TRAVEL

OUR Spotlight On column takes an in depth look at the best things to see and do in your fave holiday destinations and shines a light on some lesser-known spots too.

This week we’re looking at the much-loved city of Barcelona with a closer look at its Gothic Quarter in particular.

The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski says: “I’ve never understood why Barcelona’s Las Ramblas gets more attention than the Gothic Quarter when it comes to shopping.

“For starters, most of the shops there can be found in pretty much any major city – plus, it’s so bogged down with tourists that it’ll take you 30 minutes to stroll just 10 metres.

“The maze of narrow streets that make up the Gothic Quarter, however, are so much fun to explore, flanked by pokey antique stores and one-of-a-kind boutiques.

“You’ll find lots of little tapas joints and bars, too. Nevermind Bar has outrageously cheap drinks and nibbles – beers will set you back €3.50 while a hefty portion of chips costs €1.50”

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“The architecture is what makes this area of the city so special and you’ll feel instantly enveloped by the era in which these Gothic buildings were erected.

“Every street has its own story to tell and bears the scars of a different time. Bring your camera – it’s a great spot for those all important holiday snaps.”

MUST SEE / DO

The Barcelona Cathedral takes pride of place in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and is an absolute must for the bucket list.

The mighty structure dates back to the 13th century, although its main tower was built much more recently.

Entry costs €16pp and that includes access to its glorious rooftop, where you can soak up panoramic views of the city.

Make sure to take a stroll through El Call, too, the old Jewish Quarter.

HIDDEN GEM

The Gothic Quarter and its winding alleyways tend to be crammed full of tourists and locals, weaving between boutique stores and tiny cafes.

The Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, however, is a much quieter spot. That’s partly because not much else is there other than an old Baroque church that still bears visible scars from the Spanish Civil War.

Despite the horror these streets once saw, the atmosphere is extremely peaceful today with a water fountain at its centre, dulling the buzz of the nearby streets.

BEST VIEW

Barcelona isn’t short of cracking rooftops, offering a brilliant vantage point of the key sights. Terraza de Vivi, however, is one of the best.

Part of the Kimpton Vividora hotel, this laidback restaurant-cum-bar, splashed with tall potted plants, has cushioned corners to cosy down in with a cocktail while drinking in the sunset, watching the orange light reflect off the rooftops and church spires.

The vibe is just as energetic during the day, too, where locals and tourists alike spill in for brunch washed down with free-flowing mimosas and Bloody Marys.

RATED RESTAURANT

You won’t be short of places to sample local Catalan cuisine in the city centre – and make sure to order the Pa Amb Tomàquet if you do.

This bread-dish, drenched in tomato, olive oil and garlic, is a staple in these parts and can be found on many menus.

For something a little different, Kiltro Restobar puts a South American spin on traditional Catalan flavours.

The menu features moreish small plates like fried green banana with pulled pork, guacamole and pickled red onion as well as prawn ceviche drizzled in lime, cucumber, and Valentina sauce (a type of Mexican hot sauce).

People may come for the food but they stay for the cocktails and lively ambience.

BEST BAR

Few cocktail bars become true destination spots, but Paradiso is firmly one of them.

Regularly named as one of the top spots in The World’s 50 Best Bars, the experience begins before you’ve even ordered a drink, with entry through a seemingly ordinary refrigerator door inside a pastrami shop.

Once inside, the other-worldly space will blow you away with a carefully crafted menu of cocktail favourites as well as some very imaginative creations including a yellow glowing cocktail that relies on the natural luminescent properties of vitamin B2 and an unusual whisky-based drink infused with lavender, truffle honey and manchego cheese.

HOTEL PICK

The Kimpton Vividora Barcelona is perfectly-positioned within the Gothic Quarter, within reach of many key landmarks.

Rooms are very modern and trend-led but not to the detriment of cosiness and charm.

Solo travellers can check into a slightly more affordable City Single Room with a queen bed.

Rooms start from around £204 per night, on a room only basis. See ihg.com.

TRACY Kennedy is the Queen of Holidays from £9.50, having taken 30 of them and with even more booked to come.

In her decades of Sun holiday experience, Tracy has stayed in holiday parks all over the UK – and knows exactly how to make the most out of your £9.50 break.

So whether you’re wondering when is the best time to book, or how to choose a holiday park with plenty to do for both adults and kids – Tracy’s here with all the answers.

Is it best to book super early or wait for the last minute deals?

Lyn Shephard

Definitely book as early as you can, because the popular and cheap accommodation goes quickly. And it’s better to have more choice between the holiday parks.

Not everyone is able to book something in January. Don’t worry if you’ve missed out on booking early – there’s a top-up of £9.50 holidays later in the year.

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Make sure to check all of the promotions that pop up, because sometimes the cheaper options will come back. They’re definitely worth a look, especially if you weren’t able to book on the first release.

Any suggestions for parks better catered to the elderly?

Henry McCaffery

I’d recommend Parkdean Resorts’ Cherry Tree in East Norfolk. It’s in a beautiful countryside setting, and only a short drive to the beach.

It’s very much a relaxing holiday, and there’s plenty to do nearby.

You’ve got Gorelston-on-Sea a 10-minute drive away, and Burgh Castle is only a couple of minutes away. Plus there’s Lowestoft to visit in the opposite direction, if you want a day trip out.

There’s also plenty to do on the park itself, and lots of countryside walks nearby. Norfolk is very flat, so you won’t have to walk up many hills.

Lighthouse Leisure up in Scotland is another good option. It’s a smaller park, with lots of local things to do in the area.

It’s less than an hour’s drive to Gretna Green, or you could visit Sweetheart Abbey, its a really pretty old building. There’s even bird-watching sanctuaries up there, too.

And if you visit at quieter times of year, like during school term times, any park will be quieter. Everything winds down then, and it feels a lot more peaceful.

Where is the best place to go on a walking holiday on a small budget?

Thomas Riley

For the best walks, I’d recommend a site in Wales or a site on the Coastal Path.

One of the best would be Golden Sands in Rhyl. If you use that park as a base, you’ve got loads of walks from there.

The walking route runs all the way from the holiday park to Llandudno – you probably couldn’t do the whole thing in one day, but it depends how fit you are!

Alternatively, stay at a camp near Snowdonia, and drive out there.

If you stay somewhere like Ty Mawr in Conwy, it’s about a 10-minute drive to get into Snowdonia. And there’s not much that beats the nature there!

A good option in England would be to stay in Malvern. You’ve got the Malvern hills, which when I went I thought were absolutely stunning.

Plus, it makes for a nice walking break that’s not coastal.

Can you buy more than one discounted holiday?

Elaine Burns

Oh yes you can! You can use your codes or the Sun Club entry to book as much as you want. You could book 50 holidays if you really wanted to.

I know people in my Facebook group who have booked weeks back-to-back and gone away for a whole month.

They were free to take some time off work, so they booked this way as it was more affordable for them. It was much cheaper than booking direct, so they were very happy!

Is there a curfew at holiday parks?

I. Jones

In my experience there’s been no curfews at holiday parks.

Once you’ve got your keys to your caravan, you can come and go whenever you want.

A lot of holiday parks have entertainment and bars open until midnight and beyond, but even when they shut that doesn’t stop you going out and coming home whenever you want.

Just make sure to double check with your specific park.

My kids love going on sunny holidays while my wife and I love culture and history, how can we blend both into one holiday?

Chris Fox

I’d recommend Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands in East Sussex, it’s an option that’ll please both you and the kids!

The beach is beautiful, and it’s great for kids to run around and play. Plus there’s a little amusement park on the seafront.

It’s also only a 10-minute drive or bus journey into the town of Rye, which is really pretty and old-fashioned.

And if you want a good day out for history, go out further to Hastings. I stayed in Hastings for one of my first ever Sun holidays, and I loved it.

There’s absolutely loads for history lovers in 1066 Country – I went to Hastings Castle and loved it, and there’s Battle Abbey too.

And if you like quaint little old shops, there’s Hastings Old Town, with lots of unique shops to have a nosy in.

A flight attendant has shared a simple hotel room safety tip that doesn’t require any expensive security gadgets

Hotel stays typically involve minor inconveniences – sluggish Wi-Fi or uncomfortable pillows – but feeling unsafe shouldn’t be one of them.

Sleeping in unfamiliar surroundings whilst travelling can leave you feeling exposed, and it’s perfectly understandable to worry about safeguarding your belongings when you’re away from home.

Nina Bolders, a flight attendant with 15 years of global travel experience and founder of Fly Me to the Vegan Buffet, has revealed a straightforward technique she employs to enhance her security in hotels.

She explained: “Even in a five-star hotel in the safest country, you sleep better when you know that no one can sneak into your room unnoticed while you sleep or shower.

“I used to make my own alarm system by placing a glass or cup on the doorknob and another one on the floor underneath, hoping that the noise would wake me up and maybe even convince the intruder to leave.”

Whilst it may seem peculiar, positioning cups or glasses on or close to your hotel room door can create considerable noise should someone attempt to enter whilst you’re asleep.

Thieves typically seek out straightforward opportunities and may be deterred by unexpected commotion, or pause if they spot an obvious warning sign, as this indicates the room’s occupant is vigilant.

It’s a straightforward method to boost your sense of security when you’re on the road without needing to pack extra items or spend additional cash. Numerous hotels provide door wedges, which can be wedged into your door before bedtime to prevent anyone from attempting to enter your room.

It’s advisable to store essential items, including your phone, wallet, and passport, in an easily reachable spot so you can monitor them regularly.

The most secure location for valuables is either on your person or within a bag that remains in your sight at all times. Should you need to leave them behind, it’s worthwhile purchasing a portable lockbox.

Nevertheless, the most crucial thing to bear in mind whilst travelling, according to Nina, is to trust your gut instinct and remain vigilant in busy areas you’re exploring.

She advised: “Be alert when strangers approach you, especially around tourist attractions or when things happen or are being said that make no sense. There are a lot of thieves and scammers out there.”

IF you still have no plans for February half-term – then take advantage of Butlin’s half-term offer with 30 per cent off.

You can bag yourself a break at the Bognor Regis seaside resort from £69pp.

To keep both adults and kids entertained this half-term in less than two weeks’ time, check into Butlin’s Bognor Regis for an action-packed break.

For the price of £69pp guests will get accommodation along with plenty of entertainment.

The main event will be The Masked Singer Live which returns with brand-new songs, routines, top tier disguises and new mystery celebrities beneath them.

There’s not only singing – Maximum Pro Wrestling is set to take to the ring.

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The show will have wrestling action from global stars who will be battling it out for the championship belt.

This show will feature some celebrity guests like Peter Andre, Jake Quickenden, Jeff Brazier and Chris Hughes.

Other new shows around the holiday park include Peppa Pig-Nic Party and Jack and The Beanstalk pantomime.

There will also be Brainiac Live! and Theatre of Rock.

There’s also unlimited access to Splash Waterworld pool which has rapids, the Helter Skelter-inspired water slide and multiple pools.

At the fairground, kids can hop on the carousel, bungee trampoline, waltzers, go-karts and other rides as many times as they like.

Children can explore The Beachcomber Inn Playground with climbing frames, slides and swings.

The break also includes access to the new 3,000 square feet, four storey Skyline Gang Soft Play at no extra cost.

It has climbing challenges, slides, log ramps, cargo nets and for babies, a multi-sensory space.

While the children play, there’s plenty of seating, drinks and snacks for the grown-ups.

If you pay a bit extra, gamers can head to the Playxperience which is set over two floors and is filled with games like VR experiences, escape rooms, shuffleboard, laser tag and glow in the dark table tennis.

Other activities at an additional cost include football academy, high-ropes, archery and the Skyline Gang Disco Dance Academy.

The break starting from £276 or £69pp – it’s based on a three-night stay during half term in two bedroom Comfort Room on 20 February 2026 in Bognor Regis (price is based on a family of four sharing).

You can add on an all-inclusive drinks package with a range of unlimited Costa Coffee, alcoholic and soft drinks starting from £25.95 per adult, per day, £10.50 per child (6-14), per day and free for under5ss. 

Dining packages start from £25.95 per adult, per day, £15.50 per child (6-14), per day and £7.25 per child (2-5).

Hear more from one Travel Writer who tried out the Skyline Gang-themed soft play…

Travel Writer Catherine Lofthouse tested out the new soft play at Butlin’s Bognor Regis…

“Butlin’s Bognor Regis opened its brand-new £1.8million Skyline Gang-themed softplay attraction in time for the Easter holidays – and we were among the first guests to try it out.

“This 26ft-tall, four-storey playframe can fit up to 200 youngsters, while the seating area offers welcome respite to 100 tired parents at a time.

“The bright colours, reflecting the bubbly characters of the Butlin’s Skyline Gang, proved a huge hit with my smallest boy, who loves their energetic song and dance routines.

“My tweens were fans of the tall twisty slide that they could travel down together. I loved that my three boys, aged 12, ten and five, could all join in, thanks to the 1.7m height restriction on the section aimed at juniors.

“It’s been a fair few years since my eldest was under the 1.5m limit at the old soft play that snakes its way behind the stage in the Skyline Pavilion.”

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The Foreign Office has issued a travel warning to British tourists as Spain and Portugal face a red weather alert for extreme conditions this half term

The Foreign Office has issued an urgent warning to British holidaymakers heading to two of the nation’s most beloved destinations. A red alert has been declared by state meteorological agencies for Spain and Portugal, with hazardous weather conditions forecast for the coming weeks as thousands of Brits prepare to travel during half term.

Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a red warning for severe rainstorms across Malaga Province on Wednesday, 4 February, with predictions suggesting rainfall accumulations could exceed 150 litres per square metre within 12 hours and surpass 200 litres per square metre over 24 hours in inland regions.

Schools throughout Andalucia will remain shut on Wednesday as a precautionary measure against the extreme weather. The red alert, indicating “extraordinary danger”, will remain active in the Ronda region from midnight onwards for the entire day.

AEMET has warned that storm conditions are anticipated to persist until mid-February. The Foreign Office stated: “Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong coastal winds are expected across the country until Sunday 8 February, with an increased risk of flash flooding, landslides and travel disruption. Follow advice of local authorities and monitor weather updates on the European Meteorological Services website. “

In its guidance to travellers, the Foreign Office stated: “Once the event has happened, you should be aware of possible risks relating to damaged buildings or other infrastructure. Be aware that events in places away from where you are can still cause disruption, such as through loss of power, communications or transport services.”

“It may take time for airports to re-open and there may be serious shortages of accommodation, food, water and health facilities. It may be harder for you to receive help from humanitarian workers if it is difficult to access the area due to transport infrastructure damage or flooding.

“The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) ability to help British nationals may be limited (perhaps severely) in these circumstances. We cannot ensure your safety and security in another country. The relevant authorities in the country or territory you are in are responsible for your safety and security.”

Storm Leonardo, the sixth significant low-pressure system to strike in 2026, is set to batter Andalusia once more, with Malaga squarely in its sights. In its most recent bulletin, AEMET has escalated the rainfall alert to red for the province.

According to weather experts at Meteored, “By the end of the coming early morning, very intense rain will begin in the west and far south of Andalucia. It will continue throughout the morning, spreading to the rest of the southern community. In the afternoon, the most intense precipitation will occur in the eastern area, from the Strait to Almeria, with a strong westerly maritime storm.”

In Malaga, the Costa del Sol, the Guadalhorce region, and Axarquia, Spain’s meteorological agency AEMET has issued an orange warning for rainfall accumulations of between 90 and 100 litres in 12 hours. The agency warned: “Accumulations exceeding 150 litres in 24 hours may be reached in the western half of the zone. In the rest, accumulations of 40 litres in 12 hours are expected,”.

AEMET has also issued its highest level of alert, a Red Advisory, for heavy rain in Cádiz and parts of Málaga province for Wednesday, February 4. The advisory warns of 150mm of rain in 12 hours and 200mm in 24 hours in some inland areas.

Due to the severe weather threat, all schools in Andalusia will be closed on Wednesday. Additionally, a series of yellow alerts and amber warnings have been activated, as the regions brace for a battering.

The alerts arrive as Portugal and Spain prepare themselves for additional downpours with Storm Leonardo set to hit this week, meteorologists have confirmed. Following several weeks of damp and occasionally blustery conditions, Storm Leonardo is forecast to deliver further precipitation to the Iberian Peninsula, with particularly severe rainfall anticipated throughout Andalusia, weather experts have warned.

PLANNING a UK city break can be a right headache when you’re skint and short on time – but one must-do activity lets you see a lot without spending a penny.

Recently, my family came to visit me in London and even though I live in the city, I don’t often get the chance to be a tourist.

Stumped on ideas of what to do that pleases everyone but didn’t cost much, I took to Google and stumbled across London Walking Tours by Richard Jones.

On the website, there are a number of free, self-guided walking tours – but what makes them even better is that they aren’t to cliche spots, instead you get to uncover hidden pieces of history.

In fact, there are 22 free walking tours on the site to choose from.

I opted for the Soho self-guided walk, taking about two hours starting from Tottenham Court Road Station.

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The walk takes you around the area showing streets and alleyways frequented by famous figures like Charles Dickens and the Beatles.

One of my favourite things about the tour is that it takes you to places you would have otherwise missed.

For example, it took us down this rather normal-looking road to a house with a blue plaque.

The blue plaque simply stated: “John William Polidori, 1795-1821, poet & novelist, author of ‘The Vampyre’, born and died here”.

I had no clue who this person was, but the tour informed me that Polidori was actually a personal physician to the famous poet Lord Byron – whom he idolised.

Upon showing Byron one of his submissions to Byron’s 1816 writing competition – ‘The Vampyre’ – Polidori was dismissed as having little potential.

Not long after, the New Monthly Magazine had published ‘The Vampyre’ but attributed it to Lord Byron – who denied any involvement.

Polidori wrote to the magazine, but was accused of plagiarism and ended up taking his life.

If you aren’t so much of a history fan though, there are other options that are more themed.

For example, you could spend the day on a magical tour that heads all over London showing you locations that have been featured in the Harry Potter movies.

Or perhaps, you want to add in a fun game?

Then head on the Mayfair to St James Quiz Trail, where, as you explore different places, you have to find the answers to a number of questions and complete photo challenges.

But what if you are on a city break elsewhere?

There are plenty of different sites out there offering free walking tours.

For example, if you are exploring Manchester you could opt for The Ultimate Manchester Free Walking Tour, where you can discover history about the famous Britannia Hotel and stop by the bustling Corn Exchange for some food.

In Birmingham, you could go on a self-guided Discovering Britain walking tour which takes you to the popular spots but shares information you may not know about them.

Lots of councils also have guides on their websites, as well as walking maps.

To get the best search result for the city you want to explore, make sure to search the name of your city along with ‘free self-guided walking tour’.

By doing this, you will get results which are free and also aren’t led by anyone, which means you can do the tour at your own pace and even stop along the way for a cuppa or bite to eat.

One thing I learned from the tour I did, was definitely print the tour if you can before heading off on it.

I had the tour open on my phone, but obviously walking around London, or any other large city for that matter, with your phone constantly in your hand isn’t the best idea…

For more things to do in the UK, here are the best free activities for Brits this week for families, couples and mates.

Plus, the top 15 UK attractions for 2025 revealed…including six which are totally FREE for the summer holidays.

Travellers are being warned to double check information generated by AI after tourists showed up to an attraction that didn’t exist after reading about it on a travel company’s website

Tourists who travelled to a remote Tasmanian town were left disappointed when they found out the attraction they were visiting didn’t exist and had been invented by AI.

In a blog post published in July 2025, which has since been deleted, travel company Tasmania Tours posted a list of the ‘7 Best Hot Springs Tasmania Experiences for 2026’. Among the list was Weldborough Hot Springs, and the post promised an off-the-beaten-path experience, saying: “Its reputation as a tranquil haven has made it a favourite among local hiking groups, wellness retreat organisers, and anyone wanting to experience one of the more untouched hot springs Tasmania has to offer.”

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The article was even accompanied by an AI-generated image of a man backpacking along a bright blue river, with steam rising from the surface.

While it looked and sounded enticing, there was a big drawback: Weldborough Hot Springs does not exist. While Weldborough is without a doubt a beautiful part of Tasmania that offers hiking trails through lush green forests, those hoping for a healing dip may be disappointed when they enter the rather chilly waters of the River Weld.

Much to the amusement of locals in the small town, tourists soon started arriving, hoping to find these mythical hot springs. Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), local pub owner Kristy Probert says she gets daily phone calls and visits from people trying to find out more about the springs.

She revealed that people have been travelling far and wide to find the springs. “I actually had a group of 24 drivers turn up there two days ago that were on a trip from the mainland, and they’d actually taken a detour to come to the hot springs. I said, ‘If you find the hot springs, come back and let me know and I’ll shout you beers all night’ — they didn’t come back,” she joked.

ABC spoke to Scott Hennessey, owner of Australian Tours and Cruises, which operates Tasmania Tours who admitted: “Our AI has messed up completely.” before explaining that marketing materials were created by a third party.

Scott said that posts, which he would usually review, were accidentally made public when he was out of the country. He told ABC: “We don’t have enough horsepower to write enough content on our own, and that’s why we outsource part of this function.”

He added: “We’re trying to compete with the big boys. Part of that is you’ve got to keep your content refreshed and new all of the time. We’re not a scam. We’re a married couple trying to do the right thing by people … We are legit, we are real people, we employ sales staff.”

It’s not the first time tourists have been fooled by AI. In late 2025, images began circulating on Instagram of an elaborate Christmas market at Buckingham Palace, showing the historic building decked in Christmas lights and stalls set up inside its iconic gates.

However, it was soon revealed to be an AI image, and the Royal Collection Trust had to put out a statement confirming that no such event was planned on the palace grounds.

And it’s not just fake images that holidaymakers need to be aware of. A video circulated on social media in Malaysia showing an amazing new attraction called the Kuak Skyride, a cable car offering spectacular views across the mountains. A couple reportedly travelled across the country to the town of Pengkalan Hulu only to find out no such attraction exists.

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ABC also spoke to Professor Anne Hardy, who works for Destination Southern Tasmania and is a tourism expert. She claimed that AI ‘hallucinations’ will make this kind of situation much more common in the future.

“What we know is that now about 90 per cent of itineraries that are generated by ChatGPT actually have at least one error in them, and we also know that 37 per cent of people rely on AI to generate their itineraries,” she said.

Australian Tours and Cruises has been contacted for comment.

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

IF you want to head to the magical Mediterranean island that’s topping the tourist lists for 2026, you might not even need to splash out much to get there.

My family of five has just returned from Gozo, which topped TravelSupermarket’s trending island destinations for 2026, and we paid just £250 return for flights, ferries and bus connections for all of us during school holidays. 

Gorgeous Gozo, set between Sicily and Malta in the Mediterranean Sea, captured our hearts, as it’s everything you’d want fro an island getaway.

With stunning coastline and countryside, incredible heritage around every corner and city streets that offer just the right amount of hustle and bustle without feeling overcrowded.

We loved how chilled out it seemed compared to neighbouring Malta – hardly surprising with a population of just 42,000, compared to 550,000 in Malta and 4.8million in nearby Sicily.

In the capital Victoria, we stumbled across the Il-Ħaġar Heart of Gozo Museum, where you’ll find a fascinating stone column running up through the centre of the museum that highlights the islands’ history, summarising the different civilisations and groups based there throughout the ages.

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The beautiful St George’s Basilica is just opposite and is well worth a visit. We all loved visiting the Neolithic Ġgantija, temples made of huge stones still standing after more than 5,500 years.

If you’re eyeing up Gozo for your family trip, there are a few easy swaps you can make when it comes to booking transport that could dramatically reduce how much it costs to reach the island. 

My first tip would be to look at regional airports for your flights. We paid £200 for return flights from Birmingham with Ryanair at the tail end of the Christmas holidays and we didn’t have to fly at antisocial hours either.

A quick look at flights in February half-term shows that Norwich is the cheapest route to Valletta currently, with flights costing half of those from London airports.

Gozo doesn’t have its own airport, so once you’ve landed in Malta, there are a couple of ways to get to your destination.

We took a bus from the airport up to the ferry port at Ċirkewwa. The bus was €3 (£2.59) each for the 100-minute journey and then the return ferry fare was just €16.25 (£14.01) for all five of us, with a crossing time of less than half an hour. 

The fast ferry from Maltese capital Valletta to Gozo would have cost us €66 (£56.88) and takes 45 minutes, with the bus between the airport and the ferry terminal taking about half an hour.

The beautiful beaches, charming city streets and historic sites that you find on Gozo are all a short bus ride from one another, so public transport is a great way to get around on the island and the €25 (£21.54) Explore Card gives unlimited travel for a week on both Malta and Gozo.

We used €19 (£16.37) cards that allowed 12 single journeys and found that to be more cost-effective for our family, spending around €90 (£77.56) on public transport over the course of our holiday.

If you’re interested in seeing Gozo using the hop-on hop-off tourist bus, I would recommend waiting until you’re on board the ferry to see if you can bag yourself a bargain.

The list price was €20 (£17.24) per adult and €12 (£10.34) per child aged 14 and below, but the rep selling tickets on the ferry offered to do us a deal of €50 (£43.09) for the five of us, so it’s well worth having a haggle if you’re up for that.

We’ve been to four of the top 10 islands on the TravelSupermarket list and Gozo is definitely a firm favourite for my family.

Searches by holidaymakers are up by 1,703 per cent according to TravelSupermarket, with the increase in interest largely attributed to the release of Ridley Scott’s epic Gladiator II, filmed on Malta and showcasing some of the charms of this archipelago.

Zakynthos, Malta and Fuerteventura all make an appearance as trending islands for 2026 and while I’ve enjoyed stays on all of them, I think Gozo really does top the lot when it comes to everything we look for in an island escape.

Whether you love sun, sea or sightseeing, you’ll be spoilt for choice on this Med marvel.

For more on Malta, here’s what one woman thought when she moved there, she wears T-shirts in winter, pays no council tax and vet bills cost £25.

And here’s more on the Mediterranean island with 200 beaches that’s spending £2.1million on more winter flights.

LNER has revealed its new fleet of trains in first-look images – and they’ve got perks for every customer.

The upgraded carriages will have water refill stations throughout the trains and in First Class even mood lighting and reclining seats.

LNER, which operates trains across the East Coast Main Line, has revealed what its new fleet of Class 897 trains will look like.

The latest upgrades include “improved seating” across all classes with enhanced seat pads, side bolsters and wider head cushions .

One huge perk for all customers, especially those on a long journey, is that they’ll will be able to stay hydrated for free, thanks to the introduction of five water bottle refill stations throughout the train.

Travellers won’t have to pop to the cafe to buy a bottle of water – instead, just top up as you go.

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The only other train line that offers complimentary water with refill stations is Avanti West Coast on its Pendolino and Evero trains.

Also onboard the new LNER trains will be new digital screens in each carriage so customers can keep an eye on their journey and the upcoming stops.

Each seat will have its own plug socket and USB-C ports too for phone charging.

For Standard Class customers, there will be a new and improved Café Bar.

Here, you can pick up snacks and drinks and can see what’s available in real-time on digital menu screens.

Those sitting in First Class can fully relax in seats that actually recline.

There will also be softer lighting, including mood and table lighting in First Class – so the lights won’t be too bright for those travelling during early mornings and evenings.

Other changes include the redesign of bike storage areas and toilets.

For wheelchair users, tables have been redesigned to make more room with seat legs moved and additional space created for assistance dogs.

The 10-carriage trains called ‘Serenza’, will each have a total of 569 seats across Standard and First Class, alongside wheelchair spaces.

No date for introduction of the Class 897s has been announced yet.

But the new fleet is set to replace LNER’s InterCity 225 fleet, which focuses on services between London King’s Cross and destinations like Leeds, York, Bradford Forster Square, and Skipton.

For more on rail upgrades, UK’s busiest train station faces ‘decade of chaos’ ahead of multi-million pound renovation.

And here’s the UK’s ‘best rural train station’ – next to the seaside-themed town that is MILES from the coast.

How much you’ll pay for a new or replacement passport can vary

The price of a new or replacement passport rose in 2025, with some people having to shell out as much as £222 for the important travel document. Everyone in the UK needs a passport for international travel.

As per Gov.uk, you can apply for a British passport if you’re a British citizen, a British overseas territories citizen, a British overseas citizen, a British subject, a British national (overseas), or a British protected person. These documents are issued by HM Passport Office and currently take roughly three weeks or less to arrive.

Most people will have to pay a fee to renew an existing passport or to apply for a new one, including those for children. As of April 2025, a standard adult passport, for those aged 16 and over, costs £94.50 when applying online, or £107 when applying using the paper form.

A standard child’s passport now costs £69, or £74 for a postal application. If you need the document urgently, you can expect so pay significantly more for a passport. The fee for a Premium Service (one day) application is £222 for adults, or £189 for a child’s passport.

Those applying for a UK passport from overseas will have to pay £108, or £70 for a child’s passport. If applying internationally via the paper form, the cost is £120.50 for adults and £77 to £82.50 for children, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.

While the majority of applicants will need to pay for their passports, some people can get theirs for free. If you were born on or before September 2, 1929, you can apply for a new British passport or renew your existing one without any cost.

You can also use the Post Office Check and Send service at no charge and benefit from complimentary secure delivery. However, the government has confirmed that charges must be paid if you require a passport urgently or if you wish to obtain a frequent traveller passport (one containing more pages than the standard version).

Parents who are looking to get away during the six week summer holidays could potentially save hundreds by booking during a certain week instead of planning their holidays at the start of the break

The six-week summer holidays are still a long way off, but many families will be booking their annual holiday in the coming weeks, and no doubt looking for ways to bring the price down a little.

Travelling during the school holidays is never going to be the cheapest option. Last year, research showed that a family of four will pay an additional £716 on average if they travel during a school holiday, and the big six-week holidays in July and August are when prices are hiked the highest.

But according to travel specialists, being a little flexible with your departure dates can make a big difference. Dawn Morwood, co-director of Cheap Deals Away UK, previously shared her insider knowledge: “Most people assume all summer flights are expensive, but there are specific days that offer much better value.”

READ MORE: UK family escapes £3,000 bills for £690 Greek island life and ‘feel free’READ MORE: EasyJet, Jet2 and BA cabin bag rules as big Ryanair change kicks in ahead of half term

She added: “The summer flight market follows predictable patterns. Prices peak during school holidays in late July and early August, but there are pockets of opportunity both earlier and later in the season.”

The priciest days in the summer fall on July 22, 23, and 29, when flights can cost up to 40% more on average. Therefore, if you can avoid these peak dates, you may find your holiday costs less overall. Dawn said: “If your travel dates are flexible, shifting even a day or two could save you a significant amount.”

Parents should double-check the term dates for their child’s school on GOV.UK. Some schools will place inset days in the days leading up to the school holidays, meaning it may be possible to get away a couple of days before the rush when prices rise.

Many parents are keen to get away in the first couple of weeks of the school holidays, but if you have patience, you can often get cheaper deals by booking in the last week of August. Around August 28, flight and package holiday prices tend to take a dive, but if your child isn’t back until September 4 or 5, you may be able to sneak in a few days of sunshine before the autumn term.

If you live close to the Scottish border or are willing to travel to a Scottish airport, you could potentially save money by travelling outside of the country’s summer holidays. Scottish schools break up around June 24-29 and return around mid-August in 2026. Therefore, if you are looking for a break mid to late August, departing from a Scottish airport could be a lot cheaper.

READ MORE: EasyJet, Jet2 and BA cabin bag rules as big Ryanair change kicks in ahead of half termREAD MORE: Exact hour to book last-minute February half-term holidays

As an example of how much prices can fluctuate, we looked at prices for a TUI package holiday at Zante Plaza Hotel & Apartments on an all-inclusive basis for a family of four. If they departed London Stansted on July 24, the cost would be £1156pp, but a free child place brings the total down to £3466.

However, if the same party travelled on August 28, returning September 4, the total would be £3076, saving just under £400 on the holiday cost.

For parents who are willing to risk term-time fines, Dawn says: “Early June hits that sweet spot between good weather and good prices.” However, you’d have to take into account the cost of fines, which are applied per parent per child, meaning a family of four can face four lots of penalties.

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

Before we see elephants at Elephant Valley in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, we come face to face with destruction, only the wreckage is beautiful. A long, winding path takes guests around and under felled trees. Aged gray tree hunks form arches, for instance, over bridges that tower over clay-colored paths with hoof prints.

The design is meant to reorient us, to take us on a trail walked not by humans but traversed and carved by elephants, a creature still misunderstood, vilified and hunted for its cataclysmic-like ability to reshape land, and sometimes communities.

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“It starts,” says Kristi Burtis, vice president of wildlife care for the Safari Park, “by telling the story that elephants are ecosystem engineers.”

Elephant Valley will open March 5 as the newest experience at the Escondido park, its aim to bring guests closer than ever to the zoo’s eight elephants, which range in age from 7 to 36, while more heavily focusing on conservation. The centerpiece of the 13-acre-plus parkland is a curved bridge overlooking a savanna, allowing elephants to walk under guests. But there are also nooks such as a cave that, while not previewed at a recent media event, will allow visitors to view elephants on their level.

In a shift from, say, the Safari Park’s popular tram tour, there are no fences and visible enclosures. Captive elephants remain a sometimes controversial topic, and the zoo’s herd is a mix of rescues and births, but the goal was to create a space where humans are at once removed and don’t impede on the relative free-roaming ability of the animals by keeping guests largely elevated. As an example of just how close people can get to the herd, there was a moment of levity at the event when one of the elephants began flinging what was believed to be a mixture of dirt and feces up onto the bridge.

An aerial view of Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, home to eight elephants.

(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

“Our guests are going to be able to see the hairs on an elephant,” says Kristi Burtis, vice president of wildlife care for the Safari Park.

(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

“Our guests are going to be able to see the hairs on an elephant,” Burtis says. “They can see their eyes. They can see the eyelashes. They can see how muscular their trunks are. It’s really going to be a different experience.”

Elephant Valley, complete with a multistory lodge with open-air restaurants and bars, boasts a natural design that isn’t influenced by the elephant’s African home so much as it is in conversation with it. The goal isn’t to displace us, but to import communal artistry — Kenyan wood and beadwork can be found in the pathways, resting spaces and more — as a show of admiration rather than imitation.

“We’re not going to pretend that we’re taking people to Africa,” says Fri Forjindam, now a creative executive with Universal’s theme parks but previously a lead designer on Elephant Valley via her role as a chief development officer at Mycotoo, a Pasadena-based experiential design firm.

“That is a slippery slope of theming that can go wrong really fast,” she adds. “How do we recognize where we are right now, which is near San Diego? How do we populate this plane with plants that are indigenous to the region? The story of coexistence is important. We’re not extracting from Africa, we’re learning. We’re not extracting from elephants, we’re sharing information.”

But designing a space that is elephant-first yet also built for humans presented multiple challenges, especially when the collaborating teams were aiming to construct multiple narratives around the animals. Since meetings about Elephant Valley began around 2019, the staff worked to touch on themes related to migration and conservation. And there was also a desire to personalize the elephants.

“Where can we also highlight each of the elephants by name, so they aren’t just this huge herd of random gray creatures?” Forjindam says. “You see that in the lodge.”

Two of eight elephants eat during an Elephant Valley preview.

(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

That lodge, the Mkutano House — a phrase that means “gathering” in Swahili — should provide opportunities for guests to linger, although zoo representatives say reservations are recommended for those who wish to dine in the space (there will also be a walk-up, to-go window). Menus have yet to be released, but the ground floor of the structure, boasting hut-like roofing designed to blend into the environment, features close views of the elephant grazing pool as well as an indoor space with a centerpiece tree beneath constellation-like lighting to mimic sunrises and sunsets.

Throughout there are animal wood carvings and beadwork, the latter often hung from sculptures made of tree branches. The ceiling, outfitted with colorful, cloth tapestries designed to move with the wind, aims to create less friction between indoor and outdoor environments.

There are, of course, research and educational goals of the space as well. The Safari Park works, for instance, with the Northern Rangelands Trust and Loisaba Conservancy in Kenya, with an emphasis on studying human-elephant conflict and finding no-kill resolutions. Nonprofits and conservation groups estimate that there are today around 415,000 elephants in Africa, and the African savanna elephant is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Water areas in Elephant Valley have been redesigned with ramps and steps to make it easier for the elephants to navigate. The hope is to inspire play.

(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Studies of the zoo’s young elephants is shared with the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary in the hopes of delivering care to elephant youth to prevent orphanage. Additionally, the Safari Park has done extensive examination into the endotheliotropic herpes virus. “The data that we collect from elephants here, you can’t simply get from elephants in the wild,” Burtis says.

One of the two entrances to Elephant Valley is outfitted with bee boxes; bees are known to be a natural elephant deterrent and can help in preventing the animals from disrupting crops or communities. To encourage more natural behavior, the plane is outfitted with timed feeders in an attempt to encourage movement throughout the acreage and establish a level of real-life unpredictability in hunting for resources. Water areas have been redesigned with ramps and steps to make it easier for the elephants to navigate.

The view from Elephant Valley’s Mkutano House, a two-story dining destination in the new space at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

With Elephant Valley, Forjindam says the goal was to allow visitors to “observe safely in luxury — whatever that is — but not from a position of power, more as a cohabitor of the Earth, with as much natural elements as possible. It’s not to impose dominance. Ultimately, it needed to feel natural. It couldn’t feel like a man-made structure, which is an antiquated approach to any sort of safari experience where animals are the product, a prize. In this experience, this is the elephant’s home.”

And the resulting feel of Elephant Valley is that we, the paying customers, are simply their house guests.

Renae Wąsik was fed up with the UK’s grey skies and spiralling cost of living

When the sodden winters, soaring costs and relentless gloom of British existence finally overwhelmed her, Renae Wąsik realised she’d reached breaking point. “I felt like I was going crazy,” reveals the 43-year-old PR executive.

“Grey skies make me feel sad, bleak and trapped. I didn’t want my baby growing up in that.”

Therefore, in November 2025, Renae and her partner Pawel decided jointly to abandon their existence in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, relocating with their two-year-old daughter, Rocca, to an obscure village unknown to most Britons: Vasiliki, situated on the Greek island of Lefkada, nestled between Corfu and Kefalonia. Within months, she claims the transformation has been revolutionary.

“In the UK, we were paying close to £3,000 a month just to live, that covered rent, council tax and utilities, for a suburban home with a tiny garden,” she explains. “It was wet, miserable and exhausting. Now we’re renting an off-season Airbnb for €800 (£690) a month, I can walk to the sea, and I wake up feeling free.”

Renae, who established The Atticism PR and Brand Development, has cultivated a thriving career spanning more than 20 years and frequently documents her fresh lifestyle on TikTok, where her content has accumulated more than half a million likes, though not everyone has celebrated her relocation. Whilst certain followers fantasise about emulating her journey, others have branded her ‘privileged’, ‘out of touch’, or even accused her of ‘stealing housing from locals’.

Renae refuses to accept such criticism. “People say it’s ‘not that easy’ to live and work overseas, and they’re right,” she explains.

“It’s not easy. But it’s also not impossible. If it’s truly your goal, you’ll work for it. Nothing falls in your lap.”

She also rejects the notion that she’s taking more than she contributes. “We’ve been really conscious about contributing,” she insists.

“I work in PR and I help get the island press exposure for free. Pawel is a painter and decorator and has been helping locals who are desperate for skilled labour. We’re living in an off-season Airbnb that sits empty all winter, and when we build our house, we’ll hire local trades. This isn’t a ‘take, take, take’ situation.”

The emotional transformation, she reveals, was instantaneous. “The moment we arrived, my husband and I looked at each other and said, ‘Oh my God, we escaped’,” she recalled.

“The UK feels like a rat wheel. You work to live, and by the weekend you’re so exhausted you just want to order Deliveroo, which is so expensive you have to work even more. Here, the pressure just lifted.”

She portrays Britain as suffocating. “The sky feels low. Everything feels heavy. Here, I see the sea and sky every single day. There’s space. I feel calm. I can breathe again,” she adds.

Renae is keen to emphasise that Greek island living isn’t some picture-perfect postcard fantasy. “If you’ve done Santorini or Mykonos and think that’s real life, you’re in for a shock,” she warns.

“It rains, a lot. There’s no food convenience. I’ve lost three kilos because I can’t just snack whenever I want. Sometimes I honestly can’t look at another courgette.”

But she shrugs. “I sacrifice convenience for peace.”

One surprising element that also swayed her choice to quit Britain was a series of utterly exasperating encounters with the NHS, which eventually drove her to pursue treatment overseas. “I’ve had some useless experiences,” she says bluntly.

“I was once told I might have breast cancer and then had to wait six weeks for a scan. Later, they said one of my breast implants had capsulated and they’d remove just one.”

When she requested both to be taken out, even offering to pay, she was turned down. “They said they’d take one out, sew me up, and I’d have to sort the other privately later,” she says. “It was insane.”

Instead, she travelled to Turkey, where a consultant found both implants were faulty. “I was lucky I went,” she says.

“The NHS has potential, but the system is chaotic. I’ve had blood tests lost, appointments messed up, they even accidentally deleted my daughter from the surgery system while she had a 40-degree fever and refused to see us. It’s just been a mess.”

For Rocca, the relocation has been life-changing. “The outdoors!” Renae beams.

“Sunshine, even in December. She’s not stuck inside watching TV, she’s climbing rocks, playing with water, exploring. And she’s seen here.”

In Greece, she explains, youngsters are genuinely welcomed. “In restaurants, staff greet her, make a fuss, talk to her. It took months for her to get used to it. In the UK, she was mostly ignored.”

Their routine now moves at a completely different rhythm. “We wake up without alarms. Coffee in bed. We work until lunchtime while Rocca plays outside painting or in her sandpit,” she explains.

“Lunch is simple, most days are spinach pies or salad. Then we explore: beaches, neighbouring towns, counting cats.”

The evenings are leisurely and sociable. “We cook early, eat around 5pm, maybe take a walk or read. It’s relaxed and peaceful.”

And this isn’t just a short-term experiment. “Oh yes, this is forever,” Renae confirms.

“We’ve bought a 4,600-square-metre plot of land overlooking the sea for less than the price of a one-bedroom flat in Bedfordshire. We’ll build our home here.”

From late March onwards, the family will settle into a two-bedroom property for €500 (£430) monthly, within easy reach of ferries, beaches, a marina and freshly caught seafood, complete with a balcony laden with orange, lemon and mandarin trees.

“Our neighbour gives us all the olive oil we need, and we’ll help him with the harvest,” she beams. “Everyone helps everyone. It’s a real community.”

Renae continues to return to Britain for work commitments and visits with her two older daughters, aged 22 and 23, but the UK is no longer where she calls home. “I’ll always come back,” she says. “But this, this is where we’re building our life.”

And for those observing from a dreary British settee, questioning whether it’s achievable? “I’m not saying everyone should do it,” she says. “I’m saying I did, and I’m finally happy.”

The historic hotel has been a well-known establishment in Northamptonshire for centuries, but will now close its doors

The Hind Hotel in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, has confirmed it is shutting its doors, a move made with “great sadness”. The Grade II listed establishment, which dates back to the 17th century, had undergone recent renovations.

The business was forced to shut due to “rising costs, reduced town centre footfall and Government policy often seemingly targeting the hospitality industry”. The 34-room hotel has been a familiar fixture in Northamptonshire for hundreds of years, reports the Express.

In a statement, the company said: “It is with great sadness that we have had to close the Hind Hotel.

“After eight and a half years of ownership, and with £1.3million spent on a massive external refurbishment, a £600,000 refurbishment of bedrooms and circulation space, and over £300,000 spent on modernising the ground floor public areas and replacing old equipment throughout the hotel.

“The director would like to thank the team for their dedication when faced with adversity such as the main refurbishment contractor going bust three months into the 24-month refurbishment, and their resilience in the wave of shocks such as Covid and the current economic downturn.

“The company has faced serious hardship with respect to rising costs, reduced town centre footfall and government policy often seemingly targeting the hospitality industry.

“Throw in increased regulation, rising national insurance and decreasing flexibility in the labour market and a currently stressed economic environment, and the director has been forced to concede that he can no longer continue financially supporting the business.”

On Facebook, Ann Miller commented: “Sad news, I left Wellingborough in 1973, but the Hind Hotel always stood out as one of the historic buildings and a landmark in Wellingborough. Hope new owners will be found and it continues for many more years.”

Karen Henderson added: “So sorry to hear this, and I thank you most sincerely for all you have done to restore and keep The Hind going.

“You faced more challenges than was fair, and your resilience, dedication and commitment are a testament to the team.

“My parents had their wedding reception there in the 60s, and it holds a special place in my heart.”

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The scent of hand-poured candles filled the air in the Little Welsh Dresser, one of Llandeilo’s clutch of arts and crafts shops. This vibrant Welsh market town is a creative spot – it’s where the famous Dinefwr wool blankets are woven and boasts many galleries and antique stores – and is a pretty place to wander. Our eyes land on the rows of handmade cards and mugs stamped with Welsh words. One said: Cwtch. Pronounced “kutch” , it has no direct translation into English. “It’s a big, warm hug,” said the shop owner, “but also it’s a feeling, a sense of belonging,” – and a word that would come to define our weekend.

We – I was travelling with my friend, Anna – were here to try out Discover Carmarthenshire’s new “The Sisterhood” breaks that tap into the growing trend of women swapping prosecco-fuelled girlie weekends for trips that focus on new skills and wellbeing experiences. For those wanting pre-curated stays there’s a Sisterhood Sorted section on the website, but groups of any size can create a bespoke trip by selecting west, central or coastal Carmarthenshire, choosing from a list of places to stay (from barns to glamping pods ), and then selecting experiences led by Wild Kin, a collection potters, painters, coastal foragers, horse whisperers, walking guides, makers and massage therapists.

We’d chosen Ardderfin Farmhouse on the outskirts of historic Carmarthen, a rustic stone cottage with a clawfoot bath and huge open fireplace . It reminded us of the cottage in the film The Holiday.

After settling in, we drove 15 minutes into town for dinner. “Carmarthen is still a community of farmers and the Women’s Instituteis still massive here,” said Rachel Williams, owner of the New Curiosity – a weekends-only, seasonal-menu restaurant she runs with her husband-chef, Daniel. “Everyone at our tables tends to know each other – my home is your home,” she said, as I tucked in to a perfectly pink Welsh sirloin.

Saturday brought low sun that splayed silhouettes of the skeletal trees across the frosted fields as we wended up into the hills to meet Yoka Kilkelly, AKA the “Dutch potter on the hill”, who runs her Siramik pottery studioout of a converted barn on a sheep farm. Inside, the slate stone walls were spattered with flecks of clay.

We started with wedging – kneading the clay to soften it, make its texture consistent and ensure there are no air bubbles in it. It requires serious heft. “No potter has bingo wings,” smiled Yoka, as we struggled away while she made her clay look as soft as bread dough. We portioned our clay into four, thwacked a lump on to the potter’s wheel and started coaxing it into shape as it span. “A person’s personality shapes their pot,” said Yoka. My clay morphed into coffee cups and Anna’s turned into a bowl, which we later daubed with a glaze. “It’s a mindful practice,” she added. With shards of winter sun spearing through the studio windows and the sensation of earthy clay spinning in my palms, I did feel very present.

In the afternoon, we drove toward Llansteffan for a short walk along the sands of the Tywi estuary. Atop a hill was the crenelated shadow of 800-year-old Llansteffan Castle. The tide had drawn back, leaving a trail of bone-white cockle shells and shallow pools that reflected the pinkening sunset. Anna, a keen birder, was scanning for curlews and egrets, camera at the ready. It’s not often I get to see her in her element.

We returned to Ardderfin Farmhouse to find our next activity waiting. Lowri Johnston is a yoga teacher and organic flower farmer based in nearby Nantgaredig. We lit the fire in the living room and she guided us through a gentle session. Then, fuelled by brownies she’d brought from a local bakery, she taught us to make willow wreaths gilded with ivy, eucalyptus, pine cones and dried dahlias foraged from her own farm, slowly warming the willow first to coax it into a circle.

“I love doing this because it embeds people in the seasons and land,” Lowri said. She told us that the Welsh word for sisterhood is chwaeroliaeth. “It means ‘sisters together.’ In Wales we have a history of women meeting, especially while making food – milking, churning butter, that sort of thing.”

After Lowri left us, Anna and I dined on a gourmet picnic of homemade meatballs in tomato sauce followed by ginger cake with toffee sauce that had been delivered by Wright’s Food. We revived the fire, and sat in deep sofas talking until the wee hours as the embering wood hissed and crackled.

Sunday dawned with rain drifting across the fields. I nudged the car toward Newcastle Emlyn to meet primary school teacher turned jeweller Elen Bowen, who runs silver and gold jewellery making workshops at her home. She only turned her hand to it in 2023 after having twin girls and deciding on a career change. “I thought, heck, I’ll start an Instagram page and see how it goes – and it snowballed!” This year, she was selected to craft the crown for best story writer in the National Eisteddfod – Wales’ largest annual festival celebrating Welsh literature, music and arts.

Anna chose to make a bracelet; I decided on a ring. And with Elen’s guidance, we hammered, soldered and polished, bringing our own personalities to the piece, as we had with the pottery. After, we gathered around the table to share bowlfuls of her homemade cawl – Welsh stew.

By the time we left, and had hugged goodbye every woman we’d met, I thought back to the mug printed with cwtch – how it wasn’t just a hug, but a sense of being gathered in by each of the creators we’d spent time with. It was the perfect word for a weekend crafted together with fun, food and a deeper sense of closeness to each other.

The trip was provided by Discover Carmarthenshire’s Sisterhood Campaign. Ardderfin Farmhouse sleeps 8 adults, from £772 for two nights. Activities (based on a group of 6+) include a half-day pottery workshop with Siramik from £80pp; yoga and wreath-making with Lowri Johnston for £90pp; and a jewellery workshop with Elen Bowen for £130pp, including lunch

This charming village in the South Pennines near the Peak District is ideal for walkers and cyclists to explore stunning landscapes and historic tunnel

Nestled beside the River Colne in the South Pennines, right on the edge of the Peak District, sits this delightful town – an ideal getaway for ramblers and cycling enthusiasts.

Visitors heading to the Yorkshire Moors or Peak District frequently bypass the village of Marsden, yet it serves as an excellent base for exploration. Boasting scenic countryside walks and numerous spots to take a breather or enjoy a refreshing pint, it occupies a prime position, with fascinating landmarks practically on the doorstep.

Among the attractions drawing travellers is the stunning Marsden Moor, which stretches across more than 5,000 acres of National Trust-protected countryside. A local shared their thoughts about regular visits to the moor on TripAdvisor.

They said: “I’m lucky enough to live in Marsden, so I’m on the moors pretty much every week with the dogs or the local running club I run for.

“There are stunning walks, trails, waterfalls and plenty of reservoirs, and plenty of tracks to walk and run on. It’s never really busy, as it’s such a big area.”

Another walker shared: “Walk on the wild side. This is a beautiful and very lonely part of the countryside not far from our home. We regularly walk the dog and enjoy some quiet time up here.

“Winderness, well not quite, but you might not meet many people up here. Beautiful.”

Numerous walkers opt for the stunning Stanza Stones Trail, a 47-mile long-distance path connecting Marsden to Ilkley whilst weaving local landmarks throughout the journey.

The trek features six poems carved into stone, all penned by the locally acclaimed Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.

Yet what truly remains a precious jewel of this village is the Standedge Tunnel, which dates from 1794.

It stands magnificently as Britain’s longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel – a remarkable example of Georgian engineering prowess. The complete construction of this exceptional structure required 17 years in total and reached completion in 1811.

Its importance also lies in the fact it was created entirely through hand-blasting methods, cutting through solid rock without any towpath. It sits 683 feet below ground level, positioned 196 metres above sea level, and continues to hold British records in 2026.

Following your stroll, you can return to the village heart, where numerous pubs await your arrival. TripAdvisor visitors have rated Riverhead Brewery Tap as the locality’s premier dining and drinking establishment, with one patron describing their experience as “simply superb”.

Another commented: “Outstanding pub the service and beer were exceptional. Anyone coming to Marsden needs to go to the Riverhead; their choice of beer is amazing, and it’s brewed on site as well.”

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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.

The beautiful village is perfect for a serene getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and rich rural history – and it’s been named one of the county’s ‘best kept’.

A hidden gem of a Lancashire village nestled on the northern shores of the River Ribble offers the perfect tranquil escape for anyone seeking to lose themselves in nature and centuries of countryside heritage.

Located a mere two miles north-west of Clitheroe in the breathtaking Ribble Valley, this picturesque village boasts everything you could wish for – a trickling stream, sweeping views of imposing fells, heritage sites, three highly-rated traditional pubs, cobblestone lanes and winding pathways, plus a captivating riverside garden that has earned the village numerous accolades through the years.

Set within the Forest of Bowland – designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1964 – strolling through this enchanting corner of the countryside whilst soaking up scenic vistas of striking fells, it’s easy to understand why this village has captured the affection of countless visitors.

The Lancashire village of Waddington derives its name from Wadda, an 8th-century Anglo-Saxon chieftain linked to the assassination of Northumbrian King Ethelred – just one glimpse into this charming settlement’s fascinating and layered past.

Having secured the prestigious ‘Best Kept Village in Lancashire’ award on multiple occasions, Waddington’s Coronation/Jubilee Gardens deserves much of the credit for this distinguished recognition, reports Lancs Live.

The public garden’s stunning sundial and vibrant floral displays are truly spectacular, and positioned alongside Waddington Brook, it serves as one of the village’s most popular attractions.

Created in 1953 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, the crowning glory of this award-winning garden is the rustic bridge erected in 2002.

Contributing to the village’s appeal and distinctive character, several properties benefit from having the Waddington Brook literally on their doorstep, with the picturesque stream running directly past their front doors.

The village boasts numerous significant historical landmarks including the 15th-century Anglican St Helen’s Church, Waddington Methodist Church, a magnificent 17th-century manor house known as Waddow Hall, and Almshouses initially built during the 1700s to accommodate widows of local dalesmen and farmers.

These almshouses were demolished and rebuilt beside the village green in the late 19th-century.

However, there’s more to Waddington’s story. The village has another notable distinction – Waddington Hall is renowned for sheltering King Henry VI for 12 months whilst he evaded his Yorkist adversaries, before his betrayal and capture in 1465.

The village also became the location for a 1990 ‘TV experiment’ when the now-defunct television channel established a studio in the village hall, broadcasting ‘hyper-local’ programmes featuring local stories from the venue for an hour each evening.

Consequently, Waddington Village TV proved enormously popular at the time. The closest train station to Waddington is located in Clitheroe, whilst the nearest bus station can be found in Whalley. The village is also readily accessible by road.

Trio of top-rated pubs

Waddington is also home to three highly-rated pubs – firm favourites amongst both locals and tourists.

The picturesque village nestled at the base of Waddington Fell houses the award-winning Higher Buck, a pub which appeared on Estrella Damm’s ‘Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK’ list in 2022.

Its outdoor seating area proves irresistible to travellers, with visitors unable to pass up enjoying a pint when the weather’s fine. Combine that with the exceptional food served at the establishment and you’ve discovered an unmissable culinary paradise.

Rounding off the trio are the Lower Buck Inn and the Waddington Arms, both offering delicious meals that pair perfectly with a satisfying pint. Situated right in the village centre, these two venues also provide accommodation for visitors.

The Lower Buck dates back to 1760 and takes pride in being a ‘traditionally traditional’ establishment, whilst the Waddington Arms is somewhat more sophisticated – and functions as a four-star hotel with an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor.

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The charming village is a haven for peace and tranquillity, with its idyllic surroundings and rich history, but what makes it so distinctive is its unique building designs

Nestled peacefully at the mouth of the River Dun, this delightful village brims with charm and tales aplenty, encircled by stunning natural beauty.

Cushendun boasts both a scenic harbour and a serene shoreline, courtesy of its prime position along the Northern Irish coast whilst being embraced by undulating agricultural hills. It creates the perfect retreat from life’s chaos, allowing visitors to lose themselves in nature’s splendour.

Indeed, one of its natural caverns proved so captivating it served as a filming venue for the HBO hit series, Game of Thrones. These crimson caves took shape over 400 million years ago but gained fame during series two of the show when they provided the setting for the notorious shadow assassin’s emergence.

After exploring the cave, one visitor noted in their review: “The area around the caves is absolutely beautiful. I found the caves to be fascinating. The walls were made up of giant round rocks and solid dirt. Make sure you wear shoes to walk to the caves.”

Throughout the village, guests will notice the idyllic cottages that lend it such serenity. Ronald John McNeill crafted the surrounding area in 1912, commissioned by Ronald John McNeill, Baron Cushendun, aiming to replicate a Cornish settlement.

Constructed in 18th century fashion, a neo-Georgian dwelling joined the collection and Cushendun evolved to appear as though it had been transplanted directly from Cornwall’s coastline.

Combined with its tranquil coastal setting, this enabled the town to achieve Conservation Area status in 1980. Today, the area remains largely under the stewardship of the National Trust, which has protected it since 1954.

The village’s distinctive Cornish character was crafted as a tribute to the Baron’s wife, who hailed from Penzance, Cornwall.

This devotion persisted beyond her death, when Ellis commissioned a terrace of whitewashed cottages specifically in her honour – now known as Maud’s Cottages.

One recent visitor declared it their new “favourite spot”. They posted on TripAdvisor: “I would live there in a heartbeat. It’s a special place in every way. The beach is beautiful and safe. The little houses are cute, and the village is filled with flowers and hanging baskets. We’ll be back.”

Another added: “Cushendun is probably the nicest small town/village on the coastal drive. It is set in a conservation area managed by the National Trust at the mouth of the Glendun river and attracts many visitors annually. Anyone travelling the Antrim Coast road northwards should make a point of reaching here for a break to enjoy the tranquillity.”

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The Cotswolds is home to some of England’s most stunning scenery – but Daylesford Organic Farm Shop is overpriced and overcrowded.

I’m a frequent visitor to Cotswold villages and spend considerable time exploring the area. From Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswolds boast some of England’s most charming villages.

Yet, it’s also where you’ll find certain social media hotspots that frankly aren’t worth the hassle.

Established by Carole Bamford, Daylesford Organic Farm Shop has skyrocketed in popularity recently, with countless visitors documenting their experiences on TikTok. Situated on their operational organic farm, the shop stocks fresh bread, seasonal produce, award-winning cheeses and homeware items.

The estate also features multiple restaurants, along with a garden shop brimming with handcrafted tableware and antique pieces.

Admittedly, it’s beautifully presented, visually impressive and undeniably photogenic for Instagram snaps or TikTok content, but it’s also shockingly pricey and constantly heaving with people, reports the Express.

Particularly at weekends, it resembles less of a peaceful countryside retreat and more of a hectic supermarket, complete with rammed car parks, congested aisles and never-ending queues.

That said, Daylesford isn’t without its merits. The cafe is pleasant, and when you visit at an opportune moment, the service is excellent, and the cuisine is delicious.

Beyond that, however, the pricing is excessive, the ambience can seem contrived rather than tranquil, and the whole experience frequently leaves me feeling frazzled.

Take, for instance, a sharing packet of crisps priced at roughly £7, a flower-pressed chocolate bar commanding a staggering £15, and a packet of biscuits costing £9. The fresh beverages were equally eye-watering, with a coffee costing £6.50.

All the produce is organic, which goes some way towards explaining the cost, but I still reckoned they were steep.

Regarding homeware, I couldn’t locate any transparent storage containers bearing Daylesford’s logo on the lid for less than £20. Actually, one of them carried a whopping £45 price tag. I also snagged a wicker tote for £60.

When the café proved too hectic to secure a hot beverage, I ventured outside to the van for a swift takeaway drink. Nevertheless, I stood in a static queue for 10 minutes, which genuinely discouraged me from returning.

Should you be exploring the Cotswolds and happen to be in the vicinity, it might be worth crossing off your bucket list, but I wouldn’t suggest making a dedicated journey there.

There are considerably superior farm shops, home stores, and destinations to invest your time and money.

Avoid paying a massive fee at the airport gates by checking your cabin bag size before you fly. With half term on the way, here’s the latest sizing regulations for some of the most popular airlines

One thing that often catches passengers out when flying on budget airlines is cabin baggage allowances. On busy flights, it’s common to see the dreaded bag sizer coming out, and being over just a centimetre can mean you end up paying a massive fee to check your bag at the gate.

To make things even more confusing, cabin bag size allowances change all the time, so even if you’re a frequent flyer, you can get caught out. It’s always best to check the size of the cabin bag that’s included with your ticket just before you go, so you can avoid hassle at the gates.

It’s also much cheaper to pay for extra bags when you book your flight, not once you’re at the airport, so always make sure you’ve booked the amount you need in advance.

Cabin bag allowances by airline

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Ryanair

Ryanair is notorious for strictly enforcing cabin baggage sizes, and if you’re taking a bag on board, you should make sure you get the tape measure out and check the dimensions before you head to the airport.

However, there’s good news for Ryanair passengers: the free underseat bag included in its basic fare can now be slightly larger. Previously, this small bag had to fit in a sizer with the dimensions of 40 x 25 x 20 cm, but since summer 2025 it can now be up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. These free bags need to fit under the seat in front of you, and usually people bring a handbag, laptop bag, or small rucksack.

Technically, there’s no weight limit on these small bags, as long as they fit under the seat, but passengers will need to be able to carry and handle them, and an excessively heavy bag could be noticed by flight attendants.

Passengers can also pay to bring a second cabin bag of up to 55 x 40 x 20cm onboard with them, and this bag has a weight limit of 10KG. Passengers will need to lift this bag into the overhead locker above them, so bear this in mind when packing. If you prefer to check a bag, you can add a 10KG, 20KG, or 23KG bag to the hold. Prices vary depending on route and availability.

EasyJet

Budget airline easyJet is also known for strictly monitoring bag sizes, and you’ll see lots of orange sizers around the airport so you can check whether your luggage will fit. However, it’s best to measure bags at home when they’re packed so you can adjust accordingly.

Everyone who flies with easyJet gets one small underseat cabin bag included in the price. This can be up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm in size, and easyJet states it can’t exceed 15KG in weight.

Customers also have the option to book a second cabin bag of 56 x 45 x 25 cm maximum, including handles and wheels. As a bonus, if you book a second bag, you get speedy boarding included. When booking your flight, you also have the option to pay for up to three checked bags of 15KG, 23KG, or a whopping 32KG. Some airports offer a twilight bag drop for passengers on early flights, meaning you can check your luggage the night before heading off and head straight for security in the morning.

Jet2

Whether you’ve booked a package holiday with Jet2, or just a flight, cabin baggage allowances are the same. You get a small bag of 40 x 30 x 20cm, which must fit under the seat, and the price also includes a 10KG piece of hand luggage of up to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. Again, you must ensure measurements include handles, wheels, and other fixtures.

Package holidays include 22KG of checked baggage, but if you’ve only booked a flight, you can still add a checked bag for a fee. Passengers can buy up to three bags of 22KG in weight, perfect for those who don’t like to travel light.

Families travelling with young kids can also bring a collapsible pushchair, car seat, and/or travel cot free of charge.

British Airways

British Airways (BA)’s economy basic fare includes a handbag and a cabin bag. The former can be up to 40 x 30 x 15cm in size and needs to easily fit under the seat in front, while cabin bags can be up to 56 x 45 x 25cm in size. However, BA can only guarantee that the smaller item will be allowed on board. If there’s not enough space in the overhead locker, your cabin bag may need to go in the hold.

BA also offers a range of options for checked bags, depending on the flight route you take and which classes are available. Economy with checked bag includes a 23KG bag in the hold, and unlike most airlines, BA put a size restriction on these checked bags of 90 x 75 x 43cm. Those lucky enough to fly business or first class get much bigger allowances.

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TUI

If you’ve booked a flight only on TUI Airways, you’ll get a piece of hand luggage of up to 10KG in weight for free, and this can measure up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm. You can also bring a small personal item like a handbag or laptop bag of up to 40 x 30 x 20cm that’s placed under the seat in front of you. TUI emphasises that passengers must be able to lift their hand luggage into overhead storage compartments themselves.

Customers can also add a checked bag when booking their flight, with prices depending on the route and availability. However, if you book a package holiday through TUI and are flying with its airline, then 20KG of checked luggage is included. Some holiday types, such as TUI BLUE or cruises, have a 25KG allowance, so it’s worth checking your booking confirmation before you go.

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Forget dating apps and blind dates, one couple found love halfway across the world

In today’s society, dating apps have become the go-to for meeting new people and starting romantic connections. But for one couple, their love story started halfway across the world, after a chance encounter, when they least expected it.

Looking for an adventure, Nicki Challinger packed her suitcase and headed to the airport to embark on a 10-day trip around Southeast Asia, stopping in Thailand and Laos. At 31, working as a freelance translator, Nicki was seeking thrills. She booked the trip through Flash Pack, a tour company offering adventures for solo travellers in a small group of a similar age.

This meant that rather than a trip dedicated to 18-30s or one catering to the over 50s, Nicki could enjoy a group tour that suited her age perfectly – avoiding the late-night club outings but ditching early nights! But little did she know she’d meet her husband, Tony Kern, almost the moment after she touched down in Thailand, during their first group meal.

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OPINION

Amy Jones

“There was a group dinner the first night, and I was just coincidentally seated next to him. We had a lot in common, he asked a lot of questions about me, and we shared the same sense of humour,” Nicki exclusively told the Mirror.

“He was really sweet, and he was just so genuine – a really open and kind guy.” Over the course of their trip in November 2018, they went whitewater rafting, cycling and treks, including one through a jungle.

Nicki sweetly recalled one day when they floated down the Mekong River on a boat as they crossed the border into Laos. “We had been getting on, and we were just chatting for hours while sitting at this little table, and just watching the beautiful scenery. It was without the pressure, as we were just hanging out, as everyone else in the group was.”

As sparks began to fly, they got closer, but as Tony, who was 32 at the time, was from the US and Nicki from the UK, they didn’t think it would go anywhere outside of the trip. It wasn’t until day eight of their tour that they knew it was something special.

“We went for a walk around this little town that we’d stopped in on the Mekong, and it was late at night, so all the stars were out, and it was sort of really romantic. That’s when I thought, ‘I can see this going somewhere’, and I did think we might kiss at the end of that night,” Nicki recalled.

“But then there was a pack of wild street dogs and I’m terrified of them. I don’t like dogs when they’re on a lead, so street dogs in Laos, I was not feeling it. He didn’t kiss me that night, so I was like, ‘Oh, maybe he doesn’t feel it.’ And then the next day, when we talked about it, he said, ‘Yeah, it just didn’t seem like the right moment.'”

They later had a conversation while at a resort overlooking the Mekong River and said it wasn’t just a holiday romance but something serious. That’s when they shared their first kiss.

As their relationship began, the tour inevitably came to an end. Yet that wasn’t going to stop the newly formed couple, despite being thousands of miles apart. Nicki had stayed in Thailand for a month to work on an island, while Tony travelled back home to the US.

They kept in contact and spoke on the phone a lot, while battling a 13-hour time difference for a month. But after spotting affordable flights to the US just two weeks after meeting, Nicki later jetted off to meet Tony at his home in Kansas City.

She said they had a “great time” together in the US, and after that, went back and forth to see each other. Then, as the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Nicki made the quick decision to go back over to the US, just days before they shut the border, and stayed there for three months.

“In hindsight, it was quite a good practice for real married life, and we went for nice walks in the evening,” she shared. Then, in April 2021, the couple got engaged in the US, the evening before Nicki’s birthday, “It was relaxed but romantic”.

Just a few months later, in November 2021, they joyfully tied the knot during an intimate ceremony in the US before returning to the UK for a bigger wedding party in July 2022. Here, they had eight of their friends from the tour attend, two of whom also sparked up a relationship on the trip, and now have a baby together.

Talking of their love story, Nicki said: “It was unexpected, none of us were looking for a relationship, we just went on the tour for an adventure. It was life-changing. Everything had lined up like the dates of the trip and the discount – it just worked really well logistically, and then I met my husband. People are always so surprised.”

They had both used Flash Pack to book trips in the past, but never thought their 2018 adventure would lead to love. “I was not bothered at all. I just wanted to see some of Thailand, and I didn’t want to do it by myself,” Nicki said. It was also the first time this specific tour had ever run, which Nicki said meant “everybody on the trip had the same, relatively relaxed mindset.”

After maintaining a visa, Tony, now 40, moved to the UK in November 2022, and today, they happily live in Nottingham. While they’ve known each other for around eight years, Nicki, now 38, confessed: “Theoretically, the language is the same, but I would say it’s still probably about once a week where one of us says something, and the other is like, ‘I literally have no idea what you’re saying’.”

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SUNSEEKERS heading to Hawaii must now shell out more money to cover a tourist tax hike.

Government officials have praised it as a new “green fee,” but opponents have slammed it as a “surf tax” which bumps up accommodation prices.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green signed legislation last May to generate an estimated nearly $100 million annually.

The “green fee” adds about $3 per night to your bill if you’re booking a $400-per-night hotel room, according to Aloha Hawaiian Vacations.

“Some are praising it as a much-needed environmental investment,” it added.

“Others feel like it’s just another added cost at a time when tourism still hasn’t fully bounced back post-pandemic.”

Forbes described it last month as a “first-of-its-kind visitor levy in the United States aimed at funding climate resilience and environmental conservation in the state.”

The levy raises rates on hotel room, vacation rentals and short-term rental stays.

The government also wanted to charge cruise line passengers, but the new charge is being challenged by industry officials in a lawsuit.

Money raised through the tax is to be invested in climate disaster resilience and environmental protection, according to the government.

“Visitors are willing to pay a climate impact fee in order to support Hawaiʻi’s environmental protection efforts and preserve the beauty and cultural heritage of the islands for future generations,” it explained last May.

SURF TAX

But, some tourists have resisted what they’re calling a “surf tax” said the Robb Report.

There’s also been some negative comments on social media, where it’s been slammed as a “money making” venture, and a “disgusting cash grab” which will “make Hawaii even more unaffordable.”

“We have no emissions testing on cars in Hawaii, but now we’re suddenly concerned about pollution and are going to place a climate tax on tourists?” asked one resident.

“This is about greed and incompetence, not the environment.”

Hawaii does not require a mandatory tailpipe emissions test – also known as a “smog check,” for vehicle registration, said Engineer Fix.

“Unlike many states that quantify pollutants like hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, Hawaii does not perform this type of performance-based assessment.”

Visitors have been charged the new levy since January 1, after it was signed into law last May.

The tax was prompted by recent natural disasters, including the 2023 Maui wildfires that killed more than 100 people and destroyed thousands of structures.

It raises the state’s transient accommodations tax (TAT) by 0.75% for a total of 11% placed upon the nightly lodging rate, said the governor last May.

Prior to its approval, officials had signaled hopes to slug tourists $40 to raise “$200 million in conservation workforce revenue.”

However Senate Bill 1396 instead increased the TAT rate by a more modest 0.75% – rather than a higher fee.

Supporters are thrilled that money raised will be spent on projects such as replenishing beach sand, coral reef rehabilitation, plus fire prevention projects.

“As an island chain, Hawaii cannot wait for the next disaster to hit before taking action,” said Gov. Green last June.

“We must build resiliency now, and the green fee will provide the necessary financing to ensure resources are available for our future.”

The cruise ship industry has managed to avoid the fee – for now.

An 11th-hour reprieve was granted by the federal appellate court, reported Civil Beat on January 1.

“Judges upheld the cruise industry’s request that its ships not have to pay the new fee while in port — or to pay any of the visitor taxes already charged to hotels and vacation rental owners — while the battle over their inclusion plays out in court.

“That means Hawaii will see a 10% decrease in expected revenue from the nation’s first green fee while the injunction is in effect.

“That reduction would become permanent if the industry’s main trade group, Cruise Lines International Association, prevails in court.”