtaking beach, but those who do make the trip are rewarded with a sweeping stretch of pristine golden sand that seems to stretch on endlessly. Warkworth Beach extends more than two miles and sits in the shadow of the magnificent Warkworth Castle.

The beach has been described as boasting ‘excellent’ water quality, and is celebrated for its ‘unspoilt’ scenery. Visitors can nip into nearby pubs and cafés, all just a short stroll from the beach’s free car park.

Whether you fancy sunbathing, playing games on the sand or simply taking a long, leisurely walk — particularly with your four-legged companion — amid stunning surroundings, Warkworth Beach consistently provides plenty of space and a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle, all while offering unrivalled views.

One glowing visitor review on TripAdvisor reads: “Stunning Beach. This is a dog walker’s must. Beautiful views across the headland. A sandy beach, with some interesting rocky pools. A peaceful place most of the year. Reasonable parking, a bit of a steep walk to the dunes. If you tire of the beach, some great walks by the sand dunes and salt marshes.”

While another delighted visitor adds: “I agree with most of the other reviews here: seriously stunning beach, unspoilt, vast and with very few people. Gorgeous sand and beautiful views. Parking is free and, as well as toilets, the day we were there, there was also a food trailer in the car park offering what looked like brilliant dishes. If I lived here, I would be on this beach every day!”

Highcliffe Beach, Dorset

Taking second place is Highcliffe Beach, located in Dorset. The sand-and-shingle stretch sits close to the Hampshire border and is flanked by dramatic cliffs and Highcliffe Castle.

The beach provides paid parking, as well as a café boasting sea views, and is RNLI lifeguarded throughout July and August. Highcliffe Beach is held in high esteem, with visitors singing the praises of its coastal walking trails, as well as swimming and bodyboarding opportunities.

East Strand Beach, County Antrim

Rounding off the top three is East Strand Beach, which notches up an impressive score of 8.89/10. Located in Portrush, the beach is flanked by sweeping sand dunes and the world-famous Portrush golf club.

It’s a firm favourite for watersports all year round, including surfing, and has RNLI lifeguards on duty throughout the summer months. Visitors wax lyrical about the spectacular white sand, with one reviewer likening it to the Sahara: “A glorious stretch of sand so long and golden it could make the Sahara blush.”

Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, has shared his top tips on how to get the very best out of your summer beach trip this season, saying: “Summer is the perfect time to explore the stunning coastlines across the UK, from Achmelvich Beach in the Scottish Highlands to Broadstairs in Kent. There are breathtaking beaches to be found across the UK.

“When planning your summer beach trip, it is important to remember sun-protective clothing. The sea breeze can often make the air feel cooler, but UV rays can still be harmful. Apply a generous layer of suncream before you head out, and don’t forget a cap and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.

“You should also keep in mind that British weather can still be unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry in case of sudden showers, choose supportive, waterproof footwear for any slippery sand or rocks, and layer your clothing so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.

“Visitors should always leave beaches in the condition they found them. Make sure you take any rubbish, clothing or equipment home with you to keep UK beaches as clean as possible.”

UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beaches

1. Warkworth Beach, Northumberland
2. Highcliffe Beach, Dorset
3. East Strand, County Antrim
4. Joss Bay, Kent
5. Seacliff Beach, East Lothian
6. Mossyard Beach, Dumfries and Galloway
7. Flamborough South Landing, East Riding of Yorkshire
8. Caister-on-Sea Beach, Norfolk
9. Treyarnon Bay Beach, Cornwall
10. Cayton Bay Beach, North Yorkshire and Beadnell Bay Beach, Northumberland

It is set to become the world’s largest airport after a £23.5billion expansion and refurbishment project is completed

Dubai is preparing to unveil the world’s largest and most cutting-edge airport, complete with robot staff and ‘no queues’ for passengers. Al Maktoum International Airport will become the biggest in the world once its £23.5billion expansion and refurbishment is finished.

It is anticipated to handle 260 million passengers annually and boasts features specifically designed to make travelling as seamless as possible. The airport claims it will eliminate queuing altogether, as bags can be dropped off before travellers even reach the terminal.

This means passengers will not need to repeat the security and customs processes.

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths described this as a “no red lights” concept while speaking to Khaleej Times.

Another way the passenger experience will be improved is through an ‘integrated underground Automated People Mover system’ that removes the need to walk from one end of the vast airport to the other.

This will feature a multi-track train, with 14 stations to shuttle passengers between terminals and concourses.

Collecting baggage is also set to be a far quicker process, as the new system will be capable of handling tens of thousands of bags in under 60 minutes.

Luggage is also expected to be available within minutes of landing, meaning the dreaded wait at the baggage carousel will become a thing of the past.

All of these impressive features will be made possible through automated travel systems, AI security checks and robot staff. These robots will be responsible for tasks such as baggage handling and may even tackle customer service queries.

According to details published by Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), the infrastructure developer for Dubai’s aviation sector, plans for DWC include “a new era of smart airport systems and passenger-centric facilities, taking travellers to worldwide destinations in the most awe-inspiring and comfortable way possible”.

The expansion also features five parallel runways and up to 400 aircraft gates.

Once construction at Al Maktoum International Airport is complete, the neighbouring Dubai International Airport will shut down permanently.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set to close its doors for good in 2035, according to reports.

All operations currently running through the bustling travel hub will be relocated to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

Beaches in the UK are set to be busier than ever during the summer months, but there’s one hidden gem without any crowds that has unspoilt golden sand and pristine blue waters

Beaches can become overwhelmed with holidaymakers, particularly during the summer months, but there’s one hidden gem boasting golden sands that I return to time and again.

The sight of densely packed umbrellas, desperately searching for somewhere to settle down for the day, weaving through swimmers while drifting on a lilo and fighting over the last Cornetto at the ice cream stand, is hardly what you’d call a relaxing day in the sunshine. And with the UK basking in balmy temperatures, British beaches are anticipated to be more crowded than ever.

To be fair, you can hardly blame anyone for descending on their nearest stretch of coastline when the UK is blessed with glorious sunshine. After all, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a dip in the rolling waves with a gentle sea breeze on your face.

Yet there are plenty of alternatives, well away from the heaving masses. So, for that perfect coastal day out, there’s one breathtaking shoreline in Wales that I cannot recommend highly enough.

Tucked away on the south-western tip of the Pembrokeshire coast in West Wales lies the spectacular Marloes Sands Beach. Just a 30-minute drive from the town of Haverfordwest and sitting on the boundary of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, you’ll be welcomed by miles of unspoilt golden sand and inviting blue waters set against dramatic, rugged landscapes.

Framed by towering coastal cliffs with unique rock formations, it not only offers a stunning backdrop for a seaside outing but also keeps it somewhat under the radar. So for my family and me, who visit regularly, we’re treated to plenty of room and expanses of golden sand.

We’ve never had to battle for that coveted patch on the beach or fretted about accidentally splashing into someone in the crystal-clear waters — it truly is a haven away from the crowds. What’s more, dogs are permitted on the beach throughout the year, so they’re free to race about, plunge into the surf and dig for gold until their hearts’ content.

And that’s not all. Marloes Beach has even been graced by Hollywood, as scenes from the film ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’, starring Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, were filmed there in September 2011.

Yet with any hidden gem destinations, there can be drawbacks.

There are no amenities on the beach, so you’ll need to come prepared and bring your own provisions. The walk down can also be somewhat demanding.

I mean, I’ve always relished the 0.5-mile winding path down from the National Trust car park, passing through meadow fields, but understandably, when you’ve got children and picnic hampers in tow, it’s more of an ordeal. But after the trek down, armed with a sun umbrella and bodyboard, it’s absolutely worth it for a day on this pristine stretch of coastline.

What’s more, on your way back up, you can treat yourself to an ice cream from the van that’s occasionally parked close by, or just a short distance from the car park, there’s the café, Runwayskiln, serving up sweet treats and chilled drinks.

Just make sure to plan your visit and check the tide times beforehand. At high tide, sections of the beach can become cut off, so provided you plan ahead and keep track of the time, you’ll be basking in the sunshine in your own little slice of paradise.

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

The UK seaside town, which is perfect for a staycation this summer, is renowned for its golden sandy beaches, striking sandstone cliffs, and the historic thatched-roof Old Village

As the UK continues to bask in a spell of scorching weather, droves of Britons are swapping their office chairs for deckchairs and heading off on a well-deserved coastal staycation.

If you’re among them, you’ll want to pay attention, as one seaside gem has been hailed as nothing short of ‘like a fairytale’. Nestled on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight, Shanklin is a picturesque, traditional seaside town renowned for its golden sandy beaches, striking sandstone cliffs, and the quaint thatched-roof Old Village, making it one of the island’s most beloved holiday hotspots. The town strikes a wonderful balance between coastal fun and rich heritage. Shanklin Beach and The Esplanade is a vast, family-friendly expanse of golden sand.

The Esplanade is brimming with seaside entertainment, classic fish and chip shops, water sports, and several crazy golf courses (including pirate and dinosaur themes).

The Cliff Lift is another must-see attraction. Those staying atop the sandstone cliffs can skip the gruelling descent to the beach by hopping aboard the historic Cliff Lift, which has been ferrying visitors down to the Esplanade since 1957.

The island’s oldest visitor attraction, meanwhile, is Shanklin Chine, which first opened its doors in 1817. This verdant, wooded coastal ravine boasts spectacular waterfalls, winding jungle-like pathways, and a breathtaking illuminated evening light display.

Situated directly above the Chine, the Old Village is renowned for its charming, centuries-old thatched cottages, welcoming tearooms, and independent craft boutiques.

Visitors might also explore Shanklin theatre, a lively year-round entertainment venue hosting over 150 performances annually, encompassing comedy and music through to drama and pantomimes.

Digital travel influencer Reiko, posting as @heyreiko on Instagram, recently used her platform to champion the town to her 39,100 followers.

She posted footage of the breathtaking town, writing: “Why does no one talk about this fairytale town tucked away on the Isle of Wight?

“Shanklin… or as it feels when you’re here, somewhere between a dream and a postcard you swear you’ve stepped inside.”

She continued: “If you ever needed a sign to disappear for a while and find a little pocket of peace that feels unreal… this is it.”

Followers were loving the post, with it accumulating more than 4,900 likes.

One commenter described it as “so beautiful”, while another declared: “What a cool spot.”

A third who had visited previously added: “Stayed there while at the Isle of Wight festival – such a lovely little place and the beach is lush.”

Two more airports could ditch the need for Brits to register their biometric details when entering the Schengen area in the hope of avoiding ‘disaster’ this summer

The EU’s new travel rules have caused growing concerns for the peak travel season, prompting a number of destinations to look at options to waive them for holidaymakers.

The European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully rolled out on 10 April 2026, requiring all Brits heading to the Schengen area to “create a digital record” and register their biometric details, including fingerprints and a photograph. While it’s been successful in many countries, it continues to cause significant travel disruption at European airports.

There have been reports of Brits being asked to submit their biometric information again, despite having already provided it on their first visit to the Schengen zone. Holidaymakers have also been stuck in gruelling queues lasting up to four hours as they attempt to navigate the digital border system, with missed flights and ruined holiday plans.

In an attempt to ease the travel chaos, particularly during peak travel times, Greece opted to waive the EU requirement for Brits to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls earlier this year. In an official statement, the Greek Embassy confirmed: “In the framework of the implementation of the Entry/Exit System, as of 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points.”

Now, it appears that Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport could join Greece in waiving the EU requirements in a bid to avoid “disaster” during the peak summer travel months.

Aeroporti di Roma Chief Executive Officer Marco Troncone told the Financial Times, “We are very worried for the summer”, and said his concerns were an “eight or nine” out of 10. He added: “The process proves to be incompatible with the peak volumes that we are going to face. So the only way is to open up the valve. There is no way that we can deliver 100% of the enrolment.”

While Rome is yet to make such a change, Greece remains the only country to have officially eased the EU requirements for British travellers. However, an EU official has indicated that European airports could relax EES requirements until September this year.

Uku Särekanno, Deputy Executive Director of Frontex, which helps to manage the external borders of the EU, said earlier this month: “We have until the end of the summer, the possibility during the tourism season to lift the biometric controls or the biometric registration temporarily.

“If there is a peak hour, you see that there are hundreds of people queuing, their queues are getting too long, then member states still have the possibility to lift biometric registration. The EU has considered, for the period of summer, to make sure that there is still some relief for the worst-case scenario.”

The new digital border system is required for the initial arrival at the airport border within the Schengen zone and has replaced the traditional manual passport-stamping process. Once the initial registration is complete, the EES remains valid for three years.

Countries in the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Meanwhile, the EES system is not needed for travel to the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, as neither falls within the Schengen area.

The Foreign Office confirmed the EES change for Greece on its travel advice page. It read: “Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travellers as part of EES. Follow the advice of authorities on the ground. If you are resident in Greece, make sure to show your residence documentation at passport control to ensure you are not registered in EES.”

Some of the major mainland airports in Greece include: the International Airport of Athens, Thessaloniki International Airport, Kalamata International Airport and Aktion National Airport. Meanwhile, those on the islands include Corfu International Airport, Kefalonia International Airport and Zakynthos International Airport.

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

Families heading abroad for the summer have been warned

With countless families anxiously awaiting their summer break at the beach, the holidays could end in tragedy for some if they don’t heed some advice. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for Spain, urging parents to put their children’s safety first particularly in swimming pools and beaches at the popular holiday destination this summer.

In the update on June 26, the Foreign Office issued specific advise for each swimming location and highlighted a sad but startling truth parents should keep in mind even while trying to relax on holiday: “Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain.”

According to the Royal Life Saving Society UK, an average of 82 UK citizens drown each year while they are abroad.

Swimming pools

The Foreign Office advised parents to always keep an eye on their children, regardless of their age, while they are in or near swimming pools. For small children, the office urged parents to keep them no further than arms-reach away even if they are able to swim or there is a lifeguard nearby.

Beaches

The Foreign Office advised: “Take care when swimming in the sea. Always supervise children and keep small children within arms-reach. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.”

In the ocean, there are a few more concerns that both everyday beachgoers and parents may need to keep in mind when swimming to avoid serious injuries. This includes hidden rocks, shallow depths, strong undertows and waves coming into shore further and quicker than expected.

The warning continued: “Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.”

It also recommends people heading for pools or beaches in Spain this year check out ABTA’s swim safe pages and Water Safety on Holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society UK.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK recommends a few simple steps to avoid having an emergency in the water. Including keeping children within arms-reach as it notes: “86% of child drownings occur in the absence of adult supervision.”

Before you head into the water, the experts recommend:

• Review local safety notices and learn what the signs and flags mean
• Look out for potential hazards in your surroundings and warn the rest of your group
• Wear brightly coloured swimwear so you can be seen underwater
• Never use inflatables in open water as it can easily be blown out to sea
• Take extra care when intoxicated around water and never enter the water whilst under the influence

The FCDO provides travel advice for more than 220 countries and territories across the globe, covering everything from entry requirements and safety risks to health precautions and local regulations.

School’s (almost) out … and with a long summer stretching ahead, we want you to share fun activities that will help others fill the family diary. We’d love to hear about your favourite summer days out and adventures in the UK. Perhaps it’s a trip to an outdoor sculpture park or gallery, a great picnic spot by a river, a small theme park or coastal hike to a quiet cove.

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.

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A POPULAR Victorian-era attraction used to spy on tourists will stay closed for weeks while essential maintenance work is carried out.

The “hidden gem” is a beloved tourist spot that offers 360 degree views of the area.

The Great Union Camera Obscura will stay temporarily closed for several more weeks while a number of repairs are carried out.

The tourist attraction, located on the Isle of Man, first shut down on June 14, with a notice posted online by volunteers.

The notice read: “Please note that the Camera Obscura is currently closed while essential work is being carried out.

“The closure may last for several weeks, but we’ll keep you updated and let everyone know as soon as we’re able to reopen.”

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Now, it has been revealed that the site will need to remain closed for longer as the latest condition survey unearthed a series of repairs that would need to be carried out.

Department of Education, Sport and Culture Minister Daphne Caine confirmed the repairs when responding to a written question about the work.

She said: “Since the last condition survey, issues have been found that require further repairs and maintenance, and the Department of Infrastructure is currently engaging with a contractor to address these issues.

“At the present time, these include the removal and replacement of wooden joists and decking, and the removal and replacement of corroded steelwork, fastenings and bolts located underneath the decking.”

The latest condition survey occurred in March 2025, and also identified areas of the sailcloth roof edging that had begun to fail and nails used to fix timber panels that were showing signs of decay.

According to Mrs Caine, the Camera Obscura underwent extensive repairs in 2017-18.

The Great Union Camera Obscura was first built in 1892, offering visitors a 360 degree view of the surrounding area, including the Douglas harbour and lighthouse.

According to the Isle of Man tourist website, the optical effect of the camera works through a series of mirrors and lenses located around the roof line above a darkened room with views of the surrounding area then projected onto a circular table.

The “unique” Camera Obscura boasts eleven lenses to create its views, whereas most only have one.

The “hidden gem” tourist attraction offers visitors a look into how Victorians first saw moving pictures and according to reviews is “well worth visiting to see how things were”.

Visitors have praised the “knowledgeable volunteers” at the attraction and the “stunning” views.

“You have to go to understand it,” wrote one visitor. “Like watching an old movie with movement.”

“People watching at its best,” read another.

Travel expert Simon Calder has explained the rights of British Airways and easyJet passengers after numerous flights were cancelled

Travel expert Simon Calder has issued a stark warning to British Airways (BA) and easyJet passengers, telling them they ‘will not be getting any cash’ after thousands found their flights axed over the weekend. Hundreds of services were thrown into chaos following a bout of thunderstorms, with Heathrow and Gatwick bearing the brunt of the disruption.

On Saturday alone, more than 900 inbound and outbound flights were delayed — some by as much as 11 hours — with dozens cancelled outright. South-East England and North-West Europe were among the worst-hit regions.

Travel expert Mr Calder said the chaos had left approximately 40,000 passengers ‘stranded’. He broke down exactly what passengers are entitled to when flights are delayed or cancelled, and precisely what obligations airlines have towards them, reports the Express.

What are your rights?

Mr Calder said: “It has been a miserable Saturday for 30,000 or more passengers on British Airways to and from London Heathrow and EasyJet in and out of Gatwick. The reason? Thunderstorms in the London area have caused air traffic control restrictions, and as those airports are operating at full stretch, especially on Saturdays in summer, unfortunately there’s no slack in the system, and the biggest airlines at those airports have no option but to cancel flights.”

“BA’s cancelled around 100, including an Airbus superjumbo going to and from Los Angeles. EasyJet has cancelled 82, including some really long ones to Hurghada in Egypt and also Antalya in Turkey.

“Under air passenger rights rules, the airline must get you to your destination as soon as possible, including booking a flight on another airline if necessary. Meanwhile, they have to provide you with hotel accommodation and meals as necessary until they can get you where you need to be. You will not, though, be getting any cash compensation. Good luck, everybody.”

What happened?

Mr Calder continued: “200+ flights cancelled today on British Airways to/from Heathrow and on easyJet to/from Gatwick, with 35,000 passengers stranded.

“Under air passengers’ rights rules, they are entitled to be flown to their destination as soon as possible on any airline, plus meals/hotels as appropriate.

“Dozens more flights cancelled on Sunday to and from Heathrow and Gatwick airports by British Airways and easyJet due to poor weather”.

“(It) follows more than 200 grounded flights on Saturday (and) brings the number of passengers whose flights have been cancelled this weekend to around 40,000.”

In an updated statement on Saturday afternoon, NATS said: “Severe thunderstorms across the south east of England and Europe continue to impact flights, and this is expected to continue for the remainder of today and overnight.

“To ensure the safety of the travelling public, aircraft need to avoid affected areas and be spaced further apart, which limits the number of flights that can operate safely.

“We understand disruption is frustrating, but we’re working closely with airlines and airports to reduce disruption as much as possible.

“Passengers should continue to contact their airline for the latest information on their flight.”

Visit Medellín, and everyone will tell you to try one dish: bandeja paisa.

Translated as a “countryside tray,” you’ll find the loaded meat platter at any restaurant in Colombia’s second-largest city. The spread is loaded with savory red beans; white rice; ground beef or grilled steak; a long, curved strip of crispy chicharrón; chorizo; morcilla (blood sausage); a fried egg; golden lobes of sweet plantain; a mini arepa; and a slice of avocado.

Though its origins lie in the mountainous, coffee-growing region of Antioquia, known as the home of the paisas (derived from the Spanish word for countryman), the dish is widely celebrated and eaten across the country. It’s a hearty lunch meal meant for one person, a combination of flavors and textures that transport you straight to Medellín, known for its rich coffee landscape, blooming flowers and eternal spring weather.

“The bandeja paisa is the seal of the Colombians,” said Gloria Hernandez, owner of Nene’s Colombian Food in Lawndale.

The dish is believed to have started as a filling, nourishing meal for campesinos (field workers), providing strength to get through a day working in the fields. “There’s a gathering of various dishes to make a bandeja paisa,” said Cesar Gutierrez, owner of Arepa’s Colombianas in Redondo Beach.

Over 40,000 Colombians live in L.A., according to the Los Angeles Almanac. Three-thousand miles from home, the city is host to several Colombian restaurants, food trucks and even a rooftop night market in downtown L.A.

From a longstanding restaurant in Larchmont to a favorite for modern Colombian cuisine in Long Beach, here are seven places where you can devour a bandeja paisa.

As holiday prices go up, it’s always helpful to take on any advice you can to make it that little bit cheaper and as it turns out, that includes which day of the week you fly

Ahead of your last-minute summer trips or 2027 getaways, it’s best to be smart about your bookings, and a travel expert is here to tell you exactly why.

Flights are one of the most expensive aspects of any holiday, especially if you’re traveling further afield. If you’re not following these simple steps, you could be doing it all wrong.

To help holidaymakers navigate their bookings abroad with confidence, travel expert and head of aviation at Loveholidays, Gavin Brewer, has shared his expert advice for a stress-free getaway.

With three decades of experience in the aviation industry, he offers practical advice on securing cheap, last-minute deals and ensuring your trip is protected.

Something many people overlook when booking a holiday is the day they fly. While they often make sure to consider key dates, outside of school holidays for cheaper packages or outside of peak summer times altogether, they don’t stop to think about the difference flying on a Monday could have to flying on a Sunday, for example.

As it turns out, that difference could be quite a lot, especially if you’re booking for a family, where all those saved pounds soon add up.

Gavin suggests being super strategic with your departure date to ensure you’re saving money and getting the best flights for the best price. He explains that the start of the week is always the cheapest to depart, according to recent analysis of flights, meaning Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays are the best days to begin your holiday.

“If you’re on a budget, be flexible with your departure date and look at holidays departing on either a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday. Our research shows you could save up to £24 per person on the flight element of your package holiday, and every little bit helps,” he said.

To ensure you have the safest, stress-free holiday, the expert advises booking your travel insurance at the same moment in time you book your holiday and avoiding putting it off. This means it protects you from the moment the trip is secured, making it “one of the smartest moves you can make”.

Getting to grips with your cover is just as important as picking your destination, because when the unexpected happens, the right policy can be the difference between spending big bucks and flying away without a care in the world.

If you want a little extra protection, package holidays are ideal. In the UK you get built-in protections you don’t get when booking separately. In the event of any disruption ahead of your travels, such as a cancelled flight with no suitable alternative, as a traveller you are fully protected, thanks to a set of consumer laws called the Package Travel Regulations. As a result of this, you are entitled to a full refund on your package holiday.

A UK travel company has entered administration with future trips cancelled.

Groupia Ltd, which used to create group-based trips within the UK and Europe including hen and stag dos, weekend adventures, spa days and ski trips, has shut down.

More than 750,000 people have travelled with the company since it opened in 2002, with destinations including Prague and Barcelona.

The company also traded under other names including Groupia Golf, GoHen, StagWeb, Groupia School Trips and Company Away Days.

According to the company’s website, Groupia Ltd entered administration on June 16.

The website states: “Nigel Fox and Christopher Marsden of S&W Partners LLP appointed as Joint Administrators.

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“The Company has now ceased taking new bookings, and arrangements are in place with ABTOT (a UK government-approved travel protection scheme) to support customers with existing bookings.”

For anyone who had an upcoming event or holiday on or before August 31, “ABTOT have arrangements in place”with events “expected to go ahead as planned”.

Travellers can use the company’s existing VIP booking system to manage their bookings.

On the other hand, if you had something booked from September 1 onwards, the website states: “Your event will unfortunately be cancelled and is subject to a refund claim.” 

You can claim back in different ways – either by requesting a credit card refund or a debit card back-charge, with different letters for each available on the company’s website for customers can send to their banks.

There is also an option for anyone who paid a different way to either credit or debit cards.

The website also warns that refunds might take up to six weeks.

There’s more than meets the eye with this picture-perfect market town, jam packed with independent shops and an idyllic river meandering through, as rowing boats pass by

Away from the hustle and bustle of London life, just a little further down the Thames, is a much quieter tow where people are flocking for an escape into independent shops and riverside walks.

With a real sense of vibrancy about it, this Buckinghamshire town is being put on the map as it continues to evolve into a cool and quirky hotspot for the capital’s commuters. Not just that, but for people wanting a day trip that feels a lot more wholesome and doesn’t cost quite as much.

Marlow is one to watch, especially for those looking to relocate out of the city. Its location along the River Thames makes for a peaceful spot, which could compare to the likes of Richmond or Cambridge, where people can hire both rowing boats and self-driving boats to explore the town from the water.

What makes it most recognisable to passers-by or those travelling through is its eye-catching suspension bridge which spans the River Thames, joining Buckinghamshire with Berkshire. It first opened in 1832 and has been somewhat of a landmark for the area ever since, as a distinctive feature that helped the town to grow as an inland port.

High Street

The charming town is made up of historic streets with listed buildings and an abundance of independent boutiques, cafes and bistros, adding to the atmosphere of the place. But above all, it’s Marlow’s High Street that has received the most considerable amount of attention. Recently, when it was dubbed the best in the UK.

Estate agent Knight Frank named the UK’s best high streets after the property experts took a look at some of the streets that offer the most charm, and this was their favourite. Their focus was on the areas that home buyers were flocking to, and Marlow came out as a seriously desirable spot that they described as both “charming and lively”.

Matt Davies, partner at Knight Frank, said: “We tend to see a slightly younger buyer base in Marlow, driven in large part by its outstanding educational institutions, including grammar schools such as Sir William Borlase’s.”

There’s an endless amount of unique little shops selling clothing, gifts, homeware, stationery and more. Some of the standout stalls include the gift shop Twenty Three Living, The Marlow Bookshop, URU Home and Saddle Safari, all joined by an array of local pubs, cafes, galleries and salons.

Marlow has also made a name for itself in the realm of food, with high-end chefs operating out of the area and it being home to Michelin-star cuisine. Celeb chef Tom Kerridge runs a pub in the heart of the town named The Hand of Flowers, a short walk off of the high street, which stands as the only UK pub to hold an impressive two Michelin stars.

A customer described their experience at the highly acclaimed pub on TripAdvisor. They said: “Service was excellent from the minute we arrived, and the atmosphere in the restaurant was great. We’d highly recommend!”

And of course, like any higher-end high street, it’s home to The Ivy and other high street chains such as Zizi, as well as having smaller bistros and traditional pubs to choose from.

Holidaymakers have been advised to carry out amateur detective work to ensure they do not book into fake accommodation this summer, as research showed a third of travellers had seen an increase in potential travel scams on social media.

Consumer experts have urged holidaymakers to do a reverse image search on photographs of holiday homes and check their locations on an online map to verify they are real.

People may be booking in a hurry this year as many have left it later than usual because of uncertainty around the impact of the Iran war, increasing the risk of falling victim to an online or telephone scam.

Some of those caught up in flight cancellations and delays at the start of the Iran war have already been victims of scams.

As well as fake holiday accommodation or flights, people may also be offered tours that do not exist, while scammers sometimes copy photographs from legitimate websites and often ask for bank transfers.

George Ralchev, head of risk at payment service provider emerchantpay, which commissioned the research, said holidaymakers were being targeted by social media scammers “looking to take advantage of the peak travel season”.

Seven in 10 people said they were wary of promotional emails related to holidays because of potential scams, according to the survey carried out by Opinium in May among 2,000 people in the UK.

Two-fifths of holidaymakers said they changed their behaviour while on holiday because of financial safety concerns.

Half now prefer to book holidays with online or high street travel businesses if they clearly explain how they are protecting consumers from fraud.

One woman scammed out of £6,500 while trying to book a Greek holiday villa previously told the Guardian that she had begged her bank to halt the money transfer, only to be told by staff that there was nothing they could do.

To help avoid scams, people could do research to check that a destination actually exists, look for independent reviews and check website links, emerchantpay said.

Holidaymakers may also want to check whether the company involved is a member of Abta, a trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators and the wider travel industry.

People booking package deals with a flight could also check if they are covered under the Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing (Atol) financial protection scheme.

Lisa Webb, consumer law expert at the consumer group Which?, said the findings were “sadly unsurprising” and reflected its own research that social media firms were “failing to take meaningful action to tackle the flood of scams on their platforms”.

Webb said: “The onus should not fall on consumers, but there are ways to help you spot fake holiday listings – such as using a reverse image search to check for stolen images or checking the property’s location on an online map to see that it exists.”

She advised travellers to book through trusted channels and avoid paying by bank transfer for anything advertised on social media. Anyone who thinks they have lost money to a holiday booking scam should contact their bank immediately and report it to Report Fraud or Police Scotland.

According to separate research from Which? undertaken in the summer of 2024 and spring 2025 on Booking.com reviews, hundreds of people complained that they had paid for accommodation that did not exist. Booking.com provided a detailed response at the time and said cybersecurity was a top priority. Expedia customers were also targeted in 2024.

Halfway across the first glacial depression, I leave the footpath to stand on a snow patch, disturbing a spider that runs off across the frozen crystals. A few yards farther along, the mountainside is awash with colour: tiny Alpine flowers alive with bees and crickets in a world surrounded by jagged peaks. A pair of chamois watch from a crag, then clatter off up an almost vertical face. Having stopped walking, I’m cooling down fast and put on a jacket. I am in Spain, I tell myself, during a European heatwave.

When I tear myself away from the wildlife, my hiking group are distant dots on a path that is snaking up a wall of rock. This is the Picos de Europa mountain range in northern Spain, a cluster of peaks rising to more than 2,500m and famed for the steepness of its slopes. I set off in pursuit, catching up with the group as they scramble over a ridge to find an unexpected view: a gun turret from a second world war aircraft carrier that is now a mountain refuge hut. (Cabin Verónica was cut from the USS Pulau in 1961 at a Bilbao breakers’ yard and dragged up here by mule.)

The custodian, Jorge, took it on as a project eight years ago and has since made it his summer home, adding solar power and water tanks to the gleaming aluminium dome. “I love it,” he says, grinning while he makes coffee in the tiny kitchen. “Why would I need cities and crowds when I have this?” The panoramas are spectacular. Far below, down the valley, a bearded vulture is soaring, one of a small number successfully reintroduced in 2005. The hut sleeps a maximum of six, too small for our group, but it’s popular with climbers and solo walkers.

This trip seems determined to throw up contradictions and improbabilities. For a start, on the Portsmouth to Bilbao ferry, I was alone on deck at 5am, surrounded by a cold fog so dense that I couldn’t see the waves below the rail. We were motionless, it seemed, in the outer reaches of the cosmos. As I stared down, the intergalactic mist lifted a fraction and three dolphins burst from the swell, reminding me that I was on planet Earth and not a spaceship. This ferry route, and its sister route to Santander, crosses an oceanic canyon 4,000m deep and cetacean sightings are common. The on-board expert, André, tells me he has seen orcas and several whale species, including the rare Cuvier’s beaked whale.

The Picos mountains that stand to the west of Bilbao have always had a reputation for the unexpected. In Spanish history, they were a centre for resistance to Roman rule and later the Moors. They have flowers and butterflies not found elsewhere; the chamois is a unique subspecies, and there are bears and wolves too. Beneath the soaring peaks lies another surprise: an underworld network of rivers and giant caverns almost a mile deep.

Our hike across the range started to the north, walking first up to the mountain hut Vegarredonda at 1,410m. There’s a sprinkling of these huts across the Picos, most off-grid and supplied by mule. Expect good conversation, generous food portions and a plastic-covered mattress in what some might call “a snoremitory”. I am saved by the generosity of Arten, one of our group, who hands me silica gel earplugs. They work well, and in the morning I wake to find everybody already gone to breakfast.

Food is a major element of the Picos experience. That morning we hike to a few stone cabins by a lake, Ercina, and come across a handwritten sign advertising homemade cheese. Bruno and Cristina, our guides, get very excited. In a little stone-walled workshop, an old lady is sitting on a rustic milking stool, dressed in a nylon housecoat, waiting for customers.

“My grandfather built this cabin in 1944 when I was three years old,” says Maria. “Everyone would come up here for summer, bringing their animals with them. Now there’s only me.”

Hung on the walls are her ancestors’ drinking horns and wooden platters; on the shelves are wheels of cheese. The Picos technique is to blend milk from sheep, cows and goats. The results are delicious. “I feared this tradition might die,” Maria says. “But my son is interested, so there is hope it will continue.”

Leaving Maria, and still eating the cheese, we turn up a side valley and ascend steadily, passing boulders that harbour tiny gardens of saxifrage and stonecrop in their hollows. A wallcreeper flits away, one of the rarer birds that live here. Chamois pose on distant ridges, never far from the snow patches. Their world is shrinking, however, as Spain’s heatwaves encroach higher and higher. (I was glad to have travelled by ferry; as a foot passenger I produced less than 10% as much CO₂ as flying, according to the Direct Ferries carbon calculator.)

The night is spent in the Refugio Vega de Ario, a hut with the best cooking, and also hosting the Oxford University caving team. After more than 60 years of exploration and several generations of speleologists mapping some of the most extensive cave systems in the world, they tell me they are on the brink of connecting two huge cave networks. I promise to come back and see it – when the stairs are installed.

The next day, we cross one of the few places where you will see a car in the Picos, the village of Poncebos, which is on a fine gorge walk alongside the Rio Cares. From there, we ascend again through flower-strewn meadows and abandoned farmhouses into the clouds. Then, with perfect dramatic timing, the mists part to reveal the climactic wonder of these mountains: the Picu Urriellu, a soaring 2,529m pinnacle of rock under which is one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain huts, the Vega de Urriellu.

This is one of the most popular huts and sleeps 96, with many more camped nearby, but the place remains friendly and sociable. We stand outside with Bruno and Cristina as they point out their favourite climbing routes. Around us are small huddles of climbing groups discussing their plans. The south face is popular with guided groups; the west is a 750m monster.

The glacial depressions, with their spiders and flowers, lie ahead, but this is where I would choose to linger. You would not catch me down a cave, but I’m tempted by what Bruno describes as excellent climbing routes. As the sun goes down, the rock turns orange, giving Urriellu its Spanish name, Naranjo de Bulnes – the Bulnes orange.

Dusk falls, and I stroll up a mountain track for more panoramas, but find the world below the hut all smothered in cloud. I perch on a boulder and, after some time, become aware that I am being watched. A chamois is standing poised on a ledge above, its delicate curving horns silhouetted against the twilight like twin question marks. I watch the last orange glow fade on Urriellu’s summit, then glance back to that ledge, but the chamois has gone.

The trip was provided by KE Adventure Travel; the eight-day traverse of the Picos starts at £1,295, including all meals, accommodation and guides. Brittany Ferries sails up to twice weekly from Portsmouth to Bilbao and Santander, and from Plymouth to Santander, from £128 for foot passengers in August

The airport confirmed that it was notified of a bomb threat on a plane and it has been evacuated as emergency services are carrying out investigations

An Australian airport has been evacuated due to a ‘bomb threat’ on board an arriving plane.

Dubbo Airport, in New South Wales, 400km from Sydney, was evacuated on Monday morning (June 29) due to the threat.

All passengers on board the plane have safely disembarked.

Emergency services are carrying out investigations into the threat.

A council statement said: “Dubbo Regional Council was notified of a bomb threat on a plane destined for Dubbo this morning.

“The plane has landed safely and all 74 passengers and crew have disembarked. Further investigations are underway by relevant emergency services.

“The Dubbo Regional Airport terminal has been evacuated and is currently closed.