holiday

UZBEKISTAN is where you can get bargain beers and stay in 5-star hotels for as little as £63 per night.

And it could get much easier for Brits to visit as it’s set to fully opening a new airport next year.

A new international airport is set to open in Uzbekistan in early 2027 at an estimated cost of $226 million (£168million).

The new airport which is already being constructed is in the Bukhara region in the southwest of the country.

On completion it will be able to handle over three million passengers each year and could grow to as many as eight million within the next three years.

The airport will have a 3.3km runway capable of accommodating all aircraft types and the terminal will have a capacity of up to 1,200 passengers per hour.

LOOK OUT

Your fave North East seaside eats – from beach bars in boats to pirate chippies

COAST IT

White sand beaches, pirate pubs & Gibraltar Point – Sun readers Lincolnshire faves

Construction started in 2024 and the full opening is set for next year.

New flight routes are yet to be confirmed, but there’s a possibility there could be some from the UK.

There has been a surge in interest to visit the country as Uzbekistan has seen tourist numbers increase from just over two million in 2017 to more than 10 million in 2025.

There are few direct routes from the UK to Uzbekistan – but one was added just last month.

In December 2025, Qanot Sharq announced it would launch two direct flights per week between London Gatwick and Tashkent.

Flights between London and Uzbekistan’s capital take seven hours.

Uzbekistan is one of Asia’s cheapest holiday destinations. According to
Numbeo, the price of a local beer is 17,500 UZS (£1.08)

The average price of a cappuccino is 23,030 UZS (£1.42).

When it comes to hotels, you can get a budget stay for as little as £9 per night.

If you’re looking for luxury, 5-star hotels don’t break the bank either, the Hilton Samarkand Regency can cost as little as £63 per night.

Travellers who have been to Uzbekistan have recognised it as being affordable.

Race Across the World winner Alfie Watts told Sun Travel: “Uzbekistan has great value for money.

“When I went, we were on the tourist trail which made things a bit more expensive. But we got a half an hour taxi which cost 20,000 UZS which is is £1.24.”

As for what to do in Uzbekistan, the country has lots of Silk Road cities – which are stops on historical trade routes.

Some of the most-visited of these are Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

There’s plenty of beautiful architecture like Registan Square and Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand.

The country has incredible mountain scenery with ranges like Uzbekistan the Western Tian Shan in the northeast and the Gissar-Alay in the south.

When it comes to food, you can pick up speciality dishes like Plov (Pilaf) which is a one-pot rice dish which generally contains rice, meat, and carrots.

You can also try steamed dumplings called Manti, savory pastries Samsa, and spicy noodle stew called Lagman.

The best times to visit Uzbekistan are spring and autumn when the temperatures are mild.

For more on travelling to lesser-visited countries, hear from one man who left the UK to travel on £35 a day.

Another man who has visited every country on Earth named Uzbekistan as one of the most underrated destinations.

WITH frost in the air in the UK, it’s time to head somewhere warmer for a cheap winter sun.

eurochange found five destinations where the pound is strongest right now – so these are the best value destinations to visit this January.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica in Central America has it all, lush rainforests, beautiful coastlines and bustling cities like San José – not to mention great value for money for Brits.

In fact, the exchange rate is £1 to ₡669.50 Costa Rican colón so once you’ve flown there, don’t expect to pay too much for your meals or hotel stays.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited last year, she said: “Costa Rica is one for the nature lovers, being home to five per cent of the world’s biodiversity (despite being just 0.03 per cent of the planet’s surface).

“With my own Pokémon-like list of animals I wanted to tick off, everything from sloths and coatis to tapirs and monkeys can easily be found on hikes through some of the National Parks.

STAR POWER

Short-haul country with the cheapest 5-star holidays money can buy

OLDE WORLD

World-class beaches, mountains & monsters make Scotland an unforgettable holiday

“Or a boat trip to Isla del Caño ended with groups of turtles and jumping whales right by out boat. And with the country named on a number of top travel lists this year, from best hotels to being most underrated, now is the time to plan a trip.”

Costa Rica is a great place to beat the January blues as during the winter months, it sees temperature highs of 30C.

Return flights in February from London Gatwick to San Jose start from £790.

The average hotel starts from £63 per person per night and a three-course meal for two people averages at ₡25,000.00 (£37.34).

The exchange rate is £1 = ₡669.50 (Costa Rican colón).

Turkey

Turkey is a hit during the summertime for families thanks to lots of beautiful seaside along with an ample amount of waterparks and watersports along the coast.

But during the winter months, it makes for the perfect escape with average highs of 16C between January and March.

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire said: “Turkey really is one of those countries that has it all – great food, fascinating history, stunning beaches, beautiful nature and decent prices compared to many other top holiday destinations… it’s no wonder us Brits return to it year after year.

“In recent years, I’ve visited multiple times for markedly different trips.
A long weekend in early spring to Istanbul with my mum and aunt was filled with excellent Turkish food and souk bazaar shopping, trips to the top attractions like the Blue Mosque, and also some wonderful art galleries.”

Caroline continued: “A visit with my son to a friend in the coastal town of Urla in Turkey’s Izmir region on the Aegean sea showcased a completely different side to the country, with hardly any Brits wandering the quaint streets – that were home to several restaurants that feature in the fancy Michelin food guide.

“We swam in the sea at a local beach club during the day and hit up a couple of the local vineyards, then gorged on delicious food and cocktails at night.

“Then there was the family holiday to TUI’s flagship Holiday Village in Sarigerme, whether we did every activity under the sun and were deeply impressed the hospitality of the staff.

“It was easily the cleanest family hotel I’ve been to, and the buffet restaurant never failed to impress. Of course, at each of these destinations, I also spent far less than I would have at similarly popular European countries.”

In January, you can get return flights from London Southend to Antalya from £62.

To stay in the city of Antalya costs from £39 per person per night and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs on average ₺2,000 (£34.53).

The exchange rate is £1 = ₺57.95 (Turkish lira).

Thailand

Thailand has become more and more popular with Brits as a winter sun destination. It’s known for its cheap but tasty food, cocktails, and luxury hotels.

That’s exactly what Travel Reporter Alice Penwill found when she visited Koh Samui, she said: “The island of Koh Samui is a real a mix of luxurious resorts and bargain restaurants – but strangely neither will cost a lot.

“I stayed in the 5-star Anantara Lawana Koh Samui resort which you can stay in January from £182 per night.

“It has tree-top dining restaurants, a spa, quiet beach with waiter service and some rooms have swim-up pools.

“While the island is scattered with incredible hotels, outside you can find real bargains, tucked away along the streets are places serving up Pad Thai and spicy tom yum soup, with cocktails for £2.

“As for sweet treats, mango sticky rice is a revelation and costs as little as £1.65 from street vendors.”

There are plenty of different options around Thailand, like the Andaman Coast which is is the stunning tropical coastline in the southwest.

It’s home to islands like Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta with towering limestone cliffs, bright blue waters and white-sand beaches.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy winter sun with average highs of 32C between January and March.

You can get return flights from £786 from London Gatwick to Phuket in January.

The price of hotels starts from £53 per person per night and the average price of a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: ฿1,350 (£31.99).

Exchange rate is £1 = ฿42.20 (Thai baht).

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has been named a booming travel destination of 2026 thanks to its beautiful scenery and affordability.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey loved her trip there, she said: “Sri Lanka is a great alternative to Thailand and the Maldives, with just as beautiful beaches and even better food.

“Some of the most popular things to do on the small island country is climbing Sigiriya Rock – a 5th century fortress with 1,200 steps to the top – as well as an elephant safari.

“When it comes to beaches, expect golden sands as well as amazing surf, with some of the most popular spots being Mirissa Beach and Weligama Beach.”

Kara added: “For amazing food, you can easily find samosas and rotis from street stalls for just a pound each. Grab a local Lion beer too, with it also costing just a few pounds from food vendors.

“And for luxury on a budget, Sri Lanka knows how to do it well. I recommend a stay at Jetwing Vil Uyana, named one of the best eco-hotels in the world, from £266 a night with breakfast.”

Between January and March there are average highs of 32C, and you can get return flights from London Heathrow to Colombo from £616.

The average accommodation price starts from £48 per person per night – the price for a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: රු7,500 (£17.97).

The exchange rate: £1 = රු.417.42 (Sri Lankan rupee).

Egypt

Egypt is a classic destination for winter sun with popular resort towns like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna and Marsa Alam.

The reason for its popularity is the high January temperatures of around 22C, not to mention you can get return flights from £80 from London Gatwick to Sharm El Sheikh in January.

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski visited El Gouna last year, she said: “Five star luxury doesn’t come with a price tag that makes you wince in Egypt’s El Gouna.

“Temperatures are in the mid 20s right now in this man-made resort town – and it’s a haven for fly-and-flop getaways thanks to the plethora of plush resorts flanking winding lagoons.”

Sophie continued: “Better still, a stay in one of these fancy hotels will cost you a fraction of what it would at a sister property in Europe. El Gouna is extremely safe and easy to walk, but why sweat it in that heat when a tuktuk will cost you less than £1 each way to travel anywhere within the vicinity?

“Catch a ride to Downtown and grab a very delicious brekkie (from around £4) in trendy cafe Daily Dose – the coffee is cheap and very good, too.
Book a lagoon tour by boat (€20 at elgouna-lagoon.com, including soft drinks) which showcases El Gouna’s weaving waterways which are comparable to those in Venice, but much less of a rip off than a gondola ride.

“Kite surfing is big in this region, too, thanks to the flat waters and blustery bays – kite rental starts from around €50 (£43.30) for around two hours.

“And if all that sounds too exhausting, a day on a sun lounger where chilled cocktails are delivered to you every hour will barely make a dent in the wallet.”

Accommodation prices vary in Egypt but can be as little as £35 per night, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages around 1,100 EG£ (£17.15).

The exchange rate is £1 = 43.4251 ج.م. (Egyptian pound).

For more on winter sun, here are eight affordable holidays with FOUR TIMES more sun than Britain in January.

And here are the top 9 cheapest last-minute winter sun destinations less than 5 hours from the UK.

CHLOE Ferry has undergone a new bum treatment after getting her Brazilian Bum Lift removed as she prepared for her Thailand holiday.

Geordie Shore star Chloe, 30, took to Instagram to post a video from the treatment room and flashed her bum in a red thong.

She looked delighted with the results of her latest bum tweakment – after undergoing surgery to reduce her rear following a BBL.

A smiling Chloe revealed the latest procedure was to “sculpt” her bottom via body contouring.

She wrote over the top of the clip: “Perfect bum treatment before Thailand.”

When she made her Geordie Shore debut in 2015 she’d had no work done.

FERRY FESTIVE

Chloe Ferry looks loved up with new boyfriend spending first Xmas together

OH CHLO

Chloe Ferry says she hasn’t stopped crying in two days & breaks down over loss

But Chloe went on to get £50k worth of surgeries and tweakments in a bid to “look like a Kardashian”.

Last year she had her BBL reversed and broke down in floods of tears when recalling some of the past decisions she had made about her body.

Reflecting on her previous appearance, Chloe was overcome with disbelief, in one video after the BBL, admitting, “I don’t even know why I’m so emotional because I’m so happy with my results

“Look at, like how ridiculous I looked. I looked like that for so long.

“It’s just really, really hit it hard.”

She’s had a nose job, fox eye lift, liposuction, breast implants, Botox and filler.

In 2018, Chloe underwent the painful procedure to have a bigger bottom.

However, after seven years of showing off her peachy bum she decided to get the operation reversed.

Taking to social media Chloe explained how she wanted to share “something personal” that she had “never publicly addressed”.

“Being put into the public eye at 19 years old was very daunting, I was naive and vulnerable,” she started.

“I was ridiculed for my looks and my weight amongst other numerous insults through social media and the press which affected my mental health and confidence massively, the young woman I once loved being become self conscious looking for perfection,” Chloe added.

She continued: “With this attention came offers of cosmetic surgery which I thought would solve all my problems, give me back my spark and self love, this wasn’t the case.

“I suffered more depression, anxiety as well as physical discomfort. A decision made without understanding the pros and cons, a decision made on me hoping it would make me feel whole again.

“After years of working on my inner self, I feel like I’ve grown and entered a new stage of my life where I want to be transparent with my followers and take you along in a journey to correct my previous work and educate you all on the harsh truth of what I have endured alone for so long.”

She then said: “I want young woman and men to lean from my mistakes and have a better understanding of cosmetic surgery.”

WHEN it comes to buying a home abroad, no one knows more inside tips than the A Place in the Sun presenters.

With costs rising all over the world those on the hunt for a holiday home might be disheartened – but there are still bargains to be found according to property expert, Craig Rowe.

A brand new series of A Place in the Sun is back and presenter Craig Rowe who first joined the show four years ago has found a hidden gem.

In the upcoming episode airing on Thursday, January 7, Craig heads to the French countryside region of Limousin.

He’s helping best friends Fiona and Tina look for Fiona’s ideal home with a a maximum budget of £80,000.

Yet Craig reveals that they manage to bag a deal for £75,000.

ZIP OVER

The epic French holiday resort with kids club and laid back vibes

COAST IT

White sand beaches, pirate pubs & Gibraltar Point – Sun readers Lincolnshire faves

Craig told us: “I’ve spent a lot of time in France, but for this show we were in Haute-Vienne – and I was amazed at the prices.

“At first when we were looking through the properties I said to my producer, ‘I think we’re going to struggle to get something decent for that price’.

“But you’d be amazed at what we found which were really good properties – and that really surprised me.”

While the Limousin region is miles away from the coastline, it’s well-known for being a hotspot for watersports thanks to its thousands of lakes.

In fact, the region is even called the ‘French Lake District‘ – it also has lots of walking and cycling routes.

Craig added: “It’s a beautiful region filled with little patisseries and boulangeries, which is everything I love about France.”

Craig continued: “It has lots of beautiful French towns, and of course, lots of lakes so you won’t miss being by the coast – and if you want to visit a city then Bordeaux isn’t far away.

“There’s still an expat community, and as we found, properties are really good value.

“With prices going up all over the world, it’s great to find these pockets where you can still get a really good bargain.”

If the French countryside doesn’t tickle your fancy, but you still want somewhere up-and-coming with lower prices, Craig has some other suggestions.

He said: “Valencia is one of my favourite places in Spain and in the last few years, I’ve heard more and more about it.

“It’s really booming and while property prices are going up, it’s still much more affordable than Barcelona or Madrid.

“Another place to watch in Spain would be Murcia – it’s still relatively under the radar because it doesn’t have as many airlinks as Malaga or the Costa Del Sol.

“For example in the winter you’ll have to fly from Alicante, but it’s definitely up-and-coming. That’s one to watch in 2026 – it would be a great place to invest.

Outside of Spain, I’d consider Porto in Portugal which is a great alternative to Lisbon which is getting quite expensive. But it still has great culture, food and wine.”

If you’ve been watching A Place in the Sun wondering whether now is the right time to buy abroad, Craig has some words of wisdom.

Craig told us: “Property is going up everywhere, in the UK, Europe, the States. So if you’re thinking about doing it, why not now?

“Costs are only going one way, and while you’ve got these little gems, like Haute-Vienne, which are up-and-coming destinations, take the opportunity now.

“2026 is an exciting year, and I know for A Place in the Sun, we’ve got a lot of filming coming up with house hunters – there’s still a big passion and a hunger for people who want to look at properties overseas.”

After selling Brits their dream home for five years, Craig is getting ready to take the plunge himself.

“My partner Paul and I are hoping to buy a property in Spain, we’re not in a position to do it yet, but hopefully we’ll be able to in the next couple of years.

“I love Valencia as a city, whereas my partner loves Barcelona – but I think he’s coming round to my idea.

“Valencia is smaller than Barcelona, it’s the third biggest city in Spain, but there’s only around 800,000 people that live there, so it’s still a relatively small city.

“It has amazing coasts, beautiful architecture, it’s got everything you need from a city.”

Watch Craig on A Place in the Sun on Thursday 8 January on Channel 4 at 6pm – new episodes will continue air Monday-Friday.

One Woman Who Was on A Place In The Sun Bought Her Dream Spanish Home For £45k…

Jacqui Lockhart from Scotland left for Almoradi on the Costa Blanca shortly after the airing of her episode of A Place in the Sun back in December 2017.

Originally looking for a holiday home, Jacqui travelled to Spain in search of her dream escape with the help of presenter Danni Menzies.

After looking at multiple apartments, Jacqui fell for a flat in Almoradi with a communal pool and rooftop costing just £45,000 – after visiting 10 times in one year, Jacqui made it her permanent home.

Talking to Sun Travel about her move to sunny Spain Jacqui said: “It took a lot of guts for me to move. To say ‘right, I’m not coming back to the UK’ took a lot of courage. But it’s been so good, I absolutely love it.”

She says that one of the biggest perks of life abroad is that going out for meals and drinks works out to be a lot cheaper.

Jacqui said: “I love going out for meals, and it’s so much cheaper than in the UK, you can get a glass of wine for €1.50.

“You can get a three-course meal and a coffee for around €10.”

Jacqui bravely bit the bullet and loves her new life abroad, she does heed some warnings for anyone hoping to do the same.

She explained: “I’m lucky as I have a plan B, I’ll never sell my house in Scotland.

“But I know a lot of people here who have sold up completely, moved lock, stock and barrel and now they’re coming into their dotage and they can’t go back because they can’t afford it.

“I also know some people who came just before Covid wanting to open a bar and then as they started, had to close because Spain went into lockdown.

“They lost so much money and used all their savings to live and have had to move back to the UK and rent which is such a shame.

“My other piece of advice would be to rent first to see if you like the area. Thanks to Brexit, Brits can only rent in Spain for three months at a time, but do that and get to know the town you like.”

Plus, another A Place in the Sun presenter reveals her favourite foreign family holiday park – and it’s surprisingly affordable.

And another A Place in the Sun presenter moved to the Costa del Sol where she spends evenings on the beach but reveals there is a catch to her new life in Spain.

Our writer Ben Whisson visited Haven’s Devon Cliffs Holiday Park in November and discovered that off-season breaks offer brilliant family fun

As I embarked on a three-night getaway to Haven’s Devon Cliffs site in November, I was slightly apprehensive about what an off-season UK holiday park might have in store. However, as my wife, young son and I pulled up to the park’s entrance, any worries were quickly laid to rest.

Upon check-in, we navigated through the expansive grounds to find our lodge, which would serve as our base for a weekend packed with thrilling activities and lively entertainment.

READ MORE: Where to go on holiday in 2026 – from surprising EU foodie hotspot to ‘cheaper Cotswolds’

READ MORE: Beautiful European holiday destination three hours from UK and still 17ºC in December

What to do at a Haven Holiday Park

The handy Haven app allowed us to manage our booking and plan activities before even setting foot in the park. Despite visiting during the quieter season, there was no shortage of things to do – from a ‘Make A Bear’ party and an Aerial Adventure to their Football Fun Factory and Ranger Activities.

With a mix of complimentary and paid activities, there’s truly something for everyone. Moreover, a Haven PlayPass grants you 14 sessions at the site’s indoor pool throughout your stay, reports OK!. We specifically chose this site for its swimming facilities, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

Entertainment at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

Given the timing of our visit, I expected the entertainment offerings to be somewhat limited – but I couldn’t have been more mistaken. The park boasted two entertainment venues, each offering a plethora of options from morning till night. With full-scale pantomimes, karaoke, and a host of fun and games for both children and adults, I was thoroughly impressed by the variety on offer.

The entertainment team were the absolute highlight of the park – and our holiday. This gifted bunch put on fantastic shows, interacted with the kiddies and made it a memorable trip for us and numerous other families.

Food and drink at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

Our caravan was well kitted out for whipping up home-cooked meals (which we did) – but we also had the opportunity to try the broad range of food options at the park. With Slim Chickens, Chopstix and Papa Johns among the outlets on site, we were spoilt for choice. The entertainment venues boast bars, plus there’s a sports bar and even a Wetherspoons.

Accommodation at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

We lodged in a spotless Emerald grade lodge, which was beautifully presented, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a cosy lounge/kitchen area. It had parking for two cars and was just a short stroll from the centre of activity on the site. The icing on the cake was the outdoor decking that encircled the lodge, which – during the fleeting moments of sunshine – allowed us to fully appreciate the view of the Devon coast.

With a beach accessible from the park, a snug lodge and everything you could need for an action-packed break – whenever you decide to visit – Haven’s Devon Cliffs park surpassed our expectations. Despite a typically rainy November weekend, the multi-skilled entertainment team and staff brought the sunshine for us and our little lad – and we’ll definitely be returning for more.

How much does it cost to stay at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park?

Four-night breaks off-peak in March and April at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park start from £99 staying in a Saver grade caravan. The park reopens in March 2026.

For alternative caravan holidays, have a look at Parkdean Resorts and Hoseasons.

The travel expert has championed the budget-friendly Portuguese coastal town as one of his top getaway picks

Travel guru Simon Calder has hailed Cascais, nestled close to Lisbon in Portugal, as one of his favourite holiday destinations. This wallet-friendly resort is especially attractive during chillier periods, with direct flights available from UK airports to nearby Lisbon, while enjoying mild average highs of 15°C in January, reports the Express.

The picturesque town’s manageable size makes it perfect for pensioners seeking a destination that’s easy to explore by foot.

Travel blogger and photographer Caroline wrote on her site Packthesuitcases that Cascais “is a nice walkable size, you don’t need to worry about taxis and buses unless you’re venturing further afield to things like Cabo da Roca – everything in the town itself is easily reached on foot”.

Caroline emphasised that getting to Cascais from Lisbon by train is hassle-free.

“The train takes about 40 minutes from Cais do Sodré, and it’s an enjoyable journey along the coast,” she explained.

On his travel podcast, Simon Calder praised the beautiful resort as one of his “favourite Portuguese locations”.

“Cascais is the port planted elegantly on the shoreline west of the capital, Lisbon, on what’s known as the Portuguese Riviera.

“It was settled in turn by Romans, Visigoths and Moors, and today the centre of Cascais is an intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés, shops and smart hotels.”

The travel expert also highlighted that “excellent beaches within easy reach of Cascais” make it an attractive proposition.

One delighted holidaymaker shared their experience on TripAdvisor, describing the Portuguese town as “a little slice of heaven”.

They gushed: “Cascais is amazing, beautiful coastline, stunning, immaculate beaches and a really charming town. The people are lovely, and the food is out of this world!”

Simon also recommended Cassis in the south of France as another walkable gem, perfect for those seeking a winter escape.

Travel can affect our lives in many positive ways – and some holidays really can be life-changing. We’d love to hear about trips that have changed you – perhaps it was a wellbeing retreat, a learning or yoga holiday, going fishing or sailing for the first time, or a long-distance hike or kayaking adventure, in the UK and Europe. Tell us what you did and why it was so special.

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on Monday 12 January 2026 at 10am GMT

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here

Share your travel tip using the form below.

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. For more information please see our terms of service and privacy policy.

If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.

STANDING on a small wooden platform way up in the treetops, I don’t want to make the leap.

My next foothold will be another ledge high in the branches, about 50 metres away.

To reach it, I need to hurl myself on a zip wire over a lake, praying that my harness will hold after all the croissants I’ve demolished since arriving in France.

I’m sorely tempted to back out, but my husband Chris is chasing my tail. If

I don’t jump soon, he’ll come flying into me feet-first.

Meanwhile, our four-year-old twins are safely on the ground, playing games and crafting in the kids’ club.

READ MORE ON FAMILY HOLIDAYS

PARK IN

English holiday village next to little-known theme park named one of the UK’s best

SPLASH OUT

World’s tallest waterslide is in winter sun city and park tickets are just £21

And to think we could have spent this precious, child-free morning sipping panache (French shandy) at our holiday parc’s lakeside brasserie . . .

But here we are, clipped on to the treetop adventure course at Eurocamp’s Domaine des Ormes, near Dol-de-Bretagne in Brittany.

The parc is within easy reach of ferry ports including Saint Malo and Roscoff, making it ideal for those not wanting to travel too far.

But there are far better reasons to stay here, including the pretty woodland setting, impressive range of activities and epic pool complex, complete with waterslides and lazy river.

For my family of four, this is our first Eurocamp experience.

I’d heard good things about the outdoor holiday specialist from friends raving about their bakeries and swimming pools. And it was time to see it for myself.

With two weeks to spare, we chose a two-point holiday, opting for a first week on France’s west coast before a second in Brittany.

Our adventure began on the overnight ferry to France. While the kids excitedly leapt between bunks in our cabin, I watched through the porthole as Plymouth slipped away beneath the sunset.

The next morning, we woke up in the French port of Roscoff, known for its pink onions and crepes, before clambering into our car and starting the six-and-a-half-hour drive south.

Our destination for the first week was Eurocamp’s La Pinede parc, near the seaside resort of Les Mathes in Charente-Maritime.

Sandwiched between the Atlantic and the Gironde estuary, the campsite has a laid-back vibe, with holiday homes scattered through the pine forest, as well as entertainment on tap for all ages.

Outdoor yoga

Pulling up outside our two-bed holiday home, complete with private decking, I quickly notice how relaxed our new neighbours seem.

Children cycle between pools to get their final swim before bedtime (which is much later than at home).

Parents sit on the terraces of their cabins playing cards and drinking red wine (which costs less than a tenner for a decent supermarket bottle).

Barbecues sizzle, swimwear is hung out to dry, more wine is poured.

Later, families stroll to the evening entertainment, which ranges from cabaret shows to “full-moon parties”.

We adjust very easily to the slowed-down pace at La Pinede, ditching our car and hiring bikes to get around.

Each morning, I cycle to the on-site shop to buy croissants and local melons for breakfast, loving the simplicity of it.

Our days are mainly spent together as a family, whooshing down slides in the aquapark, playing mini golf and eating on our deck (although there is also a restaurant for those times when we cannot be bothered to cook).

One afternoon, we took the kids on tagalong bikes, pedalling four miles to La Palmyre beach for ice creams and sandcastle-building.

But, for tired parents, the free children’s club for ages four to 17 offers some very welcome respite.

While the waves near La Coubre Lighthouse beckon for surf-mad Chris, I’m keen for something more zen, in the shape of outdoor yoga.

Chloe Mafana is a local yoga teacher who runs weekly classes at La Pinede (€10 per person).

And after an hour of mindful breathing and stretching, and a final relaxation to the sound of Chloe’s wind chimes, I feel blissed out.

Our second week has a different feel. Around 250 miles north of La Pinede, Domaine des Ormes is a bigger parc with even more activities, including wakeboarding, archery and horse riding.

Nearby attractions include the fortified abbey of Mont Saint-Michel.

While Chris and I were impressed by its 12th-century cobbled streets and bay views, the kids were wowed by the fact this tidal island inspired the kingdom in Disney movie Tangled.

Although Domaine des Ormes is a bigger site, the simple pleasures of our first week — evening barbecues, children playing outside and chilled-out parents sipping wine — were still there.

But back on that treetop ledge, way above ground, I felt far from chilled out.

With no option to turn back, though, I took a deep breath and leapt forward into the void.

The line caught me and I picked up speed, seeing the woods and lake rush by beneath me.

Then I started to get into it, jumping from successive platforms with increasing confidence.

After countless whoops, the final platform zoomed into view — and it was all over too soon.

Adrenaline rushed through me and my heart was pumping as I unclipped from the course.

My feet may have been back on the ground, but I was still on a high.

The Canary Islands has been included in a ‘No List’ for travel following protests against overtourism in recent years – with holiday lets blamed for rising house prices

The Canary Islands are a firm favourite for Brit holidaymakers thanks to their year-round sun and luxurious resorts.

However, in recent years local residents have launched protests against overtourism on the Spanish islands. People blame rising house prices on holiday lets, and have been left furious about the environmental impact of millions of visitors.

‘Tourists go home’ has been spotted graffitied on locations across the Canary Islands. The slogan has also popped up in popular destinations on the Spanish mainland.

This all led to the Canary Islands being included in a ‘No List’ by travel guide Fodor’s Travel for 2025 – and it’s on the list again for 2026. The publication clarified that the list is “not a call for boycott”, but the aim is “to highlight destinations where tourism is placing unsustainable pressures on the land and local communities“, Manchester Evening News reports.

It said the key issues highlighted by the list are “overtouristed sites, fragile ecosystems and communities struggling to stay afloat”. Fodor’s said: “The No List serves a gentle but pointed nudge to ease up on a spot for now–not forever–and give a rest to any location that clearly needs a breather.”

Regarding the Canary Islands, it cited that tourism has soared in 2025, with 7.8million visitors arriving in the islands and more than 27million airport passengers processed in the first half of the year, a five per cent increase on the previous years. Fodor’s points out that tourism contributes to more than a third of the Canary Islands’ GDP and employs roughly 40 per cent of its population, “yet success comes at a price”.

The impact of visitors on traffic, housing (such as driving up rental prices), damage to the natural environment and water scarcity is felt by the local population. The guide said: “Academics and experts warn that the combination of rising visitor numbers and a warming climate is unsustainable.”

It added: “For many Canarians, tourism is both a lifeline and a burden. The islands rely heavily on visitor spending, yet locals often see little of it. “

Last year other Spanish destinations Barcelona and Majorca, however, they have not been featured this year. But Fodor’s adds this doesn’t mean that tourists should descend upon them in their thousands. The publication said: “These destinations haven’t been magically cured–they’re still mired in challenges–but the usual suspects too often pull focus from other hotspots in need of a break.”

Alongside the Canary Islands, Antarctica, Glacier National Park (USA), Isola Sacra (Italy), The Jungfrau Region (Switzerland), Mexico City (Mexico), Mombasa (Kenya), Montmartre (Paris, France) also feature in this year’s ‘No List’.

Strategic planning could help UK workers ‘stack’ their annual leave days around bank holidays to stretch standard holiday entitlement into significantly longer blocks of time, subject to employer approval

As the festive cheer begins to fade and the dreary ordeal of January looms, we’re all on the hunt for a silver lining to brighten up the year ahead.

This glimmer of hope might just be found in recent research that reveals how many of us could potentially maximise our holiday allowance next year – bagging up to 63 days off by using only 28 days of annual leave.

Most UK employees, who work a standard five-day week, are typically entitled to about 28 days of annual leave. However, with some clever planning, astute workers can ‘stack’ their annual leave days to extend their standard holiday entitlement into considerably longer periods of time.

The experts at TargetJobs have detailed how you can effectively double your annual holiday entitlement with a bit of careful manoeuvring.

Do keep in mind though, that your colleagues might also be privy to similar advice, so you’ll need to act swiftly to secure those prime holiday dates before someone else beats you to the punch!

The first holiday you should aim to book is tomorrow (Friday, January 2) – although this might be a tad last-minute for some. Taking into account weekends and bank holidays, this could see you enjoying a four-day break for the price of just one day’s leave.

Next on the agenda is your Easter break. This year, Good Friday falls on April 3, followed by Easter Monday on April 6.

By booking from Monday, 30 March to Thursday, 2 April and then from Tuesday, 7 April to Friday, 10 April, you’ll only use eight days of leave but score a whopping 16 days off work.

You could use this time to soak up some spring sunshine as resorts in southern Europe begin to heat up. Alternatively, if lounging on the beach isn’t your cup of tea, you might still be able to fit in a late-season ski trip at high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens in France’s Tarentaise Valley.

The following month, there will be two official bank holidays. If you book four days off over each, you’ll bag a nine-day break.

That’s plenty of time to jet off to the Mediterranean, or even further afield. If your budget allows, you could squeeze in a week in the Caribbean.

The final bank holiday of 2026 falls on Monday, 31 August, which can give you an additional nine-day break, if you take four days of leave immediately afterwards.

Finally, fast-forwarding to next Christmas, the big day lands on a Friday. As Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, that day off is moved to Monday, 28 December. This means you could use just seven days worth of leave to secure yourself 16 consecutive days off.

You could embrace the festive spirit with a snowy getaway in Lapland, or dodge the season entirely and opt for some winter sun.

Bear in mind, though, popular dates like Christmas and Easter tend to fill up quickly, so it’s best to put in your leave request as early as possible.

Additionally, some employers may block out busy periods, prohibiting you from booking individual days off or even outright refusing to permit staff absence during certain times.

Package holidays have become the go-to option for many Brits, but the first package holiday in 1841 was worlds away from a sizzling trip to Spain – and passengers only travelled 11 miles from home

As the festive decorations are packed away and Brits brace themselves for a dreary, rain-soaked January, many will be planning their summer getaways. When it comes to chasing the sun, Brits have long loved the ease of a package holiday.

ABTA data reveals that 62% of people who ventured abroad last year opted for a package holiday, bundling together flights and accommodation with extras from coach travel to car hire and dining packages.

The surge in package holidays has gone hand in hand with the rising popularity of overseas destinations. So, you might assume that first package breaks involved jetting off to sunny Costa Blanca or the chic south of France.

However, the origins of the package holiday are far more modest, and there’s one man to thank next time you’re basking in an all-inclusive in Alicante or lounging in Lanzarote, reports the Express.

Thomas Cook and the birth of the package holiday

The first package holiday in 1841 was a rather tame event. A Baptist preacher named Thomas Cook chartered a train and organised a trip for his fellow temperance movement members, advocates of abstaining from alcohol.

For a mere shilling, passengers could journey the 11-miles from Leicester to a temperance rally in Loughborough, complete with a cup of tea and a ham sandwich to enjoy on the train.

It may have been a modest start, but spurred on by the sale of 485 tickets, Thomas established Thomas Cook & Son, which became a household name in package holidays for many years. The entrepreneur recognised that railway companies offered discounts for bulk bookings or charters, and the public appreciated the ease of booking a package with everything organised for them.

Following his whirlwind journey to Leicester, Thomas Cook expanded his offerings with further trips across the Midlands, before branching out to London for the Great Exhibition. In 1855, he ventured overseas, leading tour groups to Belgium, Germany, and France, and in 1863, he introduced the first tour of Switzerland.

Opening up the world

Given the popularity of his European excursions, Thomas Cook presented his most ambitious itinerary yet in 1872. For 200 guineas, roughly equivalent to £25,000 today, travellers could embark on a 222-day tour encompassing the USA, Japan, China, India, and Egypt.

Around this time, Thomas also pioneered the use of circular notes, later known as traveller’s cheques, making it easier for holidaymakers to spend money abroad.

By 1888, Thomas Cook & Sons had established a global presence with offices worldwide, including three in Australia and one in New Zealand. By 1890, they were selling tickets to over three million travellers annually.

Previously, travel was a luxury only the wealthy could afford, but many of Cook’s new clientele were from the burgeoning middle classes. France, Germany, and Switzerland were popular destinations, and packages often included cultural excursions to museums, theatre and opera visits, in addition to outdoor pursuits like mountain climbing.

Fast forward to 1949, when the first modern package holiday, as we know it today, was introduced. Vladimir Raitz, a Moscow-born businessman who had relocated to London, was holidaying in Corsica when a business associate challenged him to attract more Brits to the island.

Vladimir calculated that for £35 per person (equivalent to around £1,100 in today’s money), he could charter a plane and offer British holidaymakers two weeks of sun-soaked bliss on the French island.

Despite facing some hurdles, Vladimir’s offer of a flight, tent accommodation, and twice-daily meals with meat proved irresistible to those still grappling with post-war austerity. The first charter flights took off in May 1949.

Vladimir went on to found Horizon Holidays, the first in a long line of package holiday companies promising sun-drenched getaways.

By 1950, the post-war holiday surge saw a million Brits venturing abroad, and in 1957, the now-obsolete British European Airways capitalised on this trend by offering flights to Valencia, situated approximately two hours north of Alicante. To market this fresh destination, the nickname Costa Blanca was created, encompassing the towns and cities along the 120-mile coastline.

During this period, a quaint fishing village named Benidorm was witnessing a decline in its fishing industry and needed a new income source. The local council, seizing an opportunity, began approving new developments.

In 1956, the General Plan was initiated, which moulded the destination that Brits adore today. While the area had been a tourist hotspot for some time, this plan incorporated more high-rise buildings and large public spaces, completely changing the skyline of the Spanish city.

1950 also marked the debut of the first resort to offer a version of the modern all-inclusive. Club Med launched a resort in Alcúdia, Majorca, where holidaymakers could have all their meals included in the price.

Tourists, primarily from Belgium and France, stayed in tents or beach huts and meals were a communal event, yet it laid the groundwork for a popular style of holiday that persists to this day.

Golden age

In the 1960s, a mix of factors like improved flight accessibility, increased wages and more paid holidays led to Brits swapping their local getaways for foreign adventures. Many embarked on their first overseas journeys, basking in the sun-soaked climes of Spain, Greece, and Italy, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and sampling exotic cuisines.

READ MORE: Three cities where boozy stag dos are ‘more popular than ever’READ MORE: Ryanair passenger ‘flung out of our seats’ during horror turbulence at 35,000ft

Fast forward to today, and not much has changed with package holidays. A week or two under the sun remains the summer highlight for many Brits.

While new destinations have emerged, early favourites like Costa Blanca and Majorca continue to draw crowds. And even though the internet has opened up a world of travel opportunities, the continuing popularity of package holidays shows that sometimes all you need for a great holiday is a bit of sunshine and a comfy sunlounger.

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

AS the Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor, I have racked up the air miles – hopping on a plane at least once a month.

And I know the best times to visit cheap destinations all over the world, as well as how to find those £15 flights and the best free attractions to visit.

Choosing the best month to visit a place can be tricky when it comes to balancing the best weather and affordable flights.

So I’ve broken it down month by month, explaining which destination to visit and when – ranging from short haul city breaks to longer haul winter sun.

I’ve even thrown in some of the best free things to do there if you’d like to keep to a budget.

And with some flights from as little as £15 each way – it’s hard to say no, isn’t it?

January – Senegal

Let’s face it, January is a hard month for us all. We’re tired, we’ve overeaten and we are counting down the days until our next paycheck.

But one of the best places to escape the misery in is beautiful Senegal.

Not only is there no risk of jet lag due to us being in the same time zone, but you can guarantee 30C weather when the rest of the UK is freezing.

It is one of the more affordable mid-haul destinations with good weather, where you can nab an all-inclusive package with TUI for £690 each – and that’s with your flights, hotels and drinks.

TUI also have some £0 deposit schemes if you needed time pre-Christmas to save.

One of the best day trips is from Dakar to Goree Island, a former slave trading post now home to a museum and street markets.

Otherwise see it as fly and flop destination, and make the most of that heat from your hotel sunlounger.

TUI has seven-night all-inclusive packages with flights from £689pp.

Free things to do:

• African Renaissance Monument
• The Mosque Of The Divinity
• Dakar Railway Station

February – Marrakech

The Moroccan city of Marrakech starts to hit highs of 20C from February onwards.

The main draw is the iconic souks, where you can pick up homeware and clothing bargains.

Be prepared to haggle – locals say you should get items for 30 per cent of the starting price. But if that feels a bit mean, try and knock off at least 20 per cent.

If you need a break from the chaos, head to Le Jardin Secret for some peaceful respite.

Or take to the roof for some amazing views of the plaza, a popular one being on top of the El Fenn hotel.

EasyJet has flights from London Stansted, London Luton and Liverpool to Marrakech from £14.99.

Free things to do

• Walking tour
• Dar Si Said, Museum of Moroccan Arts (free tickets on fridays for students and teachers)
• Moroccan Culinary Art Museum (MCAM)
• Jemma el Fna Square
• Koutoubia Mosque

March – Seville

As one of Spain‘s hottest cities, you can expect some warm weather in Seville, even in March.

Squeeze into Bar Alfafa with the locals for a cheap breakfast of coffee and pan con tomate for a few euros, before heading over to El Rinconcillo, Seville’s oldest bar, for a cheap glass of wine.

Time your visit to catch the Sunday art market outside the gallery too, where you can pick up some beautiful paintings.

Otherwise, if you want to find the best local food spots, book the Secret Food Tour which takes you to some of the city’s finest restaurants and cafes.

Ryanair has flights to Seville from both London Luton and London Stansted from £16.99.

Free things to do

• Royal Alcazar Palace (free tickets for last hour)
• Seville Cathedral (free tickets for the last hour)
• Salsa shows at Jardines de Murill

April – Tokyo

One of the most popular times to visit Tokyo is during cherry blossom season.

But if you head there just after, so late April, you can see much cheaper hotels and flights while still enjoying some of the world famous Sakura trees in some of the parks.

Face the hustle and bustle of the iconic Shibuya Crossing, before a some peace and quiet at the Meiji Shrine.

Try your luck at Akihabara Street which is lined with games and arcades, although one of the most fun things to do is the go karts through the city.

My favourite spot? Harajuku Gyoza-Ro for the crispiest dumplings, followed by Aoyama Flower Market, a tea shop-come-garden-centre.

British Airways has four-night holidays with return flights from £1,066pp.

Free things to do:

• Ueno Park
• Sensoji Temple
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Room
• Toyosu Fish Market
• Sumo Museum
• The Ad Museum

May – Singapore

The month of May is just after the popular February-April season, so you can still expect good weather but cheaper flights for Singapore.

The city is the perfect stopover destination, but there is more than enough to do here to make a full trip out of it.

One of the best ways to get around the city is a side car tour, with stops along the way at some of the top attractions.

Visit speakeasy-like Jigger + Pony, named one of the world’s best bars, or Long Bar for the famous Singapore Sling.

For a breakfast with the locals, stop at Joo Chiat, for a ‘prata’ (crispy pancake) with fish curry for about £1, or get chilli crab-cracking at Keng Eng Kee (free bibs are necessary).

British Airways has four-night holidays with return flights from £791pp.

Free things to do:

• Henderson Wave Bridge
• The Merlion
• Garden by the Bay

June – Puerto Rico

A destination that unexpectedly blew me away was Puerto Rico.

One of the most fun times to visit is on June 23, to celebrate La Noche de San Juan.

Expect big street parties, fireworks and people running into the sea at midnight for ‘good luck’.

Outside of this, the food scene is a must, with a mix of Caribbean and American influences (try the Mallorca, a sweet bread with ham and cheese, followed by a ‘beermosa’).

And of course, being the home of Bacardi, a trip to the museum is a must for your fix of pina coladas.

Or head over to Flamenco Beach, often named one of the best beaches in the world.

JetBlue has flights to Puerto Rico via New York from £486pp.

Free things to do:

• Flamenco Beach
• El Yunque National Forest
• Puerto Rico Museum (free from 5pm to 8pm on Thursdays)
• Herminio Torres Grillo Tobacco Museum
• Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

July – El Gouna

Families visiting Egypt will be heading straight to Hurghada in the summer months if they want good weather and affordable resorts.

But travel in the first few weeks and head to El Gouna and you can skip the prices and the crowds.

Just 30 minutes from Hurghada, the man-made, gated lagoon island is extremely safe.

It’s also where you can find some very affordable five star resorts, spa treatments and some laidback luxury on a budget.

Loveholidays has seven nights all inclusive with return flights from £399pp.

Free things to do:

• Abu Tig Marina
• Zeytuna Beach
• Fanadir Marina

August – Gothenburg

One of the best alternative city breaks to visit in the height of summer, in my opinion, is Gothenburg.

In August, it hosts the Way Out West music festival, and is a great alternative to some of the busier European alternatives.

It’s also not a camping festival so you can head straight to your hotel after.

One of the quaintest places to explore outside of the festival is Haga district, lined with cosy cafes and pretty shops.

Ryanair has return flights from London Stansted to Gothenburg from £15.

Free things to do:

• Museum of World Culture (free tickets for under 19)
• Natural History Museum (free tickets for under 19)
• Museum of Art (free tickets for under 25)
• Slottsskogen city park
• Frihamnen Public Sauna
• Gothenburg Opera (free concerns in foyer on some Saturdays)

September – Milan

Milan gears up for its Fashion Week in September, but if you can avoid the expensive week (normally the last of the month) then it makes for a great post-summer city break.

Head straight out of town to Navigli, the trendy canal lined with bars and restaurants.

Ignore the tourist crowd and head down one of the side streets to Iter, a cosy bar where you can sample local wines alongside a big bowl of olives.

They also own Bar43, named one of the world’s best and more an immersive experience than a bar (although you’ll need to book a few weeks in advance).

Visit on the last Sunday of the month, for the huge flea market Mercatone dell’Antiquariato.

EasyJet has flights from Birmingham to Milan Linate from £16.99 while Wizz Air has flights from London Luton to Milan Malpensa from £18.

Free things to do:

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• Parco Sempione
• Brera Botanical Garden
• Hangar Bicocca
• Galleria d’Arte Moderna (free first Sunday of the month)
• Museum of Natural History (free first Sunday of the month)

October – Madrid

Madrid is great any time of year but you can also expect good weather in October without the summer crowds.

Visit on a Sunday to shop for hours at El Rastro, one of Europe‘s biggest street markets.

It’s bustling and busy but a great place for some bargain clothes and jewellery.

One of my favourite ways to spend a few hours is to relax at Sala Equis, a former adult cinema now home to a bar and live music.

Don’t forget to grab some Spanish omelette at Pez Tortilla with a glass of vino tinto (red wine) too – you’ll be dining with the locals so make sure to brush up on your Spanish.

Ryanair has flights from Bristol to Madrid from £14.99 while easyJet has flight from London Gatwick from £18.99.

Free things to do:

• Atocha Train Station’s Tropical Garden
• Museo de Prado (Free tickets from 6pm to 8pm all week or 5pm to 7pm on Sundays)
• Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace (free to watch on Wednesday and Saturday at 11am)
• Río Park
• Museo Reina Sofía (free tickets for under 18, over 65 or students)

November – Lille

Lille is the perfect autumn/winter escape without much effort needed, being the first stop in Europe on the Eurostar.

The manageable city has it all – from pretty Sunday markets to delicious waffles (try the famous chestnut filled ones at Meert).

Hop in a Citroën 2CV for a very fun vintage car tour of the city, before ending at NU rooftop for views over the train station.

Eurostar has tickets from London St Pancras to Lille from £39.

Free thing to do:

• Palais des Beaux-Art (free on the first Sunday of the month)
• Grand Place
• Lille-Saint-Sauveur Station
• Porte de Paris

December – Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of the best places to get in the festive mood.

Wrap up warm and get ready to cafe hop, from the porridge specialists Grod to the Scandi brunch Atelier September.

Tivoli Garden is great for fairytale fans who want to feel the Disney magic without the price, with twinkly lights, rides and stalls.

Make sure to stay at Hotel SP34, which has a free wine and cheese hour every evening.

Ryanair has flights from Bristol to Copenhagen from £14.99 while easyJet has London Gatwick flights from £18.99.

Free things to do:

• Bakke theme park
• Explore the district of Christiania
• Frederiksberg park
• The National Museum of Denmark
• The Marble Church

HEIDI Klum is up to her gold tricks as she takes a dip in the sea in a shiny bikini.

The 52-year-old model was pictured enjoying the sun, sea and sand in the Caribbean island of St Barts.

She was also seen holding hands with her musician husband Tom Kaulitz, 36.

Kaulitz is a German musician who has been dating Heidi since March 2018.

The pair were first spotted together on 14 March leaving Delilah in West Hollywood.

Last month, The Sun told how Heidi and fellow model Stella Maxwell took a pet dog for walkies on the catwalk.

SILVER SIRENS

Heidi Klum, 52, and Stella Maxwell, 35, stun in silver as they film on beach

HELLO HEIDI!

Heidi Klum goes topless in just thong bikini bottoms on St Barts beach

The pair were both glammed up in silver while strutting with Stella’s pet Trip, a chihuahua terrier mix.

They were on set filming for Germany’s Next Topmodel series in LA.

Heidi wore a plunging gown with a see-through skirt, while Stella, 35, was in a slashed minidress.

Stella calls Trip her “most treasured possession”.

A week previously, Heidi changed tack and joined forces with Robbie Williams at the World Cup 2026 draw in Washington DC.

She donned two different dresses, switching up from a red sparkling number to a black blouse and diamante skirt.

She hosted the World Cup draw alongside comedian Kevin Hart and actor Danny Ramirez at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC.

And the supermodel, who previously took part in the 2006 tournament draw in her native Germany, was among the first names on the red carpet.

As Heidi switched into a third dress for the actual draw ceremony – this being a glittering gold number – things seemingly went downhill.

MOLLY-MAE Hague and Tommy Fury have jetted to an exclusive resort for the super rich – splashing £6,000 a night to relax in the Maldives over the festive break.

The luxury trip includes a stay at the One & Only Reethi Rah resort, where villas lead straight into the Indian Ocean.

Previous A-list guests include Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich, Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe, The Beckhams and former TopShop owner Phillip Green.

Molly-Mae and Tommy booked into a Grand Water Villa that costs £6,000 a night over the New Year period.

They opted to forgo a private pool, likely to keep a close eye on their two-year-old daughter Bambi.

The resort is nestled on North Male Atoll with villas having access into the beautiful Indian Ocean.

READ MORE ON MOLLY AND TOMMY

FESTIVE FURYS

Molly-Mae Hague reveals Christmas plans at £5m Cheshire mansion –

BITING BACK

Tommy Fury dad-shamed for saying he taught Bambi to ‘use fists’ instead of bite

The resport was previously voted the best in the world 2007 by Conde Nast Traveller Magazine.

Tommy showed fans the jaw-dropping views from their sitting room, opening the doors onto a private veranda.

Molly-Mae also revealed their new digs on her Story, showing Tommy and Bambi in the sea.

She penned: “Can we stay forever.”

It is her seventh trip this year after a booming 2025 for the Maebe fashion founder.

The star was called out over the summer for moaning about “not having enough fun”.

But Molly-Mae flew to St Moritz in January, Budapest in April, Dubai in May, Disneyland Paris via private jet in May, Turkey in August, and St Tropez again via private jet in August.

The star also enjoyed a motorhome holiday to the Isle of Man in July.

However, many of her trips are for work – and she often shares a glimpse of the action, including photo shoots in lavish locations like St Moritz earlier this year.

The social media mogul has seen the cash come flowing in after launching her brand, Maebe.

New accounts for her firm MMH International Ltd have laid bare just how much money she is making.

The millionaire Love Island star made around £300,000 in profit for the 12 months to the end of March this year.

Currently, cash deposits in the firm stand at £231,155, having risen from £65,071 last year.

The firm’s documents also go on to reveal that Molly currently has around £700,000 worth of stock.

At present, Molly currently sells a variety of items on Maebe, with some items such as jackets costing £150, as well as jeans and dresses which range up to £90.

CORNWALL has long been a favourite among UK holiday destinations, thanks to its stunning beaches, fascinating history and natural inland beauty.

So if you’re considering cooking a trip tot he popular South West county this year, take a look at some of our favourite local stays in recent years.

How The Sun’s travel team reviews accommodation

This list includes Cornish hotels, holiday parks, cottages and campsites our team has visited and fallen in love with.

Some journalists have travelled with their families while others have journeyed solo.

When it comes to picking our favourites we account for everything from costs to location, design, hospitality and more.

We don’t just look at what’s trending but those little-known gems that will stay with you in the years to come.

WEE BARGAIN

Beachfront property in Cornwall is selling for just £20k – but there’s a catch

AWAY WE GO

Best dates to bag cheap staycations in 2024 revealed

And to keep this article fresh with the latest accommodation we will regularly update it.

Best places to stay in Cornwall

Best luxury holiday home

8 Woodlands, Newquay

A retreat so large it could fit a family of eight, the adequately named 8 Woodlands towers over a stunning and quiet estuary.

Perched on top of a cliff, this mammoth contemporary holiday home was the ideal country escape for our beauty editor Tara Ledden.

Even with seven of her nearest and dearest with her, there was never a shortage of space.

Just 30 seconds from the back door, they could dip their toes in the sandy estuary bed or pump up a paddleboard (also provided) and brave the waters.

The surrounding nature is not the only luxury this stay has to offer – the pad comes with a lush garden complete with its own hot tub and barbecue.

Embellished with coastal-inspired interiors, families will be fully equipped with a kitchen, dining area, Smart TVs, Sonos speakers and child safety gates on each of the three floors.

The holiday home is not as remote as its views suggest – visitors can reach Newquay’s high street with just a five-minute drive or walk for 20 minutes.

Best holiday park for families with dogs

Parbola Holiday Park, Hayle

There’s no more authentic family stay in Cornwall than at Parbola Holiday Park.

Hugged by 16 acres of woodland and located just a ten-minute drive from Hayle Town, this stay gives holidaymakers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural haven and a plethora of activities.

Writing for The Sun, Kate Jackson and Irfan Cemal described Parbola Holiday Park as perfect for families.

Highlights for their children included the heated outdoor swimming pool, a box of balls and bats to borrow and the Safari Tent, a place equipped with board games and books.

Meanwhile, the adults enjoyed the small but appreciated touches such as a package of tea, milk and delicious Cornish biscuits as they arrived or the wood-fired pizza fan that visits every Monday.

And to add to the list of this holiday park‘s many charms, Parbola is also dog-friendly.

Speaking about her stay Kate said: “The Parbola holiday park in Cornwall caters for people like us.”

Parbola offers the best of both worlds. Away from the usual hotspots, five miles inland from the north coast, it provides a haven that, despite its obvious popularity, was always peaceful.”

Best hotel for food

St Tudy Inn, St Tudy

After an action-packed day on your feet, The St Tudy Inn is the perfect spot to sit back by a roaring fire and enjoy some heart-warming grub.

With the appearance of a traditional 16th-century stone cottage, many would not assume that some diners travel over 40 minutes to just eathere.

During her visit, writer for The Sun Julia Richardson relished in dishes cooked by head chef James Lean, who used to work for Gordon Ramsey.

Expect exquisite sea-themed cuisine such as hake, cuttlefish and chorizo stew or steamed mussels.

And food is not the only thing this cosy Cornish pub has to offer – just across the car park, a converted barn holds four charming rooms paired with tartan bedspreads and patterned cushions.

Best hotel in Newquay

Newquay Beach Hotel, Newquay

Named Beached Front Hotel of the Year in South-West England 2024 by Travel & Hospitality Awards, the boutique stay rests just opposite Newquay‘s main beach – Tolcarne.

It’s here that our boxing reporter Wally Downes Jr relaxed after a stop at the Newquay Zoo.

With stellar beach views and an art deco interior – this stay is a feast for the eyes, from the designer velvet scallop chairs to the geometric glass.

And if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, you will not be left hungry.

Newquay Beach Hotels offers numerous classic dishes as well as a fully stocked cocktail bar.

A nice extra is the Abangamba playroom for the kids.

Best holiday cottage for families

Bosinver Farm Cottages, Trelowth

You might be tempted to stick to Cornwall’s coasts but its inland valleys are just as impressive as its cliffs.

Tucked away between the quaint town of St Austell and the seaside village of Mevagissey is this hidden gem.

Here you’ll find Bosinver’s Farm Cottage – a set of 20 luxury self-catering cottages full of magical Cornish spirit.

The cute accommodation Features Writer Emma Pietras stayed in was made of straw and wood bales and its beams were taken from an old hospital – all of which added to the location’s timeless feel.

Paired with a hot tub and stunning valley views this is the perfect place to kick back and relax.

A particular highlight is the £475 worth of included activities such as a pool, animal feeding, pony rides, and outdoor and indoor play.

It is no surprise that these pads won Visit England’s Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in 2017.

In her review, Pietras had this to say: “As a mum to a toddler, previous holidays have been far from stress-free, but when you’re surrounded by 35 acres of meadows, landscaped gardens and woodland, it’s hard not to feel relaxed.”

It feels as if the owners have thought of every little detail.”

Best hotel with a sea view

Polurrian on the Lizard, Mullion

The Polurrian on the Lizard was once the vacation spot of Winston Churchill.

More recently this beautiful piece of history was visited by The Sun writer Ellie Ross who dubbed it as ‘one of Cornwall’s best kept secrets’.

With its glamorous white exterior looming over the lizard peninsula, this enchanting stay boasts a secluded beach and sea views so good you might feel like you are in a movie.

The 1890s hotel also comes along with a tennis court clifftop garden, playground and even indoor and outdoor pools.

A great way to watch the sunset over the sea is at its dog-friendly restaurant which serves everything from fish and chips to wood-fired pizza.

And according to Ellie, the cocktails were a standout.

Best spa hotel

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay

With views that rival the Maldives or the Caribbean, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa overlooks one of Newquay’s more private beaches.

Visitors will feel worlds away sipping speciality cocktails at the hotel’s Bay Bar – a spot particularly good for watching the sunset.

This adults-only hotel is where Sun writer Simon Copeland spent two tranquil nights.

And that was in part credit to Fistral Beach Hotel’s luxurious spa that offered rejuvenating treatments he said “wouldn’t be out of place in some Balinese temple”.

All spa day packages included a pool, steam room, hot tub, sauna and refreshments.

Equally as lavish as the spa is the hotel’s beautifully presented food that nods to Cornish cuisine with innovative twists.

Best spot for camping

Trevornick Holiday Park, Holywell

While Cornwall’s buccaneering pirates and smugglers are long gone, the spirit of adventure can still be found in camping.

At least that’s what one of our writers found out on their trip to Trevornick Holiday Park.

Located on Cornwall’s north coast, you can set up a tent not far from Holywell’s pristine sandy beach.

Or if wrestling with a tent is off-putting, Trevornick Holiday Park also offers readymade tents.

These come fully equipped with lights, and even a fridge and TV.

Expect action-packed fun, as this holiday park not only includes a pool and spa but also a golf course, soft play centre, arcade and even a surf school.

As our writer soon realised: “The only problem was there simply wasn’t time to do everything the park had to offer.

“But it’s such a treasure that, like pirate ghosts, we’re sure to return.”

Best spot for glamping

Tremeer Farm, Lanteglos-by-fowey

A more unconventional retreat but nevertheless more rewarding, Tremeer Farm is the ideal spot to return to basics.

Expect jaw-dropping nature, animals, playing games, an open fire, and a clear night sky.

And together with the elegant white 18th-century Mongolian-style yurts to sleep in, you might never want to leave.

Tremeer Farm’s owners have thought of everything – from a hot tub to a kitchen equipped with cooking basics, a hammock, BBQ, fire pit and even a cosy wood-burning stove.

As The Sun Online Travel found out there is no better way to immerse yourself in Cornwall’s beauty.

If you have a car, the stay is just a stone’s throw away from the untouched fishing village of Polperro and otherworldly Lantivet Bay

Although travelling to Cornwall during its peak season is a no-brainer, we also recommend visiting this gorgeous peninsula in the winter.

Cornwall has a reputation for being a expensive destination – here we break down how you can visit on a budget thanks to our Hols from £9.50.

For a family-friendly holiday, Wales has it all.

No matter the age – or the weather – there are attractions to suit, from adrenaline-fuelled water parks to museums that will ignite their passion for science. And the best bit? You don’t need to break the bank. 

If you’re heading to North Wales, you’ve got the epic natural playpark of Snowdonia to explore, as well as thrilling zip wire rides through quarries, such as Zip World Penrhyn Quarry for a treat.

Or how about taking mini marine biologists to spot sea creatures at the Anglesey Sea Zoo?

Meanwhile, South Wales is home to the capital – you could head to Bute Park for a picnic (tip: grab some traditional Welsh cakes from Bakestones) or see the Norwegian Church where children’s author Roald Dahl was christened (free to visit). 

The Cardiff Bay area also has free things to do on a day out, like scooting the Barrage embankment to the skate park and taking a selfie at the Enormous Crocodile bench. 

But don’t just take our word for it. We’ve chatted to Wales experts and Sun readers who have taken £9.50 Holidays in Wales for their favourite best family attractions located near our £9.50 Holiday parks.

Here’s what they said… 

Fun on the farm

Chantelle Hawkins, Guest Experience Manager at Trecco Bay, recommends Wiggleys Fun Farm for families.

She said: “It’s about 15 minutes away from our park and is a really good day out. They’ve got indoor and outdoor play areas as well as animal paddocks, sit-on tractors and a cafe.”

Open every day except Christmas and Boxing Day, the park is great value, costing from £4 for kids and from £2 for adults. 

Big thrills at the Aqua Park

Steph Powell, a parent blogger from South Wales, recommends taking older water babies to let off steam at the Aqua Park in Cardiff Bay (suitable from age eight upwards) with its inflatable slides, towers and “flip stations”.

There are plenty of wallet-friendly activities nearby for a family day out too.

Steph said: “In the summer holidays, Cardiff Bay Beach is free to enter, with rides and attractions for the whole family. We like the Bay and its surroundings, so usually we grab a coffee and stroll across Cardiff Bay Barrage.

“We enjoy the sea air, and taking in the views as we go.

There’s a sandy play park and skate park along the route, too. These days can be as cheap or expensive as you like. We often take a picnic so it only means covering parking, petrol and coffees/ice creams.”

Spark their imaginations

Chantelle Hawkins recommends Techniquest, a science attraction in Cardiff, around half an hour from Trecco Bay.

Kids of all ages can dive into science, technology and engineering via over 100 hands-on exhibits and live shows.

A good all-weather option, highlights include a planetarium, sensory garden and a Mini Metro Play Zone for under-sevens.

Chantelle said: “It’s really fun for all ages and isn’t expensive.” Tickets cost £11.81 for adults and £10 for children; free for under-threes.

Hit the market…and fairground at Tir Prince

Nicola Jones, 36, from Worsley, Manchester, has been visiting Lyons Robin Hood, on the coast of Rhyl in North Wales, since she was a child.

She said: “It’s somewhere where we’ve always gone. We usually go to Tir Prince Market because there’s loads of parking and a fairground next to it, which the kids love.”

The fairground has everything from rollercoasters for thrill seekers, to bumper cars and caterpillar rides for little ones.

The market is also a great place to pick up a bargain, with Pound shops and hundreds of stalls and a car boot area selling things like fresh food and second-hand household goods.  

Go wild at the zoo 

With stunning panoramic views of Colwyn Bay, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is within easy reach of Lyons Robin Hood, just a half-hour drive along the coast.

Nicola Jones said: “It’s a great option for children. They have some more unusual animals there, like tigers, camels and snow leopards.

“The site is mostly outdoors, so bring warm clothes and prepare for steps and narrow paths.”

Tip: if you’re taking a buggy, pick up a free map at the entrance showing pram-friendly routes. Tickets from £12.98pp for a family of four; free for under-threes.

HAVE you ever holidayed in Spain and wondered if you’re saying the right thing or if there’s an easy way to order at a restaurant? One language expert has the answers.

James Smith, who has been teaching Spanish for years and now runs Learn Spanish with James, has revealed to Sun Travel his top tips from ordering food to the lesser-known spots to visit in Spain.

When it comes to speaking Spanish, James says while you might not be an expert (yet), there’s no harm in trying.

Talking to Sun Travel, James said: “People make mistakes in English everyday, but when it’s in a foreign language they worry about sounding silly.

“In Spain they’d just be happy if you try, and you’ll get much better service if you’ve made an effort to speak Spanish with them rather than the expectation for them to speak English – that’s when you start getting free shots to the table.”

Here’s one way to do this in a restaurant, rather than just speaking English more loudly and slowly.

STREET SMARTS

I visit New York 6 times a year – my expert budget guide including £1 pizzas

SNOW WAY

All the best Xmas days out under £10 including FREE ice skating & Santa’s grotto

James explained: “In order to sound quite colloquial, in Spain, you can say ‘me das’ or ‘me pones’ followed by what you want to ask for which is a very Spanish thing.

“It means, ‘can you get me this?’ – in English we’d say ‘can I have?’. On its own if you say it without the context of food it would mean ‘you turn me on’. But you’ll hear it all the time in restaurants and it doesn’t mean that.

“So for example you can say, ‘me pones un café con leche por favor’ – and always remember to say thank you afterwards.”

When it comes to pronouncing words in Spanish, other top tips include pronouncing ‘ll’ like ‘y’ – which will come in handy the next time you order a tasty paella.

Another example is that a ‘z’ is actually a ‘th’ sound and so is the letter ‘c’.

When it comes to holidaying in Spain, most Brits will head to restaurants for fresh seafood and patatas bravas – but there’s one Spanish classic that James warns against ordering a lot of.

James explained: “I would say anywhere you’re going where you have tapas as your main meal, you’re probably going to get ripped off.”

He continued: “You’re meant to have small tapa with a drink – it originates from people trying to stop flies in the alcohol, so they’d give you a ‘tapa’ which means lid in Spanish and put it on top of their glass.

“It’s only meant to be a small dish but now people have jumped on that and charge £15 for tapas when in reality, it was a freebie with a drink. I never have it as a main meal.”

Another sign of an inauthentic restaurant, according to James, is if there are pictures on the menu – or you see Spanish cuisine alongside egg and chips.

If you want some good recommendations but aren’t sure where to find them, then James says just ask.

He told us: “I always ask the hotel staff for a place to go and eat where tourists usually don’t go and they’re more than happy to help you.”

Most Brits head to the likes of Barcelona and Madrid, but aside from the major cities, where would James suggest to visit?

He said: “The Hanging Houses of Cuenca, which are just outside of Madrid. I would say like always look for these kind of day trips when you visit like the main cities.

“Toledo is another one, in the south of Spain, and Cádiz has the best beaches in Spain.”

James has been learning Spanish since he was a child, having taken an interest playing football in rural Spain.

He then studied the language at university before heading off to Buenos Aires and Costa Rica.

Now, he runs Learn Spanish with James suitable for beginners, intermediate and advanced speakers – by signing up you can get a free email series with tips on how to learn the language.

Check out Learn Spanish with James and you can also keep up with James on TikTok.

Plus, one travel writer who’s visited 100 countries always goes back to these Spanish islands…

Robin McKelvie has travelled all over the world but reveals the place he goes back to the most are these Spanish islands…

“Despite having travelled to more than 100 countries in my time as a travel writer, the place I always return to is much closer to home. Having first visited the Canary Islands in Spain back in 1998, I’ve been back at least once a year on holiday.

“In Tenerife alone you can party at the world’s second biggest carnival, bash around the world’s best waterpark (Siam Park) and climb a mountain almost three times higher than Britain’s Ben Nevis.

“La Graciosa could be on a different planet. There are no tarmac roads, nevermind an airport.

“It’s a brilliant escape from the modern world, hiking and
cycling around rough tracks, up volcanoes and out to windswept beaches.

“Lanzarote and Gran Canaria boast Michelin star restaurants and foodies flock to Tenerife to dine at eight Michelin star restaurants.

“Tenerife boasts more Michelin stars than Wales and the Royal Hideaway Corales Resort has more stars than any hotel in Spain with four!

“And Tenerife just keeps winning stars. This year Il Bocconcino snared one. As a Scot I know when hiking is brilliant. Tenerife has massive variety, as does Gran Canaria, but my top tip is La Palma.

“I hiked around what the Canarios call ‘La Isla Bonita’ with Ramble
Worldwide earlier this year. It was a joy soaring with our friendly group of largely British retirees up volcanoes, through thick forests and down to the cobalt Atlantic.”

For more on Spain, one presenter from A Place In The Sun moved to the Costa del Sol where she spends evenings on the beach – but there’s a catch.

Plus, check out the 15 holiday habits Brits need to ditch from dodgy sangrias to pints of lager.

This 800-year-old village is a must-see in the New Year.

Portugal boasts numerous attractions that draw visitors from across the globe. Lisbon and Porto remain incredibly sought-after destinations, with travellers flocking to wander their charming cobbled lanes and savour exceptional cuisine.

Yet venture beyond these hotspots and you’ll discover a corner of Portugal that remains largely unexplored.

This settlement represents a true hidden treasure, though those who’ve discovered it regard it as amongst the nation’s finest spots to visit.

Indeed, Castelo Novo in Portugal received international acclaim from the United Nations’ World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

The UNWTO assesses settlements using rigorous standards, covering environmental responsibility, prospects for locals, safety measures, plus preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

And Castelo Novo in Portugal secured recognition amongst the globe’s top tourism villages, reports the Express.

This historic community, founded eight hundred years ago, contains one of the area’s most important archaeological locations. The Roman Baths of Quinta do Ervedal represent the main attraction drawing travellers to Castelo Novo.

UNWTO observed: “The oldest mention of Castelo Novo, then called Alpreada, dates back to around 1202 AD. To protect his kingdom against any potential threats, King Dinis rebuilt the village castle adopting typical Gothic features and commissioned several Medieval-style buildings.”

The settlement has also earned praise for its groundbreaking environmental initiatives, becoming Portugal’s first location to reach total carbon neutrality. Castelo Novo offers five electric vehicles to ferry visitors from nearby train stations.

One traveller who visited the village shared: “A secret kingdom. Located in the heart of the Beira Baixa Region, once the capital of Portugal, it is a picturesque stone village that looks out onto the Garduna mountains. It has a terrific visitor centre.”

Another holidaymaker noted: “The castle on top of the hill is a gem. Once at the top the view of the surrounding area is superb even on a grey day.”

Visitors can also learn about the traditional grape-treading methods used by former residents and admire the historic manor houses in the settlement.

Those touring the area can follow the Miller’s Way to see the windmills that were once a crucial part of village life.

The journey to Castelo Novo from Lisbon takes roughly three-and-a-half hours by train or two-and-a-half by car. The village is also conveniently located near Coimbra, a charming riverside city in Portugal with a medieval Old Town.

The drive is just under two hours, making Castelo Novo an easy day trip from the city.

AFTER the expense of Christmas, planning a summer holiday might be the last thing on your mind. But did you know booking now could actually knock HUNDREDS off the price?

From choosing when to travel to how you pack, our expert suggestions will make your trip substantially more affordable. Don’t lose out by waiting until the last minute – do these 15 things NOW to bag the best summer bargain.

1. Set up price alerts for flights

If you haven’t got set dates that you need to travel, you can set up price alerts on flights to find the best deals. 

To do this, click the “price alerts” button on your results page on comparison sites like Skyscanner, Kayak or Google Flights. 

You then need to enter your email address to be alerted if prices drop. 

It’s important to remember that, while comparison sites are great for checking prices across many different airlines, it’s usually cheaper to book directly with the airline, especially after adding on checked bags and seat selection.

2. Book flights at least two months in advance

Don’t wait until the last minute to book your flight – it rarely pays off. 

Instead, book your flights well ahead. 

According to research by Skyscanner, the cheapest time to book international flights is normally two to six months before you travel – meaning that you should be booking as early as January or February if you plan to fly in July or August.

Skyscanner’s Savings Generator tool can help you find the best time to book your flights.

3. Fly midweek if possible

If you can fly midweek, do. 

Opting for a flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often cheaper than on weekends due to lower demand. 

According to research by Skyscanner, the most expensive days to fly are Fridays, Sundays and Mondays due to business and weekend travel demand. 

So if you have flexibility, go for a midweek flight to save money.

4. Join hotel loyalty schemes

Hotel loyalty programmes make your holiday spend spread further. 

Member benefits include discounts on bookings, earning points for free nights or upgrades, and redeeming points or vouchers for flights, hotels or other travel expenses. 

In fact, research by Which? suggests that loyalty schemes are the cheapest way to book hotels – outstripping even popular platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com. 

Most chain hotels have loyalty schemes, which are free to join and promise instant access to discounted room rates. 

Free membership with the likes of Hilton and Accor can save you up to £40 a night – that’s around £300 for a week in Dubai via the Hilton Honors loyalty scheme.

5. Collect air miles and loyalty points

Your weekly shop could help pay for your summer holiday, as long as you sign up to the right loyalty scheme. 

Tesco Clubcard points can be converted into Virgin points: £1.50 of Clubcard vouchers will get you 300 Virgin Points, which can be used for flights and upgrades. 

Meanwhile, Nectar points can be changed into Avios points, with one Avios per 1.6 Nectar points. 

You can use this as currency towards flights with airlines including British Airways, Qatar Airways and Iberia. 

But you’ll need to get spending in Nectar retailers for that flight – with around 18,500 Avios needed for a short-haul economy return flight.

6. Pick a budget-friendly holiday destination

The Algarve, in Portugal, is Europe’s best value-for-money destination, according to a report by the Post Office. 

For the ninth year running, it emerged as the cheapest holiday destination in 2025, thanks to low-cost meals and drinks. 

A three-course meal for two with wine will set you back just £40.33 in this sun-drenched region. 

Resorts in Cape Town, Bulgaria and Spain’s Costa del Sol, where a beer costs around £2.07, £2.47 and £2.46 respectively, also ranked well for affordability. 

Before homing in on your destination, it’s worth checking roughly how much you may spend while you’re away via the report and other cost of living databases like numbeo.com.

7. Research where to get cheap eats

It’s always a good idea to research your destination before you travel – especially if you’re looking to cut costs when you arrive. 

Eating out can burn a serious hole in your pocket, so swot up on best bargain restaurants, food trucks and markets ahead of time. 

Google Maps allows you to filter by price, while review sites like Tripadvisor or OpenTable have value-focused lists. 

When you arrive at your destination, make lunch your main meal – this is when many restaurants offer good value set menus – and avoid eating near the main tourist hotspots.

Sites like TheFork, Time Out and Groupon offer discounts on dining in cities around the world.

8. Snap up free kids’ places… by January

When researching your summer holiday, look out for free children’s places on package holidays. 

These allow one child (aged up to 16) to travel for free with two full-paying adults on a holiday package. 

This includes their flights and accommodation. 

Many holiday operators, such as Tui and Jet2Holidays, also include transfers, food and drink and entertainment like kids’ clubs. 

But you’ll need to be quick – free child places are in high demand and can be limited, so book early to bag the bargain. 

If you’re travelling in peak summer, it’s a good idea to book in early January to get the holiday you’re after.

9. Weigh up a package holiday against a DIY break

Depending on where and when you travel, a package holiday might be the cheapest option, particularly if you’re staying on an all-inclusive basis. 

This means you won’t have to splash out on meals, snacks and drinks locally. 

However, it’s always worth comparing the cost with a DIY break. 

According to MoneySavingExpert, booking late (no more than 10 weeks before departure) is normally the cheapest way to get a package. 

But doing this means you run the risk of losing out on other discounts, such as free kids’ places, which you usually need to book well in advance – so weigh up all your options.

10. Start a savings pot

Parents fork out over £1,000 extra per week during the school holidays, according to research from life insurance broker Reassured. 

This is before they add on an extra £481 per person for a holiday abroad. 

So it’s a good idea to start putting money aside for next year’s summer holiday now. 

Decide how much you want to spend next summer, factoring in the cost of food and experiences while you’re away, and start saving gradually. 

Divide the total into however many pay days you have left until your holiday, and set aside part of the budget in a savings account, repeating the process every payday. 

This should help reduce the financial stress of the holiday when it rolls around.

11. Book airport parking early

The cost of booking airport parking can creep up if left until the last minute. 

The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find the best price. 

For instance, if you turn up at Manchester Airport’s multi-storey car park to park for a week, you’ll fork out £406 – quadruple the price of a booking made four months in advance (£95).

Heathrow’s short-stay car parks cost £616 per week at the turn-up price – £393 more than if you book a month in advance (£223). 

Even booking just a couple of hours ahead can be far cheaper than the price if you pay on arrival. 

Other tips to cut the cost of airport parking include using trusted off-site providers, such as APH, I Love Meet and Greet and Sentinel Car Park, which are usually cheaper than the official airport car parks. 

If you have an early flight or live far from the airport, seek out airport parking hotel deals, which often offer a better rate for parking.

12. Dodge tourist trap destinations

Popular hotspots tend to cost more – so look to lesser-known alternatives for cheaper rates.

For instance, if you’re heading to France, consider Lille instead of Paris for a more affordable French experience. 

In Lille, the average daily cost per person (including accommodation, food, transport and entertainment) is about £128 (€146). 

Meanwhile, the same will cost you £230 (€265) in the French capital, according to budgetyourtrip.com. 

Lesser-known spots help you stretch your budget by offering lower accommodation and dining costs.

13. Keep baggage costs under control

Make sure you know your luggage allowance – and stick to them – to avoid unnecessary baggage fees. 

Each airline has its own restrictions, so check yours well in advance to avoid hefty fees of going over the limit. 

For instance, easyJet charges around £10 per extra kilo at the desk, while Ryanair charges an extra £10.50 per kilo that you go over. 

The cheapest way is to travel light and take hand luggage only. 

Create a packing list in advance, and only pack what you will realistically use. 

Roll, instead of fold, your clothes to maximize space and take travel-sized toiletries instead of bulky bottles. 

If you can’t be this ruthless with your packing then add your checked bag at the time you book your flight – it will cost less than adding it on later.

14. Book hotels on your smartphone for a cheaper rate

This simple trick could save you hundreds of pounds when booking a hotel stay – make the booking on your mobile phone instead of your laptop or computer. 

Which? Travel discovered that this can give you a much better price. 

Platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia and Hotels.com offer mobile-only discounts on selected hotels with up to 40 per cent off stays – but only if your booking is made on a smartphone.

The research found you could slash £270 off the cost of an apartment in Amsterdam on Booking.com, and save £60 on a weekend in Edinburgh with Expedia thanks to these mobile-exclusive prices. 

So to make sure you’ve found the best deal, it’s always worth double checking a mobile and laptop price.

15. Book at the end of the summer season

As demand increases, so does the price. 

Being flexible about when you travel can lead to huge savings. 

If you want to get the best deals on flights and accommodation, consider a holiday later in the summer season. 

Many Brits escape in the early summer months, leading to price peaks in June and July.

Prices become less steep in late August and early September, as it is less popular. 

In 2023, average ticket prices dropped by £94 from their peak in early July to August, according to Expedia. 

Some airlines and hotels will tempt you with discounts to encourage booking in the less popular months. 

So, to save on your sunshine, scheduling your trip for the end of August could be the way to go.

THE January sales are about to land and now is an excellent time to bag yourself a bargain, whether it’s a summer holiday, homeware or that
set of golf clubs you’ve had your eye on for months.

But don’t just spend your cash willy-nilly. I’m going to let you in on
my top travel hack that will help you score big in the sales – bagging
yourself a free holiday, just by doing your ordinary shopping.

I can truthfully say, there is no catch. The more you spend, the
greater your getaway.

So, what’s the secret? Avios. But not in the way you know it.

You’ll likely have heard of the flight rewards system, whereby travel
spend is converted into points that can be redeemed against flights,
hotels, shopping and more.

The chances are, however, you’re not using the system properly. And by that, I mean reaping mega benefits every time you spend.

Read More on Money Saving Tips

TAKE THE MICKEY

How you can get PAID to go to Disney World… by the Brits making £10k a year

BUDGET BREAK

I saved over £1k on package holiday going DIY & used cash I saved for 2nd trip

I’m not just talking about flight spend. You can earn points every
time you catch the train to work, fill up your car with fuel, or do
your weekly grocery shop.

Say hello to the Avios portal. I believe it to be the BEST
points-benefits system out there for travellers – and I’m an avid
subscriber to rewards schemes (special nod to my Boots card and the
MyWaitrose account).

Right now, I am just shy of enough points to fly to New York City in
business class with British Airways (I have 80,000 to be exact).

A business class seat would cost me 88,000 points flying at an
off-peak time. Although I would still have to pay a £199.50 flat fee,
a nominal charge that covers taxes, carrier fees and a fixed Avios
amount.

That cost is small, though, when you consider the fact that the
absolute cheapest business class flight you can currently book to NYC
with British Airways is £1,832 – and that’s in the January sale,
meaning I would have saved a minimum of £1,600 by using points.

To put this into a wider perspective, I could also fly to Sydney in
Australia (55,000 points) or Tokyo and back again (38,500 points each
way) or even to Amsterdam and back again up to FOUR times (10,000
points each way).

Flat fees are tiny on short-haul flights too, with costs to
destinations like Amsterdam, Corfu and Gran Canaria capped at just £1
as opposed to the near £200 for my fancy NYC business class seat.

My high points score has nothing to do with me being a travel editor,
either. In fact, I earn very little from my adventures through work
and barely anything from flights alone.

Instead, it’s my regular, everyday spending that helps me earn big with Avios.

My commute to work, my trips to the BP for fuel and my incessant
fashion purchases on ASOS are what stacks those points up.

Better still, if you’re doing a big splurge in the January sales, you
can rake them in thick and fast.

So, how does it work and where can you earn?

Thousands of retailers have partnerships with the Avios store. You can
earn when you spend on hotels, homeware, sports, fashion, toys,
attractions and entertainment from Argos and TravelZoo to Boots and
Alton Towers.

The number of points you earn varies per retailer, for example when
you purchase from M&S Flowers & Hampers you will earn up to 24 Avios
per £1 spent, whereas booking a rail journey through Trainline will
earn you 1 Avios per £1 spent.

Many retailers have bonus offers for January, including Booking.com where you can bag 8 Avios per £1 until January 31, up from 4 Avios per £1 and Viator which has a 12 Avios per £1 offer until February 7, 2026.

My rule of thumb whenever I shop for something (big or small) is:
check whether the retailer I want to buy from is on the Avios shop,
and if not, can I buy the product I want from another retailer that
will earn me points?

To collect points on in-store purchases, you simply have to link  your
card – any card – to your account and spend on this card in
Avios-linked stores.

To make online purchases, you have to register your visit to the
retailers website by first going through the Avios shop website
(avios.com).

Simply log on, click on ‘collect avios’ and search for the retailer in the ‘search for brands’ box.

Once you’ve found the retailer, click on ‘shop now’ to register your visit and carry out your online shopping as you would normally. It really is that simple.

If, like me, you do a lot of shopping on your phone, I’d recommend
downloading the Avios app, which makes things a little easier and
keeps you logged in.

Your Avios is then redeemable with certain airlines, which includes
OneWorld Alliance partners like British Airways and Qatar Airways as
well as Aer Lingus and Vueling.

You can also book holiday packages, including flights and hotels, through British Airways Holidays.

So, how long does it take before you earn yourself enough for a free
flight or holiday? Well, that’s difficult to answer.

Last time I wrote about Avios was in April 2025 and back
then I had 57,000 points. Now I have 80,000 – so I’ve earned myself
23,000 points in 8 months, the equivalent of a return flight to
Brussels, Paris or Turin in Italy.

But I’m single and in the process of buying my first home, so my
spending is frugal.

If you use this hack to do your January sale shopping, however, you’ll
certainly be one step closer to bagging yourself a free getaway.

Here’s some useful tips for shopping through the Avios Shop….

Get yourself an Amex

First things first, get yourself an American Express (AMEX) credit
card, if you don’t already have one. Yes, you don’t technically need
one in order to collect points, but it’s an easy way to boost your
earnings. I have the free British Airways Amex.

Just make sure you pay it off in full every month. And if you don’t
trust yourself to do all of your spending on that card, start by
committing to a small and regular spend, like the weekly food shop.

If you’re successfully approved for a British Airways free Amex,
you’ll be given a bonus 5,000 Avios if you spend £2,000 in the first
three months of having the card.

It’s an incentive – and credit card companies are hoping that you forget to pay them back, so just make sure you have enough money in your current account to pay off the spend and don’t get caught out.

Link your accounts

Accounts that you use regularly like Uber are a great way of boosting
your points. You can link certain regular accounts you use to your
Avios account.

For example, I have my BPme Rewards and Uber account both linked to my Avios one, which means I don’t need to log on and register my visit as
explained above, with normal online shopping.

Everything is done automatically and I’m earning points without lifting a finger.

I book my train to work through Uber every time and it earns me a
steady and regular number of points every month.

Look for deals

Right now you can bag a bonus 50 per cent Avios with certain retailers.

There are so many deals at various times of the year. There’s
also special offers on certain deals such as The Wine Flyer, whereby
you earn a promises amount of points if you spend over a certain
figure on bottles.

Most recently, over the Christmas period, if you spent over £150 on wine through the Avios shop, you’d bag 5,000 bonus Avios on top of the usual 5 Avios per £1 spent,

But my rule is never to spend unless you really need it. The whole
point of a free holiday or flight is that you’re only spending on what
you would normally.

Sign up your parent/partner/pal

You’ll bag a bonus 500 Avios if you refer a friend – a simple referral
code does the trick.

You’ll also notice certain offers, such as a bonus 9,000 Avios if you order a second Amex linked to your account for a partner or child to spend on.

You’ll then be responsible for paying off their spend, however. But there’s nothing stopping you from ordering a second card and not passing it over to that person, though.

That way you’ll bag the bonus points without the panic. Just keep your
eyes peeled for those offers in your inbox.

For more on how to save money on your next travel trip, read more from one woman who flies every month and does 7 things to save herself cash.

 And here are our Sun-approved booking tips, plane hacks and travel products that can save you hundreds on holiday.

LYING by the pool, white wine in hand, I wonder if the Seaside Palm Beach hotel might be the most beautiful resort I’ve ever stayed in.

In front of me, hundreds of wild palm trees — the tallest I’ve ever seen — sway in the afternoon breeze as canaries sing in the shade below.

The scene marked the start of a calm and relaxed weekend on the tranquil Spanish island of Gran Canaria, where temperatures can easily reach the 20s in the winter months.

Just a four-hour flight from the UK (costing less than £30 each way with easyJet from Luton), this trip was the ultimate warm oasis retreat . . . without the jet lag.

The 5-star hotel, situated on the south east coast in Maspalomas, is a haven of luxury.

The serene spa is home to a new sauna, cold plunge and hydrotherapy suite, where guests have the option to strip off completely for an authentic wellness experience.

NO LAGGING BEHIND

Five long-haul holiday destinations to book for 2026 with no jet lag

BETTER ‘BAI

I visited a Dubai-alternative four hours from UK with 24-hour champagne bars

Small but buzzing

While my pal and I weren’t that brave, we did manage to plunge ourselves into the freezing ice bath (a welcome break from the October sunshine) before treating ourselves to a massage (99 euros for one dreamy hour) in the garden rooms, which have views of the botanical plants.

After a quick dip in the pool to wake ourselves up, we headed to the terrace for lunch of prawn caesar salad, calamari and homemade bread, with an ice-cold beer to wash it down.

Unlike most all-inclusive hotels I’ve stayed in, the Palm Beach offers guests the option to order lunch a la carte from the poolside restaurant as opposed to being stuck with just the buffet area, making it a much more intimate and luxurious experience.

Dinner was an equally impressive affair, with both a la carte and buffet options available on different nights.

Highlights included the Italian barbecue, with a homemade pasta station and a selection of fresh meat and fish grilled to order.

Outside of the hotel, local Italian restaurant il PosTo served us a delicious Neapolitan pizza for 18 euros, with a night cap of limoncello on the house.

The strip here is small but buzzing, with sunset beach bars lining the boardwalk, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail with stunning views of the Atlantic ocean.

But the most impressive place we visited had to be the natural wonder of the Maspalomas sand dunes. This protected nature reserve is home to 400 hectares of desert-like dunes and lagoons.

A ten-minute walk from the hotel, it is the perfect place to explore in the early-evening golden hour when the heat of the day has died down.

For those wanting something a little more buzzy, the resort of Puerto Rico is a 20-minute drive south.

Here you’ll find shopping malls, discos and a wider selection of restaurants, as well as dozens of daily boat excursions to explore the local coastline.

For 40 euros, we hopped aboard Spirit of the Seas’ whale and dolphin watching tour — a 2.5-hour excursion with local experts who have worked on the sea here for 25 years.

We weren’t fortunate enough to see any marine mammals, but the company offers visitors a free voucher to go out again if there are no sightings — so it’s worth doing this excursion at the start of your trip to allow time to try again.

The next town along, Mogan, is also well worth a visit.

We paid a visit to the Hotel Cordial Mogan Playa, one of the grandest in the town, which offers day passes for 55 euros per adult and 27.50 euros for kids, including lunch.

The terracotta hotel blocks surround a garden spa featuring luxurious day beds, an outdoor heated hydrotherapy pool, hot tub and hot and cold foot spas.

After enjoying a fresh juice here, we tried the volcanic lava exfoliation treatment inside.

The 40-minute session started with a full-body exfoliation using black sand from the island’s northern beaches, followed by a massage using locally-sourced aromatic oils.

It was the perfect end to a three-day retreat — a break I will definitely want to repeat in the cold, dark winter months.

If you’re looking to book your summer getaway for next year then look no further, as the cheapest holiday destination has been revealed and it’s a stunning Spanish region

A popular Spanish region with white sand beaches and pristine blue water has been named as the cheapest summer holiday destination for 2026.

As we look to book our summer getaways for next year, Which? has compared the prices of 5,393 package holidays from Jet2holidays and easyJet Holidays to reveal the most affordable options. This was based on a seven-night stay, including flights, departing around August 2, with two people sharing a room with various board types.

Following their extensive research, the experts found that Costa Blanca, along Spain’s Mediterranean coastline, was the most budget-friendly option for a holiday deal next year. For a stay in Costa Blanca during the height of summer, Which? discovered that it would cost, on average, £864 per person for a seven-night package.

This is partly due to its popular and affordable seaside resort of Benidorm, which has often been dubbed the ‘New York of the Mediterranean’ or the ‘Spanish Las Vegas’. Benidorm is undeniably appealing with its sprawling golden sand beaches and turquoise waters, while its cheap drinks, lively nightlife, family entertainment and towering buildings only add to its unique allure.

In its research, Which? found that Benidorm offered some of the cheapest holidays from £535 per person for a week’s self-catering at the two-star Playamar apartments. Meanwhile, an all-inclusive option at the four-star Flamingo Beach Resort, featuring three outdoor pools, would cost £886pp with EasyJet Holidays.

But there’s much more to Costa Blanca than Benidorm, with quieter Spanish areas away from the tourist crowds. One option is the charming and picturesque hilltop town of Altea, offering sensational views over the Mediterranean, with room-only options available for £ 1,033 per person at the luxurious five-star SH Villa Gadea.

Costa Blanca was the only destination Which? found to be less than £900 for a week’s stay in August. Elsewhere in the research, the second most affordable package holiday was revealed as Tuscany, nestled in the heart of Italy.

Tuscany is renowned for its rolling hills, Renaissance masterpieces, and iconic cities such as Florence, Siena, and Pisa. A week-long stay in this captivating Italian region would set you back £929 per person, inclusive of flights and accommodation.

Coming in third on the list of budget-friendly summer escapes is the breathtaking Agadir coast in Morocco, famed for its expansive sandy beaches and status as a prime resort destination. With an abundance of accommodation choices along the coastline, centred around beach days, a stay here would amount to £946pp.

According to Which?, six of the top ten cheapest holiday destinations for 2026 are located in Spain, with Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria among them. Additionally, Zante in Greece, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes and vibrant nightlife, also secured a spot in the top 10.

Here are the cheapest package holiday destinations for 2026, as outlined by Which? The results show the average price, per person, for a seven-night package stay.

1. Costa Blanca, Spain – £864
2. Tuscany, Italy – £929
3. Agadir coast, Morocco – £946
4. Dalaman area, Turkey – £1,048
5. Tenerife, Canary Islands – £1,073
6. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands – £1,119
7. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands – £1,121
8. Costa Brava, Spain – £1,125
9. Costa Dorada, Spain – £1,133
10. Zante, Greece – £1,142

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com