families

California filed two lawsuits against the Trump administration Monday — one to block President Trump’s latest round of tariffs on international trading partners, the other to block his administration from sharing needy families’ personal data with immigration officials.

California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, whose office brought the lawsuits alongside other Democratically led states, said they were both intended to rein in a lawless president pushing policies that threaten American families already struggling to afford basic necessities.

Bonta said the new tariffs are part of a “failed and illegal economic policy” that has previously been blocked in court. He alleged that the proposed data sharing was part of a broader and illegal “mass surveillance effort” by the Trump administration to target its political opponents.

The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the two lawsuits. But it has previously defended both tariffs and data-sharing policies as part of Trump’s “America first” agenda to improve the economic standing of American families.

Trump has defended his tariffs, and a previous set that was ruled illegal by the U.S. Supreme Court, as necessary to fix years of unfair trading practices in which international partners took advantage of the U.S. However, many economists have determined that the cost of the tariffs are being passed on to U.S. consumers and contributing to the persistent inflation causing economic pain nationwide.

Trump, the White House and top officials in his administration have also defended the sharing of personal data among U.S. agencies, and from individual states to the federal government, as a commonsense way to reduce waste and fraud and to identify and remove people who are in the country illegally and consuming benefits intended for American families.

The administration has previously sought the personal data of Medicaid recipients, SNAP food assistance recipients, immigrants who have filed taxes with the Internal Revenue Service and registered voters in states across the country. All of those demands have also been challenged in court, with varying degrees of success.

Bonta’s office has now filed 82 lawsuits against the current Trump administration.

Tariff lawsuit

Trump’s latest tariffs, levies of between 10% and 12.5%, took effect late last month and apply to more than 80 countries, including some of the closest U.S. allies and largest trading partners such as Canada, Mexico and the European Union. They followed a Trump administration announcement of new 50% tariffs on many Canadian products, set to go into effect this month.

“Tariffs are taxes, and the American people cannot and should not shoulder the extra costs that come from the president’s failed and illegal economic policy — no matter how much the president wants them to,” Bonta said in announcing the lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade.

Two previous attempts by the Trump administration to unilaterally levy tariffs on trading partners were rejected by the courts in the face of similar legal challenges by California and other states. In February, the Supreme Court rejected a sweeping slate of tariffs Trump had imposed on an emergency basis. In May, the Court of International Trade turned back another set.

The Trump administration has said the president’s latest tariffs are authorized by a separate law not considered in the previous litigation — one related to combating forced labor in global trade.

The states’ lawsuit argued that the reliance on labor law was simply a “guise” used by Trump to impose new tariffs, and that “there is no rational fit between the purported problem of forced labor in international supply chains and the blanket global tariffs” imposed.

Bonta brought the case alongside the attorneys general or governors of 24 other states.

Data-sharing lawsuit

California joined a similar coalition of Democrat-led states to file a lawsuit challenging the sharing of needy families’ data, in federal court in Washington, D.C.

The lawsuit challenges a notice the Trump administration issued last month announcing the Administration of Children and Families would begin sharing the personal information of recipients in the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to outside agencies — including with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which houses Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other immigration enforcement units.

A spokesperson for the Administration for Children and Families said it does not comment on ongoing litigation.

The program provides $16 billion in grants annually to the states, which use it to provide cash assistance to low-income families. Some 350,000 families in California receive support through the program each month, Bonta’s office said.

Bonta said the sharing of program data with Homeland Security would be a clear violation of the law establishing the fund.

“The Trump Administration is exploiting a program designed to ensure children do not go hungry and to help needy families get back on their feet in order to fuel its mass surveillance effort. It’s cruel, unnecessary, and illegal,” Bonta said in a statement.

During a morning news conference, Bonta said one of his concerns is that immigration officials will use data to target the undocumented parents of U.S. citizen children who are legitimately receiving assistance through the program.

“They’re seeking Social Security information, marital status, income information,” he said. “We think that they might be interested in that information to potentially target parents.”

He said he also believes the data sharing is part of a much broader effort by the Trump administration to gather up as much data as possible in order to target individuals who do not conform with the administration’s political agenda, including on immigration policy and on issues such as abortion and gender-affirming care.

“While the Trump Administration continues to break the law in order to amass an ever-greater trove of people’s personal information, we’ll continue stepping in to protect the privacy of our people,” Bonta said.

The lawsuit is just the latest in a much broader legal war over the Trump administration’s drive to force all kinds of federal and state social services and financial programs to share the personal data of benefit recipients and other program users.

California is fighting alongside other states in court to block the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from sharing personal data of Medicaid recipients with Homeland Security, though some of that data have already been shared.

California is also fighting alongside other states in court to block the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s demand that states turn over the personal data of millions of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, recipients. The demand came with a threat from USDA that it would cut off funding to states that don’t comply. Courts have blocked the suspension of funds, but some data have been shared.

Immigrant rights groups, including Los Angeles-based Inclusive Action for the City, are also suing to block a Trump administration plan to share IRS taxpayer data with Homeland Security. The Trump administration has said the data sharing would be used to target only criminals, but immigrant rights advocates have denounced it as an attempt to do just the opposite — to target immigrants who have been in the country and paid taxes for years.

Officials say 76 of the roughly 179 people believed to have been aboard survived, and 53 bodies have been found so far.

The expected death toll from Guyana’s ferry disaster over the weekend has climbed to around 100, with the authorities facing mounting pressure to explain how the country’s worst maritime disaster in decades occurred.

Officials said on Tuesday that 76 of the roughly 179 people believed to have been aboard survived, while 53 bodies have been recovered as divers continue searching for the remaining missing.

Families have gathered in the northern town of Charity, waiting for news of loved ones still unaccounted for.

“I know my baby is in that boat,” said Samantha Ramin, who lost two of her three children.

The body of her young daughter has been found, but her baby boy is still missing.

“I know he is down there. I know he is down there,” she said. “I want to see them find my baby.”

The 87-year-old vessel, MV Barima, left Georgetown for Port Kaituma on Saturday but began taking on water and capsized off the Essequibo coast. Although its manifest listed 133 people, authorities now believe as many as 179 were aboard.

Anger has grown over the length of time it took to rescue survivors, some of whom told reporters they spent hours stranded in the water.

Passengers have also alleged the ferry was dangerously overloaded with people and heavy cargo, including engines, vehicles, fuel containers and commercial goods. One survivor said the boat was more crowded than on any of his previous trips, describing cargo packed tightly below deck.

Survivors also allege the ferry suffered engine trouble shortly after departure but that the crew attempted repairs at sea rather than turning back, and that concerns about water entering the vessel were dismissed by crew members as routine.

Government officials say the ferry was actually under its capacity limits for both passengers and cargo, but acknowledge that conflicting accounts make it too early to draw firm conclusions. The head of the Maritime Administration Department said a full investigation is needed to establish facts such as how the vessel was loaded and whether supervisory staff acted properly.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips said Tuesday that the government has nothing to hide and pledged that anyone found responsible – including for negligence or criminal wrongdoing – will face legal consequences.

Police have already detained the rescued captain, along with at least one other crew member. Both reportedly tested positive for marijuana.

Asked why such an old vessel remained in service, officials said a US$12.7 million replacement ferry purchased from India was awaiting the completion of a special pier at Port Kaituma. The MV Barima last underwent major repairs in 2024 and had additional maintenance scheduled for October.

Avanti West Coast has partnered with Family Holiday Charity to offer free family train tickets to vulnerable families, supporting summer holiday breaks at destinations on the West Coast Main Line from London to Glasgow and Edinburgh

A rail operator is offering free travel to vulnerable families so they can enjoy a holiday this summer.

Avanti West Coast has revealed it’s teamed up with Family Holiday Charity to enable breaks at destinations along the West Coast Main Line, which runs from London through to Glasgow and Edinburgh via the West Midlands and north-west England.

The getaways will be made available to families facing challenges including financial struggles, bereavement, caring duties, housing insecurity and domestic abuse.

Avanti West Coast customer experience director Kathryn O’Brien said the firm is “really proud” to help families embark on holidays they “may otherwise not have the chance” to experience.

OPINION

She continued: “We serve many picturesque towns and seaside destinations along the West Coast Main Line that will be the perfect destination for the families to enjoy new experiences and escapism from their day-to-day reality.

“The trips will offer something that many could take for granted – the opportunity to nurture relationships, create memories and reconnect with one another.”

Family Holiday Charity depends on referrals from sources such as social workers and the NHS to identify people it can assist.

Rob Parkinson, chief executive of Family Holiday Charity, said: “While many of the families we support have not been on a holiday before, it will also be the case that some have never travelled together by rail.

“Providing new experiences and opportunities to make enduring memories is central to what we do as a charity, and so we’re very excited to be working with Avanti West Coast on this summer pilot project.”

Avanti West Coast confirmed it will initially assist six families with summer holiday travel, calling the trial a “first for the rail industry”.

Family Holiday Charity’s mission is to help “families’ children who have never seen the sea, for teenagers who can’t remember when they last saw their mum smile. For parents having to choose between a day out and a new pair of school shoes. For young carers, kinship carers, families facing illness isolation and bereavement.”

Its philosophy is that holidays open up new possibilities and provide a time to reconnect, to try new things, and to make happy memories together.

The charity’s website features stories of those it has helped, as well as details on how you can support it.

One family who received help is Tobi’s. The 12-year-old has Takayasu arteritis, a type of vasculitis that causes inflammation in his blood vessels, damaging his large arteries. It’s treatable but not curable. He’s had two major heart surgeries this past year and life has been so hectic. If Tobi has to go to the hospital, all his family have to go.

“We could be there for months at a time, with Lanny commuting from the hospital to his school. At one point, Tobi was going in every three days for blood transfusions and he missed three years of school,” his mum Fathimas said.

Family Holiday Charity paid for Tobi, his siblings and mum to stay at the seaside in Essex.

“We were so happy to hear it was near the sea. We all love the beach and it reminded us of our days in Ghana. We hugged each other as we started making plans. I checked how far Clacton-on-Sea was from London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital by train, just to be sure we could get there quickly if we had to. That helped ease my mind,” Fathimas said.

Fifteen destinations in particular are facing major airport delays as the EU’s new digital passport checks are causing ‘slow processing times and excessive queues,’ Ryanair warned

Ryanair has warned UK families to prepare for lengthy passport queues and airport delays due to the EU‘s new automated border control system.

The budget airline said the new Entry/Exit System (EES) – which replaces physical passport stamps with a digital record for travellers – has continued to cause disruption months after becoming fully operational on April 10.

Fifteen destinations in particular are now facing significant delays due to “slow processing times and excessive passport control queues on both arrivals and departures,” Ryanair warned.

The airline added: “With schools now breaking for summer and passenger volumes reaching peak levels, the failed EES rollout is going to cause unnecessary delays and long queues for UK families.

“Months after EES went live, many airports still do not have fully functioning self-service kiosks in place, while border staffing levels and infrastructure remain inadequate to process peak passenger volumes.

“The result is avoidable delays, longer queues and unnecessary stress for UK passengers travelling during the busiest holiday period of the year.”

Ryanair has warned UK travellers going to and from non-Schengen destinations, or transiting through affected European airports, to be prepared for extended waits at passport control.

The new EES checks may require passengers to complete passport scanning, fingerprint capture and facial image verification.

Ryanair says it is supporting calls from EU Member States to urgently extend the current EES flexibilities into early 2027.

This will allow airports more time to fix malfunctioning kiosks, increase staff numbers and make sure the system is running smoothly before full enforcement is introduced, the airline said.

Ryanair’s Chief Operations Officer, Neal McMahon, said: “Families heading away for a well-earned summer holiday should be thinking about suitcases, suncream and sangria, not standing in passport queues for hours.

“The reality is that the EES system isn’t working properly and families are paying the price for a system that does not work months after launch. Passengers should not be the testing ground for unfished border infrastructure.

“We support calls from EU Member States to urgently extend the EES flexibilities. This will give airports and border authorities the time to improve the infrastructure, fix the broken devices and hire more staff so that families can travel through Europe without disruption.”

Ryanair identified 15 places where passengers have faced “recurring EES hotspots where passengers are experiencing significant delays due to slow processing times and excessive passport control queues on both arrivals and departures”.

Airports facing worst EES airport delays

• Lisbon
• Tenerife South
• Madrid
• Lanzarote
• Alicante
• Malaga
• Milan Bergamo
• Milan Malpensa
• Verona
• Paris Beauvais
• Berlin
• Cologne
• Frankfurt Hahn
• Krakow
• Budapest

‘No one has been able to accept it yet.’ Grieving families collected the bodies of loved ones killed in Bangkok’s deadly pub fire as police investigated the cause of the blaze and possible safety breaches that have claimed 30 lives.

On The Beach’s Rob Brooks has highlighted a city he claims is the ‘Barcelona of Eastern Europe’ that boasts a stunning beach, vibrant streets and architecture, and restaurants that don’t require you to spend a fortune

If you’re yet a to book a trip abroad this summer, a holiday expert highly recommends the “best hidden gem beach holiday” in Europe, claiming it comes at a fraction of the price of the most popular resorts on the continent. Rob Brooks, who works for travel agent, On The Beach, took to TikTok with advice for those who’d appreciate all the perks of Barcelona, but without the cost.

“I’ve just found Eastern Europe’s Barcelona, and you’ve definitely never heard of it,” he began in a video. “So here’s some clues – it’s half the price, around a two-hour flight from the UK, it’s brilliant for families and it can even feel like proper luxury if you book smart.”

For anyone wondering where Rob could be referring to, he went on to tease that it’s not in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Italy or France.

“One destination has suddenly landed on my desk after a sudden explosion in holiday searches,” he continued. “So I went away and did my research, crunched the numbers and dug through the data – and now I’m genuinely convinced this could be one of Europe’s biggest hotspots in a few years.”

Rob admitted that he had previosuly considered the destination a “rogue place” for a beach holiday, but that all changed when he saw the photos of it.

“It’s got a huge, golden sandy beach, it’s got loads of beachfront bars and restaurants… colourful streets, beautiful architecture and there’s loads of luxury hotels and a massive pier that stretches out right into the sea,” he enthused.

Rob said he then realised why comparisons are being made to Barcelona – only this location is “nowhere near as busy or expensive”, and hardly anyone is talking about it.

Direct flights from UK airports take as little as two hours and five minutes, with Rob finding one for as little as £36.

“It sounds much further away than it actually is, but what really caught my eye is how much variety there is there,” he explained. “You can spend the morning on the beach, wander around beautiful old streets in the afternoon, eat ridiculously well and eat gorgeous food without spending a fortune – and because spending money goes such a long way here, it feels way more luxury than it probably should.”

So where is Rob talking about? “Summer temperatures are sitting at up to 26 degrees… I really don’t think this place will stay a secret for much longer,” he said. “The more I looked into it, the more I realised that this location is only going to get bigger and bigger over the next few years.

“It’s Sopot – a gorgeous seaside town on Poland’s Baltic coast. I even found a deal here I genuinely might book myself.”

Rob closed by highlighting one particular deal – five nights at the Hotel Aqua beside the beach for just £265 per person – which includes flights from London Stansted Airport this September.

“You’re getting Barcelona’s beach culture, but for Poland’s prices,” he declared.

Sopot’s tourism website boasts online: “Sopot is one of the most charming places in Poland and a hugely popular Baltic resort. Here you’ll find not only abundant greenery, beautiful sandy beaches, and the soothing sound of waves, but also a rich history, spa architecture, and top-class hotels and restaurants.”

Writing in response to Rob’s video, one TikTok user exclaimed: “It’s a beautiful place, I was there in May. Gdansk is just along the way which is even better. Definitely worth a visit.”

A second person added: “Sopot is a beautiful town and so is neighbouring Gdynia. Both towns are within a short commute of the larger city of Gdansk, which is also a marvel. Very clean environment, moderate prices to eat out and drink and very well worth a visit.”

While a third wrote: “Sopot is stunning, we had a great time earlier this year. We stayed in Gdansk which is about 15 minutes by train. I couldn’t recommend both places enough.”

Travel could be about to get faster for some families this summer at dozens of UK airports

Families are being reminded that a major change to a key rule across more than a dozen UK airports will come into effect this summer. From next week, on July 8, a security rule will be eased for certain primary school-age children.

Back in May, the UK Government announced that up to 1.5 million more children would soon be able to use UK eGates, helping to speed up the process for them and their families during the summer holidays. Children aged eight and nine, who are at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall and travelling with an adult, will become eligible under the new measures that come into force on Wednesday, July 8.

Officials say the change to the age threshold will be a welcome relief for families returning home from their holidays with young children in tow. The government claims that passing through an eGate typically takes just a matter of minutes.

With greater numbers of passengers making use of eGates, waiting times at passport control are also anticipated to fall. Prior to 8 July, eGates were generally available to those aged 10 and above, though children under 17 were required to (and must still be) accompanied by an adult, reports the Express.

Passengers are eligible to use an eGate if they have a biometric symbol on the front cover of their passport and are either:

• a British citizen
• a national of an EU country, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the USA
• a member of the Registered Traveller Service

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp said: “Travel with young children can be stressful for parents. By expanding eGate access, more families can experience a swifter and smoother journey home – freeing up precious time this summer holiday season. We are delivering continued improvement to the passenger experience, while keeping our borders safe and secure.”

Border Force Director General, Phil Douglas said: “eGates are an essential part of keeping our border secure. Expanding access for families will deliver safe, smooth journeys whilst freeing up highly-skilled officers to focus on intercepting those who pose a threat to the UK.”

Karen Dee, Chief executive of AirportsUK, the trade body for UK airports, said: “This is a welcome development as it will give more families the ability to take advantage of this technology, speeding up the border process and reducing waiting times for many. Airports work very hard with border authorities to ensure the UK’s front door is both secure and welcoming, with those coming home and visiting enjoying a smooth experience.”

The UK first introduced ePassport gates at airports in 2008, with the very first gate going live at Manchester Airport. Initially, the automated gates were limited to UK, EU, and Swiss citizens but have since expanded to include eligible travellers from dozens of countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Full list of UK airports with eGates (as of July 2026):

1. London Heathrow
2. London Gatwick
3. London Stansted
4. London Luton
5. London City
6. Manchester
7. Birmingham
8. Edinburgh
9. Glasgow
10. Bristol
11. Newcastle
12. Cardiff
13. East Midlands
14. Southampton
15. Southend

THE UK has issued new travel advice for Brits heading to Spain this summer.

Spain is currently still seeing extremely high temperatures, which has recorded highs of 40C.

This has led to the deaths of 212 people in recent weeks.

And new advice from the UK Foreign Office has warned Brits, especially those with kids, to be aware when swimming to cool off.

The updated advice states: “Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain.

“Always supervise children. Keep small children within arms-reach in and around swimming pools, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.”

STAR BUY

Spanish city where you can get 5-star stays for under £40pp & it’s 37C next week

OH GAUD!

I visited the Spanish city with famous 114-year-old attraction & TUI city breaks

They also issued advice for Brits swimming in the sea.

It continued: “Take care when swimming in the sea. Always supervise children and keep small children within arms-reach.

“Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.

“Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.

“Do not dive into unknown water and do not swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea.

“If you are walking along unmonitored beaches, be aware that waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows.”

Spain has a similar flag system to the UK, so if there is a red flag, it means not to swim in the water.

Here is another new Spanish rule you need to be aware of and it affects you at the airport.

Mérida, June 29, 2026 (venezuelanalysis.com) – Venezuelan and international rescue teams continue to search for survivors under collapsed buildings following last Wednesday’s back-to-back earthquakes.

The 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude tremors caused widespread destruction, primarily in the coastal state of La Guaira, which has been described as “ground zero.” Geological services have registered more than 500 aftershocks since the original earthquakes.

On Monday, Venezuelan officials reported that there have been 1,719 people killed, 5,034 injured, and more than 15 thousand displaced. According to the country’s authorities, 855 buildings have been damaged, including 189 totally collapsed, along with damage to 38 hospitals and 1,645 road structures.

“We are in critical and crucial hours to continue saving lives,” National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez stated during a Monday press conference. He confirmed that over 25,000 rescue workers, including military personnel, police, firefighters, and civil protection units, are currently deployed, supported by 3,319 international rescuers from 25 nations and 137 specialized canines.

Rodríguez added that 90% of electricity service has been restored in La Guaira State, and that a special hotline remains active to provide psychological support to relatives of the victims, displaced people, and those suffering from post-traumatic stress following the earthquakes.

Earlier on Monday, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez celebrated the rescue of 21-year-old Aaron Levi Cantillo, who was pulled alive from the rubble in La Guaira after being trapped for 106 hours. The rescue was the result of 43 hours of intense, coordinated work by Venezuelan Civil Protection and brigades from Mexico, Chile, and Argentina. Emergency workers have warned that, as time passes, the probability of still finding survivors drastically decreases.

Over the weekend, the Venezuelan government has likewise ramped up efforts to tend to displaced families, with 15 temporary shelters set up in La Guaira and a further 50 in Caracas.

Other areas beyond La Guaira have also been severely impacted. Local residents reported structural damage and service failures in Morón, Carabobo state, close to the earthquakes’ epicenters. Similarly, in Tucacas, Falcón state, residents called for assistance from authorities as they face interrupted electricity or water services.

As part of its response to the crisis, the acting Rodríguez government restricted access to the state of La Guaira, the hardest-hit area. The measure aims to prevent traffic congestion and prioritize the movement of emergency vehicles and heavy machinery. Venezuelan officials have urged the public to avoid traveling to the area to ensure that rescue efforts are not impeded.

At the same time, authorities have sought to organize volunteer brigades, both for search and rescue operations and to tend to temporary shelters, via a registration center at the Poliedro complex in Caracas. 

As of June 29, 10,834 volunteers had registered, and they have been categorized according to their area of expertise: survivor rescue, medical care, logistics at temporary camps, and other essential tasks.

Following the double earthquake, the United States government has ramped up its presence in the Caribbean nation. The US Department of State has deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and specialized urban search and rescue units.

The Department of War has sent an expeditionary airfield management team to repair and reopen the damaged Simón Bolívar International Airport, which is now serving as the primary hub for international relief flights. The US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) has stated that it is currently “managing tower and ground operations” at the country’s most important airport.

SOUTHCOM is also assessing conditions at the port of La Guaira and has docked the USS Fort Lauderdale warship to coordinate maritime deliveries. Various aircraft, including C-17 Globemaster, C-130 Hercules, MV-22 Ospreys, and helicopters, have conducted aerial surveys and transported rescue teams and supplies. 

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez personally thanked President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for US support following the natural disaster. In a social media message, the acting president said she was “deeply grateful for this gesture of friendship and cooperation.”

The Trump administration announced that humanitarian assistance to Venezuela has been increased to over $300 million. However, Washington has not offered any relief from widespread economic sanctions, only issuing a time-limited license allowing earthquake relief-related transactions.

The White House also retains control over Venezuelan oil export revenues, with the disbursement timings and amounts left at US officials’ discretion.

Edited by Ricardo Vaz in Caracas.

Search and rescue operations continue in Caracas, Venezuela nearly five days after the devastating double earthquakes. Al Jazeera’s Noris Soto speaks with a family member who remains hopeful their loved one is still alive beneath the rubble.

Rats are invading displacement camps across Gaza, where piles of garbage, overflowing sewage and overcrowded shelters are worsening a public health crisis. Doctors report more severe skin diseases as families struggle without proper sanitation or adequate medical care.

IF you’ve got kids, you already know how the holiday hierarchy works.

A pool’s nice, a kids’ club’s helpful, but a hotel with its own on-site waterpark’s the holy grail – that’s the sort of currency that buys you good behaviour until Christmas.

The only problem is that waterpark holidays usually carry an eye-watering premium and sell out for summer, FAST.

So, I dug straight into our summer average booking data to find the spots delivering all the splash, without the cash.

And I’ve unearthed 7 family favourites where you get the slides, the lazy rivers, and the splash zones without completely clearing out the savings.

Here’s where your budget goes furthest this summer.

7. PortAventura Hotel Gold River, Costa Dorada

If you’ve got proper thrill-seekers in the family, they’ll love this hotel for more than just the waterpark.

Because you’re staying directly inside the PortAventura resort grounds, you get unlimited access to the main theme park and entry to the massive Caribe Aquatic Park, which features towering mega-slides, indoor play areas, and massive wave pools.

The real insider win at this hotel though, is the hotel’s private entrance to the park – it completely bypasses the main turnstiles, letting you stroll straight into the park before the main gates open to help you beat the August queues.

For this setup, the average summer price sits at £130 per person per night – but when I had a look, I tracked down a half-board stay at PortAventura Hotel Gold River for just £528pp in late August.

6. Mukarnas Spa & Resort Hotel, Turkey

The Mukarnas Spa & Resort Hotel in Alanya shows exactly why Turkey dominates family holiday value charts every single year.

The hotel boasts a serious aquapark packed with multiple high-speed drop slides, curved flumes, and dedicated pirate-themed splash zones for toddlers.

And what makes this hotel a certified winner for parents, too, is the layout of the beach pier – the resort positions its quiet cabanas just far enough from the waterslides that you can actually escape the noise and read a book while the animation team keeps the kids occupied.

The average summer price for this one comes in at £126 per person per night, but you can score the full package at Murkanas Spa & Resort on an all-inclusive basis for £650pp this August.

5. HYB Eurocalas, Majorca

The HYB Eurocalas is one of Majorca’s most reliable value family hotels year after year, and it’s an absolute paradise for younger kids.

The star of the show is its massive, pirate-themed splash park, which is completely packed with mini slides, water cannons, bucket drops, and enough colourful chaos to keep toddlers entertained for hours.

This hotel’s also kitted out with multi-room family apartments that come with proper partitions, meaning you don’t have to sit in the dark whispering from 8pm when the kids crash out after a day on the slides.

The average summer price sits at a very reasonable £125 per person per night, and when I went searching, I found a peak-summer, 5-night all-inclusive deal at HYB Eurocalas for £540pp in August.

4. Club Mac, Majorca

Club Mac Alcudia is basically an institution for British families after years and years of popularity, and it’s famous for being an absolute beast for entertainment.

Aside from its own massive three-hotel pool complex, booking a room here gives your family free, unlimited access to the huge Hidropark waterpark right across the road, which features 15 different multi-lane racer slides and kamikazes.

The best bit of insider advice I can give you for this resort is their late-night buffet service –  they run a dedicated midnight snack station that’s absolute gold dust if you’ve been out watching the family tribute acts and have kids suddenly complaining they’re starving at 11pm.

This classic family favourite has an average summer price of £124 per person per night. But right now, you can bag an all-inclusive stay at Club Mac this August for just £500pp.

3. Eftalia Splash Resort, Turkey

Eftalia Splash Resort is where the value starts getting ridiculous, especially given the scale of the attractions on offer.

It features one of the most towering, intense waterpark setups you will find anywhere in Europe at this price point, boasting massive multi-lane racers, family raft flumes, black holes, and a huge splash tower.

The killer insider feature here is the ‘Eftalia Island’ beach club access. Because the hotel runs a seamless, free shuttle down to a massive beachfront complex where the all-inclusive food and drinks carry over to the sand, meaning you never have to budget extra for lunch by the sea.

The average summer price is sitting at £109 per person per night, and I clocked an all-inclusive package at Eftalia Splash for £613pp between 22–27 August 2026. Bargain.

2. Bellevue Club, Majorca

The Bellevue Club in Alcudia is a big self-contained resort and one of Europe’s largest holiday complexes – but it’s different to your typical waterpark hotel in that the waterslides aren’t really the main attraction.

This place packs in multiple distinct pool zones, sports areas, and an on-site lake, alongside an array of family-friendly waterslides and splash zones.

And as this place is so sprawling, the insider trick is utilising their on-site supermarket and private guest laundry facilities, which means you can pack light, skip the airline checked-bag fees entirely, and sort breakfast in the room for pennies before heading out to the central flumes.

The average summer price is an incredibly low £107 per person per night, but I dug up a self-catering deal at Bellevue Club, in August, for just £335pp. This deal might be my pick of the bunch!

1. THB Tropical Island, Lanzarote

My absolute top waterpark hotel on the board is THB Tropical Island in Playa Blanca, which completely dismantles the theory that Canary Islands waterpark holidays require a second mortgage.

The resort features a massive array of splash zones, family slides, and premium cooling-off spots scattered across its massive grounds.

But what makes this hotel the absolute benchmark for value on this list for parents is its adult-only quiet zones.

The resort has cleverly cordoned off a premium, deep-water pool and thermal spa area strictly for adults, meaning you can trade waterslide shifts with your partner to get an hour of genuine peace while the kids are tearing up the splash park down the other end.

The average summer price is a stunning £91 per person per night, and when I went for a peek at the deals, I found an August self-catering stay at THB Tropical Island for an absurdly low £363pp, flying from Edinburgh from 22–27 August 2026.

Families are sharing details about their loved ones online as more than 50,000 people remain missing after two devastating earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday night. Rescue teams and local residents are still digging through the rubble on Friday, hoping to find survivors.

BIG news for families who travel on Ryanair flights.

The airline has announced that it has changed its policy so that families can sit together free of charge.

In a statement made today, Ryanair said that there will be free parent and child seats available together in the rear of its planes for families.

For adults travelling with children who choose this new seating option, they will be told of their seat allocation after they have checked in for their flight.

This is the case with most other airlines in Europe.

Families who opt for this are likely to be seated towards the back of the plane.

TOP SEA-CRET

Locals’ guide to UK’s top seaside counties… best beaches & pubs and £15 stays

CHEAP DATE

Our fave cheap European destinations with flights under £20 & hotels from £24pp

It’s still an option for families to choose their seats in advance, but this does require a seat reservation fee.

Previously, Ryanair’s Ts&Cs required at least one parent to sit with their children aged 2-11 when they fly.

This was done through what Ryanair calls a “mandatory family seat”, which the parent must pay for in order to secure a seat next to them for their child.

For all other passengers, reserving a seat is optional.

This fee applies to both outbound and return flights and typically costs around £8 each way.

Ryanair’s website refers to “Free reserved seats for kids under 12”, but the parents and guardians had to pay a booking fee to access these seats.

Typically, other airlines offer to seat children with a parent or guardian without the need for a paid-for adult seat reservation, or allocate seats together automatically during booking for free.

The new policy comes in on new bookings made from today.

The airline is facing investigation by the CMA to determine whether the practice is “in line with consumer law”.

On the policy change, a CMA spokesperson said: “Ryanair claims its seating policy now complies with the law, and we’ll test that thoroughly. If true, it’s a win for families – who will no longer have to pay to sit with their children – and it shows the impact our new powers are having.

“But it doesn’t change the fact families have been paying for ‘mandatory family seats’. Our investigation remains ongoing.”

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary commented on the changes…

Ryanair CEO, Michael O’Leary, said: “Turning a blind eye to the high fares charged by airlines on routes with no Ryanair competition, the CMA has now targeted our family seating policy which has been universally embraced by consumers as the most progressive and transparent in Europe.

“Instead of promoting competitiveness and lower fares for consumers, the CMA is on a mission to force Ryanair to adopt the less transparent and less consumer-friendly family seating policy applied by most other airlines – just because it’s the industry standard.”

He said that the airline will “reluctantly adjust” to the industry standard.

Michael explained that “families may have to wait until after they have checked in to find out their seat allocation”.

And that these seats are likely to be at the “rear of the cabin”

Looking at a blank calendar for the six week summer holiday? With less than a month until the schools break up for the summer, here are some days out that will keep the kids entertained without costing a fortune

Most schools in England and Wales will break up for the six-week summer holidays in less than a month, leaving many parents scrambling to fill the days with things to do.

A theme park is a classic family day out, but it’s not exactly a cheap option, and some deals don’t cover peak summer holiday dates. But there are ways to cut the costs if you’re planning a day out at one of these attractions, and here are some of the parks with discounts you can use in July and August.

Flamingo Land Theme Park & Zoo – 58% off

Wowcher is currently running a deal for day tickets to Flamingo Land in Yorkshire, with 50% off single tickets and 58% off if you buy four. This means a family of four can enjoy access to the theme park, zoo, and a host of other attractions for £97. The offer includes full school holiday availability.

Flamingo Land includes a number of thrilling rollercoasters, Dino-Stone park, and the adorable Muddy Duck Farm where younger kids can visit Peter Rabbit and his friends. Flamingo Land also offers on-site accommodation for longer breaks, including lodges and cottages for those who want to spend multiple days in the park.

Gulliver’s – up to 99% off children’s tickets

Gulliver’s, which has four locations across the UK, is running a unique offer that could snag you up to 99% off children’s day tickets. The catch is that it’s tied to England’s World Cup performance. The discount will be based on the minute of England’s final goal in each group stage match.

So, as an example, if England’s final goal was at 75 minutes, the deal would mean these tickets were discounted by 75%. The deal will be live on June 24 from 10am after England vs Ghana, and June 28 from 10am after their match against Panama and available to snap up for only 24 hours.

However, if you don’t want to base your school holiday plans on the England team’s performance, there’s also a deal running on Wowcher for 50% off Gulliver’s tickets for all four of their locations in Milton Keynes, Rother Valley, Matlock Bath, and Warrington, with good availability across school holiday dates and prices from £11.50.

Alton Towers, Chessington, Thorpe Park – unlimited visits from £16.99 a month

If you live near an attraction owned by Merlin, such as Alton Towers, Chessington, Thorpe Park, or LEGOLAND, then a Merlin annual pass can work out excellent value for money. At the moment, the Merlin annual pass sale includes prices from £139 for the essential pass, while Gold and Platinum passes have £50 off, making them £189 and £249 respectively.

It’s worth noting that the essentials pass does exclude Saturdays in August, but you can still enjoy the parks on other days of the week. If you don’t want to pay in one go, you can also sign up for a monthly pass at Gold or Platinum level for either £16.99 or £20.99.

In addition to its theme parks, Merlin also operates attractions such as the London Eye, Cadbury World, and SEA LIFE centers, so you can ensure you make the most of your pass with a wide range of days out.

Drayton Manor – VAT-free tickets

Drayton Manor is one of the attractions offering VAT savings this summer as part of the government’s scheme to cut the prices of family days out.

If booked in advance, tickets start at £25.80 for peak dates such as the school holidays. Another option is the three-park ticket, although it is only valid until July 31. For £49.50, you get a day at Drayton Manor, one at West Midlands Safari Park, and one at Waterworld in Stoke-on-Trent, a huge indoor waterpark. This works out at just £16.50 per attraction, far below the usual gate price.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach – tickets and stay for £38.03 per person

A deal from Virgin Experiences means a family of four can enjoy a night in a Blackpool hotel, as well as tickets to its iconic Pleasure Beach for just a few pounds more than the usual admission cost.

A Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort and Family Stay at the Big Blue Hotel costs £169, and if you use discount code DEAL10, this brings it down to £152.10, or £38.04 per person. Day tickets to the park alone usually start at £31.50, so this is a great deal if you want a night away at the seaside.

This deal is not available on bank holiday weekends or Saturdays in July and August, but can be redeemed for other school holiday dates.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

A customer claimed they had been told different things by Jet2 staff

Jet2 has stepped in to clear up confusion over its baggage policy. The update came after a query from a passenger with a group booking.

The traveller sought clarification as their reservation included two adults and a six-month-old infant. They explained: “Told we get two extra carry ons such as a buggy and travel cot that will be checked into the hold at the gate.” They mentioned they had two 22kg suitcases and recalled being informed on a previous Jet2 holiday that they were entitled to “an extra 10kg for the baby”.

According to guidance on the Jet2 website for bookings with children, passengers receive “an extra 10kg allowance for infants” and can also take “up to two items per child or infant free of charge”.

Differing messages

The customer’s query was whether the additional 10kg could be combined with one of the 22kg cases, creating a 32kg allowance. They said they had received contradictory information on this issue on their last trip with Jet2.

The passenger said: “On the way out with you we were told it’s fine to have a 32kg case (22kg + the 10kg). On the way back we were told the 10kg should be a separate small checked case.

“Please can you clarify which it is and what the rules are because on our last holiday with you we were told different things.” Jet2 responded to settle the matter: “The additional 10kg is applied to one adult’s baggage, allowing for a total of one bag at 32kg and one bag at 22kg.”

Extra items free of charge

When it comes to the two additional items you’re permitted to bring without charge, these may include:

• A collapsible pushchair, pram or buggy
• A car seat or booster seat
• A baby carrier
• A travel cot.

Each item must not exceed 32kg in weight. Should you bring any further items or anything beyond this weight limit, the standard excess baggage charges will apply.

Having originally opened in 1903 as the Victoria Station Hotel, attached to the former train station, the Hilton Nottingham is bursting with character. 

Here’s everything you need to know.

Where is the Hilton Nottingham?

Slap bang in the centre of Nottingham, the Hilton hotel is just a 17-minute walk from the train station.

There is a small on-site car park, or guests can park in the multi-storey across the road, for which they will receive a discount through the hotel.

What’s the Hilton Nottingham like?

The hotel is a home away from home thanks to friendly staff and a warm lobby with cosy nooks where guests can sink into plush armchairs and natter about their weekend ahead.

Things have changed a fair bit since its early days as a station hotel, but a rather grand staircase in the lobby gives a nod to its heritage.

SUITE DEAL

I stayed at new London hotel with discounted rooms and nearby free museums

SEA YOU SOON

I stayed at the cosy boutique hotel in one of England’s coolest seaside towns

The calm atmosphere is not what you’d expect of a hotel slap bang in the centre of a busy city and every guest checking in at the weekend is treated to a complimentary glass of prosecco on arrival

What are the rooms like?

Rooms are much more modern than the exterior of the building lets on – which is no surprise considering the property underwent a £6.5million renovation a few years back, with particular focus on the bedrooms. 

Plump bedding (including one of the deepest, softest pillows I’ve ever slept on) and a stylish design of wooden cabinets and soft lighting are the highlights.

There’s all the usual expected amenities such as tea and coffee making facilities, TVs and bathrooms kitted out with fancy-smelling toiletries.

What is there to eat and drink?

The hotel’s Bric Bar & Kitchen opens every morning for slap-up buffet breakfasts of eggs any way you like, hash browns and beans, as well as cereals, pastries and yoghurts with fresh fruit.

All of which is continually topped up, so you won’t have to miss out even if you do arrive just before closing time.

That’s a real perk when you’re visiting at the weekend and have perhaps had a heavy one the night before – there’s nothing like a well-cooked fry up to cure your hangover.

There’s also a small dinner menu of pub-style favourites – margherita pizza, smash burger and fish and chips –  served Monday to Saturday from 5:30pm until 9:30pm.

If you don’t fancy staying in, you aren’t short of excellent dinner options nearby.

Less than a ten-minute walk away is Taquero which serves up plates of dressed ceviche and cheese-loaded tacos alongside margaritas that pack a punch.

What else is there to do?

There’s a small gym and indoor pool as well as pet-friendly rooms for a £25 per pet nightly surcharge.

But you’ll really want to take advantage of the city centre location that makes it great for stag and hen dos, with everything – clubs, restaurants, attractions – on your doorstep.

How much is the Hilton Nottingham?

Double rooms cost from £118 with breakfast.

Is the Hilton Nottingham family-friendly?

Very. Family rooms are spacious and come with a king sized bed alongside a sofa bed that’s easily large enough for two youngsters. 

Anyone staying before December 31 can take advantage of the Perfect Family Package that really does put little ones at the forefront, meaning the grown ups can properly kick back and relax.

Not only will kids be treated to their own in-room teepee, they’ll also receive an activity pack.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Yes, there are accessible rooms within the hotel and the restaurant is also accessible with downstairs accessible toilets.

June 10 (Asia Today) — Senior U.S. human rights officials visiting South Korea met over two days with families of South Koreans detained or abducted by North Korea, civic groups said Wednesday.

The meetings included families of South Korean missionaries detained in North Korea, wartime and postwar abductees and prisoners of war who were not repatriated after the Korean War.

Riley M. Barnes, assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labor, met Tuesday with Choi Jin-young, the son of South Korean missionary Choi Chun-gil, who is being held in North Korea, according to civic groups.

Julie Turner, acting deputy assistant secretary in the State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, and Belsis Romero, a White House faith liaison, also took part in the visit.

On Wednesday, U.S. officials met representatives of groups representing families of Korean War abductees, postwar abductees and prisoners of war.

The U.S. officials told the families that Washington continues to pay attention to the issue and that its position has not changed on supporting efforts to confirm the detainees’ status and seek their return, according to the groups.

Choi thanked Barnes for calling for the release of South Koreans detained in North Korea, including missionaries Kim Jung-wook, Kim Kuk-gi and Choi Chun-gil, during a video message last month for an international conference announcing the formation of the Republic of Korea Hostage Family Association.

Choi also delivered a letter addressed to President Donald Trump asking the United States to make the safe return of South Korean detainees, including the three missionaries, part of its North Korea diplomacy.

He also delivered 10,000 signatures gathered online and offline, largely through Korean churches in Los Angeles, calling for the detainees’ repatriation and confirmation of whether they are alive.

Kim Jung-sam, the older brother of missionary Kim Jung-wook, also sent a letter asking Trump to speak out during his presidency on detainees and religious freedom.

Choi said he asked U.S. officials to send a message that Washington has not forgotten the detained missionaries.

“I asked that the U.S. ambassador, the secretary of state or the president meet from time to time with families of South Korean abductees, detainees and prisoners of war,” Choi said. “In that context, I also requested that the U.S. ambassador to South Korea attend an event for Abductees Remembrance Day.”

Lee Sung-eui, head of the Korean War Abductees’ Family Union, Choi Sung-ryong, head of the Association of the Families of Postwar Abductees, and Sohn Myung-hwa, head of a group representing families of prisoners of war, met Turner on Wednesday and urged continued U.S. attention to the abduction issue.

Lee delivered a letter asking Washington to place humanitarian issues first in any future U.S.-North Korea talks, including the return of detained South Koreans, confirmation of the fate of abductees and visits by bereaved families to graves in North Korea.

Lee said he emphasized that wartime abductions during the 1950-53 Korean War were “the root of all forced disappearance crimes committed by North Korea.”

Barnes and Turner also met Saturday with Son Hyun-bo, pastor of Segero Church, who led rallies opposing the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The U.S. officials discussed religious freedom issues in South Korea and attended a Sunday worship service.

On Monday, the U.S. delegation also met Chang Wook-jin, director-general for global multilateral diplomacy at South Korea’s Foreign Ministry, to discuss bilateral efforts to promote democracy and human rights.

A South Korean Foreign Ministry official said the U.S. State Department regularly communicates with a wide range of stakeholders inside and outside South Korea while preparing annual reports on human rights, trafficking in persons and international religious freedom.

The official said the delegation’s visit to South Korea was part of that regular outreach.

A civic group official who recently visited the United States and met State Department officials said the bureau’s meeting with families of North Korean detainees appeared connected to Washington’s recent attention to religious persecution.

The official said U.S. officials also asked questions during a recent meeting about religious freedom and human rights issues involving the South Korean government.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260610010003179

TUI has introduced a new policy where customers will be guaranteed the lowest price possible for package holidays.

For Brits going abroad, it means that if you find and book a TUI break but then find it cheaper somewhere else TUI will refund the price difference.

TUI has called it the ‘Price-Match Promise‘ and it applies to package holidays booked through TUI, as well as online and through travel agents.

If customers have booked a TUI break but find the same deal cheaper on another website, simply fill in the online form to request a price check.

If all the criteria are met, TUI will then either discount the package holiday booking or, if full balance has been paid in full, refund the price difference within 14 days.

There are lots of details that have to be met, however.

CHEAP THRILL

UK’s best-value theme parks MAPPED, plus hotels nearby for £29 & cheap parking

TOP PARKS

The MEGA UK holiday parks with water worlds, Wetherspoons and more – from £3 pp

Firstly, the package holiday must be publicly available to book with another company at the same time – or within 72 hours of booking with TUI.

It must depart from the same airport on the same day with the same TUI flight and flight number.

The accommodation must be at the same resort or hotel with the same board basis and room type.

It has to be for the same amount of time, include transfers and at least the same baggage allowance.

TUI said: “We know that value for money is front of mind for many customers right now, and this new promise is about ensuring customers can book with confidence, knowing they won’t miss out if the same TUI package is available for less elsewhere.

“Under the new promise, customers can request a price match if they find the same Tui package holiday available at a lower price with another operator within 72 hours of booking their holiday – available in all channels – online, via our own retail stores or independent travel agents.”

It continued: “Where the criteria are met, we’ll either discount the booking or refund the price difference if the final balance has already been paid, helping ensure customers genuinely get the most for their money, without needing to shop around again after they’ve booked.”

Package holidays booked through a third-party are excluded.

Marella Cruises, Crystal Ski, TUI River Cruise bookings are also not included.

Quotes, prices and bookings available from TUI UK Ltd, including First Choice and holidayhypermarket.co.uk are not included either.

SITTING on the beach pier with a chippy tea, washed down by a pint of something cold, is what I believe to be the best-of-a-British-day-out.

If that’s what you’re after, there’s a seaside spot that boasts the world’s biggest chippy and smallest boozer within a half-hour walk.

I headed to Cleethorpes on the Lincolnshire coast to check out the UK’s biggest fish and chip shop, which takes up the whole of the pier.

The 150-year-old boardwalk itself -won Pier of the Year after its refurb a decade ago and Papa’s Fish and Chips opened in its historic pavilion the same year.

It’s so big the restaurant can feed 500 at a time and now attracts two million diners annually – but was still heaving in the hot weather .

It’s definitely not your average chippy, with mood lighting, plush fixtures and fittings and a bank of windows looking out over the sand and sea.

TRAVEL TIP

The £2.99 SIM hack that can save Brits HUNDREDS abroad

TOP PARKS

The MEGA UK holiday parks with water worlds, Wetherspoons and more – from £3 pp

We decided to use the takeaway and eat alfresco, but even that took an hour before we were tucking into our tasty treats – a testament to Papa’s popularity.

The staff were wonderful, serving everyone with good grace despite the fact that it must have been sweltering behind the counter.

My top tip would be to sign up online for a loyalty card, which not only saves you cash, but also gives you the option to order online to pick up at your chosen timeslot to beat the queues. 

I got a £5 off birthday voucher, so feeding my family of four only came to £18.50 – we split an £8.50 Papa’s Combo (a small haddock, sausage, portion of chips and a side of peas, beans, curry or gravy), a £10.50 Papa’s Classic (medium haddock, chips and a side).

That also included a £4.10 portion of cheesy chips and a couple of 20p sauce sachets.

It was well worth the wait, but next time I’ll order in advance or book a table to eat in if it’s cooler weather.

Outside of the chippy, there’s a seal sanctuary down the coast at Donna Nook so if the sands aren’t full of holidaymakers and daytrippers, you might even spot a bit of local wildlife bobbing past or basking on the beach.

And just around the corner from the pier is the Coliseum Picture Theatre, now a Wetherspoons, boasting a gorgeous 1920s frontage, chandeliers inside and even a rooftop terrace.

Downstairs is very much a typical Spoons, but upstairs feels light and airy with a Roman-style fresco as a nod to the building’s past, so if you like a bit of whimsy with your Wetherspoons, I would take a seat up there if you can.

We opted to visit the smallest pub on the planet to wash down our takeaway, with space for just three punters inside the Signal Box Inn at the town’s heritage railway.

Luckily there’s a big beer garden to make up for the small inside space.

We ordered two pints and two soft drinks for less than £15, so it’s not too pricey, and it’s a lovely spot to enjoy the comings and goings at Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway.

Trains run down to Humberston, where you’ll find England‘s biggest Haven holiday park Cleethorpes Beach.

Home to 1827 caravans and lodges, it is also home to one of the first Wetherspoons on a Haven site, The Humber Stone, which opened last year. 

If you ask me, Cleethorpes’ secret weapon is the location of its mainline railway station, a few steps away from the pier and right by the beach.

I can’t think of many other towns where you hop off the train and straight onto the sand.

At only two hours’ train ride from Nottingham, this could be a brilliant bet if you want a day at the beach but don’t drive.

I loved the look of the original railway waiting room, now the Mermaid fish and chip shop – it’s had extensive work done recently to its ironmongery, roof, wood and stonework, with a striking paint job in heritage colours ahead of its centenary next year.

It feels like the whole town is undergoing a bit of a makeover, with the Pier Gardens currently closed while they are dug over and new planting put in.

The market place is also being pedestrianised so I look forward to returning to see what these redesigns bring to the town. 

Near the smallest pub is the historic boating lake, which celebrates 100 years in 2028, with a project to clean up the waters on the cards.

Hopefully the 2020s will end up being as successful for attracting visitors as the 1920s obviously were.

As a Midlander who grew up visiting Skegness and Mablethorpe just down the coast, I’m not sure why a trip to Cleethorpes hasn’t been on my radar before.

But one thing that I think has made a huge difference is the two holiday parks in Humberston being reinvented in recent years.

Away Resorts, where we stayed, took over the Beachcomber caravan park and renamed it Cleethorpes Pearl, while Haven’s site was previously called Thorpe Park, which caused some confusion with the theme park of the same name down near London.

Families of up to six can stay in a Luxury Caravan for as little as £6pppn for a five-night stay in September.

I’m a little bit in love with this Lincolnshire location – it’s the Costa del Clee for me if you love a chippy tea and a pint by the sea.

ONE MAGICAL spot in Dorset is being compared to a Greek island due to its bright blue water.

The Blue Pool in Wareham, Dorset, is an expansive lake on a 300 acre estate.

Commenting on TripAdvisor, one visitor said: “Utterly peaceful and serene, with that surreal feeling that you’re on holiday somewhere in Greece, we fell in love with the amazing views of the blue pool.”

Dating back to the 17th century, The Blue Pool is over nine metres deep and was originally a hand-quarried clay pit.

Clay extracted from the pool was then used to make ceramics.

However, in the 19th century, the pool was abandoned and subsequent rain filled it.

Read more on travel inspo

TRAVEL TIP

The £2.99 SIM hack that can save Brits HUNDREDS abroad

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

Though, this is when the magic of the pool appeared, as the water appeared a bright turquoise colour.

The reason for this was due to light bouncing off of the clay particles in the water.

The pool then reopened to the public in 1925 and since has been a top spot for tourists.

Despite looking like a tropical paradise, there are no fish in the lake and you cannot swim in the pool.

But there is a good trail for families to explore, where you can spot hand-crafted enchanted doors and a play area with bridges and balance beams.

At the edge of The Blue Pool there is also the UK’s longest rope bridge, which stretches 50 metres and is around 10 metres off the ground.

For kids who love animals, the site is home to Iron Age pigs which visitors can feed each day at 1:30pm for just £3 per person.

You might even spot peacocks roaming as well.

During holidays, the park also runs different events such as an illumination trail at Christmas and pumpkin carving at Halloween.

After a day of exploring, visitors can head to the 1930s Art Deco tearooms for afternoon tea from £7.50 per person, a drink or even locally made Purbeck ice cream.

Make sure to pop to the toilet before you leave as well, as they won the Loo of the Year award several years in a row.

The Blue Pool costs £9.75 per person to visit and is dog-friendly too.

And if you want to extend your time in the local area, you can head to Dorset Adventure Park down the road, with an inflatable water park and mud trail obstacle course.

The beach isn’t too far away either, with Worbarrow Bay just a 15-minute drive away.

The long, pebble beach is a quieter spot on the Jurassic Coast, especially compared to its popular neighbours – Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.

For somewhere to stay, you could head to East Creech Farm Campsite, which has pitches as well as camping pods, a cottage and a farmhouse.

At the campsite, there’s also an onsite tearoom for some freshly baked cakes.

And thanks to the campsite being on a working farm, you can expect to see sheep, goats, donkeys, rhea, chickens, horses, ponies and ducks around.

A tent pitch costs from £22.50 per night and the camping pods cost from £75 per night.

Travellers have shared frustration online after being left stuck in overcrowded terminals while trying to enter or leave countries within the Schengen zone

Brits heading to Europe have been caught in hours-long airport queues, with some passengers reportedly missing flights as new border checks continue to cause disruption across the EU.

Travellers have shared frustration online after being left stuck in overcrowded terminals while trying to enter or leave countries within the Schengen zone. Turning what was meant to be a relaxing getaway quickly turned stressful due to lengthy waits at passport control.

A Facebook user, Clarissa Ward, took to Facebook today after waiting in the “longest line” she’s seen in her life saying: “I saw lots of elderly people and families with small children. People who missed connections. Others who missed flights. Me included.”

“Airport staff only let TAP (Portugal’s main airline) passengers cut the line if they were seconds away from missing their flight. Everyone else? Good luck. Since the much delayed rollout began in October there have been similar scenes in many European cities.”

Another Facebook user, Craig Hackett, explained he arrived three hours ahead of departure and checked their bag at the earliest opportunity, however was met with a “enormous” queue just to reach the boarding gate.

“As a result, we and at least 15 other passengers missed our flight through no fault of our own. There was no prioritisation for passengers at risk of missing flights, no fast tracking, and no meaningful help from airport staff or easyJet representatives”

“What makes this even worse is watching flights take off without passengers who were already inside the airport and trying to reach the gate. How is this acceptable operationally, economically, or environmentally? Where is the customer care for passengers doing everything right and still being left stranded?”

The delays come following the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which officially launched on October 12, 2025. Under the new system, non-EU travellers including Brits are required to register fingerprints and have their photograph taken when entering or leaving the Schengen area.

The Schengen zone, which includes 29 European countries, is the world’s largest free-travel area. EU officials say the new checks are designed to strengthen border security, and reduce illegal migration.

Since the heavy delays, Airlines have taken to social media to urge governments to suspend the new Entry/Exit system (ESS). Ryanair posted on Facebook sharing: “Portuguese Government needs to suspend new Entry/Exit System (EES) until after the peak summer season. Average Ryanair flight time is 1 hour 15 minutes. Lisbon border control wait time is up to 2.5 hours. Portuguese Government must suspend EES to avoid excessive border control queue times at Portuguese airports during peak summer season”