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A MAJOR regional UK airport is set to lose another airline – just weeks after easyJet announced it is withdrawing flights.

Aurigny, a Channel Islands airline, has announced that it is suspending its flights at Leeds Bradford Airport between Yorkshire and Guernsey.

The airline has been at the airport for a decade, with several thousand passengers using the service each year.

However, the route will be scrapped in 2027, with Aurigny saying citing aircraft availability as the reason.

The Yorkshire to Guernsey service used to operate twice a week between May and September.

According to The Press, a spokesperson for the airline said: “The route has been traditionally popular with travellers from the North of England and will not be operated next year solely due to aircraft availability.

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“Aurigny would like to place on record its thanks to the management at Leeds Bradford airport for all the support received whilst operating to the airport.

“Travellers to/from Yorkshire and beyond will still be served by Aurigny’s flights between Manchester and Guernsey, which will continue to provide good access to customers across the North and North-West of England.”

A spokesperson for Leeds Bradford Airport said: “Aurigny is choosing to prioritise its core island flying next year and, as a result, LBA sadly drops out of its programme for summer 2027.

“This will be disappointing for the several thousand passengers who have used the service each year, and certainly disappointing news for Leeds Bradford Airport as we know performance this summer was excellent.”

The decision follows easyJet‘s announcement of also withdrawing from the airport.

EasyJet will axe all its flights from the airport from January 5, 2027 including routes to Barcelona, Majorca, Malaga and Paris, as well as Geneva and Belfast.

The airline previously said in a statement: “Following a review of our routes from Leeds Bradford Airport, we have made the decision to no longer operate flights from the airport after 5 January.

“Our focus is on maintaining and developing routes which prove most popular with customers.

“We value the relationship we have built with Leeds Bradford Airport and we always keep options for our network under review, with the aim of providing more choice and connectivity where we see demand.”

Airlines such as Jet2 and Ryanair still operate from the airport.

Avanti West Coast research says that more than half of all passengers would like a completely phone-free carriage

Railway boffins claim to have discovered the ‘perfect train journey’ – from dodging boiled eggs and sweaty feet to revealing the best seat on any train. Avanti West Coast research and customer data claims to have revealed the unwritten rules of onboard comfort and which behaviours generate disapproving tuts.

The intercity operator has launched its first Comfort Index to provide a unique insight into what passengers value most during their journey and how it varies across Britain.

Their research said more than two thirds (77%) said they want a window seat, 69% prefer to face forward and 58% want an empty seat beside them. Exactly one in five (20%) would even travel 15 minutes longer to keep it empty, 18% would pay an extra £5 and 22% would sacrifice Wi-Fi.

Another one in five (20%) would even swap their coveted window seat for a little more space. Avanti’s booking data suggests there may be such a thing as the perfect train seat, with Seat 18 in Coach B being the most reserved seat on its Pendolino services.

It was booked 179,685 times between September 2025 – September 2026 and matches passenger preferences of having a window and table.

While those travelling on the West Coast Main Line have similar thoughts about seats, snacks proved controversial with 52% of rail travellers objecting to boiled eggs and 48% to tuna sandwiches being eaten onboard.

They say the famously reserved reputation of British people extends to the carriage environment too, with more than two-thirds (68%) wanting more quiet carriages.

More than half (52%) would even choose a completely phone-free carriage, suggesting that for many Brits, the dream journey might simply be one where nobody makes any noise.

The Index also reveals a generational shift in the unwritten rules of train travel, with Gen Z passengers being more tolerant of video calls. It says 38% think Facetiming onboard is unacceptable compared to almost three quarters (72%) of over-65s.

Sounds of other people’s phones onboard reveals an even bigger generation gap. A huge 88% of over-65s object to TikToks or videos without headphones compared to just 51% of 18-24-year-olds.

Younger passengers are said to place greater emphasis on choice and ‘making the journey their own’. A surprising 62% of 25-34-year-olds say choosing between Standard, Premium and First Class matters during planning compared with 42% of over-65s.

Gen Z are bringing their own comforts onboard too, with one in eight (12%) 18-24-year-olds saying they’d even pack a massage gun. Avanti West Coast say everyone seems to agree on keeping your socks on, as three quarters (75%) say taking them off onboard is unacceptable.

A whopping 70% object to TikToks without headphones and 67% to someone cutting or filing their nails. The study also shows how rail journeys are considered part of the occasion, with 69% of Brits saying their leisure time starts the moment they get onboard.

Between September 2025 – September 2026 Avanti West Coast say their customers drank almost 420,000 cups of breakfast tea and ate 212,000 KitKats.

Beer proved another favourite, with 154,000 Grolsch Pilsners sold, painting a suitably British picture of onboard comfort – a cuppa, something sweet or a cold beer en route. From seating preference and noise tolerance to boiled eggs, the Index shows Brits might never agree on exactly what makes the perfect journey.

Kathryn O’Brien at Avanti West Coast said: “The Comfort Index shows everyone’s definition of comfort varies. While there’s some unspoken rail travel etiquette most seem to agree on, beyond that people have different thoughts on what makes a comfortable journey.

“For some it’s peace and quiet while for others it’s getting work done, enjoying a snack or having space to relax.

“Customers most value the ability to shape their journey around their own needs, whether that’s choosing the perfect seat or enjoying a cup of tea onboard. That’s why we offer our seat picker tool and a range of refreshments in our onboard shop, helping customers to enjoy their trip from the very moment they board.

“By better understanding what matters most to our customers, we can continue to enhance and develop the onboard experience. This includes upgrading Wi-Fi connectivity to make travelling with Avanti West Coast as comfortable as possible for everyone.”

The full Avanti West Coast Comfort Index is available here

WHEN you think of theme parks you probably picture spiralling rollercoasters and splashtastic log flumes.

But one lesser-known theme park with no rides has actually been named the best in Europe.

Named Europe’s leading theme park by the World Travel Awards, Puy du Fou España is a historical theme park on the outskirts of Toledo, Spain – less than an hour from Madrid.

Rather than rollercoasters, visitors can expect large-scale live action shows with falconry displays featuring more than 200 birds.

The theme park is home to five historical villages – The Andalusian Askar, The Royal Town, Isidro’s Sale, The Suburb and Villaneuva del Corral.

The Andalusian Askar, for example, recreates the atmosphere of the 10th-century Córdoba.

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And then in Villanueva del Corral, the theme is centred on a 16th-century Golden Age hamlet with traditional Spanish taverns.

During the day, visitors can watch a number of shows including the 25-minute immersive Beyond the Ocean Sea show which focuses on the Santa Maria ship trying to reach the East by sailing West.

At night, there’s the El Sueño de Toledo spectacular, which is a show about 1,500 years of Spanish history and includes water effects, lighting and hundreds of actors.

The park also has a number of outdoor play areas too and farm areas as well.

Scattered around the park visitors can also explore a number of shops for unique souvenirs.

Tickets cost from €37 (£31.07) per person.

And the even better news is that you won’t have to wait long until heading to similar theme park in the UK.

Ste to open in 2029, there will be a £600million Puy du Fou theme park in the UK.

But instead of focusing on Spanish history, the theme park will focus on British history and folklore.

The park will be near Bicester in Oxfordshire and like the Spanish park, feature no rollercoasters or rides.

Instead, the park will span through woodland and gardens with 13 live shows, including seven indoors.

The shows will all be set around major milestones in British history such as the Celts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Tudors and Victoria’s reign.

There are also plans to build three hotels onsite that would each be themed around different British eras.

The park plans to operate seasonally each year from April to October.

Legend has it that Faskally Forest – the Pitlochry location of Scotland’s most famous sound and light show – steals an hour from time itself every 25 years. This year marks a quarter of a century since the first Enchanted Forest, and the theme taps into the legend: Stop the Clock: The 25th Hour. The trail is a mystical, atmospheric wander through jewel-hued woodland, with misbehaving clocks, time-themed installations and immersive soundscapes creating the sense of a dreamlike world. There are autism-friendly sessions and free carers’ tickets and an accessibility bus for those with mobility issues.

Until 8 Nov, adults from £28.50, kids from £15.50, family from £78.50, including shuttle bus to and from the event

EASYJET is allowing parents to claim back the cost of their baby’s first passport from today.

Simply book an easyJet holiday, use the promo code and the £66.60 will come off the price of the break.

The new initiative starts from today after research showed that almost four in five parents said a baby’s first holiday was a landmark family moment.

Usually when Brits apply for a baby passport online, it costs £66.60 – a paper application sent by post increases the price to £80.

But with the airline, this cost will be paid for by easyJet when families book their next holiday.

Use the promo code FIRSTPASSPORT when making the booking to get the extra discount.

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There’s no minimum spend on the holiday and children must be two-years-old or younger at the time of travel.

The offer ends on November 26 at 11pm – for more information, head here.

Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said: “Travel has a unique way of bringing families together, and a baby’s very first holiday is often one of those moments parents remember for years to come.

“By covering the cost of a baby’s first passport, we’re helping more families start making those memories that little bit sooner.

“Combined with our great-value packages, family-friendly hotels and thousands of Free Kids Places, it’s another way we’re making family holidays easier and more affordable.”

If you need some inspiration on where to book, easyJet recently announced it would be launching six new routes from UK airports in time for autumn.

One of these flights will be from Newcastle to Fuerteventura which will start on October 25, and operate twice a week – on Thursdays and Sundays.

Easyjet’s Luton-Ljubljana flights start on October 26 three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

There are 18 new routes launching next summer too with a choice of city breaks to island escapes.

Two of these routes will be to Girona which will be a first for easyJet.

One will take off from Liverpool on March 28 and operate twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Girona will also take off from Gatwick starting on June 3, operating three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

There has been a significant update to a UK airport that closed its doors four years ago, with plans to reopen for passengers from 2028 following a £160 million project

A UK airport that has been abandoned for the past four years has reached a ‘major milestone’ with plans to be under public ownership. There is hope that holidaymakers will be able to fly from the airport, which had provided routes to some of the most popular holiday hotspots across Europe, within the next few years.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport was forced to close in 2022 after its former owner, Peel Group, said it was no longer financially viable to continue operating. It came as a blow to travellers, particularly locals, who could conveniently fly from the airport to destinations such as Alicante, Palma, Amsterdam, Budapest, Dublin and Paphos, through Wizz Air, TUI or Ryanair.

Now, at a significant turning point for the airport’s future, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) plans to purchase Doncaster Airport, thereby becoming the freehold owner and landlord under the City of Doncaster Council’s lease. The exact details of the planned proposal and its approval are set to be discussed next week, but the update, which would see the airport come under public ownership, has been hailed as a “major win”.

Doncaster mayor Ros Jones said: “This partnership proposal to bring the airport into public ownership is a major win for Doncaster and South Yorkshire. I pressed this proposal back in 2022 and the landowner declined. We are now in a different place and a different time. This proposal will end our lease with the current landowner. As a council, we need to enter into a contractual arrangement with SYMCA to agree how this progresses in a phased approach. The meeting of cabinet next week will take the decisions the council needs for this to take place.”

Previous reports estimate that the airport could reopen with flights available for passengers during the winter 2027-28 season, following a £160 million project. Currently, the airport stands eerily abandoned until a final decision is made about its future, but the latest update has sparked excitement.

South Yorkshire mayor Oliver Coppard said the deal was a “major milestone”. He further commented: “I’m delighted to say that subject to formal approval of the MCA board next week and then Peel, we’ve agreed a deal that means we’re taking Doncaster Sheffield Airport and adjacent Innovation Quarter employment land into public ownership.

“This is a deal that puts the future of DSA back in our hands and finally gives one of the biggest and best growth opportunities in South Yorkshire the platform for long-term success that it needs and deserves. Four years ago, we were told that our airport would be closing. But alongside Ros Jones, I said I would do anything I could to save DSA, and I meant it.

“Which is why after months of negotiations and the growing flexibility afforded to us by the government’s devolution agenda, today we can announce that we have come to an agreement for SYMCA to buy the airport and Innovation Quarter employment land from Peel. Subject to the agreement of the MCA board next week, the airport and surrounding Innovation Quarter employment land will be owned and controlled by us, for us; the people of South Yorkshire. This deal means our future will be in our own hands again.

“When the airport closed, almost everything was against us; the owners did not want to sell, we had no legal powers to intervene or stop the airport from closing, and no backing from the government at the time. Today, the future for DSA is bright, with the airport back in our hands, the sky’s the limit.”

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

IN JUST over two months, we will be in 2027 and with that in mind you might want to start planning your next getaway.

The good news is that the best 25 places to visit in 2027 have just been revealed.

The list compiled by National Geographic features far-flung islands as well as European city gems.

So here are some of our favourites from the list:

Vestland, Norway

Vestland can be found in the southwest of Norway and is known for its waterfalls and wilderness.

Head to Folgefonna National Park where you can see one of the country’s largest glaciers and Trolltunga, a massive rock formation that sticks out of a lake.

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There’s also Sognefjord, which is Europe’s longest and deepest fjord.

The best way to get to Vestland is by heading to the capital of the country, Bergen, with flights from the UK taking around two hours and costing from £91 return.

Luxor, Egypt

Luxor in Egypt is often forgotten about compared to the likes of Cairo and El Gouna but the destination is known for an ancient city and tombs.

Travellers can head to The Lost Golden City, which is the ancient city of Aten and is thought to be one of the largest ancient cities ever found in Egypt.

National Geographic also noted how getting to Luxor will be easier soon as there will be an extension of two free visas – the summer entry visa for travellers visiting on Egyptian-owned airlines and a four-day transit visa.

Flights direct to Luxor from the UK take around five-and-a-half hours and cost from £149 return.

Puerto Rico

Dubbed the ‘La Isla del Encanto’ which translates in English to ‘The Island of Enchantment’, Puerto Rico is dominated by a central mountain range covered in tropical rainforest.

In addition to this, the island is littered with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

Visitors can explore the historic forts of Old San Juan, where you’ll find blue cobblestone streets.

Flights from the UK to Puerto Rico usually include a stopover, taking between 11 and 15 hours and costing from £550 return.

Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

The only UK spot to feature on the list is Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland, with sandy beaches and rugged coastline.

Often nicknamed the ‘Scottish Riviera’, Dumfries and Galloway can be found in the southwest of Scotland and is home to medieval castles, such as Caerlaverock Castle, which is a triangular pink sandstone castle with its own moat.

There’s also Galloway Forest Park, which is the UK’s first International Dark Sky Park, with clear views of around 7,000 stars as well as the Milky Way.

If heading to the region, it is about an hour-and-a-half from Glasgow Airport, which costs as little as £30 return to fly to from London.

Grenada

The Caribbean island of Grenada is known as the ‘Spice Isle’ for producing nutmeg, mace and cocoa, but also has beautiful mountains, rainforests and beaches.

Each August you could even travel to Spicemas on the island, which is an annual carnival with parades, street parties and Jab Jab (where people paint themselves with molasses and mud) – and the festival is celebrating 150 years in 2027.

While on the island you can also snorkel Molinere Bay, which features life-size submerged art.

Flights from the UK to Grenada usually involve a stop and cost from around £932 return.

Santander, Spain

If you are looking for somewhere different in Spain to head to in 2027, look no further than Santander, the coastal capital of the country’s Cantabria region.

Full of history, the city has a vibrant Old Town where you can visit the Magdalena Palace.

The city also has a fishing quarter, which is the ideal spot to dig into some local cuisine with favourite dishes including calamari with onions and clams in marinara sauce.

Flights between the UK and Santander take around two hours and cost as little as £29 return.

Normandy, France

Known for its Gothic cathedrals, Normandy is a great European destination for history lovers.

And in 2027 the city will celebrate Millennium 2027: European Year of the Normans with more than 1,000 events planned across the year including medieval feasts, street performances and concerts.

One event in June will see 40 Viking-style ships sail along the Normandy coast.

And you don’t even have to hop on a plane to get to the destination – instead, you could catch the ferry from Portsmouth costing as little as £28 per way.

Melbourne, Australia

For a long-haul trip, Melbourne in Australia is one of National Geographic’s highlight destinations for 2027 with sports, a vibrant nightlife and thriving food scene.

And for rugby fans, the waterfront Docklands district will host eight matches during the Rugby World Cup next October.

Make sure to visit St Kilda Pier and beach as well to spot the colony of local penguins.

Flights to Melbourne from the UK usually involve a stopover and cost from around £550 return.

Leipzig, Germany

For somewhere different in Germany, in 2027 you should head to Leipzig, which is the largest city in the state of Saxony.

The city is home to one of Europe’s largest railway stations, Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, which has a grand 300 metre facade as well as a multistorey shopping centre.

In 2027, there will also be several events celebrating all the famous musicians to come from the city including Bach and Beethoven, with a Beethoven Festival in May and Bachfest in June.

The closest airport with direct flights from the UK is Berlin with returning flights costing from £41 – it then takes around an hour-and-a-half to drive to Leipzig.

Tricity, Poland

Sat on Poland‘s Baltic coast, Tricity refers to the three neighbouring cities of Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia.

Each city has its own character, heaps of history and vibrant seaside resorts.

For example, in 2027, Gdynia will host the regatta of the World Sailing Championships meanwhile Gdansk will have its St Dominic’s Fair with food, concerts and performances.

The best way to get to the region from the UK is by flying direct to Gdansk, which takes around two hours and costs from £29 return.

DO YOU think camping is just for summer? Think again.

With the help of Pitchup.com, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best campsites for the autumn with on-site saunas, spas, and even lodges with central heating.

Wighill Park Glamping, West Yorkshire

When it’s dark and gloomy, some of us would rather not sleep in a flimsy tent, and at Wighill Park Glamping are some super cosy camping spots.

Campers can shelter from the elements inside the individual wooden pods.

The smallest sleep up to two people but still have all the essentials like a little kitchenette, sofa, bed and its own toilet and shower room.

For a little extra, you can opt a hot drink pack, fireside kit and even a bottle of gin and a bottle of tonic.

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Some of the larger pods even have their own hot tubs and can sleep up to five people.

The farm is part of Wighill Park, once a private cricket pitch for Lord Hawke (a well-known figure in the world of cricket). Its woodland trails are perfect for an autumn walk, and dogs are welcome too.

If you’re after some exploring further afield, the campsite is a 25-minute drive away from York and under 40 minutes from Leeds and Harrogate.

Rates start from £85 per person per night.

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Stafford

If you really want to take your camping holiday to the next level, how about a retreat with an on-site spa?

The wooden pods at Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat sit on a huge estate with woodland and lakeside walks.

But when the Great British weather inevitably turns, huddle inside the spa, gym, restaurant and bar.

At the spa are swimming pools, a steam room, hydrotherapy pool, heated tiled loungers, experience showers and a relaxation lounge.

When it comes to the pods, these sleep from two up to four with large beds, black-out curtains, air conditioning and an ensuite with a rainfall shower.

There are luxury toiletries, a flatscreen TV, mini-fridge, GHD hair dryer and tea and coffee also inside.

Guests staying in the pods get complimentary gym access during their stay as well as breakfast which is in the adjoining Oak House restaurant (spa and exercise classes are charged separately).

Rates start from £150 for two people per night.

Whitehouse Farm, Suffolk

Tucked away in Suffolk is Whitehouse Farm, a campsite perfect for anyone who is after a quiet and peaceful retreat.

On the campsite are cosy shepherd’s huts which come with snug double beds, a kitchenette, small dining area – some also come with firepits and barbecues.

Or for those who have their own motorhome, simply book the pitch.

Pitches are either in the meadow, or the old orchard where there are fruits like damsons, apples and pears in early autumn.

For those on a family trip, there’s an outdoor climbing frame for children who don’t mind the weather.

And on the campsite, dogs are welcome too as long as they’re kept on a lead.

During the cooler evenings, adults can take advantage of the on-site sauna which is a new addition and sits above the pond.

Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

North End Farm, Dorset

Down in rural Dorset is North End Farm which is close to beaches and local pubs.

There are three spots available to book, a cosy stay called the North End Cabin which sleeps two people.

The Potting Shed cabin has lake views and also sleeps two people, then there’s the Old Cricket Pavilion lodge which has two bedrooms, a TV and most importantly for winter, central heating.

The site is dog-friendly with plenty of walking trails and there are three lakes suitable for swimming.

There’s a hot outdoor shower on the lakeside so anyone brave enough to get into the water can warm up afterwards.

Slightly unusual additions include the chance to go paragliding as the owner owns a paragliding company. It’s also possible to organise clay pigeon shooting and fishing trips.

For a pub lunch and a trip, the farm shop is a five minute drive away and the Jurassic Coast beach at Seatown is two miles away.

Rates start from £160 per two people for two nights.

Woodside Country Park, Herefordshire

For long walks in the Malvern Hills National Park on a campsite which has wild water swimming and fishing, head to Woodside Country Park.

The campsite is in amongst 28 acres of landscaped grounds with lots of chances to see birds and wildlife.

Campers can choose to stay on a non-electric or electric pitch in a tent either on the ground of a rooftop tent, to a caravan, campervan or motorhome.

There’s also a choice of camping pods which sleep up to five people and while they don’t have any facilities, it will will be cosy.

When it comes to activities, a lakeside wood-fired sauna is available for private hire or public sessions.

Or head out on one of its many trails, including a fairy door trail for children.

For the adults, a 15-minute walk along the Herefordshire Trail leads to a vineyard and winery which holds both guided and self-guided tours and tastings.

Rates start from £29 per two people for two nights.

Andark Lake, Southampton

Any campers who actually enjoy the darker days and don’t want to compromise when it comes to activities should head to Andark Lake.

Six miles outside of Southampton, the campsite is centred around a lake – which is purpose-built for scuba diving.

It holds pre-booked training courses, recreational dives, kit hire and air fills for certified divers.

Other facilities include its lakeside sauna which is perfect for a warm up after a cold lake plunge.

There are open-water swims at the weekend (for an extra £7 charge) and nearby at Swanwick Marina, visitors can try their hand at sailing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The on-site café serves snacks, light lunches as well as hot and cold drinks throughout the day.

For a more hearty meal, there are three pubs within walking distance.

Rates start from £25 per two people per night.

Wildswim2sauna, Devon

After a secluded no-frills campsite with wild water swimming right on your doorstep? Wildswim2sauna is an option for autumn.

The campsite in South Devon is open year-round and is very much an off-grid site.

There are non-electric grass tent pitches or non-electric grass touring pitches – and make sure to take supplies as well as the site has no showers.

What it does have however is a river right on your doorstep for wild swimming or chilly cold plunges.

There are also hot tubs and a sauna which can be hired for warming up after a swim.

Within the site, it’s possible to organise mackerel fishing trips, sea swims and coastal cruises in and around Salcombe.

One visitor wrote in their review: “Amazing beautiful and remote location, incredible swimming right by our tent. So peaceful waking up to the birdsong and rustling of animals on the river.”

Rates start from £40 per two people per night.

Lunga Pier and Shore Camping, Argyll

For a taste of adventure, head to Lunga Pier and Shore Camping in Argyll – it’s a remote spot and even quieter in the off-season.

The campsite sits on the Craignish Peninsula in western Scotland, with impressive coastal views that reach the Corryvreckan Channel.

Thanks to its location by the water, the site is ideal for wild swimmers, paddleboarders, anglers and kayakers.

There are also rugged coves and nearby islands to explore – just don’t forget your wetsuit.

Visitors have seen wildlife such as otters playing in the sea and you’re also likely to see seals, hares, herons and curlews.

Campers have also praised the site for its incredible pitch views across the water.

The village of Ardfern, with a shop, restaurant and pub, is ten minutes’ drive away.

Rates start from £28.88 per two people per night.

Herding Hill Farm and Caravan Camping Site, Northumberland

While most dislike the early nights of autumn and winter, it’s the perfect time for stargazing.

Herding Hill Farm Caravan and Camping Site in Northumberland even has stargazing kits and visitors could even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

The on-site petting farm will prove popular with the kids who are welcome to help with the twice-daily feeding of the animals.

Children can also make use of the playground and ball field behind the cabins.

Pitches vary from electric hardstanding for tents, caravans and campervans. It also has pods which have raised beds and mattresses – some also have private hot tubs.

Other things to do include seeing Hadrian’s Wall which is half-a-mile away and the market town of Haltwhistle is a five-minute drive away.

There’s a camping kitchen with vending machines and the accessible shower block has underfloor heating so it’ll be warm even in the winter.

Along with the stargazing kits, firepits and barbecues all available to hire too. Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning, West Midlands

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning is a great find for anyone who loves fishing with three lakes available to its campers.

For those who aren’t into fishing, the nearby woodland is lovely for an autumn stroll.

Not to mention both Cadbury World and West Midland Safari Park are under half an hour away.

Kids will love the woolly addition to the campsite, the friendly alpacas which campers can feed with food bought from the café.

The on-site café also serves hot and cold food throughout the day for guests, or for those who decide to embrace the chill, there’s the option to fire up the barbecue instead.

If you fancy a cosy stay not in a tent, the campsite has pods that sleep up to three people and cabins which are basic but will keep the chill away.

The cabins have an outdoor picnic table and a kettle.

Rates start from £16 per two people per night.

Dread is usually the first sensation Angelenos conjure when they hear “LAX.” It doesn’t have to be this way, L.A.

You might be preparing to check in toward a faraway destination, or doing what is often called the ultimate expression of love here: driving someone to or from one of the busiest airports in the world. Either way, if timed right, your journey can become a satisfying dip into the culinary scene surrounding our vice for the airborne, our awkward beauty, El Ay Ex.

Mariscos El Chente staff members Denise Miranda and Maria Peñuelas.

(Daniel Hernandez / Los Angeles Times)

No, you don’t have to limit yourself to the touristy In-N-Out on Sepulveda Bouelvard. Skip Randy’s Donuts if you’ve done it before. For this guide, we’re zeroing in on local favorites in the quietly robust scene of dining and drinking within one mile of the airport’s perimeter. No hotel restaurants or lounges.

A tight proximity to the runways means you’re mostly surrounded by busy LAX workers and hardcore locals from the communities of Westchester, El Segundo, Lennox, Hawthorne and Inglewood. Sprinkle in people who’ve just landed from just about anywhere in the world, and the magic of the LAX cultural orbit comes alive. I’m no longer kidding or holding my secret: Because of the restaurants and bars, I actually love hanging out around the airport.

This makes me part of a low-key membrane of Angeleno who enjoys watching jetliners serenely glide their passengers through the sky, landing a kiss away from the gleaming Pacific, as we sip a nice lager or chomp into a mulita. I can trick my brain on any day into thinking I’m just about to take off myself.

A MAJOR train operator has issued a travel warning for Brits planning to travel next month.

Great Western Railway has confirmed that all trains will be cancelled at London Paddington for one of the busiest weekends this year.

The London station – which is the third busiest in the UK – will close to passengers from Saturday 28-29.

With this being the weekend of Black Friday, there are fears this could cause huge problems for anyone travelling to the capital for shopping.

According to GWR, all high speed services to and from Bristol and South Wales will instead go to London Euston.

Trains will also not call at Reading or Didcot Parkway, with replacement buses running between places like Ealing Broadway and Slough.

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The Night Riviera Sleeper from London to Penzance will depart from London Euston instead.

And passengers heading to London Heathrow have been warned as well.

Heathrow Express trains and the Elizabeth line will also not be operating from London Paddington.

The closure is due to huge £28million upgrade plans, which will affect other routes for the rest of the year.

The train operator warns: “Journey times to and from London will be considerably extended

“Passengers are strongly advised to check their journey before travelling, especially when travelling later in the day, to ensure that their whole journey is still possible.”

GWR Operations Director Richard Rowland added: “Although trains won’t run into London Paddington for a short period, we’ve worked closely with Network Rail and our industry partners to put alternative routes in place, including GWR services from London Euston, and connections via Waterloo and Marylebone.

“This does however mean some journeys may take longer than usual; so we ask anyone travelling to or from London during this period to plan ahead and check before they travel.”

It isn’t the only train station set to undergo huge works in the next few months.

No trains will be running at Birmingham New Street from December 24 to 28 while the station undergoes a £13million upgrade.

A HUGE multi-million pound upgrade is set to transform two popular holiday parks in the UK.

The two holiday parks are Parkdean’s Skipsea Sands Holiday Park in East Yorkshire and Thorness Bay Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight.

At Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, there will be number of new activities including an indoor adventure climbing experience, indoor adventure golf and off-road driving experiences for children aged four and over.

The play areas, both indoors and outdoors, will be expanded including the bounce park, sports court and a Bear Grylls themed escape room.

The park will also add a Scoops Ice Cream shop and Joe’s American Grill as well as have a new outdoor entertainment space with seating.

The £5million investment is set to be completed by Easter 2027.

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Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “We’re committed to investing £5million in Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, upgrading our accommodation and further enhancing the holiday experience for guests and owners in East Yorkshire.

“From exciting new activities that include adventure golf and high ropes to an enhanced food and drink offering, there will be even more for families and holidaymakers to enjoy.”

Then, as for Thorness Bay Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight, the £6millon transformation will include a new high ropes, indoor adventure golf and off-road driving experiences for children aged four and over as well.

Just like Skipsea, the indoor and outdoor play areas will be improved too, with a bounce park, sports court and a Bear Grylls themed escape room.

The park will also gain a new two-storey building that will be home to the Hat-Tricks sports bar with interactive darts, pool and shuffleboard.

Food and drinks spots will also be expanded at the park with a new Scoops Ice Cream parlour, a Joe’s American Grill and Thunderbird Strip Shack.

And once again similar to Skipsea’s expansion, there will be new outdoor areas for entertainment and dining.

Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “This investment reflects our continued commitment to supporting local jobs, tourism and economic growth in the communities where we operate.

“We look forward to welcoming guests to a new and improved Thorness Bay from Easter 2027.”

A number of other Parkdean Resorts parks have recently undergone upgrades including Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex and Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth.

Vauxhall Holiday Park revealed its £5million upgrade earlier this year, with a new sports bar, darts and indoor adventure golf.

The holiday park has also been upgraded to include more kids’ play zones as well as high rope courses.

AS the nights draw in and the days become colder, sunny warm days seem like a distant memory – so there couldn’t be a better time to book a winter sun holiday.

And the good news is that it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.

New research by TravelSupermarket has revealed the most affordable winter sun destinations from the UK’s biggest airports.

Comparing prices for a week in the sun between November and February 2027, results found that some airports cost twice as much as others – so if you live near two airports, one might be cheaper to fly from than the other.

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Where you fly from makes a huge difference to the cost of winter sun this year – even neighbouring airports can vary wildly as Agadir averages £598 per person from Edinburgh but £784 from Glasgow, a difference of £186 for the same destination.”

Here’s a full run- down of the best deals at each of the UK’s major airports:

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London airports

If heading out of London, Sousse on Tunisia’s Mediterranean coast came out on top as the most affordable winter sun spot.

A seven-night holiday in Sousse costs from £380 per person, which also makes it the cheapest winter sun deal across all UK airports researched.

Hammamet, also in Tunisia, followed behind with a week away cost from £436 per person.

Agadir in Morocco then rounded out the top three, costing on average £606 per person.

Manchester Airport

If you want to fly out of Manchester Airport, Sousse in Tunisia once again came out on top as the most affordable winter sun destination.

A week away costs on average £399 per person.

And again, Hammamet followed with the average price per person spending seven days there costing £513 per person.

Agadir in Morocco again came third, costing an average of £644 per person.

Bristol Airport

In the south of the country, travellers flying from Bristol Airport will get the most affordable winter sun break in Hammamet, Tunisia.

A week’s holiday in the winter sun spot costs on average £413 per person – just £33 more than the cheapest deal from London (which is less than the train fare to London).

Marrakesh, Morocco, came in second costing on average £787 per person.

And rounding out the top three was Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, costing an average of £814 per person for seven nights away.

Edinburgh Airport

If you are located near the Scottish capital, you should book to go to Agadir in Morocco, with a week away costing on average £598 per person.

Morocco also took the second most affordable spot at Edinburgh Airport, with Marrakesh, where a week away will set you back £749 per person, on average.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands then rounded out the top three costing on average of £814 per person.

Birmingham Airport

For Birmingham Airport, Agadir in Morocco is the most affordable option costing on average of £661 per person for seven nights.

This is followed by Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, costing on average £811 per person for a week away.

And then another Canary Islands destination rounded out the top three – Lanzarote – averaging at £933 per person for seven nights away.

East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport passengers should head to Agadir as well, with a week away costing on average £734 per person.

Agadir is followed by Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, costing on average of £898 per person.

Lanzarote followed in third costing on average of £942 per person for seven nights.

Belfast Airport

Over in Belfast, Egypt is the most affordable spot to travel to, with a seven-night holiday costing an average of £754 per person.

Fuerteventura once again followed, costing an average of £794 per person for a week away.

And then Lanzarote rounded out the top three, costing on average £936 per person for a week away.

Leeds Airport

If you are based near Leeds, Agadir was found to be the most affordable spot with a week’s holiday averaging £778 per person.

Fuerteventura came in second costing on average £842 per person for seven nights away.

And a second Canary Islands spot rounded the top three – Lanzarote – costing on average of £965 per person.

Glasgow Airport

Back in Scotland, if you are based near Glasgow your best bet for an affordable winter break in the sun is also Agadir in Morocco, costing on average of £784 per person for seven nights.

Marrakesh in Morocco followed in second place, costing £846 per person, on average, for a week away.

Canary Islands spot Fuerteventura then came in third, costing £857 per person on average for a week away.

Newcastle Airport

From Newcastle, you should travel to Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, costing on average £827 per person for a week.

Egypt then came in second costing an average of £928 per person.

And rounding out the top three was another Canary Islands spot, Lanzarote, costing on average £938 per person for a week away.

Liverpool Airport

And finally in Liverpool, Fuerteventura came out on top with a week’s holiday in the winter sun spot costing on average £840 per person.

Egypt came in second, costing just £7 more at £847 per person, on average for a week away.

And Lanzarote came in third costing on average of £899 per person, for a week away.

‘I’m absolutely disgusted by how we were treated’

A Ryanair passenger says he is ‘absolutely disgusted’ with the airline after travelling for a family funeral. Edward Stokes had flown to London Stansted with his son to pay his respects at the funeral of his cousin’s wife.

What should have been an emotional family occasion allegedly descended into a travel nightmare when the 49 year old said he ran into difficulties with his booking on the journey home last week. Edward claims he and his son were each hit with a £46 (€55) charge after missing the online check-in window by just three minutes for their outbound flight.

“I’m absolutely disgusted by how we were treated,” said Edward. “I’ve been a loyal Ryanair customer for years.

“In fact, Ryanair is practically the only airline my family and I ever use. But after what happened to me this week, I am absolutely shocked and disgusted.

“We were three minutes late checking in online on Tuesday morning and were charged €55 each, €110 in total. Fair enough, we were late.

“We accepted responsibility, paid the money and moved on. But what happened on the way home was a completely different story.”

Edward alleges he was then refused boarding on his homeward flight to Dublin due to a mix-up over the name on his reservation. His booking listed both Edward and Teddy – a nickname he commonly uses – and he claims he had been permitted to travel to England without any problems.

Unable to board his scheduled flight, he said he was forced to book an alternative service departing at 10pm for £300 (€357.57), after an earlier option would have set him back around £450. Yet he says his journey home was anything but straightforward.

Mr Stokes claims the replacement flight was delayed by approximately an hour and 45 minutes, meaning he missed the last bus home. With no funds for a taxi and nobody on hand to collect him, he says he was left stranded at Dublin Airport for five hours until the next bus, finally making it home the following morning.

Edward, a blinds and carpets business owner from Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland, said: “I’ve been known as Teddy all my life. On the way over, my booking included Edward Teddy Stokes, and Ryanair allowed me to travel without any problem.

“On my return journey, there was confusion over my booking name, and I was refused boarding. I explained the situation to the Ryanair staff member.

“I explained that I had just attended one of the saddest funerals of my life and was simply trying to get home to my family. Her response?

“‘That’s not my problem. What do you want me to do about it? I couldn’t believe the attitude.

“There was absolutely no compassion, understanding or willingness to help. We have no problem accepting responsibility when I’m wrong.

“We were three minutes late checking in, and we paid the money. But where is the same accountability when an airline causes passengers serious inconvenience? What hurt me most wasn’t even the money.

“It was the way I was spoken to, the complete lack of compassion and the feeling that we were treated like we didn’t matter.. “Nobody should be spoken to or treated like that.

“All I wanted was to attend a family funeral, support my cousin and get home safely. I was absolutely exhausted.

“Between the sadness of the funeral and everything that happened with my flights, it’s been a very difficult and emotional week for me. Ryanair, is this really how you treat loyal customers?”

A Ryanair spokesperson said: “The first and surname on a passenger’s booking must match the first and surname on their travel documents. The passport that Mr Stokes presented at the boarding gate in Stansted did not match the first name on his booking for this Stansted to Dublin flight (14 October). Ryanair offers passengers a 24-hour grace period to correct minor spelling errors on bookings free of charge or full name changes up to two hours before scheduled departure (subject to a fee).

“Unfortunately, Mr. Stokes did not avail of either option and presented at the boarding gate in Stansted with a passport that did not match the name on his booking.”

For more information on names on travel documents, visit the Ryanair website’s section on the subject.

It stopped me mid-scroll. In an Instagram reel, one DJ was mixing an upbeat track in a dark, packed room while another danced on a stage behind her, twerking perfectly on beat. Above them, a message flashed on a massive screen: “Love. Dance. And F— Ice.”

The crowd went wild, matching the energy of the two Los Angeles-based DJs who go by Mango and Ginger. The night looked so electric that I could feel the FOMO traveling through my body.

When I tapped the location tag, I assumed I was looking at an underground warehouse party in downtown L.A. or a venue in Hollywood. Instead, the party — known as If You See Me You See Me — was happening 120 miles south in San Diego. As a DJ and music lover, I knew I needed to get down there ASAP.

For many Angelenos, San Diego is the place to go for a peaceful weekend getaway — think scenic cliffs, serene beaches, fresh fish tacos and visits to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. But it’s easy to sleep on its vibrant nightlife scene — and I don’t just mean the bars crowding the Gaslamp Quarter. The city is home to some of the most exciting late-night spaces, from hi-fi listening lounges to a cinematic Middle Eastern restaurant that feels straight out of Disneyland.

“People just aren’t aware,” says San Diego native Mo Perez, who as DJ Dopemo regularly packs out parties at North Park’s Bluefoot Bar and Lounge. “Then they come here and they’re like, ‘Wow, San Diego is really fun.’”

This is part of the reason why Sasha Marie, a longtime DJ and former member of the Soulection music collective, decided to continue hosting her event If You See Me You See Me, in partnership with Future Is Color, in her hometown of San Diego, even amid invitations to bring it to other cities. She invites DJs from around the globe, many of whom wouldn’t typically play in San Diego, to spin at the party.

“I feel like it’s important to show that something can be successful here,” she says.

Consider this your wake-up call to tap into San Diego’s nightlife scene, whether you want to go dancing or vibe to diverse sounds or have a cocktail in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. These nine great spots are a sampling of how the city comes alive after dark.

WHO doesn’t love a holiday bargain? Well, British Airways is launching new flights that cost less than the average UK pint.

However, the two return journeys to the beautiful Mediterranean islands come with a small catch.

British Airways is launching two Avios-Only flights next summer – so you have enough points on its reward scheme to go on them.

The new return flights will be to Palma in Majorca and Heraklion in Crete.

Flights to the Greek island of Crete will depart on August 14, 2027 and returning a week later on August 21.

Seats will be available for 35,500 Avios + £5 return in Euro Traveller.

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For a return flight in Club Europe its 60,000 Avios + £40.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and one of the biggest in the Mediterranean Sea.

On the same dates, British Airways will also have an Avios-Only flight to Palma, Majorca.

Seats will be available for 28,000 Avios + £5 return in Euro Traveller.

In Club Europe, seats are available for 49,000 Avios + £40 return with checked baggage included as standard.

Majorca meanwhile has a beautiful coastline, picturesque villages and its busy capital of Palma has lots of bustling restaurants and a huge cathedral in the centre.

Once you’ve joined the British Airways Club, you can earn points by shopping online through the Avios portal, booking hotels and car hire, using co-branded credit cards, or converting Nectar points.

If you’re a frequent flier, you can earn through BA flights, as well as other IAG airlines like Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL, as well as partner airlines Qatar Airways, Finnair, and Loganair.

Other brands associated with IAG loyalty include brands like Domino’s, Deliveroo, River Island, Marks and Spencer and Boots.

For a more in-depth look at Avios and how to claim points, read more here.

The British Airways Avios-Only flights go on sale tomorrow.

NOTHING says Christmas quite like streets filled with twinkling lights – especially the spectacular displays put up in London.

This year you can score 20% off the magical Christmas Lights London Bus tour AND even get a free Thames cruise.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

The tour usually costs £36 for adults and £22 for kids, but you’ll get tickets for £28.80 and £17.60, respectively, using our discount code.

The tour starts on Coventry Street, where you’ll climb aboard one of London’s famous double-decker buses and get cosy on your guaranteed upper deck seat.

The Christmas-themed bus will then take you through London‘s best-decorated spots, alongside festive facts and jokes from a live tour guide.

Along the route you’ll tick off famous spots such as Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus and more.

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Make sure to snap some pictures of the world-famous, glittering Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, gifted to the UK all the way from Norway.

And in a brand new route for 2026, you’ll now also cruise down Regent Street, known for its giant glimmering angels with golden wings spread high overhead.

Oxford Street sees a canopy of sparkling hanging stars, while posh Bond Street goes all out with fancy displays illuminating the high-end shops and hotels.

Picadilly Circus acts like the grand junction of all these fantastic displays, with its giant screens running festive takeovers and the glowing spillover of surrounding streets in the distance.

Whether you’re visiting London with the kids, ticking off the sights with friends or wanting a romantic date beneath the stars, the tour is suitable for all ages and occasions.

The best way to make the most of the tour? Grab a hot chocolate before boarding, wrap up in your cosiest hat and scarf, and make sure to pose for pictures as you cruise right under the impressive displays.

The tour lasts up to 90 minutes, running from November 14 and January 3,.

You have lots of options too with the first bus departing at 4:30pm and the last at 9pm.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

Tots under two travel free, and there’s space on every bus to pop your pram and buggy.

That’s not all, however. If you purchase the Christmas Lights London Bus Tour, you also get a daytime Thames River cruise thrown in completely for free.

That means you can experience a full-on sightseeing day in London, taking in the sights from the water in the daylight on the river cruise, before taking in the city by night on your bus tour.

On the Thames River cruise you’ll tick off top landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye and more, so by the end of your big day in London you’ll have taken in the very best the city has to offer.

Cruises start from Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier, or the London Eye Pier, giving you flexibility in how you plan your day.

As well as a free river cruise, you’ll also get SIX free self-guided walking tours thrown in.

So when you’re not aboard the boat or open-top bus, you’ll have plenty of guidance on which sights are best to see by foot.

The audio tours include the Wizard’s Walk (a Harry Potter-themed tour) as well as a spooky Jack the Ripper tour, and you can listen to them on The Original Tour’s partner app.

With three ways to explore the city bundled into one, it’s hard to find a better value way to experience London at Christmas.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

Terms and Conditions:
Code FESTIVELONDON expires on January 3, 2027 at 11:59pm BST. The offer is available from 12 October 2026 until 3 January 2027, with tours running daily from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The discount applies to adult and child tickets only, excludes family tickets and cannot be combined with other offers. Blackout dates apply and are from 21 December 2026 to 30 December 2026. Blackout dates are dates in which promotional offers cannot be used. Full T&Cs can be found on The Original Tour’s website at  theoriginaltour.com

Prices correct at the time of publication.

RYANAIR is axing 20 routes from two European airports this winter – including one route from a city in the UK.

The airline has said the increase in aviation tax has resulted in the cancellation of over one million seats.

From its winter 2026/2027 schedule, Ryanair will no longer fly certain routes to and from Brussels South Charleroi and Brussels Airport at Zaventem.

It will be withdrawing six of its aircraft from the two bases and relocating them to other European airports.

The UK that will be affected is between Newcastle and Brussels Charleroi.

Looking at its website, the route remans on sale up until January 22.

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The last outgoing flight is from Newcastle at 4.25pm with fares starting from £21.99.

The last inbound flight from Brussels to Newcastle is at 7.30pm with prices from £214.99.

At Brussels Airport in Zaventem, The Brussels Times reported that the only Ryanair route that will remain will be to Dublin.

By January 2027, the price of aviation tax will have risen by 50 percent going from €2 (£1.68) in January 2025 to €7 (£5.87) in January 2027.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary called the measure a “failed and stupid initiative.”

According to reports, eight routes will be discontinued from Brussels Airport in Zaventem.

Meanwhile, 12 routes will be cut from Brussels South Charleroi Airport.

This comes after Ryanair recently announced it would be cancelling all flights to Bremen in Germany.

Currently, Ryanair offers daily flights from London Stansted to Bremen for as little as £15.

But in a new announcement, these will come to an end in April 2027.

On the Ryanair website, it appears tickets for the final flights to Bremen are scheduled for March 27, 2027.

An ‘overpowering sewage smell’ was reported on board, along with flies seen around uncovered food. Passengers have been complaining about various stomach issues

A group of 12 passengers who fell seriously ill onboard a P&O ship are taking legal action after their dream Mediterranean cruise turned into a “nightmare” holiday from hell. The British passengers were struck down with gastric illness and flu-like symptoms while travelling around the Greek islands on the P&O Azura.

The holidaymakers, who paid up to £3,000 each, claim they encountered an “overpowering sewage smell” on board and raised concerns about hygiene in buffet restaurants where flies could reportedly be seen around uncovered food. Many were confined to their cabins during the eight-night voyage between May 28 and June 4 this year, while others were left hospitalised upon returning to the UK and some say they are still feeling the effects now.

The group, who had been celebrating a 60th birthday, have now instructed international injury lawyers to investigate their illnesses. Julie Stones, 53, from Bolton, was among those who says the cruise left her battling a catalogue of health problems.

She first became ill on June 2 with a sore throat and diarrhoea before her condition spiralled. She suffered vomiting, severe stomach pain, fever, headaches, dizziness, exhaustion, a persistent cough, and pain in her back and legs.

After returning home, she attended A&E, was diagnosed with a chest infection and later required further GP and hospital treatment. Julie, who has several underlying health conditions and uses a powered wheelchair, said she spent weeks largely confined to bed and relied on help from her husband and daughter.

Julie said: “This holiday was supposed to be a special celebration with friends and something I’d been looking forward to for months. Instead, it turned into a complete nightmare. It felt as though one thing after another kept going wrong and, as the holiday went on, I just got worse and worse.

“One thing that really stood out was the overpowering sewage smell near the Manhattan Bar. It was so noticeable that other passengers were commenting on it. I also had concerns about hygiene in the buffet areas. I remember seeing food left uncovered with flies around it and people entering the restaurant without sanitising their hands.

“Even after returning home, the symptoms didn’t go away. I’ve needed hospital treatment, GP appointments, and medication, but I’m still not back to normal. More than two months later, I’m still dealing with fatigue and headaches. I just want to understand what happened.”

Linda Chapman, from Bury, who was celebrating her 60th, also became seriously ill after developing symptoms on the final evening of the cruise. The mum and grandmother suffered chills, vomiting, breathlessness, wheezing, a sore throat, and a persistent cough.

Her condition worsened so badly after landing back in Manchester that she contacted NHS 111 and was taken to A&E, where she was prescribed antibiotics. Linda, who works as a housekeeper on an NHS stroke ward, was forced to take two weeks off work.

Linda said: “I remember being on the plane. The flight was only a few hours, but it felt like forever. People kept asking if I was okay and I must have looked as awful as I felt. I just kept telling myself that I’d be home soon and could finally go to bed.

“What I didn’t realise was that I’d end up spending weeks like that. In my view, hygiene onboard wasn’t up to scratch and the food often didn’t seem fresh at all, despite the cruise being very expensive. What did surprise me was just how ill I became. I was struggling to breathe and, combined with the stomach problems, I just couldn’t work out what was wrong with me. It was a very frightening and disorientating experience.”

Sharon Robinson, 51, from Wigan, was the first member of the group to fall ill. She initially believed she had a chest infection but later suffered stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, headaches, fever-like symptoms, and extreme fatigue.

Despite feeling unwell, Sharon tried to continue with the group’s planned celebrations but says she spent the rest of the cruise exhausted. Sharon said: “I’m unbelievably disappointed.

“Even though I felt awful, I kept trying to take part in as much as I could because I’d been looking forward to this cruise for a year. I was the first in our group to become ill, but after the first few days it felt as though everyone was dropping like flies.

“One thing that’s burned into my memory is the strong sewage smell onboard. It still makes me feel sick when I think about it. So many people in our group became unwell that it’s difficult not to have concerns about what caused it. I still feel very sad about the whole experience and I’m still suffering because of it.”

Jatinder Paul, the lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing the passengers, said: “Cruise holidays should provide passengers with an opportunity to relax and enjoy their time away. However, they also involve large numbers of passengers sharing restaurants, bars and other facilities in confined space so robust hygiene measures are vital in helping to prevent illnesses from spreading.

“What’s particularly concerning for our clients is that so many from the same party became unwell, with several still having their lives affected by symptoms. Our clients understandably have questions about their illnesses and whether more should have been done to protect them.

“Nothing will make up for what they’ve been through, but we’re determined to provide them with the answers they deserve.”

P&O has been approached for comment.

HM Passport Office (HMPO) has issued an alert to parents and caregivers

HM Passport Office (HMPO) has issued an alert to anyone planning to apply for a new or replacement passport for a child.

A valid passport is needed for anyone, including children, to travel abroad. Prior to October 5, 1998, children under 16 years old could be included on a parent or family member’s passport. But since this date, all children – regardless of age – are required to hold their own individual passports to travel internationally. The sole issuer of UK passports, HMRC, shared a message on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday.

It reads: “A child’s application must be completed by a person with parental responsibility. You’ll also need to provide documentation to confirm this.”

Parental responsibility is automatically granted if you give birth to the child. If you are a father or second female parent, you may have automatic parental responsibility depending on your personal circumstances.

You will also typically have automatic parental responsibility if you are married to or in a civil partnership with the birth mother at the time of the child’s birth. The child’s biological father will automatically acquire parental responsibility if they marry or enter into a civil partnership with the child’s birth mother after the child is born.

If your child was conceived via fertility treatment, you will automatically have parental responsibility provided you consented to the treatment and are married to or in a civil partnership with the birth mother. Should you not be married to or in a civil partnership with the birth mother, parental responsibility can be obtained by jointly registering the birth alongside the mother.

Separate rules apply when registering a birth for same-sex couples. Should the birth not be registered together, an application for parental responsibility can be made.

How much is a passport for a child?

At present, a new or replacement passport for a child costs £66.50 when applying online, or £80 when submitting a paper form. This is the price for a standard 34-page document.

Should you require a “frequent traveller” 54-page child’s passport, this will cost £80.50 or £94 when applying online or via the paper form, respectively.

An unruly rabble bursts on to the street: a noisy eruption, bubbling towards us. This isn’t closing time on the Croisette in Cannes. A flock of sheep bustles past our cottage towards the shade of a huge chestnut tree, driven by three generations of herders and their dogs. The waterlike cacophony of their bells slows until only the odd tink tink punctuates the cicadas’ hum. The sheep graze, the shepherds doze off, and the mountain hamlet is still again.

My partner and I had set off by Eurostar less than 24 hours before, yet this place felt a world away from the ad agency where I work.

We’d booked cheap tickets to Paris months ago, intending to plan a trip on from there by train. As our departure approached, Instagram seemed to be full of aspirational, yet similar, holiday photos, and almost every other TikTok post I flicked past offered the promise of a hidden destination … discovered.

I find ratings, reviews and recommendations just as reassuring as the next person, especially when faced with a limited holiday allowance. The safety of the search bar helps to give me the confidence that I’m spending my hard earned money as wisely as possible. I work in a world that runs on data and optimisation and I love it, but I wondered whether I’d optimised the adventure out of my own holidays.

So, we tried a simple experiment. We closed down the tabs and opened a map of western Europe. Embracing a bit of low-tech randomness, we chose to let chance decide our trip.

I shut my eyes and we promised to go wherever my finger landed. I waved my hand like a magic wand and pointed, then took a deep breath, eyes still closed. What if we ended up in some industrial wasteland? But we were in luck. My finger landed upon the commune of Saint-Hilaire-de-Lavit in Cévennes, a place we’d never heard of and almost certainly would never have found by searching “places to go in France”.

After overnighting in Paris, a three-hour fast train zipped us down to Montpellier, where we hired a car. We stopped for provisions in a Lidl on the edge of town, stocking up for the whole trip – we weren’t expecting to find any shops at our journey’s end. A short drive inland, and the roads began to get narrower and more sparsely populated. As they climbed and zigzagged into this south-east corner of the Massif Central, we entered a south of France far removed from the honeypots served up by algorithms.

We pulled into a grassy layby on a high mountain pass where there was one other car parked. Had we arrived? We’d followed the cottage owner’s directions as there was no signal here for Google Maps, so it was hard to tell. Stretching our legs in the fresh, cool air, the first thing we noticed was the quiet. No traffic, no tourists. Just stillness. But the languid buzz of big insects flying by and the whirring chorus of cicadas told us this place was alive.

Squinting into the low sun, we saw someone waving. Our host, Guilaine, had appeared as if by magic and was beckoning us to the cottage a little farther down the road. We had found the hamlet of Les Ayres: a cluster of maybe 10 stone buildings, 800 metres above sea level. The rough-walled dwellings huddled either side of the narrow road, making the most of the tiny strand of level ground before the mountain’s spine fell away into steep forest. A long wooden awning and some outdoor tables suggested a cafe opposite our cottage, but the building was shuttered, and Les Ayres’ only potential customers seemed to be ourselves and Guilaine. She took us to the back of our accommodation, to a veranda that looked out over chestnut and pine-clad mountains rolling into the horizon. It’s a landscape that appears wild but has actually been shaped by farming, forestry and the seasonal movement of livestock for thousands of years.

The next morning, as I watched the sheep and their guardians settle down in the shade, I felt the ancientness of the place. Shepherds must have moved their flocks along the same path and most likely slept under the same chestnut trees for centuries. Traditional farming practices endure here in part because the area is veined with crystal-clear mountain streams, meaning animals traversing the paths are never too far from a drink. So rather than opening the internet, we let these ancient tracks, known as drailles, guide our hikes.

We took sweaty, daylong expeditions without seeing another human or hearing the sound of cars. The forests protected us from the worst of the sun’s blaze but, on our first trek, the real treat came when we rounded a corner to find that what we thought was the sound of wind in the pines was actually water gushing through a narrow gorge below us. Another couple of switchbacks and we arrived at a deep, clear pool created as the stream carved a corner into the rock. Dappled sunlight filtered down through trees clinging to the steep-sided valley, creating spotlights for damselflies to dart through. We stopped for a picnic and a swim in the freezing mountain water, picking wild strawberries from the bank for dessert.

We discovered that these shady, secluded river pools were waiting for us on all the paths that led down from our cottage. As well as being the ultimate pit stops for mid-hike refreshment, they were teeming with wildlife – tadpoles wriggled in the shallows, fish flickered in the depths and a huge variety of butterflies, dragonflies and other insects skimmed the surface. We even saw a snake swimming across water we’d been submerged in just minutes before.

We spent our last afternoon reading on a rock, summoning the energy to walk back up the mountain (one drawback of staying high up on a pass). We watched the sun swing over the water and the light change as the day wore on. When the air began to cool, we worked our way back towards the cottage. As the path turned into an empty, single-track road, a car approached – a big event after so much seclusion. It was Guilaine – the only person apart from the shepherds we’d encountered.

In the evening, as the light faded, the sound of brass band practice drifted towards our veranda. Later, owls called to each other and a distant wild boar screeched into the quiet night. None of this had appeared in my search results. There was no review promising unexpected trumpeting, no listicle recommending the best pool for swimming among tadpoles, and no algorithm that could have told me where the sheep would pass on that first morning. We hadn’t looked at our phones for days – maybe that was the real discovery.

WE’RE always on the hunt for the next big thing to keep families entertained without breaking the bank – and there is a spot in London often overlooked that has a great line up for 2027.

Home to thousands of events every single year, London’s Southbank Centre is bigger than most people think, spanning 11 acres from one foot of the London Eye all the way to Waterloo Bridge.

Best of all? A whopping 40 per cent of everything on offer is completely FREE.

Speaking exclusively to Sun Travel, Mark Ball, Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre has lifted the lid on all the thrilling events and exhibitions set for next year adding that “there’s always something to entertain you here”.

And it seems only locals know the full extent of the hidden gem, with Mark adding that they often see it as their art centre with just under half of visitors coming from the South London area.

So here are his top tips on everything coming up.

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Family-friendly activities, events and attractions

When it comes to 2027, families will have loads to do, including a re-designed ‘V-Play’ space, with soft play for children aged between two and seven years old.

Tickets for this area will cost under a tenner.

For the slightly older kids there will be ‘Small Evolutions’ – a new virtual reality experience launching next September.

The project is inspired by the 50-year-old skatepark at the Southbank Centre and will allow visitors to experience skateboarding tricks in virtual reality.

Another family favourite is the Imagine Children’s Festival which will return in February half-term and span 10 days.

During the festival – which is designed for children aged zero to 11-years-old – there will be theatre, dance, music and drawing workshops.

Events for fans of music and the arts

If it is music you’re into then head to the centre’s famous Meltdown Festival.

Following in the footsteps of pop superstar Harry Styles – who curated the 2026 event – artist FKA Twigs will be curating the event for 2027.

She will be the headline performer as well as the overarching curator of the event and will deliver a multi-sensory experience packed with dance, video, visual arts, and live music.

Reflecting on what it was like working with a global pop icon like Harry Styles for last year’s festival, Mark revealed how dedicated the former One Direction star was to the Southbank festival.

Mark said: “Harry is so passionate about music and he’s got such a range of musical influences.

“People see him through one lens as a big global pop star, but his influences are really diverse – from avant-garde Japanese music to electronic and classical.”

And despite his global status, Harry was as hands-on as it gets.

“Harry’s fingertips were over every decision. Whenever he could on his days off, or even after performing huge stadium shows, he would sneak in from Wembley to sit in the back of the auditorium and support the artists he had booked. He was incredibly present.

“For his own show, he wanted to work with an orchestra for the first time, delivering this stunning orchestral presentation with Harry at the centre on piano and vocals.

“We’re always looking out for who will be the Elton Johns or Paul McCartneys of our generation — and it’s people like Harry Styles,” Mark added.

Looking forward to next year’s event, FKA twigs said: “I am honoured and excited to be curating Meltdown at the Southbank Centre.

“The potent artistic and cultural landscape in London has raised me from Croydon College, to performing in underground cabaret clubs, dancing till sunrise in warehouses on the docks and last year being lucky enough to sing my operatic songs in one of the largest arenas in London.

“The cultural and artistic clash in this city is like no other.

“Where cultures, sounds, stories and traditions from all over the world meet, collide and transform one another. I intend to bring you a slice of all that has raised me and continues to inspire me: celebrating the diversity, freedom and creative energy that I believe makes London one of the world’s great capitals of music and the arts.”

Other celebs included in the line up for 2027 include world-renowned pianist Lang Lang who featured on Channel 4‘s The Piano and will headline a major performance in December.

It also wouldn’t be the Southbank Centre without exhibitions and one exciting one coming in 2027 is a Chris Ofili exhibition at Hayward Gallery, which will mark his return to the capital.

Free events to pop in your calendar

According to Mark, one of the best things about the Southbank Centre is that 40 per cent of all the events are free.

And there are also a heap of ways to get cheaper tickets, with an under 30s scheme, as well as family tickets and local tickets.

The Winter Light programme, which will return soon as well as at the end of 2027 is free to visit, for example.

The trail includes neon installations, outdoor light art and projections, usually running from November through to February.

At the same time visitors will also be able to enjoy the winter food and Christmas market.

As for next summer, the Summer Terrace Stage with free outdoor concerts, classes and performance events will return again.

Hidden gems at the centre

The fun of visiting the Southbank Centre though goes beyond the events.

In fact, the attraction has many hidden gems not many visitors know about.

And they are all free to visit as well.

For example, on Level 5 of Royal Festival Hall visitors can discover The National Poetry Library which houses the world’s largest collection of post-war poetry and spoken word.

It also features a pop-up children’s poetry library.

Mark added: “Two thirds [of the Royal Festival Hall] is public space… It gives that sense that the Royal Festival Hall is a kind of people’s palace.

“It’s for everybody – a really vibrant, kind of village hall type space where there’s lots going on.”

“One of the really lovely things about going into the Royal Festival Hall on the weekend is lots of people self-organise activities.

“At the weekend there are people playing board games, there are dancers rehearsing and they’re all people from the local community using it as a community resource.”

And around the centre there are often free exhibitions or trails to explore including a current Quentin Blake trail.

Mark said: “We’ve got a whole series at the moment of huge illustrations of artists by the designer Quentin Blake, who is 90 this year and has made these kind of archetypes of musicians and skateboarders pasted throughout the building, so you can wander around the building, find these wonderful Quentin Blake stories.”

Talking of skateboarders, visitors can also head to the Southbank Skatepark which is the UK’s longest-running dedicated skatepark.

“People don’t think that the skate park is part of the Southbank Centre, but it is – we absolutely see it as part of the cultural offer here,” added Mark.

How to spend a day in the area

As for Mark’s personal recommendations to make a full day out in the area, there are loads of great food and drink spots nearby.

He said: “If you’re feeling a bit flush and you want a really fancy drink, Skylon is a restaurant that overlooks the river with floor-to-ceiling windows and an amazing drinks bar with gorgeous cocktails.

“It’s a really good way of treating yourself.

“There’s also a great kind of old-school boozer called the Hole in the Wall, at the back of Waterloo Station.

“You have to go through quite a tiny door to get there, so lots of people miss it but it has really nice beer.”

And if coffee is your preferred tipple, “the best coffee in London” according to Mark, can be found at Beany’s – a little van on the left hand side of the bridge.

The best way to find out what is happening at the Southbank Centre – especially as more events are yet to be announced – is by signing up to the newsletter, according to Mark.

What if I’m not local?

If you can’t make it to London, the Southbank Centre actually has programmes across the UK as well.

For example, every five years in partnership with regional galleries the Southbank Centre hosts The British Art Show which tours five UK cities over 18 months.

The next edition will be held in 2028 and travel to Coventry, Swansea, Bristol, Sheffield and Newcastle and Gateshead.

Meltdown festival also hosts events across the country with artists curating local weekends to support struggling grassroots venues.

Mark said: “Grassroots music venues are the lifeblood of the music industry, where the musicians get their first try out, where they learn how to perform in front of an audience, it’s really important that those places thrive.”

Accidents on roller coasters are rare. But that is precisely why when they happen, they are so disarming and affecting. Places such as theme and amusement parks are where we go to momentarily escape the stressors of daily life, often with friends or loved ones.

Last week, Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, of Atlanta, was ejected from a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and struck other riders as he fell, the Cobb County Police Department said in a statement. It’s tragic and heartbreaking, and the type of event that can make all fans of these spaces begin to question their safety, and whether theme parks can be a third space where we can go for a respite.

It’s been a particularly rough year for Six Flags, a company still in transition after merging with Cedar Fair just a couple of years ago. Last month, Six Flags Magic Mountain closed its X2 coaster permanently after a history of injuries. While it’s important to note that there is no connection or similarities between the two incidents, their combination creates an overall public perception that the brand is compromised. The industry will be closely watching how Six Flags responds in the weeks and months that it may take to complete an investigation.

In the days since the Georgia accident, I have been asked repeatedly, by friends and even members of the media, if I have been scared on a roller coaster or would hesitate to get on one.

They’re not easy questions to answer. For one, roller coasters are safe, and yes, I have been scared on them, but they are designed to frighten, to thrill and provide airtime in our seats that makes us wonder just how secure they are. To be sure, this is not a flaw. This is their intent.

I was also reminded of a 2003 accident at the Disneyland Resort, when a guest died after a derailment on Big Thunder Mountain. The ride was shuttered for about six months before it was reopened, and when it did so it was immediately met with long lines and cheers. Such is the pull and trust of Disneyland, but the company at the time was relatively transparent about the cause of the accident — two bolts on the locomotive’s left guide wheel assembly fell off — and measures taken to retrain workers.

It took officials from the state of California three months to investigate the incident, and Disney detailed to the media the changes it made to park maintenance procedures. Big Thunder has operated without any headline-generating incidents since.

We don’t yet know what happened in Georgia, and it may be some time before we do, but I only hope Six Flags is similarly direct, especially if this accident was the result of mechanical or human error. There’s too often little reporting on roller-coaster incidents, in part because rules and regulations can vary by state, and also because most infractions are deemed relatively minor and quickly handled in-house by the various parks. Journalists, including myself, should do better when it comes to requesting public records and educating ourselves on coaster engineering.

And when the unthinkable happens, such as what occurred last week, the public should be made aware of exactly what caused it. We’re owed that. To be sure, this is less about assigning blame for an accident, and more about ensuring measures are taken to guarantee it doesn’t happen again. Park operators would be wise to realize the issue just won’t be forgotten or disappear.

Of course, nothing is 100% fail-proof. Daily life is full of risk-taking endeavors such as getting behind the wheel of a car, and riding a roller coaster is strictly optional. But theme and amusement parks — despite the warnings that accompany most any attraction — enter an unspoken contract with their guests. And that is that here, you are safe. I don’t know when or if Six Flags will regain the trust of those who may be rightfully coaster-timid at the moment. But I know that the way they respond can determine whether they’ll lose it for good.

This week in SoCal theme parks

The dinosaurs on the Disneyland Railroad.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

• A dinosaur spotlight. The other week, I noted a recent ride around the park on the Disneyland Railroad was looking particularly spiffy, thanks to a refurbishment of the Grand Canyon diorama and dinosaur-heavy Primeval World section of the attraction. No changes to the dinos, but the lighting overall felt more lively and theatrical. Later Walt Disney Imagineering posted a behind-the-scenes look at the updates on Instagram, noting there had been a full lighting overhaul. A switch to an LED-based system gave the team greater control and flexibility in the tone of the lighting.
• A Magic Mountain coaster reopens. Six Flags closed a number of rides around the country, including Goliath at its Valencia park, after a man fell to his death from a roller coaster at one of its parks in Georgia. After a two-day shutdown and review last week, Goliath reopened by the end of the week.
• A can’t–miss Disneyland double feature. We’ve highlighted the current Walt Disney Studies film program at Santa Ana’s Frida Cinema before, but this Sunday will have a showing that’s particularly notable to park fans. The movie theater will be screening “Disneyland Handcrafted” and “Disney Worldbuilders,” two films that I’ve praised. The screening, hosted by author/historian Jeff Kurtti, will feature a discussion with former Imagineer-turned-historian Tom Morris as well as Roland Betancourt, who wrote the fascinating “Disneyland and the Rise of Automation: How Technology Created the Happiest Place on Earth.” Tickets are $16 for the 5:30 p.m. event on Sunday.
• Get ready for candy cane season. Disneyland has unveiled the dates in which guests can attempt to snag one if its handmade, oversize 18-inch candy canes. They are available select dates at Candy Palace in Disneyland and Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure beginning Nov. 27. Prepare to rope drop the park if you want one, as guests will need to head straight to the candy shop to score a wristband to purchase one. I bought one back in 2018 or so, and used it primarily as a holiday decoration. Since then, they’ve become a coveted item thanks to social media hype, and I’ve struck out in attempts to snag another one. @FoodatDisneyland has all the dates.
• Attention, Haunted Mansion fans. Disneyland Magic Key holders can starting this week pick up one of four lenticular cards celebrating 25 years of Haunted Mansion holiday. They’re free, and released on Mondays at Disneyana in Disneyland, Kingswell Shop in Disney California Adventure and WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney. Limit one per guest, and the cards come with a display frame. More information is available on the Disneyland Magic Key site.
• Meow Wolf noodles! The opening of Meow Wolf’s L.A. locale is now just a couple months away, and the Santa Fe, N.M.-based art collective is in the midst of a promotion with Tsujita Artisan Noodles. The latter, with local locations in the downtown Arts District as well as in Sawtelle, is currently serving up what it’s calling the Meow Wolf Anti-Gravity Noodles. The noodles on the latter appear in a frozen, midair state, and Meow Wolf fans may also want to go for the branded chopsticks.

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

P.S.

The Ghost of Halloween Future (Samantha Aotaki) in “A Halloween Carol.”

(Lawrence Meyers)

On a lighter note, it’s spooky season, and that means the L.A. immersive scene is at its best. I’ve long maintained that there is a big overlap between the the theme park community and those who appreciate interactive, immersive entertainment, and that is why I would heartily recommend “A Halloween Carol,” which has a few more dates open before its run concludes next week.

The show, as the name implies, is a twist on the Charles Dickens classic, only here we are visited by the ghosts of Halloween past, present and future. It’s an insightful look at how, from a young age, we are asked to don metaphorical masks of sorts. The show asks us to grapple with what aspects of our personality we are hiding, or putting forth, and does so via intimate, one-on-one conversations, many of which take on a philosophical bent.

If you come ready to play, you may find yourself being disarmed to the point of vulnerability. I wouldn’t call it scary — some may even find some moments near the end a bit sexy — but it does ask us to thoughtfully confront how honest and performative we are being to get through the day.