Brits

A new study shows that the pressure of organising everything on holiday leaves trip leaders needing another holiday just to recover.

Planning and booking a holiday is supposed to be the ultimate escape, but new research reveals that many of those who organise trips end up worn out by the burden of responsibility.

According to the findings, six in 10 people have arrived home from a break only to feel they need another one. A poll of 2,000 adults found that for 35%, the most draining aspect is having to plan the trip in the first place, while for 30%, it’s taking the lead on arrangements once they’ve actually arrived.

Despite their best efforts to switch off, 32% can’t stop checking whether everyone around them is having a good time. Meanwhile, 30% spend their precious downtime hunting out restaurants, and 25% find themselves putting together the day’s itinerary.

In a bid to escape the constant pressure of being in charge, 22% sneak off for a quiet coffee, 17% retreat to the sanctuary of their hotel room, and 11% resort to pretending to be asleep.

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) commissioned the research and has teamed up with TV presenter Josie Gibson to launch its ‘When the Host Needs Hosting’ campaign.

“I’m that person who’s always making sure everyone’s glass is full and having the best time,” Josie admits. “So, when I’m away, I absolutely love being the one who gets looked after for a change.

“Whether it’s a big holiday, travelling for work or just a little night away, for me it’s about being able to switch off, relax and let someone else take care of things.”

The research revealed 54% of adults regularly take on caring responsibilities for others in day-to-day life, while 57% often find themselves arranging group activities. Meanwhile, 49% typically feel it falls to them to ensure everyone is enjoying themselves.

So much so that 64% of those surveyed by OnePoll.com have come back from a break feeling as though they required another holiday just to recuperate.

Yet despite finding organisational duties exhausting while away, 28% do actually enjoy the role. And 31% believe they are the most suitable person to take control within their friendship circle, family or amongst work colleagues.

Nevertheless, for a trip to genuinely feel like a proper escape, over a third (34%) said it’s being able to simply turn up and enjoy themselves. For 33%, not having to cook or clean helps them properly switch off while 32% value having a comfortable room ready for them when they arrive.

Neetu Mistry, managing director of UK & Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, which is launching ‘When the Host Needs Hosting’ experiences through its One Rewards Access platform, said: “The people who bring everyone together are often the ones who find it hardest to switch off.

“And our research shows that even when they’re away, many are still thinking about everyone else.

“For us, great hospitality is about creating the space for people to step back, relax and feel genuinely looked after.

“We’re celebrating the people who do so much for others and reminding them that sometimes, it’s their turn to be the guest.”

TOP 10 HOLIDAY TASKS BRITS WOULD LOVE TAKEN OFF THEIR HANDS:

1. Cooking
2. Cleaning
3. Resolving problems
4. Managing timings and schedules
5. Coordinating transport
6. Planning the itinerary
7. Organising activities
8. Making reservations
9. Making sure everyone else is happy
10. Deciding where everyone eats

Brits looking for winter sun holidays that don’t require heaps of travel and a big dent in the budget may want to consider the Canary Islands for their next break

The Canary Islands may be particularly popular during the summer, but they hold their own year-round with balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine. For those who aren’t tied to school holiday dates, the bigger islands such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura can be ideal for a cheep and cheerful holiday where it’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors (temperatures can reach 24C in November), and sunny enough that you can forget all about the dreary British weather.

However, according to research from travel pros at the Post Office, there’s one island where you can particularly get the best value for your money for a break in winter 2026. Tenerife came out as the top spot from the Canaries in the Post Office’s ‘winter sun costs barometer’, which compared prices in holiday hotspots across a number of factors such as the price of a cup of coffee, a three-course meal with house wine, a local beer, and other food and drink.

Tenerife came eighth in the overall global rankings, but was the top Canary Island, followed by Lanzarote which was 11th overall. “Tenerife remains a popular choice for winter sun holidays,” the team behind the study explained. “It’s known for its warm weather, volcanic scenery and range of attractions.

“Visitors can explore Mount Teide National Park, take a whale or dolphin-watching trip, or relax on the island’s beaches. You’ll also find lots of resorts, restaurants and family-friendly activities. Tenerife offers a good mix of sunshine, convenience and value. It’s also one of the cheapest European destinations in this year’s report.”

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While the report looked at food and drink costs while out on holiday, it didn’t factor in prices of flights or package holidays to actually reach the destination. Still, the good news is that when there aren’t school holidays in the mix (for example, in November or early December), there are deals to be found. According to Skyscanner, you can find cheap flights from the UK to Tenerife starting from £26 each way (excluding extra hand luggage), while the likes of TUI, easyJet Holidays, Loveholidays and On the Beach all offer some tempting last-minute deals.

Given that the flight time is approximately four hours from most UK airports, it can also be an ideal destination if you want a break but don’t have the annual leave to commit to a full week or two’s getaway.

While Tenerife was the top of the Canaries in the rankings, when it came to Europe overall, it was Portugal’s Algarve that came out as the winner for the best value winter sun holiday. It came sixth in the overall rankings, followed by Spain’s Costa del Sol in seventh place. However the title of overall best value holiday went to South Africa’s Cape Town, which boasted some of the lowest average prices including local beer and three-course meals.

FROM East European luxury to affordable Spanish aparthotels – the following resorts have all received masses of rave reviews from British customers.

Loveholidays has collated the top hotels most loved by Brits from thousands of customer reviews over the past year – these are the ones that really have the stamp of approval.

Solymar Gran Hotel The One, Spain

This pretty four-star hotel sits on the sandy shores of Arenal Beach in Calpe with incredible beach views and received incredibly high scores from its customers.

Its two freshwater outdoor swimming pools are available year-round and there are plenty of sun loungers too.

The on-site spa has a sauna, steam bath and hot tub.

A seven-night holiday with breakfast and flights from London Stansted on March 1 starts from £639pp.

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Ikos Olivia, Greece

Luxurious five-star Ikos Olivia is an all-inclusive resort set on a the beach in Gerakini, Northern Greece – and it’s another top scorer.

It has three outdoor pools, a spa, six restaurants and lots of activities from watersports to ball games like tennis, beach volleyball and table tennis.

The rooms vary from twin and double with balconies to bungalow suites with a private garden.

A seven-night, all-inclusive holiday with flights from London Gatwick departing on April 12 starts from £2,219pp.

Hotel Wawel Queen, Poland

Visitors love the four-star Hotel Wawel Queen which sits in the heart of Kraków – its location means it is easy to explore Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square.

After a day of exploration, guests can put their feet up in one of the 49 rooms which have heated floors and flatscreen TVs.

There’s one restaurant on-site too which serves buffet-style breakfasts and it offers service during certain hours.

A seven-night break with breakfast including flights from London Stansted on January 16 starts from £599pp.

Club Tuana Fethiye, Turkey

This resort sits on the coastline of Fethiye in Turkey with beautiful views across the bay.

The hotel’s swimming pools are huge and also form part of the waterpark and water slides.

It has a Kids’ Club divided into Mini for ages 4 to 7 and Maxi for ages 8 to 14 – there’s a playground, slide, playhouse and mini-disco too.

A seven-night all-inclusive holiday including flights from London Gatwick on April 22 starts from £649pp.

Hotel Sumratin, Croatia

The luxurious five-star Hotel Sumratin is highlighted as a great choice for couples looking for a holiday in Dubrovnik.

During the summer season, the outdoor swimming pool opens and there are sun loungers and parasols on the sun terrace too.

One visitor wrote in their review “Beautiful! Polite and attentive staff. Gorgeous food. The rooftop bar, our favourite place to unwind in the evening.”

A seven-night holiday including breakfast and flights from London Stansted on March 7 starts from £809pp.

La Pergola Aparthotel, Majorca

The comfortable four-star La Pergola Aparthotel is described as a ‘superb choice for families’.

The accommodation, which for cleanliness is rated 4.9/5, ranges from cosy studios, one and two-bedroom apartments, bungalows and villas.

Children can splash about in the pool or check out the activities at the kids’ club and playground.

A seven-night self-catering holiday with flights from London Stansted on March 9 starts from £469pp.

Sergiani Garden, Greek Islands

This two-star hotel on the island of Crete has been described as ‘first class’, ‘amazing’ and ‘one of the best restaurants in Stalis’.

It’s set in a peaceful location with easy access to the sandy beach; it also has a children’s pool and playground.

It’s near to the popular coastal resort village of Stalis and is within walking distance to the town and beaches.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Luton on May 3 starts from £419pp.

Iberostar Selection Anthelia, Tenerife

The luxurious five-star Iberostar Selection Anthelia is an adult-only resort in Costa Adeje.

Everything you need for a holiday is at your fingertips, the resort has four restaurants, five bars, three outdoor swimming pools and a spa.

Guests in their review say the hotel is spacious – and that it still didn’t feel busy even during peak summer holiday season.

A seven-night holiday including breakfast with flights from London Stansted on May 2 starts from £1,069pp.

Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto (Old Town), Poland

Another popular hotel in Poland that makes it onto the list is the 4-star Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto.

It’s in a great spot for exploring Poland’s cultural capital with modern rooms and all the essentials.

It’s on-site Winestone Restaurant provides dinner, drinks at the bar and breakfast.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Stansted on January 8 starts from £539pp.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Dubai

This glam hotel in Dubai is the highest five-star hotel in the world and there’s so much there that guests say there’s actually no need to leave the hotel.

It has multiple restaurants and two heated outdoor swimming pools; to enjoy the sunshine, step onto the sun terrace and take a seat on the loungers.

Its rooms are impressive too – these have panoramic views across the city thanks to their floor to ceiling windows.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Gatwick on February 8 starts from £1,649pp.

A major change for train travel has emerged, and it impacts three million people in the UK who have ADHD, as a discount railcard is now available, saving more than £100 annually

People with ADHD can now apply to get a third off train tickets for themselves and one adult companion. It follows an expansion to the requirements for a disabled railcard.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that can impact someone’s ability to concentrate, control impulses, or experience high energy levels. There are three million people in the UK living with the condition, according to ADHD UK, with 881,922 of those estimated to be children aged between five and 24 years.

People who are neurodivergent, with ADHD falling into this category, are now eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard (DPRC) that offers discounted train tickets. It follows new eligibility criteria for the disabled railcards, which were expanded earlier this year to include a wider range of conditions, including “neurodiversity where it has a substantial impact on a person’s ability to travel by train”.

Anyone with a disability listed on the Railcard’s eligibility checklist can save a third on the usual price of a train ticket for themselves and one adult companion. The disabled railcard costs £20 for one year, or £54 for three years, with the Rail Delivery Group, which manages and distributes railcards, estimating that it can save travellers around £126 every year.

This year, the number of people with a disabled railcard reached a record high of more than 450,000, compared to fewer than 200,000 in 2016, according to Office of Rail and Road data. The number is expected to significantly increase as more people are eligible to apply.

The development was hailed as a “railcard revolution” by the rail minister, Lord Hendy, earlier this month. He said it would “help thousands more people access cheaper rail travel, helping disabled people travel with confidence”.

Lord Hendy added: “The Government is determined to help ordinary people live better lives and this change is just one measure that will make it that bit easier for disabled people to get to education, employment, and stay in touch with friends and family.”

Those with ADHD who wish to apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard will need to provide the following, as outlined by Railcard:

• A report or letter from a health professional that helps explain your access needs. Confirmation of diagnosis alone for conditions with variable impact may not be enough to process your application. Remember, to be eligible, you must experience significant disability-related barriers to rail travel
• Or a completed impact declaration form signed by a suitably qualified and regulated health or social care professional

The Rail Delivery Group encouraged anyone who thinks they might fit the criteria for a disabled railcard to apply. A spokesperson said: “There is no list of neurodivergent or degenerative conditions that automatically qualify. Instead, applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, recognising that experience and support needs can vary considerably between individuals.”

For more information, visit the Railcard website. There’s also additional advice and services on the ADHD UK website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

A MAJOR UK trainline has launched a huge Black Friday sale – and over 50,000 Brits can travel for half price.

Tickets are available to purchase now with discounted journeys starting from next week.

Passengers looking to journey through Wales, the South West and the West of England can snap up a major deal this month, as Great Western Railway has launched a huge 50 per cent off train fares.

The Black Friday sale covers trips across the South West, Thames Valley, Cotswolds and South Wales with offers on 60,000 tickets.

Discounted tickets will be available on travel from November 6 to December 17, 2026.

Head of marketing at GWR, Helen da Costa, said: “Black Friday is a great opportunity to grab a bargain and give yourself something exciting to look forward to before Christmas.

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“Whether you’re planning a festive day out, visiting friends and family or simply fancy a change of scenery, our sale offers savings of up to 50% on selected Standard and First-Class Advance tickets.

“With 60,000 discounted tickets available, there are plenty of opportunities to make plans without spending a fortune.”

The sale only applies to Advance Single fares and is non-refundable.

Ticket prices are as low as £22 for a standard fare from Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington, or from £32 for journeys to Exeter St Davids.

Travellers will need to act fast if they want to nab cheaper tickets as they must be booked by Monday, November 2.

Customers have also been advised to book early, as discounts are limited and only available on selected routes and services.

Orders can be placed through either the GWR website at gwr.com/blackfriday or via the GWR app.

The FCDO has issued new advice to British people travelling in Spain after a train crash killed 69 people and injured dozens of others near Toledo on Wednesday

The Government has issued new advice to British nationals travelling in Spain, warning of “significant disruption”.

At least 69 people were killed and dozens more injured after two trains crashed on Wednesday morning near the town of Urda, in the province of Toledo.

A high-speed train travelling from Madrid to Seville, operated by state-owned railway company Renfe, crashed into the back of a stationary train on the same track, between the municipalities of Mora and Orgaz.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned British holidaymakers heading to Spain: “Significant disruption to rail services is expected.”

Those requiring assistance or seeking information about passengers affected by the crash are advised to contact Renfe on +34 900 10 10 20. The FCDO urged British nationals or their family members who are affected by the crash to contact the nearest British embassy or consulate on +34 91 714 6300.

Anyone travelling to Spain via France should check the travel advice for France before setting off. Those planning to enter Spain via Gibraltar are also advised to consult the travel advice for Gibraltar.

Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente said on Wednesday that 43 miles of track had been affected by an outage of the automatic control system, bringing all trains in the area to a halt.

But the control centre decided to “resume traffic in circumstances that, from our point of view, are inexplicable”, Puente said. The Renfe train travelled around 15 miles before striking the stationary train, which was operated by private company Iryo.

The control centre “had more than enough time to verify the error, and they did not fix it”, Puente added.

During a visit to the crash site, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who faces a general election on November 29, vowed to establish the cause of the crash.

“We are working day and night not only to support the victims’ families, but also to establish every last detail of this tragedy and strengthen safety measures to ensure it never happens again,” he said.

In January, two high-speed trains collided in the southern region of Andalusia after one derailed and crossed onto an adjacent track, killing 46 people. The investigation into that crash is ongoing.

Spain’s government has faced mounting criticism over its management of Spain’s railways.

Train drivers went on strike on Thursday “to defend rail safety”. The industrial action had been called before Wednesday’s deadly crash.

Six in 10 Brits will experience ‘sun withdrawal’ after the clocks go back, with Spain, Greece and Portugal among the top autumn sun holiday destinations according to new research

Six in 10 Brits will experience ‘sun withdrawal’ now the clocks have gone back, according to research. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed 45% long for warm temperatures as soon as they disappear, particularly following an unprecedented summer of sunshine.

The abrupt change has left almost three in 10 (29%) booking or planning a sunny autumn or winter escape amid fears of “sun withdrawal”. While 75% believe a week of guaranteed sun would positively affect their mood.

The all-inclusive holiday provider Club Med, which commissioned the research, marked the return to GMT by bringing a temporary dose of summer to London’s Southbank, installing a giant SAD lamp to brighten up the capital as the darker months set in.

The installation invited Londoners to take a moment out of their day, whether relaxing on a deck chair, soaking up the sunshine-inspired light or simply doing nothing for a few minutes.

The activation brought the all-inclusive’s ‘The Art of Free Time’ philosophy to life, highlighting the importance of taking time to switch off, both at home and on holiday.

Jérémie Hoss, managing director for Northern Europe & South Africa at the brand, said: “As the days get darker and daylight hours shrink, people are looking for ways to lift their spirits and make more time for themselves.

“Whether that’s finding little moments of calm closer to home or booking a winter escape to look forward to, making time for wellbeing becomes all the more important.

“We wanted to bring a much-needed dose of sunshine to Londoners when they need it most, and give people the freedom to switch off, recharge and spend their time exactly how they choose.”

The study also found the importance of daylight for Brits, with 83% considering access to natural daylight and sunshine important to their overall wellbeing, including 40% who described it as “very important”.

Long daylight hours were the one thing 26% would choose to enjoy all year round, ahead of warm temperatures (24%) and blue skies (16%). January was named the toughest month for mood and wellbeing by 35%, ahead of November (12%) and February (10%).

To lift spirits closer to home, 42% take walks outdoors during daylight hours, while 38% watch TV or films and 37% spend time with friends and family.

More than one in five (21%) research or plan holidays for a seasonal boost, while 19% go one step further and book a getaway, according to OnePoll figures.

Of those who knew where they would go for autumn sunshine, half would choose a destination for its warmth, while 33% prioritised relaxation and 32% wanted value for money.

More than three quarters (77%) agreed that having a holiday booked gives them something positive to look forward to during the winter months.

Guaranteed sunshine and warmth were cited as the biggest benefits of an autumn or winter getaway by 38%, while 36% wanted to escape darker days and evenings and 33% valued having something positive on the horizon.

When asked where they’d most like to escape to for an autumn sunshine boost, Spain took the top spot (41%), followed by Greece (28%), Portugal (27%), Sicily (24%) and the South of France (16%).

Cost and certainty also encourages booking a seasonal break, with more affordable prices (36%) the biggest incentive, followed by guaranteed warm weather (35%) and having plans to look forward to (31%).

To give Brits something extra to look forward to this winter, Club Med is offering the chance to win an all-inclusive holiday to the Seychelles, including flights, dining, drinks and activities.

The competition is open until 31 October, with entries submitted online.

Hoss added: “We’re seeing how much people value having something positive to look forward to during the darker months, and a winter escape can offer more than just a change of scenery.

“But planning a holiday shouldn’t add to the pressures of everyday life. We believe the real luxury is having the freedom to spend your time exactly as you choose.

“From exceptional dining to a wide choice of activities for all ages, every detail is designed to help guests leave the everyday behind, recharge in the sunshine and warmth and enjoy their holiday on their own terms.”

TOP 10 DESTINATIONS FOR AUTUMN SUNSHINE

1. Spain
2. Greece and the Greek Islands
3. Portugal
4. Sicily
5. South of France
6. Turkey
7. The Maldives
8. The Bahamas
9. Morocco
10. Thailand

YOU might be setting off on that bucket list family trip to Florida sooner than you think…

AttractionTickets.com are about to launch a HUGE Black Friday sale where you can save big on that dream Florida holiday – just make sure to sign up.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

Why? Those signed up to the sale can save EXTRA on top of the discounts that will become available on Black Friday.

The sale will include popular theme park tickets, combo tickets for multiple attractions plus holiday packages with hotel or villa stays.

There will be discounts on popular Orlando attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Resort, as well as hotels and villas on-site.

After last year’s Black Friday sale knocked 20 per cent off hotels and attractions, holidaymakers are prepared for another round of big savings this year.

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In fact, Attraction Tickets has revealed that the savings this year will be just as big, if not bigger – with the typical customer saving hundreds on their booking.

The deals will be for holidays taken in 2027. The biggest savings are set to be for breaks during the school summer holidays.

If you’ve always dreamed of a Disney holiday, you’ll be able to save on trips to Walt Disney World in Florida as well as Disneyland Resort in California.

2027 is also a great time to visit Universal Orlando Resort, with thrilling new rollercoaster Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift set to open.

Both Disney and Universal resorts in Florida offer on-site accommodation.

At Disney, you can stay in the Hawaii-themed Polynesian resort with its own beach, or wake up to giraffes strolling past your window in an Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

At Universal, Cabana Bay Beach has a retro 1950’s feel with its own bowling alley, pool and lazy river, while Endless Summer offers surf-themed suites sleeping up to six.

Both Disney and Universal resorts have waterparks, too, perfect for cooling off from the Florida heat. The most popular include Typhoon Lagoon and Volcano Bay.

If you fancy an LA trip, you can tick off the world-famous Universal Studios Tour on a discounted visit to Universal Studios Hollywood.

There will even be savings on Spanish attractions like PortAventura World as well as Siam Park and Loro Parque in Tenerife.

So if you’ve been craving that once in a lifetime holiday feeling, now’s the time to get it booked.

AttractionTickets.com even allow you to split up your payments without any fees or interest, so you can avoid a major dent in the wallet.

To make things even easier, you can also secure your holiday with deposits from as little as £50.

The travel website is an official partner of Disney and Universal, and have sold over 15 million tickets to over five million customers worldwide.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

Prices correct at the time of publication.

HOLIDAYMAKERS are swapping Spanish escapes for bargain breaks to North Africa, where glamour comes without the premium price tag.

Tour operator TUI has seen a rise in British passenger numbers for this winter, with particular interest in all-inclusive, luxury holidays to Egypt as well as Tunisia.

Meanwhile, easyJet recorded a growth of 14 per cent year on year to North Africa.

Garry Wilson, boss of easyJet holidays, said: “Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco offer huge potential, with high-quality hotels, brilliant value, warm hospitality and great connectivity from airports across the UK.”

Sophie Sweitochowski shares her pick of premium North African getaways for 2027 that won’t break the bank.

Grab them while they are hot.

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TAGHAZOUT, MOROCCO

THE Hilton Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa is an absolute steal at under £700pp for seven nights with flights.

It’s chic and contemporary in style, with five swimming pools — one adults-only and a few overlooking the sea where you will spot surfers riding Taghazout’s notorious waves.

Bedrooms are generously sized and come with balconies, perfect for soaking up those 22C highs, plus there is a lavish spa dishing out local treatments like

Don’t skip brekkie. The extensive feast features freshly baked pastries, yoghurts, fresh fruits and live cooking stations as well as local honeys and traditional flatbreads.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 5H Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa is from £656pp including flights from Gatwick on December 3, plus luggage and transfers. See jet2holidays.com.

SHARM EL SHEIKH, EGYPT

IT is impossible to feel bored at the Jaz Mirabel Beach Hotel.

The sprawling resort is home to an on-site waterpark with whirling slides, a water sports centre where you can try windsurfing, parasailing and water-skiing, plus an open-air amphitheatre for regular shows and entertainment.

The highlight is the location, bordering the Red Sea. Guests can use the hotel’s private jetty to plunge into one of the best snorkelling spots in the area.

Scenic boat trips and desert safaris to traditional bedouin camps are some of the bucket list excursions on offer from the hotel.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Jaz Mirabel Beach Hotel is from £762pp including flights from East Midlands on December 14. See tui.co.uk.

SOUSSE, TUNISIA

A CHAMPAGNE lifestyle on a lemonade budget is achievable in Tunisia, especially at the Sousse Palace Hotel & Spa.

Right in the centre of town, there are glam restaurants and bars right on the doorstep — not that you will need them with this all-inclusive package, however.

The main buffet restaurant operates around a theme of international dishes every night with live cooking and meat carving stations.

If you are willing to shell out a little extra, though, you should visit the hotel’s Le 12ème which serves elegant plates such as freshly-caught fish carpaccio and slow-cooked lamb shank.

Outside of the food, there’s a sandy beach, wellness centre with a traditional Tunisian hammam, steam rooms and massage suites, and several swimming pools.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Sousse Palace Hotel & Spa is from £360pp including flights from Gatwick on November 25. See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

ON the hunt for a relaxing couples break? The Be Live Collection Marrakech is an adults-only haven, set back from the chaos of the city centre but with a free daily shuttle bus direct to Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

There is a quiet pool if you are after complete relaxation, while the activity pool has a livelier atmosphere.

If you have never experienced a traditional Moroccan hammam, this is the place to do it.

The wellness area is equipped with two authentic traditional Moroccan hammams where therapists use authentic black soap to remove dead skin cells.

Come night time, indulge in a drink at one of the four sleek bars.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Be Live Collection Marrakech is from £479pp including flights from Manchester on December 12. See loveholidays.com.

HAMMAMET, TUNISIA

ON a private beach and surrounded by greenery, The Sindbad offers pure luxury escapism in the heart of the town.

Its infinity pool looks a little like the sort you would get in a fancy Ibiza or Mykonos resort, only this place is a fraction of the price.

In to golf? The resort offers discounted green fees to Yasmine Golf Club and Citrus Golf Club, two of Tunisia’s top 18-hole courses, with free shuttle buses.

The buffet restaurant is excellent and a great opportunity to sample the local cuisine such as couscous and brik, a mashed potato dish usually served with fish.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 5H The Sindbad is from £370pp including flights from Newcastle on December 10. See travelsupermarket.com.

Louis was flying home after a two-week holiday with his partner when cabin crew woke him to deliver some unexpected news about his ‘£5,000’ luggage

A Brit holidaymaker was left amazed after finding out that the plane he was aboard had driven over his suitcase – ‘completely destroying’ the bag and everything inside it. Louis Maybury, 27, was flying home from Madrid to Manchester Airport after a fortnight’s holiday with his partner when cabin crew woke him up with an unexpected request.

With approximately 30 minutes until touchdown, he was asked to remain on board once the other passengers had disembarked. He was then escorted to the cockpit, where the pilot delivered the unwelcome news: his luggage had been run over by the aircraft back in Madrid.

Louis could do nothing but watch in disbelief as his mangled suitcase appeared on the baggage carousel, containing what he claims was around £5,000 worth of belongings. His partner filmed the moment the battered bag was handed back to him in tatters on 11 July.

Louis, from Manchester, said: “I was extremely upset by the situation. I had packed two full weeks’ worth of belongings, including everything I needed for my trip.

“Unfortunately, all of my belongings were destroyed.” EasyJet staff informed Louis that his suitcase had been run over on the tarmac at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, resulting in a two-and-a-half-hour delay.

Since then, he has been engaged in a dispute with the airline over compensation for his possessions, which he valued at £5,000. Among the damaged items were a Burberry bag worth just over £1,000, an Invisalign retainer costing £500, and three Acne Studios shirts valued at roughly £300 each.

He said: “I was eventually left with no choice but to accept the minimum compensation offered and try to recover the remaining losses through my own insurance. Everything was destroyed, included a designer bag, four pairs of shoes, expensive chargers and an Oral B Toothbrush.”

An easyJet spokesperson said: “We’re very sorry that Mr Maybury’s luggage fell from a baggage cart and was damaged by an aircraft as it was coming onto stand. Safety is our highest priority and our engineers subsequently carried out an inspection of the aircraft and cleared it for departure.

“We know how important it is for customers to feel confident that their belongings are well cared for when travelling with us, so we investigated this with our ground handling providers in Madrid at the time and contacted Mr Maybury to apologise for his experience and provided him with the compensation he is due.”

BRITISH holidaymakers are increasingly planning their travel around music, sporting and cultural events, according to a study.

Whether considering a trip for a concert, music or food festival, exhibition or sporting fixture in 2027, 36 per cent now more likely to do so than they were this time a year ago.

This shift towards event-led travel is reshaping behaviour, with 45 per cent having already visited cities and countries they wouldn’t otherwise have considered.

Similarly, out of those who have stayed somewhere overnight for an event in the past four years, 62 per cent based their most recent travel plans entirely around it.

For sports fans, the commitment to being there for the moment can stretch well beyond a weekend.

The poll of 2,000 adults found 56 per cent would use annual leave to follow their team or country, while 31 per cent would travel abroad to see them play.

With hotels near almost every NFL stadium, Marriott Bonvoy, which is an Official Sponsor of the NFL, is helping travellers create a game plan for this season’s trips by appointing Efe Obada as its Check-In Coach.

Efe Obada said: “In the NFL, preparation gives you a strong starting point, but you’ve also got to trust your team and be ready to adapt when things change.

“I approach travel in the same way. If you’ve only got a few days in a city, be tactical, adaptable and make a game plan.

“Book your hotel, know how you’re getting to the main event and ask people who know the city for advice. That’s how to make the most of every trip.”

The research found many are embracing spontaneity, as 52 per cent said an unplanned discovery has gone on to become one of the highlights of their holiday.

While 37 per cent will only book their hotel, transport, and key activities in advance, leaving the rest flexible.

While spontaneity plays an important role, travellers still value a strong start to the day, with 52 per cent saying hotel breakfast is a non-negotiable part of their trip.

The study also uncovered four NFL-inspired travel personalities, revealing the roles travellers are most likely to play when travelling.

A quarter (25 per cent) identify as ‘The Quarterback’, the on-trip leader who brings everyone together, makes key decisions, and adapts the plan when things change.

The same number (25 per cent) see themselves as ‘The Coach’, the planner who has the logistics covered, from accommodation and transport to activities and timings.

While 24 per cent take the role of ‘Rookie’, the explorer who is experiencing a destination or event for the first time and turns to others for guidance and local recommendations.

Whereas 19 per cent were categorised as ‘The Receiver’, the spontaneous adventurer who spots opportunities, suggests unexpected detours, and helps create memorable moments.

Andrew Watson from Marriott International, said: “This research highlights what we see in our hotels, that travellers are increasingly planning trips around the things they are passionate about.

“Our partnership with the NFL is just one example of a wider commitment to helping our members pursue what they love.

Efe, who applied the strategy to his hometown, London, added: “London is one of those cities where every neighbourhood has its own personality.

“For a perfect weekend, I’d book at stay at citizenM Tower of London then grab a coffee at Qima Café in Covent Garden, walk along the Thames around Southbank or spend an afternoon at Hampstead Heath for unbeatable London views.

“For food, you can’t beat 2210 by NattyCanCook in Herne Hill or head to Passyunk Avenue in Waterloo for unmatched game-day vibes and a Philly cheese steak.”

EFE’S PLAYBOOK FOR A TACTICAL WEEKEND TRIP:

1. Do your pre-match analysis: Book your hotel early, check journey times and map out the key moments you don’t want to miss.

2. Kick off strong: Give yourself time to fuel up before heading out. A good game plan always starts with the essentials.

3. Teamwork is key: Local knowledge can make all the difference. Ask hotel staff for recommendations and insider tips.

4. Don’t be afraid to adapt: Leave room for unexpected discoveries – be that a bar, restaurant or neighbourhood. Sometimes the highlights aren’t part of the original strategy.

Need to know

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued new ‘limited to two’ guidance for Thailand

Thailand Foreign Office travel advice change – what UK holidaymakers need to know:

• The Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for British tourists heading to Thailand – here’s what you need to know.
• Thailand attracts over a million British holidaymakers annually, with tens of thousands living and working in popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.
• Your passport must have at least six months’ validity from arrival date and one blank page. The FCDO warns: “You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.”
• British tourists can stay up to 30 days under the visa exemption scheme for tourism only. Business travellers need appropriate visas before departure.
• New restrictions limit visa-exempt land border entries to twice per calendar year. Air arrivals aren’t generally affected by this rule.
• All travellers must complete a digital arrival card online up to three days before arrival.
• Overstaying carries hefty penalties of 500 Thai baht (around £11) per day, rising to a maximum of of 20,000 baht (around £449). You also risk potential detention, deportation and 10-year bans.

READ THE FULL STORY: New Foreign Office Thailand alert to UK holidaymakers

Holidaymakers are increasingly planning their next destination around music, sporting and cultural events

More and more British holidaymakers are planning their trips around music, sports, and cultural events, according to a recent study. This surge in event-driven travel is shifting how people holiday, prompting 45% of respondents to explore destinations they’d never even thought of visiting before.

What’s more, out of all the travellers who stayed overnight for an event in the past four years, 62% planned their entire trip specifically around it. Looking ahead to 2027, 36% say they’re even more excited to travel for a concert, festival, exhibition, or big game than they were last year.

The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 56% of sports fans would happily use their annual leave to follow their favourite team anywhere they play—and 31% are willing to head abroad to do it.

With hotels right near nearly every NFL stadium, Marriott Bonvoy—an Official Sponsor of the NFL—is helping fans build the ultimate game plan by bringing on Efe Obada as their official Check-In Coach.

Efe Obada said: “In the NFL, preparation gives you a strong starting point, but you’ve also got to trust your team and be ready to adapt when things change.

“I approach travel in the same way. If you’ve only got a few days in a city, be tactical, adaptable and make a game plan.

“Book your hotel, know how you’re getting to the main event and ask people who know the city for advice. That’s how to make the most of every trip.”

The research also identified four NFL-inspired traveller types, showing the roles people typically adopt while on holiday.

A quarter (25%) see themselves as ‘The Quarterback’, the trip leader who unites the group, takes charge of major choices, and adjusts plans when circumstances shift.

An equal proportion (25%) regard themselves as ‘The Coach’, the organiser who handles the practicalities, from accommodation and transport to excursions and schedules.

Meanwhile, 24% assume the position of ‘Rookie’, the first-timer who is discovering a location or occasion for the first time and seeks advice and insider tips from companions.

In contrast, 19% fell into ‘The Receiver’ category, the impulsive explorer who identifies possibilities, proposes unplanned diversions, and contributes to unforgettable experiences.

Andrew Watson from Marriott International, said: “This research highlights what we see in our hotels, that travellers are increasingly planning trips around the things they are passionate about.

“Our partnership with the NFL is just one example of a wider commitment to helping our members pursue what they love.”

Efe, who applied the strategy to his hometown, London, added: “London is one of those cities where every neighbourhood has its own personality.

“For a perfect weekend, I’d book at stay at citizenM Tower of London then grab a coffee at Qima Café in Covent Garden, walk along the Thames around Southbank or spend an afternoon at Hampstead Heath for unbeatable London views.

“For food, you can’t beat 2210 by NattyCanCook in Herne Hill or head to Passyunk Avenue in Waterloo for unmatched game-day vibes and a Philly cheese steak.”

EFE’S PLAYBOOK FOR A TACTICAL WEEKEND TRIP:

• Do your pre-match analysis: Book your hotel early, check journey times and map out the key moments you don’t want to miss.
• Kick off strong: Give yourself time to fuel up before heading out. A good game plan always starts with the essentials.
• Teamwork is key: Local knowledge can make all the difference. Ask hotel staff for recommendations and insider tips.
• Don’t be afraid to adapt: Leave room for unexpected discoveries – be that a bar, restaurant or neighbourhood. Sometimes the highlights aren’t part of the original strategy.

IF you’re desperate for a getaway but don’t want to spend loads, it might be time to look beyond the usual high street holiday agents.

We’ve found a lesser-known booking site where you can bag entire package holidays from just £118, hotel rooms from £16 a night, and flights for as little as £9.

Browse cheap holidays, flights and hotels on Opodo

Opodo acts as a massive travel search engine, scouring hundreds of airlines and millions of hotels to pull together some of the absolute cheapest deals on the internet.

As a travel writer who scours the internet each week for the cheapest holidays for Sun readers, these are some of the lowest travel fares I’ve ever seen.

So whether you’re after a quick weekend city break, a week-long beach escape, or even a solo travel retreat – here’s our guide to the very best travel bargains on Opodo right now.

Package holidays

Package hols are where you get the most bang for your buck on Opodo, as you can save up to 40% extra by booking your flights and hotel together through the website.

Read more on cheap holidays

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Crazy cheap holidays you can book right now with £16 hotels and £21 flights

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We’ve rounded up a selection of some of the most affordable package holidays on the site.

Or you can click here to browse all cheap package holidays.

Mallorca – from £121pp

With flight times around two and a half hours, Mallorca is an easy hop away for some autumn sun, with pleasant October temperatures of around 24C.

Spend your days exploring the winding, cobbled streets of Alcudia’s Old Town, hiking the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana mountains, or soaking up the sun on the pristine white sands of Es Trenc.

Browse Mallorca holidays from £121pp

Tenerife – from £147pp

The flight to Tenerife is only four hours from the UK, yet it still reaches highs of 26C in October.

Once you’re there, stroll the volcanic beaches of Costa Adeje, enjoy €3 tapas in traditional tavernas, hit up award-winning waterpark Siam Park or even go whale watching.

Browse Tenerife holidays from £147pp

The Algarve – from £118pp

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Portugal‘s stunning southern coast, offering warm highs of 25C without the overwhelming summer crowds.

Wander around the bustling Olhao fish market, hike along dramatic coastal cliffs to see the spectacular rock formations, or simply relax on the golden sands of Praia dos Pescadores right by Albufeira’s old town.

Browse Algarve holidays from £118pp

Rome – from £119pp

You don’t need a huge budget to experience Rome, especially with Opodo offering package holidays from £119pp.

In the Italian capital the streets themselves are their own attraction. Soak up the atmosphere at the Spanish Steps, or toss a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain.

Browse Rome holidays from £119pp

Flights

Opodo offers super cheap flights to destinations in Europe and beyond, but they get even cheaper if you join Opodo Prime.

For example, you can bag a one-way flight to Barcelona for £24 each way, but if you’re signed up to Opodo Prime this sinks down to £9.

It costs £8.99 a month and also gets you discounts on hotels, so if you like to go on holiday regularly, it could save you some serious cash.

We’ve rounded up the cheapest flight deals we could find on Opodo.

Or you can click here to browse all flights.

• Barcelona – from £24 each way (Prime price: £9)
• Faro – from £37 each way (Prime price: £12)
• Milan – from £39 each way (Prime price: £22)
• Edinburgh – from £25 each way (Prime price: £9)
• Dublin – from £25 each way (Prime price: £12)
• Amsterdam – from £111 each way (Prime price: £56)

Browse cheap flights from £9 each way

Hotels

If you prefer planning your own holidays by booking flights and hotels separately, there’s some bargains to be had on the hotels page, too.

This is a good option if you like to regularly book flights directly with the same airline in order to collect points.

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

Or you can click here to browse all cheap hotels.

• Amsterdam – from £37
• London – from £50
• Barcelona – from £45
• Lisbon – from £43
• Paris – from £48
• Rome – from £30
• Milan – from £24
• Prague – from £22
• Marrakech – from £16

Browse cheap hotels from £16 per night

Prices correct at the time of publication.

BRITS could be in trouble if they plan jetting off for half-term as over 135,000 passports are set to expire before the end of the month.

This could wreak havoc for anyone heading away in October for a half-term break.

Wizz Air has found that over 360,000 passports are set to expire before the end of the year.

But for anyone heading away in a matter of weeks this could be an issue as passports can take up to three weeks to renew.

Figures obtained from HM Passport Office through a Freedom of Information request revealed that in October, 135,006 passports are due to expire.

In November 125,405 passports will expire followed by 106,768 in December.

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The rule to remember is that British passports must have been issued within the last 10 years.

Lots of Brits fall victim of this rule as sometimes the expiry date can outdate the issue date.

For example, if a passport has July 2016 start date but a December 2026 expiry, it technically expired in July as it’s older than 10 years.

To travel to Europe and Schengen countries, passports must also be valid for at least three months after your planned return date.

Yvonne Moynihan, Managing Director at Wizz Air UK, said: “Nobody wants to arrive at the airport ready for their half term holiday only to discover there’s a problem with their passport.

“With more than 135,000 adult passports expiring this month alone, we’re encouraging anyone planning to travel to dig theirs out now and make sure everything is in order.”

“Check your passport, check the entry requirements for where you’re going and get it sorted early if you need to.”

Yvonne added that if you’re heading on a Christmas getaway, it’s worth looking at your passport now so there’s time to renew it before December if you need to.

IT SEEMS rules on passports are everchanging with one new system currently being rolled out across the country.

Here is everything you need to know about travelling in the next few months.

New ‘contactless’ e-gates

New ‘contactless’ e-gates are being rolled out across 13 UK airports with the system set to be up to 25 per cent faster than current e-gates.

Once in place, passengers will have their photo taken at an e-gate which will be checked by the system, verified against immigration, travel and passport information.

Essentially it takes away the need to both have a picture taken and scan the passport.

Once the checks are complete, the e-gates will open automatically.

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If there is a need for further checks, then passengers will need to place their passport on the reader – or they could be asked to see a Border Force officer.

Passengers are still being told to keep their passport with them at all times.

As of October 6, East Midlands Airport was the first to introduce the new system.

It will then be followed by Birmingham Airport and later, London Gatwick.

At the moment, the contactless system will be for British citizens returning to the UK, but eventually could be used by other nationalities.

The other airports which will have the new e-gate system are Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.

Expiry date rules

Before heading on holiday, it’s essential to check the expiry date on your passport.

To be valid for travel, British passports must have been issued within the last 10 years.

While the rules have been in place for years, figures have shown up to 100,000 holidaymakers a year face being turned away at airports if their passport is more than a decade old.

So, before you travel, check the start date, not the expiry. For example, if a passport has July 2016 start date but a December 2026 expiry, it has technically expired.

If it has run out then you will need to renew your passport which could take up to three weeks.

Dual national rule

In February 2026, the rules for dual national citizens mean they are no longer able to use their foreign passport to enter the UK.

When entering the country now, they must use their British passport.

For those without, an alternative is a ‘certificate of entitlement’ which costs £589 and is attached to the passport.

Passengers trying to enter without either could face being banned from their flight and prevented from returning to the UK.

A Home Office spokesperson previously explained: “From February 25, 2026, all dual British citizens will need to present either a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid delays at the border.”

It is thought as many as 1.2million people across England and Wales currently hold more than one passport which is just over two per cent of the population.

Passport Rules

Everything you need to know about passports

A NEW travel requirement for Brits has been pushed back again despite being scheduled for late 2026.

The new system called ETIAS will eventually be required for UK citizens and other non-EU nationals to enter countries within the Schengen Area.

However ETIAS, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System, has been delayed again.

An ABTA official has now confirmed there is “no official launch date for ETIAS” – although some people are being caught out by scam websites.

According to Travel Gossip, there are as many as 150 websites claiming to sell ETIAS.

ABTA previously warned: “People who try to apply for an ETIAS now may be at risk of fraud. There’s a risk of losing money and possibly personal data too.”

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ETIAS is essentially a visa waiver that is linked to your passport and says you can visit a country.

This is different from the EES system which is currently in place that tracks you when you eventually visit that country.

Any national who is visa-exempt, including Brits, will have to get ETIAS authorisation.

ETIAS will be valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires – whichever is soonest.

To get ETIAS authorisation, you will need to visit the official ETIAS website and follow the instructions on its portal.

It will be required to pay for ETIAS too, much like with an ESTA for America.

ETIAS is expected to cost €20 (£17) per person, but travellers under 18 and over 70 do not need to pay the fee (though they still have to apply for one).

NEW ‘contactless’ e-gates have just been introduced at a major UK airport.

Brits returning to the UK won’t have to scan their passport in a new government scheme to speed up arrivals – and it’s now in place at Gatwick Airport.

East Midlands Airport was the first to introduce the new system on October 6, followed by Gatwick – and eventually it will be rolled out at 13 UK airports.

The contactless system is set to be up to 25 per cent faster than current e-gates.

When one writer for The Times tested out the new e-gates, she said it took just 12 seconds to get through.

How it works is that passengers will have their photo taken at an e-gate which will be checked by the system, verified against immigration, travel and passport information.

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Essentially it takes away the need to both have a picture taken and scan the passport.

Once the checks are complete, the e-gates will open automatically.

If there is a need for further checks, then passengers will need to place their passport on the reader – or they could be asked to see a Border Force officer.

Passengers are still being told to keep their passport with them at all times.

At the moment, the contactless system will be for British citizens only, but eventually could be used by other nationalities.

The other airports which will have the new e-gate system are Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, London Heathrow, London City, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and London Stansted.

Phil Douglas, director general of Border Force, said: “This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.

“By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security.

“Our digital transformation also builds on our work this summer to extend eGates to children aged eight and above, making life a little easier for families.”