Holiday tips tricks and hacks

THE first look at the plane set to serve the world’s longest flight has been revealed – and it even has a wellbeing area.

Qantas and Airbus have unveiled the first look of the aircraft that is due to travel non-stop between Australia and London and New York.

Nicknamed Project Sunrise, it will be the longest flight available to date -lasting 22 hours – thanks to an additional 20,000 litre fuel tank.

The flight is expected to cut up to four hours off total travel time compared to today’s one-stop services.

Onboard the plane, the cabins have been developed with the help from aviation experts.

Sleep scientists have even helped to combat jetlag on the plane, through features including unique lighting and a timed meal service.

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The cabin will also give passengers more space than usual.

There will be 238 seats, compared to over 300 seats usually found on other A350-1000 operators.

Also onboard the plane, there will be a Wellbeing Zone located between Premium Economy and Economy.

In the Wellbeing Zone, there will be stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programmes, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.

For First Class, there will be six spacious suites that feature a flat bed and separate reclining arm chair.

Each suite will also have work and dining space for up to two people, a full-length wardrobe and other storage areas.

For entertainment, each suite will have a 32 inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth connection.

There will also be a Business Class, Economy Plus and Economy cabins.

Key features of an Economy seat include 13.1-inch screens, a six-way adjustable headrest, multi-use seatback table, two USB-C outlets and a shelf for personal devices.

And there will be free Wi-Fi across all cabins.

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said: “Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers.

“Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world.

“These flights will cut up to four hours off the journey and transform how people experience ultra long-haul travel, through science backed design to minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing.”

The first of 12 new aircraft will be delivered in late 2026, with the first commercial flight due to take off in the first half of 2027.

The initial flights launched will be from Sydney to London and New York.

The news follows Qantas’ announcement of new Economy Plus seats.

The airline’s new Economy Plus cabin features extra legroom for passengers.

The new cabin will launch in February 2026 on the Airbus A321XLR, A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft.

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YOU’RE in the Alps for a ski holiday – you’ve got your gear, your lift pass and the optimism that you won’t wipe out on a blue run as kids whizz past you.

But what if skiing on a skiing holiday is optional?

What if there’s an Alpine world that doesn’t require you to throw yourself downhill at speed?

The wild and wonderful phenomenon of après-ski only gears up after the lifts stop — and the party gets going.

Après-ski is no small affair — this is not just drinks before dinner.

In the Three Valleys area of the French Alps, après is a daily festival and feels like a way of life.

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Picture this: a live band steps on stage ahead of a DJ surrounded by strobe lights, crowds are dancing on the tables (in ski boots) and bobble hats are thrown in the air.

This melee of strangers is swaying together, drinks in hand, as revellers sing at the top of their lungs.

This is a kind of Alpine Glastonbury, where people swap flower crowns and flags for puffer jackets and goggles.

And the best part? You don’t have to ski or snowboard to enjoy it.

The Three Valleys is known for some of the best slopes in the world, with almost 600km of pistes, as high as 3,000 metres, to pick from.

But interconnected Valleys resorts Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens also showcase thousands of music gigs.

The magic is thanks to London and Méribel-based agency Après Ski Bands, which books more than 3,500 such events per season across 130 venues.

These aren’t bog-standard cover bands — they’re high-energy pros, picked in X Factor-style auditions in the UK, who turn ski resorts into concert venues during winter.

In five days in the Alps, I saw nine superb acts without even trying — starting with party band Magnolia, ending with DJ and MC duo Rio & Rhymes and acts in between including emerging alt-rock talent Pattern Pusher and diverse après heroes The Wingmen.

For folk fans, there’s guitarist Chris Quinn, who opened for the Jools Holland Orchestra, and singer-songwriter Albert Jones, who appeared on BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Performing in the Alps is hard graft, as musicians play up to 140 dates in a single season.

At Lodge Du Village in Méribel alone, there are 900 live gigs each winter — with Mondays to Wednesdays often wilder than Saturday nights (free shots for those who arrive early).

Le Rond Point — or Ronnie — in Méribel is one of those places where you show up for one drink and suddenly it’s four hours later, and you’re leading a conga line and wearing someone else’s unicorn onesie.

And let’s not forget ultra-Insta La Folie Douce, a venue likened to Ibiza in the snow. If it sounds like an attack on the senses, that’s because it is.

But if partying isn’t really your thing, there are other things on offer in the Valleys.

For a touch of luxury, hit a hotel spa or soak in your chalet’s outdoor hot tub with a glass of fizz, watching skiers from a distance.

If you want to be on the white stuff minus the face-planting, then snowshoeing or sled-dog walking are great for exploring at a gentle pace.

Then, of course, there is the ultimate Alpine sport — eating.

Food here is an attraction in itself, with Méribel’s Le Cro Magnon and La Terrasse du Village delivering everything from hearty Savoyard to refined French-British fusion.

If you come to the Alps and don’t eat fondue, tartiflette or raclette, did you even visit the Alps?

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And now it’s not just a winter thing, with resorts shifting towards year-round tourism, meaning the party doesn’t stop when the snow starts to melt in April.

Whether you’re dancing on tables, belting out rock anthems with a crowd of strangers, exploring snowy forests, or eating your bodyweight in cheese, you’ve made it down a black run to holiday heaven.

SOMETIMES all you want is an affordable holiday, with a bit of warm weather, without having to hop on a long-haul flight.

And if you don’t want to venture too much further than Spain, we’ve found the island which is hottest in the cold winter months.

When it comes to the highest temperatures, Tenerife comes out on top.

This is because of its proximity to Morocco, with flights around 4hr30 from the UK.

Temperatures can be as high as 22C in winter, while the UK is shivering in highs of 7C.

Flights are super cheap – easyJet has routes to Tenerife from Manchester from £20.49 or London Southend from £29.

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Ryanair has bargains from London Luton for £18 each way.

Or you can find seven-night holidays for under £200 each – loveholidays has breaks from £189pp and £199pp in December which includes your hotel and flights.

Even if you want a treat, you can stay in a five-star hotel for just £359pp which includes seven nights at Best Semiramis.

But what can you do on the island?

We’ve spoken to experts and travel writers on the best ways to spend a week in Tenerife.

The hidden gems

Rick Cosgrove, a professional compere at many of the island’s bars, said: “Rincon del Pollo restaurant on the second floor of a little shopping centre, at the entrance to the massive Los Cristianos market.”

He continued: “It serves amazing Canarian-style chicken, home-cooked chips and great salads, for around €30, with drinks.

“El Cini in Los Cristianos is a little fish restaurant hidden up an alleyway where you will find the locals queuing too, with swordfish steaks from €11.”

When it comes to the best, local-loved beaches, he said: “La Tejita, near the airport in the south of the island, is the largest sandy beach in Tenerife and used mainly by locals due to being so windy.

“Two of the black sand beaches loved by locals are Playa san Juan, up the coast from Costa Adeje, and Las Galletas beach, not far from Los Cristianos.”

The beaches

Rick added: “I love both Puerto Colon and Fanabe beaches. These two coves are next to each other in Costa Adeje in the south of the island, and are ideal for beach lovers.

“Puerto Colon has a lot more going on, as it’s next to the marina and all sea excursions in the south tend to depart from here, so there is a plethora of bars, cafes and restaurants to serve your needs.”

Meanwhile, Kitty de Graaf, a travel consultant and blogger on the island, said: “Tenerife South is perfect for a beach holiday with more hours of sunshine and stunning beaches like Playa de las Vistas in Los Cristianos, and Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje.”

The food

Rick recommended any of the restaurants from the Venture Group if you’re looking for “posh nosh”.

He revealed: “It has around 12 restaurants in the south of the island including Empire Steak House and Mrs Miyagi’s – a Thai fusion spot in Playa de Las Americas.

“The Sea Horse in Fanabe is another favourite of ours, offering oversized tapas, with all dishes between €7-12 and probably the best sunset in Europe overlooking the island of Gomera.”

Katie Honcu, a freelance photographer, said: “Restaurante Roque Las Ánimas in Taganana, north Tenerife, is my top place for delicious local food at great prices. (A rustic restaurant with mountain views, selling Canarian food, dishes from €4).”

Other recommendations included Mesón Era Las Mozas for meat eaters, Restaurante Salitre for fish lovers, and Meson Castellano for an upscale experience.

The local spots

Katie said: “Roque Bermejo and Roque de Taborno, on the northern tip of the island, are excellent hiking spots away from the crowds that offer unique Canarian landscapes with stunning views.”

Tara Scarlata, who works for a local chain of bars, said: “Roca Negra Sunset Club in Playa Paraiso is a perfect place for sitting on the rocks at sunset with a cocktail (cocktails from €9), or El Puertito beach.”

The budget attractions

Rick revealed: “The Wally Trolly is a train that drives on the roads and takes families and small children all over the south of Tenerife.

“It gives you a great perspective in seeing actually how large an area the south is, and is very popular with families. (adult tickets €9 and kids tickets €5)”.

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Kitty said you can get tickets to the Pyramids of Güímar on the east coast that features six stepped pyramids and a poison garden, with more than 70 toxic plants from across the world, and to see it it just €10pp.

The must-do activities

Rick said: “This has to be Siam Park – the world’s number one water park – I love the incredible waterslides, but my partner Shelley is more into sunbathing, which she can do with the hundreds of sunbeds surrounding the huge wave pool.”

Meet the experts…

Our panel of Tenerife experts all live, own businesses or work in the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands…

Rick Cosgrove, 52, (pictured above) is a compere, working numerous bars between Los Cristianos and Adeje. Him and his partner Shelley (also pictured above), who is an award winning singer on the island, have a YouTube channel together, Rick and Shelley.

Kitty de Graaf, 53, draws on her passion for travel and writing and her experience in the tourism industry with her website Tenerife Insider Tips, where she serves as a travel consultant. She’s lived in Tenerife nearly 30 years.

Katie Honcu, 28, is a freelance photographer specialising in real estate. She’s lived in Tenerife for six years.

Tara Scarlata, 39, is administrator at TRISK Group – Beer Garden, San Eugenio and Mustang Sally’s, Fanabe Beach. She’s lived in Tenerife 10 years

MY early summer holiday a distant memory, the Costa del Sol seemed just the ticket for some autumn sunshine.

Leaving behind rainy Blighty, I was soon lying by the pool in Spain lapping up the rays — and throughout our stay in the first week of October temperatures ranged from 26C to 28C.

We were in the Ramada Hotel and Suites resort near Fuengirola, next to the beach and just half an hour from both Malaga airport and party town Marbella.

It comprises beautiful self-catering apartments spread over five areas — and TEN pools.

The main pool is adjacent to the resort’s most popular cafe and bar, Zac’s, and has a lively vibe.

But I found the one closest to our apartment, in the Sierra Marina area of the resort, was an oasis of calm, with a lovely sea view and a quiet, respectful group of holidaymakers.

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Another bigger pool, served by a bar and restaurant, is on sister site the Wyndham Grand which shares its facilities, including a gym and spa, with the Ramada.

I indulged in an hour-long facial which was a wonderful way to kick off a relaxing holiday. My daughter enjoyed a circulation-boosting massage, and there were numerous other tempting treatments to try.

The massage with bamboo sticks, which sounded more painful than it was, came recommended by a fellow guest.

While there are plenty of places to eat out, I prefer a little independence on holiday and our apartment offered everything we needed to get the best of both worlds. As well as its two comfy bedrooms and bathrooms, there was a roomy lounge and kitchen, with dining table, cooker and large fridge.

But its finest feature, given the glorious weather, was the large balcony overlooking the Mediterranean — big enough for a table with six chairs, two comfy armchairs and a parasol, so we could enjoy casual lunches of fresh bread, meats and cheeses bought from the on-site store.

There were also plenty of options for eating out, from budget-friendly Zac’s to Restaurant El Tajo — not owned by the resort despite being on site, and serving authentic Spanish food including a lip-smacking paella which has to be ordered 24 hours in advance.

We particularly enjoyed the Wyndham site’s Safari restaurant which offers a huge array of gorgeous tapas — I thoroughly recommend the baked provolone cheese — as well as dishes to suit all tastes, from pasta to fish and steak.

There is also a lounge bar for late-night drinks, hosting singers most nights, as well as other live entertainment including the popular Flamenco night at the poolside bar.

The sprawling, hilly nature of the resort means a lot of walking — I easily hit my 10,000-step target every day.

But for those less able or willing to get about there is a handy road train you can hop on and off at various points across the complex.

Away from the resort, the town of Fuengirola is a 30-minute walk or €9 taxi ride and its pretty squares are teeming with bars and restaurants.

Perfect off-peak getaway

Half an hour away is also Puerto Banus, a stunning marina lined with designer stores and restaurants and packed with yachts worth millions.

It is a hangout for the glam Marbella crowd and well worth a visit — although prices here are sky high.

But I recommend leaving the main marina by taking the stairs to the coastal path, where restaurants line the clifftop and you can watch the spectacular sunset over the sea while enjoying a meal of locally caught fish and seafood.

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife

The stunning old town of Marbella is a far cry from its infamously full-on beach clubs and nightlife.

Its narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets are lined with unique boutiques and jewellery stores and lead to the stunning Plaza de los Naranjos (Square of Oranges) which, good to its name, is lined with fruit trees as well as beautiful flowerbeds.

But closer to our resort, nestled in the mountains above Fuengirola, was the biggest treat of the holiday — the village of Mijas Pueblo.

One of the “white villages” typical of this southern Spanish region of Andalucia, it welcomes visitors into a main square overlooked by the beautiful town hall.

Behind the square are quaint narrow streets of white buildings, with picturesque blue flowerpots adding a splash of colour.

Brightly painted crockery and leather bags are sold in tiny stores and upstairs terraces in many of the eateries offer a view over the main square, mountains and sea.

Another highlight for me was the La Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena (Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock), a tiny but beautiful church carved into the natural stone of the mountain by friars in 1548.

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Along with its warm weather, the Costa del Sol has an average of just 35 days of rain a year, most of which falls between November and January.

It’s also a golfer’s paradise, with 70 courses, and with year-round sun is the perfect off-peak getaway.

TAKING your kids to see Santa in Lapland is a dream for many parents wanting a truly magical Christmas experience as a family  – but can be very expensive.

So I’ve I found a holiday hack that saved me thousands on a trip to the Christmas village in Finland, as long as you don’t mind an early start.

The Finnish Lapland is a popular holiday destination for a festive holiday, and for my kids Finn, 6, and Isobel, 4, it was seeing Santa.

However, these trips to Finland, especially near to Christmas, can cost as much as £10,000 a week when booking a holiday package for a family of four with hotels, flights and all the activities.

That’s when I discovered that you can go to Lapland for the day. 

Canterbury Travel offers day trips to Enontekio in Finland, flying out of the UK in the morning and getting home that very same evening – and it includes a meet with Father Christmas.

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We wanted to be as close to Christmas as possible, so we booked for December 22, but the lead up is just as exciting.

The holiday provider not only arranges everything, but sends you a special package in the post with a letter from Father Christmas, inviting the children to come and visit him at his house in Lapland. 

Of course, the big day requires a very early start, having to wake the kids up at 4am, although thankfully we live just a short drive from London Stansted Airport to make our 7am flight.

The fun started as soon as we got to check-in. All the staff were wearing Christmas jumpers and tinsel and festive songs were playing. 

What I loved most was the effort that had gone into making it enchanting for families.

The staff were calling it ‘Santa’s magical plane’ and even the information boards had been set up to tell the story, with the board listing the destination as Lapland rather than Enontekio.

Even onboard, we had coffee and breakfast, with kids given activity packs while Christmas songs and games were played over the tannoy.

While the flight was only 3hr30, the sun was already starting to set as the Arctic Circle only has around six hours of daylight this time of year.

It was still magical though – we landed on the snow-covered runway with a magical backdrop pink sky that looked like a Christmas card.

With this package, everything is covered. This includes all meals and drinks and rental of your snowsuit, socks and boots.

Ready for our six-hour day in Finland, we were shown into a barn and sized up for our kit, leaving our own clothes and shoes there until home time before dressing in everything from thermal leggings and tops to the full suits.

The weather in Lapland was -13C during our visit, but we were the perfect temperature and despite concerns, both my kids were warm enough with all of the layers.

Then it was on to the good bit. We were whisked off to Santa’s village on a sleigh and it was thrilling. 

The location is stunning, set in a forest, next to a frozen lake that is like a winter wonderland.

Once at the village, everything is included and activities include learning to drive a snowmobile, toboggans, a snow igloo with stunning ice sculptures and tables made of ice, husky sledging and reindeer sleigh rides.

When you have little children, meeting Father Christmas is of the utmost importance. 

Meeting the big guy was about as stress-free as you can imagine. When we arrived, we were given a time slot to go up to Santa’s cottage and everyone will get the chance to meet him. 

There are no lines or jostling to get in so it perfectly executed.

When it’s your time to go up to the cottage, which is nestled on a hill in the woods,  you’re invited to wait in a log cabin with a roaring fire. 

Then, a cheerful Elf came in to talk to the children, ask them what they want for Christmas and whether they wanted to ask Santa anything specific. 

My kids were fully immersed in the magic and it was so heart-warming. 

The elf explained what would happen next and then we were shown to a snowmobile sleigh that would whisk us up the hill to Santa’s house. 

Father Christmas was waiting inside the beautiful cabin, which was decorated with fairy lights and a huge Christmas tree. 

The experience was so relaxed and we never felt rushed or like we were being hurried along. 

Santa talked to the kids for ages and even did a magic trick, which they loved. Then he gave them a little gift, which was a reindeer teddy bear with ‘love from Santa’ sewn into the foot. 

It was one of the loveliest experiences I have ever had with my children and I will remember it for a lifetime. 

With the main ‘attraction’ ticked off, it was time to have an adventure in the alpine village and we had such a great day. 

Lunch is available in the main cabin throughout the day, so you can eat when you want and as many times as you want to.

The buffet is a choice of soup, baked potatoes with either a meat or vegetarian filling or pasta, as well as pancakes with jam for desert, alongside drinks of mulled wine, or tea, coffee, hot chocolate and soft drinks.

By this time, the sun had set in Enontekio but the village was completely lit up with fairy lights to keep the magic in the darkness.

Despite the holiday package only being around six hours, I was still amazed by how much else we managed to fit into the day.

We went on a slow cruise through the forest on a reindeer sleigh, which allowed some quiet time as a family.

A quick pit stop for a hot chocolate was enough to recharge our batteries and then we headed to the husky dog sledge ride, the ice castle and the snow mobile driving school.

There are full size adult snowmobiles and mini children one for kids under a certain height.

I really liked the fact that everyone has the chance to do everything and no one is left out.

Our last stop of the day was the snow sledging hill. We had so much fun going up and down and racing each other to the bottom.

It was even more special as just before we were about to say goodbye to Lapland and head back to the airport, the Northern Lights appeared in the sky above the village.

There is a coach transfer back to the airport and after dinner on the plane, we all fell asleep, landing in London at back to our car by 11pm.

I’d been worried that an extreme day trip from London to the arctic circle would be a lot for Isobel, who was only four.

And while she was certainly flagging by the end of the day, there was enough to distract her to keep her occupied.

The village also isn’t suitable for buggies so if you think you may have to carry younger ones, I recommend bringing a baby carrier or sling if you have one.

I was sceptical that we wouldn’t be able to do and see everything but it is so well organised that we didn’t miss anything and the whole day was very relaxed.

We saved money not staying overnight and got to do everything we wanted on the extreme day trip.

It does cost a bit extra to do a package trip like this than a DIY one, but we would never have been able to Lapland in a day if we hadn’t have booked this with a specialist company.

It’s a slick operation and very well executed with happy staff.

As parents we could thoroughly enjoy it too, without worrying about finding our way around, working out what to do and finding places to eat and drink in the show with two kids in tow.

Since we don’t often go on cold-weather holidays, I also liked that we didn’t have to buy snow suits and weather-proof outfits for the whole family. This saved us a few hundred quid it itself.

Usually, I love planning holidays and I’m someone who books everything separately myself to save money and create the exact itinerary that I want, but this was a great way to save money and do it right to make it magical for kids.

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Canterbury Travel still has some availability for the Enchanting Lapland day trips for 2025 with departures from Bristol, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, and Gatwick.

Prices start from £629 per person but includes return flights, in-flight meals and all activities, including transfers from the airport to the designated Christmas village by sleigh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I needed to do something for me again.

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

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

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WIZZ Air is relaunching its ‘All You Can Fly’ pass – but you might need to be quick.

The airline’s All You Can Fly pass was originally introduced last year, and has since returned.

Costing €499 (£438.24) a year, it allows travellers to fly to 34 destinations whenever they want.

On top of the yearly fee, there is a booking fee for each ticket of €9.99.

However, just 10,000 new passes will be available across 34 countries, so you might want to be quick.

The All You Can Fly pass sees subscribers flying on average nine times a year.

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On Facebook, one user shared how they had only been using the pass for six months and had already saved €200 (£175.75).

One TikTok user called ‘adventurewithells’, who subscribes to the pass, shared a video on TikTok sharing how over the course of a year, she travelled on 28 flights to 14 countries.

This included some of her dream destinations that are usually more expensive to travel to, such as the Maldives (which has since been scrapped by Wizz Air), Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Tromso, Chisinau and Athens.

She did mention that there was some cons to the pass though, including that it is hard to coordinate with family or friends if they don’t have the pass themselves.

There is also no guarantee that certain routes will be available and travellers need to be very flexible and happy to visit anywhere.

She said: “If you live near a big Wizz hub such as London and are happy to have a bit of fun and see where you end up, then go for it.

“If you want to be able to plan in advance and only visit specific locations then skip.”

She also added that she will be renewing, as it is “more than worth it”.

In another video, the creator revealed that travellers can only book between 72 hours and three hours before the departure of the flight.

Sometimes this can be risky, as if you are returning to the UK more than 72 hours from the time of booking your flight out to a destination, you won’t be able to book it.

She advised: “Say you want to go on a weekend flight, you can book the outbound for Friday, on Tuesday, but the Sunday return flight you wouldn’t be able to book until the Thursday.

“So you either have to hedge your bets on the return becoming available or what I would do is wait until the Thursday, so I can book both legs at the same time and that way I know I am guaranteed a return.”

If there are multiple routes, then it is a little easier as there is more choice for booking flights.

Senior chief commercial and operations officer, Michael Delehant said: “Despite a challenging economic environment where most prices are rising, we’ve continued to provide affordable travel options, offering customers the opportunity to travel for the cost of a pair of sneakers.

“This reflects our ambition to redefine the meaning of low-cost travel.

“We believe affordable prices should be matched with high quality operations and customer service – and we’re delivering.

The airline also confirmed that this summer was its best on record, with improvements across on-time performance, flight completion and turnaround times – with 1,000 flights a day.

He added: “We’re not only making improvements; we’re going further and expanding our offering for customers.

“In the past six months we’ve introduced 250 new routes and launched a range of exciting new products which are already revolutionising the customer experience.”

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Plus, there is also a brand new airline that has launched its first flight to the UK.

HUNGRY Brits are being led by their stomachs when it comes to booking a holiday – as the UK establishes itself as a nation of foodies.

Research from tour operator TUI has revealed that 41 per cent of us would consider booking a trip that’s all about the nosh.

It’s little wonder as, even at home, 39 per cent said they prioritise eating out in local restaurants.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the best short-haul breaks in 2026 for those who love their grub . . . 

AYIA NAPA, CYPRUS

TO get a bit of guidance on your foodie adventure, take a look at TUI’s new Dine & Discover packages, which are designed to send travellers to hotels renowned for their food.

As well as excellent grub and booze within the resorts’ restaurants, visitors will be treated to special extras, such as a complimentary cookery lesson or a cocktail mixology class, as part of the deal.

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The 5H Amanti, MadeForTwo hotel in Ayia Napa, on Cyprus’s south-eastern coast, is marketed as a couples-only resort and is the ideal spot for a romantic escape.

Travellers booked on the TUI package will receive money off a mountain villages tour with lunch and honey tasting.

Or they can opt for a discount on a halloumi-making and bread baking experience.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Amanti, MadeForTwo hotel is from £1,192pp including flights from Manchester on June 1, 2026. See tui.co.uk.

MOROCCO

IF it’s authentically traditional tastings you are after, Intrepid is the holiday company for you.

Their 12-night Morocco Real Food Adventure is undoubtedly something for the bucket list, showcasing everything from camel burgers to traditional family dinners whipped up in local homes – as well as tours of traditional markets.

Cuisine is at the heart of this trip, but you’ll tick off some pretty cool sights, too, as you pass through Casablanca, Meknes, Moulay Idriss, Chefchaouen, Fez and Midelt before moving on to Merzouga, the M’Goun Valley and, of course, Marrakech.

You’ll stay in hotels, guesthouses, gites and a desert camp.

GO: The 12-day trip costs from £984pp including accommodation, breakfasts, most dinners and some lunches.

Price also includes several foodie experiences such as a goats-cheese tasting and cous-cous demonstration. Flights extra. See intrepid.com.

DOLOMITES, ITALY

HAVING your hand held is no bad thing – and because of this, you know you’ll get the best of the best wherever you go when you book one of Saga’s food-and-wine holidays.

Every itinerary on a these getaways has been carefully curated, to include the top spots and activities on offer in that region, whether it be a visit to a local market or a cookery workshop combining culture and grub.

How does la dolce vita in the Italian mountains sound?

This week-long Dolomites tour is lip-smackingly good, with a visit to a working dairy farm, a wine-cellar tour with olive-oil samplings, and demonstrations at an apple orchard.

When you’re not tasting goodies, kick back at your hotel, the Alle Dolomiti over-looking Lake Molvano – enjoy the pool or unwind in the sauna.

GO: A seven-night Food And Wine In The Dolomites trip costs from £1,525pp on a half-board basis, including flights from Gatwick on September 21, 2026. See holiday.saga.co.uk.

BODRUM, TURKEY

HOLIDAY firm Jet2 has a specific section entirely dedicated to foodie escapes.

It is called Perfect For Dining – and these places really are.

The collection of hotels offer gourmet food, with extensive a la carte menus, and have an emphasis on local flavours.

Some of the properties even house Michelin-star restaurants.

Unlike many all-inclusive packages, the all-inclusive-plus deals at the 5H Lujo Art And Joy hotel, in sun-drenched Bodrum, cover everything.

That means not being restricted to the buffet each night, as a la carte dining at breakfast, lunch and dinner is available at most of the 11 onsite restaurants and bars.

You will have to fork out extra for the teppanyaki, steakhouse and Asian joints, though.

Kids will be kept happy with a 24-hour ice cream and frozen yoghurt stand.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive-plus costs from £1,828pp based on a family of four sharing and including flights from Leeds Bradford on April 19, 2026. See jet2holidays.com.

PORTOPETRO, MAJORCA

THE Spanish island of Majorca most certainly pips the other Balearics to the post when it comes to a smashing food and drink scene.

If you’re tempted to visit, it’s worth remembering that customers booking a TUI Dine & Discover package also receive 15 per cent off food and gastronomy experiences with TUI Musement.

And on this gem of an island, that includes a Majorca Winery Visit & Local Food Tasting experience.

You’ll be driven into the heart of the island’s wine country to sample tipples from a small family-run vineyard.

Soak up that booze with homegrown snacks, fresh bread, olive oils and local cheeses.

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A stay at the 5H Ikos Porto Petro also includes a free bottle of cava from the hotel’s private cellar, as well as a cocktail event on site.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Ikos Porto Petro is from £2,240pp including flights from London Gatwick on May 5, 2026. See tui.co.uk.

“HOCUS POCUS!” my son shouts, swirling me around in bubbling water and casting pretend spells as he goes.

He is cackling with delight in his very own bubbling cauldron — OK, it’s a hot tub, but that’s the joy of a child’s imagination.

We’re at Sandy Balls holiday park in the New Forest, checking out the UK’s first-ever “haunted cauldron” hot-tub experience — as part of Away Resorts’ spooky ­getaways.

The special cabin-in-the-woods-style Knightwood lodge has been transformed into a Halloween haven, decked out with touches such as cobwebs and creepy crawlies.

Our stay comes as research reveals 63 per cent of Brits love Halloween more than ever, with 55 per cent now preferring it to Guy Fawkes Night.

I, for one, am part of those stats. Me and my kids — Jude, five, and Eva, three — along with my partner’s children, Ronnie, eight, and Hugo, three, absolutely adored our ghostly lodge.

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But the scary fun didn’t end there. The haunted hot tub was just the start.

Away Resorts goes all out with its 31 Days of Halloween, offering spooky decorations, arts and crafts, and eerie entertainment for the whole family.

From a Trick or Treat treasure trail to a Franken-SLIME laboratory, the kids were kept busy with all kinds of festive chaos.

Even outside the lodge, the park was decked out with giant pumpkins and a glow-in-the-dark slime machine that the children could operate by pushing a big red “caution” button — naturally, they pressed it a lot.

As night fell, skeletons projected on to huge screens gave us a proper fright while we sipped hot chocolates topped with cream.

Saturday night saw a giant fire pit at the centre of the park, where we bought marshmallows from a food van and toasted them.

A skeleton violinist played spine-chilling tunes as the kids danced under trees twinkling with fairy lights.

It was utterly magical, like stepping straight into a movie scene.

Then DJ Bones took over with a glow-stick rave.

Watching them go wild, I switched my hot chocolate for mulled wine — because let’s face it, parenting is thirsty work.

Food-wise, the on-site farm shop had everything from Halloween treats to the essentials . . . but it wasn’t cheap. I popped in for a few bits and somehow walked out £100 lighter on the very first night.

The kids, of course, were busy shoving Halloween sweets into the basket, while I grabbed necessities like tea bags, milk, bread . . .  and booze.

With four youngsters between us, frankly, it was a survival essential.

But, of course, you can always stock up at home and bring essential supplies, like wine, with you.

Our lodge was kitted out with great cooking facilities and equipment, so we mostly prepared food at our lovely holiday home.

But, if you did want to treat yourself, the site has two restaurants: Aubrey’s Forest Kitchen serving pizzas, steaks and pastas, and the Woodside Inn for classic pub grub. Main meals averaged £18, beer £7, and prosecco £10.

There’s plenty for kids too — a free soft play directly across from the bar meant we could grab a drink while they burned off some energy.

Other highlights included ghoul school, pumpkin carving, and Junior Off-Road Land Rover Discoveries (£15 for 30 mins).

Terrifying and thrilling

The older children drove themselves while we sat in with the little ones — terrifying and thrilling in equal measure.

There’s also a great swimming pool, free to use, though it can get quite busy.

Beyond the park, the New Forest is beautiful. On the drive down, the kids loved spotting wild Shetland ponies and horses.

We also found cosy country pubs with fantastic outdoor play areas for the little ones.

Back to our stay, our lodge slept eight with two bathrooms, a king-size room, a bunk room, a cosy lounge with a smart TV, and outdoor seating with heaters.

After a day of spooky chaos, we all fell asleep watching Ghost­buste­rs with hot chocolates.

Our only gripe? Our stay wasn’t long enough.

As we closed the door on our weekend, the kids begged: “When can we come back?”

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Something tells me it will be just as magical.

AS the Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor, I’ve racked up the air miles over the years – travelling to over 55 countries and more than 100 cities.

So when it comes to winter sun, I can of course wax lyrical about the beauty of Hawaii or the stunning beaches of St Kitts. But I’ve also found some of the biggest winter sun bargains, where you needn’t go too far.

By that, I mean nothing more than seven hours, which edges the flight into the long-haul category, although some are less than three hours away.

So I’ve done the hard work for you, and found seven places under seven hours away, where you can find everything from cheap hotels and affordable wine to bargain packages and beautiful beaches.

Faro, Portugal

Flight time to Faro – 2hr35

The Algarve is one of the most popular destinations to visit when seeking some European sun in winter.

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And while most Brits fly into Faro and then leave for the coastal resorts, I think the city is worth a cheap winter break on its own.

It’s around 16C in December, so you can get away with a t-shirt.

And there are a group of tiny islands that barely any tourists know about, that are a quick boat trip from the mainland.

You can get to the ‘Caribbean of Portugal’ called Ilha Deserta in just 20 minutes.

Not only are the beaches empty on the island, but it has just one restaurant, Estamine, where you can get a fresh fish tasting menu for €25 (£21.77) for two.

And Portugal is known for its extremely affordable restaurants and bars.

Adega Amável is where you’ll find the locals, and it’s a bit of a squeeze but worth it when beers and glasses of wine are less than €3 (£2.61).

Budget hotels can be found for £30, although I loved 3HB, Faro’s first five-star hotel (starting from £415pp, for four nights with flights with easyJet holidays in November).

Loveholidays has seven-night stays in Faro in November for £199pp with return flights.

Seville, Spain

Flight time to Seville – 2hr45

One of the closest places for some winter sun from the UK is Seville, which is one of the warmest places on the Spanish mainland.

It’s one of my favourite Spanish cities to visit and you can expect temperatures around 17C in December – so definitely t-shirt weather.

If you want to eat where the locals go, try and squeeze into Bar Alfalfa.

You can get an authentic tostada con tomate (toast with tomatoes) and a coffee for just €2.60 (£2.26), or a tinto de verano (red wine and lemonade) for €1.50 (£1.31).

If you don’t want to splash out for an expensive flamenco show, you can catch some live performances in many of Seville’s parks as well.

El Rinconcillo is Seville’s oldest bar, and you can get a large glass of wine for just €3.20 (£2.80).

There are ways to get free tickets for some of the city’s top attractions, too.

The Royal Alcazar Palace has free tickets on Mondays for the last hour, which can be found on the website.

And the Cathedral de Sevilla – the world’s biggest Gothic cathedral – also has free tickets from 2pm to 3pm on Mondays.

EasyJet has package holidays for £166pp, when staying three nights on January 5 at the Illunion Alcora Sevilla.

Or you can do three nights at the Hotel Vertice Alijarafe on January 21 with Loveholidays for £139pp, with return flights.

Agadir, Morocco

Flight time to Agadir – 3hr50

Morocco is one of the nearest places to the UK for reliable winter sun.

While I love Marrakech and Casablanca, one of my favourites is Agadir, which was also named the cheapest package holiday destination by Which? last year.

The coastal town is often twinned with Taghazout, a surfer village with a huge beach.

Not only is it warm, but it is a great place to stock up on Christmas presents for a bargain.

You can head to Souk El Had, the biggest souk in Morocco, which is pretty chaotic, and you can find literally everything.

But I loved the Complexe Artisanal, a more manageable market, with wicker lights, hand-painted vases and authentic wooden sculptures, all for a bargain.

I managed to buy candles for under £5, where I picked my own essential oil to go in them, which looked identical to the ones in Oliver Bonas that cost £20.

A hand-glazed sugar jar set me back just £12, and looked just like ones from the trendy brand HK Living, which retail at £35.

TUI has seven-night holidays to Agadir from £310 each when travelling in November.

El Gouna, Egypt

Flight time to El Gouna – 5hr25

Just outside of Hurghada, El Gouna is a lesser-known area of Egypt that has some amazingly affordable holiday resorts.

The gated manmade island feels extremely safe, and it’s still 24C in December, so you can make the most of the pools and beaches.

It’s a place for luxury on a budget – I stayed at the Cooks Club Hotel, which was a four-star hotel for around £80 a night, but felt like a five-star.

But if you want a real five-star, you can find stays at ones like Movenpick for as little as £130 a night.

You can head to Downtown Abu Tig Marina for some cheap eats and beach clubs, as well as happy hours where you get a second cocktail free.

Most of the time, you will spend your time relaxing at the hotel pool, as it is more of a fly and flop destination.

But there are some great, affordable day trips if you do want a day out, including quad biking in the desert for under £10 with Get Your Guide.

Loveholidays has seven-night holidays in December for £399pp at a number of four-star hotels, which include your breakfast and flights.

Boa Vista, Cape Verde

Flight time to Cape Verde – 6hr15

One of the closest African islands to get to, Cape Verde, is now easier to reach thanks to new easyJet flights from the UK.

Most people head to the busier Sal, but I recommend going to the quieter Boa Vista.

It has 27C highs in winter, there is just one hour’s time difference, and you won’t see many crowds even in the busy season.

The quiet beaches – in particular Santa Monica – felt more like a private island in the Maldives, with soft white sands and barely a soul in sight.

One of my fave shops was Olaria di Rabli, a tiny ceramic store where you can pick up some souvenirs for just a few pounds.

Morabeza Beach Bar had more Bali vibes, with Reggae nights and sunset parties with DJs.

It’s also where you can find a cheap beer, with a local bottle of Strella around €2 (£1.74), or a glass of wine for €3 (£2.61). Even a cocktail of a mojito or an Aperol spritz was just €5 (£4.35).

Otherwise, it is a great, affordable fly and flop destination where you can while away the days making the most of the all-inclusive buffet, without spending a penny extra.

Loveholidays has seven-night holidays in Boa Vista from £459pp in November.

Or, TUI has all-inclusive seven-night holidays from £686pp.

Pointe Sarene, Senegal

Flight time to Senegal – 6hr15

If you want the feel of the Caribbean on a budget, then a Senegal holiday resort is where you will want to head.

Not only is there no jet lag with just one hour’s time difference, but Senegal remains above 26C all year round, with highs of 30C in winter.

It has seen a boom in popularity since 2022, when TUI launched the only direct flights from the UK.

Pointe Serene is where you will find most of the beach resorts, and most are fairly affordable when it comes to all-inclusive packages.

I stayed at the Riu Baobab, which had it all – swimming pool, bars, all your food and drink included and an on-site water slide complex.

You can also book day trips, including Goree Island or half-day safaris for less than £60 each.

TUI has seven-night all-inclusive Senegal holidays from £901pp when travelling in November.

Doha, Qatar

Flight time to Doha – 6hr50

If you want the glamour of Dubai on a bit of a budget, I’d recommend heading to Doha.

I flew there as a stopover when heading to Sri Lanka, but was left stunned by the affordable glitz.

I stayed at five-star The Ned, an incredibly fancy outpost of the Soho House-owned hotel, housed in the Ministry of Interior building.

Giving celebrity member clubs vibes, rooms start from £170 a night – it might sound expensive, but it’s much cheaper than the Ned London, where prices soar past £300.

Stay for three nights and you get 20 per cent off the price as well.

But if you want even more of a budget, there are basic hotels for just £25, such as the Plaza Inn hotel or the Palm Inn Hotel.

Want some beach time? Doha Beach Club is free to visit on Tuesdays for women, or you can pay £6 off-peak peak which gets you a towel and umbrella.

If you don’t want to spend a whole trip in Doha, Qatar Airways has its Qatar Stopover if you are connecting in the city.

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Say you are heading to somewhere like Thailand or Australia via Doha with the airline, you can stay in the city for up to 96 hours, and pay as little as £11 a night at a hotel before hopping on your connecting flight.

British Airways has seven-night holidays from £663pp when travelling in February.

A MAJOR UK airport has been shut down after facing difficulties with one of its runways.

Flights were cancelled and planes grounded overnight with passengers encouraged to check with their airlines to see if their journey has been affected.

Leeds Bradford Airport is expected to remain closed to both departures and arrivals until 5am on Saturday.

Jet setters were warned that the closure could continue on longer.

The first flight out of the closed airport, a Jet2 service to Heraklion in Crete, is expected to leave shortly before 5:25am.

Flights due to land at Leeds Bradford Airport were diverted and sent to other UK airports in the wake of the runway issue.

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The busy airport usually operates for 24 hours a day but has been closed now until the issue can be adressed.

Staff at the airport are reportedly working at speed to fix the problem as soon as they can.

The team at Leeds Bradford Airport said that customer safety is their number on priority.

Disappointed holidaymakers can make contact with staff on the ground at terminals to ask any questions about their flights.

A statement on the airport’s website, posted at 10pm, reads: “Due to an unforeseen issue with the runway, we have had to take the decision to close the airport until the morning.

“Customers are advised to check with their airline for the most up-to-date information regarding their flight.

“We are working to resolve the disruption as soon as possible, the safety and comfort of the passengers travelling through our terminal is our number one priority.

“Our team is on the ground in the terminal to answer any customer queries regarding departures.”

Leeds Bradford Airport was granted planning permission to operate round the clock in 1994.

Dozens of flights take off and land at the busy midlands airport on a day-by-day basis.

According to the airport’s website there is a designated night-time flight period.

This lasts from 11pm to 7am every evening with only the quietest jets permitted to operate between these hours.

Here’s the full list of best to worst UK airports according to Which?

1. Exeter
2. Liverpool (John Lennon)
3. London City
4. Bournemouth
5. Newcastle
6. Norwich
7. Inverness
8. Cardiff
9. Southampton
10. Belfast City
11. East Midlands
12. Glasgow International
13. London Heathrow T5
14. Edinburgh
15. Leeds Bradford
16. Aberdeen
17. Birmingham
18. Bristol
19. London Gatwick North
20. London Heathrow T2
21. Belfast International
22. London Gatwick South
23. London Heathrow T4
24. London Heathrow T3
25. London Stansted
26. Manchester Terminal 2
27. London Luton
28. Manchester T1
29. Manchester T3

PLUGS with USB ports feel like a godsend when travelling abroad, as you don’t have to worry with adapters.

But it turns out that they risk doing more harm than good – and could end up costing you a fortune.

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has warned passengers that using USB ports in airports can potentially make your phone vulnerable to a cyber attack.

In a Facebook post, TSA said: “Hackers can install malware at USB ports (we’ve been told that’s called ‘juice/port jacking’).

“So, when you’re at an airport do not plug your phone directly into a USB port.

“Bring your TSA-compliant power brick or battery pack and plug in there.”

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Juice jacking is essentially a form of cyber attack, where public USB ports are used to steal data from or install malware on a device.

The issue isn’t just limited to airports either, as any sockets with USB ports in a public place could be at risk – on board the plane, at train stations, in hotels and in coffee shops.

Through juice jacking, hackers can gain access to sensitive information such as passwords, emails and financial information.

Malware could also be installed, which allows hackers to track online activities – or even fully take over your device.

Firmware could also be impacted, meaning that the security measures on a device could be rendered useless.

The TSA also warned that travellers should not use public Wi-Fi, especially if planning to make online purchases.

So how do you protect your device?

According to cybersecurity company McAfee, “the most straightforward way to avoid juice jacking is to use your own charging cables, plugs and adapters.

They said: “By plugging into a standard electrical outlet rather than a public USB port, you eliminate the risk of data theft or malware installation through compromised USB ports.”

You could also carry a battery pack with you, but make sure to check your airline’s regulations as some do not allow power banks on board planes.

You can also use a USB data blocker, which is a small adapter that attaches to the end of your wire and blocks any transmission for a USB port.

This then only allows power to go through the cable to your phone.

WHAT IS JUICE JACKING AND WHY IS IT A DANGER?

By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun

So-called “juice jacking” has long been a known risk that applies to any USB port you hook your phone up to.

The humble USB can be used for two things – powering up and transferring data.

And it’s the latter that is a cause for concern.

Cyber fraudsters can pull this off pretty easily, using a modified USB port or cable to infect the port.

Once someone plugs in, they can sneakily pass on a virus to your phone, which is capable of spying and more.

The problem is serious enough that even the FBI has warned people against using public USB ports.

However, there have been no known cases reported of it affecting members of the public.

All examples demonstrated by experts have been in controlled environments.

If you want to err on the side of caution, use a traditional electrical outlet instead.

If you are looking to buy a portable charger, here are eight of the best power banks UK for 2025 that have been tried and tested.

Plus, here’s how to charge your phone if you forget an adaptor on your next holiday.

TWO-THIRDS of young people jetted off without travel insurance – because more than half didn’t think anything would go wrong.

A poll of 2,000 adults found another 58 per cent of these Gen Z and Millennial travellers have skipped getting covered because it costs too much.

But that risk doesn’t always pay off, as 29 per cent of all holidaymakers have had to make a claim after things went awry either before or during their trip.

The average claim came to around £4,500, with top reasons including cancelled holidays due to unforeseen circumstances like illness.

Nearly half (48 per cent) have had to use their policy because of long travel delays, while 45 per cent needed help following a medical emergency overseas.

Emily Barnett, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, which commissioned the research, said: “Taking out travel insurance should be as instinctive as booking your flights, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances, for example should you need to cancel before you depart.

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“With the busy winter travel season upon us, whether it’s skiing in the Alps or a visit to the Christmas markets, it’s never been more important to make sure you have suitable cover in place before you set off.”

It also emerged 41 per cent have claimed for delayed or damaged baggage, while 40 per cent needed their policy after being targeted by thieves abroad.

Others have had to rely on insurance after their hotel or travel company cancelled on them, while 38 per cent made a claim to access medication during their trip.

However, 16 per cent didn’t realise their policy needs to match the specific requirements of their holiday – as some trips, such as winter sports, need specialist cover.

And this rises to nearly a third (31 per cent) among those aged 18 to 24.

When it comes to travel worries, the biggest fear among those polled is facing a medical emergency away from home (37 per cent), followed by losing luggage (21 per cent) and missing their flight (19 per cent).

The findings have inspired a striking photo series from Compare the Market, titled ‘What Happened on Holiday’, designed to highlight the importance of booking insurance at the same time as your trip.

Emily Barnett added: “We’re urging Brits to protect their trips early to give themselves peace of mind, so they can focus on making memories instead of mishaps.”

PLANS changed before you’ve even packed your case?

If you need to cancel a Jet2 flight, here’s how it works right now, plus what that means for refunds and fees.

How do you cancel a Jet2 flight?

It’s straightforward to cancel online.

Go to Manage My Booking, log in with your details and select Cancel flights.

Follow the on-screen steps to confirm your request.

You should receive confirmation once you’ve completed the process in Manage My Booking.

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Will I get my money back if I cancel?

Jet2 treats flight-only bookings as non-refundable in most cases.

If you choose to cancel, you should not expect a cash refund unless your fare type or specific circumstances state otherwise.

Always check your booking confirmation and fare conditions before you cancel, and consider whether your travel insurance covers you for your reason to cancel.

What are my options if I don’t want to lose the fare?

If you can still travel but need different dates or times, you can amend your booking instead of cancelling.

Jet2 lets you change flights in Manage My Booking, subject to a change fee and any fare difference.

Name changes are also permitted for a fee if someone else can take your place, which can be more cost-effective than cancelling outright.

How much does it cost to change a Jet2 flight?

Jet2 charges a fixed change fee per person per flight plus any difference between your original fare and the new fare available at the time you make the change.

Exact costs vary by route, season and availability, so you’ll see the total before you pay when you go through the change process in Manage My Booking.

Can I cancel a Jet2holidays package instead?

Flight-only bookings and Jet2holidays packages have different rules.

Package holidays follow Jet2holidays terms and conditions, including set cancellation charges on a sliding scale.

Check the Jet2holidays Manage My Booking FAQs and your booking documents for the latest charges before you decide.

If you booked a package through a third party or travel agent, speak to them first, as their terms may also apply.

What if Jet2 cancels my flight?

If Jet2 cancels your flight, you’ll be offered alternative arrangements or a refund according to Jet2’s policies.

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Keep an eye on your email and your booking dashboard for updates if disruption is expected.

OCTOBER half term is right around the corner and if you’re looking for a last minute holiday to entertain the kids, this hotel is for you.

It has eight pools, plenty of slides, a kids club and daily mini disco, families will never be bored.

Globales Playa Estepona sits on the Costa del Sol, and it’s the biggest waterpark hotel in the region.

Scattered across the hotel are eight swimming pools, three of which are made for children.

There’s also daily entertainment like the aqua gym, aqua sports and organised competitions.

Other activities include tennis and beach volleyball, there’s an on-site gym for guests – or if you want to relax take a stroll around the gardens.

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There’s lots to see as the hotel site is across 40,000 square feet.

If guests want to escape the hotel there’s a free shuttle bus to Puerto Banús, a luxury marina and resort town in Marbella.

As for food and drink, the hotel has a main buffet restaurant which serves up breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

Mostly the food is Mediterranean-style, but there are other international options too.

There’s also the Terrace Bar and poolside bar for drinks and snacks, and the Beach Club is where guests can enjoy al fresco dining.

There are plenty of room choices from Double for single use without balcony, to Double without balcony, Superior Double with or without a balcony and Premium Doubles.

Each room features a bathroom, satellite TV, Wi-Fi service, air conditioning and comfortable beds

The hotel is just half an hour away from Marbella which is not just the place to go for a party.

Marbella has lovely beaches like Nagüeles Beach, Cabopino Beach and Fontanilla Beach which is known as a popular family-friendly option.

A week-long all-inclusive stay during half-term week in the hotel for a family of four in a Double Superior with Balcony costs €1,077.78 (£938.87) – which is £234.72pp.

To get to Globales Playa Estepona, Brits will have to fly to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport.

TUI offers package holidays to Globales Playa Estepona over half term week which works out at £637.71pp (including flights).

October half term is still a great time for a break in Spain as temperatures reach highs of 23C.

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Here are the top waterpark hotels in Spain…

Magic Aqua Rock Gardens, Benidorm
Located in Benidorm, Costa Blanca, the Magic Aqua Rock Gardens Hotel, pictured above, is African-themed and less than a mile from the beach. The hotel boasts two outdoor pools, including a children’s freshwater pool with a waterfall and a tipping water bucket for the little ones. There’s also an aquapark featuring slides and kamikaze.

Magic Natura Animal, Water Park & Polynesian Lodge Resort, Benidorm
The resort is located in the Terra Natura animal park. Guests get unlimited access to the animal park and the Aqua Natura waterpark. Terra Natura’s anime park has a ‘zooimmersion’ concept, meaning you can interact with more than 1,000 animals, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants, without barriers blocking your view. The hotel features three outdoor pools, including one with a children’s section, with a tipping water bucket, jets and a whirlpool.

Golden Taurus Aquapark Resort, Costa Brava

The resort has four pools and two whirlpool baths, and guests have unlimited access to the neighbouring waterpark, which has flumes and racing slides. The hotel’s main restaurant offers a buffet with a mix of international dishes and Spanish specialities. There are also two pool bars, a snack bar and a cocktail lounge. A kids’ club is available daily, as well as evening entertainment for visitors of all ages.

For more waterparks in the UK, check out the country’s biggest indoor tropical waterpark where it’s always 30C.

Plus, the new £200million indoor waterpark arriving in the UK with 4-storey slides could open in 3 locations.

A FAMOUS brand that used to be an airline is returning… but this time with hotels.

Pan American Airways, also known as Pan Am, is making a comeback with a number of luxury hotels across Europe.

The hotel brand named Pan Am Hotels, will open a number of hotels at European airports in 2028.

Created by Austrian-based JP Hospitality, the hotels are set to create “airport hospitality that excites guests”.

Each hotel will feature a midcentury modern design, reminiscent of Pan Am travel years ago.

In a post on LinkedIn announcing the new hotel brand, the company said the hotels will feel like the late 1950s and 1960s, “Golden Era reimagined”.

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In addition, the Pan Am Hotels website states: “Designed for seamless ease and tailored comfort, our hotels are not just stopovers – but true gateways to your onward journey.”

The hotels will largely be across Europe with locations including London, Paris, Madrid and Milan.

Then the brand hopes to expand outside of Europe in the future to destinations such as Sydney, Tokyo and New York.

Pan Am was America’s first international airline, paving the way for the future of jet airplanes and the Boeing 747 jumbo jet.

Few details have been revealed about what the inside of the hotels are to look like, but if they were to look anything like the airline, travellers can expect ‘Pan Am Blue’ or gold colours that featured on cabin crew’s uniforms.

In the 1970s in particular, Pan Am planes featured bright and bold colours as well as modern midcentury interiors.

According to Hotel Magazine, Gebhard Schachermayer, managing partner at JP Hospitality said: “With the launch of PAN AM HOTELS, we are setting a new benchmark in airport hospitality.

“Airports deserve better hotels – without inflated prices, but with comfort, quality, and innovation!

“The steadily increasing demand for overnight stays at airports, combined with often poor service quality, motivated us to fill this market gap with the development of high-quality, needs-oriented hotels.”

The developer expects to have 16 hotels in operation by 2033, with a total of 28 in the pipeline, reports Live and Let Fly.

But if you can’t wait until 2028, the company already has a Pan Am Lounge and Pan Am Suite in Berlin and Die Josefine and The Guesthouse in Vienna that you can stay at.

And JP Hospitality isn’t the only hotel brand to jump on the Pan Am theme.

Pan Am Hotel by Hilton is set to open in late spring 2026 at the Citadel Outlets shopping mall in Commerce, California – about eight miles from downtown Los Angeles.

The hotel will feature a midcentury design throughout, with two restaurants, a fitness centre and large rooms.

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In other hotel news, the huge English estate that starred in Pride And Prejudice has opened a new budget hotel with stays from £99pp.

Plus, the world’s best hotels have been revealed and three are in the UK – one is even owned by a Love Islander.

The top travel trends of 2026 have been revealed including “Fan Voyage”, “Hotel Hop” and “Salvaged Stays” according to a new report.

The Unpack ‘26 report, released by Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, polled 24,000 respondents across 18 countries and found a growing number of people booking trips specifically to see local immersive experiences.

“Fan Voyage” journeys see travel combined with unique, regional sporting activities, according to Expedia, including Sumo Wrestling in Japan or curling in Canada.

While people on a “Salvaged Stay” aim to mix historical architecture with modern amenities, checking into upcycled retreats such as former schoolhouses, train stations, and banks.

As a result, Hotels.com has seen an increase in searches for these types of stay – for example, Bodmin Jail Hotel, in Cornwall, is up by 110 per cent.

And this part of the group also found 59 per cent of British millennial travellers are making every trip count by booking multiple hotels within a single destination.

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This emerging trend – dubbed Hotel Hop – is driven by travellers’ desire to explore different neighbourhoods (58 per cent) and keep trips varied (52 per cent).

Expedia also released its 2026 Destinations of the Year list powered by real-time data from millions of daily visitors to its site and app.

Six of these hotspots also meet the criteria for the brand’s new Smart Travel Health Check, a first-in-travel framework, inspired by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

It recognises destinations that offer meaningful travel experiences and proactively manage tourism in a sustainable way, helping to ease the strain on the world’s most overvisited cities.

And the top spots included Big Sky in Montana, USA, Okinawa in Japan, Hobart in Australia and Savoie in France, which has seen a 51 per cent search increase.

Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, said: “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations.

“We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”

Christopher Imbsen, vice president policy at WTTC, added: “Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check is an innovative initiative that reflects the urgent need to embrace responsible growth models that safeguard communities, protect cultural and natural heritage, and ensure the long-term resilience of destinations.”

Research conducted on behalf of the Vrbo arm of the company found trips in 2026 are fuelled by 91 per cent who are seeking getaways focused on reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.

As #BookTok continues to dominate social media, interest in literary-themed travels, ‘Readaways’ is also surging with Pinterest searches for “book club retreat ideas” up 265 per cent.

And reading-related terms in the holiday let company’s guest reviews have nearly tripled.

The slow travel movement is gaining ground, with 84 per cent of travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm.

They are searching for starlit skies over busy city lights in 2026.

Set-Jetting is back – and bigger than ever – with interest in travelling to destinations inspired by TV shows and movies accelerating.

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And 53 per cent of global travellers say their desire to take a set-jetting trip has increased in the past year.

With The White Lotus’s next location in France still to be officially confirmed, the 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast reveals the next wave of cinematic escapes – including Tuscany, Italy inspired by Jay Kelly and Yorkshire, inspired by Wuthering Heights and Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.

A QUARTER of Gen X and Boomers want to go interrailing across Europe – after missing out on travelling during their teens and 20s.

A poll of 2,000 adults who have holidayed revealed scenic rail journeys are a huge draw for 46 per cent of these generations – despite the trip more commonly linked with backpacking students.

Over a third (37 per cent) want the chance to tick off multiple countries in one go, while the sense of adventure appeals to 22 per cent.

Another 31 per cent like the idea of not having the hassle of dealing with flights or airports, and 30 per cent want flexibility to travel at their own place.

In fact, many want to venture further off the beaten track to hidden gems such as Lucca in Italy, Zermatt in Switzerland, and San Sebastián, Spain’s culinary capital.

Adrija Biswas, head of HSBC UK’s Global Money account, which allows customers to convert, spend and send multiple currencies worldwide and commissioned the research, said: “It’s never too late to chase new experiences – and rail travel is proving the perfect way for older generations to finally live out the adventures they may have missed in their youth.

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“Europe has an endless number of incredible sights to see, and doing so from a rail carriage berth is such an exciting way of doing it.

“From coastal pathways to wooded wonderlands, through some of the most famous cities in the world, a rail trip around Europe is a surefire way to make lifetime memories.

“The global money account has been designed to support just that – borderless travel with a card that is as flexible as your travel itinerary.”

Across all respondents, nearly a third (32 per cent) would consider going on a multi-destination trip this year, ranging from multiple stops across Europe to far-flung, long-haul destinations.

With 55 per cent citing a variety of scenery – from beaches to mountains – as a top reason, and 47 per cent excited by different cultures and cuisines.

But 34 per cent said having to pack and unpack multiple times might put them off, and 32 per cent would fret over the potential for travel delays or missed connections.

Just under four in 10 (39 per cent) respondents believe travel habits have changed across generations, and 20 per cent think European travel is a ‘rite of passage’ for younger people.

When asked what those polled, via OnePoll, want from a holiday, 47 per cent always aim to see famous landmarks, and 46 per cent want to experience other cultures.

In addition, 38 per cent use the time to bond with their partner, while 37 per cent always hope to meet new people on their travels.

Adrija Biswas, from HSBC UK, added: “Far from being the preserve of the young, it’s great to see older adults also exploring what Europe has to offer.

“It’s incredible to think how much there is, relatively, on the UK’s doorstep that so many people haven’t taken the time to experience.

“Modern technology can also make the trip much easier, from being able to move and access money more simply across different currencies using the global money account, to language translation.

“If it’s something you’ve been thinking about, whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, you’re sure to make memories to treasure forever.”

CHILLIER temperatures are here, and autumn weather offers the perfect excuse to plan a getaway.

Whether you are chasing late-season sunshine, booking a cosy weekend in the countryside, or looking for winter escapes, this time of year is full of opportunities for a new adventure

The right travel gadgets can make or break your trip.

From transparent pricing and flexible booking to standout customer service and exclusive seasonal deals, we’ve found plenty of offers to make planning your trip a breeze.

Autumn is also prime time to find discounts and savings, with major airlines, hotels, and package operators rolling out promotions to fill seasonal gaps.

That’s where our handy Checklist comes in.

This top 10 has essential brands that will help you create a seamless, stress-free adventure, while getting the best value for money.

1pMobile

Visit 1pMobile.com to order your SIM today

Whether you’re travelling near or jetting off somewhere far, 1pMobile makes staying connected abroad simple and affordable.

Customers can enjoy free roaming across 46 European countries, as well as enjoy the same low tariff on holiday as they do at home, with excellent coverage across the whole of Europe and the EEA.

With multiple roaming partner networks in each country, you will always have a reliable signal from big cities to off-grid regions.

Switch to 1pMobile to access fast 4G and 5G on the UK’s best coverage, and you can keep your existing number too.

Now, no matter where you decide to travel to, you’ll be able to stay connected with loved ones as and when you need to.

Villatravellers

Find out more and book with Villatravellers

For nearly two decades, Villatravellers has been welcoming guests to southern Italy with its exclusive collection of villas.

The company has built a reputation on offering some of the finest holiday homes in Sicily, and its portfolio now includes more than 60 properties across the island.

In 2024, Villatravellers expanded with a brand-new selection of villas in Puglia.

Each villa is carefully inspected to guarantee comfort and style, whether you are looking for a beachfront hideaway, a countryside estate, or a cosy retreat.

Villatravellers also offers a range of curated experiences, from pizza-making lessons and food tours in the busy city of Palermo to boat trips and wine tastings.

Every detail is designed to bring Sicilian and Puglian life closer to guests.

Landseer Leisure

Visit Landseer Leisure to learn more

Landseer Leisure is redefining campervan travel and is the place to go if you have a genuine passion for adventure.

The highlight of the new range is the 2026 Landseer Custom 2.0, built on the high-spec Ford Tourneo Custom chassis.

Designed for both daily life and long-haul exploration, it combines sleek styling with practical luxury.

Inside, you can expect off-grid power with a lithium battery system and solar integration, a premium interior with oak finishes and mood lighting, and smart tech including SYNC 4 with Apple CarPlay.

With new models joining the 2026 line-up, Landseer continues to set the standard for modern campervans.

Why not let them take you on your next family adventure?

AirHelp

Join AirHelp now

Flight delays and cancellations are frustrating, but with AirHelp, you don’t have to face the stress alone.

As the global leader in air passenger rights and claims management, AirHelp has already secured compensation for more than three million travellers worldwide.

For example, if your flight is disrupted, you may be entitled to up to €600, and AirHelp makes claiming simple with dedicated support every step of the way.

For extra peace of mind, AirHelp+ membership offers even more protection.

Members pay no service fees and enjoy exclusive perks like €100 for delays, €200 for missed connections, €100 for lost luggage, airport lounge access, live flight status updates, and round-the-clock support.

San Clemente Palace

Book your luxury stay in Venice

Looking for an exclusive holiday stay that rivals an ordinary hotel?

San Clemente Palace is a luxury retreat unlike any other in Venice, set on its very own private island.

Once a historic monastery, it now offers 170 elegant rooms and suites where guests can experience tranquillity and easy access to the city, 10 minutes by the hotel’s complimentary shuttle boat.

The hotel’s Longevity Spa offers unique treatments designed to rejuvenate body and mind.

Dining options include La Dolce, an Italian brasserie by the pool, and Acquerello, a fine-dining restaurant with stunning views of San Marco, Venice.

Recognised for its opulence by Condé Nast Traveller as the Best Hotel in Venice, San Clemente Palace blends 900 years of history with modern luxury.

Moco Museum

Visit the website for more information

Art fans, this one’s for you. Moco Museum is an independent art destination with locations in Amsterdam, Barcelona, and London.

The museum is dedicated to showcasing modern, contemporary, and street art that inspires and challenges.

Its collection brings together world-renowned names such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Banksy and more, alongside bold immersive digital installations.

Since opening, Moco has welcomed over six million visitors from more than 120 countries, making art accessible to a global audience.

The museum also champions the voice of street art, presenting works by Icy & Sot, Stik, and Banksy to spark conversations about culture, society, and shared human experience.

Fjord Events

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Visit the website to book your next adventure

Founded in 2006, Fjord Events has grown from a small family business into the leading provider of RIB safaris in Stavanger, Norway.

Now run by second-generation Simon Gundersen, the company has nearly 20 years of experience creating unforgettable journeys through the dramatic Lysefjord.

Guests from around the world will be able to discover iconic landmarks such as Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen in Norwegian), Hengjanefossen, often called ‘Whiskey Falls, and the peaceful
Vagabond’s Cave (Fantahåla in Norwegian) on board modern, comfortable RIB vessels.

Each safari blends speed, excitement, and cultural storytelling, guided by passionate locals who share the fjord’s history and legends.

Fjord Events remains a trusted name in Norwegian adventure tourism.

Travelex

3

Order your travel money with Travelex

Sorting your travel money is one of those satisfying steps that brings your trip even closer. Travelex keeps things simple, so you can focus on packing and planning for your adventure.

Travelex makes it easy to get your travel money, whether you prefer delivery straight to your door or collection on the go.

Order online to lock in great exchange rates and choose the option that works for you.

With convenient click and collect locations across the UK, including most major airports, you can pick up your currency as you travel or opt to save time with secure home delivery, which is free on orders over £500.

Offering a wide choice of global currencies, Travelex ensures you have what you need, when you need it, for stress-free travel.

Mill on the Brue

Visit the website for more information

Since 1982, Mill on the Brue has been a family-run outdoor activity centre in South East Somerset, offering children a true ‘home from home’ adventure.

With small groups and dedicated instructors for the whole week, every child enjoys a supportive and fun environment.

Up to 72 children aged 8-15 take part each week, divided into age-appropriate groups for fun, tailored experiences.

Days are packed with at least five exciting activities ranging from zip wires, canoeing and archery to pizza making, animal care, and high ropes.

It’s a chance for young adventurers to try new skills, make friends, and build confidence.

With no phones allowed, Mill on the Brue offers a genuine digital detox and the kind of holiday memories that last a lifetime.

Love Cuba

3

Book your next trip with Love Cuba

Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist, officially named Cuba’s Leading Tour Operator at the 2025 and 2024 World Travel Awards and a multiple British Travel Award winner.

With top-rated Trustpilot reviews, the company offers unbeatable value on Cuba deals tailored to every kind of traveller and every holiday, including exclusive holidays, with top hotels like Melia Habana and Melia Varadero, with free room upgrades.

Choose from private and fully escorted tours, multi-centre city and beach holidays, or relaxing all-inclusive beach stays.

Their UK-based specialists bring decades of expertise, while a dedicated Cuban-born team provides 24/7 support on the island, and you can relax in the knowledge that your holidays are fully protected by ATOL and ABTA with Love Cuba.

With a focus on sustainable tourism, Love Cuba delivers authentic, stress-free holidays that families, couples, and solo travellers will love. Get ready to plan your dream escape.

A 20-YEAR-OLD mother has revealed how she really spends her Universal Credit payments. 

Skye Byrne, a young mum from the UK, claimed that not only has she treated herself to a holiday, but she even splashed the cash in Sainsbury’s on a huge homeware haul.

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And as well as stocking up her daughter’s wardrobe, she also indulged with a McDonald’s takeaway.

Posting on social media, the content creator who lives in a council house, revealed a typical day in her life. 

She said: “What I spend in a day, UC Benefit Britain Edition.”

Skye kicked off her morning with a Universal Credit appointment and was quick to clap at trolls who have criticised her for booking a trip abroad.

She said: “For everyone that said, ‘you shouldn’t be going on holiday when you’re on UC,’ well, I told my work coach and she cried, she actually cried because she knows how much I’ve been wanting so badly to take my daughter on a holiday and she was so happy and thrilled for us, so, yeah, suck on that, everyone.”

Following this, Skye then headed to her local supermarket and stocked up on homeware buys and clothes for her daughter.

She added: “I went into Sainsbury’s and picked up these little bits and bobs for the house – I got three pillows and a blanket.”

As well as this, Skye also nabbed some tea towels and place mats, bringing her interior purchases to a total cost of £48.

However, Skye then picked up two pairs of £3.50 leggings and a pair of £7 jeggings for her child.

Following this, she also nabbed a pair of beige trousers and a PAW Patrol bottle, but was lost for words when she went to the till and saw the total cost of her haul.

The benefits recipient shared: “Honestly, I almost had a heart attack when I saw the price – this all came to £88, I was stunned.”

But the money spending clearly didn’t stop there, as Skye ended her day with a takeaway.

So glad my taxes are being spent wisely

TikTok user

Although Skye didn’t splurge masses on her fast food as it cost her just £2.99. 

“Then went into Maccas cause I was quite hungry, so I picked up a triple cheeseburger,” she concluded.

Social media users react

Skye’s TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @skyebyrnex, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 32,100 views. 

But social media users were fuming by how Skye spent her money and many raced to the comments to express this. 

One person said: “So glad my taxes are being spent wisely.” 

I am allowed a nice home for my daughter to live in. I’m also allowed to take my daughter on holidays and enjoy her childhood

Skye Byrne

Another added: “How can you afford to shop in Sainsbury’s on UC? I’m lucky if I can afford Primark nowadays.” 

A third commented: “Workshy and diet shy.”

To this, Skye responded and alongside a kiss emoji, cheekily wrote: “Don’t be jelly.” 

At the same time, one user questioned: “Isn’t UC designed to help you survive when you aren’t working? Not for pillows? And apparently a holiday.” 

In response, Skye shared: “1. I am allowed a nice home for my daughter to live in. 2. I’m also allowed to take my daughter on holidays and enjoy her childhood.” 

Meanwhile, someone else asked: “How on earth do you afford to go on holiday?”

Setting the record straight, Skye wrote back and confirmed: “I save. I make sure I can do these things for my daughter.” 

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