flew

I flew to Albania for a 13-hour trip

WE all like to travel cheap – but two mums have managed to visit Albania in a day, and it cost them less than heading to the theatre.

Stacey Baugh, 34, and Claire Dukes, 41, headed off to Tirana in Albania, securing return flights with Ryanair for £70.08 each.

Two mums travelled to Albania and back in a day for less the price of a London theatre tripCredit: SWNS

Having left their home in Chesterfield at 1am, the pair caught a 5:55am flight from Stansted and landed in Tirana at 9:50am.

After arriving, the pair managed to go on a private tour for £60 each, which explored Lake Bovilla, Gamti mountain, Mount Dajti and an evening city tour.

Stacey said: “It’s an amazing drive – the lake is a gorgeous teal colour.

“You drive most of the way and then hike the rest of the way.”

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They even managed to squeeze in a zip line over the mountains for €30 (£26.41) each.

Stacey said: “It was short but breath-taking – soaring over the mountains as the sun set was the perfect finale to the day time part of our trip.”

They then had meatballs, trileçe – a milk cake, Caesar salad and casserole at the top of Mount Dajti for less than €40 (£35.21).

In total, the mums said that the trip cost them around £200 each – which is less than a theatre trip to London.

The duo landed back in the UK at 1am feeling that the trip was great value for money.

Stacey, a secondary school teacher, said: “I get a return train for work to Leeds and it costs £103.

“If you go to the theatre in London it would cost £70 in petrol, parking and travel and the theatre ticket would cost £60 to £70.

“When you compare the price – I had 28 hours out of my home and went up three mountains.

“The value of what you’re getting is amazing.”

The two mums regularly go on day trips so their parenting isn’t interrupted and it all started when they found a Facebook page for extreme day trips.

Stacey said: “Since becoming parents we have had to shift the way we travel so we’re not away from the kids for long.”

And they even managed to do a few activities such as hiking a mountainCredit: SWNS

The mums have been to multiple destinations, such as Sweden and Ireland.

Stacey said: “We try and go just to new places.”

The mums already have three trips booked for 2026, including Copenhagen in January, Poland in February and Luxemburg in March.

Stacey said: “You give up so much for your kids.

“I needed to do something for me again.

“It is a long day but you still deserve to do what it is that makes you happy.

“It’s a lot less daunting when it is one day.”

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For more extreme day trips – one man has been on 30 extreme day trips to Europe – and here is his favourite.

Plus, TUI launches ‘extreme day trips’ to Lapland from 11 UK airports – including first-time regional base.

The duo already have more trips planned for 2026Credit: SWNS

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B-52 Bombers Just Flew For Hours Off Venezuela’s Coast

A trio of U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers was tracked flying orbits in international airspace off the coast of Venezuela earlier today. This is a major show of force that comes amid a larger U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, ostensibly aimed at stemming the flow of illegal drugs north. At the same time, the Trump administration has been focusing particular pressure on the regime of Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro, and the possibility of direct military action, beyond at times lethal maritime interdiction operations, has been steadily growing.

The three B-52s, with the calligns BUNNY01, BUNNY02, and BUNNY03, were tracked leaving Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana and heading south early this morning. The bombers subsequently turned east and flew to a patch of international airspace within what Venezuela refers to as the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR).

BUNNY01 flt now orbiting within the confines of the MAIQUETIA FIR. The FIR doesn’t not constitute Venezuelan airspace but simply a ATC sector that they control. Are the B-52s talking to MAIQUETIA CONTROL or DUE REGARD? I don’t know. @liveatc had a MAIQUETIA ATC feed up 2 days ago… https://t.co/rM4PHgvBb5 pic.twitter.com/Evw1nJOxRx

— Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) October 15, 2025

The B-52s appear to have orbited within the Maiquetía FIR for roughly two hours before departing. U.S. F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, presumably Marine Corps B variants flying from the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico, as well as Air Force aerial refueling tankers and other aircraft, have also been tracked in this same general area in recent weeks.

BUNNY03 parece estar retornando, según comunicación con tráfico de control aéreo saldría por waypoint AMBIN. BUNNY01 Y BUNNY02 parecen continuar hacia el Este. pic.twitter.com/B05YXyw5KU

— 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙤 (@Arr3ch0) October 15, 2025

A pesar de lo “tranquilo” que parece estar el espacio aéreo sobre el Mar Caribe y FIR Maiquetía, hoy ha habido mucha actividad, incluyendo Pegasus registro 20-46078 asistiendo a los F-35B, trabajando en conjunto con SENTRY AWACS 76-1605, entre otros 😉.
El Cartel de Los Soles los… pic.twitter.com/LdyQJUNrYO

— 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙤 (@Arr3ch0) October 12, 2025

There are unconfirmed reports that at least one of the Venezuelan Air Force’s pocket fleet of U.S.-made F-16 fighters reportedly took off from El Libertador Air Base, situated to the west of Caracas, while the B-52s were orbiting offshore, but also that this may have been an unrelated training flight. Whether any attempt to intercept the bombers was made is unknown. Maduro did order new snap exercises today in the wake of another lethal U.S. attack on an alleged drug smuggling boat in international waters near Venezuela. In September, he said he had deployed some 25,000 troops to help secure the country’s border areas and key oil infrastructure against potential U.S. threats.

The F-16 is only performing training at BAEL, meaning there was no attempt at any interception of the B-52s from the Venezuelan military aviation, likely assessed to be too risky due to previous threats by the US after the low flybys of US vessels

— CNW (@ConflictsW) October 15, 2025

At the time of writing, it is unclear whether or not the B-52s have returned to base or are still airborne. TWZ has reached out to Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) and Air Forces Southern (AFSOUTH) for more information about the bomber sorties into the Caribbean. AFSOUTH directed us to contact the Pentagon.

It is worth noting that B-52s, as well as Air Force B-1 bombers and other U.S. military combat aircraft, have taken part in counter-narcotics operations in the skies over the Caribbean, on and off, for decades now, as you can read more about here. The range and targeting capabilities that the B-52 possesses, in particular, can be useful for spotting and further investigating suspected drug smuggling vessels.

At the same time, openly flying B-52s in such proximity to Caracas seems clearly intended to send a message to Maduro and his regime. The bombers are capable of unleashing waves of standoff cruise missiles and can carry a host of other conventional munitions that can be employed against targets on land and at sea. Though the Venezuelan armed forces have limited air defense capabilities, they could still pose a threat. Standoff strikes from aircraft like the B-52 and other assets would be a likely component of any future U.S. direct action against targets inside the country to help reduce risks to friendly forces. They could even target air defense systems to help clear the way for follow-on operations.

Earlier today, an Air Force C-17 cargo plane was also tracked making an unusual flight straight from Edwards Air Force Base in California to José Aponte de la Torre Airport in Puerto Rico. The purpose of that sortie is currently known. Edwards is the Air Force’s preeminent test base, rather than an installation for operational units.

🤔 REACH 287 (C-17) departed Edwards Air Force Base and is landing at TJRV Airport in Ceiba, Puerto Rico just at 2 am local time, this is the time of night when you transport something you don’t want anyone to see.

“Things that go bump in the night”

Tracking via @ADSBex pic.twitter.com/qm9uItvJOe

— Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) October 15, 2025

There has already been a major buildup of U.S. forces in the region, including the deployment, as mentioned, of Marine aircraft to the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Station. Air Force MQ-9 Reapers and now AC-130J Ghostrider gunships have also been spotted flying sorties from Puerto Rico. It is worth pointing out here that AC-130Js are routinely tasked with interdiction and armed overwatch-type missions, including in support of direct action special operations raids.

El que faltaba se unió al grupo.
El temido Fuerza Aérea 🇺🇲 AC-130J Ghostrider registro 16-5837 activo en Jose Aponte de la Torre (TJRV), Puerto Rico.
Miren los cañones 30mm GAU-23 automatico y 105mm M102 howitzer además de los misiles Hellfire x 8
📸 de Omar Y. Perez ayer 9/Oct pic.twitter.com/ztrQGiIU2E

— 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙤 (@Arr3ch0) October 10, 2025

Based on publicly available images, it appears that at least five different USAF MQ-9As have flown/are flying out of Aguadilla (BQN/TJBQ) 🇵🇷 in support of ongoing counternarcotics ops in the Caribbean.

The complete serials should be: xx-4275, 17-4356, 19-4390, 19-4398, 20-4408. pic.twitter.com/989ztfgDIo

— LatAmMilMovements (@LatAmMilMVMTs) October 4, 2025

A host of other U.S. air and naval assets are now operating in the region, as well. This includes the Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG)/22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), several Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyers, a Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser, a Los Angeles class nuclear powered fast attack submarine, and even the Ocean Trader, a shadowy special operations mothership.

All told, there are reportedly now some 10,000 U.S. personnel, in total, forward-deployed in the region. Last week, U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) stood up a new task force, led by elements of II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF), to help manage the expanded counter-narcotics operations across the Western Hemisphere.

Since September, U.S. forces have conducted at least five lethal attacks on small boats in the Caribbean, killing numerous individuals, all alleged to have been involved in drug smuggling. President Donald Trump announced the most recent of these just yesterday. Serious questions have been raised about those missions and the legal authorities behind them.

Under my Standing Authorities as Commander-in-Chief, this morning, the Secretary of War, ordered a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) conducting narcotrafficking in the USSOUTHCOM area of responsibility — just off the Coast… pic.twitter.com/XWDpGZ4lsZ

— Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) October 14, 2025

There has otherwise been a steady drumbeat in recent weeks of reporting on the Trump administration’s stepping up of efforts to put pressure on Maduro. Just today, The New York Times reported that Trump has authorized the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to undertake covert actions in Venezuela and elsewhere in the Caribbean. Reports last week, citing U.S. officials, said that Trump had ordered an end to efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution to the current impasse with Venezuelan authorities.

Some members of the Trump administration have reportedly been pushing for action to oust Maduro. Since 2020, the dictatorial Venezuelan leader has also been wanted in the United States over drug trafficking and other charges, and American authorities are currently offering a $50 million bounty for his capture.

The appearance today of the three B-52s off Venezuela’s coast marks another major development in the still-expanding U.S. operations in the Southern Caribbean.

Howard Altman contributed to this story.

Contact the author: [email protected]

Joseph has been a member of The War Zone team since early 2017. Prior to that, he was an Associate Editor at War Is Boring, and his byline has appeared in other publications, including Small Arms Review, Small Arms Defense Journal, Reuters, We Are the Mighty, and Task & Purpose.




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Why Murphy Oil Stock Flew Nearly 8% Higher Today

A prognosticator became more bullish on the oil company’s shares, although he hasn’t changed his neutral recommendation.

A second analyst price target raise in nearly as many trading days was the catalyst igniting the stock of Murphy Oil (MUR 7.51%) on Monday. Bullish investors traded the company’s shares up by almost 8% on the day in response, a rate that trounced the 1.6% increase of the S&P 500 (^GSPC 1.56%).

A raiser and holder

Monday’s raiser was Roger Read from top U.S. bank Wells Fargo. Well before market open, Read changed his Murphy Oil price target to $28 per share from $26.

A set of oil rigs in a field.

Image source: Getty Images.

He remains cautious on the stock, however, as he maintained his equal weight (hold, in other words) recommendation on it.

According to reports, Read wrote in his update that the company is expecting to deliver impressive operational and financial results for its third quarter (it’s scheduled to unveil those numbers on Oct. 30). The analyst expressed some concern about certain areas, such as the company’s 2026 guidance.

Industrywide adjustments

Previous to that, last Thursday, Bank of Nova Scotia also enacted a price target raise while maintaining its equivalent of a hold recommendation. The Canadian lender increased its fair-value assessment on Murphy Oil to $30 per share from $26, as part of a broader set of price target adjustments to U.S. oil stocks.

Wells Fargo is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Bank Of Nova Scotia and Murphy Oil. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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UK, US, NATO flew 12-hour patrol on Russian border amid Ukraine war | Aviation News

Allied forces launch joint patrols near Russia after reports of drone incursions into allied airspace.

The United Kingdom has said two Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft joined a 12-hour NATO patrol earlier this week near Russia’s border, following a series of Russian drone and aircraft incursions into alliance airspace.

“This was a substantial joint mission with our US and NATO allies,” Defence Minister John Healey said on Saturday, as concerns rise that Russia’s war in Ukraine will spill over into Europe.

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“Not only does this provide valuable intelligence to boost the operational awareness of our Armed Forces, but sends a powerful message of NATO unity to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin and our adversaries,” he added.

The mission involved an RC-135 Rivet Joint surveillance jet and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft flying from the Arctic region past Belarus and Ukraine, supported by a US Air Force KC-135 refuelling plane.

British officials said the operation followed several incursions into the airspace of NATO members, including Poland, Romania, and Estonia.

Growing airspace tensions

In recent weeks, Poland and its allies have reinforced air defences amid increasing Russian drone activity. Earlier this month, Warsaw deployed additional systems along its border with Ukraine – which stretches about 530km (330 miles) – after unidentified drones briefly entered Polish airspace.

Poland temporarily closed part of its airspace southeast of Warsaw in late September during a major Russian assault across Ukraine. It was the second such incident this year, with Polish and NATO forces previously intercepting Russian drones that crossed the border – marking their first direct military engagement with Moscow since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

Elsewhere, airports in Germany, Denmark, Norway and Poland have at times also temporarily suspended flights due to sightings of unidentified drones. Romania and Estonia have directly accused Russia, which has dismissed the claims as “baseless”.

Putin has pledged a “significant” response to what he called “Europe’s militarisation”, rejecting suggestions that Moscow plans to attack NATO as “nonsense”.

“They can’t believe what they’re saying, that Russia is going to attack NATO,” he said on Thursday at a foreign policy forum in Sochi. “They’re either incredibly incompetent if they truly believe it because it’s impossible to believe this nonsense, or they’re simply dishonest.”

Putin said he was closely monitoring Europe’s military build-up and warned that Russia would not hesitate to respond. “In Germany, for example, it is said that the German army should become the strongest in Europe. Very well. We hear that and are watching to see what is meant by it,” he said. “Russia will never show weakness or indecisiveness. We simply cannot ignore what is happening.”

Relations between Moscow and the European Union have continued to deteriorate since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, driving the bloc to strengthen its collective defences amid fears the war could spill across NATO borders.

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‘I flew across the world to visit 3 cities in 3 days and didn’t regret a thing’

Never would I ever have thought that I would fly over 10 hours across the Atlantic ocean just for a three-day holiday. Well, I just did that – and it’s actually possible.

Mirror selfie picture, young woman
America’s West Coast in three days? Count me in(Image: Ashley Bautista)

The summer season is coming to an end, and before I get into the autumn mood with my jumpers and hot chocolate with marshmallows, I joined my parents with my remaining days of annual leave for a quick trip to America.

Trading London’s chilly weather and grey skies for the scorching Californian sunshine, I packed my tiny suitcase to visit Los Angeles, San Francisco and Malibu all in the same trip.

At first – like many would have – I hesitated to spend hundreds of pounds on a flight ticket and fly for half a day just to be there for a few days. But as per my New Year’s resolution list, I wanted to be more spontaneous and say ‘yes’ to things that I wouldn’t normally agree to.

READ MORE: ‘I visited hidden gem that’s like the Amalfi Coast but most Brits don’t know about it’READ MORE: Holidaymakers at Disneyland warned of clothing risk that could get them kicked out

Plane picture, city views
The flight from London Heathrow to Los Angeles International Airport was 12 hours(Image: Ashley Bautista)
Los Angeles highway sign
Having access to a car in the US is a must(Image: Ashley Bautista)

Instead of the typical sightseeing activities a tourist would do in LA, going to In-N-Out and IHOP or trying the viral $20 (£14.72) smoothie from Erewhon, we decided to use these three days to travel to the other nearby cities – which were San Francisco and Malibu. Very random, I’d say so myself.

I arrived into Los Angeles International Airport at 6pm, a 12-hour journey from London Heathrow. At least with the time difference, it became a three-hour flight. It’s crazy how time works differently depending on where you are, right?

The next day, we woke up at 4am – which, with the jet lag at the time, it wasn’t an issue – and drove almost six hours to San Francisco. The vibes reminded me of New York, and I couldn’t believe how the weather suddenly changed from 31 degrees Celsius to a chilly 19 degrees Celsius.

Our main goal was to see the Golden Gate Bridge. I would only see that in movies and postcards, and the fact that I was able to see it in real life was a bucket-list check moment. Then, we drove around the city and saw the Palace of Fine Arts and Fisherman’s Wharf, until it was time to drive for another six hours back to Los Angeles.

READ MORE: I visited the seaside town just five miles from Blackpool that couldn’t be more different

San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
We drove to San Francisco to visit the Golden Gate Bridge(Image: Ashley Bautista)
Malibu Pier
The last day of the trip got spent in Malibu(Image: Ashley Bautista)

The next day, we decided to stay in the city. We had a packed day, and I wanted to ensure that we didn’t miss anything that would make us seem we hadn’t been in LA. Places like the Beverly Hills, the Walk of Fame, the Capitol Records, The Grove, and, of course, seeing the Hollywood sign.

All I’m going to say is that if we didn’t have a car, none of this would’ve been possible. I also got to try the infamous Crumbl cookies, and let me tell you, it’s not worth the hype nor the price tag.

With a flight at 11pm, we woke up bright and early for the last day and drove to Malibu. It wasn’t that long of a car ride, but the holiday blues started to kick in. The perfect weather with the windows down and playing Miley Cyrus’ Malibu tune – we even passed across the Sherbet Homes on the Pacific Coast Highway. It honestly felt like a dream.

It was a long journey and road trips involved, but it was completely worth it. Although I wish we spent more time in each city, since the landmarks are far from each other, I still enjoyed seeing different places and vibes – and even a weather change. Plus, you don’t realise how big the US is as a whole until you’re there.

Hollywood sign
Seeing the Hollywood sign was another bucket-list check moment(Image: Ashley Bautista)

This trip wasn’t the typical ‘California Girls’ holiday, but I wouldn’t have changed it for the world. I got to see three different cities with completely different environments and weather changes, and although the jet lag has been a struggle to cope with, I’ve made a lot of good memories. This is definitely the summer I became the most spontaneous.

So, if you’re looking for a motivation push for some spontaneity or ever wondered if it’s possible to visit the US in less than a week, it is. Of course, it really depends on what you’re looking to do and if you have access to a car, which I highly suggest.

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‘I flew business class on six different airlines and my favourite was surprise’

Alesandra Dubin has flown business class with six airlines including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic but her favourite is one you might never have heard of

Male passenger in smart casual clothing flying in the exit row on an airplane
Alesandra said Fiji’s national carrier was her favourite [stock image](Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)

For the majority of us, jetting off on holiday means squeezing into an economy seat. The luxury of Business Class is often just a pipe dream due to its hefty price tag.

Yet not all business class experiences are equal. Travel expert Alesandra Dubin has sampled the business class services from six top airlines and has singled out one as particularly exceptional.

Speaking to Business Insider, one of her favourites wasn’t one of the big guns like Etihad, British Airways or Virgin. Instead, it was Fiji Airways‘ business class service. She said: “Flight attendants were attentive from the start, offering pre-flight drinks and warm towels, and there was even complimentary WiFi, a rare perk.”

Following a scrumptious vegetarian meal, Alesandra managed something almost unheard of on long-haul flights – a solid seven hours of sleep.

She attributes this remarkable feat to the Airbus A350’s ultra-comfortable seats that fully recline. She elaborated: “The seat, with direct aisle access, a 17-inch screen, ample storage, and lie-flat recline, was super comfortable.”

Nadi International Airport - Fiji Airways Airbus A330-300, Nadi, Viti Levu island, Fiji
She said Fiji is a real winner(Image: Getty)

Alesandra also enjoyed the novelty of watching the plane’s landing gear via external cameras displayed on her seat-back screen.

Although it was her first time flying business class with Fiji Airways, she expressed eagerness to repeat the experience.

British readers will be pleased to know that Alesandra also spoke highly of UK-based airline British Airways in her international travels.

She lauded the “exceptional” meals on board and was particularly impressed with the beverages, noting: “The wine selection was well-curated, and I opted for a glass of delicious port with my cheese plate.”

Female cabin crew pouring a glass of champagne in business class of an Airbus A380
BA’s business-class option also came in for strong praise(Image: Getty)

Although British Airways didn’t offer complimentary wifi, she considered the £20 charge for in-flight internet to be “fairly priced.”

Virgin Atlantic also received praise but fell slightly short in Alesandra’s view due to the food being “a bit less plentiful” than desired on a 10-hour journey, and the 22-inch seat felt somewhat snug and tricky to adjust.

However, she acknowledged that Virgin’s onboard bar area made it an excellent choice for larger groups flying together.

A Delta Air Lines Airbus A321 passenger plane landing at Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Alesandra is particularly loyal to Delta Airlines(Image: Getty)

When it comes to domestic flights within the United States, the travel guru was unequivocal in her preference. She stated: “If you ask me, there’s no superior US airline to Delta, and the competition doesn’t even come close.”

In her opinion, Delta One, which is marketed as business class, actually rivals first-class offerings with its private mini-cabins.

Delta’s perks include free wifi and lie-flat seats that are not only extremely comfortable but also simpler to adjust than those on Virgin, despite being slightly narrower.

Following an exclusive transfer from her plane to a connecting flight via Porsche, Alesandra expressed that Delta’s VIP treatment solidified its position as her top airline choice.

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‘Our Jet2 holiday was ruined because we flew to the wrong Spanish island by mistake’

Linda Trestrail, 69, and Wendy Russell, 71, had their tickets checked five times but still ended up on the wrong flight. The pair have blasted Jet2 for the “catalogue of disasters”

Linda Trestrail, 69, and Wendy Russell, 71, pictured
Jet2 passengers put on wrong flight leaving them furious(Image: SWNS)

Two elderly women have slammed Jet2 saying their holiday was “ruined” after a major airport error.

Linda Trestrail, 69, and Wendy Russell, 71, had their boarding passes verified five times but still ended up on the incorrect aircraft. The blunder was only discovered when the captain announced they were touching down in Menorca instead of Majorca.

Jet2 apologised for the “human error” and blamed it partly on the special assistance provider at Bristol Airport. But the women were left furious about the “catalogue of disasters” and claimed they had not received any compensation at the time of the incident.

READ MORE: Brit tourist found floating dead in pool 17 minutes from Love Island villa

They say that their holiday was ruined by the mistake
The two women somehow ended up on the wrong flight(Image: SWNS)

Linda said: “You hear of bags going on the wrong flights but not people. The reason we booked Majorca is because of the short flight, we knew our mobility wasn’t good so didn’t want to do much travelling – we are disabled pensioners.”

She added: “You get compensated if you get delayed or lose luggage – but they lost us, not the b****y baggage.”

The pair were given wheelchair assistance at Bristol Airport and helped onto the shuttle bus and plane. Linda said they showed their tickets to the luggage desk, security, a gate desk person, and a ground crew member on the bus – who even did a head count.

She added: “Jet2 are the only ones who do double security check on tickets – so they did that, and then we were directed to our seats on the flight. A cabin crew member asked if we were in the right seats, I said yes but she took our tickets away and confirmed we were in the correct seats.

“Then the captain says we’re landing in Menorca in 10 minutes. Chaos ensued. I cried to Wendy, ‘Oh my god, Wendy! He said Menorca not Majorca!’ I told the flight attendant we were on the wrong plane – and she burst out laughing.

“Our tickets were checked five times – even by the flight attendant twice on the plane. Two passengers had flown from Bristol Airport to Menorca – and Jet2 didn’t even know who was on their plane.”

Jet2 passengers put on wrong flight leaving them furious in Menorca - instead of on holiday in Mallorca
The friends claim their tickets were checked “five times”(Image: SWNS)

It emerged that three seats on that flight were vacant, and Wendy and Linda were occupying two of them – settling into the numbered seats they had been allocated on their original flight to Palma De Majorca. The stunned pair were instructed to remain on the aircraft, as the captain introduced himself and confessed he had never witnessed or encountered such a blunder in his entire career.

Despite his offer to personally fly the ladies back to Majorca, Linda claims that Jet2’s CEO, Steve Heapy, “was going mental”, and they were unable to return to Majorca or even stay on the plane “due to security reasons”.

Wendy, who has undergone three brain surgeries and suffers from arthritis, expressed her disbelief: “We went through five major checks there and no one picked up the error – it begs the question about what is going on. They are banging on about security, security, security – but we could’ve been anybody.”

To add insult to injury, when they enquired about their luggage, they discovered their bags had arrived in Majorca without them.

Wendy highlighted this as a serious security breach: “I had my injection in my suitcase – our families were so worried. Our luggage was on the right plane as it took off with two bags without the passengers – that’s so concerning. They are allegedly so concerned about the seriousness of it, but whichever way you look at it it’s a major breach of security. Two suitcases that could have had anything in them.”

The women waited at Menorca airport with the “kind assistance” of a Jet2 manager, enduring several hours before travelling on an internal flight with other employees. Upon reaching their intended destination – Palma De Majorca – a private car was arranged to take the pair to their resort.

Linda said: “We were supposed to be at the resort for 1pm – but neither of us knew what time it was by now. The transport coach we had booked had gone hours and hours ago – and from minute we left home it was around 17 hours later our feet and legs were like balloons”.

Linda and Wendy's tickets from Bristol to Majorca
Linda and Wendy described their trip as ‘hellish’(Image: Getty Images)

“Then the Jet2 rep at the resort wouldn’t even meet us there, she called me and said she had left – and apparently didn’t have time to see to two disabled pensioners – I was furious.”

The journey that ought to have taken them just five hours from departing their homes at 3am on 26 September – dragged on for more than 17 hours.

Linda and Wendy say they crumpled in their room when they finally arrived. But the letdown continued for the unlucky pair – who by this stage were in “such an awful state”. Linda says she got a phone call from a different Jet2 representative two days afterwards, offering the disabled women a ‘complimentary excursion’ – despite them being unable to walk.

She revealed: “He told us that because of our ordeal, they were going to give us a free excursion – I said ‘Are you joking – a what? Do you realise we can’t even walk let alone go for an excursion?

“We’ve been in a state. He replied it was a gesture of good will for what we’ve been through, I honestly thought he was joking and said I’m putting in formal complaint before we leave – we couldn’t go anywhere with our legs and feet swollen and we were in such a bad state. He told us to go to the CEO, Steven Heapy, when we got home and said we would be compensated.”

Wendy and Linda found themselves the talk of the town during their holiday, with Linda recounting: “We went on the beach one day and a man came up to us and said, ‘You two aren’t the ladies who were put on the wrong flight?’ Everyone knew us. We tried to make the best of the situation – but honestly, it was disgraceful.”

The duo, who confessed to feeling “terrified” during their return flight to England on October 6, 2023, claimed their holiday was “ruined”. They have been waiting for a response from Jet2 since then, despite their travel agent from Hays Travel and their children reaching out to the airline.

They say they’ve only received an apology from Bristol Airport so far.

They are still seeking compensation for their “spoilt” holiday. Wendy stated: “You put your faith in these people and when you think of the checks, with tickets passed backwards and forwards plus they were checked again on the plane. There were two Jet2 planes at fault and Bristol Airport. Luckily it was trauma for us – but for someone else, it could have been a lot worse – a lot worse, and this should never happen again.”

Jet2 has since apologised for the mishap. A spokesperson stated: “We would like to offer our sincere apologies to Mses. Trestrail and Russell for this incident. This is an extremely isolated incident and although there was no security risk, we have of course investigated it as a matter of urgency, including with the third-party special assistance provider. We can confirm that the customers went through security correctly, and their luggage was also screened correctly.

“However, after these checks the customers were taken to the incorrect aircraft, which is the responsibility of the third-party special assistance provider at the airport. Upon boarding the aircraft, the incorrect destination on their boarding passes was unfortunately not identified and we apologise for this oversight which was down to human error.

“We have carried out additional training with the team to ensure this does not happen again. As soon as we learned of the issue, our team booked Mses. Trestrail and Russell onto the soonest available flight from Menorca to Majorca and they also provided all the assistance they could both throughout their journey and the rest of their holiday.

“We have been in touch with Mses. Trestrail and Russell to offer an appropriate gesture of goodwill and once again offer our sincere apologies. We understand they are due to travel with us once again this year, and we look forward to welcoming them onboard and delivering the usual VIP customer experience that we are recognised for.”

A spokesperson for Bristol Airport said: “Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention, we will continue to work with the airline and the special assistance provider to further investigate the circumstances and introduce improvements for the future.”

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‘I flew to Greek island known for beautiful views – it was hell and a total scam’

A popular tourist destination in Greece has often been known as an idyllic escape during the summer holidays, but for one traveller, it became a holiday from hell

Gabriella Barras
Gabriella Barras visited Santorini earlier this month(Image: Jam Press)

A summer getaway to Greece is about immersing yourself in the culture, soaking up the sun-soaked rays, indulging in the local delicacies and wandering around the enchanting cobbled streets. But for one traveller, their luxury holiday to Santorini left them less than impressed as they battled the crazy crowds taking over the Greek island.

Gabriella Barras, 27, visited Santorini on holiday earlier this year this month after scenic images of the island caught her attention on social media. The four-day trip cost her £2,200, but it wasn’t anything like she imagined, with an “overflow of tourists”.

“I expected Santorini to be a picturesque, relaxing and gorgeous holiday,” Gabriella, who lives in Dubai, told Luxury Travel Daily. “I wanted to experience Greek culture and food.

READ MORE: Ryanair staff could get bigger bonuses for spotting oversized bags

Santorini
Gabriella shared the expectation vs. reality of her trip to Santorini on social media (Image: Jam Press)

“Photos of it looked incredible. While it was indeed picturesque and the views were phenomenal, I didn’t think that there was much old school tradition and culture. It’s so commercialised to the point where I didn’t necessarily find it relaxing at all.”

She added: “The overflow of tourists at every given spot we went to was overwhelming and definitely not the gorgeous, relaxing retreat I was expecting. There were hundreds of people trying to see the sunset at once.”

In addition to the overcrowding, Gabriella found it tricky when it came to the stairs on the island. She explained: “We rented a car, so getting around wasn’t difficult; however, a lot of the accommodation is up a whole load of stairs up the mountain.

“At some places, getting your luggage to and from your room or even just getting yourself up can be strenuous and maybe not possible for everyone.”

Santorini, Greece
The traveller said, ‘There were hundreds of people trying to see the sunset at once’(Image: Jam Press)

Gabriella isn’t the only traveller to have slammed Santorini. Claire Smith, 25, stayed in the popular tourist destination for six nights just a few weeks ago, which set her back £600. However, instead of admiring the crystal clear waters through the iconic white and blue buildings, her main view became the overcrowding of tourists.

Claire, who hails from Sydney, Australia, stayed in Fira, the capital of Santorini, but caught buses to Oia, one of Santorini’s most popular towns, and Kamari, a village on the east coast of the island, for the day. “Trying to get on a bus was animalistic mayhem,” she explained.

“I wanted to explore beaches and relax. I expected the stunning views and the classic pictures of the caldera that you see all over Instagram, the blue dome buildings and for it to be very hot.

“Oia was the most crowded and jam-packed in reality. That made it hard to enjoy. It was beautiful, but the main streets in the town were so jam-packed that it took ages to walk through, and it was also super hot with no shade anywhere. That was probably the worst part.

Santorini, Greece
Travellers have slammed Santorini for overcrowding(Image: Jam Press)

“We walked the steps down to Ammoudi Bay, which were covered in donkey poo, so it smelled pretty bad. I had to squeeze up against a wall on the way back up, as there were donkeys on their way down. I was kind of worried they’d squash me.

“We were getting the bus back from Kamari to Fira, and the bus stop had heaps of people all scrambling to get on it. There was no line at the bus stop to make it orderly, so it was a free-for-all.

“We luckily got on the bus, but I heard an Australian family saying that one American couple didn’t manage to get on the bus and they’d also missed the previous one, so I felt really bad for people like that.

“Fira was easier and accessible for walking around. It was crowded but not to a crazy extent, where it makes it hard to appreciate anything.”

Following her experience, Claire advises other holidaymakers to avoid Santorini during the peak season. She shared: “I⁠ would still recommend it to people because I think it’s a pretty unique island with the incredible views, the caldera, white buildings and sunsets.

Gabriella Barras' video grab
The Greek island is known for breathtaking views and golden sunsets (Image: Jam Press)

“My advice would be to probably not stay in Oia, and to avoid July and August if you hate the crowds and peak summer heat. I’d aim for the slightly calmer months when you can probably appreciate it a bit more.”

Meanwhile, Gabriella said she’s not in a hurry to return and recommended visiting quieter destinations in Greece, such as Milos, Koufonisia and Amorgos. “I wouldn’t go again. I’ve been to much better islands and don’t feel the need to see Santorini again,” she said.

“⁠I’d recommend people to go see it as a bucket list trip, but two to three days is more than enough, and I’d highly recommend other less commercialised islands.”

READ MORE: ‘Brilliant’ waterfall feature that ‘looks great’ in outdoor pools and ponds has 25% off

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‘I flew over the Amalfi Coast in a helicopter you can book from your phone’

Travel writer Sophie Law headed to the Amalfi Coast to try out Uber’s new helicopter and boat ride experience that lets you explore one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines from a different angle.

It’s not every day you get to tick off a bucket-list experience — especially one that has you soaring above one of the most dazzling coastlines in the world.

But thanks to Uber’s latest luxurious offering, I found myself stepping into a helicopter for the very first time, ready to see the Amalfi Coast like never before.

Uber’s new Uber Copter service — launched just in time for what promises to be a bustling summer season — felt like stepping into a scene reserved for the rich and famous.

My nerves were jittery at first — naturally! — but from the moment we lifted off from the exclusive helipad in Sorrento, the experience was astonishingly smooth. Forget the turbulence of your typical commercial flight; this was sheer luxury.

woman in helicopter
Uber has launched a helicopter ride over the Amalfi Coast this summer(Image: Sophie Law)
Amalfi Coast between Sorrento and Capri
The helicopter ride passes beautiful grottos along the famous Italian coastline(Image: Sophie Law)

The journey took just 15 minutes to reach Capri, an island in Italy’s Bay of Naples famed for its expensive hotels, crystal-clear waters, and celebrity sightings — Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyoncé, and the Kardashians, to name a few.

As we gracefully soared over the glittering Mediterranean, the dramatic cliffs and sun-soaked villages unfolded below us. One of the area’s most iconic natural wonders is the Blue Grotto — a dark cavern where the sea glows electric blue, thanks to sunlight filtering through an underwater cave.

In summer, the Amalfi Coast’s cove-studded shoreline draws countless yachts — celebrity and billionaire superyachts often anchor in picturesque spots like Marina Piccola in Capri. Our two cheery pilots eagerly pointed out landmarks along the coastline, from ancient Roman ruins to luxurious hotels.

And just like that, we touched down in Capri and were whisked away in a stylish pink convertible jeep (another pinch-me moment). The helicopter experience is one I’ll never forget — and one that’s surprisingly easy to book. The view was mesmerizing: a vibrant, cinematic spectacle made accessible right from your smartphone via the Uber app.

The helicopter ride holds up to six people and costs £210 (€250) per person. While that may sound steep, a typical helicopter tour over the Amalfi Coast usually runs between €1,800 and €2,950 per group — so it’s relatively reasonable.

The round-trip journey includes door-to-door transportation to and from the helipad, with a 9am departure from Sorrento and 5pm return from Capri. But Uber wasn’t done spoiling us yet. Next up: a dreamy boat trip that felt almost too good to be true. And get this — it’s completely free for tourists all summer long.

The stylish boat (straight out of The Talented Mr. Ripley) picked us up from Sorrento Marina for a four-hour cruise along the coastline, stopping at pretty bays for swimming. We were given a guided tour along the way too, passing ruins, hotels, towns, and even a tiny island with a villa that can be rented for an eye-watering £125,000 a week.

The Uber Boat experience sailed around the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento
The Uber Boat experience sailed around the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento(Image: Sophie Law)
Uber helicopter ride
The journey took 15 minutes and was incredibly smooth(Image: Sophie Law)

Cruising leisurely along the Amalfi Coast in a chic Italian Gozzo 35 boat, we sipped chilled prosecco and ate salty snacks before docking at the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site town of Positano for a lunch of courgette pasta, a regional speciality, and Aperol Spritz.

The view of the pastel-coloured town climbing up the mountainside — one of Amalfi’s most famous vistas — was even more extraordinary from sea level and a great way to avoid the throngs of tourists. I’m told each trip includes a personal skipper, along with complimentary snacks and beverages, but you can bring your own, of course. Each boat can be chartered for up to 12 people.

These unforgettable experiences are part of Uber’s ambitious new initiative to transform travel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

the UNSECO World Heritage Site of Positano
Stops included the UNSECO World Heritage Site of Positano(Image: Sophie Law)
The free boat takes you around the coastlines of the Amalfi(Image: Sophie Law)

From helicopter transfers and luxury sea cruises to seamless ground transportation, Uber’s latest offerings ensure travellers can truly “go anywhere” by land, sea, or air and the summer services will run every Saturday and Sunday from July 26 to August 24.

Starting next month, you can book a helicopter transfer or free luxury boat trip with just a few taps on the Uber Reserve feature.

Trust me — it’s Amalfitani style at its finest, and it’ll leave you feeling like a celebrity.

Book it

Uber Copter rides for up to six people costs £210 (€250) per person. They can be booked on the Uber app by selecting the ‘Uber Copter’ icon from the home screen.

The private helicopter operates every Saturday and Sunday between July 26 and August 23, and includes transportation to and from the helipad, with a 9am departure from Sorrento and 5pm return from Capri.

The Uber Boat can also be booked through the Uber app on your phone and it’s free — select the ‘Uber Boat’ icon from the home screen. Boats depart every Saturday and Sunday from July 26 until August 24 at 10am from Sorrento’s marina.

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Brit backpacker, 25, found dead in Malaysia one week after vanishing as phone went dead & family flew out to find him

A BODY found in a lift shaft in Malaysia has been identified as the missing Brit backpacker Jordan Johnson-Doyle.

Jordan, 25, was last seen at a bar in Kuala Lumpar but then vanished – sparking a desperate plea from his family and a police search.

Headshot of a person wearing glasses and a white collared shirt.

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Jordan Johnson-Doyle, 25, has been found deadCredit: Facebook

Malaysian police confirmed today that a body was found at the base of a lift shaft on Wednesday, and has been identified as Jordan.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.



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I flew to Poland to get rid of my 36H ‘Quasimodo’ boobs after I struggled to eat – I had a kilo of tissue removed

STANDING in the queue at the supermarket, Hannah Davison feels a burning sensation in her neck.

While it might be alarming for some, the hairdresser is all too aware of what is causing her chronic pain.

Woman with extensive tattoos showing off her chest after breast reduction surgery.

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Hannah Davison’s 36H breasts left her in constant agony and with a hunchbackCredit: SWNS
Woman showing off her chest after breast reduction surgery.

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Unable to stand for long periods of time, Hannah says that her boobs also got in the way of eatingCredit: SWNS
Woman with tattoos after breast reduction surgery.

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She flew to Poland for breast reduction surgery and is now thrilled with her new 34C boobsCredit: SWNS

Her 36H breasts are the culprit with Hannah claiming she was ‘on the way to having a hunchback’ like the famous bellringer Quasimodo.

But Hannah, 33, can now hold her head (and neck) up high after having surgery to reduce her boobs by five cup sizes to a 34C.

She flew to Wroclaw, Poland, on April 14 to have breast reduction surgery where over a kilogram of tissue was removed from her chest.  

The two-hour long surgery cost £3,373 after Hannah received a discount for paying through her Monzo card.  

Now five cup sizes smaller, Hannah feels the hunch at the top of her neck caused by her boobs is “already going” and her daily pain has “disappeared literally overnight”.  

Hannah, who lives with her husband in Greater Manchester, says: “I felt like I was on my way to having a hunchback.

“It panicked me at first because it felt like there could be something really wrong.

“I’m a hairdresser so I’m on my feet all day and using my arms.

“I struggled to stand up for periods of time.

“I’d have a burning sensation in the top of my neck.

I got my DD implants removed & went back down to a B-cup – trolls say I went from a 7 to a 4 but I LOVE my new look

“I’d have to sit down for half an hour until it stopped.”

Hannah says that even simple tasks like eating proved a huge challenge.

“Even eating a meal before I was hunched because my boobs would mean my back was pushed down,” she explains.

“My posture was a huge problem.”

The hairdresser says that her life has totally transformed since her surgery, and she’s not the only one who has noticed the difference.

“Everyone has just been looking at them so shocked at how good they look and how it completely changed the frame of my body as well,” she says.

“I look smaller, they were so big and pronounced and changed the frame of body.

“Now they look a lot more natural as well and the pain has been severely reduced.

A tattooed woman in a yellow crop top and black shorts takes a selfie in a hair salon.

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Hannah suffered from years of burning neck pain to her size 36H breastsCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
Woman in a hospital room after breast reduction surgery.

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Hannah says she would give the pain of her surgery a 5/10Credit: SWNS:South West News Service
Woman with tattoos taking a selfie after breast reduction surgery.

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Hannah stayed overnight at Europe Surgery’s clinic before staying a further five days at a hotelCredit: SWNS:South West News Service

BREAKDOWN OF HANNAH’S COSTS

Surgery – £3373

Flights – £210

Accommodation – £270

“It’s a better quality of life and I’m a lot more comfy in my own skin, which I can say I’ve never had because I’ve had big boobs since I was 14.”

Hannah’s back pain began when she was just 21 when she began hairdressing.  

She said: “As the years have gone on – I’m 33 now – it’s just got progressively worse, and I had a hunch at the top of my back.  

“Standing up and moving my arms in a certain way gave me a burning pain in the back of my neck.”

Hannah first heard about the procedure after a friend flew abroad for a breast augmentation in March 2025 at Europe Surgery, a clinic in Wroclaw, Poland.  

She says: “My decision to go was very last minute.

“I’d wanted surgery done since I was 21 but it was always unreachable due to the price in the UK.  

Standing up and moving my arms in a certain way gave me a burning pain in the back of my neck

Hannah Davison

“I went to Mya Cosmetic Surgery about six years ago and got a quote for £8,000 for the same procedure. 

“It was way out of range for me.  

“The last thing I heard was that the wait list [on the NHS] was six years and you had to go through extreme mental health screening.  

“I didn’t want to wait any longer.

“I had the savings anyway but I didn’t want to dip into them, so I worked six days a week for six weeks to make the money I needed for my surgery.”

Hannah emailed the clinic in January 2025 and had her surgery just six weeks later.  

Common Causes of Saggy Boobs

Gravity: Over time, the constant pull of gravity can cause the ligaments in the boobs to stretch and sag, especially in larger ones

Smoking: Smoking reduces blood supply to the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity and premature sagging

Lack of Support: Not wearing a properly fitting bra, especially during exercise, can lead to stretching of breast tissue and ligaments

Weight gain and loss: Changes in body weight can spark changes to the fatty tissue in the breasts, making them more prone to sagging

She says: “The clinic has a Facebook page with over 17,000 members so you get to see loads of different people’s point of view.  

“I’m now four weeks post-op and I feel absolutely fine.  

“I started back at the gym two weeks post-op.  

“My best friend is a nurse and she can’t believe how neat the incisions look.”

Hannah stayed overnight at Europe Surgery’s clinic before staying a further five days at a hotel, while she waited to be fit to fly home to the UK.  

She says: “A few times I was worried I could feel fluid inside my breast, so I just went straight in.  

“All the nurses are so lovely.  

“The whole experience pain wise was a five out of 10.  

“The only annoyance of the whole process is the healing as you have to do nothing.  

“Other than that, it was a great experience.”

She estimates that “just over a kilo and a half” of breast tissue was removed in the surgery.  

She adds: “I’ve always been into the gym and training, and I feel like my body composition would never change.  

“No matter how much I trained it would never make a difference.  

“Now I can wear nice gym clothes.”

Woman with tattoos taking a selfie in a brown bikini top.

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She estimates she lost a kilo and a half of breast tissueCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
Illustration of Judge Claude Frollo from Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

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She likened herself to The Hunchback of Notre Dame pre-surgery, as she said her ‘Quasimodo boobs’ meant she was constantly hunched overCredit: AF Archive

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