TRAVEL

Flat fields of poppies and ox-eye daisies stretch out to a wide horizon. There are butterflies, vetches, salad burnet. Skylarks sing overhead and a cuckoo calls from the trees near the river. Legend has it that the poet Lord Byron swam here as a Cambridge undergraduate and, 20 years later, Charles Darwin surveyed its beetles. Heading through flowering meadows towards a nature reserve known as Byron’s Pool, I’ve walked a mile from the new £250m Cambridge South station.

Opening to passengers on 28 June, Cambridge South will be the first Great British Railways-branded station. The towering Biomedical Campus next door is Europe’s biggest medical research facility, with about 40,000 visitors a day. The station itself, with its 1,000 cycle-parking spaces, living roof and solar panels, feels like a model for sustainable transport.

Like other scenic medieval cities, Cambridge itself suffers from congestion. Its cobbled alleys are crowded with tourists, its roads gridlocked with cars. But you can reach some wild and peaceful corners without adding to the traffic. There are layers of human and natural history, a newly devised art trail, bat safaris by punt and a peaceful botanic garden near the busy central station.

Cambridge has been my nearest city for the last 15 years. With lots of buses and now three stations, it’s easy to get around without a car. I’ve spent countless days exploring, and published guides to the long-distance Harcamlow Way, a 140-mile (227km) figure-of-eight walking route that loops between Cambridge and Harlow. The best rural bus routes include the busway from Cambridge North station (opened in 2017) to Fen Drayton lakes and bus 1 to Fulbourn for orchid-rich fens and chalk-flowered Saxon Fleam Dyke.

Walking and cycle paths head out in all directions from the new station at Cambridge South, and I am following one of these to Trumpington, stopping for bao buns and peach oolong tea at the Dao cafe. In the village church, I find one of England’s oldest brass monuments. Sir Roger de Trumpington, who died in 1289, is lying in prayer and full chain mail, with a little lion-clawed dog biting his broadsword. Just south of the church, archaeologists unearthed the grave of a young Anglo-Saxon woman, with a delicate gold-and-garnet cross on her chest.

Heading north through Grantchester Meadows, I have a dip in the reedy River Cam, keeping my head above the willow-shaded water. Sun glints off ripples as I swim past waterlilies, moorhens and straggling blue forget-me-nots. Walking on towards the city through Paradise nature reserve, there are birds everywhere: a cetti’s warbler sings loudly from a reedbed and a song thrush from a waterside alder. A mother duck quacks warnings from a nest-topped tree stump as ducklings paddle underneath.

Twenty minutes further on, Cambridge University Botanic Garden (adults from £8.60, children free) is at its fragrant best. Bees are buzzing through sage, lemon balm and lavender in the scented garden; roses sprawl above foxgloves and cranesbill. There are benches in the cow parsley under walnut and cherry trees, where I sit and listen to blackcaps and chiffchaffs. I detour five minutes up the road to buy a slice of apricot tart from Maison Clement bakery and eat it on the train home.

In the last decade or so, several hotels have (re)opened near the central station, from the right-next-door Ibis (doubles from about £80) to the fancy University Arms (from about £175), where Parker’s Tavern brasserie can pack you a gourmet picnic hamper (£45pp) with 24 hours’ notice. Nearby, one of the city’s newest offerings, Hobson by Adina, has studios from about £125.

The next day, I catch bus 13 three stops to the iron age hill fort at Wandlebury, stroll round its wooded ramparts and past flax-blue meadows, sweet with wild marjoram. The grassy track of an old Roman road runs through shady beeches and pink dog roses.

Heading back into the city, I time-travel to Victorian Cambridge, when designers such as William Morris commissioned master painter FR Leach to decorate halls and churches. I thought I’d visited nearly all the city’s 30-odd museums and galleries, but until recently I hadn’t even heard of David Parr House, which is 10 minutes’ stroll from the main station. Parr was a working-class artist, employed by Leach to paint flowers, fruit, foliage and ornate text for Arts and Crafts designers across the country. By 1886, he had saved enough to buy a terrace house on Gwydir Street, which he decorated in the style of the interiors he worked on every day. A visit to the cosy house (from £15) reveals decades of hand-painted decoration and illuminates the city’s social history.

skip past newsletter promotion

---

after newsletter promotion

The house is just off Mill Road, now one of Cambridge’s foodie meccas, lined with indie eateries serving noodles, souvlaki, bibimbap, bamya stew or exceptional plant-based tasting menus. Once a rough track to a windmill, Mill Road expanded with the railway into closely packed terraces. Parr’s house stands opposite an old redbrick brewery, now a stylish coffee shop. The house recently produced a new FR Leach walking map, which takes me to All Saints’ church on Jesus Lane, with its red, gold and green decor, and the Michaelhouse Cafe in a converted church, where Leach paintings can even be found in the loo. Down the road, Great St Mary’s has a 360-degree view from the tower (adults £7.50).

After a cone of tangy blackcurrant ice-cream at Jack’s Gelato, I wander down the road to the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (free) to see the jewelled Trumpington cross of that young Anglo-Saxon woman, alongside a gallery of Cambridge finds, from stone-age axes to eel-catching prongs. Over the road in the Museum of Zoology (also free), I pass through sea stars and rock pythons to find Darwin’s box of neatly labelled beetles.

As the museum closes, it’s time for supper at Jordanian Little Petra: crisp-and-creamy aubergine fatteh, topped with a jewel-like layer of nuts, parsley and pomegranate seeds, and Bedouin tea, brewed with fresh mint and sage. Finally, heading to the river, swifts are whirling and screaming as the sun sinks behind the colleges.

Iain Webb, community conservation officer at the local wildlife trust, dreamed up the bat safari 15 years ago and regularly guides punts full of nature-lovers along the Cam towards Grantchester on summer evenings (£71 for two). “We need nature more than nature needs us,” says Webb. Despite all the pressures on the Cambridgeshire countryside, it’s a rich, idyllic scene.

A kingfisher flashes past, herons fly overhead with huge, slow wingbeats, and the banks are gold with carpets of buttercups. Daubenton’s bats skim low over the water, while pipistrelles swoop between dark willow branches, flickering in and out of visibility, like creatures from some parallel dimension. A few stars are coming out, the darkling air is full of birdsong, and tawny owlets are calling from a nest among the trees.

Transport was provided by Greater Anglia. Find more info at Visit Cambridge

A NUMBER of iconic landmarks have closed around the country, as Brits brace for record-breaking heat.

Temperatures today have already broken June weather records, with highs of 36C seen in Surrey.

Multiple British landmarks have completely closed or restricted public access today as the Met Office’s red weather warning takes effect.

This comes after over 1,000 schools shut doors across the South of England, West Midlands and Wales due to rapidly rising temperatures.

Tower Bridge, a London landmark that attracts nearly one million visitors annually, has shut entirely today and will remain shut tomorrow.

Operators have said the decision was made for “the welfare of our staff and visitors”, and plan to reopen the bridge on Friday.

Changing of the Guard ceremonies at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle are suspended for the rest of the week.

The Household Division said: “We take the wellbeing of our soldiers and military working horses very seriously.

“Whilst it may be disappointing not to experience the Ceremonial Operations in full, it is important the wellbeing of the public, our soldiers and military working horses is maintained at all times.”

The historic spectacle, taking place on alternative days at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, is a popular tourist attraction and “must see” for London visitors.

Greenwich landmarks the Cutty Sark and The Royal Observatory have also both announced their closures, with visitors of the area recommended to view the Queen’s House and National Maritime Museum as an alternative.

Away from the capital, various National Trust properties are operating on shortened hours, such as the Stourhead Estate in Wiltshire, Blists Hill Victorian Town in Shropshire, and Mottisfont House in Hampshire.

Longleat House and the Severn Valley Railway in Wiltshire, alongside the Wild Zoological Park in Wolverhampton, have also closed today and tomorrow.

The UK’s most visited museum, Natural History Museum, alongside the Victoria and Albert Museum have temporarily closed certain sections of the building, with the Young V&A shutting entirely.

The British Museum has further said on its website: “We may also temporarily close some galleries in the Museum to ensure the comfort and safety of staff and visitors.”

Beloved family attractions London Zoo and Chester Zoo are also shutting early on certain days, with London closing at 4pm both days, and Chester Zoo closing at 2pm on Thursday.

Outside, playgrounds in London’s Royal Parks have shut to keep staff, wildlife and visitors safe, including popular sites in Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and more.

Hampton Court Palace has also shut its Magic Garden from 1pm today, continuing until the end of tomorrow as the hot weather continues.

The Met Office red alert is in place for swathes of the country until late tomorrow night, with warm weather anticipated for the rest of the week.

Unity Holidays has three holiday parks in the UK that have undergone huge transformations – including outdoor lidos, boardwalks and heaps of activities

When it comes to staycations, there’s no shortage of holiday parks to enjoy – but there are some underrated gems that have just had a huge transformation and well worth having on your radar.

Unity Holidays has three parks – Skirlington Coast in Yorkshire, Unity Beach in Somerset and Seven Lakes in Lincolnshire – and when we took a look we found breaks from £299 for a family of four, including the peak school holiday dates.

The three parks have each undergone a multi-million pound makeover too, with heaps of new restaurants, menus and entertainment, bandstands and boardwalks, as well as trampoline parks, and bookable activities ranging from axe throwing to archery.

The huge makeovers also include outdoor lidos, watersports, and aqua parks which will no doubt be a very welcome offering during those brutal UK heatwaves.

Some of the new highlights include:

• Unity Beach: a lido and splash park, a trampoline park, a dog agility park and a boardwalk
• Skirlington Coast: an outdoor lido, a splash park, a dog agility park, a new playground, and a boardwalk
• Seven Lakes: a refurbed bar and restaurant, as well as outdoor seating with firepits

The holiday parks also boast the likes of soft plays (a lifesaver for any parent), and are dog-friendly, including dog agility parks if you want to let your beloved pet run off some energy before flopping down for a well-deserved meal (and a cheeky drink or two for owners).

In fact, Unity Holidays are currently offering a £100 food and drink voucher with every summer break booked between July 3 and September 28, 2026, to be redeemed at any of the venues on site (excluding the grocery stores). You can book at unityholidays.co.uk and use the code UNITY100 at checkout to claim the voucher.

When we took a look, we found plenty of family breaks under £400 on offer, including the peak travel seasons.

For those who aren’t tied to school holiday dates, there are plenty of cheap breaks to be found. For example, Parkdean Resorts has three-night stays from £129 towards the end of June, while Haven has breaks from £79 in early July (before the school holiday dates). Meanwhile Away Resorts offer four-night stays from £259 outside of the school breaks.

We’ve also got plenty more staycation inspiration whether you’re after a new destination to explore, want to find more last-minute deals, or want to read our reviews of the UK’s best holiday parks and hotels, so you can start planning your next trip!

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

THE UK is home to the world’s fastest zipline – and it’s cheaper to visit this summer.

There are eight locations across the UK, one of which is Penrhyn Quarry in Wales where you can reach top speeds of 100mph.

The ride allows riders to soar high over quarry for one mile, and there are four parallel lines so families can race too.

There are other activities at Penrhyn Quarry including Aero Explorer which is the UK’s largest zip-coaster.

There’s a smaller zipline called the Quarry Flyer and there’s also karting and tours of the historic slate quarry.

And this summer, Zip World is offering up to £25 off tickets.

One of the biggest savings is at Penrhyn Quarry where tickets are £99 between June 25 and September 1, rather than £124.

Here, families can also get up to two free kids’ meals with every adult main meal (children must be aged 12 or under).

Children can also eat for free at three other Zip World sites: Betws-y-Coed, Llechwedd and Tower Colliery.

While the other Zip World sites might not have to same zipline thrills, there’s still plenty to do there – at Llechwedd, there’s an underground cavern filled with trampolines.

Travel Writer Catherine Lofthouse who visited said her children were thrilled to find all the rides inside the former slate mine.

Catherine continued: “My boys were most excited for Bounce Below – a sprawling and cavernous trampoline park which features nets set at different levels for adventurers young and old to explore.

“The boys had an absolute blast underground, exploring all the different levels of nets and the twisty slides that connect them.

“Obviously the caves are a bit cold and damp, so you need to wear warm clothes and sensible shoes, preferably not your Sunday best.”

Meanwhile, Zip World Betws-y-Coed has the UK’s longest alpine coaster which at its fastest can travel up to 25mph.

Other Zip World sites have high ropes courses, tree top adventures and the site in London has the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide which overlooks the 2012 Olympic Park.

IF you’re looking to escape the heat, there is a huge new indoor attraction that is the first of its kind in Europe.

Slick City in Nottingham opened earlier this year, with everything from slides to coasters.

For example, you could head on Royal Flush, where you’ll head down a sheer drop before being whizzed around a massive bowl – just like the motion of a flushing toilet.

Then there is Fast Lane, which is ideal for competitive families as it is a four-lane slide.

On Hyperloop, you’ll head through a number of twists and turns.

The attraction is the first Slick City in Europe and is also home to the world’s first UV AirGlider – a gravity-powered aerial coaster that creates the feeling of flying.

In between trying out the slides, visitors can test out the interactive games as well.

There’s a freestyle air court and sports court too, which has a cushioned, bouncy base ideal for parkour tricks.

Little ones aren’t left out either, as they can enjoy a soft play area.

While the kids are playing, parents can grab a bite to eat and a drink at the onsite cafe.

Though, Slick City isn’t just for kids – big kids (adults) can also have fun at one of the adults-only nights on the first Friday of every month.

The neon-lit attraction is for ages four and older and if you just want to watch you don’t have to pay entry.

There are a number of different ticket types available including ones for shorter 90 minute sessions and ones for longer two hour sessions.

Tickets cost £19.95 and £24.95 per person, respectively.

If you want to go on the AirGlider you’ll have to pay extra though – it’s £4 for one ride or £10 for three rides.

When at the attraction you also have to wear CitySocks, which cost £3 a pair – but you can keep and re-use them.

One recent visitor commented: “The slides are insane and it’s just so much fun.”

Another added: “Unique experience, such a great idea.

“It’s like a waterpark without the water.”

WHEN the temperatures hit above 30C, there’s only one thing to do – make use of the sunshine and book a staycation.

So, to escape the heat, why not head away this weekend to a nice shady holiday park?

Here are some of the best last- minute deals from across the UK this week with cool pools, shady woodlands and even some with direct beach access.

Hedley Wood, Cornwall

Fancy a Cornish staycation?

Hedley Wood Holiday Park is just a short drive from the popular Cornish seaside town of Bude – previously named the best coastal town in the UK.

At the holiday park, you can choose between caravans, lodges or camping pods.

The park boasts a heated indoor swimming pool, as well as a hot tub and a sauna.

But if you want to soak up the sunshine you can head to The Woodman Bar and Restaurant, where you’ll find a raised outdoor terrace.

To keep kids occupied, there is an adventure play park as well as a craft room and nature trails.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £129, working out at £10.75 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Blue Dolphin, Yorkshire

Haven’s Blue Dolphin Holiday Park near Filey in North Yorkshire sits on the cliffs above Gristhorpe Bay.

At the holiday park guests can either stay in a caravan or camp.

When it comes to things to do at the site, you can head to an indoor heated pool which has a multi-lane waterslide.

There’s also a heated outdoor pool.

For dry activities, you can go climbing or have a spin at the roller disco.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £215, working out at £17.92 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Appletree Holiday Park, Lincolnshire

Found in Boston, Lincolnshire, Appletree Holiday Park sits in the countryside, with a nine-hole golf course and a splash pad for little ones.

While at the park, you can also have a go at the driving range or even explore by hiring a bike.

Little ones needing to burn off steam can also drop by the play area.

Guests can choose to stay in either a lodge or caravan, with the premium lodges boasting hot tubs as well.

A two-night stay from June 26 to 28 costs from £189.60, working out at £23.70 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Glendale Holiday Park, Cumbria

In Cumbria, you could stay at Glendale Holiday Park, which overlooks the Solway Firth – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The park has both the countryside and coast to explore.

At the site itself, there is a swimming pool, an entertainment bar and an onsite restaurant as well.

There is also easy beach access.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £139, working out at £11.59 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Broadland Sands, Suffolk

For a Suffolk break, you can head to Broadland Sands Holiday Park, sitting on the East Coast border.

Near Lowestoft, the holiday park is home to a heated indoor swimming pool with its own water flume.

There’s also a dinosaur-themed adventure golf course, as well as more sporty activities including a climbing wall.

For those wanting to spend some time outdoors, you can also head on a nature trail.

Then in the evening, sit back and enjoy some of the entertainment, including cabaret and live bingo.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £179, working out at £14.92 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Tarka, Devon

Tarka Holiday Park is less than five miles from the popular Devonshire town of Barnstaple.

The holiday park focuses on being a more peaceful retreat, so instead of pools, you’ll find a paddock and children’s play area.

Ideal for enjoying the warm weather, there is also an onsite picnic spot.

And for adventures outside of the park, you can head to the Tarka Trail, which stretches 180 miles and follows the steps of Henry Williamson’s Tarka the Otter.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £159, working out at £13.25 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

South Bay Holiday Park, Devon

Set on the English Riviera in Devon, you can head to South Bay Holiday Park.

The Brixham-based holiday park is home to an indoor pool, an outdoor pool and even a toddler pool.

There’s also a host of entertainment at the park, including a kids’ club and evening shows.

From the park, there is a direct path to the beach, which takes about 10 minutes to walk.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £199, working out at £16.58 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Summerfields Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth

Close to Norfolk Broads National Park, you could stay at Summerfields Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth.

The holiday park boasts a heated indoor pool along with a sauna and for a bite to eat, you can head to The Boathouse.

If it gets too hot outside for the little ones, inside you’ll also find a soft play area, as well as arcades.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £160, working out at £13.34 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Tattershall Lakes, Lincolnshire

Set across 360 acres, Tattershall Lakes Country Park features woodlands and lakes.

The holiday park is a great spot for water sport-loving families, with activities including jet-skiing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and even an inflatable Aqua Park.

If that wasn’t enough water-based activities, there is also an indoor and outdoor pool and spa.

In the evening, you can head to the clubhouse as well for entertainment.

A two-night stay from June 26 to 28 costs from £199.20, working out at £24.90 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Isle of Wight

Lower Hyde Holiday Park in Shanklin on the Isle of Wight is a great spot if you want to feel like you are travelling abroad but without the long-haul flight.

At the Parkdean site, you can head to the outdoor pool, which has its own flume, as well as another pool inside.

For some entertainment, there’s Squires Showbar.

And if that all wasn’t enough, the park is also only a 20-minute walk from Shanklin Beach.

A three-night stay from June 26 to 29 costs from £189, working out at £15.75 per person per night, based on a family of four – book it here.

The biggest hotel guest faux pas have been revealed – including jumping the breakfast buffet queue and stealing from rooms.

Frowned upon acts when staying in a hotel include reserving pool chairs with towels for long periods, leaving rooms excessively messy and being loud in the hallways late at night. Other divisive acts include hanging damp laundry on the balcony, not leaving a review after staying and being rude to hotel staff.

Smoking or vaping in hotel rooms is also considered a no-no, as are putting the incorrect number of guests on the reservation and leaving alarms or phones to ring for long periods of time without turning them off. While not reading reviews when booking and not collecting or cashing in rewards points are also viewed unfavourably.

In response to a survey of 2000 people who have ever stayed in a hotel, Hotels.com, which commissioned the research, is offering holidaymakers £100 in ‘Hotels.comCash’ for future trips after staying for 10 eligible nights through its rewards programme.

Melanie Fish, travel expert and spokesperson for the global marketplace, which has also teamed up with William Hanson for a ‘Grand Etiquette Hotel’ guide, said: “Small tweaks can make a world of a difference.

“Taking the time to check reviews or making the most of rewards can turn a good trip into a great one, and help your travel budget stretch further, too.”

Researchers found the vast majority (90%) consider themselves to be considerate guests – although 39% think residents have become less respectful in recent years.

Sneaking extra guests in and constant public displays of affection around the pool are also frowned upon by hotel guests.

Those polled were also asked which nationalities they consider to be the gold standard for politeness – and which ones they think tend to be rudest.

Japanese tourists were ranked as the most considerate, followed by Sweden in second place, with U.K. respondents placing themselves third.

At the other end of the scale, Americans are regarded as the most impolite.

They ranked just beneath those from Germany, according to Hotels.com research conducted through OnePoll.

William Hanson said: “Better hotel etiquette doesn’t just benefit others, it can directly enhance your own stay.

“At the heart of my guide is the idea that small, thoughtful behaviours add up to big rewards: from a better night’s sleep and improved service to savings on future trips.”

For the first time in 48 years, Japan has changed its visa fee, rising by a staggering five times for foreign nationals, who will need to pay an extra £55 when visiting

Japan has dramatically hiked its visa fees for tourists, with the cost of entry now a whopping five times higher.

From Wednesday, 1 July, many foreign nationals travelling to the country home to Mount Fuji will be required to pay 15,000 yen (£69.99) for a single-entry visa, a sharp rise from the previous 3,000 yen (£14). Meanwhile, multi-entry visas will now set travellers back 30,000 yen (£139.98), jumping up from 6,000 yen (£28).

This represents a staggering fivefold increase, meaning visitors will fork out an additional £55.99 for a single trip, or £111.98 for a multi-entry visa. Remarkably, this marks the first time Japan has raised its visa fees since 1978 — a full 48 years ago.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the changes were made to “reflect inflation and exchange rate fluctuations”. He added: “We do not anticipate that it will have an immediate impact on inbound tourism.”

The updated visa fees will apply to all applications submitted on or after 1 July, 2026, as the nation continues to experience a surge in visitor numbers. Last year alone, Japan welcomed a remarkable 42.7 million international tourists, with iconic destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka remaining amongst the most sought-after, reports the Express.

The good news for Brits is that Japan has reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with 74 countries and regions, allowing citizens to enter for short-term stays without a visa. UK passport can stay for 90 days visa-free.

Japan’s new visa charge places it among the pricier destinations to enter globally. Other nations with steep tourist visa costs include the UK, where a standard visitor visa costs £135, and Ghana, where travellers from non-African nations pay $260.

Some countries levy per-night charges, with Bhutan ranking among the most expensive. A daily sustainable development levy of $100 is imposed per adult.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises that Brits travelling to Japan must make sure their passport remains valid for the duration of their visit. The FCDO states on its travel advice page: “No additional period of validity is required. You need a blank page for your visa stamp.”

In guidance on obtaining a visit, the Foreign Office adds: “You can get a visa on arrival in Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You do not need to apply before you travel. If you need a multiple-entry visa, you must ask the immigration officials when you arrive. If you want to stay longer, you can apply at your nearest immigration office for an extension for another 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the period of the extension.”

The FCDO adds: “For long-term stays or to work or study, you must meet the Japanese government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you need. It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa, no matter how informal or temporary the work.

“If you overstay your permission to remain in Japan, you risk arrest, detention and a heavy fine. For residency information, see the Japanese Immigration Services Agency website and read about living in Japan.”

While there is no advice against travelling to Japan, the FCDO has warned about “global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East.” They stated: “Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.

“Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel:

• Check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through
• Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator
• Review your travel insurance policy for coverage
• Monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts.”

For more information on travel to Japan, visit the Foreign Office travel advice website.

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

There are several Jet2 rules to note when planning your trip

Jet2 has clarified its baggage allowances after an enquiry from a holidaymaker. The customer asked for help as they got ready for their summer getaway.

The person contacted the provider over social media on June 23. The traveller had booked their journey through Jet2holidays, and was due to jet off the following week.

They posed a question about their luggage entitlement. The customer wrote: “We have 3 x 22kg baggage allowance. Assume we are good to check in just two bags provided weight doesn’t exceed allowance?”

They went on to ask if they could check in one suitcase weighing 23kg and another at 25kg while remaining within their total allocation. Jet2 replied to set out the options available to the customer.

Combining your baggage allowance

The airline confirmed: “You can pool your luggage into two suitcases as opposed to three, as long as this doesn’t exceed your combined allowance of 66kg, and that no single article of luggage exceeds 32kg. I hope this helps.”

According to Jet2’s official guidance: “Any baggage that exceeds your total weight allowance will be carried subject to availability and at our discretion. You’ll also need to pay an excess baggage fee, which is £12 per kg. Please note that no single item of baggage can weigh more than 32kg.”

You can add extra luggage when you book or through the Manage My Booking facility. Simply enter your booking reference, surname and departure date, then navigate to ‘Add Holiday Essentials’.

Query over 10kg allowance

Jet2 was also recently asked another question about its baggage weight rules after a passenger reported receiving contradictory information. The person had a booking for two adults and a six-month-old infant.

They explained: “Told we get two extra carry ons such as a buggy and travel cot that will be checked into the hold at the gate.”

They said they had two 22kg checked bags and that on a prior Jet2 holiday they had been told they qualified for “an extra 10kg for the baby”. According to Jet2’s official website guidance for bookings with children, passengers receive “an extra 10kg allowance for infants” plus “up to two items per child or infant free of charge”.

The passenger asked whether the additional 10kg could be combined with one of the 22kg cases, creating a 32kg allowance. They described receiving mixed messages on their last Jet2 journey. The customer recalled: “On the way out with you we were told it’s fine to have a 32kg case (22kg + the 10kg).

“On the way back we were told the 10kg should be a separate small checked case. Please can you clarify which it is and what the rules are because on our last holiday with you we were told different things.”

Setting the record straight, Jet2 responded to the passenger: “The additional 10kg is applied to one adult’s baggage, allowing for a total of one bag at 32kg and one bag at 22kg.”

NEW passport rules that came into force earlier this year are STILL catching people out, with one mum recently left stranded abroad.

Brits who are dual national passport holders – thought to be as many as 1.2million – can no longer use their foreign passport to enter the country.

Since February 25, the change in rules meant that anyone with dual nationality has to use a valid British passport when arriving into the UK.

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

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

One British woman was recently caught out when she was trying to travel from Copenhagen to Manchester with her two children, only to be stopped from boarding her flight.

Colette Bjorn-Alderson, who has lived in the UK for 28 years, had been in the Danish country since April, but was returning to the UK with her six-week old and 23-month old for a friend’s wedding.

However, her two children only had Danish passports which meant they didn’t have valid travel documents for returning to the UK.

She told The Times that she felt “unwelcome in my own country” after being turned away from the flight.

Colette sent photocopies of her documents to the Home Office – but ultimately the decision was made that the family could not fly.

Not only has she been left £1,000 out of pocket, she said the only way to get UK passports for them while in Denmark can take up to three months, while the certificates take eight weeks.

She added: “It was a nightmare. I’ve cried a lot.”

Others have been caught out too. In June a dad-of-two, Kyle Harris, was refused boarding onto his booked flight from Kefalonia in Greece to the UK.

He only had an American passport with him at the time.

Another holidaymaker with dual nationality was refused to board a plane home after a trip to Amsterdam after having the incorrect documents.

The new rules are in line with the electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which also launched on the same day.

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

Lasting up to six months, it is a requirement for people who are from destinations such as Europe, the US and Australia.

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

A WELSH seaside town has been put on the map globally thanks to two very famous celebrities spotted there this week.

Singer Kylie Minogue and Hollywood director Quentin Tarantino have been seen in the pretty seaside town of Porthcawl.

It isn’t for a holiday – but for filming upcoming movie called Tangled in the Blue, directed by Welsh filmmaker Jamie Adams.

They were caught going to the Saltwater Inn pub, where onlookers said the celebrities “laughed and sang together” for a scene.

Other nearby sightings include at Newton Church, being used for a funeral scene in the film, and at Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff.

But Porthcawl itself is a popular beach town even without the endorsements of the mega stars, with seven bays and two Blue Flag beaches – Rest Bay and Trecco Bay.

When The Sun’s Emma Glanfield visited the seaside town, she called it the perfect alternative for an exotic break.

She said: “Porthcawl, the ‘jewel of South  Wales‘ has the lot. A spectacularly cragged coastline and a swathe of sandy beaches, kissed by sparkling seas – and all just a stone’s throw from the mountains.

“OK, so it might not be the Caribbean, but it does offer fun and frolics for those on a budget.”

“We kicked off activities in Rest Bay. Our morning surf lesson with the brilliant Hugh woke us up quicker than you could say ‘coffee‘.”

Emma continued: “Within two hours we’d gone from complete beginners to standing up and catching waves.

“Who needs the Maldives when this precious little corner of the UK packs such a punch?”

Also in Porthcawl is Trecco Bay, the UK’s largest holiday park when it comes to pitches – and in Europe too.

Along with 2,000 caravans (which can welcome up to 50,000 guests during peak holiday periods) also on-site is a huge entertainment plaza with everything from crazy golf and high ropes to a swimming pool and splash pad.

There’s a bowling alley and for older kids the Next Level Gaming Arena has over 25 consoles including PS5 and Xbox.

Other outdoor activities include archery, hover boards, bumper zorbs and there are even pedal karts to get around.

The park puts on shows, and there’s even Paw Patrol Mighty Missions for little ones.

The holiday park has all the essential facilities like restaurants, cafes, bars, there’s also a launderette, supermarket and even a chapel.

When the sun is shining, guests can enjoy the sprawling sandy Blue Flag beach right on its doorstep.

A four-night stay across this weekend in a Bronze two bedroom caravan which sleeps four people works out to £405 – or £25.31pppn.

If you fancy making a week’s holiday (from June 27 – July 4), then this works out as just £16.40pppn.

Or, sign up with Sun Club and you could stay at Trecco Bay from £9.50.

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week. Now seems like the perfect time to head to the beach for a little cooling dip

As everyone who’s been to Ibiza likes to tell you, the Balearic island is more than just Pacha, 50 euro glasses of Prosecco, and ecstasy tabs. It’s also very pretty.

Ibiza’s coast is defined by turquoise waters, dramatic pine-forested cliffs and hidden sandy coves. The most visually stunning spots are scattered across the island, with top-rated options including the sunset views at Cala Comte, the lush nature of Cala Saladeta, and the iconic rock formations at Cala d’Hort.

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week.

In Cornwall, the thermometer is bopping around the mark, making a trip to the coast a tempting prospect. Happily, there is a beach that shares many of the qualities of those on the comparatively chilly Ibiza.

OPINION

It sits beneath towering cliffs that shield it from the wind, with stunningly clear waters that prove ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Porthcurno has pure white sand with gorgeous turquoise waters to match. It has the ability to transport you to paradise.

The sand is made up of seashells pounded to powder by the sea over millions of years, which is partly responsible for the beautiful colour of the water. Porthcurno’s south-facing direction, flanked by high headlands, provides natural shelter from the wind and weather, giving the beach its own near-microclimate. The towering cliffs on either side make it easy to find a sheltered spot even on the most blustery of days.

The renowned open-air Minack Theatre is carved into the cliffs above, meaning you can enjoy a Shakespeare play with a sea view.

The theatre was the vision of one woman who decided to carve a clifftop theatre at the bottom of her garden. It’s well worth the climb up the cliff path, if only for the view back down over the bay. You need to book tickets in advance for performances.

The best time to visit is mid to low tide. At low tide the beach widens dramatically, and you can walk to nearby Pedn Vounder. As the tide retreats from Pedn Vounder, a golden sandbar rises out of the turquoise sea creating a shallow lagoon pool. It’s visible for around two hours either side of low tide, according to Cornish Secrets Anywhere We Roam

In the late nineteenth century, Porthcurno became the British connection point of the world’s very first international telegraph cable, stretching all the way to India. In the inter-war period, the cable office briefly became the busiest telegraph station in the world, capable of transmitting up to two million words a day. The Porthcurno Telegraph Museum is right there and well worth a visit.

Driving is by far the easiest way to get to the beach, with public transport options sadly limited. It takes about 25 minutes from Penzance or 45 minutes from St Ives. The car park fills up quickly on peak days, so arrive early or late.

Dogs are banned from the beach between 15 May and 30 September, between 10am–6pm. RNLI lifeguards patrol from mid-May to the last weekend of September.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor the beach was “absolutely breathtaking. The most amazing beach beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Breathtaking views and definitely one of the best beaches you will ever find.”

Another said: “Spent the day here, it’s just like being abroad, clear blue skies water, perfect sandy beach and so peaceful. No arcades, no boats, no noise, just gorgeous.”

A Wizz Air flight attendant explained why cabin crew greet passengers and revealed that they use ‘secret codes’ when everyone is boarding

A cabin crew instructor has revealed that flight attendants often use a ‘secret code’ when greeting passengers. As most travellers know, it’s common to be greeted by cabin crew when boarding a flight. Whether you’re excited for your holiday or a nervous flyer, it’s reassuring to be met by a friendly face and know there’s help available as you find your seat and get ready for takeoff.

While crew members enjoy welcoming passengers on board as part of their service, there’s another important reason passengers are greeted at the door, and it might surprise some. Gabriel Randone, a Wizz Air Cabin Crew Instructor, told the Mirror that flight attendants are trained to greet passengers as part of their safety measures.

He explained that cabin crew complete a “mental scan of passengers” to ensure that everybody is fit to fly. What’s more, he says cabin crew are taught a secret acronym that they check during the process.

While Gabriel couldn’t reveal all of the details, as the acronym is not shared with passengers, he did explain what cabin crew would be looking for. For instance, cabin crew will check whether anyone appears aggressive or intoxicated. They’ll also keep an eye out for any medical conditions that could prevent someone from flying. “The goal is safety,” Gabriel said.

Any passengers seated near the emergency exit rows will also spot cabin crew hanging around in the area for similar reasons, Gabriel said. The instructor explained that the crew are trained to assess passengers, as some “categories of passengers” can’t be seated next to the emergency exit.

While many passengers might try to book the emergency exit rows, as they are classified as extra-legroom seats, Wizz Air’s website makes it clear that they are not suitable for all passengers.

The airline’s website states: “For safety purposes, regulations prohibit passengers under 16 years old, overweight passengers, individuals with special needs, expectant mothers, and those travelling with infants (under two years old) from occupying Extra Legroom or Front Row seats.”

Passengers seated in these rows must be able to open the exits in case of an emergency, and they receive a briefing that makes this clear. This protocol is so important that if nobody books the seat, the cabin crew will find a volunteer to move there.

“Sometimes, because the flights might not be fully booked, there would be no one close to the emergency exits”, Gabriel explained. “So what we need to do is to select someone who we call an ABP, an able-bodied person, and select them and to move them close to the emergency exits so that they can help out in case of an emergency”.

In the event of an emergency, the passenger would need to detach the safety cover from the door and pull a lever to open it. As Gabriel explained, every second counts in an emergency. “In an emergency, our priority is to get you out as quickly as possible,” he said. “We only have 90 seconds to evacuate a full cabin with 239 passengers.”

You can find out more about Wizz Air’s routes on wizzair.com.

WITH thousands of people flocking to the seaside to cool off, beach safety is all the more important.

And there is one phenomenon called “square waves” which are extremely dangerous for anyone in the water.

Also called cross waves, the unusual wave pattern is formed when two different weather systems collide, creating the checkered effect.

This is because of the waves hitting each other as the they come rom different directions.

While they may look pretty, or even not very strong, they actually are much more dangerous than they appear.

They are similar to rip tides which can make it hard for people to get out of the water.

They can be found both close to the shoreline and far out at sea – which has even resulted in causing shipwrecks, according to the European Space Agency.

Some of the places they have been spotted include La Rochelle in France, where they can seen from above via the lighthouse.

Last year, they were also spotted off the coast of Turkey, in the Aegean Sea.

Lisbon in Portugal and Hawaii are all places where they can occur too.

One person previously wrote on social media: “We were always taught to keep an eye out for the ‘squares’ – the grid can pull you back and fourth for hundreds of feet and make it hard to stay calm.”

If you want to avoid the ocean entirely, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best inland beaches in the UK.

PEOPLE are only just realising that there is a secret cabinet in plane toilets.

The cupboards hold essential products to help passengers in need.

Sanitary products are hidden behind airplane mirrors for flyers that have been caught short by an unexpected period.

Mum-of-two Tatti Sorokina took to Instagram to share her positive experience of the plane cupboard.

She filmed herself opening the mirror in the airplane toilet to reveal a cabinet of sanitary towels.

Some commenters were quick to qualify the video, with one writing: “Usually, passengers should not open this in the bathroom,

“But you can always come to the flight attendants and ask for products.”

Tatti replied: “I actually asked a flight attendant. She showed me this and told me that I could open it and take as much as I need.”

Flight attendant Joselin Lora works for Delta Air Lines and has previously shared a similar video.

She explained: “For those who fly Delta, especially the ladies, on some planes there’s a button under the mirror where if you press it, it’ll open.

“And in the mirror you will find amenities of your needs like a pad.”

She added that on other planes, it can be a “pull-out box on the walls”.

If you find yourself in the same situation, let a flight attendant know and then you will be able to grab what you need.

The giveaway that Lima should be on every food lover’s wish list is not just that it is home to the reigning No. 1 restaurant in the world according to the most recent World’s 50 Best Restaurants ranking. Maido in Lima’s famed Miraflores neighborhood, a longtime magnet for fine dining, is where chef Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura is transforming Peru’s traditional Nikkei cuisine, integrating the flavors of the Amazon in his own blockbuster style.

But it’s what’s happening one neighborhood over, just about three miles away in Lima’s Barranco district that make Peru’s capital more than a stopover for a single splurge meal on your way to Machu Picchu. The epicenter of the food lover’s Barranco is the garden-lush culinary complex, Casa Túpac, home to Virgilio Martinez’s Central, named to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ “Best of the Best” list after its No. 1 ranking in 2023, and to Pía León’s Kjolle, the current 50 Best’s No. 9 restaurant in the world.

Beyond those walls, several other food hubs have emerged. There is the growing constellation of Barranco restaurants that chef Juan Luis Martínez runs with his wife, designer Michelle Sikic. Their Mérito is currently No. 26. on the World’s 50 Best list; Demo is a morning-to-night cafe with beautiful breakfast dishes; and more recently they opened Clon, with accessibly priced a la carte expressions of Martínez’s Venuezulan-Peruvian cuisine.

A few short blocks away are Ricardo Martins’ pair of restaurants, Siete, a romantic spot with beautiful food and cocktails, and La Perlita, devoted to the chef’s nostalgic take on criolla cuisine. Then there is the venerable Canta Rana, run by an Argentine devoted to soccer and ceviche, and, more recently, the Chilean and American partners who created a mecca for coffee and chocolate lovers.

This is just a hint of the culinary activity happening in one of the world’s great food cities.

It’s puzzling, then, why the Michelin guide doesn’t waive its requirement that tourist boards or local governments pay a fee to have its inspectors visit the city. On the other hand, Lima is doing just fine without Michelin stars.

See for yourself with your own visit to Lima. The suggestions that follow are a delicious way to begin your adventure.

A fine place to stop for a milk tea-centered breakfast or lunch after exploring the labyrinth of African, Indian and other international shops and food stalls inside Chungking Mansions — one of the last remaining film locations in Wong Kar-wai’s iconic “Chungking Express,” where Brigitte Lin’s drug-dealing retired actor is seen conducting her business in a blond wig, trenchcoat and sunglasses. Lan Fong Yuen, in the basement of Heath Mall (which is technically part of Chungking Mansions but has a separate street entrance), has its own historic pedigree. Late founder Lam Muk-ho is credited with originating silk-stocking milk tea (it’s strained through a long cloth filter), and possibly yuenyeung (milk tea mixed with coffee), at the still-operating Gage Street stall he opened in Central in 1952. He’s also said to have popularized the thick-cut Hong Kong-style French toast and pork-chop buns so familiar in our own San Gabriel Valley cafes, as well as “lo-ding” instant noodle dishes, especially the chicken-chop version. The Tsim Sha Tsui location opened in 2009 but has an older diner aesthetic that attracts tourists and locals who line up for the scene and affordable Hong Kong comfort food.

Heath Mall basement, Shop No. S09, Chungking Mansions, 44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Tokyo isn’t one city. It’s many cities, and each is its own universe.

Occasionally — at a certain subterranean bar big enough for only seven people, or a sushi counter on the fifth floor of a random office building — I feel as if I’m stepping into another time or dimension.

Finding your way to any of the millions of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops (some are micro-businesses in an alley in a village in the city) can be like figuring out a many-layered puzzle. Like Tokyo, each experience is dense.

The Japanese word for hospitality is omotenashi. But its meaning goes far beyond just customer service. Even the translations “wholehearted, selfless hospitality” or “flawless care” don’t cover all of the philosophies that make up omotenashi: magokoro (“true heart” or “sincere feeling”), ichigo ichie (“one time, one meeting”) and kuuki wo yomu (“reading the air”). The last refers to the intuitive ability to anticipate guests’ needs before they ask — an idea rooted in tea ceremony, which is rooted in Buddhism. It’s hard to grasp that level of selflessness.

Here are some of our favorite places to lose yourself in Tokyo. — Betty Hallock

With more than a dozen locations across the United Kingdom and its first stateside location landing in Manhattan next year, Dishoom is hardly a secret. But each outpost offers a distinct vibe and set of influences, with the location in Shoreditch recalling an eccentric Iranian cafe by way of Bombay with mismatched furniture, bamboo blinds and gently frayed rugs. For breakfast, there are stuffed naan rolls, date and banana porridge or a Bombay-inflected take on a full English breakfast with akuri, bacon, peppery Shropshire pork sausages, masala beans, grilled field mushrooms, grilled tomato and buttered buns, best paired with fresh juice, chai or a sesame espresso martini. The all-day menu features well-established hits such as chicken ruby, lamb and veggie samosas and the famous black daal that’s slow-cooked for 24 hours, with a range of lassi yogurt drinks, Indian beers and cocktails that put a spin on the classics, such as the thandai mai tai with rum, almond milk, black pepper, cardamom bitters and house thandai syrup. The restaurant doesn’t accept dinner reservations, and lines can get notoriously long, but hospitable servers help pass the time with free chai and sherry samples.

7 Boundary St., London E2 7JE

The Latin Quarter’s cobblestone Rue Mouffetard is a walking street lined with fishmongers, bakeries, cheese shops, produce stands and cafes. Once you’ve talked triple-cream Brillat-Savarin with the cheese pros at Androuet and admired displays of glistening seafood along Mouffetard (Poissonnerie Quoniam sells fresh oysters that you eat standing with an inexpensive glass of wine), there is lunch or dinner to consider. A wonderful choice is Otto, a modern izakaya-style project with MOF chef Eric Trochon, who provided menu guidance to proprietors Stéphane Offner and Tony Alvarez-Parage plus occasional turns at the binchotan-fueled grill when he’s not running his Michelin one-star restaurant Solstice 700 meters away. Observe the action in the open kitchen from your bar seat or find an intimate corner to enjoy Otto’s small plates — maybe “fish no chips” with black curry mayonnaise, razor clams with garlic butter or celery root beignets. Oh, and at lunch you can choose three dishes for €22. A terrific deal.

5 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

Among coffee geeks, “pilgrimage” isn’t too strong a word to describe visiting the Collingwood neighborhood cafe owned by barista/roaster/industry visionary Nolan Hirte and his wife, Shari. Nolan was one of the leaders who built on Melbourne’s early coffee culture, established by Italian immigrants and their daily espresso habits in the mid-20th century. After Nolan took a tour of America’s burgeoning third-wave coffee shops in the mid-2000s, he returned to Melbourne determined to push the expressive possibilities of filter coffee even further.

At the cafe, the drink menu — whether drip, espresso drinks or pour-overs — includes flavor descriptions that can resemble wine-tasting notes, but there’s nothing fussy about the experience, or the easygoing breakfast and lunch options. Pour-over freaks looking for the highbrow deep dive should walk two blocks to Aunty Peg’s, the Hirtes’ laboratory/counter/roasting facility, for two or three rounds of Panamanian geishas.

Proud Mary —172 Oxford St., Collingwood
Aunty Peg’s — 200 Wellington St., Collingwood

I sat down recently and counted — surprising myself — that I’ve notched visits to 24 of Mexico’s 32 states, for leisure or while reporting. Querétaro is a highland charmer. Nuevo León is the country’s muscular northern colossus. Campeche, a verdant beauty. Everywhere I go in this country, I find new wonders. Then I visited Colima, and it hit me that Mexico is an endless cornucopia that will never vanquish a traveler’s curiosity.

Never heard of button-sized Colima? Don’t fret. A lover of Mexico may be vaguely aware of its important port at Manzanillo, or the state’s spectacular volcano complex. Otherwise, Colima is not commonly on visitors’ radar. The tourism industry is consistently ranked among Mexico’s smallest.

Yet it is a refreshingly contained and relaxed culture, with foods that are only found here. The depth of its riches are laid out in an ambitious recent series of culinary guidebooks by a group called Colima Sabe.

The state has international airports in Manzanillo and Colima, which you might call Burbank-sized, largely serviced by connecting flights from Mexico City. Weekend travelers also come in by road from Guadalajara. There is a smattering of mid-tier or boutique hotels in central Colima or the nearby village of Comala, and a few resort hotels in Manzanillo. If you go, here are a handful of to-do’s for a sure-to-be-surprising Colima journey.

Taste the tuba

Colima’s traditional devotion to tuba, the coconut palm ferment imported from the Philippines hundreds of years ago, comes into focus as you traverse the region and notice vendors congregating on busy street corners or central plazas with gourds or jugs of a milky liquid. It is tart, crisp and infinitely cooling for tropical temperatures. Embrace the “compuesta” style: tuba poured over ice and adorned with crumbled nuts and ruddy red fruit chunks, turning the liquid pink. El Camellón de la Tuba, a well-known stand near central Colima, made the best that I tasted on my visit. Avoid tuba that looks too brown or tastes too vinegary. * El Camellon de la Tuba, Avenida Constitución 2008, Centro, 28017 Colima, @camellondelatubaoficial

Savor Nico Mejía’s restaurants in Manzanillo

La Sal, breezy and surprising in a former carport at his mother’s home in Manzanillo, launched the fame of chef Nico Mejía as a destination cook in 2020. Earlier this year, he moved La Sal (Colima’s coastal lagoons produce excellent salt) to a plot directly on a beach facing the Pacific. The restaurant makes refined regional favorites like ceviche colimense and his tostada de pozole seco, and mixes cocktails with tuba. The white-walled Casa Rangel is Mejía’s power-meeting magnet for internationally inspired local fare. Not too far away, Mejía’s partner Melissa Santamaria Mora runs an excellent bakery called Santamaria. These are restaurants on par with any you’d see in Guadalajara or Mexico City. * La Sal Playa, Avenida Lázaro Cárdenas 797, Playa Azul las Brisas, 28217 Manzanillo, @lasalplaya_

Sip the prizewinning beers of Cervecería de Colima

Winner of the Copa Cerveza México 2025 for best large brewery, Cervecería de Colima has been my go-to for quality, consistency and innovation since I first tasted its pale ale, the Páramo. I’d hold it against any other in this style. Over the years, I’ve found that just about everything Cervecería de Colima brews is satisfying. I’ve enjoyed the session IPA called Piedra Lisa, the bright pilsner Colimita, and the brewery’s recent entrant in the nonalcoholic market, Colima Cero. The headquarters just outside Colima city offer tastings, and in February, co-founder Esteban Silva and his team opened a taproom in the city called Estación Colimita. When a restaurant anywhere in Mexico offers these beers, I know they know what they’re doing. * Estación Colimita, Avenida Constitución 1401-local 1, Jardines Vista Hermosa IV, 28017 Colima, @cerveceriadecolima

Take in coffee and casual dining in Comala and Colima

Comala is a postcard-ready pueblo a few miles north of Colima. Those familiar with Mexican literature will recognize the name matching the fictional town in Juan Rulfo’s 1955 novel “Pedro Páramo,” the groundbreaking book that Gabriel García Márquez said inspired his magical realism masterpieces. The connection is coincidental, yet a certain air of enchantment hangs over Comala’s cobbled streets and tiled rooftops. According to Silva, who lives near Comala, the restaurants worth noting here are Cuaxiote, De La Suerte, and Hacienda Pascual Nogueras with chef Alan Ramos. In Colima city for coffee and a nice meal, visitors should bookmark Puerto Café and Cumbre, a restaurant and bakery that stands out in a scene of growing maturity and ambition. * Cuaxiote, Degollado 81, Centro, 28450 Comala, @cuaxiote

Bite into Colima’s iconic pozole seco

It is Colima’s most famous regional specialty: all the ingredients and most of the preparation of a traditional white pozole, only without the liquid that makes it a stew. Its origins are uncertain, with one tale suggesting that a cook at Manzanillo’s mercado left a pot of pozole over fire and forgot it. When she returned to find the broth dried out, the lore is the cook slathered the remaining mass of meat and hominy on a tostada, and pozole seco was born. Find it at the local markets, cenadurías, comedores, and the sit-down restaurants that ring Colima city’s central plaza, such as Ramos’ new ¡Aquí Es Colima! * Aquí Es Colima! Portal Morelos 1, Centro, 28000 Colima, @aquiescolimaporgloriadedios

Explore Colima’s ancient history

Colima’s major pre-Hispanic site is La Campana, a grid of streets and structural bases that is believed to have been settled as early as 1870 B.C. in Mexico’s Pre-Classic period. The archaeological zone sits right beside urbanized Colima. At the former hacienda community Nogueras near Comala, an impressive museum features historical and archaeological artifacts, and the restaurant Pascual mentioned above. The museum holds ceramics of a dog from ancient times that is native to Colima, similar to Mexico’s more well-known native hairless dog the xoloitzcuintle. Colima’s tlalchichi breed is similar, with shorter legs. Though now sadly it is extinct, the tlalchichi is the state’s unofficial mascot, incorporated in signage, marketing and touristy knickknacks. * Museo Universitario Alejandro Rangel Hidalgo Nogueras, Nogueras s/n, 28450 Nogueras, Comala, @alejandrorangel_udec