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OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in popular holiday spots and off-the-beaten-track destinations.

This week we’re taking a look at Ocho Rios, a serene resort town on Jamaica’s north coast that’s home to gushing waterfalls and turquoise waters.

According to Jamaica Tourism, its a “true gem in the heart of Jamaica” and the island itself ha seen a boom in demand.

TUI’s UK&I Managing Director Neil Swanson said: “We’re seeing particularly strong demand for our direct long-haul flights to the Caribbean – especially the Dominican Republic and Jamaica – where point‑to‑point routes give customers added confidence and help them keep their holiday plans on track.”

Here are some of our top tips for visiting the resort town on the island of Jamaica.

MUST SEE/DO

Dunn’s River Falls is Jamaica’s most popular waterfall, cascading 600ft down a craggy rock.

ISLE GO

I went to the Caribbean island soaring in demand with top beaches & floating bars

ENDS SOON

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The best way to view it in all its glory is with a Dunn’s River Falls Experience by Island Routes.

Guests are guided to the landmark, passing natural pools leading to the Caribbean Sea.

A two-hour experience costs from $62.73pp including transfer.

Guests staying at the Sandals resorts can add this onto their booking as part of their stay.

HIDDEN GEM

For a relaxed day, soaking up the delights of Jamaica away from the crowds, you can’t go wrong with Mahogany Beach.

It’s less popular than other nearby shores, but no less beautiful.

The laid back atmosphere, calm, clear waters and soft, white sands make this spot ideal for a fly-and-flop day.

Listen to chilled, live music while you paddle and don’t forget to check out the food stalls selling classic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken and barbecued seafood.

BEST VIEW

It may feel like somewhat of a mission to reach the peak of Mystic Mountain, but once you do you’ll be rewarded with wondrous views of the resort town below.

Those who are up for a walk will be able to take advantage of beautiful flaura and fauna en route, but if you’re not able to or keen on a trek then catch the Sky Explorer chairlift which will carry you 700 feet above sea level.

Adrenaline junkies can take advantage of a zipline course through the treetops which offers equally impressive views.

RATED RESTAURANT

For a proper, home-cooked Jamaican meal Miss T’s Kitchen, in the heart of Ocho Rios, is where to head.

The outdoor restaurant offers a laidback atmosphere with slap-up dinners that celebrate the island culture through classic flavours.

Dishes such as oxtail, curried goat and jerk chicken are paired with veggies, rice and peas (just as they should be).

Wash them back with a rum punch – the only cocktail you’ll want to drink out here.

BEST BAR

Within Sandals Dunn’s River resort, Ocarina Rooftop bar serves its tipples with a cracking view – best enjoyed at sunset when the sky is painted in hazy hues of pink and orange.

Sip on well-muddled cocktails or stick to beer and wine while you relax in the cool sea breeze. With the sound of the lapping ocean in front of you, it’s hear not to unwind here.

HOTEL PICK

The adults-only Sandals Dunn’s River has successfully injected Jamaican touches into the luxury space.

Water is sourced from the natural reserves of the nearby Dunn’s River Falls, hence the name of the resort. Lazy days will never get boring with a whopping 12 restaurants on site, including a swim-up bar.

There’s also complimentary water sports for all-inclusive guests, including up to two scuba dives per day for certified divers, as well as land sports and complimentary green fees at Upton Estate Golf & Country Club and access to the neighboring Sandals Ochi Beach Resort.

A low-key and cosy eatery in a market town has been crowned Best Pasta Restaurant at the Italian Awards 2026, putting the Derbyshire hidden gem on the culinary map

Italian cuisine is always a firm favourite when it comes to dining out but what you might not realise is that some of the finest examples can be found right on your doorstep.

In what has essentially become the Oscars of the Italian hospitality world, the Italian Awards 2026 took place recently, celebrating the very best pizza, pasta, restaurants and cafés across the UK.

And in a fiercely competitive category, the winner of Best Pasta Restaurant turned out to be a hidden gem nestled in New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire.

A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana, the authentic Italian eatery, claimed the coveted prize – and will no doubt see a wave of curious food lovers descend upon them as a result.

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Led by award-winning chef Alessio Muccio, the restaurant takes great pride in producing fresh pasta, gelato and pastries on the premises, using traditional Sicilian ingredients.

Their website states: “Our restaurant is small and cosy and adorned with Sicilian artefacts; it’s a little slice of Sicily here in the High Peak.”

One delighted customer left a glowing review on TripAdvisor, saying: “A Tavola is a colourful, warm, and welcoming trattoria located in the dark, cold, wintery heart of the Peak District.

“Highly recommended for those longing for those rich Sicilian flavours but far from the light and abundance of the Bel Paese. Sicilian sweet and sour flavours are present in many dishes, from pistachio and fennel to sardines with pine nuts and raisins.”

Another reviewer said: “What a wonderful restaurant! A lucky find as we were looking for somewhere to eat before going to hear some live music nearby. Very friendly staff, delicious food and a convivial ambience.

“I only wish it were not over 100 miles from my home. I highly recommend a visit, especially if you are missing being in Italy! You will be transported!”

The Derbyshire eatery bills itself as a ‘labour of love’ from the chef, who has crafted a menu designed to accommodate all dietary needs. What’s more, his specials change with the seasons to guarantee fresh and seasonal ingredients year-round.

These touches haven’t gone unnoticed by diners, with one writing: “Absolutely fantastic food and service. From start to finish totally delicious. Thanks so much. Can’t wait to go back. 5 stars!”

It’s an unexpected location to discover authentic, mouthwatering Italian pasta, nestled in a market town, but it’s definitely worth stopping by while exploring the Peak District.

The restaurant sits on Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, roughly eight miles south-east of Stockport and just 13 miles from Manchester.

While it might seem somewhat off the beaten track, it wasn’t quite concealed enough to escape the notice of the Italian Awards, which bestowed upon it the recognition its patrons believe it richly deserves.

Awards Director Warren Paul, discussing the launch of the Italian Awards for 2026, expressed his delight in celebrating the efforts of “passionate people”. He added: “That’s why we do what we do.

“It’s to make sure the hard-working inspirational people and businesses get the recognition they deserve.

“Everyone jumps to criticise and leave a negative review or complaint over the tiniest thing, but very few rush to praise good service, food and experiences. That’s where we come in. So congratulations to our winners.”

Highly Recommended restaurants in the same category included:

• Italian Touch By Ivano Pizzeria & Ristorante (Bedford)
• Mele e Pere (London)
• Primavista (Bury St Edmunds)
• Shambles Restaurant & Winebar (Teddington)
• The Kettlebridge Inn, Bar & Italian Restaurant (Cupar)
• A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana (New Mills)

Newly opened Ella Álkyna is an adults-only, all-inclusive 5-star resort on Corfu’s west coast with stunning sea views and private pools

There arrives a moment in life when the notion of an adults-only, all-inclusive resort suddenly seems less of a luxury and more of a relief. No inflatable pool toys hurtling towards you, no frantic early-morning buffet chaos – simply sea vistas, excellent cuisine and the freedom to do absolutely nothing if that’s what you fancy. That’s precisely the atmosphere Ella Álkyna delivers to Corfu’s west coast.

Recently launched and positioned high above the dramatic bay of Agios Gordios, it’s crafted as a sophisticated, luxury retreat, yet without the eye-watering bill you’d typically encounter at other 5-star Mediterranean resorts.

The accommodation

The resort boasts 349 rooms, suites and villas, all orientated towards the Ionian Sea to ensure the panorama is practically inescapable. I stayed in a private pool sea-view room, which swiftly became the standout feature of the entire visit. At the more budget-friendly end of the spectrum, you can also reserve charming comfort rooms that still offer equally stunning vistas.

Inside, the design is serene and modern, featuring touches of pale timber, sandy hues and linen finishes that mirror the scenery beyond. But the genuine showstopper is the terrace. My compact private pool gazed straight out across the water, meaning mornings commenced with a pre-breakfast swim and evenings frequently concluded with another plunge as the sun descended behind the cliffs. Bathrooms are spaciously proportioned with rainfall showers and sumptuous robes, reports OK!.

The resort Álkyna is carved into the hillside overlooking Agios Gordios beach, and the location is breathtaking. The resort’s terraces tumble downwards, meaning virtually every spot – from the pools to the dining areas – boasts sweeping sea vistas. Amenities include two primary outdoor pools, an indoor pool, and a contemporary spa and wellness centre.

One point worth noting: the sunloungers surrounding the main pools tend to get snapped up fairly swiftly as the morning progresses. There’s no requirement for a crack-of-dawn towel dash, but if you’ve got your eye on a specific view, it’s wise to head down following breakfast rather than waiting until mid-afternoon.

Food and drink

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Dining takes centre stage here, with three restaurants – Cocura, Nafs and Lucáta – plus six bars dotted throughout the resort. Several of the culinary concepts were developed alongside Michelin-starred chef Alex Tsiotinis, which accounts for why evening meals feel more akin to a chic metropolitan eatery than a typical hotel buffet.

Anticipate abundant Mediterranean touches such as grilled seafood, seasonal vegetables, regional olive oil and dishes crafted for leisurely, convivial dining rather than hurried consumption. Most tables are positioned outdoors, as you’d expect, meaning dinner frequently comes accompanied by a sea breeze and a stunning sunset.

It’s worth noting, however, that Corfu’s late-summer wasp season can make alfresco dining slightly more animated than anticipated. They appeared especially drawn to sweet cocktails and anything containing honey during my visit, so a touch of patience or a well-chosen seat makes all the difference if you’re planning to go in August or September.

What’s on offer at the resort

There’s no shortage of activities if you fancy keeping busy. Visitors can take part in fitness classes, yoga and Pilates sessions, or indulge at the spa with massages and facials designed to promote complete relaxation. I was especially taken with the on-site Roée Wellness spa’s Finnish sauna and steam room, and enjoyed the most soothing (and aromatic) 50 minutes of tranquillity thanks to the bespoke massage featuring Greek botanicals and natural oils.

Exploring the local area

The resort is located near the charming village of Agios Gordios, where traditional tavernas dot the seafront and the sunsets are renowned throughout the island. If you venture out just once, I’d urge you to visit Akrogiali Family Taverna, where I sampled the finest honey-drenched baklava and ice cream of my entire life.

I’d also strongly suggest making the journey to Kaiser’s Throne in the quaint town of Pelekas, merely a 20-minute drive away. The walk is brief, and the restaurant perched at the summit serves superb Greek salads alongside endless emerald vistas. For a change of scenery, Corfu Town is approximately a 30-minute taxi journey away and certainly worth a visit. Its Venetian alleyways, independent boutiques and bustling squares make it one of Greece’s most characterful island capitals. Boat excursions along the west coast are also sought-after and showcase some of Corfu’s most striking beaches and secluded coves.

Book it

Comfort Room with Sea View prices start from £215 per night based on an all-inclusive basis. To book, visit here. Flights to Corfu from major UK airports are served by Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2 and more.

The Brazilian dystopian thriller has been hailed a ‘rare gem’ and ‘masterpiece’ by fans

The concluding series of the universally loved dystopian thriller, The Handmaid’s Tale, has been over for some time, leaving devotees hunting for their next television fixation.

Fans of thrillers are similarly captivated by a relatively obscure dystopian series titled 3%, showcasing a young ensemble and situated within an intriguing offshore community.

This Netflix offering from 2020 has accumulated numerous glowing reviews since its debut, with audiences declaring it “Tremendously Underrated”.

One IMDb critique states: “I was really surprised by the fact that this show is really unknown. It is a great TV series that definitely deserves more recognition.”

Another subscriber commented: “Cinematically and visually stunning, a political, Hunger Games-esque storyline with believable acting, and I thought very interesting, lifelike characters. The script is intelligent, the characters are strong, and the interaction is elegant in its simplicity and natural air”, reports the Express.

The narrative of this Brazilian thriller revolves around merely 3% of the population inhabiting luxury on an island, while the remaining citizens endure poverty on the mainland. Upon turning 20, ordinary people are given a single opportunity to join the elite 3% through a brutal competition dubbed ‘the process’.

Deliberately ruthless and potentially lethal to contestants, the competition concludes with most candidates returning to deprived circumstances – sometimes too incapacitated to even carry on.

While the series hails from Portugal, numerous English-speaking audiences have been captivated by the programme, eagerly watching every episode through subtitles or dubbed versions.

One enthusiast even labelled the show a “rare gem”.

They remarked: “3% is one of those rare shows that only gets better and better as it goes. Season 3, so far, is shaping up to be the most enthralling season yet, which, let me tell you, is absolutely saying something!”

“The world continues to be fleshed out, and the already quite complex characters are only getting more interesting. Do yourself a favour; watch at least to episode three before you pass judgement. You won’t regret it!”

Another viewer commented: “This is truly an outstanding dystopian/post-apocalyptic series. The acting, the shots, the pace, the character development, the storyline… Everything is on point! Seasons 1, 2 and 4 were, for me, all riveting.”

Boasting a Brazilian ensemble, the performers in this production are relatively unfamiliar but deliver an “outstanding” showing, according to audiences.

João Miguel portrays Ezequiel in the series, the Process’s leader, alongside Bianca Comparato, who appears as Michele Santana, and Michel Gomes as Fernando Carvalho. Reflecting on the performances in 3%, one viewer commented: “I watched this out of boredom, but boy, was I glad that I did. It totally caught me off guard by how wonderful this show was. It is intelligent, futuristic, and well acted; all in all, absolutely amazing.”

Whether you’re eager to discover what all the fuss is about, or simply on the lookout for something to watch after completing The Handmaid’s Tale, 3% is currently available to stream on Netflix.

Planning your summer holiday but want to avoid crowded tourist hotspots? These three stunning European destinations offer beautiful beaches and coastal charm without the crowds.

Spring has finally sprung, meaning summer is just round the corner. Britain is fortunate to have countless stunning countries within easy reach, and if you’re pondering where to head this year, you’re in for a treat.

One of the most frustrating aspects of arranging a holiday is deciding on a destination – and with hordes of tourists flocking to all the popular spots, finding somewhere peaceful and relaxing can prove even more challenging.

If you’re after coastal beauty without thousands of holidaymakers crowding the beaches with towels and parasols, these are the three European locations you need to consider, reports the Express.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

In contrast to Tenerife or Lanzarote, this stunning island remains relatively undiscovered and experiences fewer crowds during peak season than the British favourites.

Laura Evans-Fisk from eurochange commented: “It’s the perfect tranquil, peaceful alternative to the more popular islands. You could stay here for a restful few days or make a day trip from Tenerife by hopping on the ferry.

“La Gomera is also a great spot for hikers and nature lovers, home to the lush UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park.

“Its beaches are much more secluded than the ones you’ll find on the other islands, and you’ll encounter no large-scale resorts or nightlife.”

“Like other islands in the region, La Gomera benefits from pleasant temperatures throughout the year too. And, its low light pollution means it’s an excellent spot for stargazing.”

Ksamil and Porto Palermo, Albania

Renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and pristine sand beaches, this stretch of Albania is known as the “Albanian Riviera”. It’s becoming increasingly popular with holidaymakers, yet sections of it remain largely undiscovered.

Laura explained: “Ksamil, an area often coined the ‘Maldives of Europe’, is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, with white sands and strikingly clear waters.

“For a more relaxed vibe, visit Porto Palermo – this stunning bay has a small peninsula connecting it to the mainland, and an impressive 19th-century castle, Ali Pasha.”

Alentejo, Portugal

The Algarve is frequently packed with tourists, but further north in Alentejo there’s a far more laid-back atmosphere. With its picturesque coastal landscapes and gorgeous beaches it provides the ideal summer getaway.

Laura commented: “Further North than the Algarve, this coastline surrounds the city of Lisbon, making charming towns like Cascais, Estoril and Azenhas do Mar perfect day excursions from the capital.”