Holiday tips tricks and hacks

FANTASY lovers can take a step down the hobbit hole this winter, as a new location invites guests inside to escape the icy winter weather.

A Tolkien-inspired holiday spot has opened for business north-west of Cambridge, with pods and lodges available for keen glampers.

Just outside of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, West Stow Pods offers a peaceful stay for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Emulating world-famous Hobbiton, the pods and lodges are equipped to service groups between two and six people.

Pods are fitted out with a kitchenette and appliances, as well as an en-suite, TV and bedroom area, and are slightly smaller than the lodges.

The lodges are bigger, with full kitchens and separate bedrooms, as well as living room space.

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West Stow Pods is also pet friendly, allowing families to include their furry family members in holiday plans.

The glamping spot has been recognised as one of the best forest getaway spots in the UK.

Located next to King Forest, the options for hikes, bike rides and time in nature are endless.

Guests can also choose to spend the day in the local town, which is jam-packed with restaurants and shops to explore.

West Stow has priced rooms between £170 and £458 for two nights, depending on whether you choose a pod or a lodge.

Future guests can secure a spot by booking on the company’s website.

For holiday makers who are more keen of the seaside than the forest, the pretty seaside town of Saundersfoot has cosy pubs and award winning hotels.

The town sits between Tenby and Amroth in Pembrokeshire.

It’s home to around 3,000 residents and has a Blue Flag sandy beach, a picturesque harbour with cafes and shops, plenty of walking paths – but absolutely no rides.

And according to WalesOnline its “craggy coastline is amongst the most beautiful in the world and can be enjoyed year-round, especially in autumn”.

Someone on Tripadvisor described the village as a “winter wonderland” when the Christmas lights are up.

It’s a popular place for Atlantic grey seals and you can see them on boat trips – and you can see them all year round

Saundersfoot has previously been named one of the ‘best places to live by the sea in the UK 2024’ by The Sunday Times.

The family-run restaurant serves up meals from curries to pastas, surf and turf, steak, and burgers.

IF you’re dreaming of going somewhere picturesque and peaceful, there’s a certain stunning cottage calling your name.

Residing in one of Wales‘ beautiful peninsulas, the white-washed home – known as Bwthyn Trehilyn – is incredibly popular for holiday bookings.

This isn’t only because it boasts six bedrooms, scenic views and the perfect step away to disconnect from the hubbub of busy, daily life.

It just so happens to be owned by a famous TV star.

Comedian, actor and television presenter Griff Rhys Jones took ownership of the now-beautiful cottage when it was in a rather derelict state.

It was once part of a collection of stone properties that collectively formed a working Pembrokeshire farm.

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But now Bwthyn Trehilyn is enjoying a new lease of life as a holiday rental, thanks to becoming the fifth property renovated by Griff.

Under the Thatch, a company who curate collections of the most refined holiday homes in Wales, announced Bwthyn Trehilyn as the top-selling accommodation for 2025.

Visitors adored the charm of the building, as well as its thoughtfully updated interiors including its adjoining servants’ wing, a former mill, and a granary.

Interior designers did their best to keep some of the interior’s original character, incorporating vintage furniture relevant to the period and restoring wooden ceiling beams.

Though one of the main sells for travellers was its location, being only a short walk away from the Abermawr beach.

The beach features a private lake, ideal for watching a stunning rural sunset melt into the water or an evening of fishing.

It only took a stroll through the area back in 2004 for Griff to decide he just had to snap up the cottage and return it to its former beauty.

WE all know Wowcher is good for offers, but did you know you could go on holiday for just £89 and it is all-inclusive?

Holidays really can add up – by the time you book flights, airport transfers, and accommodation, you may have already spent hundreds.

Then add in the costs when you are there, like eating and seeing paid-for attractions.

Often, holidays aren’t cheap.

But this is what makes all-inclusive so appealing, as it takes away that stress.

And Wowcher now has deals as cheap as £89 for an all-inclusive break away.

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For example, you could head to a four-star all-inclusive resort in Tunisia.

The package includes return flights, two nights at a four-star hotel and all your meals and drinks.

The hotel is the Occidental Sousse Marhaba, which has recently been refurbished according to Wowcher.

At the hotel, guests will find two outdoor pools, a wellness centre, direct beach access, kids’ pools, on-site bars, and a sauna and hammam.

Rooms at the hotel include en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and either have a garden or sea view.

When it comes to food and drink, you get your daily meals, snacks and drinks included.

One recent guest said: “Lovely hotel, good choice of food, staff very pleasant.

“Evening entertainment was good. We paid extra for a sea view and it was well worth it.

“Five min walk through the grounds to the beach. Has a lovely pool.

“You can book trips out by speaking to the lovely Lee who explains the trips in detail. We did the Sahara Explorer, it was amazing.

“Would return to this hotel. Sousse is a beautiful place.”

Nearby you can explore the medina of Sousse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are a number of souks as well, such as Sousse Medina Souk.

One recent visitor said: “Needs at least a couple of hours to soak up the atmosphere and wander.

“I love wandering around a souk. This one is easy to navigate and not overlarge.

“Also very pretty in parts as this is a very ancient medina area, where people have been trading and living since ancient times.”

History lovers should head to the Ribat of Sousse, a small fort that was built in the eighth century and has a tower boasting panoramic views.

Or head to the Sousse Archaeological Museum, where you can explore a collection of mosaics and statues, as well as sit in a pretty courtyard.

There is one date left in January, from January 18 to 20.

But there are several dates still available in February, including February 1 to 3, 8 to 10, 23 to 25 and 25 to 27.

Or for £99, you could head off on February 24 for two nights.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

Alternatively, you could head to Majorca in Spain, staying at the Bluesea Mediodia for £99 for two nights.

The hotel includes meals, snacks and unlimited drinks and your flights will be from either London Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol or Edinburgh.

At the hotel, there is a swimming pool, restaurants and beach access.

One recent guest said: “Considering the price and the services offered, I was very satisfied!

“The hotel is in an excellent location, very close to the beach. The food is varied and can satisfy both those with simple tastes and those who are more demanding.

“The rooms have air conditioning, which is a great plus during hot days.”

The hotel is just a 16-minute drive from Palma, so is a great spot for exploring the city, but also soaking up sunshine on the coast.

Dates available for the £99 offer include January 19 to 21, and the 26 to 28.

Or if you travelled in February, you could go on the 4 to 6, 23 to 25 or 25 to 27.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

For more getaway inspiration, there’s an all-inclusive hotel that’s just been named best in Europe with ten swimming pools, free childcare and Jet2 flights.

Plus, 10 winter sun holidays for all budgets – with 7 nights from £193pp.

BRITISH Airways Holidays has revealed what travel will look like in 2026 – from new destinations to trending trips.

Teaming up with Globetrender, it has released its 2026 Travel Trends Report.

They have named eight of their “rising stars” which have seen a surge in searches for 2026 compared to 2025.

The biggest jump is Bermuda, which has seen a 38 per cent increase in searches.

This was followed by St Kitts (31 per cent), Turks & Caicos (22 per cent) and Grenada (20 per cent).

Yet some of Europe made the list, with searches to Crete up 18 per cent.

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Otherwise Costa Rica (15 per cent), Nashville (13 per cent) and Antigua (8 per cent) are on the up too.

The most popular search destinations are some of the more well-known destinations, set to remain big in 2026:

1. New York
2. Orlando
3. Dubai
4. Maldives
5. Barbados
6. Las Vegas
7. Cancun
8. St Lucia
9. Dominican Republic
10. Antigua

Along with destinations, they also looked at some of the trend when it comes to what kinds of holidays people are booking.

This includes Stream Parks (theme parks combining physical attractions with AR) and Neurosurfing (more wellness based holidays).

Andrew Flintham, Managing Director of British Airways Holidays, said: “I always look forward to what our annual Travel Trends Report will reveal.

“It’s clear the prevailing interest in wellness culture is continuing to impact the way we holiday, with many of our trends leaning into this overarching movement.

“I wasn’t too surprised to learn of The Valueverse, and the ever-increasing demand for new ways to collect and spend points. We’re excited to make these trends a reality for our customers.”

Globetrender founder Jenny Southan added: “In a world shaped by economic pressure, digital saturation and rising social fragmentation,
holidays are becoming spaces of transformation – opportunities for people to test new identities, restore mental balance and discover forms of joy that everyday routines suppress.

“This shift marks a profound redefinition of what a holiday is for: not just escape, but expansion.

“The findings in this report show a British traveller who is more experimental.”

Here are 10 other destinations set to be big next year, according to Skyscanner.

We’ve also revealed how to take six holidays in 2026 for under £1,000, all in.

And there are some places to avoid for a holiday next year – here’s the full list.

CHRISTMAS is nearly here, but hot on its heels is what seems to be the year’s, longest, most miserable month: January.

The UK endures some of the dimmest winter light in Europe, says travel company First Choice, with just 41 to 62 hours of sun in the WHOLE of January, equating to only between 90 minutes and two hours a day.

So there couldn’t be a better month to escape abroad.

Lisa Minot suggests sunny escapes that will boost your mood without hurting your bank balance.

CYPRUS

You’ll get three times more sunshine on this sun-drenched island that enjoys 3,4000 hours of blue skies a year.

Temperatures in January are still a very acceptable 18C to 20C and the sun shines an average of five to six hours a day.

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Get your fix with a cheeky short stay at the 4* Louis Phaethon Beach right on the seafront near Paphos.

The hotel has two fabulous pools and three restaurants.

Four nights’ all-inclusive is from £337pp including flights from Manchester on January 14.

Check out firstchoice.co.uk.

LANZAROTE

Laze the day away beside your own sparkling private pool at the Rubi Mar village near Playa Blanca.

Here in the Canary Islands, you can expect six to seven hours of sunshine a day in January, with temperatures a balmy 20C or 21C.

The three-bed villa sits in lovely grounds and is within walking distance of a shop and restaurant.

Seven nights’ self-catering is from £240pp, based on six sharing and including flights from Gatwick on January 8.

See solmarvillas.com.

FLORIDA & CARIBBEAN CRUISE

This is the ultimate holiday for sun-seekers.

An incredible 15-night deal twins an Orlando stay with the chance to cruise the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean.

Expect temperatures in the high twenties throughout, and seven to nine hours of sunshine.

This trip of a lifetime includes a five-night stay in Orlando, with a ticket to the new Epic Universe theme park as well as a seven-night full-board Caribbean cruise aboard the new Star Princess with ports of call in Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

And that’s not all — there’s also a two-night stay in Miami included as well a tour of the Everglades.

The price, £1,699, includes return flights from London on January 12 and dedicated transfers throughout.

To book, go to cruise.co.uk or call 0870 990 8824.

MOROCCO

Soak up Moroccan sunshine in magical Marrakech as you visit the bustling souks then enjoy a dip in the rooftop plunge pool at your traditional riad hotel.

Temperatures are 18C to 20C in January and you can expect seven hours of sunshine a day.

This Travelbag deal includes seven nights’ B&B at the boutique Riad Vert, in the heart of the old town and a ten-minute stroll from the souks.

Prices from £649pp include flights from Gatwick on January 11 and private transfers. See travelbag.co.uk or call 0203 944 3694.

THAILAND

It’s a little farther to fly but you’ll be rewarded by sizzling temperatures from 28C to 32C and nine hours of sunshine a day if you head to the tropical paradise of Hua Hin this January.

The 3* Ibis Hua Hin hotel is just a five-minute stroll from a sandy shore and has an outdoor pool and great restaurant.

It’s also close to the Cicada Market and Vana Nava Water Jungle.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £760pp including flights from Stansted On January 20.

Check out onthebeach.co.uk.

EGYPT

The Red Sea resort of Hurghada promises guaranteed sun in January, with eight to ten hours of clear skies a day and temperatures ranging from 19C to 22C.

The 4* Sea Star Beau Rivage hotel sits right on its own sandy beach and features two huge pools set in palm-lined gardens.

The spa and hammam on site is perfect for pampering too.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive is from £378pp including flights from Gatwick on January 21.

Check out travelsupermarket.com.

MADEIRA

Enjoy sub-tropical temperatures and abundant nature on this stunning island in the Atlantic.

Expect daily temperatures of around 19C in January, and five or six hours of sunshine a day.

The 3* Mathu Raga Madeira Hotel is just a short stroll from Funchal’s popular Lido promenade.

The hotel’s pool is heated in winter and while the Mathu Raga has a lovely buffet restaurant, the delights of the town’s many restaurants and bars are within easy walking distance.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £439pp including flights from Birmingham on January 26, 22kg luggage and transfers.

To book, see jet2holidays.com.

FUERTEVENTURA

Treat yourself on this lovely Canary Island with average daytime highs of 20C and six to seven hours of sunshine.

The 4* Occidental Jandia Playa hotel has panoramic seaside views as well as two beautiful pools to lounge beside.

A ten-minute walk from Jandia Beach there’s also two restaurants, four bars and evening entertainment to keep you busy.

Seven nights’ half-board is from £600pp including flights from Stansted on January 16, 20kg hold luggage and transfers.

See tui.co.uk.

FORKS at the ready and bosh – Big John is hosting a lavish feast to remember.

The Instagram foodie, who rose to fame for eating Chinese takeaways, is putting new flavours to the test this Christmas by bringing the best of the Spanish and Great British festive food together.

It included the jambon, a traditional part of the Spanish Christmas dinner, which went down a treat with the influencer, whereas he said the British staple of Brussels sprouts can ‘do one’.

The meal was completed with Pastas de España, as well as classic British turkey.

But now, John has claimed he is a changed man and will add a bit of Spanish to his Christmas meal every time.

The spread featuring both nation’s Christmas classics to celebrate the El Gordo Lottery – which is the biggest lottery in the world.

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A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the survey ahead of the £2.4 billion El Gordo Christmas lotto draw, said: “It’s so exciting to bring the Spanish tradition to the UK in the tastiest way possible and who better to work with than Big John…BOSH.

“We are so glad he approves of the traditional Spanish food and has given his stamp of approval.

“Although his feedback wasn’t as glowing for the Brussels sprouts.”

It comes after research of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found six in 10 would like to mark the event in another country to escape holiday stress at home or avoid a British washout.

And 53 per cent of those would like to make new memories in a totally different setting.

While 45 per cent want to enjoy festive food from another cuisine and 31 per cent would meet up with pals who already live abroad.

With the USA, Australia and Spain among the top international destinations where people would love to spend December 25, along with Canada, Germany and Switzerland.

But 40 per cent would like to try out the Japanese tradition of tucking into mountains of KFC on Christmas Day, rather than a typical roast.

Despite a desire to head overseas to celebrate, 76 per cent of those polled said a British Christmas dinner is still the best thing a person can possibly eat on December 25.

But if they did celebrate the day away from home, 67 per cent would be likely to try a local festive dish.

A quarter (25 per cent) would be most curious to try the Feast of Seven Fishes served in Italy, while almost one in 10 (eight per cent) fancy the taste of mantecados – shortbread – served in Spain.

However, 48 per cent would miss the classic meal with all the trimmings, while 31 per cent would feel strange not seeing all the familiar TV specials and festive programming.

And despite moaning about the UK weather, 27 per cent would miss a cold, crisp winter climate if they went somewhere warmer.

As 43 per cent believe Christmas is not ‘complete’ without a cosy festive jumper, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Nearly seven in 10 (69 per cent) would be open to adopting totally new festive traditions if they did go away for the big day.

And they would most want to capture that feeling of togetherness (32 per cent), while 20 per cent would aim for excitement and 16 per cent nostalgia.

Lottoland.co.uk’s spokesperson added: “Spending Christmas abroad offers a fresh perspective on the season.

“Whether it’s swapping snow for sunshine or discovering new festive traditions, there’s something magical about experiencing the holiday through a different cultural lens.

“If you like to spend your Christmas in the UK, it’s not too hard to do a quick online search to find a new tradition from Madrid to Perth and incorporate it into your own festivities.

“But wherever you celebrate, being with the people you love, or at least connected to them, is truly the most important thing.”

ARE you a “Just-in-case Jetsetter” or a “Chill Improviser” when it comes to travelling abroad?

A new travel quiz aims to uncover what type of traveller you are, by asking a series of trip-related questions.

Other outcomes include “The master planner” and “The social explorer”.

It comes after a poll of two thousand adults who go on holiday revealed Brits’ biggest travel blunders including getting lobster red sunburn (26 per cent).

Going exploring and winding up completely lost (24 per cent) and spilling my drink all over myself or even an unsuspecting stranger (14 per cent) also made the list of blush inducing mishaps.

Misreading a menu and ordering something unexpected (12 per cent) and accidently boarding the wrong train or bus (nine per cent) also made the top 30 list.

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The study was commissioned by ibis to support the launch of its new social media miniseries, the Go Getters.

Jean-Yves Minet, global brand president of ibis, said:  “Everyone travels differently. Some people prepare for every possibility, and others prefer to go with the flow – but no matter your style, the odd mishap is part of the experience and the story you tell when you get home.

“This research shows just how universal those moments are.

“We focus on making travel feel simple and stress-free, whether you’re the spontaneous type, or somewhere in the middle.

“What matters most is feeling confident on the move and being able to enjoy the journey, even when it does not quite go to plan. Sometimes the magic is in the mayhem – it certainly makes for the best story.”

The research found as many as 86 per cent have experienced some kind of mishap on holiday, with 11 per cent experiencing a mishap during most or all of their trips.

And while 68 per cent said other people had had a little laugh at their blunders, 77 per cent did manage to see the funny side too eventually.

When a holiday blunder strikes, 44 per cent would try to fix it, while 22 per cent said they would laugh it off straight away.

But while 56 per cent think a few travel dramas are all part of the adventure, 77 per cent believe they are pretty good at planning to avoid them in the first place.

Buying travel insurance (56 per cent), triple checking their passport is there (48 per cent) and continually applying sun cream (43 per cent) were among the key hacks to avoid disaster.

Followed by double checking the locks and keys (36 per cent), packing a first aid kit (31 per cent) and keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast (30 per cent).

The research, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed 31 per cent want to travel more in 2026 than they did this year, with 35 per cent claiming the experience is more important than just ticking somewhere off their list.

When it comes to planning these trips, they prioritise location (61 per cent), as well as price (59 per cent) and reviews (44 per cent).

While 64 per cent think the key to affordable travel means getting the best value for money and smart planning and budgeting (40 per cent).

Jean-Yves added: “Everyone has had a moment on holiday that didn’t quite go to plan.

“These findings show just how common they are, and how quickly most people turn them into moments of connection, laughter and shared stories.”

I PICK up what looks like a mini drumstick but is, in fact, a chicken lollipop.

Not any old lolly, mind, but one of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s Hotter Than Hell specialities.

It smells scrumptious, but how hot is hot?

One brave bite later and the answer is clear: Proper fiery blast up the nostrils.

Delicious, though. More, please.

I’m at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 for the launch of Gordon’s revamped, renamed restaurant, Plane Food Market.

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He’s had a restaurant here since 2008 but it is now transformed.

You can still sit down and linger here as normal for a pre-flight meal.

But Ramsay has recognised that most of the 30million passengers who pass through T5 annually are more time-poor than ever, so he’s come up with a “grab and go” concept.

Diners can order at self-service screens in the restaurant’s entrance — as you might do in McDonald’s — then eat in the restaurant or take away.

He says: “The idea is that it will be ten minutes from ordering to table.”

The tables, incidentally, all have runway views.

But more importantly, what’s on the menu?

For the first time, you can find the best of Gordon’s crowd-pleasers all under one roof.

One counter serves his Asian favourites such as nigiri and spicy tuna roll — dishes you’ll find in his Lucky Cat restaurants.

Another has a range of burgers from his Street Burger bistros.

Not KFC, but GFC: Gordon’s Fried Chicken

There are also pizzas, fish and chips, all-day breakfasts, butter chicken curry, poke bowls, steaks, salads — you name it.

Gordon’s aim is to make eating here fun.

Quality ingredients

Indeed, he tells me his kids were having such a good time here ten days ago that they refused to board their plane.

We chat briefly about how we both have twins and how his eldest decided not to follow in Dad’s footsteps, but to instead join the police force.

And then he encourages me to taste some of his specials, all prepared in bite-size samples.

First up is another chicken dish.

Not KFC, but GFC: Gordon’s Fried Chicken.

Flights can be difficult, sometimes nerve-wracking. Getting a chance to eat before we board means we can get on that plane and relax

Gordon

It’s topped with a dollop of his curry and mango sauce and is superb — moist on the inside and with just the right amount of outer crispy crunch.

Next is his vegan ’Nduja Street Pizza, piled with gooey courgette ribbons, pesto and red onions.

As for the OGR Burger, it has so much flavour that it’s no surprise to learn it’s made from grass-fed Hereford beef.

But my favourite is the bao bun, oozing with shredded duck and hoisin sauce.

Gordon, who now has 31 restaurants in the UK and a further 61 globally, including in South Korea, Malaysia, France and Dubai, believes decent grub can ease the stress of flying.

He says: “Flights can be difficult, sometimes nerve-wracking. Getting a chance to eat before we board means we can get on that plane and relax.”

If a holiday really does begin the moment you’re airside, then starting a trip with a meal at Plane Food Market will set you off on the right foot.

Dishes are packed with quality ingredients and prices are around £18 for a pizza, burger or fish and chips. It’s cheaper if you grab and go.

I was not flying anywhere when I visited, but did take away a £9 portion of padron peppers for dinner at home.

Hours later, when I tucked in, they were still delicious.

Would I enjoy them before hopping on a flight? Absolutely. All I need to do now is book a holiday.

I’VE found the best holiday park to spend the Christmas holidays at – and we’re returning as a family again this year.

My family of five has visited Haven, Butlin’s, Center Parcs and Away Resorts for a seasonal staycay in recent times, but we always end up back at our favourite.

Park Holidays‘ Broadland Sands near Great Yarmouth, is our fail-safe every year, even when none of the park facilities like the pool or the climbing wall are open in December.

But for a cosy Christmas getaway, it’s all about the accommodation for us.

With a big open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, there’s enough space (and crockery) to host a sit-down meal for a dozen people, so its ideal for hosting larger families.

It’s so much easier than trying to gather everyone together at home, hunting for extra chairs, working out how we can all fit around the table and cleaning the house before guests arrive.

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Instead it feels like a real treat to be staying in a spotless space where everyone can chip in with the cooking without treading on anyone’s toes.

My top tip would be to bring a slow cooker or an air fryer so you’ve got a back-up plan if you can’t fit everything in the oven, especially if you’ve got a lot of mouths to feed. 

The lodges at Broadland Sands are tucked away at one end of the park and it really does feel like you’re a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of normal life, waking up to the sun glistening through frosty trees outside.

Next door is St Bartholomew’s, a semi-ruined church that still hosts some Sunday services.

And just up the lane is the Lodge at Woburn Farm, which offers music nights and food, so you can enjoy a party atmosphere if the mood takes you.

I like to bring a stash of cosy treats, like fluffy socks, matching PJs and hot chocolate with marshmallows so we can really make the most of our comfortable accommodation and take a bit of time to get some R&R during the festivities.

While we love our quiet Christmas away, there’s also something to be said for heading to Haven or Butlin’s for full-on family fun.

Last year we spent Twixmas at Haven’s Seashore park and had a great time, splashing in the pool and watching the panto in the entertainment venue.

But the best bit of the break was wandering along a deserted beach in the late December sunshine and cosying up in our caravan for a family film night.

The festive season is already so busy with nights out, children’s parties and end-of-term activities that we all just want a bit of peace and quiet by the time we go on our Yuletide getaway. 

That’s why going to a luxury lodge on a closed park proves perfect most years.

Happily it also tends to be the most cost-effective option.

We spent around £250 for the weekend, compared to the steep £1,400 at Center Parcs Elveden Forest or £1,060 for a seaview lodge at Haven Seashore.

Having said that, we do also enjoy an occasional seasonal staycay elsewhere, especially now so many more UK parks have opened up until the New Year.

We quite often make a cheeky midweek visit to Butlin’s, which is usually a bargain £50 for four nights.

One year, there was even a free ice-skating rink at Skegness, so it really did give my family that festive feel for next to nothing.

Now’s the perfect time to bag a bargain break to end 2025 with a bang, so get booking!

WHEN it comes to finding a holiday home to stay in, in the UK, we really are spoilt for choice – but one Cornish spot looks as if it should feature on a postcard.

North Rocks in Cornwall looks over the beach, with the property sitting on top of the cliff of Sennen Cove.

The stunning spot sleeps up to seven people across four bedrooms in total.

Inside, the house has a main lounge with views across the ocean, a snug area and a dining-slash-sun room.

In the kitchen, guests will find a Magimix Nespresso coffee machine too, for much-needed morning caffeine hits.

There is also a heated swimming pool outside, which is surrounded by neat gardens and a number of patios.

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When the sun is shining, there is even a barbeque area to cook up some burgers and hot dogs.

Guests even receive a Cornish Food hamper when they stay.

The house also has a “Mediterranean-style wellness area” according to creator Kelsey in London, with a sauna and a cold plunge.

In the evenings, when the sun goes down, guests can cosy up around a firepit too and toast marshmallows.

One guest said: “Beautiful, cosy and even more stunning in real life!”

Another added: “Absolutely phenomenal place. This beautiful home has everything and more, so much thought has been put into the guest experience.”

A four-night stay in January for seven people costs from £2,575 working out to around £91 each a night.

From the house, you can explore Sennen Cove just 200 metres away, which boasts white sands and turquoise water.

The beach was even named one of the best in Britain by Conde Nast Traveller earlier this year.

The publication said: “Most travellers visiting Cornwall for the first time will head to Land’s End, but not many of them know that just around the corner lies this breathtakingly beautiful beach.

“Sennen Cove, a mile-long stretch, has long been loved by locals, who tell tales of how mermaids used to swim up along the shoreline.

“Turns out these were just excitable dolphins, but if you’re lucky they’ll leap up and frolick on your next visit. It’s also a haven for surfers.”

The nearby village has a couple of spots to grab a bite to eat too.

For example, you could head to The Blue Lagoon Fish Bar and grab some cod or haddock and chips for around £12.

One recent visitor said: “Best cod I have ever tasted in my life, with a batter that’s crisp but melts in your mouth.”

Alternatively, you could head to Sennen Surf Lodge for a breakfast roll costing £6 or a Surf Lodge Fry with smoked bacon, sausage, tomato, sourdough toast, baked beans, mushrooms, egg and fries for £15.

One recent visitor said: “What a gem! We could not get enough of this place and I think we ended up coming here every day during our two week break.”

At Sennen Beach, visitors can explore the mile long family-friendly beach, which is just under a mile from Land’s End.

The beach also has a surf shop and the UK’s top surf school at the Sennen Surfing Centre, with lessons costing from £35 per person.

A recent beachgoer said: “Sennen Beach is absolutely stunning. The beautiful white sands and blue water look incredible.”

Another visitor added: “Walking barefoot on the beach, you can experience the unique charm of feeling both the grains of sand and the cool touch of the seawater simultaneously.

“It’s a beautiful spot where golden sands, rolling waves, and the blue sea come together in perfect harmony.”

If you are wanting to explore further afield, then head along the South West Coastal Path, which runs along Sennen Beach, through the village and over the cliffs before reaching Land’s End.

On the route you will pass Sennen Cove Lookout Point with spectacular panoramic views before reaching the Mayon Cliff Shipwreck – a German cargo ship that beached in 2003 after the chief officer fell unconscious whilst on his watch shift.

You’ll then head past Maen Cliff Castle – an ancient Iron Age fort – before reaching Goose Slade Point – a granite headland – and Dr Syntax’s Head – the most westerly point on the British mainland.

Finally, you will find the First & Last House – which gets it’s name from the fact that it is either the first or last house you will see depending on whether you are entering or leaving the UK.

Inside the historic building you can pick up some souvenirs or ice cream.

For other staycation inspiration, here are the exciting new hotels, attractions and festivals coming to the UK’s seaside towns and cities next year.

Plus, our expert picks for UK staycation trips to banish post-summer blues – including free hidden gems for kids and £1.50 meals.

JET2 has teamed up with Eurocamp to launch holiday park packages for the first time.

The new holiday park deals with Jet2holidays will launch from summer 2026.

Eurocamp – the UK’s leading European outdoor family holiday specialist – has parks across France, Italy and Croatia.

Each package includes return flights with Jet2 as well as 22kg baggage, 10kg carry-on baggage, car hire and accommodation.

In total, 32 parks have been chosen with locations ranging from pretty beaches to beautiful mountains and lakes.

The destinations can be found in the Paris area, South of France, Dordogne, Provence, Roussillon and Languedoc in France, Sardinia and Lake Garda in Italy and the Istrian Coast and Dalmatia Coast in Croatia.

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You can leave the towels and bed linen at home too, as they are also included.

There will be a range of two and three bed mobile homes to book and each site will also have entertainment and activities.

Whilst the sites do differ, a lot of them do have pools and outdoor activities to choose from.

There are also different levels of accommodation to choose depending on your budget.

The most affordable is the Classic option, which are self-catered homes on the lower end of the price scale.

However the most popular option is Comfort, one level up from this.

Or you can splash out on Premium, Premium Exclusive, Ultimate or Ultimate Plus.

These all have extras such as free WiFi, larger living areas and outdoor spaces, or private hot tubs.

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy the launch was to offer “unforgettable outdoor holidays across Europe with Jet2holidays”.

He added: “We know just how popular Eurocamp is, and we are very confident that its appeal, together with the perks of a Jet2holidays package, will mean that this new proposition is a huge success.”

Ross Matthews, chief marketing officer at Eurocamp: “For this launch, we have curated a selection of 32 standout locations from our wider European network, chosen for their quality, location and strong alignment with Jet2holidays’ routes, pairing our premium outdoor accommodation with Jet2holidays’ award-winning service and flight network.

“Together, we are introducing an exciting new way for UK holidaymakers to discover Europe’s most beautiful regions.”

Eurocamp has 400 parks in total across a number of European destinations including France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

It’s latest expansion included 16 new sites across France.

Most of the parks tend to be self-catering and families can participate in a number of activities such as swimming, sports and games.

In other holiday park news, there’s a UK holiday park that’s a ‘better value Center Parcs’ with Christmassy Blue Lagoon and kid elf uniforms.

Plus, Center Parcs confirms opening date for newest UK holiday resort – its first in nearly 15 years.

JOJO Siwa fans will soon be able to experience a holiday with the star as she is launching a cruise next year.

The American singer and dancer who rose to fame after appearing on the popular reality TV show Dance Moms, has created a cruise which will set sail from June 12 to June 15, 2026.

Fans will board Royal Caribbean‘s Utopia of the Seas and across three days be able to enjoy meet and greets, q&a’s, dance parties, Build-a-Bow sessions and even a dance class with JoJo herself.

For the first time, there will also be an Infinity Heart Concert at sea, as part of her tour.

Fans must book through the JoJoSiwaCruise.com website to access all the JoJo Siwa events, activities, concerts and exclusives.

JoJo said: “This is the most immersive fan event I’ve ever created, and I cannot wait to share it with you!”

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Other activities in the JoJo Siwa programme include a welcome party, a trivia session, Name That Tune with prizes, a photography and autograph session and finally, a farewell party.

Anyone who books directly through Royal Caribbean or another website will not get access to any of the JoJo Siwa programming.

Of course, the cruise also includes everything that Utopia of the Seas usually has to offer including pools, waterslides, sports courts and a day at CocoCay.

On day one of the cruise, guests will have half a day exploring the ship, where they can head off on a zip line over the boardwalk, play mini golf, rock climb, ice skate or explore the arcade.

For little kids there is also a Splashaway Bay children’s splash zone.

And if you get hungry, there are more than 20 dining options onboard the ship, with complimentary spots including the main dining room, buffet, pizza, cafes and quick-serve spots.

There is also the opportunity for some retail therapy with the Promenade shops.

Then on day two, the cruise will head to Nassau, in the Bahamas.

Day three will then be spent at Royal Caribbean‘s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, where there is Daredevil’s Peak waterslide, high speed waterslides, a wave pool and an adventure pool with obstacles.

The island also features several more chilled areas such as Oasis Lagoon – the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

From the island, guests can also participate in a number of other activities including snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Sailings start at $1,050 (£786.08) for an Interior Stateroom based on two people sharing.

A Boardwalk View Stateroom then costs from $1,212 (£907.36) for two people sharing and a Central Park View Stateroom costs from $1,282 (£959.77).

There is also a Oceanview Balcony Stateroom available from $1,337 (£1,000.95).

In other cruise news, there’s a new luxury cruise ship which you can live on forever – and it’s cheaper than a London flat.

Plus, the world’s best sports-themed cruises – with NFL games, F1 drivers and pickleball-at-sea.

EVEN if you enjoy crisp mornings and a bit of snow, it’s hard not to daydream about a sunny break during the British winter. 

You could be looking for a half term getaway with the family or simply trying to escape the UK at its chilliest.

Whatever your motivation, the desire to shed your winter coat is understandable. 

There is a great variety of destinations ranging from long to short-haul which offer a chance to catch some February rays, whether that be in the sizzling tropics or the mild Mediterranean.

We’ve rounded some of these up, along with great deals that will get you there, so that you can chase the sun all year round. 

Agadir, Morocco

Average high temperature: 21C

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Just under four hours from the UK lie the golden sands of Agadir’s crescent-shaped beach. 

The six mile stretch of coast is a hotspot for surfing – but it’s also popular with holidaymakers who simply want to kick back and enjoy the sunshine, which the city gets 300 days of per year. 

And Agadir boasts more than just a beach, with a bustling souk and stunning 16th century ruins adding to the reasons it was named a top travel destination by British Airways in 2025. 

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited and said: “You can easily sunbathe on the beach with highs of 21C in February, and I was easily able to walk around in a t-shirt during the day. Just make sure to bring a jumper for the evening as it can drop to 10C by night.”

Plus, this Moroccan gem is incredibly easy to reach from the UK as most major European airlines offer direct flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Orlando, Florida

Average high temperature: 24C

Florida benefits from a powerful Atlantic Ocean current which causes warmer water to be brought in from the tropics, which means it’s warm year-round.

With temperatures reaching highs of 24C in February, a tan is definitely on the cards.

It might still be worth packing a brolly, as chances of rain do increase in February with the average total rainfall being 77mm across the month.

That being said, Orlando is home to some of the world’s best theme parks, and February might be one of the best times to visit as you won’t be queueing under the scorching summer sun.

Gran Canaria, Spain

Average high temperature: 21C

Winters in the Canary Islands are balmy, with temperatures regularly surpassing the 20C mark.

Gran Canaria sees little to no rainfall during the whole month of February, making it a safe bet if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or boat tours for dolphin-watching.

The island boasts over 80 beaches with both white and volcanic black sand, so visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to sunbathing spots.

One of these is Playa de Maspalomas, which was recently named the sunniest beach in Europe due to getting over 10 hours of daily sunshine, even during the winter months. 

Cape Verde

Average high temperature: 25C

As an archipelago off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde is surprisingly close to the UK in terms of flight-time. 

The six hours it takes to travel from Blighty – and the added benefit of no jet lag – makes it a convenient, mid-haul destination for sunseekers. 

Strong breezes keep the warm temperatures comfortable while also making the islands ideal for activities like windsurfing and kiteboarding. 

“I visited Cape Verde in February, when the sunshine is guaranteed and there is less than a millimetre of rainfall in a month,” said Jacob Lewis. “I was also lucky enough to be around for Carnival, the nation’s biggest annual celebration.”

Of its 10 islands, head to Boa Vista for pristine white-sand beaches, Sal for watersports and Santo Antão for breathtaking landscapes.

Malta

Average high temperature: 16C

If you prefer milder weather, Malta is a fantastic option for a winter trip.

Even with an average high of 16C, it can reach up to 20C on the warmest days. 

You’ll get to enjoy impressive amounts of sunshine while you explore its ancient citadels and lesser-known islands – all without the crowds that arrive during the hottest months. 

February is also the cheapest time to visit, with direct return flights from the UK available for as little as £33 per person. 

Cape Town, South Africa

Average high temperature: 27C

February is Cape Town’s hottest month of the year, and allows you to swap the extremes of UK winter for South African summer. 

It is also one of the driest months, unlike in tropical destinations where you’d run the risk of a shower. 

There are many events happening in February, with the Cape Town Art Fair and the Pride Festival both taking place.

To make it even better, February marks the end of the peak holiday season, so you can make the most of significantly cheaper accommodation and flights.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Average high temperature: 26C

There’s a reason that February is the high season in Dubai. 

The days are pleasantly warm without reaching the sweltering temperatures of a UAE summer, meaning you can better enjoy daytime outings such as tours, water parks or even a desert safari.  

The Sun’s Daniel Tison holidayed in the city in February, saying: “The weather was hot, especially around noon which made the cold sea water very refreshing.”

With its opulent skyscrapers and luxurious resorts, Dubai during this month offers the best of its desert climate.  

The Gambia

Average high temperature: 32C

The hottest place on our list is the unsung nation dubbed ‘the smiling coast of Africa’ – The Gambia.

It has a small Atlantic coastline where soaking up the sun is best done in February, as the month falls within the dry season and guarantees endless sunshine. 

Besides beaches, The Gambia’s diverse natural environment includes savannahs and wetlands, making it a prime destination for nature lovers.

What’s more, it’s a highly accessible country for British travellers, with English as the official language, direct TUI flights and no time difference at all. 

Valencia, Spain

Average high temperature: 16C 

Just over a two-hour flight from the UK is Valencia, with its mild climes that make February feel more like spring than winter. 

Caroline McGuire – The Sun’s Digital Head of Travel – said: “I travelled to Valencia in February half term and the weather was lovely and warm. 

“There’s plenty to see and do for kids and it’s a beautiful city with a gorgeous beach. It wasn’t roasting, but definitely t-shirt and shorts weather – and it beat the 5C back in the UK for sure.”

At this time of year flights can be bagged for just £28 return per person, with budget airlines including easyJet, Ryanair and Vueling all offering direct routes. 

If you’re after a city break rather than a beach escape, Valencia’s striking architecture, vibrant atmosphere and exciting food scene make it an excellent choice for some winter warmth.