destinations

A new trainline proposal could see 39 major European cities linked, potentially cutting carbon emissions for travellers and slashing journey times exponentially

Say goodbye to short-haul flights. A new trainline system has been proposed that could see 39 major European holiday destinations linked for the first time, in what has been dubbed the ‘European Tube’. The proposal has been made by 21st Europe – a think-tank based in Copenhagen – and the ‘Starline’ system could revolutionise travel across the European continent, slashing carbon emissions exponentially, and offering much faster journey times than the trains currently in place.

The 39-stop system has been noted to be similar to the ‘Welsh Tube’ that has been proposed, which will see 105 miles of South Wales linked by tram-style trains. The Welsh offering has been in the works for over a decade and is reportedly set to cost a whopping £1,000,000,000 to complete.

But the designers of Starline are dreaming so much bigger than that with their Euro tube proposal, not just hoping to make travel itself easier, getting rid of the need for carbon-heavy, short-haul flights, but to create a sense of cohesion and connection across Europe itself. Something that they say is currently sorely missing with the existing infrastructure, which they say lacks a “unifying vision”.

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The proposal could cut carbon emissions by an incredible 95 per cent, massively increasing the continent’s chances of actually reaching net zero, by providing new links in Europe all the way from Turkey, the UK, to Ukraine, with a visually striking network of deep blue trains.

For sustainably savvy travellers, the proposal is likely to be music to their ears, with there being some major drawbacks when it comes to interrailing in the current set-up. Some of these issues, the think tank points out, include “complex ticketing, inconsistent service, and outdated stations [which] make rail feel fragmented.

In 2023, a whopping eight billion people chose to opt for a high-speed train journey, but only a small fraction of these – nine per cent – saw passengers actually cross an international border, something this proposal is hoping to resolve.

Five lines have been proposed to range across the vast continent, one going from Naples to Helsinki, another from Lisbon to Kyiv, a third from Madrid to Istanbul, one from Dublin to Kyiv and, finally, a line from Milan to Oslo. Much like the London Underground, this would see passengers able to make swift changes to navigate the continent at major stations.

No detail has been too small in this proposal, which has renewable energy at its heart. From the blue trains and yellow interiors mirroring the European flag, the think tank has called it an exercise in “identity making” as much as a provision of easy-to-use, low-carbon travel.

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JET2 is cutting two routes from East Midlands from its summer programme.

The airline will no longer fly to a beach region in Spain and a popular Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast.

Jet2 has confirmed it is scrapping two routes from East Midlands Airport – to Costa de Almería and Split.

Jet2 said: “As a successful business, we are constantly reviewing our flying programme in response to demand. While this gives us the ability to add more award-winning flights and holidays, we may also very occasionally withdraw flights.

“Following a recent review of our flying programme from East Midlands Airport, we are making some adjustments and have taken the decision to withdraw services to Costa de Almería and Split for summer 2026.”

The route between the airport and Costa de Almería had been in operation for over five years.

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The region in Spain is known for being less touristy than the likes of the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava.

The region has wild beaches, desert-like landscapes and even mountains.

One popular spot is Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park which is known for its beautiful golden beaches and coves.

For anyone who still wants to explore Costa de Almería, easyJet still flies to Almería from Liverpool, London Gatwick and Bristol.

The other axed route is to Split which is the second-largest city of Croatia after the capital Zagreb.

Popular spots include the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Riva promenade. 

The best beaches in Split include Bačvice Beach for its proximity and sandy shore, Kasjuni Beach for its clear waters and upscale amenities, and Žnjan Beach for its popularity and family-friendly atmosphere.

During summer 2026, there will be direct flights to Split operated by Wizz Air, easyJet and British Airways from London airports, Bristol and Manchester.

The airline has also pushed back its East Midlands to Agadir service until next winter.

The journey will commence in winter 2026 with the first flight departing on October 15 – one-way flights as little as £76.

At the moment, flights are scheduled up until March 18, 2027.

Jet2 is also restarting flights to a Brit-loved holiday destination for the first time in more than a decade.

It will start flights to two destinations in Egypt, after scrapping routes back in 2011.

The Egyptian Cabinet Presidency has reported that there will be seven weekly flights to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with Jet2 from 2027.

Plus, Jet2 will launch first ever flights from major UK airport with 29 new ‘sunshine’ routes.

And hear from one man who visits Spain at least 8 times a year – how to avoid the common tourist mistakes that cost you money.

AS winter sets in, many Brits are already looking ahead to their next holiday.

But travel experts have revealed the destinations that shouldn’t be on your 2026 bucket list, including a sunny favourite for UK residents.

From overtourism to negative environmental impacts, there are a variety of reasons to avoid this stunning locations.

Fodor’s Travel has revealed its No 2026 List, explaining: “Its purpose is to highlight destinations where tourism is placing unsustainable pressures on the land and local communities.”

While the round-up of locations is “not a call for boycott”, it aims to highlight the issues facing each area, urging tourists to “ease up on a spot for now–not forever”.

“Give a rest to any location that clearly needs a breather,” the travel pros encouraged readers.

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The list includes a popular tourist destination for Brits as well as a city set to host next year’s World Cup.

Antarctica

Unlike most destinations, Antarctica doesn’t need marketing campaigns to lure visitors to fuel its existent economy.

In fact, it doesn’t have an economy at all, and therefore doesn’t need tourists.

Despite this, the remote region welcomed 120,000 visitors from 2023 to 2024, a number which is projected to double by 2033.

Mike Gunter, professor of political science and chair at Rollins College in Florida, who studies ecotourism and environmental policy, spoke about the recent shift in tourism for Antarctica.

“Unfortunately, in the last quarter century, Antarctica has been moving more toward mass tourism instead of the traditional ecotourism world,” he explained.

Expedition ships offer visitors a chance to set foot on the driest land on the planet and witness calving glaciers.

Elizabeth Leane, professor of Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, pointed out that a major draw of Antarctica is that it “still has that mystique of being the last place, the last wilderness”.

However, Jessica O’Reilly, associate professor of anthropology at Indiana University and an advisor to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings, explained: “The environment is fragile, and it’s a rare environment”.

“That’s why people want to go there, but it’s also why it can’t really sustain high numbers of tourism,” she said.

With no caps on visitation in Antarctica, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has only been able to set out voluntarily regulations for visitors.

Canary Islands

With warm temperatures for most of the year, the Canary Islands have established themselves as a long-time favourite destination for Brits.

From cheap prices and direct flights to world-class waterparks and stunning scenery, there are many draws to the destination.

However, a whopping 7.8 million visitors in 2025 alone has left locals concerned over how much their islands can take.

Thousands even marched through the streets of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote in May under the banner, “Canarias tiene un límite” (“The Canaries have a limit”).

The booming tourism is causing soaring housing costs and mounting environmental strain, threatening the foundations of island life.

While tourism contributes more than a third of the Canary Islands’ GDP and employs roughly 40% of its population, it has come at a price.

“Residents have started protesting because they’re genuinely fed up,” says John Dale Beckley, founder of the sustainability platform CanaryGreen.org.

“The government previously changed regulations that allowed residents to rent out their properties on Airbnb and Booking.com.

“This has driven up both rental prices and property values. Many young people now find it almost impossible to rent or buy a home.”

Meanwhile, there have also been “alarming losses in biodiversity” due to overcrowding.

And water scarcity and infrastructure strain are predicted to be the next looming crises.

Glacier National Park, Montana

First opened in 1910 with the displacement of the Blackfeet tribe, Glacier National Park (GNP) in Montana struggles to live up to its name.

GNP is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, leaving just 27 of the estimated 150 glaciers from early 20th century.

And these too, are expected to disappear by 2030. 

While Michael Jamison, Northern Rockies campaign director for the National Parks Conservation Association, cited climate change as a main factor, with more frequent and expansive wildfires and milder winters.

“For a lot of these species, climate change is what they call a ‘threat multiplier,’” Jamison explains. “

It magnifies existing threats and intensifies them … We’re seeing changes to migration routes, to seasonal habitats and winter range, and to entire populations.”

For some travelers, the last-chance draw of the rapidly melting glaciers has motivated visits to the park.

Already one of the most visited national parks in the US, Glacier saw around 300,000 more visitors in 2024 than 2023.

These large and growing numbers have various impacts on the park, from traffic congestion on Glacier’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road to the faster accumulation of garbage, and a greater risk of wildlife disturbance.

Glacier National Park has implemented policies to mitigate some of the effects, with visitors required to have timed reservations to enter during peak summer months and hours since 2020.

However, the damage may already have been done.

“The challenges absolutely are unprecedented,” says Jamison. “At no point in the history of Glacier Park have so many existential threats intersected all at once.”

Isola Sacra, Italy

This small community near Rome has been given the green light for a new port, where some of the world’s largest cruise ships will dock.

These plans have caused backlash from residents and environmental campaigners.

Despite the devastating impact of the cruise industry on other Italian areas such as Venice and Santorini, the quiet coastal district of Isola Sacra in Fiumicino is set to become the next cruise destination.

Located just 20 miles from Rome, the stunning area will become home to a pier for mega cruise ships, each over 230 feet high, over 1,150 feet long, and capable of carrying up to 6,000 passengers. 

Authorities say the project will bring an employment boom, however various local and national associations have been fighting against these development plans since 2010.

Long-time residents of Isola Sacra have formed Tavoli del Porto, a committee working to safeguard the area. 

“Only together can we stop these projects that threaten to destroy a delicate ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, agricultural land, unique vegetation, and terrestrial and marine animal species,” the activists told local press ahead of a protest planned in November. 

The project includes measures for the protection of marine biodiversity, with Fiumicino’s seabed so shallow it will require 105 million cubic feet of sand would to be extracted to create a deep channel allowing access for ships.

The Jungfrau Region, Switzerland

Located in the Bernese Oberland of central Switzerland, the Jungfrau Region stretches from the valleys of Interlaken to the imposing summits of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

The area is most famous for its Alpine villages of Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Mürren. 

However despite its stunning scenery, the Jungfrau Region faces the challenge of balancing a booming tourism with the preservation of its environment and local quality of life.

The popularity of the area strains natural resources and the daily lives of residents, making now a critical moment to address sustainability.

According to Jungfrau Railways’ corporate announcements, both visitor numbers and profits have never been higher.

More thana million people visited the Jungfraujoch, the ridge that joins two of the Bernese Alps’ towering 13,000-foot peaks dubbed “the Top of Europe”, in 2024, up 5.1% from the previous year.

Meanwhile, the Eiger Express gondola transported more than 2.1 million passengers, while the Harderbahn, Firstbahn, and Lauterbrunnen-Mürren cableways also broke attendance records.

In the first half of 2025, transport income has generated record profits, offering tourists the chance to reach the high Alps.

But this booming industry has had a visible impact on the surrounding countryside.

“Where there was ice, there are now trees,” explained climate and science reporter Mark Poynting of the Great Aletsch.

Mexico City

Set to host the opener of the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, this city

On July 4, large protests erupted in Mexico City against gentrification, short-term rentals, and rising rents.

Signs reading “Mexico for Mexicans” and “gringos out” were spotted across the city.

Similar to the Canary Islands, the proliferation of Airbnb and other short-stay listings are contributing to housing displacement and rental inflation in the city.

“Simply put, Airbnb should be banned from Mexico City,” says Natalia de la Rosa, the Mexico City-born and bred operations leader of Club Tengo Hambre.

“It’s a platform that incentivizes evictions and tears at the social fabric of communities in neighbourhoods.”

“Deep-pocketed elites and large corporate and international portfolios purchasing entire apartment buildings to convert them into short-term rentals are negatively impacting our city,” she added.

Inside Airbnb, an advocacy group that analyzes the company’s footprint on residential areas through data-driven research, estimates that there are over 25,000 short-term rentals in the city.

Airbnb listings in the city have shot up by 35% since 2020.

Mombasa, Kenya

With a record 2.4 million international arrivals last year, Kenya’s tourism industry has been booming, making travel the third-largest industry in the country for amassing foreign currency.

Cruise travel is one of the sector’s new tourism products, bringing a 164% rise in port traffic in coastal cities Mombasa and Lamu in 2024.

However, despite the country’s vigorous campaign to attract more travelers, Kenyan officials do not have a clear understanding of how many tourists it can accommodate without harming ecological health.

Mombasa, the country’s oldest coastal city, renowned as “the white and blue city,” now hosts 70% of tourists visiting the coast.

And now overtourism has left the city grappling with depleting resources, overcrowding, poor and congested roads, poor waste management–littered beaches and polluted oceans.

Officials have continuously prioritized tourism over local needs, going so far as to establish a Tourists’ Inspectorate Unit, a special security team safeguarding tourist centres, despite worries about crime outside these areas.

Montmartre, Paris

Paris’ hilltop village of Montmartre has long drawn tourists to its picturesque cobbled streets, from Van Gogh lovers to John Wick fans alike.

Montmartre, once a village on the outskirts of the city, has remained untouched, maintaining the narrow cobbled streets of yore.

Today, these picturesque ruelles are considered an undeniable tourist draw in the city.

However in recent years, it’s become more than the 30,000 residents can bear. 

Some 11 million visitors now throng the area each year, topping the numbers seen by the Eiffel Tower.

Rémy Knafou, professor at Paris 1–Panthéon Sorbonne and author of several books on overtourism has noticed that even previously quieter spots, notably the northern flank of the hill, now teem with tourist shops.

“At night, the Place du Tertre is completely invaded by café and restaurant terraces,” Knafou told Fodor’s.

“Some of the population living in the area is protesting–discretely, politely, but firmly–its discontent. It is therefore possible to speak of overtourism.”

Local government officials claim that they are working to reduce the impact of tourism on residents.

However, if trends continue in this way, experts warn Montmartre may be “progressively emptied of its population.”

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This could contribute to “a loss of ‘authenticity,’ or, at any rate, a modification of the local identity”.

“We’ll need to ask ourselves: whether tourists will be satisfied to come and only encounter other tourists.”

RYANAIR has axed hundreds of thousands of seats across many routes in Europe resulting in Brits losing direct routes to some of their favourite holiday destinations.

If you’re trying to think of some alternative spots for your next holiday, the experts at MoneySuperMarket along with Sun Travel have found options some for you.

Carcassonne, France

In 2025, Ryanair cut many services to France including its route to Bergerac which is known for its half-timbered houses and medieval streets.

If you still want that for your next break, Carcassonne is a great alternative.

MoneySuperMarket said: “Carcassonne makes a brilliant alternative to Bergerac for travellers still wishing to fly with Ryanair.

“The city shares Bergerac’s medieval charm, featuring a historic fortress, winding old streets and an impressive local wine scene.

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“For an aesthetic even closer to Bergerac, the village of Alet-les-Bains is only an hour’s drive away, with half-timbered houses that feel like a step back in time.”

Brits can fly directly from London Stansted to Carcassonne with Ryanair with a flight time of two hours.

Or fly from Manchester and arrive in the French city in just two hours and 10 minutes.

Marrakesh, Morocco

It’s not just France that’s affected, Ryanair announced it would be cutting its routes routes to Tenerife North starting from winter 2025 season.

However, if it’s winter sun that Brits are looking for, then there are a few other spots to fly to instead.

Ryanair will instead be putting more capacity into its routes to Morocco – so a trip to Marrakesh, Agadir, Rabat or Essaouira could be an option.

Whether you’re looking for a city break or a beach destination – each city offers something different.

But all have souks to explore, pretty resorts and hotels as well as high winter temperatures.

Flying to Marrakesh takes under four hours from the UK and flights from London are as little as £15 in December.

Krakow, Poland

Ryanair also cut flights to Brive in France as a result of the rising tax rate.

But if you still fancy the charm of the French city that’s known for its fantastic food, then you might find what you’re looking for in the Polish city of Krakow.

MoneySuperMarket added: “Brive is loved for its food markets, history, museums, and that artisanal distillery feel, but Krakow could be an alternative with a stunning medieval old town, lively markets, and rich museums.

“Krakow also offers its own vodka distillery experiences, bringing the same taste of local culture while also being an easy city to reach from many UK airports.”

Brits can fly to Krakow from major airports in the UK with flights taking just over two and half hours.

In January one-way tickets are as little as £15.

Madeira, Portugal

Ryanair recently announced plans to axe flights to the Azores in March 2026.

The autonomous Portuguese islands are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and have long been a favourite with UK holidaymakers.

One alternative recommended by the team at Sun Travel is beautiful Madeira.

Still in Portugal, the archipelago has the lush greenery of the Azores as well as black sand beaches.

It’s not just about nature, though, as there are still bustling cities like Funchal where holidaymakers can explore the Old Town and visit the Mercado dos Lavradores market.

Or wander through the pretty Madeira Botanical Garden and Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

Flights to Madeira depart from the likes of Bristol, Manchester, Bournemouth, Leeds, Nottingham, Liverpool and London for as little as £16.

Porto, Portugal

In August 2025, Ryanair said confirmed that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped including those to Vigo.

The city is known for its vibrant seafood scene, beautiful Atlantic coastline, and as a gateway to the Cíes Islands which are just a 45-minute ferry trip away.

For a different budget-friendly, and direct route from the UK – check out Porto.

The coastal city in northwest Portugal is known for its huge bridges, port wine production, and colourful, winding streets.

Its position by the sea means that, like Vigo, it has plenty of fresh seafood.

While you’re there, don’t forget to try the ‘Porto sandwich’ called Francesinha, which is made with layered meats like steak, ham, and sausage between toasted bread slices.

You can fly directly from the UK to Porto from London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The flight time is under two and a half hours – and they’re as little as £15.

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Here’s another alternative destination to visit this year as Ryanair scraps hundreds of flights – and it’s known for winter sun.

Plus, discover the six alternative Med holidays for 2025 with quieter beaches, cheaper food and affordable deals.

THE first flight linking two of the UK’s top holiday spots has officially taken off, restoring a vital travel link just weeks after the collapse of its former operator.

The route between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick had been left in limbo earlier this month when Eastern Airways revealed it was on the brink of administration.

The regional carrier, which had operated the connection seven times a week, suspended services as the company folded.

But on Sunday afternoon, November 23, Skybus officially stepped in – with its inaugural flight marking the return of the essential link used by holidaymakers, commuters and the region’s tourism industry.

The daily service is being supported by both the Government and Cornwall Council.

Only twelve passengers were on board the Boeing 737 for the first take-off, leaving plenty of space on the 180-seater aircraft as the replacement route got underway.

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Cornwall Airport Newquay’s managing director Amy Smith said the launch marked “an important milestone” for the region.

She added that the reinstated London link would strengthen Cornwall’s “resilience” and support the economy year-round, welcoming Skybus as a partner for “a dependable service for residents, businesses and visitors alike”.

Cornwall Council also hailed the restart as a major boost.

Cllr Tim Dwelly, portfolio holder for economic regeneration, said the return of the connection would play a key role in supporting local business and tourism confidence.

How much does it cost?

Fares on the new Skybus service begin at £79.99 one-way, including a 15kg checked bag.

Travellers can pay extra for additional luggage or a FlyFlexi add-on, which offers increased baggage allowance, ticket flexibility and security fast-track from £22.50 each way.

Skybus confirmed it expects to switch to a smaller 78-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft next month, with services increasing to twice daily from mid-February.

Managing director Jonathan Hinkles said the launch was “a proud moment” for the airline and a major step forward for Cornwall’s connectivity, describing the route as crucial for keeping communities and businesses linked to the capital all year.

Airline collapse

The reinstated service comes after weeks of uncertainty for travellers. Eastern Airways, one of the UK’s remaining regional carriers, collapsed earlier in November after years of financial struggle.

The airline reported a £19.7million net loss for the year to March 2024 – almost £5million worse than the previous year.

Cornwall Council moved quickly to secure a temporary agreement with Skybus, ensuring the connection wasn’t lost for long.

Leader of the council Leigh Frost said the route was essential, particularly with the county’s unreliable rail links, adding that Cornwall “needs that secure route so it can access the rest of the world”.

Skybus will continue to operate the service until at least mid-2026, while the council works to find a long-term airline to take on a four-year contract.

Previously, the route has been operated by FlyBe and after that, British Airways.

Eastern Airways took over operations in 2020 until its collapse earlier this month.

While stepping in on the Newquay–Gatwick route is new territory for Skybus, the airline is no stranger to Cornwall.

It has flown between Newquay and the Isles of Scilly for more than 30 years, with flights also running from Land’s End and Exeter.

Its parent company, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, also operates boats to the islands.

With the reinstated air link now back in action, Cornwall’s gateway to the capital is once again open, offering welcome stability after a turbulent month for regional travel.

Plus, here are the pretty twin beach villages in the ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall.

And another Cornish village compared to Greece with seafront Roman attraction and one of the UK’s warmest beaches.

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Plus an English village that’s the ‘quiet side of Cornwall’ has A-list holidaymakers and no cars.

For alternatives to Cornwall, one travel writer would encourage Brits to head to her county instead.

There are a staggering 193 countries in the world, and one travel expert has visited them all. But despite his extensive exploration, there’s a UK city he’s labelled one of the best

The world is full of incredible destinations offering breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so it’s no wonder that we can often overlook what’s right on our doorstep. But sometimes looking a little closer to home is the best thing to do. A UK city has beaten a whopping list of the top places to visit in the eyes of a very well-travelled explorer – and it’s not London.

Henrik Jeppesen has journeyed to every single country in the world – a staggering total of 193 – and has ticked off more than 2,000 destinations on his ever-expanding list. The globetrotter, who hails from Thy in northwest Jutland, Denmark, has been exploring the world since he was just 17, amassing a treasure trove of insider knowledge and a long list of advice.

Despite being well-versed in European travel and having experienced countless countries worldwide, there’s one destination that he can’t recommend highly enough – and it’s right here in the UK. “I absolutely loved Belfast when I visited. I still remember it as being one of the best and most surprising cities I’ve been to”, Henrik exclusively told the Mirror. “The city is so charming, and it has a very rich history.”

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The capital of Northern Ireland is the birthplace of the RMS Titanic and home to the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that has been converted into a museum.

Meanwhile, City Hall takes centre stage in the city, which earned the nickname ‘Linenopolis’ during the 19th century when Belfast was known as the world’s linen capital. In addition to its legacy, Henrik had nothing but praise for the people who call the city home.

“I really loved it there, and the people make the place special. They are really fantastic, and I met, I don’t know how many Northern Irish people – they’re just fantastic, talkative and lovely,” he said. “Then the feeling about walking the streets, beautiful buildings – it’s really a lovely city with the atmosphere, and the food was great.”

Despite visiting Belfast 15 years ago for just three days, Henrik still holds fond memories of the city and is eager to return. “I had plans to visit last month, but I couldn’t go, so I’ll go in the future. The city of Belfast is one of the great cities of Europe, and of all the cities I’ve visited, I haven’t felt that they’ve been that special like Belfast has.”

Noting why it could be seen as an overlooked city in the UK, Henrik said: “You hear so much negativity in the media from the conflict back in the day, so it doesn’t really stand out as a place you want to visit; people think about London, Dublin or Edinburgh. Edinburgh is a fantastic city, but I think Belfast is highly underrated. It’s so simple and easy to get to, so if you want a quick weekend break, it makes so much sense to explore the city.”

For anyone looking to book a getaway to Belfast, or anywhere in Europe, Henrik shared some vital advice when it comes to how long you should spend in one destination. “If you go to other parts of Europe, you might want to do five cities in two weeks, but that might be too fast. I would say you have two weeks. It’s better to spend one week in each location, rather than two places,” the expert advised.

“It’s not to feel rushed. Is it really a holiday if you’re rushed? It shouldn’t be that you rush and hurry to see alot of stuff. I’ve had moments in my travels when I’ve had to rush, but I don’t enjoy it as much; it’s better to take your own pace and explore a lot of things.”

You can find more of Henrik’s world adventures on his website.

Travel expert Henrik Jeppesen has visited every single country in the world, but there’s one European city that compares to ‘stepping into another world’ with €5 meals and ‘extremely friendly’ people

Away from the popular tourist hotspots of Barcelona, Venice or Dubrovnik is an unassuming European city that a travel expert has hailed as the best in the world.

Henrik Jeppesen has travelled to every single country in the world. That’s a whopping 193 nations according to the United Nations. The 37-year-old has also racked up more than 2,000 destinations on an ever-growing checklist. He has been exploring the globe since the age of 17, so it’s no wonder he has a wealth of inside knowledge and an extensive list of recommendations.

Hailing from Thy, in northwest Jutland, Denmark, the father of one is very familiar with Europe, but despite his time and experiences in countries across the world, there’s one destination that he couldn’t advocate for any more, and flights are less than three hours from London.

“The best city in Europe, in my opinion, is the capital of Estonia, Tallinn,” Henrik exclusively told the Mirror. “It’s very much overlooked for people coming to Europe, and many people who have travelled have never been there.

“Even if they’ve been to Europe two or three times, they usually go to London, Rome, Paris and Berlin, those kinds of places, so in that sense I think it’s highly underrated.”

Explaining what makes Tallinn so special, Henrik said: “First and foremost, it’s a lot cheaper than the cities I mentioned; in comparison, it’s fantastic value. Then you have the Old Town, which I think is the best old town in the entire world, and I’ve travelled a lot. You can step out the door, and it’s like you’re stepping into a new world with well-preserved old buildings and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else I’ve been.

“The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can easily spend a few days and with fantastic food for very little. I had lunch for €5 at Rataskaevu 16 about 40 times, and it’s an outstanding restaurant and experience. Many restaurants are similarly priced, so it’s great value to eat out and something I highly appreciate, coming from Denmark. “

On the topic of the delicacies of the city, which he called home for 10 months, Henrik added: “You have a mix of local cuisine, and many restaurants offer Italian food. I often eat cheap, local produce. I loved going to the local Balti Jaama Turg market to pick up the ingredients to make a meal at home. Many fantastic memories for my wife and me to look back upon. It’s not Michelin-starred, but you get a really nice meal in a charming old building, which creates such a lovely atmosphere. You can find many restaurants within beautiful architecture, that are each an experience in itself.”

Aside from the affordability and great food on offer, there’s plenty to see and explore during a getaway to Tallinn. The expert shared that in addition to the Old Town, there are “beautiful parks”, a market with “amazing food”, modern shopping malls, museums, attractions, and a waterfall not far from the city.

“It brings a nice atmosphere, you walk around the city, and it’s like stepping into another world,” he added. “I’ve been there during the summer, and I’m surprised that not more people visit, it really is outstanding in my opinion. It’s very laid-back and a mid-sized city, with around half a million people living there, and almost half of the entire population of Estonia.”

With pollution a growing concern worldwide, particularly in large urban areas, Henrik notes that the air quality in Tallinn is another distinctive appeal. “It probably has the best air quality of any city, at least capital cities, but maybe of any major city in Europe. The air is really good, and that is often a downside to visiting a major city in this world.”

Henrik is also a big fan of the Tallinn card, which offers tourists free public transport and free or discounted entry into a range of museums and attractions in the city. He said: “It’s a fantastic way to experience an already fantastically valued city.”

There are also several nearby islands that can be explored, such as Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, as well as Pärnu, which is known as Estonia’s ‘Summer Capital’ due to its extensive white sand beaches. “It’s a stunning place to visit, especially in the summer,” the expert added. “Pärnu, Viljandi and islands are well worth looking into, especially if visiting the country for more than a week.”

Another major strength of the city is how friendly the people are. “There are lovely people there. They are extremely friendly in Estonia.” Henrik reflected on a time when he got lost late at night while exploring the city in 2014, and strangers came to his aid, picking him up in the streets of Tallinn to help him reach his hotel.

“How many European capitals would you just get a ride from someone in the street and take you there? I don’t think that would happen in London. I have great memories daydreaming about this city.”

You can find more of Henrik’s world adventures on his website here.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

AS the UK descended into the depths of winter, a warmer holiday could be on the cards.

But trying to find the best deal while still catching some sun can be hard, especially if flying from your local airport.

However, TravelSupermarket has revealed the holiday destinations with the cheapest average package deals from seven of the UK’s most popular airports.

With deals for as little as £225 each – and that includes seven nights and return flights – here are some of the best spots to go from your nearest airport.

Newcastle Airport

When it comes to Brits travelling from Newcastle Airport, you’ll want to head to Fuerteventura.

With deals on average being around £339pp, the Spanish island is often seen as one of the more affordable in the Canaries.

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We spoke to a local who shared his top tips for exploring the island from the prettiest towns to the quietest beaches.

Other cheap destinations include Malta, with deals from £388pp.

Leeds Airport

One of the most affordable winter sun breaks if flying from Leeds Airport is Agadir.

Morocco is often one of the best destinations for a winter holiday, being one of the warmest destinations without a long flight.

The average package deal price comes in at around £413pp, when flying to the Moroccan city from Leeds.

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited last winter, saying: “It’s affordable luxury at its finest, and the perfect place for a last-minute holiday with my closest gal pal.

Manchester Airport

Spain comes out on top if you are travelling from Manchester Airport.

The Costa del Sol’s Benalmadena has the cheapest average holiday prices, with seven night breaks around £481.

Other cheap average deals include Lara in Turkey for £513pp, or Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife for £537pp.

Birmingham Airport

Fuerteventura comes out on top as the biggest bargain destination, this time when travelling from Birmingham Airport.

You can spend just £350pp on average for a seven night holiday there.

Other cheap destinations also include Malta for £356pp.

London Airport

If you can get to some of the airports in London, you will normally find the cheapest deals here due to then having more airlines in operation.

The biggest bargain on the list, you can fly to Olu Deniz in Turkey with seven nights just £225pp.

With highs of 16C, and beautiful sandy beaches, it is even nicknamed the Turquoise Coast for its bright blue seas.

Other cheap packages include Alayna, also in Turkey, for £281pp, or Hammamet in Tunisia for £315pp.

Liverpool Airport

Sousse in Tunisia is the cheapest winter sun spot if travelling from Liverpool, with average holiday packages for around £290pp.

Tunisia was even named the best value winter sun holiday destination by Thomas Cook earlier this year, with highs of 18C.

Other cheap spots include Albufeira in Portugal for around £375pp.

Edinburgh Airport

Scots should be looking at holidays to Portugal if they want the biggest bargain.

The Algarve’s Albufeira has some of the cheapest package holidays on average, with a week being around £395pp.

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An experienced travel agent has listed the underrated Spanish destinations that you should see “before you die” – and they’re all easy to get to from the UK

A travel agent has listed the underrated destinations in Spain you should consider putting onto your bucket list.

Globe-trotter Carlos Lavilla has seen it all over the years – from beautiful beaches to villages perched in the mountains and cities steeped in history. So, to make the most of this experience, he puts all this knowledge to good use by sharing his top tips for fellow holidaymakers.

In a recent TikTok video, Carlos listed some Spanish spots that are more off the beaten track than Madrid or Barcelona. He praised the areas for their authenticity, history and local charm.

Carlos said: “These are the five destinations in Spain you should visit at least once in your life. Remember, this is just my personal opinion as a travel agent and an inveterate traveller for more than 30 years.”

So would you ever give them a visit? You can check out the full list below for inspiration before booking your next trip…

1. Frigiliana, Malaga

Located a few miles away from the Costa del Sol, Frigiliana has earned the title of ‘jewel of the Axarquia’.

Its old town, with its Moorish-Mudejar heritage, has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site, and every corner seems designed to make time stand still.

The whitewashed façades, bougainvillaea-filled planters and views of the Mediterranean turn every stroll into a living postcard.

We’d recommend taking a taxi into the town because parking can be very limited.

This also means you can enjoy some of the region’s delicious (and cheap!) wine without having to get behind the wheel.

2. Merida, Badajoz

Founded in 25 BC as Augusta Emerita, Merida was the capital of Roman Lusitania.

So it’s a hotspot for history buffs, who can visit one of the most complete archaeological sites in Europe.

It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is home to a Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, as well as historic bridges and the Los Milagros Aqueduct.

After all that exploring, you’ll get the chance to try some delicious local cuisine.

The region is famous for its top-quality Iberian products, which are bound to leave your mouth watering.

3. Albarracin, Teruel

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Albarracín seems suspended in another era.

Its ochre colour buildings and winding stone streets of stone transport you back in time – especially in the historic quarter.

Be sure to visit the Cathedral of El Salvador, as well as the walls that crown the hill.

It’s a great spot for a charming rural escape – and isn’t as hot and crowded as other places in Spain, making it perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

4. Salamanca, Castilla y León

Few cities combine such artistic heritage and vitality as Salamanca.

Its famous university, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and has been the cradle of scholars, artists and writers.

The Baroque-style Plaza Mayor is a bustling local meeting point, active day and night.

Be sure to stop at The University, the Old and New Cathedrals.

Then do as the locals do by finishing off your day with some tapas and enjoying the ample nightlife.

5. Consuegra, Toledo

If you’ve read Don Quixote, this location is a must-visit.

The windmills of Consuegra stand on Calderico hill, which is what inspired the famous novel.

It’s one of the most photographed panoramic views in central Spain and a great place to watch the sun set.

You can visit from Madrid or Toledo, making it a brilliant option for those just looking for a day trip.

SPAIN’S Costas have long been British holidaymakers’ top choice for a summer getaway.

But that’s by no means all this captivating country has to boast about.

Its rich culinary scene comes alive in winter, with the northern regions revelling in truffle season while the Asturias readies its cider houses for an influx of visitors.

Anna Viladot, of Vueling, says: “Social media has influenced how people choose where to travel. For many, the food comes first and the destination follows.”

Whether it’s hearty stews in Santiago de Compostela or seafood in Seville that takes your fancy, Sophie Swietochowski has a winter escape guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.

STEWS IN SEVILLE

TRADITIONALLY a peasant dish, Andalusian stews are some of the heartiest out there, served with hunks of meat and beans that have spent hours bubbling away in spices. Seville is a great city to sample it in and the traditional, family-run restaurants do it best.

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Book a well-located base, like the 4* Porcel Torneo – which puts you within easy reach of all the best spots – and go for a basic, room-only package so you can sample grub from all the best places.

The modern, practical hotel is just a short walk from the Guadalquivir river and a 15-minute drive from the Royal Alcazar, a former royal palace that’s a must-see.

For a true flavour of the city, book on to a 2.5-hour Flavours of Andalusia food tour, which costs just £31 with tastings (for details see getyourguide.co.uk)

GO: A week room-only at the 4H Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Seville, are from €38.99 one way at vueling.com.

BODEGAS IN BARCELONA

IN summer, Barcelona has a glorious sandy beach flanked by laid-back bars, but in winter when the crowds disperse, you can enjoy the city’s magic in relative solitude, sipping wine in charming bodegas.

Bodega J Cala, in the Sant Marti district to the east of the centre, is one of the best.

The vermouth really packs a punch and you can chase it down with tapas. Make sure to try the anchovies.

Calcots are another famous food in Barcelona and the Catalonia region in general. The long onions, which are sweet in flavour, are generally griddled on an open fire.

Roll yourself back to The Moxy, a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobby.

GO: Four nights’ room-only at Moxy Barcelona, right, is from £328pp, flying from Birmingham on February 22.

See jet2citybreaks.com.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Barcelona, from €35.22 one way at vueling.com.

APPLES IN ASTURIAS

FANCY a cider? The mountainous region of Asturias will have you guzzling it back like juice.

The apples are harvested in autumn and the cider houses open for winter, serving small glasses that are meant to be knocked back in one hit.

Holidaymakers can follow the official cider trail, which visits some famous houses to explain how the apple-flavoured booze is produced to create one of three kinds: Natural, newly-pressed or sparkling.

Oviedo, a city that sits between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay, is one of the more popular areas to stay in thanks to its many hotels.

The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourself, and has a restaurant serving hearty local dishes (perfect for after a day of cider-drinking).

GO: Seven nights’ room-only is from £265pp including flights from Stansted on January 26.

Book at onthebeach.co.uk. Flights-only, Gatwick to Asturias, from €30.99 one way at vueling.com.

MACKEREL & MORE IN MALAGA

IF you like a side of architecture and culture with your dinner, look no further than Malaga.

The southern coastal resort is loved for its vibrant beaches where travellers can soak up 30C sunshine during the ­summer.

The winters are just as decent, rarely ­dropping below 17C during the day.

Mackerel, especially horse mackerel (jurel), is a popular and affordable fish here, prepared in various ways such as fried or grilled.

Grilled ­sardines are popular, too, traditionally skewered into a sardine kebab, scattered with salt and then scorched on wooden embers that gives them a deep smokey ­flavour.

El Espigón de Pepe, set back from the beach front, is an excellent place to try them.

Stay at the modest, but cosy and well-located, Casual del Mar Málaga, right, a 3H hotel a short walk from the port.

GO: Seven nights’ room only costs from £349pp including flights from Luton on February 4.

See loveholidays.com.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Malaga, from €30.23 one way at vueling.com.

ARROZ IN ALICANTE

THE southern region of Alicante has so much more to it than action-packed beaches.

If you’re a fan of classic Spanish rice dishes (arroz) then the ones here, piled high with seafood and charred at the edges, won’t disappoint.

Book a stay in the modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante, a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back winters thanks to the wellness centre with a whirlpool, Turkish bath and sauna.

It’s home to one of the best golf courses in the region, where holes boast epic views.

The resort has some excellent restaurants, whose menus are littered with classic local dishes.

But if you fancy venturing out for the evening, Taberna del Mar, 15 minutes away by cab, dishes up some of the best home-cooked rice dishes in the area.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Hotel Bonalba Alicante, right, is from £259pp including flights from Manchester on January 30.

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Flights-only, Gatwick to Alicante, from €30.99 one way at vueling.com.

ON the hunt for a bargain festive getaway? Forget the traditional European spots — as this year Vilnius is the place to head.

New research has revealed the capital of Lithuania is the most wallet-friendly destination for a Christmas market break, with low-cost accommodation plus ginger bread and mulled wine galore.

According to the Post Office’s annual Christmas Markets Barometer report, a two-night getaway in the historic city will set holidaymakers back significantly less than a short break in any other European destination.

The study looked at the cost of six basic holiday items in 15 countries that are popular for a festive break — to calculate where travellers would get the most bang for their buck in 2025.

These holiday items included B&B accommodation, return flights or Eurostar travel, coffees, and three-course dinners for two with wine.

It found the total cost of all of these essentials in Vilnius came to £508.94, with travel and accommodation being the leading cause for its affordability.

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The costing is dramatically less here than it would be in other destinations.

The study found that the city has not been affected by inflation in terms of holiday costs, with prices 0.4 per cent lower than they were in last year’s Christmas Markets Barometer.

In second place on the barometer is Riga in Latvia, which has been shown to be eight per cent more expensive than Vilnius overall, although comparatively general items, such as ginger bread or stollen at the market and a three-course meal for two, cost less.

Laura Plunkett, Head of Travel Money at Post Office, said: “Sterling’s drop in value is an important factor for travellers to consider before booking a trip because this varies between currencies.

“The pound’s fall against the euro is smaller than against other European currencies — five per cent compared with 10.6 per cent against the Hungarian forint and 10.9 per cent against the krona in Sweden.”

If it is mulled wine you have got your eyes on, this year’s research suggests that Bratislava in Slovakia is the best place to get enjoy it without splashing the cash.

This destination came in third place overall but had the most affordable tipples, with four glasses of mulled wine priced at £10.77, more than £7 less than it would cost in Vilnius.

Prices for all the holiday items had risen in Bratislava, in comparison to the previous year, with flights and accommodation soaring by 12.9 per cent, while meals, drinks and airport transfers have increased 8.5 per cent from 2024.

Poland has been revealed as one of the most affordable countries overall for a festive mini-break, with three cities making it into the top ten on the budget barometer.

Gdansk, Warsaw and Krakow came in fourth, fifth and seventh place respectively with total holiday costs of £585.85, £588.97 and £674.17.

Despite being the most expensive of the Polish cities in general, Krakow is definitely the best place to head if you plan to load up on cake, stollen or gingerbread at the markets.

Here, it costs £10.56 on average for four portions of these sweet treats, which is less than half of what it would cost you in Warsaw (£22).

This still doesn’t compare to Stockholm, however, where visitors heading to the Christmas markets can get samples of these goodies for free.

At the other end of the scale, Copenhagen in Denmark was the priciest of all 15 destinations in the charts, with the total cost of all holiday items coming to a staggering £1,055.92 — more than double that of the cheapest spot, Vilnius.

Austrian capital Vienna was the second most expensive spot overall. However, the barometer shows that costs have fallen by 2.4 per cent since last year.

Laura Plunkett added: “Away from the Advent markets, there are tempting opportunities to shop for Christmas gift items.

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But we advise holidaymakers to think carefully before using a credit or debit card to make payments as they are likely to end up paying some extra non-sterling transaction charges.

“Instead, consider loading spending money on to a pre-paid card such as the Post Office Travel Money Card, which is widely accepted and does not incur these transaction charges.”

RYANAIR is axing 15 destinations across Europe in 2026, amid plans to scale back its operations.

It comes just months after the budget airline confirmed that two million seats would be scrapped across Spain.

Millions of Brits could be forced to change their plans as routes to major destinations, mainly in Germany and Spain, are scrapped.

Plans to scale back operations in France have also been announced.

Just a few months ago Ryanair cancelled all services to three French destinations.

The cancelled routes come as Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary pushes back against rising air tax costs.

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Here’s the full list of affected routes:

Spain

Back in August, Ryanair said confirmed that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped.

The destinations is said it would be closing operations and ceasing flights to were:

• Santiago de Compostela
• Vigo
• Valladolid
• Jerez
• Tenerife (North)

Tensions over increased airport charges had affected relations with the state-owned Spanish operator Aena.

Mr O’Leary said at the time: “If the costs in regional Spain are too high, I will fly elsewhere.

“We are better off flying at the same cost to places such as Palma [on the island of Mallorca] than flying to Jerez.”

Germany

In October, Ryanair announced it was dropping 24 routes to and from Germany, cutting nearly 800,000 seats in total.

It was revealed that nine airports would be affected, along with the plans of those wanting a winter break, and including to major cities that are popular with tourists.

These are:

• Berlin
• Hamburg
• Memmingen
• Baden-Württemberg
• Cologne
• Frankfurt-Hahn
• Dortmund
• Dresden
• Leipzig

Ryanair’s CEO Eddie Wilson said back in August: “Germany’s air travel market is broken and needs an urgent fix.

“As a result of these high government taxes/fees (the highest in Europe), and Lufthansa’s high-fare monopoly, German citizens/visitors now pay the highest air fares in Europe.”

France

Ryanair cut services to France in 2025 – with the loss of 25 routes and some 750,000 seats this winter following the decision to drop services to Strasbourg, Brive and Bergerac.

Now though, it has been revealed that further cancellations are possibly looming.

CEO Jason McGuiness has confirmed thar Ryanaire will leave France’s regional airports in the summer of 2026.

However, as yet, no official destinations have been named yet.

The actions of the airline earlier in the year caused a 13 per cent reduction in its capacity in France.

Mr O’Leary told French newspaper Le Parisien: “You have this crazy situation where your government increases the solidarity tax on airline tickets (TSBA), which has gone from 2.63 euros to 7.40 euros per ticket. 180% increase! It’s totally unjustified.”

He added that commercial flying was a “rotten sector that does not bring in a lot of money.”

He also accused the French government of viewing airlines as their personal “tax collectors,” as well as making the claim that “French air traffic control is by far the least effective in Europe.”

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However, five European cities will be getting new Ryanair flights as part of the airline’s winter schedule.

Plus, here is everything you need to know about whether you can use a printed boarding pass, including rules for Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air and Jet2 explained.

WE’VE all dreamt of having a white Christmas, and there are a number of places within three hours from the UK where it will most likely be snowy this festive period.

Festive films always show snowy destinations with pretty markets and twinkling lights.

And whilst the UK can be very pretty at Christmas, we don’t often get snow.

So here are the top places in Europe you can expect snow this Christmas with flights that take less than or around three hours from the UK.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck in Austria is the capital of the Tyrol region and at Christmas transforms into a living fairytale, according to Innsbruck Tourismus.

On November 15, the Old Town and Market Squares launch with oversized fairytale figures lining many of the medieval alleyways.

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At the markets, kids can enjoy a vintage carousel, puppet shows and even a virtual sleigh ride.

Visitors should also visit Wiltener Platzl, where you can experience traditional Tyrolean culture with local food and handmade goods.

Then from November 25, there will be the Maria-Theresien-Strasse Market with lots of stalls selling decorative trinkets and handcrafted gifts.

December temperatures: Highs of 4C and lows of -1C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Innsbruck in December is 73cm, with an average base depth of 12cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £39 per person from Birmingham Airport to Innsbruck and each way takes around two hours.

Salzburg, Austria

The Austrian city of Salzburg sits on the border of Germany and has views of the Eastern Alps.

And over the festive season, the city is home to a brilliant Christmas market.

The Salzburger Christkindlmarkt hosts everything you’d expect of a normal Christmas market and more, including Mozart concerts and a parade.

The market is even one of the oldest in the world and is a great spot to enjoy seasonal foods.

December temperatures: Highs of 5C and lows of -2C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Salzburg in December is 8cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £33 per person from London Stansted to Salzburg and each way takes around two hours.

Tallinn, Estonia

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is home to one of Europe‘s oldest Christmas markets which is often compared to Disney fairytale cities.

Located in Old Town’s Town Hall Square, visitors can explore a number of wooden chalets selling gifts and food and see a giant Christmas tree.

For the duration of the market, visitors can also catch a glimpse of street performers, glowing lights and carollers.

Make sure to try some traditional Estonian Christmas food such as blood sausage and roasted potatoes.

December temperatures: Highs of 1C and lows of -5C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Tallinn in December is 13.2cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £35 per person from London Stansted or London Luton to Tallinn and each way takes around two hours and 45 minutes.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania‘s capital, Vilnius, is full of baroque architecture and has a quaint Old Town.

And when Christmas comes, this area feels like a festive village.

In the Cathedral Square, visitors will find a unique Christmas tree surrounded by a bustling market that includes ice sculptures and folk performances.

Then throughout the town there are light installations to find.

The city is even home to a festive train experience and an ice skating rink by the Town Hall.

December temperatures: Highs of 0C and lows of -4C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Vilnius in December is 5.9cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £49 per person from London Luton to Vilnius and each way takes around two hours and 40 minutes.

Stockholm, Sweden

Over in Sweden, Stockholm features cobblestone streets and grand buildings including a 13th century cathedral.

At Christmas, the city lights up with twinkling lights and cosy markets.

One market, Gamla Stan’s Stortorget square features ice skating and a Julbord, which is a Christmas buffet.

Skansen open-air museum also has a Christmas market with illuminated streets and festive window displays.

The city also hosts a Santa Run, where hundreds of people dress as Santa and go on a run for charity.

December temperatures: Highs of 2C and lows of -1C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Stockholm in December is 20.3cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £42 per person from London Luton to Stockholm and each way takes around two and a half hours.

Chambery, France

In France, you could head to the Alpine town of Chambery, known for its medieval Castle of the Dukes of Savoy.

In the historic town centre, there are a number of family-friendly festive activities and shows to watch.

The town’s ancient streets and squares then come alive with lights and stalls selling handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats such as hot spiced wine.

December temperatures: Highs of 7C and lows of 0C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Chambery in December is 3.3cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £62 per person from Edinburgh to Chambery and each way takes around two hours and 40 minutes.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik sits on the coast of Iceland and is both the country’s capital and largest city.

For festive things to do in the city, head to Reykjavík Northern Lights Market, which is near Grotta Lighthouse.

The market is set in a great spot to catch the Northern Lights whilst also having a wander around a number of stalls selling local crafts and geothermal footbaths.

The market also boasts street food, live storytelling and music by the fire.

Another cosy spot to head to in the city is the Bookstore Bar, which looks like a library on the inside.

December temperatures: Highs of 3C and lows of -2C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Reykjavik in December is 5cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £53 per person from Bristol Airport to Innsbruck and each way takes just under three hours.

Helsinki, Finland

Finland‘s southern capital, Helsinki, is known for its architecture as well as being a business hub.

And at Christmas, the city becomes a wonderland of festive cheer.

The city’s main Christmas market is called Tuomaan Markkinat and is located in Senate Square.

It features a number of different attractions including a historic carousel for children.

Seasonal foods at the market include reindeer meat and mulled wine served with almonds and raisins.

And for something a little more luxurious, Helsinki has a lot of saunas that are open throughout the holidays.

December temperatures: Highs of 1C and lows of -4C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Helsinki in December is 6cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £81 per person from London Stansted to Helsinki and it takes about two hours and 50 minutes to get there.

The flight back takes just over three hours, at three hours and five minutes.

Rovaniemi, Finland

According to travel booking platform Omio, the most magical market to experience this Christmas season is Finland‘s ‘Christmas Village’, also known as ‘Santa Claus Village’.

Located in Rovaniemi, the village includes visits from Santa himself, letter writing, crafting opportunities, rides, attractions and even the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.

December temperatures: Highs of -4C and lows of -11C.

Snowfall: The average snowfall in Rovaniemi in December is 52 cm, with an average base depth of 20 to 40 cm.

Return flights in December cost as little as £51 per person from Birmingham Airport to Rovaniemi and each way spills just over three hours, coming in at around three hours and 15 minutes.

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For things to do in the UK, here are 27 free festive experiences for families including light trails and Santa’s grotto.

Plus, Winter Wonderland opens this week – here’s all the new attractions at Europe’s biggest festive event.

Airlines including British Airways, easyJet and TUI have confirmed a host of new places they will be flying to next year. Here’s the full list of new destinations being introduced in 2026

As the chill of winter descends upon the UK, many Brits are already dreaming of sun-soaked holidays in 2026. The great news is that airlines are adding a whopping 31 new destinations to their schedules for those looking to jet off next year.

Major airlines such as British Airways, easyJet and TUI have unveiled a plethora of new locations they’ll be servicing in the coming year. The majority of these fresh flights will kick off in the spring, carrying on throughout the balmy summer months.

Newcastle Airport is set to benefit the most from these additions, with easyJet preparing to establish a new base there in 2026, leading to an additional 11 destinations departing from Newcastle.

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In other news, Jet2 has confirmed seven exciting new destinations from East Midlands Airport. These include the picturesque Split in Croatia, the exotic Agadir in Morocco and the stunning Chania in Greece.

Scroll down for the comprehensive list of new destinations being introduced in 2026, reports the Express.

London Heathrow

• St Louis, USA, with British Airways from April 2026.

London Gatwick

• Bangkok, Thailand, with British Airways from Summer 2026 (upgraded to year-round).

Newcastle Airport

EasyJet is gearing up to launch a new base at Newcastle Airport come next spring. This will result in an expansion of its network from the airport, including flights to:

• Antalya, Turkey, with easyJet from March 29, 2026.
• Dalaman, Turkey, with easyJet from March 31, 2026.
• Rhodes, Greece, with easyJet from Summer 2026.
• Corfu, Greece, with easyJet from April 3, 2026.
• Faro, Portugal, with easyJetMarch from 29, 2026.
• Malta with easyJet from March 30, 2026.
• Prague, Czechia, with easyJet from August 2, 2026.
• Reus, Spain, with easyJet from March 31, 2026.
• Nice, France, with easyJet from March 29, 2026.
• Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, with easyJet from August 3, 2026.
• Enfidha, Tunisia, with easyJet from March 29, 2026.

East Midlands Airport

• Antalya, Turkey, with SunExpress from Easter 2026.
• Agadir, Morocco, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Costa de Almeria, Spain, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Preveza, Greece, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Thessaloniki, Greece, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Chania, Greece, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Pula, Croatia, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Split, Croatia, with Jet2 from Summer 2026.
• Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, with TUI from Easter 2026 (re-introduction).

Bristol Airport

• Reus, Spain, with easyJet from June 25, 2026.
• Thessaloniki, Greece, with easyJet from June 27, 2026

Stansted Airport

• La Palma, Spain, with Jet2 from October 26, 2026.
• Jerez, Spain, with Jet2 from May 2026.
• Samos, Greece, with Jet2 from Summer 2026 (new weekly services).

Manchester Airport

• La Palma, Spain, with Jet2 from April 3, 2026.
• Samos, Greece, with Jet2 from Summer 2026 (new weekly services)

Birmingham Airport

• Samos, Greece, with Jet2 from May 4, 2026.
• Rome, Italy, with easyJet from March 5, 2026.

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Jet2 has announced that it is launching 26 new flights, meaning British passengers can fly out to destinations including Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Ibiza

Jet2 has announced it will launch 26 new flights to a whole host of sunny destinations across Europe

The budget airline has revealed plans to initiate flights and holidays from Gatwick Airport. The firm says it has secured slots for six aircraft “following the release of additional capacity” by the UK’s second busiest airport. Jet2 will station five Airbus A321neo aircraft at the West Sussex airport, with an additional aircraft positioned overseas. Its inaugural Gatwick flight is set to depart for Tenerife, Spain, on 26 March next year.

The airline – which recently went viral for its catchy adverts featuring Jess Glynne’s Hold My Hand – will fly to a whole host of sunny destinations next spring and summer. They are:

• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Lanzarote
• Tenerife
• Ibiza
• Majorca
• Menorca
• Alicante
• Girona
• Malaga
• Reus
• Faro (The Algarve)
• Antalya
• Corfu
• Crete (Heraklion)
• Kalamata
• Kefalonia
• Kos
• Halkidiki
• Preveza
• Rhodes
• Skiathos
• Zante
• Malta
• Naples
• Verona
• Paphos (Cyprus)
• Pula
• Bourgas (Bulgaria)

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Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2, said: “Today’s announcement represents an incredibly exciting moment for Jet2. For many years, our ambition has been to provide our differentiated, service-led, end-to-end product offering from London Gatwick, and we see this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to accelerate our growth from the UK’s largest beach and city leisure destination airport. We know all too well how much demand there is among customers and independent travel agents for us to operate our award-winning flights and holidays from London Gatwick, so it is fantastic to be able to share that we are here and ready to meet their travelling needs.”

Gatwick is set to become the 14th UK airport with a Jet2 base. Initially, the company will offer flights from Gatwick to 29 “sunshine destinations” in countries such as Spain, Greece, Turkey, Portugal and Italy. The airline confirmed that over 300 direct positions will be established in the Gatwick area, spanning pilots, cabin crew, engineering and ground operations roles, with several hundred additional indirect posts also being generated.

Gatwick chief executive Pierre-Hugues Schmit said: “We are thrilled to welcome Jet2 to London Gatwick, marking an exciting new chapter for the airport and our passengers. Jet2’s arrival brings even more choice and flexibility to passengers across the South East and beyond, strengthening London Gatwick’s vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.

“It is an exciting time for Jet2 to join London Gatwick following the recent Government approval for routine use of our northern runway, which will further expand connectivity and economic growth. We are committed to delivering exceptional service and we look forward to supporting Jet2’s growth and success here at London Gatwick.”

Jet2 is regularly voted one of, if not the, best airline in the UK. It was named Best Airline at the Routes Europe Awards in 2025 and won The Telegraph Travel Awards for Best Short-Haul Airline for the third year in a row, based on reader votes. It has also been recognized as the Most Reliable UK Airline by AirAdvisor and has been a Which? Recommended Provider for a decade, partly due to very low cancellation rates.

TRAVELLERS will soon be able to fly between a popular town in Cornwall and a major London airport once again.

The previously suspended route operated by Eastern Airways, which fell into administration earlier this month, is being reinstated in a matter of days.

Eastern Airways had operated flights between the seaside town of Newquay in Cornwall and London Gatwick seven times per week.

But in early November when the regional airline fell into administration, the route was temporarily cancelled.

Now, Cornwall Council has secured a temporary agreement with Skybus to take on the route on a short-term contract, with flights resuming on November 23.

The Skybus service will operate daily with plans to increase to twice-daily flights on weekdays from 14 February 2026.

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Skybus will operate the route on its ATR72 aircraft, which has room for 70 passengers. The average flight time is around one hour and 20 minutes.

Leader of Cornwall Council, Councillor Leigh Frost said: “We’re pleased Skybus has worked with us so closely to get this over the line as quickly as possible to ensure that lack of service wasn’t prolonged.

“We know the train line into Cornwall is not great and other routes of transport are really difficult so we need that secure route so Cornwall can access the rest of the world.”

Skybus will operate the route initially until mid-2026 as Cornwall Council is seeking a permanent airline to take on a four-year tender.

Previously, the route has been operated by FlyBe and after that, British Airways.

Eastern Airways took over operations in 2020 until its collapse earlier this month.

Eastern Airways launched in 1997 and had been one of the UK’s remaining regional airlines, with services across England and Scotland.

Regional routes across the UK included Wick and Aberdeen in Scotland, and then Humberside, Teesside International, London Gatwick and Newquay.

For the 12 months to March 2024, Eastern Airways reported a net loss of £19.7million, which was £4.8million higher than 2023.

While Skybus is taking on the new route between Cornwall and the capital, it’s no stranger to Newquay airport having been flying from there to the Isles of Scilly for over 30 years.

Skybus runs services to the Isles of Scilly, with flights from Newquay, Land’s End and Exeter.

The airline’s owner, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company (ISSC) also operates boats to the islands.

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Plus, here are the pretty twin beach villages in the ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall.

For alternatives to Cornwall, one travel writer would encourage Brits to head to her county instead.

Check out these attractions in Newquay…

One writer visited Newquay during the summer and revealed their highlights…

“The open-air tropical room is a big highlight of Newquay Zoo. Birds fly completely freely among visitors and the lack of cages makes for a different experience than that of a traditional zoo.

“Here we watched a penguin feed on krill, saw a roaming peacock take up residence atop a bin and were charmed by the little squirrel monkeys swinging from ropes.

“We were staying at the Newquay Beach Hotel, which perfectly blends solid hotel basics with convenient extras like the Abangamba play room — a kids’ club with toys and games — and decorative flair.

“If you’re after food with a view, then the Stables pizza restaurant on Fistral beach might be the most beautifully placed UK restaurant I have ever enjoyed.

“And Newquay is surrounded by pretty beaches, no matter which direction you potter in. Towan Beach, slightly to the west of Newquay’s main hub, is a great spot for lounging, cave exploring and taking a paddle.

“And overlooking this lively stretch is the Blue Reef Aquarium, a must for anyone with little ones.

Travel giant Expedia has shared its top 10 destinations of the year, which are powered by real-time data from daily visitors to its site and app

If you fancy exploring hidden gems, these top 10 spots revealed by the travel giant might be perfect for your upcoming getaway. Expedia’s 2026 destinations of the year list draws on real-time data from daily visitors to its site and app.

The announcement coincides with the travel giant launching its Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report. It showcases where worldwide interest is surging rapidly.

This year’s selection features France, Italy, alongside more distant locations in Canada and Mexico.

Six of these emerging hotspots also satisfy the requirements for Expedia’s fresh Smart Travel Health Check, which acknowledges destinations that actively manage tourism sustainably, reports the Express.

Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, said: “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations.

“With one billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn’t just a travel marketplace, we’re a catalyst for positive change.

“We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”

Big Sky, Montana, U.S.

Nestled within the Rocky Mountains’ core, Big Sky in Montana provides year-round activities.

During winter months, the area becomes a snow enthusiast’s haven, whilst summer brings spectacular walking routes.

Okinawa, Japan Okinawa

Japan’s southernmost island chain, offers a blend of turquoise waters, coral reefs and a unique Ryukyuan heritage. Once a kingdom in its own right, the region now provides a mix of hospitality, history, and a relaxed island lifestyle.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a hidden jewel in the Mediterranean, offering crystal-clear waters, ancient history and untouched landscapes. From glamorous beaches to a bustling city, Sardinia provides an Italian getaway without the crowds.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Located off the southwest coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island boasts white sandy beaches and emerald waters. Once a tranquil fishing hub, it’s now a fusion of beach resorts and night markets.

Savoie, France

Tucked away in the French Alps, Savoie is home to world-class ski resorts, making it perfect for a winter holiday. In summer, anticipate hiking, cycling and sailing, as well as indulging in cheese fondue and alpine wines.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, U.S.

North Florida’s Gulf Coast is a region of exceptional natural beauty, with picturesque beaches and nature walks where you can explore the state’s native parks. It’s the ideal spot for those who love the outdoors, with activities such as snorkelling, hiking and dolphin watching.

Ucluelet, Canada

Visitors to Ucluelet can enjoy surfing, kayaking, and spotting whales and sea lions just offshore. There are also plenty of land-based activities like rock climbing, ziplining, biking and wildlife watching.

Or, if you prefer to relax, there are numerous top hotels and holiday rentals available.

Cotswolds, UK

The Cotswolds, one of England’s most scenic regions, is home to quaint towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Here, you can wander through historic gardens, savour a pint in traditional English pubs and tearooms, and admire the iconic Cotswold stone.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Tucked away in Mexico’s central highlands, San Miguel de Allende is a compact city boasting stunning architecture, ancient religious structures and cobbled streets. It’s renowned for its community of artisans and artists, with some of their finest works on display at the Fabrica La Aurora galleries and studios.

Hobart, Australia

Once notorious as a penal colony, this harbour city has transformed into Tasmania’s cultural heart, drawing food enthusiasts and nature buffs from around the globe. Hobart serves up some of the country’s most inventive cuisine, and its beer, wine and produce are celebrated across Australia.

A BAN has been placed on tobacco on a popular island to stop people of a certain age from ever buying it.

Called a ‘generational ban’ it means that anyone born after January 1, 2007 is prohibited from buying or using tobacco.

The destination that’s implemented the new rules is the Maldives, and it’s the only place in the world to have done so.

The measure makes it the only country with a generation-wide tobacco prohibition in an effort to promote a ‘tobacco-free generation’.

The ministry said: “Under the new provision, individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 are prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives.

“The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale.”

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The health ministry called the measure a “historic milestone in the nation’s efforts to protect public health”.

It added that the prohibition “reflects the government’s strong commitment to protecting young people from the harms of tobacco”.

The measure is not just for locals, it applies to any tourists visiting the islands.

So for Brits heading to the Maldives, you might find yourself being asked for ID in shops if buying tobacco.

Selling cigarettes to minors will carry a fine of 50,000 rufiyaa (£2,470) for the sellers.

Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the archipelago’s tobacco control board, told the BBC that he didn’t expect bookings to reduce due to the ban.

He said: “People don’t come to the Maldives because they’re able to smoke.

“They come for the beaches, they come for the sea, they come for the sun, and they come for the fresh air”.

And then added that the Maldives was projecting more than two million tourists in the next year making it one of the world’s most popular destinations.

The banning of tobacco is a new rule, but the Maldives also banned the import, possession and use of vapes last year.

Electronic cigarettes and vapes are completely banned no matter what age you are – and you aren’t allowed to bring them into the country.

You won’t be denied entry if caught bringing one into the country, but it will be confiscated at the border and a customs officer will provide you with a receipt which you must present when you depart the country to have your items returned to you.

Anyone caught vaping in the Maldives will face a 5,000-rufiyaa fine (£247).

These measures apply to all of coral islands in the Maldives, of which there are over a thousand.

A similar generational ban proposed in the UK is still going through the legislative process.

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The Maldives isn’t the only place putting a ban on smoking; another country is set to introduce new strict bans at beaches, restaurants and bars.

For anyone interested in heading to the Maldives, Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski took a holiday there for cheaper than a week at Center Parcs.