May 30 was meant to be the day of a new beginning for Rangers.
New investment. New regime. New manager en route. A new outlook, all triggered by the arrival of a US-based consortium vowing to get the club “back to the top”.
Already the Trumpesque “Make Rangers Great Again” merchandise seen back then has been parked. The star-spangled banners in the Ibrox stands now replaced with statements of protest, accompanied by howls of dissatisfaction.
Five harrowing months on from when the group led by Andrew Cavenagh walked in the big door in the Bill Struth Stand, the feel-good has been has been banished amid interminable disappointment.
It’s been catastrophic so far. A new head coach, Russell Martin, has been and gone – smuggled away in the back of a car – after 123 days.
The process of appointing his replacement garnered ridicule as candidates were in and out like a managerial Hokey Cokey, all before Danny Rohl re-emerged to take charge after earlier withdrawing from the race.
Fans have been seen accosting board members in hotel lobbies and airports, while on the pitch the team languish 14 points off the Premiership summit as Europe continues to to be a traumatic experience.
The latest torturous episode came courtesy of a Roma team who played most of their 2-0 Europa League victory at Ibrox in second gear.
In truth, there was no real need to reach for a third against a Rangers team which was again complicit to stay anchored on zero points.
There have been flickers of improvement under German Rohl, who has won two of his first five games.
Some Rangers fans will be willing for a January window to come quickly, but is there any real faith that it will be their saving grace?
There are plenty of affordable flights from UK airports and the average temperature in October is 20C
11:08, 14 Oct 2025Updated 16:03, 06 Nov 2025
Simon Calder recommends walkable and ‘absolutely magical’ town (Image: Getty)
Travel guru Simon Calder has revealed his top pick for an autumn getaway – the delightful seaside town of Cassis in southern France. He highlighted that there are plenty of budget-friendly flights from UK airports and the average October temperature is a pleasant 20C.
Cassis is also ideal for those who enjoy exploring on foot, making it a perfect choice for pensioners seeking an affordable and accessible holiday destination. The travel expert enthused: “I just came back from Côte d’Azur on Friday, and it was absolutely magical, particularly the lovely town of Cassis. Beautiful port, very close to St Tropez. It’s just a gorgeous place, the food is great!”.
“You can even take a bus from Marseille that costs £3 and takes you around one of the greatest drives in the world,” reports the Express.
Travel blogger Sam shared on her blog theblondescout that Cassis was “one of the nicest surprises” during her time living in France.
“This small fishing town is colourful, quaint and next to one of the most extraordinary landscapes I have ever witnessed: the dramatic limestone inlets that make up the Calanques between Cassis and Marseille.”
She further noted that Cassis is a small town, so it is “very walkable and easy to get around”.
“All of the streets are picture-perfect and have that colourful French Riviera vibe! Our favourite little square was at the bougainvillaea-filled Place Baragnon.”, she said.
Travel expert Simon Calder also recommends the Algarve, in southern Portugal, as a stunning and “very affordable” seaside destination that’s not too busy at this time of year.
Berlin, Germany – Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has played down Western concerns that Russia is preparing for further conflicts in Europe and suggested the European Union should have a concrete peace plan in place for Ukraine amid efforts by the United States to end the war.
Rama, speaking to Al Jazeera on the sidelines of the Berlin Global Dialogue conference late last month, said it would be “completely stupid” of any country to attack EU or NATO members.
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“Russia will not attack Albania and Russia will not attack any other European country,” he said. “NATO is ready for any kind of aggression. NATO has nobody and nothing to fear because it’s the strongest army in the world so far.”
Twenty-three out of 27 EU member states are NATO members. Albania is part of NATO and has been an EU candidate country since 2014.
“The EU is being provoked a lot by Russia,” said Rama. “Countries on the border with Russia are being provoked on a daily basis … the EU is defending itself and thinking of defending itself better.”
Since early September, several European countries, including Poland, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Romania, have blamed Russia for a series of suspected drone incursions. Tensions soared further on September 19, when NATO said it intercepted three Russian MiG-31 jets suspected of entering Estonian airspace, a claim denied by Moscow.
Last month, German foreign intelligence chief Martin Jager warned lawmakers that to grow its “sphere of influence further westward into Europe”, Russia would “shy away from direct military confrontation with NATO if necessary”.
Moscow has dismissed accusations that it has deliberately sent drones into European airspace, blaming those countries for stoking hysteria.
EU’s lack of a peace plan ‘looks very strange’
Rama’s government has been vocal in its criticism of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and supports EU sanctions on Moscow.
But he told Al Jazeera, “The fact that the EU does not have a peace plan looks very strange to me.”
As US President Donald Trump attempts to secure a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, Rama said the EU should “think about having its own diplomacy in action to promote its own vision of peace”.
He also suggested EU officials should “find a way to talk to the Russians” to end the war.
Late on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had not seen a European plan to end the war, according to Interfax news agency.
Rama claimed that Albania, which has not reported any Russian drone sightings, feels little pressure despite the apparent incursions, as Eastern European countries bordering Russia are on high security alert.
“I’m Albanian,” Rama said. “We have no fears … There is no room for Russian hostilities in Albania because there is no sympathy for Russia.”
Before the suspected airspace violations, Moscow had long been accused of engaging in “hybrid warfare”, using unconventional methods such as cyberattacks or disinformation campaigns to drive a wedge between EU countries. The drone incursions, the bloc says, are part of that tactic.
There are fears that Russia’s war could spill over into the Western Balkans, comprising – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, self-declared republic of Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia – home to deep-rooted tensions.
On October 22, when Rama’s British counterpart Keir Starmer hosted him and the five other Western Balkans leaders, the premier of the United Kingdom called the region “Europe’s crucible – the place where the security of our continent is put to the test”.
The six nations are at varying levels of negotiations with the EU regarding accession, attempting to reform sectors from their judiciaries to social welfare departments in order to join the bloc.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently praised the progress made by Montenegro and Albania.
In Tirana on October 25, in a news conference alongside Rama, she said Albania is on “the right track towards the European Union”, adding, “there has been a stunning and outstanding record speed acceleration since 2022”.
Rama agreed, telling Al Jazeera that the EU’s sense of openness in welcoming the Balkan nations has improved since the Ukraine war began.
European benchmarks began the week with gains. Oil and gold prices increased, but the euro weakened against the dollar. Sentiment was influenced by OPEC+’s decision to pause production hikes in the first quarter of next year, which led to a modest rise in oil prices as fears of oversupply eased. Gains were, however, mostly lost by late morning.
The international benchmark, Brent crude futures, traded at $64.76, while US West Texas Intermediate cost $60.92 a barrel.
Alongside pauses in the new year, OPEC+ countries agreed on Sunday to increase output by a small 137,000 barrels per day in December, maintaining the pace set for October and November.
Meanwhile, investors expect fresh Western sanctions on Russia, targeting Rosneft and Lukoil, to hinder the country’s ability to boost production further.
At the same time, major Western oil companies are benefitting from the disrupted supply of Russian refined fuels due to attacks and sanctions. Refining margins have risen substantially, giving the oil majors a boost. Both BP and Shell share prices were slightly up on Monday before noon in Europe.
“The decision by producers’ cartel OPEC+ to pause further output hikes at the start of next year, amid concerns about a glut of supply, helped give oil prices a lift and, in turn, boosted UK market heavyweights BP and Shell,” said AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould.
The movements also came as BP announced it had agreed to divest stakes in US shale assets to Sixth Street investment firm on Monday.
Winners in Europe
At 11:00 CET, the UK’s FTSE 100 was up by a few points. The DAX in Frankfurt was leading the gains, up 0.8% after an initial stutter. The CAC 40 in Paris started climbing, reaching gains of nearly 0.2%. The lift in France came despite national budget uncertainties and the release of negative PMI data, which showed that the country’s manufacturing sector was still contracting in October.
US futures were positive around the same time, rising between 0.1% and 0.5%.
Meanwhile, the earnings season continues. A number of European companies are reporting this week, including AstraZeneca, BP, BMW, and Commerzbank.
Ryanair opened the week by posting stronger-than-expected results for the first half of its financial year, spanning April to September. Revenues rose 13% to €9.82bn, as traffic grew 3% and fares increased by 13%. Over the same period, profit rose by 42% year-on-year to €2.54bn, driven by a strong Easter season.
The airline’s shares were up 2.90% in Dublin at around midday.
Looking ahead, Ryanair’s outspoken CEO Michael O’Leary criticised countries in Europe where airlines face high taxes, including environmental duties. In an interview with CNBC, he threatened to move capacity outside the UK should the new budget include such a levy.
“Ryanair is also one of several airline operators with an eagle eye on taxes and costs. It is no longer putting up with unfavourable tax systems, preferring to switch flights and routes to less punitive locations,” Mould commented.
In other markets, the euro weakened against the US dollar by more than 0.2%, hitting a rate of $1.1517 by 11:00 CET. At the same time, the Japanese yen and the British pound were also losing ground against the greenback, with the dollar trading at ¥154.15 and the pound costing $1.3136.
Gold traded just above $4,000, rising slightly by 0.3%.
Want to see the most beautiful scenes in one trip? A must-do country European road trip will take you to six countries, where you will see the sea, mountains, castles and breath-taking views
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This road trip will take you to six countries in one day(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Hopping on a plane and getting to your holiday destination in hours is a luxury, but one thing that everyone should do at least once in their lives is a road trip.
TikTok account Living Our Memories shared the perfect itinerary, where the key stops included France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium. The total route is 23 hours and 49 minutes, non-stop.
Gathering over a million views, the couple, who shared their travels with their 5K followers, captioned the video: “An epic road trip across 6 countries you must have to do at least once in your life.”
Champagne, France
First stop, the French region of Champagne, known for its scenic vineyards. Located in the northeast of France, their sparkling white wine is what makes them so well-known. Visitors can see the cities of Reims and Épernay, as well as the villages like Hautvillers and Méry-sur-Ay.
Wine lovers can make a pit stop and tour the famous Champagne houses such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. Those who prefer adrenaline can do some outdoor activities such as biking through the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.
Stausee Steg, Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein’s turquoise waters in the middle of the most gorgeous greenery scenes, facing the mountains. It’s the perfect place for a swim in the lake or a picnic with your loved ones.
If you’re feeling sporty or want to capture the perfect shot, you can hike the mountains and get the perfect scene. According to AllTrails, it’s best to bring water shoes for those who plan to swim or walk near the rocky edges.
Lake Eibsee, Germany
Nature lovers will love Lake Eibsee in Germany. The waters are crystal clear with views of the Zugspitze mountains.
Some of the activities for visitors are hiking the 7.5 km (4.6 miles) walk around the lake, as it provides stunning views. You can also rent a boat or a canoe to explore the lake and the surrounding islands. If you’re brave enough, you can also swim in the waters – but it’s super cold.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Located in Bavaria, Germany, in the foothills of the Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is just the exact layout as the ones in the Disney movies. In fact, it’s best known for the inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The 19th-century historic castle overlooks the narrow Pollat gorge, and it’s close to the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes. Therefore, it makes it an ideal place to visit on the way to the upcoming location of the road trip.
Tickets cost 20 euros (£17.36), but children under the age of 18 can access the castle completely free of charge.
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Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s tourism has increased over the years, making it the perfect place for a city break or a day trip. The city has a unique blend of history and culture, with a lot to offer to visitors and locals alike.
Its historical sites include UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous landmarks such as the Grand Ducal Palace and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The best thing about Luxembourg is that you can enjoy it all year round, and the public transportation is free.
Dinant, Belgium
To conclude the road trip, what better way to do it than in Belgium? A more tranquil side of the country, with beautiful scenery and history. Its most popular tourist attraction is the Maison Leffe. The town’s location is also ideal along the River Meuse, as it overlooks the water and the pastel-coloured houses.
Visitors can walk through the cobbled streets, take a boat tour and even participate in water activities such as kayaking on the nearby Lesse River.
Bruges, Belgium
Perfect for a city break, a small yet fulfilling town with a lot to offer. If you’re a fan of medieval settings, this is the place for you. However, its popularity comes with big crowds and higher costs.
Bruges is also famous for its Belgian waffles, fries, chocolate and beer – so, come with an empty stomach to indulge the best sweet and savoury flavours.
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From gorgeous Getxo to the City of Love, you won’t want to come home from these mint mini-breaks
Find foodie heaven near BilbaoCredit: Supplied by PR
SPAIN – Palacio Arriluce Hotel, Getxo
Commissioning Editor Martha Cliff and fiancée Lauren found foodie heaven near Bilbao.
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THE PAD
Check in and zone out at the Palacio Arriluce
Perched on a striking cliffside overlooking the Bay of Abra in Getxo and with a beauty of an outdoor pool, this 18th-century boutique gem sits in a palatial setting and offers the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance.
Craving vistas of the rolling Basque mountains? You’ve got it. Want to gaze at boats bobbing in the harbour? No problem. A city view more your vibe? It’s got that, too.
Be sure to eat breakfast – think other-worldly Spanish tortilla and Iberico ham – on the terrace to take full advantage.
Meanwhile, come dinner at Delaunay, try local specialities such as grilled kokotxas (hake chin) on stewed spider crab, £35, and Iberian pork shoulder with passionfruit, £31.
Make sure you’re there on a Thursday to join locals in Getxo for “pintxo pote”, a foodie’s dream bar crawl and Basque country tradition.
Restaurante Ixta Bide offers four pintxos (small savoury snacks) – our fave was pintxo de txaka, akin to a mini crab sandwich – and two vinos for a mere £9.
Just don’t expect to bag a seat! Wind your way up the steps of Algorta to reach Arrantzale and finish on its perfectly salted pork belly (Arrantzale.com).
While day-tripping, step into one of Bilbao’s oldest bars, Café Iruña, just a hop from Arbando metro station.
Dating back to 1903, the beautiful tiling is reason enough to visit, but coffee for just £1.75, is a big pull, too.
Or opt for a glass of the local txakoli white wine, £2.70, instead (Cafeirunabilbao.com).
DON’T MISS
The works inside Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum are, of course, breathtaking, but the building itself and its surrounding sculptures – including Puppy, a massive dog made of flowers by American artist Jeff Koons – are worth the trip alone.
Fly to Bilbao from London Gatwick and Heathrow with Vueling from £56 return (Vueling.com).
FRANCE – Hôtel Dame des Arts, Paris
Creative Director Mark Hayman and wife Margaret fell for cocktails and culture in the French capital.
Fall for cocktails and culture in the French capitalCredit: Getty Images
THE PAD
Rest easy at Hôtel Dame des ArtsCredit: LUDOVIC BALAY
This sleek bolt-hole in the city’s Latin Quarter has shaken off its Holiday Inn past to channel full Hollywood glamour.
Think rich woods, bamboo accents and pretty palms, with rooms that feel like film sets, thanks to glass dividers, velvet finishes and luxe bathrooms made for long soaks.
Downstairs, Pimpan serves up bold Franco-Mexican fusions on a leafy terrace – highlights include beef tartare with piquillos, £12.50, lamb shoulder with harissa, £25, and hibiscus-poached pear, £11.
But the real scene-stealer is the rooftop bar, where 360-degree skyline views stretch from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Cœur – even locals come here for the vistas.
Order a Spritz del Arte (Aperol, mango liqueur, rum and prosecco), £17, or the punchy Uno Mas margarita, £14, pop on your biggest sunglasses and watch the city turn blush at sunset.
There’s also a sauna and a gym kitted out with sculptural wooden equipment for those partial to a designer workout.
EXPLORE
Explore the history of Notre-DameCredit: Getty Images
First time in Paris? Glide down the Seine aboard the Batobus – this hop-on-hop-off riverboat is a relaxing (and photogenic) way to tick off major sights like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre.
For more treasure-hunting, swing by the flea market off Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine – a weekend haven of vintage mirrors, mid-century ceramics and nostalgic postcards.
There’s no entry fee, just bring cash and your best haggling game.
Then head to the Panthéon, a neoclassical gem where Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie lie in dramatic crypts beneath a rooftop dome offering jaw-dropping views.
Lively, retro-chic Brasserie Dubillot’s espresso martinis, £10.50, are a must, but equally good is the sausage and mash with truffle sauce, £16, steak-frites, £21, and the perfect crème brûlée, £8 (Lanouvellegarde.com/brasserie-dubillot).
Craving something casual? PNY serves next-level burgers with aged beef, brioche buns and toppings like smoked cheddar and pickled jalapeños, from £11.50 (Pnyburger.com).
Or just nab a pavement perch at Café Saint-André for a croque monsieur, £10.50, a glass of sancerre, £7, and some world-class people-watching.
Double rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts cost from £226 per night (Damedesarts.com).
Psst…
Fancy something a little more party? Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoods, with captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheel.
Suave rooms come with huge tubs, rain showers and espresso machines, from £304 per night (Rixos.com).
Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoodsCredit: SuppliedThe suave rooms have captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheelCredit: SuppliedHead to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for great foodCredit: Byron Bathers Club/Instagram
Downstairs is Azure Beach Club with its large pool, pumping soundtrack, outdoor gym and private beach (Azure-beach.com/dubai).
The breakfast buffet is, in true Dubai style, eye-poppingly big – you can even blend your own fresh peanut butter.
Plus, you’re half an hour’s cab ride from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for that classic Dubai selfie – viewing platform visits cost from £37 per person (Burjkhalifa.ae).
When you’re craving a chilled day, head to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for lobster linguine, £37, and burrata pizza, £17, with excellent Whitsunday spritzes – an exquisite blend of grapefruit bitters, strawberry shrub, pink grapefruit, citrus vodka, Aperol and prosecco, £14 (Byronbathers.com).
Dutchman Gian van Veen shocked world number one Luke Humphries to win his first PDC title at the European Championship in Dortmund.
The 23-year-old beat countryman and four-time champion Michael van Gerwen 11-9 in the semi-finals before holding his nerve to come through a tense match with Humphries 11-10.
“I said it to my girlfriend when I walked on stage, whenever I win my first TV title I wouldn’t cry – and here I am crying,” Van Veen told ITV Sport.
“I will never forget this moment or even this crowd. It is phenomenal to win my first major in Germany.
“I said to Luke after the game, when he hit the bull to go 10-10, that is why he is world number one. That’s how amazing person Luke is. It is definitely a night to never forget.”
“Smaller crowds, authentic traditions, and a truly breathtaking backdrop.”
Outside of this, visitors can explore the lake with hikes having incredible views of the towering Loser mountain.
Brown and white alpine-style houses as well as churches and waterfalls can be spotted along the way.
One of the other things to do in the village is head on a salt mine tour where you also get to see the former Nazi Stolen Art Repository, with deep tunnels and even slides in the mine.
If you are visiting during the winter season, there is the ski resort of Loser, which boasts around 29km of slopes with all levels of difficulty.
The village has a few restaurants to choose from including Schneiderwirt, which features an ornate wooden facade and serves comfort dishes.
The salt mine is a popular tourist attraction in the villageCredit: SchmidThe village holds an Oktoberfest type of festival each yearCredit: Alamy
As for where to stay, accommodation ranges from boutique alpine hotels to guesthouses and family-run inns, many within easy walking distance of the festival.
The easiest way to get to the village is by flying to Salzburg and then hopping on a train for just under two hours.
Flights to Salzburg cost as little as £30 return and from the UK takes an hour and 55 minutes.
Finland, a Nordic nation of 5.6 million, has been named one of Lonely Planet’s 25 Best Destinations in 2026 – and it’s not hard to see why the Finns are so happy
Finland’s people appear to have figured out the secret to a happy life(Image: alexsl via Getty Images)
One of the globe’s finest destinations also happens to be amongst Europe’s most sparsely populated.
Finland, a Nordic country home to 5.6 million people, has earned recognition as one of Lonely Planet’s 25 Best Destinations in 2026. The nation was the sole European country to secure a place on the list, though it did share its ranking with regions across Italy and Ireland, amongst others.
Recent years have seen considerable attention focused on Finnish contentment levels. This March, Finland claimed the title of the world’s happiest nation for an eighth consecutive year, as reported by the World Happiness Report 2025, reports the Express.
“Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth – it’s about trust, connection and knowing people have your back,” said Jon Clifton, the chief executive of Gallup. If we want stronger communities and economies, we must invest in what truly matters: each other.”
The formula behind Finland’s contentment proves fascinating and complex.
Trust forms the foundation of Finnish culture. Numerous youngsters in the country bundle up warmly to attend woodland schools, even in the country’s northern regions during brutal Finnish winters.
They’re permitted to clamber, leap, scramble, and engage in countless other activities to their heart’s desire, with educators choosing to allow learning through experimentation rather than stepping in. Beyond this bedrock of trust lies an immense pride in their homeland.
Finland boasts one of the globe’s highest national service participation rates. Roughly 27,000 conscripts commence service annually, with approximately 80% of Finnish men fulfilling their duty. Moreover, increasing numbers of women volunteer for service, with more than 1,500 enlisting each year.
Another major contributor to Finnish contentment is the nation’s stunning natural landscape. Known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Finland features nearly 200,000 lakes and remains roughly three-quarters blanketed in woodland.
The nation serves as an ideal spot for witnessing the Aurora Borealis, visible on countless evenings, particularly throughout Lapland.
“Whether you are paddling through Finnish Lakeland in the golden light of a midsummer evening, feeling the heartbeat of Sámi reindeer-herding culture in Inari or embracing the bitter cold of Lapland on a dogsled ride as the northern lights come out to play, you will realize that Finnish happiness is tuning into nature, in touch with your inner child,” Lonely Planet writes.
Fortunately, there’s ample room to savour this magnificence.
Finland ranks amongst Europe’s most thinly populated nations, averaging merely 17 residents per sq km, contrasted with 227 per sq km in the UK. Lonely Planet’s Kerry Walker says if you do visit Finland, you shouldn’t leave without first embracing Sámi culture in Lapland.
“Give Santa the slip and head to Inari or, further north still, Utsjoki, for reindeer-driven sleigh rides and joik (rhythmic poems) sung around a flickering campfire in a simple lavvu tent. Go for the whole Arctic shebang with husky mushing, snowshoeing and ice fishing, then hole up in a log cabin, igloo or aurora-gazing dome to watch the flakes silently fall,” she suggests.
The Sámi inhabit Finland’s northern territory of Lapland, a region that extends into Sweden and Norway too.
Many still engage in age-old reindeer herding practices, though contemporary methods and gadgets like drones and snowmobiles are now employed.
If the prospect of holidaying somewhere with minimal crowds appeals to you, Mongolia could be perfect.
This vast landlocked nation, nestled between China and Russia, spans more than 603,000 square miles yet houses barely 3.5 million residents, making it the globe’s most thinly populated independent country.
Indeed, roughly half the nation’s inhabitants reside in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city.
Littler closed the gap on Humphries when he won the World Grand Prix earlier this month, saying afterwards: “Obviously, until I get that world number one spot, I will never call myself the best in the world.
“I don’t want to think about it too much, but I could be world number one before that World Championship.
“I’ve just got to keep chucking away and put as much pressure as I can on Luke.”
Littler begins his European Championship campaign against five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld, 58, on Friday.
Humphries, 30, faces Pole Krzysztof Ratajski in the first round and could potentially meet Littler in the quarter-finals.
A day after his Grand Prix victory, Littler was beaten in the World Youth Championship semi-finals by Beau Greaves, before he then won the Players Championship 32 event.
He has also announced a new management deal with Target Darts after splitting with Martin Foulds of ZXF Sports Management, who had managed him for five years.
Littler will hope to improve his recent record in Germany, where he has skipped some tournaments after facing a hostile reception from spectators. He was booed alongside Humphries when the pair lost to Germany at the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt in June.
After the European Championship, there are two big tournaments before the World Championship starts on 11 December – the Grand Slam of Darts (8-16 November) and Players Championship Finals (21-23 November).
THERE is a charming, small Italian city that hosts a quiet Christmas market for less than the cost of visiting one in the UK.
The tiny city of Arezzo located in the Tuscan hills of Italyfeatures the country’s largest Christmas market that is themed like an Alpine village.
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Arezzo in Italy is home to a quaint Christmas market with over 640,000 lightsCredit: Alamy
Each winter, according to Visit Tuscany, Arezzo becomes a “Christmas City” in the medieval centre, Piazza Grande, with stalls selling handmade gifts.
In fact, the gifts come from all over, with exhibitors travelling from the Tyrol, Germany and Austria to the market to sell wood carvings, ceramics, and hand-painted Christmas decorations.
You can expect over 640,000 LED lights, a Ferris wheel that offers amazing panoramic views and Santa’s house too.
For something to drink, opt for a steaming mug of glühwein – a traditional German hot mulled wine with cinnamon, cloves, star anise and citrus fruits.
A mug usually costs around €4 to €5 (£3.47 to £4.34).
You can step it up a notch too by having a Feuerzangenbowle – the fiery version where a sugarloaf soaked in rum is set on fire and drips into the mulled wine.
In the Prato – a large green space that dominates the city – there are more wooden huts selling local street food, such as sausages for around €5 to €8 (£4.34 to £6.95).
Families can have some fun skating at the ice rink as well.
For the duration of the Christmas market, there will also be a number of events and shows.
For example, for €10 (£8.68) per person, you could see Brick House Art – a three-floor exhibition of different Lego artworks.
The market will run between November 16 and January 6, every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
And for this year, visitors can travel on a limited-edition Christmas train to Arezzo, from Rome.
Called The Assisi Espresso, each carriage on the train will be decked out with festive decorations and passengers will each be given a gift.
Other stops along the route include Terni, Spoleto, Foligno, Spello, Assisi, and Perugia.
The train will operate every Sunday from November 30 to January 11, departing Rome at 8:30am and arriving in Arezzo at 12:10pm.
The train will then leave Arezzo at 5:30pm and arrive back in Rome at 10:42pm.
Passengers can book either first class or second class, and there is a dining carriage onboard too – expect mulled wine, roast chestnuts and traditional treats.
Return tickets on the train cost just €62 (around £54).
And this Christmas you could head to the small city and its Christmas market for £54 return from RomeCredit: Alamy
And with cheap flights to Rome, you can head to Arezzo’s Christmas market for cheaper than a UK staycation.
Prices for a full stay and the Christmas train cost from just £250, which is 44 per cent less than heading to Edinburgh around the same period, according to First Choice.
But travellers don’t need to stay in Arezzo – they could opt to stay in Rome instead.
Kevin Nelson, managing director at First Choice said: “Rome might not be the first place you think of for a Christmas break, but that’s exactly what makes it such a smart choice.
“Pairing the city’s festive charm with a proper Alpine-style market in Arezzo gives you two authentic experiences for the price of one – it’s the ultimate festive hack.”
First Choice’s Rome package starts from just £184 per person for three nights this December, and this includes return flights to the city and a central hotel, such as Rome Garden.
Add in the cost of the train to Arezzo and back, the holiday costs just £238 per person.
Flights to Rome cost as little as £27 per person and a hotel costs from around £38 a nightCredit: Alamy
And if you were planning the trip on your own, return flights from Birmingham, Manchester and London all cost around £27 in December.
A hotel in the centre of Rome then costs as little as £38 per night, so if you stayed for two nights, you’d spend around £238.
Both of these options would cost less than heading to the Birmingham‘s Frankfurt Christmas Market for a weekend, where a return train ticket costs about £35 from London and a hotel will set you back around £100 a night.
And that’s before battling the prices of the market – a pint cost £7 last year and a bratwurst around £10.
Before you know it, you’ve spent over £250.
Unless you’re staying in a hostel, a mid-range weekend away for two, anywhere in the UK usually costs £350 to £500.
WHILE the UK threatens to be a washout, we’ve found the place in the Mediterranean least likely to have rain in October.
The place in question is the Algarve in Portugal, and the best news is that Brits can be there in less than three hours and flights cost as little as £15 for a one-way ticket, even during half-term.
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Deputy Travel Editor revealed her favourite place in the Algarve was FaroCredit: SuppliedThe Algarve is a place in the Med with barely any rain during OctoberCredit: Alamy
The Algarve in Portugal is the driest place in the country thanks to its Mediterranean climate that’s influenced by dry winds from the northeast and hot air from the Sahara.
During October temperatures in the Algarve range from 15C all the way to 23C.
The southern spot has between seven and eight hours of sunshine a day on average, throughout the month.
Next week, during October half-term, Brits can fly to Faro, also known as the ‘gateway of the Algarve’ from Birmingham, Liverpool, Bristol, Newcastle, London Stansted and Glasgow from £15 with Ryanair.
So here’s where Sun Travel suggests you explore next…
Albufeira
One of the most well-known spots in the region is the coastal city of Albufeira with sandy beaches and a lively nightlife strip.
Believe it or not, Albufeira was a former fishing village, and despite all the built up areas, there’s still an old town to explore.
Some of the best beaches are Praia dos Pescadores’, also known as Fisherman’s Beach, and Praia da Falésia.
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There’s also a busy marina, and visitors can take boat trips out for dolphin-watching and exploring the Benagil Caves.
Albufeira is popular with tourists, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing as you’ll find plenty of hotels, waterparks, restaurants and bars.
However, if you’re looking to escape the tourist traps one local suggested heading just outside of Albufeira to the fishing village of Olhos de Água.
The Benagil Caves in Albufeira are a popular attraction for touristsCredit: AlamyKara found herself to be one of the only people on the beach in Faro
Angela Antor, who is a watermelon farmer told Sun Travel: “There you can enjoy a nice evening drink and watch the sun go down whilst the fisherman take to the sea.
“And in the traditional village of Ferragudo you can enjoy the catch of the day in riverside restaurants straight from the fishing boats.”
Faro
Faro is the capital of southern Portugal’s Algarve and is considered the ‘gateway’ region.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited Faro, and discovered very few tourists. She added: “Most people skip Faro to head further into the Algarve.
“But there are some fantastic islands just off the coast where you will see barely any tourists. Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta, takes just 20 minutes by boat, with tickets a few euros.
“Some call it the Caribbean of Portugal – something I agree with thanks to its golden sandy beaches. There is nothing on the island apart from the fabulous restaurant Estamine – a must visit serving up locally caught food”.
Other highlights in Faro include the 18th-century Capela Dos Ossos on Largo do Carmo within the walled city.
Translated as the Chapel of Bones, the ancient walls are decorated with pieces from over 1,250 human skeletons.
As for the best beach, Kara said: “Praia de Faro, on the island Ilha de Faro, is considered the best beach in the Faro region by locals, but few tourists have heard of it.
“The gold sands stretch for five kilometres with views of the sea on one side and a natural park on the other.”
Lagos has pretty white-washed towns and plenty of beachesCredit: Alamy
Lagos
Lagos has become one of the most visited cities in the Algarve, mostly thanks to the number of tourist-friendly beaches.
Some of the most popular are Praia de Dona Ana, Ponta da Piedade and Praia do Camilo.
Sun Travel chatted to some locals about the Algarve and Ana Veiga, travel and food writer and the co-founder ofWe Travel Portugal, said: “Lagos is a brilliant town that has long attracted surfers to the west Algarve, but recently has become a prime destination for visitors of all types.
“It has incredible hiking trails, water and beach sports, and a historic old town to explore, plus its proximity to the west Algarve is great for explorers that want to see the wild coastline with cliffs and big waves.”
Salem Haire, who lives in Lagos, said: “Pomò La Pasta Italiana has the best Italian food – people will wait more than two hours to eat there (speciality mains from €19), and there’s a local Portuguese kitchen called Tasca de Lota that’s my personal favourite (mains from €11 and bottles of wine from €13).
“Also in Lagos, Go Bao has delicious bao buns for those who are tired of Portuguese food (buns from €5), and Gelicia has amazing Italian gelato, with vegan and gluten free options too.”
Portimao has beaches and golden cliffsCredit: AlamyThere’s a stretching promenade with palm trees and boatsCredit: Alamy
Portimao
Portimão is the second-largest city in the Algarve so there’s plenty to explore, like beaches such as Praia da Rocha – a lively resort town.
It’s known for having a vast sandy beach with water sports, as well as lots of restaurants and bars.
Inês Tito, aPortugaland Algarve trip planner, said: “Portimão, near the Praia De Rocha, is the perfect place for beachholidays. There are plenty of accommodation options, some only a fewstepsfrom the beach, so you won’t have any issue in finding a place to stay.
As for places to stay, Inês said: “Or the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa – Relais & Châteaux in Portimão is a beautiful boutique hotel set in a 19th palace overlooking Praia da Rocha.”
Silves in the Algarve is one of the cheapest places to take a holidayCredit: Alamy
Silves
Silves doesn’t have beaches as it’s inland, but there’s still plenty to do, and last year it was named one of the cheapest places to visit.
The city used to be the capital of the Algarve, and it’s around an hour away from Faro.
It’s a great place for an affordable break, with the average price of a hotel being around £73, while a beer can cost as little as £2.50.
In Silves, you’ll find cobbled streets with independent shops selling gifts, and ceramics, and plenty of cafes.
Compared to the other destinations in the Algarve, Silves is likely to be quieter than the others.
The destination has been named the best city in the world for food and among 30 top foodie favourites across the globe
12:34, 20 Oct 2025Updated 12:34, 20 Oct 2025
The city has a rich food culture(Image: Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel via Getty Images)
When it comes to culinary delights, most people’s minds wander to Italy’s pasta, Japan’s sushi or Mexico’s tacos. However, a recent study by TasteAtlas has revealed the top foodie destinations around the globe.
The team analysed nearly half a million ratings from 17,073 cities on its database. Interestingly, many of the top-rated locations are just a short hop from the UK, with the majority of the top 10 situated in Europe.
Naples clinched the top spot, thanks to its world-renowned dishes such as pizza, lasagna and macaroni, reports the Express.
But Naples wasn’t the only Italian city to make the cut. Milan bagged second place, with its famous risotto and panettone, not to mention the iconic Campari cocktail that originated there.
Italy continued its gastronomic dominance with Bologna securing third place, known for its spaghetti bolognese, ragu and tortellini.
Despite the Italian-heavy list, other global cities made the top 10, including Paris, Vienna and Mumbai.
Unfortunately, the UK didn’t make it into the top 30, along with Hong Kong, Barcelona, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Amsterdam.
As Storm Bram heads towards the UK, bringing with it rain, cold and strong winds, it may be wise to turn your attention towards the parts of Europe that are a little cheerier
Not everywhere in Europe is gloomy right now(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Believe it or not, parts of Europe a short, cheap flight away from the UK are currently enjoying mid-20s temperatures and sunshine.
This year it feels as if the PR representatives for autumn have been working overtime. ‘Cosy season’ advocates have been pushing the line that it’s great that summer is now over and the six months of cold, darkness and wet ahead are to be embraced, not feared.
If you’re like me, then this comes across as a terrible and unconvincing lie. Crunchy leaves underfoot may be nice, but they’re no replacement for warmth and sunshine. Particularly when a horrifying weather front such as the Dracula-themed ‘Storm Bram‘ nears, threatening to bring 70 mph winds and freezing temperatures with it.
Luckily, there are plenty of places on the European mainland that are not only enjoying much better weather, but are a short, cheap flight away. Here are our pick of the bunch:
Not only is the Portuguese city sunny and blessed with good weather, but it is also a famously happy spot.
Lisbon recently claimed the top spot in the Holiday Happiness Index, claiming the title of the world’s happiest holiday destination. Analysis shows that the vibrant Portuguese capital excels across multiple feel-good factors, with its food scene standing out in particular. Walkability is another of Lisbon’s mood-boosters. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with panoramic viewpoints that reward slow exploration.
Palermo is an incredible city to visit, especially in the shoulder season months of May, October and September when the weather begins to cool a little. Among the many highlights in the Sicilian city is the incredible Palazzo Butera, which was recently restored from a crumbling wreck to a public museum for the Valsecchi art collection. The city’s food market has recently received criticism for focusing more on fast food and less on traditional produce. However, there are many excellent, authentic restaurants down Palermo’s back alleys that offer up classic fare such as the pizza-adjacent sfincione.
Albania’s reputation as a tourist destination has taken a hugely positive turn in recent years, as increasing numbers opt for a bargain break in a country whose tourist board insists is ‘the European Maldives’. Visitors can enjoy luxury stays without breaking the bank, with beachfront apartments available for as little as £20 per night. Dining is equally budget-friendly, with a full meal and drinks often costing around £15. The Mirror took a trip to Tirana last year to see how far £100 can take you.
Who could resist a trip to the Eternal City, where the weather seems to be eternally good and the chances of spotting the new pope are higher than anywhere else in the world. Earlier this autumn, the Mirror visited Trevi Fountain, which has become one of the most overcrowded tourist attractions in the world. The chances of stopping off there without being overwhelmed by the throngs get higher the further away from summer you go.
Izmir had a tough summer. Wildfires in the region ripped through forests, destroying houses and resorts. Thankfully, the fires were eventually brought under control and the rebuilding job is well underway. The south-western settlement is less well-known than its headline-grabbing neighbours, Bodrum and Dalaman, but just as rich in sun-soaked golden beaches, bustling bazaars and excellent restaurants.
WHEN it comes to enjoying Halloween, the team at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens don’t cut corners.
Spiders, cobwebs, witches’ hats, scarecrows, hay bales and thousands of pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colours surrounded the stalls, rides and attractions.
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Halloween is the perfect time to visit Copenhagen’s Tivoli GardensCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.Beverley Fearis visited the Danish theme park with her husband and teenage son Freddie, aboveCredit: supplied
But I could not help thinking that when it’s all over, someone’s got a mammoth clear-up job.
The Danish capital city’s famous amusement park, which is right in the centre, closes for two weeks while a team of more than 50 gardeners, designers, decorators, stagehands, crane operators, electricians and carpenters transform it into a spooky wonderland.
And as you would expect from the Danes, it’s all done very tastefully — and sustainably.
The 22,000 pumpkins are grown in Denmark, on the island of Samso, where the climate is spot on.
The larger ones are entries for the annual Danish Giant Pumpkin Championship, hosted by the park.
Afterwards, the prize pumpkins are given to Copenhagen Zoo, where apparently the elephants are particularly fond of them.
This year is the 20th anniversary of Tivoli’s Halloween festivities and around half a million people are expected to walk through the gates before the season ends on November 2.
To avoid the queues, I would suggest going earlier in the day to do the most popular rides, but make sure you stay until dusk to get the full effects of the flickering jack-o’-lanterns.
Little ones will love the treasure hunt and pumpkin-carving workshops, while older kids will enjoy being scared — but not too much — in Villa Vendetta, where actors jump out from the shadows.
The Haunted House wasn’t quite frightening enough for my teenage son, but the gravity-defying loops of The Demon rollercoaster took his breath away.
‘Getting cosy’
A day at Tivoli was part of the compromise when we told him he’d be missing the usual trick-or-treating with mates to join his parents on an October city break.
Autumn is the perfect time to visit Copenhagen. It’s when the leaves turn, the nights draw in and the “hygge” levels rise.
If you haven’t heard of hygge (pronounced hoo-ga), it is the Danish concept of “getting cosy” — and we’d come to the capital to get a dose of it.
Flights generally cost less after the summer too, and once you are here, getting around is cheap and easy.
The Metro system only has four lines and there are also hop-on, hop-off buses and water buses (small ferries).
We purchased Copenhagen Cards, which give you free public transport plus entry to 87 attractions.
They even cover the metro or train from the airport, which only takes about 15 minutes to the city centre.
As well as getting free entrance into Tivoli (rides and attractions cost extra) we used our Copenhagen Card to take a sightseeing cruise up the river, past the famous Little Mermaid statue (it really is tiny), the royal palace, funky house boats and more.
Cardamom buns
Cruises start from Nyhavn, the city’s pretty harbour with brightly-coloured houses, where we warmed up afterwards with a cup of Glogg, a sweet mulled wine.
We took the water bus to Contemporary Copenhagen to enjoy the art installations and we joined the locals cycling around the three city lakes at Soerne.
The park hosts the annual Danish Giant Pumpkin ChampionshipCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.
The bikes were hired from our hotel, Charlottehaven, which also happens to be a short walk from one of the city’s best bakeries, Juno. The delicious cardamom buns were well worth queuing for.
Eating out in Copenhagen isn’t cheap but there’s a growing number of communal dining venues, a concept known as faellesspisning, which are really good value.
In just a few days we’d packed a lot in and had fallen in love with Copenhagen, a compact and friendly city where everything is within easy access, even a 20-acre theme park
We went to Kanalhuset (the Canal House) in Christianshavn and joined a table full of locals for a simple but very tasty meal for around £16 each.
There’s only one choice each night (you can check what’s on the menu on the website) but they will always do a vegetarian option on request.
Everyone turns up at 6.30pm for drinks in the bar and then joins one of the large tables in the restaurant for dinner at 7pm.
We made friends with a lovely Danish family celebrating their mum’s birthday. Pretty much all the locals here speak excellent English, so it was easy to chat.
In just a few days we’d packed a lot in and had fallen in love with Copenhagen, a compact and friendly city where everything is within easy access, even a 20-acre theme park.
Once the Halloween festivities are over, Tivoli closes again for two weeks so that all the pumpkins can be replaced with fairy lights, an ice-skating rink and hundreds of Christmas trees.
Now we need to go back and experience Christmas hygge-style.
A pair of witches ready for Tivoli magicCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.
GO: Copenhagen
GETTING THERE: Fly to Copenhagen from Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol with fares from £23.99 one way in December.
For those dreaming of a Caribbean holiday but can’t bring themselves to pay the hefty price – there are some cheaper alternatives in Europe that are closer and a fraction of the price
Certain holiday destinations in Europe have been compared to the Maldives(Image: Getty Images)
While the Maldives may be a dream destination for many – there’s now cheaper destination alternative that are much closer, and considerably cheaper.
The bucket list Caribbean island comes at a pretty expensive cost as the average one-week trip can cost anywhere from £1,700 per person and can go up to £6,500 for a stay in a five-star all-inclusive hotel during the peak season.
However now Brits can enjoy a luxury Maldive-style stay a little closer to home with these European spots for a fraction of the price. Here’s some inspiration for those planning their summer getaways for next year.
Nicknamed the ‘Maldives of Europe’ thanks to its unspoilt white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters that grace its spectacular Riviera, this spot is a popuklar choice. Travellers can indulge in luxury accommodation without emptying their bank accounts, with seafront flats available from just £20 per night.
Thanks to a flurry of TikTok videos flaunting its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands, Albania has become a hot topic for holidaymakers seeking a slice of the Maldives experience.
Rhodes
Rhodes offers a bustling waterfront where cruise ships dock and vendors sell mouth-watering Greek delicacies. Despite its popularity, it manages to avoid being overrun by crowds, although it does get busy during peak summer season.
With flexible dates, you can find direct flights from Manchester and London this March and April for less than £40. There are numerous budget-friendly hotels in the city, such as the Manousos City Hotel, which currently has rooms available from £25 a night.
Croatia
For holidaymakers wanting a picturesque location without committing to a long-haul flight, Croatia might be the perfect solution. Toni Hrelja, founder of Villsy.com, shared a local’s guide to Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, including hidden gems where the “crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery rival the Maldives.” Among them is Sakarun beach on Dugi Otok island.
You can fly direct from a slew of major UK airports, including Bristol, Manchester, and London: if you’re flexible with dates – you can grab return fares for as little as £60 in April.
Malta
Just over three hours from the UK and with direct flights from 18 regional airports, Malta is the year-round Mediterranean destination that delivers. It’s great for Brits as English is the official language and temperatures regularly hit 27C in September.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, some of the finest beaches to be found anywhere in Europe and a calendar packed with world-class festivals and events, it’s the kind of place that’ll keep you coming back over and over again.
A European island has been hailed as the place with “perfect weather” all year round, and it’s only a short flight from the UK – with return flights available for just 27 per person
Alice Sjoberg Social News Reporter
16:37, 17 Oct 2025
People were amazed when hearing about this European island with ‘perfect’ climate all year around (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
People are dreaming about visiting a specific European island which many claims has ‘perfect weather’ all year around. As Britain grows chillier and wetter, it’s perfectly natural to fantasise about escaping to sunnier, warmer destinations. Unfortunately, such dreams often prove costly and out of reach. But imagine if you could fulfil these dreams in a wonderfully sunny, dreamlike spot with return flights costing just £27 per person?
Madeira is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, frequently dubbed Portugal’s Island of Eternal Spring thanks to its consistently ‘perfect’ weather conditions throughout the year. While much of Europe cools down, Madeira boasts a subtropical climate maintaining pleasant temperatures year-round.
During early October, the island’s average highs still linger around 25C before dropping slightly to 23C by month’s end. Evenings remain pleasant too, with temperatures rarely dipping below 18C.
This makes it ideal for sunset walks along Funchal’s waterfront or outdoor dining at the island’s numerous family-owned restaurants.
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Posting on Instagram, the account ‘beautifuldestinations’ declared in its caption: “Just a short flight from Lisbon, this subtropical island feels like it lives in permanent golden hour, warm, green, and blooming no matter the month.”
The Instagram post featured a reel showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty, including its verdant mountains and brilliant azure coastline. They went on to say: “It’s the kind of place that’s just as good for hiking mountain trails as it is for slow cliffside lunches (ideally with a glass of local Madeira wine).”
The piece then highlighted various activities available, including witnessing dawn break above the clouds at Pico do Arieiro, taking a dip in volcanic pools, exploring trails and pathways through stunning landscapes.
For those preferring to discover local settlements, you can wander through Funchal’s historic quarter and sample regional delicacies, such as bolo do caco, or Poncha.
Timing your visit to Madeira isn’t crucial, as pleasant and bright conditions persist for most of the year. While winter brings milder temperatures averaging 15-18C, summer offers warmer weather with typical highs of 21-25C.
The island enjoys a subtropical climate, ensuring sunshine remains likely year-round.
Viewers were astonished by the footage, with numerous people vowing to experience Madeira themselves as the word ‘beautiful’ was repeated among several people.
“Going there just in a month – can’t wait,” one person wrote, while another user said: “The hiking and ending up above the clouds. the best part of travelling to Madeira!”
“Madeira is so wonderful! Love Portugal beautiful country with lovely people! Dream place,” someone else said.
Another person shared: “Been there past May, it is beautiful.”
THE new EES is officially underway – and the new system has already been causing long wait times at certain airports.
Passengers at Brussels Airport have complained about waiting for up to three hours to get through border control this week.
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The introduction of EES has been rolled out at the airport where there were long queuesCredit: AlamyOne video added to X revealed long lines for border controlCredit: X
One passenger spoke to The Brussels Times about her ordeal getting through border control at Brussels Airport claiming she waited for more than three hours.
Rebecca Wells who was travelling with a US passport, told the publication that the queue for those arriving outside of the EU was much longer than the one for EU passports.
She added: “There was nobody there to brief you or tell you what was going on.”
And when it came to the new EES system, it wasn’t used. Rebecca explained that her passport was “stamped like normal”.
Despite there being a spot to take fingerprints, it wasn’t used.
Another disgruntled passenger took to social media taking a picture of the queue and remarked that just two out of the five customs booths were open during “peak time”.
However, another passenger who also spoke to The Brussels Times on an EU passport said it was “all digital” and she had no issues going through.
When The Brussels Times approached Brussels Airport for comment, they could not confirm whether the long wait times were due to the EES system.
A spokesperson for the Federal Police, which is responsible for the airport’s border control, told the publication that the long wait time was due to “a combination of factors”.
The new EES rules began the first phase of the rollout on October 12, 2025.
The new EES machine have been installed at certain airportsCredit: REUTERS
For travellers, it means having fingerprints scanned and photo taken at European borders.
The new system is being rolled out across Europe gradually and is set to be completely operational at all external Schengen border crossings by April 10, 2026.
At Dover, the new EES is required by coach drivers and won’t apply to other passengers until November 1.
Meanwhile, Eurostarhas started with just business travellers, and the Eurotunnel will begin with coaches and lorries before moving to cars.
You’ll scan your passport, then the machine will take your fingerprints and a photo.
Kids under 12 will not need to give fingerprints.
You will also answer four quick questions on the screen about your trip, such as where you are staying and confirming you have enough money for your holiday.
Once registered, your details are stored for three years, and on future trips, you’ll just need a quick face scan to verify it is you.
Anyone who has a holiday in Rome coming up has been issued a warning. One holidaymaker who has just been to the Italian capital told people to be on ‘high alert’ when visiting
A string of incidents have occurred in the city recently (file)(Image: Gary Yeowell via Getty Images)
A holidaymaker in Rome has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists heading to the Italian capital after enduring a horrifying experience during her break. Caroline Jansson turned to TikTok to reveal she had been “robbed of all of her personal belongings” and urged others visiting the city to stay alert to their surroundings.
“I’ve just been with the police and they told me they [thieves] specifically target tourists,” she began in a video. She went on, explaining that those with hire cars should stay especially watchful after learning at the police station that numerous others had fallen victim to luggage theft straight from their rented vehicles.
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“I talked to one woman who turned around to take a picture and she had her handbag stolen,” Caroline continued.
“There was another man who had his wallet and passport stolen out of his hand – so be very vigilant and look out for each other and each others’ suitcases because literally everything we had with us for the trip is now gone.”
Caroline revealed that consequently, she had lost numerous valuables including her iPad and two laptops in the European hotspot. Luckily one of those was a MacBook, enabling her to trace and find it inside one of the pinched bags – only to discover it had been abandoned in a ditch with no trace of her other belongings.
“We’re going to continue talking to the police and see how it goes,” Caroline said, before issuing a heartfelt plea to her followers to keep an eye out for her luggage if they happen to be in Rome.
In response, another tourist shared their own experience of theft in Rome. “We were robbed in the Rome train station,” they revealed. “Luckily an officer noticed this guy with a bag that didn’t match his look and we got it back. We were so lucky.”
A second person also revealed: “We were robbed, had our van smashed and they stole phones, iPads, handbag, money, camera. Police not interested. We were in a secure patrolled car park.”
Whilst a third TikTok user warned: “A group of three tried to pickpocket me and my husband on a very crowded bus. Just be careful and keep your belongings close to you and be aware.”
The UK government’s foreign travel advice section offers the following guidance for those visiting Rome, meanwhile.
“Thefts from parked cars happen in Rome, particularly in the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Thieves also target coastal areas and towns, and motorway service stations. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle – even out of sight in the boot – for any length of time.
“Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car.”
To reduce your personal risk:
keep sight of your belongings at all times
beware of thieves using distraction techniques
avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place such as a hotel safe
European stocks rose on Wednesday morning after a string of strong corporate results a day earlier, while equities were also boosted by remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. In Philadelphia on Tuesday, Powell suggested that another interest rate cut could come later this month in the US.
In Europe, shares in Netherlands-headquartered ASML, which makes equipment used in the production of AI chips, jumped after the company posted promising results on Wednesday.
The shares rose more than 4%, after Europe’s largest company by market value reported third-quarter earnings fuelled by the AI boom. ASML’s stocks have rallied by almost 50% since August.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, French multinational luxury group LVMH said its organic growth re-entered positive territory in the third quarter. The luxury giant’s shares jumped by more than 14% by 13.00 CEST.
The mood in France also shifted on news that the government had significantly improved its chances of surviving a looming no-confidence vote on Thursday.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu won the much-needed support of the Socialist Party in France’s National Assembly, in exchange for suspending a pension law that raises the retirement age. The CAC 40 in Paris jumped over 2% by 13.00 CEST.
The main European benchmark stock exchanges were also in the green, except for London’s FTSE 100, which lost 0.43%. Meanwhile, the DAX in Frankfurt gained less than 0.1%. Milan’s FTSE MIB was up by 0.36%, Madrid’s Ibex 35 gained 0.71% and the STOXX 600 saw a 0.6% gain.
Gold continued its rally, hitting a high of $4,217 per ounce. Gold has soared over 60% in 2025 as investors seek a safe haven during a period of uncertainty, notably driven by US tariffs and trade tensions.
Global markets are on the rise after the Fed Chair’s words
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signalled on Tuesday that the Fed is slightly more worried about the job market, raising expectations that the central bank will come through with another rate cut.
“Rising downside risks to employment have shifted our assessment of the balance of risks,” he said at a meeting of the National Association of Business Economics in Philadelphia.
Traders took his words to heart, particularly as the US government shutdown has prevented the release of fresh economic data.
“[Investors were] reading Powell like a haiku — every pause, every syllable weighed for hidden meaning,” Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management said in a commentary.
“The message, once decoded, was clear enough: two rate cuts aren’t just a possibility, they’re the main course,” Innes said.
The central bank cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point in September amid worries that unemployment could worsen.
“Markets have been lifted by the rekindling of rate cut expectations in the US after comments from Fed chair Jerome Powell, which highlighted sluggish hiring were taken as an indication that not one, but two further cuts were very much on the table for 2025,” said Danni Hewson, AJ Bell head of financial analysis.
“Buoyed by continued deal-making in the frothy AI sector, investors seem prepared to overlook the growing number of warnings about the potential for a market correction at the moment, but this earnings season will be crucial if that optimism is to continue.”
S&P 500 futures rose 0.64% during the early afternoon in Europe, while Dow Jones Industrial Average futures gained 0.41%. Nasdaq futures were up by 0.79%.
On Tuesday, US markets closed a mixed trading day, with the S&P 500 giving up 0.16% and the Dow climbing 0.44%. The Nasdaq composite dropped 0.76%.
Markets remain volatile as the US and China exchange threats of new trade sanctions and tariffs.
Technology stocks are hypersensitive to trade issues since big chipmakers and other companies rely on China for raw materials and manufacturing. China’s large consumer base is also important for its sales growth.
In other dealings early Wednesday, US benchmark crude oil was circling around $58.65 per barrel (€50.43) and Brent crude, the international standard, was traded around $62.24 (€53.52) per barrel.
The US dollar slipped 0.25% against the Japanese yen, while the euro rose 0.19% against the dollar. The British Pound gained 0.35% against the greenback.
