Beach Holiday Deals

The ridiculously cheap holiday deals you can book right now with £16 hotels, £21 flights & ENTIRE package hols for £92pp

IF you’re after an insanely affordable holiday, then there is a fantastic travel website you need to know about.

Opodo offers flights, hotels, car hire and package holiday deals for prices that will make you do a double take.

Opodo offers incredibly affordable package holidays, as well as deals for individual flights and hotels Credit: Getty

We’ve found hotels in Marrakech from £16, return flights to Barcelona from £21 and even entire Tenerife holidays from £147pp, to name but a few.

So whether you’re looking to book a family holiday, a couples getaway or even a solo travel retreat, here’s our round-up of the best Opodo deals right now.

Browse affordable deals on Opodo – package hols from £92pp

Alicante – £117pp

Visit Postiguet Beach on a trip to Alicante, Spain from £117pp with Opodo Credit: Getty

Hop on a two-and-a-half-hour flight over to Alicante to soak up some rays on a stunning stretch of Spanish coast, with sizzling highs of 25°C in October.

Postiguet is the main beach here, sitting at the foot of Mount Benacantil and watched over by Santa Barbara Castle.

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Once you’re done topping up your tan, you can hike up to the spectacular castle to soak up panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline for free.

With package deals from £117pp, a quick sunny Spanish getaway might be closer than you’d think.

Browse Alicante package holidays from £117pp

Rome – £119pp

Visiting the Colosseum is free on the first Sunday of every month Credit: Alamy

You do not need to spend a fortune to visit Rome, with Opodo’s package holiday deals starting from £119pp.

Rome is a giant, open-air museum where simply wandering the cobbled streets to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain or marvel at the Pantheon costs absolutely nothing.

Plus if you time your trip to include the first Sunday of the month, visits to state museums, attractions and even the Colosseum offer free entry.

Head across the river to the buzzing Trastevere neighbourhood for authentic €3 pizza by the slice and €5 Aperol Spritzes.

Browse Rome package holidays from £119pp

Cheap flights

Here’s our selection of bargain flights we found with Opodo Prime

If you’re signed up to Opodo Prime, you can bag super cheap flights like the ones we’ve found below.

Opodo Prime plans start from £8.99 a month and can save you hundreds per year on flights, hotels and more.

Faro – from £22 return

Milan – from £31 return

Barcelona – from £21 return

Paris – from £46 return

Madrid – from £39 return

Amsterdam – from £89 return

Ibiza – from £37 return

Geneva – from £55 return

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Tenerife – £147pp

Tenerife stays warm in the winter and is only a four hour flight away from the UK Credit: Getty

Tenerife is a classic, affordable winter sun destination, with highs of 26°C in October and still sitting at toasty highs of 24°C in November.

The flight is only four hours from the UK for these sunny temperatures, and once you’re there, there are loads of ways to enjoy all that sunshine.

Stroll the sweeping volcanic beaches of Costa Adeje, enjoy €3 tapas in traditional tavernas or go whale watching on an unforgettable boat tour.

Make sure to check out Siam Park, a paradise for waterpark fans which has been crowned the world’s No.1 waterpark for 10 consecutive years by Tripadvisor.

Browse Tenerife package holidays from £147pp

Athens – £162pp

Tick off a trip to the impressive city of Athens in Greece from £162pp with Opodo Credit: Getty

Ancient historical sites, snazzy rooftop bars, amazing Greek food – Athens is an underrated choice when it comes to city breaks.

The famous Acropolis of Athens is a must-visit. To stretch your cash, buy a €30 combo ticket which gets you into seven major archaeological sites.

When it comes to cheap eats, you can grab some delicious pork or chicken gyros stuffed with chips and tzatziki for around €3, before hitting the bars for a €2 Mythos beer.

This deal includes a stay at the Sparta Team Hotel, which is only a 12-minute taxi ride or 20-minute walk away from the Acropolis.

Browse Athens package holidays from £162pp

Cheap hotels

Here’s our selection of bargain hotels we found on Opodo (prices per night)

Paris – £92pp

Stroll along the Seine in Paris for fantastic views of the city and its famous landmarks Credit: Alamy

Enjoy a chic getaway to the French Capital with friends or your partner for under £100 each.

Take in the city with strolls along the Seine, or venture to the cobbled hills of Montmartre to take in sweeping views of the city from the Sacre-Coeur basilica.

For a budget-friendly feast, skip the expensive restaurants and hit up a local boulangerie. Grab a fresh baguette, a wedge of creamy brie, and a cheap bottle of supermarket wine for a delicious Parisian picnic.

Book yourself a £92 package getaway or a £46 return flight with Opodo, and you can say Bonjour to your next bargain escape.

Browse Paris package holidays from £92pp

Prices correct at the time of publication.

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The winter sun holiday destinations that are CHEAPER this year

THE UK might still be getting a last burst of heat but now is the time to lock in a winter sun holiday to get through the dark nights of December.

And new research has revealed which holiday destinations are much cheaper to go to this year compared to last year – and the ones to avoid which have jumped in price.

A new study has revealed which winter sun holiday destinations are cheaper to visit this year Credit: Alamy
Tenerife was the top of the list for holidays that were more expensive this year Credit: Alamy

The study, conducted by TravelSupermarket, looked at holiday prices between December 1 and January 31, looking at seven-night breaks.

And the biggest drop in prices was Gambia in West Africa.

The average holiday price last year was £299 each a night, while this winter it has dropped to £219 – a fall of nearly 27 per cent.

This was followed by Ras Al-Khaimah in the UAE, which fell 19.41 per cent £64 to £52.

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Others that saw prices drop include Las Vegas (-13.05 per cent), Bali (-11.78 per cent), and Dominican Republic (8.82 per cent).

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “This winter‘s package prices show that it pays to look beyond your usual destination.

“These are averages across different hotels and board bases, so individual holidays still need comparing carefully, but the picture is far more varied than winter sun simply becoming more expensive everywhere.

“There are savings further afield , with average package prices to the Dominican Republic down 8.8% and Jamaica down 6.1%.”

Gambia came out on top for the biggest price drop for winter holidays, down nearly 27% Credit: Alamy
A trip to Bali is more affordable this year too Credit: Alamy
The Algarve was one of the destinations that has jumped the most in price this winter Credit: Alamy

Sadly, it’s the destinations closer to home that have risen in price this year.

Tenerife, one of the hottest Spanish islands in winter, is up nearly 25 per cent compared to last year with average prices per person, per night going from £91 to £113.

The Algarve was close behind, with prices up from £81 to £99, a rise in 22.8 per cent.

The Bahamas (+18.67 per cent), Costa Blanca (+16.92 per cent) and Madeira and Porto Sando (+15.43 per cent) rounded up the top five.

10 holiday destinations that have DROPPED in price this winter

  1. Gambia (-26.85%)
  2. Ras Al-Khaimah (-19.41%)
  3. Sousse (-18.39%)
  4. Las Vegas (-13.05%)
  5. Bali (-11.78%)
  6. Dominican Republic (-8.82%)
  7. Marrakech (-7.5%)
  8. Jamaica (-6.08%)
  9. Cape Verde (-6.01%)
  10. Goa (-4.19%)

Chris added: “Average prices for Tenerife are up 10.5% year on year and Gran Canaria 8.2%, while Cape Verde is down 6% and Gambia nearly 27%.

“Neither is a new destination, but those contrasting price movements give travellers a reason to widen their search.

“Egypt also stands out because its average package price has barely moved, rising just 0.3%.

“At around £117 per person per night, it remains below the averages for Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote in our analysis.”



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I find cheap holidays for a living

I SPEND most of my days scouring the web to track down the cheapest possible holiday deals – to share them all with Sun Club members.

Spending so much time filtering and flicking through holiday websites means I’ve gotten pretty good at seeking out a bargain.

Travel writer Jenna Stevens spends most of her days hunting down cheap holidays – here’s exactly how she finds the best deals Credit: Jenna Stevens
With my website trick I found a I found a week-long holiday to a four-star resort in Magaluf for £119pp Credit: Alamy

In fact, I’m often finding UK breaks for under £5pp, city breaks for £99 and under, and even family holidays abroad for £150pp or less.

So I’ve decided to reveal exactly how I find these cheap holidays: the very best websites to use, and how to use them to bag the best deals.

Holidays abroad

Loveholidays and On the Beach are two incredible companies when it comes to bagging the cheapest deals.

Both offer package holidays which bundle in your return flights, accommodation and board of your choice – so there’s no need to worry about having to book it all separately.

Loveholidays

With Loveholidays, it’s really easy to filter breaks by all inclusive, family friendly, short haul, long haul and more.

Their cheap holidays page lets you pick between cheap all-inclusives, beach holidays, city breaks and even family holidays with free child stays.

You can also filter by breaks under £500pp or even under £300pp. Drag the slider bar all the way down to the bottom, and you may even find hols for £120pp or under.

For example, under the ‘Cheap Beach Holidays’ tab, I found a week-long holiday to a four-star resort in Magaluf in October for £119pp.

On The Beach

You can book a four night break in The Algarve with On the Beach for £95pp Credit: Getty

On The Beach works in a similar fashion, and their cheap holidays page is regularly updated with ‘our cheapest deals of the week’, which often start from a super low £100pp to destinations like Portugal and Malta.

This page also currently has a ‘cheap holidays for autumn under £500′ section.

Some of the cheapest holidays they’re offering this autumn are week-long breaks to Turkey (from £135pp) and the Canary Islands (from £180pp).

One of the best deals I found for autumn using the cheap holidays page to navigate the offers is for a four night break in The Algarve for £95pp.

Wowcher

As well as UK breaks, Wowcher is also great for booking holidays abroad.

Yes they have the classic £99 mystery holiday, but they also offer beach holidays, European city breaks, cruises and even long haul escapes.

These include a glamorous Lake Como getaway from £79pp, an all-inclusive Egypt holiday from £299, and even an incredible Las Vegas holiday with flights for £399.

I recommend browsing their cheap holiday packages page or all-inclusive holidays page.

Lastminute.com

Lastminute.com choose a deal of the week, with one recent bargain being a Tenerife hol for £484pp Credit: Alamy

Lastminute.com is another great site that does what it says on the tin – and more.

While the homepage often showcases some of the site’s best value deals, they also have specific pages rounding up cheap family holiday destinations as well as cheap adults-only resorts.

Plus the site is still king when it comes to bagging a last-minute break. This webpage rounds up the week’s best exclusive deal, plus an offer of the week and last chance bargains.

Offers of the week are certainly one to keep an eye open for – their most recent was for a trip to a 5* resort in Tenerife for four nights with flights for £484pp.

The site also has a loyalty programme which is completely free to join, and can bag you up to an extra 15 per cent off holidays and experiences.

The offers get better the more holidays you take, and as you climb the ranks you can unlock more and more perks.

These include free travel audioguides, 10 per cent off car hire and free lounge access if your flight is delayed.

Sundeals

Sundeals is the new kid on the block when it comes to cheap holiday deals, and is a new branch of familiar favourite holiday company TUI.

Here you can explore deals by budget (under £350, under £500, under £1,000) or by destination and more.

On their cheap holidays page, I’ve found all inclusive holidays from £234pp, beach holidays from £115pp and city breaks from £147pp.

Plus, the holiday company offers holidays with super low deposits from £30pp, so you can get your next break locked in for cheap.

Travelzoo

I found a Travelzoo deal for 11 nights in Egypt combining a Nile cruise and 5* hotel for only £549pp with flights Credit: Alamy

This is the only site you’ll have to pay for on this list, but my goodness is your membership worth it.

A Travelzoo membership costs £30 a year, but you can also try out 30 days of membership for £1.

Signing up means you’ll get Travelzoo’s ‘Top 20 deals’ dropped into your inbox each week, so you can easily have a quick browse to see if anything takes your fancy.

Or you can head to the site to browse cheap holiday deals broken down into loads of specific categories, from Asia Pacific holiday deals to island holidays and safari deals.

The best value to be found for foreign holidays here is for long haul breaks. The first time I came across their long haul holiday deals, I couldn’t quite believe my eyes.

You can visit gorgeous hotels in New York for £653pp, the Dominican Republic for £690pp and Mexico for £860pp – all for a week-long break including flights.

I even found an 11-night Egypt holiday which packs in your flights, four nights at a 5* all inclusive resort – followed by a Nile cruise which stops at major historical sights – for an unbelievable £549pp.

To be able to view and book these deals, you have to be signed up as a member.

Where to look

Albania has been called ‘The Maldives of Europe’ due to the colour of its water and sands Credit: Alamy

Where you’re looking for your holidays is equally as important as how you’re looking.

You might be tempted to hop online and look for the same familiar favourites you’ve been to before, such as cheap Spain or Greece holidays.

But if you’re open to trying somewhere new, I’d recommend not ticking the ‘destination’ box. Instead, go for ‘beach holidays’ and see what pops up.

That way, you’re opening up hundreds or even thousands of new holiday options – which massively increases your chances of finding something cheaper.

And if you know there’s somewhere you really don’t want to go to, you can just untick it from the left-hand column of the page. Easy peasy.

I’d recommend keeping an eye out for Bulgaria, Albania and Montenegro holidays specifically.

These three destinations are absolute powerhouses when it comes to an affordable beach holiday.

Bulgaria has all-inclusive getaways from £279 and flights from the UK under £15. Plus once you’re there, you can grab a meal out for under £9 and a cappuccino for just 88p.

Albania has been named the ‘Maldives of Europe‘ thanks to its beaches with bright white sand and electric blue seas, with holidays from £165pp.

Montenegro offers £255 holidays and even has been referred to as ‘St Tropez with Benidorm prices’ by one travel expert.

UK Holidays

Best Western GEM stays

Best Western package hotel stays with activities, like with their soft play family break Credit: Best Western

Forget paying for just a bed for the night. Best Western’s GEM stays are hotel break packages with your room, food, and extra perks completely sorted for you.

The GEM packages stand for ‘Great Escapes, Memorable Stays’ and are centred around a huge variety of fun experiences.

The Somerset Family Escape package (from £123.38 per night) bundles in a family stay for two adults and one child with breakfast plus soft play access for the kids while parents can unwind in the spa.

Whereas the Ultimate Girls Night In package at Brackenborough Lakes & Resort reserves a hot tub lodge for two nights, breakfast each morning, three bottles of Prosecco and £15 takeaway credit per person from £44.50pp per night.

Wowcher

Head to Manchester for a swanky city break for £105 with Wowcher (41% off) Credit: Getty

The UK holidays section of Wowcher is hiding some serious bargains, from spa weekends, to city hotel stays, to rural retreats.

Look for any offers with the pink ‘Price Drop’ label to find the cheapest deals.

Some of the top offers for UK breaks on Wowcher right now include a 4* break in Manchester for two with breakfast for £105, shaving 41 per cent off full-price.

Another fantastic offer is for a wellness retreat to Woodford Bridge Country Club, where four people can escape for four nights from £79 (£4.94pp per night).

Travelzoo

Stay in Northumberland’s National Park for £59 with this Travelzoo bargain Credit: Getty

Travelzoo’s UK holiday deals are just as impressive as their deals for holidays abroad.

If you head to their UK hotel breaks, deals and stays page, you can find weekends away from as little as £59.

You can stay at one of the world’s oldest inns, The Olde Bell in Hurley, from £75 a night with breakfast. This saves you 48 per cent when compared to booking direct.

Another great deal is this two night break in Northumberland for £89pp, which puts you up in the Riverdale Hall Hotel which overlooks the Northumberland National Park.

And that super cheap £59 deal? It’s for a seafront stay in Eastbourne, with an overnight break for two at the The Lansdowne hotel, working out to only £29.50pp.

Remember, however, that you have to be a Travelzoo member to unlock these deals (£30 per year).

Holiday parks

If you opt for a cosy glamping pod instead of a caravan when booking you can save extra Credit: parkdeanresorts.co.uk

Whether you enjoy pitching up a tent, cosying up in a caravan or even splashing out on a hot tub lodge, holiday parks have stays to suit all budgets.

Choosing to stay in a holiday park can be a fantastic way to tick off a new UK destination without having to fork out on an expensive hotel.

You can often bag a three or four night family break at a holiday park for £90-£100 if you know where to look, which would typically only get you one night in a hotel!

£9.50 Holidays

If you’re looking for a super cheap getaway, The Sun’s £9.50 holidays offer some of the best rates out there, which are often significantly cheaper than booking with the same park direct.

The bargain holidays are released in stages throughout the year, with the biggest Hols from £9.50 drop taking place in January,

As a Sun Club member you can bag your break earlier than anyone else – so make use of this perk!

Make sure to check the Sun Club Offers Hub and club950.co.uk to keep updated with Hols from £9.50 releases.

Parkdean Resorts & Park Holidays

If the £9.50 holiday booking window is closed, Parkdean Resorts and Park Holidays offer some of the best rates among UK holiday parks.

Look out for Parkdean’s last minute breaks page where you can bag a three night stay in Norfolk from £99 or Cornwall from £109.

Park Holidays have 50+ award-winning parks across the UK – their short breaks page offers stays from £129.

Want to save even more? Go for a cosy wooden glamping pod instead of a caravan with Park Holidays, and you can stay from £50 for a two night break. These pods sleep four, so that’s only £6.25pp per night.

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Fed up of family arguments and couple rows on holiday? THIS is the solution

IF you’ve ever struggled with agreeing on where to go on holiday, getting the same time off as your mates or simply wanted to split off and do your own thing – this one’s for you.

Holiday company Opodo has looked into why more and more Brits are choosing to go away on solo holidays, plus they offer package deals that make it cheap and easy to do so.

Fill your days with whatever you want to do on a solo holiday and enjoy the freedom Credit: Getty

It’s that freedom to do what you want that makes a solo holiday so appealing, as ‘travellers are no longer waiting for someone else to be available before they book.’

And it turns out travelling alone has loads of benefits too, with 47% of solo-travelling Brits saying it makes them feel more capable, and 32% saying it gives them better mental clarity.

Not only is a solo holiday good for self-confidence, but it can work out to be very cheap, too.

When you’re only visiting the attractions you want to go to, you have complete control over the holiday budget – so you can skip the expensive museums you didn’t really care about, or the fancy sit-down meals when you wanted to try the street food.

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This £1 travel hack unlocks VERY cheap holidays – with package deals from £127

If you’re planning a solo holiday, with Opodo you can save up to 40% off breaks if you book your flights and hotel together as a package.

From Spanish city breaks to red sand beaches and sunny islands, here’s our pick of Opodo’s best value solo holiday deals.

Barcelona – £141pp

Soak up Gaudi’s pretty architecture in Barcelona in spots such as Park Guell Credit: Getty

Book a break to Barcelona for great beaches, food and architecture that makes walking around the city feel like strolling through a giant, open-air museum.

When you’re not admiring Gaudi’s House of Bones or the world-famous Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum and MACBA (museum of contemporary art) both offer free entry.

Come evening, the bars around El Born and Gracia are made for pulling up a stool at the counter, tucking into some delicious tapas and getting to know some fellow travellers over a cheap beer.

This Opodo offer includes a stay at the clean and comfortable Hotel 170, plus return flights from Manchester.

Istanbul – £123pp

Make sure to visit Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkey Credit: Getty

A city made up of maze-like streets, colourful bazaars and gorgeous mosques, Istanbul is perfect for a solo holiday.

Wander through its historic centre at your own pace, stopping to take pictures of the impressively giant Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Then stroll across the Galata Bridge to watch fishermen and tea sellers stroll along the Bosphorus sea strait at sunset.

This deal includes return flights from London plus a stay at Hamzabey Hotel, which is a 10-minute drive from Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower.

Amsterdam – £211pp

Stroll through the canals, hit the museums or simply chill in the coffee shops in Amsterdam Credit: Getty

Whether you’re after a slow-paced break to chill and stroll alongside pretty canals, or an action-packed weekend ticking off all the amazing museums, Amsterdam is an ideal solo holiday destination.

You can visit the OSCAM art museum, the quirky ‘Mouse Mansion’ and the Amsterdam City Archives all for free. But if you’re wanting to tick off all the big sights, opt for a city card (£58), which gives you access to over 70 of the city’s top museums and attractions.

To soak up the outdoors, Vondelpark and Rijksmuseum gardens are totally free to visit and make for a great spot to sit and watch the world go by.

This deal is for a stay at the Boutique Hotel 43 Zaandam, which sits in a quiet spot shaded by trees that is only 15 minutes’ drive from Vondelpark.

Tenerife – £147pp

Whether you’re exploring National Parks or hitting the strip, Tenerife has a bit of everything Credit: Getty

With year-round sunshine, dramatic volcanic landscapes and plenty of cheap, laid-back bars and restaurants to grab a sundowner, why would you not book a break to Tenerife?

There’s plenty to explore here, including Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooked by two incredible twin volcanoes.

If you’re less into hiking and more into partying, make sure to visit the strip on Playa de las Americas, which is packed with lively bars.

This deal includes return flights from London plus a stay at the Grand Muthu Golf Plaza Hotel, a sprawling holiday resort with a giant pool and its own spa.

Santorini – £239pp

Santorini has many scenic viewpoints, perfect for taking pictures of colourful cascading cliffs Credit: Getty

Once you’ve touched down on the island, Santorini’s postcard-perfect views come free of charge, from the cascading clifftops of Fira to the sunsets behind the blue domes of Oia.

It’s easy to spend all of your time drifting between these dramatic viewpoints, but make sure to spend some time discovering Santorini’s beaches.

At Kamari Beach you’ll find rich black sand, while Red Beach gets its name from sand made from its rust-coloured volcanic cliffs.

This Opodo deal includes a stay at Castro Hotel, a friendly, family-owned spot surrounded by green gardens in the coastal village of Kamari.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

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Best winter sun family hotels from £70 per night with waterparks, theme parks and spas

SOME hotels give you a quiet pool, a basic buffet and a slightly battered table tennis table in the corner.

Others serve up 81 water slides, life-size dinosaurs, hypercoasters, wave machines and entire fairytale kingdoms.

There are some bonkers waterparks out there which are the perfect holiday spots Credit: On the Beach

Variety is the spice of life, after all.

These are the resorts where the accommodation isn’t just somewhere to sleep – it is the holiday.

You could venture outside, obviously, but when there’s a full-scale waterpark or theme park right outside your bedroom door, convincing the children to leave the grounds would require a serious family negotiation.

I’ve hunted down eight of the wildest, most action-packed family resorts available this autumn and winter.

We’re talking theme park stays from £353pp and all-inclusive waterpark breaks from £405pp, with prices based on a family of four.

Every deal includes return flights and access to the hotel’s headline attractions too – so here are my eight picks guaranteed to ruin basic swimming pools for your children forever.

Collage of travel items including a plane, sunscreen, passport, suitcase, and plane tickets, advertising The Sun's travel Instagram account.
Aqua Mirage features a massive on-site waterpark packed with free-fall tower slides Credit: On the Beach

Aqua Mirage Club & Aqua Parc, Morocco – from £573pp

You know a resort takes entertainment seriously when its grounds cover 20 full hectares beneath the Atlas Mountains.

Aqua Mirage features a massive on-site waterpark packed with free-fall tower slides, a sprawling wave pool and an interactive splash castle for preschoolers.

Away from the water, you get six tennis courts, football pitches, evening shows and several pool areas – including a dedicated adults-only pool and spa for parents trying to remember what silence feels like.

It also gives you two holidays in one: a high-energy waterpark resort and easy access to Marrakech’s historic souks and main square.

I found a five-night all-inclusive break from £573pp, flying direct from Manchester on 26 December 2026.

That means you can swap the post-Christmas slump for slides, sunshine and unlimited food and drink – without having to wrestle another turkey into the oven.

My insider tip at this hotel is to take advantage of its free shuttle into central Marrakech, saving your family a fortune on taxis when you do fancy a break from the slides.

PortAventura Hotel El Paso & Theme Park, Spain – from £353pp

Theme park tickets are included with your stay when you stay at PortAventura Hotel El Paso Credit: On the Beach

First things first: this isn’t just a hotel with a couple of slides attached – it’s a property built inside one of Europe’s largest theme park resorts.

Designed like a colourful Mexican hacienda, Hotel El Paso sits right on the edge of PortAventura Park, giving you easy access to six themed worlds packed with massive rollercoasters such as Shambhala and, my personal favourite, Furius Baco.

Right next door is Ferrari Land, home to Red Force – the 112-metre-high vertical accelerator that launches riders from 0 to 112mph in five seconds flat. I’m not speaking from experience this time. No, thank you.

The best bit is that PortAventura theme park tickets are included with your stay.

I found a five-night room-only package from £353pp, flying direct from Manchester on 24 October 2026 – right in the school half-term window.

When you consider how much standard admission to the park can cost on its own, getting your hotel, flights and multi-day park entry for £353pp in the school holidays is an absolute steal.

HL Paradise Island, Lanzarote – from £405pp

Guests staying at HL Paradise Island get free entry to Dino Aquapark Credit: On the Beach

There are waterpark hotels, and then there are waterpark hotels with giant prehistoric creatures towering over the slides.

Guests staying at HL Paradise Island get free entry to Dino Aquapark, where multi-lane racing chutes and enclosed tubes twist around massive, life-size dinosaurs.

The main resort features several swimming pools, sports courts, live evening entertainment and full all-inclusive dining.

Lanzarote stays pleasantly warm right through autumn and winter, making it a brilliant option for some sunshine when the UK enters full freezer mode.

I found a five-night all-inclusive break from £405pp, flying direct from Birmingham on 13 February 2027.

As those dates fall over the February half-term period for many families, that’s excellent value for a school-holiday escape with food, drink and waterpark entry covered.

My tip here is to book an apartment. Having a separate living space and kitchenette means parents get somewhere to relax once the children crash out after a day of chasing dinosaurs.

LIVVO Costa Taurito & Waterpark, Gran Canaria – from £495pp

Lago Oasis Waterpark is a massive saltwater park packed with kamikaze chutes, racing slides and a giant pirate-ship splash fortress Credit: On the Beach

Taurito looks like someone has built an enormous holiday resort inside a canyon beside the coast.

At the heart of it is Lago Oasis Waterpark – a massive saltwater park packed with kamikaze chutes, racing slides and a giant pirate-ship splash fortress.

Guests at LIVVO Costa Taurito get access to the park, putting all the water-slide madness just steps from their room.

Southern Gran Canaria is one of Europe’s most reliable winter-sun destinations, and the hotel offers all-inclusive dining to keep the holiday food admin nice and simple.

I found a four-night all-inclusive stay from £495pp, flying direct from London Luton on 14 February 2027.

It’s a compact half-term hit of winter sunshine, with flights, meals, drinks and waterpark access all rolled into one price.

I also love the natural volcanic-sand beach just 200 metres from the hotel, giving you somewhere quieter to escape whenever you need a breather from the slides.

Sol Dunas Family Fun, Cape Verde – from £430pp

Sol Dunas has multiple swimming pools, water slides, splash parks, playgrounds and sports courts, forming part of the wider Melia Dunas mega-complex Credit: On the Beach

Sol Dunas is less of a standard hotel and more of a self-contained holiday town.

This sprawling resort features multiple swimming pools, water slides, splash parks, playgrounds and sports courts, forming part of the wider Melia Dunas mega-complex.

Cape Verde is the closest thing to a long-haul winter-sun holiday on this list, serving up temperatures around 25C, plenty of blue skies and broad golden beaches on the island of Sal.

I found a six-night all-inclusive package from £588pp, flying direct from Bristol on 26 October 2026.

Being in the autumn half-term, this deal gives families almost a full week of reliable warmth without the faff of a connecting flight.

It costs slightly more than some of the Spanish options, but a full week of reliable warmth, direct flights and comprehensive all-inclusive dining at a resort of this size still represents excellent value.

Pickalbatros Aqua Blu Sharm, Egypt – from £638pp

Aqua Park City complex in Sharm El Sheikh, is a themed resort boasts high-speed racing chutes, wave pools, raft rides and towers of twisting tubes Credit: On the Beach

Aqua Blu features enough slides to make your local UK “waterpark” look like a damp garden shed.

Part of the enormous Aqua Park City complex in Sharm El Sheikh, this brightly themed resort boasts high-speed racing chutes, wave pools, raft rides and towers of twisting tubes.

The resort is fully all-inclusive and includes access to a private beach via a quick, free shuttle.

Sharm El Sheikh delivers reliable warmth throughout the year, making it a strong choice for autumn or winter sun.

I spotted an eight-night all-inclusive stay from £638pp, flying from Birmingham on 14 February 2027.

It’s the most expensive deal on this list, but you’re getting more than a week of winter sun, all your food and drink, luggage and unlimited access to an enormous waterpark during a peak family-travel period.

The real insider perk, though, is the dedicated children’s buffet, built at a lower level so little ones can grab their own meals without endless parental manoeuvring. Genius.

Pickalbatros Jungle Aqua Park Resort – Neverland, Hurghada Egypt – from £565pp

Neverland has 81 slides and VR gaming arenas Credit: On the Beach

This resort features 81 individual water slides.

Eighty-one.

That includes giant family raft rides, multi-lane racers, wave pools and massive themed splash fortresses spread across a complex that feels as though it was designed by a child given an unlimited construction budget.

Beyond the waterpark, Neverland packs in VR gaming arenas, ice skating, huge live productions and an enormous selection of speciality restaurants.

Despite the ridiculous scale of the property, Egypt’s competitive resort market keeps prices shockingly low.

I found a six-night all-inclusive break from £565pp, flying indirectly from Manchester on 16 February 2027, with hold luggage included.

That gives you six nights of all-inclusive dining, luggage and non-stop access to 81 slides during the February half-term period for less than £600pp.

It’s also well worth using the hotel’s internal land train, which runs constantly around the complex, so tired little legs don’t have to walk miles between the slides and your room.



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The best value winter sun holiday destinations for Brits this year

KEEN to get that winter sun break locked in? Holidaymakers on a budget should set their sights on Africa.

A new report released today by the Winter Sun Holidays Costs Barometer from The Post Office Travel Money reveals that Cape Town in South Africa, and Mombasa in Kenya, offer the best value for money for people seeking a sun-drenched winter break.

Cape Town came first making it the most affordable destination on the list
Portugal’s Algarve came in sixth place overall Credit: Getty

To calculate which destination gives travellers more bang for their buck, the research considered the average costs of eight essential holiday items in 24 popular long-haul and short-haul destinations.

Items included a cup of filter coffee, a bottle of beer or lager, a can or bottle of cola, a glass of wine, a 1.5l bottle of water, suncream, insect repellent and a three-course evening meal for two with house wine.

The overall cost for all of the above came to just £58.24 in Cape Town, making it the most affordable destination on the list.

According to the Post Office, prices in the South African hotspot have fallen by 9.7 per cent in the last six months, which will have a hugely beneficial impact on tourists.

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A three-course dinner with wine was shown to be cheaper here than anywhere else on the list, totalling £39.26 on average.

Despite its reputation for excellent wineries, Tokyo pipped Cape Town to the post for budget vino with a glass costing just £2.53 in Japan’s capital, on average, compared with £3.24 in Cape Town.

Tokyo came in third place overall on the affordability scale with a total barometer cost of £66.76, beaten by Mombasa, in second place, with an overall price tag of £63.66.

Prices haven’t dropped dramatically in this Kenyan city, but the rise of sterling against the Kenyan shilling does mean that you will now pay slightly less than when the country was last surveyed by the Post Office in March this year.

Coming in fourth place on the winter sun budget chart is Colombo in Sri Lanka, where a basket of all eight holiday essentials added up to £74.79, getting on for £20 more than the cheapest spot of Cape Town.

And be sure to ditch the wine and opt for beer instead, as a glass of red, white or rose will set you back £6.60 on average — over double the cost of a glass of wine in any of the previously named locations.

A bottle of beer, on the other hand, costs just £2.47.

Phuket in Thailand closely followed Colombo in fifth place with an overall barometer cost of £76.39 and cheap beer at £2.09 a bottle.

Of course, for the top five spots, the trade off for spending little while in the destination is shelling out for pricier flights to get there.

But remember that holidaymakers will be rewarded with better odds of sunshine and higher temperatures in these long-haul locations.

Those looking to stay a little closer to home still have budget-friendly options, however, including Portugal’s Algarve which came in sixth place overall.

While the total cost of all holiday items came to a slightly steeper £82.35, coffee-drinkers won’t be complaining as this is the cheapest destination to grab yourself a cuppa (£1.27 on average).

Mombasa, in second place, with an overall price tag of £63.66 Credit: Getty

The holiday location fared similarly to Spain’s Costa del Sol in seventh place and the Canary Island of Tenerife in eighth place, with overall costs of £83.58 and £87.46 respectively.

Prices for holiday items in all three short-haul destinations were on par with one another, although it was a bit pricier to eat out in Tenerife with a three-course meal for two with wine costing around £61.10.

Penang in Malaysia and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic complete the top ten with Penang’s cost totalling £89.72, while Punta Cana’s was 7p more than that.

At the opposite end of the scale, Scarborough was the priciest destination for winter sun — not the resort town on England’s North Sea, but the capital of the island of Tobago.

The Canary Island of Tenerife came in eighth place, with overall costs of £83.58 and £87.46 respectively Credit: Getty

Holiday item costs here rocketed to a whopping £144.15 in total — which is over double that of Cape Town.

A three-course meal here costs more than anywhere else on the list, at an eye-watering £119.26 for two people.

St. Georges in Grenada, Funchal in Madeira and Cancun in Mexico were also shown to be pricey, with total bills totting up to over £125.

Comparatively, the much-loved Sun reader resort of Orlando in the US came roughly in the middle, in 15th place overall.

Wine and beer was shown to be mean on the wallet in the Florida sunshine spot — at £6.81 and £5.30 respectively — but other items like suncream and insect repellent were more reasonable.

That’s worth raising a glass to.

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Short-haul holiday destinations up to HALF PRICE and still hot in October

THERE’S a specific point during every peak-summer holiday when even the most committed sun worshipper has to admit it’s all getting a bit much.

The beach is shoulder-to-shoulder, the sand is hot enough to cook an egg and you’ve started timing dinner around whether you can secure a table without joining a queue.

Holiday expert Rob Brooks has hunted down seven destinations that are seriously cheap in October Credit: Rob Brooks
The cheapest resort Holiday Expert Rob found was an underrated stretch of coastline in Spain Credit: Getty

That’s why I’ve become a massive advocate for the October break.

Across the Mediterranean, daytime temperatures comfortably hover in the mid-twenties and, even in October, there are hours and hours of proper sunshine every day.

Meaning you can still pack your swimwear, bring the sun cream and expect to come home a lot more tanned.

And my favourite part is: you enjoy all of that without the intense August heat, peak-season crowds or, most importantly, peak-season prices.

I crunched the booking data across our most popular summer resorts and found that October breaks are up to 49 per cent cheaper than their peak-August counterparts.

So these are the seven classic summer spots where October can genuinely be a better and much cheaper time to travel.

7. Hersonissos, Crete – 40 per cent cheaper

Bag a week-long stay at the 4* Hotel Heronissos in Crete for £320pp Credit: Trip Advisor/Hotel Heronissos Management

Crete is one of the best places to squeeze a final dose of proper Greek sunshine out of the year.

As one of Greece’s most southern major holiday islands, it holds onto summer far longer than many of its northern neighbours.

October in Hersonissos still serves up highs of 24°C and warm seas, keeping proper beach-and-pool days firmly on the menu.

Hersonissos also stays lively well into autumn, and the gentler heat also means exploring Heraklion or visiting the Palace of Knossos doesn’t turn into a sweaty endurance test.

Matched booking data shows that October packages here are, on average, 40 per cent cheaper than in August.

And I found a four-star, all-inclusive stay at Hotel Heronissos, just 100m from the beach.

It has a huge outdoor pool and puts you within walking distance of the resort centre, while your meals, snacks and local drinks are all included.

The full package works out at £320pp for 7 days – roughly £46pp a day – including the flights. Bargain.

Book a 7-night all-inclusive stay at Hotel Heronissos from 8 October 2026, with direct return flights from Bristol, for £320pp.

6. Cala Millor, Majorca – 40.1 per cent cheaper

Cala Millor in Majorca can still hit highs of 25°C in September Credit: Trio Advisor/Garbi Cala Millor Management

Majorca doesn’t just pull down the blinds the second September finishes, you know?

October in Cala Millor can still hit highs of 25°C earlier in the month, with sea temperatures sitting at a very swimmable 23°C.

But the biggest win in October, by far, is the elbow room.

In August, finding a towel-sized patch on Cala Millor’s huge sandy bay feels like bidding for a London flat – but in October, you can just walk down and lay your towel out.

Booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 40.1 per cent cheaper than in August, which is a pretty crazy saving for Majorca.

I found a four-star, half-board stay at Bakour Garbi Cala Millor, which sits just 400m from the beach, has a large outdoor pool, kids’ club and playground, and its heated indoor pool and spa area is ideal for an October break.

It gives your family a built-in back-up plan if an autumn cloud briefly rolls past.

Book a 7-night half-board stay at Bakour Garbi Cala Millor from 14 October 2026, with direct return flights from Bournemouth, for £340pp.

5. Afandou, Rhodes – 43.7 per cent cheaper

You could be soaking up the sun in Rhodes for £185pp with the deal our expert Rob found Credit: Getty

Rhodes is arguably the strongest weather bet on the entire list for autumn.

October brings highs of 25°C, around nine hours of sunshine a day and sea temperatures of approximately 24°C.

That is still proper tanning weather, and feels particularly nice when everyone back home has already turned the central heating on.

Afandou is ideal for a quieter escape, with one of the longest beaches on Rhodes and a traditional village centre.

The slightly gentler heat also means you can explore the island properly without spending the entire day desperately seeking shade.

My booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 43.7 per cent cheaper than in August – another massive saving.

I tracked down a room-only stay at Golden Days Aparthotel, a simple, cheap-and-cheerful base with an outdoor pool, a separate children’s pool and a tourist train running down to Afandou Beach.

Getting a full week on one of Greece’s warmest islands for under £190pp is an absolute steal. In fact, I’ve paid more than that for a train ticket to London this year.

Book a 7-night room-only stay at Golden Days Aparthotel from 2 October 2026, with direct return flights from East Midlands, for £185pp.

4. Albir, Costa Blanca – 44 per cent cheaper

A stay at Sun Palace Albir delivers Costa Blanca glamour away from the business of Benidorm Credit: Trip Advisor/ Sun Palace Albir Management

Albir delivers Costa Blanca sunshine without putting you in the middle of Benidorm.

That being said, Benidorm is still close enough for waterparks, nightlife and an emergency tribute act, but Albir itself stays super-relaxed.

October brings highs of 24°C and around eight hours of sunshine a day, alongside a palm-lined promenade overlooking the pebble beach.

The cooler autumn breeze also makes it a far better time to tackle the scenic walk up to Albir Lighthouse without desperately searching for shade every five minutes.

Booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 44 per cent cheaper than in August.

And I spotted a four-star, bed-and-breakfast stay at Sun Palace Albir in a quiet part of the resort.

It has an outdoor pool, a big sunbathing terrace and a spa area for when you fancy taking relaxation very seriously.

The stand-out feature here, though, is its restaurant terrace, which has panoramic views across the mountains and out to sea, a far better spot for breakfast than a rainy motorway service station – speaking from experience.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Sun Palace Albir from 20 October 2026, with direct return flights from Manchester, for £305pp.

3. Kusadasi, Turkey – 44.3 per cent cheaper

The Marbel Hotel in Kusadasi has a roomy pool. tennis courts, a gym, hammam and more Credit: Trip Advisor/Marbel Hotel Management

Kusadasi stays properly hot into October, with daytime temperatures reaching highs of 26°C along the Aegean coast – and I have to say it’s absolutely gorgeous.

You could easily spend seven days flitting between the pool and the buffet, but October’s gentler heat also makes exploring the ancient marble streets of nearby Ephesus infinitely more enjoyable than during the height of summer.

When I took a peek, matched booking data showed that October packages to Kusadasi are, on average, 44.3 per cent cheaper than in August.

And to highlight that value, I found a four-star, all-inclusive stay at Marbel Hotel.

It has a huge outdoor pool, tennis court, gym and Turkish hammam bath house, with your meals and drinks wrapped into the price.

It’s a great choice if you want plenty to do at the hotel while remaining close enough to dip into the centre of Kusadasi.

Book a 7-night all-inclusive stay at Marbel Hotel from 7 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £365pp.

2. Laganas, Zante – 45.7 per cent cheaper

Stay at the Atlantis Hotel in Zante from £255pp for a whole week Credit: Trip Advisor/Atlantis hotel Management

Laganas in August and Laganas in October feel like two completely different worlds.

Peak summer brings wall-to-wall crowds and full-throttle nightlife, but by October, the volume turns right down, but temperatures can still reach highs of 25°C.

You get to enjoy Laganas’ vast golden-sand beach and the clear Ionian Sea without sharing them with thousands of foam-party-obsessives.

Some seasonal bars and clubs begin closing as the month progresses, but for me that’s part of the appeal.

You still get the sunshine, warm sea and beautiful coastline – just with considerably less people around.

And booking data shows that October packages are, on average, a whopping 45.7 per cent cheaper than in August.

I found a bed-and-breakfast stay at Atlantis Hotel Zante, and this place is just 7km from the airport.

That means you can be beside the pool remarkably quickly instead of spending the first afternoon touring every hotel on the island aboard a transfer coach.

The hotel has an outdoor pool, a separate children’s pool and a Jacuzzi, while the rooms include a mini fridge, kettle and toaster to keep the snack admin easy.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Atlantis Hotel Zante from 13 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £255pp.

1. Oropesa del Mar, Costa del Azahar – 48.6 per cent cheaper

Magic Sports Oroposa del Mar has themed rooms, huge swimming pools and an on-site waterpark Credit: Trip Advisor/Magic Sports Hotel Management

Taking the top spot for the biggest seasonal saving is Oropesa del Mar on Spain’s underrated and underdiscovered Costa del Azahar.

October temperatures here can still climb to highs of 25°C, allowing summer to stretch on long after the UK has descended into grey drizzle.

This purpose-built Spanish resort has broad beaches and wide promenades that feel calm and effortless once the July and August rush clears out.

The slightly gentler temperatures also make October a much better time to explore the coastline or head towards Castellon and Valencia.

My booking data shows that October packages are, on average, a staggering 48.6 per cent cheaper than in August – nearly half the price for the same Spanish coastline.

I found a bed-and-breakfast stay at Magic Sports Hotel, part of the Magic World resort and a real gem of a hotel for the easily-bored holidayers among us (guilty).

It has sports simulators, themed rooms, huge swimming pools and an on-site waterpark with slides inspired by everything from Formula 1 to winter sports.

Finding seven nights here with direct return flights for £265pp feels, quite frankly, ridiculous – and it’s my pick of the deals, for sure.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Magic Sports Hotel from 3 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £265pp.

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The £1 travel hack that unlocks some of the CHEAPEST holiday deals in the UK and abroad

IF you’re itching for your next getaway but don’t want to break the bank, we’ve found the travel hack for you.

Travelzoo scours the internet for the best value holiday deals and piles them all into one place – and Sun readers can unlock these bargains instantly for £1.

Unlock an all inclusive Croatia holiday for £258pp Credit: Alamy

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

A Travelzoo membership usually costs £30 for the year, but right now you can try it out for 30 days for £1.

Once you’re signed up, you’ll have access to hundreds of affordable package holidays across the UK, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean and beyond.

We’ve rounded up our favourite Travelzoo deals, including UK staycations from £79 and all inclusive holidays from £151pp.

Snowdonia break – £79

Stay in the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed in the Snowdonia National Park Credit: Getty

Save 49% on a Snowdonia staycation with this mini break in Betws-y-Coed, a pretty mountain village at the base of Eryri.

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Little-known £1 travel trick for free airport booze & VERY cheap all-inclusive hols


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This £1 travel hack unlocks VERY cheap holidays – with package deals from £127

Stay in a Stables Lodge Room and wake up to a traditional Welsh breakfast, with the waterfalls and hiking trails of Gwydyr Forest on your doorstep.

You can bag an overnight break for two for £79 (which saves you 49% compared to booking direct) or upgrade to a two night stay for £149.

Athens break with Acropolis tour – £299

This Athens holiday deal includes an Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum guided tour Credit: Alamy

Save £182 on a trip to Athens plus enjoy an Acropolis tour with this Greek package holiday.

This four-night trip includes flights, transfers and a stay with breakfast in a deluxe, fountain view room at the posh Athens Tiare by Mage Hotel.

Four nights gives you plenty of time to wander the city’s ruins, outdoor markets, sip cocktails on its rooftop bars and pack in your Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum guided tour.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

All inclusive Marrakech – £151

Bag an all inclusive holiday to Marrakech, where temperatures still sit at 30C in the autumn months Credit: Getty

This deal is for a three night stay at the 4* Aqua Mirage Club & Aqua Par on an all inclusive basis, so get ready for that buffet and those endless cocktails.

On-site you’ll find tennis courts and a football field to work up an appetite, plus three pools and a daily shuttle bus into central Marrakech for exploring.

With temperatures still hitting 30°C in September and October, it’s the ideal option for a slice of sunshine as the weather gets chilly.

2 night Victorian seaside break in Devon – £169

Visit Devon’s “Little Switzerland” with a stay in Lynton Credit: Alamy

Take a trip to “Little Switzerland” in North Devon, so-named due to its gorges, deep valleys and dramatic cliffs that will mentally transport you to the Swiss Alps.

Hop on the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway to ride the highest and steepest water-powered railway in the world, or watch wild goats climb at the Valley of Rocks.

This deal includes a two night stay at The Crown Hotel in Lynton, a restored 17th-century inn, plus a delicious hot breakfast and £25pp credit for dinner.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

All inclusive Croatia – £258

Explore the pretty village of Slano, Croatia for £258pp Credit: Alamy

This all inclusive Croatia break includes your flights plus a five-night stay in a sea view room at Hotel Osmine for £258pp, which shaves off up to 57% off full-price.

This hotel sits in the sleepy fishing village of Slano, a village centred around a sweeping crescent bay of sparkling water backed by lush emerald green pines.

When you’re not wandering the pretty village, try out archery, kayaking or surfing back at the hotel, then sit down to a Mediterranean meal in the hotel restaurant and sit back to enjoy the evening entertainment

Istanbul, three nights and flights – £129

Visit Istanbul for £129 with this deal bundling in your flights and accommodation Credit: Alamy

Bag flights and three nights in Istanbul for £129 with this deal, and tick off the only city in the world that sits between two continents: Asia and Europe.

Stay at the Ramada Encore By Wyndham Istanbul Kartal Hotel, a modern, four-star hotel with a gym, clean and comfortable rooms and a sleek lounge to chill out in.

Here you’re close to Aydos Castle and Hill, where castle ruins weave through thick forests, and the Kartal Municipality Story Museum, where you’ll find whimsical statues and models from local legends.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

More Travelzoo deals

Here are more foreign holiday deals available to Travelzoo members:

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Long haul destinations selling crazy cheap holidays right now

WELL, it’s officially long-haul season.

There is a specific point every September when the rain starts in the UK that I accept summer’s officially over.

Holiday Expert Rob Brooks has sought out the best value long haul deals in dream destinations Credit: Rob Brooks
Collage of travel items including a plane, sunscreen, passport, suitcase, and plane tickets, advertising The Sun's travel Instagram account.

Then I find myself looking beyond my usual European resort searches, and wondering just how much further the exact same holiday budget could take me on my next one.

Conveniently, right now is also a brilliant window for you to start hunting.

Airlines are releasing their fresh seat availability for the next 12 months, hotels are opening up their early-bird room rates, and some properly absurd package prices are dropping onto holiday sites.

When you break a full package down into a nightly cost per person – including flights, hotels, and sometimes full all-inclusive – long-haul stops start looking like an unattainable luxury.

I tracked down direct London half-term flights to New York with a 4-star hotel for £578pp, nine nights in Bali for £630pp, and a 4-star Caribbean all-inclusive break for under £500pp.

So whether it’s bagging some sunshine this winter or getting booked ahead for next year – here are nine long-haul holidays you can bag for seriously cheap prices.

1. Oistins, Barbados – £127pp per night

You could laze on the beach in Barbados from just £127pp per night Credit: Alamy

Barbados carries a reputation for high-end price tags, but target the lively south coast and the maths changes completely.

Oistins and Christ Church give you pristine white sand, local rum shacks, and direct access to the legendary Friday night fish fry without the West Coast luxury premium.

And unlike a lot of long haul beach destinations, self-catering works brilliantly here – grab breakfast at a local bakery, then use your savings to eat fresh seafood by the beach.

If you did fancy a deal for Barbados, I’d keep an eye on Virgin Atlantic and British Airways for direct Heathrow slots, or TUI for regional departures.

I found a seven-night self-catering stay at the 3-star Butterfly Beach Hotel from £890pp, flying direct from London Heathrow on 9 June 2027.

That breaks down to just over £127pp per night for direct flights and a beachfront stay… in Barbados!

2. New York, USA – £116pp per night

If you’re wanting to tick off a trip to the New York, you can bag an entire package hol from £578pp Credit: Getty

If Manhattan has been sitting on your bucket list, February is the absolute golden window to grab a budget package.

Yes, you’ll need a proper winter coat, but you get much smaller crowds, shorter queues at headline attractions, and room rates that drop by hundreds of pounds compared to peak autumn or Christmas.

Skip the inflated hotel blocks right on Times Square: Lower Manhattan puts you steps from Chinatown, Little Italy, and Soho, with quick Subway links everywhere else.

Plus, airlines fiercely compete on this route, driving package prices down when new seat blocks open up.

I even clocked five nights at the 4-star Wyndham Garden Chinatown over February half-term – departing 14 February 2027 – for £578pp, flying direct from London Heathrow.

When you break it down, that works out to less than £116pp per night for five nights in the Big Apple.

3. Tokyo, Japan – £101pp per night

Aerial view of Tokyo cityscape with Fuji mountain in Japan. Credit: Getty

February is an underrated time to explore Tokyo, in my opinion.

It’s dry, crisp, and significantly calmer than the cherry-blossom season.

You can wander through historic temples, ramen alleys, and neon cityscapes without fighting through wall-to-wall tour groups.

To maximise your budget, target hotels slightly outside the main tourist hubs of Shinjuku or Shibuya. And because Tokyo’s rail network is unmatched, staying a few stops out slashes your hotel bill without adding any stress.

The 4-star Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel sits in the quiet bay area with direct rail links into central Tokyo and Disney Resort.

And it’s where I found a seven-night package for £805pp, including flights from Manchester with hold luggage included, departing 17 February 2027 – working out to a little under £101pp per night.

4. Hanoi, Vietnam – £95pp per night

Hanoi in Vietnam is home to some incredible landscapes – and Rob found a super cheap 5* stay Credit: Alamy

Hanoi is where you head if you want a long-haul trip that feels like a genuine adventure.

It’s a sensory overload of ancient temples, bustling night markets, and amazing street food stalls.

There’s also a brilliant local coffee culture, serving as the ultimate launchpad for overnight cruises around Ha Long Bay.

June brings tropical warmth and greener mountain landscapes, unlocking some of the lowest package pricing on the board.

You can grab seven nights with breakfast at the 5-star Lucien Hanoi Lakeside Hotel and Rooftop for £758pp, with indirect Manchester flights and hold luggage departing 6 June 2027.

That’s a full 5-star south-east Asian escape for just £95pp per night.

5. Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai – £75pp per night

Holiday Expert Rob found an affordable Dubai break from £75pp per night Credit: http://www.onthebeach.co.uk

Dubai is the ultimate option if you want guaranteed long haul sunshine without committing to a two-week journey.

A seven-hour flight gets you world-class dining, rooftop pools, and massive shopping malls.

The single biggest insider trick to saving money in Dubai is looking just past the expensive beach strip.

Inland developments like Jumeirah Village Circle offer far higher hotel specs for a fraction of the cost.

Plus these spots have plenty of cheap, frequent taxis connecting you to the beach in 15 minutes.

Our booking data shows Dubai is dominating long-haul demand right now too.

It’s no wonder either, because I found a seven-night bed and breakfast stay at the 4-star The First Collection at JVC for £598pp, including direct Gatwick flights and hold luggage, departing 20 June 2027.

That comes out to just £75pp per night, which is a pretty extraordinary price for a Dubai holiday of this quality.

6. Patong, Phuket – £72pp per night

You could visit Phuket in Thailand on a package break from £72pp per night Credit: Getty

Thailand remains the reigning champion for ground-level value.

While long-haul flights require an upfront investment, everyday costs in Thailand – from street-food meals to local transport – cost pennies once you arrive.

Patong is Phuket’s lively epicentre, packing hundreds of restaurants, beach bars, and night markets into a walkable strip.

But connecting flights via Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi keep the package prices remarkably low throughout autumn.

So I managed to track down a seven-night stay at the 3-star Red Planet Phuket Patong for £650pp, including indirect Heathrow flights and hold luggage departing 5 October 2026.

That delivers a week under the Thai sun for an incredible £72pp per night.

7. Playa del Carmen, Mexico – £71pp per night

Mexico’s Playa del Carmen has incredible beaches with turquoise waters Credit: Getty

Mexico’s Riviera Maya serves up the perfect balance of Caribbean beaches, a bit of history, and incredible food.

And Playa del Carmen is ideal because it combines palm-lined beaches with a buzzing, walkable strip along 5th Avenue.

That said, all-inclusive is a must here for keeping your spending under control, particularly for families.

Autumn sits in the tropical shoulder season, unlocking huge package drops while still delivering daily sunshine.

I flagged what I think is a bit of a pricing loophole right now: seven nights all-inclusive at the 4-star The Reef Coco Beach, including direct Manchester flights departing 5 October 2026, for £500pp.

That’s full all-inclusive on a Caribbean beach for £71pp per night – tough to beat!

8. Kuta, Bali – £70pp per night

You could visit Diamond Beach in Bali, Indonesia Credit: Getty

Bali is unbeatable if you want an extended, laid-back break where your spending money goes miles further.

Kuta and neighbouring Legian are a convenient, high-value base packed with beachfront cafes, surf spots, and local markets.

It’s worth ticking this paradise island off your bucket list while prices are low, and in Kuta you can try everything from surfing to ticking off amazing temples.

The Sevn Legian hotel is an ideal base to book, with modern rooms, a great pool and a swim-up bar.

I clocked seven nights at the 4-star Sevn Legian for £630pp, including indirect London Heathrow flights and hold luggage departing 25 February 2027.

That works out at just £70pp per night for seven nights in Bali. Run, don’t walk…

9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – £68pp per night

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic comes out on top, with a £478pp package deal Credit: Getty

If your goal is a classic Caribbean beach break with no extra spending once you arrive, Punta Cana easily takes the number one spot in my list.

All inclusive dominates this coastline – 97% of Punta Cana bookings with On the Beach opt for it – and our recent data shows package prices sitting at near-record lows (down 14% fortnight-on-fortnight).

You get turquoise water, swaying palm trees, and expansive 4-star beachfront resorts for three-star European prices.

And even better, I found a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the 4-star Sunscape Coco Punta Cana for just £478pp, including direct Manchester flights departing 6 October 2026.

That’s flights, 4-star accommodation, all meals, and all drinks in the Caribbean for a staggering £68pp per night.

This is definitely the one I’d be booking right now.



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Cheap all inclusive family hotels with brilliant Tripadvisor ratings

FINDING a family holiday that actually lives up to the glossy brochure pictures is rare – especially one that’s also affordable.

Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you by tracking down some of the top-rated resorts on Tripadvisor that also have incredibly cheap package deals.

Hotel Magic Games even has a themed waterpark with characters like dragons Credit: On The Beach
Collage of travel items including a plane, sunscreen, passport, suitcase, and plane tickets, advertising The Sun's travel Instagram account.

Whether you’re booking ahead for winter sun in Egypt and Tunisia, or wanting massive family aquaparks in Turkey and Spain, we’ve got you covered.

And these aren’t just ordinary hotels – we’ve found a video game-themed resort in Spain with an on-site retro arcade, and a hotel on the sunny Turkish Turquoise Coast with a whopping 13 waterslides.

All of these hotels have an average rating of 4 out of 5 approval rating or above on Tripadvisor, and offer all inclusive weeks away for under £500pp.

Here’s our pick of top-rated breaks based on a family of four staying 7 nights all inclusive, from as little as £299pp.

Happy Life Village – Dahab, Egypt

Swim in the pool at Happy Life Village in Egypt, or go snorkelling in the Red Sea Credit: Love Holidays

With a solid 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, it’s safe to say many guests leave happy after a holiday at the Happy Life Village.

This hotel sits on Egypt’s Red Sea, home to a huge coral reef which you can explore by scuba diving or snorkelling.

This resort is built to keep families happy, with waterslides and a children’s pool for the kids to make a splash, as well as a relaxing spa for parents to unwind.

One happy holidaymaker left a gleaming Tripadvisor review, writing: “It’s possibly the best holiday I’ve ever had. Out of many”.

“The facilities – pools, bar, restaurant, beach are amazing in my opinion. And the big one for me – right off the beach, corals as far as I can swim both sides. Kilometres! Stunning snorkelling. I love this hotel”.

We found a deal for a seven night, all inclusive break from October 25, with return flights from Edinburgh, for £469pp.

Orka Sunlife Resort Hotel and Aquapark – Olu Deniz, Turkey

Zip down a waterslide with unbeatable views at Orka Sunlife Resort & Aquapark in Turkey Credit: Jet2 Holidays

Fancy zipping down a waterslide into a crystal clear pool, which offers sweeping views of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast?

The Orka Sunlife Resort Hotel & Aquapark sits in Olu Deniz, a Turkish hotspot home to beautiful beaches and the Blue Lagoon, where water glows almost luminously blue.

The hotel itself has five pools, 13 waterslides, and an all-day entertainment program to keep little ones entertained.

The hotel has a 4.3/5 rating on Tripadvisor, with one guest writing: “The hotel was beautiful, we loved everything, the shows, activities, everything was perfect, we had so much fun.”

Another praised the entertainment staff, writing that the “Atmosphere at this hotel is absolutely amazing the entertainment team made my holiday they are wonderful and work really hard to entertain the guests”.

We found a deal for a seven night, all inclusive stay from October 27 with return flights from London from £479pp.

Hotel Magic Games – Spain

Stay at Spain’s first video game-themed hotel at Hotel Magic Games Credit: On The Beach

As Spain’s first video game-themed hotel, it’s safe to say it’s near-impossible for kids to get bored here.

Hotel Magic Games sits in Spain‘s Costa Del Azahar, a beautiful stretch of coastline known as the Orange Blossom Coast. Here, you can stroll through quiet pine-backed beaches or visit the medieval Papa Luna Castle.

For days spent at the hotel, explore the on-site video game museum, dine in the themed Pixel Buffet Restaurant, float past giant dragons at the on-site waterpark and tackle old school arcade games in the massive Magic Play Zone.

When night rolls around, head back to your immersive, gaming-themed room – complete with comfy gaming chairs, chessboards and glowing neon lights.

This hotel has a comfortable 4.1/5 rating on Tripadvisor, and is the top-rated stay in the Oropesa Del Mar area.

On the Beach offer a seven night, all inclusive break from October 25, with return flights from London, for £333pp.

Gravity Sahl Hasheesh – Hurghada, Egypt

Zoom down colourful waterslides at Gravity Sahl Hasheesh, Hurghada Credit: Love Holidays

With an outstanding 4.7/5 rating on Tripadvisor, the Gravity Sahl Hasheesh is certainly an impressive place to stay.

This five-star family resort boasts seven pools, an on-site aqua park, a private beach and a full-service spa.

Come evening, the resort lights up with live entertainment and a popular on-site nightclub.

One Tripadvisor review reads “From the very first moment, it was clear that this hotel in Hurghada offers an outstanding level of luxury and truly deserves more than five stars”.

“The hotel has a lot to offer for children and adults, making it perfect for families and couples. The pools are beautiful and well-maintained, and the beach is very clean with a lovely private pier.”

Loveholidays offer a seven night, all inclusive stay from October 27 with return flights from Edinburgh, from £489pp.

Grand Uysal Beach Hotel, Antalya

The Grand Uysal Beach Hotel in Antalya has an underground tunnel leading to the beach Credit: Love Holidays

Rated 4.6/5 on Tripadvisor, the Grand Uysal Beach Hotel is a reliable pick for families looking for an action-packed Turkey holiday.

Here there’s several pools with a kids zone surrounded by waterslides, plus there’s even an underground tunnel that leads you straight out to the beach.

One Tripadvisor guest praised the hotel’s friendly staff, writing “The active and consistent work of the staff and the deliciousness of the food were among the most important things we noticed”.

“The entire place was also very clean, which is due to the discipline of the staff; they were always active and smiling. We would love to come again with my family”.

Loveholidays offer a week-long, all inclusive package break from £299pp in November.

With temperatures still sitting comfortably in the 20s, it’s an absolute steal for families with pre-schoolers or older teens who aren’t tied to term times.

Hotel Le Sultan, Hammemet, Tunisia

Stay at Hotel Le Sultan in Hammamet, Tunisia from £341pp this winter Credit: easyJet

If you’re looking for a family holiday with plenty of activities for the kids, Hotel Le Sultan is a top pick.

Here you can play tennis, go catamaran sailing, practice archery and even go horse riding at the hotel’s very own equestrian centre.

The hotel has a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, with over 5,000 reviews.

One review reads “We had a wonderful stay at the Hotel Sultan in Hammamet. The hotel is very beautiful, the staff friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was simply wonderful”.

“We would especially like to highlight the kids club. Our children had a lot of fun there and were well taken care of”. 

EasyJet holidays offer a week-long, all inclusive package break from £341pp in November, when temperatures are still hitting 23C.



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This £1 travel hack unlocks SERIOUSLY cheap holiday deals like Nile river cruises & Italian island breaks

THERE’S a travel club you can join that instantly unlocks some of the best holiday deals out there – and Sun readers can sign up for just £1.

Sun readers can sign up to Travelzoo today for £1 and get a 30-day trial where you can instantly unlock hundreds of holiday bargains.

Travelzoo members can unlock super cheap holidays in the UK. Europe and beyond Credit: Getty

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Travelzoo is a money-saving club where members can bag super cheap holiday deals both abroad and in the UK.

We’ve found UK breaks from £89pp, Portugal holidays from £127pp, and even an incredible 11-night River Nile cruise and hotel package for £549pp.

Plus there’s extra benefits for members like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed, so you can enjoy free food and drink and have somewhere comfy to sit.

Here’s some of the best bargains members can grab, which include a luxurious Italian island stay and an all inclusive break to the Canaries.

QUIDS IN

£1 hack to save HUNDREDS on UK breaks with superyachts & forest lodges from £89


£1 CHEAT CODE

The £1 travel hack for VIP airport lounges, FREE food & drinks plus £59 trips

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Amsterdam – £137pp

Bag a two night stay in Amsterdam for £137pp Credit: Getty

Tick off an Amsterdam city break with this two night stay in the Dutch capital.

The deal includes return flights plus a stay at the Chasse Boutique Hotel, which puts you within walking distance of the sprawling Vondelpark, Amsterdam‘s largest park.

You’re also close to Foodhallen, where you can grab lunch from 20 different street food stalls including gourmet hot dogs and tasty dim sum.

A 10-minute bike ride will take you to Jordaan, a pretty, narrow street neighbourhood packed with boutique shops and canalside cafes.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

11 Night Nile cruise & beach stay – £549pp

Stop off at the Avenue Of The Sphinxes on your Nile cruise Credit: Getty

If you tot up your flights, cruise, hotel, plus food and drink for this stay, it works out to less than £50pp per night – which is incredible value for a River Nile break.

This package combines an all inclusive four night stay at the Royal Lagoons Resort with a seven night MS Royal Adventure Cruise, with all of your transfers and meals included.

The Royal Lagoons Resort & Aqua Park is a spectacular hotel in Hurghada with four pools, its own waterpark, a spa and a private beach.

And the scenic Nile cruise itself has stops at places like Luxor, home to the Avenue of Sphinxes, and Edfu, a collection of temples covered in hieroglyphics.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Porto – £127pp

Book a stay in Porto for three nights for £127pp with this Travelzoo deal Credit: Getty

Enjoy three nights in a swanky hotel plus return flights to Porto for £127pp with this bargain city break deal.

Swap the grey UK weather for Porto‘s sun-drenched cobbled streets, where riverside wine bars offer glasses of Vino Verde for as little as €3.

The package includes a stay at the HF Tuela Porto, which is close to the pretty Palacio de Cristal gardens, where you’ll find manicured gardens, fountains and wandering peacocks.

Plus the flexibility of Travelzoo deals means you can travel as soon as next weekend, or book ahead for next year.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Italian island escape – £499pp

Visit the island of Ischia for its pretty pastel buildings and bubbling hot springs Credit: Getty

If you fancy visiting an Italian island with postcard-perfect, colourful towns, lush landscaped and even bubbling hot springs, look no further than Ischia.

This deal includes flights. transfers, and a five night, half board stay at the Hotel La Pergola & Villa Flavio Thermal Resort.

You’ll receive a cheeky welcome drink on arrival, before checking into the traditional, coral-coloured hotel and taking a dip in its hot spring baths.

You even get a half-day tour in Lacco Amen, an elegant coastal town, plus a Limoncello tasting session.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Scandinavian tour – £499pp

Soak up the colourful houses of Copenhagen on this Scandinavian three country break Credit: Getty

Visit Sweden, Norway and Denmark on this combined Scandinavian sightseeing trip.

You’ll start by flying to Copenhagen, where you’ll spend two nights at the stylish Copenhagen Island hotel, where you can head out to explore the pastel-coloured houses that line the waterfront.

Next you’ll hop on an overnight cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo, before spending two nights at the Scandic Helsfyr hotel.

Spend your days here taking in the views of the city from the rooftop of the striking Oslo Opera House, or tour the medieval Akershus Fortress for a dose of history.

Then you’ll hop on a short flight from Oslo to Stockholm, where you’ll stay at the boujee Hotel Gio, BW Signature Collection hotel, a 10-minute walk from the royal Haga Park and the massive Brunnsviken Lake.

After enjoying a Stockholm archipelago cruise tour with a hot drink, you’ll be headed back to the UK having ticked off three countries.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Tenerife – £499pp

This £1 travel club unlocks SERIOUSLY cheap holiday deals abroad from £137 Credit: Travelzoo

This deal bags you flights plus an all inclusive seven night stay in Puerto de la Cruz, with airport transfers included.

Stay in the four-star Fergus Puerto de la Cruz, a hotel surrounded by suptropical gardens that feels like an island oasis.

The hotel sits on a hilltop overlooking the coastal town, plus there’s three outdoor pools to pick from with fantastic volcanic views.

Your all inclusive break includes a huge buffest restaurant with live show cooking stations, plus plenty of bars to grab a drink, including the lounge bar which comes alive in the evenings with live entertainment.

Sign up to Travelzoo for £1 (30 day trial)

Prices correct at the time of publication.

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