TRAVEL

A major travel update has been issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for Brits travelling to Cyprus as tensions in the Middle East escalate

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an update on travel to Cyprus, amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Today (Thursday, 5 March), the FCDO has warned that “terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out”. In the updated advice, the Foreign Office stated: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”

They added that terrorist attacks “could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.” Following the update, they stated that the UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.

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While there is currently no advice against travel to Cyprus, the Foreign Office warns that the “regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption”. The UK government also warned of a suspected drone strike at the RAF Akrotiri base that took place on March 2.

“On 2 March 2026, the Sovereign Base Areas Administration confirmed a suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri. British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas should follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration British Bases Cyprus Facebook. British nationals in the Republic of Cyprus should follow any instructions from Cypriot local authorities,” the guidance reads.

“For British nationals, they advise the following:

• “Read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad – GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
• “Sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
• “Monitor local and international media for the latest information
• “Sign up to local information alerts/resources and follow the instructions of the local authorities
• “Keep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date”.

On Wednesday (March 4) it was also confirmed that various airlines had cancelled flights from the UK to parts of Cyprus amid tensions in the Middle East, including easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways and TUI. Following the Foreign Office update, airlines may issue further updates on travel to Cyprus, but this is yet to be confirmed at the time of writing.

If you have an upcoming holiday, it’s best to stay in touch with your holiday provider – although they are prioritising people who are travelling imminently. As the situation is ever-evolving, travel advice can change quickly, so it’s best to check the latest Foreign Office travel advice for a destination before making any travel plans.

For more information on travel advice for Cyprus, or other areas in the Middle East, you can visit the Foreign Office website. You can also find more information on how to minimise your risk if there’s a terrorist attack while you’re away on the government website.

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

A Pilates instructor stranded in Dubai after Iran missile attacks has sparked backlash for saying there’s ‘no drama or fear’ while flights remain cancelled and the FCDO warns against travel

A Pilates instructor travelled to Dubai feeling “no drama or fear” but has now been confronted with a harsh reality check. Restrictions and increased security measures are currently in place throughout the United Arab Emirates following a wave of drone and missile strikes by Iran.

Numerous flights have been grounded after the decision to shut UAE airspace, leaving lots of travellers stranded. One influencer and writer has opted to focus on the positives but has faced criticism for seemingly downplaying the seriousness of the unfolding crisis.

Jade Marrey, 31, turned to Threads to provide an update on her situation. Several days ago, she wrote: “Very grateful to be in a hotel safe however the fact I was meant to fly home on Tuesday but ended up in hospital and missing my flight makes this so sucky.”

However, a more recent update has sparked controversy. The writer posted: “Everyone is panicking about Dubai… I’m currently sitting at Dubai Creek, kids running around with families, people enjoying coffee in the sunshine or strolling along the water. No drama or fear.”

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office “advises against all but essential travel to United Arab Emirates”.

In the comments section, people were quick to voice their opinions, with many highlighting how rapidly her circumstances could deteriorate.

One said: “For now? What about tomorrow or the following day? Don’t feel too comfortable. Be alert. You don’t know what’s coming. Pray.”

Another said: “Day-to-day life often looks normal until it doesn’t. Hopefully it stays peaceful – but contingency planning isn’t the same as hysteria.”

A third commented: “At the same time my friend gets warnings to seek shelter… they are by the airport. Stuck. Just waiting to go home.”

While a fourth said: “War doesn’t knock on your door and give you a pamphlet stating the price of your new iPhone, it happens all of sudden, that’s why it changes your reality, that’s how it shatters your life. Displaces people and till then, everything seems fine.”

Someone else said: “I was just there. What you state is accurate. It is also accurate that missiles and drones are passing you in the air and some [are] being intercepted right above you. You are normalising war.”

Jade replied: “I am not normalising war, I am stating a fact that people are out and about with their kids and living their lives… mentioned nothing about war.”

In a follow-up comment, Jade shared a photograph of the beach and said: “Everyone calling me all sorts of names yet Kite beach is HEAVING with people living their lives.”

However, another Threads user understood Jade’s viewpoint and said: “Life goes on, even in a war zone. Days after the 7/7 [bomb attacks] in London were normal, we got the bus or tube just because we had to.”

WHEN you think of beautiful attractions to go to on holiday, toilets are rarely top of the list.

But a shopping centre’s bogs have been called the most beautiful in the world – and they hardly look like the ones in Westfield.

The toilets are on the sixth floor of the Deji Plaza Mall in Nanjing in China.

Dubbed the world’s most beautiful bathroom by Architectural Digest, they opened back in 2022 and were designed by X+Living, a Shanghai-based architecture firm.

Inside, are seven relaxation areas as well as male and female toilets.

Visitors enter through what is known as the ‘Experience Hall’ with dark greens and nods to insects and plant life.

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For example, black and white tiles on the floor mimic butterfly wings with touches of gold meant resemble bees.

There’s even a lounge between the men’s and women’s loos, with plush pink sofas designed to look like a ‘flower blooming’.

Guests can make use of glowing vanities too, as well as wireless charging points, with a dressing room per loo.

For mums there is a nursery room and in case of an incident, there is a medical room as well.

The same shopping mall has more themed toilets on other floors.

For example, on the second floor the toilets have a retro style, on the third floor the theme is futuristic.

The fourth floor has a Japanese theme and on the fifth floor the design is ‘extravagant’ and even features a piano.

The sixth floor toilets have several viral videos on social media with people commenting: “That’s a toilet? It looks so much better than most hotels.”

Another person said: “It’s an experience, so much outfit of the day spots.”

A third person commented: “Never thought toilets would be a public attraction but those toilets are very beautiful.”

While nowhere near as grand, London‘s has new loos as well.

New public toilets were unveiled at the Grade-II listed, Piccadilly Circus Tube Station this week, described as “London’s newest tourist attraction”, according to The Standard.

Inside the loos, visitors are greeted by bold blue, pink and yellow tiles.

Murals have been designed by London-based artist James Lambert, with each tile hand-painted and hand-made.

The design of the toilets is inspired by Anteros, the god of requited love and features winged-figures and an arrow motif, meant to show “energy, spectacle, and connection”.

The motif of different lines and shapes is meant to reflect the Art Deco history of the area.

This includes the redesign of the underground station in the 1920s by Charles Holden.

Other venues nearby that feature an Art Deco design include Brasserie Zedel, which has gilded columns and a lavish American cocktail bar.

To see the toilets (or actually use them) at Piccadilly Circus Tube Station, you’ll need to pay the 80p entrance fee.

The toilets are part of a £12.7million council project to upgrade a total of eight public toilets in London including at Green Park, Covent Garden and Leicester Square.

For more toilet-based tourist destinations, last year a Victorian public toilet was turned into a hotel – in the middle of a historic city.

Plus, Tripadvisor’s top-ranked UK toilet is in Scots seaside town and even has its own visitors’ book.

SPRING is blooming and what better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than heading out in the sunshine and making use of some ‘mums go free’ deals to top attractions.

I love heading out with my boys, but sometimes it can cost a lot by the time I pay for myself and them.

But when it comes to Mother’s Day, my secret weapon is heading to spots that have a ‘mums go free’ offer.

The offers celebrate Mother’s Day but is a great opportunity for having a fun family day out whilst saving a bit of cash.

One of our favourites as a family is Audley End miniature railway near Saffron Walden in Essex, which is about to launch a new play village in time for its reopening.

Now known as Audley End Enchanted Railway, it’s a must-visit for fans of all things fairy, as the train ride is full of magical moments winding through the woodlands.

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There’s an adventure playground and an elf and fairy walk as well as the new wooden play houses.

And this Mother’s Day weekend, both mums and grandmothers go free.

Just across the road is one of the historic houses looked after by English Heritage.

This year, Mothering Sunday falls during the National Lottery Week, which means free entry to English Heritage sites between March 7 and 15 with a lottery ticket.

At Audley End House and Gardens, one adult and two children can get free entry with each lottery ticket, so you could easily combine the English Heritage deal with the mums go free offer at the miniature railway for a full day of family fun.

While National Trust properties in England and Wales are also taking part in the National Lottery Open Week, many don’t offer free entry on Mothering Sunday, so that’s something to bear in mind.

But there are a number of other big names participating in National Lottery Open Week, such as several RSPB destinations around the UK.

What’s great about lottery week is that it’s not specific to mums – so if you’ve got an important person who you want to celebrate on Mothering Sunday, you can treat them, whoever they are.

As for other offers, you can head to Gulliver’s theme parks and get one adult entry for free with each paying child on March 14 and 15.

We always have a great time when we visit Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes, which is perfect for a first theme park visit if you’ve got little ones who haven’t been on rides before.

We especially love the JCB zone near the entrance, which has a covered picnic area where mums can have a coffee while the kids keep themselves occupied with diggers galore.

There are also Gulliver’s sites in Matlock Bath in Derbyshire and in Warrington, so you’re spoilt for choice if you want a fun day out.

These aren’t the only theme parks with offers for Mother’s Day either.

Other attractions include Drayton Manor near Tamworth and Flamingo Land in Yorkshire, both of which let mums go free on Mother’s Day with a full paying child.

Loads of farm parks around the country get in on the act of offering mums free entry and March is the perfect time of year for a visit, with lots of baby animals being born.

Bluebell Dairy near Derby is one example, where my little boy particularly enjoyed the huge jumping pillow and watching the cows in the milking parlour before sampling the ice cream that the farm is famous for.

Some farms are even giving mums a little gift as well as free entry.

Rand Farm Park near Lincoln, lets mums take home a potted plant to mark their special day, while at Thornton Hall Country Park near Skipton, mother figures will be offered a free glass of prosecco or orange juice.

The best way to find somewhere near you is to simply Google search ‘mums go free offer near me’, and you should discover a number of spots where you can save some money this Mother’s Day.

For more places to explore this Mother’s Day weekend, there are hundreds of paid-for attractions with free entry when you have this one item.

Plus, the family-friendly spas perfect for a Mother’s Day treat from country house hotel to hot-tub heaven in Lake District.

Specialist Claer Barrett issued the advice to concerned people who have flights in the area booked

A travel specialist is calling on Brits to stay calm and follow crucial guidance if their travel arrangements have been jeopardised due to the US-Israel military action against Iran. Travel chaos continues to plague the Middle East as Iran launches counter-attacks.

It is estimated that more than 100,000 Britons were left stranded in the area as airports including Qatar, Abu Dhabi and Dubai shut down operations because of the hostilities. More than 2,000 passengers landed in the UK on evacuation flights from the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday, according to Government officials.

Questions persist about the duration of the conflict, casting doubt over numerous travellers’ plans given the crucial role of Gulf airports as connection hubs for journeys to Asia and Australasia. Appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, specialist Claer Barrett delivered ‘vital’ guidance for those planning to travel in the near future.

She stated: “My big message to everyone watching is don’t panic and hit the cancel button, because if you cancel a flight, a holiday, whatever, yourself, you won’t have as many rights as if the airline cancels the flight.

“Let’s start off with flights,” she went on. “So if an airline cancels your flight, as long as you’re flying with a UK airline or departing or flying back to a UK or EU airport, you’re legally entitled to choose. So if they cancel you, you can say, ‘Well, I want a refund, I want my money back,’ or, ‘I want a different flight with a different airline, I want to be rerouted’ or offered assistance if you were stuck somewhere. So it’s important not to cancel yourself.

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“But if your upcoming holiday is in the affected area, the advice from Which?, the big consumer website, is monitor the airline’s website to determine whether your plans are going to be affected, because lots of different places are or aren’t.

“Keep an eye on the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office website, that’s the FCDO, they’re the people who can issue ‘do not travel’ warnings. And for goodness’ sake, make sure that you’ve got your travel insurance in place when you book your holiday.

“This is the advice that me and other consumer experts give, because something could happen before you go and you’d need to make a claim.”

Package holidays

Package breaks – where holidaymakers purchase their flights and lodging in a single booking from the same provider – are frequently more economical and generally regarded as being a more secure choice. The explanation for this is that numerous packages are safeguarded by the Atol scheme or the Package Travel Regulations (PRTs).

Any package holiday booked in the UK automatically comes with the protection of the PTRs, whilst package holidays that include a flight are safeguarded by Atol. All travel firms selling package holidays with flights to UK customers are legally obliged to hold an Atol licence.

This ensures people are brought home during a crisis. When the original Thomas Cook went under in 2019, nearly 150,000 holidaymakers were flown back by the UK government in the largest repatriation in the UK’s peacetime history.

You will also receive a refund if your package holiday is cancelled, and be compensated if various factors result in a subpar trip.

“So we’ve covered flights, but package holidays, you’re much better protected with a package holiday because most of them, anyway, are reaching out proactively, I’m hearing, to customers who do have packages booked to the Middle East,” Claer continued.

“And most of them are offering people for no charge the ability to either move their holiday dates or, in many cases, change destination, you know, so you still have your holiday but you go somewhere else. So speak to your tour operator and see what they can do for you.”

British Airways has warned all services from Oman up until March 7 are now fully booked as the scramble to return from the Middle East continues amid regional tensions

British Airways has issued a warning that flights returning to the UK are ‘fully booked’ as the rush to get back from the Middle East intensifies.

In its most recent public statement, the UK’s flag carrier cautioned that all services departing from Oman through to 7 March are now completely full.

“Flights from Muscat on 5, 6 and 7 March are now fully booked. We will continue to review the situation and, if we are able to, we will add additional services,” a BA spokesperson stated at 2.14pm on Wednesday.

Oman is the nearest nation to major hubs, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with accessible airspace. Out of the 136 flights scheduled to depart from Oman today, just 14 have been axed so far. This stands in stark contrast to the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq and Lebanon, where most flights remain grounded.

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The latest guidance from BA reads: “We remain unable to operate flights from Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai and Tel Aviv. We have scheduled further flights from Oman (Muscat) to London Heathrow departing on 6 and 7 March.

“Flights are for our customers with an existing booking who are in Oman or the UAE. If you wish to travel on one of these flights, please contact us via our dedicated phone line on +44 203 467 3854. Our teams will also be getting in touch with our customers.”

One BA flight bound for London Heathrow left Muscat after just a short delay this morning. Another is scheduled to leave at 2.30am local time tomorrow, and a third at the same time on Saturday.

Home Office minister Alex Norris has announced that a Government-chartered plane, which failed to depart from Muscat, is now scheduled to leave for the UK on Thursday.

However, he was unable to provide an exact departure time.

Mr Norris expressed confidence that the first Government rescue flight departing Oman amidst the escalating conflict in the Middle East would take off on Thursday, following an overnight delay. When questioned by LBC about the reason for the delay, he explained: “It didn’t take off because there are operational reasons… about getting passengers on board, and it wasn’t able to happen in the time that it had to happen. So that’s now going to go today instead.”

Earlier on BBC Breakfast, Mr Norris said: “We made sure we got them (the passengers) hotel rooms for the night as well, and we are facilitating and rebooking today’s flight. We hope that they do, and there’s multiple flights after it as well.”

In other news, Defence Secretary John Healey is en route to Cyprus in an attempt to defuse tensions with the island’s government following a drone strike on the British base RAF Akrotiri.

Mr Healey is expected to land in Cyprus later on Thursday. His visit follows the Cypriot high commissioner to Britain expressing his disappointment at the UK Government’s response to defending the island.

On Monday night, a hangar at RAF Akrotiri was struck by an Iranian-made Shahed drone, launched from Beirut in Lebanon, according to Cypriot officials. Two further drones detected on Monday were sh.

Shot down by British warplanes that took off from Akrotiri.

The UK has deployed air defence destroyer HMS Dragon to aid in the protection of Cyprus, although the Type 45 warship isn’t expected to set sail until next week.

Wildcat helicopters equipped with anti-drone capabilities have also been sent to the island and are anticipated to arrive this week.

In other developments in the conflict:

– Iran’s ambassador Seyed Ali Mousavi was summoned by the UK Government on Wednesday.

– A US submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean.

– Iran persisted in launching attacks at countries across the region, with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait targeted with missiles and drones.

– Western officials reported that the rate of Iranian missile strikes had declined, estimating that Tehran had several more days of capability to continue based on the current firing rate – although they warned that the decrease could also be a result of Iran trying to conserve its stockpiles.

– Turkey reported that a “ballistic munition” launched towards it from Iran was intercepted by Nato air defences.

– Economic uncertainty continued over the conflict in a region that plays a crucial role in international oil and gas supplies.

PLANS to build a new railway station and more than 1,000 homes on the site of an apocalyptic bunker have been unveiled.

The proposals include building a range of affordable housing, shops, a secondary school, health centre and train station on the site of a former RAF base.

Part of a large housing development at Alconbury Weald in  Huntingdonshire, the new community will sit on top of a sprawling nuclear bunker, built in 1988.

RAF Alconbury was an active airbase from 1938 up to 1995, surviving attacks from Luftwaffe during World War Two.

The construction of the bunker began in the 1980s with the site “designed to withstand a direct nuclear attack”.

Sitting on a bed of gravel, the bunker is made of steel and reinforced concrete – costing £50 million to construct.

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One purpose of the site was to secretly analyse data collected by spy planes during the Cold War.

Blast-proof guillotine doors divide a number of corridors inside, and further underground is a power plant and communications hub with an entire wall filled with buttons and dials.

Already 6,000 new build homes now surround the former military base and bunker after a major development which saw the first residents set up home in 2020.

The developer, Urban&Civic, now plan to expand the Cambridgeshire by building more houses and new railway station, which has been backed by Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Mike Jenner, Development Manager from Urban&Civic, said: “Phase 4 has an important role to play in the delivery of Alconbury Weald, connecting green spaces and key infrastructure.

“The design of Phase 4 ensures walking, cycling and public transport links connect to the wider site seamlessly, and supports the aspirations of our local transport partners to progress a rail station, which will benefit many.”

In homage to the area’s history dedicated green space has been named Runway Park, which the proposed plans include adding “pockets of play space near a water body” to.

Travel expert Ash Bhardwaj said people who are still in the country should ‘prepare’

People affected by the Middle East conflict have been urged to gather a few essential items and keep them “ready to go” amid the ongoing war in Iran. Having these on hand will make sudden changes a lot less scary and chaotic, an expert has claimed.

Speaking on a recent episode of BBC Morning Live, travel expert Ash Bhardwaj said: “One of the best things you can always do is just make sure you have a grab bag. So, if you have to move quickly, you’ve got your essentials with you.”

Although it may look different for everyone, some things will likely be part of anyone’s emergency bag. Ash suggested that packing a ‘grab bag’ in advance could help during any panic that might set in during an emergency.

He said: “[That includes things like] passports, essential medicines and maybe any documents for travel insurance if you’ve got them printed out. If you’ve got kids, a change of underwear, a couple of t-shirts and some snacks.

“If you’ve got babies, and you’re no longer breastfeeding but still feeding them with formula or milk, get enough for 48 to 72 hours. This isn’t to scare you, it’s just so that you have actually thought everything through and it relaxes you.”

The broadcaster said that people should prepare and “plan for when the worst might happen”. Speaking to hotel staff can help point out emergency exits, procedures, and other important safety measures.

As of March 5, 2026, the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates. There are other parts of the Middle East and surrounding areas that have also been listed as completely or partially unsafe for travel – read that latest round-up here.

The current situation in Iran caused tensions to erupt last week, on February 28, when the US and Israel launched extensive strikes. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been in power since 1989, was killed during the initial wave of attacks.

The conflict has sparked travel chaos throughout parts of the Gulf region, including Dubai. For the most recent developments, click here for updates on travel and news.

In an update from March 5, Dubai’s Emirates Airline has announced it will operate over 100 flights on March 5 and 6 from Dubai. The airline said it will “continue to gradually build back its flying schedule, subject to airspace availability and all operational requirements being met”, adding that “safety is always our top priority”.

MORE than a thousand flights are still being cancelled a day due to the ongoing Iran conflict.

Countries in the Middle East – such as the UAE, Qatar and Oman – have been dragged into the crisis since last week.

And despite some relief flights now operating, thousands of Brits are still facing cancelled flights.

According to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium, 2,263 across the world have been cancelled today.

This includes more than 100 flights to and from the UK today, with 53 departing flights and 54 arriving flights.

The majority are to the UAE, so Dubai and Abu Dhabi, along with Qatar, Israel, Bahrain and Kuwait.

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They warned: “We anticipate cancellations will continue for at least a week, as reported by the airlines.”

Emirates, who operate out of Dubai, is still suspending operations, said they were offering a “reduced flight schedule until further notice”.

They warned: “These flights are open for booking, and we are accommodating customers with earlier bookings as a priority.

“Customers transiting in Dubai will only be accepted for travel if their connecting flight is operating.”

Anyone without a confirmed flight booking is being warned not to travel to the airport.

Qatar Airways has still suspended flights from Doha due to the closure of the Qatari airspace, with another update tomorrow at 6am.

Some limited relief flights are being operated from Muscat to Europe, including a flight to London Heathrow.

However the airline also warns: “Passengers are kindly requested not to proceed to the airport unless they have received an official notification from Qatar Airways for these flights.”

All Etihad Airways flights are suspended until at least 6am tomorrow.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline has launched some limited repositioning and repatriation flights, which has include the UK.

British Airways says they are “unable to operate flights from Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai and Tel Aviv”.

Some limited routes are operating from Muscat.

Virgin Atlantic has relaunched flights from Dubai and Riyadh.

The Sun’s Travel Expert has answered all of your other travel questions.

We’ve also explained the latest safety advice for Cyprus, Turkey and Egypt.

Nominations are only open from March 5 to 12

A chocolate-filled hotel room that money simply cannot buy is being offered to the “world’s sweetest person” as part of a new campaign launched across Europe. Chocolate brand Tony’s Chocolonely has teamed up with hospitality group The Social Hub to create a chocolate-drenched pop-up suite at The Social Hub Amsterdam.

The fortunate winner will enjoy an immersive stay in the chocolate-themed rooms, as though they’ve walked straight into the world of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. However, guests won’t be expected to find a golden ticket or be able to book or pay for the room.

Instead, people must nominate the “sweetest person” they know to win a stay. Winners will then be treated to a once-in-a-lifetime chocolate sleepover alongside the friend who nominated them.

Sounds sweet? Here’s what to expect at the hotel

Within the three-room suite, guests will discover chocolate-themed décor, mismatched furniture inspired by Tony’s bars, chocolate room service and a playlist featuring artists from cocoa-producing regions.

The room will also showcase messages of connection, kindness and inspiration in every corner. Guests will also be given a special two-piece chocolate bar, including a limited-edition white and milk chocolate flavour with caramel and sea salt, exclusive to the pop-up in The Social Hub Amsterdam City.

Guests can then keep one bar and give the other away as an act of kindness. The stay also includes a “wake-up call” about exploitation in the West African cocoa supply chain.

Tony’s Chocolonely is showcasing its partnership with approximately 40,000 cocoa farmers to help them achieve a living income.

Sadira E. Furlow, Chief of Global Brand & Communications at Tony’s Chocolonely, said: “As an impact brand that makes chocolate, we’re trying to end exploitation in cocoa by showing chocolate can be made very differently.

“In taste and how we work with cocoa farmers. By launching the world’s sweetest hotel room at The Social Hub, we want to invite fans to indulge in our chocolate, connect with each other and celebrate the people who truly care about the impact their actions have on others.”

To kick off the campaign, “Missing: the world’s sweetest person” posters will be displayed throughout Amsterdam, Berlin, and Glasgow, whilst Social Hub staff will reward guests who demonstrate acts of “sweetness” with Tony’s chocolate.

How to enter

For the opportunity to experience the chocolate hotel, residents from the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany can submit nominations via the Instagram accounts of The Social Hub and Tony’s Chocolonely between March 5 and 12.

A judging panel from both companies will choose one winner from each country. The room will be revealed on March 20 and available for 10 days. Enthusiasts in Amsterdam can also visit the space on March 29 from 1pm onwards.

Pre-booking through The Social Hub website will be necessary for visits, though fans won’t be permitted to stay overnight unless they secure victory in the competition. Trix van der Vleuten, Chief Marketing Officer at The Social Hub, commented: “The world feels increasingly divided. We’re more digitally connected than ever, yet loneliness is rising.

“We wanted to come together with Tony’s to showcase that sweetness – simple, human kindness – matters more than ever, and that people can enjoy our products whilst positively impacting society.”

She added: “Doing good makes you feel good. So does eating chocolate that’s produced fairly, and so does spending time in a one-of-a-kind choco hotel room with someone else.

“Like Tony’s chocolate bars, this room is designed to be shared. We can’t wait to reveal it, as there’s truly never been anything else like this before.”

To put forward someone as the world’s sweetest person, visit The Social Hub’s Instagram page for a chance to secure the once-in-a-lifetime sleepover. Click here to discover more.

THE ongoing Iran crisis has resulted in a number of new travel warnings for some popular holiday destinations.

Here is everything you need to know about a holiday to Egypt right now.

Is Egypt safe to travel to?

The tourist resorts of Egypt are currently safe to travel to which includes Sharm el Sheikh, Marsa Alam and Hurghada.

There are some parts of Egypt which the UK Foreign Office advises against travelling to.

All travel to the the border of Libya is banned, as is the area near the Israel border.

All but essential travel is in place in other areas of Egypt, including:

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• Northern part of South Sinai
• Eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate
• Western Desert

However, the tourist resorts as well as Cairo – home to the pyramids – and Luxor are still safe to travel to right now.

Do keep an eye on the travel advice, as it can change at short notice.

They warn “there is a heightened risk of regional tension. Escalation could lead to travel disruption and other unanticipated impacts.”

Are flights to Egypt affected?

Flights to Egypt have not been affected by the Iran crisis.

Brits travelling from the UK to parts of Egypt on the safe list are not being affected.

Some flights from the Middle East to Egypt, such as from Dubai to Doha, are still being disrupted.

However, this wont affected anyone travelling to Egypt from the UK.

What if I have a holiday to Egypt booked?

Package holidays to Egypt are currently unaffected by the Iran crisis.

As Egypt is deemed safe to travel to, tour operators are not obligated to give you a refund if you decide to cancel.

You will be left out of pocket if you decide not to travel to Egypt.

Some cruise companies have cancelled upcoming routes out of caution due to the ongoing conflict.

Viking has cancelled its Nile River cruises until the end of March, along with Avalon Waterways.

And Intrepid has cancelled all Egypt trips up until the end of March.

The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot explains: “It is very understandable that travellers would be a little nervous of the proximity of Egypt to the current crisis.

“However, Hurghada and Marsa Alam are hundreds of miles away from the conflict zone and holidays there should not be impacted at all.

“I had tipped Egypt as one of the stand-out destinations for British travellers to enjoy 5* luxury at great value prices this year.

“I travelled to Luxor, Hurghada and Marsa Alam in February and could not have felt safer with the Egyptians taking security very seriously.”

Lisa also answered all of your other holiday and travel questions here.

AMERICA’S first bullet train which will slash travel time between Los Angeles and San Francisco has been revealed.

The highly anticipated rail project will make the trip just two hours and 40 minutes – compared to nearly six hours by car.

Once completed, the bullet train scheme will provide speedy trips between the Bay Area and the Los Angeles region.

It will also connect the communities in between — Gilroy, Merced, Fresno, Bakersfield, Palmdale, and others — to the state’s largest job centers and innovation hub, said the California High Speed Rail Authority on February 28.

Many have been awaiting the project to be completed, as the past decade of construction has been focused on an initial segment in Central Valley.

There are five planned stations in the Central Valley: Bakersfield, Fresno, Merced, Madera and Kings/Tulare.

Newly-released renderings show the stations will feature plenty of modern twists, with spacious canopies and open concourses.

The stations’ architectural designs are set to incorporate natural materials like stone and wood.

If plans go according to schedule, the area could open as soon as 2032.

The Central Valley’s initial operating segment is expected to transition from civil construction to laying out tracks and installing systems later this year.

But there has yet to be a confirmed project opened date for the route between San Francisco and Los Angeles due to delays in planning and funding.

The overall projected cost for Phase 1 delivery, between San Francisco and Los Angeles/Anaheim, dropped by $1.7 billion.

The High-Speed Rail Authority has just released its Draft 2026 Business Plan for public review and comment.

“The authority has entered a new era of construction: laying track across the Central Valley and electrifying the corridor,” the plan said.

“With the southern railhead in Kern County ready ahead of schedule, deliveries of steel, concrete ties, and ballast material can begin, and work can commence.

“The authority has set construction milestones for the 119-mile Central Valley segment and developed a procurement schedule to keep the project on pace for completion of the Merced – Bakersfield early operating segment in 2032.”

The project has created thousands of jobs, with rail bosses partnering with California colleges and universities to build a skilled local workforce, it added.

President Donald Trump has previously slammed the project as a “train to nowhere.”

“The Railroad we were promised still does not exist, and never will,” Trump warned on Truth Social last July.

“This project was Severely Overpriced, Overregulated, and NEVER DELIVERED.”

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom wants lawmakers to reauthorize the state’s cap-and-trade program through 2045.

He also wants to ensure that high-speed rail receives $1 billion a year from it.

Last December, California dropped a lawsuit officials filed against the Trump administration over the federal government’s withdrawing of $4 billion for the project.

The U.S. Transportation Department slashed funds for the bullet train.

Gov. Newsom slammed the federal government’s decision as “a political stunt to punish California.”

Culture – Shelby murals and Sabbath shrines

The runaway success of the TV crime drama Peaky Blinders has been credited with boosting tourism to Birmingham and the West Midlands since it first aired in 2013, even though much of the series was actually shot farther north, in Merseyside, Yorkshire and Manchester. The release this week of the Peaky Blinders movie The Immortal Man (much of which was filmed in and around Birmingham this time) will undoubtedly generate a new wave of interest, particularly in the Black Country Living Museum in nearby Dudley, whose authentic recreations of streets, houses and industrial workshops appear in key scenes in the TV show and the film – most notably as the location for Charlie Strong’s yard (pictured below).

At the Digbeth Loc. Studios, where much of the new movie was shot, fans can also see Peaky Blinders murals created by artist Mr Murals. A walking tour of the city with a guide dressed as “Edward Shelby” (from £20pp, viator.com) is well worth a couple of hours, while historic mugshots, artefacts and the original cells in which members of the real-life Peaky Blinders gang were once held are now on show at West Midlands Police Museum.

The city has also become something of a pilgrimage site for heavy metal fans, especially since the final Black Sabbath concert at Villa Park last summer and Ozzy Osbourne’s passing just over two weeks later. There are Ozzy and Sabbath landmarks all around the city, including another of Mr Murals’ artworks on Navigation Street, near New Street station, which all four members of the band visited and signed ahead of the concert. A couple of minutes’ walk away is The Crown pub (now sadly closed) where Sabbath played their first gig and heavy metal was born out of Brum’s industrial clank. Sabbath also feature on murals outside Scruffy Murphy’s rock pub and beside Birmingham coach station in Digbeth – and no pilgrimage would be complete without a visit to Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, where Ozzy’s widow, Sharon, and children Aimee, Kelly and Jack laid flowers during his funeral procession.

Birmingham’s metal connection doesn’t end there – the Jewellery Quarter is a pilgrimage site of a different type, mainly for couples looking for wedding bands. It’s said to house Europe’s largest concentration of jewellers and produce 40% of the UK’s jewellery; the FA Cup was even produced there. The quarter also boasts quirky attractions such as the Pen Museum (Birmingham once produced 75% of the world’s pen nibs) and the UK’s last coffin furniture factory, The Coffin Works, now a museum, whose long history includes decorative coffin fittings for the funerals of Diana, Princess of Wales, and the queen mother, among many others.

Where to eat – from fried chicken to fine dining

In the city centre, John Bright Street is a great place to start – brunch at kitsch indie cafe-bar Cherry Reds is a good shout, while cider and speciality sourdough pizza spot The Stable remains underrated. Save some room for grungy, rock-themed fried chicken joint Bonehead, on the adjacent Lower Severn Street – a hangout for the Osbournes, Slipknot, Jason Momoa and Mogwai in recent times. In the Jewellery Quarter, the Saint Paul’s Market food hall has seven indie kitchens, including Persian, Indian, Thai and more.

Birmingham is also a city of fine dining – in 2019, Opheem became the first Indian restaurant outside London to be awarded a Michelin star; it now has two. Meanwhile, the Jewellery Quarter’s inherently alternative, goth-black restaurant (housed within a former factory, of course) The Wilderness has just won its first Michelin star, taking the city’s total to five. Chef-owner Alex Claridge cooks modern British fare using seasonal ingredients, such as rhubarb and rocket, that probably shouldn’t sit on the same plate, but pair surprisingly well. His menus are designed to surprise and provoke the senses – as is the heavy rock playlist.

Where to drink – from a pint of mild to craft beers

It feels like every family in Birmingham once had someone working at one of its famous breweries, Mitchells & Butlers or Ansells. It’s therefore no surprise that pub culture remains very much alive in a city that birthed one of the region’s classic pints: M&B mild. Traditional pubs serving similar ales from around Birmingham and the West Midlands pepper the city – try Black Country Ales’ pubs The Craven Arms, The Jewellers Arms and The Wellington for starters. And don’t forget to order a cheese and onion cob to go with your pint for the full West Midlands experience.

The modern craft beer revolution is also very much alive in the city, with Attic Brew Co.’s Intuition most definitely the most poured craft pint in Brum (cans are also stocked on CrossCountry trains). Sample their wares at their central taproom, The Barrel Store.

Nightlife – from Irish boozers to experimental music

Much of Birmingham’s best nightlife can be found in Digbeth, the city’s original Irish quarter (where the Peaky Blinders also once roamed). Pubs such as Nortons, The Old Crown, Cleary’s and The Anchor offer some of the best Guinness, trad music sessions and craic this side of the Irish Sea. Digbeth is also the city’s creative quarter, and home to experimental concert promoter Capsule, which brings equal parts peculiar and brilliant musicians to Brum, who might otherwise skip the region completely. Keep an eye out for Capsule’s Supersonic festival, an award-winning event running since 2003 and scheduled for 25-26 April this year, that takes over venues in Digbeth. One such is Centrala, an experimental arts centre and exhibition space that supports central and eastern European migrant communities.

After hours, dance to northern soul at The Night Owl, or head to venues such as Dead Wax, Suki10c, Lab11 and Mama Roux’s for parties ranging in genre from house to jungle.

Stirchley – the hispter hotspot for cocktails and breweries

A 10-minute train ride south of New Street station is Stirchley, a neighbourhood of award-winning indies that continues to thrive. Take Couch, for example, just named the UK’s number one at the 2026 Top 50 Cocktail Bars awards, and South African-British fusion restaurant Riverine Rabbit, which was recently awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin.

Stirchley is also known locally as the beer hub of the city, with three major brewers (Attic, Birmingham Brewing Company and GlassHouse) within a half-mile radius; all three have taprooms. In keeping with Birmingham’s liking for a pint or few, the Stirchley Beer Mile takes in those three plus two award-winning bottle shops and at least 10 pubs and bars on an easy walk between Stirchley and Cotteridge. Don’t miss Bonehead’s dive bar Deadbeat, a similarly grungy rock bar that sells Pabst Blue Ribbon on tap and often hosts NYC-style pizza slice pop-ups.

Where to stay – Georgian hotels and modern townhouses

Boutique hotel Saint Pauls House in the Jewellery Quarter (doubles from £99) sits on the city’s last remaining Georgian square and offers comfortable rooms, waterfall showers and plush beds. Or stay around the corner at the modern Frederick Street Townhouse (doubles from £99), which is connected to the popular Button Factory pub.

Carol Hutchins had been looking forward to a sunny break in the TUI Magic Life Hotel in Fuerteventura with her daughter, Layla, at the end of October, but she didn’t get further than the airport

A disabled woman has been left “very upset” after she missed her holiday to the Canary Islands because of her mobility scooter battery.

Carol Hutchins had been looking forward to a sunny break in the TUI Magic Life Hotel in Fuerteventura with her daughter, Layla, at the end of October. However, the mum-and-daughter duo’s dream trip ended at Manchester Airport, where staff told them Carol’s scooter couldn’t be loaded onto the plane.

Carol has been left “very upset” by the missed holiday and the fact that she’s over £1,000 out of pocket. There is no suggestion that TUI did not follow protocol. However, Carol and Layla’s experience serves as a warning to Brits travelling overseas with a mobility scooter.

A TUI spokesperson explained: “We’re sorry that Ms Hutchins wasn’t able to travel on her holiday, and we recognise how upsetting that must have been for her. This was due to them not having the required documentation and battery identification information for their electric mobility aid, which meant it couldn’t be cleared to fly under safety guidance. The TUI airport team supported her on the day and explored alternative options, which she chose not to accept.”

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Carol booked her holiday to the sun-soaked Canary Islands at the TUI Doncaster store on 23 October 2025. As the booking was made within two weeks of departure, the travel agent called the welfare team while Carol was in the shop, to make sure the mobility scooter was added to the booking.

When a mobility aid is added to a holiday booking, customers receive the Conditions of Carriage, which include important instructions passengers must follow before their flight.

They state: “The battery or batteries should clearly be labelled showing the type and the watt-hour (Wh) rating. Failure to show this can lead to refusal of battery or batteries. Please carry the manufacturer’s operating instructions with you, which will help you and the airport staff to block the vehicle’s electric circuits and remove the battery if necessary.”

According to TUI, the Conditions of Carriage were emailed to Ms Hutchins four times as her booking was updated, and given twice again alongside ticket documentation.

When Carol and Layla arrived at Manchester Airport on October 29, her battery did not have any visible ID label, meaning airport staff could not legally clear it under safety regulations.

An on-site duty manager contacted the resort team in Fuerteventura to find an alternative mobility scooter she could use on her holiday.

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However, according to Layla, Carol did not feel comfortable travelling without her own or with the idea that she might be without one for a period once at her destination.

According to TUI, Carol and Layla turned down the offer of two alternative flights and goodwill vouchers.

TUI’s website has a section that explains what customers on mobility scooters need to know and do before they travel.

Before flying with your electric mobility aid, you’ll need to:

• Check your battery type and specifications
• Provide battery details to TUI in advance
• Bring manufacturer documentation to the airport

TUI accepts these battery types:

• Non-spillable batteries (like AGM, Gel Cell, SLA)
• Lithium batteries with specific watt-hour limits:
• Single battery: maximum 300Wh
• Two batteries: maximum 160Wh each
• However, wet cell (spillable) batteries are not permitted on TUI flights.

Important pre-flight steps:

• Share your device’s battery details with TUI as early as possible
• Bring manufacturer documentation showing battery specifications
• If documentation is unavailable, check the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) website or contact your device manufacturer
• Remember that spare or removable batteries must be carried in the cabin

Seven extra groups now qualify for a Disabled Person’s Railcard including blue badge holders

More people will now qualify for reduced-price rail journeys across the UK. Seven additional categories are now eligible for a Disabled Person’s Railcard after the scheme was broadened on March 1.

This railcard grants the holder and an accompanying adult a one-third discount on most train tickets throughout England, Scotland and Wales. It presently costs £20 for one year or £54 for three. Until this month, the Disabled Person’s Railcard had exclusively been available to those claiming particular benefits or living with certain medical conditions. From March 1, it continues to be available to those individuals, but the criteria has been widened.

It now encompasses a wider spectrum of visible and non-visible disabilities. Individuals who now qualify include those who:

• Have a blue badge
• Have a disabled person’s bus pass (England, Scotland and Wales)
• Have a disabled person’s Freedom Pass (London only)
• Can’t drive on medical grounds
• Receive Armed Forces Compensation Scheme benefits
• Receive Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for 20 per cent degree of disablement or higher
• Are without speech

Other people who still qualify

The existing qualifying criteria for a Disabled Person’s Railcard remains valid, which means you can hold a railcard if you:

• Receive Personal Independence Payments or Adult Disability Payment
• Receive Disability Living Allowance or Child Disability Payment at either the higher or lower rate for the mobility component, or the higher or middle rate for the care component
• Have a visual impairment
• Are registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
• Have epilepsy and receive drug treatment for it
• Receive Attendance Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment
• Receive war pensioner’s mobility supplement
• Receive war or service disablement pension for 80 per cent or more disability
• Buy or lease a vehicle through the Motability scheme

From September 2026 it is intended that the scheme will broaden further allowing even more people to apply for a card. On the Disabled Persons Railcard website, it states: “Phase 2, launching in September 2026, will further extend eligibility to disabilities and conditions that require professional health evidence and more detailed assessment, including some long-term or degenerative medical conditions, and neurodiversity where it has a substantial impact on a person’s ability to travel by train.

“More detailed evidentiary requirements will be made available for this phase closer to implementation in September 2026.”

It is worth noting that if you already hold one of these railcards, the changes won’t affect you. The website states: “These upcoming changes to the eligibility criteria won’t affect your current Railcard or your eligibility. You can continue using your Railcard as usual without any disruption.”

How to apply

You can submit an application online here. You can select a digital card accessible via your mobile, which becomes available within five working days.

Alternatively, you can choose a physical card, which may take up to 15 days to reach you by post. The application process should require no longer than 10 minutes to finish.

Before starting, you must ensure you have the following prepared:

• A valid debit or credit card
• Documentary evidence of the Railcard holder’s disability that can be scanned and uploaded as a file
• A passport-style photograph (it can even be captured with your phone)

You cannot submit an application in person at a railway station but you can apply by post. To do this, you can download a Disabled Persons Railcard application form online or obtain an application form from any staffed station ticket office.

You will then need to fill in and return this application, together with the required evidence of disability and payment to:

National Railcards

PO box 8626

SWADLINCOTE

DE11 1JA

A complete list of what is recognised as documentary evidence of the disability can be located online here.

A travel writer explores Aspen and Snowmass in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, discovering stunning Maroon Bells views, cowboy culture, rodeos and summer adventures in America’s most affluent mountain resort

The guide’s instructions were crystal clear: “Keep both hands on the handlebars. Don’t look around. Don’t take photos.”

Yet I simply couldn’t resist. The scenery was far too stunning and I found myself compelled to capture videos of the breathtaking alpine vista surrounding us whilst coasting down from the Maroon Bells, the twin peaks situated behind the twin towns of Aspen and Snowmass, their snow-covered summits still clinging to winter’s final traces despite it being late June.

This stretch of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains is more renowned for its skiing and cold-weather pursuits, yet during summer it transforms into a paradise for those keen to discover the terrain no longer concealed beneath snow.

I’d travelled in from Denver, departing the state capital bathed in evening sunlight as we glided over the snow-dusted peaks. Lines of private aircraft filled the tarmac at tiny Aspen airport.

I’d never witnessed so many. Then again, this ranks among the wealthiest regions in the US, with as many as 125 billionaires possessing homes here, reports the Express.

Tourists appear to be predominantly wealthy or “aspirational”. Imagine the south of France or Dubai, but with ranch culture.

Our accommodation was the stylish W, positioned in Aspen’s heart and near the cable car terminal. It proved as contemporary and fashionable as the other W properties I’ve experienced, though more compact in size – less ostentatious, more intimate.

After refreshing ourselves, I met my tour party on the rooftop terrace where we sipped cocktails as the sun descended with golden beams caressing Mount Aspen. Drinks finished, we headed off for dinner through Aspen’s charming, tree-lined streets, which reveal little evidence of its rough-and-ready heritage as a silver mining settlement.

Following the collapse of the silver boom, Aspen’s prosperity plummeted and only bounced back after being transformed into a ski resort in the mid-20th century. I realised I was struggling slightly to walk.

The booze? No, the 8,000ft elevation (the thin mountain air would leave me breathless for the following few days).

The evocative Steakhouse No. 316 was softly illuminated with stylish Old West-inspired décor. My fillet steak arrived cooked to medium-rare perfection and accompanied by a zesty margarita.

Annoying jetlag brought the evening to an early close, wiping me out by 11pm, then jolting me awake at 3.30am. At least it guaranteed I was first down for breakfast.

I sampled elk sausage and eggs – my initial encounter with the magnificent creatures that continue to inhabit the area – robust, smoky, and as delicious as they are striking. Poor elk.

The morning’s programme featured e-biking up the valley through attractive wetlands (the power-assisted pedalling a blessing) and a stop at the trendy Aspen Art Museum, with its six galleries of contemporary art.

We had lunch at the museum’s rooftop restaurant. Its cuisine may have been uninspiring, but the panorama of Mount Aspen was as stunning as the staircase leading up there.

Every local we encountered that day was incredibly welcoming, stepping aside for us with beaming smiles or cheerful greetings. Despite Aspen’s prestigious reputation, it was refreshingly free from the snobbery you might anticipate in comparable British or European ski resorts.

After lunch, we browsed the souvenir shops. The standout was Kemo Sabe, a Western-themed boutique selling bespoke cowboy gear. It’s every bit as pricey as it is stylish – hats typically cost $1,000. I spotted a basic leather hatband priced at $8,776.

Surely nobody’s quite that ambitious?

Maintaining the Western atmosphere, dinner was at Hotel Jerome, an impressive structure built in the 19th century to rival London’s Savoy. Its bars and restaurants radiated a gentler Western appeal, though the seven-course tasting menu proved disappointing.

Nevertheless, the cocktails were superb and the heritage tangible.

The magnificence continued as we strolled to the nearby Wheeler Opera House for an Emmylou Harris performance. I’d never encountered her work, and the 77-year-old, 14 Grammy-winning folk artist exposed my ignorance as her captivating voice echoed throughout the elegant Victorian-era venue.

Following another night of jet-lag-shortened sleep, I was grateful we caught a cable car to Mount Aspen’s peak for an outdoor yoga session where I loosened my weary muscles whilst overlooking the mountains.

Lunch was back down at the Ajax Tavern beside the cable-car station. Its signature truffle fries were superb, but the signature double beef burgers were rather mediocre.

That sunny evening we travelled onwards to Snowmass, 15 minutes down the valley, pausing at the rodeo. But this wasn’t just any rodeo, this was the Snowmass Rodeo – packed with well-Cuban-heeled cowboys and girls sporting Kemo Sabe hats and designer sunglasses.

Nevertheless, it felt pleasantly down-to-earth, with cheerful families and grins everywhere. Events ranged from children’s sheep-riding (yes, really), bullock lassoing and barrel-racing, building up to bull-riding.

Snowmass Village itself possesses a distinctly different atmosphere from Aspen. Here, the resort has been constructed around the skiing – rather than the other way round – with an extensive network of trails and pistes spreading up the enormous Snowmass Mountain.

During summer, the tree-covered slopes become a mountain biker’s dream, boasting over 50 miles of trails. As we ascended via gondola up the Elk Camp side of the mountain, we observed as they hurtled down, tearing up trails.

Entertaining, but we found our excitement from the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, a roller coaster nestled in the forest where you race downhill in toboggans, my bum squeaking as noisily as the brakes.

From the cable-car terminal, there’s a chairlift ascending to the summit of Elk Camp. Regrettably, it was chilly and wet up there and the views of the Maroon Bells hidden by cloud.

A quick stop for pizza energised us for the descent into Aspen’s tree woods above the village. The afternoon sun illuminated their silver bark and created lengthy shadows.

Combined with the birdsong and post-rain scents, it felt enchanting. Snowmass’s nightlife is considerably more low-key than that of Aspen.

We ate at Aurum, an upscale Mediterranean/American fusion eatery – more outstanding steak and cocktails – and also at Kenichi, a Japanese restaurant serving not only the finest food of the entire trip, but the best Japanese cuisine I’ve ever experienced.

Zane’s and The Tavern are well-loved local watering holes – the former a relaxed sports bar, the latter buzzing with boisterous young punters drowning out the gravelly old country singer.

Our last morning kicked off with that bike ride down from Maroon Bells. The sight of the twin peaks looming majestically over the unspoilt Maroon Lake was nothing short of spectacular.

And, thankfully, the journey back to Aspen was downhill the entire way. After such a stunning trip, in every sense of the word, it was a thoroughly fitting send-off.

Book the holiday

Universal Studios Hollywood has begun peeling back the curtain — or opening the garage? — on its new “Fast & Furious”-inspired coaster coming to the park this summer.

The coaster will feature four heavily detailed miniature cars as ride vehicles. These four-seaters — mimicking a Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-Y, Nissan Skyline GT-R and Toyota Supra, all complete with pull-down lap-bars and working taillights — were unveiled at a media event Wednesday.

But perhaps the most exciting news out of the event is just how meaty of a coaster Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift looks to be.

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will launch this summer at Universal Studios Hollywood and boast ride vehicles that are miniatures of actual cars. The show building is themed like a warehouse with a vibrant, spray-painted mural.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

The attraction, the second outdoor coaster at the park after the more kid-focused “Harry Potter” ride Flight of the Hippogriff, was timed at running about two minutes around the track, which goes over and under the park’s famed hillside escalators. Hollywood Drift will reach a top speed of 72 mph.

While a representative for the company said the coaster is intended to reach that 72-mph milestone at various points on the ride, it’s worth noting that it’s still in testing mode and the final speeds and run-time may change. Still, the fact that Universal has been able to pack such a mighty experience into a tight piece of real estate should be positive news for coaster enthusiasts.

By comparison, the family coaster Flight of the Hippogriff is only about a minute, whereas Disney California Adventure’s Incredicoaster comes in at more than 2 and a half minutes. It’s not uncommon for modern coasters today, due to their increasing emphasis on speed and thrills, to last only about a minute.

A look at the ride vehicles and inside mural in the passenger load area of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

Though packing storytelling into a fast-moving outdoor ride is always a theme park challenge, Universal is doing what it can to make guests feel as if they’re sitting in actual tiny, authentic cars. Check, for instance, the brightly orange Supra, or the black, vintage-style Charger. Each car will be equipped with onboard audio and has unique details, right down to the different placement of the odometers on the dashboard.

One question: Do those odometers actually work and measure speed? A Universal rep declined to answer, but no matter, as most guest will likely be focused on the scenery outside the vehicle, such as the next-door golf course or bird’s-eye views of the park.

An artist rendering of Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, the park’s first high-speed outdoor coaster.

(Universal Studios Hollywood)

The coasters will board two at a time inside the red brick, warehouse-themed show building, which features spray-painted murals from artist Tristan Eaton. Each coaster train holds four cars. There will be a single rider line for solo guests, and the coaster will boast 360-degree rotation, which is meant to create the sensation of a car drifting. The track is 4,100 feet and will take guests on a hillside journey between the park’s upper and lower lots.

The “Fast & Furious” saga spans 11 films, and will soon be recognized with an exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum. “A Fast & Furious Legacy: 25 Years of Automotive Icons” opens March 14 and will feature various movie-used vehicles and stunt cars. Among the cars on display will be an early ‘90s Supra driven by Paul Walker’s character Brian O’Conner, one of the vehicles Universal mimicked for the roller coaster.

The torta Chingona at Tacos Don Pillo is a beast of a sandwich, a tower of asada steak, jamon asado, tomato, onion, jalapeno, avocado and big slabs of salty, squeaky queso fresco. It’s enough to share, or satiate in a way that requires a nap shortly after. It is the star of the Tacos Don Pillo menu, an expansive list of tacos, quesadillas, burritos, salads, nachos and mulitas. Some days require the heft of the torta Chingona, others lean toward the tacos camarones. The trio of corn tortillas barely contain the plump, grilled shrimp, sweet and smoky grilled onions and slivers of avocado. Expect a perpetual line anywhere near an established meal time, but things move quickly.

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The Northumberland islands are a haven for wildlife with 43,000 pairs of puffins, Atlantic grey seals, dolphins and over 200,000 breeding seabirds

A stunning collection of UK islands are Sir David Attenborough’s ‘favourite’ destinations for observing wildlife in Britain, boasting around 23 bird species, seals and dolphins.

Located off the Northumberland coast are the Farne Islands, a leading wildlife sanctuary amidst some of the most spectacular landscapes. Their isolated position means they’re only reachable by a boat trip leaving from Seahouses harbour, which is roughly an hour’s drive from Newcastle, yet what lies in wait is certainly worth the journey.

The group of islands are a sanctuary for wildlife and is home to a substantial colony of Atlantic grey seals, along with adorable white seal pups. There will seldom be a moment when tourists won’t be able to see their bobbing heads appearing above the water, or photograph the marine mammals during a stroll around some of the larger islands with lighthouses and vantage points.

Dolphins have even been known to be seen amongst the lapping waves. Taking centre stage during the warmer months are the 43,000 pairs of breeding Puffins that inhabit the rugged cliffs.

The Farne Islands are one of the finest locations to observe the colourful birds that breed in large colonies atop coastal cliffs or at offshore islands across the North Atlantic. During the beginning of summer, around 200,000 breeding seabirds, including Arctic terns, guillemots, eider ducks, razorbills and cormorants, can be spotted amongst the UK islands, reports the Express.

It’s a haven for keen birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to marvel at the wonders of this remarkable wildlife, which is difficult to encounter elsewhere. It’s received such acclaim that broadcaster, writer, and naturalist Sir David Attenborough himself named the Farne Islands as one of his ‘favourite places’ for wildlife in the UK, and he highlighted the islands during his BBC series, Wild Isles.

Experts at Arbtech also listed the Farne Islands amongst the finest UK destinations to observe wildlife this year, owing to its ‘internationally significant breeding colony of seabirds and Atlantic grey seals’. The group of islands provides a unique opportunity to witness the UK’s most flourishing wildlife population, which has declined by 19 per cent since 1970, as Arbtech highlighted.

It’s advised that the optimal time to visit the islands is between mid-April to late July, especially if you’re hoping to catch sight of the seabird colony. Boat excursions are available to book that set off from the harbour at Seahouses in north east Northumberland, to cruise around the Farne Islands in a truly spectacular experience.

Some of the boat trips on offer to book at Seahouses harbour include Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours, Billy Shiel Boat Trips, and the Golden Gate Farne Island Tours. They all depart daily during weekends and throughout the summer months, but it’s advisable to check availability directly with the operator.

The other top locations in the UK to observe wildlife, as identified by Arbtech, include:.

A spokesperson for Arbtech said: “We want to put the spotlight on these incredible wildlife spots to showcase just how important conservation projects are, and how nature can thrive in this country when it’s protected.

“Our survey shows that the majority of Brits do care about the decline of wildlife, but many may not know what they can do to help. Supporting local conservation efforts or even making small changes at home can make a real difference.

“Seeing wildlife in its natural habitat is a powerful reminder of what we have to lose if we don’t act now, and could inspire people to take steps to protect species for future generations.”

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A NEW 1,000-plus capacity rooftop destination will open in London this year.

Freight Brixton in South London will open on May 7 as an open-air food, drink and music venue.

And it is set to become the capital’s largest rooftop venue.

There will be chef residencies, cocktail bars, live music, DJ sets, food festivals and major sports screenings, amongst other events.

With the upcoming World Cup, the rooftop will boast a dedicated World Cup Fanzone with screenings of the matches.

Food festivals include Taco Fest and Bite Twice presents Dine Hard.

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And brunch lovers won’t miss out either as there will be Reggae Brunch and Maggi Brunch.

There will be family-friendly daytime sessions in the summer too.

When it comes to grabbing a tipple at the venue, guests will be able to choose from a number of speciality bars.

One bar will be the Casamigos ‘House of Friends’ and another will be Hotel Milano, centred on the much-loved Italian aperitivo concept.

Hotel Milano will also form part of the new Brixton Cocktail Club.

Each Thursday, the venue will host South of the South as well, which is a collaboration with Cross The Tracks Festival and includes jazz, funk and soul music.

The line-up for the opening of the venue will include reggae musician Davis Rodigan on May 9.

Laurence Guy will then perform house music on May 16 and on May 30, Ghosts of Garage will take over the rooftop.

In total, 50 jobs will be created as well and the venue aims to also host grassroots events, youth programmes and charity fundraisers.

Dan Morris, Managing Director of Freight Island, said: “Freight Brixton is an incredible rooftop in the heart of South London and will be a place for locals and the city beyond to come together and enjoy themselves with the best food, drink and music.

“I cannot wait for us to get this open – we have seen what creating these kinds of spaces can do for a community in Manchester, and we are all very excited to build something just as special in Brixton.”

Freight Island already has a destination in Manchester, located near Piccadilly Station.

And another new destination was recently announced for Leeds, inside the Trinity Leeds shopping centre.

In addition to street-style food stalls and independent bars, there will also be an outdoor terrace which will look over City Square.

If you are looking for more rooftop venues to explore in the capital, here’s London’s best rooftop bars including one that feels more like Mykonos.

Plus, Europe’s highest rooftop bar is in the UK and it is like ‘stepping into another world’.

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Amid the escalating Middle East conflict, Wizz Air has issued an update and confirmed that it has extended its cancellation period for four of its destinations

Wizz Air has issued a major update for four destinations and has extended its flight cancellations.

The conflict in the Middle East has caused significant travel disruptions for airlines, with thousands of flights cancelled as the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) warns against travel to parts of the region. Tensions remain high following the US-Israeli strikes on Iran that began over the weekend, with further attacks being carried out.

As the conflict escalates, Wizz Air has confirmed that it is suspending all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman up to and including Sunday, 15 March. They had originally planned to cancel these flights until 7 March, but as the conflict shows no signs of slowing, they have extended the cancellation period.

READ MORE: Iran war chaos sees travel advice changed for 10 countries – full listREAD MORE: All 75 countries on Foreign Office’s ‘do not travel’ list from March 4

A Wizz Air spokesperson confirmed: “Wizz Air confirms that, following the recent escalation of the security situation in Iran, the airline is suspending all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Amman up to and including 15 March, pending structural schedule changes reflecting reduced demand. Flights to and from Saudi Arabia will resume as planned from 8 March inclusive.

“The airline is closely monitoring developments and remains in ongoing contact with local and international authorities, aviation safety agencies, security authorities, and relevant governmental bodies. Operational decisions will continue to be reviewed, and the flight schedule may be adjusted as the situation evolves.

“The safety and security of our passengers, crew and aircraft remain Wizz Air’s highest priority. We acknowledge the disruption this may cause and appreciate the understanding of our customers. Passengers with affected bookings will be contacted directly with information regarding their options.”

The extension comes just a few days after Wizz Air first announced that it had suspended all flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman. Wizz Air joins other major airlines that have cancelled or amended hundreds of flights to parts of the Middle East amid the chaos.

Wizz Air, which has been working hard to ensure passenger safety, confirmed that flights to and from Saudi Arabia will recommence as planned from 8 March. In a bid to support passengers who need to travel to or from Israel, Wizz Air is planning to add flights to Sharm El Sheikh (SSH) from various European airports.

If approved, the extra flights, which will provide a connection between Israel and Europe, will begin on Friday, 6 March. They will be as follows:

• Budapest (BUD): from 3 to 10 weekly flights
• Rome Fiumicino (FCO): from 11 to 18 weekly flights
• London Luton (LTN): from 4 to 8 weekly flights
• Milan Malpensa (MXP): from 6 to 11 weekly flights
• Sofia (SOF): from 0 to 3 weekly flights

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