Beach

IT’S 11pm and I’m at the all-night cafe in pyjamas and slippers, unsure whether to order six or eight chocolate-chip cookies.  

The lady next to me, by contrast, is dressed in a glamorous ballgown and buying an espresso. 

Peering down into the Piazza below — my eight cookies in hand — I spy a lively crowd who are throwing their best shapes to dance music at the silent disco. 

A cruise is like no other holiday. 

While I was preparing myself for a girls’ night in, with room service and a movie, other passengers were rolling out of glitzy restaurants and heading off in search of late-night fun in the Piazza or pouring out of the theatre after another West End-style show. 

Couples were taking a stroll around the outside deck in the warm Mediterranean air and the casino’s bright lights were still drawing in crowds.

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Where else can you get such varied fun rolled into one small(ish) space? 

That’s why, when it came to deciding our girls’ trip this year, a voyage on the high seas came out on top.

My work pals and I can’t take credit for coining the girls’ trip at sea. 

More and more women are swapping long weekends sipping pina coladas in Marbella for action-packed sailings. 

And major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, have begun flogging packages designed solely for female groups — championing the on-board shopping and sleek bars and the appeal of the multiple destinations in one trip. 

Princess Cruises’ Suzanne Korff says: “It’s the ultimate girls’ trip — the perfect blend of luxury, laughter and adventure, all with incredible value.”  

It’s certainly true that cruises offer more bang for your buck — a huge perk in a time when people are more cash-strapped than ever.

My week’s Mediterranean sailing on board Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess cost my pals and I around £900 per person.

When we weren’t pounding the sunny streets of Palermo in Sicily, or gobbling up pizza in Naples, we were aboard the 21-deck ship soaking up the sun.  

That included not just our flights and cabin, but all of our food and all the entertainment — from Broadway musicals in the large theatre to Celtic bands in the traditional Irish boozer. 

When we weren’t pounding the sunny streets of Palermo in Sicily, or gobbling up pizza in Naples, we were aboard the 21-deck ship soaking up the sun.  

And there were plenty of places to gather for a good dip and gossip.

There are two sparkling pools on the Lido deck, complete with plenty of loungers, as well as a fantastic Wake View pool with infinity edge overlooking the back of the ship. 

Mixologist tricks 

For those chillier, early-morning swims, the indoor/outdoor pool in the glass-ceilinged Dome was perfect — again with plenty of places to chill with your pals. 

Those wanting to really up the ante can splash out on a suite, which will give you access to the Sanctuary Club.  

Think your ultimate Mediterranean beach club but with a chilled, tranquil atmosphere and cushioned beds and loungers, scattered between hot tubs. 

There’s also a decent-sized pool, as well as a bar that can whip up all manner of cocktails, including an excellent frozen daiquiri.

Some afternoons, a DJ or live singer appear, perfect to lull you into a serene snooze while you tan.

But the highlight of this exclusive zone is undoubtedly the prosecco wall.

Several times a day, during the afternoon, guests are encouraged to ring a large bell protruding from a plant-covered wall.

Moments later, a hand will emerge from the shrubbery, as if by magic, clutching a complimentary flute of prosecco for the bell-ringer.  

On sea days, the magical wall even serves up mimosas from 9.30am to 11am. 

Of course, drinks can be delivered directly to your sunbed. Food can be ordered anywhere within the Sanctuary Club, too, so you really needn’t lift a finger. 

But with 30 restaurants and bars on board, you would be mad not to dine around.  

Among complimentary options are Soleil and Eclipse dining areas, each serving a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner in a grand two-level setting.  

For something more casual, The Eatery is Sun Princess’ take on a buffet, where you can flit between Mexican, Italian, American and almost every other cuisine imaginable.  

Elsewhere there’s sushi, pub grub and a gelateria, all included in the price of your cruise. And that’s before you get to the specialty joints, for which guests pay extra.  

Spellbound, created in partnership with American arts venue Magic Castle, is a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar where mixologists perform tricks. 

The teppanyaki restaurant is well worth the dosh. Sat at a horseshoe-shaped bar, around a huge steel griddle, we watched as our chef turned dinner into a show — tossing eggs with a flick of his fish slice and transforming an omelette into a snake that slithered before our eyes. 

The magic did not end there, though. What makes this cruise ship truly stand out lies behind an unassuming door on the eighth deck.

Spellbound, created in partnership with American arts venue Magic Castle, is a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar where mixologists perform tricks. 

Welcomed into a cosy, low-lit room with a flickering fireplace and panelled walls covered in black-and-white photographs, we were transported back in time to the roaring Twenties.

We were listening as an ominous voice recalled the story of a family of magicians — when suddenly the wall ahead slid open, revealing a hidden bar. 

Every detail within, from paintings that follow you while you walk, to the ghost of a pianist who even takes song requests, has been carefully schemed. 

And the sorcery doesn’t end there. Smoke-billowing cocktails are accompanied by card tricks — leading up to a grand finale that will have you gasping in awe. 

Not even the sunrise view from our cabin balconies could top that magic. 

JET2 is cutting two routes from East Midlands from its summer programme.

The airline will no longer fly to a beach region in Spain and a popular Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast.

Jet2 has confirmed it is scrapping two routes from East Midlands Airport – to Costa de Almería and Split.

Jet2 said: “As a successful business, we are constantly reviewing our flying programme in response to demand. While this gives us the ability to add more award-winning flights and holidays, we may also very occasionally withdraw flights.

“Following a recent review of our flying programme from East Midlands Airport, we are making some adjustments and have taken the decision to withdraw services to Costa de Almería and Split for summer 2026.”

The route between the airport and Costa de Almería had been in operation for over five years.

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The region in Spain is known for being less touristy than the likes of the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava.

The region has wild beaches, desert-like landscapes and even mountains.

One popular spot is Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park which is known for its beautiful golden beaches and coves.

For anyone who still wants to explore Costa de Almería, easyJet still flies to Almería from Liverpool, London Gatwick and Bristol.

The other axed route is to Split which is the second-largest city of Croatia after the capital Zagreb.

Popular spots include the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Riva promenade. 

The best beaches in Split include Bačvice Beach for its proximity and sandy shore, Kasjuni Beach for its clear waters and upscale amenities, and Žnjan Beach for its popularity and family-friendly atmosphere.

During summer 2026, there will be direct flights to Split operated by Wizz Air, easyJet and British Airways from London airports, Bristol and Manchester.

The airline has also pushed back its East Midlands to Agadir service until next winter.

The journey will commence in winter 2026 with the first flight departing on October 15 – one-way flights as little as £76.

At the moment, flights are scheduled up until March 18, 2027.

Jet2 is also restarting flights to a Brit-loved holiday destination for the first time in more than a decade.

It will start flights to two destinations in Egypt, after scrapping routes back in 2011.

The Egyptian Cabinet Presidency has reported that there will be seven weekly flights to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with Jet2 from 2027.

Plus, Jet2 will launch first ever flights from major UK airport with 29 new ‘sunshine’ routes.

And hear from one man who visits Spain at least 8 times a year – how to avoid the common tourist mistakes that cost you money.

‘I never mind doing the same walk over and over again,” said our guide, Joana Almeida, crouching beside a cluster of flowers. “Each time, there are new things – these weren’t here yesterday.” Standing on stems at least two centimetres tall and starring the dirt with white petals, the fact these star of Bethlehem flowers sprung up overnight was a beautiful testament to how quickly things can grow and regenerate in this hilly, inland section of the Algarve, the national forest of Barão de São João. It was also reassuring to learn that in an area swept by forest fires in September, species such as strawberry trees (which are fire-resistant thanks to their low resin content) were beginning to bounce back – alongside highly flammable eucalyptus, which hinders other fire-retardant trees such as oak. Volunteers were being recruited to help with rewilding.

Visitor numbers to the Algarve are growing, with 2024 showing an increase of 2.6% on the previous year – but most arrivals head straight for the beach, despite there being so much more to explore. The shoreline is certainly wild and dramatic but the region is also keen to highlight the appeal of its inland areas. With the development of year-round hiking and cycling trails, plus the introduction of nature festivals, attention is being drawn to these equally compelling landscapes, featuring mountains and dense woodlands. The Algarve Walking Season (AWS) runs a series of five walking festivals with loose themes such as “water” and “archaeology” between November and April. It’s hoped they will inspire visitors year round, boosting the local economy and helping stem the tide of younger generations leaving in search of work.

Our visit to the national forest coincided with a weekend festival with the theme of “art”, focused on the white-washed village north-west of Barão de São João. As well as guided hikes, departing from the cultural centre, free events ranged from learning how to make natural coloured inks, to theatre workshops, tai chi and sketching. There were two photography exhibitions running plus several other child-friendly activities, such as leaf safaris and making bird-feeders.

Even before our drop-in afternoon screen-printing session at the cultural centre our walk into the forest with Joana had the feeling of an art trail. Marked at the start by standing stones painted with images of traditional agricultural folk, it was studded en route with smaller, permanently placed stones depicting examples of wildlife, including hedgehogs and lynxes – the latter’s population reviving, thanks to a rehabilitation centre based in the castle town of Silves.

As the trail wound up to its highest point, the menhir (standing stone) on the Pedra do Galo trail, it became more densely vegetated with the resinous scent of pine. There was a ripeness to the air and solid, amber-hued bubbles bulged from bark. Limestone glistened underfoot and tiny frogs sat by pond edges, throats pulsing. In the distance, wind turbines cartwheeled against the sky.

Francisco Simões, our guide the following day, was again keen to point out these inland areas can be explored year-round. Waymarked hikes, established in recent years, are offshoots of the Via Algarviana, a route that stretches from the border with Spain for 186 miles, all the way to the Atlantic, and many are now linked to an app that makes navigation even easier.

Francisco established ecotourism outfit Algarvian Roots in 2020 and offers experiences from birdwatching to full-day guided hikes, all with the same aims as the AWS: to promote the region by way of immersion, education and cultural awareness. The art connection is here, too – his mother, ceramicist Margarida Palma Gomes, had taught us to paint azulejos, the distinctive blue and white glazed tiles seen throughout the country, two days earlier on a festival workshop. Visits to her studio, as well as to a local potter, can also be arranged through Algarvian Roots.

After an excellent lunch of pork cheek and cabbage in A Charrette in Monchique, a pretty mountain town flanked by the Algarve’s two highest peaks, the 902-metre Fóia and 774-metre Picota, Francisco led us down steeply cobbled streets and into a side lane, where an older couple sunned themselves at the front of their home. A steep path took us into the woods, the ground strewn with acorns. Here, Francisco was eager to show us cork trees, Portugal’s national tree and legally protected since the 13th century. Not only are they naturally fire-resistant, but their pliable bark is a source of income for locals, who harvest it to sell to other industries, particularly wine making and construction. Each tree is marked with a number, denoting when it was last stripped, ensuring that the tree’s nine-year regenerative cycle is observed.

Francisco has fears for the future of the cork trees – not only are screw-tops now commonly used on wine bottles, but harvesting skills are dying out, as the next generation choose different career paths. Smiling, he urged us to do our bit for the industry by drinking generous quantities of good wine sealed with cork. We agreed, not very grudgingly, to do our best.

Earlier in the day, Francisco had shown us a wall covered in meticulously detailed azulejos depicting elements of traditional local life. One of these showed magusto, the annual festival where chestnuts are roasted on fires and shared by the community each November. This was perfect timing as, walking back into Monchique, strains of tinny, discordant music reached our ears, and a smell of smoke hung in the air. On arrival we were swept up by a multi-generational crowd, armed with cups of wine and thimblefuls of chestnut liqueur, as the nuts were roasted on glowing coals. Everyone swarmed around the firepits, brown paper bags in hand, and scooped their fill. Faces were wreathed with smiles and children shrieked excitedly; the music we’d winced at a few minutes earlier now had us dancing.

It was a joyful, authentic celebration of local life and culture. A reminder of the rewards awaiting those who leave the coast behind and head inland – regardless of the season.

The trip was provided by Visit Algarve. For more information about the Algarve Walking Season festivals and schedule of free festival events visit algarvewalkingseason.com

TUI is launching holidays to a beach city that was once the capital.

Zadar, in Croatia, was the former capital of Dalmatia, and is now a popular seaside city break.

And TUI has added Zadar to its city break programme, which will mean Brits can book hotel and flight packages with the tour operator.

The packages will include flights with easyJet and Ryanair, flying from nine airports.

This includes London Gatwick and Manchester as well as Birmingham and Edinburgh.

Trips on offer can range from three nights to 14 nights.

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While Split and Dubrovnik are some of Croatia‘s busiest cities, Zadar is also worth a visit.

Not only does it often have highs of 28C in summer, but it is cheap too – beers can be found for around £2.30.

There is also the famous Sea Organ, which plays music powers by waves as well as light shows at night.

TUI has excursions such as waking tours or trips to the nearby National Parks.

TUI’s Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “We’re excited to introduce Zadar to our growing city break programme.

“It’s a destination that truly has it all, with a stunning coastline, rich history, and authentic Croatian culture around two and a half hours from the UK.

“Whether you’re exploring the Old Town, relaxing on nearby beaches or enjoying a sunset boat tour, Zadar is the perfect choice for customers looking for an alternative spot on the Adriatic Coastline.”

Some of the holidays on offer include five night and return flights from £520.

The Sun’s Alex Goss recently visited Zadar.

He said; “For our final meal, we headed to restaurant Kornat in Zadar, one of the best in the town that offers seafront Croatian dining at its finest, with black tie service and an impeccable local wine list.

“We had seabass roll stuffed with shrimp cream, tuna steak with a spinach and wasabi sauce and beef carpaccio with homemade dough cones stuffed with cottage cheese from the island of Pag.

Just make sure you’re not too hungover to tackle Zadar’s mind-bending Museum of Illusion the next day.”

Zadar is also a great spot for island hopping across Croatia.

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There is Silba, home to just 150 people were cars are banned.

It takes three hours by ferry to reach Silba from Zadar, with tickets costing £4.

REALITY TV star Kim Kardashian takes wet-look fashion to a whole new level.

The 45-year-old went for a night-time dip in a haute-couture dress by the late Alexander McQueen.

But the gown, first modelled in 2003, appeared far from waterproof.

Seeing the photo on Instagram, sister Khloe said: “You are such a freak for being in that water at night. Are you well?”

Kim was in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to promote her Hulu drama All’s Fair.

Last month, The Sun revealed the reality star had brought out a Skims ‘Panties’ advent calendar which included 25 “luxury” pairs.

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The price had raised eyebrows, setting shoppers back an eye-watering £476 ($450).

The lingerie advent calendar featured a cheeky image on the front, with the panties hidden behind 25 doors in the luxe packaging.

While many websites gave shoppers a sneak peek of what they can expect concealed inside, the Skims offering left it a complete surprise.

What we did know is there would be 25 styles across signature fabrics, including Fits Everybody, Cotton Jersey, Stretch Lace, and Ultra Fine Mesh.

The description on the Skims website read: “A limited-edition luxury: unwrap something special every day. 

“This premium advent calendar is filled with surprise panties to treat yourself all month long-because every day deserves a little SKIMS.”

A BRITISH man and his daughter flew to Lanzarote for a beach day – because it was cheaper than heading to London.

Aleksander Sikora, 41, booked return flights to Lanzarote in Spain after his daughter, Wiktoria, 19, said she wanted to go shopping in London.

The avid budget traveller dad decided that instead of heading to the capital, they would go to Spain – and he spent under £100 on the trip.

Return flights to Lanzarote Airport cost Aleksander £60 return and once there the duo had around six hours to spend on the sunny coast before returning home.

Whilst Wiktoria went off to do some shopping at the local fashion shops and markets, Aleksander lay on the beach.

The trip cost under £100 per person and they were even home by midnight.

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According to Aleksander, Wiktoria enjoyed the trip so much that she is keen to try another ‘extreme day trip’ in the future.

Aleksander, who lives in Farnham, Surrey, said: “My daughter said she wanted to go shopping – I said ‘give me a day and let me check something on the internet’.

“I came back and offered her a day trip to Lanzarote to do her shopping at the markets instead – and she said ‘why not?’.

“While she went off shopping, I listened to music and flew my drone on the beach – I enjoyed some peace and quiet time in the sun.

“It’s not for everyone and people will say I’m crazy for the trip – but it was what I needed to calm my mind.”

Aleksander booked the easyJet flights three days before the duo travelled.

They took off from Gatwick Airport at 7am, where they spent an additional £15 to park the car for the day.

When in Lanzarote, they spent £1.20 on the bus each to get to Puerto Del Carmen.

The two then separated, with Wiktoria heading off to find some knock-off designer handbags.

As for luggage, Aleksander had one small bag containing nothing more than a towel, his phone, passport, a powerbank, an empty water bottle, some headphones and his drone.

During four hours on the beach, he listened to music and flew his drone to take aerial pictures of the scenic coastline.

He also grabbed a Chinese takeaway, costing around £10 for a chicken chow mein.

He said: “It was on a budget, I’m not talking champagne and all-inclusive drinks.

“I just relaxed, it’s like meditation, you don’t need much more than that.”

During this time, Wiktoria had picked up all the items she wanted while shopping.

The father-daughter duo then departed after six hours in Lanzarote, landing back down in the UK at around 10:30pm.

Aleksander said: “If you spent a day in London it would cost more than I spent.

“In the present time, a lot is going on, the price of everything is increasing and everyone has work pressure.

“Sometimes you just need a few minutes to yourself, however you get it.”

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One Brit has also shared how they’ve been on 30 extreme day trips to Europe.

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The family-friendly holiday park operator will be offering accommodation at two new Spanish parks, which both feature direct beach access, pools, and plenty to keep the kids entertained

If you’re already dreaming of soaking up the sunshine in 2026 on a summer holiday, Eurocamp is adding two new parks in a sunny Spanish hotspot that are perfect for families.

Alannia Els Prats and Alannia Costa Dorada are both set on long stretches of sandy beach on the sunny Costa Dorada region of Spain, which roughly translates to ‘Golden Coast’. About 90 minutes south of Barcelona, these parks both have direct beach access and a whole host of activities to enjoy, so you can choose whether you want to fit in lots of fun adventures or simply relax on the beach.

Both parks are located conveniently close to Reus Airport, which is served by budget airlines including easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair, with plenty of flights from across the UK in the summer months, so you can often pick up a cheap flight.

Alannia Els Prats offers a pool complex with a lagoon-style pool, waterslides and a splash zone for little ones. There’s also a free kids club for children aged 4-12, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Families can enjoy a game of padel, tennis, or mini-golf, while adults can relax in the spa with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.

You’re also just a 15-minute drive from PortAventura World, Spain’s largest theme park, which includes Ferrariland, Caribe Aquatic Park and much more. Or from nearby Tarragona, you can take a train to Barcelona for a day trip, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

Prices for a week’s stay can be from £531 for a party of up to four guests in May half term, or from £1405.95 for the summer holidays.

Meanwhile Alannia Costa Dorada has three pools, including a jacuzzi and a splash zone for little kids. Its spa area includes a fitness centre and jacuzzi, and there’s a soft play area, badminton, mini golf and more. The park’s kids club is free for 5-12 year olds, and is a great way to keep them entertained while you relax.

Prices for a week’s stay start from £416.36 per party of up to six guests in May half term, or from £1261.12 for the summer holidays.

As with most Eurocamp resorts, you’ll find restaurants and bars at both camps, with family-friendly dining options. Alannia Els Prats has a snack bar with sea views, so you can enjoy a beer as you watch the sun go down.

But the fun doesn’t stop at night, both parks also offer evening entertainment suitable for all ages. This can include live music, themed shows, and of course, the ever-popular minidiscos where kids can make new friends.

Accommodation is in two or three bedroom holiday homes, meaning you aren’t stuck sharing a hotel room with the kids. Depending on the accommodation you choose, there are often facilities such as air conditioning, private decking areas, and BBQs, so you can make it a home away from home. Many camps also offer free hire on baby essentials such as cots, high chairs, and bed rails, making it easier to pack light.

You can find out more on eurocamp.co.uk.

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A spokesman for the Long Beach Unified School District announced on Wednesday that it has completed an internal investigation regarding seven athletes who had violated CIF rule 202, which states all transfers must file accurate paperwork, and imposed punishment on three football coaches involved with transfers, including removing head coach Justin Utupo.

In a media release, the district stated that Poly’s walk-on head coach has been released and won’t be allowed to coach in the district. One assistant coach who resigned is also barred from coaching. Another assistant has been relieved from all coaching duties and transferred to another location to be a campus staff assistant. The district said it concluded “three coaches engaged in unethical conduct inconsistent with CIF eligibility rules.”

Utupo said he resigned Wednesday morning after meeting with his players and was unaware of the district announcement.

Utupo came from Lakewood this season to be head coach for a Long Beach Poly program that has won 20 CIF titles. After a 5-5 season, the school announced it would not allow the team to be part of the Southern Section playoffs.

Going forward, the district said it will review all athletic programs in its district to ensure “protocols, training and expectations are clearly understood and consistently applied.” The district is also waiting to see if the Southern Section has any additional sanctions. Seven Poly athletes are listed in the Southern Section transfer portal as having been denied eligibility for two years for violating bylaw 202.

easyJet has launched new routes to a stunning beach resort with crystal clear blue waters, popular for snorkelling, and stretches of golden sand beaches, and flights start from just £91.99

With the temperature taking a dramatic drop in the UK, many of us are dreaming of blue skies and days spent basking in the sunshine without the need for roll-neck jumpers and padded coats. Luckily for us, easyJet has introduced new routes to a stunning beach resort that boasts an inviting climate of 22°C in January, making it the idyllic escape to avoid the British chill.

easyJet unveiled its new schedule to the lesser-known holiday hotspot of Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, offering direct flights from Newcastle to the city known for its pristine sand beaches and turquoise blue waters. The budget airline already offers direct flights to Sharm El Sheikh from six UK airports, but its Newcastle addition is set to make travel even easier for those in the north seeking some winter sun.

Located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh is packed with luxury resorts dotted along the coastline, offering direct access to the crystal-clear sea that is home to tropical marine life, with scuba diving and snorkelling popular activities. Most resorts have their own sunbeds and parasols lined up in their own private area along the golden beaches for maximum ease and comfort.

Away from the coastline, holidaymakers can explore the Pyramids of Giza during an excursion, or visit the Ras Mohammod National Park, which is home to a breathtaking coral reef and rated as one of the top things to do on TripAdvisor. In addition to its awe-inspiring landscapes, tourists can enjoy places like Shark’s Bay Beach, Naama Bay Beach, the Old Market, and the Heavenly Cathedral, all in easy reach of Sharm El Sheikh.

Making this stunning location more accessible for tourists on a budget, flights from Newcastle will be available to book from August 2026 and will start from £91.99, so you can already think ahead for your winter getaway towards the end of next year. And with the flight time of around five and a half hours from Newcastle, you can be transported to the glorious city under the blazing sun in no time.

Alternatively, there are several flights already operating directly to Sharm El Sheikh from Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Luton, and Manchester, with flights in December 2025 starting from £91.99. For more information on flights to Sharm El Sheikh, you can check the easyJet website.

“We’re delighted to be putting 11 new routes on sale from Newcastle for next summer as we gear up to the opening of our new base, which is enabling us to provide greater direct connectivity and choice for customers in the North East to even more destinations across Europe and North Africa, all with great value fares and fantastic service,” said Kevin Doyle, the UK country manager at easyJet.

Holidaymakers have taken to TripAdvisor to share their glowing reviews of Sharm El Sheikh. One shared: “I’ve been to Sharm five times now, and still want to go back. There is so much to see and do, but anyone coming to Sharm MUST, MUST, MUST see what is under the water. If you can’t swim, don a life jacket or go on a glass-bottom boat. The fish are every colour of the rainbow. We’ve seen sharks, dolphins and rays too.

“Great nightlife that does go on all night, including Pacha. Great restaurants and shopping. Get ready to haggle! Tons of trips including desert trips, camel treks(a must), diving and snorkelling and also trips to Cairo, Luxor and the pyramids (well recommended). It gets very, very hot from May onwards, so take lots of high-factor sun cream. Don’t forget to use it when you are snorkelling too. Burnt bum cheeks are very painful!!”

However, one warned: “I have really enjoyed my visits to Sharm, especially in the winter months where it’s one of the only places close to home you are guaranteed sunshine in December and excellent snorkelling. But if you’re not smart about things you will be taken for a ride by the locals and not get the best out of the place.”

IF the life of Spain is calling you and you’re tempted to ditch the UK, then there is one city that has been named one of the best for expats.

it might be tempting to try out the larger cities of Barcelona and Madrid.

But an alternative city that often comes out on top for happy expats is Valencia.

Not only does it have 300 days of sunshine, but it has been raved about by other expats.

According to couple Alastair and Alison, who moved to Spain themselves and give their advice online, it is one of the best ones.

They said: “Valencia City is significantly cheaper than Madrid and Barcelona in terms of rent and daily expenses.”

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Not only is there a big English speaking community, but they also said it is “big enough to have urban amenities but small enough to be manageable”.

Another 2024 Expat City Ranking also ranked Valencia as the no.1 Spanish city for expats, praising it for its good quality of life.

And a Reddit forum of expats talking about where they moved – Valencia was often praised.

One wrote: “I’d recommend Valencia, I’ve lived in 8 different countries and it has the best quality of life. Security, beautiful park and beach.

“Sunny all year around, mild winter and long summer. Not as hot as the rest of Southern Spain thanks for the sea close by. It’s also a very multicultural city.”

Another said: “I can’t recommend Valencia enough. If you are retiring Valencia is great.”

According to figures from Numbeo, when it comes to renting, an average one bedroom flat can range from €840 to €1100 (£741-£970) depending on location.

For living costs, things like a monthly gym membership are on average €36 (£32) while bills can be around €127 (£112).

Bottles of beer can be around €3 (£2.50).

Last year, Valencia was named the best city in Europe by Conde Nast Traveler.

However, we spoke to some Brits who left the UK for Spain on some of the big no-nos when it comes to trying to blend in.

Johnny, who left the UK with his wife Sarah in 2003, told Sun Online Travel: “Brits tend to underdress in Spain.

“Spanish people dress quite smartly, while Brits can sometimes show too much flesh.”

She also added the Brits need to expect things to move a bit slower, such as supermarkets.

She explained: “You might be in a short queue at the supermarket, but the person who is being served is more interested in having a conversation with the cashier than packing their shopping away and paying.”

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One Brit who helps others move abroad reveals some of the amazing deals for moving to Spain.

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A TROPICAL garden in Cornwall has been named a top attraction in the UK.

The history of the gardens spans at least 700 years although only opened to the public in the 1980s.

South of Falmouth is Trebah Garden which has won the Large Visitor Attraction category at the 24th Cornwall Tourism Awards.

While Trebah Garden opened to the public in 1987, the earliest records of it dates back to the the early 1300s.

Trebah Garden itself was established by Charles Fox back in 1831 – that’s when he bought the estate and began creating the garden.

Now, the gardens are popular with Brits seeking a day out and inside the garden you’ll find the likes of ‘Bamboozle’ – a maze of paths made from 50 species of black, brown, yellow and green bamboo.

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There’s also the water garden which is built over a natural spring and is surrounded by lush plants and flowers like brightly coloured lilies.

Alice’s Seat is an open-fronted summer house which was built for Alice Hext who owned Trebah Garden with her husband Charles from 1907 to 1939.

Other pretty spaces include the Hydrangea and Rhododendron Valley, Mallard Pond, the Chilean Coomb and the Koi Pool which is home to around 10 koi carp.

One beautiful spot that you can’t see at the entrance is Polgwidden Cove – the hidden beach.

The sheltered pebbled cove is at the bottom of the garden and is a great place to relax in the summertime, or take a brisk walk in winter.

On the shore is the Boathouse beach café which serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and Roskilly’s ice cream, although it’s only open from spring to autumn.

Visitors can take their own picnic too, and take a dip in the sea.

One wrote on Tripadvisor: “Gorgeous views, greenery, a small amphitheatre and blooms on our way down to the beach.

“Small sparkling beach with a cafe which sold the most tasty vegan ice-cream I’ve ever eaten.”

Another called it “the best garden I have EVER visited”.

Trebah Garden is open daily throughout the year and also hosts events, exhibitions, and even festive workshops.

Its next major event is Stories with Santa where, in the lead up to Christmas, families can listen to a festive story, write to Santa, and get a gift.

Otherwise, you can head there to enjoy yoga at Trebah House, go to a Christmas Decoration Casting Workshop and Wooden Wreath Painting.

They also hold musical performances, watercolour painting classes and nature spotting sessions in the gardens.

There’s an amphitheatre in the gardens too which holds live events from theatre to music, comedy, even puppetry and dance shows.

As for food, Trebah Kitchen serves up roast dinners, Fish & Chip Fridays and seasonal Christmas lunch and New Year’s Day Brunch.

Admission prices for entry start from £16.50 for adults, £8.25 for children between 5-15. Children under five go free.

Any especially keen holidaymakers can even stay on site in Trebah Lodge, the pretty stone cottage, and guests can wander through the gardens after hours.

The lodge has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps up to four – you can bring your pet pooch inside too.

The lodge is almost booked out for the whole of 2026 with a few dates remaining in November and December.

A five-night stay in the lodge from December 14-19 in 2026 starts from £855 – which is £171 per night.

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Ventnor Botanic Garden, Isle of Wight

Overlooked by tall cliffs to the north – and the English channel to the south, thanks to it’s unique microclimate this garden in the Isle of Wight has an average of 5°C higher all year round. It’s a truly mild climate – with only 29 inches of average rainfall. We visited in January and you could actually feel the warmer air once you got into the gardens.

Outdoor Jungle, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall

In the Outdoor Jungle you can wander along winding paths through bamboo and banana plantations marvelling at the exotic plants.

Bought back from across the world since Victorian times – it also features one of the longest Burmese Rope Bridges in Britain, stretching 100 feet above ancient tree ferns.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Dorset

Home to tree frogs, and an unusual rough tree fern, Cyathea australis, exotic plants thrive in Abbotsbury’s sheltered coastal microclimate.

It boasts of brimming with exotic trees and perennials from the Mediterranean, New Zealand, South Africa, the Himalayas, and more. Found on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast – the subtropical gardens boast over 6000 species – and is open seven days a week all year round.

RHS Harlow Carr, Yorkshire

There’s a touch of the exotic in their Sub-Tropicana Garden.

It’s packed full of plants with a tropical nature – like hardy palms, soft tree ferns, and several bamboos providing a permanent framework – plus a heated glasshouse home to the most tender plants. 

Yewbarrow House, Grange over Sands, Cumbria

Its warm microclimate and valley-location allows exotic and rare species to flourish here. Plus, there’s a Japanese-style infinity pool, orangery, restored Victorian kitchen garden, and views over Morecambe Bay.

Overbecks Garden, Salcombe, Devon

A subtropical National Trust garden, it’s bursting with colour and filled with exotic and rare plants. Not to mention, it has beautiful views over Salcombe estuary.

Discover the pretty ‘secret’ garden in England that is more like going to China and Egypt.

Plus, here’s an exotic indoor garden in the middle of a UK city with free books and its very own amphitheatre.

WE watched from our balcony as the sunset bled into the sky, transforming its blue hues into a vibrant shade of pink.

We weren’t expecting a visitor, but a sudden arrival only made this serene moment more magical.

From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we lay. He seemed to be enjoying the views as much as we were.

We weren’t shocked by his arrival — after all, this was just one of many incredible wildlife interactions my partner and I had here on Portugal’s south coast.

As well as spotting dragonflies and lizards roaming between the hotel’s ten swimming pools, we stumbled upon dozens of turtles sheltering in the shady streams while walking down to the beach one day.

The wildlife is certainly a highlight of a visit to the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, in Portugal’s Algarve.

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But it’s not the main reason holidaymakers head here. The sprawling resort is famous for its 18-hole golf course, one of the most challenging in the country as well as one of the most scenic, sandwiched between a beach and a nature reserve.

We were not here to practise our putting, though. Instead, R&R was at the top of our agenda.

With a state-of-the-art gym, huge spa hub and a health foods cafe which specialises in zero waste food, we couldn’t have picked a more appropriate place for our weekend of wellness.

Better still, at this time of year, flights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two-and-a-half hours.

We’d opted for a garden view room which overlooked the pool and an abundance of tropical greenery.

The suites here, which start at a bargain £116 per night, come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and a washing machine.

There’s also a modern living area and large balcony complete with padded armchairs for soaking up the last of the afternoon rays with a glass of fizz.

With such extensive cooking facilities, you needn’t spend a penny on meals out if you don’t want to. But, with our focus on relaxation, the hotel’s buffet restaurant, In Season, became our go-to.

Ripe goodies

Daily breakfasts here were an exciting affair, with a fresh omelette station stealing the show. The fruit bar piled high with ripe goodies, freshly-pressed juices and a vast bread and pastry selection kept us more than satisfied until lunch.

The dinner options at In Season are limited to a small but excellent spread of buffet foods including a delicious freshly cooked tuna served in a salsa verde sauce and scorched BBQ chicken skewers.

While the options for vegetarians were more limited, the salad bar and cheese plates more than made up for it with every salad topping you could think of plus a variety of dressings.

If you get the chance, make sure to visit the Italian joint in the neighbouring hotel, too — but don’t forget to book in advance.

Elsewhere, within the resort, there’s an Indian restaurant, pizzeria and, my personal favourite, Green Artisan cafe.

Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.

This wellness restaurant was our favourite of the bunch, serving made-to-order tropical fruit smoothies, healthy snacks and home-baked cakes, all made with natural and nutritious ingredients.

This isn’t where the wellness ends, though. Complete with hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and ice cold bucket shower, the hotel’s spa is an ideal spot for whiling away the hours in blissful peace.

Entry isn’t automatically included for guests but it is well worth the additional 20 euros, with access from 9am until 7pm.

Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.

If you’re travelling with little ones, there’s a small splash pool and outdoor play area, as well as a kids’ club for children aged between four to 12, which costs an extra 45 euros a day.

And for those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride away.

While it’s known for its wild party scenes, the old town is a pleasant place to take a stroll with colourful cobbled streets flanked by teeny shops and markets.

We booked a sunset boat cruise via GetYourGuide (£40pp, getyourguide.co.uk) which took us along the coast on a small yacht, watching the sun dip slowly behind the horizon while we bobbed peacefully on the water.

For those with a more adventurous streak, the local tour site has everything from Jeep tours and horse riding to parasailing and day trips to Seville for really decent prices.

We preferred to spend most of our days at the beach by the hotel, though.

During peak season the hotel offers a shuttle service to the sea, but why risk missing out on the wildlife?

The walk only takes about 20 minutes through the hotel’s gardens, following various streams down to the sea.

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The yellow beaches of the Algarve rarely disappoint, but this one was particularly beautiful.

And with the chance to spot baby turtles, it couldn’t get better.

IF you fancy some celeb spotting in the UK, there is one peninsula you need to head to.

Sandbanks in Dorset is known for being home to lots of celebrities and having very impressive beachside homes especially along Panorama Road.

The average price of a property on Sandbanks is just under £1million – the most expensive home is around £15 million.

Luckily, you don’t have to live in Sandbanks to visit as the nearest neighbourhood is in Poole, Dorset.

Sandbanks Beach is highly regarded having been dubbed by some as “Britain’s Best Beach” and “The jewel in the crown of the English Coastline”.

Sandbanks has won the Blue Flag award 38 times, which is every year since the scheme began in 1987.

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Not only that, but according to Tripadvisor, Sandbanks was the ‘world’s most sustainable beach’ for 2024.

The beaches were measured by a sustainable data partner along with Tripadvisor traveller reviews – winners stand out for their commitments to sustainability including transport options, waste disposal and water quality.

The area is home to former England manager Harry Redknapp and his wife, Sandra.

You might have seen their home on TV when the pair made an appearance on Celebrity Gogglebox.

Their son, Jamie Redknapp even named his clothing brand ‘Sandbanks’ after the area.

Other famous residents who have lived, or live, in Sandbanks include Celia Sawyer, J.R.R Tolkien, John Lennon and Liam Gallagher.

Chef Rick Stein is the name behind one of Sandbanks’ most famous restaurants on the Peninsula – Rick Stein, Sandbanks Restaurant and Bar.

The restaurant has celebrated 50 years and here you can enjoy fresh fish dishes from caviar to tuna sashimi, lobster thermidor and crab linguine.

Along the coast from Rick Stein is Lazy Jacks Restaurant and Bar which is known as being a relaxed eatery with waterside views.

Here you can enjoy sea bass, ribeye steaks, fish and chips, pizzas with various toppings, burgers along with Sunday roast choices.

Another popular spot is CAFF, which is a café along the front which serves homemade cakes, huge milkshakes, Full English breakfasts and hot dogs.

For staying in Sandbanks, there are various options from Haven Hotel, to Sandbanks Hotel, to holiday rental apartments.

To get to Sandbanks, you can walk across from the mainland.

The nearest coastal towns are Poole, which is 17 minutes away, or a 15-minute drive from Bournemouth.

From the neighbourhood, visitors can hop aboard the Sandbanks Ferry goes between Sandbanks and Shell Bay beach on Studland.

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For more in Dorset, check out the English village that is Britain’s prettiest with quiet beaches and huge castles.

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When it comes to knowing his way around Los Angeles, actor Martin Starr is an expert. Born in Santa Monica, Starr says his family moved around the region often. ”I lived in the Valley, Hollywood, Hancock Park, and ended up in Santa Monica again when I was 15,” Starr says.

In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.

Today, the actor known for his role in the HBO comedy “Silicon Valley” and films like “Knocked Up” and the “Spider-Man” franchise, lives in Miracle Mile. His latest television role is on Paramount+’s crime drama “Tulsa King,” where he plays Bodhi, a weed store owner who has become a trusted member of a mobster’s (Sylvester Stallone) crew. The show’s third season finale airs Nov. 23.

“What I love most about L.A. is the people and the friends I’ve made over the years,” Starr says. “Aside from that, L.A. has some of the best food in the world. There’s plenty of fancy, Michelin-star restaurants, but there are so many delicious, moderately-priced places in L.A., and those are my favorites.”

Starr, a foodie who co-founded the candy company Sweet Stash with musicians Ezra and Adeev Potash (The Potash Twins), says his ideal Sunday includes a walk on the beach, eating enchiladas and playing video games or reading at home.

9:30 a.m.: Sleep in, then hydrate

I’m a lazy weekend guy. I often have to wake up early for work so it’s nice to take a little time for myself on a Sunday. After we wake up, my wife (Alex Gehring, bassist of the band Ringo Deathstarr) makes coffee for herself. I start the day with a glass of water or a matcha, then we’ll probably roll to a restaurant for breakfast.

10:30 a.m.: Get some really good pancakes

One of my favorite breakfast places is John O’Groats on West Pico. They don’t just do a side of fruit. They do cantaloupe, specifically, and I’ve grown to love it. I wouldn’t have chosen cantaloupe as the fruit to go to in my morning, but it turns out cantaloupe is pretty darn good. They make their own biscuits, which are delicious. They have a variety of really good pancakes. They do a seven-grain granola pancake that I really like.

If we don’t go there, we’d go to another great breakfast spot called Met Her at a Bar. That place is really tasty. The guy who opened it met his wife at a bar. They’ve got great French toast, and they do a Thai-style fried chicken and waffles. I just love the fresh-squeezed orange juice in both places.

Noon: Take a walk with Betty White

After breakfast, we’d go on a walk with our dog and have a lazy stroll around the neighborhood. Our dog is an all-white pit bull and her name is Betty White. We’d walk up through Hancock Park. There are some really pretty houses there, and it’s nice to just walk around. I grew up in that neighborhood for a bit too. I went to Third Street [Elementary] School so I’m pretty familiar with the area.

1 p.m.: Devour enchiladas by the beach

Then we’d go down to the beach. It’s a bit of a drive, but one of my favorite restaurants is there because I spent so much of my time as a youth in Santa Monica and Venice. It’s called Cha Cha Chicken, and is by far, my favorite restaurant in L.A. It’s in Santa Monica, one block east from the water, where Pico dead ends into the beach. I’d order the jerk chicken enchiladas, which comes with a side of rice and beans, mixed together. There’s a little chopped salad that comes on the side, too, and I love the dressing. The enchiladas have a sweet and spicy combo of sauces on top that are so good. And then I get the spicy Cuban fries. I always ask for them extra crispy, and they put a little spicy salt on top. I went there so much as a kid that I became friends with the owner, Ricky Prado. He inherited the place from his parents and took over. He and I took a trip once to Florida, where he met my dad, as I’ve met his whole family because they all worked at the restaurant.

2:30 p.m.: Stroll on Santa Monica State Beach

Next, we’d go for a walk on the beach to enjoy the beauty and fresh ocean air. There’s a little road that veers off from Cha Cha Chicken, and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is right there. The Santa Monica Pier is north of there, and going south is the shopping area of Venice Beach. You can see sidewalk shows and all the fun performers when you go.

4:30 p.m.: Post-traffic puzzles and video games

The traffic to get back home would probably be an hour. There, Alex would probably do some crossword puzzles while I read or play video games for a bit. We’d put on some jazz music in the background. Or maybe we’d just go hang out on the porch and enjoy the day. We’re lounge folk. So when we have the opportunity, we just enjoy reading and crossword puzzles. It’s a simple life. We brought the Midwest to Los Angeles. All I need is a rocking chair.

6 p.m.: Happy Hour calls

After that, we might hit Happy Hour at Uchi West Hollywood. My wife is from Austin and her favorite restaurant opened up a place in L.A., so we go there every once in a while for a nice meal. It’s Japanese, but focused on sushi. If you sit at the bar, you can get happy hour all night.

7:30 p.m.: Keep the happy hour going into dinner

We’d eat some of our favorite food. My wife loves a particular sake and I love Mitsu Mitsu, which has ritual zero proof gin, rosemary and yuzu honey. Our favorite dish is called hama chill. It’s got little slices of Mandarin orange over yellowtail fish, with a little bit of Thai chill on top, and sits in a ponzu sauce. My wife loves edamame and I don’t. But this place has the best edamame so I can’t help but enjoy it. Some of them are a bit crisp, and there’s lemon juice and salt on it. It is so tasty. They course things out so you can really take your time and enjoy everything.

9 p.m.: Dessert on and off screen

We’d probably come back home, have a little dessert and watch either “The Great British Baking Show” or “Below Deck,” a drama-packed look inside the world of private yachting. You also get a good view of the interesting people who rent these yachts, and whether they’re good tippers or not.

11 p.m.: Go to bed, after a laugh

We’d go to bed but probably stay up for an hour just talking and laughing before we actually fall asleep. That would be a perfect Sunday.

This beach in North Wales is a popular spot for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature, with its golden sands, dunes, and views of the Snowdonia mountains

For a day of pure relaxation, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, there’s arguably no finer spot to escape than this gorgeous beach in North Wales.

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Llanddwyn Beach on the Isle of Anglesey has captured widespread acclaim for resembling something plucked directly from a holiday brochure. This idyllic location boasts not only pristine golden sands complete with dunes and crystal-clear waters, but also spectacular vistas of the majestic Snowdonia mountains.

As part of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve, this coastal gem draws crowds keen on kitesurfing, rambling, and observing local wildlife, though many visitors report feeling blissfully isolated during their stay. The location provides an atmosphere of complete serenity, particularly the trek towards the ancient lighthouse remains, which can only be reached during low tide along an extended pathway.

One recent holidaymaker shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, describing the island, shoreline and panoramic views as utterly “magical”. They said: “Wow. One of the best beaches we have ever been to. Spectacular views, space and an adjoining forest area for walking too. The wall and views walking Llanddwyn, a small island, are breathtaking. Photos cannot do justice, and there’s loads of parking for beach access too.”

Another delighted traveller shared their joy from discovering the beach, writing: “A stroll down the beach, then as the tide goes out, the island becomes a peninsula. There are many paths to explore, and it’s worth using the smaller ones to the left as you come across deserted beaches and cliff tops with fantastic views over Snowdonia.

“I barely saw a soul! There are old buildings and old stories abound to discover. The place is magical and a place to just sit and be.” Whilst one holidaymaker said the beach boasts “beautiful white sands”, others favour wandering through the woodlands.

One person said: “There is a path that leads through the grassy hills from the beach to the nature reserve on Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn), and the surrounding forest has an excellent network of footpaths.”

Regarding the lighthouse itself, there’s masses of heritage to soak up. Its official name is Twr Mawr, perched on the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn, and it dates all the way back to 1845.

The grade II listed structure was crafted with the Anglesey windmills in mind, built to mirror their splendour, and reaches up to 10 metres high. Though, standing alongside it is another lighthouse called Twr Bach; whilst it’s more compact than its companion, this one continues to operate today.

During the summer that’s just passed, this stunning location gained even more attention for its scorching temperatures amongst holidaymakers. The Met Office logged it as one of the regions worst hit by the heatwave and, within the area, documented it as Britain’s most sweltering location.

However, adventurers should be aware there’s equally spectacular scenery to discover throughout the year. One review states: “We’ve only been here during the winter so far, but whether you venture down in stormy weather to get blown off your feet as you watch the sea raging, or you catch a calm day when the sun is shining, it’s impressive.”

Ever dreamt of walking on a beach resembling popcorn? A European shore on the Canary Islands has a striking natural phenomenon that is well worth a visit for some winter sun

With temperatures plummeting in the UK, holidaymakers are turning their attention to European winter getaways to bask in a warmer climate, and there’s one fascinating place with a ‘popcorn beach’ that reaches a welcoming 24C in November.

The Canary Islands, known as the sunshine centre of Europe, have long been top of the list for Brits hunting for some sun, with beaches offering golden sand and crystal clear blue waters. But it’s not just the picture-perfect coastlines that entice tourists to the southern region of Spain.

Elsewhere on the islands, visitors can stumble upon beaches with shimmering or dark sand, due to the islands’ volcanic origin, or admire the sand dunes in Gran Canaria that resemble those in the Egyptian desert. With a fascinating collection of shores, there’s one that has caught attention, so much so that it’s been given its own nickname.

Popcorn Beach, officially called Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is one of the most striking beaches in the world. Found in Fuerteventura, the beach is fantastically composed of white, fossilised coral or calcareous algae that has been washed up on the shore, resembling puffed-up popcorn pieces.

The similarity to edible popcorn on the beach is so striking that in photos, it could easily be mistaken for the tasty cinema snack. Holidaymakers have flocked to the beach to marvel at the natural wonder, labelling it the “most bizarre in the world” and comparing it to the likes of the Caribbean.

One traveller shared a review of Popcorn Beach on TripAdvisor and said: “Great place to visit and just sit and relax. Nice wind and when the tide is out, plenty of rock pools to explore. Beware of the slippery lava rocks, very dangerous. When the tide is in, the white popcorn algae makes it look like the Caribbean!”

A second holidaymaker commented: “This a brilliant little beach near Corralejo Town, the bits of stoned algae that look like pop corn allow for brilliant photos. We visited with our toddler and filled in a nice half hour.”

“Unusual beach that truly looks like popcorn. Very nice views. Beach itself is a bit small,” a third shared. While another warned that you can’t swim in the sea, “Unfortunately, there is no direct water access on site, but the experience of Popcorn beach belongs on every adventure list on Fuerteventura.”

However, anyone planning to visit Popcorn Beach should be aware that there is a strict law against taking any of the coral home, no matter how tempting it might be as a souvenir. Unfortunately, it’s such a problem that the beach reportedly loses around 1,000kg of natural material per month.

Tourists have been urged to preserve the endangered ecosystems and refrain from removing any of their precious sand in the Canary Islands. Otherwise, visitors can face a fine of £128 (€150) to £512 (€600) for “minor” offences, or up to £2,563 (€3,000) for “major” breaches, depending on the amount pocketed, according to the Canarian Weekly.

Despite the strict laws, visitors are welcome to capture themselves among the popcorn-shaped coral in photos and stroll along the shore to admire its distinctive beauty. It’s well worth a visit to admire the natural phenomenon, and with temperatures in Fuerteventura reaching between 22 to 24C in November, it’s the ideal spot to bask in some sunshine.

Not only this, but the island is incredibly easy to reach with direct return flights from London Stansted to Fuerteventura, starting from as little as £36.99 with Ryanair.

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POPPING over to France from the UK couldn’t be easier, and there are plenty of pretty cities and towns to explore along the Opal Coast.

The spot in the north of France is known for its natural landscape, beautiful beaches and being home to lots of charming seaside destinations like Boulogne-sur-Mer.

When Brits usually take day trips, it’s usually to bustling cities like Paris or Amsterdam.

But if you fancy somewhere quieter, then the Opal Coast is a great option, especially as it’s so easy to get there by car.

To get there, you can travel by Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais which takes around 35 minutes.

From there, it’s a 30 minute drive to the city.

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Brits can also take the ferry from Dover to Calais which takes 90 minutes and drive from there.

Boulogne-sur-Mer, once an ancient town, is a city that is still used as a major fishing port.

The old centre is a great spot for mooch around thanks to its pretty cobbled streets and quaint shops all surrounded by medieval walls.

The popular Boulogne-sur-Mer’s beach is common with sand yachters as well as kite surfers too.

Thanks to it being a fishing port, there are plenty of restaurants around serving local specialties like pickled herring, mackerel, and mussels.

According to Tripadvisor, the most highly-rated seafood restaurant in Boulogne-sur-Mer is Le Chatillon.

There, those who enjoy seafood can get a seafood platter from €38.90 (£34.26) which has half a crab, four langoustines, six organic pink prawns, whelks, grey prawns and five superior oysters.

A trip to Boulogne-sur-Mer doesn’t have to break the bank either, according to Numbeo, you can buy a bottle of wine there from between €5-8 (£4.40 to £7.04).

Domestic beer cost €2.06 (£1.81) and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around €16 (£14.09).

If you’re looking for a place to amuse the kids, check out Nausicaá – Europe‘s largest aquarium where you’ll find tropical fish, sharks, sea lions and penguins.

One day tickets start from €30 (£26.41) for visitors over 12, and €23 (£20.25) for those between three years old up to 12. 

History buffs should check out the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, which was originally built as a church and later transformed into a cathedral.

It’s 100 meters tall and from there you can get a great view of the city.

Not to mention that lying underneath is the largest crypt in France where you’ll find over 400 artefacts like paintings and beautiful wall murals.

The cathedral is free to enter, with a small fee of around €6 (£5.28) to enter the crypt.

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Hear more about Nausicaa from one writer who visited…

Nausicaa, the French National Sea Centre, is Europe’s largest aquarium. It doubled in size in the summer of 2018 with a giant new tank housing thousands of tropical fish, manta rays and, yes, sharks.

But that barely scratches the surface — or beneath the surface — of what you can see there. That tank is certainly impressive. It is 65ft wide and 16ft high, and took a month to fill. As a veteran of many such outings, I have never seen anything like it.

Nor had the kids: Ten-year-old Miles and Ava were entranced by the quantity and variety of everything on show.

But even the sorts of things they had seen before — the touch tank with the smaller rays, glass tunnel (yet more sharks), penguins and sea lions and hundreds of clown fish  — it is like every aquarium you have ever visited, rolled into a gigantic piscine extravaganza.

Marine conservation is the overarching theme, but it is never rammed down your throat. You can even have a nice fish lunch in one of the cafés. Being French, they take this very seriously. And naturally, there is a good selection of wine.

For more on France, here’s a town that looks more like Italy – with Roman buildings and huge music festival.

Plus, for daytrips, one Sun Travel Reporter tested out the extreme-daytripping trend to Paris.

WHEN it comes to taking a break in autumn, many Brits look to escape the worsening weather at home with a sun-soaked getaway.

So we’ve found the sunniest beach in Europe – and it’s just over four hours from the UK.

Saga Holidays has discovered Europe’s sunniest beaches during the low season, and coming in the top spot is Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria.

During the months of November to April it has just over 10 hours of average daily sunshine, and average maximum highs of 22C.

Playa de Maspalomas is just over two miles long and the waters are ideal for swimming and paddling.

Visitors can sunbathe on the sandy shore, but be warned that the beach is known for being windy thanks to it being so flat.

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It’s also well-known for its golden sand dunes that look like a desert – which are made from the island’s breeze which moves the sand to create the spectacular shapes.

The dunes even have its own ecosystem with plants, animals and a lagoon – here you might spot waterbirds and the native Maspalomas giant lizard.

Near the beach is the Maspalomas Lighthouse, which was built in 1861, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants for families to enjoy too.

Behind the front row of eateries on the promenade are even more places to grab a snack and lots of souvenir shops.

Playa de Maspalomas was also one of the best beaches for 2024 according to Tripadvisor.

It was well-loved thanks to its family-friendly facilities, as well as miles of rolling sands as well as watersport zones and designated nudist areas.

To get to the sunny beach, you need to head to Gran Canaria which you can do from £16 for a one-way ticket with easyJet.

You can fly from all over the UK including London Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, Belfast, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Birmingham.

As a whole, the island of Gran Canaria is a favourite of Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski.

She said: “I paid a visit to Gran Canaria for the first time this year – and it did not disappoint. 

“The volcanic island is only a four-hour (ish) flight from the UK, yet it offers balmy weather that is worlds apart from those April showers back home, reaching highs of up to 23C in spring.

“I’ll be honest, I barely left the resort during my visit, but there’s no harm in that. Book yourself a plush all-inclusive hotel and it’s simply impossible not to unwind when you’ve got pina coladas being delivered to your sunbed every hour. 

“Got children? That’s what the kids clubs are for. My resort, Paradisus by Melia, had an excellent one for all ages from tiny tots up to teens.”

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Here are the sunniest beaches in Europe…

Low Season

Gran Canaria, Playa de Maspalomas
Tenerife, Playa de Las Teresitas
Limassol, Lady’s Mile Beach
Almeria, Playa de los Genoveses
Crete, Agia Fotia Beach

High Season

Fethiye, Ölüdeniz Beach

Rhodes, Antony Quinn Bay

Samos, Tsamadou beach

Limassol, Lady’s Mile Beach

Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach

Here you can find more of our travel team’s favourite European holiday destinations.

Plus, here are the top five places in the UK where you get the most hours of sunlight during autumn and winter months.

The striking beach appears like an alien landscape from above. The way its orange sand undulates and twists across great hills is unlike anything else you can find in Europe

The sunniest beach in Europe during winter has been crowned, and it’s surprisingly cheap to get there.

Playa de Maspalomas in Spain has topped the chart, soaking up an average of just over 10 hours of sunshine a day – perfect to escape the winter blues. By some measures, the vast beach sprawls for 7.5miles along the coastline.

The golden-sanded beach is best known for its spectacular dunes, which form the protected Maspalomas Natural Dune Reserve. People out walking, surfers and nudists mingle freely on a beach, which also has quiet, isolated areas for nude bathing.

It is home to the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse. Built in 1861, it was once a vital guide for steamboats navigating routes between Europe, Africa, and America. Today, the lighthouse marks the beginning of a vibrant seaside promenade.

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A little further from the beach is the Maspalomas Palm Tree Plantation, a protected natural space providing a resting spot for birds migrating from Europe to Africa. Wandering through its palm-lined paths offers a breath of fresh air after a day in the sun.

The striking beach appears like an alien landscape from above. The way its orange sand undulates and twists across great hills is unlike anything else you can find in Europe.

It was named the Continent’s sunniest winter beach by Saga, which has compiled a list of the beaches that enjoy the most hours of sunshine during the winter months.

Playa de Maspalomas, which sits on the south of the Canary Island of Gran Canaria, isn’t just sunny during the winter. It’s hot as well. The island has hit 24C today and is forecast to stay at that level for the rest of the week.

The beach is well loved on TripAdvisor, where it has received thousands of positive reviews. One person wrote: “Enjoyable especially in the early morning and at sunset, when the sun seems to play with the ocean waves and golden sand dunes giving unique and always new views.”

Another added: “One of the most beautiful beaches in Gran Canaria. Super extensive and the dune landscape is unique. The beach as well as the water are always super clean. We love coming here.”

If the idea of swapping the soggy UK for a spell on a sunny beach appeals, then the good news is that Gran Canaria is not too far or too expensive a flight away. The cheapest direct flight this week is £24, with Ryanair from Edinburgh Airport. Later in the month, a one-way fare can be yours for £13.

There are also direct flights this month from the following airports: Bristol, Manchester, Bournemouth, Belfast, Newcastle, Liverpool, Nottingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Cardiff and Exeter.

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Laguna Beach’s football season came to an end on Friday night after the Breakers lost to Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 44-28 in a Division 3 playoff opener. But if you saw the performances of three freshmen starters, you’d know how promising the future looks for Laguna Beach.

Luke Bogdan, 6-foot-4, 260 pounds, and Winston Darrow, 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, are 14 years old. Both start on the offensive line. Bogdan also played on the defensive line. Then there’s Charlie Christian, a running back and linebacker who is 15 and never wants to go down without a fight.

To have players so young holding their own on an offensive line in Division 3 was remarkable. Quarterback Jack Hurst was sacked once. Then there’s Christian, who caught five passes for 85 yards while also taking on Notre Dame’s huge offensive line on defense at his linebacker position.

When college recruiters see these freshmen on film and imagine how big and strong they might become in the coming years, they’ll be impressed.

This is a daily look at the positive happenings in high school sports. To submit any news, please email [email protected].