If the advice were to change, your travel company would have to offer you the chance to amend your travel to a different date or offer you a full refund.
We have had lots of questions about holidays to Cyprus – both Larnaca and Paphos, later in June, July and September and the advice really remains the same.
Unless you have paid a minimal deposit, you should continue to make payments. If you cancel now you could lose money – and discover that holidays are significantly more expensive when you look to book again.
What is important is to make sure you have bought good travel insurance NOW to cover you in the run up to your holiday dates. A lot can happen in the coming months.
Take the time to enquire about what you would be covered for in terms of delays and cancellations as these can vary from policy to policy.
Will this affect holidays in Egypt? We’re due to fly there in May for our honeymoon
While it is very understandable that travellers would be a little nervous of the proximity of Egypt to the current crisis, the popular Egyptian Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh, Hurgahda and Marsa Alam as well as the majority of Egypt including ancient cities of Cairo and Luxor are NOT under any Foreign Office travel ban.
While no one can predict what is going to happen in the region, it is currently considered safe to travel to these destinations and your tour operator or airline is under no obligation to refund you if you chose not to travel.
Hurghada and Marsa Alam are hundreds of miles away from the conflict zone and holidays there should not be impacted at all.
Increased flights from the UK and an ever greater number of new luxury resorts mean it still offers guaranteed sunshine for all budgets.
I travelled to Luxor, Hurghada and Marsa Alam in February and could not have felt safer with the Egyptians taking security very seriously.
Is Greece safe to travel, being so close to Turkey?
Yes Greece is safe to travel to – and is not under any UK Foreign Office travel warnings.
The main popular tourist resorts in both Greece and Turkey are many thousands of miles from the current problems in the Middle East.
If you choose to cancel a holiday you have already made payments on you will NOT get your money back as your travel company is under no legal obligation to refund you.
A refund is only triggered if the Foreign Office advises against all travel or all but essential travel.
Again, ensuring you have fully comprehensive travel insurance from the moment you make your booking is really important to give you added protection in the run up to your trip.
We’ve had questions from Sun readers looking at trips to Corfu and Rhodes this summer – they should be reassured that the chance of holidays to these islands being impacted, while not impossible, is extremely unlikely.
Greece remains safe to travel to, with holidays and flights not affectedCredit: Alamy
Will travel disruption escalate to the Canary Islands travel from the UK?
While nothing can be guaranteed in these extraordinary times, there is nothing whatsoever to lead me to think that the current crisis will have any impact at all on holidays to the Canary Islands from the UK.
It is understandable that people are worried about the situation, but all of the Canary Islands – along with the rest of Spain – remain on the Foreign Office’s safe to travel list and there is no indication this will change at all.
There is not any worry about international travel as a whole at the moment and airlines and tour operators take the safety and security of their passengers extremely seriously.
There should be no issues with travel this summer, where lots of Sun readers are looking forward to holidays.
Are Turkey resorts affected? We have a holiday booked for half-term
No – at present Turkey is not impacted at all by the current situation.
While there are Foreign Office bans on travel to the border between Turkey and Syria, the entire rest of the country is safe to travel to.
The popular coastal resorts of Dalaman, Bodrum, Antalya, Side, Marmaris and more are many thousands of miles from the conflict zone.
As the advice is that it is safe to travel, tour operators and airlines are under no obligation to offer you a refund if you choose not to travel. If you decide to cancel your trip, you will lose any money you have paid.
While some people may feel uneasy, the distances involved mean it is extremely unlikely that anything would impact your holiday.
With all package holidays, you have enhanced protection should the situation change.
If the Foreign Office changes its advice to all but essential travel, you will have extra rights to a refund or amended date.
But right now, that is not necessary as trips to the popular Mediterranean Turkish resorts are safe.
We am due to fly to Dubai March 12-18, having paid £6,000 for a package through Emirates. Do you know where I stand with cancelling?
With the huge popularity of holidays to Dubai – more than 1.47MILLION British travellers headed to the Emirate in 2025 – the Foreign Office now advising against all but essential travel will have a huge impact on those with upcoming holidays.
As the situation remains so uncertain, airlines and travel companies are dealing with upcoming bookings on a rolling basis – prioritising those who are due to travel soonest first.
As of today, passengers with bookings up to March 10 can request a refund directly from Emirates via an online form – and you should expect to receive that refund within a week.
But as your holiday doesn’t depart until March 12 you will have to contact Emirates directly to see if they will allow you to amend your booking or get a refund.
I totally appreciate that this is going to be challenging with many hundreds of thousands of travellers looking to rebook flights and holidays.
Right now, British Airways Holidays are offering rebooking options for those travelling up to March 8 to request a refund.
Those travelling up to March 15 can change their holiday dates or destination free of charge if they depart before March 29.
If you amend to a holiday that is more expensive, you’ll have to pay the difference. If it is cheaper, BA will refund you the difference.
Those travelling after March 15 can change their booking up to 14 days before travel for a fee of £100 or if within 14 days of travel for a fee of £500.
Virgin Atlantic Holidays has the same options in place for the same dates.
If you have bought travel insurance – and I really do recommend everyone does this from the MOMENT they book their holiday – it would be a good idea to contact them as well to see if there is anything you can claim for.
Anyone with holidays from April onwards, I recommend keeping an eye on the current travel advice, but do not cancel holidays unless you want to be out of pocket.
Emirates passengers travelling via Dubai in the upcoming days will be contactedCredit: Reuters
My daughter is due to return from Mauritius via Dubai on March 5 with Emirates Airlines. Will this be possible & what are her options?
Emirates has only suspended flights until midnight on March 4.
However this is likely to be extended as they are currently only operating repatriation flights for passengers who are stranded in Dubai.
It is advised for your daughter to contact Emirates and see if there is an alternative way to travel home.
Emirates must provide her with an alternative flight home, or a refund.
However, be aware that if she accepts a refund, your daughter will have to pay for her own alternative flight home which might be quicker, but much more expensive and she will not be able to claim the difference back from Emirates.
Air Mauritius offers direct flights from Mauritius to UK, otherwise airlines with non-Dubai stopovers include Air France (stopover in Paris) and Lufthansa (stopover in Frankfurt).
I have a long-haul holiday planned later this year, stopping in the Middle East. Should I cancel my trip or find another airline?
We have had lots of questions from you about upcoming holidays with stopovers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar – seeing as they’re huge hub airports for Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, this isn’t surprising.
This includes destinations such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bali, China, Vietnam, Australia and Pakistan.
If you have partly paid for your holidays for any of the above destinations, you must still pay the remaining balance or you will be left out of pocket.
It is only if the UK Foreign Office advises against any travel to these destinations that you will be able to cancel a holiday for a refund.
Unless you are travelling in the next few days, it is likely the holidays will still go ahead.
If you are wary of booking a stop over in the Middle East, then other popular destinations include Singapore, with Singapore Airlines, or Hong Kong, with Cathay Pacific and Istanbul with Turkish Airlines.
I’m confused about the government advice and where travel companies stand – surely a holiday shouldn’t be classed as “essential travel”?
I appreciate the travel warnings can be slightly confusing, so I’ll break them down for you.
There are two travel warnings from the UK Foreign Office – “against all but essential travel” and “against all travel”.
If the advice is against all travel, package holiday companies and airlines have to give you a refund.
If the advice is against all but essential travel the legal standing is a little more complicated.
However, most travel companies will offer to refund or amend your booking as they recognise they will not be able to provide you with the trip you purchased due to exceptional circumstances.
Most holidays in Europe – including Spain and Greece – are unaffectedCredit: Getty
THE quiet town of Burnham-on-Crouch in Essex is set to be a TV star.
ITV presenter Josie Gibson was seen filming at the pretty destination on the Dengie Peninsula last week known for its top-tier sailing scene and fresh seafood.
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Burnham-on-Crouch sits on the River Crouch in EssexCredit: AlamyIt’s nicknamed ‘Cowes of the East Coast’ thanks to its popular sailing sceneCredit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Josie, along with a film crew, were seen at various different spots in Burnham-on-Crouch, which sits on the River Crouch.
The town that is just an hour outside of London was called “wonderfully understated” by The Telegraph and it even questioned whether it’s “the most peaceful town in England.”
While it might be quiet on land, Burnham-on-Crouch has a busy harbour, as well as a quayside, boat-building yards, listed buildings and sailing clubs.
Thanks to its location and popularity within the sailing circle, Burnham-on-Crouch is nicknamed ‘Cowes of the East Coast’.
This is after the world-renowned Cowes on the Isle of Wight which is the “Yachting Capital of the World”.
Throughout the year are sailing events, but what Burnham-on-Crouch is most famous for is Burnham Week.
The major sailing regatta is held every year at the end of August with plenty of competitive racing for various yacht and dinghy classes.
This year it will kick off on August 29 until September 5, 2026 – and it is a major week in the sailing calendar.
Last week though, the TV crew were spotted on dry land filming outside The Cabin Dairy on the High Street.
The cafe has been in operation since the 1990s, serving up breakfast, brunch, sandwiches, toasties, tea, coffee and ice cream.
Another spot that was seen in front of the camera was The Quarterdeck restaurant.
The seafood restaurant and bistro bar sits on the waterfront, serving dishes like the seafood board with Maldon cured smoked salmon, crevettes, pickled roll mops and anchovies.
Of course you can pick up fish and chips too, as well as a Sailor Sandwich with fish goujons, and oysters.
For oyster fans, check out Burnham Seafood and Oyster Bar which is a fish stall open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Here, locals can pick up top quality seafood from lobsters to crab, and of course, oysters.
Seafood is a big part of the town’s history as it used to be a thriving oyster port.
In the 19th century, the River Crouch was filled with oyster beds, which were then harvested and traded into London and across Europe.
Josie Gibson and was seen filming in EssexCredit: WireImageThe Cabin Dairy is a popular cafe and has been open since the 1990sCredit: Facebook
Next door to The Quarterdeck is Harbour Delights, an American retro diner that serves up tasty drinks and desserts.
You can choose from ice cream sundaes, Belgian waffles, bubble tea, milkshakes, and enjoy a coke float.
One place the crew weren’t seen filming at, but is a Burnham hotspot is the Jolly Fryer.
The fish and chip shop in previous years was voted as the Best Chippy in Essex.
You can pick up a medium cod for two with large chips and either curry sauce or mushy peas for £21.99.
As for what’s nearby, from certain points in the town you can see across the river to Wallasea Island which has been turned into a nature reserve.
Visitors can visit by ferry, which will cost around £5 each way, to see wading birds as well as rare butterflies.
For wine fans, head to family-run Clayhill Vineyard which makes Bacchus (often referred to as England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc) and chardonnay.
10-minutes drive away is the pretty Clayhill VineyardCredit: Unknown
One Sun Writer who visited said: “I particularly loved theEnglishsparkling wine and at £19 per bottle it’s much cheaper — and in my opinion nicer — than champagne.“
The vineyard has views of the River Crouch, and has a small cafe for lunch, tea and cake – and you can taste its wine here too.
For train enthusiasts, head to nearby Mangapps Railway & Museum which is a working railway and museum on a farm in Burnham-on-Crouch.
It has a three-quarter mile passenger line with restored stations, signal boxes, and visitors can go on as many train rides as they like with their ticket.
One visitor on Tripadvisor wrote: “Nice little museum. Lots of different trains and even a well-kept, older station where you can enjoy a small ride on an old train.”
It’s open on weekends between 11.30AM to 5PM. Ticket prices are £15 per adult, £8 per child and under three’s go free.
For anyone who is a fan of The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, then you might want to head up to Tillingham.
Fans of the book will know that village is where the narrator’s younger brother escapes to when London is invaded by Martians.
Burnham-on-Crouch is served by the Crouch Valley branch line.
From London Liverpool Street, it can be reached in just over an hour with one transfer at Wickford.
This Essex town has been called a ‘Cotswolds alternative’…
She said: “Its Saturday market is often a place to spot TV chef Jamie Oliver. We admired the great artisan stands, but sadly didn’t spot Jamie.
“Coffee in hand, we took a stroll to St Mary’s Church, which dates to Norman times and is still the tallest building in Essex with its spire topping out at 193ft. Then it was on to Bridge End Gardens and its maze – before a pint at the Cross Keys Hotel, also known for its great food.
“The fun continued with a visit to one of Essex’s Tiptree tea rooms. I knew Tiptree as the makers of tasty jams, often served in little jars at posh hotels.
“We got the day off to the best of starts at Tiptree’s Courtyard tea room in Saffron Walden with their traditional breakfast, a Full English complete with tasty local sausages, bacon, egg and even some traditional Tiptree brown sauce.”
“Imagine how smug, then, the local folk of Kent feel, cool bags hooked onto their arms and towels flung over their shoulders, and they descend on Botany Bay.”
It continued to add: “At low tide, wade through the puddles in search of fossils and, come high tide, take a plunge knowing how shallow and rock-free many parts of the beach are – so much so, it has long been a favourite among families.”
Botany Bay sits between trendy seaside towns Margate and Broadstairs, and its beach is easily recognisable thanks to its tall white limestone cliffs and sea stacks.
A study conducted by Parkdean looked at the rainfall patterns over the duration of one year at some of the UK’s most popular beaches.
On average, Botany Bay gets 58 days of rainfall each year – to put that in perspective, the UK gets an average 164 days of rain a year.
And while it isn’t hot, Botany Bay is also one of the warmest beaches in the UK in winter thanks to its location on the Channel with average temperatures of 9.5C.
THINKING of booking a holiday? Well, it’s perfect timing as TUI has just announced its most-loved hotels across the world.
Over 13,000 hotels have been assessed with only those achieving top Customer Satisfaction Scores being considered for the awards.
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TUI Blue Barut Andiz has been named the best hotel by BritsCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskThe adults-only hotel is in Side, TürkiyeCredit: Cezare White Photography – http://www.c
And coming out on top for UK holidaymakers, is TUI Blue Barut Andiz in Türkiye.
Located in the town of Side, the adults-only hotel scored the highest guest ratings across the entire TUI portfolio.
UK travellers noted how the hotel has friendly staff, brilliant food and a chilled, child-free setting.
Inside the hotel, guests can dine at two à la carte restaurants on a first-floor terrace whilst looking out at the sea.
When booking via TUI, you’ll get one free visit to the hotel’s signature à la carte restaurant – the Culinarium – which specialises in seafood and hosts themed evenings.
As for bars, you can enjoy the orange glow of the evening at the Sunset Bar or enjoy a tipple by the water at the Meltem Pool Bar.
Need some caffeine? Well, you can head to Thea’s Coffee Shop for ice cream, desserts and of course, hot drinks.
The hotel also boasts a spa with a Turkish bath and a mix of solo and couples treatment rooms.
This year the hotel is celebrating 10 years since opening and as a result, throughout this summer will be hosting a number of celebratory fitness sessions, food experiences, live music events, silent discos and parties.
Fitness sessions include BLUEfit, which are outdoor instructor-led sessions including Aqua Board classes, Pilates and yoga.
Around the hotel, you can head to the beach, which is just a few minutes’ walk away.
And Side’s old town is also not too far, where you can explore Roman ruins with glass walkways that sit over dug-out ruins.
If you want to discover artefacts that have been found during the excavations in the old town, then head to Side Museum, which costs £4.36 per person to visit.
A seven-night all-inclusive stay for two people in a double room with a balcony this April costs from £1,389.32.
Other hotels that won an award include Hotel Fariones in LanzaroteCredit: BRUTO_ESTUDIOIt won the award in the best hotel in Spain and Portugal categoryCredit: BRUTO_ESTUDIOTUI Magic Life Sarigerme was named the best hotel for families
Perhaps you are wanting to go on holiday with the family though? Then look at TUI Magic Life Sarigerme, which has been named the best family-friendly hotel.
Also located in Türkiye, the hotel features five swimming pools, seven bars and four restaurants – all sat on the beachfront.
The hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Dalaman but also right by Sarigerme Beach, which is a large, sprawling beach loved by locals for kitesurfing.
There is even a watersports centre on the beach if you want to try out kitesurfing for yourself.
An all-inclusive seven-night stay for two adults this April in a double room costs from £1,383.68.
Fancy heading to Greece? Well, Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel and Suites has been named the best hotel in the Cyprus and Greece category.
The best TUI hotels – Regional and lifestyle categories
Best Hotel Northern & Central Europe: Hotel Caravel
Best Hotel Spain & Portugal: Hotel Fariones
Best Hotel Greece & Cyprus: Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites
Best Hotel Türkiye & Balkans: TUI BLUE Barut Andiz
Best Hotel Middle East & Africa: Steigenberger Resort Alaya
Best Hotel Asia & Indian Ocean: ROBINSON NOONU
Best Hotel Americas: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Best Hotel Family Friendly: TUI MAGIC LIFE Sarigerme
Best Hotel Food & Gastronomy: Liberty Hotels Lykia Adults Only
Best Hotel Customer Service: Mike’s Hotel & Apartments
With its own private beach, there are two restaurants to pick from as well, serving traditional Mediterranean dishes.
There are two outdoor freshwater pools, an indoor pool and even a whirlpool.
Over the summer months, the hotel usually also puts on entertainment such as live music.
Two adults can stay for seven-nights on a bed and breakfast basis this May from £2,114.82 in a double room with a sea view.
And if you are thinking about heading to Spain, you might want to book in to Hotel Fariones in Lanzarote.
The hotel came out on top for the best in Spain and Portugal category and boasts two pools, three restaurants and direct access to the Playa Grande Beach.
Just a short walk away, you can discover Puerto Del Carmen’s Old Town where you will find a selection of restaurants and bars.
A seven-night break for two adults this May costs from £2,509.14, on a bed and breakfast basis in a double room with a sea view.
For more inspiration on hotels in Europe to book, here’s Europe’s number one beach hotel with a huge pool and sea-view suites.
“Only you can make an informed decision based on your own individual circumstances and the risks.”
In general, travelling to a country or region where the advice is against all but essential travel will also invalidate most travel insurance policies.
Countries with updated travel warnings
Afghanistan
While Afghanistan was already classified as a no-travel destination by the FCDO, its website flagged that there is “new information about heightened tension between Afghanistan and Pakistan”.
British nationals are advised: “You should not travel to Afghanistan. The security situation is volatile and tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have previously resulted in violent clashes in border regions.”
The warning described travel throughout the country as “extremely dangerous”, noting that “a number of border crossings are not currently open”.
It also flagged a “heightened risk of British nationals being detained”, with the potential of “years of imprisonment” and “extrememly limited support” from the FCDO.
Armenia (certain areas)
The FCDO also advises against all travel to regions surrounding the Armenia-Azerbaijan border due to tensions between the nations.
Azerbaijan (certain areas)
As well as avoiding the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, the FCDO advises British nationals against all but essential travel to southwestern Azerbaijan.
Bahrain
The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Bahrain and is also encouraging Britons currently in the country to register their presence.
Egypt (certain areas)
All travel to Egyptian zones near Israel as well as the Egypt-Libya bordershould be avoided.
The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to Egypt’s Western Desert.
Warnings are not currently in place for popular holiday destinations such as Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.
Iran
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Iran, with “regional escalation posing significant security risks”.
The latest update advises British nationals already in Iran to “carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying”.
The FCDO warned: “British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at significant risk of arrest, questioning, or detention.
“Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.”
Iraq
Iraq is also on the FCDO’s “do not travel” list, with British nationals warned of a “significant risk of further escalation”, with the situation described as “fast-moving and unpredictable”.
Israel
The FCDO now advises against all travel to Israel, with British nationals currently in the nation told to register their location and follow local guidance.
Jordan
British nationals are advised against all but essential travel to Jordan, while any area located within 3km (approximately 1.8 miles) of the Jordan-Syria border should be avoided entirely.
Kuwait
All but essential travel should also be avoided to Kuwait, with the FCDO advising British nationals already in the country to immediately shelter in place “due to reported missile attacks”.
“Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel, and follow instructions from the local authorities,” the Foreign Office said in its official update.
Lebanon
The FCDO advises against all travel to the borders between Lebanon-Syria and Lebanon-Israel.
Meanwhile, all travel to certain areas of Beirut should also be avoided, while the rest of the country should be avoided unless travel is essential.
Oman (certain areas)
A shelter in place warning is in place for Brits currently in specific regions of Oman, specificially the city of Duqm and surrounding areas.
British nationals currently visiting Salalah, or within 100km, are advised to leave as soon as possible “if commercial means allow” and to follow the advice of local authorities.
Pakistan(certain areas)
The FCDO advises against all travel within 10 miles of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, with a comprehensive list of areas to avoid in the region.
All but essential travel is also recommended within five miles of the Pakistan-India Border Area.
Palestine
All travel to Palestine is not advised, with British nationals encouraged to register their presence in the country.
Qatar
The FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to Qatar, with immediate shelter in place warnings for British nationals “due to reported missile attacks”.
Saudi Arabia(certain areas)
British nationals are urged to steer clear of areas within 80km (roughly 50 miles) of the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border region.
Britons currently in Saudi Arabia are currently adised to “immediately shelter in place”.
Syria
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Syria, warning regional escalation posing “significant security risks”, leading to travel disruption.
Turkey(certain areas)
The zone within 10km (just over six miles) of the Turkey-Syria border should be avoided, according to the FCDO.
But all other areas, including tourist areas like Istanbul and Bodrum are considered safe to visit.
Yemen
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Yemen, telling British nationals: “If you’re in Yemen, you should leave immediately.”
A British man in Spain has shared one big difference between the UK and Spain, claiming it’s something you’ll only notice once you leave the UK – but not everyone agreed with him
Alice Sjoberg Social News Reporter
14:38, 03 Mar 2026
A British man spotted a big difference between the UK and Spain you’ll only notice when you leave the UK (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Spain has remained a firm favourite amongst Brits seeking a sun-soaked getaway for several years in a row. And It’s not just the brief flight time that appeals for holidaymakers, as the country also enjoys glorious weather throughout the entire year.
Data from the Office of National Statistics reveals that Brits clocked up more than 17.8 million trips to the Mediterranean nation in 2024, with figures projected to have climbed to 19.1 million in 2025. These holidays included trips to the Canary Islands and Costa Blanca, home to Benidorm. Further hotspots include the various Costas, the Balearic Islands, whilst the Northern regions are also seeing a surge in popularity.
Whilst the prospect of swapping Britain’s bleak and overcast winter months for brighter, warmer climes is undeniably attractive, there are certain contrasts many travellers might not have considered.
A British expat has now highlighted one major distinction between Spain and the UK, which may well explain why countless Brits are lured to the southern European nation.
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On TikTok, a man called Mark posted footage of himself strolling through British streets back in January, showcasing murky skies with the sun conspicuously absent.
“You don’t realise how depressing it is until you leave the UK,” he captioned the clip, which then switched to show him wandering through Spain’s bright streets, lined with palm trees along the pavements.
“Why does the UK have a grey filter?” he pondered in the post’s caption.
Is the UK weather more grey than Spain?
From March 2026, the UK is forecast to see average temperatures ranging between 9C and lows of 2C, though some regions might also benefit from sunny spells with temperatures reaching up to 17 degrees in Eastern England on 5 March, according to the Met Office’s long range forecast.
Northern parts of England and Scotland are anticipated to face rain and storms, and potentially even some snow on higher ground, with overnight frost still possible between 4-13 March.
In contrast, Spanish March days are typically sunny, offering 6-8 hours of sunshine daily, alongside average temperatures of between 12-18 degrees. However, occasional brief rain showers should be expected, according to Tui.
Southern regions like Andalusia and the Canary Islands are the warmest (up to 21°C), whilst central and northern areas are cooler, creating perfect conditions for exploring the spring-blooming countryside.
Despite Mark’s post, numerous people quickly flocked to the comment section of his video to argue the UK weather isn’t as ‘depressing’ as he suggested.
“will never understand why people think grey skies are depressing,” one viewer commented.
Multiple people also pointed out that the UK can be equally sunny and warm at times, and that it’s unfair to judge the weather based on cold and overcast winter days, as the sunny summer days we experience deserve recognition.
Check the latest air travel status including departures from popular holiday destinations such as Dubai, Cyprus and Egypt after the Iran war forced airports to close and airlines to cancel flights
War in the Middle East is causing flight disruption across the world(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Conflict between Iran, the US and Israel has spread across the Middle East and triggered widespread airspace closures, sparking major disruption to flights, and leaving thousands of British tourists stranded abroad.
Popular holiday destinations including Egypt, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are among those to ground all flights or severely limit departures, but the ‘ripple effects’ are also impacting travel to and from a number of other countries, including Cyprus and Turkey.
Here’s all the latest on flight cancellations, cruise ships and your rights if something goes wrong:
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The UK Foreign Office now advise against all but essential travel to the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain.
Airspace closures mean flights to and from the United Arab Emirates (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Kuwait and Oman are almost entirely cancelled, with aviation largely reserved for military and cargo flights.
If you have a flight due soon to one of these countries, you should get in touch with your airline as soon as possible.
While flights to and from Cyprus, Egypt and Turkey are going ahead largely as scheduled, they may be subject to short-notice delays or cancellations, so you should check regularly with your airline before you travel.
Dubai and UAE travel advice
The Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to United Arab Emirates.
Your travel insurance could be rendered invalid if you travel against this advice.
British nationals currently in the country should stay indoors due to risk of missile attacks, and the current advice reads: “Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities.”
Cyprus travel advice
After a suspected Iranian-made drone was fired at the RAF base at Akrotiri, the Foreign Office updated its advice to read: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption.
“British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas should follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration. British nationals in the Republic of Cyprus should follow any instructions from Cypriot local authorities.”
Turkey travel advice
The Foreign Office advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to “fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism”.
Egypt travel advice
There is “heightened risk of regional tension” which “could lead to travel disruption and other unanticipated impacts”, the Foreign Office said.
Which airlines have cancelled flights?
A handful of flights will bring British nationals stranded in the Middle East back to Britain today – but the majority of departures from the region remain cancelled.
The current Emirates flight status is that the airline plans to operate two flights to Heathrow, and one each to Gatwick and Manchester. At least some of these flights will be operated by the airline’s A380 jets, which can each carry up to 615 passengers depending on how they are configured.
Emirates usually operates 146 weekly flights to the UK, which is the equivalent of about 21 per day.
Etihad Airways has scheduled one UK flight on Tuesday, from Abu Dhabi to Heathrow.
Qatar Airways, which usually serves Heathrow and Gatwick from Qatar, said on Tuesday morning that its operations remain suspended because of the closure of Qatari airspace.
British Airways has cancelled its timetabled flights to Heathrow from Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha and Dubai on Tuesday.
The airline told passengers: “We are closely monitoring the situation and have cancelled a number of our flights to the Middle East.
“Safety is always our top priority and we would never operate a flight unless it was safe to do so.”
Passengers with bookings on certain routes up to March 15 are being allowed to amend the date to fly on or before March 29.
Virgin Atlantic axed a flight from Dubai to Heathrow.
What about connecting flights?
You could also be affected if you’re due on a flight that changes at an airport disrupted by the war – such as Abu Dhabi, which acts as a major hub for connecting flights to Thailand, Vietnam, India, Australia and New Zealand. Check with your airline in advance if you’re in any doubt.
What if I’m stuck abroad?
British nationals currently in the Gulf have been advised by the Foreign Office to remain indoors and follow local authorities. Plans for evacuation repatriation flights are going ahead, but at a very limited capacity, and you should not make plans around these until you have been contacted by British consular staff.
What are my rights if something goes wrong with my flights?
Don’t cancel your own ticket if your destination or connecting flight is affected – instead, wait for the airline to cancel the flight.
If you cancel voluntarily, you will likely forfeit your right to a full refund or rebooking under UK air passenger rights.
It’s important to check your travel insurance, as standard policies will usually cover extended emergency medical expenses if you are stranded abroad – but many exclude cancellation or curtailment costs arising directly from acts of war.
What about cruise ships?
Thousands of cruise line passengers are currently trapped in ports in the Middle East due to the war in Iran.
At least six well-known ships from big companies, including TUI, are reported to be at a standstill and awaiting news of when they can leave.
Cruise liners affected include TUI Cruises’ ships Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5, which are stranded in the ports of Abu Dhabi and Doha. The cruise line has had to cancel its upcoming departures due to the lack of operating repatriation flights.
The MSC Euribia remains docked in the port of Dubai, under strict security measures, with embarkations suspended until further notice.
The ships Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery have also had their departures cancelled and are being kept under supervision in regional ports.
TUI Cruises said in its latest alert: “We are currently monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East region and the latest guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).”
Disruption ‘could last weeks’
Last night, US president Donald Trump said the joint US-Israel military operation in Iran could last four to five weeks or “far longer”.
Aviation consultant John Strickland said it could take weeks to clear the backlog of passengers, even if the conflict ends sooner.
He said: “It’s a bit uncertain (when that will happen) because of course it will depend on how long the airspace restrictions remain in place.
“But factoring in the high volumes of normal daily traffic and the high capacity of aircraft such as the A380 and the Boeing 777, plus the fact that other flights covering similar routes operate at high occupancy, then it will certainly be quite a period of time which would likely run into weeks.”
Jenna Carr aka ‘Travel Mum’ has made travelling with her family her full-time job.
On her social pages, she reveals how to find last-minute cheap holiday deals, top travel tips – and now, her most underrated holiday destinations.
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France which is a short drive, ferry-ride or flight away from the UK is a camping hotspotCredit: AlamyEfteling theme park is only a few hours away from the UK
For fun family breaks that you might not have considered – Jenna says we should think about our closest neighbour.
Talking to Sun Travel, Jenna said: “France is overlooked a lot and it’s so close to us – you can drive over, which is much easier with a family.
“Of course you’ve got the famous spots like Paris and Disneyland, but there are lots of other places that are just as lovely.
“We went camping in the south of France last summer and flew into Nice, which didn’t take long from the UK – and went to a couple of places along the coast.”
“It also has so many great holiday parks and campsites too.”
In fact, France has over ten thousand registered campsites across the country – some even have waterparks and beach clubs.
Equally great for a cross-Channel break is the Netherlands, thanks to its award-winning theme park that Jenna reckons is on a par with Disneyland Paris.
She said: “We’ve driven over there from the UK a lot, and there’s loads to do for families.
“The theme park, Efteling, is really cool – I’d call it Disneyland Paris after dark. It’s based on fairytales and is a little creepy.
“But I prefer it to Disneyland. I think it’s a bit more authentic, and it feels more magical.”
Some of the most thrilling rides in the park include Baron 1898 which has a 120ft free-fall drop into a mineshaft at 55mph.
There’s a double-track rollercoaster called Joris en de Draak where riders can speed past a 39ft fire-breathing dragon.
The theme park is also home to the world’s largest swinging ship, a monorail, and an 100-year-old steam carousel.
Day tickets for Efteling for anyone over the age of four range from €40 to €56 depending on the day of visit.
You could tie the theme park into a city break with the kids, as it’s under an hour on the train from Amsterdam – so plenty of culture for the adults and roller coasters for the kids in one trip.
March is one of the most reliable months for a family city break, and Amsterdam is one of the easiest cities to do with children.
The weather sits around 10 to 12C, the city starts to feel brighter, and peak tourism is still a few weeks away.
It is flat, organised and designed for everyday life, which makes navigating it with kids feel intuitive rather than stressful.
March is also when parks, canal walks and museums like NEMO Science Museum really come into their own, giving you options that work whether the day is high energy or low key.
There’s plenty to explore in the Netherlands in and out of the capitalCredit: AlamyAgadir isn’t necessarily a family holiday destination that springs to mindCredit: Alamy
If you’re looking for somewhere with guaranteed sun, head outside of Europe for Agadir in Morocco.
The coastal resort city has plenty of sunshine, sandy beaches with vibrant souks and hotels.
Jenna said: “I know it’s not a place where families would traditionally go – but it’s amazing.
“It’s very cheap, they’ve got lovely hotels and there’s lots of fun activities to do, and it’s culturally interesting.
“It’s not like the Costa del Sol where everything’s made for the Brits. It’s Morocco, so you can go to markets and explore the desert.”
During her holiday, Jenna and her family checked into the Allegro Agadir.
She went on to tell Sun Travel that not only is Agadir family-friendly, it’s also cheap as she paid just £600 for her family of three at the time.
It has plenty of running about space for kids on the grassy areas and children have their own swimmingpool, games and club.
There’s also a tennis court, evening entertainment and all rooms either have views across the pool, or over the garden.
The hotel is a short walk from the beach where there are complimentary sunbeds for hotel guests.
Jen’s new book ‘Yes You Can Travel With Kids’ is available now on Amazon.
The Thames Tunnel was built by Marc Brunel alongside his son Isambard Kingdom Brunel and hundreds of workers.
It was originally a pedestrian tunnel with lots of shops and entertainment, and then it was later converted into a train tunnel, which the Windrush Line now uses.
As part of your visit, you can head 40 feet underground into the Tunnel Shaft.
Tickets need to be booked in advance via the Museum’s website, using the code ‘LOTTERY26’.
English Heritage Bolsover Castle, Bolsover
Bolsover Castle was once an aristocratic retreat during the 17th century.
Inside, there are wall paintings and lavish interiors, and outside you can explore the Fountain Garden, which is designed around a statue of Venus and features lots of flowers.
If you have kids, there is a play area as well and a tearoom.
It’s not required to book in advance, but use the code ‘NLOPENWEEK26’ to gain free entry.
It is part of the National Lottery’s Open WeekCredit: Getty
Free Family Swims at The Lenton Centre, Nottingham
Between 2:30pm and 3:30pm on Mother’s Day, families can go swimming at The Lenton Centre in Nottingham.
It’s a family swim session so you can master your swimming skills or splash and play.
As spaces are limited, booking in advance is recommended and you just need to bring your swimming gear and a towel.
You’ll learn about the ancient craft, whilst also getting hands-on experience.
The workshop is ideal for beginners or even those with some willow weaving experience that want to learn new techniques.
And what’s better is that you get to take home your creation.
All materials and tools are included, and there are two sessions on Mother’s Day – one starting at 10am and another starting at 2pm.
The workshop will take place at Mingle Cafe Bridgewater and is for over 18s.
To get into the attractions, you will need to show proof of purchasing a National Lottery ticket or instant gameCredit: Getty
Abbotsford, The home of Sir Walter Scott, Melrose
Each day between March 7 and 15 from 12pm, you can head on a free tour of Abbotsford House, which was once home to Sir Walter Scott.
While you do have to pay for admission to Abbotsford, which is £16.20 per adult and gives you access to the house and gardens, the guided tour will be free when you present a National Lottery ticket.
English Heritage Housesteads Roman Fort & Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
Housesteads is the most complete example of a Roman fort in Britain and can be found midway along Hadrian’s Wall.
The fort was built around AD 122, which is when work on Hadrian’s Wall began.
Over the decades, excavations have revealed major buildings, defences and even a settlement just outside the walls of the fort.
And you will even be able to see the oldest toilets in Britain!
You don’t need to book in advance but you can do online if you want to by using the code ‘NLOPENWEEK26’.
For example, you can head to the most complete example of a Roman fort in BritainCredit: Alamy
Historic Royal Palaces Hampton Court Palace, London
If you don’t mind celebrating Mother’s Day a day early, then you can head to Hampton Court Palace in London.
Whilst not free, you can get 50 per cent off tickets for up to two adults and four children.
You can explore Tudor kitchens, see amazing architecture and wander through 60 acres of gardens.
Booking online in advance is essential, and you will need to enter the code ‘LOTTERY50’ to benefit from the promotion.
Or head to the royal Hampton Court PalaceCredit: Getty
Filmhouse, Edinburgh
Fancy doing something a little out of the ordinary? Well, you can go on a tour of the projection box at the Filmhouse in Edinburgh.
This unique opportunity allows visitors to see how real film projection works and explore the hidden areas of a film house.
Places are limited to 10 per tour and you’ll need to book your space via the Filmhouse website.
Eden Project, Cornwall
From March 7 to 15, you can get free entry to the Eden Project in Cornwall.
What says Mother’s Day more than flowers? Well, exploring thousands of them alongside other tropical plants.
The Eden Project is also home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, so you can investigate plants from further afield.
You’ll need to book a free day entry ticket on the website, and then show your National Lottery ticket on arrival.
If your mother loves gardening, head to the Eden ProjectCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Witley Court and Gardens, Worcestershire
Perfect if you are spending Mother’s Day with children, Witley Court and Gardens boasts exciting woodland trails, sprawling gardens and a wilderness play area.
Witley Court once used to be a Victorian party palace, and inside the audio tour will bring the mansion’s party days to life.
To get free entry, simply show up with a National Lottery ticket or proof of a game.
For the handful of skiers gliding across a sun-drenched ridge high in the San Gabriel Mountains, the wide expanse of the Inland Empire stretched to the Pacific Ocean nearly two vertical miles below.
Across sparkling water, the rugged spine of Catalina Island graced the horizon.
The view rivaled anything at the posh, world-renowned ski resorts of Lake Tahoe, but this was humble Mt. Baldy — the familiar local mountain that, for a few precious weeks each year, becomes a downhill skiing destination that holds its own with anything in the American West.
A sign inside Top of the Notch restaurant at Mt. Baldy.
Last week — after the 10,000-foot summit that looms above Los Angeles emerged from storm clouds blanketed in white — was one for the ages.
But in a rapidly warming world, and in an industry dominated by two huge and growing conglomerates that are crushing the competition, every run feels fleeting.
These days, managing a small ski business is like trying to keep a mom-and-pop general store afloat after Walmart comes to town.
By noon last Wednesday on Mt. Baldy — a little more than an hour’s drive from downtown L.A. — it was getting pretty hot, and the snow was melting fast.
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For a skier racing between towering Jeffrey pines and plummeting through soft, slushy piles of forgiving snow, the hardest part was dodging exposed rocks and random tree limbs that appeared underfoot with alarming frequency.
The hardest part for the business is the fact that one of the conglomerates, Alterra Mountain Co., essentially surrounds Mt. Baldy.
Zac Chambers and his daughter Whitney, 6, of Upland, snowboard together at Mt. Baldy.
It owns Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit in nearby San Bernardino County, and Mammoth Mountain, the closest big resort in California’s High Sierra.
Although a season pass at Mt. Baldy is a relative bargain at about $300, it’s good only when there’s snow.
For about $800, you can get an “Ikon Pass” from Alterra, which offers access to all of its resorts in California and dozens more across the country and around the globe, including South America, Europe and Asia.
All of which makes keeping the lights on and the chairlifts spinning at beloved, but beleaguered, local resorts an exhausting labor of love.
Last week, Robby Ellingson, president and general manager of Mt. Baldy Resort, drove two hours to a rival resort in Big Bear Lake to pick up spare parts for an old chairlift that had broken down. He thanked them with a few cases of beer.
He planned to grab some tools and install the parts himself, with the help of an electrician.
Michael Phelps, left, and Seven Foster, of Riverside, take the chairlift up to Mt. Baldy Resort.
“I climb the lift towers, I drive snowcats, I do pretty much everything,” he said, chuckling at all of the hard, physical labor despite his executive title. “There’s a lot of things I do that none of the other dudes who hold my position would dream of — out of necessity.”
Another Mt. Baldy executive, Ellingson’s brother Tommy, turned up for an interview on the mountain in a camouflage hoodie, clutching an electric hand drill.
“Everybody’s like a Swiss army knife up here,” he quipped. “It’s awesome, it’s organic!”
It’s also very old-school.
While resorts like Mammoth invest millions in state-of-the-art chairlifts that whisk six people at a time up the mountain with astonishing speed, Mt. Baldy relies on slow, creaking two- and three-person lifts reminiscent of the 1980s.
A lot of the ski gear, ski fashion and the skiers themselves seemed proudly rooted in a bygone era too.
A skier carves down the mountain at Mt. Baldy.
Chris Caron, a 65-year-old retiree who lives 20 minutes down the road, stood at the top of the experts chairlift with a beard as white as snow, a black plastic sun shield across his nose and a cold craft beer in hand.
“There’s big conglomerates trying to buy everybody up, and I don’t want that,” he said, shading himself beneath the bill of his Pliny the Elder ball cap. “That’s what I love about here. It’s not so commercialized.”
Caron said he snowboards at Baldy every chance he gets — 20 to 30 days in a good year.
“I grew up here. We used to ride our bicycles and hike these mountains,” he said. “It’s like home.”
Driving back from visiting family in Missouri recently, Caron stopped at Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico, a bucket list destination for people who don’t shy from pricey vacations. He couldn’t help himself, he said — they’d just had a big dump of fresh powder and it wasn’t too far out of his way. But it didn’t feel right.
“It’s pretty posh,” he said with a resigned shrug. “That’s just not me.”
Also enjoying the uncrowded slopes and gloriously short lift lines on Wednesday was Tommaso Ghio, 28, an aspiring filmmaker from Italy who spent much of the afternoon snowboarding shirtless and looking like an extra from a Visit California commercial.
Old skis adorn a light fixture at the Top of the Notch restaurant at Mt. Baldy.
He and his friends drove up through the desert where it was, “like 80 or 90 degrees, and then we just ended up on top of a mountain,” covered in snow, he said, grinning as if he had won the lottery. “You can’t get this anywhere else.”
But the balmy weather that made the afternoon feel so decadent, and otherworldly, also poses a serious threat to Baldy’s on-again, off-again ski season.
It started with a surprise early storm in November — one that had locals dreaming of a record-breaking year — followed by a bone-dry December.
Then at Christmas, an atmospheric river that dumped several feet of snow on Northern California resorts arrived at Mt. Baldy, which tops out at 8,600 feet, as “catastrophic” rain, Ellingson said.
Rain washes away existing snow and destroys the quality of anything left behind.
And since Christmas week crowds generate about 30% of annual revenue at many U.S. ski resorts, the storm soaked Mt. Baldy in more ways than one.
Things stayed grim until last week’s storm, which dropped more than 2 feet of snow at the base of the resort and up to 3 feet at the top.
With limited snow at lower elevations, people make the up-and-down trip from the chairlift at Mt. Baldy.
It took some time to recover from damage done by the howling wind and make sure none of the enormous piles of snow on the upper reaches became life-threatening avalanches. When the resort finally opened, the skiing was as good as any in recent memory.
“I’ve lived in Mt. Baldy almost my entire life,” said Ellingson, who is 50, “and last Friday was one of my top five days ever.”
He’s hoping the storm delivered enough snow to stay open for at least a month, but the heat is not helping.
Ellingson’s family bought the Mt. Baldy Lodge, a restaurant in the village far below, in the late 1970s. They started running the ski hill, which they own a substantial share of, in 2013.
Increasingly fickle winters have forced the resort to branch out in an attempt to boost summer earnings and attract non-skiing customers: hosting moonlight hikes with live music in the restaurant at the base of the lifts, renting “glamping” tents on wooden platforms — with beds and locking doors — to tempt uneasy campers to sleep beneath the stars.
And in what Ellingson called a “swing for the fences” move, the resort recently bought a microbrewery in Upland. After serving beers at the restaurant for decades, it seemed like a natural next step.
Anything to avoid getting trapped in a “desk job,” Ellingson said, like his friends working as middle managers at the big, corporate resorts.
“I hate to throw shade,” he said, but do those guys ever go skiing?
Independence is priceless to Ellingson because, when you’re the boss and the snow is good, nobody can order you to stop throwing tricks in the terrain park and flying off jumps.
“I grew up during the X Games boom. That’s my identity,” he said. “I still get rad every single day.”
Here’s another quintessential L.A. walk through the Hollywood Hills’ High Tower neighborhood, the Hollywood Bowl and Whitley Terrace inspired by “Walking Los Angeles” Walk 15.
The roughly three-mile route winds through historic neighborhoods with excellent views, incredible century-old homes and (literally) breathtaking climbs along with an intriguing collection of gates and doors. The walk also gives you a chance to admire the Hollywood Bowl without jillions of people milling around (and, if necessary, visit its lovely restrooms without waiting forever in line), but be sure to check the Bowl’s schedule ahead of time. The route won’t be possible when it’s having a concert.
Traffic and parking are always a challenge in this part of L.A. and nearly impossible in the High Tower area. I recommend finding a place to park across Highland Avenue on Milner Road because it’s less traveled (and very lovely). One final note: This route has few sidewalks, and those that exist are uneven, so keep an eye open for traffic and trip hazards, which is tougher than it sounds, because there are plenty of lovely sights to distract.
Here’s how to get there:
1. Start your walk at the corner of Camrose Drive and Highland Avenue, next to the Highland-Camrose Bungalow Village (which we’ll visit later.) Walk straight up Camrosepast Woodland Way to Rockledge Road, where you’ll turn right and continue your climb.
This Hollywood Heights neighborhood has a real Mediterranean feel, with brilliant white villas clinging to the hills. The narrow winding street offers charming views of balconies and towers and the soothing tinkle of running water, so it’s easy to forget the cacophonous traffic and looming billboards nearby. The views get better as you climb until you reach the top of the hill and the end of Rockledge — at least for vehicles.
2. Continue walking to the end of the cul-de-sac, where you’ll find Los Altos Place, a pedestrian-only street. At the start of the walkway is a beautiful mosaic bench, where you can stop to catch your breath and then descend the first set of stairs, just 12 steps down.
3. This narrow walk takes you past many impressive doors and gates until you reach High Tower Drive. You’ll cross this road to stay on Los Altos Place, but as you cross, take a moment to wonder at the tiny garages built into the bottom of the hill and the High Tower elevator built like a freestanding Italian bell tower (a.k.a. campanile) rising 100 feet above. The elevator tower was designed by architect Carl Kay in the 1920s to provide the neighborhood’s tony residents elevator access to their hilltop homes, which are inaccessible by car.
4. Alas, only residents have a key to the elevator, so you must admire from afar and continue your walk along Los Altos Place, which includes a short set of 23 steps, to another pedestrian walkway called Broadview Terrace, where you will turn right and climb 37 steps toward the tower. At the top you’ll see more mostly white houses, bristling with balconies and to your right, a clearing with some gorgeous views of Hollywood.
5. Keep walking on Broadway Terrace, past the back side of the tower, to the next pedestrian walkway, Alta Loma Terrace, where you will turn right. It’s easy to get confused here, because the narrow walkway seems to have many passages that lead to front doors. After you pass the tower and a large, white Streamline Moderne home on your right, look for the street sign to Alta Loma Terrace on your left, partially hidden by shrubs and turn right.
6. This is another narrow, shaded walkway where you will see more interesting gates and fences than actual homes, but at No. 6881, you’ll pass a boarded-up 1921 Craftsman-style home with Japanese influences peppered with graffiti and “keep out” notices. The home once belonged to pioneering Asian American actor Philip Ahn, but it’s mostly famous now for being the home where Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love lived from 1992 to 1993. It’s sometimes known as the “In Utero” house, because Cobain wrote most of Nirvana’s third and final studio album, “In Utero,” there. Now the most notable thing, beyond the warnings, are the squirrels and bees buzzing around the property’s lovely overgrown landscape.
7. Follow Alta Loma Terrace as it slopes downhill and turns to the right. It’s mostly walkway along here, with intermittent series of short steps, but the descent is steep enough that you’ll feel it in your legs. After a short four steps down to No. 6836, where a beautiful pink bougainvillea drapes near a blue gate, the walkway turns left, and the descent feels faster over a series of four 14-step stairs separated by segments of straight walkways until you finally take 10 steps down into a parking lot and turn left.
8. You’ll be walking beside those adorable little garages on your left, barely big enough to hold a small modern sedan, and exit onto Highland Avenue through a black gate (that is locked from the parking lot side, so be sure you’re ready to leave).
9. Now turn left toward the Hollywood Bowl, and you can walk through the parking area, which is shaded by many beautiful trees and much more pleasant than walking alongside Highland Avenue’s unrelenting traffic. Walk up to the main entrance to admire the lovely Art Deco George Stanley fountain created in 1940, then walk over to the Peppertree Lane walkway — yes, lined by pepper trees — to the amphitheater. which is open to visitors who want to admire.
10. You won’t find much else open except for clean restrooms, which we were happy to visit. After gaping at the shell-shaped stage and the venues towering, arched rows capable of seating 18,000, retrace your steps back toward Highland. And near the place where you exited from the Alta Loma Terrace parking lots, step inside the gates to the Highland Camrose Park Pathway, around 2153 Highland Ave. On concert nights, this park is usually full of people eating their picnic dinners before entering the theater, but the park is usually empty and quiet when the Bowl is closed.
11. Follow the path heading east toward Camrose, and take a few minutes to wander through the cobble-stoned Highland-Camrose Bungalow Village of 14 Craftsman homes built between 1900 and 1924, according to an informational sign at the village. The cute houses were designed to be working-class housing for film-industry folks — what a concept! — and today mostly house offices for organizations affiliated with the Hollywood Bowl as well as the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Parks Bureau.
12. Exit onto Camrose and turn left to Highland Avneue, where you’ll cross to the other side, where Camrose becomes Milner Road and start walking uphill into the Whitley Heights Historical Preservation Overlay Zone, created by developer H.W. Whitley and architect A.S. Barnes. The majority of the stately homes were designed between 1918 and 1928 to resemble a Mediterranean village and quickly became the home of Hollywood’s elite, including Rudolph Valentino, Tyrone Power, Gloria Swanson and Marlene Dietrich, according to the Los Angeles City Planning website.
13. Follow Milner Road as it winds and climbs up the lushly landscaped hill. After the road curves left, watch for La Scène Idéal, an adorable yellow 1923 cottage that hugs the next curve. At Watsonia Terrace, bear right to stay on Milner Road and continue walking uphill, past several grand Spanish Colonial Revival-style homes, the neighborhood’s favored design. It’s the details on these homes that really captured my eye — arched doorways and windows (some with stained glass), tile inlays, elaborate garage doors and wrought iron light fixtures.
14. At the end of Milner, turn right onto Whitley Terrace, with some breathtaking views on your right, along with many more lovely homes. The book mentions a short stair just past 6681 Whitley Terrace, before a stretch of low slung freestanding garages, but it’s apparently been removed. A small plaque marks the spot where the Mary Jackson Staircase was rebuilt in 2000, but it no longer exists, so keep walking a short distance more to Grace Avenue and turn left to continue climbing the hill.
15. The higher you go, the more houses seem to become more stately. At the top of the hill, you’ll see Kendra Court to your left, a gated street closed to the public. Follow Grace Avenue as it turns right and heads downhill.
16. Turn right at the next street, which is Whitley Terrace, and follow it down past Bonair Place, where the road starts curving to the right. Follow the curve to the Whitley Terrace Steps, between 6666 and 6670 Whitley Terrace, and your final stairs, a twisting, 159-step descent with various short landings under shady trees, wrought-iron fences and tiled roofs. At step 66, pause to admire a charming yellow gate and then carry on, through a charming wrought iron gate back to Milner Road and wherever you parked your car.
FLIGHTS are continuing to be cancelled as the travel chaos caused by the Middle East conflict enters a fourth day.
Limited flights were permitted to take off last night, which included an Etihad flight from Abu Dhabi to London.
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Flights are continuing to be cancelled today across the Middle EastCredit: AFPAirlines are warning passengers not to travel to the airport unless contactedCredit: Reuters
According to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium, around 73 flights are scheduled from the UK to the Middle East, working out to nearly 25,000 passengers affected today.
Emirates, which operates out of Dubai, confirmed that “limited flights” took off yesterday.
However, this was only for passengers with earlier bookings, and only those who are being contacted by Emirates.
They warned: “Please do not go to the airport unless you have been notified.
“All other flights remain suspended until further notice.”
Etihad also operated limited flights yesterday across Asia and Europe, which included a flight to London.
However, most scheduled flights to and from Abu Dhabi are suspended until at least 2pm tomorrow.
In a statement, it confirmed: “Passengers should not travel to the airport unless they have been contacted directly by Etihad Airways and advised to do so.”
Qatar Airways confirmed this morning that flight operations were “still suspended due to the closure of the Qatari airspace”.
It added: “Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of Qatari airspace.
“A further update will be provided on March 4 by 9am Doha time.”
Virgin Atlantic has cancelled its Dubai to London flight today but has not yet confirmed any cancellations tomorrow.
And British Airways said they have “cancelled a number of our flights to the Middle East”.
Most airlines are allowing passengers to ask for a full refund, or can move their flights to a later date without any additiona charge.
Yesterday, the General Civil Aviation Authority in the UAE – in a very rare move – confirmed that the state would cover all accommodation and hosting costs for stranded passengers.
Most airports remain closed in the UAE and Qatar due to the airspace closuresCredit: Reuters
The Sun’s Head of Travel explains your rights if affected by the cancellations
For passengers meant to be flying in or out of the region, your rights depend on whether you were flying directly in or out of the UK or EU or if you are flying with an UK or EU airline.
Those who are will not get compensation as it is not the fault of the airline but they do have a duty of care to look after impacted passengers – depending on the length of the delay that could include food and drink, a means of communicating and if necessary, overnight accommodation.
Those flying on non-UK or EU carriers may find their rights are slightly different if they are not on a direct flight to the UK as different rules apply and you may not be provided with the same assistance.
They are, however, expected to offer you the right to a refund or another flight in the case of cancellations.
As well as those directly impacted by cancelled flights, the closure of so much of the Middle Eastern airspace will mean even more congestion on alternative routes that could impact flights across the globe.
For those due to travel in the coming days, staying in contact with your airline and checking before travelling to the airport is essential as schedules may change at short notice.
This means anyone still stuck in Dubai or Abu Dhabi will be able to stay at hotels free of charge, as well as not pay for any additional costs like food and drink.
I’m standing at 3,330 metres on a tall metal platform with a heavy harness strapped to my back, gazing in awe at the snow-covered Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and the Dents du Midi ridge. It’s a gorgeous distraction while I wait to be clipped in and launched down the valley at 120 kilometres an hour. This is the Mont Fort zip line, the highest in the world. I sit with my legs dangling over the precipice, then with a stomach-churning clunk the mechanism releases and I speed through the air over tiny figures skiing below. It’s exhilarating and over too soon. I’m grinning ear to ear, my lungs full of high mountain air.
I’m in Verbier, one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts. With access to 410km of pristine piste, excellent alpine food and a legendary après-ski culture, what’s not to like? Well, for many, the price. Verbier has long been favoured by A-listers and royalty, with eye-watering prices to match. Happily, there is a way to enjoy the same slopes, with much less of a financial hit. Stay in the village of La Tzoumaz (pronounced La Tsoo-mah), where accommodation can be half the price of Verbier, and you’re one chairlift away from the entire Four Valleys ski area. And as I discover, this “back door” resort has plenty of its own charms too.
Ailsa Sheldon in La Tzoumaz. Photograph: Ailsa Sheldon
La Tzoumaz has a year-round population of little more than 300 and, despite the influx of skiers, retains a charming village feel. Its name comes from the word “tzoumer” in Valaisan dialect, meaning “the place where you rest”, and it’s a good fit. I’m staying at Le Papill’on, a boutique hotel run by Ana and Pico. The 12 cosy, wood-panelled bedrooms are above the restaurant, some with views of the mountains, and the welcome is warm and genuine. Breakfast is generous, with Ana’s pastel de nata alongside eggs, cheese and meats, plus yoghurt, granola, fruit and cakes. Perfect fuel for a day on the slopes. Ski hire and the gondola are just two minutes’ walk away.
While Verbier access is the bonus, there’s also wonderful skiing at La Tzoumaz. A combination of north- and south-facing slopes gives excellent snow coverage over miles of blue, red and black runs. There are four chairlifts, including the swish new “télémixte” lift (both gondolas and chairlifts), which opened its second phase last December, improving the connection between Verbier and La Tzoumaz. A permanent “funslope” has ramps, jumps and tunnels, some of which play music – definitely not just for kids. There are two top ski schools: I spend a day with instructors from Ecole Suisse de Ski and another with Tzoum’Evasion and find all the guides unfailingly positive and professional. A beginner in our group progresses from grappling with bindings to snowplough turns in two days. The dedicated “Babylift” area is ideal for new skiers.
I’m here to ski, but it would be remiss to skip the other activities on offer. While the zip line was a definite highlight, I also try La Tzoumaz’s popular luge attraction. At 10km, it’s one of Europe’s longest sledging tracks, with a vertical descent of 711m. I crash into the sides (definitely wear a helmet), career off the edge into a snowdrift, and take a wrong turn requiring a long walk back, pulling my sledge. Speed demons will love it: I’m glad I tried it (but also, never again).
Ice-skating in La Tzoumaz is more my style, and the free ice rink makes this an easy evening activity. In peak season there’s a bar beside the rink, and you can rent skates from the sports shop over the road. We have a go ateisstock,a game similar to boules but played on ice. Best attempted with a mulled wine to warm the hands. At the base of the ski station there’s a little swimming pool, free to use with your lift pass. At Riddes, the village at the bottom of the slopes, I pop in to the Maye winery to taste some Swiss wines.
La Tzoumaz also has ice rinks and a luge track. Photograph: David Noton/Alamy
Food on the mountains is hearty skiing fuel. L’Inkontro is a smart new restaurant on Les Attelas slope, with incredible views over the valley from its large, sunny terrace. It merges Valaisan cuisine with Italian classics; the baked tortellini gratin powers my afternoon nicely. Chez Simon is a cosy alpine hut, easy to spend a few hours in. Croûtes are popular here, an alpine version of cheese on toast that’s so generous it’s served in a bowl to catch all the melted cheese. For serious mountain hunger, the croûte royalehas added ham, egg and pickles. Stop for coffee at Croix-de-Cœur to drink in panoramic views over the Rhône valley, La Tzoumaz and Verbier.
Although it’s an easy ski between Verbier and La Tzoumaz, by road it’s a little more challenging. Currently you have to go down the mountain to Riddes and back up, and the buses don’t run all night, so it’s better to enjoy après-ski back in La Tzoumaz to avoid risking an expensive taxi. Evenings in La Tzoumaz are more relaxed than Verbier, but a lot of fun. For après-ski, Bar Des Etablons towards the end of the slopes is a lively and unpretentious meeting point with upbeat tunes. The sledging route ends here, and the free ski bus picks up outside.
Down in the village, near the ski lifts, Le Central bar is the best spot to wind down, with comfy leather sofas and beautiful big windows overlooking the valley. It opened last December, run by pro-snowboarder Xavier de Le Rue and friends. There are pizzas to share, local beers and a good wine list. For restaurants head to Le Papill’on for garlic snails or raclette, L’Auberge La Tzoumaz for fondue or local fish, and at L’Trappeur the house speciality, la potence de bœuf – beef served “on the gallows”, skewered on a metal structure then flame-grilled at the table. A well-stocked supermarket makes self-catering easy too.
While skiing in Switzerland may never be cheap, La Tzoumaz makes its most famous ski area feel far more attainable. With affordable accommodation, seamless access to the Four Valleys, and a friendly village atmosphere, it’s proof you don’t need to stay in the spotlight to enjoy the very best of the Alps.
The trip was provided by Verbier 4Vallées. Travel to Riddes by train from Geneva (with a change in Martigny) then catch a bus to La Tzoumaz. Hôtel Le Papill’onhas rooms from 97 Swiss francs (£89) B&B a person, based on two sharing. Adult ski hire at T-Shopstarts at £167for six days. An adult one-day ski pass for theVerbier 4Vallées sector isaround £85, adult six-day pass£380.More information at verbier.ch
The stunning sister villages offer an idyllic escape for anyone looking to avoid the Lake District crowds – without compromising on scenery, wildlife or history.
They’re home to some of the ‘finest views in the country’(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Whilst the Lake District remains a beloved choice amongst British holidaymakers, it becomes swamped with visitor numbers during the UK’s beautiful summer season, frequently leading to extortionate costs for lodging, meals and beverages.
For those still wanting to experience a Lake District-style getaway as warmer weather returns – without breaking the bank and whilst steering clear of the crowds, naturally – we’ve discovered the ideal option for you.
Two delightful neighbouring villages straddling the Lancashire-Cumbria boundary tick all the boxes, offering remarkable wildlife, stunning vistas and superb lakeside rambles. These historic settlements are tucked away along Morecambe Bay’s shoreline within an area classified as a National Landscape (the smallest of the lot), thanks to their flourishing natural variety and abundant plant and animal life.
In fact, they appeared in The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Live Guide in 2021, with judges commenting: “These twin villages on the Kent estuary have some of the finest views in the country as well as an energetic, kind-hearted community.”
The settlements of Arnside and Silverdale create a distinctive corner of North-West England’s countryside, teeming with uncommon and beautiful wildlife, reports Lancs Live.
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Lancashire is known for its wide open skies, stunning landscapes and lively coastal resorts. Sykes Cottages has a wide range of self catering accommodation across the county from £42 a night.
Positioned on Morecambe Bay’s coastline, Arnside is an enchanting village located within Cumbrian territory with a vibrant community spirit. The settlement’s Victorian seafront and sweeping railway viaduct spanning the Kent estuary stand as two of its most notable landmarks.
Silverdale, meanwhile, is the Lancashire component of this duo, boasting charming whitewashed properties, abundant historical landmarks, and spectacular wooded trails leading to magnificent views of the Bay.
One of Britain’s largest ever ‘Viking Hoard’ was unearthed near Silverdale, thought to date back to 900 AD.
The Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) spans just 75 square kilometres – yet it’s more abundant in terms of heritage and biodiversity than most other locations across the UK.
Things to do in Arnside and Silverdale
Limestone grasslands, coastal rock and salt marshes and verdant woodlands surrounded by low-lying limestone hills make this protected region the ideal breeding ground for marshland birds and rare butterflies.
A visit to RSPB Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay Nature Reserve in Silverdale provides perfect opportunities to explore the area’s rich biodiversity, particularly its distinctive birdlife.
Leighton Moss hosts the North-West’s largest reed bed, drawing over 100 species of birds throughout the year, including the rare marsh harriers, bearded tits, and bitterns.
Furthermore, otters can frequently be seen playing at dusk in the beautiful meres of Leighton Moss, which also function as a breeding ground for these mammals.
A trek to Arnside Knott should certainly be on the agenda, with the popular hill and its magnificent summit viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Irish Sea surrounding Morecambe Bay, the Lake District fells, and the Kent estuary. Arnside Knott is regarded as the finest location in the entire UK for spotting rare butterflies, particularly during June and July, with uncommon species such as the high brown fritillary and the Scotch argus discovered there.
The Arnside Knot Circular Walk proves popular amongst walkers.
Close to Beetham, The Fairy Steps are a children’s favourite, whilst Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve near Carnforth serves as an excellent destination to experience limestone pavement.
The Elizabethan manor, Levens Hall, features an exceptional yew topiary garden and shouldn’t be overlooked, whilst the Giant’s Seat at Jenny Brown’s Point near Silverdale offers the ideal vantage point to absorb the spectacular views.
Leighton Hall, the historic residence of the Gillow family, represents another essential attraction near Silverdale. The family continues to reside there throughout the year and its highlights include the “famous collection of Gillow furniture and objets d’art, the gardens, and woodland walk”.
The award-winning Grade II Listed Building showcases impressive architecture and offers visitors (particularly history enthusiasts) an opportunity to explore and uncover the captivating history of this ancient Lancashire family.
Arnside Tower, also referred to as Pele Tower, is a late-medieval tower house constructed during the latter half of the 15th century. Built from limestone rubble, the tower originally stood five storeys tall but suffered a devastating fire in 1602.
Following restoration work, the structure remained operational and today its surviving features offer a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Whilst visiting Arnside, some excellent dining and drinking establishments include: The Albion, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, JJ Crossfield’s Cafe and Bar Arnside and The Old Bakehouse Arnside. In Silverdale, visitors can visit The Woodlands Hotel, The Royal Silverdale, and The Wolfhouse for an enjoyable experience.
It would be an oversight not to mention the breathtaking Silverdale Cove in this compilation of essential Silverdale and Arnside attractions.
Silverdale Cove is a gradually descending, stony inlet scattered with areas of sand and shingle. Surrounded by historic woodland and imposing limestone cliffs, the whole location possesses a distinctly untamed and unspoilt character.
Visitors should be aware that the bay is notorious for its rapidly changing tides and soft mud, so caution and vigilance are essential whilst exploring.
The cove is primarily suited for walking and observing the local wildlife rather than engaging in traditional seaside pursuits like swimming and snorkelling.
Stunningly picturesque coastal routes and forested pathways link Silverdale Cove to other natural landmarks in the vicinity such as Jenny Brown’s Point and Arnside Knott, and the sunsets are reportedly spectacular.
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This seaside spot has been crowned the best fish and chip restaurant in the UK at the 2026 National Fish and Chip Awards, beating over 10,500 chippy operators nationwide
They weren’t the only winner based in Yorkshire(Image: Google Maps )
Fish and chips remain a beloved staple in British homes as the ultimate dining-out indulgence, and Yorkshire has now been confirmed as home to the finest establishment serving this classic dish across the entire nation.
This highly-rated Whitby restaurant has just been crowned the best fish and chip restaurant in the UK at the 2026 National Fish and Chip Awards, and based on customer feedback, the accolade is thoroughly deserved.
Competing against more than 10,500 chippy operators eligible for the competition, Trenchers of Whitby’s triumph in the ‘restaurant of the year’ category represents a remarkable accomplishment.
Shortlisted establishments must demonstrate ‘extensive product knowledge, sustainable business practices, employer integrity, first-rate customer service’ alongside exceptional skill in preparing the most delicious fish and chips.
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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.
The Trenchers on New Quay Road uses the “traditional method of beef dripping” for frying to guarantee they’re delivering the “best possible product”, according to its website.
These deliberate cooking techniques have propelled the establishment above its fierce rivals. Yet the offerings for genuine food enthusiasts extend far beyond your standard fish and chips, though that naturally remains the restaurant’s cornerstone.
Menu choices feature seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish alongside homemade pies and lasagnes, Whitby scampi, plus numerous vegetarian alternatives.
A recent guest shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, stating: “Friendly service, nice atmosphere, incredible food and prices. Eaten here many times over the past few visits to Whitby and have never been disappointed. Absolutely recommend.”
Another diner described the “gravy is out of this world”. They added: “We travelled to Whitby for a weekend away. We popped into Trenchers Friday night, we were seated in a booth, and the drinks arrived promptly once ordered… The butcher’s gravy was absolutely delicious, and we would return just for the gravy.”
Located within walking distance of Whitby Beach, merely a 12-minute walk away, the eatery is positioned in the town centre, attracting visitors throughout the year. However, this doesn’t diminish their dedication to the art of preparing fish, as they continue to expand their modest empire.
Trenchers has established a sister venue, Tide by Trenchers, on Bridge Street in Whitby, which is scheduled to reopen in March 2026. It promises to “bring over four decades of award-winning tradition to Bridge Street”, offering seafood and additional meat options.
A somewhat newer and more upmarket alternative to the traditional fish and chip shop, one patron described Tide’s cuisine as “heaven on a plate”.
They added: “Wonderful. We had the special lobster dinner last Thursday of the month – would highly recommend, absolutely lush! Great wine selection, loved the Sauvignon Blanc.”
Claiming the top spot at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 was The Scrap Box in York, which scooped the coveted first place prize.
The shop’s two co-owners and brothers, Aman and Gavin Dhesi, are absolutely thrilled with their remarkable achievement. Following their victory, Gavin said: “There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the ‘Oscars’ of our industry!”.
“With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it’s a true honour to be recognised at this level. To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips.”
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A TikTok money expert has revealed how a travel credit card could save you thousands on holiday — but there’s a catch you need to know before you go abroad
Holidays can be expensive, so it’s important to save as much money as possible
Many holidaymakers think they’ve got their trip finances sorted but one money expert says a simple tool could save you thousands and protect you from scams. Mat The Money Man, known as @thequidsquid on TikTok, revealed the £3,000 holiday hack that many people completely overlook.
“If you go on holiday and don’t bring one of these, you could be in serious trouble,” he warns in the viral video. Over 9.4 million tourists have fallen victim to holiday scams over the past five years, making financial protection a must.
Mat explains that travel credit cards are often safer than using a debit card because they offer Section 75 protection under UK law. Any purchase between £100 and £30,000 is covered, meaning you can claim your money back if something goes wrong — a safety net debit cards rarely provide.
He also points to other perks, such as better exchange rates and cashback on overseas spending. “So if you get scammed, you can claim that money straight back,” he says, highlighting how the average person spends around £1,320 on two long holidays each year.
According to Compare the Market, a typical European holiday costs £1,000 to £2,000 per person, while longer-haul trips can exceed £2,000 per person depending on flights and accommodation. For many, the combination of fraud protection, exchange rate benefits, and potential cashback makes travel credit cards a valuable tool. Mat claims the total holiday savings could reach £3,633.
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Experts, however, stress that not all travel credit cards are created equal. MoneyHelper notes that while these cards often provide no foreign transaction fees and built-in insurance, consumers should compare annual fees, interest rates, and exchange rate policies before signing up.
The “catch” is simple but critical: you must have the right card and actually use it during your trip to unlock the savings and protections. Without it, you risk missing out on thousands of pounds and the extra security a travel credit card can provide.
For holidaymakers who want peace of mind and the chance to save big, a travel credit card could make all the difference — but only if you bring it along and use it correctly.
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With thousands of people either stranded or diverted across the Middle East following the attacks on Iran, one travel expert has shared the advice you need to know
Passengers are stranded across the globe(Image: Getty)
Thousands of travellers are either stuck or have had their plans thrown into disarray across the Middle East following Israel and the US’s strike on Iran. The missile strikes have triggered widespread disruption throughout the UAE and the broader Middle East region, leaving thousands of holidaymakers facing an anxious wait.
Flight cancellations have swept through major Gulf aviation hubs as well as Cyprus in what experts are calling the most severe travel turmoil since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Chris Harrington, Managing Director at hoppa, has outlined the top four things travellers need to understand if their flight gets axed, including your passenger rights and what compensation you might be owed.
The initial step when you spot that dreaded red ‘cancelled’ notice appearing on the departures board is to get in touch with your airline.
If you’re already inside the airport terminal, make your way to the customer service desk. However, if you turn the corner and discover a mammoth queue of passengers already assembled there, Chris has an alternative approach, reports the Express.
He advised: “Try using the airline’s app if they have one or ring the customer service team to find out about the next steps.”
Once you’ve managed to locate a staff member to speak with, it’s time to explore what options are on the table.
“In most cases, the airline will have to make an alternative plan for you. When you manage to speak to a member of staff, see if they can rebook you on a later flight.
“You may also want to consider opting for an alternative route or flying to another airport close to your final destination. It’s important to understand that the airline can book you a flight through a different provider, so make them aware of this.”
It’s vital to ensure you’ve got insurance sorted for any overseas trip. This will safeguard you against cancellations or other complications.
Chris explained: “If your flight has been cancelled, check your travel insurance documents as some policies will cover the cost of hotels, airport transfers, alternative flights, and food. It’s also worthwhile enquiring with your airline about vouchers for cancelled flights, as many offer them for passengers to find accommodation and cover the cost of food.”
Chris’s final piece of advice is to ensure you’re fully aware of your passenger rights.
He stated: “If the flight cancellation is due to the actions of the airline, then it’s likely you’ll be entitled to compensation. As stated by ABTA, if an airline cancels your flight in less than 14 days before you’re due to depart, then you’ll be entitled to compensation based on the length of your journey.
“However, in this case, because the cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances outside of the airline’s control, compensation is unlikely to apply. In these cases, passengers are still entitled to a refund or rebooking, as well as care and assistance such as meals and, if necessary, overnight accommodation.”
The Foreign Office has taken measures amid the war in the Middle East and several holiday hotspots, such as Thailand, Egypt and United Arab Emirates, are impacted
23:40, 02 Mar 2026Updated 23:43, 02 Mar 2026
A passenger sits on her suitcase in an empty section of the check-in area at Heathrow Airport this weekend(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Brits have been warned not to travel to dozens of countries due to the war in the Middle East.
Keir Starmer has insisted the UK Government will help keep Brits abroad safe. However, his FCDO team has listed 76 countries Brits should avoid for the time being due to the conflict. Of 226 countries or territories with foreign travel advice pages, 76 are currently flagged as having no-go zones.
Larges areas of airspace remained closed across the Middle East. Various airlines, including British Airways, have said they are “closely monitoring the situation” and have cancelled “a number of our flights to the Middle East”. Our sister title, Birmingham Live, has carefully broken down the full list, which features countries all across the world.
TELLY viewers have been delighting in the trials and tribulations of actor Danny Dyer and his Love Islander daughter Dani as they invest in, and manage, a holiday caravan park.
The Dyers’ Caravan Park, on Sky, is filmed at the Priory Hill site on Kent’s Isle of Sheppey – and has seen increased interest in park life, reports staycation giant Hoseasons.
Sun Haven Holiday Park in Cornwall is just outside Newquay’s famous bayCredit: Supplied
SUN HAVEN HOLIDAY PARK, CORNWALL: Featuring a “secret” woodland path leading to dog-friendly Mawgan Porth Beach, above, 15 minutes away, this holiday park just outside Newquay’s famous bay is perfect for a seaside break.
It’s a surfer’s paradise and is just a short drive from the waves of Fistral Beach.
You can choose between holiday homes, rustic shepherd’s huts and modern, luxury lodges. Prices start from £322 for seven nights.
NORTH SHORE HOLIDAY PARK, SKEGNESS: This park is perfectly positioned just a ten-minute stroll from Skegness’ Blue Flag sands and its lively pier.
On site, families can enjoy an 18-hole pitch-and-putt, tennis courts and a classic arcade as well as the park’s very own pub.
There are apartments, caravans and lodges to stay in. Prices start from £165 for seven nights.
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Ladram Bay Holiday Park in Devon has a private beachCredit: Supplied
LADRAM BAY HOLIDAY PARK, DEVON: Having been family-run for 75 years, Ladram Bay, knows what a multi-generational getaway should be.
It’s won awards, not just for its knockout activities, which includes the Fae & Flurry interactive dragon show, and adventure golf, but also its modern static caravans, some of which come with hot tubs.
There is a private beach, too, for rockpooling and kayaking. From £305 for seven nights.
RIVERSIDE HOLIDAY VILLAGE, SOMERSET: An absolute haven for young nature lovers, tucked away in the village of Bleadon, Riverside has walking trails galore on its doorstep.
There’s also an on-site fishing lake.
Meanwhile, big kids will love the indoor heated swimming pool with a splash pool for younger tots, the amusement arcade, a convenience shop and two adventure playgrounds.
Prices from £325 for seven nights.
BEST FOR COUPLES
Crake Valle in the Lake District has a number of quaint two-person lodgesCredit: Supplied
CRAKE VALLEY, LAKE DISTRICT: Few regions in the UK offer views more breathtaking than the Lakes – and at Crake Valley couples will be blown away by the spectacular setting, above Coniston Water and backed by craggy fells.
There are a number of quaint two-person lodges, which come with log burners and hot tubs ideal for stargazing under the sparkling sky.
Prices from £409 for seven nights.
MULLION COVE COASTAL RETREAT, CORNWALL: Couples can hunker down in the one-bedroom Porthleven Premier lodges which feature French doors leading on to a spacious decking area complete with sunken Jacuzzi.
Tucked away just above Cornwall’s Mullion Cove, the secluded setting makes for a great off-grid escape where you can while away the hours with a book, or watch the sun set.
Prices from £295 for seven nights.
BEST FOR WATERPARK FUN
Tropical Waterworld has twirling waterslides and splash zonesCredit: Parkdean Resorts
VAUXHALL HOLIDAY PARK, GREAT YARMOUTH, NORFOLK: Tropical Waterworld, is undoubtedly the shining star of this action-packed holiday park, kitted out with twirling waterslides and splash zones that will get adrenaline junkies’ hearts pumping.
Kids will love the treehouse adventure playground, jungle golf and mini golf.
Satisfy little tummies with fish and chips, pizza, fried chicken and ice cream. From £139 for seven nights.
TRELAWNE MANOR, CORNWALL: Waterslide, lake or pool?
You can take your pick at this Cornish gem, set in the grounds of a stately home in Looe.
The outdoor pool, with whooshing flume, is so large that it never gets too crowded.
Kids can have a play on the amusements while adults enjoy a game of snooker or take to the tennis courts.
Lodges and caravans are airy and modern. Prices from £122 for seven nights.
BEST FOR WALKING
Lee Valley in Hertfordshire is surrounded by picturesque countrysideCredit: Supplied
SUNNYVALE HOLIDAY PARK, PEMBROKESHIRE: This site sits at the gate-way to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, ideal for exploring rugged cliff-top trails and hidden coves.
It’s also within easy reach of treks in the Snowdonia National Park and along historic Offa’s Dyke Path.
With a variety of nearby walking routes, from gentle seaside strolls and waterfall treks to longer, more challenging mountain trails, it’s ideal for all abilities.
From £446 for seven nights.
LEE VALLEY, HERTFORDSHIRE: Close to the bright lights of London, this holiday park is set within a 10,000-acre park surrounded by picturesque countryside here and in Essex.
There are miles of flat, accessible riverside paths, above.
Perfect for all generations and direct access to forest trails and cycling routes.
A mix of lodges and caravans to choose from, too. Prices from £339 for seven nights.
BEST FOR PETS
Wayfind Pennant Park in north Wales has dedicated paths coastal trails for dog-walkingCredit: Supplied
WAYFIND PENNANT PARK, NORTH WALES: This haven near the coast has views of the Dee Estuary and dedicated paths coastal trails for dog-walking.
Lodges, feature fully enclosed decking and include a Dog Welcome Pack with bowls and treats.
The resort also offers weekly events including live music and quizzes.
Prices start from £359 for seven nights.
SANDYMOUTH HOLIDAY RESORT, NORTH CORNWALL: This park also welcomes dogs and is close to the expansive, pooch-friendly sands of Sandymouth Bay.
Surrounded by miles of coastal walking trails and open countryside, there’s also lots for the humans to keep themselves amused, from watersports and swimming pools, to sports courts and evening entertainment.
Prices from £179 for seven nights.
BEST FOR ACTIVITIES
Finlake Resort & Spa, Devon offers the perfect mix of peaceful nature and all-action funCredit: Supplied
DARWIN FOREST, PEAK DISTRICT: This woodland escape on the edge of the Peak District combines award-winning facilities with miles of scenic trails for walking and cycling.
After a hike, unwind in the spa or indoor swimming pool.
Other action-packed fun ranges from archery and mini-golf, to pickleball and scavenger hunts.
With Alton Towers nearby, it’s ideal for family adventures. From £635 for seven nights.
Finlake Resort & Spa, Devon: Set within 130 acres of woodland, this park offers the perfect mix of peaceful nature and all-action fun.
Holidaymakers can fill their days with everything from fencing, archery and horse riding to fishing, tennis and even sea scooters.
There’s a luxury spa and fitness complex as well as indoor and outdoor pools with flume rides and children’s water playground. From £229 for seven nights.
The current rules allow ticket holders to get refunds of up to 28 days after the day of travel, if the ticket has not been used.
But this leaves many travellers who might have to cancel their train journey a day before, due to illnesses or cancelled events, with no opportunity of a refund.
Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said: “Deliberate fare dodging has no place on our railways.
“It drains much-needed revenue and undercuts the trust of passengers who play by the rules.
“Changing refund rules will help stamp out fraud, keeping money in the railway – which will ensure we can deliver an improved railway with passengers at its heart.”
The popular theme park has released details of its much-anticipated new Viking-theme land, which will include thrill rides, a restaurant, and a playground, and the official opening date has been revealed
17:05, 02 Mar 2026Updated 17:08, 02 Mar 2026
Sneak peek images show the new Viking-themed land and rides(Image: Paultons Park)
Paultons Park theme park has shared a sneak peek of its new Valgard: Realm of the Vikings land, a £12 million project that’s due to open later this spring.
The Hampshire-based park is perhaps best known as the home of Peppa Pig World, which opened in 2011 and has attracted thousands of young children and their families. (In fact, it’s even been tipped to be the UK’s best theme park in recent rankings, beating out the likes of Thorpe Park and Alton Towers). However, this new land is aimed more at teenagers and adults, cementing the park’s reputation as a destination for thrill rides.
Valgard: Realm of the Vikings is set to open on Saturday, May 16,and one of its most-anticipated rides is Drakon, the park’s first inverting rollercoaster. It will feature a vertical lift hill and two twists where riders will be flung upside-down. An interior shot shows the vehicles used in the ride, and the image features dry ice and dim lighting, teasing an atmospheric ride.
Another new ride will be the Vild Swing, where riders will be thrown 12 metres into the air and spun around. A teaser video showed construction of the new ride, as well as on-ride footage showing the thrilling experience that visitors can enjoy.
Frequent visitors to the park may also notice a former ride has been revamped for the new Viking world. Cobra is being reborn as Raven, a bobsled adventure that’ll be redesigned to fit the viking theme.
Younger visitors can enjoy a Viking-themed playground, and the experience is complete with a new themed Feasting Hall restaurant where you can dine like a Viking.
Lawrence Mancey, marketing and technology director at Paultons Park, said: “Despite weeks of rain and difficult conditions, our team and contractors have made incredible progress on site. We designed Valgard to offer an immersive, atmospheric, and action-packed experience for families, and it’s amazing to see the vision come together.
“In the last few weeks new pathways have gone in, landscaping has begun, and our Viking statues have been installed. Drakon and Vild Swing have begun testing and the Feasting Hall restaurant is looking incredible. We are so excited to open the gates in May and see Valgard conquered by our guests. It’s great to be able to share the construction journey and anticipation with our fans online too.”
In addition to the new Valgard land, Paultons already boasts six themed worlds. Other lands include Tornado Springs, themed around Midwestern America, which has the Cyclonator and free-spinning Storm Chaser rollercoaster. The park also has a dinosaur-themed world, Lost Kingdom, which is much-loved by all ages.
Paultons Park tickets can be booked online with prices starting at £46.75 per person. However, if you book a short break through the theme park’s official website, you get a second day free, and can stay at a number of nearby hotels for a family break.
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PAULTONS Park has unveiled the first look at its new £12million viking-themed world.
Valgard: Realm of Vikings is set to open at Paultons Park in Hampshire, on May 16 this year and now a first look at the themed land has been revealed.
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Paultons Park will open Valgard: Realm of Vikings on May 16Credit: Paultons ParkIt will feature the park’s first inverting rollercoaster, called DrakonCredit: Paultons Park
Valgard will be the theme park’s largest investment to date and is aimed at older kids and teenagers.
The themed land will have Paultons Park’s first inverting rollercoaster – Drakon – which will feature a vertical lift hill and two twists that take riders upside down.
Fans rushed to Paultons Park’s social media to see the reveal of Drakon, which includes a drone video of a carriage being sent around the track.
One user commented: “Ok I watched it too many times with a smile on my face – Paultons Park, see you in July.”
There will also be a ride called Vild Swing that will swirl riders 12metres into the air.
And another ride, Cobra – which is already at the theme park – will be reborn into Raven as a bobsled adventure ride.
The area around the rides will be Viking themed, with a Feasting Hall restaurant and new Viking-inspired playground for younger visitors.
Last year, the theme park also confirmed that there will be another major thrill ride added to Valgard in 2027 – teasing that it will be a ‘water-related experience’.
Lawrence Mancey, marketing and technology director at Paultons Park, said: “Despite weeks of rain and difficult conditions, our team and contractors have made incredible progress on site.
“We designed Valgard to offer an immersive, atmospheric, and action-packed experience for families, and it’s amazing to see the vision come together.
“In the last few weeks new pathways have gone in, landscaping has begun, and our Viking statues have been installed.
“Drakon and Vild Swing have begun testing and the Feasting Hall restaurant is looking incredible.
“We are so excited to open the gates in May and see Valgard conquered by our guests.
There will also be a Feasting Hall restaurantCredit: Paultons ParkAnd a themed playground for little onesCredit: Paultons Park
“It’s great to be able to share the construction journey and anticipation with our fans online too.”
With the addition of Valgard: Realm of the Vikings, the theme park will have 80 rides and attractions across six themed worlds which include Tornado Springs and Lost Kingdom.
In November, the park also revealed that it is planning to build over 120 new holiday homes for just under 600 guests.
Each holiday home would feature either two, three or four bedrooms and they would all be self-catered.
In addition to the holiday homes, there will be a 400sqm restaurant, a 65sqm shop selling food and essentials, an entertainment room and a games room for indoor activities.
