WHEN booking a holiday there are three specific factors you must consider that can completely change the cost.
Get one of them wrong and you could pay hundreds more for an almost-identical week away… however if you get all three RIGHT you’ve found what I like to call the holiday “magic equation”.
You could save hundreds, depending on what day you flyCredit: On The Beach
The three key ‘ingredients’ to getting the best deal are where you go, when you fly and how long you stay.
I’ve been digging through thousands of On the Beach holidays to find the best-value combination of departure date, destination and duration for every remaining holiday window before November.
I didn’t just pick whichever holiday had the lowest price, though.
My analysis also compared each option against similar holidays, prices from last year, hotel ratings, customer reviews and the number of hotels still available – and what I’ve been left with is four very specific recommendations.
There’s one for families escaping before the end of the school holidays, two for couples and families with toddlers who can travel outside term time, and one for the October half-term scramble.
So here are the four magic holiday combinations I’ve uncovered – plus a deal you can book right now for each one.
Mahdia is lesser known, but has both the history and the holiday resortsCredit: On The Beach
Fly to Tunisia on… August 20
If you’re still hoping to get away with school-age children this summer, August 20 is the date I’d be circling, especially for trips to Tunisia.
The best-value August combination in our analysis was a seven-night all-inclusive holiday to Mahdia, departing on August 20 and returning on August 27.
The average price was just £698 per person – 22.6% cheaper than similar holidays and 9.2% less than people paid last year.
That’s particularly impressive because it gets you back before the end of August too, so no breaking the school holiday rules.
It’s a historic coastal town with a beautiful old medina and long stretches of pale sandy beach.
The sea here is often wonderfully clear and shallow, while hotels tend to be large, all-inclusive and built around keeping children occupied.
In other words: much of what families book Turkey for, but frequently at a lower price.
I found a particularly good deal at the four-star Mahdia Beach & Aqua Park from £623pp (and it’s all-inclusive).
It’s a huge beachfront resort with several pools, waterslides, and children’s activities, as well as a high Tripadvisor score – more than 1,900 gave it 4.2 out of five.
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Sharm el Sheikh has some great bargains for couples and families who can travel off seasonCredit: On The Beach
Fly to Egypt on… September 23
September is where holiday prices start to calm down from the summer surge.
For couples and parents with children below school age, the best-value combination was a seven-night all-inclusive holiday to Nabq Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, departing on September 23.
The average holiday cost £709 per person, which was 12.3% below the price of a comparable break.
More importantly, it was a massive 22.2% cheaper than last year – the biggest year-on-year drop of any winning combination in the data.
Nabq Bay is one of my favourite recommendations for anybody wanting a proper fly-and-flop holiday in September.
Temperatures are normally still well above 30C, so the weather stays beautifully warm and the resort is full of enormous all-inclusive hotels with private beaches, waterparks and enough swimming pools to require a map.
Most of the holiday happens inside the resort, so you’re not repeatedly folding a buggy into taxis or attempting a cultural walking tour at precisely the moment somebody decides they need a nap.
My deal is at the Parrotel Aqua Park Resort is all-inclusive for £450pp when flying on September 23.
As the name rather usefully suggests, the main attraction is its enormous waterpark, but there are also several pools, restaurants, children’s facilities and a private beach area.
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The three-star Supreme Hotel in Turkey is our biggest bargain on the listCredit: On The Beach
Fly to Turkey on… October 13
October delivered the strongest overall value score from all the data I sifted through, especially when flying to Turkey.
The winning combination, by far, was a seven-night all-inclusive holiday to Marmaris, flying on October 13 and returning on October 20.
This is just before the half term holidays so is suited for couples or families with little kids not yet in school.
The average price was just £537 per person – that’s 21.4% cheaper than similar holidays and 11.6% below last year’s price.
Marmaris works brilliantly in October because you get the best bits without quite so much of the summer chaos.
The resort wraps around a huge bay backed by pine-covered mountains, with a long waterfront, beaches, boat trips and a seemingly endless supply of restaurants.
Daytime temperatures are typically still warm enough for the pool and beach, although evenings are cooler and there’s a greater chance of rain than during summer.
It’s also a great month for exploring. You can walk the marina without melting, take a boat along the coast or visit Marmaris Old Town without needing to stop for emergency air conditioning every ten minutes.
The deal I found is at the three-star Supreme Hotel, a simple but well-reviewed base with a pool, restaurant and a useful location for reaching the centre of Marmaris.
The best deal I found was an all-inclusive week at the Supreme Hotel from £235pp when flying October 13. At £33.57 per person, per night – including your flights, hotel, food and drinks – that’s my standout bargain of the lot.
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Try Kos with the kids for a bargain in the October half term holidaysCredit: On The Beach
Fly to Greece on… October 25
If you’ve got kids, you’ll know that October half-term is always difficult.
Once every family in Britain needs roughly the same handful of departure dates, the chances of finding a bargain tend to disappear faster than the good flight times.
But the data did uncover one combination that stood above the rest: seven nights all-inclusive in Kardamena, Kos, departing on October 25.
The average price for a deal here was £740 per person – 13.4% cheaper than comparable half-term holidays and 13.2% below last year.
Kardamena is one of the livelier resorts on the Greek island during summer, but by late October it becomes considerably calmer.
You still have its long beach, waterfront and marina, while Kos Airport is only around a 15-minute drive away.
That short transfer here is a serious half-term advantage too – nobody wants to follow a four-hour flight with a two-hour coach tour of every other family’s hotel.
The weather is the slight gamble, as late October brings warm sunny days, but you might see some businesses closing for the season.
So, this is one where I’d choose a hotel with plenty happening on site.
Lucky for you, the deal I found does exactly that, which is an all-inclusive seven-night stay at Canvas by Mitsis Family Village, for £558pp when travelling on October 25.
It’s built on a hillside overlooking the coast, with pools, waterslides, family entertainment and access to a beach below, and it scores a very impressive 4.4 out of five from almost 2,500 Tripadvisor reviews.
That’s £181.60pp below the average price uncovered by the half-term analysis, and proof that the school-holiday premium can still be beaten if you get the date, duration and destination exactly right.
TUI is opening two new hotels in destinations a few hours from the UK.
New TUI Blue hotels will open their doors to guests in both Seville and Lisbon as it expands to European cities as well as beach destinations.
One of the new hotels will be the TUI BLUE Rossio in LisbonCredit: TUI GroupThe second city getting a new TUI Blue Hotel will be SevilleCredit: TUI Group
The first new TUI Blue Hotel will be in the pretty Spanish city of Seville, which is set to open later this year.
Called TUI Blue Sevilla Suites, it will be the first TUI Blue hotel to open in a European city.
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It will have 89 rooms, co-working space and even a rooftop pool which will no doubt have incredible views.
It’s in Vega del Rey which is a 10-minute drive from the city centre.
The second European city hotel will be in TUI Blue Rossio in Lisbon‘s Baixa district.
It’s currently undergoing ‘a comprehensive redesign’ but is set to open as a 30-room boutique early next year.
The TUI Blue Sevilla will open later this year and will be just 10-minutes from the city centreCredit: TUI Group
Lisbon can be reached in as little as two hours 35-minutes from the UK and is the perfect spot for a city-by-the-sea break.
It’s also a cheap spot and one expat who moved there from the UK suggests picking up a local ‘vinho verde’ which costs “a few euros“.
The city itself can be explored via the tram system with tickets starting from as little as £2.70.
In Lisbon, a Lisboa card is a savvy way to save – buy one from £27 for access to 51museums and galleriesacross the city.
TUI Group Chief Operating Officer Marco Ciomperlik said: “Following the first openings in cities across Asia, we are now bringing our distinctive leisure hotel concept to some of Europe’s most attractive urban holiday destinations.
“Lisbon and Seville are ideal destinations, combining strong city break appeal with the rich local culture, food and experiences that sit naturally at the heart of the TUI Blue concept.”
This comes after TUI announced its expansion in Asia.
It announced the opening of two new hotels last year in both Malaysia and Cambodia.
There’s both staff or self-check in, as well as a main communal area with tables and chairs, but with a quick beep of a button, I had my key card.
It is a bit disconcerting at first, being surrounded by industrial metal beams and white concrete pillars that appeared to be holding the place up.
Yet my ‘Cocoon’ – one of 206 rooms at this hotel – was exactly what I was looking for.
A huge double bed, cosy yellow lighting, and my own, albeit compact, ensuite bathroom complete with towels and toiletries.
Oh yes, and no window at all.
I was worried at first of my claustrophobia making this a difficult night, but I was surprised by how it didn’t affect me.
The bathrooms are small but fully equipped with everything you needIt was one of the best nights sleep in my life
While there are no TVs (leaning into the great sleep) there was WiFi so after a much-needed shower, I settled into bed to watch a quick bit of Netflix before almost instantly passing out.
The only noise? The occasional comforting rumble of a London Underground train passing by above.
The only downside is that I like to be woken up by natural light, something that obviously wasn’t doable here.
But this might be the most peaceful stay I’ve ever had at a London hotel, especially one so central.
So if you simply want an affordable base in the capital that is near all the sights, and the best nights sleep ever.
I’ll happily head back into my cosy cocoon.
Due to being a no frills hotel, there is no restaurant but there is a vending machine, or you can pay £18.90 extra for breakfast at the nearby 24-hour VQ restaurant.
And of course, every restaurant and fast food chain you can think of is on your doorstep too.
Other additional fees include luggage storage, ranging from £15-£80, or early and late check ins from £40 to £60.
A POPULAR European city break destination is set to get a new airport within the next decade.
Plans are currently underway in Portugal to build a new airport near Lisbon, around 31 miles from the centre of the city.
Lisbon is set to get a new airportCredit: ANA Aeroportos de PortugalIt is set to cost £7.63billion and will host up to 56million passengers a yearCredit: ANA Aeroportos de Portugal
Estimated to cost €8.9billion (£7.63billion), Luís de Camões Airport would feature two runways, with the possibility of adding two more in the future.
There will be 120 aircraft parking spots, 64 gates and 76 bridges at the airport, allowing it to handle up to 56million passengers a year, rising to 85million by 2082.
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Included in the plans is also a new high speed rail network, that would connect the airport to Lisbon in 26 minutes.
The new airport would replace Humberto Delgado Airport and is planned to open in 2037, but could be as early as 2034.
In a YouTube video showing what the new airport could look like, a spokesperson states: “From the moment you arrive at the terminal, every stage of the journey is designed to be simple, intuitive, and comfortable.
“Featuring smart, innovative solutions and technology that ensures a seamless experience with information always at hand.
“An airport that is more efficient, better connected, more intuitive, and distinctly Portuguese.”
Alongside the new airport, Portugal is investing €400million (£343million) in its existing airports including Porto, Faro and Funchal airports.
There will be two runways which could be increased to four in the futureCredit: ANA Aeroportos de PortugalOther airports across Portugal are also set for upgradesCredit: ANA Aeroportos de Portugal
At Funchal Airport, the terminal is due to be extended.
Then at Porto there will be 14 new aircraft positions and at Faro, there will be new boarding gates as well as an expanded check-in area.
Back in March, TravelSupermarket found that the Portuguese capital was home to the cheapest five-star European city holidays, costing under £310 per person.
SOMETIMES all you need is to get away from the stresses of life and book in a spa break.
And good news – if you’re overdue some relaxation, a spa session or overnight break doesn’t have to destroy your budget.
You could book a spa day at one of 35 Bannatyne spas across the UKCredit: Wowcher
Whether you want a countryside spa weekend with afternoon tea, a Bristol break with breakfast and bubbly, or even to try your luck on a mystery spa voucher – we’ve got you covered.
Here’s our pick of the best spa day and overnight stays across the UK, which are all on sale or up for a very cheap price on Wowcher.
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Bannatyne Spa Day – pick from 35 locations – £32.99
Book yourself in for some me-time at Bannatyne Spa, where this Wowcher offer gets you spa time, a treatment plus some goodies to take home.
Choose a 30-minute treatment from the following: a Swedish back, neck & shoulder massage, manicure, seasonal body scrub, or a tailored facial.
Then switch off from the world and enjoy a relaxing dip in the pool.
Plus there’s 35 locations to choose from in spots like London, Norwich, Cardiff, York, Durham and more.
Save up to 66% on a spa day at Bannatyne Spa – from £32.99
Somerset spa break with breakfast and bubbly – £84
Stay at the DoubleTree Cadbury House in Somerset with breakfast and bubbly from £84ppCredit: Wowcher
Set in the Somerset countryside, the four-star DoubleTree Cadbury House hotel makes for a stunning staycation.
The hotel has its own spa with an indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, gym, thermal suite plus plenty of spots to lay back and relax.
Pick between a one or two-night stay and enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival, as well as a freshly-cooked breakfast each morning.
You can also choose to upgrate for an extra £20 each to enjoy dinner in the on-site Marco Pierrre White Steakhouse.
Book a spa break at the 4* DoubleTree Cadbury House from £84
Mystery spa break – £9.99
You could even win a spa holiday to a luxurious hotel in Paris with a mystery voucherCredit: Wowcher
This is the ultimate lucky dip – go for a £9.99 mystery deal and you could land a spa break at over 500 luxurious locations.
You could enjoy packages such as lunch, a treatment and a smoothie at Elan Spa, plus overnight breaks for two or a fancy spa day at Shangri-La The Shard in London.
You could even land a glamorous mini spa holiday abroad, winning a city break in Paris at a five-star spa hotel for two.
Once you’ve bought the mystery voucher, you’ll be sent a link to redeem it where will you see which prize you have won.
Bag a mystery spa voucher for £9.99
Four-star Essex Spa Day with Lunch included – £69
Save up to 51% off of full-price with this spa day in EssexCredit: Wowcher
Bag a spa day with lunch at the four-star Greenwoods Spa in Essex for £69, saving up to 51% off full price.
The deal includes a spa day experience with full access to all the facilities, as well as a two-course lunch.
Meal options include a pan-roasted chicken supreme, pork loin or fish of the day for main, as well as a mango cheesecake or warm chocolate brownie for dessert.
After lunch, settle down for the afternoon in the Greenwoods Spa, where you can have a gentle swim in the pool or a detox in the sauna.
Save up to 51% on a spa day with lunch at Greenwoods Spa – from £69
Overnight spa break in Northamptonshire countryside – £154
Sink into your relaxing countryside surroundings with a stay at York Cottage SpaCredit: Wowcher
This countryside spa retreat in Northamptonshire is the ideal place to go to clear your mind.
Stay in the rustic York Cottage Spa in a spacious king-sized suite, and make use of the spa with its swimming pool, sauna, and relaxation zones.
This deal is for two people, and also includes a traditional afternoon tea and cosy, fluffy robes to borrow.
Outside of your vibrant green countryside surroundings, you could head into the market town of Wellingborough to soak up its history.
Book an overnight spa break for two at York Cottage Spa for £154 (£77pp)
THERE’S no doubt that Spanish islands are popular and soon you will be able to fly to one with British Airways for the first time, from the UK’s biggest airport.
BA is launching flights between London Heathrow Airport and Fuerteventura Airport in the Canary Islands from winter 2026.
British Airways is launching flights from London Heathrow to FuerteventuraCredit: GettyThe flights will take off on December 13Credit: Getty
Starting December 13, the flights will take off twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.
Thursday departures will leave Heathrow at 7:05am, arriving into Fuerteventura at 11:30am.
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The return flight will then leave Fuerteventura at 12:30pm and arrive back at Heathrow at 4:50pm.
Then the Sunday departure will take off at 10:05am from Heathrow and return from Fuerteventura at 3:40pm.
The route will replace British Airways‘ Euroflyer route which was planned between London Gatwick Airport and Fuerteventura.
And it will be the first time the airline flies direct to the destination from Heathrow.
Fuerteventura boasts more than 3,000 hours of sunshine every year and compared to the other popular Canary Islands spots such as Tenerife and Lanzarote, it is more affordable.
In fact, Fuerteventura holiday packages can be between 30 per cent and 40 per cent cheaper during peak periods compared to higher-demand spots, like Tenerife.
Fuerteventura gets more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a yearCredit: Alamy
Fuerteventura holiday offers
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The cheapest holiday packages for a five- night break between August 11 and 16 on On The Beach arein Fuerteventuraa.
The absolute cheapest is Bluesea Puerto Caleta in Caleta De Fuste.
You’d fly from Bournemouth Airport and at the hotel find a family pool, sun terrace and the beach just 250 metres away.
The second cheapest offering for these dates is the Servatur Alameda de Jandia in Morro Jable.
You’d also fly from Bournemouth Airport and at the hotel find a large swimming pool, a number of watersports activities on offer and the beach just 300 metres away.
Fuerteventura is the Canary Islands’ second largest island and when exploring you can head to a number of beaches including Sotavento Beach and Playa de Cofete.
If with the family, there is also Acua Water Park, which boasts a number of waterslides as well as a wave pool and a lazy river.
The island is home to Corralejo Natural Park too, which is ideal for keen hikers wanting to discover the volcanic landscape.
The airline shares tips for budget travellers looking to get the cheapest deal on their flights
Passengers can save money by following the advice(Image: Getty)
easyJet passengers looking for cheap flights might want to avoid travelling on Fridays. The popular airline, known for its budget-friendly prices, has advice for travellers looking for low-cost tickets.
The airline shares the latest travel advice for passengers on its website, which also features FAQs for customers who want to get the ‘best value’ from their holiday. On the FAQ webpage, easyJet answered a common question often raised by passengers: ‘Which are the cheapest days of the week to fly?’
According to aviation experts, the answer often varies depending on your dream destination, but midweek flights are typically the cheapest. easyJet said: “The cheapest day of the week to fly can vary depending on the destination, flights available, and time of year.
“However, we’d recommend being flexible with your dates and considering flying outside of peak weekend flight times. By booking to fly on Wednesday or Thursday rather than Friday, you can find bargain flights (and get more time at your destination!)”
Passengers can also save by choosing a cheaper month for their destination, as prices can vary depending on the time of the year. easyJet added: “The cheapest month to fly often depends on the destination and the type of trip you’re planning. For traditional warm-weather destinations in Spain or Italy, you can often find the cheapest plane tickets in the winter months of January and February.
“If you’re booking a trip to the mountains or traditional winter destinations like Finland, you’ll often find cheaper flights in November or March. You can use our low fare finder to search for the cheapest flight dates for the destination you have in mind.”
Ultimately, it’s all about being as flexible as you can. If you have to travel on a pricier day, such as a Friday, you might still be able to find a better deal by being flexible with your flight time.
The airline added: “If you can, try to keep an open mind when searching for flights. By booking to fly Friday morning instead of Friday night, or by returning earlier on Sunday than you’d initially planned, you can often snag a much better flight deal.”
easyJet said that waiting until the last minute might not always be the best tactic for cheap flights. However, passengers might strike it lucky using the airline’s ‘Low Fare Finder’ tool.
easyJet explained: “Booking too close to the travel time can result in higher prices, especially during peak seasons, so we’d typically recommend booking your flights well in advance. However, if you’re looking to travel soon, you can use the Low Fare Finder to discover flight prices for your upcoming travel.”
FOREIGN holidays this summer are shaping up to be the cheapest they’ve been in decades – and we’ve found some of the best deals out there.
With peak August package holidays starting from just £188pp and all-inclusive weeks away from £269pp, the dreaded school holiday price surge appears to have collapsed.
You could book a last-minute family holiday this summer for less than you’d think, from £189ppCredit: Getty
Brits’ booking behaviour has been impacted by the cost of living crisis, summer heatwaves and worries over the Iran war and increase in fuel prices, with many opting for a staycation this year instead.
Meanwhile, holiday companies have slashed the price of package holidays abroad – and almost nobody seems to have noticed.
The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, explained: “The conflict in the Middle East – and resulting fears about fuel availability – saw many of us pause our holiday planning.
“Many also chose to wait as England stormed through to the semi-finals of the World Cup.
“With the cost of living still an issue for millions AND the sun shining in yet another heatwave across the UK, there were yet more reasons for us to wait before we booked.
“And that’s resulted in some incredible deals as the big tour operators desperately tempt us to put our holiday pounds on the table.
“Jet2 – now the UK’s largest tour operator – opened its 14th base at Gatwick as the summer season took off putting it in direct competition with its great rivals TUI and easyJet at the UK’s second biggest airport for the first time.
“Increased competition will mean all of the big operators trying to tempt us to book with the kind of holiday prices we haven’t seen in a decade.”
To help you cash in on these price drops, we’ve rounded up seven of the cheapest family holiday deals we could find this summer.
All of these package hols are within the school summer holidays, based on a family of two adults and two kids, and come in at under £300pp.
Marmaris, Turkey – £239pp
We found a deal for a family holiday to Marmaris. Turkey for £239pp this AugustCredit: Getty
Marmaris on Turkey‘s turquoise coast is a very popular family destination, and for good reason.
The resort is a sun-drenched playground packed with golden sandy beaches, ancient castles and a lively waterfront that gives Marmaris that unmistakable holiday buzz.
The Grand Villa Sol Apart offers a brilliant, budget-friendly base close to all the action.
Relax by the sparkling outdoor pool with a drink from the poolside bar, then catch evening entertainment shows out on the terrace.
There’s also a shuttle to whisk you straight to the beach in ten minutes, plus the Aqua Dream Water Park is just a five-minute drive away.
Book a holiday – Marmaris
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Loveholidays offer a seven-night self-catering stay at the Grand Villa Sol Apart from August 13, with return flights from Glasgow, for £239pp.
View of San Andres village and Las Teresitas beach in TenerifeCredit: Getty
Costa del Silencio is a laid-back Tenerife resort known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, peaceful seafront boardwalk and glass-clear natural pools far away from any noisy crowds.
The Parque Carolina Apartments offer a relaxed place to stay with plenty of room for big families, plus a pretty sun terrace made for catching rays.
The self-catering apartments come with fully-equipped kitchens, plus private patios to enjoy breakfast out in the sun.
When you’re ready for a dip, the bright yellow cliffs and clear waters of Playa Amarilla beach are just a few minutes’ stroll away.
Plus golf lovers can tee off at nearby Amarilla Golf or Golf del Sur, while a 15-minute drive takes you to world-class waterparks like Siam Park and Aqualand.
And at an unbelievable £188pp, this island getaway is the cheapest package holiday deal on our list.
Book a holiday – Tenerife
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On the Beach offer a seven-night self-catering stay at the Parque Carolina Apartments from August 18, with return flights from Glasgow, for £188pp.
Sunny Beach is a go-to pick for a bargain summer breakCredit: Alamy
With sweeping golden beaches and famously cheap prices, Sunny Beach is a go-to pick for a bargain summer break.
The Sunny Day Club hotel is an ideal spot for families, tucked into a quieter northern patch of the resort.
Days here revolve around the giant outdoor pool, where parents can laze out on a lounger while little ones burn off energy in the children’s playground.
When hunger strikes, there’s an on-site restaurant and cafe serving unfussy family favourites, plus a poolside snack bar for quick bites.
The buzzy bars, shops and restaurants of Sunny Beach are just a short bus ride away, with a convenient bus stop directly outside the hotel.
Book a holiday – Bulgaria
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Loveholidays offer a seven-night stay with breakfast at Sunny Day Club from August 3, with return flights from Bristol, for £279pp.
In Agadir, temperatures sit in the high 20s to early 30s in AugustCredit: loveholidays
For some guaranteed summer heat, head to Agadir, where temperatures sit in the high 20s to early 30s in August.
The Moroccan resort boasts a six-mile stretch of sand to enjoy, plus a vibrant centre with bustling souks and budget-friendly restaurants.
The whitewashed Appart Hotel Igoudar sits right next to a bustling local market, where you can wander past colourful souks selling local goods and spices, as well as browse for souvenirs.
Here you’re a five-minute stroll from the main beach, with a spacious self-catering apartment to return to after days out exploring.
Book a holiday – Agadir
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Loveholidays offer a five-night room-only stay at the Appart Hotel Igoudar from August 26, including return flights from Edinburgh, for £189pp.
Sun Star Beach Hotel delivers a classic hassle-free, all-inclusive family holiday.Credit: loveholidays
Sitting on Turkey’s sun-drenched southern shores, Mahmutlar in Antalya pairs quiet beaches with dramatic mountain backdrops.
Sun Star Beach Hotel delivers a classic hassle-free, all-inclusive family holiday.
The palm-lined outdoor pool is complete with a yellow waterslide, plus plenty of loungers – so no need to worry about sunbed hoggers.
We found a bargain all-inclusive package that covers buffet meals, poolside snacks and drinks.
There’s even an on-site spa to escape to with a traditional Turkish bath and sauna, allowing you to truly unwind.
You’re also just a minute’s walk from the hotel’s own private beach, and a short bus ride away from central Alanya where you can explore its historic hilltop castle and harbour.
Book a holiday – Antalya
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Loveholidays offer a seven-night all-inclusive stay at Sun Star Beach from August 22, with return flights from Glasgow, for £269pp.
NOT many things are more rewarding than the first gulp of a crisp, cold pint on a sunny day.
And it’s even better when that pint only sets you back £1.69 – less than the price of the £1.80 bus ticket getting you there.
The Ardwick in Blackpool is the cheapest pub in the UKCredit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingOn Thursdays, a pint costs as little as £1.69Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
We all know Wetherspoons is home to some of the cheapest pints in the UK – but unless you want a Worthington’s Creamflow Ale or Ruddles, you’ll be paying more.
You can pick up a cold crisp pint of John Smith’s, Foster’s, Strongbow and Murphy’s all day long on Thursdays for the tiny price of £1.69.
That’s less than the price of a bus ticket from the train station to the pub which costs £1.80.
Even if you visit on a different day of the week, the pint will only set you back £1.90 – still a steal.
Sipping on my John Smith’s, I somewhat expected it to be lukewarm and not the nicest, but it was one of the coolest pints I had.
The rest of the week a pint will set you back from £1.90Credit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingThe boozer feels like a traditional pub with betting machines and dart boardsCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
The average price of a pint in the UK today is around £5.50, soaring past £6.50 in the capital.
The Ardwick’s Thursday prices are actually more in line with what you’d spend on a pint three decades ago.
The average price of a pint of beer in the UK in 1996 cost between £1.68 and £1.73.
And it’s not just the prices that are a throwback to the 90s…
Classic pub betting machines and dartboards lined the walls of the drinking establishment and the carpet has a nostalgic paisley pattern straight out of your gran’s living room.
It even has the odd historic stain here and there.
And it is a short walk from the beach tooCredit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingYou can also head to an outdoor beer garden at the pub tooCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
The traditional wooden bar is stacked with spirits too.
You’ll also find a number of TV screens around the pub broadcasting live sports and a pool table for a bit of competitive fun.
Though, you’ll have to head elsewhere for food as the boozer doesn’t serve any grub apart from behind-the-bar packets of crisps.
But with plenty of spots nearby serving chips for under a fiver, you could spend less than a tenner on your day out.
Overall, the watering hole has the classic pub vibe with chatty locals and football fans glued to the match being broadcast on the screens.
Though, if you prefer a bar vibe and happen to not be visiting on a Thursday and want to pay less than £1.90, head to Tommy Cutler’s just a one-minute walk away where you can grab a pint for £1.75.
After enjoying your pint, make sure to head to Blackpool Beach which stretches on for miles and features golden sand.
It is a great beach for the family to enjoy a day building sandcastles or even heading for a swim, and thanks to being so big, even when it is busy there is plenty of space.
THERE’S no better way to keep the kids cool in the heatwave than splashing in the pool – and there is a huge new £12million waterpark you can now go to in the UK.
The new water attraction, Lost Lagoon, has opened at Haven Kent Coast holiday park just in time for the summer holidays, and I was one of the first to visit.
Haven Kent Coast has opened a new £12million waterparkCredit: Facebook/HavenInside there is a new splash pad area for little onesCredit: Facebook/Haven
Taking a turn on outdoor flume Atlantis Falls, it should come with a health warning – its so addictively fun that you won’t want to leave it.
What I loved about the water ride is that it’s a cross between the outdoor rapids you find at other pools, which are usually set into the ground and can be a bit meandering over a gentle gradient, and a flume with a steeper slope.
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I was certainly taken by surprise, especially when I was unexpectedly bumped up into the air at speed right at the end…
As well as Atlantis Falls, the pool upgrade has an indoor splash pad with slides, sprays and tipping buckets.
My boys absolutely loved racing each other down the side-by-side slides at one end of the aqua- play frame called Coral Play, while the twisty tunnel water chutes at the other end of the splash pad also got the thumbs up.
Even my teen found it fun, so it’s clearly been designed for different ages to splash about together.
For younger guests it has a shallow baby pool as you enter the waterpark, which is perfect for little ones heading for their first swim.
There’s also Tiddlers Tide Pool, with its own little slide, water table and play area aimed at toddlers.
And the new indoor swimming Aqua Haven has been created by extending the building over the old outdoor pool.
The sprays coming from the play frame were perfect for cooling down menopausal mums during the heatwave as well…
For my family of five, heading to the pool is a non-negotiable on any holiday, so there’s a couple of things you need to know before visiting.
The pool isn’t currently opening on changeover days during term time, which is usually on Mondays and Fridays (although it will be open every day in peak periods).
There are side-by-side slides to race each other on tooCredit: Facebook/HavenTiddlers Tide Pool will also open at the park this yearCredit: Facebook/Haven
You can book up to 14 hour-long swim sessions per break on the MyHaven app, four weeks before your holiday starts.
You’ll want to do this in plenty of time, as most of the hour-long slots were full to capacity well before we arrived.
And you need to be 1.2 metres tall and a strong swimmer to go on the outdoor rapids, even if you have an adult in tow.
But it’s all worth it if you want to keep the whole family entertained.
Don’t worry if you don’t end up booking into the waterpark however, as there is loads to do at the holiday park outside of this.
It’s host to a huge adventure village, with everything from climbing walls and bungee trampolines to high ropes and kart hire.
There’s the onsite Wetherspoons, massive indoor arcade linking the pool, the two drinking holes, and the activity hub.
One thing that families will love this summer is that Haven is giving each child a £7.50 activity credit as part of the Great British Summer of Savings, the government’s VAT cut on kids’ activities.
The holiday park also has lots of other activities including climbing wallsCredit: Catherine LofthouseAnd you can stay from as little as £3.07 per person, per nightCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
We used ours towards booking some extra fun at the pool, including a go on the aqua jets for one child and a turn on the aqua inflatable for another.
You need to spend all of your activity credit in one go as you will lose the balance otherwise.
But book your stay far enough in advance, and you can snap up a four-night break for four people from just £49, which is equal to just £3.07 per person, per night.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly city break this summer, a study has shown some of the cheapest options across Europe, and one country dominates the top ten with a huge selection of inexpensive cities
The city has been nicknamed the Venice of Poland(Image: Getty Images)
Summer is a great time to enjoy a city break. While some people prefer to head to the beach, the sunny weather can be a nice time to see a new city, as you can explore outside and enjoy a more relaxed vibe.
But city breaks can be expensive. If you’re looking for budget options, there’s one country in particular that should be top of your list. It has six out of the ten cheapest city breaks in Europe, and makes up the entirety of the top five named in the study.
The research, carried out by virtual card provider Getsby, looked at data from travel cost site Budget Your Trip and worked out the average cost for two people for a mid-range city break in 100 different European cities. It crunched the numbers on the daily cost for two people for two days, including mid-priced meals, a hotel stay, and using local transport.
Coming in with a daily average cost of £35 per person was Wroclaw in Poland, making it the cheapest option out of all the cities studied. Wroclaw, set in the southwest of the country, was built on 12 islands across the Odra River and its neighbourhoods are connected by over 100 bridges. It’s sometimes called the Venice of Poland thanks to its sprawling network of canals that offer you the chance to go sightseeing by boat.
Ostrów Tumski, or Cathedral Island, is the oldest part of the city, made up of cobblestone streets that are illuminated by 102 gas lamps, each one lit by hand every evening by a man in a cape. Just across the water is Rynek, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, where you’ll find a towering Gothic old town hall and traditional tenement houses painted in soft pastel tones.
Centennial Hall is another of the city’s architectural masterpieces. Built in the 1910s, this vast concrete building was used as a filming location for Hunger Games prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, its distinctive high dome making it perfect for the Capitol Arena.
Eating out is inexpensive in Wroclaw, and you can find plenty of hearty, cheap eats. Fill up on kluski sląskie, soft potato dumplings, or zurek, a tangy soup often served in a bread bowl. The city is also a popular place to visit during the winter months, where the icy weather gives it serious cosy vibes.
Rynek becomes the site of the city’s Christmas market from late-November until early-January, and opens late in to the night. You can try traditional Polish food and enjoy hot mulled wine served in ceramic, boot-shaped mugs that have become a collector’s item.
But Wroclaw isn’t Poland’s only inexpensive destination. The top five cheapest breaks are all in the country: Poznań, Katowice, Gdańsk, and Kraków, making up the list. Warsaw, the country’s capital, also comes in at number ten.
Outside of Poland, four other cities complete the top ten. These are Sofia in Bulgaria, Zagreb in Croatia, Malmö in Sweden, and Budapest in Hungary, putting the majority of cheap destinations in Eastern Europe.
The 10 cheapest European cities for a weekend getaway
Wroclaw, Poland
Poznań, Poland
Katowice, Poland
Gdańsk, Poland
Krakow, Poland
Sofia, Bulgaria
Zagreb, Croatia
Malmö, Sweden
Budapest, Hungary
Warsaw, Poland
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Conducted in partnership with TUI, the research looked into the average price of ten typical getaway items for a family of four in some of the most popular short-haul holiday destinations.
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These items included a cup of coffee, a bottle of beer/lager, a can of cola, a glass of wine, a large bottle of water, sun cream, insect repellent, children’s pizza or pasta, a two-course lunch for two adults and a three-course family meal with wine and soft drinks.
Overall, the Algarve was shown to be the least damaging to wallets with a total cost of £139.65 for all the above items.
This is a 2.7 per cent dip in overall costs from the previous year, pushing the sun-soaked region ahead of Bulgaria’s notoriously affordable Sunny Beach on the budget scale.
Sunny Beach still came in second place overall, however, despite a staggering 9.3 per cent hike in costs since 2025, with all ten holiday items coming in at a total of £142.16 — just a few quid more than the Algarve.
It is still the most affordable place for a meal out, though.
According to the research, dinner for a family of four will set the average holidaymaker back around £73, compared with £78 in the Algarve.
In general, the report looks promising for Brits who love Spain’s gorgeous costas and islands, too.
On the whole, the country was shown to be widely affordable with six destinations making it into the top ten most budget-friendly regions for 2026.
It was shown to be the cheapest spot for both a bottle of beer (£2.18) and adult lunch (£15.73), although some items like sun cream were found to be a bit more pricey.
Menorca, the Costa Brava and Tenerife came in fourth, fifth and sixth place on the list, with overall holiday item costs of £151.28, £155.02 and £158.31 respectively.
Each of these Spanish hot spots is new to the barometer for 2026, with TUI reporting increased demand for these destinations and Western Europe on a whole this year.
In all three holiday regions, a glass of wine was shown to be under £4 on average, with tipples in the Costa Brava and Tenerife costing less than they would in the Algarve.
On the other hand, if you’re a family with multiple hungry mouths to feed, you may want to set your sights on Marmaris, which came in seventh place overall.
The Canary isle of Lanzarote came in third place with overall costs of £147.42Credit: Getty
TOP TEN BARGAIN DESTINATIONS
The Algarve, Portugal (£139.65)
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria (£142.16)
Lanzarote, Spain (£147.42)
Menorca, Spain (£151.28)
Costa Brava, Spain (£155.02)
Tenerife, Spain (£158.31)
Marmaris, Turkey (£158.33)
Costa del Sol, Spain (£163.17)
Costa Blanca, Spain (£173.41)
Paphos, Cyprus (£177.18)
According to the report, this Turkish destination has the most affordable kids meals of all 22 spots, setting holidaymakers back £10.24 on average for pizza or pasta for two kids.
That’s over £3 cheaper than in the winning budget destination, the Algarve, and could make a huge difference on a week-long getaway.
Laura Plunkett, head of Post Office Travel Money, said: “It is more important than ever to do some research before heading off on your holiday to inform how much holiday cash you’ll need for meals, drinks and other tourist staples.
“For those families who haven’t already booked and are looking for a late deal, the low resort prices in Portugal and Spain make these countries great value for money, while Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts are strong contenders, too.”
At the opposite end of the scale, Italy’s Sorrento appeared to be the most expensive of all 22 destinations, with all ten of the holiday essentials costing £268.23 in total — almost double the price of the same items in the Algarve.
Holidaymakers visiting this Italian gem would be shelling out around £5.68 for a bottle of beer, £4.37 for a cup of coffee and a staggering £150.28 for a three-course family meal. Mamma Mia!
THERE’s a universal rule of thumb that ‘you get what you pay for’ – so when I booked a £23 hotel in one of the UK’s most popular seaside destinations, I was definitely apprehensive.
It’s estimated that Blackpool has around 500 to 600 hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses. And with that many, the choice can be overwhelming.
I found a £23 hotel in BlackpoolCredit: Cyann Fielding
Scouting for the cheapest option, I came across The Vernon costing from just £23 – or £11.50 per person, per night.
While alarm bells ring when I find something this cheap – will it be clean, is it even real – after a couple minutes of hesitation I pressed the looming booking button.
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Within 24 hours, my Booking.com reservation was confirmed, with a check-in time of 4pm and no further instructions.
The hotel itself lies on a street just off the main promenade and is only a couple of minutes’ walk from both the beach and the closest tram stop.
So when it comes to location, I really couldn’t have asked for better – far enough away from the hustle and bustle to not hear it, but close enough that I can enjoy it and pop back to the hotel in two ticks.
Standing outside the hotel, I could have easily mistaken it for a pub, with textured cream bricks, two large bay windows and a sign that has seen better days.
Though, it was still in a better shape than I had anticipated.
Stepping inside was rather like stepping back in time, with elaborate carpets, mahogany beams and textured plaster walls.
To check in, there was one man standing at an old counter with a notepad and pen at the ready.
With no computer in sight, I simply stated my name, which he then checked against his notepad and highlighted to signify that I had checked in.
Which means its costs from just £11.50 per personCredit: Cyann FieldingI stayed in a superior double, which had its own en suiteCredit: Cyann Fielding
Sometimes, the old school way is the simplest.
The old school theme continued when he handed me my keys (physical door keys rather than an electronic card) with one for the front door of the hotel and the other for my room.
The hotel has 15 rooms ranging from family options to singles, but I was staying in a ‘superior double’.
After a rather arduous 20 minute battle with the door lock, when it just would not open, I was in.
The room before me was flooded with light coming from a large window.
Mind you, you don’t get much of a glamorous view (not that I would’ve expected one for the price).
Instead, I peered out to see a flat grey roof, scattered with empty pill packets.
On the surface the room looked neat and tidy enough, and a decent size, with a double bed in the middle with two towels placed neatly at the end.
Deploying tactics learned from years of binge-watching Channel 4‘s Four in a Bed, I got straight to work.
The bed was comfortable and clean, with sufficient pillows on each side and there were no bed bugs in sight.
The room also has its own tea and coffee making facilitiesCredit: Cyann FieldingAnd downstairs there is a social room with a pool tableCredit: Cyann Fielding
But just when I felt pleasantly surprised at the cleanliness of the room, out of the corner of my eye I spotted a crescent in the carpet.
By the skirting board, there sat a rogue toenail clipping.
It felt like a budget hotel ‘rite of passage’, but it was definitely a souvenir I didn’t want from my time in Blackpool.
Two bedside tables also featured reading lamps, though the remains of two defunct wall lamps still hovered above them.
One wall boasted a TV and another had a full-length mirror.
By the window was also a chest of drawers where I found the kettle, tea, coffee and milk pots – of which there were plenty.
Expecting to find layers of crusty limescale, I popped the kettle lid and… nothing. It was spotless.
I was simultaneously disappointed and relieved – so far, so good, I thought to myself.
Then onto the en suite. While ultimately outdated with a cream-coloured bathroom suite, it was notably clean.
As if they knew I would inspect the cleanliness of the toilet (I was taking this very seriously), the seat was already lifted up to reveal a perfectly polished bowl.
The shower had the same clean sheen.
In fact, the only things to note in the bathroom were a broken tile, a slightly scruffy window seal and a watermark on the ceiling.
Overall, the hotel was pretty clean apart from a couple of thingsCredit: Cyann FieldingIt it is just a couple minute walk from the main promenade and beachCredit: Cyann Fielding
Just don’t expect any complimentary shower gel, shampoo or conditioner…
Obviously for this price you don’t get breakfast, but downstairs you can make the most of a social room with a large pool table and even an in-house pub.
Now, I’ve stayed in some pretty grotty places and I’ve also experienced my fair share of hostels.
While I am young, I might still opt for the hostel especially as these tend to be part of big chains that set a standard.
But if I wanted privacy, then The Vernon wouldn’t put me off.
While my experience wasn’t awful, it is worth noting other guests who have recently stayed have left reviews commenting that the milk in the room was out of date, some of the beds are uncomfortable and despite advertising there is a hairdryer in each room, there isn’t in some.
But for the price, and its location, can you really argue at any of the hotel’s imperfections? Personally, I think not.
A week’s stay costs significantly less than many popular European rivals
Many UK households are reconsidering their holiday plans for 2026(Image: Philip Openshaw via Getty Images)
Many UK households are reconsidering their holiday plans for 2026, with nearly half (47%) of Brits with travel plans deciding to cut back due to soaring flight costs.
Research from the credit card firm Aqua examined the cost of a week’s stay in summer holiday destinations across the UK and Europe to uncover where Brits can stretch their money the furthest this year.
Albania has emerged as the top destination for a summer getaway in 2026, with return flights costing £100 and a week’s stay for two in July coming in at £381.
One British seaside resort also made a notable appearance on the list. Blackpool is the only UK destination to feature in the top 10, landing in ninth place as one of the most budget-friendly summer holiday spots for 2026, boasting the lowest average prices for local attractions (£31) and fuel costs averaging £35.
Things to do in Blackpool
Blackpool offers a wealth of attractions listed on TripAdvisor, among them Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool Tower Ballroom and The Blackpool Tower.
It is Blackpool Pleasure Beach, however, that sits at the top of TripAdvisor with a rating of four, based on an impressive 15,000 customer reviews. The amusement and theme park is open seven days a week, with unlimited-ride eTickets available from around £31.50 online for adults (ages 12+) and £22.50 for children, compared to gate prices of up to £50.
Ticket prices at Blackpool Pleasure Beach vary by date, and booking at least seven days in advance can save visitors up to £14 per ticket.
Those who prefer to pay as they go can purchase individual ride tickets starting from £7.
Visitors have been singing the praises of Blackpool Pleasure Beach on TripAdvisor, with one guest writing: “An amazing day on the theme park with amazing rides, all the staff were friendly and helpful, great day all round, would recommend going.”
A second visitor added: “Amazing friendly staff, always happy to help, amazing rides as well, can always have a great day at the Pleasure Beach.”
“We had a fantastic trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which was enjoyed by all ages,” said another. “Our youngest is just a toddler, and our oldest is a teenager, and they both had a great time. There is really something for everyone.”
A fourth guest enthused, “Best day ever today! Jake and Jamie, who work on the Big One, you were right, it doesn’t go upside down! Although we got wetter than we ever would have on Valhalla! All staff were great, and the facilities were too. Can’t wait to come back.”
Rounding off the glowing reviews, one visitor posted: “Great, I had a wonderful time at the amusement park. I am glad I enjoyed all the attractions and entertainment. The atmosphere there was absolutely delightful. It was a pleasure to hear about such positive experiences.”
Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the spectrum, London ranks as the most sought-after staycation destination in the UK. The capital tops the list with steep accommodation costs (£1,133 per week for two adults), affordable meals (£20), and pints (£7).
Yet a number of top attractions, including the British Museum and the National Gallery, are free to enter, which helps to soften the blow on overall expenditure.
Brighton takes second place, with accommodation on the pricier side — the second highest of all destinations analysed (£1,715 a week for two adults). Falmouth, UK, follows closely in third, also driven by some of the steepest accommodation costs (£1,501 a week for two adults).
The top 10 most affordable European destinations for 2026:
A Welsh couple decided to check in at the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find in Benidorm to see if they could find the reason why it’s the cheapest of them all
A couple decided to stay at the cheapest all-inclusive hotel in Benidorm (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
It’s located by the coast, got several amazing beaches, and is just a short flight away from the UK. But it’s also become famous from the popular TV show of the same name. But with it being so popular, the large variety of hotels you can stay at can vary massively in terms of quality and price.
So, during their holiday to Benidorm, ne Welsh couple named Ash and Kelsey, who often share their travels with their 74,000 YouTube subscribers, decided to stay in the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find to see if it was worth the price, or if it’s better to pick something a bit more pricey.
“We’re spending the next three nights in Benidorm’s cheapest all-inclusive hotel, the Sandos Benidorm Suites,” Ash revealed at the start of the video, explaining they were planning on testing out the various facilities, trying the food, and inspecting their room to find out if the hotel is worth the money.
The price and room reveal
Ash went on to say they’d booked their hotel stay last minute and had opted for the cheapest all-inclusive hotel they could find. But as they’d decided to go during half-term, there hadn’t been that much to pick from.
In total, they’d ended up paying £333 for three nights between the two of them for a room in the three-star hotel, which Kelsey said she still thought was a good deal, taking into consideration they were in a popular travel destination during half-term.
As they stood on the road outside of the hotel, they noticed it looked ‘a lot better than surrounding buildings’. But the question was, would it looked as nice on the inside?
“It’s very clean, very white,” Ash said as they walked into the building to the reception area. After checking in, they took the lift up to their room on the 20th floor, but predicted that they’d have to ‘wait ages’ for the lift as there was only one working.
“Wow, this is really nice! I didn’t realise we’d have a living room,” Kelsey exclaimed as they walked through the doors, with Ash saying it was better than he’d expected.
Despite being a ‘standard’ hotel room, it included a bathroom that was fully equipped with everything you might need, a desk, a sofa with a TV, and a large bed. They had also been given a free bottle of sparkling cider, waiting for them in the fridge. However, they quickly noticed that the accompanying glasses weren’t as clean as they’d want.
“I think the best part of this room has to be the balcony,” Kelsey said as she walked out to the balcony in question, which had four chairs and overlooked the city of Benidorm with the sea in the distance. Looking down, they could also see the hotel’s private pool. However, they also noticed a lot of rubbish laying in the green area next to the hotel.
All-inclusive perks
With their pink all-inclusive wristbands, they went on to get their first free drinks, with Ash explaining that most drinks were included with their all-inclusive deals. As for alcohol, the local brands were inclusive, while you’d have to pay extra for branded drinks. As for cocktails, there were 11 different drinks included in the all-inclusive package, which Ash was happy with.
“All in all, this is a pretty decent all-inclusive menu,” he said. “There’s enough options for everyone, good variety.
The all-inclusive package also includes of breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an international buffet, snacks between meals, on top of the unlimited domestic drinks that Ash and Kelsey had already explored.
For the food, the couple showed off the variety of food available at the different meals, which had everything you’d may want and more.
“No we know hotel food’s never the best food you’re gonna get, but as far as all-inclusive breakfasts go, I’d say that was pretty good,” Ash said after they’d enjoyed their first breakfast.
They also went on to see what facilities the hotel had to offer, which included entertainment areas, a large pool with sun loungers and seating areas, a play park for kids, a kids pool, as well as various bars and restaurant areas. The hotel is also located a 12 minute walk from the popular Levante beach, as determined by Kelsey and Ash, making it easy to walk to the beach if you so wish.
Was it worth it?
As they went to share their thoughts of the hotel, they noted that while their room was ‘pretty basic’, it was modern and clean, but with the large balcony being their favourite part.
“It is a three-star hotel, but it does have some pretty decent facilities,” Ash said, saying the pool and outdoor area both seemed ‘big enough’ for when it’s more crowded during peak season. He also mentioned there was entertainment shows on every night.
They were also happy with the food and drinks, especially praising the large variety of both meals and drinks.
“The only issue we’ve found with this hotel is waiting on the lift,” Ash said in the video, as there was still only one working lift that went to their floor.
But this doesn’t seem to have bothered them too much, as they both said they’d happily stay there again and were leaving the hotel happy and impressed.
As holiday prices go up, it’s always helpful to take on any advice you can to make it that little bit cheaper and as it turns out, that includes which day of the week you fly
This simple booking step could save your family £100s (Image: Getty)
Ahead of your last-minute summer trips or 2027 getaways, it’s best to be smart about your bookings, and a travel expert is here to tell you exactly why.
Flights are one of the most expensive aspects of any holiday, especially if you’re traveling further afield. If you’re not following these simple steps, you could be doing it all wrong.
To help holidaymakers navigate their bookings abroad with confidence, travel expert and head of aviation at Loveholidays, Gavin Brewer, has shared his expert advice for a stress-free getaway.
With three decades of experience in the aviation industry, he offers practical advice on securing cheap, last-minute deals and ensuring your trip is protected.
Something many people overlook when booking a holiday is the day they fly. While they often make sure to consider key dates, outside of school holidays for cheaper packages or outside of peak summer times altogether, they don’t stop to think about the difference flying on a Monday could have to flying on a Sunday, for example.
As it turns out, that difference could be quite a lot, especially if you’re booking for a family, where all those saved pounds soon add up.
Gavin suggests being super strategic with your departure date to ensure you’re saving money and getting the best flights for the best price. He explains that the start of the week is always the cheapest to depart, according to recent analysis of flights, meaning Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays are the best days to begin your holiday.
“If you’re on a budget, be flexible with your departure date and look at holidays departing on either a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday. Our research shows you could save up to £24 per person on the flight element of your package holiday, and every little bit helps,” he said.
To ensure you have the safest, stress-free holiday, the expert advises booking your travel insurance at the same moment in time you book your holiday and avoiding putting it off. This means it protects you from the moment the trip is secured, making it “one of the smartest moves you can make”.
Getting to grips with your cover is just as important as picking your destination, because when the unexpected happens, the right policy can be the difference between spending big bucks and flying away without a care in the world.
If you want a little extra protection, package holidays are ideal. In the UK you get built-in protections you don’t get when booking separately. In the event of any disruption ahead of your travels, such as a cancelled flight with no suitable alternative, as a traveller you are fully protected, thanks to a set of consumer laws called the Package Travel Regulations. As a result of this, you are entitled to a full refund on your package holiday.
FOR the past eight years I’ve wasted hours on busy, overpriced trains, travelling between London and my hometown of Devon.
But I recently discovered I could skip the sweaty crowds and do the journey in my sleep for the same price.
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The Riviera Sleeper travels between London and CornwallCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
While you might have heard of the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Scotland, I bet you aren’t familiar with Great Western Railway’s Riviera Sleeper from London to Cornwall.
The full journey from London to Penzance in Cornwall takes eight hours overnight, compared to the daytime five hour journey.
With the normal route being popular (and often packed with chaotic carriages where I arrive home disheveled and sweaty) I thought I would opt for the overnight option to Devon instead.
It takes just over five hours compared to my usual 2hr30, departing at 11:45pm and arriving at 5am.
I booked the cheapest seats on offer, paying £47.50 with a railcard, although the cheapest without a railcard is £43.
This got me an upright seat – if I had opted for a sleeper berth with a single or twin cabin, this would have set me back an extra £49 or £59, respectively, on top of the ticket price.
(Although for my journey, I couldn’t find any for less than £200).
The major benefit of booking a cabin is that you can use the fancy lounges – which have showers – at Paddington, Penzance, and Truro, with breakfast also included onboard.
People in the cheap seats get access to an onboard cafe for drinks and snacksCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
I, however, was not one of the lucky ones, and instead boarded my seat shortly after arriving at London Paddington Train Station at around 11pm.
The train itself is weirdly clean – quite different from your standard daytime Great Western Railway train – and devoid of the usual crowds as well.
Replacing the loud beeping mechanical doors are retro-style doors you need to lean out of the window to open.
Then it comes to the part I was both dreading and anticipating – the seats.
Unlike the daytime trains, the Riviera Sleeper has a different style seat, with an overhead reader lightCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
The operator claims they are similar to airline seats and at first glance, look a lot nicer than what you find on Ryanair.
But when it comes to the actual comfort – I think I would have preferred a budget flight middle seat.
It felt like sitting on a stack of squashed cardboard boxes, and bizarrely even more uncomfortable than the daytime GWR seats.
The head rest is annoyingly high, and the promise of extra legroom was unfounded.
Just the same as a daytime carriage you get a tray table, and then you’ll find plug and USB sockets by your feet.
Additions that you don’t get on the daytime trains include an overhead reading light and swish curtain on the window.
The service departs London for Cornwall at 11:45pmCredit: Alamy
So, how did I sleep? Well, I didn’t.
I simply couldn’t get comfortable as the seats are too small to lie across comfortably.
The minutes I did manage to get some sleep was when I put my feet on the seat next to me, I was quickly awoken by someones shouting “FEET” as they walked through the cabin.
I may be just 5″1, but the headrest didn’t help either – I knocked my head a few times just fidgeting and ended up slumping down in my seat to avoid it.
And all of this is without mentioning the disruption of passengers boarding at half-midnight, with the football playing on their phones at full volume.
Even though I saved money compared to a cabin, I definitely would only book this seat again if it was a last resort – I’d rather just stick to the daytime trains (which even in the noise I manage to get quick naps on).
There was one perk to trying this overnight train, however.
My train got into Exeter St David’s around 4:37am and because this was the stop before mine, I was starting to stir.
I also knew what was coming – a section of the track which I believe is home to the most beautiful train journey in the UK.
The biggest perk is getting to see the sunrise as you chug along the Devon coastCredit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingThough you’ll have to get up early to see itCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
From Exeter, the train runs past Starcross, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish and Teignmouth with beaches and red cliffs on the left side of the train.
And at this time in the morning, a beautiful summer sunrise adds washes of orange, red and yellow.
While getting up early to see this might not be attractive and of course it depends on the time of year you are on the sleeper train, I would definitely recommend it.
The sea was perfectly calm, with only a couple of people entertaining their dogs on the beach, the sand was untouched and the water reflecting all the bright colours of the sky made it look like something from a postcard.
It almost made the seriously uncomfortable seat worth it… almost.
According to the Skyscanner comparison site holidaymakers can jet off on a summer break for less than £80 – and they shared the cheapest day to travel
A beautiful beach on Comino island, Malta(Image: Getty)
Millions of people across the UK have already booked their summer holidays, but there are still plenty of options for those yet to make plans. While travel can be costly, a trip abroad can cost less than £80 for the flights.
According to Skyscanner, UK travellers could find return flights for under £80 next month. Skyscanner is a travel comparison website that lets users search and compare flights from hundreds of airlines and travel providers. It also offers tools such as price alerts, flexible date searches, and its “Everywhere” feature, which helps travellers find the cheapest destinations.
The company says Dublin, Milan and Prague are among the cheapest places to visit in June. And for those holding out for a summer getaway in July and wanting a little extra time to save, these are the 10 destinations worth considering for a last-minute holiday.
Top 10 cheapest destinations in July 2026
Dublin, Ireland: Average return is £76 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Milan, Italy: Average return is £103 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Palma, Spain: Average return is £111 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Ibiza, Spain: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Rome, Italy: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Alicante, Spain: Average return is £150 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Budapest, Hungary: Average return is £162 and the cheapest day to fly out is Sunday
Faro, Portugal: Average return is £171 and the cheapest day to fly out is Monday
Marrakech, Morocco: Average return is £177 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Valletta, Malta: Average return is £183 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
The comparison experts say the prices are based on the median cost of economy return flights booked through Skyscanner for travel in 2025 on the selected route and month, including taxes and fees.
Experts say many people assume their travel insurance automatically covers phones, tablets and other gadgets. But policies vary, so it’s worth checking the small print before you travel to avoid unexpected costs.
It notes: “Not all travel insurance policies include gadget cover. And travel insurance payouts for valuables are often low – as little as £200 for one item or £500 in total.”
SUN Club members can bag tickets to Drayton Manor Resort for the cheapest rate available anywhere – guaranteed.
Full-price tickets start at £29.50 online and can cost up to £45 at the gate.
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We’ve spoken to General Manager Ollie Carr to gather his top tips for a visit to Drayton ManorCredit: SuppliedThomas Land has plenty of themed rides and experiences – but did you know about its film set?Credit: Supplied
However Sun Club members can bag their tickets for £20 each.
To claim them, simply sign up to Sun Club for £1.99 per month.
Once you’re signed up, head to the Sun Club Offers Hub where you can claim up to four tickets.
Drayton Manor sits just 25 minutes’ drive from Birmingham, and has rides and activities for all ages – from tiny tots to thrill-seeking teenagers.
The theme park is home to over 50 rides and attractions, plus its very own on-site zoo.
We spoke to Ollie Carr, General Manager of Drayton Manor, for his ultimate insider tips on how to make the most of your trip.
He said: “Drayton Manor is unique compared to other parks because we have five bespoke lands that are all completely different.
“We have Thomas Land (Europe’s only Thomas the Tank Engine-themed land), plus we have Vikings land which is great for the braver folk.
“Then there’s Frontier Falls, our Wild West-themed zone with one of our newest attractions, Gold Rush.
“Plus Adventure Cove which is nautical-themed and the Main Park. All of that, plus a 15-acre zoo as well! There really is something for everyone”.
Thomas Land is one of five lands in the park, and is ideal for those with younger childrenCredit: SuppliedGeneral Manager Ollie Carr says the park is ideal for mixed-age families with a wide range of ridesCredit: Supplied
The theme park is an ideal day trip for mixed-age families, with rides that cater to all ages – some of which guests can go on from just 0.9m in height.
Ollie said “For young children, head to Thomas Land. Even if they’re not specifically Thomas The Tank Engine fans, we have lots of different rides for younger kids.
“The rides there are really gentle and we have a huge amount with very low height limits, which is different to other theme parks.
“We have a carousel, Submarine Splash which is a mini flume, and kids can drive their own Terence the Tractor.
“We also have an indoor soft play called Emily’s, which families with little ones really like.
“For slightly older kids, I’d recommend Accelerator, right in the middle of the park.
“It’s our boomerang coaster. It goes really high which is fun, but it’s not too intense.
“And if you’ve got teenagers or some real thrill-seekers in the group, there’s lots for them to.
“We’ve got Stormforce 10, which is a water ride with three drops. Then of course The Wave, a thrilling family coaster with a loop and inversions.
“We’ve also got Maelstrom which is a gyro swing ride, as well as Thor and Loki in Vikings.
“One thing that people might not know about is that one of our newest attractions, Gold Rush, has two settings.
Drayton Manor’s Gold Rush ride has two settings – providing two totally different experiencesCredit: Supplied
“That means if you ride it in the morning you’ll get one type of experience, and if you come back and ride in the afternoon, it’ll be totally different.
“On one setting it launches you forwards, and on the other one you go backwards. It’s a whole different sensation. It’s like going on two totally different rides“.
Knowing the resort inside-out as General Manager, Ollie shared his other little-known tricks and secrets about Drayton Manor.
“If you want a good way to take in the views of the park, you should ride the Polperro Express.
“It’s a miniature railway which takes you all the way around our lake and through Adventure Cove and Thomas Land.
“It’s a gentle ride that you can do all together as a family, and it gets you really familiar with the park.
“The theme park has been around for 76 years, so it also has a lot of history.
“A lot of people don’t know about the Discover Thomas and Friends Exhibition.
“It’s a model railway with the original models used in the filming of the TV series decades ago. You can see the original engines going around on the set that they used to record the show.
“There’s lots of nice areas outside, too. We have an outdoor play area called Spencer’s down by the zoo, which is a really nice area to sit down with a picnic.
“The zoo has been around for years, and it’s like its own attraction.
“We’ve just had baby meerkats born, and new animals have moved in like Babirusa, which are like giant pigs.
The Maelstrom gyro swing ride at Drayton Manor Resort is one for the thrill-seekers of the familyCredit: AlamyDrayton Manor has its own theme park mascots – Rory and LaurieCredit: Supplied
“Another thing that people might not know that our mascots, Rory and Laurie, put on daily shows and meet and greets around the park.
Ollie also shared his top tips for making the most of a family day out at Drayton Manor Resort.
“The gates open at 10:30. My advice to guests would be to arrive 30 minutes early, and that way you’ll be there for the opening show with Rory and Laurie, which is held at the main entrance.
“Then head straight to the attractions that you know you want to go on, just in case they get busy. There are also fast passes if you want to guarantee a quicker queuing experience.
“We have some fun events coming up, too.
“In July we have our Rock ‘n’ Rumble event with live wrestling and a Shania Twain tribute act, which will take over the whole park and takes place on the first two weekends of July.
“In October we’ll be running our first ever Blazing Halloween event, which tickets are available for now. There’ll be a Trick or Treat trail and fireworks shows”.
You could head away in the summer holidays for less than £300ppCredit: On The Beach
So, to help you out, we’ve done the legwork and found the cheapest summer trips that are actually within the school holidays – all under £300 per person.
Líbere Córdoba Tendillas in Cordoba, Andalucia, Spain
The four-star hotel is more like a block of apartments in the centre of Cordoba – a southern Spanish city with the most Unesco World Heritage sites in the world.
In each small apartment, there is a kitchenette, Smart TV and Wi-Fi.
Found near Costa Teguise, Lanzarote Paradise and Colinas is another apartment-style complex less than a 30-minute walk from the beach.
In each studio, guests will find a living area, a bedroom, kitchenette and furnished balcony.
Onsite there are also two freshwater pools, a sun terrace and a pool bar serving homemade pizzas.
Canifor Hotel in Qawra, Malta
If you want to head somewhere that isn’t somewhere you’ve been before, try MaltaCredit: On The Beach
For somewhere different, head to the Canifor Hotel in Qawra, Malta between July 21 and 25 for £190 per person, flying from Liverpool Airport and landing back at Manchester Airport.
For an additional £2 per person you could fly to and from Bournemouth, or £37 extra per person and you could fly to and from Manchester.
The Canifor Hotel is just a short walk from the seafront and each room boasts a balcony and an ensuite bathroom.
There’s also four pools, two of which are just for children.
Inside, you’ll find another pool as well complete with a hot tub.
Katikies Studios & Apartments in Lardos, Rhodes, Greece
In Greece you could stay at Katikies Studios and Apartments for less than £250ppCredit: On The Beach
For parents wanting to keep their kids occupied, there is a kid’s club and playground as well.
Nadolia Apartments in Arillas, Corfu, Greek Islands, Greece
Or head to Corfu instead, where you could stay at the Nadolia ApartmentsCredit: Firstchoice.co.uk
Flying out on August 13 and returning on August 20, you could stay at the Nadolia Apartments in Arillas, Corfu, Greece for £251 per person, flying from Edinburgh Airport.
This apartment complex also features a pool, with a bar and restaurant too.
Sitting on the hilltop, you wouldn’t be far from the beach either, which is just 15 minutes away.
Atlantis Apart in Marmaris, Dalaman, Turkey
Fancy a Turkish break? Book into the Atlantis Apart in Marmaris between July 22 and 26 for £213 per person, flying from London Gatwick Airport.
At the hotel, guests will find two outdoor pools with a pool bar.
There’s also a children’s play area and an onsite restaurant.
Within a five-minute walk, there’s also the beach for families to enjoy.
Lygies Studios in Trapezaki, Kefalonia in Greece
Kefalonia also has cheap breaks at Lygies StudiosCredit: Firstchoice.co.uk
Flying out on July 28 and returning on August 4, you could spend the week at Lygies Studios in Trapezaki, Kefalonia, Greece for £237 per person, flying from Manchester Airport.
Sat in the quiet Kefalonian countryside, Lygies Studios is around a five-minute drive from the beach.
The apartments are all kitted out with a kitchenette and the complex also features an outdoor patio with a pool.
The traditional riad-like hotel has an interior courtyard and has mosaic tiles throughout.
There is a pool area and a restaurant too, where you can even try out a cooking class.
The city centre is about a 10-minute drive away, but the popular Jemaa el-Fna square with street performers and food stalls is only a five-minute wander away.
AS a travel expert at one of the UK’s biggest travel companies, I spend a ridiculous amount of time staring at holiday prices.
Not because I have a weird fetish for spreadsheets (trust me, I don’t), because if you dig deep enough into the data, you can spot exactly when everyone is about to pile into a destination. And, more importantly, where the cheap holidays are hiding before the rest of Britain catches on.
Nour Palace Resort in Tunisia is a family-friendly spot with waterslides and a giant outdoor poolCredit: On The BeachYou can stay at Sun Club El Dorado in Majorca for five nights from £325ppCredit: On The Beach
For summer 2026, a few spots keep flashing up on my radar for one massive reason: they’re offering proper, old-school all-inclusive value.
Some are old favourites, others are probably completely off your map.
Majorca isn’t exactly a secret, but Cabo Blanco is about as close as you’ll get to an undiscovered value goldmine.
While the masses fight for sunbeds in the bigger resorts, this quieter stretch of coast serves up rugged cliffs, proper crystal-clear water, and the kind of sea views that justify doing absolutely nothing from your balcony for a week straight.
You get all the perks of Majorca in the short flight and guaranteed sun, but skip the eye-watering price tag of the flashier spots.
I found a five-night all-inclusive stay at Sun Club El Dorado for £325pp in August.
It’s perched right on the edge of the coast, has more pools than you’ll know what to do with, and is basically built for elite-level lounging.
Marrakech, Morocco
The Marrakech Ryads Parc & Spa is a quiet retreat away from the bustle of the city centreCredit: On The Beach
Marrakech probably isn’t the first place you think of when someone says “all-inclusive,” which is exactly why it’s a brilliant shout: it breaks the monotony of the standard fly-and-flop.
You can be haggling in a centuries-old souk in the afternoon, and back at the resort by dark, nursing a drink by the pool with the Atlas Mountains in the background. It beats swapping one European beach for another.
Case in point: a five-night all-inclusive stint at Marrakech Ryads Parc & Spa is coming in at £373pp this summer.
It’s one of my top picks because it nails the balance – you can dive headfirst into the chaos of the city by day, then retreat to a massive, quiet resort to completely switch off.
Sidari, Corfu, Greece
You could go swimming in Sidari’s Canal d’Amour in Corfu, GreeceCredit: Getty
Corfu has quietly morphed into one of the best-value Greek islands, and Sidari is where the real bargains are hiding.
It’s a bit of an all-rounder – it handles families, couples, and groups without feeling like a chaotic free-for-all.
Plus, you’ve got the Canal d’Amour right there to give it a bit of natural character.
Looking at the peak summer hols, I found a deal for a five-night all-inclusive stay at Panorama Sidari Village from £398pp this August.
The selling point here is definitely the location: it’s perched on a hillside overlooking the coast, so you get the top-tier views without being stranded miles away from the resort centre.
Gumusluk, Bodrum, Turkey
Bodrum is a stylish hotspot on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast – stay in Gumusluk for cheaper ratesCredit: On The Beach
Turkey’s reputation for budget-friendly all-inclusives is well established, but for me, Gumusluk is still criminally underrated.
Unlike the mega-resorts down the road, this place has a proper slow pace.
The waterfront is lined with seafood restaurants, the sunsets are top-tier, and the vibe here is completely relaxed.
I found five nights all-inclusive at Golden Age Crystal Bodrum for £395pp right in the school holidays.
The hotel is a cracking little base because it puts you near the side of Bodrum most tourists miss – laid-back beach clubs and evening strolls – without forcing you to pay the premium rates of the flashier hotels nearby.
Mahdia, Tunisia
Nour Palace Resort in Mahdia, Tunisia, offers five night all-inclusive stays from £388pp in AugustCredit: On the Beach
If you want the absolute maximum amount of sunshine per pound spent, Tunisia should always be on your radar.
Mahdia is easily one of the country’s best-kept secrets, pairing massive white beaches with a calm, old fishing port vibe. It feels authentic, rather than a purpose-built tourist bubble.
I did some digging and found five nights all-inclusive at the Nour Palace Resort for £388pp this August.
It sits right on the sand and boasts one of the biggest pool setups on this entire list. If you just want to park yourself by the water and forget reality, this is the one.
Agadir, Morocco
El Pueblo Tamlelt in Agadir, Morocco, is the cheapest on the list at £288pp for five nightsCredit: supplied
Agadir has been quietly banking reliable, budget sun holidays for years.
The weather is a safe bet, the beach goes on forever, and the whole place is set up to make your life easy.
It’s one of those rare spots where you can do absolutely nothing for a week and actually feel like you’ve escaped.
The price on this one is borderline ridiculous too: a five-night all-inclusive stay at El Pueblo Tamlelt for £228pp.
It’s exactly what a budget all-inclusive should be – huge pools, loads going on, and a price tag that makes you double-check you didn’t accidentally miss a zero off the end.
Ovacik, Turkey
The Sunshine Holiday Resort Hotel in Ovacik sits just above the Blue Lagoon of OludenizCredit: On the Beach
If you want the full package – beaches, nightlife, mountain backdrops, and change left over from a grand – Ovacik is tough to beat.
It sits just above the famous Blue Lagoon at Oludeniz, giving you easy access to Turkey’s best coastline while being a cheap taxi ride away from the bars in Hisaronu.
Because it’s up in the hills, it stays a touch cooler and greener than the coastal strip, which is a massive win in August.
It perfectly highlights why this area works so well for families: you get a waterpark, proper mountain views, and more than enough entertainment to keep kids quiet without ever needing to leave the complex. Job done.
Passengers wanting to fly with easyJet could get some pretty cheap deals
11:24, 12 Jun 2026Updated 11:27, 12 Jun 2026
Passengers flying with easyJet can use their helpful tool to secure the best deals(Image: Getty)
Booking flights can be expensive, with many people clicking on random days of the week to find the best deal. But did you know two days of the week are likely to be better than the rest?
Travel experts at easyJet say that while the ‘cheapest day to fly’ often depends on factors like destination and flight availability, there are two days of the week you really want to look out for. The airline says: “The cheapest day of the week to fly can vary depending on the destination, flights available, and time of year.
“However, we’d recommend being flexible with your dates and considering flying outside of peak weekend flight times. By booking to fly on Wednesday or Thursday rather than Friday, you can find bargain flights (and get more time at your destination!).”
What is the cheapest month to fly in?
The low-cost airline also noted that the start and end of the year are key periods to look for if you want a trip that won’t break the bank. It adds: “The cheapest month to fly often depends on the destination and the type of trip you’re planning.
“For traditional warm-weather destinations in Spain or Italy, you can often find the cheapest plane tickets in the winter months of January and February. If you’re booking a trip to the mountains or traditional winter destinations like Finland, you’ll often find cheaper flights in November or March.”
As one of the world’s largest airlines, it operates a fleet of 355 aircraft, connecting 164 airports in 38 countries through 1,207 routes. While booking flights during these specific days and months is not a guarantee of the best deal, it urges people to use its Low Fare Finder when searching for the cheapest flight dates to secure the best deals.
Mum blocked from easyJet flight and left £700 out of pocket
In other easyJet news, a mother was prevented from boarding an easyJet flight with her family and lost £700 after being caught out by a crucial passport rule.
Bolaji Omisade was looking forward to a family trip to Greece and arrived at London Gatwick Airport with her husband and three sons. However, after checking in at the airport, easyJet staff informed her that she was not permitted to board the flight.
Confused by the situation, she was informed at check-in that, although her passport had not yet expired, it was no longer valid for travel due to passport regulations. You can read the full story here to make sure that you don’t fall foul of the same rule.