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?
Ensure our latest stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
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!
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Ensure our latest lifestyle and travel stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
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.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
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
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
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.”
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Ensure our latest lifestyle and travel stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
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’.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
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’…
Strict new rules have been enforced in a favourite winter holiday hot spot that could see any tourist who vapes or brings an electronic cigarette product into the country slapped with a hefty fine or even put behind bars
A popular winter holiday hot spot has enforced strict new vaping rules (Image: Getty Images)
Thanks to its sunny, comfortable, and dry weather from November through to April, Mexico has been a top destination for those seeking winter warmth for many years.
However, British tourists jetting off to the North American country and its popular holiday spots need to be aware of severe punishments if they break harsh new rules on vaping.
Not only is it now illegal to vape in a public space, where on-the-spot fines can be enforced, but a new ban on importing electronic cigarettes means holidaymakers who enter the country by land or sea with their device on their person could face time in jail.
Mexico already had strict laws on smoking and vaping in public since 2023, with immediate fines of up to 3,000 Mexican pesos (about £150) enforceable for anyone caught violating the rules. It includes a ban on puffing in beaches, parks, and public transport, as well as enclosed spaces. But on January 16 President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo published a constitutional reform which banned the importation, sale and distribution of vaping products. The law came into force the following day.
The amendment stated: “The law will penalize all activities related to electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and other analogous electronic systems or devices specified by law, as well as the production, distribution, and sale of toxic substances, chemical precursors, the illicit use of fentanyl, and other unauthorized synthetic drugs.”
Tourists may think they are exempt from the rules, but they are not, and customs officials in popular destinations like Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, and Cozumel are said to be rigorously enforcing the ban.
Reports vary on what the punishments could be, but the British government strongly advises against taking any devices into the country or using them whilst there. “It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them,” it states. “Customs officials will confiscate these items, and they could fine or detain you,” it adds.
As well as affecting flights into Mexico, the ban includes travellers on cruise ships stopping off anywhere on shore. “Disposables, refillable models, pods, and even non-nicotine devices,” are also included in the vape ban,” Cruise Hivereports.
It says that if holidaymakers are caught, they could see their devices confiscated, face huge fines “of up to $12,500, and/or detainment”. The publication adds that the crime is punishable by up to eight years in prison.
One traveller who claimed to have been detained by authorities for being in possession of a vape in the country just after the law was introduced said they were given the choice of prison or a whopping fine. “I came through the airport 1/18 and had a vape. I was detained and given the option of jail or 4K USD fine,” they wrote on Reddit.
Other countries that have imposed laws and bans on vaping include India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, Argentina, Qatar and Vietnam.
As of last year, it was estimated up to 5.6million Brits were vapers, which equated to around 11% of the population.
For the first time, the number of people who smoke traditional tobacco products in the UK has been outnumbered by vapers.
Parkdean Resorts have revealed some of the UK’s best holiday destinations and the top spot goes to a resort that’s full of beautiful beaches, independent shops and more
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Porthcawl sunsets are a sight to behold(Image: Getty Images)
As Brits search for something fun to look forward to amongst the damp and drizzly that has defined the start of this year, a recent study has revealed over two-fifths (44%) are planning a UK holiday this year.
With staycations proving increasingly popular with people, Parkdean Resorts has named the seaside resort of Porthcawl in Bridgend, Wales as the best holiday destination for 2026.
Known for its excellent water quality, range of activities – including the world’s largest Elvis festival – and variety of cafés, restaurants and independent shops, this nostalgic and friendly town offers the quintessential seaside stay.
Porthcawl has seven distinctive beaches ranging from popular sandy spots to rocky coves. Rest Bay and Trecco Bay are Blue Flag beaches and popular with surfers and water sport enthusiasts. Pink Bay has unique marbled pink rocks and for a more secluded, sandy option Sker beach is the one for you.
The town has something for everyone with adventure offerings at its new Watersports Centre and its renowned Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, typical seaside activities including funfair rides and ice cream on its seafront Esplande or quiet sunsets at its seafront cafes.
Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night
On the harbour is the RNLI station and Wales’ oldest listed bonded warehouse, the Jennings Building, which is now a bustling waterside spot with cafes and restaurants.
And for those with a little more spring in their step and shake in their hips, Porthcawl also hosts the annual Porthcawl Elvis Festival which is widely recognised as the world’s largest Elvis festival and brings tens of thousands of fans of The King and hundreds of tribute acts to the town for a weekend of competitions, shows and celebrations.
One reviewer of the festival said: “Elvis Festival Porthcawl was exactly what it said on the tin – a glorious, chaotic, slightly aft, love-in for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The town went full Elvis, the fans bought the fire and the tributes acts delivered from start to finish.”
Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, which has a holiday park in Porthcawl, said that nostalgia is playing a major part in the holiday decision making of families this year.
He said: “Nostalgia has been a key theme for 2026 already and our data suggests travel is reflecting this too. This year we’re seeing a real resurgence in some of Britain’s most loved coastal and countryside locations with travellers gravitating towards places like Porthcawl, Cayton Bay and Poole. These towns offer the perfect balance of traditional seaside charm, beautiful surroundings and easy accessibility – all key factors for people planning a staycation this year.”
He added: “For families, the best holidays are all about balance, somewhere with plenty of entertainment to keep everyone busy but relaxing enough for all to recharge. Popular seaside destinations such as Newquay, Torquay, and Porthcawl continue to be firm favourites thanks to their beaches, attractions and family-friendly activities. These locations are ideal for making memories together, whether that’s beach days, coastal walks or classic arcade fun.”
BRITS wanting sun, sea, sand have been swapping the UK for Spain for years – but its neighbour is fast gaining in popularity.
Portugal is increasingly becoming a more popular place for Brits to relocate to, thanks to its lower cost of living, great weather and beautiful beaches.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Portugal has overtaken Spain when it comes to an interest in relocating from the UKCredit: 1st Move InternationalPortugal has plenty of sun – some reports say even more than SpainCredit: Alamy
Portugal is a more popular place to move to than Spain according International moving company, 1st Move International.
It analysed UK Google search data to reveal which countries are seeing the biggest increases and declines in emigration-related interest – and Portugal is number six.
Historically, Spain has been one of the most popular destinations for Brits looking to relocate abroad – but Portugal has nabbed its spot.
Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International said: “Mass tourism and the decision to impose taxes on foreign property buyers have affected affordability, making it more complex for retirees and long-term residents to move to Spain.
“Spain’s interest among Brits has begun to dip, and neighbour Portugal may take Spain’s crown in the coming years.
“Portugal’s already firmly among Brits’ top 10 expat hotspots, and it’s creeping up the ladder with emigration searches increasing by 18.90 per cent year on year.”
This has been backed up by data from the National Institute of Statistics (NIE) which revealed that UK expats living in Spain fell by 2.2 per cent in 2024, as reported by Spanish media The Olive Press.
UK resident numbers came to 266,462, down from 272,402 a year earlier.
It continued to reveal that ‘British expats now account for 3.9 per cent of all foreign residents, compared to 4.2 per cent in 2023’.
When it comes to competition between the two, there are lots of similarities – mostly their glorious weather which is much better than the UK throughout the year.
According to some weather sites Portugal is actually sunnier than Spain – but both have around 300 days of sun every year.
Portugal is slightly more mild in places like Lisbon along the western coast thanks to itscool Atlantic breeze.
Just like Spain, Portugal is pleasant during the winter months sitting at around 10C.
Of course most Brits move abroad to spend time nearer the coast and Spain has always been popular thanks to having over 3,000 beaches across 4970 miles of coastline.
Portugal has less beaches as the length of the coastline is much shorter – around 1,115 miles – however it still has around 404 Blue Flag beaches as of last year.
You can get a local pint for €2 in Portugal and coffee for €1.81
After moving abroad, you’ll probably want a quieter place to relax – but of course both countries remain popular especially the summer holidays.
Portugal gets fewer tourists than Spain – although it did reach record highs in 2024 with around 31.6million visitors.
Meanwhile, Spain saw 94 million international visitors in 2023.
Both are likely to remain busy in the summer months – unless you head to less touristy areas.
Portugal tends to be cheaper when it comes to cost of living (and holidaying) too.
In Portugal you can get a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant €40 (£34.63) and a local beer can cost as little as €2 (£1.73).
The average price of a cappuccino is as little as €1.81 (£1.57).
When it comes to getting around, a one-way ticket on local transport is around €2 (£1.73).
Renting an apartment in one of the country’s city centres is around €943 (£816.34) per month.
Meanwhile in Spain, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is on average €50 (£43.29) and a local beer costs around €3 (£2.60), according to Wise.
The average price of a cappuccino is a bit more expensive too at €1.90 (£1.65).
Getting about in Spain is generally cheaper with a one-way ticket on local transport priced at €1.50 (£1.30).
Renting an apartment in one of Spain’s city centres is priced at an average of €950 (£822.40) per month.
In terms of logistics, Portugal is generally considered easier for British citizens to move to thanks to itsD7 passive income visa for those who want to move there.
In Spain, expats will need a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), which requires more proof of income, and it has stricter residency rules.
One writer reveals why she ditched the UK for Lisbon…
“Socialising in Lisbon needn’t cost a fortune – in fact you can catch up with a friend over a glass of wine for the price of a coffee back home.
“A fruity ‘vinho verde’ from a quiosque or restaurant terrace, enjoyed in the sunshine, might set you back just a few euros.
“One of the reasons why the top-notch wine is so affordable – with a bottle of my favourite white costing around three euros in the supermarket – is because Portugal is covered in swathes of vineyards.
“Most of Lisbon is very walkable – at least, if you don’t mind a steep incline – and most places I need to get to are well within a 30-minute stroll.
“Throughout the month of June, the city erupts into a series of big, lively street parties at night to celebrate the Festas dos Santos Populares – with the 13th the most important date.
“Lisbon isn’t a beach-side city in the same way as Barcelona, however just a short train ride or drive away are some incredible coastal spots.
“This means that, if you finish work at 5pm, you could be taking a dip in the ocean by half past – although, be warned, it will be refreshing.”
After spending last summer interrailing around Europe, one journalist and ‘travel addict’ has named his favourite place – and it’s so close to the UK.
Brian Dillon What’s On and Travel reporter and Nicola Roy Spare Time writer
10:27, 01 Feb 2026
Brian’s favourite country isn’t far from the UK(Image: Brian Dillon)
If you’re planning a holiday for this year, the choice of destinations can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are so many amazing places to choose from, many of which are just a few short hours’ flight away in Europe.
But one journalist and ‘travel addict’ who has visited 27 countries in total recently went interrailing around Europe and discovered his new favourite place.
It had ‘endless experiences’ to offer, from a rich history to amazing landscapes and underrated food too. Brian Dillon from The Express said: “Jumping from hostel to hostel between seven cities in these five countries, Germany blew me away. I had been to Germany in the past, and every time I go there, I have a completely different experience.”
He had previously visited Berlin but spent time in Munich and Stuttgart in the summer – and they all offered a unique experience.
But the highlight of his visit had to be Munich, as he explained: “This city simply blew me away. First arriving in the Bavarian city on a train from Vienna, I was impressed by the architecture. It seemed like at every turn, there was another stunning building to gawk at.
“The historic Old Town was superbly charming, and you really feel like you have been transported back in time to a centuries-old Germany. However, one aspect of Munich that I fell in love with was its local parks.
“Every major city has some nice parks to explore. But Munich does it differently. Not only are the green spaces here stunning, but they all have lovely beer gardens where you truly feel like you are living like a local when you sit there, sipping a local beer and taking in the unique surroundings. “
Stuttgart was quieter, but Brian was happy to spend the day exploring before moving on to his next destination.
And Berlin is a ‘thrilling city’ too – partly due to tourist attractions like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall but also thanks to the unique bars, markets and ‘otherworldly’ nightclubs.
But it’s not just the cities that impressed Brian. The natural landscapes are beautiful too, as Brian wrote: “When I travelled on a sleeper train between Brussels and Prague, much of my journey was spent speeding through the stunning German countryside. The sweeping green fields, the old-timy villages and the staggering mountains were a sight to behold. Waking up in a train cabin and seeing all of this first thing in the morning is an experience I will never forget.”
So if you’re in need of some inspiration on where to book your next holiday, Germany is a fantastic option. Brian added: “If you were to tell me that for my next holiday, I had to go back to a country I had been to before, I would book a flight to Germany. Although I have been to three different cities and through stunning countryside, I suspect that this country has a lot more for me to experience.
“The port city of Hamburg, the historic Cologne, the Christmas markets in Dresden, and the classic architecture of Nuremberg are definitely on my bucket list.”
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
The pace of U.S. military aircraft movements to the Middle East is picking up. The flights, which potentially include F-35A stealth fighters, come amid a growing buildup of U.S. forces in the region. Washington and Tehran continue to trade threats ahead of a potential attack on or from Iran. Meanwhile, in anticipation of conflict, Iran claims it has distributed additional air and sea drones to its troops for potential attacks on U.S. and Israeli assets if needed.
You can catch up with our most recent coverage of tensions in the Middle East in our story here.
During President Donald Trump’s cabinet meeting on Thursday, War Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon is ready to fulfill any orders given as the American leader is increasing the pressure on Iran to end its nuclear weapons program.
“They should not pursue nuclear capabilities. We will be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects of the War Department,” Hegseth said.
Hegseth:
Iran has all the options to make a deal.
They should not pursue nuclear capabilities, or we will be prepared to deliver whatever Trump expects. pic.twitter.com/E4jr2eFciv
Trump is now considering options that “include U.S. military airstrikes aimed at Iran’s leaders and the security officials believed to be responsible for the killings, as well as strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and government institutions,” CNN reported, citing sources. “Trump has not made a final decision on how to proceed, sources said, but he believes his military options have been expanded from earlier this month now that a US carrier strike group is in the region.”
As the rhetoric continues to heat up, there are strong indications that the first flight of U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters may be headed to the Middle East. The jets, from the Vermont Air National Guard, were in Puerto Rico for the pressure campaign that led to the operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. Video from Andre Inacio, who also took the top image in this post, shows some of those jets landing in Lajes, Portugal.
The same F-35s involved in the U.S. mission to capture Venezuelan President Maduro arrived in Lajes on their way to the Middle East this evening.
The F-35As would be the latest tactical aircraft sent to the region. As we previously reported, squadrons of F-35Cs, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and E/A-18G Growlers embarked on the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. The aircraft carrier and three escorts are now in the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility (AOR). In addition, a dozen F-15E Strike Eagles were sent to Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan.
An F-35C Lightning II, attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) on Jan. 10, 2026. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Daniel Kimmelman) Seaman Daniel Kimmelman
The F-35As would give the U.S. additional capability to strike targets deep inside Iran. They played a key suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) role during last June’s Operation Midnight Hammer mission, paving the way for B-2A Spirit bombers that dropped 14 30,000-pound GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bunker buster bombs on Iran’s Fordow and Natanz nuclear facilities. The F-35As, from the 388th Fighter Wing, were the first aircraft in and the last ones out.
We still don’t know for sure where the F-35As that originally deployed to the Caribbean will end up. The Vermont Air National Guard declined to comment on the deployment, citing operational security concerns and U.S. Central Command does not discuss any movements. That being said, the movement would fit the same pattern we have seen of the influx of capabilities into the Middle East.
A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, follows a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 171st Air Refueling Wing, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, to perform a routine aerial refueling mission on Oct. 10, 2024. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Zoe M. Wockenfuss) Tech. Sgt. Zoe Wockenfuss
Case in point, F/A-18G Growler electronic warfare (EW) jets have also crossed the Atlantic. Flight-tracking data shows that they have left Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia, headed toward Moron Air Base in Spain. From there, they could potentially fly to the Middle East. Yesterday, we reported that, just like the F-35As, these aircraft departed from their assignment to the Caribbean.
As we pointed out, “Growlers in the Middle East would be critical force multipliers. Such a deployment could be indicative of what one would see in the lead-up to a kinetic operation centered heavily on strikes on targets in inland areas, such as ones the U.S. and possibly Israel might carry out in Iran in the future. Growlers can provide electronic warfare support for standoff munitions and/or aircraft penetrating into enemy air defenses, among other battlefield effects.”
#USAF United States Air Force – Middle East Activity (CORONET) 29 January 2026 – 1050z
CORONET East 037 – Four KC-46 Pegasus tankers have departed Pease Air National Guard Base, to meet with TABOR 51-53 and TABOR 61-63 flights of F/A-18G Growler’s from Oceana Naval Air Station.… https://t.co/OtkcYs3yLjpic.twitter.com/Nvyvbu5W7D
Even before these recent moves, there was a small number of tactical jets in the region, including F-15Es, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs and F-16 Fighting Falcons.
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is one of the most iconic fighter jets that the U.S. Air Force operates. Now in operation for over 50 years, the F-16 remains one of the most widely flown fighters in the world, operated by more than 25 countries. pic.twitter.com/uY6IrWkvrB
In addition to these aircraft, an HC-130J Combat King II combat search and rescue (CSAR) plane, callsign King40, landed at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan today, according to flight tracking data. That was a possibility we suggested yesterday.
A C 130J Combat King has arrived at Al Muwaffaq in Jordan.
HC 130J deployments often signal preparation for high risk operations, as these combat search and rescue aircraft are positioned to recover downed pilots or crews if airstrikes or special operations unfold over hostile… pic.twitter.com/CdgYfGWoRm
Another Combat King may be on the way, according to flight tracking data showing it left Rota, Spain. It is possibly headed to Muwaffaq Salti as well. Again, we have no independent confirmation of this. However, sending them to the Middle East at this time makes sense should Trump order a strike on Iran. Combat Kings would be needed for the rapid rescue of any aircrews lost during military operations, specifically over contested territory. They can also support special operations aircraft with aerial refueling for non-personnel recovery missions.
At the same time a HC-130J Combat King II CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue) aircraft has been forward deployed to Jordan.
A second one landed in Rota yesterday and will likely join the first in Jordan later today.
Also drawing a lot of interest from flight trackers online, a WC-135R Constant Phoenix “nuke sniffing” jet, callsign COBRA31, has arrived at RAF Mildenhall from Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, according to flight-tracking data and the ADS-B exchange. The jets collect air samples to screen for the presence of notable nuclear materials. Beyond taking baseline readings around the globe, the Constant Phoenix jets can be deployed to monitor nuclear weapons tests and look for and track nuclear leaks and other nuclear incidents.
Constant Phoenix jets are no strangers to Europe, as we have noted in the past, so this could very well be a routine flight. While Mildenhall is a frequent jumping-off point for flights to the CENTCOM region, we don’t know for sure where this one is headed. At the same time, moving a jet like this to the Middle East, or at least closer to that region, could make sense if strikes on nuclear sites are being planned. We just don’t know at this time.
A U.S. Air Force WC-135R Constant Phoenix is now leaving CONUS for Europe and possibly onwards to the Middle East.
They are commonly referred to as “nuke sniffers” due to their role detecting and identifying nuclear material in the atmosphere. pic.twitter.com/8fwIGmwzML
So many changes today I’ve had to move to an A3 layout. 6x EA-18Gs and reportedly 6x F-35As from PR on the way to Europe with supporting tankers, possibly more to come this evening. C-17 flights spiked suggesting strikes could commence tomorrow!
These aircraft movements appear to be the latest sign of a large surge of U.S. forces to the Middle East. As we reported yesterday, an RC-135V Rivet Joint electronic surveillance plane arrived at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, according to online flight trackers. In addition, an E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) jet was heading to Souda Air Base in Crete, a common route for deployments to the Middle East.
It should be noted, however, that CENTCOM is conducting a multi-day readiness exercise, so some of these aircraft movements could be related to that.
Beyond aircraft, the U.S. is moving warships to the region. Yesterday, we were the first to report that the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black arrived in the Red Sea, joining the Lincoln and its three escort Arleigh Burkes, two independently deployed Arleigh Burkes, and three Littoral Combat Ships in the CENTCOM region. You can read more about these moves and what they could mean for a possible attack on or from Iran in our story here.
The Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black became the 10 warship currently deployed to the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeremy R. Boan) (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeremy R. Boan)
The buildup of forces comes amid back-and-forth threats between U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian officials.
As we reported yesterday, Trump warned Iran to halt its nuclear arms ambitions or face an attack.
“Hopefully Iran will quickly “Come to the Table” and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties,” Trump proclaimed on his Truth Social platform. “Time is running out, it is truly of the essence! As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn’t, and there was “Operation Midnight Hammer,” a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again…”
Today, Iranian military officials claimed they are beefing up their drone force to counter any attack.
“By the order of the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, 1,000 strategic drones were added today to the combat organization of the four branches of the army,” according to the official Iranian IRNA News Agency. “These drones, designed according to new threats and the experiences of the 12-day war, were built by army specialists in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense and are designed in strike, offensive, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare classes to destroy specific fixed and moving targets at sea, air, and land.”
Major General Hatami added that, “In line with upcoming threats, maintaining and enhancing strategic advantages for rapid combat and a crushing response to any aggression and attacker is always on the army’s agenda,” IRNA added, without offering any details.
“Due to considerations for protecting military secrets, no images of the attached drones have been released,” the news outlet explained.
While Iran’s claims must be viewed with a high degree of skepticism, it has launched a lot of drones in previous conflicts. Distributing air and sea drones to its forces that are ready for launch makes a lot of sense, especially given the proximity of U.S. bases in the region and the growing presence of Navy ships. Moving these assets out of storage also would help ensure their survival during the opening stages of a conflict. It’s worth noting that while Israel primarily targeted Iran’s longer-range missile and drone capacity, including its launchers and storage areas, the country’s short-range systems were largely left untouched. These ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones, exist in far greater numbers and would be used to strike U.S. and allied assets in the region.
On a more defensive note, Tehran is preparing civil defense measures ahead of potential U.S. or Israeli attacks.
“Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani announced on Thursday the launch of a project to build shelters in underground parking facilities in the city, saying they would serve as emergency refuges in times of crisis,” the Israel Hayom news outlet reported. “He added that the capital’s metro stations could also be used as shelters if necessary, and said the program would eventually be expanded to all neighborhoods of Tehran in the coming years.”
Zakani also “detailed plans that include constructing shelters, installing warning systems and protecting civilians in the event of a possible war,” the publication further noted. “He said the initiative was conceived after what he described as the ’12-day war,’ and was designed to allow underground parking lots to function normally during the year while being converted into shelters in times of danger.”
The Mayor of Tehran, Alireza Zakani, has announced that underground parking lots and metro stations across the city will be transformed into “war shelters” in case of resumed hostilities with Israel and the United States.
Amid all the military maneuvers and harsh rhetoric, there are still ongoing negotiations to avoid conflict.
“Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held separate calls Wednesday with his Iranian counterpart and Trump special envoy Steve Witkoff but made no progress,” The Wall Street Journal reported. “Iran strongly objected to the U.S. terms and warned targets across the region would be fair game in the event of a U.S. strike, people familiar with the conversations said.”
In addition, efforts by Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia in recent days were similarly fruitless, the Journal added.
“The Trump administration is hosting senior defense and intelligence officials from Israel and Saudi Arabia for talks on Iran this week as President Trump considers military strikes,” Axios reported, citing two U.S. officials and two other sources with knowledge. “The Saudis have been passing messages in recent days between the U.S. and Iran in an effort to de-escalate the situation.”
This follows decisions by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates not to allow the U.S. to use their bases or airspace for any attack on Iran. You can read more about the implications of that in our story here.
🇸🇦📞🇮🇷 | HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke by phone with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. pic.twitter.com/sjcDjoHYCv
New research shows people return to their favourite holiday destination an average of six times
More than one in ten prefer to ‘stick to what they know’(Image: Getty Images)
More than a quarter of holidaymakers revisit the same destination every year, or every other year, with a feeling of safety, familiarity, and emotional connection driving the trend, new research reveals. A study of 2,000 adults found that people who enjoy repeat visits return to the same place an average of six times. Nearly one in five (18%) have visited their favourite spot between six and 20 times.
The findings come from the 2026 Trends Report by Neilson Beach Clubs, which has seen a clear rise in repeat bookings, with seven in 10 guests returning year on year to their resorts.
More than half of holidaymakers go back to the same destination because they love what it has to offer, 15% also prefer to stick to what they know.
Meanwhile, 29% feel confident in the location’s safety and another 29% return regularly after developing a strong emotional connection with the place.
David Taylor, CEO for the travel provider, commented on the trend: “We all look forward to our holiday escapes so much that when you’ve found something you love that delivers a great experience, it’s natural to return again with confidence that the holiday won’t disappoint.”
The research suggests the appeal of a familiar destination is even stronger for families. More than a quarter (26%) of all respondents said they often revisit the same place because it is easier to plan, and one in 20 parents admitted that visiting somewhere unfamiliar with children can be stressful.
The study also highlighted a significant shift in holiday habits, with a growing interest in active getaways.
Over half (52%) of those who currently exercise on holiday would consider booking a fitness-focused trip to improve their physical health—a rise from 33% last year.
While 67% still seek a more relaxing vacation, nearly one in four (24%) say a fitness element brings just as much enjoyment.
The desire to disconnect from daily life is a priority, with 67% of respondents saying taking a break from technology is important for them when they are away.
For many, exercise is seen as a way of reducing stress (42%) and helping to rejuvenate the body and mind (37%).
David Taylor added: “We feel that it’s easier to switch off by switching on, if your mind is busy getting your body to do something you love, you can truly switch off mentally.”
NEW city break packages have been launched by TUI – to a destination set to be even bigger this year.
The new packages, on sale now, will connect Brits to the city of Cairo in Egypt.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
TUI has launched city break packages to CairoCredit: Alamy
The latest in its city break packages, flights will operate from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.
Passengers will travel on British Airways, easyJet or Egyptair flights.
Five night holidays start from £696pp, which includes return flights, transfers, luggage and stays at Nile Sky Suites Hotel with breakfast.
TUI’s Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “With winter sun, world-famous sights and great value all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who are after sunshine but want more than a beach holiday.
“Egypt is one of the best-value winter sun destinations. You get brilliant hotels, unforgettable experiences and fantastic value for money, especially during the winter months” added Logan.”
The city of Cairo’s nickname, especially by locals, is ‘mother of the world’ for many believing it is the centre of civilisation.
Its main attraction is the Pyramids of Giza – the only remaining ancient wonder of the world – as well as the Great Sphinx.
The Sun’s Dean Agius visited soon after it opened.
He explained: “The enormous building, covering an area of 470,000 square metres, houses more than 50,000 artefacts — and the centrepiece of its collection will bring all 5,000-plus treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb together for the first time.
“Stepping through its pyramid-shaped entrance, the 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II sits in GEM’s soaring central atrium.”
TUI also said there are “lesser-known hidden gems” in Cairo too, including the green oasis Al-Azhar Park, which has amazing city views.
Cairo remains around 20C in winter, although is hitting highs of 26c this week – making it an ideal winter sun holiday destination around five hours from the UK.
Summer temperatures can hit around 36C.
A popular attraction is the Pyramids of GizaCredit: AlamyThe Grand Egyptian Museum also recently openedCredit: Alamy
