cities

As we inch closer to spring, the best UK destinations for a day out have been revealed, thanks to their sprawling gardens, historic landmarks and charming riverside walks

The UK boasts stunning cities that provide a perfect day out, especially as we edge closer to spring, with the prospect of brighter days and milder weather.

Organising a day out, whether it’s with your partner, family, or on your own, can occasionally feel daunting. Some destinations are just around the corner, others require a road trip, and many can be reached by train, which only enhances their appeal as we get to relax before arriving.

In an effort to help Brits make the most of the sunnier weather and the magnificent locations the UK has to offer, LNER has revealed the ‘UK’s best spring days out’ that can be reached by train, reports the Express.

To identify the best UK destination for a day out during spring, the train operator examined historical weather data, the proportion of green and blue spaces, land and woodland, and the number of walking trails available in each area. From Norwich, Colchester and Plymouth, here are the UK destinations that could be the ideal getaway during spring.

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Dundee

Recognised as one of the sunniest cities in Scotland, Dundee tops the LNER list. One of its standout attractions is the University of Dundee Botanic Garden, featuring beautiful gardens that flourish in spring, along with water gardens and glasshouses brimming with tropical plants.

There’s also the Dundee Law landmark that offers a steady climb where you’ll be rewarded with views across Dundee and the River Tay, and the over 400-acre park, Camperdown Country Park – perfect for a picnic! Or perhaps a trip to the V&A Dundee is more your cup of tea to explore Scotland’s design museum.

Maidstone

Kent’s largest town, Maidstone, is, somewhat surprisingly, among the destinations LNER suggests visiting. This is largely thanks to its Mote Park, which boasts expansive green spaces and a peaceful lake. It provides waterside walks, pedal boat hire, plus climbing walls and high ropes – perfect for keeping youngsters occupied.

Telford

This delightful Shropshire town truly comes into its own during springtime when over 170,000 daffodils burst into bloom at Telford Town Park, which also features 450 acres of green space, gardens, and lakes. LNER highlighted that guests can pick up a coffee and enjoy a leisurely walk whilst taking in the vibrant colours that transform the park.

Aberdeen

This Scottish port city has plenty to discover on a day trip, from its seaside panoramas and period architecture to the Cruickshank Botanic Garden in Old Aberdeen. The park covers 4.5 hectares and includes rose gardens, water features, and tree-lined pathways.

There’s also one of Scotland’s most cherished gardens, Duthie Park, to explore, alongside the impressive St Machar’s Cathedral. However, a visit to Aberdeen wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its breathtaking coastlines at Greyhope Bay, where bottlenose dolphins can occasionally be seen.

Edinburgh

It comes as no shock that the beloved capital of Edinburgh has secured its place on the LNER list, given its wealth of attractions and beautiful landscapes that come alive with colour throughout spring. There’s the famous Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat offering sweeping views across the city, the Royal Botanic Garden and Princes Street Gardens.

For those wanting to delve deeper into its past, there are the Georgian House and Lauriston Castle. The Union Canal is also an ideal location to discover the tucked-away corners of the city, whether strolling along the waterfront or cycling along the dedicated path.

Lincoln

The East Midlands city boasts plenty to discover during a spring day out, from Lincoln Castle and Hartsholme Country Park to the Whisby Nature Park. However, Lincoln Arboretum is unquestionably a highlight, with its refurbished gardens, fountains, duck pond and play area, all paying tribute to its Victorian heritage.

Norwich

The vibrant city of Norwich is another destination absolutely worth visiting, whether for a day trip or weekend getaway. The Cathedral Close has been praised as ‘one of the best places to spend your spring day out’ with its magnolia trees, daffodils and verdant lawns coming into bloom beneath the city’s medieval skyline.

There’s also the opportunity to take in panoramic views across the city and explore the hilltop landscapes surrounding the Norman keep.

Colchester

The UK city is distinctive for its Roman Walls, described as the ‘longest and best-preserved town walls in Britain’. There is a circular route stretching back almost 2,000 years, providing a picturesque spring walk amongst the ancient stonework, with Castle Park the ideal spot to stop for a picnic.

Ipswich

Characterised by LNER as ‘slow and scenic’, the Suffolk town boasts low rainfall and the ‘highest spring sunshine hours’. It’s home to a waterfront that sparkles in the sunshine, where there are cafés and bars to savour a drink or lunch outdoors, or to simply observe the activity of the harbour.

Plymouth

Last but not least is the Devon port city, with The Hoe overlooking Plymouth Sound as its most recognisable landmark. This makes an excellent starting point for a day in Plymouth, with its expansive lawns and seafront promenade providing the ideal spring walk, before treating yourself to an ice cream or scaling Smeaton’s Tower.

For further information or to book your spring day trip, you can visit the LNER website.

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

The scale of the disruption to aviation caused by the US and Israeli attack on Iran has been enormous. Of the 38,193 flights that were scheduled to fly out or into the Middle East since February 28, 21,915 have been cancelled

British Airways has cancelled hundreds of flights to countries across the Middle East as the war in Iran rages.

This afternoon, the UK’s flag carrier announced it would reduce its flight schedule across the region and cancel flights to certain cities. BA bosses have decided to ground all flights to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates until “later this year”.

Although the airline hasn’t said how many services have been cancelled, given its daily services to Abu Dhabi prior to the war, the total number of flights grounded comfortably stretches into the hundreds.

“Due to the continuing uncertainty of the situation in the Middle East and airspace instability, we’ve had to temporarily reduce our flying schedule in the region. We’ve cancelled all flights to and from Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai and Tel Aviv until later this month and to and from Abu Dhabi until later this year. We’re keeping the situation under constant review and are in touch with our customers to offer them a range of options,” the statement from BA reads.

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“We have limited seats remaining on our repatriation flights from Oman (Muscat) to London Heathrow on 11 and 12 March for customers with an existing booking. Following these dates, the flights will pause due to reduced demand but will be kept under continuous review.”

The scale of the disruption to aviation caused by the US and Israeli attack on Iran has been enormous. Of the 38,193 flights that were scheduled to fly out or into the Middle East since February 28, 21,915 have been cancelled. The latest figures show that most routes are getting back to close to normal. Of the 4,783 flights scheduled for today, 1,107 were or are expected to be cancelled.

If you are due to fly from or to the Middle East in the coming days, make sure you check your airline’s website for instructions and the Foreign Office website for the latest advice.

What have the airlines said?

• Aegean Airlines – Greece’s largest carrier cancelled flights to Tel Aviv until March 20; Beirut, Erbil and Baghdad until March 25; Dubai and Abu Dhabi until March 19; and Riyadh until March 14.

• Air France–KLM – Air France cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut through March 13, and to Dubai and Riyadh until March 12. KLM suspended flights to Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam until March 10, and to Tel Aviv for the rest of the winter season.
• Cathay Pacific – Cancelled all flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh until March 31.
• Delta – Cancelled flights from New York to Tel Aviv until March 22 and from Tel Aviv to New York until March 23.
• Emirates – Operating a reduced flight schedule but expects to return to full operations within days, depending on airspace availability and operational requirements.
• Etihad Airways – Resumed a limited commercial flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and several key destinations.
• Iberia Express cancelled all flights to and from Tel Aviv through March 10.
• Lufthansa Group – Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Swiss and Brussels Airlines suspended Tel Aviv flights through April 2 and Beirut flights through March 28. Flights to Tehran are suspended until April 30, and to Amman, Erbil, Dammam, Dubai and Abu Dhabi until March 15.
• Norwegian Air – Now plans to start flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut on June 15, instead of the previously scheduled April 1 and April 4.
• Qatar Airways – Operating a limited schedule to and from Doha, with some flights resuming from March 9 following temporary authorisation from Qatar’s civil aviation authority.
• Saudia Airlines – Suspended flights to Amman, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Bahrain until March 10, and to Moscow and Peshawar until March 15. Limited operations to Dubai have resumed.
• Wizz Air – Suspended flights to Israel until March 29, and flights from mainland Europe to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Amman and Jeddah until mid-September.

European Sleeper is a Dutch-Belgian train operator that runs night train services across Europe, currently connecting major cities such as Berlin, Prague and Amsterdam

Tickets for a new night train that’ll connect major European cities are about to go on sale.

European Sleeper is a Dutch-Belgian train operator that runs night train services across Europe, currently connecting major cities such as Berlin, Prague and Amsterdam. It is poised to launch its third route, a 17-and-a-half-hour journey from Belgian capital Brussels to Italy’s fashion hub Milan.

At first, the night train to Milan will depart from Belgium. However, an extra leg will later be added to and from the Netherlands from 2027. Once fully operational, the train will stop in Cologne in Germany, Zurich in Switzerland and Como in Italy.

It was announced late last week that the train will no longer launch in June as planned. The service will now take to the rails on 9 September. European Sleeper has said track works in Germany during summer 2026 and the certification process for Switzerland – which is a new country for its network – had caused the delay.

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The European Sleeper is scheduled to depart from Brussels on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday evenings, arriving in Zürich and Milan the following morning.

The return service from Milan will operate on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday nights. In Switzerland, the train will run via Zürich and the Gotthard Pass for the time being. That means it will not be going via the Simplon Pass, as previously planned. This has proved unfeasible due to track works scheduled through 2027.

“Luckily, the revised route via the Gotthard Pass also brings new opportunities,” a statement from the company read. “A stop in Göschenen provides convenient access to nearby ski resorts, while Lugano and Como offer easy connections to the well-known lakes and surrounding mountain landscapes.”

Tickets for the new route go on sale on 17 March 2026, with budget, classic, comfort standard and comfort plus available. Seats in budget start from €29.99 (£25) per person one way.

A couchette bed in a classic compartment is available from €49.99 (£43) including ticket, reservation, luggage and bed linen. Those who fancy splashing out a little more can choose comfort standard from €99.99 (£85) or comfort plus from €129.99 (£111) which includes breakfast.

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“Although the first departure comes a few months later than originally planned, the new connection marks an important milestone,” the company said in a press release.

European Sleeper already operates a service between Brussels and Prague, and a new connection between Paris and Berlin is launching later this month. Right now, prices begin from €69.99 (£60) for a one-way ticket in a shared compartment.

Nox, a Berlin-based startup, has said it will offer an affordable alternative to short-haul flights, from 2027, with single rooms starting from €79 (£67).

WHILE prices for the most popular Mediterranean resorts keep ­rising, you can get the same ­turquoise seas, mountain drives and warm hospitality in Albania – for a fraction of the cost.

Visit in the shoulder season and you’ll enjoy golden light and near-empty beaches at an unhurried pace.

Flying in to capital Tirana makes a good start for a road trip to explore the country.

Pick up a hire car at the airport and within minutes you’re twisting through mountain passes, gliding along coastal bays and pulling over in centuries-old towns.

Highways are good, but off the main roads expect to be swerving around goats and making stunning switchback turns. It’s all part of the adventure.

Your first major stop is the Unesco World Heritage town of Berat.

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White Ottoman houses stack up the hillside like sugar cubes, their wooden shutters glinting in the sun, giving it the nickname “city of a thousand windows”.

You can stay inside the Berat castle walls, living among ancient ramparts while children play football in cobbled lanes and grandmothers sell olive oil at their doorsteps.

It feels like stepping into another century.

Just outside Berat lies Alpeta Winery, run by the Fiska family.

The vineyards grow local grape varieties and the owner, Peter, walks among the tables at dinner, greeting guests and sharing his stories of the vines.

The wine-tasting tour takes you through reds, whites and fruit brandy rakia, ­partnered with local cheeses and olive oil.

This is Albania’s farm-to-table story in full swing.

After this, most tourists seeking sun and sea will race to Saranda, but Vlora makes a brilliant, less crowded alternative.

From here, you’re just a short drive from the Green Coast, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

Turquoise coves framed by pine-covered hills and crystal-clear shallows rival anywhere in the Med.

Back in the capital, Tirana surprises with its creative energy, street art and cafes.

Park in the vibrant Blloku district.

Once reserved for the elite, it’s now buzzing with nightlife, bars and restaurants.

The city is dotted with thousands of Cold War-era bunkers which have been cleverly repurposed into museums, cafes and art spaces.

Don’t miss Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2, immersive museums that give a striking insight into Albania’s communist past.

And be sure to climb the Pyramid of ­Tirana, a former communist landmark now converted into a lookout offering panoramic city views.

After dark, the city comes alive.

I went to Albania Night, and it is hands down one of the maddest immersive cultural shows I’ve experienced.

Guests can dress up in traditional ­Albanian outfits, dance until their feet nearly give out and become part of the ­performance.

Albania is evolving fast.

Live music, laughter and street-side festivities turn ­Tirana into a playground of culture and energy.

There are new coastal roads, boutique hotels are appearing in heritage towns — and word is starting to spread.

But key to its appeal is that it still feels under the radar.

Albania isn’t the “new Croatia” or the “next Greece”.

It’s got its own story — ­rugged, authentic and full of surprises.

From fortress towns perched on hillsides to empty coves by the sea, and from vineyard dinners to city nights that refuse to quit, you can have the kind of road trip that really stays with you.

If you’re chasing adventure, authenticity and excellent value for money, Albania is waiting, keys in the ignition.

A NEW sleeper train will soon connect four European cities.

European Sleeper is launching a train route between Brussels in Belgium and Milan in Italy.

The train will stop at Brussels in Belgium; Cologne in Germany; Zurich in Switzerland and Milan in Italy.

Onboard, the train will feature budget seats and sleeper options. 

Travellers will be able to reserve a seat or bed in a shared cabin.

The most affordable option will be seats, of which there are six per cabin.

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There will also be the option for Comfort Standard and Comfort Plus sleepers which will have fewer beds per cabin as well as more bedding and in the most luxurious category, amenities such as welcome drinks and a breakfast service.

In Comfort cabins, there can be up to five people with the carriage featuring seats during the day and beds at night.

There will also be a table available during the day.

These cabins tend to be mixed gender, but there are women-only cabins available to book.

Each passenger will get a blanket, a sheet and a pillow and the bathrooms can be found in the corridor.

Bottled water can also be found in each cabin, but breakfast has to be added to your booking for an additional fee.

In comparison, a Comfort Standard cabin has three beds, each with a duvet.

There is also a small window table and a big fold up table.

And finally, in Comfort Plus cabins passengers will find a maximum of three beds and seats in addition.

Towels, toiletries, breakfast, mineral water and a welcome drink are all included as well.

A small lounge is also planned for the train, where passengers will be able to buy snacks and drinks.

The train will feature plug sockets and basic Wi-Fi as well.

However, the anticipated launch date of the train has been pushed back from June 18 to September 9, with tickets available to book from March 17.

The train will operate from Brussels on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from Milan on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

From Brussels, the train will leave at 5:56pm each time, stopping in Cologne at 10:07pm, Zurich the following day at 6:42am and finally arriving in Milan at 11:30am.

From Milan, the train will leave at 5:30pm each time, stopping in Zurich at 10:35pm, Cologne the following day at 7:59am and finally Brussels at 11:10am.

Other stops on the route include Liège in Belgium; Aachen in Germany; Arth-Goldau, Göschenen, Bellinzona, Lugano and Chiasso in Switzerland and Lake Como in Italy.

Tickets for a shared classic compartment start from €49.99 (£43.31) one-way.

Alternatively, you can book a private space from €179.99 (£155.96) either in a classic compartment for up to five people or a comfort compartment for up to three people.

European Sleeper is also launching a route between Paris and Berlin on March 26, with a stop in Hamburg being added to the route from July 13.

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Plus, the little-known UK train trick that lets you visit up to three destinations for the price of one – and the best routes to do it.

IF YOU are thinking about where to visit on your next UK staycation, 17 UK cities have just been named among the best in Europe.

A report revealing Europe‘s best cities for 2026 has been released and 17 UK cities feature including the ‘Athens of the North’, one of the best cities in Europe for weather and the UK’s ‘newest second city’.

Cities across Europe were ranked across several categories using data from numerous sites such as social media and core statistics.

The categories include Livability, which looks at things such as biking options, public transport, air quality and green spaces; Lovability which looks at Instagram posts, theatres, museums and reviews and Prosperity, which looks at airports, business systems and universities – here are all of the UK entries.

London – 1st

Coming out on top of all 100 cities, is the UK’s capital – London.

Dubbed the ‘Capital of Capitals’, London secured the top position in three of the 34 subcategories, which was the most out of any city, including Prosperity and Lovability.

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It also came second on the Livability index.

The index states: “London’s magnetic appeal continues to draw a global audience, from students and entrepreneurs to tourists and corporate titans.”

The report notes how London & Partners’ Tourism Vision has set ambitious goals of making London the most visited, sustainable and diverse global city destination by 2030.

Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners said: “2026 is another year to watch for London, as the capital city undergoes major growth and transformation including the opening of two major museums (London Museum and V&A East), new theatres and world-first events like Pro Climbing League.

“London is truly Europe’s global city: with a trillion-dollar economy, more green space than any city on the continent and unrivalled connections to the rest of the world.”

Edinburgh – 23rd

The capital of Scotland is the second location in the UK to feature on the list, with the index noting how it is “rich with history” and “ambitiously
planning for the future“.

Dubbing it the “Athens of the North”, the index commended Edinburgh for its work to become net-zero by 2030.

In in particular, it highlighted how it is the second-most visited city in the UK after London thanks to its “cinematic views, among the freshest air in Europe (fourth for Air Quality), an array of sights (including its famed castle), and a happening citizenry that puts on the world’s premier Fringe Festival each year”.

The city is also planning 17 more hotels by 2028 as it prepares to host the start of the Tour de France in 2027.

Manchester – 27th

Naming Manchester “England‘s worker bee city”, the report highlights how the city boasts both industrial history and literary history as a UNESCO City of Literature.

The city’s opening of the 23,500-seat Co-op Live arena in 2024 – the largest indoor arena in the UK – has helped Manchester attract one million fans in less than a year.

In addition, the city was noted for its regeneration projects such as Old Trafford and its expansion of its airport, ranking it in the top five for connectivity in Europe.

Other top things to do in the city include heading to The Lowry which houses L.S. Lowry’s paintings and exploring Gothic architecture such as the John Rylands Library.

Glasgow – 51st

Described as “Scotland’s artful, urban heart”, Glasgow placed 51st.

The vibrant city that is the home of Scottish Opera, Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland is a former European Capital of Culture.

It is also a top city for music and its tourism is on the rise, with around five million overnight visitors staying in the city in 2024, a 20 per cent increase from 2023.

If visiting the city, make sure to head to its free museums like the Burrell Collection and do a bit of shopping on Buchanan Street.

Bristol – 56th

Highlighting its creative industry, the report named Bristol in 56th place.

Stand out features of the city include the opening of the YTL Arena at Brabazon Hangars in 2028, which will be on the city’s former Filton Airfield which was once home to Concorde.

The venue will include a festival hall, community hub, food hall, work spaces and leisure facilities.

If heading to the city, make sure to explore the street art and try and look out for pieces by Banksy…

Birmingham – 57th

Following Bristol in 57th place is Birmingham.

According to the report, few cities entertain like Birmingham does, “where
classic pubs and underground clubs power a happening nightlife scene, ranked 23rd in Europe”.

And the city has a number of new projects in the works include the Powerhouse Stadium, which will be a 62,000-seat arena and the future home of Birmingham City Football Club.

If you love chocolate, make sure to visit Cadbury World.

Liverpool – 66th

The city of Liverpool placed 66th on the table with its cultural quarters and regeneration works noted.

Projects in the city include the regeneration of the North Docks and the revitalisation of the city’s International Slavery Museum.

The city’s nightlife is also great, with a range of pubs and bars scoring it 16th best for nightlife in Europe.

If you are a fan of The Beatles, you can head to The Beatles Story, which is the world’s largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the band.

Oxford – 68th

The historic university city of Oxford came in at 68th.

Under an hour from London on the train, Oxford is home to Europe’s best university.

The city is also home to historic pubs and fascinating architecture, including Gothic spires.

In addition the report noted how the city is “an understated green space gem” with several connections to famous literary figures such as CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien.

Many of the historic buildings in the city and on the university campus offer tours such as the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.

Leeds – 71st

In 71st place is Leeds – described as being “ripe for fun and investment”.

Currently, the city is undergoing a massive terminal expansion at its airport to accommodate visitor demand.

And the city has a number of other visitor-focused projects, with Premier Inn opened a 143-room hotel atop Leeds City Market.

When in the city, visit the Victorian Corn Exchange to discover independent boutiques.

Sheffield – 82nd

The city that George Orwell once called “the ugliest town in the Old World” is now “Yorkshire’s brainy, prosperous hub” according to the report.

Placing 82nd, the report celebrates Sheffield for its “glassy university centres, myriad green spaces, and some of the cleanest air in Europe (32nd)”.

Close to the city, you can also head to the Peak District National Park for walks and amazing views of the countryside.

Nottingham – 83rd

One place behind Sheffield is Nottingham in 83rd place.

The city is currently undergoing a number of ambitious projects including the development of the €1.61billion Island Quarter, which will feature restaurants, an events hall and homes.

As the “Home of English Sport”, the city also has a plethora of great pubs to explore.

Make sure to check out the City of Caves when in Nottingham – it boasts over 800 caves hand-carved into the sandstone.

Southampton – 85th

Coming in 85th place is Southampton.

Dubbed the “rising star of England’s southern coast”, Southampton has a lots of maritime history, including being the departure point for the Titanic.

And you’re not short of green space in the city either, with 11 Green Flag-certified parks.

Another spot worth exploring in the city is Tudor House and Gardens, which is Southampton’s most important historic building.

Belfast – 89th

Placing 89th is Belfast in Northern Ireland.

The city which is famous for the Titanic, is also undergoing one of Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration projects as Titanic Quarter.

The redeveloped area will include a new addition to the Titanic Museum and establishing the former Bank of Ireland into a new visitor attraction.

Portsmouth – 95th

Scooping up 95th place is Portsmouth.

This year, the seaside city will see the reopening of Hilsea Lido as well as a number of other coastal projects that will create more green spaces and public areas.

Also this year, Portsmouth 100 will kick off to celebrate the century of the destination being a city.

It will be a year-long celebration with a number of exhibitions and events.

Coventry – 98th

Securing 98th place is Coventry, with “the third-best weather in Europe”, according to the report.

The city is currently working on a City Centre project as well, which should create a new district in the heart of the city.

One top spot to explore in the city are the ruins of the Cathedral.

Cardiff – 99th

Coming in at 99th is Cardiff, which according to the report could be the UK’s new second city.

Being the closest European capital to London via train (under two hours), the city has a lot to offer including mountains, beaches and castles.

And the city’s station will start a massive rebuild this year set to cost €162million.

The city is also home to a number of recent projects including the regeneration of Cardiff Bay and The Bay Wetlands.

Another new project is Atlantic Wharf which will feature new homes, hotels and an indoor arena set to open in 2028m along with a 120-room floating hotel.

Newcastle – 100th

Last but not least and securing the final spot on the table, is Newcastle.

Just two-and-a-half hours from London by train, Newcastle features a number of new attractions.

For example, you can head to Freight Island, with street-food and events.

EasyJet has also launched a new base at Newcastle Airport, adding 11 flight routes.

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FROM our boat chugging its way across Sydney Harbour, the tourists on top of the famous Bridge look tiny.

“That’ll be us tomorrow!” my travelling companion gleefully shouts. I gulp. I’m not a fan of heights.

The splendour of the Opera House, bathed in early autumn sunshine, provides a welcome distraction as we make the short trip up the coast.

The $A8 (£4) ferry trip to the chilled beach suburb of Manly is a cheap way to get the stunning views of Sydney’s skyline from the water without shelling out for a tourist boat.

Manly is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and chilling out, and we also went to snorkel in the protected marine reserve of Cabbage Tree Bay with our expert guide from EcoTreasures.

Just a few hours earlier we’d been knocking back cocktails in the late-night bars of harbourside area, The Rocks.

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But a 20-minute hop on a ferry and we were donning masks and flippers and seeing a wonderful array of exotic sea creatures in their natural habitat.

We saw green turtles, blue gropers, banjo rays and tropical butterfly fish in Manly’s welcoming waters.

A quick stop for a tasty beach-side lunch with waves crashing below us at The Pantry, and we head back into the city for a sumptuous waterfront dinner at Midden by Mark Olive in the base of the Opera House, before taking in its annual open-air show just round the corner.

That was a decent distraction ahead of the looming bridge climb.

The experience isn’t cheap, with prices from £126pp, but the views are as amazing as you’d expect.

And, for those who also get nervous around heights, it wasn’t too bad at all, given the gradual nature of the climb and the sturdy construction of the bridge!

Our climb was led by an indigenous Australian guide who gave us a fascinating walk-through of Sydney’s history from an Aboriginal perspective as we ascended.

And that native Australian flavour underpinned all of our experiences as we explored Sydney – from our harbour tour with the Tribal Warrior Cruise company to a menu inspired by traditional bush food at Midden.

A guided tour around the city’s stunning (and free to enter) Botanical Gardens was a relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon.

If you’re travelling as part of a group, I’d recommend buying a picnic box from the Botanic House restaurant to take out among the exotic trees and chattering birds.

For a less formal, more fun way to eat in the evening, try the newly opened Paddy’s Markets just a short hop from the city centre in Chinatown.

Here, you’ll find an array of vibrant street food and bars serving cocktails or whatever else takes your fancy after a day exploring.

Or if you’re celebrating – after Sydney helped you conquer your fear of heights.

THINKING about your next holiday? Well you might want to consider the three destinations Jet2 will be flying to next year.

From next summer, Jet2 will fly to new destinations from Bournemouth and Edinburgh Airports.

There will be a route from Bournemouth to Reus, Spain and then there will be routes from Edinburgh to Pula, Croatia and to Crete, Greece.

The Reus route will operate every Sunday, from May 2 to October 31.

As for the Edinburgh to Crete route, this will operate every Wednesday, from May 5 to October 27.

The Pula route will then operate on Sundays from May 2 to October 17.

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Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Reus, Crete (Chania) and Pula are magical destinations, and we know their appeal, coupled with our award-winning customer experience, will make them much sought-after from Bournemouth and Edinburgh Airports.

“We look forward to taking holidaymakers to these new summer hotspots.”

Travellers heading to Reus can expect Modernist architecture across the city, including the Pere Mata Institute – a grand building home to a psychiatric hospital.

In fact, famous architect Antoni Gaudi – who designed the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona – was born in the city.

You can even go to the Gaudi Centre in the city, which is dedicated to the architect.

Make sure to also visit Casa Navas, which is a preserved Modernist building that is often thought to be one of the best examples of Art Nouveau in Europe.

It was built between 1901 and 1908 and inside, everything is original including the furniture, stained glass and mosaics.

For amazing views of the city and beyond, head up the 62metre Prioral Sant Pere Bell Tower.

Then for a bit of retail therapy, there is the shopping district which offers both brand names and more independent boutiques.

Over in Pula, Croatia, visitors can explore the coastal city which is well-known for its preserved Roman ruins.

These include Pula Arena – a large Roman amphitheatre that hosts concerts and festivals.

Make sure to not miss the old town as well, with the eight-metre high Triumphal Arch of Sergii and the 2,000-year-old Temple of Augustus which was dedicated to the first Roman emperor, of the same name.

Of course, thanks to the city being on the coast there are also a number of beaches.

For example, you could head to Beach Valovine which is about 15 minutes from Pula and you’ll find crystal clear waters.

One recent visitor said: “The views and scenery here were unrivaled – loved walking over the rocks at the ocean’s edge.”

And last but not least, if you choose to head to Chania, Crete in Greece, you can explore a stunning 14th century Venetian harbour and vibrant old town.

In the old harbour, which is in the heart of the city, you can explore streets lined with Venetian-era buildings and a 16th century lighthouse.

Then in the old town, you will find a variety of Venetian, Ottoman and Greek architecture with cosy cafes such as Cvajner Gallery, which is found in former bank.

Crete is full of stunning beaches and close to Chania town you can relax at Chrissi Akti, also known as the ‘Golden Beach’.

From the town it is about a 40 minute walk or a short bus ride.

The beach has golden sand as its nickname suggests and visitors can hire sunbeds and umbrellas.

There’s even a small playground for little ones.

Perhaps one of the most famous beaches to visit though, is Elafonissi Beach which is known for its pink sand.

It is an ideal spot for families due to its shallow waters and is often named among the most beautiful beaches in the world.

In other flight route news, the best airlines in the UK have been revealed – with the number one carrier having the fewest flight cancellations and free luggage for passengers.

Plus, British Airways has launched a business class sale with £500 off flights.

It’s one thing most everyone agrees on: federal funding cuts have left the Los Angeles County health system teetering toward financial collapse.

But the supervisors’ chosen antidote — a half-cent sales tax to replenish county coffers — is being condemned by a slew of cities as its own form of financial catastrophe.

“I heard from every city in my district,” said Kathryn Barger, the only supervisor who voted against putting the sales tax on the June ballot.

The resounding reaction? “Absolutely not,” she says.

“People are fatigued,” Barger said. “I’m not convinced that it’s going to pass.”

Observers wouldn’t have sensed that fatigue from the rowdy crowd of supporters that filled the board meeting Tuesday, along with seldom-used overflow rooms. The supervisors voted 4-1 at the meeting to put the tax on the ballot.

“There really are no other viable and timely options,” said Supervisor Holly Mitchell, who introduced the measure along with Supervisor Hilda Solis. “Trust me, I looked high and low.”

The goal, supervisors say, is to generate $1 billion per year to backfill the dwindling budgets of local hospitals and clinics battered by federal funding cuts.

The county’s already bracing for impact. The Department of Public Health announced Friday it would shutter seven clinics. Officials say it’s just the beginning, with the county poised to lose more than $2 billion in funding for health services over the next three years. Hospitals could be down the road, they warn.

But many cities, some of which could have local sales tax hit more than 11%, are revolting on the plan.

“I have been getting calls and texts and letters like honestly I have not gotten in a long time,” Supervisor Janice Hahn told the audience as a message from Jeff Wood — the vice mayor of Lakewood — pinged on her phone. “They are really diving in on this one.”

In a series of opposition letters, the cities unleashed a torrent of criticism. Norwalk called the tax “rushed.” Palmdale said it had “significant flaws.” Glendale found it “deeply troubling and fundamentally unfair.”

Some bristled at the cost to consumers. Palmdale and Lancaster — some of the poorest cities in the county — could wind up with some of the highest sales tax rates in the state if the measure passes.

Some cities say the bigger issue is they don’t trust the county. They point to its checkered history of pushing ballot measures that don’t live up to their promises.

Measure B, a special parcel tax, was passed in 2002 to fund the county’s trauma center network. An audit more than a decade later found the county couldn’t prove it used the money for emergency medical services.

Measure H, the homelessness services tax measure, was passed in 2017 as a temporary tax. Voters agreed in 2024 to make the tax permanent and to double the rate — though some cities insist they’ve never gotten their fair share of the funds.

“It’s a historical issue,” said Glendora mayor David Fredendall, whose city opposes the sales tax. “We don’t trust it.”

The county decided to put the sales tax on the ballot as a general tax, meaning the money goes into the general fund. Legally, supervisors could use the money for whatever services they desire.

“They say ‘No, this is our plan’, but we’re going to expand from five to nine supervisors over the next few years before this tax expires,” said Marcel Rodarte, the head of the California Contract Cities Assn., a coalition of cities inside the county. “They may say we need to use these funds for something else.”

A general tax also is easier to pass, since it needs only a majority vote. Special taxes — levies earmarked for a specific purpose — need two-thirds of the vote.

The measure also asks voters to approve the creation of an oversight group that would monitor where the money goes. The supervisors also voted on a spending plan for the tax money, which would dedicate the largest portion of funds for uninsured residents over the next five years.

Some opponents predict the tax will stick around longer than advertised.

“A temporary tax is like Bigfoot,” said Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn., a group that advocates for lower taxes. “It exists in fantasy.”

State of play

— FRIENDLY FIRE: Three hours before the filing deadline, L.A. City Councilmember Nithya Raman jumped into the race for mayor, challenging her former ally Karen Bass. Her candidacy will be Bass’ most serious threat.

— DEFUND DETOUR: Shortly after, Raman staked out her position on cops, saying she doesn’t want the LAPD to lose more police. Raman called for department downsizing when she first ran for city council in 2020.

— LOYAL LABOR: The head of the AFL-CIO, the county’s powerful labor federation, blasted Raman as an “opportunist.” Federation president Yvonne Wheeler said her organization will “use every tool” at its disposal to get Bass reelected.

— PETITION PUSH: Scores of candidates for L.A. city offices picked up their petitions Feb. 7, launching their effort to collect the signatures they need to qualify for the ballot. The first to turn in a petition was Councilmember Traci Park, who is facing two challengers while running for reelection in a coastal district.

— EYES ON ICE: Los Angeles police officers must turn on their body cameras if they’re at the scene of federal immigration enforcement operations, according to a new executive directive issued by Bass. LAPD officers also must document the name and badge number of the agents’ on-scene supervisor.

— CONTESTING CLEANUPS: A federal judge ruled this week that the city of L.A. violated the constitutional rights of homeless people by seizing and destroying their personal property during encampment cleanups. Lawyers for the plaintiffs want U.S. District Judge Dale S. Fischer to issue an injunction requiring the city to give homeless people the opportunity to contest the seizure of their property.

— HOTEL HIKE: Voters in the June 2 election will be asked to hike the city’s tax on nightly hotel stays — increasing it to 16% from 14% — for the next three years. The tax would then drop to 15% in 2029.

— PAYDAY POLITICS: The county is considering a proposal that would remove supervisors’ final decision-making power in contract disputes involving sheriff’s deputies and firefighters. Supporters say it’ll take politics out of labor negotiations while opponents warn of bloated labor costs.

QUICK HITS

• Where is Inside Safe? The mayor’s signature homelessness program went to Los Angeles City Council District 13, bringing 50 unhoused Angelenos indoors from an encampment.
• On the docket next week: The county’s back to its marathon budget briefings. Tune in Tuesday for presentations from the sheriff, district attorney and probation department.

Stay in touch

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