Beautiful

AN island in Europe has already lost thousands of tourists after Ryanair axed all flights there earlier this year.

The budget airline previously operated flights to the Azores in Portugal, having launched in 2015.

However, they confirmed last year that they would be scrapping them all with the last flight taking place on March 28.

The cancellations were due to airport fees, Ryanair said, as well as environment taxes in Europe.

The removal of Ryanair flights – which also included a number of routes from the UK – has left just British Airways operating flights, along with European airlines TAP and Azores Airlines.

Most of these operate from mainland Portugal.

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And new figures have found that the loss of Ryanair passengers has seen a drop in tourists of 100,000 already.

According to the Regional Statistics Service of the Azores (SREA), passengers arriving at the island airport dropped by 103,766 between April and August.

And there are fears this could increase even more, with projections of up to “391,000 overnight stays” lost a year.

Brits wanting to fly to the island from the UK can now only fly with British Airways, which runes flights from London Heathrow between April and October.

Otherwise alternative routes are to fly to Portugal with a connecting flight from Lisbon or Faro.

One shop worker called it ‘the friendliest town in England’

One charming UK seaside town is famous for its oysters, bustling harbour and colourful collection of independent shops. Oysters have long been at the heart of Whitstable’s identity, with the town’s seafood heritage dating back centuries.

Today, its working harbour remains one of the main attractions, with fishing boats, seafood stalls, a market and waterside places to eat. But there’s much more to Whitstable than its famous seafood.

The town is a haven for independent shopping, with Harbour Street, the High Street and the surrounding streets lined with quirky boutiques, vintage stores, galleries, delis, bookshops and homeware shops.

Only a handful of national chains remain.

Just over an hour from London by train, the town has become a popular weekend retreat for city dwellers, reports the Express.

Visitors can spend the day browsing independent businesses before grabbing some fresh seafood and taking a stroll along the coast.

Wander down Harbour Street and the High Street, and you’ll encounter shopfronts brimming with character. Here, you can uncover a variety of distinctive treasures like the stunning Pearl Shop selling contemporary pearl jewellery and marine object d’arts, to George’s Whitstable, a fixture of the high street for 50 years and a true Aladdin’s Cave of treasures

You’ll also find award-winning British artisan cheeses at The Cheese Box, unique gifts at Buttercup Independent Toy Shop, a beautiful selection of books at Harbour Books, Whitstable’s beloved independent bookstore, and sweet treats at HoneyKanes Bright & Beautiful Shop, all without stepping inside a single chain store. That reputation has only strengthened in recent years.

Whitstable flourishes on independence, creativity and community spirit.

This sentiment is echoed by Stewart McArthur, from Brisbane, Australia, who is on a gap year and working at The Wit! of Whitstable, a vibrant Harbour Street gift shop that recently moved up from a small harbour stall to a prime High Street location.

He said: “You can wander up and down the street and see anything you need – there are so many different style stores that you don’t really need Amazon here.

“This is quite a busy little town. It just seems to get a lot of people coming through, which helps the independent businesses.”

Tourists, he added, are absolutely crucial. “They really support a lot of the local businesses when they come through. It gets busy, but I wouldn’t say overwhelmed,” he said.

For Stewart, what sets Whitstable apart is its sense of community. “It’s the friendliest town in England, it’s just a nice, chill, relaxed place. It’s nice to have a conversation with anyone who comes by.”

That sense of community was perhaps best illustrated by the tale of Revival Food & Mood, a social enterprise café and wellbeing hub that lost its premises during the 2021 lockdown.

Rather than disappearing, it was rescued by a grassroots campaign championed by residents with backing ranging from local groups to household names like Suggs from Madness and celebrated potter Keith Brymer Jones.

Thanks to the town’s resolve, Revival ultimately secured funding through the government’s Community Ownership Fund and reopened in a restored heritage building on the High Street. It now operates not only as a café but also as a venue for music, social gatherings, and mental health support.

Vanessa Brolly, the front-of-house manager at Revival Food & Mood told the Express: “There was a lot of support from the community about making sure that they found a new home.”

The wellbeing hub café is supported by East Kent and Bexley Mind, and has been in Whitstable for roughly eight years, though only two at its current site, and provides a variety of dishes, drinks, and social events such as “Chatty Tuesday” and a regular “Sound Social” in partnership with a neighbouring record shop.

Ms Brolly said: “There’s definitely a very close-knit community feel here. For example, we’ve got the social sounds event on tonight and that’s being run by the record shop, which is about two doors down and they’ll come in and play the records. Everyone’s always looking to collaborate, which is nice.”

Step inside and you’re welcomed by quirky décor designed to brighten the spirits, featuring an indoor garden complete with a water fountain, snug booth seating, and a 1970s-inspired relaxation space kitted out with sofas, vinyl decks, lamps, and a mirror ball.

Ms Brolly noted that national chains such as Costa and Prezzo have shut their doors, yet believes this speaks to the strength of independent businesses rather than any ill-feeling towards big brands.

“If I were visiting, I wouldn’t go to Costa,” she said, emphasising that visitors come to Whitstable in search of unique, independent spots.”

She went on to say that funding initiatives, such as Canterbury Council’s levelling-up programme, could also help keep Whitstable’s flourishing independent scene alive, but ultimately, what makes the town truly special to her is straightforward. “Everyone supports each other.”

For her, the best thing about working at Revival is “being involved in the community and listening to good music.”

Mrs Sally Miller, owner of Anchors Aweigh Vintage, has run her seaside vintage shop for 13 years.

Having lived in neighbouring Tankerton for over 17 years, she’s witnessed first-hand how the high street has changed over time. Step inside and it’s impossible not to be captivated by its treasure trove of curiosities — a shop overflowing with history, character and one-of-a-kind finds that each seem to have a story of their own.

Mrs Miller told the Express: “You get more versatility now than you did. A lot of the locals moan about the idea that it’s all down to people from London. Actually, we probably have more people from Sheffield than from London, but that doesn’t occur to them. The world is a transient place now, isn’t it?”

“Some of the locals are like, ‘all these people!’ But you live in a nice place – people aren’t going to avoid it. When you talk about DFLs [Down From Londoners], it doesn’t really matter. It’s a transient place, a tourist destination. And because we do live in a nice place, people come. The more the merrier!”

Yet for Mrs Miller, the backbone of Whitstable’s businesses remains its local community: “We get a lot of repeat customers, a lot of local shoppers as well. They like popping in for buttons and little bits.”

What keeps independent shops thriving and sets Whitstable apart, she believes, is a winning combination of attentive service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that fosters genuine conversation and connection with every customer who walks through the door.

“People like to talk, they like to stop. We give them the time of day – I’m sure we probably keep people in here longer than they should be,” she laughed.

“It’s the service. People still appreciate the service.”

That sense of camaraderie runs deep — if she doesn’t have something in stock, Ms Miller is more than happy to point customers in the direction of a fellow trader, as they all get along and know one another well.

She added: “We have a strong shop local culture. We’re really lucky. People here talk to you.”

Pearl Shop owner, jeweller and pearl specialist Bibi Southwell also revealed how the town’s heritage and community spirit shaped her business: “We first opened as a pop-up in August 2024, and the response was incredible – both locals and visitors really embraced us. That encouraged us to open permanently just a couple of months later in October. Whitstable’s longstanding history with oysters made The Pearl Shop feel like a natural addition to the town. With its coastal charm, creativity, and independent spirit, it was the perfect fit.

“My favourite thing is being able to be creative every day and sharing that with the community. There’s such warmth here, and we’re surrounded by other independent shopkeepers who all support each other.

“Whitstable draws people from all over thanks to its seaside character, oysters, and thriving independent scene. We see loyal locals who come back regularly as well as visitors who discover us while exploring the high street and both are equally important to us.”

She added: “Whitstable has an authenticity that you don’t find everywhere. The town celebrates creativity, uniqueness, and quality over mass-produced sameness. Visitors come here expecting to find something they won’t see on every other high street, and that gives independents like us the space to really thrive.”

On the subject of the recent closures of chains such as Costa, Ms Southwell said it underlines how people in Whitstable actively seek out independent businesses. Echoing views shared by others including Ms Brolly, she explains that visitors arrive wanting to soak up the distinctive character of the town, rather than the familiar chains they can find anywhere else.

“It shows that people in Whitstable actively choose independents. When you visit, you want to experience the character of the town, not the same coffee chain you’d find anywhere else. I think Whitstable is proving that high streets can survive, and even flourish, when they’re built around small, passionate businesses instead of big brands.”

While many traders are celebrating Whitstable’s flourishing independent scene, not everybody is persuaded it can last. One shop owner, speaking on condition of anonymity, offered a sobering reminder of the very real pressures bearing down on the town’s small businesses.

“They’ve let the harbour be rented out to everything you can imagine that we don’t need in a small seaside town, instead of seafood, for people to make money instead of seafood, which is what we actually need there,” they said. “I don’t want another glossy piece by someone from London saying this is the ‘new Camden’. That’s five years behind the times and it doesn’t help us. Until councils stop raiding towns that were built by small family businesses, we’re all going to die. The local councils couldn’t organise a p***-up in a brewery.”

The shopkeeper’s exasperation is plain to see: “Tourists come here expecting seafood, and instead they find crochet cushions and Thai curry. That’s not what this harbour was built for.”

They went on to say that the town’s weekend atmosphere has been put under strain: “Our weekends are dominated by traffic jams and alcohol. Families leave early, children can’t run around, and the council won’t close the smallest, most dangerous roads for safety. This place risks turning into a tourist attraction, rather than a real working town with shops and families.”

Despite this, the shopkeeper conceded that Whitstable retains its undeniable appeal. “The town will always be amazing – but there’s something not quite right about what goes on behind the scenes when small coastal towns are made popular.”

A spokesperson from Canterbury City Council told the Express: “We’re very pleased to hear such positivity about Whitstable, which only goes to reinforce our view that it’s one of the UK’s best seaside towns – a fantastic place to live and work in, and also wonderful for a visit or extended stay.

“Clearly it’s never possible to please everybody, but given the fact the negative comments have been made anonymously, it makes you wonder if the individual has been turned down for trading opportunities at the harbour and their views have been affected as a result.

“The criticism is also incorrect, because there is seafood readily available at the harbour. The harbour is visited by thousands and thousands of people each year and our commercial units along the south quay are very popular with local residents and visitors alike.

“The hugely popular Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival takes place each September – this year from 12 to 14 September, see whitstablerocksoysterfestival.com – which brings lots of people in and is also run by a private business.

“At its heart, Whitstable remains a fishing town with an active harbour and plenty of businesses selling seafood. Shops selling a whole mix of other goods complement this offer, which leads to a great balance of traders overall.

“But don’t take our word for it – Daily Express readers should come and experience Whitstable for themselves!”.

The travel expert highlighted one spot as a stunning and affordable autumn city break destination

For many people mapping out an autumn escape, short-haul European city breaks promising late-season sunshine tend to top the wishlist. But as one of Britain’s most respected travel journalists, Simon Calder, suggests a more affordable and “very exciting” destination.

During an appearance on Holly Rubenstein’s podcast ‘The Travel Diaries,’ Simon shone a spotlight on everything from ancient cities in Algeria to Cape Verde and the Azores. Another unexpected destination on his radar was Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a city break, offering a mix of historic sights, delicious food, traditional wine, famous thermal baths and relatively affordable prices.

Why visit Tbilisi?

Tbilisi’s historic centre is packed with colourful wooden balconies, winding streets and beautiful churches, alongside architecture reflecting Georgian, Persian, Russian and European influences.

The city takes its name from its natural hot springs, and the Abanotubani district is home to traditional bathhouses where visitors can enjoy the famous sulphur-rich waters.

One of the must-visits in the city is a ride on the cable car towards Narikala Fortress offers impressive views across Tbilisi and the Mtkvari River. From the fortress, you can also glimpse the iconic “Mother of Georgia” statue.

Simon said: “It used to be the case that you couldn’t fly from Tbilisi in Georgia from the UK. And suddenly, within a couple of days, British Airways and easyJet launched flights to Tbilisi.”

The travel guru continued: “And that’s a very exciting part of the world. Central Asia, Uzbekistan, is very much getting back to being more mainstream as well. So much exciting stuff to do,” reports the Express.

What’s Tbilisi like in autumn?

Autumn can be an attractive time to visit Tbilisi. September is typically warm, while October brings cooler temperatures but can still offer pleasant days for exploring the city. Early autumn can also feel considerably warmer than the UK, making it an appealing option for travellers looking for a break from cooler weather.

Tbilisi comes into its own during autumn for a whole host of reasons. While temperatures back home in the UK begin to plummet, Georgia’s capital basks in a pleasant climate, with average highs of 19.5C in October.

This mild, sunny weather is perfectly suited to exploring on foot, and with very little rainfall to contend with, you can safely leave the waterproofs behind. Tbilisi has earned a reputation as a remarkably budget-friendly travel destination, especially for visitors from the UK and Western Europe.

While prices have risen slightly in recent years owing to increasing popularity, the city still offers exceptional value for money.

In the Georgian capital, a pint of local beer in a bar or pub will set you back around £1.75, while meals out typically cost between £8 and £15.

Tbilisi’s charm lies in its fusion of old and new. The city’s ancient heritage is prominently displayed in the delightful Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi), where a maze of cobbled streets winds past traditional houses with characteristic wooden balconies.

You can explore this historic quarter and uncover the domed roofs of the renowned Sulfur Baths in the Abanotubani district.

For a modern architectural wonder, walk across the Bridge of Peace, a contemporary pedestrian crossing that illuminates with thousands of LED lights after nightfall.

Georgian cuisine is a standout feature of any visit, and Tbilisi is the ideal spot to sample it. From the warming comfort of khinkali (spiced meat or cheese dumplings) to the cheesy delight of khachapuri (bread with cheese), the local food is a hearty and flavoursome experience.

Wash it all down with a glass of locally produced wine from one of the oldest winemaking regions on the planet.

Travel Local reveals that Georgia is widely regarded as the birthplace of wine. Archaeological findings of winemaking activity stretch back more than 8,000 years, making it the oldest continuous winemaking tradition in the world.

Remarkably, the very word “wine” is thought to have originated from the Georgian term for it, ‘ghvino’.

Tbilisi boasts a fantastic selection of wine bars and tasting rooms throughout the city, but the most celebrated vineyards and wineries can be found in the Kakheti wine region, considered the heart of Georgian winemaking.

It’s a well-loved and straightforward day trip from Tbilisi, typically requiring around a 1.5 to two-hour drive to reach the region’s principal towns such as Sighnaghi or Telavi.

October is also a particularly vibrant time to visit the city, as it plays host to the Tbilisoba festival, a grand celebration of the city’s rich history and harvest season. The streets burst into life with music, folk dancing and food stalls, offering an unforgettable insight into Georgian culture.

The Grown-Up Getaways offer the chance to try jewellery making, pottery or painting, as well as explore some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches and countryside

There’s no time like the changing colours of autumn to explore what the rest of the UK has to offer before the biting winter weather sets in. And for those seeking a fuss-free getaway, one holiday park group is offering breaks from £99 for four nights with more than 40 picturesque locations to choose from.

Parkdean Resorts operates sites across Britain’s coast and countryside, from the beaches of Devon and Cornwall to quiet escapes in Northumberland and Scotland via the likes of the ever-popular Lake District and the Welsh seaside. While many may think of a holiday park break as being one for families with little ones in tow, Parkdean Resorts also offers Grown-Up Getaways – designed specifically for adults looking to enjoy a holiday at their own pace.

These breaks tailored to grown-ups offer a packed programme of activities outside of school holidays, so holidaymakers can start their day with yoga or swimming, while away the afternoon with board games, pool, darts or archery, and spend evenings enjoying a whodunnit murder mystery, karaoke, poker, bingo or a quiz. Other new activities at these Grown-Up Getaways include creative pursuits such as jewellery making, pottery, painting and mosaic art, while entertainment ranges from country nights to rock ‘n’ roll shows and performances full of hits from iconic musicals.

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There are various accommodation options to choose from too, from lodges and caravans to glamping pods, safari tents and cottages with hot tubs, while restaurants, bars, takeaway options and on-site supermarkets at each park provide plenty of places to eat and drink. Holidaymakers seeking a stress-free break can book all-inclusive packages at the majority of Parkdean Resorts sites across the UK too.

All-inclusive holidays are available on selected four-night Monday arrival stays at 45 parks, as well as on selected three-night weekend breaks at 14 parks across the UK, with packages starting from £100 per adult and £40 per child. These breaks include three restaurant meals a day, unlimited soft drinks and Costa Coffee, plus plenty of choice on dedicated kids’ menus.

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Grown-Up Getaways offer activities for adults outside of school holidays, while all-inclusive packages are also available.

Another choice for UK holiday parks is Haven, which is inviting visitors to its Haunted Haven season this Halloween when its holiday parks will be offering activities and entertainment with a spooky twist. With more than 30 locations to choose from, prices for a Halloween-themed break start from £65 for four nights.

A different option is Forest Holidays, which can be found in 13 UK forests stretching from Deerpark in Cornwall right up to Strathyre in Stirling. Each lodge at these sites comes with a hot tub, with one to five-bedroom options available for couples’ retreats or family holidays.

Back at Parkdean Resorts, for holidaymakers seeking inspiration on where to go this autumn, the top-rated choice of the group’s destinations on TripAdvisor based on nearly 2,000 reviews is Falbarrow Holiday Park in the Lake District. Situated on Lake Windermere with direct access to the water’s edge, this site offers ample opportunity for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on England’s largest lake, although it is also not one of the sites where the all-inclusive offer is available.

Meanwhile, one Parkdean Resorts regular wrote in a five-star review on Trustpilot: “Great holiday park, friendly staff especially in the bar and restaurant. Being pet-friendly made it for us.”

Another customer said: “This place was superb, caravan was lovely and the lakes are great. I have already booked for next year. Been coming to Cornwall now for the last 10 years and been all over in caravan parks for holidays, but this place was best by far.”

And a third praised: “Lovely site. Swimming pool absolutely brilliant as were the child aqua jets and water skis. Very good value for money and the site is very nicely maintained. We got a late deal and it was an absolute bargain!”

One holidaymaker thought their accommodation could have been improved, feeding back: “I booked a three-bedroom lodge but was up graded to a four-bedroom. I feel I should have been given the choice of upgrade because I found it very big for two of us.”

A different reviewer commented: “Parkdean is a great option holiday for relaxing and doing your own thing. Has all the facilities you require to make it a great holiday.”

A CLOSED Wetherspoons once labelled as the most beautiful in the UK is set to be turned into a huge indoor soft play attraction.

The pub closed down back in 2023 after more than two decades in business.

The Capitol Pub on London Road in Forest Hill was often regarded as the grandest or most beautiful in the range of budget pubs.

It was housed in a former 1920’s Art Deco building that used to serve as a cinema.

The picture house showed its last film in 1978 then opened as a bingo hall before JD Wetherspoons snapped it up in 1996.

But, new life is set to be breathed into the Grade II listed building as developers have revealed plans to transform it into a soft play, according to News Shopper.

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Planning permission was approved back in January, with developers now working through a series of conditions to ensure the original features in the building are protected.

A multi-level play structure, party rooms, café facilities and an on-site manager’s flat is set to feature in the building.

Meanwhile, accessible toilets, buggy parking and areas for staff are also set to be built.

However, fans of the building need not worry as its original cinema entrance and distinct features will be protected.

No opening date has been confirmed for the soft play area, but works continue to be underway.

TRAIN stations are no longer just a place to get from A to B, but are now attractions in their own right.

And a new awards has named some of the most beautiful ones in the world.

The World’s Most Beautiful Stations were revealed by Prix Versailles, a prestigious architecture and design award,

Prix Versailles Secretary General Jérôme Gouadain said they “give us proof that 21st-century passenger stations can be the bridges to a more desirable future”.

While none in the UK made the list, there were three in Europe.

One was Colosseo – Fori Imperiali Station in Rome which only opened last year on the city’s metro line.

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It was praised for turning “travel into an archaeological adventure” as well as its “unexpected view of the Colosseum“.

Another Italian train station on the list was Monte Sant’Angelo Station in Naples.

Said to be inspired by city’s Mount Vesuvius, Dante’s Inferno and volcanic terrain, the dark orange doughnut-like structure above ground was called a  “sculpture that the public can enter”.

The final European entry was Lyon Part-Dieu Station in France.

Despite having opened in 1983, it recently underwent a huge update last year.

According to Prix Versailles: “This regional, national and international train station, one of Europe’s top stations in terms of the number of connecting passengers transiting through it, has doubled in size thanks to the architectural teams at AREP and L’AUC, with additional access points and pass-throughs to boot.”

Outside of Europe, Melbourne‘s Town Hall Station also made the top seven list.

Also a new railway station having opened last year, it was praised for both its “eight imposing columns like trees whose branches hold up the canopy above” as well as its “cathedral-like feel”.

Over in the US, LAX/Metro Transit Center was the only American station to be named one of the world’ most beautiful and one of the most futuristic designs on the list,

Saudi Arabia had two stations in Riyadh to have made the list.

There’s National Museum Station, inspired by the Arabian Tuwaiq Mountain and a gateway to the National Museum.

And there was also Western Station, Riyadh which only opened in May this year and was “inspired by desert dunes”.

Here are last year’s most beautiful train stations.

And earlier this summer, these were museums named the most beautiful in the world according to Prix Versailles.

This stunning island, less than five hours from the UK, has been named the best destination for October sun

As the weather starts to drop and we head further into autumn, you may be looking for somewhere to jet off to for a week or two in order to enjoy some sun. Some of our favourite summer destinations can always carry a bit more of a weather risk in autumn, and British holidaymakers are increasingly likely to get caught in the rain while away.

With this in mind, the travel experts at Solmar Villas have looked at average weather patterns across Europe to determine the top 10 destinations for sun between September and November. Topping the list was Ayia Napa in Cyprus, with the beautiful island taking all four top spots, with Limassol and Larnaca in second and third, respectively, and Paphos in fourth.

It is perhaps unsurprising that Cyprus topped the list with an average of just 2.3 wet days per month during autumn, and an average temperature of 24°C to 29°C.

According to Skyscanner, the flight fare can be as little as £31 one-way, and will take around just four and half hours for most UK flyers.

Ayia Napa may be best known for its summer party scene, but in the autumn it begins to quieten down (although there certainly is still some nightlife for those wanting some), and you’ll certainly get a much better price than in party season.

The resort town is full of stunning beaches, from Nissi Beach with its beautiful white sands, and the clear waters of Makronissos Beach.

Taking to TripAdvisor, a September visitor to Nissi Beach wrote: “Nissi Beach is heaven just around the corner! Probably one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus—and for good reason.

“Crystal-clear water, beautiful soft sand, and that creamy, turquoise texture that makes you feel like you’re in paradise. Add the amazing atmosphere and beautiful people, and you have the perfect beach experience.”

While an autumnal visitor to Makronissos commented: “The most beautiful beach, clean, lots of sunbeds, clear warm waters, absolutely amazing. The best beach we found. Lovely atmosphere. Bravo municipality, this beach and its staff do you proud. The sunbed prices are the same on every beach, ten euros for a set, so cheap compared to most places, bravo.”

Top 10 destinations for autumn sun:

1. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
2. Limassol, Cyprus
3. Larnaca, Cyprus
4. Paphos, Cyprus
5. Athens Riviera, Greece
6. Lanzarote, Spain
7. Fuerteventura, Spain
8. Rhodes, Greece
9. Kos, Greece
10. Malta, Malta

IF you’re looking for spot for your next holiday that is almost too perfect to be real – we’ve found just the one.

The huge four-bedroom villa has a private heated pool, outdoor hot tub, barbecue and it’s all set right in front of towering Croatian mountains.

Villa Agava is on the Dalmatian coast in Croatia and is so flawless that visitors have said it looks fake.

In one review one visitor wrote “the villa itself does not look real. It’s so immaculate that it looks like Ai has generated it. but it is real.”

Another added: “Lovely stay, thank you for having us. Everything we needed and more. On arrival it was nice to meet you and the villa was spotless.”

Others described it as “exceptional” and “perfect”.

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The villa can sleep up to eight people in four bedrooms and has five bathrooms.

Outside is where you’ll find the private, heated swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, deck chairs, and three sun umbrellas.

There’s also an outdoor shower, covered outdoor dining area so you can enjoy meals al fresco – and there’s a barbecue.

There are additional extras which aren’t included in the price, but you can opt for include a culinary experience with an in-villa private chef.

Try out an in-villa massage by a professional masseuse, go on a sailing experience or boat tour in the middle Dalmatian coast.

The best news is that it can be booked £38pppn on Airbnb.

A seven-night stay between April 12-19 between for eight guests is £2,154.

Booking are available from April 2027 until the end of October when it closes for the season.

From early spring, temperatures can sit as high as 20C and in the summer it can be as hot as 30C.

For some exploration further afield, the villa’s closest town is Omiš, and the Omiš Riviera has both sandy and pebble beaches.

The Omiš and Cetina River has high-octane activities like rafting, zip-lining, and water sports on the river.

From there visitors can also head over to the island of Brač which is often considered “Croatia’s best-kept secret”.

It has beautiful beaches including Zlatni Rat Beach which is a favourite amongst locals.

Zlatni Rat Beach has an unusually shaped sandbar and quiet coves scattered around, so it’s a must-visit.

It’s around a 42-minute drive away from Split.

If you’re planning a weekend in Windsor with a trip to Legoland included, this fancy hotel is a treat for the grown-ups but still has everything you need for the kids

“Oh no, this place looks fancy,” I told my partner as we drove up the winding path towards the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Windsor.

With its stately home feel and landscaped gardens, it had all of the makings of a lovely romantic getaway. Except we’d turned up with our two-year-old toddler, and now I worried that, despite promising to be a family-friendly hotel, this might be one of those properties where ‘family friendly’ means ‘as long as your kid sits quietly in the corner’. Thankfully, I was wrong.

De Vere Beaumont Estate is quietly family-friendly; at a first look it doesn’t feel like children are welcome, but once you actually settle in, it’s very accommodating.

The hotel may feel grandiose from the outside, but it’s not pretentious. It’s modern with quirky artwork, cosy armchairs, and a parlour bar serving an impressive array of drinks, with a large outdoor terrace.

My only quibble was the check-in process; there was a wedding onsite which caused a long queue at the reception. We actually gave up for a while and went to the bar for about an hour before returning, and even then we still had to wait 20 minutes.

Still, when we did get the keys to our room, it wasn’t disappointing. It was a decent size with a double bed, two armchairs and a table, a desk, and a large bathroom (shower only). If, like us, you’re travelling with a little one who still needs milk at night, be warned that rooms don’t have mini fridges – but we had prepared and packed an ice cooler.

The estate is very picturesque with large landscaped gardens, patches of woodlands, and a playground for older kids. It felt like we scratched the surface when we went for a wander, but there are some longer walks for those who aren’t tied to taking a pram along for the ride.

When it came to dinner, we decided to stick onsite at the hotel’s 1705 Restaurant & Bar. Again, at first glance I wasn’t sure if it would be stress-free with a toddler.

For a start, there wasn’t a children’s menu which had me instantly panicking about whether we’d need to convince our two-year-old that he did in fact want the likes of salad or soup for dinner, but thankfully the staff were incredibly accommodating when we asked if there was anyway we could get some sort of simple pasta dish, and they made us a special portion of mac and cheese.

The menu for grown-ups did tick all the boxes though. We went for the scallops and mozzarella salads as our starters, and steaks for the main. Prices range around £14-£35 per person so it’s not a particularly cheap meal, but the overall vibes, good food and friendly staff made it feel like a holiday treat.

With a toddler, it was time to head back to the room for an early night. However, after an hour of him resisting sleep, we admitted defeat, and headed back down to the terrace for a drink, taking the toddler in his pyjamas, in the pram. Nobody batted an eyelid, we easily found a table, and ended up enjoying some nice wine in the last of the sunshine.

The next morning, after making the most of the hotel’s extensive breakfast and dropping off our room key in a very quick check-out process, we made the most of the hotel’s location just a 15-minute drive from LEGOLAND Windsor.

Our toddler was under 90cm which meant he could enter for free, but also meant he was too short for a few of the bigger attractions. Still we managed to tick off more than I expected including a submarine ride, a train, and the iconic Fairy Tale Brook boat ride. There were also heaps of playgrounds throughout the theme park. As for queues, the longest we saw was 35 minutes for a NINJAGO ride, but generally we were impressed at how quickly everything moved – a very welcome feature when you’re waiting around with a toddler.

The theme park allows you to bring your own food and drink in the park which was very helpful for snacks (our little one, like most his age, is spectacularly picky about what he will eat), but I wish we’d packed more for ourselves too as when we did decide to just get some nuggets and chips for lunch, as well as some ice creams, it set us back about £30.

Overall, De Vere Beaumont Estate proved an ideal base; a lovely space for us grown-ups to enjoy, and a handy location to one of the UK’s biggest attractions. It’s definitely one we’ll be returning to!

• Rooms at the De Vere Beaumont Estate start from £129 a night based on two people sharing. Book at devere.co.uk.
• LEGOLAND Windsor day tickets start from £32pp when booked online in advance at legoland.co.uk.

Italy’s ancient cave city looks like something out of a storybook – and with October highs of up to 27C and no summer crowds, it could be the perfect autumn holiday destination for Brits

As the UK slips into shorter days and noticeably cooler temperatures, plenty of people look to October as the perfect moment to squeeze a bit more out of summer.

Whether it’s half-term breaks, cheaper shoulder-season deals or simply the lure of warm sunshine and guaranteed blue skies, searches and bookings tend to rise for last-minute getaways. From beach classics in Spain, Greece and Turkey to longer-haul hotspots, October has become the month when many of us “jet off” to swap jumpers and drizzle for one more hit of heat.

Italy boasts no shortage of places that deliver a sunshine fix well into autumn – from Rome’s ancient sights and café-lined piazzas to Venice’s dreamy canals and waterside walks. But if you’re after something that feels a little less “done” than the usual hotspots, Matera could be the perfect pick.

Tucked away in the southern region of Basilicata, the city is best known for its Sassi – ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, now transformed into atmospheric hotels, restaurants and tiny bars.

It’s the kind of place made for slow exploring: cobbled lanes that twist between honey-coloured stone buildings, viewpoints that open up over terraced rooftops, and little squares where you can stop for a coffee or aperitivo in the late-afternoon sun.

Crucially, Matera tends to be calmer than Italy’s headline destinations, especially outside peak summer, which means you can soak up the scenery without battling huge queues.

October is also a great time to visit if you prefer sightseeing without the intense heat, with mild days that suit everything from wandering the old town to taking a day trip into the surrounding countryside.

And while Matera has a distinctly old-world feel, it still has plenty going on – from cosy trattorias serving local specialities to cultural sites and museums that dig into the city’s long, unusual history. For travellers looking to extend summer without the crowds, it’s an autumn escape that ticks a lot of boxes.

Kathy, a travel content creator from New York, shared a video on TikTok offering viewers a captivating glimpse of Matera, widely known as the ‘City of Stone’.

The short clip showcases the cave dwellings and a narrow lane running alongside the stunning stone structures perched on a clifftop.

Her TikTok post caption reads: “Matera, a truly magical historical city like no other city. The oldest city in Italy and possibly all of Europe. It’s 9,000 years old!

“I highly recommend staying at least one night to fully experience the magic. Sunset is stunning, dinner in the cave-like restaurants is memorable, and sunrise is even better.”

The travel enthusiast described Matera as “truly breathtaking” and “easily one of [her] favourite places to visit while traveling through Puglia.

And judging by the comments section, people agreed with her. One travel fan wrote: “One of the most beautiful places I have visited, truly amazing.”

Another said: “Currently in Matera now, one of my favourite places we [have] visited. And a third added: “Dreamy!”

Often compared to Hawaii and dubbed the ‘new Canaries’, a paradise island with azure waters and unspoilt beaches has been named as one of Europe’s most beautiful places to visit

A tropical island retreat with crystal-clear azure waters and pristine beaches has been crowned as Europe’s most breathtaking destination to visit this year. Conveniently, its stunning scenes are just a four-hour flight away.

Nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, to the west of mainland Portugal, lies the spectacular archipelago of nine islands known as the Azores. Long compared to Hawaii, they’re frequently referred to as the new Canary Islands, thanks to their unspoilt beaches, shimmering crater lakes and cascading waterfalls, set against dramatic green cliffs and lush forests that remain wonderfully untouched.

With nine volcanic islands comprising the Azores, there’s a wealth of discoveries to be made, with each island boasting its own jaw-dropping coastline and diverse landscape that is sure to leave you speechless. So much so that Lonely Planet has named the Azores as one of the ‘most beautiful places to visit in Europe’ and the best for a ‘remote island escape’.

The publication noted that the Azores have been “long overlooked” and are like “stepping stones to another world”, with their collection of subtropical gardens, forests, and “brilliantly blue caldera lakes” that draw in nature lovers. For those keen to visit, Lonely Planet recommended spending time “floating in the dazzlingly turquoise thermal waters of Caldeira Velha on São Miguel island, hiking through botanical gardens brimming with azaleas, camellias and hydrangeas on Flores, gasping out loud as sperm whales and humpbacks emerge from the deep blue on Faial, or climbing up to Mt Pico’s cloud-shredding, 2351m cone for sensational views across the archipelago.”

For those wanting to experience these breathtaking landscapes firsthand, direct flights are available from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to the Azores’ main gateway, Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL), with a journey time of just over four hours. Prices start from £118 per person, according to Skyscanner, with limited availability, but it’s well worth securing a trip to savour this slice of paradise, reports the Express.

What’s more, set against the Azores’ spectacular scenery and dramatic coastlines, visitors can also take advantage of remarkably affordable prices. A pint will typically cost around €1.50 (£1.28), while a meal at a local restaurant comes in at between €10 to €15 (£8.57 and £12.85) per person, or €30 (£25.70) at a popular establishment.

One of the most coveted destinations to visit is São Miguel Island, also known as the ‘Green Island’. It’s the largest island in the archipelago and is famed for its striking twin-crater lake, Sete Cidades, which boasts contrasting blue and green-tinted waters. Recognised as one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders, it’s undeniably breathtaking with its magical surroundings.

Elsewhere, São Miguel Island offers a wealth of dramatic volcanic beaches with black sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for soaking up the September sunshine. These include Praia de Santa Bárbara, a well-known surfing hotspot, and Praia dos Mosteiro, complete with heated rock pools for a dip away from the ocean waves.

Yet the offshore islet at Vila Franca do Campo is arguably the most stunning stretch of coastline of them all, with its curved sunken volcanic crater forming an extraordinary natural swimming pool. What’s more, dotted throughout the Azores are secluded coves, beaches and volcanic thermal springs just waiting to be uncovered, meaning you’ll never be stuck for options on where to spend your island escape.

Direct flights from the UK to the Azores depart from London Heathrow via British Airways, typically operating during the summer months.

You can fly from many other UK airports, such as London Gatwick and Manchester, with one stop via major carriers including TAP Air Portugal, which connects through Lisbon or Porto, or SATA Azores Airlines, which connects via mainland Portugal or North America connections.

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The historic English city with Roman roots was crowned the world’s most beautiful city according to research

Sitting in northwest England close to the Welsh border, this historic city is steeped in centuries of history. Chester’s story stretches back almost 2,000 years.

The city was founded as Deva Victrix, a major Roman fortress, around AD 79. Today, traces of its Roman past can still be found throughout Chester, including the remains of its impressive amphitheatre and parts of the original fortress.

One of Chester’s biggest attractions is its remarkably well-preserved city walls. The roughly two-mile circuit follows the route of the city’s historic defences and offers a unique way to explore Chester, taking in many of its best-known landmarks along the way.

‘Most beautiful’ city

Chester has been previously crowned the most beautiful city in the world. Taking the top spot with an impressive 83.7% “beauty score” based on the “golden ratio”, Chester had seen off fierce competition from Edinburgh, Bristol, Prague, Venice and even Rome to claim the coveted title.

The research, carried out by Online Mortgage Advisor, used Google Street View to assess the architectural grandeur of thousands of homes, landmarks and streets from across the globe.

While the study ranked cities on their built environment, its foundations are firmly rooted in the world of art.

Explaining the significance of the golden ratio in the art world, it noted: “Artists over the last few centuries have incorporated the golden ratio into their work, believing it to be a gold standard in natural aesthetic perfection,” reports the Express.

Perhaps nothing gives Chester its distinctive character quite like The Rows.

These unusual two-level, covered walkways run through the heart of the city centre, with shops, cafés and restaurants lining the galleries.

The medieval structures are among Chester’s most recognisable features and give the city centre an atmosphere unlike many other places in England.

Meanwhile, the magnificent Chester Cathedral is another highlight, with a history spanning centuries and architecture ranging from the Norman period through to the Victorian era.

The Eastgate Clock has also become one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Perched above the Eastgate section of the city walls, it is an especially popular spot for photographs.

Walkable city

Despite officially being a city, Chester’s compact historic centre has a distinctly smaller-town feel.

Visitors can wander between independent shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants while surrounded by timber-framed, black-and-white buildings that give parts of the city an almost storybook appearance.

Beyond the centre, the surrounding Cheshire countryside provides plenty of opportunities to escape the bustle.

Chester’s location also makes it a convenient base for exploring North Wales, while Liverpool and Manchester are both within easy reach.

It is no wonder that Chester draws visitors from across the globe, with many leaving glowing five-star reviews on Tripadvisor.

John J was thoroughly impressed during a visit, saying: “Chester really is a beautiful town.”

He added: “The Chester Rows are just what makes Chester. Beautiful old buildings kept in remarkable condition. Walking around and seeing the history and beauty is so enjoyable. Sampled some nice food and pubs.”

During a visit to the cathedral, Sue. W called it “magnificient inside and out”.

She added: “This cathedral is magnificent. It is large so takes some time to get round it and do it justice. The craftsmanship inside is superb from the stone masonry to the tiled floors and the wooden carving to the stained glass.”

What is the ‘golden ratio’?

For centuries, artists have woven the ‘golden ratio’ into their creations, regarding it as the ultimate benchmark of natural aesthetic perfection.

By applying the ratio to measure buildings and iconic landmarks, experts have been able to determine which cities across the UK and the wider world can boast the most stunning architecture.

Other British cities that made the grade include London and Belfast, scoring 83% and 82.9% respectively.

On the global stage, Chester was closely followed by Venice, which scored 83.3%; Rome, with 82%; and the Spanish city of Barcelona rounding things off with 81.9% on the scale.

Thinking of heading to Europe’s Christmas markets this year? Here are some destinations you can reach directly on Eurostar, making them ideal for a day trip or a quick overnight break

A European Christmas market is an amazing way to get into the festive spirit. The historic city backdrops, authentic food and drink, and unique gifts all make it a must-do in the run up to Christmas.

Eurostar can be a good alternative to flying for short breaks, as it allows you to get to the heart of the city for a day trip or quick overnight stay, without the hassle of the airport. (Although do factor in the logistics of getting to London from where the trains depart).

If you’re already starting to count down the days until Christmas, we’ve got you covered with some of the top markets you can reach by Eurostar this winter…

1. Lille Christmas Market

Lille is Eurostar’s shortest route from London at around 90 minutes, so it’s ideal for a Christmas market day trip. Lille Christmas Market takes place on Place Rihour, just a 15-minute walk from the Eurostart terminal, making it an easy location to get to.

The event runs from November 19 to December 30, and is open seven days a week with Fridays and Saturdays seeing the event stay open until 10pm. In the square you’ll find a huge Ferris wheel covered in lights and around 90 wooden chalets selling food, drink, and crafty items. It’s relatively small compared to some of Europe’s other giant markets, but Lille’s red-brick Flemish architecture and cobbled streets make the whole city perfect for a Christmas break.

2. Paris – La Défense Christmas Market

Paris has a few festive markets around the city, and La Défense Christmas Market is the largest, running daily from mid-November until early-January, with exact dates not confirmed yet for 2026.

Running on La Défense Esplanade, it includes an ice skating rink, carnival rides, and hundreds of stalls selling mulled wine, tartiflette, and raclette. However, it’s worth noting that the market can get incredibly busy as it’s in a Paris business district, so you may want to visit during off-peak times.

Another option is the Tuileries Garden Market, set in a park between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, a sprawling market which takes up about half a mile of space. It runs for about six weeks from mid-November, again no dates are confirmed yet, and features 80 wooden chalets, a Ferris wheel, and lots of festive activities in this lively space.

3. Brussels – Winter Wonders

Brussels has a compact city centre that makes it ideal for a short break, and from the Eurostar station you can take a quick 10 minute journey to get to Winter Wonders. Taking up several streets in the Belgian capital, this sprawling Christmas market runs from November 27 to January 3 and features over 200 stalls.

At the heart of the market, in the beautiful Baroque Grand-Place, you’ll find the giant Christmas tree and a sound and light show. The market also has an ice rink and Ferris wheel, and closes daily at 10pm, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere when the sun goes down and the Christmas lights turn on.

4. Antwerp Christmas Market

Eurostar launches a new direct service to Antwerp on December 14, and this city full of unique architecture, from ornate medieval buildings to quirky art nouveau structures, is the ideal backdrop to enjoy a Christmas market.

In the centre you’ll find the Grote Markt and Handschoenmarkt full of handmade crafts, local treats like Antwerp’s hand-shaped biscuits, a huge ice rink and plenty of festive bars. An adjacent street is turned into a giant light tunnel, perfect for exploring after dark, and the market is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays for festive night owls.

5. Amsterdam Christmas Market and Village

Amsterdam, Eurostar’s longest direct route from London, has multiple Christmas markets and events, but perhaps its best-known takes place in Museumplein, the city’s largest square. This area, popular with tourists thanks to its several attractions such as the Van Gogh Museum, is transformed into a Christmas village complete with live entertainment, 45 festive stalls, and a roaming acappella choir.

But if you prefer something a little less traditional, visit the Funky Xmas Market on December 20 in Westerpark. The event brings together the work of artists and creatives from across this colourful city, with lots of unique and quirky ideas for loved ones who are difficult to buy for.

6. Rotterdam – Scandinavian Christmas markets

Enjoy the ultimate hygge atmosphere at one of Rotterdam’s Scandinavian Christmas markets, which are held in traditional Seamen’s Churches across the city. Rotterdam has always had close ties to Scandinavia thanks to its large harbour, so you can enjoy the Scandi-vibes at traditional Norwegian, Danish, and Swedish markets, which are mostly held during November.

If you’re visiting in December, then Deliplein Winterplein is a two-week community festival where the Katendrecht neighborhood is turned into a winter wonderland. It kicks off with a parade and tree lighting, and includes lots of live music events, visits from Santa, and creative workshops. It’s a more community-focused alternative to the usual touristy Christmas markets.

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