Brits

WE all like to think that we’d beat the scammers if they came knocking – but are you really that savvy?

After all, the latest Global Anti-Scam Alliance report warns that people in the UK lost £11.4billion to scams in the last year – up £4billion on the year before.

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And the average loss per victim was £1,400, with just 18% recovering their money.

This is at a time when we hear about how to spot scams more than ever, and we have gadgets laden with scam-busting tools.

We spoke to several security experts who revealed five of the most simple-but-effective scams going – they’re all shockingly common AND easy to spot… but repeatedly catch out Brits.

So, are you STILL so sure you’d spot them coming?

SCAM 1 – EMAIL EXTORTION

One of the most twisted scams being delivered to Brits is email extortion, often with a sexual spin.

Sometimes this might involve genuine blackmail, but often hackers simply fabricate dodgy evidence to scare you.

This is a cheap and easy tactic that Brits do fall for.

“Blackmail scams claim to know damaging information about a victim, demanding payment to keep quiet,” said Chris Hauk, of Pixel Privacy, speaking to The Sun.

“Victims are told they have been recorded doing disgusting things while at their computer or using their mobile device, and that the video will be sent to friends, family, and employers if they do not pay up.”

These claims can be scary, and there’s a sinister trick that crooks pull to make them even more convincing.

They’ll use fake email addresses that look like your own account to hoodwink you.

“Email extortion scams claiming to have compromising pictures of end-users in intimate moments are quite common, and remain some of the most prevalent scams on the internet these days,” said Michael Tigges of Huntress.

“An adversary will often spoof the email addresses in the mail and generate an email that appears as if it was sent from the user’s own email account and claim to have access to all accounts.

“They will ask for money, cryptocurrency, etc., to avoid ‘leaking’ these pictures or videos.”

Staying Safe

It’s important to not give in to the scammer’s demands.

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In the first place, even if the material that the crook has is legitimate, paying them won’t help. They might just take your money and share it anyway.

But in most cases, the crooks have simply invented the dodgy material – and won’t show any real proof that they have it.

It’s best to just ignore these scam messages. Interacting with the crook shows that your email is active and that you’re willing to engage.

And that could lead to them targeting you with other scams down the line, or trying a different tactic on you.

SCAM 2 – TECH SUPPORT

Next up is the iconic tech support scam, which still successfully hoodwinks unsuspecting Brits.

“Tech support scams are another classic,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told The Sun.

She described it as “a pop-up or call pretending to be from Microsoft or Apple, pushing you to hand over control of your computer or bank details”.

It might sound obvious, but they often come out of the blue and catch you off-guard.

And with years of experience under their belts (and now the power of AI), scammers can generate highly convincing fake alerts.

“Fake tech support scams are also highly common,” Michael Tigges, a security analyst at Huntress, told The Sun.

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“A website will generate a ‘notification’ prompt in modern browsers which mimics an anti-virus/Microsoft notification and asks the end-user to call a number controlled by the adversary.

“That person will then remotely access the computer and either install malware, or remotely fake a number of ‘tech issues’ that must be fixed for a fee.”

Staying Safe

Be extremely sceptical of any mysterious pop-ups.

Look out for typos, bizarre requests (for passwords or money), aggressive wording, and unusual styling (does it fit how your device normally looks?).

And if you’re unsure, check with your device maker to see if it’s legit.

SCAM 3 – THE URGENT PROBLEM

Another iconic scam that gets Brits is the urgent problem con.

This is extremely simple – and that’s what makes it so effective.

“The scams that catch people out most often are usually the simplest,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told us.

“Fake texts or emails saying you’ve missed a delivery, owe tax, or need to fix a bank problem are still everywhere.

“And they work because they create a sense of urgency that does away with calm and clear thinking.”

Crooks can deliver this kind of scam in bulk – hitting hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of targets.

And they just need a fraction of those targets to bite, allowing them scoop up prized info or cash.

It can take many forms, but the style is always the same: you must act quickly, or you’ll be handed a bill.

“A victim is told they have several outstanding fines or payments that must be paid immediately or they’ll face prosecution,” Chris Hauk told us.

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“However, if they just go and buy several gift cards amounting to the outstanding sum and provide the information to the scammer, all will be forgiven.

“Emails and text messages claim that sums of money are owed either for a debt, or a fine, or even a toll road fee.

“They may also provide a link to pay that is actually to a malicious site designed to harvest financial information from the victim.”

Staying Safe

Scammers don’t want you to have time to think things over or to check out their story.

Chris HaukPixel Privacy

If you ever receive an urgent alert, pause – don’t act fast.

Instead, reach out directly to the company that the alert claims to be from.

Use the official phone number or email on the website, and not the one you’ve been sent with the alert.

And if the fine or charge comes from a suspicious company you’ve never heard of, do your research. Is it a real company? Does it have an online presence or reviews? Is it registered on Companies House? Who runs it?

Ask these questions before handing over any cash.

Chris added: “Scammers don’t want you to have time to think things over or to check out their story.”

SCAM 4 – THE FAKE JOB

The fake job scam is one of the most nefarious cons out there.

It’s almost unimaginable to think that you’d fall for such a wheeze. Surely you’d spot a fake job a mile off?

But it’s easy to forget that when you’re hunting for a new role, you might be feeling particularly desperate.

And as the cost of living goes up, Brits can be tempted by easy money or a more relaxed working environment.

Crooks know this, and capitalise on it.

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“Fake job offers are also becoming increasingly common, these often sound appealing at first, promising easy money, work-from-home roles, or a big windfall,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told us.

“They hook people with the promise of good news, then demand ‘processing fees’ or bank details.”

She continued: “These tricks work because scammers know how people act in response to emotions, both good and bad.

“And with increasing quantities of data about us online, ‘I’d never fall for that’ is just one data leak away from being untrue.”

Staying Safe

Patricia’s best advice is to watch out for red flags like:

• Unexpected links or attachments in a chat about a job
• Pressure to act immediately
• Being asked to move money for a job or pay fees upfront
• Any perk of the job that seems too good to be true

She added that you should always make sure to “slow down and stay sceptical”.

SCAMS IN 2025 – THE EXPERT VIEW

Here’s what Sean Keach, The Sun’s resident tech expert, thinks…

It’s never been easier to carry out scams.

Cybercriminals have the world’s arsenal of tech at their disposal.

And with AI, they can supercharge their efforts by crafting convincing scam materials in seconds – and then dispensing it to victims just as quickly.

It sounds terrifying, and in many ways, it is.

But there is some good news.

Although scammers can carry out scams more convincingly and at greater speed, they’re still the same classic cons at their core.

And that means the age-old rules you need to follow stay the same too.

Avoiding scams really is as simple as being as cautious as you can be.

If something seems too urgent or too good to be true, don’t be afraid to take a step back and give it a good think.

Ask your friends and family for advice. Do research online.

Money can disappear in the blink of an eye, and you’ll struggle to get it back. And the same is true for info, which can be used to defraud you or hoodwink those close to you.

So be extremely careful before you ever hand anything over online.

If something seems off, it probably is.

Picture Credit: Sean Keach

SCAM 5 – FRIEND IN NEED

There are lots of variations of this con, but it’s commonly known as the “friend in need” – or lately, the “hi mum, it’s me” scam.

This is when a crook pretends to be someone you know to hoodwink you.

It works because so often we expect scams to come from people we don’t know – or criminals posing as businesses.

“It’s not just strangers,” said Patricia Egger, of Proton.

“Criminals often pretend to be friends, colleagues or family by hacking accounts or stealing personal details.

“If you get an urgent request from someone you know that feels unusual, check with them through another channel before doing anything.”

These crooks might message you from a strange WhatsApp account, and say, “Hi mum, it’s me your daughter, I’m texting from a friend’s phone.”

And they’ll say that they’re in trouble and need money fast.

They might give the excuse that they’re in legal trouble, need cash for a taxi home, or have some other urgent money worry.

Many parents or pals will dismiss these texts out of hand.

But it only takes a little absent-mindedness and some luck on the part of the crook and you can easily fall for the con.

It’s increasingly common in the UK because so many Brits fall for it.

Worse still, some crooks will actually text you from your own family member’s phone number.

“Accounts can be taken over, and regularly are, by bad actors,” said Erich Kron, of KnowBe4.

“It can email, social media, or any number of other mediums, and attackers know that communications from known associates carry a lot of inherent trust.

“They can even hijack previous conversations, making it look even more legitimate.”

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Staying Safe

With this scam, your best defence is communication.

Be cautious whenever anyone asks you for money urgently – even a family member.

If they do, reach out to them by some other method, like calling them on the phone, to verify that it’s actually them asking for money.

Another good trick is to create a safe word or phrase that your family uses to verify that they’re really asking for cash.

“It’s important to establish an understanding between peers and family,” said Huntress’s Michael Tigges.

“Consider establishing ‘safe words’ or phrases that can be utilised when calling family members or peers from an untrusted number to confirm identity.

“And encourage family members, especially the elderly, to be highly sceptical of phone calls from untrusted numbers.”

Your safe word could be anything – even a silly phrase like “purple banana”.

It just needs to be something that you and your loved ones can remember, but that a criminal could never guess.

Don’t save it anywhere on your phone. Keep it as secret as possible.

It could mean the difference between avoiding a scam or losing thousands to a criminal – and then never getting it back.

Airlines will not know exactly how many flights they need to cancel until the action is confirmed and almost underway, but Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said he expects Ryanair to be told to cancel up to 600 daily, affecting up to 100,000 passengers.

Ryanair and easyJet have issued warnings to passengers ahead of a run of disruptive strikes that could impact more than 100,000 passengers.

The main French air traffic control union, SNCTA, has announced a strike scheduled from 7 to 10 October 2025, which is expected to trigger a large number of flight cancellations and delays throughout western Europe.

Airlines will not know exactly how many flights they need to cancel until the action is confirmed and almost under way, but Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said he expects Ryanair to be told to cancel up to 600 daily, affecting up to 100,000 passengers.

He said: “We cannot have a situation in the EU where we have a single market yet we close that market every time the French go on strike. They have the right to strike, but if flights are to be cancelled they should be flights arriving to and from France. They should not be overflights.”

Have you been impacted by the strikes? Email [email protected]

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The union’s reasons for striking include concerns over air traffic control governance, highlighting “mistrust, punitive practices, and harsh managerial methods,” along with demands for pay increases to offset inflation.

Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet, said: “While this is outside of our control, we will be doing all we can to minimise the impact this will have on our customers. Our passengers and crew have been impacted by ATC related disruption for too long and so a solution must be found.

“We are calling on the new head of the French aviation authority to urgently address this issue by building more resilience into the system and crucially, by protecting overflying on strike days to ensure the travel plans of passengers whose flights do not take off or land in France are not needlessly ruined.

“We need action on this now, so the rest of Europe is not held hostage when French Air Traffic Controllers go on strike.”

This industrial action is likely to cause major disruptions, especially affecting flights crossing French airspace, with past strikes having resulted in thousands of cancellations and substantial costs for the aviation sector.

By law, airlines must reroute passengers and provide accommodation and meals for cancelled flights, regardless of the strike’s cause—though managing these obligations becomes difficult during widespread disruption.

Latest analysis by AirAdvisor shows the strike will impact over 129,600 UK passengers, with mass cancellations expected on routes to Spain, Italy, France, and beyond. AirAdvisor expects a 50-60% disruption rate, which means 240 UK flights per day or over 720 flights to and from the UK will be disrupted, affecting 129,600 Brits over three days.

According to AirAdvisor, the routes that are most vulnerable to being disrupted are:

UK to Spain (all routes except northern Spain via the Bay of Biscay)

UK to Portugal (including Madeira and Azores)

UK to Italy (especially southern Italy)

UK to Greece (western routes)

UK to the Canary Islands

UK to Morocco and Tunisia

French airspace acts as Europe’s bottleneck. More than 30% of all UK-to-Mediterranean flights, and a huge chunk of UK-Spain, UK-Italy, and UK-Portugal routes, are about to face either outright cancellation or one to four hour delays. The disruption isn’t limited to French airports, but will affect every hub from Barcelona, Madrid, and Palma to Amsterdam and Brussels.

Airlines cannot simply fly around France as alternate, oceanic or North African routes add time, cost, and complexity. Fuel, crew, and slot constraints mean not every flight gets an alternative path.

Travellers headed to Spain and Portugal from London, Manchester, and Bristol are expected to be especially hard hit, with flights being axed at the last minute and others rerouted hundreds of miles out of the way, resulting in arrivals creeping into the early hours or simply overnighting at hubs.

One travel expert has offered handy advice for all visitors to the US

Travellers to the Unites States face paying a new £185 fee from today (Wednesday, October 1) – but many Brits won’t have to fork out a penny more. The US government announced the new measure in the summer, aimed at reducing visa overstays. It came into effect today, meaning Brits – and other foreign nationals heading to the States – could have to pay up before flying across the pond.

The new charge applies to travellers from non-Visa Waiver Program nations, who need to apply for non-immigrant visas. But, as one travel expert explains, the fee won’t apply to many of us travelling to hotspots like New York or Florida.

Brenda Beltrán, a travel expert at Holafly, says that the majority of travelers from the UK will not have to pay the $250 fee. She said: “The UK is part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.

“That means most Brits visiting for tourism or short business trips of up to 90 days will continue to use ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and will not face this new $250 charge.” However, there are still circumstances in which the fee does apply.

Some British visitors to the USA will still have to pay up. If they apply for certain visas that are not included in the usual ESTA route, the charge applies.

For example, the following circumstances would incur the charge:

• Student visas (F-1, M-1)
• Work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)
• Extended stays beyond the 90-day ESTA allowance
• Specialist visa categories for exchange, journalism, or diplomatic purposes

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Brenda added: “For the average Brit heading to New York for shopping or Florida for Disney, nothing changes. But if you’re planning to study in the U.S., take up a job, or stay longer than three months, you should budget for the new $250 cost on top of existing visa fees.”

For the vast majority of British holidaymakers, nothing changes after 1 October 2025. ESTA remains the standard route for short-term visits, and the cost is currently $21.

The introduction of the Visa Integrity Fee is primarily aimed at travellers from countries outside the Visa Waiver Program. Therefore, it is unlikely to affect UK–US tourism levels.

Brenda continued: “This update sounds alarming at first glance, but most Brits won’t notice any difference. As long as you qualify for ESTA, which nearly all UK holidaymakers do, you won’t be hit by the new charge.”

How to get the fee reimbursed

As part of the new law, the US government will reimburse certain travellers the £185 cost. The legislation allows for the Secretary of Homeland Security to pay visitors back if they prove they complied with their visa.

As long as they have not tried to extend their stay without a relevant visa and left the USA within five days of the visa expiring, visitors may be eligible. They must also not accept unauthorised employment and have lawfully changed their nonimmigrant status.

Foreign Office guidance on travelling to the United States

The UK Foreign Office has specific advice on the entry requirements to visit the US. The government guidance on ESTA states: “ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

“You can apply for an ESTA via the Official ESTA Application Website or using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS. All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers intending to enter the US by land, sea and air will be required to obtain an approved ESTA prior to application for admission at land border ports of entry.

“Individuals who are not eligible to travel under the VWP may apply for a visa at any U.S. Embassy & Consulates. Travellers whose sex on their passport differs from their sex recorded at birth should contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for further advice.”

Those who may not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver include those:

• who have been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• with a criminal record
• who have been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the US
• who have previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

Furthermore, there are a list of countries that visitors must not have been in on or after March 2011 to apply for an ESTA waiver. These are Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

You also cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. An ESTA may not be sufficient for all types of business travel – particularly if you are travelling on behalf of a US company.

The Foreign Office says: “Please check the rules on the ESTA website carefully. If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you must instead apply for a US visa. Travelling on an ESTA when ineligible can lead to detention and deportation by the US authorities.”

Brenda’s expert tips for travelling to the US

• Apply early for ESTA: it’s valid for two years and covers multiple trips, so don’t leave it until the last minute.
• Double-check eligibility: if your circumstances don’t fit the Visa Waiver rules (e.g. long-term study or work), be prepared for the additional cost.
• Stay updated: Immigration rules evolve regularly, so always check official guidance before booking flights.

According to the Future of Work in Travel and Tourism report from the World Travel and Tourism Council, the world is facing a huge shortage in people working in the industry by 2035

The world is facing a 43 million worker shortfall by 2035 that could spell chaos for holidaymakers if not addressed.

Many of the world’s biggest holiday economies, including Japan, Greece and China, will require millions more workers to keep their tourism industries afloat.

Ageing populations and a desire not to work in low-skilled jobs will see labour supply slump to 16% below demand levels in ten years’ time, according to the Future of Work in Travel and Tourism report from the World Travel and Tourism Council.

There will be a forecast shortfall of 20.1 million people required for low-skilled roles, with deficits projected across all 20 economies. China (16.9 million), India (11.0 million) and the EU (6.4 million) will be hardest hit. In relative terms, the economies projected to face the largest shortfalls are Japan, with labour supply at 29% below demand, Greece (27% below), and Germany (26% below).

Since the Covid pandemic, a number of countries have struggled to fill vacancies, with many tourism workers leaving the industry when hotels and resorts shut down to stop the virus’s spread. The shortfall has already led to price rises.

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All-inclusive family package holidays from the UK jumped in price for some of the most popular destinations, including Spain, Cyprus and Turkey over the past year. The average price for a week in Cyprus in August went up by 23%, from £950 per person to £1,166, the TravelSupermarket show reported in July.

While there are multiple factors at play including the rising cost of plane fuel, a shortage of workers in key countries is contributing. La Tribuna de Ciudad Real reported that almost half of the vacancies in Spanish bars and hotels remained unfilled in 2024. Unfilled vancancies reached 80,000 in Greece in May, the Guardian reported.

Gina Fleming, senior director of Learning and Development at Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, said: “Recruiting chefs is so competitive as many cruise companies have elevated the food experience to meet guests’ higher expectations. There is a high demand for culinary skills and roles like Junior Sous-Chef. We are partnering with chef schools to build a pipeline.”

Tourism has been booming worldwide in the post-Covid years. In 2024, the sector supported a record 357 million jobs worldwide and is forecast to support 371 million this year. Over the next decade, travel and tourism is projected to generate 91 million new roles, accounting for one in every three net new jobs created globally.

However, by 2035, global demand for workers in travel and tourism will outpace supply by more than 43 million people, leaving labour availability 16% below required levels.

Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is set to remain one of the world’s biggest job creators, offering opportunities for millions of people worldwide. But we must also recognise that wider demographic and structural changes are reshaping labour markets everywhere. Many workers left the sector during Covid when travel and tourism came to a standstill. Now, as global unemployment is expected to fall and working-age populations to shrink, this is creating increased pressure on labour supply, especially for fast-growing sectors like Travel & Tourism.

“This report is a call to action. By working together with governments and educators, our sector will meet these challenges and continue to be one of the most rewarding sectors, offering dynamic futures for the next generations. WTTC will work with government officials around the world to ensure policies are implemented to reduce this gap and unlock the potential in their countries.”

Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, added: “By 2035, one in three new jobs will come from Travel & Tourism — no other sector can claim that. Saudi Arabia shows what vision and investment can achieve, with over 649,000 training opportunities, and a workforce that is nearly 50% women.”

One mistake has been highlighted by many cruise passengers, and it could see you turned away from the restaurant when you attempt to dress for dinner

Countless British holidaymakers will be eagerly anticipating embarking on a cruise adventure this winter season.

These floating holidays provide endless opportunities to savour delectable cuisine from around the globe whilst experiencing incredible cultural adventures at destinations worldwide.

Yet P&O Cruises has emphasised a crucial regulation that travellers must heed to avoid the embarrassment of being refused entry at their dining booking. The majority of their voyages maintain a laid-back attire policy, with occasional evenings designated as “Black Tie” affairs.

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These special evenings celebrate “glitz and glamour”, as P&O’s website describes: “a chance to dress to impress with your favourite cocktail dress, tuxedo, ball gown, suit or smart jacket and tie.”

There are also “Evening Casual” occasions, where guests are encouraged to don their finest shirts, dark denim and smart separates, “as long as the tracksuits are left on the hanger”.

One particular garment, however, stays strictly forbidden across all dining venues except the buffet during Black Tie evenings – tailored shorts. Even during Evening Casual nights, only a select few restaurants permit guests wearing them to enter, reports the Express.

Reddit users have recounted tales of themselves or their companions being denied access to these more upmarket evenings for sporting shorts – despite pairing them with crisp button-down shirts and pricey footwear. One disgruntled passenger recounted how her husband was turned away from the main dining room on Celebrity Equinox for his attire, stating: “My husband got turned away from the main dining room on Celebrity Equinox (about four years ago) for wearing nice shorts with a collared polo shirt,”.

While you might be tempted to dispute with staff over dress code issues, it’s generally seen as bad form. Dressing inappropriately is a frequent faux pas among cruise passengers.

READ MORE: UK travellers face new rule from October 12 – full list

Grant Harrold, an etiquette expert collaborating with Spincasino.com, highlighted that dressing appropriately is crucial and often overlooked by first-time cruisers. Grant emphasised: “This is really important,” adding, “It’s making sure you’re dressed in the right outfit in the right area.”

He further explained that guests are usually informed about the dress requirements for formal and casual evenings aboard large vessels. “On a lot of the big ships you will be given notice of formal evenings or casual evenings, so casual evenings can be anything from jeans and t-shirts to smart shirts, jackets and chinos to the formal evenings where it’s going to be black tie or national dress and officers wear their uniforms.”

However, holidaymakers need not jettison their smart shorts just yet. Daytime attire on cruises is typically relaxed, with t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses being the norm, although they might not be the best choice for a Northern European trip this winter.

OPINION

Grant also advised: “Away from the pool, we ask for shoes to be worn and no pool wear in the ship’s lounges, inside bars, restaurants or reception.”

P&O also suggests comfortable flat footwear for wandering the decks and lightweight layers for cool and windy evenings whilst on deck. For passengers venturing ashore, the cruise line also highlights air-conditioned galleries or cooler places of worship.

“Please remember that some cultures may require you to cover up too,” particularly many sacred sites. Smart shorts aren’t the sole garment with restrictions: “Fancy dress, novelty clothing or outfits that feature any inappropriate or offensive language or images are not permitted on board.”

“We reserve the right to deny embarkation to guests who are inappropriately dressed. The only exception to this is official P&O Cruises theme nights, where guests are invited to dress up in line with the theme.”

Two of Italy’s biggest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are organising walkouts in a dispute over pay and working conditions, this will affect British holidaymakers

British holidaymakers jetting to or from Italy tomorrow, September 26, face travel chaos due to nationwide strikes. Two of Italy’s largest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are orchestrating walkouts over disputes regarding pay and working conditions.

According to EuroNews, the 24-hour industrial action will affect airline crews alongside airport personnel, with Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports expected to bear the brunt of the disruption.

Milano Malpensa Airport warned on its website: “There might be some delays or cancellations affecting your flights. We invite passengers to contact the airline in order to check their flight status before going to the airport”.

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Baggage handling workers are also set to down tools, with Assohandlers employees planning to strike from 10am to 2pm, whilst drivers at Milan’s airports will walk out for the entire day.

Meanwhile in Sardinia, security personnel at Cagliari Elmas Airport are also preparing to strike, reports the Manchester Evening News. Budget carriers Volotea and Wizz Air Malta have also announced planned industrial action.

Holidaymakers are being warned to expect flight disruption with “cancellations and delays likely”. However, Italy’s civil aviation authority ENAC has mandated that flights scheduled between 7am and 10am and 6pm and 9pm must continue operating throughout the strike action.

Passengers are urged to contact their airline directly and factor in additional time for their journeys. No matter the reason, any passenger whose flight is cancelled is always entitled to a refund, rerouting or a return flight, according to European Union regulations.

Passengers are entitled to compensation if the strike action is carried out by cabin crew or pilots as it is not classed as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’.

However, industrial action undertaken by staff which are ‘external to the airline’ such as airport staff, can be regarded as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’ which means passengers would not be entitled to compensation. Passengers should contact their airline for more information.

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The EU is launching the Entry Exit System (EES) for UK and non-EU nationals who are visiting the Schengen zone but two countries not affected by the new rules

British holidaymakers will encounter tougher entry requirements when jetting off to the EU next month as fresh regulations take effect across 29 EU nations. Yet two destinations remain exempt.

The EU’s Entry Exit System (EES) launches on October 12 for UK and non-EU citizens making short visits to the border-free EU Schengen area. Brits must now register at borders by having passports scanned alongside fingerprint and photo capture under the updated system.

A digital profile will then be established, remaining active for three years or until passport expiry. This record will subsequently be used when accessing other participating nations, reports the Manchester Evening News.

For departures and future border crossings to or from member countries, travellers need only scan passports and provide either fingerprints or photographs. The programme is being phased in gradually over six months, meaning holidaymakers may or may not encounter the fresh system depending on their chosen destination.

Passport stamping will continue throughout this transition period. The EU states the EES will become “fully operational” from April 10, 2026.

The UK Government has alerted travellers to these updated regulations, which will affect beloved holiday hotspots including France, Spain and Greece. The Schengen zone also includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

However, there’s two EU countries where the EES will not be required: Ireland and Cyprus. Neither of these countries are participating in the system as they are not part of the Schengen Area.

This means that even after October 12 Brits can visit them as usual without having their fingerprints or photographs taken. Recently, travel journalist Simon Calder urged Brits who possess an Irish passport to use it when they visit the Schengen Area from next month.

Responding to a question on which passports dual British-EU citizens should use, he said: “If you have the wisdom and fortune to have an Irish passport, use that at all times. It has a superpower no other document has: unfettered access to both the UK and the European Union, with no need to get an online permit in advance.”

Meanwhile British passport holders are warned of longer queues at the Schengen border as the EES is rolled out. In ports such as Eurotunnel, Eurostar and the Port of Dover the EES checks will be completed in the UK.

A government spokesperson said: “While EES checks will be a significant change to the EU border, we are in constant and close dialogue with our European partners to try and minimise the impact on the British public.

“While we have done everything we can to ensure the required infrastructure is in place, anyone who is planning a trip to the European mainland once these checks are introduced will still need to allow more time for their journey as the new EU systems bed in.”

Here’s the full list of countries implementing the EES scheme:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland.
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
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The EU’s Entry/Exit system is finally set to begin next month, with the first passengers heading through UK stations such as St Pancras and arriving in EU airports having to submit their details

Brits hoping to head on holiday will have to answer four questions when a new European Union-wide border system comes into force.

The much-anticipated and repeatedly delayed border system, set to govern travel across the entire European Union, is finally ready to launch come October 12.

The EES will monitor the arrival and departure of “third-country nationals” entering and leaving the Schengen zone, eliminating the requirement for passport stamps. One of its primary objectives is to digitalise travel documentation to guarantee that the restriction on days (90 within a 180-day timeframe) non-EU passport holders can remain in member nations isn’t violated, whilst enhancing border protection.

Information will typically be kept on record for three years. Those who decline to supply information can be refused entry.

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As well as giving biometric data and having your passport scanned, travellers will be asked to answer four questions – either by the kiosks or by a human guard. They are:

1. Do you have somewhere to stay?2. Do you have a return ticket?3. Do you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay?4. Do you have medical insurance?

It is currently not completely clear what the consequences are if passengers answer ‘no’ to any of those questions, or if they lie in their answers. Simon Lejeune, Eurostar’s chief safety, stations, and security officer, was present on Wednesday morning to reveal the kiosks that will begin gathering data from Brits next month.

He suggested that passengers would be directed to speak to a border officer if they answered ‘no’. They can then be refused entry to the country.

A government spokesperson told the Mirror: “From 12th October, passengers who register for EES at a kiosk may need to answer a series of questions. If a traveller answers ‘no’ to any of these questions, they will be directed to speak with a border guard for further discussion. This is a normal part of border procedures, which is designed to ensure smooth and secure travel.”

There are significant concerns that this new system could cause further congestion at ports, exacerbating the travel chaos that has become a staple of summer holidays since the Covid lockdowns. However, after getting an early glimpse of the EES at St Pancras, my prediction is that these fears may be unfounded.

Eurostar and St Pancras have invested heavily in tackling the issue, installing fast-track kiosks to handle the extended border process. If things do go pear-shaped, as they inevitably will, additional guards are ready to manually process passengers.

The roll-out of the EES is going to be staggered, both at St Pancras and other ports across Europe. Only Eurostar’s Premier and Carte Blanche customers will be asked to use the EES from October 12. A handful of regular ticket holders may be asked, but it’s likely very few will.

Initially, biometrics like fingerprints won’t be collected. This will only start in mid-December and not for all passengers using EES.

By January, all kiosks at Eurostar’s St Pancras and Gare du Nord terminals will be operational, and a broader passenger sign-up will commence. Fingerprints will be taken, and all eligible customers will be urged to pre-register before border control.

Once you’ve registered once, you won’t need to do it again for another three years. In theory, this should make border checks faster, as border officers only verify the data of those registered.

Mr Lejeune clarified that registration should take about two minutes per person, meaning the process of getting through border control would take slightly longer if you’ve not used EES before.

When we had the opportunity to see one of the 49 new kiosks installed at St Pancras in action, the process was considerably quicker. From beginning to end, it took just over a minute.

If something does go wrong, such as the machine failing to recognise a passport, then an expanded team of human border guards will be available to assist. The number of guard booths has been doubled from nine to 18.

Thailand is a popular travel destination for Brits seeking some winter sun – but new travel restrictions came into place earlier this year that people should be aware of before arriving

As the colder weather approaches, some of us may not be ready to say goodbye to summer, and looking for some winter sun.

While there are many destinations offering balmy weather for freezing cold Brits, Thailand is a popular spot for many people over the winter months. Data from Thailand Travel Specialists at Travelbag found that during peak travel seasons (November to February), departures to Thailand increase by more than 158 per cent.

More than 35 million visitors flock to Thailand annually, with more than 700,000 travelling from the UK alone. With this demand, the experts urge all travellers to be aware of the new entry requirement that took effect in May of this year to avoid any stress or delays when entering the country.

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According to Helen Wheat, asia destination manager at Travelbag said: “As of May, all foreign nationals travelling to Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online. While there is no strict minimum time, it is recommended to submit the TDAC at least 72 hours before arrival to avoid any delays in processing.”

She said this digital form has replaced the traditional paper TM6 card to “streamline immigration procedures” and does not require any fee or payment.

Wheat further noted: “If the TDAC isn’t completed in advance, travellers may experience delays at immigration and be required to fill it out at a self-service kiosk on arrival, which can take much longer.”

The expert also recommended screenshotting or emailing the confirmation to your phone as you may be asked to show it, and said to make sure you have your passport, flight details and accommodation information ready when completing the form.

“At Travelbag, we advise all customers to complete the TDAC ahead of time to avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a hassle-free start to their trip,” Wheat added.

For those who don’t want to travel as far as Thailand, there’s a European secret that delivers a comparable adventure much nearer to home. The Shala River has earned the title “Thailand of Europe,” offering a taste of paradise without the lengthy journey or cost of a holiday in Southeast Asia. It features stunning turquoise waters and dense, rainforest-like landscapes, creating an exotic adventure in Europe’s heartland.

Ideal for an autumn getaway, Albania enjoys delightfully mild temperatures of approximately 25C in October, with plenty of sunshine making it perfect for late-season sun-seekers.

For those drawn to Thailand’s 1,500 miles of shoreline and more than 1,400 islands scattered with limestone formations, colourful coral reefs, and magnificent beaches, Albania’s Shala River offers an extraordinary substitute.

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The much-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) will be gradually rolled out across 29 European countries in the Schengen area across the next six months

UK holidaymakers are bracing for extended queues at European borders as fresh regulations kick in on October 12.

The long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) will be phased in across 29 European nations within the Schengen zone over the coming six months. The new system means British tourists must provide fingerprints and photographs when first entering or exiting the Schengen area. This creates a digital profile lasting three years.

Alongside the fresh EES procedures, Brits will still get their passports stamped, though this will eventually be phased out once EES becomes fully established.

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The European Union expects the EES to be “fully operational” by April 10 2026. Yet British travellers should prepare for lengthier border delays starting October 12, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Travel expert Simon Calder recently outlined the new regulations in The Independent, cautioning Brits about an ‘additional obstacle’ at EU frontiers. Though he pointed out that certain UK passengers hold a ‘superpower’ document that allows them to bypass border queues.

He noted that Britons holding an Irish passport should present this when journeying to Europe. In response to a query about which passports dual British-EU citizens should utilise, he advised: “If you have the wisdom and fortune to have an Irish passport, use that at all times.”

“It has a superpower no other document has: unfettered access to both the UK and the European Union, with no need to get an online permit in advance,” Simon continued.

READ MORE: Brits face travel changes from October which may ’cause delays’ to journeys

The Irish government’s website states that if you or one of your parents were born on the island of Ireland before 2005, you can apply for an Irish passport without needing to apply for citizenship.

If you, or your parents, were born on the island of Ireland on or after 1 January 2005, your right to Irish citizenship depends on:

• the parents’ citizenship at the time of the birth
• the residency history of one of the parents before the birth

You can also apply for Irish citizenship by descent if your grandparent was born on the island of Ireland. Citizenship can also be acquired through naturalisation, which requires you to meet certain criteria such as legally living in Ireland for five years or being married or in a civil partnership with an Irish citizen.

According to the Irish government, a record-breaking 1,080,000 Irish passports were issued in 2022. The number of first-time passport applications from Northern Ireland and Great Britain was 100,000 out of over 1.15 million total applications received that year.

Calder, speaking about passport holders from other EU countries, advised: “For all other EU passports, register with the European document outbound (and show it when you arrive). Coming back, register the British document (and show it when you arrive).”

Millions of people head to the Spanish sunshine from the UK every year making it the country’s most popular holiday destination

As summer disappears and the cooler months approach, it’s time for many people to look back on their summer break and begin to plan their next venture. Last year around 18 million people travelled from the UK to Spain for their holidays.

The lure of brighter sunshine and warmer coastlines can be very attractive but it is still important to make the most of your spending money. Now, a new study has revealed the Spanish cities where Brits can get the best value for their money.

Learn Spanish with James, led by James Smith, a fluent Spanish speaker with over 10 years of teaching experience and extensive living experience across Spain, Argentina, and Costa Rica, conducted comprehensive research into 29 popular Spanish destinations. He said: “Having lived in Spain for years, I’ve seen firsthand how different cities offer vastly different value propositions for British visitors.

“While Spain is generally affordable compared to the UK, some cities stand out as exceptional bargains where your pounds can stretch much further.”

The study analysed hotel costs, dining expenses, beer prices, transport fares, and attraction entry fees across 29 Spanish cities popular with foreigners. Data was collected from Booking.com for accommodation, Numbeo for living costs, and TripAdvisor for attraction prices.

All costs were converted to GBP using average exchange rates. These were then normalised into a Holiday Value Score ranging from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better value for British tourists.

James, an expat living in Spain, added: “Some cities offer exceptional value for British tourists by combining low daily costs with rich cultural and leisure experiences. What makes these top-ranking destinations special isn’t only their low prices, but how they balance affordability across all aspects of a holiday, from where you sleep to what you eat and see.

“Cities like Cádiz and Córdoba are proof that you don’t need to sacrifice quality for value. These places offer authentic Spanish experiences, incredible history, and local charm at prices that make your pounds work harder.

“For Brits considering a move to Spain or planning an extended stay, understanding these cost differences can literally save thousands while opening doors to some of the country’s most fascinating destinations.”

Top 10 Spanish Cities Where Brits Get the Best Value – GBP

Rank

City/ Municipalities

Avg. Cost of 3-star Hotel per Night

Avg. Cost of Meal for Two at Mid-range Restaurant

Avg. Cost Bottle of Beer

Public Transport Ticket Price (One-way)

Avg. Attraction Entry Fee

Holiday Value Score

1

Cádiz

£ 126.16

£ 29.50

£ 1.19

£ 0.93

£ 20.08

79.34

2

Córdoba

£ 80.89

£ 35.83

£ 1.20

£ 1.10

£ 26.88

77.18

3

Torrevieja

£ 65.83

£ 33.72

£ 1.00

£ 1.31

£ 44.37

70.02

4

Cartagena

£ 104.35

£ 42.15

£ 0.87

£ 1.01

£ 37.90

69.34

5

Granada

£ 99.31

£ 31.61

£ 1.25

£ 1.18

£ 32.39

68.62

6

Alicante

£ 104.18

£ 42.15

£ 1.12

£ 1.22

£ 32.39

67.20

7

Murcia City

£ 104.91

£ 37.09

£ 1.07

£ 1.10

£ 99.76

63.60

8

Ourense

£ 77.73

£ 37.93

£ 1.38

£ 0.72

£ 37.57

62.90

9

Vitoria-Gasteiz

£ 78.17

£ 37.93

£ 1.19

£ 1.18

£ 67.05

60.78

10

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

£ 73.40

£ 42.15

£ 1.35

£ 1.26

£ 31.74

60.76

1. Cádiz – The Unbeatable Value Champion (79.34)

Cádiz claims the top spot with an impressive Holiday Value Score of 79.34, making it the ultimate destination for budget-conscious Brits. While hotel costs sit at £126.16 per night, the city more than makes up for it with incredibly affordable dining at just £29.50 for a meal for two, and bargain beer at £1.19 per bottle. Transport is particularly cheap at £0.93 per ticket, and attractions cost just £20.08 on average.

“Cádiz is a hidden gem that British tourists frequently overlook,” explains Smith. “It’s one of Europe’s oldest cities with stunning beaches and incredible history, yet it offers some of the best value you’ll find anywhere in Spain.”

2. Córdoba – Moorish Magic on a Budget (77.18)

Córdoba secures second place with a score of 77.18, offering exceptional accommodation value at just £80.89 per night. Dining costs £35.83 for two people, while beer remains affordable at £1.20. The city’s rich Moorish heritage, including the famous Mezquita, comes at reasonable attraction prices of £26.88.

“Córdoba perfectly balances affordability with cultural richness,” notes Smith. “You can explore one of Spain’s most historic cities without breaking the bank.”

3. Torrevieja – Coastal Living for Less (70.02)

Torrevieja rounds out the top three with a score of 70.02, boasting the cheapest accommodation at just £65.83 per night and the most affordable beer at £1.00 per bottle. Meals for two cost £33.72, though attraction fees are higher at £44.37.

“Torrevieja is perfect for Brits who want that coastal lifestyle without the premium prices of more famous beach destinations,” says Smith.

4. Cartagena – Naval History Meets Great Value (69.34)

Cartagena offers excellent value with a score of 69.34, featuring the cheapest beer in our top five at just £0.87 and reasonable transport costs of £1.01. Hotel prices sit at £104.35, with dining at £42.15 for two.

“Cartagena’s naval history and stunning Roman theatre make it a fascinating destination that won’t drain your wallet,” explains Smith.

5. Granada – Alhambra on a Shoestring (68.62)

Granada completes our top five with 68.62 points, offering reasonable accommodation at £99.31 and excellent dining value at £31.61 for two people. Despite being home to the world-famous Alhambra, attraction costs average just £32.39.

“Granada proves you can experience Spain’s most iconic sights without paying tourist trap prices,” Smith adds.

An American woman living in Yorkshire has revealed several British quirks that sometimes leave her lying awake at night because she can’t stop thinking about them

While the two cultures share much in common, an American woman living in the UK has revealed several British quirks she claims “sometimes keep her awake at night”.

Maxine Berry, known on TikTok as @yorkshireyank, has lived in the UK for the past 23 years. However, there are still some aspects of British culture that she finds perplexing. Some of the “wild” differences she has pointed out to her 15K followers include the British postcode system, the UK’s unusual laws around swans, and some of the nation’s quirkier dishes.

In a clip recently shared to her channel, Maxine, who lives in York but is originally from South Dakota, said: ‘As an American living in the UK, I thought I’d got used to the quirks living here.”

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She continued: “But these sometimes keep me awake at night. Sometimes not but sometimes they do.”

First off, she stated that she was “pretty sure the NHS is using shows like Homes Under The Hammer and Come Dine With Me as medicine”. She explained that she’d come to this conclusion as these two particular shows are always on the TV in hospital waiting rooms,” as reported by Daily Mail.

She continued: “It doesn’t matter which hospital you go to, the waiting room always has this tuned in. You know it’s true.”

The TikTokker then went on to claim that the British have “an utter obsession with carpets”, and wondered why they couldn’t opt for “nice tiles” on their floor instead as “it would be so much easier”. Though, she did admit that the UK has cold weather.

Continuing her catalogue of observations, Maxine took a jab at some of the UK’s “centuries-old laws” that are still in place and enforceable. For example, she cited the historical law around the protection of swans in the UK.

Since the 12 century, all “unmarked mute swans swimming in open waters” in the country have belonged to The Crown, while subsequent wildlife preservation laws prohibit anyone from disturbing or harming swans, including their eggs.

Maxine found this rather perplexing. She said: “I mean, I’m not technically allowed to eat a swan because it belongs to the King, but who’d want to do that anyways? I mean, does the King eat swans? I’m just asking.’

In fact, it is illegal to kill, eat or keep swans in the UK. Until 1998, it was even considered an act of treason to kill or injure a swan.

Other ‘Britishism’s Maxine pointed out included the postcode system, which she described as “pretty cool”. She enthused: “It literally finds a front door, can pinpoint you with satellite accuracy.”

Although, Royal Mail’s response to when the system fails has left Maxine bemused. “The Royal Mail will send you a card and say, ‘Sorry we can’t find you, the nearest depot is 45 miles away,'” she said.

Finally, British cuisine took a hit, as Maxine described the names of popular pub dishes as “quite wild”. She highlighted ‘toad in the hole’ and ‘bubble and squeak’ as being particularly quirky.

MILLIONS of Brits who rely solely on the state pension face having to pay income tax within the next two years.

Rises guaranteed under the triple-lock will push many dangerously close to the £12,570 tax threshold.

State pensions rise each year by the rate of either inflation, earnings growth, or 2.5 per cent — whichever is highest.

With wage growth at 4.7 per cent, the full new state pension will rise to £12,535 a year next April.

That is £35 short of the frozen income tax threshold, meaning OAPs in question are certain to be paying up by 2027.

Despite warnings, the Government has made no commitment to raising tax thresholds or making an exemption for Brits who have only the state pension.

A spokesman said: “We are committed to helping pensioners live their lives with dignity and respect, which is why millions will see their pension rise by up to £1,900 this Parliament.”

They also stated that people completely reliant on the state pension would not have to pay any income tax “this year”.

HMRC is expected to deduct tax directly through pension providers — or send pensioners a Simple Assessment tax bill that they have to work out.

Campaigners last night blasted the news, with ex-Pensions Minister Sir Steve Webb calling it a “creeping injustice” due to “drag millions more into the tax net”.

Rachel Vahey, of pensions firm AJ Bell, said it would force many older Brits to fill out their first self-assessment, and warned that present financial woes made reforms on taxes and pensions unlikely.

1

unday marked the first day of strike action at the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport in the Spanish capital, where “endless queues” and plenty of disruption are being reported

Brits heading for Spain are being warned of major chaos at its biggest airport, with passengers facing security delays of up to an hour and a half.

Sunday marked the first day of strike action at the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, where “endless queues” are being reported. Unions say the strike is “indefinite and full-time”. The disruption has continued this morning, with images circulating online showing crowded corridors and jammed conveyor belts. Antena3 reports that lines have ‘exploded’.

Passengers have expressed dismay after finding themselves caught up in the chaos. “What’s happening at Barajas Airport at this hour? Kilometre-long lines (and this isn’t an exaggeration) to get through security at Terminal 4. Passengers are very nervous about missing their flights,” said Felix Millán on X where he posted pictures of the queues.

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Passenger control staff, managed by the Trablisa company and with about 800 personnel, began their full-time action on Sunday after negotiations to improve their working conditions failed.

The workers say their work is at a saturation level and demand salary improvements and specific compensation for this service. Alejandro Corredera Arriaga, spokesperson and member of the Madrid strike committee, said the volume of work at Barajas “far exceeds” that of other Spanish airports.

Among other demands, the passenger security guards demand at least equal conditions, such as the summer bonus paid for similar work at Palma de Mallorca, also managed by Trablisa. They also want a “danger” bonus, similar to that paid to explosives guards, when carrying out their work in a critical infrastructure such as an airport, in a context in which Spain has maintained level 4 of anti-terrorist alert since 2015.

Delays are occurring in all the terminals of the Madrid airport, both in the standard access to the passenger filter and the preferential one, known as ‘fast track’. At 9am on Sunday, the waiting time in Barajas was around 95 minutes, compared to the usual ten.

Passengers have been reporting “endless queues that reach the entrances and exits of the airport.”

The Spanish airport authority AENA has warned travellers of possible delays. To try to alleviate this situation, from the first hour, it has placed assistants in the metro hall of the old terminals and in other areas to divert passengers to T2 and T3 in the face of the collapse in the rest of the terminals.

“Due to a strike by Trablisa security personnel at Madrid-Barajas Airport, security clearance times may be longer. We apologise for the inconvenience,” said AENA in a statement.

The industrial action in Madrid is far from the only bit of aviation-related strike chaos due to take place this month.

In Italy, a 24-hour strike by airport handling staff at Milan Linate and Milano Malpensa Airport has been called on September 26. Security staff at Cagliari Elmas Airport are also planning 24 hours of industrial action on the same day.

In France, air traffic controllers in France are planning a strike in September after talks over pay between their union, SNCTA, and their employer, the nation’s Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), broke down.

The strike will last from September 18–19 and is expected to cause disruption to a huge number of flights. Even those who aren’t flying to or from France could be impacted, as so many flights follow routes over France.

Airports across Spain will be impacted by strikes over labour rights by Azul Handling baggage staff, which is part of the Ryanair Group. The firm handles the bags for the majority of the operator’s flights. Its unionised members have planned actions from 5am to 9am, on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for the rest of 2025.

The affected airports are Alicante, Barcelona, Girona, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Madrid, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Santiago de Compostela, Seville, Tenerife South and Valencia.

New research suggests that British travellers are forgoing their beloved summer hotspots like Greece and Spain in favour of more far-flung destinations like Thailand

According to new research, some key non-European destinations have enticed Brits away from their typical hotspots this summer.

While Italy, Spain and Greece continue to deal with the repercussions of over-tourism, British travellers are casting their holiday sight further abroad. Virgin Media O2 data suggests that visitors to Spain have dropped by about 9% year-on-year, with anti-tourism protests potentially giving British holidaymakers pause.

Visits to Greece and Portugal are also down by 7% and 5% respectively, the data suggests. Destinations like Thailand, Canada and the US are on British travel radars this year.

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Visits to France were even eclipsed by those of the US this summer, which brought in 17% of British travellers compared to France’s 14%. Canada now accounts for 9% of trips from the UK and the United Arab Emirates has enjoyed 8% of the British tourist allocation.

Thailand and Australia both earned 5% of visitors, which may have to do with The White Lotus effect. In fact, the TV series drove so much tourism to Thailand that it threatened to bury one of the paradise islands.

The exceptionally hot weather in the UK this summer could have also influenced why Brits didn’t feel the need to storm their sunny EU holiday destinations.

When it comes to last-minute getaways however, the data shows that convenience is still a top priority for British holidaymakers. Resorts that are a short-haul flight away still saw the biggest influx of travellers. Almost 38% of Brits will take late breaks to Spain while Greece will see 25% and Italy 23%.

Christian Hindennach, chief commercial officer at Virgin Media O2 said of the latest research: “As Brits explore new holiday spots beyond Europe, we’re proud to keep them connected wherever they may roam.

He continues: “From last-minute trips to far-flung adventures, we’re committed to keeping our customers connected without the worry of hidden fees, so they can focus on enjoying their time away.”

That said, months of active overtourism demonstrations across Spain in particular has been bad news for tourism revenue in some parts of the country.

A once busy Spanish city is now “dead” as Brits have reportedly abandoned the destination for other holiday spots.. Footage has surfaced online showing the area’s completely deserted streets.

Laura, who goes by lauratravelvlogs on TikTok, has been chronicling some stark changes in Barcelona this year, having resided there herself for over two years. She noted a significant drop in visitor numbers and, for months, she’s been posting videos of Spain’s vacant streets, silent roads and empty beaches to illustrate the drastic shift in the country’s tourism landscape.

In a recent video featuring eerily quiet roads, Laura questioned: “Sorry, no one can argue that these roads leading up to the beach were not packed in 2023?”

The Greek government is considering extending a ban on short-term rentals. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking at the Thessaloniki International Fair, spoke on the topic of holiday lets

Holidays to parts of Greece may soon get a little trickier if Athens goes ahead with a new crackdown.

The Greek government is considering extending restrictions on short-term rentals to alleviate the strain on the nation’s property market. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking at the Thessaloniki International Fair, said that the possibility of prolonging the ban on new short-term lets in three Athens districts for another year was under consideration.

He also suggested that the ban could be expanded to other regions of the country. To incentivize more property owners to switch from short- to long-term leases, a three-year tax exemption would also be extended in proposed legislation.

“I am open to extending the ban on the inclusion of new homes in short-term rentals outside of Attica, to other popular destinations, and it is something we will decide on in the next one to two months,” the prime minister said.

“The problem has arisen in recent years and is a result of a rapidly growing economy. The problem for the tenant is a benefit for the landlord. We need to see both sides.”

The abundance of holiday lets in the Mediterranean country is causing issues in the housing market. According to ekathimerini.com, official 2024 statistics indicate that the average number of properties available for short-term rentals per 1,000 permanent residents in Greece is 46.

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In the Cyclades, this figure rises to 611 per 1,000 residents, while in the Ionian Islands it stands at 340, and in the Dodecanese at 125.

The Greek government has been wrestling with a surge in short-term lets, driven by platforms like Airbnb, and the urgent need for local housing, reports the Express.

When the ban on short-term rental licences was announced in 2024, Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni cautioned that it could be extended beyond a year. The ban came into effect on January 1.

Tourism brings in billions for Greece, with the country’s beaches, hot weather and warm seas attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. During the nation’s debt crisis following the 2008–09 financial meltdown, residential property values crashed by 42%.

They have since bounced back to the extent where homeownership has become an unlikely prospect for some residents trying to climb onto the property ladder. Estate agent Engel & Völkers Germany reports that Greek prices have kept climbing since hitting rock bottom in 2017, with this upward trajectory persisting throughout this year.

The estate agent has noted that Greece still provides “affordable” and “moderate” pricing compared to other European destinations.

Engel & Völkers, highlighting the dilemma facing the Greek administration, indicated that predictions for the coming year stay “positive”. It continued: “Greece is increasingly positioning itself as a safe and value-stable destination for investments in vacation and lifestyle properties.”

In June Mr Mitsotakis made a commitment to address overcrowding and manage the number of visitors on the country’s islands, including limiting the number of cruise ships allowed to dock.

Mr Mitsotakis acknowledged that the Cycladic Islands were “clearly suffering”, amid complaints from locals about the effect on their daily lives and the cost of living, according to Bloomberg reports.

The Greek Prime Minister has highlighted Santorini as the “most sensitive” to overcrowding, with around 800 cruise ships docking last year, closely followed by Mykonos with 750 in 2023.

In April last year, Athens was rocked by furious protests, with demonstrators reportedly shouting: “They are taking our houses while they live in the Maldives”.

A woman recently went to a restaurant in Turkey, and was floored by the cost of a three-course meal. When you’re abroad, you never know what to expect to pay

It’s no secret that the cost of visiting Turkey has risen, with various tourists having brought the matter to people’s attention in recent months. However, a woman who lives in Turkey recently revealed she was floored when she discovered how much it is to enjoy a three-course meal at a restaurant at the popular holiday destination, and Brits are equally as surprised.

The woman, known as lifeoflottss on TikTok, recently drew people’s attention to the food discovery in a candid video, and she was left pretty stunned. When you’re willing to look around, it turns out you can really find some bargains, with many people being left stunned by the price of the meal.

She explained she found the eatery in Marmaris and felt she had to show it off. It seems not everything is super expensive at the destination, despite reports of Turkey being “dead” due to inflation.

In the clip, Lotts said: “Hello everyone, if you’re staying in the Armutalan area in Marmaris then you can actually get a three-course meal for £3.50. If you really want to try traditional Turkish kitchen food then I would really recommend coming here.

“I’ll show you inside to show you what the food looks like. You can sit in and eat, or you can just get a takeaway. I absolutely love this food – all freshly made.

“Really nice, traditional Turkish kitchen food. Chef’s kiss. You’ve got puddings, drinks. You can get three courses for £3.50, or you can buy them separately. Honestly, it’s so cheap and the food is unreal.”

After she shared the video, people had all sorts of questions. In the comments, she confirmed the prices stay the same “all year around”, and she told intrigued holidaymakers to look for Anadolu Yemek Evi, Marmaris, when they visit.

One person said: “Love this place. My husband goes here to get us food all the time. Lovely food.”

Another added: “The food is the best type of food. Unbelievably cheap.” A third replied: “Tried this place in June when we were over. Great value. The food was really nice, and all the bread on the table was unreal.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I went there in May. Cheap as chips.” Someone else also chimed in with: “Bargain.”

Anadolu Yemek Evi also has rave reviews on TripAdvisor too. It has an average rating of five stars, with one customer saying it serves up the “best meal” in Marmaris. It just goes to show you can find affordable dining at the destination when you look around.

Is Turkey becoming expensive?

Even though Lotts’s story is positive, there are a few reasons why prices are said to have shot up in parts of Turkey. If you’re wondering about the situation, Statista has offered an explanation as to why it may be happening.

The website reads: “Domestic producer price indices have been continuously rising, which has directly resulted in a price increase in all consumer goods and services. Accordingly, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in all commodity groups increased extremely since 2022.

“In the same year, the food and non-alcoholic beverages category had one of the highest inflation rates in the CPI. This particularly affected Turkish consumers, as these products accounted for the highest share of household expenditure in 2023.

“Since 2020, food prices have increased significantly around the world, and Turkey is no exception. Although inflation has started to slow down recently, food prices in Turkey continue to go up steadily, increasing by 48.6 percent in November 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year.

“It is not surprising that food inflation has not simmered down, as the producer price index (PPI) of agricultural products followed a constant increasing trend in the country over the past few years.”

However, it’s said Turkey is taking steps to help boost tourism, including addressing rising prices, making tourist offerings more diverse and investing in infrastructure. The Government is said to be working to reduce inflation, and some people are also promoting niche tourism areas like spas and health care.

Electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, herbal products, shisha pipes and devices used to heat tobacco and other substances would be treated the same as conventional cigarettes under the Spanish govenrment’s new proposals

Smoking and vaping could soon be banned in restaurant terraces and on beaches in Spain.

The Spanish government has approved a draft tobacco law that would ban locals and holidaymakers alike from having a puff on bar and restaurant terraces, as well as on beaches. The law would also prohibit minors from using vapes and related products, and end the sale of single-use electronic cigarettes.

The legislation was signed off by the cabinet on Tuesday morning. The bill still needs to be approved by parliament and could be amended. There is no indication yet of when these measures might come in.

Electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, herbal products, shisha pipes and devices used to heat tobacco and other substances would be treated the same as conventional cigarettes.

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Their use would all be banned in enclosed public spaces, as well as in outdoor areas such as bar terraces, stadiums, sports centres, children’s play areas, bus stops and educational facilities.

The health minister, Mónica García Gómez, said the draft law was intended to put Spain “back at the forefront of the fight against tobacco”. Smoking inside bars and restaurants in Spain was banned back in 2010, but since then, progress has been slow.

According to the Global Action to End Smoking report, 24.9% of the population used tobacco in some way in 2022, with higher rates of (27.5%) among men. In contrast, 11% of Brits smoke.

Ms Gómez added: “We know that tobacco claims the lives of 140 people a day in our country, which is 50,000 people a year. I also want to stress that 30% of cancer tumours are linked to the factors that come from tobacco use … We know that the reality has changed when it comes to tobacco and that there are new devices, such as vapes and tobacco-heating devices and nicotine pouches – and this law, for the first time, will regulate all these tobacco-related products, and it will regulate them in a clear and forceful way based on the scientific evidence.”

Holidaymakers looking to pick up some cheap cigarettes are in luck. There is no plan to hike prices in a country where a pack of 20 cigarettes costs less than €6 (£5.20).

Spain’s approach mirrors recent action taken by France in July. It is now illegal to smoke in outdoor places, including beaches, parks, public gardens, outside schools, bus stops and sports venues in France. The legislation, however, excludes café and bar terraces and electronic cigarettes from its restrictions.

Absent from Spain’s cabinet-approved proposal are any requirements for plain packaging on tobacco products. This is a measure that has been adopted by 25 nations, including the UK, according to World Health Organisation data.

OFCOM has launched an investigation into at least 22 porn websites over concerns about the age checks they have in place.

Adult platforms have been forced to adopt stricter age verification rules in the UK since the end of July, which require users to share their ID or a selfie to access them.

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Sites that fail to comply with the Online Safety Act risk being slapped with hefty fines and could even be blocked from the UK.

The communications regulator is responsible for checking companies abide by the law, which is designed to protect children from easily stumbling across inappropriate content online.

Today Ofcom bosses announced an investigation into five companies that are known to collectively run at least 22 porn sites.

It’s estimated that the group receive some eight million visitors from the UK every month.

The watchdog said the sites face a “prioritised” probe because of the risk of harm they pose and their user huge numbers.

“We are now gathering and analysing evidence to determine whether any contraventions have occurred,” Ofcom said.

“If our assessment indicates compliance failures, we will issue provisional notices of contravention to providers, who can then make representations on our findings, before we make our final decisions.”

The companies include Cyberitic, LLC, Web Prime Inc, Youngtek Solutions Ltd and ZD Media s.r.o.

Some 47 sites are already being investigated by Ofcom over similar concerns.

Bosses have also revealed that they’re expanding their probe into two companies, 8579 LLC and Itai Tech, over whether they have failed to respond adequately to Ofcom’s requests for information.

The new law triggered a surge in VPN downloads as some try to get around the block.

VPNs – which are used as legal privacy tools to disguise a person’s location – are still in the top download charts.

The regulator has admitted that there’s no way to stop people from using VPNs.

THE SHOCKING STATS

Latest figures show the scale of adult content consumption online…

Ofcom stats:

• Around 8% children aged 8-14 in the UK visited an online porn site or app in a month.
• 15% of 13–14-year-olds accessed online porn in a month.
• Boys aged 13-14 are the most likely to visit a porn service, significantly more than girls the same age (19% vs 11%).
• Our research tells us that around three in ten (29%) or 13.8m UK adults use porn online.
• Pornhub is the most used site in the UK – Ofcom research says 18% (8.4m) visited it in one month.

Children’s Commissioner stats:

Of the 64% who said that they had ever seen online pornography:

• The average age at which children first see pornography is 13. By age nine, 10% had seen pornography, 27% had seen it by age 11 and half of children who had seen pornography had seen it by age 13.
• We also find that young people are frequently exposed to violent pornography, depicting coercive, degrading or pain-inducing sex acts; 79% had encountered violent pornography before the age of 18.
• Pornography is not confined to dedicated adult sites. We found that Twitter was the online platform where young people were most likely to have seen pornography.

Image credit: Getty / The Sun