Holidays, on average, have fallen by £136pp, around 22 per cent.
And while Morocco and Tunisia remain as some of the more affordable destinations, they are starting to increase in price.
Tunisia holidays are up £170 compared to last year (up 22 per cent) while Morocco holidays are up £125 (up 17 per cent).
Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Bulgaria looks set to reclaim its crown as the go-to bargain all-inclusive destination.
“Despite the increases, Tunisia and Morocco remain firmly in the top five cheapest countries, so families can still find excellent value there.”
Top 13 Cheapest Short-Haul Countries for Summer 2026
Average cost of a seven night, all-inclusive holiday, according to Travelsupermarket:
GOT the January blues? That’s nothing a cosy cottage can’t fix.
And if you book right now, you can bag a top bargain, as UK holiday sites are slashing their prices for not just January, but the rest of the year too.
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The grass near Florence Springs Lakeside Lodges attracts wildlifeCredit: Supplied
Here, Sophie Swietochowski shares her best deals for staycation rentals, from country homes close to pubs with roaring fireplaces to timber-beamed properties with rural walks right on your doorstep.
FLORENCE SPRINGS LAKESIDE LODGES, Tenby
HOSEASONS currently has up to 30 per cent off on more than 50,000 breaks, including dates in the summer.
Those on a budget will be spoilt for choice, with more than 130,000 properties available for under £250 per break.
Florence Springs Lakeside Lodges even has three friendly alpacasCredit: Supplied
Each of the sleek lodges comes with a modern kitchen/living room complete with fireplace and overlooks a grand lake, bordered by reeds that attract wildlife.
AVID ramblers should look no further than Weaver’s Cottage, a small but charming holiday home right on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.
Right now, you can bag 30 per cent off all stays booked before February 2, with up to £300 off the total on cottages.com.
The cute and cosy Weaver’s Cottage in YorkshireCredit: supplied image
Split across three levels and with a cosy log burner, the two-bedroom property is ideal for hunkering down during winter, while the enclosed garden’s furniture is perfect for soaking up the sun in summer.
On top of scenic walking trails, there’s horse riding and great fishing sites nearby.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering is from £465, reduced from £705, sleeping up to four.
Sykes Cottages has some corking deals for January, with almost £500 off some properties.
The three double bedrooms in Barley CottageCredit: Supplied
The South West is gorgeous at this time of year, with fewer crowds and more space to roam.
Check into the six-person Barley Cottage in Axminster, a 15-minute drive from the coast.
The home features three snug bedrooms and an outdoor barbecue hut with a firepit that will keep you toasty throughout the winter nights.
If you don’t fancy cooking, there are several pubs just over a mile away, including the Castle Inn, which has weekly deals such as a burger, chips and a drink for a tenner or curry night which will set you back £12.99.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering is from £824, reduced from £909, for arrival on January 16.
FEWER UK spots say cosy staycation quite like the Cotswolds.
Luckily for you, Cotswold Cottages is slashing the price of all 2026 stays by 20 per cent, with dates available in the school holidays too.
The exposed bricks in Robin CottageCredit: Supplied
Just make sure you book by January 31.
Robin Cottage is tucked away in the rural village of Bourton-on-the-Water, which straddles the River Windrush.
It has exposed brick walls, an open fire and great views of the water.
It’s well suited to couples, with just one bedroom, and the delights of the village are all within walking distance, including the Cotswolds Motoring Museum, where you can delve into the history of 20th-century vehicles.
GO: Three nights’ self-catering is from £442.55, down from £590.
FOR those wanting to reconnect with nature, Ashlea Pool Lodges has it all.
Buried in the rolling hills of Shropshire, this Hoseasons site has lodges overlooking a tranquil lake, thick woodland for roaming and wildlife in every direction you turn.
Ashlea Pool Lodges is next to a lakeCredit: Supplied
The activities are abundant, too, with walking trails, cycling routes and fishing spots all nearby.
The holiday park is included in Hoseasons 30-per-cent-off deal, so you can bag yourself a decent price as long as you book before February 2.
Each of the lodges blends seamlessly with its surroundings, thanks to wooden panelling on the walls and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over leafy trees.
There’s an onsite cafe selling homemade scones, tempting cakes and creamy milkshakes, as well as a pizzeria.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering in a six-person lodge is from £399, down from £499.
Cruise companies are going all out to get you booking, with their January Wave campaigns offering discounts and upgrades.
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You can save £300 when you book with MarellaCredit: UnknownOr save cash when you visit Istanbul on a Celebrity cruiseCredit: SW Photography
Lisa Minot looks at the savings to be made if you book in New Year sales . . .
MARELLA
There are savings of up to £300 per booking on select departures between April 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.
Deals are on sailings of seven nights or more to over 100 destinations including the Caribbean and Canaries.
An 11-night Captivating Coasts repositioning cruise from Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, on Marella Explorer will sail from the Canaries on April 26, 2027, to include calls in Tenerife, Lanzarote, Morocco, Malaga, Menorca, Sicily and Corfu.
Prices from £1,941pp all-inclusive cover flights from Gatwick, 20kg luggage and transfers. See tui.co.uk/cruise/deals.
P&O
This very British cruise line now has all-inclusive packages for the first time on trips of five nights or more.
Departures are from March 2026 and include all drinks, wifi and speciality dining credit.
A Classic package is from £49pp per day and the Deluxe is from £59pp, with a wider range of spirits, ultimate wifi and up to £80 dining credit.
Deals include a seven-night all-inclusive Canary Islands and Madeira fly-cruise on P&O Azura from £972pp, including drinks, wifi, speciality dining credit, flights and transfers, departing March 6. See pocruises.com.
MSC
The company has reduced the price of drinks packages on select sailings to just £196pp (previously £250) so you can enjoy beers, wines and cocktails from just £28 per day on seven-night cruises.
Other incentives in their Wave campaign include fly-cruise packages to the Mediterranean with flights from just £99 or low £100 deposits to secure the cruise of your choice.
Deals include setting sail from Southampton on MSC Virtuosa on October 31 for a seven-night voyage that calls at Brest, Lisbon, Vigo and Cherbourg. From £494pp.
There are savings of up to £800 per Stateroom and low deposits of £99 in the cruise line’s Value Is Princess VIP sale.
Book before March 2 and save up to £75pp on sailings from six to eight nights; £150pp on sailings from nine to 16 nights and up to £200 on cruises of more than 17 nights.
The promotion includes all 17 ships in the fleet, including the latest addition, Star Princess, with fares on the new ship on seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from £494pp.
And sister ship Sun Princess is also included, with seven night sailings from Barcelona from £774pp. See princess.com/en-uk.
CELEBRITY
Save up to 60 per cent on the second guest, with £500 in savings or $600 on-board spend.
On European sailings from May 1 next year, guests can upgrade to Celebrity’s All Included package, which combines the classic drinks package with wifi from only £50pp, per day.
In 2026, the premium cruise line will offer even more ways to explore Europe with three Edge-class ships, the latest Xcel, Ascent and Apex sailing to more than 100 European destinations with 59 overnight stays, including Madeira and Istanbul.
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.
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Eurocamp provides action-packed holidays for young families, including this zip wire over a lakeCredit: SuppliedWith no option to turn back, though, I took a deep breath and leapt forward into the voidCredit: supplied
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.
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.
Eurocamp’s La Pinede parc is near the seaside resort of Les Mathes in Charente-MaritimeCredit: Supplied
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.
Domaine des Ormes is an even bigger parc filled with activities, including wakeboarding, archery and horse ridingCredit: Supplied
Our days are mainly spent together as a family, whooshing down slides in the aquapark, playing minigolf 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.
Domaine des Ormes is located within distance of the fortified abbey of Mont Saint-MichelCredit:
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.
GO: Eurocamp France
GETTING THERE: Brittany Ferries sails from Portsmouth, Plymouth or Poole to five French ports in Brittany and Normandy. Ferry fares from Plymouth to Roscoff start from £324 each way for a car and family of four.
STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ self-catering at La Pinede in a Classic two-bedroom holiday home, sleeping up to four, is from £212 in total, arriving on May 23 for half term.
Seven nights’ self-catering at Domaine des Ormes in an Eco Lodge Tent, sleeping up to four, is from £706 in total, arriving on May 23 for half term.
Here are their favourites – and exactly why they’d set sail again tomorrow.
Celestyal Cruises
Until a few years ago, I had never considered taking a cruise for a holiday.
But then during one sunny May, I hopped onboard a Celestyal ship that sailed around the Greek Islands, and I maintain to this day that it is still one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
I saw Santorini, Patmos, Mykonos, Kusadasi and Crete over one week stopping at them for a day of exploration, seeing beautiful white-washed villages, calderas and historical ruins.
The ship itself is smaller than most so that it’s able to dock at the island harbours – or get as close to them as possible. It’s not as big as the likes of Royal Caribbean or Virgin Cruises so don’t expect waterparks or go-kart tracks.
That’s not to say there isn’t enough to keep you busy onboard, there are still swimming pools, a gym, spa, multiple restaurants and entertainment areas with brilliant evening shows.
But let’s face it, it’s all about the destinations and I’ve never been happier than sitting on a hilltop bar in Santorini clutching an enormous Aperol Spritz.
If you love the idea of a cruise but not the screaming children then you might want to check out Virgin Voyages.
These adult-only cruises are like the ultimate playground for grown ups and include night clubs, sprawling pools and hilarious shows.
I headed off on a cruise from Southampton, so it didn’t involve flying which was ideal and stopped off at Amsterdam and Bruges.
My ship was the Resilient Lady and boy was she impressive.
Virgin Voyages are like an adult playground at seaCredit: Supplied
The main hub of the ship can be found on Deck 15 – at one end there is The Galley which is full of different cuisines for people to try and then at the other end is an open deck, with a pool and several hot tubs.
The spa on board is still one of the best I’ve been to, to date – and that includes ones on dry land.
The Himalayan Salt Room was a favourite spot of mine, and left with skin that felt like a baby’s bum.
The entertainment really did steal the show though – think camp and colourful. It was a bag of laughs – especially when a half-naked man gave a elderly passenger a lap dance.
Virgin Voyages have cruises that you can either fly to or head off from the UK so there is truly something for everyone.
A cruise was once one of the most glamorous ways a person could travel. Chandelier-lit dinners were formal, the food was excellent and cabins were extremely tasteful.
Oceania is a brand that has managed to maintain much of this glamour and its newest ship, Allura, is no exception.
If, like me, you consider yourself a foodie, this is certainly the ship for you.
Allura lays claim to the largest galley at sea and chefs work tirelessly around the clock, baking fresh loaves every morning (something few other ships do).
Allura welcomed back a fan-favourite restaurant, Jacques, on board – and I’m so grateful for that decision, as it was here that I devoured one of the best cheese soufflés of my life.
They have some amazing spas onboard tooCredit: Oceania Cruises
The foodie fun doesn’t end with the restaurants, though.
Passengers can pick up basic and advanced culinary skills at the on-board cookery school, whipping up feasts and cocktails in a specially-designed kitchen, under the instruction of one of the ship’s top chefs.
With capacity for just under 1,500 passengers, the vessel doesn’t feel overwhelming, like some of the larger cruise ships often can, and it’s easy to navigate.
There’s everything you’d expect from a lavish ship including a serene spa, high-end entertainment, a casino and enough bars to keep even the fussiest drinker content.
Oceania Allura is the best for foodiesCredit: Getty
Sun Princess
When planning a girly holiday, I had no idea a Princess cruise would be so perfect.
Hopping on their European excursion, we racked up the cities we visited along the way.
This meant morning Aperol Spritzs in Palermo, delicious tapas in Barcelona and beautiful tours of the Parthenon temple, to name a few.
But the fun didn’t stop even when we were onboard.
We were often found at the private Sanctuary Club onboard, open to guests staying in sanctuary-level rooms, where we rang bells for free prosecco chased by a dip in the pool.
There were West End shows onboard – something which after many failed attempts at us trying to decide what to see in London, it helped having just one choice per night.
You won’t struggle for a lounger on the Sun PrincessCredit: Princess Cruises
Otherwise days were spent tanning by the ship pool, flitting between the many bars and restaurants.
One of our favourites being the very magical Spellbound speakeasy – I won’t say too much else to keep the magic…
And with flights and cabins included in the packages, it even meant we didn’t have to fight it out on what hotel we wanted to stay at.
Our highlight every night? Heading to the 24-hour snack bar in our dressing gowns to grab chocolate chip cookies before watching Clueless back in our room…
Their European excursions let you hop between amazing citiesCredit: Refer to source
Celebrity Xcel
For relaxed, upscale cruising for adults, Celebrity is hard to beat.
And the fifth ship in their game-changing Edge series has yet again rewritten the rule book.
Setting sail just a month ago from the Floridian port of Fort Lauderdale, this sparkling new ship is perfectly formed for its 3,276 guests.
The Edge class brought us the Magic Carpet, a bar and restaurant terrace that glides up outside the decks of the ship, but Celebrity Xcel has some extra special treats up her sleeve.
Seven different reimagined spaces make it very different from its siblings. The cruise line enlisted the help of its guests – dubbed Dreammakers – to have the final say on the new ship.
More than 650,000 votes were cast to decide on key elements of the ship’s design, culinary experiences and entertainment.
Among the new spots I loved were the Bazaar – formerly Eden on other Edge ships – now transformed into a buzzing venue both day and night celebrating the ports of call the ship sails to.
The Bazaar erases the line between ship and shore on Celebrity XcelCredit: SuppliedCelebrity Xcel even has a rooftop gardenCredit: Celebrity X Cruises
For this winter this means a host of festivals, local cuisine and entertainment from the Caribbean and from next summer, this will offer an immersive dive into the ports of the Mediterranean.
New dining venues include Bora – up on the rooftop garden – brings the flavours of the Mediterranean but my fave was the addition of a build-your-own over the top Bloody Mary bar.
The spa has also had a makeover with the addition of Celebrity’s first-ever hydra-room, a therapeutic pool in the Thermal Suite as well as a new outdoor Vitamin D deck.
For those wanting to make their mani or pedi a little more boujee, there’s a new Bubbles bar with complimentary fizz as you get your nails done.
I also loved the new Attic at The Club. The ship’s nightclub has an atrium open 24/7 with a host of retro arcade games, pool tables, darts and more.
It also offers a fantastic viewing point for the new club nights including the slick Shoot Up Saloon country music night and amazing 254 West show featuring 80s classics.
Even the pool deck has had a makeover, with a stunning Monkey sculpture presiding over the generous pool with plenty of loungers and poolside valets offering sunscreen, chilled towels and more.
But my absolute favourite destination on the ship is a new, hidden speakeasy bar.
The Gatsby-inspired glitzy den is hidden behind a special photo opportunity – and with phones banned it will be the intrepid bar crawlers who will discover its delights.
“And with year-round good weather, it’s perfect for a winter or summer holiday.”
The island country of Cyprus welcomed around three million tourists last year.
Julie agreed, adding that the beaches are some of the “cleanest in Europe“.
Naming some of her favourites, she said: “If you’re all about the party life you can live it up at Nissi Beach.
Most read in Beach holidays
“If you’re looking to take it slower, you could visit Fig Tree Bay which is great for families.
“But if you want something wild and unspoiled, Lara Beach is magical, you might even spot turtles nesting.”
It has some of the cleanest beaches, with one they recommend being Nissi beachCredit: Alamy
It’s not just beaches either – Debbie said there are loads of experiences to enjoy across the island as well.
Debbie explained: “You can spend the morning exploring ancient ruins in Paphos, then hike through Avakas Gorge in the Akamas Peninsula, a dramatic limestone canyon that feels like a hidden world.
“Then you can finish the day taking in beautiful views while enjoying Cypriot wine tasting and chatting to the locals.”
They even shared their top tips when it comes to food, praising the island known for its halloumi and mezze.
She added: ” If you want something truly authentic, Pyxida Fish Tavern is a gem.
“Based in in Nicosia and Limassol, they serve seafood caught that day, and the views are unbeatable. “
And Julie finished by saying: “Cyprus has stood the test of time because it offers everything from history, adventure, relaxation, and that famous Cypriot hospitality.
“Families love it, couples adore it, and foodies will be in heaven.”
TUI currently has seven-night holidays to Cyprus from £461pp, including return flights, luggage and transfers.
ALREADY thinking of taking a break to Italy, France or further afield but don’t want to spend a huge amount?
Well, Skyscannerhas revealed thetop ten cheapest destinations to fly to for 2026 – and the first three with bargain flights are less than three hours away from the UK.
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The cheapest city break to fly to is the French city of LyonCredit: AlamyMilan is also a cheap city break destination – with one-way flights from £15Credit: Alamy
Claiming number one spot for cheapest city break is Lyon in France with an average return flight cost of £105.
However, there are one-way flights for as little as £17 in March with Wizz Air.
Lyon is the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, known for being a ‘foodie destination’ with plenty of traditional restaurants called ‘bouchons’.
She said: “First, get a pastry to go from Marchesi 1824, one of the city’s oldest bakeries for a classic breakfast of a cappuccino and croissant. While Milan is famous for its saffron risotto, a stop at a pizza bar is a must.
“I recommend Pizza AM where you even get free mini starters and prosecco.
“Squeeze in a quick visit of the famous Duomo di Milano as well as the Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to the famous Last Supper artwork.”
Skyscanner discovered average return flights of £114 – in February, you can get one-way flights from £15 with Ryanair.
A must-visit is the Parque del Retiro, a quiet park where you can rent a rowboat on a picturesque lake, pretty rose gardens and the historic Crystal Palace.
Or, enjoy a picnic at the lake of Casa de Campo, Madrid‘s largest public park.
Then head to the vibrant neighbourhood of Lavapies – full of energy and history, it is one of the best spots to get an authentic local experience in the city.
For the best views, head to the Sky Bar terrace on the 27th floor of the Hotel Riu Plaza Espana, in the grand Edificio Espana on Madrid’s Gran Via, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
Other cheap city breaks include to Copenhagen in DenmarkCredit: Alamy
To help Brits get the most out of their breaks, Skyscanner has launched its ‘Cheapest Destination Planner’.
First, head to the Skyscanner app – then select the month you want to travel.
The tool will reveal the top 10 cheapest destinations (on average) for that month.
You’ll see the top reasons to visit and average price for a return flight alongside the cheapest days to travel.
Once you’ve made your choice, click through to explore flights and/or hotel options for your chosen destination.
The Top 10 Cheapest City Breaks for 2026
Skyscanner has revealed these 10 destinations to be the cheapest for a break this year…
THE award-winning Sun Travel team have stayed in hundreds, if not thousands of hotels.
So when it comes to recognising what makes a hotel great, we may just know a thing or two.
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We’ve shared out top hotels to visit this yearCredit: tewinbury farm hotelAt Tewinbury Farm Hotel, the interior is luxurious yet cosyCredit: Tewinbury farm hotel
We’ve revealed 12 of our UK must-visit hotels for 2026 – and there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for brand new trendy spots, or themed rooms to wow the kids – we’ve got you covered.
Tewinbury Farm Hotel, Hertfordshire
I’m a sucker for a rustic countryside property where welly boots are essential – and Tewinbury Farm, buried in rural Hertfordshire, is one of the best out there.
Comprising renovated barns and cosy lakeside shepherd’s huts spread across a sprawling family-run farm estate, this hotel has an air of members club about it thanks to the endless list of monthly activities and country-chic decor.
Huts feature copper bath tubs and private decking areas that jut out over a wildlife-rich lake.
Rooms in the main building house fancy four-poster beds sat beneath dark timber beams.
What really makes this place shine is its strong connection to the farm’s heritage.
Make sure to book onto the summertime Roots Dining Experience, where visitors dine outdoors in the hotel’s allotment.
Guests can tuck into a sharing menu of freshly-plucked vegetables from the surrounding beds and meat from the farm – all of which is rustled up in an outdoor kitchen right in front of you.
There’s a farm shop on site and maps that encourage guests to stroll the surrounding farmland, with some of Hertfordshire’s most scenic walking trails on the doorstep.
Chessington has one of the biggest openings among UK theme parks in 2026, with the launch of their new Paw Patrol Land.
As the mother of a primary school kid who only just graduated from Paw Patrol mania a couple of years ago, I’m aware that this is BIG news to hundreds of thousands of families across the country.
While certain areas of the hotel haven’t had an upgrade in several years, props have to go to Chessington for constantly adding new themed rooms to their repertoire – and they also make a massive effort with each one.
Being able to flop on the bed with a G&T post-theme park, while your child plays on the Pup Squad Patroller bunk bed is 15 minutes of well-earned relaxation.
Paw Patrol fans will go nuts for this themed roomCredit: Chessington World of AdventuresThe aptly named Safari Hotel has a variety of themed roomsCredit: Chessington World of Adventures
Smith’s Townhouse, Broadstairs
One of my new favourite seaside town hotels is Smith’s Townhouse, in Broadstairs.
Previously just a coffee shop, they reopened just around the corner as a boutique hotel.
Despite just six rooms, each one feels like a trendy London hotel with mid century interiors, dark painted walls and stylish blankets and cushions.
The furniture is certainly unique – some of it was even said to have been owned by Elton John previously
Expect freshly baked slices of cake and fresh tea in your room when you arrive too.
Make sure to stay for breakfast, with their downstairs cafe serving their own coffee as well as amazing baked goods.
They even recently opened their bar, as well as plans for a Pilates studio and DJ nights.
Even better? It’s a short walk to the beautiful beach.
With its cool tones and sleek exterior, this is a trendy option in BroadstairsCredit: smith’s townhouse
The Copthorne, Newcastle
This homely hotel sits on Newcastle’s Quayside overlooking the River Tyne.
It’s the ideal spot for a peaceful stay just a short stroll from the city centre’s pubs, shops and nightlife.
There’s no frills here – just large, comfy beds, a warm Geordie welcome, and a friendly quayside bar showing all the live sport – so you won’t miss a match during your stay.
Most of the Copthorne’s 156 rooms come with a Quayside view of calm river waters, glowing city lights and the impressive High Level Bridge.
All rooms, from standard doubles to suites, are incredibly spacious – often with extra seating by the window to watch the world go by.
Beds are so huge they’re near impossible to roll out of. Rooms here feel less stuffy hotel room, and more cosy getaway where you can seriously relax.
The hotel’s Quay 7 restaurant serves up traditional pub classics alongside a few surprises.
Take your pick from curry, scampi, steak – or the “Mexican cheeseburger burrito”, an unusual fusion that somehow works.
End your meal with a treacle tart and a cocktail shaken by the cheerful bar team to round off the night perfectly.
Staff here welcome you in like an old friend. Nothing is too much trouble, even crafting off-menu cocktails from a keen mixologist who loves a challenge.
Rooms here are generously sizedCredit: The Copthorne NewcastleThe High Level Bridge can be seen to the left from quayside view roomsCredit: the copthorne newcastle
The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge
When it comes to taking a city break, I always think the closer the hotel is to the hustle and bustle, the better.
The University Arms Hotel in Cambridge is in the perfect spot, being within walking distance to bars, shops and tourist hotspots like the famous colleges and Parker’s Piece.
But don’t worry, you won’t hear any noise from them within the hotel walls.
The University Arms Hotel itself couldn’t be prettier with huge stained glass windows and grand chandeliers.
I was a big fan of the colour scheme too. There’s nothing worse than going into the hotel room for a relaxing weekend and being blinded by garish designs or bright yellow walls.
The University Arms Hotel keeps it simple with calming tones of blue and a splash of burnt orange.
Not to mention the beds are super comfy, and you won’t be able to resist taking a dip in the enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
This hotel is a popular option in CambridgeCredit: the university arms hotelThe Parker’s Tavern restaurant serves up a twist on British classicsCredit: the university arms hotel
Margate House, Kent
I love a home-away-from-home retreat and Margate House ticks all the boxes.
This stylish boutique hotel is set across a seaside townhouse, just a short walk from some of Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants.
The beautifully converted townhouse is on a residential road along from the beach, in the ever-trendy Cliftonville area.
The vibrant interiors manage to be effortlessly hip, yet also homely and comfortable.
Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering in the corner and striking independent art, stepping inside is like a warm welcome home.
The nine rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
Every room has a supremely comfortable king size bed, in which you can request a picnic breakfast each morning.
A short walk will take you along the seafront to the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and Margate’s golden sandy beach.
Rooms start from £120 per night, including breakfast (margatehouse.co.uk).
Margate House follows a stylish pink and red colour schemeCredit: Margate House HotelMargate House has an intimate setting with quirky decorCredit: Margate House Hotel
The Alan, Manchester
Even from the outside, The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building.
Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine.
From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
The mod cons are just as exciting – gone are the dated telephones and instead with a personal assistant tablet where you can do everything from contact reception to get local tips and guides.
Even the bathroom was an inspiration, with copper fixtures and Haeckels toiletries hailing from Margate.
Make sure to pop into the downstairs restaurant as well.
Along with a co-working space (which for £20 includes lunch and unlimited tea and coffee) but it also houses a fantastic restaurant.
I recommend the cheesy garlic pinsa, a Roman-style flatbread, before heading into town for a night out.
The exterior of this Grade ll listed building is impressiveCredit: The Alan hotel manchesterRooms are warm and invitingCredit: The Alan hotel manchesterThere are plenty of spots for food, coffee and chilling outCredit: The Alan hotel manchester
Z Hotels Gloucester Place, London
Finding an affordable hotel in the capital can often feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
But what if I told you that there is a super central spot that costs just £55 per person, per night?
Z Hotels Gloucester Place is a real gem amongst the £200+ per night hotels in London.
Located a short walk from Oxford Street and the city’s main attractions, its ideal location is just part of the fab deal you get when staying at the hotel.
But it is the all-inclusive element of this hotel that is its real selling point.
I stayed for just one night, but had endless glasses of wine, afternoon tea, cups and cups of hot drinks, a sandwich, cans of pop, a delicious cheese board and an extensive breakfast with pastries, fresh fruit and flatbread.
Honestly, if you need somewhere to stay in the Big Smoke on a budget, then this is the place.
Rooms start from £55 per person, per night (thezhotels.com).
It’s rare to find an affordable all-inclusive hotel in LondonCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester PlaceRooms are simple, but have all that you’d needCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester PlaceThe best part of this hotel is its free-flowing food and drinksCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester Place
The Queen at Chester Hotel
This grand old dame of a hotel has had a sparkling £5 million refurbishment that has breathed new life into a historic building.
The brick and stucco Italianate edifice sits right opposite the train station in Chester and was originally built to serve first class rail passengers.
Built in 1860, the building was said to be the first skyscraper of its time.
It has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors.
The recent refurbishment has resulted in stunning new interiors with some fabulous modern art and furniture sitting seamlessly alongside the grand period features.
Rooms feature warm, earthy tones and richly patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom.
Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
And with prices from just £68 a night, it’s the perfect place to lay your head after a day at the Chester racecourse or zoo.
A £5million refurbishment has refreshed the beautiful buildingCredit: The queen at chester hotelThe interior is impressive with its modern art and grand staircaseCredit: The queen at chester hotel
The Zetter, Bloomsbury
The Zetter Townhouse in Clerkenwell is my favourite hotel in London.
The hotel bar feels so chic and homely, it’s like you’ve been invited to a drinks party at the home of some eccentric millionaire.
So the news that Zetter is opening a new hotel in Bloomsbury – my favourite area of central London – is very welcome.
The 68-bedroom townhouse hotel will span six interconnecting Georgian buildings on Montague Street, opposite the British Museum.
Bloomsbury is unique in that, despite being so close to the likes of Covent Garden and Oxford Street, it still retains plenty of character from ye olden days.
Plus, you can walk to the West End‘s theatres and restaurants, as well as the achingly cool Kings Cross.
The Zetter is known for its stylish interiorsCredit: The Zetter, BloomsburyThe restaurant at The Zetter is the perfect place to dine under candlelightCredit: The Zetter, Bloomsbury
The Grand Central, Belfast
Belfast’s city centre is home to one hotel that always makes passers-by stop in their tracks to peek inside – and that’s the Grand Central.
This glamorous high-rise hotel lives true to its name, sitting smack-bang in the middle of the city.
After a warm greeting from hotel porters, guests step inside to glossy marble interiors in the lobby – and elevators with a whole load of buttons.
Rooms are modestly sized yet pristine, with bouncy cloud beds and roomy walk-in showers.
They also come with panoramic views of the glittering skyline and iconic city hall – as does the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, The Observatory.
The Seahorse Restaurant serves everything from a delicious Irish breakfast through to quirky evening cocktails, whilst The Observatory’s Afternoon Tea beats any I’ve had in England.
At £45 per person for cakes that look like works of art, 360° rooftop city views, and plenty of generously-stuffed sandwiches, the experience is well worth looking into for special occasions.
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a fancy weekend away in the UK, you’ll feel extremely well taken care of at this swanky city hotel.
The city views from these rooms are astonishingCredit: grand central hotel belfastThe Seahorse Bar and Restaurant serves up fancy cocktails and excellent local dishesCredit: grand central hotel belfastThe location of this hotel is unbeatable when in BelfastCredit: grand central hotel belfast
Artist Residence, Bristol
The Artist Residence hotels lives up to its name, feeling like you’ve stepped into a bohemian home of an art curator.
I’ve been to their London hotel although it’s their own in Bristol that I adore.
Built into a Georgian townhouse, the hotel was once an old boot factory.
I love the options of rooms, such as their Crash Pad which is cosy and compact if you just need a base to explore the city.
Otherwise I love the Boot Room, still with a king size bed and Smeg fridge, or splash out on the massive Artist Suite, with views over Portland Square, a living area bigger than my first flat and a roll top bath.
You’ll be bumping into locals at the restaurant downstairs too, from families visiting for a hearty breakfast to groups of mates having a big night out for dinner.
I’m still dreaming of some of the small plates, from the salty hispi cabbage to the rich harissa roast chicken.
Don’t forget to grab a picture in the downstairs photobooth too.
This quirky hotel truly lives up to its nameCredit: Artist residence, bristolThis hotel balances homely and quirky perfectlyCredit: Artist residence, bristol
LOOKING for somewhere cheap to visit in 2026, that won’t have you stuck on a plane for hours?
We’ve put together a list of some of the most affordable short-haul destinations to visit, with insider tips on where to eat and stay for cheap.
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Dublin’s Temple Bar area is extremely popular with tourists and a great photo opportunityCredit: unknownDublin’s cobbled streets are full of charmCredit: Getty
Whether it’s a weekend city break, a romantic getaway or a quick foodie trip – here’s our top picks for the best in short-haul holidays.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is one of Europe’s most exciting and lively capital cities, with loads to see and do, and plenty of good craic to be had.
There are plenty of fun experiences like the Guinness Storehouse (from €22 (£19) or Jameson’s Distillery tour (from €26 (£22.80)), both of which are worth every penny.
But there’s also no need to spend on days out when there is so much to see just by strolling through the city.
Wander down Grafton Street to listen to some of the most talented buskers you’ve ever heard.
Or take a picnic to Stephen’s Green to feed the resident swans, relax and watch the world go by.
And if you’re looking for the best pint, we have some insider tips.
Whilst it’s worth visiting the famous Temple Bar for a photo op, there are some much more authentic (and cheaper) places to get a drink.
Grab your pint of Guinness from bars loved by locals such as Gravediggers or Mulligan’s for a more authentic experience.
Flights from multiple UK airports to Dublin are often only £14.99 each way with Ryanair.
Plus the flight over is so fast, cabin crew barely have the time to get the trolley down the aisle before you’ve landed!
Stay at a hostel like Generator Dublin for an urban, industrial vibe right in the heart of the city, whilst paying as little as £14 to stay the night.
The flight from London to Milan is only 2 hoursCredit: GettyPiazza del Duomo square is one of the most photographed spots in MilanCredit: Getty
Milan, Italy
Milan might be known as one of Europe‘s top fashion capitals, but this sleek Italian city is a surprisingly cheap stay.
Skip the pricey guided tours – Milan is best explored on foot.
Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, admire the Duomo (or climb the rooftop for €15 (£13)), and unwind in Parco Sempione behind Sforza Castle.
There are loads of architectural masterpieces which are free to enter, such as the grand Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio and the stunning San Maurizio – often dubbed the Sistine Chapel of Milan.
There are also some great museums with free entry, such as the Palazzo Morando art museum and the Mudec – Museum of Cultures.
Another major perk of Milan is that you can feast on authentic Italian food to your heart’s content – without breaking the bank.
Head to the Navigli district, famous for its canals and buzzing nightlife, where you can order an aperitivo for around €10 (£8.80) and you’ll get a cocktail plus a plate of free snacks, or even a mini buffet to go with it.
Or for some traditional pasta, visit restaurants such as Il Brutto Anatroccolo for mains from €8 (£7).
The flight from London to Milan is only 2 hours long, and costs as little as £14.20 each way with easyJet.
There are plenty of cheap hotels to choose from, including the 4-star Cosmo Hotel Palace for £54 per night.
The Hungarian Parliament Building stands majestically on the Danube RiverCredit: GettyThe Szechenyi Baths in Budapest get their water from two thermal springsCredit: AlamyThe Szimpla is a trendy ruin bar and a great spot for a drinkCredit: GettyMany street vendors in Budapest offer Hungarian chimney cakeCredit: Getty
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest might look like a luxury city break at first glance, with its grand architecture, thermal spas and classy rooftop bars.
But the Hungarian capital actually one of the most affordable capitals to visit in Europe.
Start your trip in the city’s famous ruin bars – once crumbling buildings turned into quirky bohemian pubs.
Here you can grab a pint for 1000 HUF (£2.25) and dance the night away without burning a hole in your pocket.
Szimpla Kert is the most iconic ruin bar, packed with vintage furniture, fairy lights, and live music most nights.
To relax, skip the expensive spas and head to the picture-perfect SzéchenyiThermal Bath.
It’s the largest medicinal bath in Europe, and costs 12,500 HUF (around £28) to visit.
Soak in your choice of 15 steamy outdoor pools surrounded by Budapest’s signature neo-baroque architecture.
The city is also dotted with street vendors selling delicious chimney cake, or ‘Kürtőskalács’ – a delicious sweet pastry that is a must-try when in Budapest.
It’s made by wrapping dough around a spit before rolling it in cinnamon sugar or chocolate, and you can grab them for as little as 445 HUF (or £1).
Return flights to Budapest cost as little as £42 with Ryanair, and city centre hotels such as the Benczúr offer rooms for as little as £30 a night.
Walk the walls of Girona for great views over the cityCredit: GettyGirona in Spain has a beautiful canal and colourful historic buildingsCredit: GettyXuixos are tasty Spanish pastries – a popular snack in GironaCredit: Alamy
Girona, Spain
Girona might not be the first place that comes to mind for a Spanish break, but it should be.
This colourful Catalan city has all the charm of Barcelona – without the chaos or the price tag.
Wander through the Old Town”s medieval streets to see sights like the impressive Gothic Cathedral and the famous colourful houses that line the Onyar River.
There are plenty of fascinating historic sites to visit, like the arching Arab Baths and the Força Vella, the Roman fortress remains.
You can even walk along the city walls for some unbeatable views.
There’s also some quirky places to visit such as the Cinema Museum, Game of Thrones filming sites and the Pont de las Peixateries Velles – the city’s iconic red bridge.
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.
The Sun’s Kara Godfrey travels to over 10 countries a year
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
Senegal is a great ‘fly and flop’ destinationCredit: AlamyGoree Island is a must visit when in Senegal with boats from DakarCredit: AlamyTUI has some super cheap package dealsCredit: COLLECT
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, LondonLuton 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
Marrakech is already hitting 20C in FebruaryCredit: AlamyJust walking through the souks and to the mosques is a wonderful day outCredit: AlamyMarrakech is busy but worth exploring
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 LondonLuton 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
The beautiful Plaza de Espana in SevilleCredit: Alamy
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
Tokyo has lots of free things to do – to justify the priceCredit: GettyVisit in April to catch some cherry blossoms before the busy season
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
Singapore in May is a perfect combination of good weather and more affordable flightsCredit: AlamyA side car tour is the best way to travel around
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
A food tour of San Juan is a must in Puerto RicoCredit: AlamyOld San Juan is one of the most colourful areas
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
El Gouna is a safer option for visiting Egypt, being a gated communityCredit: AlamyThe lagoon island is a great spot if you want to explore other day trips around Egypt
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)
Music fans will visit Gothenburg in August but it is still a quieter festival town than others in EuropeCredit: Alamy
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 LondonLuton 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)
The fashion capital of Milan is a great post-summer city destinationCredit: Alamy
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)
Madrid has some amazing cheap eats if you want to dine on a budgetCredit: AlamyBar hop in Madrid for some fantastic wine and cocktails
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
Lille is the first stop in Europe on the EurostarCredit: Alamy
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
Tivoli Chrstmas market is a must in Copenhagen in DecemberCredit: Alamy
AN Emirates flight attendant has revealed some of her top tips for people planning a trip to Dubai – as well as little-known perks to the job.
Alessandra Piper initially worked in a corporate job in London, before being tempted to become flight crew by a friend already working for the airline.
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Alessandra has worked for Emirates for 11 years
She told Sun Travel: “The opportunity to explore different cultures while building a career in aviation was incredibly appealing, so I applied, and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made.”
She has since worked for Emirates for 11 years, where she currently serves the First Class cabin – her role for the past two and a half years.
When it comes to training, it is certainly intense.
She explained: “Emirates places strong emphasis on professional development, with a seven-and-a-half-week world-class training program at the dedicated Cabin Crew Training Academy covering safety, medical, security and hospitality skills.
“Working in First Class allows me to provide a highly personalized experience, dedicating more time to each passenger.
“We also undergo specialized courses such as L’art du vin, Emirates’ expert wine program designed to deepen our understanding of the airline’s extensive collection, including tasting profiles, pairing principles and service techniques.”
She has since been to 87 countries and hundreds of cities – although with 140 places the airlines connects to, she has a long way to go.
Not only that, but flight crew can request specific destination to go to, and head to events sponsored by Emirates which include tennis, football and cricket.
Of course, most of the long-haul routes go via Dubai – where crew are also given fully furnished accommodation, free uniform cleaning and free transport to work.
Here are some of Alessandra’s top tips if heading to Dubai – for first timers and those on a budget.
What top tips would you give to Dubai first timers?
Dubai genuinely has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, an incredible dining scene, family-friendly attractions or world-class shopping.
I always suggest booking tickets for popular experiences in advance, as it makes the day much smoother and helps avoid queues.
With malls and attractions open late into the evening, the city offers plenty to enjoy after daylight hours, from waterfront dining to desert experiences, so you can make the most of every day you’re here.
Taxis in Dubai are abundant and affordable, so it’s easy to explore the city.
You can download the Careem or Uber app for even quicker access to taxis.
One practical tip: always carry a light jacket, even during the hotter months, as indoor spaces can be very air-conditioned.
The city can easily be done on a budgetCredit: AlamyPanoramic view of Hatta, a town in the Emirate of Dubai, in the border with OmanCredit: Getty – Contributor
Are there any hidden spots that tourists don’t know about but should?
Dubai’s dining scene is extraordinary.
The city is home to more than 13,000 restaurants and cafés, making it one of the most diverse culinary destinations in the world.
With so much choice, it’s worth exploring beyond the most talked-about spots.
Most high-end restaurants offer business lunch packages – a smaller menu for a very affordable price.
Sushi Samba’s business lunch is my favourite, the restaurant has a 360-degree view of The Palm.
I also love introducing visitors to Jumeirah Al Qasr.
A traditional abra ride through the hotel’s waterways offers beautiful views of the Burj Al Arab, and I usually end the visit with a meal at one of the resort’s restaurants.
Dubai Opera is also a must. Beyond opera, the venue hosts musicals, ballet, theatre and more.
And for those seeking nature, Dubai has much to offer.
You can see flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary or take a day trip to Hatta for kayaking, hiking and mountain scenery, showing an entirely different side of the UAE.
Emirates have flights to Dubai from £519 returnCredit: Alamy
It is worth checking the airport’s rules before travelling as some have already scrapped the 100ml rule.
For example, London Gatwick now allow passengers to bring liquids up to 2 litres with them, while London Heathrow are still following the 100ml rules.
And you will have to follow the rules of the airport you are flying from as well, whether it be Europe or further afield.
If you’re unsure, it is best to keep liquids under 100ml, and fitting in a plastic bag.
Can you fly when pregnant?
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If you want to sneak in a last minute flight while pregnant, you might be surprised by the rules.
Most airlines no longer allow pregnant people to fly if they are past 36-37 weeks, although this goes down to 32 weeks if pregnant with more than one baby.
Up until this point, it is okay to fly unless there are medical concerns.
And it is advised to check with your doctor ahead of booking your holiday too, just in case.
How long do you need on your passport to travel?
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Knowing how many months you need on your passport is a complex issue, so it’s no wonder people have headed straight to Google for the answers.
The answer is, it depends per country, with the usual time being between three months and six months.
Most of Europe requires Brits to have at least three months, while places like Egypt, Thailand and Indonesia require six months.
Some don;t require any – places like Barbados simply require you to have a valid passport, with no additional months enforced.
It is best to visit the UK FCO website and check the entry requirements before booking a holiday.
How much is travel insurance?
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Travel insurance doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does change depending on a number of factors.
Some of the cheapest prices can found for under £5, if you are going somewhere deemed safe, for a short trip.
However, the price of insurance can go up for a number reasons.
Older travellers or those with diagnosed medical conditions will have to pay more, as well as those going somewhere more dangerous or doing extreme sports.
And of course if you are paying for an annual insurance, or going away for longer than the standard holiday, these all make it more expensive.
It is best to go on a comparison website to find the best option.
You might need to have up to six months on your passportCredit: Alamy
These range from Sundays in January during the sales, or timing it six to 12 weeks before your holiday.
It all depends on your destination as well, as it can depend on the school break season where you are going.
Sadly, there is no straight answer for this, and instead you are better using a flight price tracker, so you are alerted to any big price drops so you can then grab a bargain.
Where to travel in February?
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February can be a great month for a holiday, as it is still off-season but most people have since had their first paycheck since Christmas.
If you want somewhere warm and not too far, the Spanish islands are a great bet – Lanzarote is often one of the warmest.
Or you can head to some of the nearer African destinations like Morocco and Cape Verde, with the later reaching 27C.
If you don’t mind going a bit further, it is one of the best seasons to visit Thailand and Vietnam too.
Lanzarote is a great short haul February destinationCredit: Alamy
What does travel insurance cover?
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This all depends on what kind of insurance you buy.
The cheapest is likely to cover lost luggage and basic medical expenses, as well as cover you for any last minute emergencies like cancelling your holiday.
This can include losing your passport, last minute hotels or cancelled flights.
Otherwise upgraded insurance policies can also cover for extreme sports or winter sports.
How to pack your suitcase
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If you want to stop paying for checked in luggage, there are some great tips on how to pack a suitcase.
One is to always roll your item, as you can fit in a lot more than if you fold.
Packing cubes are also a huge help in compressing your clothes down to fit more in.
And of course stuff your shoes where you can, to make up for the lost pace inside.
Keep some of your liquids in your handbag just in case – and remember to wear your bulkiest items on the plane.
Rolling and packing cubes are your friend for packingCredit: Alamy
NOW Christmas is over, thoughts switch to that other wallet-buster of an annual event – the summer holiday.
If you want to get your trip booked in but the bank account is looking pretty empty, there are plenty of travel companies that will let you book for next to nothing if you get booking NOW.
You can secure a spot at the Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort in Crete for just £1Credit: Sunshine.co.uk
We’ve rounded up some of the businesses that offer Brits the chance to reserve their summer break from just a quid.
Sunshine.co.uk offers package holidays with deposits from £30 pp – and better yet, you can book hotel stays abroad with just a £1 deposit.
The final balance is due just four weeks before you travel, giving you plenty of time to get prepared with payments. And if you need to cancel your hotel booking, you’ll only lose the £1 deposit up to 2 weeks before you depart.
On the other hand, holiday companies TUI, First Choice and Expedia offer options for you to secure your holiday with a £0 deposit.
With TUI you can book a package holiday with a £0 deposit for both short haul and long haul trips. This includes your flights, transfers, accommodation and baggage allowance – all secured without spending a penny upfront.
If you book your holiday at least 6 months in advance and pay via their direct debit scheme, you’re eligible to book with £0 deposit.
First Choice have a similar scheme, offering £0 deposits for holidays booked at least 6 months in advance, as long as the flights are with TUI Airways. Or if you use their PayPal Credit payment option, the flights can be with any airline.
Lastly, Expedia‘s book now pay later option lets you book a hotel stay with no upfront costs – as you pay upon arrival at the hotel itself. Just filter your hotel search by “Reserve now, pay later” and make sure you tick the “Pay at property” option when booking.
These low and no deposit options are a stress-free way to get next year’s holidays sorted, without that initial dent in your wallet.
Whether it’s an action-packed family holiday or a romantic week away, here’s some of our top holiday picks that you can book with £1 or no deposit – so you can get something in the calendar to look forward to.
Spend your days lounging poolside and nights exploring local bars while on holiday at The Stamos Hotel, Faliraki, RhodesCredit: Sunshine.co.uk
Stamos Hotel – Faliraki, Rhodes
This hotel in Faliraki on the island of Rhodes is just 10 minutes from the buzzy town centre – and 10 minutes from the beach.
It’s a typical Greek hotel with its whitewashed buildings, lush greenery and parasol-dotted poolside.
Faliraki in Rhodes is home to some beautiful coast including ‘Main beach’, which is a long sandy stretch with shallow waters that are perfect for families, as well as the quieter Kathara beach and Anthony Quinn Bay.
But the town really comes alive at night-time, as the resort is known for its nightlife scene, as its famous “Bar Street” is lined with bars and clubs pumping out pop music all night long.
Luckily, this hotel is located on the outskirts of the town – so once you’re done partying for the night you can be sure to get a good night’s sleep in peace and quiet.
Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay from £376.68 pp. Flights not included.
TUI SUNEO El Trébol in Lanzarote has an aquarium, Aquapark and water sports hubCredit: TUI
TUI SUNEO El Trébol – Costa Teguise, Lanzarote
Costa Teguise on the east coast of Lanzarote is an exciting resort that’s super popular with families.
It has an aquarium, Aquapark and water sports hub all in one action-packed place.
This hotel is part of TUI’S SUNEO collection of 3 and 4-star hotels that are handpicked for their affordable pricing, quality entertainment – and are often all-inclusive.
It’s also a 9-minute walk to Playa de los Charcos, a small, golden crescent of beach that’s much quieter than the nearby Playa de las Cucharas.
TUI offer 7 nights’ all inclusive stay in from £553 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes return flights from Birmingham.
If you’re looking for a party holiday, it doesn’t get much better than the Hard Rock Hotel in sunny MarbellaCredit: Expedia
Hard Rock Hotel, Marbella, Spain
If you’re looking for a party holiday, it doesn’t get much better than the Hard Rock Hotel in sunny Marbella.
The Hard Rock Hotel experience is one-of-a-kind, with live concerts, evening performances and rentable guitars and record players for your hotel room.
Food here is equally as exciting, as this hotel’s restaurants swap typical buffets for Asian fusions and Mexican flavours.
Nearby, there’s beach clubs and boat parties galore – plus your pick of multiple golf courses.
And for a day out sightseeing, wander the old city walls of Marbella castle and stroll down the Avenida del Mar to see sculptures by Salvador Dalí.
Expedia offers 7 nights’ room-only stay for £688 total, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.
Singers and dancers at Hotel Rio Park in Benidorm perform hits from musicals like The Greatest ShowmanCredit: TUI
Hotel Rio Park – Benidorm
This hotel in buzzy Benidorm is popular for its modern interiors and glamorous entertainment programme.
There’s quizzes and aqua gym classes to keep you occupied during the day, and in the evenings you’ll catch performances from top-quality singers and dancers performing hit musical numbers.
Plus it’s a great choice for families with picky eaters.
The buffest restaurant serves up everything from roast dinners, to chicken curry, to apple crumble.
Meanwhile, the hotel sports bar shows the footie matches and pours British pints.
Hotel Rio Park is situated on a quiet road by Levante beach, a great spot to enjoy the best of Benidorm, without compromising on comfort.
TUI offers 7 nights’ half board stay from £304 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from East Midlands Airport.
Marmaris in Turkey is a popular resort area for families and water sports loversCredit: Sunshine.co.uk
Grand Ideal Premium Hotel – Marmaris, Turkey
A 5-star all inclusive in Turkey for only £1 deposit and just over £500 pp? Yes please.
The Grand Ideal Premium Hotel sits in Marmaris, a resort in the Turkish Riviera known for its clear-water beaches backed by thick green forests and mountains.
This luxurious hotel has 272 spacious rooms including family suites, many overlooking the massive outdoor pool that snakes around the resort.
Spend your days on 4×4 mountainside safari tours, visiting Marmaris’ central market, or zipping down tube slides at Atlantis waterpark.
Sunshine.co.uk offers 7 nights’ all inclusive stay from £507 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.
The Corendon in Antalya has rooms that look out to stunning sunsets over the seaCredit: First Choice
Corendon Playa Kemer, Antalya, Turkey
If you’re looking for a holiday with a mix of lazy beach days and outdoor adventure, this resort in Turkey’s Beldibi makes for the ideal destination.
This is the kind of place where you can stroll along soft sands, dip into ancient history, hike canyons – and still be back in time for cocktails by the pool.
The resort itself earns its popular rating with its 7 bars, 4 restaurants and 3 pools – plus its own theatre and nightclub.
Behind the beachfront resort is the Mountain of Ali, where you can hike endless pine trails to your heart’s content.
It’s also a 25-minute drive to the ancient ruins of Phaselis, a seaport with Greek and Roman history where you can still see the ancient Roman baths.
First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Corendon Playa Kemer for £770 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Luton.
The All-Star Movies Resort is an affordable place to stay to make the most of Walt Disney WorldCredit: TUI
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Orlando
If you’re dreaming of that once-in-a-lifetime Disney trip, TUI’s no-deposit and flexible payment plans make planning that big trip a whole lot easier.
The All-Star Movies accommodation in Florida‘s Walt Disney World Resort is a budget-friendly option with all the Disney magic.
As its name suggests, this place is a movie lover’s dream. Think huge Disney film themed zones, decorated with giant characters from Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians and more.
The resort also has a couple of good-sized pools, including the whimsical Fantasia Pool and the quieter Duck Pond Pool.
There’s a kids’ splash zone, a playground, a jogging trail, and even a video games arcade – plenty to keep families entertained when you’re not exploring the parks.
Rooms are simple and comfortable, with two queen beds or a king and a fold-out.
TUI offer 7 nights’ room-only stay for £975 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Price includes flights from London Gatwick.
The infinity pool at the Coral Beach Hotel and Resort has some pretty unbeatable viewsCredit: Sunshine.co.uk
Coral Beach Hotel and Resort – Paphos, Cyprus
The Coral Beach Hotel in Cyprus’ Coral Bay has everything you could want from an all-inclusive resort and more.
There’s 7 restaurants and 3 bars to choose from here, including an Italian eatery and seafood tavern.
The property also has a private beach and its own harbour offering boat trips.
Plus, four tennis courts, a squash court, games room, kids activity programme and arts and crafts centre.
For day trips out, there’s the UNESCO-listed Akamas Peninsula on your doorstep to explore.
Sunshine.co.uk offers 7 nights’ all inclusive stay for £304 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.
This Cancun hotel has a boho beachy feel and is in the heart of Mexico’s CancunCredit: Expedia
Ocean Dream Cancun by GuruHotel – Cancun, Mexico
This beachfront boho hotel is just steps away from soft white sands and crystal blue water in its location on the Punta Cancun – a popular resort area known for its bars and clubs.
The area has some of Mexico’s most pristine beaches, that look like they’ve walked out of the pages of a luxury magazine.
Activities include whale-watching, snorkelling and day trips to visit one of the seven wonders of the world – Chichen Itza.
Inside the hotel itself, there’s 68 air-conditioned for a pretty affordable price.
Expedia offers 7 nights’ room-only stay for £734 total, based on 2 adults. Flights not included.
Coreal Sea Water World is in the popular resort area of Hurghada in EgyptCredit: First Choice
Coral Sea Water World, Hurghada, Egypt
Coral Sea Water World sits on the luxurious Nabq Bay of Egypt‘s Sharm El Sheikh.
This all-inclusive resort is built for families, with an extensive entertainment programme and an on-site waterpark with 18 slides to try out.
Dining-wise you can expect a buffet that’s anything but repetitive, as the theme and food line-up change daily.
If you can bring yourself to leave the all-inclusive waterpark-come-resort, Sharm El Sheikh is an exciting resort area to explore.
There’s the King Tut Museum (which has free entry for kids up to age 11), plus the Red Sea is known for its clear waters full of colourful marine life, best seen via snorkel.
First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at Coral Sea Water World from £328 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes flights from Birmingham airport.
The Arabian Park by Rotana Hotel in Dubai is close to many must-sees such as Dubai MallCredit: Expedia
Arabian Park by Rotana Hotel, Dubai
This modern hotel in Dubai’s Al Jaddaf is a great base for exploring the city, just a short distance from Downtown Dubai and the Festival City.
Arabian Park Dubai has an outdoor pool decorated with loungers and palm trees, plus a gym and all-day dining restaurant serving international dishes.
The rooms are bright, modern and air-conditioned, with comfy beds and large windows that look out over the city skyline or pool area.
It’s a great spot to stay for sightseeing around Dubai, as the hotel offers a free shuttle service to La Mer Beach, Dubai Mall and Dubai International Airport.
Expedia offers 7 nights’ stay with breakfast for £632 total, based on one room for 2 adults. Flights not included.
The rooftop pool at Hilton Alexandria Corniche has sweeping sea viewsCredit: Expedia
Hilton Alexandria Corniche, Egypt
The Alexandria Corniche is one of Egypt’s most vibrant waterfronts – a curving promenade lined with cafés, shisha spots and seafood restaurants.
Here you’re also within easy reach of the city’s top sights, from the spectacular Library of Alexandria (20 minutes’ drive) to the centuries-old Citadel of Qaitbay (35 minutes).
Sat on this popular seafront is the Hilton Alexandria Corniche, a sleek hotel with a rooftop pool and six restaurants to keep you well fed between sightseeing.
The hotel even has its own private beach and wellness centre, where you can have a massage or relax in the hot tub after using the hotel gym.
Expedia offers 7 nights’ stay with breakfast for £631 total, based on one room for 2 adults. Flights not included.
The giant tipping bucket and splash park is popular with kidsCredit: First Choice
Blue Lagoon Resort, Kos, Greece
This resort on the Greek island of Kos is ideal for families who are into waterparks.
There’s five pools here, including a kids activity pool and adults-only option – plus a waterpark with a lazy river.
The main attraction though is the lagoon-style outdoor pool, which is popular with kids and adults alike with its whirlpool baths and jets.
Once you’ve explored all the pools have to offer, there’s football, padel courts, basketball and two playgrounds for the kids to burn off the rest of their energy.
It’s also based right on the beachfront and under 10-minutes’ drive to Kos Old Town – where you can admire the historic Roman Odeon and Nerantzia Castle.
First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Blue Lagoon Resort for £691 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Stansted.
This hotel in Ajman is seriously affordable for its luxury feelCredit: Expedia
Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, Ajman, UAE
For a slice of all-inclusive affordable luxury, it’s worth checking out the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel.
The 5-star property is all glamorous marble and arches, with its own private beach.
The area of Ajman offers a more calm and gentle pace than nearby Dubai, with long sandy beaches, calm waters and laid-back vibe.
Head into the streets of Ajman to discover its charming Old Town with traditional markets, or relax on its sweeping sandy beaches.
And if you fancy a day trip to the nearby glitzy city, Dubai is a 30-minute drive away.
Expedia offers 4 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel for £646 total, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.
The Riviera Maya in Mexico has a beachy jungle feel, and this resort truly captures itCredit: First Choice
Grand Cobra, Mexico
Mexico‘s Riviera Maya blends tropical forests with beaches where warm waves gently lap over sugar-white sand – plus some really fantastic activity-packed resorts.
Set amid lush jungle and just a short shuttle ride from the beach, Bahia Principe Grand Coba is a major family holiday base.
Think vast leafy grounds, big lake-style pools, plus a waterpark and lazy river set-up that keeps kids (and grown-ups) happily entertained.
If you fancy a change of scenery, you’re within reach of some pretty coastal areas like Akumal and trendy Tulum.
There’s also a golf course nearby for those who want to trade sunbathing for practising their swing.
First Choice offer 7 nights’ all inclusive stay at the Bahia Principe Grand Coba from £995 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes return flights from London Gatwick.
The Monica Isabel Beach Club is a great base for exploring AlbufeiraCredit: Sunshine.co.uk
Monica Isabel Beach Club Aparthotel, Albufeira, Algarve
The Monica Isabel Beach Club is an aparthotel with simple, clean accommodation and everything you need for a chilled-out Algarve break.
There’s two outdoor pools plus a children’s pool, and a heated indoor option.
Rooms are studios or one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, with plenty of space and balconies or terraces.
The club-style resort offers a mix of activities: a fitness centre, tennis, games room, and a seasonal entertainment programme.
And when you fancy venturing out, you’re in a great spot. The lively New Town of Albufeira is on your doorstep, packed with bars, restaurants, shops and nightlife.
It’s a great pick if you want a well-located base where you can explore the Algarve at your own pace.
Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Monica Isabel Beach Club Aparthotel for £493 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.
A palm-lined poolside stay can be reserved for just £1Credit: Sunshine.co.uk
db Seabank Resort and Spa – All Inclusive, Malta
Mellieħa Bay is home to Malta’s biggest sandy beach, so you’re in a prime spot for the best of beach days at the db Seabank Resort and Spa.
This area is quieter than the island’s busier resorts like Bugibba and Qawra, but still has plenty of cafés, restaurants and coastal paths when you fancy a wander.
The family-friendly all-inclusive has three pools, a spa, gym and its own indoor soft play area as part of the excellent onsite kids club.
Kids will also love the jungle-themed restaurant, whilst adults can enjoy a sushi buffet at L’Orjent Asian restaurant.
Nearby, Mellieħa’s scenic hilltop village and the rest of the popular northern coast are just a short bus ride or drive away.
Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £188 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.
Catalonia Oro Negro in Tenerife is a short walk away from the beachCredit: First Choice
Catalonia Oro Negro, Tenerife
Sunshine-soaked and just a 10-minute walk from golden sand beaches, Catalonia Oro Negro gives you access to the best of Tenerife in one neat package.
The resort offers two outdoor pools (plus a rooftop pool for adults in premium rooms), a poolside bar and a buffet restaurant with live show-cooking.
Rooms are bright and comfortable with private balconies or terraces – great for a morning coffee or a quiet evening sunset overlooking the Atlantic.
Inside the hotel there’s table-tennis, billiards, darts and a kids’ playground – plenty to keep everyone entertained when you’re not on the beach or out exploring.
Step outside the hotel door and you’re in the heart of lively Playa de las Américas, one of Tenerife’s top holiday hotspots. Think beachfront promenades, vibrant nightlife, surf-style beach clubs, shops, restaurants and bars.
For a change of pace, you can rent a car or hop on a short taxi ride to explore volcanic landscapes and the island’s natural parks.
First Choice offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £497 pp based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Luton.
There’s no need to visit to the local waterpark if you’re staying at the Stella Palace Aqua Park ResortCredit: Sunshine.co.uk
Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort, Crete, Greece
If you’re after a Greek resort for a big family holiday, Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort ticks a lot of boxes.
The complex is just a stone’s throw from the sea at Analipsi, where there’s a section reserved just for hotel guests.
The resort itself has two giant pools, a waterpark and a splash park which you’re able to use at the sister hotel, Stella Village.
You can pick from 267 modern rooms, some of which have their own hot tubs and doorstep pool access.
Throw in warm summer evenings with live music, movie nights and mini discos, and you’re all set for that big family summer holiday.
Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £244 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.
This resort looks out to the beach and is backed by a mountainCredit: TUI
TUI MAGIC LIFE Fuerteventura
This massive resort in Fuerteventura hosts everything from sports tournaments to bike tours – and is backed by an impressive mountain.
This resort is truly a sports lover’s paradise, offering everything from mini football, to archery and trampolining.
And after all that exercise, there’s a sauna, steam bath and hot stone massages on offer to relax and rejuvenate.
Nearby, there’s the sandy stretch of Playa de Esquinzo beach, and the quaint Morro Jable fishing village to explore.
The resort is also close to Jandia (an 11-minute drive) popular for its cocktail bars, affordable restaurants and nightlife.
TUI offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay from £552 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Price includes flights from London Luton.
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.
GO: 8 Woodlands
STAYING THERE: A week’s stay ranges from £1428 – £4200 depending on the season. See Aspect Holidays.co.uk
Best holiday park for families with dogs
Parbola Holiday Park, Hayle
Parbola Holiday Park is the perfect place for a peaceful staycationCredit: Irfan Cemal
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.”
GO: PARBOLA HOLIDAY PARK
STAYING THERE: A week’s stay in a Standard 2-bedroom holiday home starts from £1,188 for a family of four. See LovatHolidayParks.com
Best hotel for food
St Tudy Inn, St Tudy
The St Tudy Inn serves seafood such as hake and steamed musslesCredit: St Tudy Inn
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.
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.
GO: St Tudy Inn
STAYING THERE: A double room starts from £1,155 for a week’s stay. See StTudyInn.com
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.
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
Bosinver Farm Cottages is the winner of Visit England’s Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in 2017Credit: Bosinver Farm Cottages
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.”
GO: BOSINVER FARM COTTAGES
STAYING THERE: A week’s stay in the Hillside cottage starts from £1700 for a family of 4. See Bosinver.co.uk
Best hotel with a sea view
Polurrian on the Lizard, Mullion
The Polurrian on the Lizard was once home to political and Hollywood eliteCredit: The Polurrian on the lizard
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 tenniscourt 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.
GO: POLURRIAN ON THE LIZARD
STAYING THERE: A double room with a sea view starts from £209 per night. See PolurrianHotel.com
Best spa hotel
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay
Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa offers spectacular sunset viewsCredit: Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa
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.
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.
GO: FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL AND SPA
Best spot for camping
Trevornick Holiday Park, Holywell
Trevornick Holiday Park provides ready made tentsCredit: Trevornick Holiday Park
While Cornwall’s buccaneering pirates and smugglers are long gone, the spirit of adventure can still be found in camping.
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.”
GO: TREVORNICK HOLIDAY PARK
STAYING THERE: A non-serviced grass pitch for a family of 4 starts from £362.18. See Trevornick.co.uk.
Best spot for glamping
Tremeer Farm, Lanteglos-by-fowey
Treemer Farm’s 18th-century Mongolian-style yurts are all uniqueCredit: Instagram
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
GO: TREMEER FARM
STAYING THERE: yurt that sleeps up to five people starts from £850 a week. See YurtsCornwall.com
Although travelling to Cornwall during its peak season is a no-brainer, we also recommend visiting this gorgeous peninsula in the winter.
NOW that we’re in the midst of the 12 days of Christmas, it’s time to take a look at my 12 months of thriftmas.
I’m a queen of money-saving when it comes to holidays and days out – and here’s my calendar of little-known dates for getting money off tickets.
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Booking different attractions at specific points in the year could save you moneyCredit: Alamy
Some years I’ve saved £1000, just by following my thriftmas calendar.
Obviously we all know about the January sales and Black Friday, but there’s also other deals that pop up month by month that you can make the most of.
In January, cashback sites often boost the amount they offer when booking holiday accommodation or package deals, so you can make a hefty saving while getting your family trip away sorted.
One year, I booked a fortnight all-inclusive in Fuerteventura for my family of five and paid £1,930 upfront for the hotel and meal package, receiving £216 back in my Quidco account a few months later once my cashback had tracked.
For February, my top tip would be to take a look at which theme parks will be giving out a pair of free tickets on Sun Club or Sunsavers and make a note of when each offer will be launched.
I managed to bag tickets to Chessington in the summer holidays this year by booking as soon as they were on offer on Sun Club in February.
One date that most parents overlook is World Book Dayin March.
I’ve got my boys into soft plays and trampoline parks free before, just by turning up as a book character or taking part in a story-related activity.
You need to keep an eye out for posters at the venue or social media posts to see what pops up.
Easter can be a brilliant time to get early season two-for-one tickets as summer attractions start to open and want to bump up visitor numbers.
Sign up to the social media pages of your favourite days out and you’ll be surprised what discount codes pop up on there in April.
One Easter we went to Parc Asterix near Paris and kids got in free with paying adults in the first couple of weeks of its season.
May half-term is fantastic for getting ahead before the big summer break if you plan a family day out wisely.
Lots of places convert your day ticket into an annual pass now, which means you’ll be able to use it several times during the summer season.
One Easter we went to Parc Asterix near Paris and kids got in free with paying adults in the first couple of weeks of its seasonCredit: AlamyThe Space Centre allows you to come back multiple terms if you initially visit in the half-termCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
So if you choose a place like the Space Centre in Leicester and visit it in half-term, you can go back multiple times over the following year.
June is my time for planning days out for the long summer break.
I take a look at how much I have saved in supermarket loyalty schemes like Tesco Clubcard and work out how I can put that to best use over the summer.
Earlier this year, there was even a Clubcard boost that meant if you converted £5 of points into a voucher for a day out, you would get an extra £10 of Clubcard points in your account by October.
Some schools plan inset days in July so you can use these to get into big attractions for term-time prices rather than paying a premium during the school holidays.
Head to Warwick Castle before the summer holidays, to beat the crowdsCredit: AlamyDuring the summer, a lot of indoor attractions also have offers on to get people through the doorCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
We often visit Warwick Castle in the early summer to beat the crowds.
In August, lots of indoor attractions like soft plays or adventure golfhave offers to get visitors through the doors, as it can be quiet during holiday season with people away or making the most of the summer weather to get some fresh air.
September is when you get early bird deals for Santa’s grottos and winter wonderland experiences.
One year, I booked to see Santa at Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes for just £29 for five people, using a discount code.
If you fancy a cheeky little UK staycation,October half-term can be the perfect time to get a deal, because the school holidays are often staggered over three weeks so everyone is not trying to book the same week off, keeping prices lower.
Discount codes can also get you into places for less, like to see Santa at Gulliver’s Land in Milton KeynesCredit: Catherine LofthouseAnd don’t forget Black Friday to look for bargain getawaysCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
We love visiting a caravan park for Halloween or Bonfire Night as you usually get lots of themed activities or even a fireworks display included.
We all know about Black Friday in November and this can be the perfect time to grab discounted tickets to family attractions.
This year, I spotted half-price tickets to my local water park that could be used until the end of the year, so perfect for the Christmas holidays.
December is a great time to check any membership schemes you are signed up to, like Blue Light Card.
They often boost their offers in the run-up to Christmas.
This year, my favourite deal was children go free with paying adults to the Twycross Zoo winter light trail.
Now is the perfect time to get organised for the year ahead and think about what you want to book and when.
A little bit of planning can save you loads over the course of the year.
October half-term is often the best time to book a UK staycation getawayCredit: Catherine LofthouseWith these tips, you could save yourself hundreds on days out, activities and holidaysCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
FROM the Canaries to Costa Blanca, these under-the-radar Spanish destinations should be on your holiday wish list.
We’ve picked out some of the best hidden gems across Spain, with whitewashed villages, beach towns and exotic city breaks for a fraction of the usual price and no crowds.
Manilva in Costa del Sol is an overlooked Spanish gemCredit: Alamy
Manilva, Costa del Sol
If you’re heading to the Costa del Sol, leave behind the tourist hotspots of Malaga, Marbella and Torremolinos.
Instead, head to the local favourite of Manilva, around 27 miles south of Marbella.
This resort has a traditional hilltop white village (pueblo) with stunning coastal views, plus a marina and beach town, San Luis de Sabinillas.
The area is also full of vineyards – with producers like Nilva offering wine tastings and modern dry whites at a fraction of the price you’d pay in France or Italy.
For example, you’d pay £26.50 for a two-hour wine tour or £15 for a bottle of Dry Muscatel.
The pueblo and marina have loads of affordable tapas bars, such as Susi Gastro Tapas, where a plate of croquettes costs less than £4.
It’s also amazingly affordable to stay in Manilva.
A seven-night getaway here in 2025 cost an average of just £371 according to TravelSupermarket.
And hotel rooms cost from as little as £30 per night in spring, according to Hotels Combined.
It’s a great time of year to travel, with average highs of 20C and actual highs of 25C in April.
The vineyards in Manilva produce mainly dry white wineCredit: AlamyS’illot in Majorca is a calmer choice than Palma or MagalufCredit: Alamy
S’illot, Majorca
Get away from the hordes of Brits that flock to Magaluf and Palma, and make a beeline for S’illot on the other side of the island.
Around halfway down Majorca’s east coast, it’s quieter and calmer than the mainstream resorts, making it a hit with families and locals.
And it’s easy to see why. The water is turquoise, shallow and calm, beaches have soft sand and you can watch fishing boats in action.
Another advantage of S’illot is its location – you can jump on a bike and cycle the island’s beautiful coastline on a path linking several beach towns.
And at £449 per person for a week’s break according to TravelSupermarket, it’s also an affordable Spanish beach resort.
El Palmar de Vejer on the Costa de la Luz has a laid-back vibeCredit: AlamyEl Palmar de Vejer is within the province of CadizCredit: Getty
El Palmar de Vejer, Andalucía
This little surf town on the south-west coast in the province of Cádiz, is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.
El Palmar de Vejer – or just El Palmar to locals – is loved by Spanish holiday-makers – but you’re unlikely to spot many Brits here because it’s less packaged for mass tourism.
It’s not the easiest destination to reach – from Malaga, you need to catch a three-hour train to Cádiz and board a bus down the coast that takes around an hour.
But the journey is well worth it. You’ll be greeted by a long, wide beach with soft golden sand, independent surf lodges and laid-back chiringuitos (beach bars).
Most of these serve proper Andalusian paella and fresh seafood, which you can eat with your toes in the sand while watching the Atlantic rollers.
You can bag a great meal with drinks for under €20 if you know where to go.
Try La Cerveceria, where a beer costs just £1.50 and a glass of white wine is less than £2.
Accommodation isn’t expensive either – instead of high-rise developments and hotel chains, you’ll find locally-run bungalows and guest houses.
Casa Reyes El Palmar has rooms from just £43.50pp per night (£87 for a double room).
Wake up to the sound of the sea, hit the beach, maybe book a surfing lesson and then head to a beach bar for lunch.
This place has the same relaxed, surfy vibe you get in California – no wonder locals call it “Cádizfornia”.
The Basilica of Santa Maria is a landmark church in Elche on the Costa BlancaCredit: Getty
Elche, Costa Blanca
Just outside the main city is El Palmeral de Elche, a huge palm tree park and gardenCredit: Getty
Around half an hour inland from Alicante, this city offers all the classic Spanish features – minus the crowds.
You may not have Costa Blanca’s famous beaches within walking distance, but you are only a short stroll to cultural highlights like pink palaces and Europe’s largest palm grove.
Built during the 11th and 13th centuries, Palau d’Altamira is a fortress that looks pink in the sun.
It’s now a museum packed with artefacts about the history of Elche – and has a nominal entrance fee (€3/£2.59 for anyone above the age of six; €1/86p for students; free entry for anyone on Sundays).
Just outside the main city is El Palmeral de Elche, a huge palm tree park and garden.
Home to a whopping 200,000 palm trees, it’s also completely free to enter.
If you do want beaches, the coastal towns of Urbanova and Arenales del Sol are a 25-minute drive away.
The city is filled with cosy tapas restaurants, like local hangout Bar Paquito, which has been serving homemade dishes like paella and fried rice since 1970, with prices from just €6.
You can also bag a bargain on hotels – The Ibis Elche has rooms from just £29.50pp per night (€59 for a double room).
Nerja has a number of sweeping golden beaches to choose fromCredit: GettyMountainside Burriana houses make Nerja a postcard-perfect Spanish spotCredit: Getty
Nerja, Costa del Sol
This former fishing village is around a 50-minute drive east of Malaga and is less built up than its Costa del Sol neighbours.
Pronounced “Ner-ha”, it;s a scenic resort on the Andalusian coast with a number of beaches, a 17th-century church and mountain-and-sea views.
With its soft sand, clear water and lively restaurants, the Blue Flag Burriana is arguably the best beach.
Powdery sand stretches for almost ten miles in Nerja, and you can try activities like water skiing and scuba diving.
Nerja is also packed with history, with Andalusian white villages and ancient caves dotting the seafront.
Balcon de Europa is an expansive, cliffside promontory, home to the 17th-century Church of El Salvador.
Worked up an appetite? Chiringuito Mauri is a rustic beachside restaurant serving seafood, chicken and paella cooked on a converted fishing boat.
It also won’t break the bank to eat here – paella costs from €6 (£5.30) and chicken dishes from €8.50 (£7.50).
Around a 25-minute walk along the seafront from the centre of town, Hotel Balcón de Europa has rooms from £57pp per night.
Mojácar is a traditional pueblo close to the city of AlmeriaCredit: AlamyCabo de Gata is a nature reserve in AlmeriaCredit: Getty
With a warm climate, low rainfall and excellent tapas bars, a stint in Almería will leave a smile on your face.
Despite the recent launch of new flights from the UK, this port city on the Iberian Peninsula is still often overlooked by Brits who flock to Madrid or Barcelona instead.
Its main attraction is the 16th-century Moorish Alcazaba (fortress) that has the best views of the city.
There is also the Barrio de la Chanca, a small quarter of the old town where colourful houses are built into the caves.
Beach lovers can head to Playa del Zapillo and Playa de Las Olas – both located just a stone’s throw away from the city’s trendy restaurants and bars.
There’s no shortage of tapas bars in Almeria, including Jovellanos 16, where small dishes like mushrooms in garlic sauce are served for free with every drink you order.
Almeria is also Europe‘s only city with a hot desert climate thanks to its proximity to the continent’s only desert.
A 30-minute drive away, the Tabernas Desert has been used as a filming location for famous Westerns, including The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
And with rooms from as little as £35 a night at the likes of the Hostal Estacion, you can stay somewhere central without having to splash the cash.
El Rompido is a lesser-visited traditional coastal boroughCredit: AlamyThe beaches of El Rompido are often far less busy than those of MarbellaCredit: Alamy
El Rompido, Andalucía
Around half an hour west of Huelva city, El Rompido is a small seaside resort with plenty of beach bars, boat trips and good-value restaurants.
Backed by natural marshland and with narrow streets and whitewashed houses, this fishing village has a local feel, with many Spanish families choosing to holiday here in summer.
When it comes to activities, much of it is tied to the coast – think kayaking, a segway through the marshes and walking in the dunes – and there is a golf course with sea views.
La Flecha is an eight-mile spit of land that is accessible only by boat – offering incredible beaches of powder sand and a feeling of remoteness.
El Rompido is known for its “gambitas de Huelva” (small prawns) – try them at Doña Gamba, a local seafood bar in the village square (from €8.50/£7.50).
You won’t find any expensive boutique hotels or big chains here, meaning El Rompido is still both affordable and charming.
On the edge of town, Hotel Nuevo Portil has rooms from just £28pp (doubles from £56).
Tarifa is a top destination for wind-sportsCredit: AlamyTarifa sits at the tip of the Iberian PeninsulaCredit: Getty
Tarifa, Andalucía
Europe’s southernmost point, Tarifa is loved by locals but often overlooked by Brits.
It features pristine, white sand beaches and, thanks to its location, lots of wind, meaning kitesurfers and windsurfers flock to the area.
It’s a great spot to watch or even try the sport for yourself, with group lessons with Captain Kite Tarifa costing around £58 (€66 for three hours).
For something less energetic, boat trips offer dolphin and whale watching, and you have views of Morocco across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Another option is to explore the 800-year-old Tarifa Castle, dip in the natural sea pools along the coast or simply hit the beach.
The town’s surf scene means it has a laid-back vibe, with lively tapas bars like El Lola serving just-cooked tortillas, local sherries and wine from Cádiz to diners on its terrace.
Don’t expect to see many chain hotels in Tarifa – that’s part of its appeal.
Located just 500 yards from the beach, the whitewashed La Casa de la Favorita has rooms from £44 per night, while the three-star Beach Hotel Dos Mares has rooms from £37.50pp per night (£75 for a double).
Arrieta is a quieter option when visiting LanzaroteCredit: GettyPlaya la Garita in Arrieta is small, sandy and unspoiltCredit: Alamy
Arrieta, Lanzarote
Most of Lanzarote’s popular beach resorts, such as Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen, are found on the south of the island.
Instead, head north towards the more rugged coastline and you’ll discover the lesser-known fishing village of Arrieta.
With volcanic mountains on one side and the sea to the other, it offers the classic features of a holiday in the Canaries – but is blissfully uncrowded.
Join locals at La Garita beach, a sheltered cove where you can surf small waves, build sandcastles and sip €5 cocktails from a mojito truck parked by the sand.
You’re also within easy reach of Lanzarote’s wine-growing region, La Geria.
Minerally dry whites are paired perfectly with traditional Canarian potatoes (boiled and salty) and spicy red “mojo” sauce.
You can sample them on a wine tour with a company like Wine Tours Lanzarote or direct through the bodega (vineyard).
Accommodation in Arrieta tends to be small-scale, from villas to family-run places, rather than mega resorts.
The Eco Cabin at Finca de Arrieta costs from £40pp per night based on four sharing (€180).
Cala Aigua Blava in Begur is a breath-taking bay with a few fantastic seafood restaurantsCredit: GettyNearby Sa Tuna is a tiny picturesque fishing village, and is only 11-minutes down the roadCredit: Alamy
Begur, Costa Brava
Around an hour north of Barcelona, and 30 miles beyond the package holiday favourite Tossa de Mar, sits the charming town of Begur.
Its golden sand, Moorish history and tapas bars keep the locals coming back year on year for stylish Spanish beach holidays.
You can happily spend your time hopping from cove to cove, each with steep walls plunging into turquoise water.
The Cami de Romda coastal path is a great hike between coves, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding gets you even closer to the sea caves.
But it’s not just a beach town. You’ll also find a medieval castle, narrow old town streets and “Indiano” mansions – homes built by people who went to Latin America and returned.
Begur is known for its fresh fish – try traditional Catalan fish stew and wines from the DO Emporda region.
One of Begur’s oldest restaurants, Restaurante Casa Juanita is known for its fresh, local rock fish – cooked before your eyes in an old wood oven.
Set in a 19th-century “Indiano” house, the three-star Cluc Hotel has rooms from £52.
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.
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James Smith has been studying Spanish for years and now runs Learn Spanish with JamesCredit: James SmithHere are some of his top tips – like why you shouldn’t order tapas as your main mealCredit: Alamy
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.
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.
A lesser-visited city is Cuenca where you’ll find the Hanging Houses built into cliffsideCredit: Alamy
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.”
James says Cadiz has some of the best beaches in SpainCredit: Alamy
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.
“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.”
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.
Simply ticking an extra box before you search for flights could save you more than you thoughtCredit: Getty
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.
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.
Setting up price alerts is a simple way to save more on your next holidayCredit: AlamyYou can set up price alerts on Skyscanner by clicking the bell button to the left of your searchCredit: Skyscanner
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.
Tesco Clubcard points can be converted into Virgin points, which can be put towards flightsCredit: Alamy
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.
The Algarve in Portugal was recently rated the cheapest holiday destination to visitCredit: Getty
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.
If you’re planning a family holiday, it’s worth searching for packages with free children’s placesCredit: Getty
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.
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.
Starting a savings pot is an easy way to set aside for future holidaysCredit: Getty
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.
Arranging your airport parking earlier rather than later can save you some serious cashCredit: Getty
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.
It’s important to be aware of how much your luggage weighs and its dimensions before travelCredit: Getty
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.
It’s worth booking using your phone to make use of mobile-exclusive pricesCredit: Alamy
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.
Booking your holiday for the late summer season can save you some extra cashCredit: Alamy
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.
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Sophie has a nifty tip that means you can bag yourself a free holidayCredit: Sophie SwietochowskiSophie has nearly enough Avios points to fly to New York City in business classCredit: Getty
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.
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).
Short-haul trips to the likes of Amsterdam require less pointsCredit: Alamy
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.
You can earn points on a trip to Alton Towers tooCredit: Alamy
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 4Aviosper £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.
Avios points can be used with certain airlines – like British AirwaysCredit: Boarding1Now
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….
Having an Amex Express card will further boost your Avios pointsCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
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.
WE’VE had a corker of a year, travelling far and wide to hunt the best bargain getaways, newest spine-tingling attractions and hottest resorts to share with you, our wonderful readers.
From a behind-the-scenes look at the first new theme park to open in Orlando in 25 years, to discovering secret speakeasys on board the world’s largest cruise ship, here are The Sun Travel’s top trips from 2025.
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Here are The Sun Travel’s top trips from 2025, pictured Universal Resort OrlandoCredit: Supplied
EPIC UNIVERSE, FLORIDA
Lisa Minot, Head Of Travel
Epic Universe surpassed Lisa’s high expectationsCredit: supplied
UNIVERSAL’S hugely anticipated third theme park opened this year and I was among the very first to get a sneak peek.
I can definitely say the reality surpassed my high expectations. The attention to detail, sheer scale and truly immersive nature of the five new “worlds” that make up the £7billion park are astonishing.
From the breathtaking recreation of 1920s Paris in the Wizarding World Of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, to the technicolour dreamscape of Super Nintendo World, there is something for every age and interest.
Families with younger kids will love How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, a whimsical recreation of the movie franchise’s Viking village, complete with colourful longboats.
And thrill-seekers will enjoy Dark Universe with its Monsters Unchained and Curse Of The Werewolf attractions as well as the Stardust Racers dual-launch coaster in Celestial Park.
In 2025, visitors were restricted to one-day tickets to the new park, to manage capacity and give as many people the chance to visit as possible.
But from next year, Epic will be included on 14-day multi-park tickets, meaning you can pop in and out as many times as you like.
BAHAMAS CRUISE
Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor
For Sophie, 2025 has been her year of cruisingCredit: Supplied
IT has been my year for cruising, from sampling a knock-out cheese souffle on board Oceania’s new Allura to sipping frozen margaritas on the glossy sun deck of Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess.
However, none of these ships were as mindboggling as Star Of The Seas. Royal Caribbean’s newest colourful giant shares its title of “largest cruise ship in the world” with sister ship, Icon Of The Seas.
You need a whole week at sea to sample all the non-stop activities and to sink a beer or cocktail in every one of the 19 or so bars (save room for a punchy boulevardier from the coffee-themed Rye & Bean).
Much of what is on board has already been seen on Icon, including the thrill ride Crown’s Edge that sends passengers free-falling towards the ocean, their plummets saved by a harness as they dangle from the edge of the 16th deck.
What’s unique to Star, though, is the Lincoln Park Supper Club, an all-singing immersive dining experience that takes passengers back to the jazz boom of Chicago in the roaring Twenties.
It is costly for speciality dining but, my word, you’ll be well fed and watered. If you like martinis, you won’t regret booking this.
OSEA ISLAND, ESSEX
Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)
Osea is a private island linked to the mainland by a causewayCredit: Getty
PICTURE a private island with two outdoor pools, white clapboard houses and a huge sandy beach and you are more likely to be imagining somewhere exotic in the Caribbean than Essex.
But Osea is a private island linked to the mainland by a causeway you can only drive over for a few hours every day – which means you are marooned for most of the day and night.
Osea has several houses available to rent, from one-bedroom studios to 12-bedroom mansions, the largest featuring a recording studio that has been used by everyone from Stormzy to Rihanna.
It also has a tiny pub, a yoga studio, a bar and a huge event space where people can hold parties for up to 200 people.
I was there for a friend’s 50th and we spent a glorious 48 hours swimming in the sea, going on walks, eating, drinking and generally considering ourselves incredibly lucky to be in such a magical place.
You can only go to Osea if you are booked to stay in one of the properties but they are available to the public, with rooms from £60pp a night.
INDIA
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
Kara got to tick off top bucket list attractions thanks to Intrepid’s Women ExpeditionsCredit: Supplied
INDIA has long been on my wish list to travel to, but as a young woman, I was always extremely wary.
However, Intrepid’s Women Expeditions meant I could tick off all of the top bucket list attractions while staying safe with a local female guide.
So I could visit the famous pink palace of Jaipur, and the stunning Taj Mahal in Agra.
But it also meant we got to experience this vast country like a local, meeting female rickshaw drivers and staying at the rustic Chandelao Garh – a 17th century former fort which is now a hotel with 20 rooms.
And, with Virgin Atlantic launching more flights to India in the New Year, it’ll be easier to get there than ever before.
SARDINIA
Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter
Sardinia boasts warming breezes and the smell of olive trees in the airCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
ITALY is full of stunning, historic cities and hidden gems, but one island destination, thought to be a top spot to visit in 2026, offers a serene escape in the Mediterranean Ocean.
Sardinia is closer to Africa than mainland Italy, so boasts warming breezes and the smell of olive trees in the air.
If I am heading to a hot country, I prefer to be somewhere where everything I could want is at my fingertips – and Hilton’s Conrad Chia Laguna Resort achieves this.
Many of its stylish, sprawling rooms have small private gardens looking out to Chia Beach, surrounded by cream-coloured limestone.
The Conrad also has relaxing pools ideal for a refreshing dip before stretching out on one of the sun loungers.
For a touch of indulgence, the spa has a circuit of saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms ideal for a rejuvenation session.
The plush Hilton resort is just an hour from Cagliari – the island’s vibrant capital – which boasts a rich history and is the ideal spot for a day trip.
Return flights with British Airways in January start from a bargain £35 per person.
FINLAND
Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter
Alice headed to Finland for a winter adventureCredit: Supplied
I’VE always been a fan of a hot holiday and since I live in the UK, who can really blame me?
But after heading to Finland for a winter adventure, I now think chilly getaways could be the way forward.
After a variety of activities from hiking through a snowy blueberry farm in outer Jyväskylä to taking a dip in a frozen lake in the city of Tampere – after a hot sauna, of course – I came to appreciate and love the cold.
One of the most special nights was at Revontuli Lakeland Village, in Hankasalmi, Jyväskylä Region, where I was able to get all cosy and enjoy a beautiful snow-scape from the comfort of a pretty igloo.
EVERYONE deserves a luxury holiday, but few of us have the wallet to fund it.
Unless, that is, you opt for one particular country that takes just three hours to fly to from the UK, with year-round t-shirt temperatures and some VERY cheap all-inclusive hotels.
Sousse is a resort city in Tunisia on the Gulf of HammametCredit: AlamyThe breath-taking Sidi Bou Said is located just north of Tunis, and there are plenty of luxury affordable hotels nearbyCredit: Getty
If you want to get away from the obvious – and the crowds – without sacrificing any indulgence, Tunisia hits the right note.
And when you compare it to Spain, the top holiday destination for British tourists, welcoming 17.8 million of us in 2024, Tunisia has far fewer.
It may be a lesser-visited country, but it has big bargains for holidaymakers.
According to TravelSupermarket, Tunisia offers some of the very cheapest 5-star holidays on the market, averaging at £614pp.
Seven nights’ all-inclusive stay at the 5-star Hotel Tour Khalef costs as little as £553 with TUI, including return flights from London Gatwick.
In sunny Sousse, seven nights’ B&B at the 5-star Movenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse is available from just £233 pp with Thomas Cook. Price includes return flights from Southend.
If you settle for four stars, you can make it even cheaper. Seven nights’ B&B at the 4-star Iberostar Waves Averroes in Hammamet is bookable from £173 pp with Holiday Best, including return flights from London Luton.
Meanwhile, seven nights’ half board at the 5-star Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir is bookable from £239 pp with Loveholidays, including return flights from London Southend.
Here you have the wide sands of Monastir Beach and a wide range of activities on offer, from jet skiing to parasailing.
Aghir in Djerba boasts bright turquoise watersCredit: AlamyYou can stay at the 5-star Hotel Tour Khalef for just £553 with TUICredit: TUI
If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, you could stretch your legs in the landscaped gardens of Falaise Park, set on the cliffside.
Or head 34 miles down the road to Moknine to see local artisans making traditional earthenware jars and jugs.
Despite its relatively small size (roughly the same as Greece), Tunisia packs a punch.
With the blue of the Med meeting the heat of North Africa, it’s perfect for a sun-kissed break.
Its most famous beaches include Hammamet, Sousse, Monastir and Mahdia, which have long stretches of golden sand backed by palm trees and all-inclusive resorts.
There’s also Djerba, an island just off the south coast of Tunisia that is still relatively undiscovered by Brits.
It has a Mediterranean feel, with cobbled streets lined with white-washed buildings, blue window shutters and vibrant pink bougainvillea.
And despite its resemblance to trendy Greek islands, it’s also a great-value option, with a cup of strong coffee setting you back just 25p.
If you venture away from the coast, you’ll find a photographer’s dream – Pink Flamingo Lake.
Ignored by most tourists, it turns pink at sunset as flamingos feed in the shallows.
Back on the mainland, further north, the hilltop village of Sidi Bou Said would also be right at home on a Greek isle.
Hammamet is home to many of Tunisia’s 5-star resortsCredit: GettyTourists can even take camel rides along the beach in Cape BonCredit: Alamy
The town is picture postcard pretty with its blue-and-white painted houses and panoramic sea views.
Grab a mint tea on the terrace at Café des Nattes (£2) or queue at the doughnut stand for the freshly made Tunisian treats, which cost just 40p.
The capital, Tunis, is found on the northeastern coast.
It’s home to an ancient Medina, Roman Mosaics and plenty of bars and restaurants.
While most tourists wander the main souks of the Medina, the historic Jewish quarter, Hara is often overlooked.
Visit the last surviving synagogue, explore the tailoring shops and try Jewish-Tunisian pastries made with dates and semolina.
Other alternative takes on the capital include watching an independent film at the art-deco Cinema Le Rio, which is barely visited by tourists, or visiting Mornag, a major wine-producing region.
You can’t leave Tunisia without discovering more about its ancient civilisations.
Stroll through Cap Bon to discover traditional Tunisian ceramics and potteryCredit: AlamyThe bright white buildings and clear waters of Tunisia are reminiscent of Greek islandsCredit: Getty
It’s a fascinating melting pot of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and French influences – with nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The country has some of the best Roman sites outside Italy, including Dougga, a Roman city on a hilltop surrounded by olive groves.
There’s also El Djem Amphitheatre, the largest colosseum in North Africa, where Ridley Scott shot parts of his Oscar-winning movie Gladiator.
It is better preserved – and far less crowded – than its more famous cousin in Rome.
Nearby, the small theatre ruins and restored underground villas are even quieter, yet still beautifully conserved.
Most tourists dip into Berber culture with a quick stop in Matmata’s cave houses, used as a filming location for Star Wars.
But you can take a deeper dive by trekking the Dahar Trails and exploring the hidden granary forts around Tataouine.
The Great Mosque in Sousse has a courtyard open to touristsCredit: GettyYou can stay at the 5-star Movenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse from £233 pp with Thomas CookCredit: Thomas Cook
Tunisia’s long wellness tradition means you’re perfectly placed for a spot of pampering.
Try swapping lounging on the beach for some natural hot springs relaxation.
On the northern cliffs of Cap Bon, Korbous Hot Springs flow straight into the sea – join locals who come for therapeutic dips.
Benefits of soaking in the mineral-rich waters include improved circulation, pain and stress reduction and better skin health.
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.
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Relax by the pool at Seaside Palm Beach HotelCredit: SuppliedEnjoy breath-taking views on the desert-like sandsCredit: GettyWatch the stunning sunset as the day draws to an end over MaspalomasCredit: Getty
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.
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.
The Sun’s Jess, left, and pal in MaspalomasCredit: SuppliedDine at the lively Maspalomas restaurantsCredit: Alamy
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.
GO: GRAN CANARIA
GETTING THERE: EasyJet flies from Luton, Manchester and Birmingham, among other airports, from £28.99 each way. See easyjet.com.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Seaside Palm Beach hotel cost from £192 per night including breakfast.
All-inclusive rates start from £350 per night. See hotel-palm-beach.com. For information on Hotel Cordial Mogan Playa, see hotelsone.com.
