TRAVEL

A quintessentially English village brimming with traditions, natural wonders and local delicacies is waiting to be explored – from historic caves and breathtaking views to the world-renowned cheese that originated there

Nestled at the base of the picturesque Mendip Hills, this stunning village remains remarkably unchanged from decades past, preserved as the epitome of an English village.

Cheddar is famous for many reasons, all of which consistently attract visitors to its charming Somerset enclave throughout the year.

Packed with traditions, natural marvels and of course its regional specialities, it provides the perfect retreat from daily life into what resembles a storybook village.

From charming tea rooms to classic cottages, spectacular scenery and ancient caves, there’s far more to discover in Cheddar than initially apparent.

Following a visit, one person said on TripAdvisor: “This is a beautiful small place, with some great attractions and amazing local shops. So many places to eat and drink or buy local gifts like cider and cheddar. We would definitely come back.”

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Cheese

Naturally when you hear the village’s name, you immediately think of the cheese, and it’s no coincidence – the dairy product adopted the name of the village where it was first created.

The heritage of this globally celebrated cheese stretches back to approximately 1170, when it was crafted and aged in nearby limestone caves.

Due to their stable temperatures and humidity levels, they provided the ideal environment for cheesemaking until the technique was modernised.

Notably during the Second World War, milk production was commandeered by the government, resulting in standardised cheese, referred to as ‘government cheddar’ in the UK.

This led to the erosion of traditional cheddar production in regions like Somerset, meaning many of us have grown up without ever genuinely experiencing the authentic version.

When exploring the tranquil village, visitors can stop by The Worlds Oldest Cheddar Cheese Shop to sample some of the original recipes. Nearby sits the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, where guests can both buy and try ‘the only Cheddar made in Cheddar’.

Gorge and caves

The gorge is truly where Cheddar’s enchantment lies, comprising several caves, including Gough’s Cave. It has captivated human curiosity for generations and is thought to have been inhabited since Neolithic times at the earliest.

Cheddar Gorge stands as the UK’s largest and represents a natural monument that attracts over 50,000 visitors annually, all seeking a window into history.

Indeed, the location is so historically significant it yielded what remains the oldest complete human skeleton ever discovered in Great Britain, famously known as Cheddar Man, who dates back roughly 9,000 years.

Visitors have the opportunity to venture inside the caves, discover their hidden depths and even participate in rock climbing activities.

One said: “The caves were brilliant. Seeing where the Cheddar Man skeleton was found and then going deeper into Gough’s Cave was a wonderful adventure.”

They noted that the caves were “truly beautiful” and described the trek along the clifftops as an “awesome” experience.

The scenery is genuinely unlike anything else, featuring massive, soaring, dramatic cliffs that have established it as a global hotspot for caving and rock climbing.

Cheddar Gorge is an authentic haven for outdoor adventurers, combining natural beauty with thrilling activities, and naturally, plenty of heritage.

Breathtaking views

For the best vantage point in Cheddar Gorge, visitors can tackle the ultimate climb, which includes a 274-step staircase. Jacob’s Ladder is a must-visit for those exploring the area who want to experience it all from an elevated perspective.

The steps were built in 1869 to guide people upwards from the gorge base right to the cliff summit, and they remain in use to this day for the same purpose.

Based on visitor feedback, the trek is definitely worthwhile, offering the opportunity to enjoy sweeping views across Somerset and the Mendip Hills, with the possibility to climb even further, up an additional 48 steps.

Following the climb, one visitor said: “It’s steep, but it’s well worth climbing the 274 steps for the views you get when you reach the summit.

“Fortunately, there are two resting places on the way up (with information boards giving a history of the ladder and the flora and fauna around the steps) where you can admire the views across Cheddar and get your breath back. On the way down, you may be lucky enough to see one of the feral goats.”

PASSENGERS have been filmed evacuating Kansas City International Airport amid unconfirmed reports of an active bomb threat.

Footage being circulated online shows hordes of travelers exiting the Missouri airport in masses.

The reported evacuation began around 11:50am local time on Sunday, according to one onlooker on X.

Others have reported being moved from Concourse B to Concourse A and being filtered onto tarmac via staircases as “emergency sirens” sound in the background.

“We were all told to immediately get to concourse A. K9’s and agents all over the place. No planes on the tarmac,” one passenger wrote online.

There are unconfirmed reports that the evacuation has been triggered by an active bomb threat.

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“There’s an active bomb threat at the Kansas City Airport,” a passenger claiming to have just landed at the airport wrote on X.

“My plane from New Orleans just landed. Pilot said we won’t go to the gate for hours.”

Official Statement

“The Kansas City Aviation Department is aware of a situation at Kansas City International Airport (MCI),” a spokesperson told The U.S. Sun.

“As a precaution, the department has evacuated sections of the Airport Terminal.

“Airport Police are working with the FBI to substantiate any potential threat.”

The spokesperson added that the team “is working with law enforcement to substantiate the legitimacy of a bomb threat.”

Further updates are expected shortly.

It comes just 48 hours after a Southwest Airlines flight was diverted due to a mid-air security threat.

Tensions are high amid the US-Israeli war with Iran that has increased the domestic terror threat and the prolonged shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) due to funding disagreements.

Former Security Secretary Kristi Noem warned that this would “endanger national security,” with TSA and border patrol agents stretched to their limits.

“Now is the time to be vigilant at home and to ensure that all of our doors are locked, so to speak,” Speaker Mike Johnson, warned on Wednesday as he discussed the continued shutdown and conflict.

This is breaking news. Please keep checking back for the latest updates…

SINCE I started working in travel at some of the UK’s top holiday firms, I’ve visited more than 200 hotels.

Some were impressive, some were expensive, and some try very hard to be both. But only a small handful earned a perfect 5/5 from me.

And I don’t give that score lightly. But these places are better than some five-star properties I’ve visited.

I’m not marking purely on marble floors or how many à la carte restaurants there are. I’m looking at something much simpler: does this hotel genuinely deliver for what you pay?

Because I hate overspending on holidays.

So for 2026, I’ve picked one hotel in each destination that I personally rated 5/5. Not because they’re the most luxurious in the country – but because they’re the best at what they do.

And I’ve checked current prices to see if they’re still stacking up. Here’s what I found.

Turkey – Grand Aquarium, Dalaman

Turkey is full of huge, ultra-luxury resorts. Grand Aquarium isn’t that, and that’s exactly why I love it.

It’s apartment-style, spacious and calm. The pool area feels relaxed, the rooms are generous, and the whole place is easy to navigate. When I stayed, what stood out wasn’t extravagance – it was how smooth everything felt.

There’s super-friendly staff, the place is spotless and it’s a relaxed, family-feel atmosphere.

For 9-16 June 2026, flying from London Gatwick, self-catering is currently pricing from £195 per person.

For early summer in Dalaman at a hotel I’ve personally rated 5/5, that’s excellent value. It’s the sort of price that makes Turkey feel like a very smart move again.

Canaries – Bakour Lanzarote Splash

If you want value in the Canaries, this is hard to beat.

Bakour Lanzarote Splash is all-inclusive as standard, and what I like is that it doesn’t feel like everything good is an extra. Waterpark, entertainment, food – it all feels included in the experience, not bolted on.

Because it’s Lanzarote, flight prices tend to stay reasonable year-round. That keeps the overall package price sensible even when demand rises.

For May 2026 (4-11 May), flying from Bristol, all-inclusive, it’s currently pricing from £413 per person.

For an all-inclusive with those facilities, in Lanzarote, that’s very competitive. For families especially, you’re getting a lot of hotel for that number.

Mainland Spain – L’Azure, Costa Brava

L’Azure manages to feel modern and stylish while still working brilliantly for families.

There’s a rooftop adults-only pool, which means parents can genuinely switch off for an hour. Downstairs, the family areas are lively but not overwhelming.

When you compare it to other Costa Brava hotels in the same bracket, it often comes in at a better price for noticeably better room quality.

For 2-9 June 2026 flying from Bournemouth, room-only is pricing from £373 per person. For a hotel of this finish and quality on the Costa Brava in June, that’s strong. You’re getting something that feels premium without paying luxury-brand money.

Egypt – Edge by Rotana Sea Beach, Sharm el Sheikh

Sharm el Sheikh surprised me – and this hotel was a big part of that.

Edge by Rotana Sea Beach gives you scale and proper all-inclusive facilities without the usual hidden extras. Multiple pools, beach access, good dining – but it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

What makes it really strong value is context: compared to Caribbean or Indian Ocean resorts offering similar sunshine and facilities, Egypt remains far more affordable.

For 26 November-3 December 2026 flying from London Luton, all-inclusive is currently from £333 per person.

For winter sun, guaranteed warmth and a full resort set-up, that’s seriously competitive. You’d pay far more for a similar experience in the Caribbean.

This is one of those hotels where you leave thinking, “That was worth it.”

Majorca – Sea Club Mediterranean Resort, Alcudia

The Balearics can feel tight for space in peak season, but Sea Club doesn’t.

It’s spread out, relaxed and well organised. There’s plenty going on, but it never feels cramped. The buffet is varied, the layout makes sense, and it runs like clockwork.

For May 2026 (2-9 May) flying from London Stansted, self-catering is pricing from £208 per person.

For Majorca, in early season sunshine, at a hotel of this size and quality, that’s excellent value. It’s often cheaper than smaller hotels nearby with fewer facilities.

It’s not flashy – it just gets absolutely everything right.

Greece – Mitsis Rodos Village, Rhodes

Rhodes has some excellent hotels, but Mitsis Rodos Village stands out for consistency.

It’s a proper all-inclusive with strong service, varied dining and a setting that makes the most of the coastline. The grounds are well kept, the atmosphere feels polished but not stiff, and everything runs efficiently.

Mitsis as a brand tends to cost a little more on paper, but you see where the money goes. Service levels are high, and repeat bookings are common – which is always a good sign.

For 12-20 May 2026 flying from London Gatwick, all-inclusive is currently from £323 per person.

For eight nights in Rhodes at a hotel of this standard, that’s impressive. It feels like five-star treatment without a five-star bill.

Morocco – Iberostar Waves Founty Beach, Agadir

Agadir offers beachfront Morocco without the chaos of a city break, and Iberostar Waves Founty Beach is a brilliant base.

It’s right on the sand, modern without being over-the-top, and has a layout that feels calm rather than crowded.

Compared to some Marrakech resorts inland, you’re getting beach access, sea views and space – often at a better overall package price.

It delivers atmosphere and sunshine without unnecessary extras inflating the cost.

For 30 November-7 December 2026 flying from London Luton, all-inclusive is currently from £398 per person. For winter sun on the beach, with strong reviews behind it, that’s very competitive.

Cyprus – Anesis Hotel, Ayia Napa

Anesis Hotel proves you don’t need a giant resort to have a great holiday.

It’s centrally located in Ayia Napa, walking distance to beaches, restaurants and shops, which removes the need for taxis or long treks in the heat.

The hotel itself is modern, clean and well run. The service is spot on, and the atmosphere is friendly rather than frantic.

For the price you typically pay in this part of Cyprus, it feels fair – and often better value than newer hotels charging more for less.

For 13-20 October 2026 flying from London Luton, bed & breakfast is pricing from £380 per person.

For Cyprus in late-season sunshine, that’s fair value for a well-located base that genuinely delivers.

Portugal – Muthu Clube Praia da Oura, the Algarve

The Algarve can get expensive in summer. Muthu Clube Praia da Oura is a smarter way to do it.

It sits close enough to Albufeira’s buzz if you want it, but far enough away to relax properly. Apartment-style accommodation keeps things flexible, and the sea views here are genuinely strong.

When I stayed, what struck me was how much location you’re getting for the price. You’re near the beach, near the nightlife, but not paying top-tier five-star rates.

For 29 September-6 October 2026 flying from London Luton, self-catering is currently from £268 per person.

For Algarve sunshine at that time of year, that’s unbelievable value .

Tunisia – Sahara Beach Aquapark Resort, Monastir

Tunisia is one of the most underrated value destinations in the world.

Sahara Beach Aquapark Resort is a big, energetic, family-focused property with multiple pools, slides and beachfront access. It’s unapologetically fun.

What makes it 5/5 for value is scale, because you’re getting huge resort facilities and reliable sunshine at a price point that undercuts much of southern Europe.

For 5-12 May 2026 flying from London Gatwick, all-inclusive is currently from £393 per person.

So, for families who want proper all-inclusive without stretching the budget too far, this is one of the smartest bookings on the map.

WITH a mile-long golden beach and an annual film festival bringing in A-list movie stars – you might think this spot was on the French Riviera.

But actually, this destination is miles away on the northern coast of France – and it’s a place called Deauville.

The seaside town is a classic Norman resort with a huge beach, seaside casino and pulls in celebrity visitors every year.

Most of the famous faces will visit during September when it hosts the American Film Festival.

Over the years, tars like Clint Eastwood, George Clooney, Sharon Stone, and Johnny Depp have all been there.

And even when they leave, a piece of them remains as their names are adorned on beach huts called Les Planches – which have become an attraction in themselves.

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Other names you’ll see on the promenade include Gene Kelly, Cate Blanchett and Keanu Reeves.

This year, it will be held between September 4-16.

The town is also known for fashion as designer Coco Chanel opened up her very first boutique there in 1913.

The shop closed in 1939 after the outbreak of World War II but you can still see where it once was at 13 Rue Lucien Barrière.

Another pull to the seaside town is to see its horse racing events.

Deauville has a long history of horse breeding and racing, as it’s home to the Deauville-La Touques Racecourse.

The race track is extremely famous and is considered a world-class venue for horse racing, especially in the summer.

The biggest event which is a held throughout August is the Barrière Deauville Meeting which has Group 1 races.

On the beachfront is the town’s huge Casino Barrière Deauville which has 300 slot machines as well as classic roulette and blackjack tables.

Inside, there’s also a cinema, theatre and a night club.

When the sun shines, a must-do in Deauville is to head to the beach.

Plage de Deauville is around 1.2miles long and is scattered with around 450 multicoloured umbrellas.

While they might look like you’re classic beach parasol, you won’t find these anywhere else as they are actually made in Deauville workshops.

It’s a popular spot amongst tourists and locals with some calling it ‘one of the best beaches in France‘, another called it ‘sensational’.

The beach is also open to horse riders before 10am in the morning and after 7pm in the evening.

There are also 22 beach-front shops and bars, a seawater Olympic swimming pool, riding school and tennis club all within walking distance.

Dotted around Deauville are the tall Norman villas with half-timbered frames and pitched roofs.

And Villa Strassburger is one of the most beautiful properties in the town and was designed by local Caen architect, Georges Pichereau.

It was built for horse racing enthusiast Baron Henri de Rothschild in 1907, later on in 1975, it was declared a national historic monument.

You can go inside the house in the summer months, but only as part of a guided tour.

You can get to Deauville on the train if you take the Eurostar to Paris – tickets start from £39.

Then take a direct train from Paris Saint Lazare (10 minutes by Metro from Gare du Nord) to Trouville-Deauville which station takes just over two hours.

Discover the nearby Trouville-Sur-Mer…

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire visited the nearby Trouville-Sur-Mer…

“Trouville-sur-Mer is a quaint seaside town popular with holidaymakers since the 1800s thanks to its huge sandy beach and fabulous cuisine.

“But it has resolutely kept its quaint charm. Yes, there’s a kids’ arcade but it’s tucked into the basement of the glamorous casino.

“Yes, there’s crazy golf but it’s petite, just off the old-fashioned wooden boardwalk surrounded by grand 19th-century mansions.

“As with all parts of France, food and drink are kings.

This particular area is famous for its crepes, so we made it our mission to sample as many as possible — with chocolate, ice cream and seafood.

“The humble lemon-and-sugar will no longer get a look-in at my house on Shrove Tuesday. Given its Channel-front location, the town is also very big on moules — we even spotted a pizza piled high with them.

“Keen to assimilate with the locals, or possibly just excited about using shells as cutlery, even my son tucked into a bowl at one of the town’s best restaurants, Le Central, opposite the fish market.

“I’m also keen to live like a local, so sampled as much of the local wine and Calvados brandy as possible, for shockingly low prices.”

Here’s more on the underrated French city that has a ‘bit of everything’ with picturesque beaches and new cheap hotels.

Plus, the world’s most beautiful village is just two hours from the UK – with classic car tours & fairytale lavender fields.

DOH! Homer – no, not the Simpsons character, I mean the ancient Greek poet – must have got it wrong when he penned his classic Odyssey saga some 3,000 years ago.

For legend has it that the tiny Dodecanese island of Lipsi is his fabled Ogygia, where a saucy siren called Kalypso kept Trojan war hero Odysseus a prisoner for seven years.

Now, according to Homer, Odysseus was desperate to escape from Ogygia and flee home to his wife Penelope in Ithaca, on the other side of Greece.

But after my week-long stay in Lipsi I can’t imagine anyone wanting to leave this lovely, laid-back island, lapped by the clear blue water of the Aegean Sea.

Especially with the cooling Meltemi breeze ensuring that, although the temperature can hover in the 30s in summer, it never feels oppressively hot.

Certainly Sally Vavoulas, from Tenterden, Kent, has not wished to leave.

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She arrived in Lipsi in 2001, fell under its spell ­— and is still there.

These days she helps run the island’s excellent winery with husband Manolis. But more of that later.

Lipsi is not one island but an archipelago.

Only three of its 24 isles are occupied — and one has just two residents — while most of the 800-strong population are clustered in a sprawling village on the main isle.

Ferries chug into the little harbour every day from Kos and Samos, a two-hour cruise away — and twice a week from Athens, a longer nine-hour voyage.

Berthed alongside them are millionaires’ luxury superyachts, which have sailed from faraway spots such as the Caribbean and the United States.

And tied up farther down the jetty are the locals’ tiny but colourful fishing smacks.

Fortunately, though, those huge skyscraper-like cruise ships are banned from Lipsi.

Lining the quay are a cluster of excellent tavernas — such as Pefko, where owner Nikos looks annoyed when I ask which is the best dish on that night’s menu.

“None is best,” he replies sternly, before breaking into a beaming smile and adding: “Everything’s superb.” Hmm, as I soon discover, Nikos isn’t wrong!

Just down the road there’s Kalypso, a restaurant owned by the brother of village mayor Fotis Mangos and named after the aforementioned siren.

Well, if she dished up a delicious sea bass like the one I tucked into, then no wonder Odysseus stayed for seven years.

Fotis, I have been warned, has a habit of suddenly breaking into song.

He doesn’t after joining me for dinner, but plays a YouTube video of him duetting with a Greek rapper on a little ditty called “Come With Me To Lipsi”.

Former PE teacher Fotis is justly proud of his “hidden gem” of an island, and would love to see more British holidaymakers venturing there.
September, he says, is ideal as the kids are back at school yet the sun is still hot and the sea remains comfortably warm.

Not too many tourists, though, because Fotis doesn’t want to turn the place into another overcrowded Santorini or Kos.

Probably unlikely, because there are no discos or nightclubs blaring out raucous music.

Nor will you find any sunbeds, parasols or pedalos on the tiny beaches scattered around its coves.

A couple do boast tavernas where you can sip a cold beer or the local aniseed-based ouzo over lunch. But most are virtually deserted and often you have them to yourself.

Two other restaurants in the village worth visiting are Manolis Tastes, whose chef was once voted Best in the Mediterranean, and Plateia, where Despina makes ice cream that is to die for.

One morning I take a 50-minute ramble along winding dirt tracks, following colourful hand-painted signs through the hills to Monodendri — which means “One tree”. It’s supposed to be a nudist beach, although none of the three sun-worshippers stretched out on towels are baring all when I arrive. And I don’t, either.

But it’s an idyllic, peaceful spot where you hear just the gentle waves.
Grand feast

I’ve hired a little runabout car from George’s Rentals but rarely use it. Lipsi is only some 16 square kilometres and you can walk to most places.

One day, hiking past lemon and fig trees, grapevines and donkeys, I bump into Dimitri, the island’s cheesemaker.

He doesn’t speak much English and only makes goat cheese — not surprising as there are twice as many goats as people on the island — but he offers me some. It’s delicious, at 13 euros a kilo.

The island is dotted with white, blue-domed churches, most just tiny family chapels with barely room to swing a cat (of which there are many on Lipsi).

One local tells me there are 400 churches, another reckons about 150.

So I ask the island’s priest as he sits sipping coffee outside a taverna. He reckons 57. And as from time to time Fr Georgios is called out to preach in all of them, he should know.

The biggest is Panagia Charou, or the Virgin Mary of Death Church, where a revered but rather strange icon shows her clutching a crucified Christ on the cross.

Every year on August 23, it seems that a bunch of withered lilies left there by a schoolgirl in 1943 miraculously bloom back to life.

The occasion is marked by a grand feast “filled with dancing and singing, eating and drinking, drawing believers from all corners”.

Out on another walk, I meet Nikiforos, who makes the island’s honey. He doesn’t speak English but happily shows me round his apiary.

Much of the honey is infused with the taste of thyme, which grows all over Lipsi. But, sadly, time isn’t on my side, and the holiday is almost over.

I manage to squeeze in a visit to Sally’s Lipsi Winery, where I taste four of their locally produced tipples.

One, a sweet red wine called Aposperitis, was served by the Greek President to Charles and Camilla during a state banquet in Athens a few years ago.

Sally wants to know which I prefer. So I umm and aah, before suggesting perhaps I should try a second glass of each.

Which is why, on my last night, I’m afraid I ended up rather tipsy in Lipsi.

Travel expert Simon Calder has shared one of his favourite destinations for an autumn escape and it’s perfect for pensioners

Travel expert Simon Calder revealed one of his top picks for an autumn getaway: the picturesque seaside town of Cassis, located in the south of France. Simon highlighted that there are numerous budget-friendly flights from UK airports and mild temperatures in spring and autumn.

Cassis is also an extremely walkable town, making it ideal for pensioners seeking an inexpensive destination that’s also straightforward to explore.

The travel expert stated: “I just came back from Côte d’Azur on Friday, and it was absolutely magical, particularly the lovely town of Cassis. Beautiful port, very close to St Tropez. It’s just a gorgeous place, the food is great!”

“You can even take a bus from Marseille that costs £3 and takes you around one of the greatest drives in the world.”

Travel expert Sam wrote on her blog theblondescout that Cassis was “one of the nicest surprises” during her time living in France.

“This small fishing town is colourful, quaint and next to one of the most extraordinary landscapes I have ever witnessed: the dramatic limestone inlets that make up the Calanques between Cassis and Marseille.”

She noted that Cassis is a compact town, so it is “very walkable and easy to get around”.

“All of the streets are picture-perfect and have that colourful French Riviera vibe! Our favourite little square was at the bougainvillaea-filled Place Baragnon.”

Other locations suggested by travel expert Simon Calder include the Algarve, in southern Portugal, a stunning and “very affordable” coastal destination that’s not overly busy at this time of year.

Flying with a red, blue or green suitcase could be a bad idea

Planning and setting off on a getaway is among life’s finest pleasures, but sometimes, events outside your control can occur. Flights might get axed, accommodation double-booked, or in the most serious cases, you could become a target for criminals.

Whilst remaining vigilant is crucial, there are several steps you can take prior to departure to guarantee your possessions and personal items stay safe at the airport and during your travels. Shahzad Ali, security specialist and CEO of Get Licensed, revealed his key tips for safeguarding your luggage while on holiday.

He urged passengers to steer clear of brightly coloured luggage at all costs, as it could draw unwanted attention.

The travel specialist cautioned passengers flying with major carriers this summer, including Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet and TUI, and recommended they choose a black suitcase instead.

He said: “Although a new and colourful suitcase may look more fashionable, it won’t only be attractive to you. It’s best to choose a more common-looking suitcase, and if possible, a worn-out one – as to not stand out from the crowd – and with it, a high-quality padlock,” reports the Express.

“This can make a big difference in keeping your items safe. You can add an identifier, such as a ribbon or sticker, to avoid getting your luggage mistaken for someone else’s whilst still remaining subtle.”

He offered another handy security recommendation: “When packing, organise your items in three categories: extremely valuable (such as documents, credit cards, mobile phones and larger sums of cash), valuable (such as jewellery and other expensive items) and less valuable (such as clothes and self-care products).

“The extremely valuable items that don’t need to be used often at the airport should be placed in a money belt that will stay close to your body at all times until you reach your destination.

“The ones that need to be used at the airport should be placed in a small handbag or fanny pack that will stay in front of you at all times. When they’re not needed any longer, these items should be placed in the money belt. Larger valuables, such as laptops or tablets, can be placed in your carry-on luggage.

“Valuables such as jewellery should be strategically hidden among less valuable items, such as clothes, in your checked luggage.”

IT’S been a month since Alan Carr lied his way to victory on The Traitors – and now, he’s bought his own Scottish castle.

He’s set to renovate it in his own TV show and right next door is a charming seaside town with its own holiday park.

On the Scottish border is Alan Carr‘s new £3.25million home – Ayton Castle.

He has signed a deal with Disney+ where he plans to transform his castle into a luxury hotel and spa.

The castle itself dates back to the 19th century and it is set across two floors – but also has a huge five-story tower.

Just four-minutes away from the castle is the seaside town of Eyemouth.

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The small town sits on the coast, it has a harbour filled with boats and visitors have mentioned seeing seals bobbing up and down too.

It also has a sandy beach that’s a popular spot for swimmers year-round.

With its proximity to the sea, expect some top-tier fish and chips.

Some of the top-rated chippies include The Heathers Restaurant, The Contented Sole and The Ship restaurant.

In Eyemouth, there’s also a Parkdean holiday park which has sweeping views across the coastline.

The site has an amusements and games room, outdoor play area, sports courts, kids’ club and live entertainment at Killies Lounge.

There’s also a newly furnished Boathouse Bar & Restaurant.

There are plenty of caravans and lodges to choose from which vary from two to three bedrooms – the largest can sleep up to eight guests.

All accommodation has a TV, kitchen and lots have incredible beach views.

At Parkdean Eyemouth, lodge holidays start from £254, caravan holidays start from £103, and touring starts from £12.

Just up the road from Eyemouth is a pretty fishing village called St Abbs.

It has a beautiful harbour and visitors should pop into the tiny cafe that sits just above the water.

The family-run Ebbcarrs Cafe serves up fresh local seafood, homemade bakes and local ales – which can all be enjoyed whilst watching the boats bob up and down.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “The café itself is a delight. Think crusty baguettes overflowing with fresh seafood, a glass case brimming with homemade cakes, and prices that make you grin instead of wince.”

Another simply added: “Lovely cafe, in an equally lovely village.”

For those who want to head into the city, Edinburgh is an hour’s drive north of Eyemouth.

15-minutes south of Eyemouth and across the border is the small town of Berwick-upon-Tweed which is the happiest place to live in the UK.

The Guardian, who conducted the study, called Berwick an “overlooked jewel” and added “yet people who know it, adore it – it is a great place to live with community spirit in bundles.“

Berwick is at the top end of the Northumberland coastal path so it’s easy to explore the pretty coastline and see castles at Bamburgh, Dunstanburgh and Warkworth.

Here’s the most popular Scottish city to visit in 2026 with Traitors castles and epic road trip route.

And one comedian found the UK’s friendliest town – ‘I didn’t meet a single person that wasn’t nice’.

This stunning island has been dubbed the UK’s own Tasmania

Located just 40 minutes from the UK is the Isle of Man, the first complete nation to receive UNESCO Biosphere status. Described as Britain’s answer to Tasmania, the island boasts rare wildlife, dramatic coastlines and unspoilt beaches, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat.

With only 85,000 residents and a thoughtful mix of community and countryside, the island offers plenty of space, even at peak times of year. Situated in the waters between the UK and Ireland, the Isle of Man is accessible by either aircraft or ferry, meaning even those fearful of flying can experience this stunning destination.

Walkers can follow the entire coastline along the Raad ny Foillan coastal path, marking its 40th anniversary this year, passing through cliffs, coves and fishing hamlets with ocean vistas at every point.

Meanwhile, the wild coastlines of Niarbyl Bay and the Calf of Man bear more resemblance to the Australian island of Tasmania than somewhere in the Irish Sea.

Writing on TripAdvisor, one recent guest to Niarbyl Bay said: “Niarbly Beach offers an idyllic setting for walking and exploring, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

“The beach’s unique rock formations provide an intriguing landscape to discover, with plenty of tide pools and hidden nooks.”

Meanwhile another commented: “A real dreamy gem on the island with picturesque scenery of the coast and Irish Sea, there is also a walk along the coast that heads south and a little stone pebble beach, complete with a sea cave and a lovely old thatched cottage on the shoreline.”

The island’s wildlife represents another major draw for any visit, featuring the tailless Manx cat and the uncommon four-horned Loaghtan sheep, as well as seals, seabirds, and the occasional basking shark.

The Isle of Man is also a haven for stargazers, boasting 26 official Dark Sky Discovery sites and remarkably low light pollution. On occasion, the Northern Lights can even be spotted from the island.

WE celebrate a century of Winnie-the-Pooh this year and, like Christopher Robin, I grew up playing Poohsticks in Ashdown Forest.

I was seven when I realised I had a fierce competitive streak. Raised in East Sussex, Ashdown Forest was a regular day out for my family.

I often dragged along my beloved Tigger, a raggedy stuffed tiger toy and my favourite of the Pooh crew.

A born hustler, I’d play Poohsticks with my brother — throwing twigs into the river to see whose could travel fastest. The prize? Chewits.

An hour from London, Ashdown Forest is famously the birthplace of Winnie-the-Pooh.

Sandwiched between East Grinstead and Crowborough, the 6,500-acre ancient woodland inspired author AA Milne, who lived with his family in Hartfield, on the fringes of the forest.

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His charming tales of Winnie-the-Pooh and friends are based around the capers his son, Christopher Robin, had in that forest, playing with his favourite teddy bear and other stuffed toys, namely Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore and Kanga.

“Who needs Disneyland when you can play in the real Hundred Acre Wood?”, I’d tell my own kids when they were young, as we romped through the Enchanted Place, Galleon’s Leap and Eeyore’s Gloomy Place. And I’d win at Poohsticks.

A century later and Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood is just as cool.

The best way to see it is to follow the Pooh Walk, a three-mile circular route starting from Gills Lap. You can also book a guided Pooh Trek and see more key story spots like Roo’s Sandy Pit and the Heffalump Trap, and the memorial to AA Milne and his illustrator EH Shepard.

Keep your eyes peeled for Owl’s House, hidden high in a tree, and Piglet’s House, which has a balcony and little door in the trunk.

Pooh’s House, just past Poohsticks Bridge, still has “Mr Sanderz” carved in the wood above the door, just like in the books, and honey pots left in tribute.

Poohsticks Bridge is, of course, the highlight. The original crossing, where Milne and his son first played the game, was built in 1907.

I challenge my dog Miss Babs to a game. But it’s an easy win for me as she’s reluctant to let go of her stick.

Like the little yellow bear, I also have a fondness for honey. After our muddy romp around the woods, Miss Babs and I head back to Hartfield for tea and cake.

With its red-brick oast houses and clapboard-fronted cottages, it’s easy to see why AA Milne loved this village. The appropriately-named Bear Inn is worth a peek.

This cosy, 15th-century pub serves great locally-sourced food, including a different freshly-prepped sandwich each day for £15, or burgers and beer-battered cod for £18.

Above the pub are four rooms, each named after Pooh characters.
Pooh Corner is an 18th-century cottage and former village shop where Milne and Christopher Robin, below with his bear, bought sweets.

It houses a gift shop and “Pooh-seum” — a museum about AA Milne, where I learn Christopher Robin named his bear after a Canadian black bear called Winnipeg (Winnie) from London Zoo, while Pooh is after a local swan.

There are of photos and memorabilia to capture your imagination.

And if you’re “rumbly in your tumbly”, as Pooh says, the tearoom serves cream teas, cakes and smackerels like crumpets with butter and Pooh-shaped toast with honey.

Turns out you needn’t go far for an adventure — just follow the bear . . .

GO: Ashdown Forest

Holidaymakers could face major delays this summer

A new border control system is being rolled out at all European airports, including those in Spain, Portugal and Greece, from April 10. The new Entry Exit System (EES) requires British travellers to provide fingerprints and photographs when entering the Schengen Area.

British holidaymakers have been cautioned about potential queues due to the new biometric system, which was first introduced in October at some EU airports. All 29 Schengen countries are now expected to have it fully operational by April.

Some airport organisations have called for an “immediate review” of the Entry Exit System (EES) rollout as it “continues to cause significant delays,” and cautioned that queues for non-EU passengers could stretch to four hours during the summer months.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated: “EES checks are being introduced in a phased way across external borders, with full operation expected from April 10, 2026.”

The Foreign Office suggested that EES might take each passenger a “few minutes extra” to complete and advised they “be prepared to wait longer than usual” at border control, reports the Express.

The new checks at European airports follow the recent announcement that dual British nationals could be refused entry at the UK border unless they possess a British passport. The new regulation could impact holidaymakers returning to the UK from their European trips.

Full list of countries with the new Entry Exit System

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Bulgaria
4. Croatia
5. Czech Republic
6. Denmark
7. Estonia
8. Finland
9. France
10. Germany
11. Greece
12. Hungary
13. Iceland
14. Italy
15. Latvia
16. Liechtenstein
17. Lithuania
18. Luxembourg
19. Malta
20. Netherlands
21. Norway
22. Poland
23. Portugal
24. Romania
25. Slovakia
26. Slovenia
27. Spain
28. Sweden
29. Switzerland

‘There! There – I can see it!” The cries of my four-year-old echoed around the ruins of 13th-century Urquhart Castle, causing a group of US tourists to come running over to the corbelled bartizans (overhanging turrets) where we stood. “It’s Nessie, I saw her,” he insisted, pointing at the ripples spinning out from the back of a sightseeing vessel on Loch Ness.

A travel content creator believes this enchanting village is worthy of your holiday bucket list, with pastel buildings, sub-tropical gardens and stunning architecture that will transport you to the Mediterranean

Next time you’re planning a UK break, you might want to take note of a travel content creator who insists she’s discovered a picture-perfect spot that will make you “feel like you’re in Italy”.

After visiting the location, Amy Hulley described the captivating British village as thoroughly deserving of a place on your holiday “bucket list” as she posted an update to Instagram for her followers. “For a moment I genuinely forgot I was in the UK,” she confessed in a video. Visitors can purchase an entrance ticket to explore the village for the day, or book accommodation in one of its charming hotels and cottages.

The destination? Portmeirion in Gwynedd, North Wales on the border of Snowdonia National Park.

Amy added: “Pastel buildings. Arches and domes. Palm trees overlooking the water. It felt Mediterranean, almost cinematic.”

She also disclosed her visit happened to coincide with a steampunk festival, with period dress and live entertainment only contributing further to the “fun atmosphere”.

Discussing the village’s exotic gardens and remarkable architecture, Amy continued: “Sir Clough Williams-Ellis began creating it in 1925 to prove that colourful, theatrical design could sit beautifully within nature rather than damage it. Every building was carefully positioned to frame the estuary and protect the woodland around it.”

Writing in response, one past tourist praised: “A wonderful place to visit, a little expensive but worth it!”

A second person admitted: “Wow I can’t believe this is in the UK, Amy. Stunning Italian vibes.” A third enthused: “Can’t wait to visit here! So picturesque.”

While a fourth Instagram user gushed: “This is beautiful, it’s definitely on my bucket list now.”

Meanwhile, Portmeirion’s official tourism website proudly states: “Experience the magic of staying in Portmeirion. See the dawn break over the mountains of Meirionnydd; watch the tide fill the Dwyryd estuary from shore to shore.

“Stay in one of two luxury 4-star hotels or in a suite in the middle of the village. Portmeirion also offers self-catering accommodation on the picturesque North Wales coast. Situated on the southern flank of its own private peninsula, Portmeirion is a place apart.”

The village also features multiple cafes alongside an Italian-style gelateria serving genuine home-made gelato. “There are three shops in the village The Prisoner Shop with souvenirs of the famous series filmed here in 1966-67, the Rob Piercy Gallery and The Ship Shop with gifts, toys, housewares and Portmeirion Pottery best-ware, Portmeirion Pottery seconds as well as preserves, wines, and confectioneries,” the website continues.

It also served as the filming location for the 1960s cult classic series, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan. “It was probably one of the most influential pieces of television of the 1960’s not only in the UK and USA, but also in France, Australia, and many other countries,” according to the site.

The website elaborates: “The series is rich in imagery and visual impact. The surreal architecture of the village with its Mediterranean atmosphere coupled with the high-tech interiors, tannoys, surveillance cameras and piped music create a bizarre combination.”

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She warned she’s seen ‘diabolical things’ on planes

An experienced flight attendant with 11 years under her belt has divulged her personal tips for ensuring the best possible experience when travelling by plane. She cautioned that she’s witnessed some truly “diabolical things” during her time in the air.

Not everyone enjoys flying. It can be expensive, exhausting, and even anxiety-inducing.

With this in mind, one expert has shared her own set of guidelines that she adheres to whenever she takes to the skies. In a video posted on TikTok, flight attendant and US reality TV star Charity Nelms stated: “These are things that you’re not doing on an aircraft that you should do.

“I’m an 11-year flight attendant and I do all of these things when I travel on my own personal time because I’m an expert. This ain’t my first Rodeo.”

Wiping seatbelts

If you’re the type to bring antiseptic wipes on board, you might be focusing your efforts in the wrong place, according to Charity. She explained: “Number one, you guys all come on board with your little Clorox wipes and your little disinfectants, and you start wiping everything down: that little tray table in front of you, the back of the seat.

“I don’t really get why you’re wiping the back of the seat, because if you’re wearing clothes, nothing really touches that.”

Instead, she advised: “What you should be wiping, that nobody wipes is that seatbelt. The metal part, because everybody touches it.

“And also you should be wiping the fabric part of the seatbelt because everybody pulls on that. The amount of throw up, baby vomit, bodily fluids, liquids that have spilled, random stuff that end up on those seatbelts.

“Wipe them down. I do.”

Wearing full-length trousers

This is the most effective way to avoid direct contact with your seat. She went on: “Second thing you’re not doing is you’re not wearing full pants [trousers].

“I am letting you know from a flight attendant, the amount of things I have seen on the seat.Wear pants. Shorts, skirts, dresses – absolutely not. Wear full pants.

“None of your skin should be touching that seat. I don’t care if you come on board and you disinfect it. Nope, nope, nope.

“Wear full pants. Trust me, I have seen some diabolical things.”

Hand hygiene

According to Charity, cabin crew can tell if you haven’t washed your hands after using the in-flight loo. “Third thing that none of you are doing, you are not washing your hands after you use the lav,” she stated.

“You’re also not flushing the toilet. Did you know that your flight attendants know if you flush the toilet and wash your hands?”.

“We literally know from outside. You’re also not closing the door when it comes to using the lavatory.

“This is what you do. Flush the toilet, you wash your hands, you come out and you close the door with your elbow. Please start doing that.”

Footwear

She encouraged travellers to keep their footwear on when using the lavatory. “Fourth, and also having to do with the lav, you’re not wearing shoes,” Charity stated.

“It is never, ever water on the floor in the lav. And your socks are like two big sponges.”

The market town is one that has had a run of bad luck, but has plenty to be excited about, including cheap houses, an excellent art gallery and a local fish and chip delicacy

There’s a market town in England lined with grand terraced houses that regularly sell for £100,000. In fact, many go for just £50,000.

Head to Rightmove or a local estate agent and you’ll find two and even three-bedroom homes selling for half or even a third of the nation’s average. But it’s a place that’s got a lot more than just cheap houses.

It’s home to one of the UK’s most recognisably-named football clubs, one of the country’s greatest living authors, and one of the world’s finest collections of Tiffany glass.

The dazzling glassware, worth tens of millions, was sent from the US in 1933 by local lad-done-good Joseph Briggs. They then sat gathering dust for four decades before their brilliance was finally recognised.

Accrington — where the collection now shines in the Haworth Art Gallery atop the town’s hill — is much the same: a hidden gem, long overlooked beyond Lancashire, but, I’d argue, ready to dazzle.

It’s about time, because Accrington has had its share of misfortune.

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The town is probably best recognised (at least by those Fifa fans who have needed a willing team to drub) for its amusingly named football club, Accrington Stanley. Back in 1888, the club was one of an elite 12 that helped found the Football League, only to tumble out mid-season 88 years later, bankrupt and in chaos. As miserable fans drifted off to Blackburn and Burnley, the 15,000-seat stadium was binned and replaced with one a third of the size.

Far more tragic is the story of the Accrington Pals. In 1914, 5,000 striking mill workers were locked out by machinists Howard & Bullough amid a big industry downturn. Desperate for wages, many enlisted, making Accrington the smallest town in England to raise a battalion. On the first day of the Somme, 580 of the 720 Accrington Pals were mown down within half an hour.

There’s a cruel irony, too, in the town’s legacy as a brickmaking powerhouse — its super-strong ‘Noris’ bricks underpinning the Empire State Building and Blackpool Tower — and the relative cheapness of its homes. With an average house price of £148,714, and terraces £110,381, Accrington is officially the cheapest place in England or Wales to buy property.

But as advertising whizz and Amazing Accrington chair Murray Dawson tells me on a tour of the town: “Accrington needs to focus on the future, not the past.”

Certainly, the people I met are determined to do just that. Happily, there’s a lot to focus on.

Take Accrington Stanley. A decade ago, the Owd Reds were £1.2 million in debt, playing in a cowshed stadium with a pitch so waterlogged that six consecutive matches were postponed. Then along came Jack Holt, a Burnley lad who grew up on “the Shameless estate”. Since taking over in 2015, he has invested around £9 million of his plastics fortune into the club.

When I turned up, chief executive Warren Eastham paused his work on the club’s merchandise website to show me the gleaming corporate lounge running alongside the new artificial, puddle-free pitch — a set-up befitting a mid-table League Two side now punching above its weight, after years in the doldrums of football’s seventh tier.

After admiring the near-complete Stanley mural made by the paint-splattered Paul Curtis, Murray and I headed to the Haworth Art Gallery to meet curator Gillian Berry, who looks after the town’s Tiffany treasures.

The buzzing gallery looks out across the valley to Pendle Hill, recently climbed by a group of wig-wearing Jeanette Winterson superfans retracing the steps of the Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit author.

In 1960, Winterson was brought to the town by her adoptive, evangelical Christian parents, who only allowed her to read six books and burned her secret literature stash when they discovered it. The town’s cathedral-like public library, funded by Andrew Carneiege and bathed in sunlight filtered through great stained glass windows, provided a refuge and supply of illicit literature for Winterston.

The Whitbread Prize winner is not the town’s only notable daughter. There is also Lydia Becker, the pioneering suffragist who led the movement in the North West. Having spent years overshadowed by the likes of her protege Emmeline Pankhurst, she is now being celebrated at the new Accrington Dome, part of an ambitious town-centre regeneration stretching across several floors and shopfronts.

Soon, traders such as Steve Hatt will move his 150-year-old family fishmongers into the renovated Victorian Market Hall, and temporary market stalls that block off the grand town centre will be cleared away, as part of a £20 town centre revamp.

In an Amazon-dominated world, this seems as good a way as any to breathe life into a dying high street, hollowed out by online shopping and two huge supermarkets on the edge of town.

Another project that has successfully done just that is the Oswaldtwistle Mills. Having clung on as a working mill until the early 1990s, the two-century-old weaving centre was then transformed into a vast and hugely successful shopping complex, packed with everything from plants and dresses to children’s toys and butter pies. It is independently owned by Peter Hargreaves, whose relative, James (somewhat ironically) invented the Spinning Jenny, which mechanised milling and became a symbol of industrialisation for the homespinners it rendered obsolete.

Competing with Ozzie Mills in the size and shiny newsness stakes is the Raza Jamia Masjid Mosque. It is a vast building that regularly attracts 4,500 worshippers from across Lancashire.

It is the £9.5million passion project of Jawid Hussain, another local lad, who made his £110million fortune as the founder of toilet paper giant Accrol Papers. Today, he lives across from the mosque in a sprawling house with a Lamborghini-studded driveway.

I had discovered by that point in the day that the warmth of the welcome I received there, and the enthusiasm of the mosque’s caretaker-turned-impromptu-tour guide Manzoor Hussain, is typical of Accrington. It’s the kind of place where chippy owner Dianne wanders around the square after dealing with the lunch rush, armed with salt and vinegar, to make sure her regulars don’t need an extra shake.

The kind of place where so many random people kept chatting to Murray and me, our half-day tour ran over by hours. It’s also the kind of place that made national headlines back in 2024 when anti-racism protesters marched into the town centre in response to the Southport Riots.

As the woman behind the Heritage Dome, Hannah Saxton, tells it: “People were coming out of the pubs to shake their hands and hug them.”

Accrington’s challenges are undoubtedly real. It’s a town where its main industry has been hollowed out and has suffered years of underinvestment. But what is also real is its resolve. In its bricks, its glass, its football club and its faith, the town feels less like a relic of industrial Britain and more like a place quietly rewriting its future.

This peaceful South Lakes village offers a quieter alternative with River Brathay access, kayaking, Loughrigg walks, and family activities

Millions flock to the Lake District annually seeking respite from the chaos of daily life. Yet, countless holidaymakers gravitate towards the crowded hotspots of Windermere, Kendal, and Ambleside, which means their walks may prove less tranquil than anticipated, whilst they overlook some of the more hidden corners that the national park boasts.

One such secret treasure nestled in the South Lakes region is Clappersgate, a tranquil village situated on the fringes of Ambleside. Jerry Rebbeck, a regional specialist at Wheelwrights Holiday Cottages, has championed the settlement’s appeal, suggesting it as an ideal base for those exploring the vicinity.

He said: “Clappersgate has great access to the River Brathay, making it a great spot for adventurous visitors who want to paddleboard or kayak towards Waterhead or further onto Windermere.

“If you are not the adventurous type, you can enjoy the majestic riverside setting, taking in the views with a tipple of your choice or a book in a more secluded area.”

For those who prefer rambling, there are excellent routes directly from Clappersgate leading up to the Loughrigg Circular, which offers stunning panoramas across Windermere, and serves as an ideal lower-altitude trek when weather obscures the loftier peaks.

Despite being a compact settlement, Clappersgate brims with heritage, boasting numerous period buildings, including the remarkable Clappersgate Bridge.

The Grade II listed bridge, dating back to the 17th century, is a favourite spot for walkers in the area, owing to its views over the river and surrounding greenery.

Jerry added: “Clappersgate also has convenient access to nearby indoor activities, making it a brilliant place for families to stay in case of those unexpected rainy days, including the Lake District Aquarium and a neo-gothic Wray Castle.

“There are lovely historic houses and holiday cottages in Clappersgate for those wishing to stay in the area.

“The village is tucked away from the crowds, yet within easy reach of numerous landmarks and boasts stunning scenery – offering the perfect balance between relaxation and exploring the Lakes.”

SPECTACULAR volcanos, breathtaking lakes and ancient jungle cities – explore this Central American gem before the crowds hit, says Picture Director Alan Gittos.

Here’s why it’s time to head to the central American country.

1 – Majestic Volcanos 

As your flight descends into Guatemala City, you can’t miss the giant volcanoes that guard the highlands and stir the clouds. 

Volcán de Fuego (Volcano of Fire) in the Sierra Madre mountains is one of the world’s most active stratovolcanoes.

And at hotel Villa Colonial, in former capital city Antigua, you can breakfast on the magnificent terrace with a great view of Fuego’s volcanic plumes. Stays cost from £77 per night (Villasdeguatemala.com).

To get even closer to playing a real game of The Floor Is Lava, take a trail ride up Volcán Pacaya, an hour’s drive from the city.

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Let your horse carry you across dark ash soil to the base of the cone, then toast marshmallows on the geothermal vent – yes, really!

A six-hour horse-riding tour costs £67 per person (Pacayatours.com). 

2 – Punchy Plates 

Breakfast is a big deal here. Try the traditional feast of eggs, black beans and tortilla somewhere atmospheric, such as Raíces Restaurant on the edge of Lake Petén Itzá – it will only set you back £3 (@Raicesrestaurante).

For classic dishes in Antigua, head to charming La Fonda de la Calle Real and order the delicious Chiles Rellenos De Res – battered roasted peppers stuffed with beef mince, £9 (Lafondadelacallereal.com).

After modern fusion cooking? Dig into a trio of ceviche at Maxán, £14, followed by Buñuelos – moreish plantain fritters laced with cardamom, £3 (@Maxangt).  

3 – Floating Flores 

This small town on a tiny island in Petén was the last Mayan kingdom to resist. Set sail on Lake Petén Itzá to spot kingfishers, vultures and maybe even a crocodile or two.

Expect to pay around £37 for a boat ride from the shore. Once back on dry land, browse the brightly painted shops for textiles, ceramics and souvenirs, then sip a refreshing, bright-green limonada con chaya, made with lime juice and local chaya leaves, £3.40, at La Danta restaurant as the sun sets (Ladantarestaurante.com).

After dark, settle into a charming cabin at nearby Hotel Villa Maya and drift off to the sounds of the rainforest.

Rooms cost from £90 a night (Villasdeguatemala.com).  

4 – Awe-inspiring Atitlán 

Lake Atitlán was described as “the most beautiful lake on Earth” by German explorer Alexander von Humboldt, and at sunrise it is truly bewitching.

Stroll the water’s edge in Panajachel, then hop on a boat to the sleepy lakeside villages.

Stop off at San Juan La Laguna to meet women-run weaving cooperatives, watch natural-dye workshops and grab a large bag of fresh Arabica coffee, £8, from Café San Juan (Cafesanjuangt.com).

Day tours cost from £74 per person (Getyourguide.com). Finally, be sure to make the short, steep climb to Kaqasiiwaan Viewpoint for a stunning panorama – the £4 entry fee is well worth it.

At the top, sip cold Gallo beer crowned with spiced cucumber rings, £2, from the kiosk. Heaven!  

5 – Cacao + Coffee 

For thousands of years, maize and cacao have been Guatemala’s sacred crops.

In San Juan La Laguna, stop by Deleite Ancestral and learn to make traditional dishes, such as tz’utujil chicken stew with handmade tortillas – expect to get hands on! – then sample the mouth-watering results (@Deleiteancestral).

In Antigua, join a lively chocolate workshop at Ek Chuah to hear all about cacao’s history, while making sweet treats to take away.

An hour’s workshop costs £19 per person (Chocolateantigua.com). Coffee is the latest big Guatemalan obsession, and at 5,000ft above sea level, Antigua’s volcanic-soil plantations grow some of the world’s finest.

Take a tour of Finca Filadelfia to find out why shade-grown beans taste richer, why only women can plant the seedlings and why medium roast is the national sweet spot.

Finish with a tasting that’s both jittery and blissful. A 90-minute tour costs £19 per person (Facebook.com/fincafiladelfia).  

6 – Gemstone shopping 

Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its cobbled streets are filled with shops selling locally made ceramics, leather goods and exquisite jade jewellery. Discover why it’s the Mayans’ favourite gem with a free tour of Casa Del Jade’s museum (Casadeljade.com).

Later, check out the impressive 18th-century Convent of La Merced, with its giant fountain shaped like a water lily, and the Arch of Santa Catalina, £2 entry. But for the most dramatic view, head for Cerro de la Cruz (the hill of the cross) to snap vistas of the city beneath the incredible backdrop of Volcán Agua.  

7 – Jungle adventures 

Want to hear howler monkeys roar like dinosaurs and spy pyramids emerging from the jungle canopy?

Hit Tikal, a vast site built by the ancient Mayans using only stone-age tools, and climb Temple IV for one of the most extraordinary views in the Americas – it even featured in the first Star Wars film.

Entry costs £15 (Tikalnationalpark.org).

Tikal is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its biodiversity – back at ground level, coatimundis scramble across paths, spider monkeys hang from branches and leafcutter ants march across the jungle floor.

Or to channel your inner Indiana Jones, head for the Belize border and pay the £8 entry to explore Yaxhá, a site whose origins are even older than Tikal.

It only receives about 80 visitors a day, so you may feel like the first to discover its huge plazas and temples.

Look out for the famous ball court, where Ancient Mayans played pok ta pok – a game with high stakes, where losing teams faced being sacrificed!  

A SOUTHWEST Airlines flight has been diverted and forced to do an emergency landing after a mid-air security threat.

Flight 2094 from Nashville to Fort Lauderdale was forced to cut the journey short and land at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport at 9:06pm on Friday night.

While thousands of feet in the air, a security threat was reported which saw tactical cops storm the aircraft upon landing and detain a passenger.

A video allegedly taken on board the flight showed the moment a man was dragged off the flight by the Atlanta Police Department.

The clip shared on X showed terrified passengers with their hands raised above their heads as cops cuffed a passenger and took him off the aircraft.

The text on the clip claimed that there had been a bomb threat but this has not been commented on by the airline or police.

In a statement, Southwest said the diversion came due to a “possible security matter.”

“We appreciate the professionalism of our flight crew and sincerely apologize to our customers for the significant delay,” the spokesperson said.

“Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees.”

The Atlanta Police Department confirmed it worked with federal partners to attend to “last night’s incident” at the airport.

The nature of the security threat and if the passenger removed will face any charges remains unclear.

It is not known if the passenger is still in police detention.

Officials have not commented if any dangerous items were found onboard.

After the police activity, all passengers boarded another plane and continued their journey to Fort Lauderdale where they arrived safely just before 3:30am.

The airline has apologized to all affected passengers.

It comes as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) remains on shutdown over funding disagreements which former Security Secretary Kristi Noem said is “endangering national security.”

The DHS has been shut down since February 14 which Noem said has negatively impacted and put huge pressure on TSA and border patrol.

In addition to this, Republicans have warned that the country is under an increased domestic terror threat due to the recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

“Now is the time to be vigilant at home and to ensure that all of our doors are locked, so to speak,” Speaker Mike Johnson, warned on Wednesday as he discussed the continued shutdown.

“Senate needs to fund the TSA. They’ve had them the Coast Guard, FEMA and Cybersecurity CISA on shut down for 3 weeks. We will surely see more of this,” one viewer of the footage from the diverted aircraft said.

“Unfortunately there’s going to be a lot more of this coming,” another said.

WHILE prices for the most popular Mediterranean resorts keep ­rising, you can get the same ­turquoise seas, mountain drives and warm hospitality in Albania – for a fraction of the cost.

Visit in the shoulder season and you’ll enjoy golden light and near-empty beaches at an unhurried pace.

Flying in to capital Tirana makes a good start for a road trip to explore the country.

Pick up a hire car at the airport and within minutes you’re twisting through mountain passes, gliding along coastal bays and pulling over in centuries-old towns.

Highways are good, but off the main roads expect to be swerving around goats and making stunning switchback turns. It’s all part of the adventure.

Your first major stop is the Unesco World Heritage town of Berat.

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White Ottoman houses stack up the hillside like sugar cubes, their wooden shutters glinting in the sun, giving it the nickname “city of a thousand windows”.

You can stay inside the Berat castle walls, living among ancient ramparts while children play football in cobbled lanes and grandmothers sell olive oil at their doorsteps.

It feels like stepping into another century.

Just outside Berat lies Alpeta Winery, run by the Fiska family.

The vineyards grow local grape varieties and the owner, Peter, walks among the tables at dinner, greeting guests and sharing his stories of the vines.

The wine-tasting tour takes you through reds, whites and fruit brandy rakia, ­partnered with local cheeses and olive oil.

This is Albania’s farm-to-table story in full swing.

After this, most tourists seeking sun and sea will race to Saranda, but Vlora makes a brilliant, less crowded alternative.

From here, you’re just a short drive from the Green Coast, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

Turquoise coves framed by pine-covered hills and crystal-clear shallows rival anywhere in the Med.

Back in the capital, Tirana surprises with its creative energy, street art and cafes.

Park in the vibrant Blloku district.

Once reserved for the elite, it’s now buzzing with nightlife, bars and restaurants.

The city is dotted with thousands of Cold War-era bunkers which have been cleverly repurposed into museums, cafes and art spaces.

Don’t miss Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2, immersive museums that give a striking insight into Albania’s communist past.

And be sure to climb the Pyramid of ­Tirana, a former communist landmark now converted into a lookout offering panoramic city views.

After dark, the city comes alive.

I went to Albania Night, and it is hands down one of the maddest immersive cultural shows I’ve experienced.

Guests can dress up in traditional ­Albanian outfits, dance until their feet nearly give out and become part of the ­performance.

Albania is evolving fast.

Live music, laughter and street-side festivities turn ­Tirana into a playground of culture and energy.

There are new coastal roads, boutique hotels are appearing in heritage towns — and word is starting to spread.

But key to its appeal is that it still feels under the radar.

Albania isn’t the “new Croatia” or the “next Greece”.

It’s got its own story — ­rugged, authentic and full of surprises.

From fortress towns perched on hillsides to empty coves by the sea, and from vineyard dinners to city nights that refuse to quit, you can have the kind of road trip that really stays with you.

If you’re chasing adventure, authenticity and excellent value for money, Albania is waiting, keys in the ignition.

A travel expert has shared important advice for British holidaymakers about packing plug adaptors in carry-on bags instead of checked luggage to avoid ruining your trip

When preparing for a short or long-haul journey, there’s an important reason why you ought to think twice about stowing plug adaptors in your checked luggage. Taking to TikTok, The Points Guy – whose mantra is “spend smarter, travel better” – highlighted the items you should “never put in your checked bag”, with plug adaptors featuring prominently on the list.

He pointed out that this everyday essential is far better suited to your carry-on bag, as checked luggage runs the risk of going astray. Beyond that, if you’re travelling to distant destinations, there’s also the chance that tracking down an appropriate plug adaptor could prove challenging – even within the airport itself.

Another everyday must-have (particularly if you’re heading somewhere sunny) is sunscreen, which is likewise best tucked into hand luggage.

Further items worth considering for hand luggage include a spare change of clothes, toiletries, eyewear, and medication.

The travel expert explained: “You may be able to get a doctor to call in your prescription, but that becomes trickier if it’s a weekend or a holiday or if your medication doesn’t allow for refills before the previous prescription runs out.”

Any precious belongings, such as jewellery, cash, and items of sentimental significance, are also ideally packed into hand luggage, space permitting.

This is down to the risk of luggage going missing, being pinched, or mistakenly grabbed by another passenger at the baggage carousel.

Following the travel advisory, people rushed to the comment section on the TikTok video. One user commented: “Everything important goes into my carry-on. Meds, contacts, electronics in particular.”

A second traveller added: “I only have clothing and shoes in checked bags. Everything else is in my carry-on.”

Whilst another remarked: “Scary that this has to be explained to people.

NESTLED in the Yorkshire Dales, you will find a camping and glamping site with a twist.

Instead of your usual glamping pods, at Catgill Farm, you can stay in Moroccan and Alpine-themed pods.

For example, the Alpine-themed pod has a converted ski lift cart outside that is now a booth to sit and eat in.

The Moroccan-themed pod features sleek styling, with bold pinks and oranges and sleeps up to four people via a bunk bed and a double bed.

If you are travelling with your four-legged best friend, then there are options for you as well such as The Duck glamping pod, which has an enclosed outdoor area for your pooch to roam in.

Each of the glamping pods comes with its own private, log-fired hot tub as well.

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And for the evenings, you can set light to the fire pit for warmth and barbeques.

Fancy something a little more like camping but still a little refined? Then opt for one of the two luxury bell tents that sleep up to four people.

And of course, they all have views of the rolling Yorkshire Dales.

At night, guests can also make the most of stargazing as the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a designated dark skies area of the UK.

If you do have your own tent, then there is a campsite open between April and October as well, which features 34 electrical hookup pitches.

On-site there are also alpacas known to join morning yoga sessions and a playing field for letting off some steam.

As for facilities, there is everything you could need including modern shower blocks, a washing up area and even a small shop selling essentials such as air beds, coffee, milk and kindling.

If you don’t fancy cooking for yourself, you can grab some food from Cat’s Kitchen which is onsite, serving up hot drinks and wood-fired pizzas.

When it comes to the local area, you’ll be surrounded by amazing walking and cycling routes (even the Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire routes).

Just a short walk from the campsite itself, you will reach Bolton Abbey Station on the Embsay and Bolton Steam Railway line.

The station is in the style of the original Midland Railway from the 1800s and a ticket to travel to the half way station and back costs £17 per adult.

Not much further from the campsite, you will find the remains of Bolton Abbey which you can explore.

The site often hosts events as well like an Easter trail.

If you walk for 15 minutes from the glamping and campsite, you will reach the Devonshire Arms brasserie-style pub serving dishes such as sirloin steak and roast beef.

When you stay at Catgill Farm, you can also get 10 per cent off of Shipton Canal Boat Trips and also 10 per cent off of entry to Stump Cross Caverns.

Stays cost from £179.99 per night for one of the glamping pods or from £14 a night for a grass tent pitch.

For more inspiration on glamping sites in the UK, here’s the tiny UK glamping site named best in the UK by AA with cosy pods, treehouse and hot tubs.

Plus, UK glamping hotspot where you can enjoy breathtaking views from a vintage cheese vat turned hot tub.

I’M pretty much an Instagram influencer now, don’t you know.

I’ve spent the day snapping more than 330 photos — I won’t tell you what ­proportion of those were selfies — among the tulips.

And my grid is now filled with brightly-coloured buds below a stunning blue sky.

It’s thanks to Amsterdam’s tulip season that I’ve found this new calling.

The flowers are impossible not to take photos of, and each colour is more beautiful than the last.

I’m here at Tulip Farm De Tulperij, a family attraction that has been around for almost 100 years and sits about an hour’s drive out of central Amsterdam.

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It’s a busy day tour that I’m on: a stop at the farm, a canal trip and a visit to Keukenhof, the tulip gardens in Lisse — a veritable floral feast.

Arriving first at the farm, we are given a tour around the fields by owner Daan Jansze — and he certainly knows his tulips.

In his welcome, he tells us that the soil at this farm is extremely moist, with the water table just 60cm below the surface.

The tulips love this moist soil, and rows upon rows bloom each spring after being planted just before winter.

Daan is the third generation farmer of the land, and he points out his youngest son — hauling soil nearby — who will become the fourth generation to run the farm.

But before letting us loose in his field, Daan gives us some ground rules.

No walking through the beds, you’ve got to walk up and down.

And no picking the flowers. “Ok,” he says in his thick Dutch accent. “Now you can go take pictures for your Instagram.”

And we’re off.

My fellow tourists and I fling ourselves into the fields, fanning out between line after line of reds, pinks and yellows.

I won’t lie to you, it wasn’t quite fields as far as the eye could see.

But the long lines were definitely enough to keep us busy, and I got shot after shot of the bright flowers.

There were people of all ages in the field around me — mothers and daughters, couples, families and friends, all keen to make the most of the colourful setting.

And when we got tired of taking pictures of ourselves, we headed to the farm’s little cafe that sold everything from apple pie to tiny clog keychains.

It also led to a second shock of tulips, all lined up in a manicured garden.

Two hours later and we were back on the bus, heading off to board a canal boat.

Surrounded by about 50 other tourists, we lapped up the sunshine for an hour as we floated past the windmills, geese and their goslings, and Dutch locals who had also hit the water to make the most of the stunning May weather.

We then piled on to the bus again to head to our final stop — the Keukenhof Gardens.

Like a botanic gardens on steroids, this tourist attraction is only open from March to May, completely dependent on the budding whims of the tulips.

This year, the season kicks off on March 19 and continues until May 10.

With the droves of tourists, it almost felt like an adventure park.

And while it was certainly busy, I would heartily recommend going there.
Jaw-dropping displays

Even though we couldn’t quite get into the tulips like we did at the farm, the sheer effort it took to plant SEVEN MILLION bulbs to create this flower haven is impressive, to say the least.

The rows of tulips across the park are complemented by the stunning flower shows, with everything from orchids to ­lilies creating jaw-dropping displays.

By the end of the day, my photo reel is an explosion of colour and I’m almost (only almost) sick of flowers.

But I manage to summon up some energy and upload my pictures — and the “likes” come flooding in.

It might be too late for your own Insta career to take off, but now is the time to plan and book a trip like this.

The tulip season is short, so tours sell out pretty quick. Happy snapping!