THE Netherlands’ best-kept secret is out . . . Utrecht is now stealing the spotlight from Amsterdam.
With historic streets, lively bars and quirky shops, it is quickly becoming Europe’s must-visit city.
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Find out why Utrecht is stealing Amsterdam’s thunderCredit: Getty
Lonely Planet has tipped it as one of 2026’s hottest destinations and people are already flocking to see what all the fuss is about.
With architectural wonders, canal-side restaurants and intriguing after-dark hotspots, it is easy to see why visitors are falling head over heels for the Dutch delight . . .
WHY SHOULD I GO?
WITH a labyrinth of canals and charming gabled houses, Utrecht’s streets brim with character.
It delivers all the allure of capital Amsterdam, but without the crowds.
Beyond the medieval charm, Utrecht offers far more than fairytale backdrops.
It has a vibrant arts and music scene where Johnny Marr, Ride and Wolf Alice have performed.
For a bird’s-eye view of the city, head to the Dom Tower.
Soaring 112 metres, it is the tallest church spire in the Netherlands and has been a landmark since 1382.
Climb right to the top for your panoramic views.
STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?
UTRECHT is one of the world’s most walkable cities, with 75 per cent of locals on foot or bike.
Explore the old town, or hop on a 90-minute canal cruise to discover historic wharves and charming houses — all brought to life by tales from a skipper.
Go full Dutch and cycle the streetsCredit: Getty
ANYTHING FOR BUCKET LIST?
GO underground at DOMunder and wander through 2,000 years of history beneath the streets, including Roman ruins and medieval cellars.
Art lovers will swoon at the Rietveld Schroder house, a Unesco-listed modernist gem.
Meanwhile, the Museum Speelklok lets visitors relive history with its whimsical self- playing musical instruments.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT?
KICKSTART your day at Bunk, a chic spot in a converted church.
The Dutch Breakfast (£16) serves up Eggs Benedict, a cheesy pancake, and a Dutch speciality — a spicy slice of cake for a quirky but delicious way to start your day.
Head to on-trend Café Olivier for refreshmentsCredit: Alamy
For a laid-back lunch, head to Il Pozzo, tucked away on the waterfront. Its wood-fired pizzas are perfect for a lazy meal as you watch the boats drift by.
On the go? Toque Toque sells toasted sandwiches starting at £7.
For an elegant dinner, try Jack Rabbit, with its oversized shimmering rabbit on the walls.
There are small plates of tuna sashimi and sea bass ceviche, crafted cocktails and a buzzing, hip vibe.
If you are after something heartier, Broadway Steakhouse sizzles with a relaxed, stylish setting.
I FANCY A DRINK
CANAL-SIDE sips and cocktail bars set the scene for an evening out.
Kick things off at the on-trend Café Olivier, a converted abbey with vaulted walls serving Belgian beers from £3.90.
Then wander along the Oudegracht to De Rechtbank, a buzzing hotspot with inventive cocktails and a lively terrace.
For a more laid-back vibe, check out Vino Vero, where the expertly chosen wines come at surprisingly great prices.
If you are after something more exotic, duck into the city’s cellars to The Rum Club, where rum cocktails and reggae beats transport you to the Caribbean.
Café DeRat, with a rotating selection of local brews, keeps regulars coming back for more.
And for a touch of glamour, head to Café Lebowski, a speakeasy-style bar where cocktails are expertly crafted in an intimate setting.
WHERE TO STAY
THE Moxy Utrecht is a fun, budget-friendly option in the city centre.
With stylish rooms, a buzzing bar, playful decor, oversized chess sets and complimentary bike hire, it’s the perfect base.
Rooms start from £92 a night.
For those ready to splash out, Grand Hotel Karel V, housed in a former 14th-century monastery, is pure indulgence.
It combines historic charm with modern luxury and also has a Michelin-starred restaurant and a great wellness centre.
GO: UTRECHT
GETTING THERE: Several airlines fly to Amsterdam Schiphol, including easyJet, BA and KLM from London, plus Manchester and Liverpool.
Fares start from £71 return.
From Schiphol, it is less than 30 minutes by train to Utrecht.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at The Moxy Utrecht from £92 per night, Grand Hotel Karel V rooms from £229.
A MEDITERRANEAN destination nicknamed ‘the land of jasmine’ will soon have an even bigger airport with space for millions more passengers.
Plans have been revealed to expand and modernise Tunis-Carthage International Airport in Tunisia, Africa as it aims to quadruple its passenger numbers in just five years.
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Tunis-Carthage International Airport will undergo a £743million upgradeCredit: Alamy
The airport – which is the 10th busiest in Africa – will undergo a major £743million makeover over the next five years.
The country’s Transport Ministry shared that the plans will include building a new passenger terminal as well as the existing terminal being renovated.
Between the two terminals, the Transport Ministry aims to increase passenger numbers from five million people per year to 18.5million passengers by 2031.
There will also be a new technical building and the air traffic control tower will be upgraded.
Some reports suggest that the broader project will involve adding VIP lounges as well.
In addition, the Transport Ministry hopes that it will improve connectivity placing Tunisia as a gateway to the Mediterranean with links to Africa, Europe and emerging destinations.
The upgrade could also pave the way for new airline partnerships and flight routes.
News of the makeover follows original plans for building a new airport being put on hold.
Known as ‘the land of jasmine’ for its use of jasmine flowers in festivals, cultural traditions and perfumes, Tunisia takes about three hours to fly to from the UK.
The Sun’s Deputy Digital TV Editor Jill Robinson recently visited the city and said: “Winding my way through narrow streets, the smell of jasmine and mint tea fills the air as I pass craftsmen, locals doing their shopping and an abundance of cats.
“It would have been easy to think I was in the souks of Marrakech, but I’m in Tunis, the capital of Tunisia.
“While its Medina is not as chaotic as its Moroccan counterpart, the historic streets bustle with locals selling their wares as tourists like me squeeze through.
Tunisia is around three hours from the UK with flights in April costing as little as £30 one-wayCredit: Getty
“From traditional clothing to jewellery, perfume to sweet treats, there’s any amount of treasures to be found just as long as you’re prepared to haggle.
“The Medina was built around the big mosque — nicknamed the Olive Tree Mosque due to the trees there in the 8th century — but it is also home to 100 smaller mosques.
“While Tunisia is an Islamic country, its history and influences are vast — including Arab, Andalucian, Turkish and Berber — and are visible to see as you take in the colourful arched doorways, former palaces and humble homes.
“On a day trip from my hotel, I learned about the rich culture of Tunis and the ancient ruins of Carthage, whose most famous son Hannibal (of elephants fame) became one of history’s most celebrated generals and took on the might of the Roman Empire in the Second Punic War.”
If you fancy a beach day, head to La Marsa where you will find a number of calm beaches, with cosy cafes and crystal clear waters.
Nearby, you can also head to the blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said, which sits on a clifftop and is often compared to Santorini in Greece.
Near the capital Tunis, you can head to the blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou SaidCredit: Alamy
There’s Djerba Island as well, which is loved for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife.
The temperature can reach up to 20C in March and 22C in April, making it the ideal destination to grab a bit of warmth while the UK remains around 10C.
Nouvelair Tunisie offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Tunis-Carthage Airport and Tunisair offers direct flights from both London Heathrow and Gatwick Airports.
Travis Kelce is on his way back to the NFL for a 14th season, and it was reported Monday that his destination will be a return to the Kansas City Chiefs, the only team for which he has played.
The Chiefs don’t have as much money to spend in free agency as many other teams, but Kelce, 36, is expected to turn down more lucrative offers to stay with the Chiefs, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport said.
The Chiefs have $23 million–$25 million in available salary cap space. The team created room after restructuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract, releasing veteran tackle Jawaan Taylor, and trading elite cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams.
Kelce, one of the most popular players in the NFL and a certain Hall of Famer, contemplated retirement after the 2025-26 season. The Chiefs cratered to a 6-11 record, losing their last six games and finishing a distant third in the AFC West behind the Denver Broncos and Chargers. They missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014.
Kelce admits to having lost a step, but he still finished with 76 receptions on 108 targets and 851 receiving yards. He was voted to the Pro Bowl for the 11th year in a row and moved up to eighth on the all-time receiving list. He has more career receptions (1,080) than any tight end besides Tony Gonzalez (1,325) and Jason Witten (1,228).
His decision to return for one more season followed weeks of discussion with Chiefs Coach Andy Reid, teammates, family and close confidantes — including his fiancé and music megastar Taylor Swift. Kelce co-hosts the popular “New Heights” podcast every Wednesday during the NFL season with his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles six-time All-Pro center Jason Kelce.
Kelce, who has made about $112 million in salary, is expected to take a pay cut and play the 2026-27 season for about $10 million. His two-year, $34.25 million contract extension expired after last season, making him a free agent.
“I just love this team,” Kelce said in January after the Chiefs’ last game. “I’m proud of the way we finished this, even though it ended the way it did. The guys still showed up and gave it their all. That’s all you can ask for, man. I’ve got so much love for this team, this organization and the people here.”
A week earlier, he admitted retirement had crossed his mind after the Chiefs’ last home game.
“A whole lot of emotions,” he told reporters. “You’ve got everybody in the world watching you. You get to go out there with the young guys on prime-time television. Young guys getting an opportunity to taste what this NFL life is like.”
Yet he also savored the moment, and hinted that he might enjoy the adulation of Chiefs fans a bit longer.
“You only get a few of those where you get to stand there and appreciate 70,000 Chiefs fans cheering for you,” he said. “I always embrace that moment.
“You feel the generations of happiness and the love [the fans] have. It’s a beautiful thing, man.”
A popular sun-drenched and culturally rich country has topped the poll as the place to book for Brits heading on holiday this year – but have you been?
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As Brits look towards booking some summer sunshine, the UK’s top trending destination has been revealed – and it’s a sun-drenched country steeped in history just a four-hour plane ride away.
Tour operator Riviera Travel has compared bookings for January and February 2026 to last year’s and discovered the fastest-growing destination has had a 310% increase in demand.
The figures show travellers are increasingly looking beyond typical European destinations and spreading their net to the Middle East and even as far as Southeast Asia. The location with the biggest surge in demand for 2026 is Egypt.
In addition to Egypt’s mostly dry weather that sports lots of sunshine and very little rain, as one of the world’s oldest civilisations, the country has a wealth of unparalleled history.
The Ancient Egyptian civilisation – with a history spanning close to 3,000 years – left a compelling legacy in the many monuments that have stood the test of time. From the mighty pyramids to the impressive temples, sacred chambers, and treasure-filled tombs, there is an abundance of world-famous attractions for travellers to visit.
Many people take the opportunity to cruise down the world-famous Nile while holidaying in Egypt and Will Sarson, travel expert at Riviera Travel, explained why that was proving so popular for holiday makers in 2026.
He said: “Egypt’s 310% surge in interest reflects the timeless draw of the Nile, where travelling by river offers a uniquely immersive way to experience one of the world’s oldest civilisations. Ancient temples, riverside villages and fertile banks unfold gradually, creating a powerful sense of continuity between past and present.
“Time along the Nile allows for deep exploration of monumental sites such as Luxor, Karnak and the Valley of the Kings, balanced with quieter moments watching daily life along the water. The experience feels both awe-inspiring and surprisingly intimate, with history never far from view.”
The best time to visit the country is between October and April when the daytime temperatures are comfortable, and the nighttime temperatures are cool. The coolest month is January and the hottest are from June to August.
For those wanting to experience some sand and sea as well as some culture, Egypt’s beaches offer something for every kind of traveller. From the snorkel-friendly water in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh to the wildlife-rich bays of Marsa Alam, Egypt’s Red Sea coast lines up some of the country’s best beaches.
Those deciding to visit and stay in one place often travel to the tourist-friendly region of Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, which offer a wide array of child-friendly attractions and hotels.
The Mirror’s Jess Phillips was recently blown away by a visit to Egypt. “I genuinely feel as though I discovered one of Egypt’s best-kept secrets after jetting off from London Gatwick on a direct TUI flight to Marsa Alam International – the country’s first privately owned and operated international airport, which opened in 2003,” she wrote.
“Marsa Alam is a burgeoning coastal resort catering to tourists from around the world. The area is still actively developing – though that definitely doesn’t mean it’s lacking in things to do – and offers the best of both worlds: incredible beaches, perfect blue water, and the more traditional Egyptian desert experiences.”
EGYPT is having a holiday comeback, with trips to the destination booming according to all the experts.
The Red Sea resorts are tempting holidaymakers back with their incredible weather, beautiful beaches, activities like snorkelling – and it’s just five hours away.
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Brits are heading back to Egypt – and it’s 22C there this weekCredit: AlamySearches for Egypt holidays are up 10 per cent according to TUICredit: Alamy
For many years Egypt was the sought-after destination for Brits thanks to its promise of great weather and barely any rain.
In 2010, Egypt saw peak British holidaymaker numbers, with around 1.4million tourists visiting.
But then Brits stopped going to Egypt as much – leading to the 2011 flight cancellations – due to conflict within the region.
This was followed by the 2015 terror attack on a Russian passenger plane which killed all 224 onboard.
Now, many airlines fly to to Egypt, in particular the Red Sea resorts, like EgyptAir, easyJet, TUI, Wizz Air, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines.
And interest in heading to Egypt is higher than ever – TUI has revealed that customer numbers are up 10 percent more than last year.
It’s not just TUI which has found that Egypt is growing ever more popular. River cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel named it as the fastest-growing destination for 2026.
Comparing January-February 2025 with January-February 2026 bookings, Egypt is up 310 per cent.
It’s no surprise as in just five hours Brits can enjoy sun, sea and sand as well as affordable food and drink.
The resort cities are brilliant winter sun destinations and during the summer, temperatures can be as high as 38C – this week it’s seeing highs of 22C.
It’s not just the sunshine and beautiful resorts either as Egypt remains very affordable too.
According to Wise, a beer in Egypt can be as little as 50EG£ which is 77p.
Coffee can be as little as 54p and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant starts from £1.55.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK&I added: “It’s one of our most in demand destinations and a stand-out location for holidaymakers in 2026.
“The choice and standard of hotels have evolved significantly keeping pace with the increased demand from UK and international tourists.”
He named Sharm El Sheikh as a popular spot for couples with its blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and world‑class reefs.
Hurghada is a popular resort destination for familiesCredit: AlamyTUI offers package holidays to resorts like the TUI MAGIC LIFE Redsina in Sharm el SheikhCredit: TUI
Whereas Hurghada is “especially popular with families thanks to its impressive all‑inclusive offering, shallow beaches, and brilliant snorkelling”.
There’s also Marsa Alam which is gaining in popularity with “pristine beaches, exceptional diving, and a more laid‑back atmosphere”.
Chris added: “Value for money is another reason for Egypt’s resurgence.
“Whether it’s grabbing a pint in Hurghada for the equivalent of 80p, enjoying a cocktail on the seafront in Sharm for just £3, or dining out at local restaurants, customers consistently tell us they’re getting exceptional quality at a price that’s hard to beat.
“While Spain and Turkey remain firm favourites, we’re seeing North Africa flourish and Egypt is leading the way as the top choice for 2026.
“It really does have everything – UNESCO listed bucket list experiences, a welcoming culture, inspiring history, adventure, value, amazing resorts and hotels, beautiful locations, crystal clear waters, and outstanding beaches.
“All within easy reach of the UK. What’s not to love?”
TUI has revealed some of its favourite package holidays.
In Marsa Alam, you can stay in the Jaz Grand Marsa with TUI from £625ppCredit: TUI
This is based on two adults sharing a Family Area Deluxe Double Room with Garden View and Balcony departing from London Gatwick on 11 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
If you’re heading to Marsa Alam, TUI offers a seven-night holiday at the Jaz Grand Marsa on an all-inclusive basis from £625 per person.
Price is based on two adults sharing a Superior Twin Room with Garden View and Balcony or Terrace departing from London Gatwick on 15 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
Here is perfect for swimmers as its private beach has a coral reef – and there’s a trio of sea-view pools.
Over in Hurghada, you can stay at the 3T Sindbad Club on an all-inclusive basis from £1114 per person.
Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a Superior Family Room with Pool View, Waterpark View and Balcony departing from Birmingham on 30 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
This hotel is great for families as it has its own waterpark and a pool scene as well a 10 bars and five restaurants.
Here are the 10 fastest-growing destinations for 2026…
Riviera Travel named these 10 destinations the fastest-growing destinations for this year…
This beautiful city is considered one of Europe’s sunniest destinations, with direct flights from the UK starting from as little as £20
The European city offers the perfect winter escape(Image: Getty Images)
Britain’s dreary weather has us fantasising about a sunshine-filled break, and there’s one European destination that ranks amongst the warmest spots to visit in March, boasting pleasant 21C temperatures.
At this point in the calendar, it’s tempting to believe we must splash out on a lengthy long-haul journey to some far-flung tropical paradise to soak up scorching heat. However, several mild European locations deliver welcoming sunshine during Britain’s chillier months, including the stunning Spanish city of Seville.
Under three hours from Britain, Andalusia’s capital features delightful narrow lanes adorned with orange trees, magnificent Moorish-influenced architecture and celebrated landmarks that prove just as breathtaking in reality as in photographs. Seville holds the distinction of being amongst Europe’s sunniest cities, blessed with sunshine throughout the year.
There’s no shortage of activities and attractions during a Seville getaway, though its architecture remains a particular highlight. Among its most renowned is the Alcázar of Seville, the city’s Royal Palace, showcasing Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque influences, which famously appeared in Game of Thrones.
Another must-see is the Catedral de Sevilla, amongst the world’s largest cathedrals, boasting a royal chapel and the Giralda tower, which provides sweeping vistas across the vibrant city. The Setas de Sevilla, nicknamed the ‘Mushrooms of Seville’, is another eye-catching monument – a massive timber structure featuring a rooftop walkway that’s become a popular spot for visitors hoping to catch Seville’s stunning sunset.
The sun-drenched city also offers Santa Cruz, the historic Jewish quarter characterised by blossom-lined streets and golden buildings, alongside Seville’s celebrated Parque de María Luisa, which runs alongside the peaceful Guadalquivir River. One of the city’s most iconic spots is the renowned Plaza de España, situated within Maria Luisa park, which features a moat crossed by four bridges representing Spain’s ancient kingdoms, plus 52 tiled benches depicting different Spanish provinces.
A visitor who explored Plaza de España last month wrote on TripAdvisor: “This is a beautiful place, the buildings are immense, the history amazing, and the atmosphere is superb. I visited twice on our recent trip once early morning and I was the only person and once on a sunny afternoon with my wife. The difference in feelings was great, but both were unforgettable experiences. A must when visiting Seville.”
Wandering through this stunning city is effortless, with its iconic architecture and rich heritage seamlessly woven into its lively, acclaimed culture. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Flamenco performances and experience the buzzing nightlife, whilst welcoming eateries serve up Spain’s finest culinary offerings through their famous tapas, and bars pour their distinctive orange wine.
Whilst summer temperatures can be blistering, particularly when sightseeing, a trip during the opening months of the year brings pleasant 21C warmth, making it a perfect winter getaway. What’s more, direct flights from London airports kick off at just £20 – what’s not to love?
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The cheapest European destination has been revealed for the Easter holidays, with golden sand beaches, sun-soaked rays and a charming town, for a fraction of the price
A beautiful coastal town is the ‘cheapest place to visit’ for an Easter getaway(Image: Getty Images)
A beautiful town with golden-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters offers the best bang for your buck with £2 pints and a balmy 25C during the Easter holidays.
The resort town of Marmaris, on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, has been named the cheapest destination for a European escape during the Easter holidays. With sprawling beaches, scenic marinas and mountainous landscapes, it’s just over four hours from the UK, and is half the price of a trip to Paris during the same time.
When it comes to an affordable European getaway, thoughts can often turn to Paris, due to its convenient location, less than three hours from the UK by Eurostar or a swift flight that takes just over 90 minutes. While it’s a quick journey, the cost of a stay in the ‘City of Light’ can quickly rack up.
In fact, Which? revealed that Paris is the most expensive short-haul city break destination you could choose over Easter, setting you back on average, £1,310 per person. Meanwhile, after comparing more than 3,000 package holidays during the busy travel period, the travel experts found that Marmaris offered the cheapest Easter holiday this year.
According to Which?, a stay at the sun-soaked city would cost an average of £594 per person for a seven-night package – half the cost of a trip to Paris! What’s more, Marmaris can reach highs of 25C in April, compared to 16C in Paris.
Often dubbed the ‘King of the coast’, Marmaris is a haven for those seeking an escape in the blistering heat and days spent at their sprawling sand beaches, which are undoubtedly a big draw to Brits. One of the most popular is Marmaris Long Beach (Uzunyali), stretching 4km near the city centre and lined with restaurants and bars, with a selection of water sports on offer.
There’s also Icmeler Beach with calm, azure waters and a relaxed atmosphere, and Turunç Beach with pebbly shores and crystal-clear waters, just a short drive from the city centre. For those feeling a little more adventurous, they can take a short boat ride to the stunning Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island, for a slice of paradise, with its soft white sand and ancient ruins.
The Marmaris coast is dotted with luxurious resorts catering to all holidaymakers, including those looking for a stress-free family getaway with a range of activities and swimming pools to keep the little ones entertained. There’s also plenty to do away from the shores, including snorkelling boat trips, jeep safaris and a visit to the Atlantis Waterpark, which kids will love!
The charming town of Marmaris is also worth exploring, with its lively Grand Bazaar, 16th-century castle, and dancing fountain. There are plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants in the area, including its famed Bar Street, along with shops to pick up a souvenir or two!
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MAJORCA is no secret to Brits – it’s a great place for a holiday with its beautiful city, sandy beaches, nightlife and tasty food.
Now, the island has been named one of the ‘hottest destinations to visit in 2026’, and it’s not hard to see why it continues to be firmly on our radar.
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Majorca has been a top holiday-spot for Brits for years – and continues to be one in 2026Credit: AlamyI visited the island years ago to explore its city centre, PalmaCredit: Alice Penwill
The Independent named Majorca one of the ‘hottest’ places to visit this year – and travel company ASmallWorld namedMajorca as Spain’s newest ‘It’ island
CEO Zain Richardson said: “What makes Mallorca stand out from other Spanish islands is its sheer diversity.
“You get the bohemian charm of stone-built villages, the buzz of Palma’s restaurants and galleries, and an ever-changing coastline of quiet calas and long sandy beaches, without having to compromise on comfort or style.”
I visited the island’s capital, Palma, myself almost a decade ago now.
But I’m not surprised that it’s still up there with the most popular holiday destinations for Brits – almost 3.5million of us jet off there each year.
Palma has the perfect blend of city and beach with a busy Old Town full of winding streets with classic high street names and plenty of designer shops.
Passeig del Born, a street that’s also called the ‘Golden Mile’, has lots of luxury brands likeLouis Vuitton,Bvlgari and Hugo Boss.
I could only window shop, but there are still plenty of other inexpensive shops to be explored.
For sunglasses, check out Óptica Santa Maria Boutique which has some lovely, and reasonably priced frames – along with designer ones of course.
Giovanni L. Gelato Deluxe is another must – it’s Palma’s oldest ice cream parlour with around 80 flavours on offer.
You can easily spot it thanks to its bright red awning and gem embellished ice cream mural outside.
Choosing a flavour was a no-brainer as the brand has award-winning ice cream and was awarded the title for the “World’s Best Pistachio Ice Cream” twice.
I opted for a simple blend of pistachio and vanilla – and it was delicious.
The city is of course framed by its huge 14th-century cathedral on the seafront, and tourists can go inside for around €11 (£9.61).
I find though that you can still appreciate it enough by wandering around the outside.
Giovanni previously won the title for the “World’s Best Pistachio Ice Cream”Credit: Alice PenwillThe 14th-century cathedral sits right by the seafrontCredit: Getty
Next door, the Gardens of S’Hort del Rei (The King’s Orchard) at the foot of Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a lovely spot where you can find some shade – and it wasn’t busy either.
As for where to stay, I set up base at the Hipotels Gran Playa de Palma which is tucked behind the promenade at Playa de Palma – around 20-minutes outside of the city centre.
The hotel has two outdoor pools, three bars, two buffet restaurants and entertainment during the evening.
As much as I enjoy a fly and flop holiday, I do love some activity outside of the hotel, and here was a great spot.
The hotel was a short walk to the beach, and the promenade filled with cafes, restaurants and plenty of places to pick up a bucket and spade.
The beach has soft golden sand and while there are sun loungers which you can hire out for a fee, there’s plenty of space if you want to simply sit on a towel too.
One of my favourite spots was Levita Café where I ended up stopping in most days for a rosé sangria which set me back €6.50 (£5).
I’d recommend a refreshing rosé sangriaCredit: Alice Penwill
If you’re so inclined, it’s also near one of Majorca’s biggest clubs, MegaPark.
I didn’t venture inside, but it’s known for having a huge open-air disco, a large beer garden, and a show stage.
Even though our hotel was just a five-minute walk-away, I never heard any noise from the club.
It’s been reported that local authorities are tightening rules on party boats and noisy beach activities.
When it comes to money, Majorca isn’t the cheapest place, it’s not hugely expensive either.
According to Numbeo, you can pick up a local beer for £3.49 and coffee for £2.51.
If you want to see more of the island outside of Palma, then some other top-rated spots include the Tramuntana region with huge mountain ranges.
Some of the best beaches in the country include Cala Mondragó which is within the Mondragó Natural Park – but there are plenty to choose from as the island has over 200 of them.
As for when’s best to head to the island, it can vary as this week there are highs of 21C and plenty of sunshine, but there is a risk of rain.
Personally, I’d head there in springtime – May, April and June are generally dry with lots of sun without being too hot.
In peak months like July and August, temperatures can reach the mid-30s.
Flights won’t set you back too much either, in April, you can fly from Birmingham and London Stansted from £15 with Ryanair.
And you’ll be setting down in two and a half hours from the UK.
Here are top eats in Majorca from experts…
Tour guides Georgiana Paun, Michelle van der Werff, Emily Himmer, 30, and travel agent Tomas Nanak, share their top Majorca tips…
Georgiana said: “Las Olas is a family restaurant located on the beachfront in Santa Ponsa on the west of the island, with incredible views.
“You can enjoy all kinds of Mediterranean food while watching the sun go down over the bay of Santa Ponsa.
“Choose between their fish, seafood, paellas and meat dishes, as well as a variety of delicious tapas made with local market products.”
Michelle and Emily said: “One of our local favourites is Toque de Queda in central Palma, because of its fresh, healthy cuisine served in a cosy ‘living room’ atmosphere.
“The laid-back vibe and delicious local dishes make it a perfect place for an easy evening out, with Balearic charcuterie boards from 14 euros, and fish tapas from 9 euros.”
Tomas said: “Bar Esperanza in Ses Covetes has great Mediterranean food, with tapas from 4 euros, while Organic on Cala Marsal beach offers the best brunch on the island, with hearty Spanish breakfasts from 12.50 euros.
“If you’re looking for delicious tapas, head to Babbo Portocolom with views of the harbour on the southeast side of the island, with dishes from 7.50 euros, or S’Arrosería in Colonia de San Jordi has the best paella – from 18 euros.”
Tropical weather, luxury accommodation and relaxing rituals make this island the perfect babymoon destination to visit when pregnant, says travel editor Laura Mulley
We think we’ve found the perfect babymoon destination(Image: Le Meridien Ile Maurice, Laura Mulley)
Looking for a holiday destination for one last trip as a two before our baby arrived, we found our options surprisingly limited. We didn’t want to chance potential bad weather in Europe off-season, and with the risk of mosquito-borne virus Zika – which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women – ruling out most of the Caribbean and Asia, there was a clear frontrunner that ticked all of our boxes: Mauritius.
Emirates proved to be the best airline to fly with from our nearest airport – Manchester – with the most flight options available – and the staff were exceptionally helpful at making a six-months-pregnant woman feel as comfortable as possible during the journey.
Once we landed, our aim was simple: to enjoy all the things we’d probably struggle to do once our baby arrived, on what would potentially be our last relaxing holiday for a while. And it certainly delivered.
Our first stop was the huge, open, colourful Le Méridien Ile Maurice on the island’s northwest coast. One of Mauritius’s leading family hotels (perfect for showing us what to expect from our future holidays), its hidden gem is its adults-only section, Nirvana, at the end of the kilometre-long beach, which has its own rooms, reception, restaurant, beach area and infinity pool scattered with squishy floating beanbags.
Our Hideaway Suite here was truly one of the biggest we’d ever seen, with a massive distance between the patio doors at the front to the heated plunge pool out the back. Guests get access to a ‘butler’ via WhatsApp, and lots of thoughtful touches from the friendly staff make staying here feel extra-special, from the complimentary cocktail (or mocktail) by the pool at sundown to the petal-strewn bath we found waiting for us after dinner. One night there was even a pregnancy pillow laid out on the bed, something we hadn’t requested but made our stay even more comfortable.
The food at Le Méridien
There are four restaurants at Le Méridien, and it’s worth making your way around them all: Nomad’s buffet is popular with families, Waves serves Mediterranean-style fish and grilled dishes, Kumin gives guests a taste of Mauritius’s strong Indian influence, and – our favourite – Nirvana’s Jade does excellent Asian cuisine, including sushi and teppanyaki (take breakfast here too if you want to savour the child-free moments for as long as possible). All are included in half-board and all-inclusive packages, although booking is recommended for the à la carte restaurants.
What to do at Le Méridien
Keen to enjoy as many grown-up activities as possible, we took part in sunset yoga on the beach, took kayaks and pedalos out into the lagoon’s clear waters, and enjoyed treatments in Le Méridien’s spa, including a heavenly head massage using warm coconut oil, and the perfect pre-natal full body massage. The therapists here are all incredibly skilled – you’ll really feel the benefits.
St Regis Le Morne
The second half of our trip was spent at sister hotel St. Regis Le Morne, formally the JW Marriott, and which joined the historic St. Regis hotel group – founded by American tycoon and Titanic victim John Jacob Astor IV – following a major renovation last year.
On the island’s southwest point, this is a quieter, more secluded part of the country, and St. Regis sits under the shadow of Mauritius’ iconic Le Morne mountain surrounded by miles of beautiful beaches and shallow waters.
Although we spotted plenty of multi-generational families here too, St. Regis definitely has a more elegant and luxurious air to it. With a colonial-style design and elegant rooms set amongst lush vegetation and trickling water features, it has a slight ‘White Lotus season three’ vibe.
There’s a huge pool here, but we found that most couples chose to spend their days on the loungers under palm leaf-umbrellas that line the beach, which are peaceful, always available, and serviced by bar staff at the touch of a button.
The food at St Regis Le Morne
Out of St. Regis’s five restaurants, our favourites were INDYA, serving a modern take on Indian cuisine with the friendliest service, and Japanese Atkuso, where the chef veered from the menu to whip up some of the best maki rolls we’d ever tried to cater to our vegetarian diets. Each restaurant also does its own signature cocktails and ‘mindful mocktails’ with certain health benefits.
What to do at St Regis Le Morne
St. Regis is proud of its history and heritage, and a key feature are its three ‘rituals’, found in all its properties around the world, and all – pleasingly for our purpose – highly unsuitable for children: Bloody Marys, sabrage and afternoon tea.
In homage to the first ever spicy tomato juice cocktail as we know it, reportedly invented at the St. Regis New York in the 1920s, our charismatic bartender Vymal demonstrated how to make this hotel’s own version, the L’Île Mary, using Mauritian rum infused with curry leaves and topped with turmeric foam. The self-appointed Bloody Mary connoisseur out of the two of us declared it to be one of the best he’d ever tasted.
Next up was learning sabrage – the art of opening a bottle of champagne with the swish of a sword, and supposedly how Napoleon liked to celebrate his victories. Although initially unconfident, following expert instruction we were thrilled to deftly remove the top of our bottle of fizz in one smooth swipe.
Afternoon tea was a more genteel affair, and is a reference to Lady Astor’s daily habit of gathering family and friends around in the afternoons to share wisdom. Here it involves Mauritian tea and viennoiserie from the hotel’s kitchen, taken under swaying palm trees on the beach – just heavenly, and the perfect last few moments of calm before we became a three.
How much does it cost?
Rooms at Le Méridien Ile Maurice start from £220 per night on a B&B basis based on double occupancy. Rooms at St. Regis Le Morne start from £585 per night based on double occupancy (two night minimum stay required). Returns flights from Manchester to Mauritius were with Emirates start from £775.
With the highest chance of clear blue skies and balmy temperature during the Easter holidays, this beautiful island is a haven with golden sand beaches and azure waters
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This sunny island could be the ideal Easter escape you’ve been looking for(Image: Getty Images)
A sunny island offering balmy rays of 22C and golden sand beaches could be the ideal destination to jet off to this Easter.
With February half term almost over, thoughts will start turning to the Easter holidays, particularly when a vitamin D fix is in order. One destination that offers ‘near guaranteed sunshine’, alongside its expansive sand beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.
In a bid to help travellers book their Easter escape, easyJet collected data to reveal the destinations with the highest chance of blistering rays and clear skies in April. From their research, they found that Gran Canaria would offer a balmy 22C in April and just a mere 5 to 15 per cent chance of rain per day, coming in third place behind Egypt and Cape Verde in the easyJet index.
The beautiful island, off northwestern Africa, is a haven for radiant weather with an average of nine hours of sunshine a day – perfect for days spent by the hotel pool or on the beach! What’s more, one-way direct flights to the sun-soaked island in April start from just £25.99 with easyJet, making an Easter escape even more appealing.
Among its fun-packed waterparks to keep the kids entertained, and desert-style sand dunes for days of exploring, easyJet revealed that the average price of a package holiday to Gran Canaria starts from around £429. There’s also a catalogue of sprawling resorts nestled along the picturesque shores, making it even easier to choose your preferred accommodation.
As the third-largest island of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has often been dubbed a ‘miniature continent’ due to its diverse landscapes, with around 60km of pristine sand beaches stretching along its 236km coastline. One of the most popular beaches is Playa de Maspalomas, with its heaps of golden sand dunes.
While it’s a scenic spot that’s certainly worth visiting to marvel at this phenomenon, you can also spend time on the beach with nearby bars and restaurants. One traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “Stunning, unique, and a magical natural place, and with a sea and climate all year round. Spectacular with pleasant places where you can bathe and be relaxed, its coasts, its dunes, beaches and its wonderful people and delicious food, all in general, a visit where I will return safely, always.”
Other notable beaches include Playa de Las Canteras, Playa de Amadores and Playa de Mogan, which has been hailed as a “total hidden gem off the beaten track”. The beautiful beach has often been dubbed a ‘Little Venice’, due to its charming canals connecting the marina to the town, with waterfront restaurants, cafés, and shops also in the area.
Aside from the sprawling beaches, there’s plenty more to explore in Gran Canaria. Including the huge waterpark, Aqualand Maspalomas and Lago Taurito, as well as the Palmitos Park, a garden and zoo, for the kids to enjoy when they’re not splashing around in the sea or building sand castles.
For those looking to delve into local culture, the historic old town of Vegueta (Las Palmas) is worth exploring, with its majestic Santa Ana Cathedral and Casa de Colón. Additionally, there is the traditional town of Teror and the municipality, Arucas, which is famed for its neo-Gothic Church and ancient rum distillery.
Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said: “After making it through the dark winter months, we know many of our customers are relying on April’s Easter break to catch up on some much-needed vitamin D.
“For those chasing warmer weather at this time of year, nearby destinations across Europe and North Africa can be brilliant options and are well worth considering. We know how important it is for customers to feel confident when booking a sunny Easter getaway. easyJet holidays offers great-value packages across a wide range of beach destinations, which is why we’ve launched our new sun-reliability index to give customers extra reassurance when choosing where to go, helping set them up for a brilliant holiday experience.”
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THERE are hundreds of cities across Europe – but this one in Spain has been named the best place to visit this year.
European Best Destinations has announced the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’.
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Madrid has been voted the best destination to travel to in 2026Credit: AlamyA popular activity is taking a rowboat across the lake in El Retiro ParkCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
This ranking was made from the votes of travellers from 154 countries, highlighting the most “captivating places”.
Madridclaimed top spot with the publications said it’s “one of Europe’s most compelling capitals — where culture, lifestyle, gastronomy and quality of life converge with rare intensity”.
Kara revealed some of her favourite spots too, she said: “At Pez, the only thing on the menu is huge sloppy pieces of tortilla chased with a cana (small beer) or tinto de verano for €2.50.
“My favourite rooftop bar is El Cielo de Montera, which felt more like a swanky rooftop members club.
“The pool is reserved for hotel guests, but its the best place for an Aperol Spritz and views of the city (costs €10 but it gets taken off bill).”
One highly-rated drinking spot is the Sky Bar terrace at the top of the Hotel Riu Plaza Espana.
It has 360-degree views of the city which visitors can enjoy with classy cocktails.
Or check out Calle 365 Discoteca, a stylish nightspot with dancing, delicious food trucks, cocktails and beers from just £2.50.
For live music head to Sala Equi which is a former adult-movie theatre turned bar and music venue.
Madrid is the birthplace of tablao flamenco and there are often high-quality performances with tablaos (flamenco venues) in the city centre.
In the summertime Madrid has lively plazas, and long, grand, tree-lined boulevards full of shops.
Madrid’s largest public park is El Retiro Park it has over 15,000 trees and is described as a ‘green oasis in the heart of the city’.
If you fancy getting on the water, visitors can hire a €4 rowing boat to take in King Alfonso XII’s monument from the lake.
Other top spots include the Prado Museum which contains some of Europe’s finest art collections.
There’s free entry between 6pm and 8pm Monday to Saturday.
Madrid is also one of Europe‘s most walkable cities so it’s easy for exploring, but it’s also very easy to use the Metro.
The city has over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year – mild temperatures start in spring at around 18C.
In the height of summer, the city can reach highs of 32C.
In March, Brits can fly from London Stansted to Madrid with Ryanair from £15.
Here are the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’…
