New figures have revealed where some of the most family-friendly beaches in the world are located — and one of the selections can be found right on our doorstep

A British beach has been named as one of the safest for families to have a day out. It has now been likened to similar beaches in sun-drenched locations such as the Caribbean or Mediterranean.

Porthcurno Beach is one of Britain’s most beautiful locations, hidden away on the Cornish coast. Located close to Land’s End, the cove is a gorgeous hidden gem for those looking to beat the crowds and have a more relaxed staycation.

And now, it has been revealed that Porthcurno Beach is one of the top 20 beaches in the world for families to enjoy themselves safely. It ranks among the likes of breathtaking Adriatic beaches and sun-kissed exotic locations, showing that Britain is indeed one of the best places for adults and kids alike.

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House of Travel put together a meta-list of the beaches that appear most regularly on the ‘world’s best beaches’ lists. Once a list was collated, the shortlist was generated, rating each beach’s cleanliness, local crime rates, lifeguard presence, and crowd levels.

Porthcurno Beach officially came in at #4 on the list, with experts praising its cosy nature, hidden away from the crowds of tourists. Whilst they did admit the beach did get rather packed in the summer, other elements raised its score to a high level.

“Turns out you don’t need to fly halfway around the world for a safe family beach experience, with Porthcurno Beach bringing Britain into the top five,” the study noted. “Tucked away in Cornwall near Land’s End, this cove is famous for its turquoise waters and white sand — colours you’d more typically associate with the Caribbean.”

The study found that having lifeguards present and visible throughout the summer season improved the beach’s safety year-round. This is down to “strong Atlantic currents” that can prove dangerous if people aren’t aware of them. The cleanliness of the beach also put it in good standing, as well as Cornwall’s incredibly low crime rate, making it a perfect stay for those looking for a small getaway in a gorgeous part of Britain’s unbeatable coastline.

Topping the overall global list was Saadiyat Beach in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Lifeguards are on duty practically all year round, with the beach never getting that busy, even at the height of the peak season.

Turkey’s Iztuzu Beach in the Dalyan area came in at number two, with a relatively busy peak season, but punters heading to the beach were seen to be very clean. Dubai’s Kite Beach rounded out the top three, although it was considerably more busy than most beaches that featured on the list and a marginally higher crime rate, and one shark attack in the region.

Other sunny holiday destinations featured throughout the list, including reliable British favourites in Spain, Portugal and Italy. However, more up-and-coming destinations, including Montenegro and Cambodia, also made appearances.

The full list of the world’s safest beaches is:

1. Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE
2. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan, Turkey
3. Kite Beach, Dubai, UAE
4. Porthcurno Beach, Porthcurno, United Kingdom
5. Kalamies Beach, Paralimni region, Cyprus
6. Playa de Rodas, Vigo, Spain
7. Playa de Muro, Can Picafort, Mallorca, Spain
8. Sveti Stefan Beach, Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
9. Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
10. Henderson Beach, Destin, Florida, United States
11. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy
12. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
13. Fig Tree Bay, Protaras, Cyprus
14. Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta
15. Kep Beach, Cambodia
16. Tulum Beach, Tulum, Mexico
17. Cala Brandinchi, Olbia, Sardinia, Italy
18. Cannon Beach, Oregon, United States
19. La Concha Beach, San Sebastián, Spain
20. Mandraki Beach, Hydra, Greece

Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes score for ‍United while Spurs captain Christian Romero sees red for a wild challenge.

Manchester United profited from Tottenham captain Cristian Romero’s red card to stretch their perfect start under Michael Carrick to four games, with a 2-0 win at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes on Saturday ended an eight-game winless run against Spurs for the Red Devils, who cemented their position in the Premier League’s top four.

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United close to within two points of third-placed Aston Villa and open up a five-point cushion over Liverpool in sixth.

A place in the top five is likely to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League due to the strong performance of English sides in European competition.

Spurs’ hopes of qualifying for the Champions League through their league position have long since disappeared, as another damaging defeat for Thomas Frank leaves Tottenham in 14th.

But there could be lasting consequences for Romero after his ill-discipline cost his side just days after a social media outburst aimed at the club’s hierarchy.

Frank said the Argentinian international had been “dealt with internally” after he described Tottenham’s threadbare squad as “disgraceful” following the closure of the transfer window.

Romero’s future as skipper had already been called into question, and the 27-year-old will now be suspended for four matches after his second red card of the season and sixth of his Spurs career.

The centre-back lunged in to catch Casemiro on the ankle on 29 minutes after playing himself into trouble just outside the Tottenham box.

United had been the better side during the opening half hour, even against 11 men, and made their numerical advantage count.

Mbeumo stroked into the bottom corner for his third goal in four games since Carrick took charge, after a clever corner involving Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo freed the Cameroon international at the edge of the box.

Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha had goals ruled out for offside as the home side dominated but had to wait until nine minutes from time to make the points safe.

Fernandes showed Romero how to lead from the front with another fine individual display.

The United captain prodded in Diogo Dalot’s cross at the back post for his 200th goal or assist in 314 games for the club.

Carrick said before the game that United cannot afford to rush their choice of a new permanent manager.

But the former midfielder, who enjoyed a stellar playing career at Old Trafford, is making his case for that job as he continues overseeing United’s stunning turnaround in fortunes since the departure of Ruben Amorim last month.

Fernandes had plenty of praise for Carrick in a post-match interview with TNT Sports.

“The energy ⁠is different because we are winning games and when you win games, everything is brighter,” Fernandes said.

“Michael came in with the right idea of giving the players more responsibility and freedom to make decisions on the pitch. I was always sure Michael could be a great manager, and he is showing that.”

Meanwhile, it is now two Premier League wins in 16 for Frank and his Spurs side.

“I think the first 30 minutes were a good away performance,” Frank told TNT Sports after the game.

“I’m very proud of the players, the resilience, staying in the game, mentality [to] still be a threat at times, to try to create something. Very proud of them.”

Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario told TNT Sports that Romero had apologised to his teammates for the sending off.

“Yeah, of course, he’s disappointed, because he knows that this card could have been avoidable, and so he apologised,” he said.

“He made his mistake, but we know the player he is, and he’ll be back for sure, stronger, and he’s going to help us massively.”

TUCSON — Savannah Guthrie told the potential kidnappers of her mother, Nancy Guthrie, on Saturday that the family is prepared to pay for her safe return, as the frantic search for the 84-year-old has entered a seventh day.

“We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her,” Guthrie said in a video posted on social media, flanked by her siblings. “This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

It was not immediately clear whether the longtime co-host of NBC’s “Today” show was referring to a new message from someone who might have kidnapped Nancy Guthrie. The Associated Press reached out to the FBI and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department seeking additional details.

Tucson TV station KOLD said Friday that it received a message via email that was tied to the Guthrie case, the contents of which it could not disclose. The FBI said it was aware of a new message and was reviewing its authenticity.

No suspects identified

Investigators think Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will from her home just outside Tucson last weekend. DNA tests showed blood on Guthrie’s front porch was a match to her, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has said. Authorities have not identified any suspects or ruled anyone out.

The sheriff said Friday that he was frustrated that a camera at Nancy Guthrie’s home was not able to capture images of anyone the day she went missing.

Investigators have found that the home’s doorbell camera was disconnected early Sunday and that software data recorded movement at the home minutes later. But Nancy Guthrie did not have an active subscription, so none of the images were able to be recovered.

“It is concerning, it’s actually almost disappointing, because you’ve got your hopes up,” Nanos told the Associated Press in an interview. “OK, they got an image. ‘Well, we do, but we don’t.’”

President Trump, speaking on Air Force One on Friday, said the investigation was going “very well.”

“We have some clues that I think are very strong,” Trump said en route to his Florida estate for the weekend. “We have some things that may be coming out reasonably soon.”

Investigators return to scene

Investigators were back in Nancy Guthrie’s neighborhood on Friday.

The Sheriff’s Department posted on social media to say access was restricted to the road in front of the home to give investigators space. Journalists staked out there were directed to move.

The Catalina Foothills Assn., a neighborhood group, told residents in a letter that authorities were resuming searches in the area immediately.

“I know we all stand together in our collective disbelief and sadness and greatly appreciate your willingness to speak with law enforcement, share camera images and allow searches of your properties,” the association president said in the letter.

The sheriff said Thursday that investigators have not given up on trying to retrieve camera recordings.

“I wish technology was as easy as we believe it is, that ‘here’s a picture, here’s your bad guy.’ But it’s not,” Nanos told the AP. “There are pieces of information that come to us from these tech groups that say, ‘This is what we have and we can’t get any more.’”

TV station receives note

The sheriff also said he had no new information about the note to the TV station or other purported ransom letters sent to some media outlets, saying the FBI is handling that side of the investigation.

Meanwhile, concern about Nancy Guthrie’s health condition has grown, because authorities say she needs vital daily medicine. She is said to have a pacemaker and have dealt with high blood pressure and heart issues, according to sheriff’s dispatcher audio on broadcastify.com.

“Her conditions, I would imagine, are worsening day by day,” Nanos said. “She requires medication. And I have no way of knowing whether they’re getting that medication to her.”

Pleas from family

Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a previous video message on Wednesday, saying they were ready to talk but wanted proof of life. Camron Guthrie, Savannah’s brother, repeated that in a video Thursday.

It is not clear if all of the ransom notes were identical. Heith Janke, the FBI chief in Phoenix, said details included a demand for money with a deadline that passed Thursday evening and a second deadline for Monday if the first one was not met. At least one note mentioned a floodlight at Guthrie’s home and an Apple watch, Janke said.

After a newspaper ranked the city bottom in a list of Britain’s best cities, Fiona Whitty went to check it out to see if some of the criticism it receives it fair

Southampton is many things to many people. Now Britain’s biggest cruise port, it’s where the Titanic set off from on its doomed maiden voyage. It boasts a thriving student community, with all the cool bars and fun places that an unending stream of young people brings.

And it has some of the UK’s best-preserved city walls, which remind you of the strategic importance the city once held. And on the arts front, it’s home to the largest theatre in the south outside of London, with a bumper programme of West End offshoots.

But sadly, not everyone thinks it has much to offer. The Daily Telegraph recently gave it just 1/10 in a ranking of the UK’s 20 biggest cities, placing it last. After spending a weekend there with my 20-year-old daughter Rosie, I think they’ve got it badly wrong.

The city is buzzing…with cocktails, culture and cuisine for starters. Rosie and I kicked off with a cocktail masterclass at 1932, a classy bar that’s ‘hidden’ behind unmarked doors and accessed via a buzzer, giving it a speakeasy feel.

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Once a bank that opened in – yes, you guessed it – 1932, it’s decked out in sleek art deco-style with golden statue lamps and lattice patterns. Drawing on its heritage, its imaginative bespoke brews, designed by bar manager and mixologist extraordinaire Amy, all have a financial theme.

To begin with, Amy invited us behind the bar to whip up a Cash Money – a creamy mix of rum, coconut, mango and passionfruit jiggled together à la Tom Cruise in a traditional cocktail shaker. Next up was a Platinum Card, created to emulate rhubarb-flavoured Squashies with vodka, rhubarb and banana liquors – this time stirred together and drizzled over ice. Blank Cheque, meanwhile, with gin, Campari, and Lillet Blanc aperitif, had a tantalising hint of Aperol about it.

Rosie and I loved the novelty of mixing behind the bar and the cocktails tasted divine – unique yet perfectly formed. A cocktail masterclass costs £40 with 1932.bar.

Afterwards, we headed to Hokkaido, a hip Japanese restaurant that’s popular with everyone from young couples to families to groups of friends. There we were transported to the Land Of The Rising Sun with a hearty feast that included prawn tempura, fried tofu and chicken, vegetable gyoza and a variety of sushi that tasted every bit as amazing as it looked.

With the city spread out along the Channel and enormous cruise ships often in dock, you can’t escape Southampton’s 1,000-year-old maritime heritage. Not only was it the starting point for The Titanic’s stricken voyage in 1912, it’s also where The Mayflower ferried the Pilgrims over to America nearly 300 years earlier.

On the Titanic front, a brilliant exhibition at the SeaCity Museum offers an absorbing account of how the disaster unfolded, killing around 1,500 of the 2,200-plus passengers and crew on board. A mock courtroom, recounting parts of the British Inquiry that followed, is particularly fascinating as you get to hear the real-life words of witnesses being quizzed and of the judge’s verdicts. Entry costs £14, but book in advance for a 10% discount.

The Titanic Trail, which starts outside, leads you around memorials and points of interest – like The Grapes pub, where several seamen lingered too long before departure and were refused entry to the ship, thus saving their lives. Strolling around we saw Southampton’s old city walls, built to help defend the key port after a surprise attack by French soldiers and Genoese mercenaries nearly 700 years ago. You can discover more at an exhibition at God’s House Tower – once a city entry point and now a museum and art gallery – while the onsite café with excellent coffee and delightful apple buns is perfect for a breather. General entry is free, but the exhibition costs £5.

Southampton is easy to get to, with half-hourly trains from London Waterloo taking just 75 minutes with South Western Railway. Our base was voco Southampton, a stylish IHG hotel on the waterfront. Our sixth-floor twin room offered views across the city’s cruise terminal, where ships docked and car ferries unloaded.

But the real highlights were the super-friendly staff…and the fabulous Atlantic Gate restaurant. With banks of windows flanking the sea, the restaurant has a chilled yet stylish ambience and a stand-out seafood-heavy menu. Over a couple of voco’s superb cocktails – the champagne spritz with rum and coconut was a particular hit – we tucked in to fish soup with whole mussels and prawns, fried mixed seafood and a monkfish, prawn and coconut curry, all simply delicious.

Massive theatre fans, Rosie and I often watch a show when we’re away because tickets are generally cheaper than at home in London, while performances remain just as exciting and professional. The Mayflower – a real Southampton stalwart and, London aside, the south’s biggest – didn’t disappoint.

Dating back to 1928 and now grade-II listed, it’s hosted greats like The Beatles, Queen and the Rolling Stones and still oozes warmth and charm with original chandeliers, sleek cornicing and ornate boxes. Today it attracts the UK’s top comedians, ballet troupes, opera stars, and West End-standard touring productions like Matilda and Six.

A sister theatre nearby, MAST Mayflower Studios, offers yet more. Southampton ticked our boxes for history and culture – and food. The Real Greek, tucked into the side of Westquay shopping centre, was the perfect sassy lunch spot. Thanks to small plate favourites like hummus, tzatziki, Greek salad, and courgette fritters alongside tender grilled aubergine in a smoky tomato sauce and a pork gyros, we enjoyed a smack of summer – helped, no doubt, by the gorgeous Greek sangria with white wine and vermouth.

For our final port of call, we retreated to a batting cage… for the UK’s first interactive baseball experience. 1st Base has given baseball a social makeover, allowing friends or families to bat against each other in a safe and fun game bar environment.

You take it in turns to enter a cage and hit the balls propelled from a machine, while computer technology measures your strike rate and speed. As novices, Rosie and I started slowly but soon picked up the knack and loved the competitive yet relaxed feel to it. Elsewhere, shuffleboard, table tennis, and electronic basketball provided a change of pace – as did the pizza and drinks that are available alongside the action (tip: the dark ‘n’ stormy rum cocktails are out of this world).

No curveballs here – as far as I’m concerned, Southampton has all the bases covered.

GET THERE

A return from London Waterloo to Southampton costs from £44 with South Western Railway. For discounts on food, theatre, and attractions when you travel on their network, check out swr-rewards.com.

BOOK IT

B&B for two in a twin or double room at the voco Southampton starts at £115 per night. See vocohotels.com/southampton.

Regulations surrounding the carriage of liquids on aircrafts have changed and there are two main alterations to the 100ml rule at UK airports.

Regulations surrounding carrying liquids at airports have been changing recently and it’s important to know where you stand because different airports have different rules.

Multiple British airports have relaxed the stringent 100ml liquid restriction, with Britain’s busiest airport, London Heathrow, the latest to confirm the significant update on January 23, 2026. The modification has been made possible through newly installed computed tomography (CT) scanners which give security personnel detailed 3D imagery of luggage, enabling passengers to keep liquids of up to two litres in their bags during security checks.

This recent development at Heathrow represents the final stage of its £1 billion security transformation that’s been underway over recent years. Furthermore, travellers no longer need to take out laptops, tablets, and liquids from their hand luggage at Heathrow, where the advanced scanners are now in operation.

A statement released by Heathrow on the same day said: “Passengers travelling through all terminals at Heathrow no longer need to remove liquids or electronics from their hand luggage, or juggle plastic bags at security. The UK’s hub has become the largest airport in the world to fully roll out next-generation CT (computed tomography) security scanners – a move that promises faster queues, less stress and a smoother start to journeys for millions of travellers.”

These new rules for carrying liquids at UK airports began to take effect on July 17, 2025. The two main changes mean:

• Travellers can now carry up to two litres in their hand luggage
• Passengers no longer need to separate them into a clear plastic bag when passing through security.

All UK airports, including Heathrow, were mandated to install new CT scanners by summer 2025, enabling passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids in their cabin bags and keep all electronic devices in their hand luggage. However, not all airports have made the changes in that timeframe.

In fact, 2019 saw Boris Johnson vow that the liquid rules at major UK airports would ease by 2022, which would allow passengers to carry larger quantities. Rishi Sunak’s government then extended that deadline to June 1, 2024.

From summer 2025 onwards, individual airports that pass Department for Transport (DfT) inspections have been permitted to ease the 100ml restriction.

UK airports that have ditched the 100ml rule

• Belfast International
• Belfast City
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• Edinburgh
• London Gatwick
• London Heathrow

The switch hasn’t been rolled out at every UK airport, with some still enforcing the 100ml limit or less. Certain airports also require liquids to be taken out and placed in a clear plastic bag during security checks.

UK airports that still require you to remove liquids over 100ml

• Aberdeen
• Bournemouth
• Cardiff
• East Midlands
• Glasgow International
• Glasgow Prestwick
• Inverness
• Isle of Man
• Leeds Bradford
• Liverpool
• Luton
• London City Airport
• Manchester
• Newcastle
• Newquay
• Norwich
• Southampton
• Southend
• Stansted
• Teesside

Exemptions apply for essential medicines, baby food or milk, and special dietary requirements.

It’s crucial to verify your airport’s requirements before travelling, especially ahead of the February half-term, to prevent delays or having liquid items seized at security.

A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: “Airports are responsible for the installation and operation of security equipment. Passengers should continue to check security requirements with airports before they travel and come prepared with liquids in containers no larger than 100ml in hand baggage unless advised otherwise.”

Why did the 100ml liquid ban come into force?

The 100ml liquid ban and other rules surrounding liquids in airports were introduced worldwide almost overnight, in August 2006. The aviation sector and travellers woke up to the news that airport authorities had foiled an attempted terrorist conspiracy to destroy transatlantic flights travelling from Heathrow to North America.

The suspects allegedly planned to smuggle the components for homemade explosive devices onto multiple aircrafts, which would be concealed in soft drink bottles. While a massive tragedy was stopped from occurring in 2006, it also meant that the aviation industry was changed forever.

Full list of items you can’t take through UK security

• Bleach
• Catapults
• Compressed gas
• Corrosives
• Creosote, quicklime, oiled paper
• Crossbows
• Darts
• Diving equipment – check with your airline
• Explosives ammunition, detonators and related equipment
• Firearms (including replicas)
• Fireworks and pyrotechnics
• Flammables (fire lighter, lighter fuel, paints, thinners)
• Golf clubs
• Harpoon or spear guns
• Heavy bats and sticks (including baseball, softball and cricket bats)
• Ignitable gas devices
• Incapacitating sprays
• Infectious substances (e.g. live virus materials)
• Instruments containing magnets
• Liquids and gels – with certain restrictions
• Magnetrons. Instruments containing mercury
• Martial arts equipment (including knuckledusters, clubs, coshes, rice flails and nunchuks)
• Non-safety matches
• Oxidisers
• Poisons, arsenic, cyanide, weedkiller
• Radioactive materials, acids, corrosives, alkalis, caustic soda
• Sharp items (including scissors with blades over six inches)
• Smoke canisters and smoke cartridges
• Toxic
• Vehicle fuel system components which have contained fuel
• Walking / hiking poles
• Wet-cell car batteries

Voters in Japan are casting their ballots in a parliamentary election expected to deliver a resounding victory for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s conservative coalition.

The snap vote on Sunday comes as Takaichi seeks a new mandate to push through an ambitious agenda, including increased defence spending and tougher immigration measures.

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The coalition of Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, could win more than 300 of the 465 seats in the lower house of parliament, according to multiple opinion polls.

The figure would mark a substantial gain from ⁠the 233 it is defending.

The opposition, despite the formation of a new centrist alliance and a rising far-right, is seen as too splintered to be a real challenger.

Takaichi, 64, is Japan’s first female prime minister and took office in October after being selected as the LDP’s leader. The ultraconservative politician has pledged to “work, work, work”, and her style – seen as both playful and tough – has resonated with younger voters.

She has said she will step down if the LDP fails to win a majority.

Rising cost of living

Voters on Sunday will select lawmakers in 289 single-seat constituencies, with the remainder decided by proportional representation votes for parties. Polls close at 8pm local time (11:00 GMT), when broadcasters are expected to issue projections based on exit polls.

The rising cost of living has taken centre stage in the election.

The issue is voters’ main concern, with prices rising while real wage growth lags behind inflation, leaving households worse off. Japan also faces longstanding problems with sluggish economic growth. The economy expanded just 1.1 percent last year and is on track to grow by only 0.7 percent in 2026, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Takaichi has promised to suspend the 8 percent sales tax on food for two years to help households cope with rising prices.

The pledge follows the approval last year of Japan’s largest stimulus package since the COVID-19 pandemic, a 21.3 trillion yen ($136bn) injection into the economy, heavily focused on cost-of-living relief measures, including energy bill subsidies, cash handouts and food vouchers.

Takaichi has also promised to revise security and defence policies by December to bolster Japan’s offensive military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from the country’s post-war pacifist principles. She has been pushing for tougher immigration policies, including stricter requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on foreign residents.

Al Jazeera’s Patrick Fok, reporting from Tokyo, said Takaichi, who is favoured by a majority of voters under the age of 30, is hoping to capitalise on her “tremendous popularity” and secure a landslide victory for her coalition.

“That result – if indeed that’s how it turns out – will mark a remarkable turnaround, really, for the LDP. Months ago, it was a party in disarray. It had lost its parliamentary majority and was embroiled in a slush fund scandal. So, this turnaround has very much been engineered by Takaichi and what some describe as an almost cult-like popularity,” Fok said.

Sunday’s vote comes amid record snowfall in parts of the country. With up to 70cm (27.5 inches) of snow forecast in northern and eastern regions, some voters will have to battle blizzards to cast their ballots. The election is only the third post-war vote held in February, with polls typically called during milder months.

Fok said the heavy snowfall could affect voter turnout, but “there’s no suggestion that’s going to impact the outcome of the election”.

“A lot of people feel that the opposition parties are not offering anything substantially different. And perhaps they feel that Takaichi’s economic agenda will boost the country in the long term,” he said.

“She has a growth-oriented strategy. She wants to develop sectors like AI and semiconductors, and accelerate defence spending. Voters are perhaps betting on that unlocking the keys to stagnant wage growth in this country, and in turn, [to] counter rising inflation that they are experiencing here.”

Foreign policy

A landslide win for Takaichi’s coalition would also likely prompt a shift in foreign policy.

“It will allow her to do two fundamentally important things,” said Stephen Nagy, a professor of politics and international studies at the International Christian University.

“The first thing is to invest in the Japan-United States alliance, tighten its partnership, and secure that relationship,” he told Al Jazeera. “Second, it will allow her to take a more realistic approach to China by balancing engagement through trade and trying to deal with regional challenges, such as terrorism or climate change, and also resilience and deterrence policy.”

Nagy noted that Takaichi received the endorsement of US President Donald Trump on Thursday and called the move a “mixed blessing”.

On one hand, the Japanese public has been worried about Trump’s tariffs and his overtures to China.

“If he is going to create a G-2 relationship with China, this is going to come at the expense of Japan’s security and ordinary citizens’ idea of security in the region,” Nagy said.

On the other hand, the Trump endorsement helps because the Japanese public “are used to the strongest and most robust Japan-US alliance over the past 80 years” and believe that Takaichi will bring stability and forge a stronger relationship with Washington, he said.

No single party is expected to secure a clear majority in Sunday’s vote, raising the spectre of political instability.

Polls have opened in Thailand in a closely watched general election, with progressive reformers, military-backed conservatives and populist forces vying for control.

Polling stations opened at 8am local time (01:00 GMT) on Sunday and were set to close at 5pm (10:00 GMT).

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More than 2.2 million voters had already cast ballots during an early voting period that began on February 1, according to the Election Commission.

The battle for support from Thailand’s 53 million registered voters comes against a backdrop of slow economic growth and heightened nationalist sentiment.

While more than 50 parties are contesting the polls, only three – the People’s Party, Bhumjaithai, and Pheu Thai – have the nationwide organisation and popularity to gain a winning mandate.

With 500 parliamentary seats at stake and surveys consistently showing no party likely to win an outright majority, coalition negotiations appear inevitable. A simple majority of elected lawmakers will select the next prime minister.

The progressive People’s Party, led by Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, is favoured to win the most seats. But the party’s reformist platform, which includes promises to curb the influence of the military and the courts, as well as breaking up economic polices, remains unpalatable to its rivals, who may freeze it out by joining forces to form a government.

The party is the successor to the Move Forward Party, which won the most seats in the House of Representatives in 2023, but was blocked from power by a military appointed Senate and later dissolved by the Constitutional Court over its call to reform Thailand’s strict royal insult laws.

The Bhumjaithai, headed by caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is seen as the main defender and preferred choice of the royalist-military establishment.

Anutin has only been the prime minister since last September, after serving in the Cabinet of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was forced out of office for an ethics violation regarding the mishandling of relations with Cambodia. Anutin dissolved parliament in December to call a new election after he was threatened with a no-confidence vote.

He has centred his campaign on economic stimulus and national security, tapping into nationalist fervour stoked by deadly border clashes with neighbouring Cambodia.

The third major contender, Pheu Thai, represents the latest incarnation of political movements backed by jailed former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and trades on the populist policies of the Thai Rak Thai party, which held power from 2001 until 2006, when it was ousted by a military coup.

The party has campaigned on economic revival and populist pledges like cash handouts, nominating Thaksin’s nephew, Yodchanan Wongsawat, as its lead candidate for prime minister.

Sunday’s voting also includes a referendum asking voters whether Thailand should replace its 2017 military-drafted constitution.

Pro-democracy groups view a new charter as a critical step towards reducing the influence of unelected institutions, such as the military and judiciary, while conservatives warn that it could lead to instability.

SAVANNAH Guthrie has said she will agree to pay a ransom to the people who are believed to have kidnapped her 84-year-old mom.

The Today Show host filmed a video pleading with Nancy’s suspected captors to return her safely after alleged ransom notes were uncovered.

Nancy’s three children held hands as Savannah made the announcement alongside sister Annie and brother Camron.

She said in the short video: “We received your message, and we understand.

“We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her.

“This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

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What we know about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance…

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No other details about the ransom were mentioned and it remains unclear if the Guthrie family have been in contact with the suspected kidnappers.

It comes after the alleged captors behind Nancy’s abduction reportedly issued two stern deadline demands.

The first deadline was set for 5pm on Thursday with the demands not met.

Snippets of the alleged ransom note have been reported by various news outlets in recent days.

The letter is said to have demanded millions of dollars in cryptocurrency be transferred to a Bitcoin address.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the Bitcoin address provided in the letter is active.

FBI special agent Heith Janke told reporters on Thursday that authorities had reason to believe the note was legitimate.

It contained details about the crime scene, including what Nancy was last wearing as well as mentions of a flood light that activated on the property.

Authorities said the note contained information “only the abductors would know”.

Agent Janke added that there was an additional demand with a deadline set for February 9.

This was described by TMZ as being “much more serious”.

Arizona cops and the FBI are still searching for any signs of Nancy as they continue to build up their case on her disappearance.

US President Donald Trump revealed that the FBI have some “very strong” clues in the search for the missing mom.

When asked what the clues would help with, Trump replied: “I’m not talking about a search. I’m talking about a solution.”

Cops were seen swarming Nancy’s Arizona home on Friday as they seized a car and camera wired to the roof.

FBI agents confiscated an SUV from the property where Guthrie is believed to have been kidnapped sometime between Saturday night and Sunday morning.

A tow truck removed the blue Subaru SUV from her home before cops escorted it to an impound lot near Pima County Sheriff’s Office, according to Fox News.

Investigators did not share why the vehicle had been seized from the property on their third visit to the crime scene.

Forensic teams were also seen scouring the roof of the Tucson property to retrieve the camera that had been missed in several previous searches.

Blood drops were also found on Nancy’s front step, but detectives have not confirmed who the blood belongs to.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has stated the force believes the 84-year-old is “still alive”.

A reward of $50,00 is being offered for any information leading to a breakthrough in the case.

It comes as a man behind fake ransom note texts to the missing woman’s desperate family has been arrested.

Derrick Callella from California was arrested and charged for sending fake text messages demanding payments and making phone calls to Nancy’s family.

Feb. 7 (UPI) — Investigators arrested four suspects, including the alleged mastermind, in Friday’s mosque bombing that killed 31 and injured 169 in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Among the suspects is an Afghan national thought to be the bombing’s mastermind, Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told media.

The four suspects killed a counterterrorism officer and wounded three others during raids on their respective locations, Naqvi said.

The bombing happened during Friday prayers at a Shiite mosque in the Tarlai area of Islamabad, and the Islamic State claimed responsibility.

A suicide bomber entered the mosque and detonated an explosives-laden vest while the mosque was full of worshipers, The New York Times reported.

Pakistani officials on Friday said the suicide bomber was not from Afghanistan but had traveled to the country several times.

The attack is the deadliest carried out in Pakistan’s capital city in more than 10 years, and large crowds gathered in Islamabad on Saturday as mourners began preparing for funerals.

Naqvi claimed India funded those who carried out the attack, but India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the accusation “baseless” and condemned the attack.

Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Friday said the Afghan government might have had a role in the bombing.

Officials in Afghanistan said the accusation lacks “credible evidence” and called it “regrettable.”

A November attack in Islamabad killed 12 and injured 27, and Friday’s attack happened after a series of attacks in Balochistan killed 58 during several days of violence.

The separatist Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Pakistani forces killed an estimated 200 BLA militants in retaliatory raids.

Every year, Brits end up stranded at the airport due to issues with their passports but you can make sure you’re not one of them by making these 6 vital checks now

There’s nothing quite like that holiday excitement as you arrive at the airport, ready to jetset off somewhere sunny and get a well-deserved week or two off. However, every year thousands of Brits get caught out with documents that are invalid; and it means their trip gets cut short.

Not only can you be denied boarding on your flight, but your travel insurance is unlikely to cover the costs if you can’t travel because of invalid documents including your passport.

Luckily, we’re here to help as we’ve rounded up six vital passport checks to do now, so if there’s anything amiss you have plenty of time to get it fixed ahead of the summer (and avoid the pre-summer rush that the Passport Office always faces).

Check out our top tips below…

1. Validity duration

This one often catches holidaymakers out. When travelling to the EU, Brits need passports with at least three months validity, and the key thing to remember is this is based on your return date, not your departure. For example, if you’re on holiday from July 25 to August 1, your passport will need to be valid until at least November 1 2026.

Some countries such as Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore require six months of validity, so always check before you book your trip.

It’s also worth remembering that child passports only last for five years, not ten, so for those travelling with kids these checks are especially important.

2. The 10 year rule

The ’10 year rule’ often catches Brits out at the airport. Pre-Brexit, passports that were renewed before expiry could carry over a certain amount of validity. This meant some passports issued before September 2018 were valid for as long as ten years and nine months. Passports issued after this date are valid for ten years only.

However, since Britain has left the EU, UK passport holders are now classed as third-country nationals, meaning all passports must be issued less than 10 years before your departure date. This means some holidaymakers with older passports are being caught out, as while they may have enough validity on their passport, the document could be over ten years old.

If your passport will be passing the ten year mark soon, make sure you get it renewed before you go.

3. Damage

Even minor damage to a passport can see you denied boarding. According to the Passport Office, a passport is considered damaged if:

• you cannot read any of your details
• any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
• there are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
• the cover is coming away
• there are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

You can replace a damaged passport online at a cost of £94.50 for adults. While this might sound pricey, it’s often cheaper than the expenses that come with being denied boarding. Keep your passport in a plastic wallet to protect it from damage.

4. Number of blank pages

With many countries moving away from manual stamps and onto more sophisticated processes such as the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), you might assume that you don’t need to check the number of pages left in your passport.

However, most countries still require a certain amount of blank space, and many EU countries are still making the switch to EES, so Brits may find they still need to get their passport stamped. EU destinations including Germany, Italy, and Belgium require two blank pages for stamps, some long haul destinations in Africa ask for four, while Nambia holds the record with visitors asked to present six blank pages.

A standard adult passport comes with 34 blank pages, but frequent travellers can opt for a 54-page passport which costs £107.50 instead of the standard £94.50 fee.

5. Signature

It’s something most of us forget to do when a new passport arrives, but make sure you sign it. An unsigned passport can be rejected as invalid, and it takes just a couple of seconds to do.

While it’s not a legal requirement, take some time to fill in your emergency contacts too. This is important in case of an accident, and could also be useful if your passport gets recovered after being lost or stolen.

READ MORE: Cheapest dates to travel during the 6-week summer holidays – including ‘golden’ weekREAD MORE: EasyJet, Jet2 and BA cabin bag rules as big Ryanair change kicks in ahead of half term

6. Correct passport

It may sound obvious, but it’s easy to accidentally pick up the wrong passport and not realise until your train is halfway to the airport. A quick check before you leave could save a lot of hassle.

When you renew your passport and the old one is returned, consider shredding and disposing of the expired document. Never store your old passport alongside the new one, otherwise this could lead to a costly mix-up when you head out to catch your flight.

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

The opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Friday was marked by audible boos from the crowd as delegations from the US and Israel entered the San Siro stadium, Anadolu reports.

US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio led the American delegation.

As Vance appeared on the stadium’s big screen, waving the US flag, the crowd responded with jeers, according to live coverage of the event.

“There is the Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha. Oops — those are a lot of boos for him,” an announcer was heard saying during the broadcast.

The reaction followed days of tension surrounding the participation of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Olympic security.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the presence of Homeland Security Investigations personnel in Milan, prompting widespread protests and opposition from Italian lawmakers and citizens.

READ: Israel’s Netanyahu again dodges responsibility for Oct. 7 failures, blames army, past governments

“They’re not welcome in Milan,” said Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala in a radio interview, calling ICE a “militia that kills.”

Thousands gathered in Piazza 25 Aprile last weekend to demonstrate against the agents’ presence and raise concerns about civil rights violations.

International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry responded to concerns ahead of the ceremony, saying: “I hope that the opening ceremony is seen by everyone as an opportunity to be respectful of each other.”

The Israeli delegation, which included nine Olympians and one Paralympian, also faced a “smattering of boos” as they entered the stadium, though the crowd noise was largely drowned out by music.

Additional protests were reported in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Predazzo, where simultaneous parades were held.

Security remains a top concern for several delegations, with increased attention to political sensitivities throughout the Games.

More than 800 athletes have been killed in Gaza since the start of Israel’s offensive on Oct. 7, 2023, as the sports community continues to suffer under bombardment, famine, and the collapse of infrastructure, according to Palestinian officials.

READ: US lawmaker calls for halt to weapons transfers to Israel amid Gaza violence

Brad Arnold, the 47-year-old cofounder and lead singer of the Mississippi rock band 3 Doors Down, died Saturday, nine months after revealing a diagnosis of kidney cancer.

The band announced Arnold’s death in a social media post, which said he had “helped redefine mainstream rock music, blending post-grunge accessibility with emotionally direct songwriting.”

In May 2025, Arnold announced that the band would be canceling its summer tour because he had advanced-stage kidney cancer that has spread to his lungs.

“That’s not real good,” he said of his diagnosis. “But you know what? We serve a mighty God, and He can overcome anything. So I have no fear. I really sincerely am not scared of it at all.” He added, “I’d love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get.”

He was public about his battle with alcoholism. He said he started drinking in his teens, an addiction fueled by the pressure of stepping on a tour bus at 20 years old.

“It’s just a lot to hand a 20 year old,” he told a Christian podcaster. He thanked religion for his sobriety and took to proclaiming his faith on stage.

Born in Escatawpa, Mississippi in Sept. 1978, Arnold formed the band with friends Todd Harrell and Matt Roberts in the mid-1990s.

As a 15-year-old in algebra class, he wrote the song “Kryptonite,” drumming out the beat on his desk.

“I used to be our drummer,” he told the lead vocalist of the band Candlebox in an interview. “I only became the singer because we didn’t have a singer. That beat just came from just sitting on a desk. I probably wrote that song in the length of time that it took to me to just to write it down. It really was just one of those that kind of fell out of the sky.”

It became the band’s breakout hit in 2000 and earned a Grammy nomination.

“The Better Life,” the first of the band’s six albums, sold more than 6 million copies, and the 2005 album “Seventeen Days” entered the national charts at No. 1. That year, reviewing a Los Angeles performance, a critic noted Arnold’s “heartland drawl” and sleeveless denim shirt, calling him “less punk than Springsteen.”

The band released its final album, “Us And The Night,” in 2016. The following year, the band played at the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Arnold is survived by his wife, Jennifer.

Match of the Day pundit and former England captain Alan Shearer explains how West Ham were able to “play on the front foot” and pressurise Burnley’s defence in their 2-0 win at Turf Moor.

MATCH REPORT: Premier League – Burnley 0-2 West Ham United

Available to UK users only.

Feb. 7 (UPI) — Federal health officials reported 145 new measles cases amid outbreaks across 20 states over the past week, raising the nation’s total to 733 so far this year.

South Carolina, by far, has recorded the most measles cases among states this year after an outbreak began in the fall and has reported a total of 920 confirmed cases since then — including 44 new ones during the past week.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the nation totaled 733 cases for the year as of Thursday, including 727 across 20 states. Another six cases were confirmed among international travelers.

The majority of cases, 671, or 92%, are linked to outbreaks that began in 2025 and have continued into 2026. Another nine cases are associated with new outbreaks reported so far in 2026.

The number of cases this year is much lower than the 2,276 cases reported across 45 states in 2025, but the number could top last year’s total if the infection rates continue throughout the year.

“Because it’s such an infectious virus, whenever you see measles outbreaks, it highlights areas of the country or communities in which vaccination rates are low,” Dr. Demetre Daskalakis told ABC News. Daskalakis formerly led the CDC’s disease-tracking unit.

In addition to South Carolina, cases have been reported in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.

The United States in 2000 declared measles had been eradicated, but recent outbreaks among international travelers and the unvaccinated, plus this year’s rapid start, likely will end that designation.

Before 2025, the country averaged 180 measles cases per year, but the 2026 numbers already are more than four times that number.

Infants, children and teens account for the majority of cases, 203 among those under age 5 and 417 among those from ages 5 through 19, the combined total of which accounts for 85% of all cases.

Those ages 20 and over account for 92 and 13% of cases, and another 21 cases, 3% are among unknown ages.

Vaccination status plays an even greater role than age in the current measles outbreak.

Those who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown account for 689 cases — equal to 94% — so far this year.

Patients who have received just one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine account for another 14 cases, which is equal to 2%, while those who are fully vaccinated account for 30 cases and 4% of the current total. Those percentages are about the same as in 2025.

So far this year, 23 people have been hospitalized, which is equal to 3% of all cases, and no deaths have been reported so far this year.

Move comes after council tried to oust PM Fils-Aime and the US recently deployed warship to waters near Haiti’s capital.

Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council has handed power to US-backed Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime after almost two years of tumultuous governance marked by rampant gang violence that has left thousands dead.

The transfer of power between the nine-member transitional council and 54-year-old businessman Fils-Aime took place on Saturday under tight security, given Haiti’s unstable political climate.

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“Mr Prime Minister, in this historic moment, I know that you are gauging the depth of the responsibility you are taking on for the country,” council President Laurent Saint-Cyr told Fils-Aime, who is now the country’s only politician with executive power.

In late January, several members of the council said they were seeking to remove Fils-Aime, leading the United States to announce visa revocations for four unidentified council members and a cabinet minister.

Days before the council was dissolved, the US deployed a warship and two US coastguard boats to waters near Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, where gangs control 90 percent of the territory.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed “the importance” of Fils-Aime’s continued tenure “to combat terrorist gangs and stabilise the island”.

The council’s plan to oust Fils-Aime for reasons not made public appeared to fall to the wayside as it stepped down in an official ceremony on Saturday.

Fils-Aime now faces the daunting task of organising the first general elections in a decade.

Election this year unlikely

The Transitional Presidential Council was established in 2024 as the country’s top executive body, a response to a political crisis stretching back to the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

It quickly devolved into infighting, questions over its membership, and allegations of corruption falling overwhelmingly short of its mission to quell gang violence and improve life for Haitians.

Just six months after being formed, the body removed Prime Minister Garry Conille, selecting Fils-Aime as his replacement.

Despite being tasked with developing a framework for federal elections, the council ended up postponing a planned series of votes that would have selected a new president by February.

Tentative dates were announced for August and December, but many believe it is unlikely an election and a run-off will be held this year.

Last year, gangs killed nearly 6,000 people in Haiti, according to the United Nations. About 1.4 million people, or 10 percent of the population, have been displaced by the violence.

The UN approved an international security force to help police restore security, but more than two years later, fewer than 1,000 of the intended troops – mostly Kenyan police – have been deployed. The UN says it aims to have 5,500 troops in the country by the middle of the year, or by November at the latest.

John Mayer calls it “adult day care”: the historic recording studio behind the arched gates on La Brea Avenue where famous musicians have been keeping themselves — and one another — creatively occupied since the mid-1960s. Known for decades as Henson Studios — and as A&M Studios before that — the 3-acre complex in the heart of Hollywood has played host to the creation of some of music’s most celebrated records, among them Carole King’s “Tapestry,” Joni Mitchell’s “Blue,” Guns N’ Roses’ “Use Your Illusion” and D’Angelo’s “Black Messiah.” Charlie Chaplin, who was born in London, began building the lot in 1917 in a white-and-brown English Tudor style; he went on to direct some of his best-known films, including “Modern Times” and “The Great Dictator,” on the property. In 1966, Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss bought the place and made it the base for their A&M Records; they converted two of the lot’s soundstages into high-end recording studios that drew the likes of Sergio Mendes, the Carpenters, Stevie Nicks, U2 and John Lennon.

In 1985, A&M’s parquet-floored Studio A was where Quincy Jones gathered the all-star congregation that recorded “We Are the World” in a marathon overnight session; in 2014, Daft Punk evoked the studios’ wood-paneled splendor in a performance of “Get Lucky” with Stevie Wonder at the 56th Grammy Awards.

Now, with an eye on preserving the spot at a moment of widespread upheaval in the entertainment industry, Mayer and his business partner, the filmmaker McG, have finalized a purchase of the lot, which they bought for $44 million from the family of the late Muppets creator Jim Henson and which they’ve renamed Chaplin Studios in honor of the silent-film giant who broke ground on it more than a century ago.

TWO adults-only escapes in the Mediterranean – but which will you choose?

Take your pick from Barceló Hamilton Menorca and Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort, Crete.

Barceló Hamilton Menorca 

Associate Editor Sarah Barns and friends found cool culture and a brill bar scene in the Balearics. 

The Pad: Set in the charming port town of Es Castell, a speedy 15-minute drive from Menorca airport, the star of this place is the rooftop sun terrace, with its gorgeous 360-degree views of Mahón Bay and six hot tubs. 

It’s the perfect spot for sipping refreshing pomadas – the island’s signature slushy cocktail, made with Xoriguer gin and cloudy lemonade, £8. 

You’ll also find two outdoor pools and a well-equipped gym, and while modern double rooms are compact, most have a balcony overlooking the Med, so keep an eye out for celebs on their superyachts! 

Explore: Want to stay local? Take a stroll to the picturesque harbour at Cales Fonts.

But sundowners at the iconic Cova d’en Xoroi, a dramatic cave bar perched on the cliffs famous for its Ibiza-style chillout tunes and breathtaking views, are well worth the 30-minute taxi ride and £12 entry (Covadenxoroi.com).  

Meanwhile, Ciutadella, Menorca’s historic former capital on the isle’s west coast, makes for a great day trip.

Potter around the narrow, medieval streets, lively market square (stopping to sample the delicious Mahón cheese) and Gothic cathedral. Grab pastisset – flower-shaped, shortbread-like cookies – and pop into Atelier Ansa per Ansa to admire the handbag brand loved by Spain’s Queen Letizia (Ansaperansa.com).  

Elsewhere, along the northern coastline you’ll find the North Menorca Marine Reserve, a protected area home to hidden coves and crystal-clear sea ideal for snorkelling, as well as the Cap de Cavalleria lighthouse. 

Refuel: Nestled among olive trees, the terrace at nearby Torralbenc was made for balmy evenings (Torralbenc.com).

Expect locally sourced, regional favourites, including ceviche, £23, spider crab stew, £24.50, and Mahón cheesecake, £16.

For a more rustic affair, head to Arjau Restaurant in Maó’s harbour for small plates, including Iberico flatbread, £15.50, rice with chicken, £19.50, and tiramisu, £6 (Arjaumao.com).

After exploring the northern coast, the fideua at Casa Emilio in the fishing town of Fornells is not to be missed. 

It’s a traditional, one-pan paella-like dish with thin noodles instead of rice, bursting with monkfish, cuttlefish and crayfish, £23.50 (Casaemiliofornells.com).  

Don’t Miss: Illa del Rei, a small, pretty island in Mahón harbour, is home to the art gallery Hauser & Wirth Menorca with shows from both local and international artists. Even better, there’s a free water-taxi service (Hauserwirth.com).  

Book It: Double rooms at Barceló Hamilton Menorca cost from £89 per night.

EasyJet now offers year-round flights to Menorca, from £23.99 each way (Easyjet.com). 

Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort, Crete 

Fashion Editor Abby McHale and boyfriend Andy sought out R&R in the fishing village of Kolymbari. 

The Pad: Grab a seafront junior suite with a shared infinity pool for picture-perfect postcard vibes.

Decorated in warm creams with a hint of blue, you’ll find a super-king bed, sofa area and dining table, so you won’t be lacking in space.

A private spot on the sandy, shingle beach is reserved just for Grand Bay guests, and a 60-minute body-detox massage using reflexology points and essential oils in the spa, for a £10.50 supplement, hits the spot.

The buffet may not be the most varied, but rooftop a la carte restaurant Azzuro serves up fab Greek classics like keftedes and moussaka for dinner, before the evening entertainment – think everything from a violinist to a DJ – hit the terrace. Oh, and bartender Andreas makes a mean tequila sunrise, too. 

Explore: In Kolymbari itself, stroll to the tranquil Odigitria Gonia Monastery, £2.60 entry, and snap the stunning sea vistas.

Handily, the bus from right outside the hotel takes you to the ancient city of Chania, £3 for the 30-minute ride.

Wander down to its 16th-century lighthouse for panoramic views of a city built by the Venetians, then explore the narrow streets of the Old Town packed with handmade pottery and woven basket bags – Melody Ceramics was our fave find (@Melodyceramics).

Later, seek out the Rat Race Taproom, a craft-beer bar with arcade games, and order the tropical Welcome Abroad IPA, £6 (Rat-race.gr). 

Refuel: If you stay all-inclusive-plus, you don’t need to eat out. But dining in candlelight with the sound of waves and Zorba‘s Dance played on an accordion at chic Palio Arhontiko restaurant makes for a great date night just a short stroll from the hotel.

The seafood pasta is stuffed with mussels, clams and prawns, £19.50, and the lamb orzo comes with the meat still on the bone, £25.

A glass of Greek rosé, £7, will seal the deal (Palioarhontiko.gr).

Meanwhile, tucked away by Chania’s harbour entrance is tiny Gyros Chania, where halloumi gyros cost just £6.50, and make for a tasty lunch when day-tripping (Gyroschania.com). 

Don’t Miss: Picking up an award-winning bottle of local olive oil, £17.50, at Edia after a delicious tasting (Edia-crete.gr). 

Book it: Rooms at Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort cost from £94 B&B (Giannoulishotels.com).

Flights from the UK to Chania start from £89 return.