holidays

On weekends, 1st and 2nd streets between Alameda and Los Angeles swell with crowds of families, anime fans, sneakerheads and tourists and locals alike in search of ramen or sushi, manga and magazines, matcha, toys, Japanese crafts, groceries, traditional sweets, records, Shohei paraphernalia and vintage fashion.

This is Little Tokyo, one of the most walkable, vibrant neighborhoods in Los Angeles — a historic small town within a big city that has thrived, even if sometimes precariously, through waves of urban development.

Get to know Los Angeles through the places that bring it to life. From restaurants to shops to outdoor spaces, here’s what to discover now.

The 300 block of 1st Street is known as the Little Tokyo Historic District, a nationally registered designation that’s the heart of the neighborhood. Here more than a dozen buildings preserve the pre-World War II streetscape and represent the social and cultural history of Japanese Americans in L.A.

The block is also an emblematic crossroads, where sweeping changes and cultural preservation converge.

“People want places like Little Tokyo,” says Kristin Fukushima, executive director of Little Tokyo Community Council, a nonprofit focusing on sustainable development for more than 5,000 residents and 400 businesses. “People identify with the culture and character of the neighborhood.”

In 1884 a cook named Hamanosuke “Charles Hama” Shigeta opened L.A.’s first Japanese-owned business, Kame, a 1st Street restaurant that stood where gift shop Bunkado is today. It was the seed of what’s now the largest Japanese American neighborhood in the U.S.

In the spring of 1942, Little Tokyo was emptied almost overnight, its residents forced from their homes and sent to incarceration camps. The businesses and institutions that survived and rose after the war remain part of its foundation, including confectionery shop Fugetsu-Do, Anzen Hardware and Far East Cafe, along with Buddhist temples such as Koyasan and Higashi Honganji.

Echoes of displacement resounded last summer when masked federal agents arrived in Little Tokyo and armored vehicles flanked the Japanese American National Museum — a memorial of historic trauma turned into a backdrop for immigration enforcement sweeps.

Meanwhile, generations of activists have helped save the neighborhood from being erased by eminent domain and real estate development. Every major monument and community space exists because of negotiation between activists, city government and corporate interests. “Asian American civil rights are a critical piece of the history here,” Fukushima says, referring to a movement that fought urban displacement, created services and allied with Black, Latino and anti-war groups for social justice.

The latest chapter of endurance is taking shape at the 1st Street North Residences, a mixed-use development with 100% affordable housing that used to be a city-owned parking lot. But before the 1950s the same land was a neighborhood of Japanese American businesses and homes for a growing Black community. Those buildings were demolished following evictions via eminent domain to make way for police headquarters. Now the project represents a reclamation.

Iconic Little Tokyo restaurant Suehiro and mochi maker Fugetsu-Do are expected to move into ground-floor retail spaces surrounding a cherry tree courtyard and the Go For Broke Monument, a black granite memorial honoring the more than 16,000 Japanese American men and women who served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Philip Hirose is a third-generation owner of Anzen Hardware, an institution that disappeared from Little Tokyo in 2023 but returned to its original location on 1st Street earlier this year. He also operates Azay, a restaurant his mother and late father founded. “Being in Little Tokyo where families have known each other for generations, there’s a lot of interconnectedness,” Hirose says. “You get a kind of gem.”

When asked what it’s like to be part of this neighborhood, one that’s rooted in a century of resilience and renewal, he says, “It feels like everything.”

We’re giving away a stylish five-star retreat in the heart of Cognac, complete with Michelin-starred dining, rooftop views, and world-class heritage.

Swap the everyday routine for five-star sophistication in the heart of Southwest France! We’ve teamed up with Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa to offer one lucky winner a luxury stay at this breathtaking transformed landmark.

Once a bustling 19th-century cognac trading house, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa seamlessly blends historic French charm with sleek, contemporary architecture set across almost five acres of heritage-protected grounds.

What makes this stay special?

• Sophisticated sipping: Step into Bar 1838, atmospheric and rich in history, set within the former cooperage of Maison Monnet. Here, guests can sample from an extraordinary collection of over 330 Cognacs in an unforgettable heritage setting.
• Gastronomic excellence: Indulge in exceptional Michelin-starred cuisine at Les Foudres , or enjoy delicious casual dining right on site.
• Ultimate relaxation: Unwind in the fabulous spa and take a dip in the indoor-outdoor pool, designed for total tranquillity.
• Unbeatable location: Situated amidst the region’s most prestigious cognac houses, including the home of Jay-Z’s signature Cognac, you’re perfectly positioned to explore France’s rich heritage.
• Curated experiences: From idyllic countryside picnics and scenic bike rides to exploring vibrant local markets, every moment is crafted for a memorable getaway.

Beyond the hotel, you are perfectly placed to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and finest spirit craft of Southwest France.

To be in with a chance of winning this ultimate luxury retreat, simply fill in your details in the form below. If you can’t see the form, click here.

This competition closes on the 6th December.

There’s a celebratory mood in Belgrade, the Serbian capital. For almost two years protest has shaped everyday life as a student-led movement demanding accountability and an end to corruption gathered momentum after a concrete canopy at Novi Sad’s newly renovated railway station collapsed in November 2024, killing 16 people.

Demonstrations grew into a nationwide challenge to the government and finally, last month the student-backed list won an outright majority in parliamentary elections – a dramatic shift in Serbia’s political landscape. Crowds gathered in Slavija Square, and celebrations spilled into the streets and bars. The formation of a new government still lies ahead, but the city feels full of possibility.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Belgrade sits at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. With a large student population and a thriving creative scene, it has informal, sociable energy: cafe terraces fill during the day, while DJ bars and clubs keep the city moving late into the night. Historic streets, neoclassical and art nouveau buildings sit alongside modernist architecture, former industrial spaces and new waterfront developments.



As founder of Still in Belgrade I’ve spent more than a decade exploring the city’s art, culture and music scene – here are some of my favourite things to do.

What to do

I love walking around Belgrade’s old town and inner-city neighbourhoods. Dorćol is my favourite area. Its historic buildings and former workshops now house independent galleries, speciality coffee shops, lively bars and contemporary restaurants. Graffiti and murals animate its walls, there’s always an exhibition, gig or something happening.

I also enjoy wandering through Kosančićev Venac, stopping for coffee on its cobbled streets. Then there’s Savamala, on the banks of the Sava, with its waterfront restaurants at Beton Hala. Vračar, another historic inner-city neighbourhood, draws me back for its restaurants, elegant old villas and the Nikola Tesla Museum.

For a taste of everyday life, head to the food markets: Zemun Market at Masarikov trg 17, Kalenić Market at Maksima Gorkog 2B, and Palilula Market at Ilije Garašanina 5A. In and around the markets, coffee shops and street-food counters offer everything from roast pork, champagne and artisan bread at Pretop to traditional Serbian dishes such as ćevapi (kebab).

For art and history, start with the National Museum. Its collections span prehistoric finds from Lepenski Vir and the Vinča culture, artefacts from Roman sites across Serbia, and an extensive selection of Serbian and European painting.

Don’t miss Galerija Kula at Cetinjska 15, housed in a tower within the former brewery complex. It showcases local artists and designers, and its shop is worth browsing for striking posters and design objects. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCAB) is worth visiting for its architecture alone. A modernist gem designed by Ivan Antić and Ivanka Raspopović, opened in 1965, its rich collection traces the development of Yugoslav modern and contemporary art.

For shopping, I’d recommend Jane Doe, a vintage and design shop offering everything from former Yugoslav labels to high fashion and pieces by local designers. There’s also a tattoo studio.

Tours

For a closer look at Belgrade’s street art, take a walking tour and street art workshop with Ljiljana Radosević. It’s another way into the city’s history, revealing neighbourhood loyalties, political tensions and the humour that runs through everyday life. To explore a different side of the city, join a Yugoslav architecture tour by bike with Still in Belgrade Tours taking in the scale of New Belgrade, where broad boulevards, residential blocks and monumental buildings reflect the ambitions of the socialist era. You can trace the influence of Le Corbusier’s planning principles in the freestanding blocks, generous green spaces and separation of homes, workplaces and traffic.

Where to eat and drink

For traditional comfort food, Stara Hercegovina is the sort of place to arrive hungry and take your time. I usually order čorba, a hearty soup, followed by kolenica (pork knuckle) or pljeskavica, a grilled minced-meat patty, with a šopska salad of tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and grated white cheese. Leave room for tufahija, a walnut-stuffed poached apple, or a knedla, a sweet dumpling.

For a contemporary take on Balkan cooking, try Dragoljub. Familiar regional dishes get a creative twist, with plates made for sharing. There’s also an excellent indoor cocktail bar that gets going in the afternoon.

I love Koordinata, a fine-dining restaurant, next to the National Theatre, which takes a farm-to-table approach. The menu ranges from baked cabbage to river fish, octopus and duck, alongside alcohol-free cocktails and wines from across the Balkans.

Another favourite is Stories, a small, cosy restaurant on Pjarona de Mondezira, beside Kalemegdan Park. The focus is on Georgian cooking, including khinkali – dumplings with fillings such as veal, lamb or cheese and mint – and khachapuri, the wonderfully indulgent cheese-filled bread.

For cocktails and finger food, try the tiny Ćilim bar. It makes some of the best whisky sours and pornstar martinis in the city. Take a seat outside and feel the street vibe unfold. Oliver’s, a wine bar in the old town with a New York feel, is great, too.

Nightlife

Electronic music has been central to Belgrade’s nightlife for more than two decades. This is a city that likes to socialise, and visitors often warm to the locals’ hospitality as much as the music.

One of my current favourites is Esthetic Joys Embassy, with its retro Yugoslav-inspired interiors. A sister venue to a vinyl bar and restaurant in Armenia, it combines Japanese food with DJ sets. Another is BIFE, a cocktail and DJ bar tucked away in a former shopping centre in the city centre. Signature cocktails range from €8 to €10.

For a proper night of dancing, my favourite is Karmakoma. Its programme brings together internationally acclaimed DJs and producers with local talent, spanning techno, house and disco.

Stay

For a base in Dorćol, Pavilion Hotel & Social Club on Dobračina Street has doubles from about €89 a night. For a central base with a history of its own, Hotel Balkan, on the corner of Terazije and Prizrenska Street, dates back to 1860, although the building you see today replaced the original in 1936, with doubles from about €100 a night.

Things to know

Public transport in Belgrade is free, including buses, trams and trolleybuses. There’s no metro, but visitors can combine public transport with walking to explore the city.

Researcher and consultant Dragana Kostica documents the Serbian capital’s art, culture and music scene through her platform, Still in Belgrade

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — A U.S. cruise ship that forced all its passengers to disembark in Cambodia after suspending its operations last week has departed the Southeast Asian nation with only crew aboard, Cambodian officials said Wednesday.

The MV Odyssey, owned by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, had been on an around-the-world cruise when it suspended its planned three-year voyage due to the sharp rise in fuel costs.

It had been docked for a scheduled stop at the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand, when on Oct. 28 its 203 passengers were suddenly told they had to disembark within a few hours.

The ship left Sihanoukville late Tuesday with only crew and other personnel on board, said Tang Sochetkresna, director of the Tourism Department of Preah Sihanouk province. He said he didn’t know the ship’s next destination.

He said that nearly 100 passengers remained in Sihanoukville, while others were visiting other parts of Cambodia or had traveled on to other countries. Most of the ship’s passengers were Americans.

The ship, with its 650-passenger capacity, had 156 crew members on board, but it was not clear how many departed with the ship.

There has been no official announcement of future plans for the cruise ship. Media reports suggested that a creditor had taken over its management and was having it sailed to Singapore, Southeast Asia’s main maritime hub.

The abrupt end to the ship’s voyage has drawn widespread attention because it had touted itself as a floating home, combining long-term living at sea with global travel.

Several passengers said they had paid more than $300,000 for a suite for the lifetime of the vessel.

Villa Vie Residences said monthly fuel expenses per cabin that historically averaged $1,800 have reached an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in parts of Asia due to the war in Iran.

The company said it sought to reduce fuel consumption by slowing the itinerary and spending more time in port, but was unable to offset the surging costs.

Traffic has been curtailed in the Strait of Hormuz since the war in Iran began, squeezing supplies of all kinds of petroleum-based fuels, especially in Southeast Asia, and sharply increasing prices.

Passengers had said the company had been asking them for several months for contributions to keep the ship operating, and there has been an active debate on social media over whether its operation was ever financially viable.

Built in 1993 and operated under different names by several cruise lines over the years before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Odyssey was bought by Villa Vie Residences in 2023.

Its current cruise began in October 2024 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the ship had been refitted. A second cruise, along with the purchase of a second ship to operate in a similar capacity, had already been planned.

Cheang writes for the Associated Press.

Eurocamp has announced a major change affecting its popular Spain holiday parks from 2026 but it could be good news for Brits looking for a sunny getaway

Eurocamp parks (or parcs, as they call them) are already a firm favourite with Brits looking for cheap and cheerful getaways in the summer, with sites across plenty of popular destinations including France, Italy and Spain. Now, the holidays giant has announced it will be making a major change to a number of its Spanish locations, in what could be good news for holidaymakers.

That’s because for the first time ever, Eurocamp is going to be offering winter sun holidays, kicking off in 2026. While typically Eurocamp sites close for the winter, this year there will be three parcs remaining open throughout the colder months; Alannia Costa Blanca and Alannia Guardamar in Costa Blanca (home to Benidorm), and Alannia Els Prats in Costa Dorada (home to Salou), with prices from £452 per party during the quieter seasons.

It marks the first time that Brits can opt for Eurocamp breaks in Spain during Christmas, or even for February half term. However, they’re not the only destinations on offer. Eurocamp already has sites in the French Alps which are open during the ski season, as well as its Paris-Est location which is popular with Brits hoping to visit the French capital for its Christmas markets.

It’s not the only brand to offer up holiday parks during the winter months. For example, Center Parcs has a number of sites in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, including one park just a stone’s throw away from Disneyland Paris.

For Brits who are after winter sun but don’t want to commit to jet-setting off to far-flung Caribbean islands, Spain and its islands can be an ideal compromise. In fact, the popular country has 8 of Europe’s 10 sunniest cities according to research from travel pros at Holidu. Cities such as Cordoba or Malaga, in the southern part of Spain, are where you’ll likely have more luck given temperatures average 19C in November, while Barcelona keeps a balmy 15C although it does get cooler in the evenings.

Meanwhile the Canary Islands are famed for their year-round sunshine, and can enjoy temperatures of up to 23C as late as early December. So while it may not be warm enough for swimming in the sea, it’s still pleasant enough that you can enjoy the outdoors whether you wander along the bustling promenades, or want a lunch al fresco. (Not to mention the cooler mornings are ideal for those who want to kick off the day with a hike around those volcanic landscapes).

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WE MIGHT barely be in November but with the mornings chillier and the evenings darker it won’t be long before we press play on the festive films.

And one in particular – The Holiday (2006) – has one of the cosiest of cottages we all dream of staying in over the winter period.

While Rosehill Cottage might be fictional, the UK isn’t short of similarly beautiful cottages by any means.

So here are six that will give you the same feel as being in the movie’s cottage itself:

Philham Water Cottage, Devon

Nestled in the Devonshire countryside is Philham Water Cottage with a double bedroom and a lounge with a sofa bed.

Like The Holiday itself, you will find a roaring wood stove inside an open fireplace.

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There’s WiFi, a TV and a DVD player too.

The cottage also has a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom, with a bath tub.

The website says it can host two individuals or a couple, however the cottage does sleep up to four people.

It costs from £95 per night, so £42.50 per person per night if two people were sharing or £21.25 per person per night if four people did stay.

Lew Quarry Cottage, Devon

Set in the grassy green fields, Lew Quarry Cottage, also in Devon, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

There’s also a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and free WiFi.

If you fancy enjoying a cuppa in the fresh air, there is also a garden with a cosy seating area.

And of course, the cottage has a grand fireplace.

Nearby guests can head to Lydford Castle and Launceston Castle.

A seven-night stay for two adults and two children costs £465, working out at £16.61 per person, per night.

Old Blacksmith’s Cottage, Lincolnshire

Old Blacksmiths Cottage in Market Rasen has one bedroom, alongside a shower room and fully equipped kitchen.

The cottage also has a private garden and parking.

Nearby attractions include Lincoln Medieval Bishops’ Palace and Lincoln Cathedral of St. Mary.

It costs from £320 for a seven-night stay for two people, working out at £22.86 per person, per night.

The Green House, Somerset

The Green House in the village of Nunney, Frome, is a quaint Grade II listed cottage that can sleep up to four people (though children under the age of nine are not allowed).

In the lounge there is a cosy fire, which guests can snuggle up by and admire the period features of the cottage.

In the chilly mornings make sure to head outside to the secluded terrace that overlooks the stream.

In the village – which is often dubbed one of the prettiest in Somerset – there’s also a pub and a small shop.

Nearby attractions include Nunney Castle and Cranborne Chase – an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Stays cost from £571 for seven-nights for four people, working out at £20.40 per person, per night.

The Cottage at The Feathered Nest, Cotswolds

Now if you really want to stay in a cottage that looks almost identical to Rosehill Cottage in The Holiday, book into The Feathered Nest’s cottage in the Cotswolds.

Known as ‘Little House’ it is part of The Feathered Nest’s pub site and dates back to the 15th century.

The cottage found in the village of Chipping Norton, has a double bedroom as well as a lounge area with a sofa bed.

There is a grand open fireplace and a sleek kitchenette too.

Your four-legged friend doesn’t have to miss out on this one either as it is dog friendly.

Stays are a bit steeper costing from £800 for two nights for four people, but if you stay from a Sunday to a Monday you get a discount making it £760 – or £95 per person per night… Maybe a good one for a friend group.

Blackbird Cottage, Dorset

Blackbird Cottage in Beaminster is dog-friendly and sleeps up to five guests.

This restored Grade II listed cottage boasts its original features across its three bedrooms and walled garden.

The ground floor of the cottage also features historic stone floors as well as a wood-burning stove to keep you warm.

You’d be a short walk from shops and pubs as well as a short drive to the famous Jurassic Coast.

If you stay for three nights, you can get a £50 discount working out at £526 total or £35.07 per person per night.

A HOLIDAY park left abandoned for two decades on the Isle of Wight is set to be transformed into the ultimate luxury coastal escape.

Previously known as Atherfield Bay Holiday Camp and abandoned since 2007, the site is now being redeveloped by Evergreen Escapes as the Isle of Wight Resort.

Overlooking Atherfield Bay, the new multi-million holiday park is set to open in April 2027.

According to the resort’s website, it will be a “peaceful haven, where sweeping sea views and star-filled skies go hand-in-hand with exceptional accommodation and five-star facilities”.

The multi-million pound project includes building 63 luxury lodges with sea views.

There will be two options – Elite and Signature.

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Elite lodges will feature either two or three bedrooms sleeping up to six people, with an open plan living and dining space, as well as a private outdoor decking.

On the other hand, Signature lodges will be slightly more luxury, sleeping up to eight people across four bedrooms.

The living and dining space will be open plan like the Elite lodges, but guests can also expect pops of colour or feature walls.

All the lodges are dog friendly and if you do bring you beloved pooch, they will get their very own welcome pack.

There will be a welcome pack for the humans too though, with Isle of Wight goodies.

Each lodge will have Rituals smellies and luxury robes and slippers too.

All of the lodges will be be self-catered accommodation.

Also on-site will be an indoor swimming pool, – perfect for the colder winters months – as well as a sauna, steam room and a gym.

At the centre of the resort, The Wight Isle Lounge will serve hot drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks and fresh pizzas.

Local residents will also be able to use the entire holiday park.

And discounted ferry tickets will be available to staying guests.

Bookings are currently open for stays from April 2027, with 38 out of the 63 lodges available to rent (the rest will be for sale).

Geoff Cowley, CEO of Evergreen Escapes Group, said: “The Isle of Wight Resort will be a fantastic addition to the Island’s already thriving hospitality scene when it opens.

“Not just because we’re investing in high-end accommodation and facilities, but also because we’ll be investing in the resort team.

“We’ve already filled a number of senior roles but are actively looking for others to join us and showcase the best the Island has to offer for guests and owners alike.”

Evergreen Escapes also has plans for another 15 to 20 resorts over the next five years.

The Isle of Wight Resort will follow Evergreen Escapes acquiring Manor and Ashbury Resorts in Devon and Doublebois Lodge Escape and St Mabyn Lodge Escape, in Cornwall.

Savvy travellers are being urged to remove one overlooked item from their hotel beds immediately upon arrival, with a YouTuber warning it could be harbouring dirt from previous guests

A YouTuber has suggested there is one reason why savvy travellers should remove the bed runner the moment they step into a hotel room. The bed runner is a strip of thick, coloured fabric that stretches across the foot of the bed and features in many hotel rooms.

In a video on his YouTube channel, sblga, who boasts 61,000 subscribers, shared his thoughts on why it’s there. The bed runner exists largely to make the room more visually appealing.

This can be achieved if it is a bright colour, contrasting sharply against the white bedding. However, sblga hinted there was a further reason behind it, too, reports the Express.

Sblga said: “Think what you do when you walk into a hotel room. You throw your bag on the bed, you sit down to relax a little bit, still have your shoes on, and all of that happens at the bottom end. The runner is still there.

“It takes dirt so the white colour doesn’t. Okay, now think about that. Sheets get changed for every guest. The runner usually doesn’t. A lot of hotels wash them now and then. That’s why people who travel a lot take it off the bed first thing.”

The suggestion, therefore, is that because the bed runner isn’t laundered as frequently as the sheets, it’s more prone to collecting grime and bacteria from previous guests’ luggage and personal items.

Yet sblga isn’t alone in advocating for the removal of bed runners, as a housekeeping manager has also urged guests to whip them off the moment they step into the room.

However, sblga is not the only blogger to have warned about hotel room hygiene, with inventor and entrepreneur Lori Greiner suggesting there are three things in a hotel room people should never use.

In a video posted on TikTok, the 56-year-old said: “Never, ever use these three things in a hotel room.”

The three items she recommended avoiding were the soap and shampoo, the hairdryer and the kettle. Explaining her concerns about the kettle in particular, she said it was because some people had used them to clean their clothes.

She claimed: “This one is rough. Did you know some people have used the kettle to wash socks and small undergarments? So if you need hot water, call the front desk and ask for some.”

Lori said the hairdryer was a no-no because some guests “touch it with unwashed hands” and it “rarely gets deep cleaned in between stays”.

Meanwhile, Lori’s dislike of the soap and shampoo dispensers stemmed from her belief that bacteria inside them could be unsafe for people’s skin. She alleged: “Most of the time, they are just refilled – not cleaned out – which means bacteria can build up inside.”

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One woman is becoming a nomad, leaving her permanent home in favour of travelling around the world, staying in strangers’ houses, all while saving £1,500 a month with ‘no bills to pay’

Now more than ever, people are looking for innovative ways to travel around the world, all whilst saving some serious cash. It might seem impossible, but one woman is willing to give up her permanent home to make it happen, potentially saving herself around £18,000 a year.

Michelle, 63, is giving up her flat to travel around the UK and Europe, with hopes of venturing globally. While she’ll have no place to officially call home and a car packed with everything she owns, Michelle has the opportunity to stay at some rather lavish properties she otherwise couldn’t afford and will also save thousands of pounds every month.

So what exactly is Michelle doing to make this dream a reality? “I’m giving my time as a full-time house-sitter, looking after the pets, making sure the house and garden are cared for while the homeowners are away, and in exchange I get to live in their house and don’t need to pay the utility bills,” Michelle revealed. With just a membership fee to pay on house-sitting websites, alongside no rent or bills, Michelle will save up to £1,500 a month.

Michelle, who has already begun house-sitting before going full-time this year, typically looks after pets in homes while the owners are on holiday, all while staying somewhere new for weeks at a time. “The main focus of it is the pets, as it’s a nice alternative to putting dogs in kennels or cats in catteries. It keeps the pets happy at home in their normal environment,” Michelle shared.

Sometimes longer house sits are required, even for people without pets who simply want someone to keep an eye on their home while they’re away. At the time of speaking, Michelle had just begun a two-month house-sitting job in southern Devon at a 16th-century Devon farmhouse spanning 25 acres, with plenty more booked into her diary for the next six months.

She’s already made plans to send her furniture from her former flat to a charity shop and to have a serious clear-out, keeping only the necessities and sentimental mementoes. But there’s one aspect that has proved challenging.

“I love my clothes, and it’s quite tough to try and thin out my walk wardrobe. The default while house-sitting is comfortable clothing, so there’s not much call for fabulous ball gowns or sparkly tops, but you want to hang on to them.”

Michelle added: “The difficult thing is when it comes to getting rid of stuff, including the mementoes, which is really difficult.” Luckily, she will still have her car for additional storage, with the aim of fitting everything she needs in the boot.

On becoming a nomad in her 60s, Michelle shared: “Sometimes, it can be a bit challenging, particularly as I’m single and on my own. You can sometimes feel that you’re kind of on the periphery of society, but other times it’s very freeing, and I’m not in that Monday to Friday, 9 to 5. My life is changing, potentially every few weeks, and I’ll be somewhere new to explore.

“I try to find the balance between newness and familiarity, so I’ll have my favourite mug with me and a wool blanket, so you create these little rituals; that’s what home is.”

This won’t be the first time Michelle has willingly opted to stay in a stranger’s home, as she began house-sitting in 2017, when she lived in Cyprus, looking after pets across the UK, Italy, Spain, and France. She would often take her beloved dog, Eddy, with her, before they were forced to take a hiatus in 2020 amid the pandemic. But after Eddy passed away at Christmas, Michelle was eager to get back into house-sitting and become a full-time nomad.

“Having got back into house-sitting, I just thought, perhaps, becoming a nomad and primarily using house-sitting as a way of having a roof over my head would be something to try. I’m not in a position to buy a place for myself, or know where I’d want to be permanently, and I checked how much house-sitting I could get booked into the diary,” she explained.

Michelle is now booked up for the next six months, aside from two weeks over Christmas, where she plans to stay at a friend’s house before taking on another job. “It made me realise that there is enough demand out there for house-sitters, so rather than renting myself again, I can make house-sitting work full-time,” she added.

Additionally, Michelle can work from her laptop while travelling around house-sitting, with the option to sell on Vinted and eBay for extra income. And if there are times that Michelle has a gap in the diary, she’d happily book herself a holiday or stay at a friend’s house, who have all been “very supportive”.

Michelle uses a few websites to find house-sitting jobs that best suit her, including HouseSit Match, with dreams of expanding her house-sitting duties globally. “House-sitting allows me to explore different parts of the country and around Europe, hopefully. As well as looking after pets, it’s actually quite fun trying on other people’s lives, and it’s nice to be able to experience that,” she said.

Lamia Walker, founder of home-sitting service HouseSit Match, added: “Michelle is a brilliant example of how house-sitting can become a lifestyle, not just a holiday. She lives in some beautiful places that would otherwise be completely out of reach, and also takes rent and bills out of the equation at the same time.

“More and more people are discovering that house-sitting is an affordable way to travel, and many get hooked on the way of life. Michelle is a fantastic sitter, and homeowners rebook her again and again because she goes the extra mile for their pets. Every sitter on our platform is verified, so owners can feel confident about who’s looking after their home and their animals.

“Anyone who fancies a change of scenery should search online to see what house-sitting opportunities are available and where they could go next.”

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

LIGHT up your winter with this exclusive Sun Club offer. Save up to £46 with two FREE tickets to Land of Lights, the spectacular family-friendly lantern festival taking place at Gulliver’s World this festive season. 

With 3,000 tickets available across three Gulliver’s World locations, you can choose from Milton Keynes, Warrington and Rotherham. 

Join Sun Club now — don’t miss out.

Plus, you can also grab an extra two tickets at half price. Just look for the exclusive discount code when you claim your free tickets. 

Land of Lights is returning brighter than ever for 2026, with giant lantern displays, glowing tunnels and immersive themed worlds creating a magical after-dark experience for all ages.

Guests can explore illuminated trails, with brand-new lanterns, light displays and effects added across the event this year.

Each location offers its own unique route and atmosphere, with magical photo opportunities, marshmallow toasting, food and drink stops and plenty to discover along the way.

Whether you are visiting Land of Lights for the first time or making a return trip, there is plenty to enjoy. 

So wrap up warm and make a night of it with friends and family as you take in the lights and stop for a few treats along the way.

Land of Lights is running until Saturday, January 30 in Warrington and Rotherham, and Saturday, February 27 in Milton Keynes. Your free tickets can be used on any date excluding Thursday, December 31.

With tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis, you will need to be quick to avoid missing out, so bag yours before they are gone.

Join Sun Club to book

To claim your tickets, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Join thesun.co.uk/club for just £1.99 a month or £12 for the first year, then £19.99 thereafter.

Step 2: Go to the Offers Hub and select the Gulliver’s Land of Lights page. You do not need to collect Sun Savers codes.

Step 3: Booking opens at 11am on Saturday, November 7.

18+ UK only. Digital subscription required. Online access required. Offer ends at 23:59pm on 06/12/26. 3,000 tickets available across 3 locations. Non-transferable & non refundable.  T&Cs apply , see club.thesun.co.uk/sun-club.  New customer offer: £2.99 per month for 3 months, £6.99 thereafter unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. Full T&Cs apply, visit thesun.co.uk/terms-and-conditions.

THE largest Harry Potter shop in the world has now opened: the Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street.

I visited the massive new Harry Potter shop to peep the exclusive merch, try the Hogwarts Bear Ceremony and taste test the snacks in the Leaky Cauldron cafe.

The new London mega store – which is the same size as the New York store which is also the world’s largest – spans two storeys, and is themed to look like Diagon Alley from the famous films.

The new store even been visited by Harry Potter stars Tom Felton and Warwick Davis.

But inside, you can expect everything from insanely detailed snacks to exclusive new experiences.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street.

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Downstairs: Gringotts, Ollivanders and exclusive items

Entering the shop I was immediately transported to the Wizarding World, with heaps of Harry Potter merch, the soundtrack from the movies…and a terrifying creature looming over me.

Upon entering to your right you’ll find the Gringotts area, which is watched over by a very realistic dragon statue that fans will recognise to be a Ukranian Ironbelly.

Not only is this the perfect spot for a selfie, but it’s where you’ll find most of the exclusive items in the shop that are only sold at the Oxford Street location.

In the shelves labelled ‘Vault 412 – 414’ you’ll find hoodies, T-shirts, mugs, socks and water bottles labelled with Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street.

In this room you’ll also find fun extras, like a cushion of Harry’s Hogwarts acceptance letter and cosy Harry Potter pyjamas.

Downstairs there are plenty more gifts which you can also find in other stores from Dobby baubles and eye masks to giant, fluffy Hedwigs and customised house robes.

There’s even a Honeydukes sweet shop selling classic Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, plus a collectable mug which you won’t find at other locations.

Stroll from Honeydukes past a giant, spooky recreation of the Knight Bus into Ollivanders, where you can buy your very own wand.

While the shelves are stacked with all kinds of wands just like in the movies, the special item here is the Diagon Alley themed wand.

The intricate design sees mini colourful shopfronts stacked along its spine, and you can only buy it here.

Upstairs: Leaky Cauldron cafe

Head up the escalators (which genuinely feel like part of the immersion, with neon lights and themed music) to find more Oxford Street exclusives.

To your right you’ll find the Leaky Cauldron, a spacious cafe with plenty of themed seating and snacks that transport you to the wizarding pub from the films.

Pastries and cakes are laid on Daily Prophet newspaper prints, and Sirius Black wanted posters line the walls.

The seating here offers great views over Oxford Street, which make you feel like a wizard watching the muggle world go by.

As for food and drink, there are plenty of options sure to leave any Harry Potter fan utterly spellbound.

There’s not one but FIVE types of Butterbeer on offer: classic, frozen, the Butterbeer latte and iced Butterbeer latte with fudge pieces, plus Butterbeer ice cream.

If you’ve never tried the fizzy drink, it’s a non-alcoholic, sweet beverage that tastes like butterscotch, topped with swirly cream. My favourite was the frozen, with a refreshing slushie texture.

Here you can also dine on Howler and Acceptance Letter pizza pockets, folded to look like envelopes, soups, pasties and a stamped Leaky Cauldron toastie.

The cakes are the most exciting part. Pick between a blackberry and chocolate cauldron cake, Gringotts gold bars, and Weasley wizard top hat chocolate cakes.

The highlight is the Golden Snitch (£12.95) which is actually a strawberries and cream flavoured cheesecake.

I was really impressed by the prices here, considering you’re smack-bang on Oxford Street.

A Howler Pizza Pocket will only set you back £7.95 and is very filling. A Gringotts Gold Bar cake costs the same, and a fresh Butterbeer – with a souvenir tankard you get to keep – costs £9.50.

The Hogwarts Bear Ceremony

By far my favourite part about the new shop is the Hogwarts Bear Experience.

Stroll from the Leaky Cauldron past more merch items (which upstairs includes exclusive MinaLima prints) to find shelves lined with special teddy bears.

This is where you can take part in the Hogwarts Bear Ceremony, an experience you can only do at the Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street (you can pre-book a slot for free online).

You start by choosing your bear from the shelf and naming them, before picking three personality traits you’d like your bear to have.

While there were options such as Quidditch captain and creature caretaker, I went for spell master, daydreamer and mischief maker.

Next, pop your teddy into a magical sorting cabinet and close the door – when you next open it, your teddy will be wearing the robes of their Hogwarts house.

The experience includes the bear, plus a named Hogwarts acceptance certificate and a pretty box to take them home in.

But you can also buy additional accessories, like a mini Sorting Hat, round glasses, or a house mascot to sit on the bear’s shoulder.

The experience costs £75 which is fairly steep, but I think if you’re visiting for a birthday or special occasion, it’s an experience you’re never going to forget.

All in all, the massive new Harry Potter shop feels like more of an experience itself than just a merch store.

Considering you can eat and drink in the Leaky Cauldron, take part in an exclusive bear-making experience and come home with merch you can’t find anywhere else, it’s absolutely worth a visit on your next trip to London for any Potterheads.

The Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street is open from 10am – 9pm Monday through to Saturday, and 12pm – 6pm on Sundays.

DID you know that the UK’s oldest carnival dates back nearly 180 years – and has one of Europe’s biggest float processions?

Bridgwater Carnival first started in 1847, taking place on the first Saturday of November.

The carnival – which is free to attend – is a full-day celebration starting at 10.30am with circus performances, live bands, dances and fairground rides.

These will be held at spots across the town like the High Street, Cornhill Stage and at St Mary’s Church.

This part ends at 6pm, before the two-hour long procession then start.

Down the main streets are huge parades where locals can show off their illuminated floats and there will be marching bands too.

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Afterwards, there’s a tradition called ‘squibbling’ where around 150 people line up along the roads carrying a long pole which holds a large firework.

All at once, these are set off with the fireworks lighting up the sky.

It’s expected that 150,000 people will descend on the town this year to see the celebrations.

One visitor who previously attended said: “All of the Somerset carnivals are magical, however Bridgwater is the largest and most spectacular. “

Another added: “I wish my own home town could put on such a display.”

While the event is free, it is encouraged to ask for donations as it’s run by volunteers.

The origin of the Bonfire Night celebrations in Bridgwater can be traced back to the year of the foiled Gunpowder plot in 1605.

Bridgwater celebrated heavily as most of its residents at the time were protestant.

However, it wasn’t until later on in 1847 when the celebrations turned into a carnival by the Victorians who even made their own squibs fireworks.

If you want something even grander to visit this weekend, the world’s largest bonfire night with 40,000 visitors is set to be even more popular this year and it starts tomorrow.

HAVING a cosy weekend away to look forward to makes winter all the more exciting.

But it’s especially fantastic when you can save an extra 15 per cent on your stay with The Inn Collection Group.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

Whether you’re after a coastal escape to a seaside castle, a Snowdonia staycation with waterfalls on your doorstep, or an Edwardian manor with manicured gardens – we’ve got you covered.

We’ve hand-picked these UK breaks in spots like Yorkshire, Wales and the Lakes because they make for fantastic winter escapes, plus all of them are dog-friendly, too.

If you do bring the pooch along, they can even have a bite to eat from Sir Woofchester’s dog menu, where they can have their own mini roast dinner, fish and chips or even a Paw Star dog martini.

Here’s the winter staycations you can book today and bag an extra 15 per cent off – plus bring the dog along for free.

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The Wateredge Inn, The Lake District

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly base to explore the Lake District, The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside is a great pick.

This waterside pub with rooms sits right on the shoreline of Lake Windermere, with a waterfront dining terrace perfect for a pint with a view.

In the restaurant, dine on everything from hot honey chicken burgers (£18.95) to ‘our famous lasagne’ (£17.50) – just make sure to save room for the sticky toffee brownie sundae for dessert (£8.50).

Rooms start from £80.10 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Swallow Falls Inn, Snowdonia

Sitting steps away from a waterfall in Snowdonia National Park, The Swallow Falls Inn is worlds away from the everyday grind.

The charming inn provides your pick of 39 cosy rooms to return to after a day’s exploring the outdoors, plus a pub with a popular Thursday steak and wine night (£25pp).

The hotel is only two miles away from Betws-y-Coed, a gorgeous village with dense forests and lakes sitting on the Conwy Valley railway line.

Rooms start from £85.50 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Tynemouth Castle Inn

This sprawling Castle Inn has stood overlooking the the shore of Tynemouth‘s Longsands Beach for over 80 years.

There’s 72 plush bedrooms here, with the option to stay in a sea-view rooms, offering you a front-row view to glorious seaside sunsets.

Whether you’re up for a breezy winter beach walk, or prefer dipping into the shops and cafes in the charming local village, it’s a great spot for a calming weekend away.

Rooms start from £89 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Ripon Inn, North Yorkshire

Stay in a restored Edwardian hotel in the North Yorkshire countryside, just steps from the charming city of Ripon and its impressive cathedral.

The property sits on six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, giving making it feel like a country manor retreat. Inside is all grand staircases and original fireplaces, as well as a stylish, botanical-themed bar.

This hotel prides itself on its hearty Sunday roasts, which are served carvery-style with a selection of tender meats and giant Yorkies.

Rooms start from £89 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Stables, Whitby

Visit the scenic North York Moors with a stay at this 17th century farmhouse-turned cosy countryside inn.

Stay in a courtyard room with far-reaching field views, and enjoy traditional meals in The Stables, the warm and friendly on-site Yorkshire pub.

You’ll be based in Whitby, with its picturesque seaside harbour, Gothic abbey ruins and dramatic coastal paths on your doorstep.

Rooms start from £84 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

Discount code: ICG_WOOF15 expires on 30/11/2026 11:59pm (BST)
Terms and Conditions:
Valid for stays from 11/09/2026-03/10/2026 for stays arriving before 17/03/2027. Special rate includes: 15% off our flexible Bed & Breakfast rate and up to two dogs per room, per night free of charge. Subject to availability and choice, excludes black out dates.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

GOOD news for Brits wanting some last minute winter sun, as British Airways has restarted one of its most popular flight routes.

The flag carrier has confirmed that flights to Dubai are back on, operating from London Heathrow.

The airline first stopped the route back in February shortly after the Iran War began.

British Airways flights to Dubai were initially scheduled to resume on October 25, but were delayed until yesterday when the first flight took off.

The daily flights between London Heathrow and Dubai take just 7hr45, departing at 8pm and landing in the UAE city at 7.45am the following day.

During summer next year, the flights will increase to twice daily.

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Dubai has always been popular with Brits thanks to its winter heat – in November it has daily average highs of 31C.

The city made up of luxury skyscraper hotels also has waterparks, theme parks and plenty of golden beaches to relax on.

If you want to find out how to do it on a budget, check out Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey and Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski’s top tips.

For cheaper hotels, there are even some Premier Inns that have rooftop pools.

Another flight route British Airways has restarted is its route to Amman, which relaunched yesterday as well.

However, the airline previously confirmed it will not be resuming flights to Abu Dhabi until the end of next year.

The airline cited the Middle East conflict and ‘airspace instability’ as the reason for its continued delay.

Currently, those wanting to travel to Abu Dhabi with BA will have to book a flight from Heathrow to Doha, then switch to another airline like Qatar Airways to continue their journey.

The indirect route takes around 11 hours rather than seven.

IT’S BAD news for Brits wanting to head to Spain this winter as there will be thousands of fewer plane seats on sale.

Seats have been reduced across flights to a number of popular Spanish destinations over the coming months.

Lanzarote will be one spot that is getting fewer seats, with the total number of seats cut for the 2026/2027 winter season being 33,928.

And Lanzarote isn’t the only destination in the archipelago that is experiencing fewer seats for the winter season.

Gran Canaria will also have fewer seats – around 22,000 in total between December and February.

Across the entire archipelago, around 104,000 seats have been cut in total.

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Outside of the Canary Islands, Malaga Airport will also have five per cent fewer seats over the next six months – between 60,000 and 70,000 seats.

With that totalling nearly 174,000 seats, that could be as many as 1,160 flights, if based on short haul planes carrying around 150 passengers.

While the reasons for the cut in seats haven’t been explained, experts believe it is due to the current economic climate in the UK, as well as the high cost of fuel.

For travellers, fewer seats usually means lower flight frequencies as opposed to widespread cancellations.

It follows Ryanair cutting a number of flights over the summer months.

The budget airline cut 1.2million seats across regional Spain and entirely scrapped all Asturias flights.

Thankfully, some airlines are adding flights to some of the popular Spanish cities.

Wizz Air has introduced three new routes between the UK and Spain.

The routes, which operate from London Luton, go to Malaga, Grenada and Asturias with single fares starting from just £26.99 per person.

Projected season opening date: Nov. 27

What makes it special: Sugar Bowl is an independently-run resort with an old-school, European vibe. Its terrain stretches over four peaks on Donner Summit near Lake Tahoe, varying between steep tree skiing, wide-open groomers, terrain parks and beginner-friendly zones. Season passes and lift tickets are limited here, so the slopes aren’t crowded.

What’s new this season: Sugar Bowl Resort continues a multi-year, $100-million resort development project with major improvements debuting this winter, including a new Village Gondola, a reimagined main lodge and beginner experience, expanded terrain parks and snowmaking on the mountain and enhanced snowmaking at Sugar Rush Tubing.

Lift ticket prices: Dynamic lift ticket pricing, with midweek tickets starting at $99. Sugar Bowl is also introducing new 2-, 3- and 4-day packs. Mountain Collective and Ski California Gold passes honored.

Pro-tip: Sugar Bowl opened with the backing of Walt Disney in 1939, making it one of the oldest ski areas in North America. At the resort, look out for Mt. Disney, along with the Donald Duck run, off the Disney Express chairlift.

FROM East European luxury to affordable Spanish aparthotels – the following resorts have all received masses of rave reviews from British customers.

Loveholidays has collated the top hotels most loved by Brits from thousands of customer reviews over the past year – these are the ones that really have the stamp of approval.

Solymar Gran Hotel The One, Spain

This pretty four-star hotel sits on the sandy shores of Arenal Beach in Calpe with incredible beach views and received incredibly high scores from its customers.

Its two freshwater outdoor swimming pools are available year-round and there are plenty of sun loungers too.

The on-site spa has a sauna, steam bath and hot tub.

A seven-night holiday with breakfast and flights from London Stansted on March 1 starts from £639pp.

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Ikos Olivia, Greece

Luxurious five-star Ikos Olivia is an all-inclusive resort set on a the beach in Gerakini, Northern Greece – and it’s another top scorer.

It has three outdoor pools, a spa, six restaurants and lots of activities from watersports to ball games like tennis, beach volleyball and table tennis.

The rooms vary from twin and double with balconies to bungalow suites with a private garden.

A seven-night, all-inclusive holiday with flights from London Gatwick departing on April 12 starts from £2,219pp.

Hotel Wawel Queen, Poland

Visitors love the four-star Hotel Wawel Queen which sits in the heart of Kraków – its location means it is easy to explore Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square.

After a day of exploration, guests can put their feet up in one of the 49 rooms which have heated floors and flatscreen TVs.

There’s one restaurant on-site too which serves buffet-style breakfasts and it offers service during certain hours.

A seven-night break with breakfast including flights from London Stansted on January 16 starts from £599pp.

Club Tuana Fethiye, Turkey

This resort sits on the coastline of Fethiye in Turkey with beautiful views across the bay.

The hotel’s swimming pools are huge and also form part of the waterpark and water slides.

It has a Kids’ Club divided into Mini for ages 4 to 7 and Maxi for ages 8 to 14 – there’s a playground, slide, playhouse and mini-disco too.

A seven-night all-inclusive holiday including flights from London Gatwick on April 22 starts from £649pp.

Hotel Sumratin, Croatia

The luxurious five-star Hotel Sumratin is highlighted as a great choice for couples looking for a holiday in Dubrovnik.

During the summer season, the outdoor swimming pool opens and there are sun loungers and parasols on the sun terrace too.

One visitor wrote in their review “Beautiful! Polite and attentive staff. Gorgeous food. The rooftop bar, our favourite place to unwind in the evening.”

A seven-night holiday including breakfast and flights from London Stansted on March 7 starts from £809pp.

La Pergola Aparthotel, Majorca

The comfortable four-star La Pergola Aparthotel is described as a ‘superb choice for families’.

The accommodation, which for cleanliness is rated 4.9/5, ranges from cosy studios, one and two-bedroom apartments, bungalows and villas.

Children can splash about in the pool or check out the activities at the kids’ club and playground.

A seven-night self-catering holiday with flights from London Stansted on March 9 starts from £469pp.

Sergiani Garden, Greek Islands

This two-star hotel on the island of Crete has been described as ‘first class’, ‘amazing’ and ‘one of the best restaurants in Stalis’.

It’s set in a peaceful location with easy access to the sandy beach; it also has a children’s pool and playground.

It’s near to the popular coastal resort village of Stalis and is within walking distance to the town and beaches.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Luton on May 3 starts from £419pp.

Iberostar Selection Anthelia, Tenerife

The luxurious five-star Iberostar Selection Anthelia is an adult-only resort in Costa Adeje.

Everything you need for a holiday is at your fingertips, the resort has four restaurants, five bars, three outdoor swimming pools and a spa.

Guests in their review say the hotel is spacious – and that it still didn’t feel busy even during peak summer holiday season.

A seven-night holiday including breakfast with flights from London Stansted on May 2 starts from £1,069pp.

Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto (Old Town), Poland

Another popular hotel in Poland that makes it onto the list is the 4-star Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto.

It’s in a great spot for exploring Poland’s cultural capital with modern rooms and all the essentials.

It’s on-site Winestone Restaurant provides dinner, drinks at the bar and breakfast.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Stansted on January 8 starts from £539pp.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Dubai

This glam hotel in Dubai is the highest five-star hotel in the world and there’s so much there that guests say there’s actually no need to leave the hotel.

It has multiple restaurants and two heated outdoor swimming pools; to enjoy the sunshine, step onto the sun terrace and take a seat on the loungers.

Its rooms are impressive too – these have panoramic views across the city thanks to their floor to ceiling windows.

A seven-night holiday (room only) with flights from London Gatwick on February 8 starts from £1,649pp.

WARM hot chocolate, mulled wine and sugar-dusted doughnuts are just around the corner, as Brits prepare to descend on the nation’s best Christmas markets.

From Edinburgh’s whimsical, fairytale-like market perched just below the glittering castle, to Birmingham’s Bavarian beer hall and Manchester’s mega food haul, each city has something unique to offer.

Here, The Sun has revealed the UK’s best and most beloved Christmas markets, and when you can visit them.

Aberdeen Christmas Village, Aberdeen – 12th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Aberdeen’s city centre is set to welcome a whirlwind of festive cheer with clusters of artisan markets, tasty food stalls and an outdoor ice rink.

Located on Broad Street and Marischal Square, the Scottish city will also feature street entertainment, fireworks and traditional choir concerts.

This year marks its 12th year of Christmas markets.

Bath Christmas Market, Bath– 26th November 2026 to 13th December 2026

Wander through Bath’s historic city centre as it is transformed into a festive paradise filled with dinky chalets, decadent treats, and fun activities for all the family.

Set against the backdrop of Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, the city welcomes more than 170 chalets selling artisan gifts and trinkets.

It has welcomed visitors from all over the world since 2001.

Belfast Christmas Market, Belfast – 14th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

Established in 2004, Belfast is home to one of Northern Ireland’s most popular Christmas markets with over 100 stalls selling largely local produce.

Highlights include a stunning, vintage carousel, a giant helter-skelter and panoramic city views.

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham – 5th November 2026 to 24th December 2026

Birmingham’s annual Christmas market has been lighting up the city since 2001 with its unique Frankfurt themed stalls and a merry Bavarian beer hall.

It is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria and has more than 200 stalls.

Visitors can tuck into a selection of traditional treats including sizzling bratwursts, frankfurters, schnitzels, warm buttery pretzels.

Blenheim Palace Christmas Market, Woodstock – 13th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

Set against the UNESCO World Heritage backdrop of Sir John Vanbrugh’s 18th-century baroque architecture in Woodstock, it’s one of the most scenic Christmas markets in the UK.

Vendors typically sell high-end boutique goods such as handcrafted jewellery, and food is often locally sourced.

Blenheim Palace’s Christmas market is on the smaller side with around 80 stalls, and is returning for its 8th year.

Bristol Christmas Market, Bristol – 6th November 2026 to 23rd December 2026

Bristol will once again adorn its city centre with twinkling lights and the delicious aromas of Christmas treats.

Located in Broadmead within the Bristol Shopping Quarter, the market contains shops, food stalls and a popular Jäger Barn Bar with heated seating and live music.

The market, which is returning for its 19th year, also features a Ferris wheel, private ski gondolas and igloo pods.

Caerphilly Christmas Market, Caerphilly – 21 November

Nestled near Caerphilly Castle, the family friendly market has plenty to offer from food, craft, and gift stalls, street theatre, and activities galore.

The one day festival has been running for over 15 years and sells a range of delicious Welsh produce.

Canterbury Christmas Market, Canterbury – 12th November 2026 to 24th December 2026

Canterbury may have one of the oldest traditions of Christmas markets having previously hosted festive markets from the 14th to the 19th century.

After a 200- year hiatus, it was revived again in 2024, where each year it is now transformed into a medieval Christmas paradise with over 120 huts, featuring Kentish ales, gins, and festive treats.

Cardiff Christmas Market, Cardiff – 12th November 2026 to 23rd December 2026

This year, Cardiff will welcome over 200 rotating independent craft makers, handmade jewellery, ceramics, glasswork, seasonal food, and hot mulled wine.

It is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Wales with 31 years of history behind it.

Chatsworth House Christmas Market, Bakewell – 7th November 2026 to 13th December 2026

Each year, Chatsworth is filled with dozens of market stalls and food markets, with some sample favourites including Derbyshire hog roast, Cornish pasties, Yorkshire pudding wraps, and bratwurst.

Set in the gorgeous 17th century stately home, Chatsworth House has run for 25 years.

As well as tucking into festive food, visitors can also check in at the ski lift bar or double-decker bus bar where festive brews, slush cocktails, and Prosecco, are served.

Chester Christmas Market, Chester – 18th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

Located next to Chester Cathedral, the 13 year old market will be returning this year for a fun-filled array of food markets and shops.

Back by popular demand, customers can pick up collectable ceramic mugs featuring illustrations of the Town Hall and Eastgate Clock.

Covent Garden Winter Festival, London – 12th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

This year, London’s Covent Garden will commence festivities on 3 November with a Christmas light switch on featuring a Theatre of Christmas theme and over 300,000 sparkling LED lights.

As well as being dressed to the nines in Christmas decorations, Covent Garden will also see magical daily snow flurries in its piazza from 4 December.

Dundee Christmas Market, Dundee – 27th November 2026 to 30th December 2026

Dundee’s city centre will play host to traditional market stalls, an alpine bar, fairground rides, food and drinks and daily evening light displays.

It will be an intimate, compact winter event, rather than a large-scale Christmas festival like other UK cities.

Durham Christmas Festival, Durham – 4th December 2026 to 6th December 2026

Featuring 200 stalls, Durham Christmas market will be open for two days at the beginning of December.

Located between Palace Green and the Cathedral, there will be live festive music, an abundance of tasty treats, and market stalls with gifts galore.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Market, Edinburgh – 14th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Edinburgh will host its famous Christmas market again this year. Along with huts, shops, and food, it will include the LNER Big Wheel, a giant observation wheel with enclosed pods offering panoramic city views.

There will also be an ice bar, an 80-meter-high spinning swing ride towering over the gardens, and an award-winning cabaret and circus show at Bristo Square.

However, this year will have one exception. After 30 years, Edinburgh’s Christmas market will not have its famous ice rink this year despite previously having been a main feature of the city’s market.

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market (Exeter) – 13th November 2026 to 13th December 2026

Exeter Cathedral will become a festive hub come December as it is lined with over 100 decorated wooden chalets featuring local artisans, West Country produce, handcrafted gifts, and holiday decor.

It’s run for 13 years and welcomes around 600,000 guests each year.

Glasgow Christmas Fair, Glasgow – 6th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Glasgow is set to open in one of the earlier Christmas markets, which will include an ice rink with a Bavarian-style bar inside it, an observation wheel and a Very Merry Circus.

There will also be a huge screen playing festive favourites, food stalls, Santa’s grotto and several fun rides. The market has been a popular annual event since the 1990s.

Greenwich Market Christmas, London – 19th November 2026 to 24th December 2026

Greenwich will kick off its Christmas market this year with light switch on on 19 November. The event will feature a children’s lantern parade through the Old Royal Naval College and Cutty Sark Gardens.

Alongside food stalls, there will also be an outdoor ice rink at Queen’s House, a Santa’s grotto, and 10-foot Christmas tree spectacle.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London – 19th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest and most famous Christmas fair and has been running for nearly two decades.

Year on year, Winter Wonderland has only grown bigger and more exciting with dozens of delicious food vendors and more than 150 funfair rides.

As well as hosting the UK’s largest open air ice rink, Winter Wonderland also features a Magical Ice Kingdom, a walk-through attraction made from over 500 tonnes of carved ice, featuring a -10°C temperature.

Kingston Christmas Market, Kingston upon Thames – 12th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Enjoy a European-style Christmas market with over 40 stalls, countless tasty food options, and plentiful mulled wine.

Kingston Christmas market has run for over a decade and offers an array of festive activities.

Leeds Christmas Market, Leeds – 19th November 2026 to 23rd December 2026

Leeds Christmas market will commence mid November and will take place across several parts of the city, including the centre, Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens and Cookridge Street.

Over 60 local traders will set up camp across the city, filling the streets with food stalls, live entertainment, and a winter bar.

A favourite at Leeds Christmas market is THOR’S Highland Lodge & Folie Après Ski Bar, a cosy, alpine-themed space with themed drinks.

Lincoln Cathedral Christmas Market, Lincoln – 3rd December 2026 to 5th December 2026

Lincoln was once home to one of the nation’s most popular Christmas markets, but was recently scrapped due to overcrowding concerns.

However, this year, the city’s nearly 1000-year-old cathedral will hold a small ticketed Christmas fair to commemorate the festive period.

Although smaller, it will include a selection of food and gift stalls.

Liverpool Christmas Market, Liverpool – 21st November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Liverpool’s Christmas market will see a new outdoor ice rink this year, among it’s many festive affairs.

The festival will light up in its usual U-formation around St George’s Square, and will see food vendors, gift traders, and fairgrounds rides.

Manchester Christmas Markets, Manchester – 6th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

First launched in 1998, Manchester is the UK’s biggest Christmas market and this year will host a whopping 210 stalls in total.

Albert Square will be where most of the city’s festivities will be, including its 50-metre high Ferris wheel.

There will also be a pop-up ‘pub’ for the festive season as well as a giant Santa, a vintage Helter Skelter and a huge tree installation and life-sized selfie sleigh.

Newcastle Christmas Market, Newcastle upon Tyne – 19th November 2026 to 23rd December 2026

Newcastle is home to an even older Christmas market, having started with just a handful of stalls in 1982.

This year’s festivities will see the return of many family favourites, including Moosenwirt bar, the North Pole igloos, the Rockin’ Reindeer stage, Festive Flix and Santa’s Stories

Norwich Christmas Market & Tunnel of Light, Norwich – 12th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

The Christkindl market is a newer event in Norwich, and this year will see 10-ays of German-inspired market stalls making it the first traditional city-centre Christmas market of its kind.

Nottingham Winter Wonderland, Nottingham – 11th November 2026 to 31st December 2026

Nottingham Winter Wonderland has been running for 17 years, each year opening its city centre to an abundance of Christmas cheer.

Wooden craft and food stalls, an open-air ice rink, a Sky Skate ice path, an observation wheel, and alpine-themed bars, will all pile into Old Market Square to celebrate the festive season.

Oxford Christmas Market, Oxford – 21st November 2026 to 31st December 2026

This Christmas, the historic Broad Street in Oxford City Centre, will be transformed into a magical festive celebration.

Alongside ample opportunities to munch on tasty snacks and shop for Christmas presents, visitors will also be treated to a range of live street performances.

Plymouth Christmas Market, Plymouth – 26th November 2026 to 20th December 2026

Plymouth will host a German-inspired Christmas market this year with treats and decor galore.

New this year is Crafter’s Cove – a warm, atmospheric craft village featuring dozens of local artisans displaying handcrafted gifts, bespoke artwork, and unique creations.

Sheffield Christmas Market, Sheffield – 12th November 2026 to 26th December 2026

Visitors can tuck into German sausages, Yorkshire pudding wraps, raclette, churros, toasted marshmallows, and many more delicious snacks at Sheffield Christmas market.

Festivities in the city have taken place for 12 years and spread across the city. As well as the usual vendors, families can also ride the iconic Big Wheel, or meet Santa in his grotto.

Southbank Centre Winter Market, London – 2nd November 2026 to 3rd January

Southbank winter market will see the banks of the Thames turned into a frosty wonderland featuring alpine cabins, warm mugs of mulled wine and delicious Dutch pancakes among much more.

Visitors can amble through the many stalls and take in the festive atmosphere that has lit up the Southbank for the last 23 Christmases.

Swansea Christmas Market, Swansea – 29th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

Festive chalets along Oxford Street and Portland Street will be offering unique gifts, tempting treats and beautiful decorations in Swansea this year.

The Welsh city has been hosting marvellous merry events for nearly three decades.

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market, London – 6th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

A Christmas light switch on will be held at Trafalgar Square on 3 December, after which, passers-by can enjoy snacks from local alpine huts or shop for handmade gifts.

It will also feature a traditional Norwegian Christmas tree gifted to London by Norway, which they have been doing since 1947.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, Winchester – 20th November 2026 to 22nd December 2026

Located at Winchester’s famous cathedral, this year’s Christmas market will be like many others around the UK – filled with aromatic cinnamon smells and packed with handcrafted gifts.

The city held its first Christmas market in 2006.

Winter by the River at London Bridge, London – 10th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Winter by the River lines the Thames path with wooden huts, all the way to Tower Bridge.

Visitors can stroll along the scenic path taking in the tantalising smells, gift stalls, and even pop into the heated rooftop bar for a cosy winter beverage.

York St Nicholas Fair, York – 12th November 2026 to 21st December 2026

Wander York’s historic streets and snickelways, browse independent shops and festive finds.

Alpine chalets will line Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, showcasing local crafts, artisan products, unique gifts and delicious seasonal treats.

The study considered six key factors: life expectancy, income per person, income equality, recreational and cultural amenities, internet speed, and housing costs

A picturesque European city has been crowned the “most liveable destination” on the planet by the Global Cities Index, thanks largely to its walkability. The research examined six crucial elements: life expectancy, income per person, income equality, recreational and cultural amenities, internet speed, and housing costs.

While European cities command the rankings, an Australian city also secured a place on the list

10. Nantes

Nantes, a lively city in western France, is celebrated for its rich history, cultural attractions, and bustling urban life. The Château des Ducs de Bretagne, once home to the Dukes of Brittany, now hosts the Nantes History Museum.

It provides a window into the city’s medieval past with its well-preserved architecture and exhibitions, reports the Express.

9. Ghent

Ghent, a charming city in Belgium, is famed for its medieval allure, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning architecture. It’s also the country’s most pedestrian-friendly destination. The town’s scenic canal-side streets are ideal for a leisurely wander. The historical buildings along the canals create beautiful reflections in the water, offering iconic views of the city’s historic architecture.

8. Zurich

Switzerland’s largest city is famous for its high quality of life, stunning surroundings, and rich cultural scene. Residents can enjoy strolls along Lake Zurich’s shores, embark on a boat tour, or unwind in one of the lakeside parks.

7. Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best places to live. The city centre is home to Tjörnin, a picturesque pond surrounded by charming buildings, offering a tranquil spot for leisurely strolls and bird-watching.

6. Luxembourg

Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg, boasts low crime rates and impeccably clean streets, contributing to a strong sense of safety and well-being among its inhabitants. The city’s public transport network is highly efficient and extensive, with the recent introduction of free public transport further enhancing accessibility and convenience for residents.

5. Basel

Basel, a Swiss city, is lauded for its high standard of living, combining a vibrant cultural scene with practical, top-quality living conditions. The city is home to world-class healthcare facilities such as the University Hospital Basel, renowned for its high standards and innovative treatments.

4. Bergen

Bergen, located in Norway, is famed for its stunning natural landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and coastal vistas. The city offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking in nearby mountains like Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken to sailing and kayaking in the fjords.

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3. Bern

Switzerland’s capital city, Bern, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and landmarks such as the Zytglogge clock tower and the Bear Park add to its unique charm.

2. Canberra

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is recognised for its high liveability due to its unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and well-planned urban design. Known for its high standard of living, Canberra boasts clean and safe environments, well-maintained public spaces, and efficient public services. The city’s low crime rate and high levels of personal security significantly contribute to its liveability.

1. Grenoble

Nestled in the French Alps, Grenoble is a gem that combines natural beauty, a vibrant cultural life, and a high quality of life. It’s also a hub for scientific research and technological innovation, particularly in the fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology.

Grenoble is particularly known for its bike-friendly initiatives, including extensive bike lanes and rental services.

ASK most kids if they fancy a trip to an art exhibition and you’re unlikely to get an overly-enthusiastic answer. 

But what if that art exhibition included a ball pit, an enormous bouncy castle and flying balloons? You might suddenly have a mini art critic on your hands. 

Step in the Balloon Museum, which last graced the UK in 2023 with its EmotionAir: Art you can feel exhibition at Old Billingsgate in 2023. 

It’s now back, this time at Immerse London on Excel Waterfront with its latest offering EUPHOЯIA – Art is in the Air. 

The concept of the Balloon Museum is that it’s a new way to experience contemporary art, with large-scale installations created by international artists including Turner Prize winner Martin Creed. 

EUPHOЯIA in particular, invites those artists to use air and inflatable materials “as a contemporary artistic language” that “invites visitors to explore, interact and see the familiar in unexpected ways.” 

Read more on travel inspo

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It’s fair to say all of this went entirely over my seven year old’s head on our visit, both literally and figuratively speaking. 

Because while it might be about art, it’s also A LOT of fun. 

Our first stop was a giant glass-walled room filled with enormous balloons that you have to push your way through to reach the end. 

There was also a room filled with large inflatable cubes that we used to build an enormous fort, one with an enormous bed that could fit 20 people and a giant Covid virus-style inflatable, among others. 

But our favourites were the huge ball pit bigger than a ballroom, the most enormous bouncy castle I’ve ever seen – at least 25m in length and filled with inflatables, a balloon whirlwind and a very clever mechanical tree that dropped bubbles filled with smoke. 

Of course, all of this also made for some incredible photo opportunities too. 

We’ve got about a gazillion grinning selfies from our visit – the hallmark of every great Millennial day out.  

So will my son now be requesting a membership to the Tate Modern on his Santa List? Probably not. 

But he will definitely be far more open to my next suggestion of a trip to a gallery… how to explain there won’t be any inflatables to play with once there is another matter altogether. 

Tickets for EUPHOЯIA – Art is in the Air at ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, from £20 for children and £26 for adults, with family tickets from £59.

As we walked through the orchard to our cabin at dusk, shadowy figures emerged from the mist. We stood stock-still and held our breath. Most of them saw us and fled, but one held its ground, unwilling to relinquish its stolen goods. Muntjac have clearly developed quite a taste for windfall apples.

My boyfriend and I left the little deer to dinner and walked on to the quince orchard, where our cabin waited in the far corner. This is the sixth Red Cabin to open in the UK. The first was on a sheep farm in Kent; others followed on farms and vineyards in south and east England. Ours was on Drove Orchards on the edge of the village of Thornham, on the north Norfolk coast.

On this chilly late October evening, our first priority was to start three fires: one in the wood-fired stove to heat the cabin, the others for the built-in sauna and the hot tub on the deck. It sounded arduous but was actually easy as the stoves were ready laid with starter logs – guests simply have to light the log, then add more wood when needed.

The cabin was soon toasty – its recycled plastic insulation keeps it pretty warm anyway – but it would take a couple of hours for the sauna and tub to heat up. We cracked open the rhubarb cider we had bought from the onsite farm shop and settled down to watch for owls. We heard one or two calling, but only geese passed overhead.

The sauna is at one end of the cabin, accessed from the deck. We started stints in it when it reached a pleasant 40C, but kept stoking it until it got to a sweaty 70C. We waited longer for the hot tub, finally easing into it when it was steaming and the sky was filled with stars. Like all the cabins, the one at Drove Orchards is completely private; we were overlooked only by trees.

After such a relaxing evening, we slept soundly in the kingsize bed with superbly squishy pillows, and woke to the view of woodland through the huge picture window. According to the design notes, the cabins are built for “calm rather than cosiness”, with Japanese and Scandinavian influences. The unfussy design allows nature to take centre stage, as it did on this bright autumn morning. Sunlight streamed into the cabin as we made coffee in the tiny kitchen and drank it out on the deck, listening to the birdsong.

The cabins are all identical, built in Britain by a small team using largely British materials (the sauna components are Finnish). They are built on a wheeled chassis, so they don’t need concrete foundations, and made from timber, plywood, cork, wool and hemp. They are off-grid – electricity is generated by solar panels on the roof and stored in batteries, and the “smart” dry toilet uses a system that bags waste (guests just press a button, like regular flushing). Each cabin has water from the mains supply.

After hot showers in the compact bathroom, we set off on foot. We had driven to Drove Orchards, but actually you don’t need a car – the nearest train station is King’s Lynn, and the Coastliner bus from there stops right outside the orchard. The other cabins are also in secluded but not wild locations, within walking distance of a pub and various attractions. On Uplees Fruit Farm in Oare, Kent, for example, there is a private swimming lake right outside. At Drove, it is a half-hour walk on footpaths and boardwalks across the marshes to Thornham Beach and Holme Dunes nature reserve.

We fancied a longer walk, so we turned right rather than left at the coast and headed to RSPB Titchwell Marsh, then walked along the vast sandy beach to Brancaster. The tide was way out but we still had to take off our boots, roll up our trousers and wade across some icy channels. We continued to Brancaster Staithe before catching the bus back, so we had time to explore the shops at Drove – as well as the farm shop, there are independent homewares, antiques, vintage clothes and a wine merchant, plus a cafe, pizzeria and chippy.

We decided to head into Thornham for dinner, about 15 minutes’ walk from the cabin. The cosy 16th-century Lifeboat Inn serves Norfolk drinks (Woodforde’s Wherry beer, Flint Vineyard’s sparkling rosé) by an open fire, and has a seasonal menu – I had an excellent pumpkin katsu curry (£22).

The Red Cabin’s founder, Tally Rix, aims to help farmers diversify. She works with individual landowners, and with tenant farmers through the National Trust, to select new sites for the cabins. Two more are opening this month and next: at Wyken Vineyards in Stanton, Suffolk, and Rathfinny Wine Estate in Alfriston, East Sussex.

We visited Drove a little too late for this year’s pick-your-own season, when guests can help themselves to 140 varieties of apples, pears, plums, cherries and quinces. Instead, we toasted the harvest with a glass of newly pressed sparkling apple juice. If the delicious drink was anything to go by, I could see why the local deer are so keen on the fruit.

The trip was provided by The Red Cabin. Cabins from £220 a night, sleeps up to four, theredcabin.co.uk

It’s the first week of November, and that means it’s officially the holiday season, which is my favorite time to visit our local theme parks. Disneyland is first out of the gate, unveiling its full slate of holiday programming on Nov. 13. Universal Studios Hollywood and Knott’s Berry Farm will follow the weekend of Nov. 20.

For many, it’s also a season of gift giving, which can be one of the most daunting parts of this time of year. Thankfully, our theme parks are here to help — enter any of them and it’s difficult to walk more than a few feet without passing a souvenir shop, stand or stall.

To celebrate the start of the holiday season — and to coincide with the launch of The Times’ extensive gift guide — I’ve decided to dedicate this newsletter to some of my favorite items currently available at our theme parks. A word of warning, however. I’m a bit of a dork for monorails, and I like silly things, so this list does possess a slight personal bias. But like our paper’s guides to stocking stuffers or unique, made-in-L.A. items, consider it primarily a source of inspiration.

Or a reminder, perhaps, to schedule a visit to one of our theme parks this holiday season and bring home a little gift for yourself.

Disneyland

My favorite new item available at Disneyland is essentially a flip book, albeit one styled as a vintage ‘50s-style TV with brown casing that can house multiple oversize flip books. Turn it on, and it springs into action, playing scenes from either “Steamboat Willie,” “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” or “Flowers and Trees,” all classic pieces of Disney animation. The images unfold, of course, where the screen would be, and the set also plays music from the animated works. This Disney Animation Television (pictured above) is $99, and you can find it at Disney California Adventure’s Off the Page. It is a park exclusive.

I warned I was a monorail fiend, and new this year at the Disneyland Hotel is a collection from midcentury artist Scott “Scooter” Burroughs. I know many a Disneyland fan is a mug collector, so I’m highlighting this Burroughs-designed Disneyland Hotel item, which has the hotel’s vintage logo on one side, and Mickey and Minnie carrying luggage in front of one of the hotel’s towers and monorail on the other. The teal Disneyland Hotel coffee mug (pictured above), complete with an ornate Disney “D” handle, is $24.99 and available in the hotel’s gift shop.

I’m also showcasing the $24.99 monorail salt & pepper shakers (pictured above), which despite having been available for multiple years, remains my favorite gift at the resort. Yes, they’re in the style of Walt Disney World’s current monorails. but I love the mini track holder and smile every time I use them. Available throughout the resort, including Disney Home in Downtown Disney.

A new Fantasyland sweatshirt has arrived at Disneyland.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

The Disneyland Resort has in recent years upped its fashion game. Too often I’d spy a shirt or sweatshirt I liked, and turn it around only to find the understated design on the front was paired with a garish creation on the back. Thankfully, the park seems to be moving away from that style, and this year debuted a gorgeous, restrained yet artful Fantasyland sweatshirt featuring a flying pirate galleon from “Peter Pan.” It’s $69.99 and available at multiple shops, including the Disneyland Hotel or the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. I love its minimal use of colors, pairing a creamy white with a royal blue.

For the last Disney item, I’m going to pivot slightly to include a selection from Walt Disney World. As I write this newsletter I’m listening to the newly released “Epcot” vinyl (pictured above), a two-LP set that spans the history of the Florida park. As someone who visited the park yearly as a child, it’s a nostalgic joy, featuring music from “Journey into Imagination,” “Universe of Energy,” “The Land” and more, but the primary keepers for me are some of the Future World instrumentals. This is available online from the Disney Music Emporium for $32.99.

Universal Studios

I can’t resist when Universal Studios Hollywood releases items that center the park’s tram tour. So I immediately wanted this King Kong plush (pictured above) that features the giant gorilla cradling a mini tram vehicle. This, in my mind, is a nod to the attraction when it featured a large animatronic of Kong that would create the illusion of rocking the ride vehicles, so in addition to being cuddly, it has a sort of vintage coolness. This park exclusive item is $30, and can be found in the Universal Studio Store near the entrance.

I don’t think the kitchen cupboard of any Universal Studios Hollywood fan is complete without a few pieces of the park’s retro glassware (pictured above). I have the one styled after the late great E.T. Adventure ride, which opened here in 1991 but sadly left the park in 2003. The ‘80s-style graphic cups have mini ride summaries. Each one is $10, and the park also has glassware styled after the “Back to the Future” ride (RIP) and the Kong section of the tram tour. The items can be found in the Universal Studio Store.

There’s a whole lot of Yoshi’s in this colorful shirt at Universal Studios Hollywood.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

Universal Studios Hollywood is also the go-to shop for fans of the “Harry Potter” franchise and Nintendo. I’m a bigger fan of the latter, so I’m going to focus on a couple of my favorite Nintendo items. I’ve long been eyeing this Yoshi camp shirt, but I’m not yet persuaded I can pull it off; one of these days I’m sure I’ll be break down and buy the $75 item. I love its mix of green and pinks, and dig the soft, playful vibe. Plus, everyone adores Yoshi.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s mini-”Jaws” puzzle is an ideal stocking stuffer.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

The park also has a fair amount of Nintendo toys, including Mario, Bowser and Yoshi, but I’m a big fan of the dancing Piranha Plant, which spins and rotates when exposed to noise. It’s $37 and a little goofy, but I can’t have plants in my apartment because my cat instantly destroys them, so I’m always on the prowl for toys that double as greenery.

The Universal Studio Store has small sections dedicated to a number of the films featured in the park, and I was smitten with this mini “Jaws” puzzle, which would make an excellent stocking stuffer for fans of the Steven Spielberg classic. It’s $15, comes in an easy-to-store capsule, and features bright, cartoonish poster art.

Knott’s Berry Farm

I love all things boysenberry and at any time throughout the year you can find numerous boysenberry items around my apartment. Lately, I’ve been using the park’s boysenberry cream hand soap, which sells for $16.99. Look for it at numerous shops at the theme park, including the main store just outside the park or the hotel gift shop. It does have a powerful berry fragrance, but I don’t mind as it allows me to pretend I’m spending the night at the park. If you can’t make it to the park, Knott’s sells a $12.99 boysenberry bath bomb online.

The boysenberry, a Knott’s creation, is a delight, a sort of midpoint between a blackberry and a raspberry, although sweeter than both. That’s why I never don’t have a jar of boysenberry jam (pictured above) on hand. They’re $12.99 and available pretty much everywhere at the park but also online. The boysenberry jam is a hearty jelly, its taste reminding me of fall, as it’s not a thin, easily-spreadable jam.

Knott’s stages its annual boysenberry fest each spring, and it’s always a good time to sample dozens of boysenberry-infused foods. Typically, I prefer a more subtle touch, which is why I’ve become a big fan of the park’s boysenberry pancake mix, which sells for $7.99 and is available throughout the park and online. Each bundle is good for a number of meals, although I tend to use more than the recommended dose for thicker, larger pancakes. It’s not a heavy boysenberry flavor, so if you want to go overboard you can pair them with boysenberry syrup, which sells for $12.99 per bottle.

While I focused on boysenberry items in this list, it would be derelict of me not to mention that Knott’s Berry Farm is a prime source for all things “Peanuts.” The boysenberry, however, is such a SoCal original that I’ve been known to visit the park for the sole purpose of snaring a boysenberry pie, which I should mention is a perfect Thanksgiving dessert.

This week in SoCal theme parks

Layoffs last week hit Disney’s experiences division, which oversees its theme parks.

(AaronP / Bauer-Griffin / GC Images)

• Layoffs hit Walt Disney Imagineering. Last week The Times revealed that just under 200 people would be cut from Disney’s experiences division, which includes Disney’s theme parks, cruise line and Aulani resort and spa in Hawaii. Many of those involved, sources say, were with Walt Disney Imagineering. None of the currently announced projects for the Disneyland Resort are believed to be affected.
• Another coaster is coming to Magic Mountain. Six Flags’ Valencia park is soon going to be home to ArieForce One, which previously resided at the now-shuttered Fun Spot America near Atlanta. Six Flags purchased the coaster earlier this year, but at the time did not announce where it would be relocated. Magic Mountain hopes to open ArieForce One in 2028, according to a park spokesperson. The news was first reported by Brady MacDonald of the OC Register.
• Express access comes to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. Getting on Universal’s fancy new coaster will now be a little easier, at least for those who are willing to pay to skip the line. Universal Studios Hollywood is now selling a paid line-skipping pass for $19.95 per person. This will give you an entry time to return to the attraction.
• Happy holidays! The Disneyland Resort is giving us a beer stand. Set to open in the coming days at Disney California Adventure is Bountiful Valley Brews, a new beer stall that will also sell a pepperoni pizza egg roll. In addition to local ales, Bountiful Valley will also sell a margarita and a Southern whiskey peach tea. The kiosk will be located near the entrance to Avengers Campus.
• A new immersive experience is coming to Anaheim. TeamLab, the Japan-born, tech-heavy immersive art collective, is plotting its first permanent U.S. exhibition in Anaheim. The group, stylized as teamLab, is moving into a 110,000-square-foot space at OCVibe, the 100-acre mixed-use entertainment district currently in development near the Honda Center. The teamLab spot is not estimated to open until 2030, but a press release specifies this will be a new exhibition and not a re-creation of one of the collective’s popular international exhibits.

Tell us your stories. Ask us your questions.

Have a theme park tale to share? Whether it was a good day or less-than-perfect day, I would love to hear about it. Have a question? A tip? A fun photo from the parks to share? Email me at todd.martens@latimes.com. I may feature your note in an upcoming newsletter.

Ride on,

Todd Martens

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