Beach Holiday Deals

MY early summer holiday a distant memory, the Costa del Sol seemed just the ticket for some autumn sunshine.

Leaving behind rainy Blighty, I was soon lying by the pool in Spain lapping up the rays — and throughout our stay in the first week of October temperatures ranged from 26C to 28C.

We were in the Ramada Hotel and Suites resort near Fuengirola, next to the beach and just half an hour from both Malaga airport and party town Marbella.

It comprises beautiful self-catering apartments spread over five areas — and TEN pools.

The main pool is adjacent to the resort’s most popular cafe and bar, Zac’s, and has a lively vibe.

But I found the one closest to our apartment, in the Sierra Marina area of the resort, was an oasis of calm, with a lovely sea view and a quiet, respectful group of holidaymakers.

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Another bigger pool, served by a bar and restaurant, is on sister site the Wyndham Grand which shares its facilities, including a gym and spa, with the Ramada.

I indulged in an hour-long facial which was a wonderful way to kick off a relaxing holiday. My daughter enjoyed a circulation-boosting massage, and there were numerous other tempting treatments to try.

The massage with bamboo sticks, which sounded more painful than it was, came recommended by a fellow guest.

While there are plenty of places to eat out, I prefer a little independence on holiday and our apartment offered everything we needed to get the best of both worlds. As well as its two comfy bedrooms and bathrooms, there was a roomy lounge and kitchen, with dining table, cooker and large fridge.

But its finest feature, given the glorious weather, was the large balcony overlooking the Mediterranean — big enough for a table with six chairs, two comfy armchairs and a parasol, so we could enjoy casual lunches of fresh bread, meats and cheeses bought from the on-site store.

There were also plenty of options for eating out, from budget-friendly Zac’s to Restaurant El Tajo — not owned by the resort despite being on site, and serving authentic Spanish food including a lip-smacking paella which has to be ordered 24 hours in advance.

We particularly enjoyed the Wyndham site’s Safari restaurant which offers a huge array of gorgeous tapas — I thoroughly recommend the baked provolone cheese — as well as dishes to suit all tastes, from pasta to fish and steak.

There is also a lounge bar for late-night drinks, hosting singers most nights, as well as other live entertainment including the popular Flamenco night at the poolside bar.

The sprawling, hilly nature of the resort means a lot of walking — I easily hit my 10,000-step target every day.

But for those less able or willing to get about there is a handy road train you can hop on and off at various points across the complex.

Away from the resort, the town of Fuengirola is a 30-minute walk or €9 taxi ride and its pretty squares are teeming with bars and restaurants.

Perfect off-peak getaway

Half an hour away is also Puerto Banus, a stunning marina lined with designer stores and restaurants and packed with yachts worth millions.

It is a hangout for the glam Marbella crowd and well worth a visit — although prices here are sky high.

But I recommend leaving the main marina by taking the stairs to the coastal path, where restaurants line the clifftop and you can watch the spectacular sunset over the sea while enjoying a meal of locally caught fish and seafood.

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife.

Its narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets are lined with unique boutiques and jewellery stores and lead to the stunning Plaza de los Naranjos (Square of Oranges) which, good to its name, is lined with fruit trees as well as beautiful flowerbeds.

But closer to our resort, nestled in the mountains above Fuengirola, was the biggest treat of the holiday — the village of Mijas Pueblo.

One of the “white villages” typical of this southern Spanish region of Andalucia, it welcomes visitors into a main square overlooked by the beautiful town hall.

Behind the square are quaint narrow streets of white buildings, with picturesque blue flowerpots adding a splash of colour.

Brightly painted crockery and leather bags are sold in tiny stores and upstairs terraces in many of the eateries offer a view over the main square, mountains and sea.

Another highlight for me was the La Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena (Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock), a tiny but beautiful church carved into the natural stone of the mountain by friars in 1548.

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Along with its warm weather, the Costa del Sol has an average of just 35 days of rain a year, most of which falls between November and January.

It’s also a golfer’s paradise, with 70 courses, and with year-round sun is the perfect off-peak getaway.

THE year of 2025 is coming to a close, which means it’s time to think about where you should be taking a break next year, and we have some very good deals for you.

Holiday expert for On the Beach, Robert Brooks, has found some incredible deals for each month of 2026 – and every holiday is under £1000pp.

January

To kick off 2026 right, Rob says holidaymakers should head to Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands where “prices actually drop after the New Year”.

The island has beautiful beaches, theme parks, plenty of nightlife as well as pretty old towns.

The island is known for having year-round sunshine, which is why it makes for a great pick in January – it has highs of 20C.

As for where to stay, Rob revealed his choice would be Laguna Park II which he described as “a proper sunshine escape to kick off the year.

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“This Costa Adeje spot has a massive pool and mountain views, with plenty of space for little ones to splash about. It’s simple, sunny, and unbeatable value for winter warmth.”

Five nights in January at the Laguna Park II for a family of four (self-catering) starts from £168pp.

For more on what to do when you get to the island, discover where the locals like to visit, from the best beaches and bars in Costa Adeje to budget attractions and must-do activities.

February

Knowing what Brits want, Rob was on the hunt for a holiday that’s “warm, fun and cheap” in February, which Marrakech has in abundance.

The hotel isn’t one you’ll want to miss either, Rob describes it as “a red-walled palace that’s pure Moroccan magic.

“Think palm gardens, serene pools and spa vibes a few minutes from the Medina buzz. Perfect for a romantic February reset with sunshine and mint tea by the pool.”

It’s called the Palais El Miria, which is a few minutes drive away from the centre of Marrakech.

Each room is decorated in traditional Moroccan colours, and has an ensuite bathroom with shower and a private terrace.

Some suites also include baths and private indoor gardens.

Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recently visited Marrakech, where she revealed it to be as “exciting as ever” with plenty of spots to sunbathe but also explore the markets and head across the desert dunes.

Five nights in February at the Palais El Miria for two adults on a bed and breakfast basis starts from £273pp.

March

The weather in the Mediterranean begins to warm up in March, so you can take a short trip to the likes of Malta or Madeira

But where Rob actually recommends is the legendary American city of Las Vegas, where Rob adds it’s “22C in March and you can go for the weekend, it’s really not that bad – plenty warm for me and plenty to do”.

As for the hotel, head to the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino which has “bright lights, big pool, and blackjack. This classic Vegas resort delivers that proper Strip energy with everything on your doorstep.

“Perfect for a short hit of glam, shows, and sunshine before spring kicks in back home.”

If you want to head into the city, the hotel has a monorail that takes you to the heart of the local attractions like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, the Neon Museum, and of course, you can’t miss the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.

For more on what to do and the best attractions in Las Vegas, read more on our guide to the ‘world’s biggest adult playground’.

Four nights in March at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino for two adults for room only starts from £595pp.

April

Rob told Sun Travel: “In April, one place springs to mind straight away because April’s the sweet spot in Rome before all the crowds turn up”.

He continued: “It’s warm enough for gelato and piazzas but cool enough to walk through them all day. Rome is at its best when locals outnumber the tourists”

The B&B Hotel Roma Tuscolana San Giovanni is conveniently placed in the heart of the city and it’s right next to the train station is any other parts of Italy tickle your fancy.

Rob adds: “This comfy, modern hotel puts you close to the sights without the faff. Perfect for pizza, piazzas and people-watching before summer crowds arrive.”

For top tips on visiting Rome, one writer revealed some of the best places he discovered on a trip there – like eating in a restaurant that was a former sculptor’s workshop.

Of course you have to see the classics too; no trip to the Italian city is complete without seeing the iconic Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.

Two nights in April for at B&B Hotel Roma Tuscolana San Giovanni for two adults for bed and breakfast starts from £208pp.

May

In May, Rob says: “We’re into summer and I want to go somewhere that’s already in full swing, 27C all-inclusive and prices that are half of what they’ll be in July – Antalya’s my pick”.

The seaside resort in Turkey is known for being a hit with families thanks to its abundance of activities like the Land of Legends theme park, to spending time on its beautiful beaches.

Rob suggests staying in the Numa Konaktepe Hotel for “family sun and zero stress.

“With its private beach, slides, and stacks of food options, this place is made for lazy pool days and warm evenings. May sunshine guaranteed – and your wallet stays happy too.”

During May, temperatures reach pleasant average highs of 24C and there’s an average of just two days of rain during the entire month.

An all-inclusive seven night stay for a family of four at the Numa Konaktepe starts from £237pp.

June

Halfway through the year, and Rob is firm on where to head during June.

He said: “I’m going to a Greek island, and they don’t get better than Rhodes for me. Hot but bearable, crystal waters and lovely beaches before peak season.”

You can stay at Pefkos Beach, which Rob dubs a “Greek gem” which has both “a laid-back and lively vibe”.

It’s also got a big outdoor pool with a poolside bar, and while it has an on-site restaurant, it’s very near to local eateries.

One writer recently visited the island where she saw the Acropolis ruins, pretty windmills and discovered that you can sign up to an olive oil or wine tasting course.

Seven nights at the Pefkos Beach in Rhodes for a family of four (self-catering) starts from £324pp.

July

During the summer months, prices can quickly increase, but Rob has his eye on somewhere which doesn’t seem to have been hit so hard.

He says: “In recent years, I’ve seen so many great value bookings to the Algarve: family-friendly, easy to get to with loads of flight availability, you can even party there if you want, and it’s cheaper than Spain at this time of year.”

With On the Beach, you can book to go to Colina da Lapa, a luxury apartment complex with pretty gardens and a huge swimming pool.

You can laze about on the sunbeds, or splash about in the pool, but for entertainment, you can play tennis, table tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, billiards, minigolf and golf.

It has an outdoor terrace and a restaurant and for daytrips, it’s very near the the town of Carvoeiro .

For more tips on where to go in the Algarve, head here where Sun Travel delves further into what to do in Faro, Silves and Lagos.

Seven nights for a family of four (self-catering) at the Colina da Lapa during July starts from £315pp.

August

“There are few places as beautiful as Croatia in August, yes it’s busy, but worth it. Island hopping, beach clubs, turquoise water, it’s like Ibiza but half the price and double the charm.”

The Zaton Holiday Resort in Zadar will be a hit with families who will never be bored thanks to its nine swimming pools with plenty of slides, a private beach, restaurants, pizzeria and kids club.

It’s home to the Flip Flop Activity Park which has mini-golf, adventure golf, table tennis and archery.

And you can do watersports too like diving, para-sailing, jet-skiing, and wind-surfing.

The Sun’s Alex Goss revealed more on their visit to Zadar, which despite being in August was surprisingly quiet, and joined plenty of excursions from river rafting to island hopping.

A five night stay for a family of four (room only) at the Zaton Holiday Resort during August starts from £298pp.

September

One month on and Rob suggests hopping over to Spain for September.

He says: “September’s got to be the best time to visit Spain’s hottest city, literally. The crowds are gone, but the heat is still there, and you’ll find some of the best tapas in Europe. S is for September, and Seville.”

The Patio de la Alameda in the middle of Seville’s Alameda de Hércules is a charming boutique hotel with three courtyards lined with orange trees.

There are 39 rooms that all come with private bathrooms, air con, plus there’s an on-site cafe for snacks and drinks.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey is a big fan of Seville where she sipped on cheap wine and wandered around the royal palaces.

Two adults can stay in Patio de la Alameda (room only) for two nights from £218pp.

October

It’s cooling down in the UK, so you’ll have to go away for some seriously hot weather.

Rob says: “For 28C in October and glorious sunshine whilst everyone else is wearing jumpers at home, Cyprus is perfect for half-term or one last swim before winter”.

Ayia Napa might be known as the party part of Cyprus, but there’s a lot more to it (but you can party if you like).

It has budget-friendly holidays, the comparatively short travel time — roughly five hours from the UK.

With On the Beach you can stay at the Makronisos Village which is a colourful village-style resort with pools, palm trees and easy beach access.

A five night stay for a family of four (room only) at Makronisos Village starts from £238pp.

November

Descending further into winter means heading further afield – if guaranteed heat and activities like sea snorkelling is on your hit list then head to Egypt.

Sharm El Sheikh has been described as the “forgotten winter sun destination” but it’s is ideal for winter sun as it rarely drops below 20C, even in December and January.

Rob recommends the Falcon Hills Hotel which has two outdoor pools, kids club and spa.

Rob adds: “Falcon Hills is a low-key winner – think big pools, friendly staff and easy access to coral reefs that’ll blow your flippers off.”

Ten nights at Falcon Hills for two adults (bed & breakfast) starts from £740pp.

December

As for December, Rob said: “End the year in style in Dubai temperatures of 28C, beach clubs, rooftop cocktails, and it’s way cheaper than you’d expect if you book early.

“And seeing as we’re in Dubai for this one, let’s go big with the hotel too.”

Head to the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island for a truly luxurious stay on Al Margan Island.

All rooms have either a sea or island view, there’s an elevated infinity pool with views of the Arabian Gulf, plenty of on-site restaurants where you can get barbecue to Pan-Asian style food.

There’s plenty to keep kids entertained, as well as the adults with a kitted out fitness centre, plenty of treatment rooms for massages and evening entertainment.

An all-inclusive stay for a family of four across five nights at the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island starts from £945pp.

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TUNISIA has been named both the cheapest winter sun destination and a top spot for 2026 holidays.

Known for its stunning blue coasts, vibrant souks and fascinating architecture, Tunisia in Africa boasts temperatures of up to 18C during the winter months.

According to Thomas Cook’s list of best-value winter sun destinations, alongside its warm weather, Tunisia boasts top resorts and value for money as well.

For example, 15 nights with Thomas Cook at the 4* Hotel Riviera in Port El Kantaoui, Tunisia on an all-inclusive basis costs from just £370 per person.

And this includes flights, heading out from London Southend on December 6.

Tunisia has also been named one of the top 25 destinations for 2026 by Lonely Planet with it particularly being best for desert and coast adventures.

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Lonely Planet stated: “It’s interesting times in Tunisia, a country that feels suspended between an old world of romantic Roman ruins and vintage beach resorts and a new world of possibilities birthed by the Arab Spring in 2011.”

It added that the country has a “laid-back atmosphere”.

Despite being small, Tunisia has a lot to boast about.

With around 40 per cent of the country being covered by the Sahara desert – the largest hot desert in the world – visitors can do many desert-based activities such as going on camel rides or quad bike journeys.

You could even grab a sandboard and surf down the dunes.

Or simply go for a walk and take in the landscape, especially in places like Matmata – a number of cave dwellings carved into the rock – which is where some of Star Wars was filmed.

The capital of the country is Tunis and can be found in the north.

The city sits along Lake Tunis and is home to a centuries-old medina, which is a UNESCO-listed labyrinth of alleys making up the city’s historic quarter.

Here you will find a number of artisan shops, souks and traditional cafes.

You can also see the world’s largest and finest collection of Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum, which is inside a 15th century palace.

Hammams – traditional spa experiences – are also popular across the country.

Away from the capital, Tunisia also has many quaint villages to explore.

For example, Sidi Bou Said is a clifftop village that overlooks the Mediterranean sea and is famous for its white-and-blue buildings.

Just off of the mainland is also an island called Djerba, that recently got new flights from the UK.

EasyJet is launching flights from both London Luton and Manchester for as little as £81 return.

On the island, travellers can head to Houmt Souk, home to Bazaar Houmt Souk, which sells lots of fresh food and cute souvenirs.

The island also boasts a number of olive groves, including some that date back to the Roman Empire.

When looking for a place to eat, make sure to keep an eye out for traditional Tunisian dishes.

These include brik – a type of crispy fried pastry – and chorba – a tomato-based soup.

Food won’t set you back much either, with a mid-range three-course restaurant meal for two people usually costing around £15.33.

And to enjoy a beer with your meal, you are likely to spend between £1.28 and £1.72.

Hotel prices range in Tunisia, depending on where you are and what kind of place you are looking to stay at.

For example, Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa costs from around £55 per night.

The hotel features 222 guest rooms and suites, a wide range of restaurants and bars and a number of outdoor pools.

Alternatively, in Tunis, you could stay at El Mouradi Gammarth from around £76 per night.

The hotel sits on the beach and boasts a five-star rating.

And of course, it has indoor and outdoor pools.

You can fly to various destinations across the country – for example, return flights to Enfidha cost from £38 per person in December.

Also in December, return flights from the UK to Djerba cost from £39 per person and return flights to Tunis cost from £89 per person.

Flight times vary from two hours and 50 minutes for Tunis and Enfidha, to around three hours and 20 minutes for Djerba.

Lonely Planet has also named the ‘Cuba of Europe’ as one of the top trending destinations for 2026.

And in the UK, there is a city that is home to one of the best experiences to do in 2026.

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JUST 16 miles from the bustling city of Lisbon is a hidden gem town with stunning architecture and a royal past.

Cascais sits on the Portuguese Riviera and is known for its scenic beaches.

The town started out as a fishing village before becoming a popular retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

For example, in the 1870s, King Luis I of Portugal had a summer home in Cascais and as a result, the destination was viewed by others as a glamorous place to go.

Many wealthy families then started to visit, resulting in a number of grand mansions being built.

Later, during the Second World War, the town became a safe haven for exiled European royalty.

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And a number of spies also resided in the region – which ultimately inspired Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, set in Estoril nearby.

Today, the rich and famous still enjoy the town with Cristiano Ronaldo’s new £22million house – which is rumoured to be Portugal’s most expensive residence – located in Quinta da Marinha, in Cascais.

For those heading to the town there is plenty to do.

Rather uniquely, Cascais has a ‘Museum Quarter’ where visitors can explore the Condes de Castro Guimaraes Museum inside the Palace of the Counts of Castro Guimaraes.

The mock-Gothic building features the oldest museum in the town.

Alternatively, travellers can head to the Sea Museum that includes exhibits on underwater archeology and the original fishing community that lived in the town.

Then in the historic centre, there are a number of charming cobbled streets with traditional mosaic pavements, pretty squares and quaint shops.

Of course, the town has sprawling beaches too.

One spot is Praia da Conceicao – a golden sand beach near the centre of the town where you can head to Estoril along a coastal path.

The path stretches over 1.5 miles long and offers beautiful sea views from several beaches.

One recent visitor said: “This is a beautiful beach in the Cascais area near the train station.

“I’d say it’s a small beach with calm, clean, but cool waters.

“The beach also has good facilities: restrooms, showers, a beach bar, a restaurant, and umbrella rentals.

“I loved the caves and rocks, and Rua Frederico Arouca near the beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.”

If you enjoy surfing, you should head to Praia do Guincho, which boasts large, crashing waves.

There is also the Santa Marta Lighthouse to explore, which has a blue and white exterior and also has a museum about the country’s lighthouses.

If you fancy a longer hike, with forests and sights of historic palaces, head to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Depending on what time of the year you visit, the town also hosts a number of events such as jazz festivals, sailing championships and a classic car exhibition.

When it comes to the food scene, there is a lot of choice as well.

Linking back to its fishing village past, the destination has lots of top seafood spots with fresh dishes such as lobster stew and grilled fish.

One well-rated spot is Residente, which features a cream and green interior, with a tiled bar and lots of plants hanging from the ceiling.

You could opt for traditional Portuguese octopus rice with garlic and coriander for €22 (£19.13) or traditional cod fish with egg, onion and potato for €18 (£15.65).

For something sweeter, make sure to head to Santini – a historic ice cream shop that has been a part of Cascais for over 50 years.

The town also has a lot of hotels to choose from depending on your budget.

You could stay at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, which used to be the home of exiled Italian kings.

The hotel faces the ocean and has a swimming pool, spa, gym and is close to a number of golf courses.

It costs from £179.05 a night, for two adults.

Or you could head to Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection By Hilton from £137 per night.

The hotel is just a five-minute walk to the town centre and a 10-minute walk to the beach.

In addition to modern rooms and a breakfast buffet, the hotel also has a rooftop pool, indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, sauna, sun terrace and sprawling garden.

The best way to get to the town is by flying to Lisbon, which costs from £41 if flying from Manchester, from £42 if flying from London and from £57 if flying from Birmingham.

Once in Lisbon, hop on the train to Cascais, which takes around 40 minutes and costs from as little as €2.30 (£2) per way.

Make sure to grab a seat on the left side of the train, as the entire journey runs along the coastline to Cascais, so you will be able to see lots of pretty towns, beaches and monuments.

Cascais is then also the last stop on the journey so you don’t need to worry about missing your stop.

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TWO popular holiday destinations will have Free Child Places for the first time with TUI holidays.

From 2027, families will be ale to make the most of the free places when travelling to Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

TUI has more than 30 hotels across the two holiday regions, with 10 of them being included in the offer.

Which hotels will be included is yet to be confirmed.

However, both destinations are also about to be easier to get to.

From April 2026, TUI will launch a new fortnightly service from Cardiff to Cancun.

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And from June 2026, new TUI flights will run from Belfast International Airport to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

There also thousands of Free Child Places across existing holiday destinations including Greece, Cyprus and Egypt, as well as Turkey.

And last year, Free Child Places were added to Florida holidays.

Chris Logan, Commercial Director of TUI UK&I said: “We’re thrilled to be the first major tour operator to extend our free kids’ places programme to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, responding directly to the growing demand we’ve seen for long-haul family adventures.

“With thousands of free kids’ places available across our Summer 2027 programme, we’re making bucket-list family holidays more accessible than ever before.

“For Summer 2027, we are excited to be offering our widest range of destinations with free kids’ places, the convenience of flying from 23 UK regional airports, and the exceptional service of our UK accredited TUI staff who run kids’ clubs across more than 120 hotels.”

Free Child Places are when a child can go free on a holiday, when staying with two-fully paying adults, at no extra cost.

Most accept children to be under the age of 16 to get the free place.

Generally, a free child place can only be claimed if there are two full-paying adults on a holiday booking. It means that when a pair of adults book a room, one child can stay for no extra cost.

The cut-off for a free child place is 16 years old with most holiday companies.

It includes the return flight, as well as accommodation, transfers and any food board.

Some of the current Free Child Place TUI deals on offer include a week in Majorca for £362pp,

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ONE European island with dreamy beaches and a crowd-free city has been named as a top destination for 2026 holidays.

Whilst it is part of Italy, Sardinia is actually located closer to Africa than mainland Italy and as a result, it boasts warm temperatures and exotic fauna and flora.

And now it has been named as a Destination of the Year by Expedia Group’s Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report, which gathered data from millions of visitors and revealed that searches for Sardinia holidays have risen by 63 per cent.

Having recently visited, I know exactly why – Sardinia is a Mediterranean gem unlike any other.

Most travellers head to Olbia in the north of the island, but Cagliari in the south – the capital of the island – is also a great destination to explore.

The south of the island and around Cagliari is full of quaint villages, rocky hills and breathtaking beaches.

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I stayed in a small village called Chia, which is home to two Hilton hotels.

The resort has a number of pools to enjoy and there are two hidden beaches resort guests can access, both with crystal-clear warm waters and hardly any people.

Rooms at one of the hotels – the Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia – start from £257 per night, for two people including breakfast.

You can also do a number of activities from the resort, including a two-hour horse ride up into the island’s hills.

It was such an amazing way to see the island and experience a bit of local life.

And from the resort, it took me less than an hour to reach Cagliari.

The city is small, but even on a sunny Saturday at the end of August, its streets were quiet from hordes of tourists.

As well as sitting on the coast with panoramic views of the sea, the city has a great blend of culture and history.

One of my favourite spots in the city is Bastione di Saint Remy – a neoclassical fortress made from white and yellow limestone.

While you do have to climb tens of steps, once at the top of the monument you are treated to spectacular views of not only the city, but the islands stretching coastline.

For a while I just sat enjoying the blazing sunshine and the views, with boats whizzing in and out of the port accompanied by the sounds of bustling cafes on the city’s streets below me.

Around Bastione di Saint Remy, there are many winding streets with quaint shops and cafes to explore, which form the city’s historic quarter.

Prices in the shops and cafes are cheap too, with coffees setting you back around 87p to £1.74.

Food didn’t set me back much either, with a salmon and avocado brunch setting me back less than a tenner at Ex Tipografia.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria, Cagliari’s main cathedral is also worth exploring.

It features a mix of different architectural styles and has a stunning crypt inside – just remember if you are visiting to cover up as this is a place of worship.

Make sure to not miss The Underground Cagliari Tour – this unique activity takes you to three different underground sites across the city.

Stops include the Salesian Institute Tunnel-Shelter, which was used by a school as a shelter during heavy WWII bombings.

The entire tunnel is also lit by candles when you visit.

The second stop is at the Crypt of Santa Restituta – it is a natural cave that has been expanded over centuries and has also served as a place of worship.

Finally, you head to the Archaeological Area of Sant’Eulalia, which sits beneath the Church of Sant’Eulalia in the Marina district and reveals the remains of a Roman road.

The tour costs from £26.61 per person.

If you want to enjoy the Mediterranean weather, make sure to explore Orto Botanico.

It is a huge garden with lots of different varieties of plants and Roman archaeological remains and it costs less than £4 to visit.

Return flights to Cagliari cost as little as £38 in November from London with Ryanair.

OMAZE-ING

I went from council flat to winning £4m house… But this is why I’m selling up

BOTTOMS UP

Wetherspoons reveals opening dates of 5 new pubs starting next week

If you are looking for more inspiration for an Italian getaway, then check out this tiny Italian island set to be ‘turned into an oasis’ to escape hordes of tourists.

Plus, the brilliant five-star Italian campsite with beautiful beaches, affordable restaurants and activities for the whole family.

EVER wondered what Thailand might have looked like in the ‘90s, years before the first selfie was snapped or before travel influencers descended in droves?

When I landed on the shores of Koh Yao Yai this August, I got a first hand glimpse.

Just 20 minutes away from Phuket’s tourist-choked roads and party-hopping beaches, this peaceful little paradise in the heart of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay feels frozen in time – almost as if it’s
veiled by a ‘90s sepia-toned filter.

Life moves slowly here, carried by the chorus of tropical
cicadas and the gentle lull of the sea.

Meaning “big long island,” Koh Yao Yai drifts in relative anonymity between Phuket and Krabi.

The afternoon I arrived on the island by speedboat, I wandered along the empty stretch of Loh Pared Beach, feeling a bit like young Leonardo DiCaprio in The Beach, eyes wide as he stumbled upon a deserted Maya Bay for the first time.

Read more on travel inspo

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Ironically, today, Maya Bay remains packed with tourists, while this secret spot, just two ferries away, brims with the kind of charm that time forgot.

What To Do in Koh Yao Yai

Enjoy Sidecar Rides Along Phang Nga Bay

One of the best things to do on the island is hit the roads on a 110cc scooter and drift aimlessly through its fishing villages.

I loved drinking in the sights of island life as they whizzed past: water buffalos wallowing in muddy fields, sparkling sea views layered with limestone karsts, and stilt-propped homes in shades of pink, and blue.

Many hotels and local motorbike operators rent scooters for as little as £6 (฿300) a day.

You can also hire a vintage-style scooter with a sidecar – a fun way to get around these parts – if you fancy a romantic twist to your island holiday.

Take a Batik Painting Class By The Sea

Across the hill from Klong Hia Pier, a local batik shop offers a relaxing afternoon escape from the island’s heat-hazed beaches.

When I visited Batik De Ko Yao, the instructor Lai led me to a bench overlooking the sea and guided me through the basics of batik painting.

The entire process, from tracing the design with molten wax to brushing it with vibrant dyes, was surprisingly meditative.

Once done, Lai dyed and proofed the piece before packing it up for me to take home.

Explore Crowd-Free Beaches

The beaches of Koh Yao Yai are starkly empty save for ghost crabs scuttling in and out of flint-coloured sand, or the occasional longtail boat with locals out fishing.

Especially worth visiting is Laem Haad beach, where the tide retreats beyond the shore each morning, revealing a serpentine sandbar that’s fun to walk across.

From there, you can spot the island’s smaller sibling, Koh Yao Noi.

In the evenings, watch the sun smear the skies in orange-pink hues at Loh Pared Beach, a soft white-sand cove on the island’s western end.

Another excellent spot is the Klong Son beach, where I arrived after braving a rocky road flanked by rubber trees.

The sun was blazing, the water warm, and although I craved a cold
drink, I was pleased to see that there were no shops or shacks lining the beach.

Take a Mangrove Tour

The island’s mangrove routes are perfect for relaxed and low-impact activities like kayaking.

Local guides lead you through canopied mangrove forests and sunlit lagoons in southern Koh Yao Yai, where you can spot a variety of indigenous wildlife – from mudskippers and tree snakes to monitor lizards and tropical birds – as you kayak through the waters.

Where To Eat and Drink

Koh Yao Yai is home to a predominantly Muslim population, which means bars and booze shops are rare – but not impossible to find.

Small, family-run shacks also dot the island, serving fragrant Massaman and Panang curries with rice, spicy salads, and Thai specialties for as little as £3 to £4 per plate, or under £20 for a meal for two.

One local favourite is Isaan Fine1, which has a bar menu serving cheap Thai beers like Singha, Leo, and Chang’s for just £3 a pop.

While you’re here, make sure to fill up on pad thai, drunken noodles, and fresh Thai salads, too.

Another spot to enjoy drinks, grub, and music after a day out is Gypsy, a rustic island-style shack on the far end of Loh Pared Beach.

Sink your toes into the sand while you enjoy a cold beer or a mojito for just under £5.

For a more elevated experience with bay views, head over to the Jetinn Sunset at Pier at the Santhiya Resort.

Open from 5p.m to 7 p.m. daily, this overwater bar offers a lively sundowner vibe with panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay.

Cocktails are a bit pricier than elsewhere, but the vibe and views more than make up for it.

Where To Stay

If you don’t mind the splurge, lavish retreats like the Santhiya Koh Yao Yai and Anantara Koh Yao Yai offer idyllic sea-view villas and suites from £140 and £275 per night.

For a more laidback stay, the Thiwson Beach Resort offers rustic bungalows overlooking the sea from just £70 a night.

A short walk away, the Better View Resort has sea view rooms for £84 a night.

If you prefer to keep it simple and stretch your stay, budget-friendly options like the Koh Yao Beach Front are excellent.

Located steps away from the Laem Haad beach sandbar, you can rent breezy bamboo huts here for as little as £27 a night.

Tucked further inland, the Patcharin Homestay and Bahnwalee offer clean wooden cottages between £20-£30 a night.

Wherever you stay, Koh Yao Yai presents a glimpse of Thailand as it once was: unhurried, unfiltered, and magical.

OMAZE-ING

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BOTTOMS UP

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If you are still looking for holidays in Thailand, then you could go kayaking, hiking, have cooking classes and zip-line in the Thai city that is top place to visit next year.

Plus, the Thai island Brits have no idea exists that is like going back in time – and loved by famous footballer.

A LITTLE-known resort with white sands, a Unesco-listed old town and beer for less than £2 tops a new listing of most affordable autumn beach breaks in Europe this year.

Nessebar, on a peninsula in Bulgaria, is No1 in budget airline easyJet’s Cheap Beach Index, thanks to its affordable hospitality and dependable deals on flights and hotels.

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The research analysed areas within easy reach of airports that offer affordable direct routes from the UK, and the costs of a typical holiday “basket” of essentials including beer, ice cream and family meals out.

The Budva Riviera in Montenegro came second, followed by Spain’s Costa de Almeria then Costa Dorada.

Next came Croatian towns Nin and Medulin.

Lisa Minot describes what makes these autumn breaks winners, and offers some great deals . . . 

NESSEBAR, BULGARIA

THIS little gem offers the best of both worlds with golden sands on South Beach and plenty of charm in the Old Town with its Roman and Ottoman architecture, 19th-century wooden houses and cobbled streets.

It’s not all culture, though – the resort has plenty to keep visitors happy with lots of bars and restaurants and a lively nightlife.

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The report found beers would cost on average £1.60, while a three-course meal will set you back around £22 for a couple.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Festa Panorama, Nessebar is from £477pp including flights from Manchester departing on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

BUDVA RIVIERA, MONTENEGRO

LOCATED on Montenegro’s gorgeous Adriatic Coast, the Budva Riviera has more than 35km of stunning coastline.

There are several beaches, from the lively, expansive Jaz and Slovenska Plaza to the picturesque coves of Mogren.

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At its heart is the charming medieval Old Town (Stari Grad) with its Venetian walls and historic churches.

The index found beers will set you back just £1.90, a meal for two is £30 and ice creams a bargain £1.50.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Eurostars Queen of Montenegro is from £452pp, from Gatwick on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DE ALMERIA, SPAIN

FOR a more authentic Spanish experience, distinct from the more crowded Costas, the Costa de Almeria is Europe’s only desert landscape, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Highlight is the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, a protected area with volcanic geology, hidden coves like Monsul and vast, unspoiled beaches for you to set aside the pressures of life.

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Roquetas de Mar is a perfect beachfront town with lots of shops, bars and restaurants close by.

The report found beers will cost just £3 and a meal for two £36.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Best Roquetas Hotel, Costa de Almeria is from £372pp including flights from Southend on September 27, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DORADA, SPAIN

ALWAYS among the best value of the Costas, this area is known as the Golden Coast – perfect for families with its long, gently shelving golden sand beaches.

Salou has a buzzing nightlife scene and direct access to the ever popular PortAventura World theme park.

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Head to Cambrils for great seafood restaurants while Tarragona has a magnificent Roman amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The index found beers would cost £2.55 and a meal for a couple around £36.

GO: Seven nights’ R/O at the 3H Hotel Eurosalou is from £306pp including easyJet flights from Southend on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See travelsupermarket.com.

MEDULIN, CROATIA

THIS family-friendly resort on Croatia’s Istrian Coast stands out with its kilometre-long sandy Bijeca beach with shallow waters.

The sheltered bay is also ideal for watersports such as paddle boarding.

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For nature lovers, the rugged Cape Kamenjak reserve has stunning cliffs, secluded coves and walking trails.

The nearby city of Pula with its historic Roman remains, is a short bus ride away.

The report found beers would cost around £3.10 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Park Plaza Belvedere Medulin is from £580pp including easyJet flights from Luton, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See love holidays.com.

NIN, CROATIA

THE ancient Croatian town is on an islet within a lagoon on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.

Known as the birthplace of Croatian kings, its historic centre is linked to the mainland by two 16th-century stone bridges.

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Nin is famous for beautiful sandy lagoons, among them Queen’s Beach, a 3km stretch of sand in a shallow, warm bay.

Nearby, you can experience the tradition of applying therapeutic mud, renowned for its healing properties.

The index found beers were £3.20 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering in an apartment is from £473 in total, based on four sharing, from Sep 23 – novasol.co.uk.

Fly EasyJet from Gatwick to Zadar from £136pp return.

See easyjet.com.

SOME people enjoy netball or cross-stitch, but my hobby is booking holidays – and I’m really good at it.

I know a lot of people hate searching for a family holiday, working out what resort is best and whether it’s good value for money, but I enjoy it and it can save you A LOT of money.

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I treat it like a sport, and as a family of four, with two children aged 8 and 5, we have been on some brilliant budget breaks.

There is no better feeling than getting a really great deal for a week in the sun, and I’ve got some great tips to help you do the same.

I go through the flights, hotels and dates with a fine-tooth comb, working out little ways to save. 

It’s even easier to do this at the end of the school holidays or in the shoulder season, such as the October half term, because there are some great deals around.

I have been doing this since my early 20s, after picking up the habit from my dad – back then, the best bargains were on last-minute deals.

We used to pack our suitcases, and my dad would be on the phone to Teletext Holidays, nabbing a same-day bargain. 

His greatest achievement was booking a flight that had already started boarding. Although we’d never be able to do that now. 

However, it’s still a thrill when you lock in a trip for a bargain price. It makes the holiday instantly better. 

Sometimes it’s a small saving, like finding a cheaper airport transfer and saving £20, but sometimes my research pays off, saving hundreds, and nowadays it all adds up. 

Getting a package deal

Last year, I got my biggest saving yet on a family holiday to Greece. 

By booking everything individually, instead of going for a package deal, I saved over £1000 – which was a third of the price. 

I couldn’t believe it!

Having just moved house, we hadn’t booked anything for the summer, hoping to utilise the garden. 

But the end of term was approaching, and after months of grey skies and drizzle, I decided we needed a proper holiday. 

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Heading first to a popular holiday provider, I browsed the best deals across all six weeks of the kids’ school break. 

I didn’t have a set departure airport or destination in mind, and I kept the dates and length of time we’d be away flexible, which meant I had a wide range to choose from. 

At the time, Greece was coming up as the cheapest, and I narrowed it down to the Louis Apostolata Island Resort in Kefalonia.

The deal was pretty good. Flights from London, a week’s half-board in a four-star resort, a suitcase each and transfers to and from the airport in Greece for £3400.

But, since we hadn’t planned on a summer holiday, it was still over budget. 

That’s when I started looking into each aspect separately. I discovered that instead of flying with the designated airline, we could fly with Ryanair for half the cost. 

Flights were £140 return on the budget airline.

Since we didn’t need four suitcases, we just booked one between us for the week, immediately saving another £150 on the Ryanair flights. 

Going onto the hotel’s own website, I noticed that I could book directly with them, and the price was coming up a lot less.

They also had an offer on a room upgrade if you signed up for the mailing list. We actually ended up with a nicer room while paying less. 

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The only thing that wasn’t covered was transfers. On the package deal, a coach transfer was included, but it also stopped at a number of other hotels. 

When I looked it up, a taxi to the resort was only £80 return. 

However, even with this on top, we still saved a whopping £1001 on the whole trip, which in total cost £2300.  

We used the money we saved to book a weekend in Disneyland Paris in October.

Again, I booked everything separately, using the Eurotunnel to drive to France and booking a hotel close to the theme park with 2-day tickets for just £440 for all of us. 

Our trip only cost £1300. 

After saving money on our Greece trip, I told people that Disneyland only cost us £300! 

Book carefully

My advice would be to always book with reputable suppliers, because you could end up forking out more if they are not legitimate. 

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

I do like DIY holidays, but I am not against booking a package deal, and sometimes they are so good, I can’t beat them.

Our favourite places to shop for a package holiday are Jet2holidays and TUI.

Booking a package means you get extra protection for your holiday through regulators like ABTA, ATOL and ABTOT. 

This means you’ll get your money back on all aspects of the package in the event of any holiday disasters, like flight cancellations or issues at the hotel – which I wouldn’t have had with my DIY version.  

For peace of mind, some people prefer to pay extra and not have to think about that, but massive holiday disasters are rare so I am happy to take the risk. 

A SEASIDE town made famous by former world heavy-weight boxing champ Tyson Fury is on the ropes.

Gritty ITV cop drama ‘The Bay’ attracts five million viewers, but has done nothing to restore Morecambe’s fortunes as a tourist and holidaying hotspot.

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Dilapidated buildings, boarded up shops, closed hotels, and vandalised shopping arcades blight the Lancashire seaside resort.

And homeless down-and-outs, swigging cans during the day, plague the streets.

Morecambe FC has been besieged with talks of going under after 105 years, with the beleaguered club enduring a chaotic summer since being relegated from League Two, with staff and players not even paid.

Some football club workers have been offered food parcels. As it stands, the National League club is on the brink of extinction, though takeover talks continue.

Eden Project Morecambe – a sister to the popular Eden bio-spheres in Cornwall – is hoped to breath new life into the area and bring tourists flocking back to the resort. But that is at least three years away.

Brother and sister Liam, 14, and Lola, nine, were visiting Morecambe from their native Canada and were drawn to the vandalised and graffitied former shopping arcade, which is fenced off to the public due to a rusted and collapsing roof.

They were accompanied by their aunt and nan Kay Robinson, 73, who remembers the good old days of the seaside resort.

It used to boast such attractions as the Super Swimming Stadium lido, the pleasure park Frontierland and sea life centre Marineland.

“It’s gone down hill since the 1970s,” said Kay.

“There used to be fairgrounds, illuminations, an amazing swimming pool, there used to be everything. We liked coming here better than Blackpool.

“Even the outdoor market has gone now. Everything has gone or is going now.

“You can’t go round the pubs like you used to, it used to be a great night out around Morecambe, but not now.”

Visitors love taking selfies beside the statue of the late comedian Eric Morecambe, which was unveiled on the promenade by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.

Holidaymakers Paul and Alison Johnson, from Glossop, posed with grandson Ralphie, eight, as they enjoyed the summer sunshine.

Paul, 59, who has visited Morecambe over the years, said: “It seems to be getting cleaner, now this sea front has been done up.

“We have a caravan near here.”

Alison, 51 said: “It’s lovely in the sunshine.”

But directly opposite the iconic bronze tourist attraction stands reminders of the resort’s decline.

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Standing side-by-side, Eric’s Cafe and the Tivoli Bar, are closed down at what should be the height of the summer season.

And the town centre, just a streets from the prom, is lined with abandoned shops, closed down pubs and eateries and empty banks.

A homeless rough sleeper was slouched by the entrance to the tired Arndale Centre, which stands beside a boarded-up pawnbrokers and opposite empty shops and the shell of the former Santander bank.

In a shaded doorway down a run-down street a couple of scruff-looking men, one sitting beside his crutches, were swigging from cans of super-strength Oranjeboom beers, as parents and kids walked past.

Back on the sunny promenade where the popular outdoor swimming pool, which used to be home of the Miss Great Britain beauty contest between 1956 and 1989, John and Lynda Ritchie were taking a stroll.

“This is where they are going to build the Eden centre, if it ever gets off the ground,” said John, 80, visiting with wife Lynda, 80, from Kendal.

“It can’t come soon enough. It’ll hopefully save the town.”

“We used to bring our lads here to swim in the pool, but it is such a shame what it is like now,” said Lynda.

“Hopefully things will change when the Eden Project comes, but I wish they’d hurry up, I’d like to see it.

“The place has very much gone down hill, as many seaside towns have since people started to go abroad.”

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First-time visitors David and Lynn Buswell, from Leicestershire, were walking their Staffie Tyson – aptly named as Morecambe is the home town of former world heavyweight champ Tyson Fury – along the prom after parking up their motorhome.

“Never been here before. I’m here because my mum and dad had a photo taken with the Eric Morecambe statue and we want to recreate it,” said David, 64, a music producer.

“It looks like an average, typical English seaside town, nothing special. Okay for the kids, but not us.

“We will be parking up the motorhome for one night – not for two though. I think we will be moving on.”

Lynn, 69, said: “We have just come down from the Lake District, which was beautiful. This is a stark contrast.”

South of the town centre, the Cumberland View pub is boarded up.

Beside the former almost seafront railway station – closed now and turned into a pub – is the Festival Market.

Trains, no longer full or excited holiday makers and day trippers from West Yorkshire, now pull in to a dowdy wooden platform next to a boarded up former restaurant 500 yards of more inland.

Festival Market trader Karen Brown, 66, has been running her stall The Beauty Box for 50 years, and has seen the decline of the town.
“The place has gone really down hill since the glory days. The job is tougher now,” said Karen.

“I don’t do too bad in summer with the tourists. They come to buy things. But, in winter, the locals don’t tend to to use the market. They should do, they’ll whinge if it goes.

“The visitors come round saying what a lovely market it is and they appreciate it, but the locals, not so much.”

Fellow market trader Julie Norris, 58, has run sweet stall, Sweet Tweets, for five years.

“I’m finding trading in Morecambe alright because all the other sweet shops are shutting down,” said Julie.

“The kids are coming here for their holiday treats. And we also do well from people coming here to buy snacks and sweets before going to the cinema next door.

“They don’t want to pay rip-off cinema prices so stock up here before going to see a film.

“I love working here and if the Eden Project comes it will be fantastic. It’ll be very family orientated.”

Tyson Fury

Fury is arguably the town’s biggest name, living in the area with his wife Paris and their seven children there.

And today, it was revealed that he had sold a property in the area – for a knockdown price of £700,000.

Speaking last year, he told TNT: “17 years, it’s become my home. A new home, away from home. I actually cast myself now as from Morecambe, I don’t say I’m from Manchester anymore.

“It’s been keeping me grounded – I have always likened Morecambe to Alcatraz island… because if you go 200m that way you hit the sea, and if you go a couple of miles that way you hit the M6 motorway, and you’ve got to drive an hour to get to any city.

“It’s a big island, there’s not much distractions, there’s not much stuff to do, you can’t spend your money here because there’s nothing to spend it on, apart from Asda… That’s it, really, it’s a good place for a fighter…

“It’s kept me grounded, away from all the limelight.”

He added that locals are very respectful and leave him alone when he goes for runs. “If I go to any other city in the world, oomph Elvis has landed.”

The “Gypsy King” has previously expressed interest in buying Morecambe FC and told talkSPORT: “I was thinking I invest X amount of millions in them. Basically throw it at them and keep them going up. I’ve been offered to buy Morecambe Football Club.

“I own all the training facilities anyway and the training gym. So who knows? You might be looking at a football club owner.”

The Tyson Fury Foundation sits in the north-east corner of the football club’s Mazuma Mobile Stadium.

However, the Telegraph has claimed that Fury currently has no interest in buying the Shrimps.

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IT doesn’t get more exciting than sailing in style to a paradise Caribbean private island.

And even more cruise lines are now going all out to host passengers on their own islands.

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Royal Caribbean last week announced its second Perfect Day destination off Mexico, opening in 2027, which will include a waterpark with 30 slides, the longest lazy river in the world, adults-only beach clubs and a host of bars and restaurants.

Lisa Minot looks at existing private islands you can cruise to.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

IT was Royal who upped the ante with the launch of its revamped Perfect Day at Coco Cay in 2019.

The £185million transformation of its Bahamas island included a new pier, thrill rides and chill zones.

There are seven beaches to laze beside the warm waters and six pools, including Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean with swim-up bar and in-water loungers.

The Thrill Waterpark has 14 slides including the tallest in North America while Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon are perfect places for the kids to play.

There’s complimentary food at four restaurants as well as a host of bars and shops.

The adult-only Hideaway Beach opened in January last year and, for an extra charge, over-18s can enjoy a private beach, two pools, seven bars and two restaurants.

Also available to book for an extra charge are overwater cabanas, a zipline and tethered hot air balloon as well as kayak tours and snorkelling excursions.

GO: A week full-board on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is from £1,064pp, sailing from Miami on November 8 and calling at St Maarten, St Thomas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

See royalcaribbean.com.

MSC CRUISES

WITH its signature stripey lighthouse and two miles of white sand beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is a regular port of call for MSC cruise ships.

They sail from their new private terminal in Miami as well as Port Canaveral in Florida and New York, including MSC World America, which made its debut in April.

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The Italian cruise line has transformed a former sand excavation site in the last ten years, planting more than 75,000 trees and bringing back marine life and birds.

A newly-opened conservation centre on the island allows guests to discover their achievements and includes a land-based coral nursery and fully-equipped bio-lab.

But cruise guests will also appreciate the island’s laid-back vibe with food trucks and restaurants offering Bahamian specialities, barbecue classics, snacks and oodles of ice cream and beach bars serving tropical cocktails.

There’s a chance to explore the underwater wonders with snorkelling, kayak, paddle board and windsurfing excursions.

For a bit of luxury, you can relax in a cabana or take a sunset champagne cruise.

GO: Seven nights’ full-board on MSC World America is from £649pp.

Sailing from Miami on September 13, the cruise calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

See msccruises.com.

HOLLAND AMERICA/CARNIVAL

ONE of the original private island pioneers, the Holland America line first started calling at RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas in 1997 and it has been expanding its presence there ever since.

In summer next year, a major upgrade will see a new beach club and lunch venue on its original facilities on the south of the island’s stunning two-mile crescent of powder-soft white sand as well as a new pier at the north end of the beach that will be used by both Holland America and its sister cruise line Carnival.

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Thrill-seekers can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, snorkelling, jet skiing, and stingray encounters.

Families will love the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park, while nature enthusiasts can explore eco-tours and birdwatching.

Unique experiences include glass-bottom boat tours and a pirate ship-themed bar.

With beach sports, shopping and complimentary barbecue lunches, this is a high-end island escape for cruisers.

GO: A 14-night full-board Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America’s Zuiderdam is from £1,379pp, departs Miami on November 8 and calls at Half Moon Cay, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, Miami, Bahamas, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos.

See hollandamerica.com.

DISNEY

MICKEY Mouse and pals now have two private islands to enjoy in the Bahamas.

Their original, Castaway Cay, opened in 1998 as part of the launch of the new cruise line.

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And last year, they opened Lookout Cay.

As you would expect, there is a huge amount of fun activities for kids including kids’ clubs for three to 17-year-olds.

The family beach features plenty of umbrellas, chairs and hammocks plus tube and float rentals and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet.

Water babies will love Pelican Plunge, a huge floating platform featuring water slides and cannons.

Spring-a-Leak is a water play area with freshwater jets.

Adults get their own Serenity Bay stretch of pristine sands as well as a restaurant and bar.

The island features a 12-acre snorkel trail dotted with sunken treasures including the submarine from the classic Disney attraction 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and there are miles of paths to explore on foot or bicycle.

Over at Lookout Cay, there’s more of a focus on nature and celebrating the island’s Bahamian location with a cultural centre where you can learn about traditions and crafts.

GO: A four-night full-board cruise on Disney Wish to the Bahamas, including calls at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay is from £920pp, based on two adults and two children sharing.

The cruise departs August 17.

See iglucruise.com.