EASYJET has revealed it will be setting up an airport base next year in one of the most popular African cities with Brits – meaning more cheap flights.
The budget airline has announced it will be growing its program from Marrakech in Morocco.
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easyJet is expanding its program with more flights to and from MarrakeshCredit: Alamy Morocco is one of the cheapest countries for Brit to go on holidayCredit: Alamy
While the new routes aren’t currently from the UK, other existing routes will see more flights launched.
easyJet already flies from the UK to Marrakech from eight hubs including Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester London Gatwick, Luton and Southend.
In November, some of these one-way flights are as little as £14.99.
The new easyJet routes are from Hamburg, Lille and Strasbourg to Marrakech and Geneva to Tangier – each route will have twice weekly journeys meaning there will be hundreds of additional flights.
The consumer watchdog analysed the cost of 5,590 package holidays from some of the UK’s biggest tour operators, including Jet2holidays, TUI and easyJet Holidays.
Morocco was one of those places where holidaymakers can get more for their money.
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recently visited the Moroccan city with her familyCredit: Lisa MinotMarrakesh is known for its colourful Medina and marketsCredit: Henryk Sadura
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
Lisa also suggests visiting popular spots in the city of Marrakech like the Jemaa el-Fnaa square filled with cafes and colourful stalls.
It’s where visitors will see lots of performers from musicians to snakecharmers.
When you get hungry, make sure to visit one of the square’s many food stalls to pick up some maakouda – a traditional potato cake.
In the Kasbah district, you’ll find the Saadian Tombs. It’s a 14th-century site that was discovered in 1917 and the tombs are made from Italian Carrara marble.
For the best views, Lisa says head to Nobu Hotel’s rooftop where you can see the Atlas Mountains.
Of course you can tuck into some great food options too from quality sushi, and sip on a cocktail.
Another reason Morocco is set to be a big destination for next year is thanks to Ryanair.
The other budget airline announced that due to the axing of flights to Spain, the capacity removed from Spanish airports will be reallocated to more competitive European markets, including Morocco.
This means your holiday to Marrakech, or other Moroccan cities could become cheaper than a trip to Tenerife.
Nothing beats the magic of the mountains in winter but not all of us want to hurtle down a black run on a pair of skis or spend our nights partying in apres-ski bars. We’d love to hear about your favourite mountain resorts and villages in Europe that offer a more authentic and low-key experience than the big, purpose-built ski resorts.
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After my marriage ended, I blithely thought it would be easy to enjoy holidays as a single parent. I soon found out they were either outrageously expensive, or they seemed only suitable for “traditional” families, or they were so cheap that I came home more knackered than when I’d left.
My first attempt, camping with friends, was fine until I had to pack up the tent. Four hours of wrestling with it in the heat later, I hated camping. Next, the adventure holiday for single-parent families. The abseiling and caving were brilliant, but sleeping in a bunk bed ruined my back. We tried a budget all-inclusive in Tenerife, but the hordes of nuclear families were overwhelming, and pool-side conversations with other women fizzled out because I didn’t come with a handy husband for their own husbands to talk to. A trip to Mallorca with a friend and her children was brilliant, but the cost was eye-watering.
Then, last autumn, a friend asked if we’d house-sit her dogs in Devon while she went to a wedding. For one tranquil weekend, we walked on the beach, and curled up by the fire in the evening. That led to house-sitting for her friend in Dorset, which also went well. Encouraged, I paid an annual £99 fee to join a house-sitting website, where, in exchange for looking after people’s pets, you stay in their homes free of charge. Within a few days, I’d arranged a 10-day house-sit in Sussex, looking after a labrador named Buzz while his owners were abroad.
‘Our daily walks gave us the opportunity to explore stunning nature spots’ … Skinner and her daughter Polly at the Temple of the Winds in Sussex. Photograph: Courtesy of Nicola Skinner
It was our first sit for strangers, but any nerves dissipated the moment we arrived at the gorgeous four-bedroom house and met the gentle Buzz, who lived for tummy rubs. Our daily dog walks gave us the opportunity to explore stunning nature spots, and, once we returned home, we could relax in the garden for important conversations about our favourite “Ghosts” characters in the BBC sitcom. There were no expensive tourist traps to traipse through – instead, we browsed bookshops, treated ourselves to manicures, and went on kayak trips. I felt lighter and happier than I had in years, and could feel my bond with my daughter Polly strengthen every day. I’m not afraid to say that I cried with happiness. Things felt possible again.
House-sitting isn’t for everyone. Some people want no responsibilities on holiday apart from choosing their next cocktail, aren’t into dogs or cats, or feel odd about sleeping in a stranger’s bed, emptying their dishwasher, and putting out their bins. But the gentle rhythm of ordinary life, with work stripped out and new places to explore, is perfect for me.
It keeps me from descending into complete idleness, which leaves me feeling twitchy and oddly hollow. And, financially, house-sitting is a life-saver for a single parent. A 10-day break in a similar-sized house in the same area we stayed would set me back about £2,500 on Airbnb.
As for staying in a stranger’s house, I found it nourishing. Although house-sitting is a transaction, it’s also an act of trust between strangers and animals, which has brought out my best self – my patient, loving and measured side, full of appreciation for the people and places we discover. I’ve already lined up another four days away, caring for a whippet in leafy Surrey, and, next year, I’d like to try house-sitting abroad. Thanks to a bit of creative thinking, we can see the world from the comfort of home – it just happens to be someone else’s.
Oct. 10 (UPI) — In advance Monday’s holiday, the White House this week released a statement celebrating Columbus Day and singing the praises of the maligned explorer.
“This Columbus Day, we honor his life with reverence and gratitude, and we pledge to reclaim his extraordinary legacy of faith, courage, perseverance, and virtue from the left-wing arsonists who have sought to destroy his name and dishonor his memory,” the release said. Columbus Day is celebrated Monday.
In recent years, activists have called for Columbus Day to be renamed Indigenous People’s Day. About 10 states have officially recognized the day, sometimes with different names, such as American Indian Heritage Day or Native Americans’ Day.
Though he has been widely considered the person who discovered America, he never set foot on North American land. The Oct. 12 holiday actually commemorates the day he landed in the Bahamas. Also, he couldn’t discover a land that was already inhabited.
Norse explorer Leif Eriksson is the first European believed to have sailed to North America. He landed in Canada 500 years earlier than Columbus’ voyage.
Though the White House press release doesn’t say the Italian explorer landed in America, it calls Columbus a “true American hero.”
“Outrageously, in recent years, Christopher Columbus has been a prime target of a vicious and merciless campaign to erase our history, slander our heroes, and attack our heritage,” the release said. “Before our very eyes, left-wing radicals toppled his statues, vandalized his monuments, tarnished his character, and sought to exile him from our public spaces. Under my leadership, those days are finally over — and our Nation will now abide by a simple truth: Christopher Columbus was a true American hero, and every citizen is eternally indebted to his relentless determination.”
The reality is that Columbus enslaved native peoples, and he brutally attacked and killed those who tried to revolt. He took the native Taino “Indians” in the Caribbean back to Spain and sold them into slavery. To prevent rebellion, he would have the bodies of those he killed paraded through the streets of what is now the Dominican Republic.
“They were very well built, with very handsome bodies and very good faces,” Columbus wrote in his diary. “They do not carry arms or know them. … They should be good servants.”
Also, because the native population was not immune to European diseases, many died of illnesses like smallpox. When Columbus arrived on the island of Hispaniola (now Dominican Republic and Haiti) there were about 250,000 native people there. By 1517, only about 14,000 were left.
“This Columbus Day, more than 500 years since Columbus arrived in the New World, we follow his example, we echo his resolve, and we offer our gratitude for his life of valor and grit,” the White House’s release said. “Above all, we commit to restoring a Nation that once again dares to tame the unknown, honors our rich cultural inheritance, and offers rightful praise to our Creator above.”
The Spanish crown eventually stripped Columbus of his governorship of Hispaniola when it learned of his abuses. He admitted to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella that the accusations were true.
It is generally not allowed to take a child on holiday during term time in the UK and can result in a fine of up to 160 – but there may be exceptions
Parents could be fined signifiacntly during the winter(Image: Getty Images)
If you’re planning a winter getaway to escape the UK’s chilly temperatures, be warned – you could face a £160 fine if you pick the wrong time. In the UK, taking children out of school for a holiday during term time is generally not permitted and can result in a penalty.
This follows last year’s confirmation from the Department for Education that UK schools must consider issuing a fine if a child misses 10 or more sessions without authorisation. Remember, 10 sessions equate to five school days, as each day is split into two sessions – morning and afternoon.
When a fine is handed out, parents are only required to pay £80 if they settle it within 21 days of receipt. However, if payment is made within 28 days, the fine doubles to £160.
If a parent has previously been fined for the same child within a three-year period, the higher rate of £160 is automatically applied. Moreover, parents could find themselves in deeper hot water if they exceed the limit of two fines within any three-year period. This could lead to a parenting order or even prosecution.
If you end up in court due to your child’s absence, you could be hit with a fine of up to £2,500 or even face up to three months behind bars. Government guidance reveals that approximately 89% of unauthorised absence fines are due to children being taken on holiday during term time.
Reasons why your child can miss school and avoid a fine
According to the Department for Education, you can only allow your child not to be in school when it’s open for the following reasons:
Your child cannot attend school on that day because it is a day you are taking part in religious observance.
You are a gypsy/traveller family with no fixed abode, and you are required to travel for work that day meaning your child cannot attend their usual school.
Your child is too ill to attend that day.
You have asked in advance and been given permission by the school for your child to be absent on that day due to exceptional circumstances.
Your local authority is responsible for arranging your child’s transport to school and it is not available on that day or has not been provided yet.
Further guidance on school attendance and ascences during term time can be found here.
Neil Atkinson, who owns Luxury Group Stay, has identified the four items that travellers consistently regret packing – and they may be sitting in your suitcase right now
It’s easy to mispack for a holiday(Image: Getty Images/Stock Image)
A travel expert has urged holidaymakers to stop packing items that they’re bound to regret bringing with them.
Neil Atkinson, who owns Luxury Group Stay, has identified the four items that travellers consistently regret packing – and they may be sitting in your suitcase right now. One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is bringing valuable jewellery on holiday. The risk of loss, theft, or damage simply isn’t worth the worry it creates.
“I’ve heard countless stories of holiday goers losing precious items or spending half their holiday anxious about keeping them safe,” Neil said.
Instead, he recommends opting for versatile, inexpensive accessories that can dress up multiple outfits without the stress. “Your holiday should be about relaxation, not constantly checking your hotel safe,” he added.
Overpacking shoes is another common mistake that wastes valuable suitcase space and adds unnecessary weight to your luggage. Neil suggests limiting yourself to three pairs maximum: comfortable walking shoes, smart casual options, and perhaps flip-flops or sandals for the pool.
“People pack a different pair of shoes for every possible scenario, but the reality is you’ll likely rotate between the same two pairs,” Neil said. “Shoes are bulky and heavy – they’re taking up room you could use for things you’ll actually need.”
For longer trips, choose neutral colours that work with multiple outfits to maximise versatility whilst minimising luggage bulk. Packing full-sized shampoo bottles, conditioners, and body wash is not only impractical but also risks messy spills in your luggage.
Airport liquid restrictions mean these items often need to be checked anyway, adding hassle to your journey. This approach not only saves space but also leaves room in your case for souvenirs on the return journey.
“Travel-sized versions exist for a reason,” Neil said. “Or better yet, many destinations have shops where you can pick up basics when you arrive. There’s nothing worse than opening your suitcase to find your favourite moisturiser has leaked all over your clothes.”
One item that consistently tops the regret list is a hairdryer – something most accommodations already provide.
“The vast majority of hotels, B&Bs, and holiday rentals come equipped with hairdryers,” Neil said. “There’s really no need to pack one unless you’re camping.”
Hairdryers are bulky, heavy, and take up significant space that could be better used for other essentials.
“If you’re worried about the quality, check with your accommodation beforehand,” Neil advised. “But in my experience, it’s one item you can confidently leave at home.”
The psychology behind overpacking often stems from anxiety about being caught unprepared, but Neil insists that travelling lighter actually improves the holiday experience.
“When you’re not weighed down by unnecessary items, you feel freer and more relaxed from the moment you leave home,” he said.
Carlson Turner, seven, suffered the nasty injury backflipping into a swimming pool on holiday in Antalya, Turkey, and needed urgent treatment at Konakli Medical Centre
Rhiannon Dunn, pictured with her son Carlson hours before the accident, had to pay £1,500 for his treatment(Image: Kennedy News & Media)
A mum was forced to fork out £1,500 when her son split his head open backflipping into a pool on holiday – as the hospital didn’t accept her Asdainsurance.
Rhiannon Dunn, 32, was left “panicking and I was crying” when little Carlson was rushed to a medical centre to treat the 1.5cm gash on the back of his scalp following the accident. The seven-year-old lad had four stitches put in his head under local anaesthetics and an X-ray on his skull to make sure there were no fractures.
Rhiannon had secured insurance with Asda before the trip to Antalya, Turkey at the start of September, but the hospital would not accept the cover. The mum of four had to cough up £1,532.27 for the treatment before Carlson could be discharged from Konakli Medical Centre.
After Asda was approached by journalists, it said it has paid Rhiannon in full and “surprised and disappointed” the medical centre would not accept the £40 Superior Asda travel insurance.
The accident happened on the first day of the trip, which Rhiannon had booked as a birthday present for Carlson. The youngster hit his head with such force it split open, causing severe bleeding.
Rhiannon, a full-time carer, said: “His cut was so wide open and deep, he needed stitches and to go to hospital. The wound was very deep and black and because he’s a red head it stood out.
“Everything was fine but then they shut us in a room and told us we had to pay the last bill. I told the hospital we had travel insurance from Asda. It was a premium travel insurance with unlimited access as I know kids can be clumsy.
“I was more worried about my son. He was looking at me and he was scared and frightened. I was more upset as you buy travel insurance for a reason and they wouldn’t accept it.
“In the end I had to borrow money from a friend. I don’t know what would have happened if I didn’t pay. Asda were shocked that they [the hospital] wouldn’t accept it.
“Asda spoke to the Turkish hospital and the hospital still point blank refused to accept the travel insurance. We were [put] in an office box room until we paid up. Asda were very distressed with the hospital and said they tried everything they could. I was panicking and I was crying.”
Konakli Medical Centre has apologised the mum felt “distressed” but said treatment is prioritised and “never delayed” over insurance matters. The hospital confirmed that ‘not all policies or insurers are accepted for direct cashless billing’, and in those instances patients are expected to pay the bill.
Rhiannon, who is from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is now speaking out about her experience to warn holidaymakers to check their travel insurance is accepted at hospitals near to where they stay.
“It’s annoying because you buy travel insurance for a reason… He told me he’d hit his head, [then I spotted the blood] and started panicking,” Rhiannon, a mum of four, continued.
“I just want to warn other parents to check your insurance and what hospitals it covers. The hospital said they don’t work with Asda travel insurance but Asda said they hadn’t been notified that they didn’t work with them.
“It’s affected me financially as you pay for holiday insurance for a reason and expect to pay the excess [if you need to claim], but I’ve never known to have to cough up the whole amount.
“I want to raise awareness to other families to make sure they do thorough checks and to make sure the local hospital near to where you are staying is covered through your insurance.”
Travel Insurance explained
A spokesperson for Konakli Medical Centre said: “Firstly, we take all patient feedback seriously, and we are sorry to hear that Ms Dunn felt distressed during her visit.
“We work with many travel insurance providers; however, not all policies or insurers are accepted for direct cashless billing, particularly when there is no prior agreement or contract in place.
“In such cases, patients are generally required to pay for treatment and seek reimbursement from their insurer. This is standard procedure at many private healthcare facilities internationally.
“Our medical centre always prioritises the urgent care and well-being of the patient. Treatment is never delayed due to insurance matters.
“Once the patient is stable and treatment is complete, administrative steps regarding payment or insurance are handled. No patient is ever held against their will at our facility. Payment is processed in a separate administrative area from the patient registration desk.
“Additionally, before any treatment is carried out, the full medical process and associated costs are clearly explained to the patient (or guardian), and informed consent is obtained prior to proceeding.”
After being contacted by journalists, Asda said they were ‘surprised and disappointed’ that the hospital didn’t accept the insurance details but said they had now processed Rhiannon’s claim.
An Asda Travel Insurance spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that Ms Dunn had this experience on her holiday, and we wish her son a speedy recovery.
“Ms Dunn’s insurance claim has now been accepted and paid in full. We were surprised and disappointed that the hospital did not accept her insurance details, which was the cause of this problem and, had the hospital followed normal process, the challenges experienced could have been avoided.”
Mum Vikki White had never been on a coach holiday before when she headed to Newquay with her mother and young daughter but she wasn’t prepared for what awaited
Coach holidays can be the perfect UK getaway for all ages
What do a six-year-old girl and an 80-something-year-old mum have in common? They both loved our classic British coach holiday to Newquay!
According to latest research, us Brits are thoroughly embracing multi-generational travel, which is why I decided it was time for me to try out the trend.
My six-year-old , my mother and me (a 40-something) were keen to spend a few days together in the school holidays and a Daish’s Holidays coach trip to Newquay looked to meet all of our requirements.
It’s safe to say I was a bit unsure – from sunshine breaks to skiing to UK jaunts, I try to squeeze in as many holidays as I can each year, but a coach trip was a first.
Thankfully, from the moment we hopped onboard our luxury vehicle, we felt right at home. Much to my relief, given the 320-mile trip we were embarking on, the coach was modern, boasting comfy seats with foot rests and air conditioning.
So far, so good. Many of the friendly clientele on board told us they regularly took Daish’s Holidays coach trips, which was surely a good sign. They explained it isn’t a mode of travel for the impatient—we stopped at several service stations for rest along the way. With a bit of traffic as we headed down towards the South West region, we only just made it for dinner at our home for the next four nights, the Barrowfield Hotel.
Close to Newquay’s seafront, the 80-room residence is managed by Frank, who stepped on board the coach to personally greet us. My daughter was keen to hand over her ‘golden ticket’ to another member of the smiling staff at reception and was thrilled to be offered a choice of toys in return. There were only a few children staying at the hotel, and I thought this was a lovely touch.
Just like on the coach, we had our own seats in the dining room for our half-board meals, which needed to be selected in the morning for the evening and vice versa. From breakfast fry-ups to roast dinners with apple crumbles, dishes here are hearty and traditional.
The evening entertainment in the bar ranged from cabaret dancing and quizzes to live singers and bingo, with a kids’ games room providing even more entertainment. The number one attraction for all three of us at the hotel, however, was the indoor, heated swimming pool. We made full use of this during our stay and often had it to ourselves.
Keen to explore Newquay, we were pleased to find its tourist heart a short seafront stroll away. We tried out the Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay, which sits above lively Towan Beach and my daughter loved the informative talks about its resident Loggerhead Turtle and Blacktip Reef Sharks.
My mother was keener to try some of the trendy coffee shops on offer, and we particularly loved Mothersurf with its amazing cheese toasties. There are plenty of shops to peruse, and we couldn’t resist a play in one of the traditional arcades, with game machines spitting out tickets for every win that could be exchanged for prizes.
Back to the Barrowfield Hotel, where our bedrooms were spacious, with comfortable beds and great walk-in showers. And while our half board deal was a total bargain, we couldn’t resist heading out to check out local eateries on two of our nights’ stay – our favourite was Ginger and Joe, which offered tasty artisanal small plates and fabulous cocktails.
On our third day, we signed up for an optional coach trip to St Ives, the picturesque seaside town we decided was the perfect place to indulge in a cream tea. We headed to the Scoff Troff Cafe and were not disappointed. Being in Cornwall, we were sure to spread the layer of jam first before applying clotted cream!
Another highlight of this day out was the Tate St Ives, which had some brilliant activities on offer for youngsters. As for me, I loved the gift shop, which was filled with unique and creative finds. The Tate sits above the soft, sandy Porthmeor Beach, where we grabbed a coffee in one of the most stunning cafes I’ve ever seen before heading back to base.
As for Newquay, we had one more day to explore before making the long journey back up North. We first spent some time snuggled up on one of our hotel’s comfy sofas, chatting to our fellow guests who had become friends. We next headed out to paddle our feet in the water at beautiful Tolcarne Beach, which is just 200 yards away from the hotel.
We enjoyed a final potter into the lively city centre too, where we bought henna tattoos to mark our girls’ trip away, before returning to the Barrowfield to pack up ahead of our early start the next morning. I loved how clear the communication is on a Daish’s holiday – from what time we were going to eat to the exact time of our departure, it was all made easy for us.
As we prepared to depart, my mum told the hotel manager, Frank, that my daughter had pronounced our trip the best holiday of her life. Much to her delight, this earned her a large Daish’s teddy bear, which took pride of place on the coach back home!
We all felt the same – we had had a blast, and as we said goodbye to our driver and fellow passengers, we decided we needed to make our short coach break an annual occurrence. Daish’s Holidays offers a range of UK destinations from Llandudno to Eastbourne and Scarborough to Torquay, so we just need to decide where to go next.
Book the holiday
A Daish’s Holiday package includes luxury coach travel or free hotel guest parking on-site at most locations, convenient pickup and drop-off along popular routes, breakfast and three-course evening meals every day and on-site entertainment. Prices from £179 to £379 for self-drive and from £199 to £399 for the coach. Early Booking and Kids Go Free discounts also apply.
Holiday-maker Jason Hall was heading home after a nine-day break in Cyprus with his 13-year-old daughter when they found themselves ‘abandoned’ at the wrong airport
Jason – seen with is daughter – has vowed to boycott the airline(Image: Stoke Sentinel/BPM Media)
A holidaymaker vowed to boycott an airline after he and his daughter were left ‘abandoned’ overnight.
Jason Hall, 54, had been enjoying a nine-day getaway with his 13-year-old daughter in Cyprus, and they had been due to land at Birmingham Airport at 5.30pm on August 6. But, after a small aircraft crash-landed on the runway, their flight was diverted to Cardiff Airport, arriving at 6.10pm.
Passengers on the aircraft were promised that return transport would be arranged for them – but, according to Jason, that did not take place. He has gone on to slam the company’s ‘shocking’ after-care.
Jason, of Clayton, told StokeonTrentLive: “I can’t complain about the holiday – it was lovely. Coming back was where the trouble started. We were promised that we’d be provided with coach travel back to Birmingham – I didn’t mind, these things happen sometimes.
“We spent an hour-and-a-half collecting our bags because they weren’t expecting two massive 300-passenger TUI planes in. But once we’d got our things, we couldn’t see a single member of TUI staff in the whole airport. We left for the car park, and there were around 450 people stood waiting for these coaches.”
He continued: “Eventually, a member of staff from Cardiff Airport – not a member of TUI staff – came out to tell us that three coaches had already been and gone. But if you think that a coach can hold roughly 50 people, that was nowhere near enough for the 600 of us who had landed.
“There were young families, children, kids in wheelchairs, all sorts of people left with no way of getting home. We stood in the car park for around an hour waiting for some sort of direction. Then everybody’s phone went off at the same time. It was an email from TUI informing us that they could not get us home and that we’d need to make our own arrangements.”
Passengers left stranded at Cardiff Airport were told that the airline was ‘having issues sourcing transport’ and encouraged passengers to pay for their own travel arrangements. TUI promised customers it would compensate them in full for any extra costs after their journey.
“We were all just abandoned by TUI,” Jason explained. “There were students and people who didn’t have the money to pay for this up front. Some people were getting local taxis that were costing £350. Others were getting Ubers which were costing £450. Within half an hour, you couldn’t even book one. They’d all gone.
“I made a decision to get a nearby hotel room for me and my daughter, as I didn’t want to make her sleep in the airport. We got a little room down the road for £85. We couldn’t physically get home. There were no taxis and you couldn’t get a train until the next day.
“The next morning, we went to the station and caught four different trains. We went from Cardiff to Bristol, Bristol to Birmingham New Street, and Birmingham New Street to the airport. When we finally arrived back to the car, I’d got a parking fine.”
Jason’s disastrous journey home led him to miss a day’s paid work as well as the £85 hotel bill, £100 in train fares, and the £60 parking ticket. But he claims TUI refused to compensate his costs in full.
He added: “They only offered to pay for my train fares. I explained the rest of my additional costs, but they just weren’t interested. They made out as if I should have just gone straight back, but that wasn’t possible. The duty of care and customer service was just non-existent.
“It was absolutely shocking. I’ll never use them again. They’re fine so long as everything runs smoothly. But as soon as there’s some kind of incident, it seems they just don’t want to look after you at all. The bare minimum is ensuring they can get you to your destination – not just abandon you somewhere else.”
TUI has since repaid Jason in full.
A spokesperson for TUI UK & Ireland said: “We would like to apologise to all customers impacted by this unexpected flight diversion, which was unfortunately out of our control. We always strive to provide our customers with the best possible travel experience, and we understand that this situation impacted the end of their holiday.
“We have been in direct contact with all customers, including Mr Hall, and have arranged refunds for out-of-pocket expenses.”
It’s no secret that flights and hotels have increased in price, but for one traveller, the cost of their trip was dubbed ‘a trip to the moon with NASA’ as it saw a whopping price increase
Travellers were stunned at the holiday price increase(Image: Getty Images/Stock Image)
Gone are the days of booking a flight seat for £15.99 and an all-inclusive hotel for £100 as prices for a getaway abroad shoot up. But for one traveller, they were left baffled after their holiday package increased by a whopping £17million, prompting people to label it as much as a “trip to the moon with NASA”.
The holidaymaker, who didn’t reveal the exact details of their elaborate holiday, shared a screenshot of the cost inflation while using the TUI website. What started out as an £8million trip jumped to a staggering increase of £17million.
In a message on the TUI website, with the title ‘The cost of your holiday has increased’, it read: “We’re sorry to say the price for your holiday has gone up by £17734902.34. It’s because this trip uses flights from a third-party airline.
“We receive the latest prices from the airline a few times each day, but the price might change when we come to request the actual seats. Your new total is shown in the holiday summary.”
While it’s uncertain what the traveller put into the booking website, he shared the screenshot and wrote on Reddit: “So, £297 for both with flights seemed a little too good to be true, so I went through the motions. Unfortunately for me, I don’t have £18,000,000 in the bank to spend 4 days in Athens, even with the £2m discount.”
The post was met with a flurry of comments as everyone applauded the post. One asked: “Who are the third party airline, NASA?”
A second added: “Just a short layover on the moon.” “Sounds more like a Space X side hustle to me. Uber x Space X if you will”, a third penned.
“NASA’s having a…. bit of time off”, another shared. “Its only £120 deposit. Put it on klarna,” a fifth wrote.
While another wrote: “I feel you OP. I hate when they add on that little 69p to the price like that too. Like it’s such a sneaky trick. You can sort of rationalise it by convincing yourself you’re only paying £8867599 but let’s be honest here, you’re really paying more like £8867600.”
Someone else remarked: “Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday”, before another chimed in with: “And right now you can save £1m per person. That’s £4m off for a family of four!”
A TUI spokesperson said the error was likely caused by a technical error, and they’d like to apologise for the confusion.
The budget airline has warned passengers of impending strikes in France that could disrupt the plans of hundreds of thousands of passengers heading to destinations including Greece, Italy and Spain
Ryanair’s boss has warned that tens of thousands of people will be impacted by the strikes (Image: Alexandros Michailidis via Getty Images)
Ryanair has delivered a stark warning to passengers planning to travel in October that hundreds of flights could be cancelled.
The budget carrier is alerting customers about looming strikes in France that threaten to wreck the holiday plans of tens of thousands of travellers. France’s biggest air traffic controllers’ union, Syndicat Majoritaire des Contrôleurs Aériens, is preparing to down tools from October 7 to 10. The union members are taking action over their current working conditions.
Initially planned for September 17-18, the industrial action was delayed due to political turmoil across the country. Now rearranged for October 7 to 10, one travel company is forecasting ‘chaos’. The walkout won’t just hit flights bound for France but also those travelling through French airspace.
Now Ryanair’s chief executive has warned that 100,000 passengers could see their flights disrupted next week as a consequence of the strike. Michael O’Leary estimated that the industrial action would cost Ryanair around £20m.
The budget airline CEO called for overflights to be protected from strike action, saying disrupting them is an abuse of the free single market. Countries including Spain and Greece already do that, but France doesn’t offer such protections.
Mr O’Leary said that Ryanair was expecting to be asked to cancel about 600 flights, with almost all of them overflights. “That’s about 100,000 passengers who will have their flights cancelled needlessly next Wednesday and Thursday,” he told Sky News.
“On any given day at the moment, we operate about 3,500 flights and about 900 of those flights cross over French airspace and about two-thirds of those, around 600 flights, are cancelled every day there’s an air traffic control strike. The UK is the country whose flights get cancelled most because of the geographic proximity to France.”
The airline voiced its exasperation earlier this summer when a Belgrade ATC strike held up 99 flights and affected more than 17,800 passengers in merely two days. The French strikes could cause significant disruption.
During the peak travel season in October, Charles de Gaulle Airport alone typically sees over 200,000 passengers daily, and France recorded roughly 1m overnight stays by international tourists between October 9-11 in 2024.
Holidaymakers are being urged to check with their airlines 48 hours before departure to learn of any disruption. They are also advised to brace themselves for a longer-than-expected wait at the airport and arrive well ahead of their flight.
Downloading airline apps can also help you stay updated, and be prepared for delays on things like trains and coaches as affected passengers seek alternative means of transport.
If your flight has been delayed or cancelled as a result of strike action by cabin crew or pilots, then you are entitled to compensation by law. That’s because the airline could have foreseen and preempted this problem.
However, strikes by airport staff and air traffic controllers are not considered to be within the control of the airline, so no compensation would apply. If strikes have an impact on your airport then get their early or follow the advice from your airline. Problems with airport staff strikes can result in major queues to check in bags, so if this kind of industrial action is announced, you might want to think about reducing your baggage to just carry-on cabin bags in order to cut out one queue.
The UK’s ‘most underrated holiday destination’ boasts over 600 different walks so it’s worth having on your radar if you’re looking for autumn UK holiday ideas
Cheddar Gorge is well worth a visit (Image: Getty Images)
There’s something magical about Britain in the autumn, from the crisp fresh air to the breathtakingly colourful countryside as the leaves change colour.
It’s therefore no surprise that this tends to be a popular season for walking holidays – especially when you throw in villages with cosy pubs and charming cottages where you can rest up after a day of exploring.
There’s one destination that’s well worth having on your radar, with travel pros hailing its ‘extraordinary landscape’ packed with limestone, lakes, gorges and postcard-worthy hiking trails.
The Mendip Hills have been described as ‘Somerset’s best-kept secret’ and while they’re not typically a hidden gem, it’s not difficult to see why locals wouldn’t want to share this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
There are over 600 walks on offer whether you’re looking for a challenge or just want a scenic stroll that the whole family can enjoy. The Mendip Way tends to be popular for hikers, as the 50-mile trail spans villages including Weston-super-Mare, Cheddar (make sure you leave time on the itinerary to take in the views from Cheddar Gorge), Wells, Shepton Mallet, and Frome, and can be hiked in around three to five days depending on your ability.
The best part is that you won’t have to battle crowds of tourists if you want to take it all in. Earlier this year, the team at Cottages.com conducted a study to uncover the UK’s most underrated staycation hotspots, looking at factors including the number of hiking and biking trails, Instagram-worthy scenery, pubs per 100 square miles, and the availability of holiday homes for last-minute bookings.
Mendip Hills took the gold medal in the rankings, thanks to the wide array of attractions, cosy pubs and beautiful walking trails on offer.
The team behind the study explained: “Dramatic gorges and easy-going trails, the Mendip Hills are Somerset’s best-kept secret. With sites like Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole, this AONB makes for a thrilling last-minute trip full of exploration and family-friendly fun, minus the tourist crowds.
“The Mendips aren’t just beautiful, they’re geologically extraordinary. Whether you’re delving into caves lit like cathedrals or following secret limestone paths carved by water and time, it’s a landscape layered with wonder.
“With 619 hiking trails and routes made for both cycling and walking, the Mendips are a playground for explorers. Climb to Crook Peak for sweeping views to the Bristol Channel, or follow woodland paths lined with wild garlic and bluebells in spring.
“Just 40 minutes from Bristol, and yet worlds away, the Mendips are perfectly placed for a quick reset. With low search volumes and 22 available properties, it’s often skipped by crowds, making it a dream destination for last-minute planners who want exploration without the queues.”
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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A young mother has shared how she spends her Universal CreditCredit: tiktok/@skyebyrnex
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As well as booking a holiday abroad, Skye Byrne also treated herself to some new homeware from Sainsbury’sCredit: tiktok/@skyebyrnex
And as well as stocking up her daughter’s wardrobe, she also indulged with a McDonald’s takeaway.
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.
Read more on Universal Credit
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.
I’m a ‘UC bandit’ & love the £2.7k I get, I couldn’t imagine working for minimum wage
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.
Am I entitled to Universal Credit?
According to the GOV website, if you’re on a low income or need help with your living costs, then you could be entitled to Universal Credit.
To claim, you must live in the UK, be aged 18 or over (with some exceptions if you’re 15 to 17), be under State Pension age, and have £16,000 or less in money, savings and investments.
Other circumstances are if you are out of work, or unable to work, for example because of a health condition.
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.”
Details of all your income, such as existing benefits, tax credits, earnings from employment and your pensions,
Details of your partner’s income if you’re married, in a civil partnership or living with someone as a couple. You will be assessed as a couple
Information on any savings you have,
How much you pay in council tax per year, and whether you get any discounts, reductions or exemptions,
Details of your rent or mortgage payments,
Employment and income information about anyone else living with you, such as grown-up children,
Details about your carer’s allowance if you receive it.
You’ll need to make sure that the information provided is as accurate as possible to get the truest estimate.
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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The ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’, which featured in Bridget Jones’ Diary, is facing new rules that have divided locals
Locals are not happy with the rule chnage (Image: Emma Trimble / SWNS)
Some residents of the picturesque Cotswolds village, Snowshill, which famously featured in ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’, have voiced their concerns over new stringent planning regulations. These rules would require them to seek council permission for even minor alterations such as installing a patio.
Snowshill, often dubbed the ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’, was showcased in the 2001 film with its lush greenery and a local house serving as the home of Bridget Jones‘s parents. However, this week, the village falls under an Article 4 Direction by Tewkesbury Borough Council, strict rules designed to protect its heritage.
This means almost any work or modifications to buildings must be approved by the council, including installing patios or changing the colour of an exterior wall. Other changes requiring approval include replacing exterior windows and doors, constructing porches, installing roof lights or altering roofing materials, creating or replacing hard surfaces in gardens.
Residents will also need approval to erect gates, fences, or walls, paint the exterior of buildings a new colour or install or alter antennae or solar panels, reports Gloucestershire Live. Some locals have expressed their worries that the new rules are too costly and restrictive, while others believe they have been implemented too late.
Rose, a resident in her 40s who moved to Snowshill four years ago with her family, opposes the plans, describing them as “too controlling”. “I did write an objection but it has gone through anyway,” she expressed. ”It is very prohibitive in terms of what you can do to your home.” She explained that when they purchased the property, it was derelict so they had to refurbish it to make it “habitable”.
“It has been a very painfully process. If now we want to do a fence it feels like we have already climbed a hill.” For Rose, the larger issue is the influx of tourists who “cross the line”. She said: “Tourism is changing the character of the village, not the house changes” she stated. “Preserving the village for tourists is not the best logic.”
Kim, a resident of 40 years, had mixed feelings about the regulations. She questioned the effectiveness of the plans, asking: “How are they going to regulate it? Unless somebody complains.”
She added: “If you have got young children and if something happens to your fence why do you have to go through planning when all you want is to keep your child and the people around you safe. You can’t change your front door, but what if it is damaged? It costs you more to put planning in on Article 4 than planning application.
“I can see that people want to keep it a Cotswolds village but you’ve got to have a balance, but I think people will do whatever they want to their houses.” Sheila Wilks, 85, and her husband Peter, 84, believe the plans are a step in the right direction, but lament that their village has already been ‘ruined’ by holiday lets.
Mrs Wilks said: “They have come too late. They have ruined the village. I have been here all my life 80 years and I just think people abused it.
“I hate change and I think we should preserve what we’ve got. Because we are in such a beautiful place people should keep it like this.”
Their quaint cottage was once the old village shop where Sheila, her mum and siblings were born. In 1965, they purchased the house and have never left since.
However, home renovations aren’t the only issue the couple faces – following films such as Bridget Jones, the couple said the landscape “has changed” and so they want to “preserve” the village.
Mr Wilks stated: “Most of the houses here are Airbnbs. It is disgusting. There are at least 12 Airbnbs in the village. We get about four mini buses a day. They do tend to block the roads occasionally.
“It was all working class people but now it doesn’t seem to be that way at all. It does break up communities.”
Paul, 66, and Sue Brereton, 66, who have resided in their cottage for eight years, agreed with the implementation of the regulations. Mr Brereton said: “It is a very good idea and we wished it had come five years ago. A lot of metal windows have been changed to plastic windows.”
The pair living in a listed property claimed the fresh rules prove “more restrictive” than the listing requirements themselves. Paul explained: “I can’t repaint the windows charcoal grey which I was planning to because I will need planning regulation which is quite expensive.”
Terry, 71, and Pauline Rolls, 71, relocated to their home four years ago. They insisted what matters most is preserving the village’s character.
Mr Rolls explained: “We don’t want the village wrecked with plastic windows. What we want is a little damage as possible. There are a few that have been damaged. People doing what they want to their home is not necessarily a good thing. It is all about keeping the character of the village.”
Mr Rolls joked about how the rules could prevent residents from painting their windows and doors pink. He explained: “We could end up with Disneyland. It is not a NIMBY reaction but we need to keep some originality in this country.”
He stressed it’s crucial to maintain these properties ‘the way they are’ for future generations.
Councillor Sarah Hands, lead member for planning and place making at the borough council, explained: “Snowshill is one of the jewels of our borough, and these powers will help to protect its heritage, while still allowing thoughtful and appropriate development.
“We’re grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation and helped shape this decision.” From Wednesday (October 1), applications will undergo the standard planning process, which includes advertisement and consultation, with standard fees applicable.
The decision to implement the Article 4 Direction was made at a Full Council meeting on July 29, 2025, following a period of consultation.
Ryanair has launched a brand new flight route to a popular Italian tourist hot spot which will make it easy for Brits to travel to – and it will create over 800 new jobs
The airline have announced a new route to popular holiday spot(Image: Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)
Ryanair has announced a brand new holiday destination for Brits looking for a sunny getaway for next year.
A beautiful Italian holiday spot is now easier than ever to access, and it’s part of an ‘exciting’ expansion of the airlines presence in the EU country.
The new route, that will go from Bournemouth Airport to the western tip of Sicily in Trapani-Marsala will begin operation in January 2026 and the airline said it will “enhance connectivity and the availability of low fares for Sicilian residents”.
It comes after Sicilian authorities decided to scrap the Municipal Tax at its smaller regional airports in Trapani-Marsala, and scrapping this levy has made access to the areas easier for tourists.
According to Daily Express, Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson said: “As Europe and Italy’s number one airline, Ryanair is delighted to announce this major investment at Trapani-Marsala with the opening of a new base from January 2026. We’ve worked closely with both the regional government and Airgest teams to deliver this exciting investment.
“Since first flying to Sicily in 2003, Ryanair has carried more than 100 million passengers to and from Sicily [and] our new Trapani-Marsala base will deliver two new aircraft, 23 routes, more than one million passengers annually and support over 800 local jobs.
“Ryanair welcomes [Sicilian] President Schifani and the Sicilian Government’s decision to scrap the Municipal Tax at the smaller Sicilian airports, and now is the right time to take the next step. Extending this measure to all Sicilian airports would unlock further connectivity, deliver low fares and strengthen year-round connectivity for Sicilian citizens and visitors.”
Alongside its route to and from Bournemouth, in southwest England, the site will see the launch of services to London, Baden-Baden, Bari, Bratislava, Brussels, Katowice, Pescara, Saarbrücken, Stockholm and Verona. The move also means there is a creation of 800 local jobs and will facilitate 23 new routes and 260,000 extra seats.
Mr Wilson has also urged the Italian government to “scrap” the Municipal Tax at all Italian airports, as Ryanair is prepared to invest $4 billion (£3 billion) in Italy.
Adding 40 new aircraft, 20 million additional passengers and over 250 new routes. Byscrapping this tax, it will “stimulate capacity” as well as help to reduce fares and drive economic growth.
He has also previously challenged Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over a 0.5 euro per passenger rise in the municipal surtax for non-EU flights for airports exceeding 10 million passengers a year. He described it as a “short-sighted and regressive” policy that would be “damaging” for Italian tourism.
Travel blogger Chelsea Rodd was left stranded at London Gatwick Airport after being denied a flight to Italy owing to a passport issue she believes may not be common knowledge
Alan Johnson Social News Reporter
11:17, 29 Sep 2025Updated 11:25, 29 Sep 2025
A woman has highlighted an expiry issue with British passports after being denied travel to the EU (stock)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
A woman has issued a warning to all British passport holders after her holiday plans ended in tears at the airport. Travel blogger Chelsea Rodd fell victim of a rule she was unaware of, resulting in her having to cancel her plans despite the fact her passport is yet to expire.
“I should be in Milan right now with the girls,” began a tearful Chelsea in a TikTok video. She continued, explaining that after arriving at London Gatwick Airport ready to drop off her baggage, her passport was subsequently checked and it soon became apparent she wouldn’t be heading to Italy. “I’m not sure if this is common knowledge – I travel all the time – but because my passport’s start date is July 2015, it’s just gone over the 10-year mark even though it doesn’t run out until April 2026,” Chelsea explained.
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So what’s the problem? “I learned the hard way that for travel to the EU your UK passport must have been issued within the last 10 years – even if it hasn’t expired yet,” she revealed.
Chelsea continued: “I’m absolutely shocked by that. When you go to book your flight to the EU, nothing on the website mentions this and at the point of check-in nothing was said.”
Attempts to fly with a different airline, on alternative flights and to another airport all proved in vain. “I even tried the Passport Office and booking an emergency appointment online” Chelsea said. “But there was nothing until Monday when we’d be due to come back. I tried everything and the girls didn’t want to go without me, but I wanted them to have a lovely time as we’ve been planning it so long.”
To compound her misery, Chelsea revealed she will now be forced to miss out on numerous content creation opportunities she had arranged with a number of brands over the course of the past year.
She closed by urging others: “If you have a trip coming up, check your passport’s start date, not just the expiry date. This rule came in after Brexit, but it’s still catching so many people out.
“Previously when you renewed a passport, if you did it before the 10 years was up they would give you the extra on top – this was my issue. They don’t do that now.”
Writing in response, one TikTok user shared the same frustration, penning: “The annoying thing is when you check in and put your passport details in they only ask for expiry – and given this has happened so many times of people being unaware airlines should ask for start date too.”
A second person added: “This happened to me many years ago. I organised a trip to Milan. We all at airport checking in. That’s when I was informed that my passport had expired. I had to wave goodbye to my friends.”
While a third fumed: “Happened to me too a couple of weeks ago at Gatwick. Passport expires Sept 2026 and issued June 2015. Don’t get how they allow you to book. I always thought you had to have 6 months from when you return.”
The European Union’s travel website advises: “If you are a national from a country outside the EU wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a valid passport and possibly a visa.
“Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU and it must have been issued within the last 10 years.
“This means your travel document must have been issued within the previous 10 years the day you enter the EU on condition that it is valid until the end of your stay plus an additional 3 months.”
STACEY Solomon and her family are such big fans of the Regnum Carya hotel in Turkey, she’s gone as far to call it her ‘second home’.
And this year the star visited the Regnum The Crown – its sister hotel which opened its doors back in July.
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Stacey Solomon and her family recently took a trip to TurkeyCredit: Instagram / staceysolomon
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There are eight swimming pools and a waterpark called Regnum AquatlantisCredit: EasyJet
The hotel is in the Turkish seaside city of Antalya and it has got some very impressive facilities.
Beating the heat in Turkey can be solved by splashing about in the pool, and this resort has eight.
The resort has your regular outdoor pools as well as a salt-water pool, kids pools, and indoor ones too.
For kids, there’s a waterpark called Regnum Aquatlantis with flumes, slides, attractions like tipping buckets, a lazy river and wave pool.
For even more entertainment, there’s a cinema and playroom, and for the teens, there’s a tech lounge with gaming pods.
The hotel is ideally not that far from The Land of Legends theme park also known as “the Turkish Disneyland” either, in fact, it’s an 8 minute drive away.
There, visitors will find thrilling rollercoasters, a watercoaster and entertainment shows.
Back at the hotel, there’s a luxurious private Blue Flag beach with incredibly clear waters.
Along the white stretch of sand are four beach clubs, each scattered with sun umbrellas and loungers.
As for activities on the beach, guests can play volleyball, take part in yoga sessions, minifootball and even sound healing.
Inside Stacey Solomon’s £3k a week Turkey hotel with waterpark, swim up bar and private beach
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Around the hotel are suites and villas for guestsCredit: Regnum The Crown
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There are lots of dining options tooCredit: EasyJet
The fussiest of eaters won’t have a problem at the hotel either because there are plenty of dining options from the classic buffet to tapas.
There’s also Pan-Asian, Arabic, and Slavic restaurants too, and lots of snacks and meals at the beach clubs.
There’s an on-site spa too where guests can book massages, and relax in the sauna, steam room and even an ice fountain.
Another place for adults to relax is the rooftop which has an infinity pool, restaurant, bar, fitness club and private dining.
When it comes to rooms, there are plenty of options from spacious suites to family-rooms and even private villas – some of which even have personal butler service.
And while summer in the UK might be coming to a close, there is still plenty of time to lap up the sun in Turkey.
During October, there are highs of 26C, and even in December temperatures average out at around 16C.
Two of Italy’s biggest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are organising walkouts in a dispute over pay and working conditions, this will affect British holidaymakers
There’s potential travel chaos for British holidaymakers(Image: EleSi via Getty Images)
British holidaymakers jetting to or from Italy tomorrow, September 26, face travel chaos due to nationwide strikes. Two of Italy’s largest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are orchestrating walkouts over disputes regarding pay and working conditions.
According to EuroNews, the 24-hour industrial action will affect airline crews alongside airport personnel, with Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports expected to bear the brunt of the disruption.
Milano Malpensa Airport warned on its website: “There might be some delays or cancellations affecting your flights. We invite passengers to contact the airline in order to check their flight status before going to the airport”.
Baggage handling workers are also set to down tools, with Assohandlers employees planning to strike from 10am to 2pm, whilst drivers at Milan’s airports will walk out for the entire day.
Meanwhile in Sardinia, security personnel at Cagliari Elmas Airport are also preparing to strike, reports the Manchester Evening News. Budget carriers Volotea and Wizz Air Malta have also announced planned industrial action.
Holidaymakers are being warned to expect flight disruption with “cancellations and delays likely”. However, Italy’s civil aviation authority ENAC has mandated that flights scheduled between 7am and 10am and 6pm and 9pm must continue operating throughout the strike action.
Passengers are urged to contact their airline directly and factor in additional time for their journeys. No matter the reason, any passenger whose flight is cancelled is always entitled to a refund, rerouting or a return flight, according to European Union regulations.
Passengers are entitled to compensation if the strike action is carried out by cabin crew or pilots as it is not classed as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’.
However, industrial action undertaken by staff which are ‘external to the airline’ such as airport staff, can be regarded as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’ which means passengers would not be entitled to compensation. Passengers should contact their airline for more information.
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The EU’s Entry/Exit system is finally set to begin next month, with the first passengers heading through UK stations such as St Pancras and arriving in EU airports having to submit their details
Brits hoping to head on holiday will have to answer four questions when a new European Union-wide border system comes into force.
The much-anticipated and repeatedly delayed border system, set to govern travel across the entire European Union, is finally ready to launch come October 12.
The EES will monitor the arrival and departure of “third-country nationals” entering and leaving the Schengen zone, eliminating the requirement for passport stamps. One of its primary objectives is to digitalise travel documentation to guarantee that the restriction on days (90 within a 180-day timeframe) non-EU passport holders can remain in member nations isn’t violated, whilst enhancing border protection.
Information will typically be kept on record for three years. Those who decline to supply information can be refused entry.
As well as giving biometric data and having your passport scanned, travellers will be asked to answer four questions – either by the kiosks or by a human guard. They are:
1. Do you have somewhere to stay?2. Do you have a return ticket?3. Do you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay?4. Do you have medical insurance?
It is currently not completely clear what the consequences are if passengers answer ‘no’ to any of those questions, or if they lie in their answers. Simon Lejeune, Eurostar’s chief safety, stations, and security officer, was present on Wednesday morning to reveal the kiosks that will begin gathering data from Brits next month.
He suggested that passengers would be directed to speak to a border officer if they answered ‘no’. They can then be refused entry to the country.
A government spokesperson told the Mirror: “From 12th October, passengers who register for EES at a kiosk may need to answer a series of questions. If a traveller answers ‘no’ to any of these questions, they will be directed to speak with a border guard for further discussion. This is a normal part of border procedures, which is designed to ensure smooth and secure travel.”
There are significant concerns that this new system could cause further congestion at ports, exacerbating the travel chaos that has become a staple of summer holidays since the Covid lockdowns. However, after getting an early glimpse of the EES at St Pancras, my prediction is that these fears may be unfounded.
Eurostar and St Pancras have invested heavily in tackling the issue, installing fast-track kiosks to handle the extended border process. If things do go pear-shaped, as they inevitably will, additional guards are ready to manually process passengers.
The roll-out of the EES is going to be staggered, both at St Pancras and other ports across Europe. Only Eurostar’s Premier and Carte Blanche customers will be asked to use the EES from October 12. A handful of regular ticket holders may be asked, but it’s likely very few will.
Initially, biometrics like fingerprints won’t be collected. This will only start in mid-December and not for all passengers using EES.
By January, all kiosks at Eurostar’s St Pancras and Gare du Nord terminals will be operational, and a broader passenger sign-up will commence. Fingerprints will be taken, and all eligible customers will be urged to pre-register before border control.
Once you’ve registered once, you won’t need to do it again for another three years. In theory, this should make border checks faster, as border officers only verify the data of those registered.
Mr Lejeune clarified that registration should take about two minutes per person, meaning the process of getting through border control would take slightly longer if you’ve not used EES before.
When we had the opportunity to see one of the 49 new kiosks installed at St Pancras in action, the process was considerably quicker. From beginning to end, it took just over a minute.
If something does go wrong, such as the machine failing to recognise a passport, then an expanded team of human border guards will be available to assist. The number of guard booths has been doubled from nine to 18.
