Benidorm

Michelle Baker has lived in Benidorm for most of her life and the Brit has now opened up about a new scam that targets female tourists in the Spanish holiday hotspot

A British mum who has called Benidorm home for over 42 years has warned holidaymakers about a new scam that targets women.

Michelle Baker is married to a Spaniard and she has raised their children in the popular resort where she used to run a newspaper for Brits. However, she now keeps travellers updated by sharing tips and information on her Benidormforever Facebook page.

But her most recent post was a more serious one. Sh explained: “Statistically Benidorm is a very safe resort, however, like any busy city there are opportunists waiting to rob you.”

She then said to follow the obvious precautions like keeping your valuables close and your suitcase in sight — before naming the scams actively taking place this summer.

New scam

Michelle labelled this scam the “selfie steal” and she explained: “This is a new one and targets women mostly. A couple asks you to take a photo… they’re all smiles and overly friendly… then they ask you to get into their selfie.”

The Benidorm expert advised that this was the point where you must decline — before explaining the dangers of not doing so.

She continued: “Once up close they’ll deftly grab your goodies, purse, phone watch and jewellery and you won’t feel a thing.”

Phone theft

She said phone theft was the “number one crime” in Benidorm at the moment and that modern smartphones are being sold for significant prices on the black market, especially if they are unlocked.

Michelle warned that distracting tactics were used to make the crime non-violent and painless and that most are simply swiped from tables.

However, she warned: “But recently thieves are getting smarter; they want your phone unlocked so typically they’ll approach you while you’re scrolling and tell you they are lost and ask to use Google Maps on your phone.”

She said never to hand your phone over and that thieves will take it quickly before passing it on to someone in a waiting car who will change your password, spend your money and ultimately ruin your trip.

‘The Peamen’

The mum said this was the most famous scam that has been going on for years in Benidorm and despite being so well known, she said people still fall for it.

It involves a man hiding a pea under a cup, moving the cups around, and then encouraging you to bet on which one contains the pea.

A couple (who are playing and in on the scam) win and because you can see where it is you then take a risk. According to Michelle, you will then win the first round before losing the rest.

She added: “They won’t let you get away until you’re skint and you’ll find it very intimidating and scary… just walk on by.”

‘Mugger Huggers’

This one targets men, and involves an attractive woman walking up to you and asking whether she knows you, before extending her arms out for a hug.

If you hug her back, she will have your phone and wallet in a flash, and you will often not notice until she is gone.

Michelle said there was an extended version to this sinister scam depending on how drunk you are where the woman will offer to come back to your room.

“She’ll drug you and clear you out of everything of any value and you won’t be the first or the last,” Michelle added.

Michelle has lived in Benidorm for most of her life and said she was always willing to share the good, the bad and sometimes the ugly.

However, in a message to Brits flying over this summer, she added: “I don’t want to scare you as Benidorm is really very safe.”

She added that people on holiday often let their guard down and it was better to be aware of the above scams before the holiday even begins.

BBC sitcom The Power of Parker, which featured a cast made up of Conleth Hill, Sian Gibson and Benidrom star Sheila Reid, has been axed after two series on air

The Power of Parker has been axed after two series on air. The sitcom starred Conleth Hill, best known for his role as Varys in Game of Thrones, as wannabe business guru Martin Parker, whose seemingly successful life is in fact all built on lies.

All set in Stockport in 1990, the programme also stars creator Sian Gibson, best known for her role in Peter Kay’s Car Share, and Sheila Reid, known to fans of Benidorm as Madge Harvey, in the cast.

The final episode of series two saw Martin bracing himself for arrest on a charge of attempted murder, and along with his mistress and his wife pushed business rival Sandy (Steve Pemberton) into the back of a bin wagon. But Sandy then turned back up with video evideoce and threatened to go to the police if they did not pay up. However, viewers will never get to see just what happened now that the show has been pulled.

A source said: “Losing any series will feel like a crime for its fans. But for the two million who watched The Power Of Parker, its axe with so many loose ends is a major felony.

Speaking to The Sun, the source added: “The ratings just didn’t deliver enough bang for buck and it was decided the series would be chopped to make way for new formats.”

Over the years, the BBC has been responsible for comedies such as Only Fools and Horses, The Vicar of Dibley and Fawlty Towers amongst a whole host of other sitcom staples.

Diane Morgan, who is known for her roles in sitcoms Mandy and Motherland, has just launched Ann-Droid for the broadcaster, and Lucy Punch has enjoyed great success with Amandaland.

A spokesperson said: “There are no plans for a third series of The Power Of Parker. We’d like to thank Paul Coleman, Sian Gibson and the team at Boffola Pictures for bringing the show to our screens.”

Whilst promoting what turned out to be the last series, which focused what happened after Martin after losing his electrical goods store over an affair with Kath (Sian Gibson) – the sister of his wife Diane (Rosie Cavaliero), Conleth revealed to presenters Alex Jones and Roman Kemp on The One Show that his character had experienced a “huge fall from grace” with things being exacerbated by Kath.

However, his co-star then chimed in and told fans that there would be plenty of “twists and turns” coming up as she said: “Kath makes everything worse but there’s lots of twists and turns and there’s a huge twist in one of the episodes which means that Kath and Diane, her sister, played by lovely Rose Cavaliero, and Martin all have to work together.”

Conleth previously explained that his family weren’t too impressed with the character when the first series aired. He said: “My older relatives didn’t like him because he was an adulterer,” he shares.

“I based him on a mate of mine back home who wears cowboy boots and suits. When he doesn’t, he looks like a dumpy middle-aged man but transforms in the suit and cowboy boots,” he admits. “It’s just something about the choice of ‘I’m going to give myself a couple more inches’ in the boots that I liked immediately.”

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Travel experts at Slingo have put together a guide to the rules and fines for Brits travelling to Spain so that holidaymakers can enjoy the summer without stress

Travel specialists at Slingo have compiled a comprehensive guide to the rules for visiting Spain in 2026, helping holidaymakers make the most of their summer break without any unwanted hassle. Dom Aldworth, brand marketing coordinator at Slingo, said: “Everyone knows that the British public love a holiday, and now that it’s nearly spring, UK tourists will be starting to think about where they want to travel to this summer.

“However, before you pack your suitcase, it’s important to educate yourself on any travel rules, especially as new regulations are announced every year. This way you can enjoy your summer holiday, whilst staying safe and being respectful to local laws.”

Night swimming

The city of Benidorm, in Costa Blanca, announced they will be charging tourists between £650 and £1,020 for going to the beach between midnight and 7am. That includes swimming in the sea or sleeping on the sand.

The specialists noted: “This rule has been introduced to reduce the risk of any swimming-related accidents during the times when lifeguards are not available. In order to not waste the resources of local emergency services, it’s best to keep your beach activities to the daytime,” reports the Express.

Mindful recreation

Stripping off on a non-nudist beach could leave tourists facing a fine of £647. Nevertheless, nudist beaches are available at most Spanish holiday hotspots, “so if you wish to sunbathe naked, there are places to do this respectfully”.

Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes on the beach in Benidorm is also strictly prohibited, with penalties of £550 and £1,700 respectively. This is down to littering concerns, as well as considerations for public health.

Taxis

GOV.UK has cautioned British tourists to only use registered taxis in Spain this summer, as passengers caught travelling with unlicensed taxi services could face fines of up to 600 euros (£510).

The travel experts commented: “This is due to transport risks, so make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.”

Noise pollution

Alicante, in Costa Blanca, imposed hefty fines for rowdy tourists, ranging from playing loud music on the beach to making excessive noise in your accommodation.

“These regulations are tighter versions of rules the city council implemented in March 2019, and could cost Brits up to 30,000 euros (£25,556). Everyone wants to have a good time on holiday, but you can have fun and respect others at the same time.”

Unlicensed parties

The travel experts said: “If you’re travelling to Majorca or Ibiza this summer, be wary of where you’re partying. Authorities are closing in on any unlicensed or unruly parties and will issue a fine to anyone involved in the organisation and marketing of the event, as well as attendees. This could result in a £25,000 fine.”

These gatherings are typically hosted at villas and private residences, lacking the safety provisions of emergency exits, capacity restrictions, and qualified security personnel that licensed bars possess.

Harry Poulton moved from Brighton and moved to Benidorm after visiting the city with his mates when he was 18 – but there are certain spots he says tourists should avoid

Benidorm is one of the most popular European holiday destinations among Brits and attracts approximately five million tourists annually. Harry Poulton, 24, grew fond of the resort following a visit with mates at 18 and now regards his decision to relocate there as the finest decision he’s ever made.

Nevertheless, he wishes to pass on his expertise to holidaymakers preparing to explore the seaside city on Spain’s Costa Blanca. Taking to TikTok, where he’s amassed more than 40,000 followers, he highlighted three locations in the nightlife hotspot that he believes are best avoided owing to safety concerns.

First on his list is the ‘Yellow Brick Road’, a centre of bars and eateries that represents the core of local nightlife, covering streets such as Leanto, Ibiza, and Leerida.

Harry cautioned: “The Yellow Brick Road – this little public pathway […] leads all the way up to the Rio Park. Now, it has been known for a few things, mainly small thefts like pickpocketing. Generally, during the day, it’s absolutely fine. I’d recommend avoiding it at night.”

The second spot Harry suggests swerving is Pueblo Alley, situated close to Levante Beach.

“This is one I definitely recommend avoiding, especially late at night, as you do get the pickpockets hanging around this area,” he warned. “You also get the odd lady of the night. There are plenty of other ways around”.

Topping Harry’s list of places to steer clear of is ‘Mugger’s Alley’, meanwhile.

“It is the most notorious – it’s the one we all know,” he exclaimed. “Known for pickpocketing, ladies of the night, it’s just an area I would avoid. They’re even doing these new taxi scams. It’s crazy. Save yourself the hassle and cross the road.”

Despite acknowledging these risks, Harry remains a devoted admirer of this popular holiday hotspot.

He argues that many British holidaymakers hold misconceptions about Benidorm, insisting that concerns over crafty scams and overpriced goods are often way off the mark.

What’s more, since swapping Brighton for Benidorm, Harry has watched his living expenses drop considerably, with monthly outgoings now falling between £500 and £1,000, including bills.

Harry proclaimed: “If you live here, you get it. Benidorm is paradise – and anyone who says otherwise is lying.”

One solo traveller who often shares tips and clips from his overseas adventures with his online followers has named the five cities he’d ‘never go back to if his life depended on it’

Many people are often looking for new places to explore if they’re planning to go travelling, whether that be alone or in a group. However, one solo traveller who says he’s been to 60 countries has advised against the places you definitely shouldn’t go – according to him.

Lucas Brancatisano, who is known as @alocalguide_ on Instagram, often shares travel tips, experiences and clips from his overseas adventures with his 6,300 followers on the site. In one of his latest reels, he named the five cities he’s visited during his travels that he’d ‘never go back to if his life depended on it’.

1. New Delhi, India

Lucas described the Indian capital as a ‘whole new level of overstimulation’, saying that there’s pollution, noise, busses, horns and cows on the road, and claims that the sky is ‘filled with smog’.

He exclaimed: “It’s not for me, I don’t think I’ll ever go back.

“The rest of India in parts is absolutely lovely, but New Delhi… not for me.”

2. León, Nicaragua

The solo traveller described León as “sweaty and dangerous at night”. Lucas said Nicaragua itself is fantastic and he had a “great time” there in 2024, but that he just didn’t enjoy going to León. “I’ll never go back,” he said.

3. Oia, Santorini

Lucas exclaimed: “This place is my definition of hell,” as he describe the holiday spot.

He added: “In summer, getting sunburnt, 1,000 selfie sticks with everyone getting the same sunset photo.

“You can just look at it online, you don’t have to go and get a photo of it.

“Don’t go there, you’ll have a really bad time.”

4. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Lucas said he went to Phnom Penh in Cambodia “a long time ago”, but said that when he went there, all he remembers is a very built up city with lots of tyre shops and “not much going on”.

He added: “I could be wrong, and please let me know in the comment if I am wrong, because Phnom Penh maybe I would go back to.

5. Benidorm, Spain

The traveller descried Benidorm as “hell”, adding: “If you find yourself there and you’re not British, you’re in hell.

Lucas said there’s English breakfasts on every single menu there and loads of British people “rolling around”, as well as “pasty skin everywhere”, saying that it’s just “not a very nice place”.

He added: “If you’re in Spain and you’re going to Benidorm, you need tor rethink all the life choices you’ve made up to that point, because your’e in the wrong spot.”

Concluding his reel, Lucas exclaimed: “That’s my list, there’s not many I wouldn’t go back to, but they are five of them.”

Despite the post racking up more than 6,000 likes, some people had differing views.

One person wrote: “Will definitely go back to León in Nicaragua.”

While another added: “I was in Phnom Penh last year. It was very cool. Great riverside markets, river cruise, pubs and restaurants, temples. Beauty everywhere.”

A third chimed in: “I loved Oia!”

While a fourth added: “Benidorm to Brits is Cancun to Americans.”

A fifth chimed in: “Went to India, New Delhi, 10 years ago; the taxi just dropped me off in the city centre and left. I was so overwhelmed with everything going on that I sat down on the footpath and started to cry, a cow came out of nowhere and started to eat a cardboard box beside me.

“Locals stopped and started pointing at me and taking photos. Weirdest and best travel story I think I have, would I do it again? Hell ya haha.”

A British expat living in Benidorm has shared the best time to visit Spain’s beloved seaside hotspot, ideal for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying perfect weather

A British expat living in Spain has revealed the best time to visit the popular coastal hotspot of Benidorm in order to dodge the “crowds” and “chaos”.

Benidorm is a hugely popular seaside resort in Spain, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, vast selection of hotels and towering skyscrapers, golden sandy beaches, busy cafés and restaurants, and much more. It’s a firm favourite for countless hen and stag dos, while others sing the praises of its charming Old Town and the stunning natural, rugged coastline – a far cry from the images most commonly associated with the resort.

According to the annual report published by the Visit Benidorm Foundation, the destination welcomed just over three million visitors in 2025, a rise of 7.7 per cent on 2024’s figures.

The total number of overnight stays surpassed 16 million, an increase of 3.4 per cent on 2024’s bookings. It marked the first time in Benidorm’s history the resort had recorded such numbers.

Many Brits choose to up sticks and move to Benidorm for its reliably sunny skies all year round and a more laid-back way of life.

That’s certainly true of Geoff, who shares content on social media under the name “Benidorm Resort Expert”.

He bills himself as a “Benidorm Travel Expert” having lived and worked in the Spanish resort for 33 years, with his content centred on providing “deals, trips and advice” about life in the popular destination.

In a recent TikTok video, Geoff recommended visiting Benidorm during the cooler periods. Speaking directly to camera, he began: “Everyone wants Benidorm at its hottest but they’ve got it wrong. We’ve just had three days of red alert – this is the first time, ever, three days on the bounce and honestly, we’ve been melting out here.

“But this morning, look at it. Temperature’s dropped five or six degrees, we’ve got a bit of cloud, there’s a gentle breeze and the sea, it’s like a mill pond.”

He continued: “No crowds, no chaos, no 40 degree heat bouncing off the pavement; just a calm morning, a bit of grounding, feet in the sand and literally the whole beach to myself.”

Geoff was full of praise for the tranquil early morning atmosphere on offer. He added: “The day hasn’t kicked off yet and this right here is the best bit of it – 24 degrees, sea like glass, and not a soul rushing anywhere.

“Forget the heatwave hype, this is when Benidorm is at its best.”

Benidorm isn’t the only destination grappling with scorching temperatures brought on by a heatwave, with Britain experiencing Spain-like conditions as record-breaking heat swept across the country.

However, this week the stifling temperatures have finally begun to ease across parts of the UK.

Met Office deputy chief forecaster Tony Wisson said: “Toward the weekend, high pressure will continue to build in across most of the UK as it extends from the Azores.

“This will lead to more settled, warm or very warm conditions for many, especially across England and Wales, though some rain may still affect the far north.”

He added: “The forecast for this weekend suggests that temperatures could approach high 20°C across parts of England, perhaps 30°C in parts of the southeast, with values of mid to high 20°C in Wales.

“Although a return to heatwave conditions is looking increasingly likely for some areas, the likelihood of such extreme high temperatures or high levels of humidity as last week is currently low.”

World Cup fans in Benidorm were left floored after they were allegedly “attacked for wearing England shirts”. Natalie Brookfield shared the story as she opened up about the incident

The World Cup has got many football fans hooked, but some people actually venture to Benidorm to enjoy the sporting event while soaking up the party atmosphere. However, for one group of Brits, it seems things didn’t go to plan, as they were allegedly “attacked for wearing England shirts”.

Natalie Brookfield detailed what reportedly happened after the incident unfolded at the popular holiday destination, and it clearly left her and her friends pretty shocked. In a candid TikTok video, she explained what took place in Benidorm, while filming their red and soar-looking eyes, and it’s left people in total disbelief as they can’t believe such an incident occurred during the World Cup.

It’s not the first time the travel hotspot has hit the headlines recently either. Previously, it was reported sunbeds were empty at the destination for a totally unlikely reason.

Over footage of the group in their England shirts, Natalie wrote: “Wearing an England top to Benidorm? Apparently that’s a sprayable offence.

“Three girls and two guys pepper sprayed us for no reason. To anyone in Benidorm wearing England shirts, stay alert. We weren’t the only ones this happened to.”

In the clip, you see the three friends donning their England shirts and looking quite uncomfortable. It looks like their eyes were stinging following the alleged attack, and they appeared totally stunned too.

The video has since gone viral, after being viewed more than 50,000 times. Over 1,000 people also commented to share their thoughts and well wishes.

One said: “Benidorm in 2026 is crazy.” Another added: “Me and my friends wore NUFC tops in Benidorm and only received love from everyone. I’m sorry to hear this.”

A third replied: “It’s a terrible shame. Benidorm was once the party and fun centre. Very sad world we live in.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I have been going Benidorm for 10+ years and unfortunately, over the past two years, I have seen more of this. I won’t stop going, but I will say don’t let it put you off going back and hope you are good.”

Someone else also noted: “I was in Benidorm on Monday. Loads wearing England tops! No problems.”

It’s something that got a lot of people talking, as people seem to have encountered mixed experiences at the party destination. However, for Natalie, it’s evident the group had a bit of a shock, but it’s unclear if they reported the incident.

Do people travel to Benidorm to watch the World Cup?

Little you may know, thousands of British tourists flock to Benidorm to watch the World Cup. Many fans choose the Spanish resort over travelling to host cities.

A five-night holiday in Benidorm often costs less than a single match ticket in the US, and flights from the UK to nearby Alicante see massive spikes during the tournament.

A TikTok video has showcased the stunning lake, with the bubblegum pink hue leaving viewers desperate to visit the spot

When you picture Spain, you imagine stunning beaches, delicious cuisine and breathtaking scenery. And this specific corner of Spain has now got tourists buzzing about its natural beauty.

The must-visit bubblegum pink lake sits just an hour’s drive from popular British hotspot Benidorm. Holiday provider Travel Republic has shared everything you need to know about the must-see travel spot, including its health benefits and the reason behind its striking pink hue.

One TikTokker, who goes by the username @carielizabethh, has posted a video of “one of the coolest” experiences you can have just outside of Alicante, Spain.

The video has amassed over 6.5 million views and it’s easy to see why. She goes on to explain that while visiting her boyfriend’s parents, who live nearby, they took the couple to experience the spectacular Laguna Salada de Torrevieja.

The captivating lake is described as “one of the most unique experiences” thanks to its salt content which allows you to float with zero effort.

What’s more, legend has it that covering yourself from head to toe in mud before swimming offers numerous therapeutic benefits.

Users of the platform are intrigued and keen to visit, taking to the comments to say: “It’s giving rose quartz lake vibes”, “omg so cool” and “We have to go “.

The video does caution, however, that visitors should be “super respectful” and not “swim outside of the designated area which is protected by wooden planks”.

So what exactly gives it that striking colour?

The lake’s distinctive strawberry hue is down to the activity of various microorganisms living within the water.

The two key ingredients are salt bacteria and micro-algae. Both flourish in highly saline conditions and produce natural pigments responsible for the water’s stunning pink appearance.

What are the ‘therapeutic’ benefits of the Laguna Salada de Torrevieja?

This remarkable salt lake and its mud are said to offer a wealth of health benefits. Immersing yourself in this natural spa has been credited with helping to prevent skin and lung conditions, while also deeply exfoliating and nourishing the skin.

It’s reportedly beneficial for those suffering from eczema and may also assist with reducing inflammation and easing pain. Those with sensitive skin are advised to take care, however, as the high salt content can cause irritation or a mild stinging sensation.

The water’s elevated salt levels also provide the ideal habitat for brine shrimp, making it a prime feeding ground for flamingos. It is, in fact, these very shrimp that are responsible for giving flamingos their iconic pink plumage.

A Welsh couple decided to check in at the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find in Benidorm to see if they could find the reason why it’s the cheapest of them all

A Welsh couple who were travelling to Benidorm decided to stay at the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find in the popular tourist destination to see if it was worth the price. Benidorm is a popular holiday destination for Brits, and for good reason.

It’s located by the coast, got several amazing beaches, and is just a short flight away from the UK. But it’s also become famous from the popular TV show of the same name. But with it being so popular, the large variety of hotels you can stay at can vary massively in terms of quality and price.

So, during their holiday to Benidorm, ne Welsh couple named Ash and Kelsey, who often share their travels with their 74,000 YouTube subscribers, decided to stay in the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find to see if it was worth the price, or if it’s better to pick something a bit more pricey.

“We’re spending the next three nights in Benidorm’s cheapest all-inclusive hotel, the Sandos Benidorm Suites,” Ash revealed at the start of the video, explaining they were planning on testing out the various facilities, trying the food, and inspecting their room to find out if the hotel is worth the money.

The price and room reveal

Ash went on to say they’d booked their hotel stay last minute and had opted for the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find. But as they’d decided to go during half-term, there hadn’t been that much to pick from.

In total, they’d ended up paying £333 for three nights between the two of them for a room in the three-star hotel, which Kelsey said she still thought was a good deal, taking into consideration they were in a popular travel destination during half-term.

As they stood on the road outside of the hotel, they noticed it looked ‘a lot better than surrounding buildings’. But the question was, would it looked as nice on the inside?

“It’s very clean, very white,” Ash said as they walked into the building to the reception area. After checking in, they took the lift up to their room on the 20th floor, but predicted that they’d have to ‘wait ages’ for the lift as there was only one working.

“Wow, this is really nice! I didn’t realise we’d have a living room,” Kelsey exclaimed as they walked through the doors, with Ash saying it was better than he’d expected.

Despite being a ‘standard’ hotel room, it included a bathroom that was fully equipped with everything you might need, a desk, a sofa with a TV, and a large bed. They had also been given a free bottle of sparkling cider, waiting for them in the fridge. However, they quickly noticed that the accompanying glasses weren’t as clean as they’d want.

“I think the best part of this room has to be the balcony,” Kelsey said as she walked out to the balcony in question, which had four chairs and overlooked the city of Benidorm with the sea in the distance. Looking down, they could also see the hotel’s private pool. However, they also noticed a lot of rubbish laying in the green area next to the hotel.

All-inclusive perks

With their pink all-inclusive wristbands, they went on to get their first free drinks, with Ash explaining that most drinks were included with their all-inclusive deals. As for alcohol, the local brands were inclusive, while you’d have to pay extra for branded drinks. As for cocktails, there were 11 different drinks included in the all-inclusive package, which Ash was happy with.

“All in all, this is a pretty decent all-inclusive menu,” he said. “There’s enough options for everyone, good variety.

The all-inclusive package also includes of breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an international buffet, snacks between meals, on top of the unlimited domestic drinks that Ash and Kelsey had already explored.

For the food, the couple showed off the variety of food available at the different meals, which had everything you’d may want and more.

“No we know hotel food’s never the best food you’re gonna get, but as far as all-inclusive breakfasts go, I’d say that was pretty good,” Ash said after they’d enjoyed their first breakfast.

They also went on to see what facilities the hotel had to offer, which included entertainment areas, a large pool with sun loungers and seating areas, a play park for kids, a kids pool, as well as various bars and restaurant areas. The hotel is also located a 12 minute walk from the popular Levante beach, as determined by Kelsey and Ash, making it easy to walk to the beach if you so wish.

Was it worth it?

As they went to share their thoughts of the hotel, they noted that while their room was ‘pretty basic’, it was modern and clean, but with the large balcony being their favourite part.

“It is a three-star hotel, but it does have some pretty decent facilities,” Ash said, saying the pool and outdoor area both seemed ‘big enough’ for when it’s more crowded during peak season. He also mentioned there was entertainment shows on every night.

They were also happy with the food and drinks, especially praising the large variety of both meals and drinks.

“The only issue we’ve found with this hotel is waiting on the lift,” Ash said in the video, as there was still only one working lift that went to their floor.

But this doesn’t seem to have bothered them too much, as they both said they’d happily stay there again and were leaving the hotel happy and impressed.

A short trip from Benidorm will take you to a picturesque Costa Blanca town that is often compared to the Greek island of Mykonos – and it’s a must-see hidden gem for anyone visiting the area

Benidorm, a firm favourite among British holidaymakers, is renowned for its sun-drenched beaches, budget-friendly breaks, and the vibrant Calle Gerona, lovingly known as ‘the strip’. However, beneath the surface of stag and hen parties, Benidorm conceals beautiful spots that countless visitors have yet to discover.

For those seeking an escape from the party scene, a brief trip unveils a peaceful town. Located just moments from Benidorm, it provides a calm alternative to the raucous nightlife, with comparisons drawn to the allure of Mykonos. A quick 18-minute drive or a short 12-minute bus journey from Benidorm Intermodal brings you to the picturesque Altea, Alicante.

Hailed as one of Spain’s “most iconic” towns, Altea whisks visitors back in time with its captivating old quarter, complete with winding cobbled streets and sparkling white houses. Wandering through Altea’s alleyways, the tempting aromas of freshly made coffee and mouth-watering food drift from intimate cafés and delightful restaurants.

The town’s jewel in the crown is the parish church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo or Iglesia de Arriba, which mesmerises tourists with its splendour. From this elevated spot, the sweeping views stretch across the brilliant blue sea to the vast beach beneath.

Alice, an influencer who highlights Benidorm’s best features and reveals her favourite recommendations online, recently visited Altea and proclaimed it a must-see destination for any travel bucket list.

Boasting more than 37,000 TikTok followers, Alice gushed: “Hidden gem only 15 mins from Benidorm! Maybe Altea isn’t a hidden gem for those in the know, but the way you could lowkey be just 15 mins away from this gorgeous slice of history and culture while on your holibobs in Benidorm!”

She went on to say: “It’s an absolute MUST see if you’re looking to escape for an afternoon to see some of the best views on the entire Costa Blanca. It’s giving cheeky Altea day trip, don’t you think?”.

The response was overwhelmingly positive — the short clip has racked up more than 17,900 likes alongside a flood of glowing comments.

One visitor shared: “I went there in December. Very nice.”

Another remarked: “There are stunning restaurants and bars. It’s not Benidorm. They may be close but they are worlds apart. Altea is beautiful.”

A third chimed in: “It’s simply a stunning old and new town.”

One commenter went as far as calling it their “favourite place of all time”, while another declared it had firmly earned a spot on their bucket list, writing: “Definitely heading here.. never knew it was so close.”

Flights from the UK to Alicante can be snapped up from as little as £40.

From there, you can hop on a bus, grab a cab or take the tram to Benidorm, which should take roughly 40 minutes by road.

A British man living in Benidorm has issued a stark message to those jetting out to the popular Spanish resort this summer – saying there’s certain places you want to avoid at night

A British expat living in Benidorm has issued a warning to holidaymakers heading to the popular Spanish resort this summer – revealing the three places he would avoid after dark. Benidorm remains one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations, attracting millions of tourists every year with its beaches, bars and nightlife.

But according to one resident, there are a handful of spots visitors should think twice about walking through late at night. Sharing his advice on social media, the expat said: “This is a warning for anyone coming out to Benidorm. “This is the top three areas I would definitely avoid if coming to Benidorm in 2025 and the reasons why.”

Coming in at number three was a public pathway known locally as the “Yellow Brick Road”, which runs behind several hotels and leads towards the Rio Park area.

He explained: “Now it has been known for a few things, mainly small thefts like pickpocketing, that sort of thing.

“Now generally during the day it’s absolutely fine. I’d recommend avoiding it at night.”

Next on his list was Pueblo Alley, which he claimed can attract unwanted attention after dark.

He said: “And in at number two has got to be Pueblo Alley.

“And this is one I definitely recommend avoiding, especially late at night, as you do get the pickpockets hanging around this area and you also get the odd lady of the night.

“So I definitely consider avoiding it. There’s plenty of other ways around.”

Topping his list was a location known as “Mugger’s Alley”, which has long gained a reputation among some tourists and locals.

He said: “Straight in at number one, it’s Mugger’s Alley.

“It is the most notorious. It is the one we all know, known for pickpocketing, ladies of the night.

“It’s just an area that I would avoid.”

The expat also warned visitors to be cautious of scams, claiming he had recently seen reports of people being targeted.

He added: “Cross the road, it’s not necessary. I mean, they’re even doing these new taxi scams. I’ve seen videos online about it.

“It’s crazy. So save yourself the hassle and cross the road.”

Commenting on his post, one travel fan said: “Don’t agree with you, stayed in Rio Pak about 20 times and never had a problem.”

Another user added: “Anywhere people are shouting.”

It comes after the UK Government issues a warning about a police officer scam in Spain, saying: “Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification.

“Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.”

The Visit Benidorm Tourist Board has been contacted for comment.

YouTuber Just Deano was travelling home from Benidorm when he tried the new Wetherspoons in Alicante Airport — but he was ‘not convinced’ by his pint of Guinness

The first ever Wetherspoons outside of the UK and Ireland opened back in February — but one travel influencer was recently floored by the cost of his Guinness.

The Spanish spoons is located down the coast from Benidorm at the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport — and it has proved popular with Brits travelling home after their holidays.

However, keen to test it out after a trip to Benidorm, content creator Just Deano shared his thoughts after getting a seat by the bar.

And speaking to his 41,100 subscribers, he observed: “This is the smallest Wetherspoons I have ever been in. And I don’t normally get this in Spain — but I got myself a Guinness that was €7.50… €7.50!”

Visibly shocked by the price, he went on: “I thought this was Wetherspoons? And it’s absolutely dreadful. This is not a good start.”

Despite wincing at his first sip, he ordered an all-day brunch, bringing the total cost of his meal and pint to €20.45 (approx £17.73).

After his food arrived at the spoons which is named Castell de Santa Bàrbera, he said the eggs looked “terrible”, but things dramatically improved after trying the Lincolnshire sausages.

He said: “That might be the best sausage I’ve had in Spain. It is basically a spoons sausage. Now, at home, this wouldn’t be the best sausage ever, but compared to the standard of catering of sausages of usual places, this is decent.”

Deano, who hails from Huddersfield, said the chips were just like home but noted that the eggs were “one of the worst” he has had. However, he said the bacon and beans were solid.

He again repeated that it was “the tiniest premises ever” and questioned why it was so small.

And reflecting on his order, he said: “The best part about it? The sausages. The worst part about it is probably the Guinness. Normally the Wetherspoons Guinness is a solid eight out of 10. It’s not the best Guinness in the world but it’s 100% consistent. Unfortunately in Spain, they lost that consistency.”

He said his meal was acceptable but his problem was the price, and he claimed it was double the cost of what he paid for breakfast on his initial journey to Spain.

“So, although they are calling themselves spoons, they are definitely airport prices because that’s an extortionate amount of money,” he said. “€20.45 for a pint, a bad pint, and an all-day breakfast? Yeah, I’m not convinced about that.”

Deano said he was a “huge” fan of Wetherspoons but said his experience overall was five out of 10 — and he said he would have been better off paying to eat and drink at the airport lounge.

After posting the video, which you can watch in full here, one person defended the prices, saying: “Yeah & spoons are more expensive at the airports in the UK, like double so… No difference really.”

Another said: “Wetherspoons always up the prices in airports. I paid £16.50 at Gatwick spoons for brunch and a pint so not far off what you paid.”

After the successful launch of the famous pub chain in Alicante Airport, Wetherspoons has since announced two more will open in mainland Europe.

Both will be in Barcelona-El Prat Airport — with the first opening in Terminal 1 by September 2026 with the other to be welcomed in Terminal 2 by January 2027.

Sunbeds in Benidorm are reported to be “totally empty”, but you may be floored to learn the story behind it. A man detailed what he thinks has been happening at the popular holiday destination

Every now and then we witness something that blows us away, and one man was recently left floored after seeing an unexpected sight in Benidorm. According to him, the sunbeds have been “empty” recently and the scene is quite something to behold.

Harry, known as Harry Tokky on TikTok, claimed he’s never seen Benidorm beach so “empty” before as he shared footage of disregarded sunbeds and a super quiet atmosphere. Known for sharing his adventures in Spain, he’s someone who knows what he’s talking about when it comes to the popular holiday destination, but this is a sight he perhaps didn’t anticipate to witness recently.

It comes as people reported a difference at the travel hotspot a few months ago. Back in December, someone else told of how the strip appeared to be super quiet too.

In the clip, Harry said: “I can’t believe it. Benidorm is deserted. Have you ever seen so many empty sunbeds in May in Benidorm? Because I haven’t.

“I know what it is. It’s because they charge people for the sunbeds. It’s got to be. Would you pay for a sunbed here in Benidorm?

“It’s currently 26 degrees. It’s absolutely gorgeous in Benidorm. Why on earth would nobody be taking a sunbed? Honestly, answer me that question.

“It’s really quiet down here today. It really is. I’ve never seen so many sunbeds. Normally this beach is absolutely rammed – you can’t even move, but there are a lot of sunbeds available.”

The video got several people talking, as it’s been viewed hundreds of times. They had all sorts of things to say about the situation, but not everybody agreed with Harry’s theory.

One person said: “Flights aren’t cheap anymore. Checked a few times over the last month and that’s what I found anyway.”

Another added: “When I come back, I’m sitting on my towel.” A third replied: “Getting too expensive.”

However, others had different ideas and thought the price was quite reasonable. Some also noted they’ve seen the beach packed in recent days.

Someone else replied: “It’s a decent price to come and go all day if you want to.” Another noted: “And yet when I was there today it was rammed. What time was this, 6am?”

A different person noted: “It was packed earlier.” One more also said: “Depends what time of day it is.”

What you need to know

According to reports, you have to pay to reserve a sunbed on Benidorm’s beaches, such as Levante and Poniente. It’s said to be €6 (£5.18) per sunbed and €6 per parasol per day.

There’s no need for advance reservations as you pay the attendant on the beach, and your ticket allows you to use your chosen spot all day. While it’s not clear if this is the only reason they’ve been claimed to be so “empty”, it’s one theory presented by people.

It’s clearly still a travel hotspot though, as Benidorm welcomes over three million visitors annually, making it a super popular tourist destination. In fact, the city’s overall population swells by up to 12 times during peak periods.

The council has been contacted for more information.

Lopez quickly caught attention at Madrid, though her route to the top was not without major obstacles.

At just 11 years old she lost her mother to a brain tumour. When her mother’s condition worsened and her father practically lived at the hospital, Mellado and her Madrid team-mates helped Lopez get to training and kept her occupied.

From there, Lopez developed at remarkable speed. In 2019, she was named most valuable player at a La Liga-organised tournament for under-12s girls’ teams after scoring seven goals, including a hat-trick in the final.

She caught the eye by scoring 60 goals in 17 matches in the 2020-21 youth league, and began her journey through the country’s junior ranks.

In September 2021, Lopez became the youngest player to feature in Spain’s top flight when she came off the bench against Athletic Bilbao, aged 15 years and 42 days.

“Of course she had the ability – I always told her so,” Mellado said.

“I also pushed her hard, because if she really wanted it, she had to always give her best and she always did. She was one of the hardest-working and she never once complained.

“She knows what she wants – that’s very important, because it makes her strive every day to achieve it.”

In 2022, perennial Spanish champions Barcelona signed Lopez on her 16th birthday, and two months later she became the youngest debutant in the club’s professional history.

She did so wearing the number 30, the same shirt worn by Lionel Messi when he broke into the Barca first team.

That season Lopez became Barcelona’s youngest-ever Champions League debutant, male or female, and the youngest player ever to score in Liga F.

If fans were not already excited by her potential, they were in October that year when she was named MVP as Spain won the U17 World Cup in India.

Lopez made her senior Spain debut in February 2024, replacing national icon Jenni Hermoso during the Nations League semi-final. At 17 years, six months, and 27 days, she become her country’s youngest debutant.

A breakout 2024-25 campaign – during which she stepped in for the ill Aitana Bonmati to help Spain reach the final of Euro 2025 – led to her winning the Kopa Trophy for the best young player in the world.

After initially being used as a winger, Lopez is now largely used in a central role for club and country despite competition from the likes of Bonmati, Patri Guijarro and her idol Alexia Putellas.

A combination of intelligence, excellent technique and athleticism allows her to both score and create – she has contributed nine goals and nine assists in 26 Liga F games this season, 16 of them as a starter.

“She’s not afraid of anything and she tries everything. And I think that’s why, even in teams with so much talent, she’s starting to earn a place in the starting line-up,” Vidal said.

“As we say in Spain, she’s one of those footballers you buy a ticket to watch, because she enjoys the game and makes you enjoy it too.

“She’s just as extroverted on the pitch as she is off it.”

Benidorm star Crissy Rock has warned that political correctness has possibly “gone too far” for the beloved sitcom to make a comeback but has a new project that she says is perfect for fans of the show

Crissy Rock has warned that political correctness might put a stop to a reboot of Benidorm. The actress, 67, starred as Janey Yorke in the first four series of the sunny sitcom, which ran from 2007 until 2018.

Whilst the star would jump at the chance to go back to her role as the Solana hotel manageress, who was eventually replaced by Sherrie Hewson as Joyce Temple-Savage, she worries that certain attitudes these days might make a comeback impossible.

She told The Mirror: “There’s always whispers [about a reboot], this, that and the other. I’m sure there would be a place for it because it’s so in demand, but with all this political correctness you can’t say this and you can’t say that now.

“You can’t even smoke! I was watching something the other day and a thing came up saying ‘May contain smoking!’ What’s wrong? The world’s gone mad!”

READ MORE: Benidorm favourite Elsie Kelly dies as co-star pays heartfelt tributeREAD MORE: Sherrie Hewson shares bleak Benidorm update amid reboot rumours

The former I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! contestant, who starred on Benidorm alongside other TV favourites like Siobhan Finneran, Johnny Vegas and Sheridan Smith amongst a host of others, tries to stay away from politics when she performs her stand-up routines, but still thinks that it has all “gone too far” with what can and can’t be said these days.

She added: “In my own show, I don’t do politics. My act has been practically the same for years but I just think [political correctness] has all gone too far the other way. In pantomime, you can’t have the Prince kiss Snow White anymore but you can have a dog come on and lick her face, I mean, it’s gone too far! Someone said I couldn’t say ‘Alright, love’ anymore. It’s just gone stupid!”

Despite her willingness to make a comeback should the chance ever appear, Crissy doesn’t have all good memories from working on the set in the Spanish city.

She said: “It was lovely, and then the reality kicked in that you were stuck in a building with no air conditioning, really roasting with the lights and, half the time you couldn’t hardly breathe. Then you have to start turning the lights off and put the air conditioning on because it was really, really hot, especially when they’re doing all the indoor scenes in the club.”

But for now, Crissy, who shot to fame when she took on the leading role of the 1994 film Ladybird, Ladybird, is happy to be back on stage with a new production of Desperate Scousewives. She stars as Lily, who along with Susan and Vanessa, must navigate things when Trisha, a single mum from Manchester, arrives on their tight-knit backstreet in Liverpool.

All set during a hen do, where the bride is preparing to get married to man in prison she has never actually met, Crissy thinks it will be the perfect night out for fans of the ITV sitcom.

She explained: “Desperate Scousewives is a bit like Benidorm, because the reason Benidorm was so successful is people would watch it and go, ‘Doesn’t that remind you of that drunk around the corner, oh what about her? I know someone just like her!’

“So everyone recognised themselves as someone. And with Desperate Scousewives, everyone who goes will say, ‘I remember that,’ and ‘I recognise her!'”

Desperate Scousewives is written by Lynne Fitzgerald, who also stars as Susan in the production, and embraces the kind of Northern humour that has become synonymous with programmes like Coronation Street, The Royle Family and Shameless.

Liverpool-born Crissy was challenged by someone who wondered how that kind of humour would go down across the nation but she remained full of confidence that it is a universally funny piece of work.

She said: “I met someone who wasn’t from up north who said ‘How do you think this is going to travel?’ and I said ‘Perfectly!’ because we are the street anywhere in the country.

“There’s three or four women exactly like that in every other street in the county. It’s not about your voice or where you’re from, it’s… individuals, their lives, So it could be any street in any part of England.

“I play bit of a matriarch. Nosey, absolutely nosey. And she wants to know everyone’s business but she doesn’t want anyone to know her business and then when she meets anyone new she puts this telephone voice on, trying to talk posh.

“The others will be telling her to shut up and she’ll go ‘Oh, take no notice of those little b*****s!’ It’s been such good fun [in rehearsals], we can’t look at each other without laughing!”

Desperate Scousewives is on tour across the UK. For tickets and more information, go to www.scousewivesonstage.com

Harry Poulton, 24, grew tired of life in the UK and decided to move to Benidorm, Spain, after falling in love with the popular hotspot. Now, he has zero plans to ever move back to England

A young British man took the dramatic step of moving to Benidorm for good following a lads’ holiday – and has pledged never to return to the UK again.

While Great Britain offers plenty of positives, it’s not without its shortcomings. Between the famously erratic weather and the ongoing cost of living crisis, it’s increasingly understandable why some people make the leap and move abroad. Such was the experience for 24-year-old Harry Poulton, who travelled to Benidorm for the first time on a lads’ holiday and immediately knew it was going to be his future home. For Harry, one of the factors that made his choice easy was the fun lifestyle available at a far lower cost than compared to “gloomy” Britain.

The travel vlogger, originally from Brighton, had become tired of life in “gloomy” England and, aged just 18, opted to transform his circumstances by abandoning his homeland in favour of Spain.

In a TikTok clip detailing his reasoning, he admitted one of the main motivations for moving was escaping the “horrible” British weather.

The cost of living was another reason behind his choice. Daily life in the Spanish coastal resort proves considerably more affordable for Harry.

He explained: “Everything in the UK is just going up, up, up and up, and no one knows when it’s going to stop. At least here in Spain, your money travels so much further – you’ll get way more for your money here in Spain than you would in the UK, and that’s my opinion.”

Speaking to Luxury Travel Daily, Harry explained: “I don’t know why anybody would want to live in Britain. It’s cold, dreary and gloomy all the time.

“There’s no room to have fun outside of the constant boring routine and work. After I visited Benidorm, I knew that it was the place I wanted to settle down.

“It offers great weather, beautiful beaches and such a laid-back vibe. It’s the complete opposite of the UK.”

Harry is a passionate advocate for Benidorm, convinced many Britons unfairly make a “mockery” of the beloved holiday hotspot. The Spanish municipality is known and loved for its thriving hotel and live entertainment industry, its golden beaches, and impressive skyscrapers.

The town is said to receive just as many tourists from abroad as it does from Spain. He said: “Stop making a mockery of such a wonderful place. If you live here, you’ll know better than any British tourists what this country is really like.”

Harry continued: “Everyone says not to visit Benidorm, as you’ll get scammed or mugged. And that bars will rip tourists off with extortionate prices for drinks – but that’s all absolute rubbish.

“It’s crazy what Brits believe. It’s not just for party-goers or stag dos. Benidorm has so much on offer and it’s not a place you’ll regret going. There are so many haters out there that like to spread misinformation or myths, stopping people from coming here.”

He added: “It’s mad. Look at the state of the UK – all of these things happen there more than they do in Benidorm.”

Harry believes he’s considerably happier living in Spain than he ever was in Britain.

For anyone contemplating a similarly dramatic overseas move, he suggested: “Learn some basic Spanish before coming. Ensure to plan financially, too. Be prepared for some paperwork, especially since Brexit, but it’s so worth it once you’re here.”

Looking back on making such a major decision at such a young age, he added: “It’s completely transformed my life – and being so young, I’m glad I leaped now rather than later. Who wants to wake up to grey skies every day, when you can have blue ones greeting you each morning? Benidorm is paradise – anyone who says otherwise is lying.”

A foodie left people floored after sharing the price of his three-course meal at a Benidorm restaurant. Harry shared his story after he sampled what was on offer at a popular eatery

Thousands flock to Benidorm each year for a spot of sun-soaked fun, but one man recently left people gobsmacked after sharing the price of his meal abroad. He popped into a well-known establishment to enjoy a three-course meal, and people were floored when they caught a glimpse of his bill.

Harry, known as Harry Tokky on TikTok, regularly documents his travels and escapades in Benidorm, keen to showcase everything Spain has to offer. He recently turned heads after sharing a dining experience that left followers speechless when they discovered what he’d forked out at a local restaurant during his time there.

He posted footage of himself tucking into his food before delivering an honest verdict. It’s not the first time the cost of eating out has caught people’s attention at the beloved holiday hotspot.

Harry said: “Today I’m here at Uncle Ron’s, locally famous for the €1 pint, and what might be the cheapest Sunday roast in Benidorm. What are we waiting for? Let’s go and get ourselves a Sunday roast.

“Just ordered myself a chicken roast at a mental price of €12 (£10.36). Do you think that’s cheap? Because I do.”

In the caption, he clarified this covered three courses, writing: “Would you pay €12 for a three-course Sunday roast in Benidorm?”

When the food arrived, he appeared thoroughly impressed, raving about the generous portion size and noting it came with a hearty amount of gravy on the side.

He added: “I can’t get over the fact that this is all €12. We’ve even got a bit of stuffing there as well.

“As far as value goes, I mean you’re not going to get better value than this I don’t think anywhere else in Benidorm. I mean, look at the size of it.

“Fantastic. Would you pay €12 for this roast dinner? Because I certainly would.”

Warning: Below video contains language some may find offensive

The footage got tongues wagging, with many viewers left gobsmacked by what a steal it was.

One wrote: “Had one Sunday. It was absolutely lovely. €12 for dinner and pudding.”

Another chimed in: “€13 with a pint – Holy Moly!” A third remarked: “Love Uncle Ron’s.”

While a fourth also added: “Brilliant bar. Uncle Ron’s is great.”

For those yet to make a visit, Uncle Ron’s in Benidorm is well-regarded for serving up incredibly wallet-friendly roast dinners. Over the years, it’s typically been priced at around €12 for multiple courses.

You’ll find it situated on Calle Londres in the new town. It’s a firm favourite for pub grub, boasting live music, reasonably priced drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.

This beach stuns visitors with its white sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

The best bit of summer is unwinding on a spectacular beach with waves gently rolling onto the shore, seagulls crying above and sunshine beaming down. If this represents your ideal day, it’s essential that you discover the perfect beach to experience it on.

Fortunately, recent research has just ranked some of Europe’s finest beaches to identify the ultimate summer getaway destination. The study, carried out by airport transfer firm hoppa, has examined dozens of sought-after holiday destinations.

Each location was assessed based on its average three-star hotel price, journey time from airport to beach, and Google reviews to determine the very best options.

Taking the top spot as the finest beach for summer 2026 is Praia da Falésia in Portugal. Situated in the renowned Algarve area, this beach offers an utterly stunning day out, reports the Express.

The pale sand extends over 8km, protected by striking orange and white cliffs.

Those who visit the beach describe it as among the finest in the area, with one individual commenting on Tripadvisor: “The blend of the colours of the golden sand, the crystal blue sea and the imposing cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.”

Another said: “A wide expanse of golden and red sand, nice rock formations in the background and the waves here are gentle, perfect for swimming. It’s a popular beach, but due to its size, it’s a big, long beach; it never seems crowded even in high season.

“It’s a beach to most definitely check out if you’re planning a holiday to Albufeira.”

With lifeguards on duty and sunloungers available to hire, it caters to every need. Suitable for both families and couples, the beach’s generous size means it rarely feels overcrowded.

Europe’s best-rated beaches

• Praia da Falésia — Algarve, Portugal

• Platja de Muro — Majorca, Spain

• Myrtos Beach — Kefalonia, Greece

• Promenade des Anglais Beach — Nice, France

• Playa de Poniente — Benidorm, Spain