Turning up at the hotel check-in desk straight away might be harming your chances of getting a more premium holiday experience
Timing is everything when it comes to checking in at your hotel(Image: Getty Images)
Checking into your holiday at the earliest possible opportunity might seem like the savvy move at first, but it could be ruining your chances of getting a luxury hotel room free-of-charge. According to industry analysis from travel experts, checking-in during a specific 90-minute window could be the ultimate strategy.
Graziano Gagliardi at Private Italy Tour claims that turning up at the front desk between 4.30pm and 6pm gives reception staff a much clearer picture of the premium suites that remain available. Arriving too early, say 2pm for instance, means housekeeping is likely still preparing and cleaning rooms, which leaves workers unable to confirm what higher-tier options are unoccupied for the night.
Gagliardi said: “If standard check-in begins at 2pm or 3pm, arriving immediately may not give you the best chance of an upgrade. Housekeeping may still be preparing rooms, while reception staff may not yet know which guests are arriving, cancelling or requesting changes.
“By around 4.30pm, the hotel usually has a much clearer picture of its room availability. If a larger room, a better view or a higher category is likely to remain empty, staff may have more flexibility to offer it.”
Turning up extremely late can also backfire, he claims, particularly at smaller boutique properties that operate limited front desk hours. He said: “Turning up at 10pm without warning is not a clever upgrade trick. If you expect to arrive late, always notify the hotel in advance.”
Holidaymakers booking shorter stays of one or two nights stand a significantly higher chance of being bumped up to a better class of room. Terms outlined by major hotel chains like Hilton confirm that complimentary upgrades strictly depend on space being continuously available for the entire duration of a guest’s stay.
A similar policy is enforced by Marriott, which explicitly states that room improvements are determined upon physical arrival at the front desk. Experts warn that travellers should remain realistic, as an upgrade often means securing a quieter location, higher floor, or better balcony view rather than the top luxury suite.
To maximise your chances, Private Italy Tour recommends using a specific phrase to politely ask front desk staff without sounding overly demanding or entitled. The travel guru suggests asking: “I understand it depends entirely on availability, but if there are any complimentary upgrades available this evening, I would be very grateful to be considered.”
Joining a hotel’s free membership scheme prior to travel can also boost your odds, as many major operators prioritize enrolled guests for empty premium spaces. However, guidelines published by Hilton Honors clarify that simply signing up does not guarantee a better room without holding eligible membership status or rates.
Guests celebrating genuine milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoons are advised to notify the hotel a few days before their arrival date. Mentioning a real special occasion often encourages reception teams to offer a complimentary perk or a room improvement.
Finally, the experts strongly warn holidaymakers against manufacturing fake complaints or inventing faults with their original room just to pressure staff into moving them. Dishonesty is far more likely to harm your chances than help them, meaning a polite, well-timed request during that crucial 90-minute window remains your absolute best bet.
Setting sail from Southampton, the 98-night Fred. Olsen cruise makes more than 25 stops across the continents via vibrant cities, pristine beaches and lush rainforests
16:20, 07 Aug 2026Updated 16:20, 07 Aug 2026
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
The Borealis ship will set sail for the three-month journey in January(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
Summer holiday season often means time spent soaking up the sun in the usual haunts year after year – but holidaymakers looking to embark on a getaway with more of a wow factor can take a trip around the world from the UK in 2027. Fred. Olsen’s longest cruise available to book sets sail from Southampton this January for a “once-in-a-lifetime” voyage.
The World Cruise with Japan & Hawaii is a 98-night holiday calling at over 25 ports across the continents, from Singapore to Spain to South Africa and beyond. Setting off from the port of Southampton on January 21 and not returning until April 29, this incredible trip gives passengers the chance to skip the UK winter altogether in favour of soaking up the history, culture and scenery of more than 15 countries.
Unsurprisingly, a coveted spot aboard this adults-only cruise doesn’t come cheap, with the cheapest cabins priced from £13,999 per person. However, for those lucky enough to have the cash to spare, it’s worth bearing in mind that this works out at as little as £143 per night, with travel, accommodation and full board dining all included, plus an offer of £200 credit per cabin to spend on board.
READ MORE:
The first stops on the World Cruise with Japan & Hawaii are the bustling Portuguese capital of Lisbon and the breathtaking scenery of Madeira, before the soft white sands and crystal waters of the Caribbean beckon with visits to Barbados and Grenada. Any of these destinations would make a top-drawer holiday on their own – but on this cruise, they’re just the start of the three-month adventure.
The Borealis ship will then spend four days exploring the islands of Hawaii. With the volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches and lush rainforests providing an awe-inspiring backdrop to this section of the trip, passengers will also have the chance to embrace the spirit of Aloha at a traditional Luau, enjoying hula, music and local cuisine.
This cruise sets sail from Southampton in 2027 for a 98-night journey visiting more than 25 ports across the world.
The highlights of this cruise holiday include overnight stays in Tokyo and Osaka offering up the opportunity to experience Japan’s unique history and culture. Passengers will have the chance to immerse themselves in Japanese traditions, from tasting sake and sushi to meeting Geisha and experiencing an authentic tea ceremony.
Fred. Olsen writes of this leg of the trip: “Timed for fewer crowds and the chance to witness the beauty of the late plum blossom season (Ume), your journey through Japan allows you to explore ancient castles and temples, take in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, ride the bullet train in Osaka and enjoy our maiden call into Shimizu.”
After stops in bustling Hong Kong and Singapore, passengers can relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket and Mauritius before discovering Cape Town’s famous Table Mountain. Holidaymakers can also take the chance to experience whale watching in the Canary Islands due to their year-round warm waters, completing their epic journey around the world.
Fred. Olsen writes of the epic cruise: “This journey offers once-in-a-lifetime moments, from whale watching in the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii to witnessing Hong Kong’s iconic skyline illuminated by the Symphony of Lights.
“You’ll have the chance to visit Pearl Harbor, wander through Singapore’s futuristic Gardens by the Bay and experience the untamed beauty of South Africa, where you can seek out the ‘Big Five’ and admire the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain.”
As well as travel and accommodation, the price of a cruise also includes full board dining, from five-course à la carte dinners to afternoon tea, and selected drinks with lunch and dinner. And there’s no shortage of things to do on the ship, with the fare also including access to the swimming pools, fitness centre and classes, expert talks and lectures and a variety of other activities, as well as evening shows with live music and dancing.
For those seeking something more budget-friendly, the longest cruise on offer from fellow cruise line Ambassador is the Caribbean Sunsets and South American Secrets holiday. Sailing from London Tilbury in January 2027, this cruise currently has 30% off all cabins with prices now starting from £3,233 per person, and visits 12 countries over 45 nights, including Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Belize.
Meanwhile, TUI’s Marella Cruises is also offering last-minute summer cruise deals with flights included in their price. Among the cheapest options are the Highlights of the Mediterranean cruise, which is on offer for £944pp reduced from £1,623, and the Grecian Discovery holiday, now priced from £949pp down from £1,598.
Back with Fred. Olsen, the cruise line has earned a rating of 4.6 out of five stars on Trustpilot based on nearly 15,000 reviews, ranking it among the top-rated cruise companies operating in the UK. One passenger wrote: “We have just booked a second world cruise for 2028. We loved our previous cruises , one world, one Mediterranean on Borealis.”
They continued: “It’s a lovely ship which feels like home to us now because of the wonderful staff who can’t do enough for you. The food is great and we enjoyed so many of the facilities, shows, quizzes, the lectures, the classical recitals and the choir. Looking forward to 2028 and hope to see some of the friends we have made on past cruises.”
Another reviewer praised: “Everything was perfect! The cabin, the staff, the food were all impeccable. We’re already planning on taking their world cruise and have already booked another cruise with them in two months.”
And a third customer echoed: “Fantastic trip to and from the Antarctic on the Borealis. Excellent ship, brilliant crew and marvellous itinerary. Already really looking forward to next year’s world cruise.”
Some felt that the facilities on board had room for improvement, with one person feeding back: “The wine that was included in our freedom fare was OK but maybe a couple of choices of each varietal would have been nice.”
While a different person fed back: “Just love Fred. Olsen ships, the staff are brilliant. Food good but could be better vegetarian options.”
People holidaying in France might bring this keepsake home without thinking twice
The beach of Longchamp situated between the towns of Saint Lunaire and Saint Briac sur Mer in France(Image: Bastien Ohier / Hans Lucas)
It may seem like a harmless memento to slip into your suitcase before heading home, but one common holiday habit could end up proving very expensive. Beach holidays are hugely popular, and while many travellers like to collect natural souvenirs as keepsakes or gifts, doing so in France could land them with a fine of up to €1,500 – which is around £1,300.
The little-known rule applies to natural materials including sea shells, pebbles and sand collected from French beaches. While many holidaymakers think nothing of taking home a small reminder of their trip, doing so is prohibited under French environmental laws designed to protect the country’s coastline.
Authorities say taking such items from beaches contributes to coastal erosion and can damage fragile ecosystems. Shells provide shelter for small marine creatures, while pebbles and sand play an important role in maintaining the stability of beaches.
France is home to more than 5,500 kilometres of mainland coastline and thousands of beaches stretching from the English Channel and Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. According to Atout France, the country’s official tourism development agency, its coastline attracts millions of visitors every year, making conservation efforts increasingly important.
The restrictions form part of France’s Environmental Code (Code de l’environnement), which protects the country’s natural coastal heritage. Anyone caught removing these materials without authorisation can face fines of up to €1,500, depending on the circumstances.
Environmental experts say the impact of individual tourists taking just a handful of sand or shells can quickly add up when millions of people visit beaches each year. According to the European Environment Agency, coastal erosion is already affecting many parts of Europe’s shoreline because of a combination of natural processes and human activity.
France remains one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, welcoming millions of international visitors every year. Many head to coastal hotspots along the French Riviera, Normandy and the Atlantic coast, where authorities encourage people to leave beaches exactly as they found them.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises travellers to familiarise themselves with local laws before visiting overseas destinations. Even seemingly harmless actions can carry penalties if they breach environmental regulations.
Holidaymakers planning a trip to France are therefore encouraged to resist the temptation to pocket shells, pebbles or sand as souvenirs. Taking photographs instead is a simple way to preserve memories without risking an expensive fine or harming the environment.
However, some holidaymakers could face an unwelcome surprise at check-in even if their document have months to years left before it expires.
This relates to the number of blank pages remaining in a passport. While many people focus on expiry dates, some countries require visitors to have one, two or even more completely blank pages available for entry stamps or visa stickers.
Travel experts warn that passengers who fail to meet these requirements could be denied boarding by airlines or refused entry on arrival.
Airlines are often responsible for ensuring passengers meet a destination’s entry requirements and can face penalties for transporting travellers who do not qualify for entry.
According to travel guidance published by Schengen, some destinations require at least two blank passport pages for visas and border stamps. The guidance warns that airlines may refuse boarding if passengers do not have sufficient space remaining in their passport.
The requirement can catch out frequent travellers whose passports are filled with entry and exit stamps from previous trips. Experts say many people mistakenly assume a passport is suitable for travel provided it remains in date.
For travel to the Schengen Area, for instance, passport rules already require Brits to ensure their passport was issued within the previous 10 years and remains valid for at least three months after their planned departure date. Some guidance also notes that travellers may need at least two blank pages available for visas and stamps where applicable.
A recent travel warning highlighted that a lack of blank pages can become a particular issue for frequent flyers and those taking multi-country trips. Countries may require empty pages for visa stickers, while immigration officials also need room for entry and exit stamps.
Travel experts recommend checking passport validity, issue dates and the number of remaining blank pages well in advance of departure. Unlike an expired passport, extra pages cannot simply be added to a modern British passport, meaning travellers who are running out of space may need to renew the document before travelling.
According to guidance cited by travel experts, some countries require between two and four blank pages depending on the destination and visa requirements. Travellers planning complex itineraries involving multiple countries are therefore advised to check entry rules carefully before travelling.
British holidaymakers feel most like themselves on holiday according to a new study, with many saying it makes them feel 13 years younger on average.
Holidaymakers say they come back feeling younger(Image: Getty Images)
Travellers have revealed the things they only do on holiday – and many say it leaves them feeling years younger.
A study of 2,000 holidaymakers found 63% do things on a break they wouldn’t usually consider at home. Treating themselves to a daily cocktail or beer, spending money without overthinking it and making bolder clothing choices are among the top ways adults let loose.
More than a third (34%) said they are more open to trying new activities when away, with watersports, quad biking and kayaking ranking among the most popular. Other holiday staples include city walking tours, open-top bus rides and beer and wine tastings.
The research was commissioned by San Miguel, which is launching an immersive “Holiday Mirror” experience. The installation is to encourage people to hold onto that carefree holiday mindset, whatever the weather and wherever they are.
Ed Hussey, a spokesperson for the beer brand said: “Our research shows holidays give people permission to be more spontaneous, sociable and carefree.
“The recent heatwave gave us a small glimpse of what that feels like. The Holiday Mirror is designed to remind people that a Spanish summer isn’t just about sunshine abroad – it’s about mindset, spontaneity and making the most of everyday moments.”
Millennials emerged as the most adventurous, putting it down to switching off from daily chores and work emails. More than a quarter (28%) said they are more sociable on holiday as everyday stresses fade into the background, while 30% said they feel more spontaneous because they’re out of their normal routine.
Two thirds said they become the ‘best version of themselves’ when they can escape the pressures of day-to-day life – and 19% said they only feel like their ‘true self’ when they’re on holiday.
That shift can even make people feel younger. Some 16% said they feel an average of 13 years younger on holiday than their actual age. As muhch, many try to carry the feeling into everyday life.
After returning, 22% said they plan to live more in the moment, exercise more and spend more time outdoors. And simple pleasures can help recreate that carefree mindset, with 26% saying a beer in a pub garden does the trick and 31% opting to host a BBQ with friends. For 22%, even the sound of a bottle opening is enough to help them unwind.
Ed Hussey added: “People often return from summer holidays feeling like they’ve left the best version of themselves behind. We wanted to explore how people can hold onto that feeling for longer, even once they’re back home and back to routine.”
Holidaymakers could snap up bargain return flights from as low as £30 to the most popular holiday hotspots thanks to a little-known TUI Airways booking trick. The ‘insider trick’, revealed by TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, reveals how travellers can snap up last-minute flights weeks before departure which include bargain breaks across Europe and even long-haul escapes for a fraction of the usual price.
On TUI’s dedicated ‘ Cheap Flights ’ page Brits can find seats on return routes which are regularly released at heavily reduced prices in the weeks and months leading up to departure. “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats,” said Chris Logan.
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
The best deals tend to be snapped up by those who can be flexible on dates and airports, with flights leaving from more than 22 UK airports. And it’s not just quick getaways. The deals can stretch from short breaks to two-week holidays or even longer.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Right now, Brits can find deals such as:
Seven nights in Palma de Mallorca with return flights from London Gatwick from £30 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Ibiza with return flights from London Stansted from £63 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Agadir, Morocco with return flights from Newcastle from £66 per person (8 June to 15 June)
Seven nights in Tenerife with return flights from London Gatwick from £82 per person (6 June July to 13 July)
14 nights in Cancun, Mexico with return flights from Manchester from £350 per person (7 June to 21 June)
14 nights in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with return flights Manchester from £350 per person (6 June to 20 June)
Travellers looking to lock in value a little further ahead can also take advantage of TUI’s additional current flight offer. On TUI Airways bookings departing between July 2026 and April 2027, customers can receive £40 off per person which will be already applied to the flight price, offering even more ways to bring down the cost of a getaway.
