In the heart of the countryside and conveniently located just an hour from London, is a frozen-in-time town with a sprawling vineyard that offers an idyllic day out
The pretty market town is just an hour from London(Image: Getty Images)
Just outside London is a picturesque market town with independent businesses, rolling hill vistas and a vineyard with its very own wine train.
Nestled in the heart of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and just an hour’s train journey from London, is the charming market town of Dorking. While it’s a commuter town, often cited as a laid-back alternative to its neighbours, Guildford and Reigate, Dorking offers a scenic day out against its picturesque backdrop.
The historic town is said to have a ‘nostalgic’ feel, thanks to its timber-framed buildings, traditional coaching inns, and narrow alleys in a nod to its deep medieval roots. Travellers are said to have traditionally used Dorking as a stop between the South Coast and London, while its Victorian-era tales still run through the town.
Its frozen-in-time setting is only enhanced by its renowned antique quarter on West Street, the town’s oldest street, with hidden gems, vintage items and ancient treasures. Dorking is also renowned for its independent scene of boutiques, coffee houses and eateries, alongside popular branded stores on the High Street.
When it comes to food, there are a few notable spots to point out, including the Michelin-starred restaurant Sorrel, offering modern fine dining from à la carte and tasting menus, to really savour the flavours. Elsewhere, there’s the steakhouse, Heaven’s Kitchen, a pizzeria, Monte Forte, Mediterranean dishes at Arto Restaurant, and, on the outskirts of the town, The Hillroom Restaurant, which offers a delightful afternoon.
Yet it’s well worth exploring beyond the main streets, as cosy squares are tucked among the picturesque town, including Old Kings Courtyard, Allen Court and St Martin’s Walk. That’s in addition to the Dorking Halls, where visitors can catch a theatre performance, watch live music, or sit down for a film.
A walk around the town is enough to warrant a visit, whether it’s to browse its independent retailers or explore its narrow lanes and stunning medieval architecture. But its selection of walking routes and famed Box Hill zig-zag cycle trail are another highlight in the area, offering the chance to really take in the picture-postcard scenes of the rolling Surrey countryside.
And a little further afield, an 8-minute car journey or 20-minute bus ride to be precise, is where you’ll find the vineyard with its very own wine train. The Denbies Wine Estate is England’s largest single-estate vineyard, spanning 265 acres, with its very own hotel and restaurant on-site.
Visitors can book a wine tasting or tour, enjoy one of their events, or book a stay at the vineyard hotel. But one of its most notable experiences is the outdoor vineyard train tour.
Guests can enjoy the train journey around the vineyard underneath the British sunshine while stopping for their next tipple of vino and soaking up the vistas of the Denbies Estate and the North Downs. With tickets starting from just £12.50 per person for the 50-minute tour, it might just be the best way to enjoy the spring weather.
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The Koh Phi Phi islands in Thailand deliver some of the most breathtaking scenery you’re ever likely to see, but they’ve also struggled with overtourism issues since featuring in Danny Boyle’s The Beach
The island can become incredibly crowded during the summer (Image: INTERNET)
An alarming crowd scene on the shores of one of the world’s most famous coastlines has raised overtourism concerns.
The Koh Phi Phi islands in Thailand deliver some of the most breathtaking scenery you’re ever likely to see. Sat in the Andaman Sea, they’re made up of dramatic limestone cliffs and white sand bays surrounded by turquoise waters filled with tropical fish.
The islands have long been popular among tourists, but particularly so since they starred in Danny Boyle’s The Beach.
The success of the film has been a disaster for the pristine, idyllic beach that gives the flick its name. Each year huge numbers travel to Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Bay, where it was shot, to bask in its impossibly blue waters and sunbathe on the golden sands.
Today, the reality of the Thai destination could not be further from the slice of paradise at the heart of the film.
A recent video from Koh Phi Phi shows a crowd of hundreds of sunseekers, packed shoulder to shoulder. They appear to be close to the dock, not yet having arrived at Maya Bay.
The video has been met with negativity on Reddit, where it was posted. “Nothing about that looks fun,” one user wrote. Another added: “Absolutely not worth going. I went last month and it was so crowded it just wasn’t fun. At all.” A third wrote: “What a nightmare.”
Koh Tours, which offers trips around the archipelago, recently wrote a blog post about the situation there, explaining that efforts to tackle overtourism had proved difficult.
“Koh Phi Phi Leh — the smaller, uninhabited island with Maya Bay — was famously closed for three years after The Beach tourism wrecked the coral and stressed out the blacktip reef sharks,” the post reads.
“They reopened it in January 2022 with timed entries, boat limits, no overnight stays, no sunscreen allowed in the water. It’s genuinely better than it was in 2018. But it’s not quiet. A ‘boat limit’ of a couple of hundred visitors at a time still means a couple of hundred people standing in the same shallow bay.
According to Koh Tours, the archipelago’s other main island, Koh Phi Phi Don, also suffers from crowds.
“Koh Phi Phi Don is genuinely crowded. Not ‘it gets a bit busy in peak season’ crowded. Actually crowded. The village on Tonsai Bay — which is basically the whole flat part of the island between the two bays — packs in more foot traffic per square metre than most Thai cities,” the post continues.
Jub Yata is a destination manager at Intrepid Travel, a firm which specialises in sustainable tourism.
“Right now, you just walk around, you take the photos, then you have to leave. Everyone wants to see the beach from the DiCaprio film. It is beautiful, I can’t deny, but there are too many people,” she said of Maya Bay.
Jub works with Intrepid to take tourists to Thailand in a more responsible way that doesn’t overwhelm the most popular destinations. In recent years, this has meant visits to Koh Thap, Koh Poda, and Koh Khai.
Koh Thap is one of the most popular offshore islands around Krabi – a region in the west of Thailand, just across from Phuket. Most island-hopping tours come here to witness and photograph the amazing parting of the seas.
At low tide, a stretch of sand emerges from the waters, linking the larger landmass known as Chicken Island to Koh Mor and Koh Thap. The phenomenon is commonly referred to as Talay Waek, which means divided sea.
Koh Poda is a particularly quiet and tranquil place. One Intrepid traveller said that the island “felt like a completely deserted Robinson Crusoe island”.
Meanwhile, Koh Khai in Phuket is the most built-up and well-visited of the three islands included in the Intrepid tour. Made up of three small islands – Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui – it is easy to hop from one island to the next, even in the space of just half a day. Khai Nai is the biggest of the three and has spectacular views and a white sandy beach which makes it perfect for snorkelling and swimming.
The extended shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz has created what Goldman Sachs describes as “extreme tightness” in Europe’s jet fuel supply, and the UK is seen as particularly vulnerable
01:35, 05 May 2026Updated 06:04, 05 May 2026
Travel could become difficult this summer, it is warned (file image)(Image: Getty Images)
Britain is at risk of rationing jet fuel due to shortages stemming from the Iran conflict, an expert has claimed.
With supplies potentially dropping to “critically low levels”, concern has grown for Europe’s jet fuel market and the consequences this will have on travel this summer. Some airlines, such as KLM and Lufthansa, have already cancelled flights due to fears about fuel.
Now, Goldman Sachs, one of the world’s largest investment banks, has said the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz has created “extreme tightness” in the market and the UK is especially exposed due to its limited stockpiles, heavy reliance on imports, and constrained refining capacity. It means the prospect of rationing is believed to being considered to help sustain the travel sector.
Goldman Sachs said in a research note: “The UK is the largest net importer of jet fuel in Europe, and it holds no strategic reserves, leaving commercial inventories as the primary buffer. As a result, inventories in some countries, especially the UK, could fall to critically low levels, increasing the likelihood of rationing measures.”
The Gulf region supplies around one-fifth of globally traded fuel, and with Europe heavily dependent on those flows, airlines are now competing for alternative sources — driving prices even higher. According to The Times, Goldman Sachs noted that the UK, as Europe’s largest net importer of jet fuel, lacks strategic reserves and relies primarily on commercial inventories as a buffer. Those levels, particularly in Britain, could fall dangerously low, increasing the likelihood of rationing.
Any sustained shortage would likely force airlines to cancel or consolidate flights while pushing ticket prices upward. Fuel accounts for as much as a quarter of airline operating costs. IAG, the parent company of British Airways, has already indicated it will raise fares to offset higher fuel expenses, acknowledging it is “not immune” to ongoing volatility despite hedging strategies.
Air France expects its jet fuel bill to rise by $2.4billion (£1.77million) this year, while American Airlines anticipates an increase of more than $4billion (£2.96million) — costs that are expected to translate into higher fares and reduced perks for passengers.
Although UK ministers have suggested supplies can be sourced from elsewhere, industry figures are less optimistic. Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary said airlines are “desperately” looking for flights to cancel and could begin doing so within weeks.
Fuel suppliers have also warned that the UK has the “most limited visibility” in Europe when it comes to jet fuel supply, largely because of its dependence on Middle Eastern imports.
The European Commission said it would issue guidance to airlines this week, with a spokesperson noting that uncertainty remains high and preparations are being made for multiple scenarios.
Analysts also pointed to the UK’s reduced refining capacity following the closure of the Grangemouth refinery — Scotland’s only oil refinery — last April. Concerns had also surrounded the future of the Prax Lindsey refinery in north Lincolnshire, though its new owner, Phillips 66, said the recent acquisition should help stabilise supply.
A report from the Tony Blair Institute argued that Europe’s climate-focused energy policies have contributed to higher prices — two to three times those of competitors — and increased dependence on imports.
Fuel suppliers said May demand should remain manageable but warned that disruptions could begin by mid-to-late June if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.
MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.
There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.
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There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and SpainCredit: Alamy
Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.
Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.
COMILLAS, SPAIN
DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.
It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.
Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.
The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.
GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.
ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.
Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.
Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.
And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.
Boulogne sur Mer has a massive aquariumCredit: Alamy
GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.
IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.
The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.
Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.
This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.
Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.
Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.
There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.
GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.
THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.
Don’t take my word for it, though.
Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.
You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.
It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.
On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.
GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.
A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.
Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.
Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.
Juno beach is a great spot to try it.
For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.
It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.
GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.
MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.
There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and SpainCredit: Alamy
Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.
Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.
COMILLAS, SPAIN
DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.
It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.
Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.
The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.
GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.
ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.
Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.
Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.
And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.
Boulogne sur Mer has a massive aquariumCredit: Alamy
GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.
IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.
The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.
Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.
This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.
Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.
Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.
There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.
GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.
THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.
Don’t take my word for it, though.
Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.
You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.
It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.
On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.
GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.
A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.
Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.
Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.
Juno beach is a great spot to try it.
For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.
It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.
GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.
I was impressed with the guest rooms, which hit the perfect note in combining comfort and design.
The Endeavour Suite feels extra special.
For a small price upgrade, you get a loft-style room with a sofa and living area, sea views from a large window and a terrace overlooking the water.
Newly decorated, a lot of effort has gone into making these rooms a sanctuary for guests. Be warned if you have an early start, though.
Fluffy duvets and pillows, along with the snug mattresses make it very difficult to leave.
Rooms start from £102 including breakfast. Visit theshiphotel.co.uk or call 01702 413452 for 15% off by booking directly with the hotel.
What is there to eat and drink?
Definitely eat at the hotel, which has excellent food.
Being so close to the coast the main menu leans toward seafood dishes, with vegetables and meat from local Essex farms.
They also serve fantastic Sunday roasts.
The beef-dripping Yorkshire puddings with Malden sea salt are worth making a reservation for, even if you’re not staying overnight at the hotel.
As well as the laid-back restaurant, there is also a small, but excellent bar.
More fitting of a swanky London cocktail club, the creative menu includes smoke-infused martinis and very spicy margaritas.
If you are staying a few days, I highly recommend getting a reservation at GABS too, which is a cute, bohemian restaurant across the road.
They also serve creative cocktails and have a sophisticated menu. I suggest going for a choice of ‘picky bits’. The whipped feta with honey, figs and pistachio, served with sourdough is frankly superb.
What else is there to do nearby?
Some rooms include parking in the private car park outside is a great find and absolutely perfect for a weekend away in Essex.
They also offer in-room massages, meaning with a great restaurant and cocktails on your very own roof terrace, you might decide you don’t even need to leave the hotel.
Otherwise the Ship Hotel is perfectly positioned to explore the surprisingly adorable town of Leigh-on-Sea.
You can easily reach Leigh Old Town, on the water’s edge, which I also happened to have a perfect view of from my room.
There are lots of pubs, bars and seafood shacks, many with seating on an outdoor terrace, idyllic in summer.
You can also walk up the hill to New Leigh and the charming high street, which is packed with cool coffee shops, quirky boutiques and trendy bars that are very popular over the weekend.
The grand finale was a view of the spectacular sunset from my room – not always guaranteed, but stunning if you get lucky.
Is the hotel family friendly?
There are family and interconnecting rooms, as well as cots and highchairs on request.
is it accessible?
The hotel has wheelchair access and a lift to all floors, along with accessible rooms that have adapted bathrooms.
Upgrade to a room with a terrace for drinks over the oceanRooms start from £102
A UK HOLIDAY park that’s been compared to Portugal has reopened for the season – along with a £1million upgrade.
Ladram Bay Holiday Park in Budleigh Salterton, Devon is now open with some big new changes.
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Ladram Bay Holiday Park in Devon has had a £1million upgradeCredit: Alamy
Onsite are now 13 new modern holiday homes, which will all have three bedrooms.
Dubbed the Lobster Lodges, they are the most spacious lodges onsite and feature luxury interiors with a double bedroom, a bedroom with two single beds and also a sofa bed.
The best part though is that each lodge has a hot tub on the decking with amazing views of the coastline.
The children’s outdoor play area, which features a pirate ship dubbed ‘NaNa of Ladram’ has been rebuilt and the indoor soft play has been updated as well.
The Beach Shack is being upgraded too, with a typical seaside feel inside including an ice cream counter and is set to open by the summer.
Those who like to boogie will be happy to hear the park has also launched silent discos.
And as the summer approaches, there will be new outdoor furniture and speakers at the Pebbles restaurant for events and the splash park will reopen.
The family-run holiday park sits on the top of a cliff and is home to around 140 caravans as well as three apartments, safari tents and glamping pods and a renovated former fisherman’s cottage.
The Sun’s Executive Daily News Editor, Emma Glanfield, recently visited Ladram Bay Holiday Park.
She said: “With a glass of wine in hand, watching the sun set over the sea as clear waters lap the shore, I could have been in the Algarve.
“But no, rather than basking in Portugal, I was holidaying with the family at a caravan park on east Devon’s Jurassic Coast.”
Emma added: “Ladram overlooks a gorgeous section of the coast and even has its own private beach — accessible only to guests, via a slipway at the bottom of the park.”
“As well as an on-site gym, huge outdoor adventure playground, indoor soft-play centre and enormous amusement arcade, the park also boasts pottery and art classes in its new studio.
Upgrades include new luxury lodges with hot tubsCredit: FacebookThe holiday park has also upgraded its Beach Shack which will open in time for the summerCredit: Facebook
“The indoor poolis magnificent — one of the cleanest I’ve ever known — and offers free family playtimes as well as exercise classes.
“The adjoining outdoor splash park is brilliant, too, for cooling off on a hot day, while the indoor fun slide kept us all entertained — even the grandparents.
“That’s before you even start on the evening entertainment in Waves Bar — with bingo, a pool table, darts, kids’ disco, singers and the Ladram Stars Showtime.
“And when we visited Portugal just a few weeks later, I looked out at the coastline, from our accommodation, and realised it didn’t look too different at all from that special view back at Ladram.”
Currently, you can get 20 per cent off stays at the park by using the code ‘DEVON20’.
In the local area, there are a number of attractions guests can visit.
For example, the holiday park sits on the South West Coast Path which featured in the recent Salt Path film and is ideal for breezy walks with views of the coast.
From the holiday park, you can head to SidmouthCredit: AlamyIn Sidmouth, you will find a popular beachCredit: Getty
Then just down the road is Crealy Theme Park, which is great for kids who aren’t ready for big rollercoasters – like those found at Thorpe Park or Alton Towers – quite yet.
There are over 60 attractions to explore at the park, including the Maximus train rollercoaster and the Tidal Wave log flume.
Travel reporter Cyann Fielding visited the park many times growing up.
She said: “Crealy Theme Park is great no matter the weather as it has an even amount of indoor and outdoor attractions.
“Outside, the Maximus rollercoaster is a great introduction to rides for children – it is slick and smooth, but not too jolty or fast.
“The Tidal Wave log flume is a bit more of a thrill – but definitely leave it until last as you will get soaked (though the park has drying machines you stand in that you can pay for).”
You can also spend a day at Crealy Theme Park, which has both indoor and outdoor attractionsCredit: Alamy
If you want to explore more of the Devonshire coastline, then a short drive away from Ladram Bay is also the seaside town of Sidmouth, which has a large pebble beach.
Another beach to head to in Sidmouth that is the more secluded Jacob’s Ladder Beach which has red sand, rock pools and dramatic cliffs.
And nine miles down the road at the park’s sister site – Castle Brake, near Woodbury – there are also £300,000 improvements.
The park now has a new static caravan area with two holiday lodges.
The park also has new roads and hard-standing bases making it suitable for a mix of two-bed and three-bed static caravans.
Spring is a great time to go on holiday, but it does come with a certain level of risk
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This spot is your best bet to escape the rain(Image: yujie chen via Getty Images)
Spring makes for a brilliant time to get away, though it does carry a certain element of unpredictability. The weather during the spring months can be rather capricious and while some holidaymakers don’t mind a spot of rain, others prefer to dodge it wherever possible.
According to the Met Office, Britain experiences rainfall on between 170 and 180 days annually on average – that’s nearly every other day. In a bid to escape the drizzle, Parkdean Resorts has examined Met Office data, geographical details and shelter options to identify the most rain-proof beaches across the nation. Each beach was then assigned a ‘rain-proof’ rating out of 100.
Topping the list is Bournemouth on the Dorset coastline, achieving a score of 95. The seafront spans seven miles, making it the ideal location for natural protection from showers, with plenty of indoor amenities to duck into when the heavens open, reports the Express.
This seaside spot is hugely popular with British holidaymakers, who rave about its stunning golden sands, the pier and famous cliffs. Boasting a 4.5 star rating on TripAdvisor, it’s a magnet for visitors.
One reviewer wrote on TripAdvisor: “The beach at Bournemouth is a timeless slice of the British seaside. Stretching seven miles, its soft sands evoke memories of fresh sea air, melting ’99’ flakes, and arcades. From the iconic cliff lifts to the vibrant Lower Gardens, it remains a haven of nostalgia.
“Whether tracing the shoreline or watching the sunset, it’s a place where the simple joys of summer never truly fade. Always plenty to do and places to go nearby.” Another wrote: “Bournemouth Beach is stunning – soft golden sand, clean water, and a lovely promenade with great views. The beach was well-maintained, and there were plenty of facilities nearby. Perfect for a relaxing day out, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just strolling along the shore.”
The south coast commands the rankings, so for a seaside escape unlikely to be marred by downpours, consider seeking out a location somewhere along Devon or Dorset’s coastline.
The north coast of Wales also proves remarkably sheltered, with two destinations featuring in the top 10.
Practitioner psychologist Ravi Gill discussed the significance of heading outdoors with Parkdean Resorts – regardless of the conditions.
She said: “A holiday isn’t ruined by rain. It’s shaped by how we respond to it. Let go of perfection: shift your mindset from ‘Perfect weather’ to ‘Flexible fun’ – disappointment often comes from a mismatch between expectation and reality.
“If we mentally attach the holiday to blue skies, anything else feels like a loss. Instead, frame the trip around experiences rather than weather, using phrases like ‘we’re going to explore, we’re going to slow down and rest’.”
Simply because there’s rainfall doesn’t mean your getaway has to be ruined and actually, Ravi suggested it could even enhance it.
She explained: “We forget rest doesn’t need sunshine. In fact, rain can help slower, indoor moments often allow deeper conversations, board game evenings or afternoon naps – genuine nervous system down-regulation.”
This is especially important if you’re planning to go abroad
In 2020 the red passports were replaced with blue ones(Image: simonbradfield via Getty Images)
UK holidaymakers still carrying an old red passport have been issued a summer travel warning.
If you’re planning a getaway this year, it’s essential to examine your passport before jetting off due to strict entry requirements in place across various countries. Many nations enforce rules demanding that your passport remains valid for an extra six months prior to your departure for international travel. Known as the ‘six-month validity rule’, many travellers using pre-Brexit red passports may find their documents lack the necessary time left on them.
Countless other destinations, including all those within the Schengen zone, operate a three-month passport validity requirement. UK travellers can therefore only enter these nations if their passport has at least three months’ validity remaining.
If you’re still in possession of a red passport, checking its expiry date is absolutely vital. Following Brexit, your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day you arrive in the EU, and its expiry date needs to be at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the EU.
Most individuals, quite reasonably, assume that an adult passport is valid for 10 years, but if yours was issued before October 1, 2018, additional months may have been tacked onto its expiry date if the previous passport was renewed before it had completely expired.
To find out whether your passport will remain valid for your trip, head to GOV.UK, look up your destination country and select ‘entry requirements’. Bear in mind that you are only permitted to stay for a maximum of 90 days within any six-month period, reports Wales Online.
Among the countries that enforce a six-month passport validity rule are the USA, Australia, Thailand, China, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. If your passport doesn’t have sufficient time remaining, you will be unable to travel as planned.
Katie Strick swapped London for Australia, only to find herself returning to the United Kingdom after just 18 months after discovering what life was really like Down Under
13:21, 04 May 2026Updated 13:22, 04 May 2026
A woman who quit the UK for Australia returned home after 18 months(Image: Getty Images)
A woman who quit the United Kingdom for a sunny life in Australia has decided to move back after realising what life Down Under is truly like. Katie Strick and her partner spent 18 months in Australia before making the decision to move back home.
Katie says she made the decision to swap south London for Sydney after striking up a long-distance relationship with a former university friend. Writing in The Times, she admits the chance to join him in his beachside flat “wasn’t a hard sell”.
But after a year-and-a-half, Katie found herself heading back to London. Her first struggle, she says, was the rental market in Sydney.
She found the cost of a flat is around the same in Australia as London. She also admits “friends and family naturally rank highly when I list the reasons for coming back”.
Katie however says the reasons for the move were much more than that. She wrote: “The reasons are rarely sexy: green space, quality of the press, a low risk of shark attacks and being a short train ride from my parents’ home town don’t quite have the same ring as living next to the beach when you shout them across a pub — but they mattered more than I expected.”
She acknowledges that Australia has “more sunshine” as well as “happier, healthier, more outdoorsy people,” but found herself missing the cobbled streets, country pubs, and British humour. She concedes it’s “hard not to miss those things” when you are “a 24-hour flight away”.
She says the Middle East conflict has also led to a “sense of uncertainty” for Brits flying from Australia. Dubai, once a popular layover, became embroiled in the conflict in March when it was struck by Iran.
Katie expected some “pushback” from her friends in Australia, but admits she was taken aback by the level of confusion from people back home too. She says many joked she would regret it when her boyfriend is “conscripted” or would be making another U-turn soon enough.
While she says it can seem difficult to say “exactly what you feel far away from,” she says “you do”. She accepts she has a “sense of day-to-day belonging” from visiting grandparents or meeting a friend’s baby, things that can’t be replicated through FaceTime.
Having moved back to London, Katie has however found herself wondering if she made a mistake. She recalls one moment she was catcalled by a drunk man at Clapham Junction, and dodging crowds in Soho.
On the other hand, she says there have been “moments of pure nostalgia” as she strolled through her favourite London park on a spring evening, or the appreciation she has for the NHS and architecture of the UK. She says her partner will soon land back in the UK, meaning that she gets to experience the “rollercoaster of emotions” from her return all over again.
Katie isn’t the only Brit who has quit the UK for Australia and found themselves moving back. Manchester-born Jessica McMaster recently made the same move after finding “four problems” with life Down Under.
Jessica cited the cost of living, distance from loved ones, visa and work restrictions, and weather as reasons for her move. Jessica, who lived in Melbourne, said: “Sometimes it would rain for days and be really cold and dark.
“Summer lasted about six months, which was amazing, long, bright days, great cafés, runs by the beach, but people think it’s always 30-degree heat. Melbourne can have four seasons in one day. In winter it was cold and rainy, so at times it felt like being back in Manchester, but without your family and friends.”
A plane passenger claimed their flight was delayed by an hour because of one other passenger’s selfish act – and it had devastating consequences for people’s travel plans
13:17, 04 May 2026Updated 13:17, 04 May 2026
One passenger managed to delay a flight by an entire hour (stock photo)(Image: Tunvarat Pruksachat via Getty Images)
Finding out your plane is delayed can be a nightmare. No one wants to hang around in an airport for any longer than they need to, especially if you’re trying to go and enjoy a holiday, or aching to get back home. Delays can also be frustrating if you have a connecting flight, as you could end up missing your next plane.
The most common cause for flight delays is weather conditions, which neither the airport nor the airline can control. But one woman on social media was left furious when her plane was delayed by an entire hour – just because of another passenger causing an issue with the flight attendants.
Cassandra Saunders was already sitting in her seat on the flight from Los Angeles, California, to Tampa, Florida, when the incident began, and filmed herself so that she could capture the audio of the fellow passenger complaining to a flight attendant. The passenger was complaining that he couldn’t sit next to his fiancée as they hadn’t booked seats next to each other, and the flight attendant was trying to tell him that he couldn’t just sit in someone else’s seat.
In the video, which was uploaded to Instagram, the man’s voice can be heard asking the flight attendant how he can switch seats, to which she replies he will have to ask the person sitting in the seat he wants to move to. She adds the cabin crew can’t do anything to move people out of their designated seats.
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The man continues to argue, saying there was no one currently in the seat he wanted to sit in, but the flight attendant says boarding hadn’t finished yet. The conversation continues, with Cassandra writing on her clip that the argument delayed their flight by an hour.
She wrote: “My intuition already knew this guy was going to be a problem. This dude delayed our flight by an hour. He kept going to the back and wasn’t respecting the flight attendant’s instructions.”
In the caption, Cassandra said the row over seating meant some passengers were at risk of missing their connecting flights and having their travel plans ruined – and she only made her connecting flight with a mere five seconds to spare after racing through the airport when they eventually landed.
She posted: “Travelling is already chaotic, and this couple was being inconsiderate to everyone on the plane, delaying us by an hour. Several passengers asked them to get off because people had connecting flights. But all he seemed to care about was sitting next to his fiancée. The flight attendant did a great job in handling it. I made it to my connecting [flight with] five minutes to spare – I ran!”
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Cassandra later posted the second part of the passenger’s argument with the cabin crew, in which another male voice is heard ordering the passenger to get off the plane. The man’s fiancée is then apparently heard trying to convince the plane staff to let her partner stay on the flight, but is told she is welcome to leave with him.
Adding more context to what happened, Cassandra wrote: “They had a full conversation while everyone was waiting on them. The [fiancée] stayed and then five minutes later decided to get off the plane.”
Commenters on the video were gobsmacked by the “entitlement” of the couple, with many saying that sitting next to someone for a couple of hours on a domestic flight isn’t worth being delayed by an hour. Others said they should have been kicked off the flight sooner, arguing that an hour is far too long to have allowed the dispute to go on.
One person said: “If you want to make sure you’re next to your partner, pay the extra fees and make sure you book the seats together.” Another added: “Any conversation longer than 10 minutes should have been had outside the gate.”
A third fumed: “An HOUR?!!! Nah, they didn’t do their job. Get him off immediately.”
BRITS might not know about this short-lived McDonald’s venture that launched in 2023 as it lasted just two years.
Called CosMc’s, the spin-off was a retro space brand by McDonald’s that focussed on ‘otherworldly beverage creations’.
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The first CosMc’s drive-thru is opened in 2023 in IllinoisCredit: AFPThe brand focused on speciality drinks like iced coffees and slushiesCredit: Mcdonalds/CosMc’s
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In 2023, the very first CosMc’s venue opened selling a few food items and lots of speciality drinks that weren’t available in its original McDonald’s restaurants.
It was space-themed and based on an early alien character who visited McDonaldland in a series of adverts in the late 1980s and early 90s.
The first venue to open was a drive-thru in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
Travel writer Emma Cooke has recommended a perfect day trip, a charming East Sussex seaside town with a cliff Railway, pretty cherry blossoms, and seafront brunch with no queues
12:27, 04 May 2026Updated 12:27, 04 May 2026
The East Sussex town has a lot to offer (file picture)(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
With summer just around the corner, you might be thinking about a day out by the sea, or even a longer seaside holiday. One travel influencer has the ideal recommendation for a destination with a lot to offer, from relaxing on the beach, to travelling on a cliff railway.
London travel writer Emma Cooke shared footage of an East Sussex coastal town, highlighting the cliff railway, charming beach huts, spectacular hilltop panoramas, and beautiful cherry blossoms.
She explained: “POV: You got on a £15 train out of London and less than two hours later found a crowd-free seaside town full of cherry blossom. There’s an old town packed with bookshops and bakeries, £1.70 clifftop tea, seafront brunch with no queues, perfect beach sunsets, and almost every sight is free or under £5.”
The destination in question is the south coast resort town of Hastings, in East Sussex. Tourism website 1066 Country says: “To soak up Hastings’ history, wander the preserved Old Town’s winding streets and tiny twittens, crammed with Tudor houses and flower-bedecked cottages, and inhale the hard-working fishing quarter with its towering net huts and ramshackle huts on the beach.”
A ‘twitten’ is a Sussex term for a narrow passageway or alley nestled between two buildings, typically leading to courtyards, streets, or open spaces beyond, reports MyLondon.
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The site goes on: “Heading west, the alternative vibe continues as you arrive in St Leonards. Purpose-built in the 1800s by James and Decimus Burton as a genteel seaside resort for the aristocracy, its architecture provides a striking backdrop for art galleries, antique shops, chic boutiques and a thriving café culture.”
It further states: “Hastings Old Town lies in a valley between the East and West Hills, each with their own funicular railway.
“Take the East Hill Lift from the fishing beach up to Hastings Country Park, where on clear days you can see from Beachy Head to Dungeness and as far as Folkestone and the coast of France.
“Take the West Hill Lift from George Street, up through a tunnel of rock to emerge into the tranquil light of another world.
“Explore Smugglers Adventures at a labyrinth of caverns hidden deep within the West Hill, packed with the thrilling history of smugglers, bootleggers and warring bloodthirsty gangs.”
Commenters were brimming with praise for the town. One declared: “I live here and it’s amazing.”
Another posted: “Hastings is wonderful.” And someone else said: Gorgeous place and lovely people. I recommend Hastings.””
A different person responded: “Never expected to see my hometown in one of your travel reels. Where is the £1.70 tea from?!”
Emma replied: “The little tea van up on top of west hill lift! Think it’s just called ‘kiosk’.”
An overlooked European city, just two hours from the UK, warrants a visit, thanks to its balmy rays of sunshine 300 days out of the year and affordable flights that start from £29
The European city is brimming with charm, alongside narrow streets and lively squares(Image: Getty Images)
Just two hours from the UK is a beautiful Mediterranean city that basks in a remarkable 300 days of glorious sunshine every year, and flights start from just £28.99 with easyJet.
Montpellier, in southern France, is often bypassed in favour of tourist hotspots such as Paris, but it definitely deserves a place on your travel list. The charming city offers a scenic escape from busy crowds, with a laid-back atmosphere amid its medieval architecture, bustling squares and delightful cafés.
You won’t be short of sun-soaked rays here, as Montpellier is widely considered one of France’s sunniest locations, with an average of 300 days of sunshine every year and summer daylight extending to around 10 hours. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, it enjoys mild winters and hot, dry summers, so rainfall is rarely an issue, with temperatures reaching around 17C in May and 22C in June.
A spring escape couldn’t come at a better time as easyJet launched a new route from Manchester Airport to the sun-kissed city of Montpellier earlier this year. The first flight departed at the start of April this year, with services scheduled to operate twice-weekly on Mondays and Fridays throughout the summer season.
One-way direct tickets can be booked from £28.99, with the journey taking just over two hours from Manchester – meaning you’ll be basking in those southern rays in no time. If you needed another excuse to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle in Montpellier, you’ll be pleased to hear that it has an impressive selection of sights and attractions.
There’s the historic city centre to wander through, with the stunning Place de la Comédie, the historic Promenade du Peyrou, and the Gothic Saint-Pierre Cathedral. And a visit to the city isn’t complete without exploring its pedestrian-friendly Old Town, with winding medieval streets, chic boutiques, and lively squares filled with cafés, restaurants, and hidden courtyards.
Meanwhile, the botanical gardens, Jardin des Plantes – the oldest in France – provide a tranquil escape, boasting an impressive collection of plants and peaceful walkways. The Peyrou Promenade, on the other hand, offers stunning panoramic views across the city and the surrounding countryside, ideal for taking in the atmosphere of this overlooked European gem.
Following the launch of the new flights to Montpellier, Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “We are really pleased to be celebrating our inaugural flights to the fantastic city of Montpellier, just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean coast. By introducing new connections from Manchester on our unrivaled leisure network, customers from across the northwest can now enjoy even more choice this summer to book and travel with ease.
“We’re continuing to provide our customers with even more choice and connectivity at fantastic fares, and we look forward to welcoming them onboard.”
Stephen Turner, chief commercial officer at Manchester Airport, added: “We are proud to connect the people of the North with more destinations than any other airport in the country outside London, so it’s fantastic to be celebrating this inaugural flight today.
“Montpellier is not currently served by any other airline so passengers planning a holiday to the south of France this summer will have even more choice of destinations when flying from Manchester. We’re sure this new route will prove extremely popular.”
For more information, or to book easyJet flights, visit their website.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Whether it’s a short hop across the Channel on Eurostar or a long-distance adventure crossing several countries, more of us are rediscovering the excitement and romance of rail travel. We’d love to hear about your favourite train-based trips in Europe.
The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planetwins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.
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A HUGE new airport could soon make it easier to travel to one of the iconic Wonders of the World.
Chinchero International Airport was first announced nearly 30 year ago, in a bid to increase tourism to Peru.
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A ne airport could connect tourists to one of the Wonders of the WorldCredit: b720 | Fermín Vázquez ArquitectosMachu Picchu currently takes days to get to, with flights to Lima before buses and hikesCredit: Getty
The new airport would be on the outskirt of Chinchero, which would mean getting to the historic Machu Picchu much easier as well.
Currently, tourists take days travelling from Lima and Cusco, usually via plane and bus, followed by a hike.
But the new airport – first announced back in 1978 – could make it much easier.
It has run into a number of problems over the years, including internal conflicts across Peru, the Covid pandemic and complaints from locals.
However, it now hopes to be able to be finished by 2027, with plans to open to the public by 2028.
Predicted to cost $682milliom (£500million), as many as eight million tourists per year could travel through.
This would increase tourism by 200 per cent to the region.
One local told the BBC: “I’ve been hearing about the airport for about 30 years.
“And if I had been here for 50 years, I would have been hearing about it for 50 years.”
It is unlikely to have flights from Europe, as experts have said that “transoceanic flights” wouldn’t be possible due to the altitude.
Currently, most Brits fly to the airport in Lima, Jorge Chávez International Airport, which opened a new passenger terminal last year.
It is likely that instead there would be direct flights from Lima to the new airport.
However, there are fears that the new airport could make the already over-touristy region even worse.
Others have said the new airport would harm the local wildlife, as well as bring too many tourists to the already-busy attraction.
Lima’s main airport is the only access route for Brits getting thereCredit: AlamyThe new airport could open by 2027 – more than 30 y ears after i was first announcedCredit: Hyundai E&C
In the mean time, some of the other Wonders of the World are much easier to visit.
The Colosseum in Rome is one of them, which is a short flight from the UK. There is also Petra in Jordan, with direct flights to Amman followed by a car ride or guided tour.
The others are slightly more difficult – the Taj Mahal in India is a long flight from the UK, as is the Great Wall of China , Mexico‘s Chichen Itza and Christ the Redeemer in Brazil.
When my husband and I bought our home, my dad recommended that I avoid sharing the name of our new city.
“Don’t tell people you’re in Goleta,” he said with a smirk.
I grew up in Santa Barbara, and despite my proximity to the little ag town of Goleta just 10 miles north, I knew little about it. But after enjoying its relaxed vibe, wide-open spaces and tight-knit community, I realized what I’d been missing.
Goleta might not have the glitz of its more famous neighbor, the one Angelenos frequently visit for its picturesque palm tree skyline, Spanish architecture and coastal resort vibes, but it deserves its own spotlight. And it’s been getting one lately: Goleta’s Monique Limon is making waves in the California Senate, the Austrian national soccer team will call the city home for the FIFA World Cup 2026, a renovation of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara welcomed chef Danny Grant’s new restaurant Marisella, and the debut of a full-scale train station is expected by summer.
Still, it can feel like there are more acres of walnut and lemon groves in Goleta than people — that’s part of the charm. Called the Good Land, a nickname pulled from obscurity by the late historian Walker A. Tompkins, Goleta largely remained dedicated to farming well into the 1900s. The city itself didn’t incorporate until 2002, though UC Santa Barbara had made Goleta its home 50 years earlier and the Santa Barbara Airport technically sat on Goleta land.
“We are a very young town and the longtime locals still have a very rural mindset,” says small business owner and lifetime Goleta resident Tom Modugno.
I’ve come to appreciate the blend of agricultural history and buzzy new developments in Goleta, but more than that, I love the small-town feel and running into friends wherever I go. That might be on the trails alongside the beach at Ellwood Mesa Open Space, at the new beachfront restaurant the Ellwood, at Lake Los Carneros while freshwater fishing or at the outdoor dining hall featuring local restaurants like On the Alley and Los Agaves. This list of great things to do is nowhere as comprehensive as it gets, but I hope it shows you a bit of why I’m proud to call Goleta home.
They call themselves the Booked Babes. Tonight, the women are gathered in Anna Sokol’s kitchen, surrounding an oven-roasted duck stuffed with apples. The dish is a Ukrainian delicacy from Sokol’s home country, where she was once a fashion designer and influencer. Now, she’s in Venice Beach. Sunlight bleeds in from the window where the sun is setting over the Venice Canals. At the women’s feet, a mini Bernedoodle, Zipper, paces nervously, barking at arriving guests. Screams echo from the upstairs bedrooms, where two husbands are in exile, watching a Green Bay Packers game with a newborn baby.
Tonight’s book club is Eastern European-themed, prompting the women to wear red cardigans and dresses. The book under discussion is “The New Rules” by Russian-born TikTok influencer Margarita Nazarenko, who prescribes gender roles that Sokol recognizes as distinctly Eastern European. Nazarenko is a best-selling author with more than 600,000 followers on Instagram, known for offering practical, blunt dating advice to women. “Her methodology feels very Eastern European in male and female relationships and dynamics,” Sokol explains as her guests pick at deviled eggs and brie cheese with manicured nails.
The guest list for the Booked Babes is small — only six women, with one of them commuting remotely from Miami; this time, she joins over FaceTime. The Booked Babes was founded more than two years ago at a holiday party as a New Year’s resolution to read more and forge new friendships. Since then, the women have become best friends, and the book club meetings they host have taken on a life of their own —becoming more spectacular and competitive with each meeting.
The Booked Babes journeyed to a gothic mansion in La Jolla and dressed as Marie Antoinette in extravagant rococo dresses.
(Anna Sokol)
“It started off very normal in the beginning, very casual,” book club member Cassandra Leisz explains. “I don’t really know when the switch happened.”
With each passing month, the book club became more elaborate and more involved — including vacations in coastal towns, costuming, pickleball tournaments and monogrammed custom merch.
Take the historical literary fiction novel “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” by Patrick Süskind, for example, set in the 18th century. The group journeyed to a gothic mansion in La Jolla and dressed as Marie Antoinette in extravagant rococo dresses. Eighteenth century activities included croquet and designing a custom perfume, all accompanied by fashion photography. Sokol chose the novel for its cult status in Ukraine: “Everyone read it, even though it’s a really weird book.”
For the book club members, the spectacle is part of the fun. “It gives us all a chance to be creative and come together. You get to make it whatever you want it to be. There’s the element of: how do I want to express myself in this time period?” says Leisz.
For the book club pick “Flawless” by Elsie Silver, Ashley Goldsmith planned a cowboy picnic in Franklin Canyon, complete with her mother’s vintage Chevy pickup truck.
(Anna Sokol)
For her turn hosting, Leisz rented a boat — not quite a yacht, she clarifies — in Marina del Rey, paired with lobster rolls and champagne. The novel was “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach, set in a hotel in Newport, R.I. Leisz leaned into the snobby, blue-blood aesthetic described in the book for her outing.
“It is a financial commitment. We put a lot of money into it between the decor, the gifts and the activity,” says Leisz.
Opinions and literary taste often vary among the women. The book club enjoys sparring over polarizing books, but the point is always friendship. “There are a lot of times I don’t like the book, but I love having an opportunity to spend time with girlfriends,” says Ashley Goldsmith.
Custom merch like personalized sweatshirts, elaborate gifting and travel have become a tradition for this book club.
(Anna Sokol)
For her book club on “Flawless” by Elsie Silver, Goldsmith planned a cowboy picnic in Franklin Canyon, complete with her mother’s vintage Chevy pickup truck for photo ops. The meal was followed by a mechanical bull-riding competition at Saddle Ranch. Goldsmith even hired a security guard to secure the public picnic bench beginning at 7 a.m.
The Booked Babes have attracted attention on the members’ social media with eager requests to join. The book club always politely declines, given its specific chemistry. “The second we started posting about this and talking about it, people were like, ‘Oh my God, how do I join?’” says Leisz. Since schedules are already tricky to maneuver, the club does not accept new members.
The Booked Babes raise their glasses.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
In curating a book club, the members insist that diversity of opinion is key. “We’re all quite different from each other. We have very different backgrounds. Some of us come from different countries,” says Leisz. Illana O’Reiley, who joined over Facetime, immigrated from Dublin and is currently living in Miami.
At dinner, the book club sits down for the Ukrainian meal to discuss “The New Rules.” On the table are elaborate rose arrangements and settings draped in red ribbon. Amanda Ghaffari slyly streams the Green Bay Packers game on her iPhone. O’Reiley jokes via Facetime she is eating popcorn and watching the hit gay drama “Heated Rivalry.”
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1.A flower arrangement is set for a themed book club.2.A cheese plate.3.Book club members wear red and pink dresses for their meeting.(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
The conversation includes some light teasing about each other’s attachment styles — the intimate banter of close friends. Victoria Frenner, who is a therapist, expresses skepticism about the book’s punchy tone. “When someone is speaking on something with a lot of conviction, like, there always has to be some kind of caveat,” Frenner says.
“This is why I wanted you to read it. It’s very Eastern European-focused.” Sokol says. “American girls are a little more on the independent side. She doesn’t say ‘don’t be independent,’ but she talks a lot about femininity.” Sokol recounts the dizzying story of meeting her husband at a wedding in Moscow, which begins with her husband attending a nightclub in Dubai.
Ashley Goldsmith reads her individualized star chart.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
For the activity planned, Sokol, who is eight months pregnant and wearing a dazzling candy-pink dress that matches the chosen book’s cover, presents the members with their own custom Slavic astrology reading, one she procured from a Ukrainian astrologer she visited when she was 19. Fortune telling and mysticism are common in Eastern Europe, she explains. The custom readings are bound in booklets, each featuring a spirit animal, such as a panda, and suggested habits.
“Avoid fast cars and motorcycles. Avoid countries with active war,” one of the booklets read.
Ghaffari explains that ever since she was 3 years old in Milwaukee, her mother has been in a decades-long book club. “She flies back for it, and she’ll recommend books that they just read,” Ghaffari says. Three weeks ago, Ghaffari had her first baby, who is in attendance, whom she jokes is the “book club heir.”
The Booked Babes fall quiet as they thumb through their astrology booklets, reading about destiny, transfixed by the mesmerizing promise of inevitable fate.
Connors is a writer living in Los Angeles. She hosts the literary reading event Unreliable Narrators at Nico’s Wines in Atwater Village every month.
PEERING at Europe’s largest pleasure pier from high in the sky at the top of its big wheel, it’s easy to see why the Clacton crowds have been coming here for more than 150 years.
Sunny skies, sandy beaches, seaside snack stalls, circling seagulls and good old-fashioned family fairground fun – it’s the perfect coastal combo, just an hour and a half from the capital.
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I love the seaside town of Clacton – which boats Europe’s largest pleasure pierCredit: GettyClacton was previously named on of the UK’s worst seaside townsCredit: Getty
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Spring flowers bobbing in the sea breeze, we made our way past picturesque pleasure gardens and down to the pier, which is flanked by golden beaches on both sides.
Art deco signage and glistening white buildings welcome you in, with the Ferris Wheel standing proud by the pier entrance.
Stepping out of the sunshine and sea air into the noise and lights of the arcade can be a bit overwhelming.
So I recommend a stroll to the quieter end of the pier out to sea, where the Jolly Roger theatre still stands, to catch your breath before heading back to enjoy all the rides and attractions nearer to land.
After getting our Big Day Out Bands, we were soon whizzing down the vintage helter skelter, which has only just been rebuilt after a year-long refurb.
It’s an iconic attraction that visitors and locals look for on the pier, so the 75-year-old slide has enjoyed a warm welcome on its return.
Then it was on to the trampolines for a bounce with a beach view for my little boy and a go on the log flume for us all before heading indoors to take on the all-weather golf as a family.
The clever thing about this course is that you start off indoors and then head outside for a few holes overlooking the sea and sand, so you can enjoy the sunshine on warm days.
There’s even a little lighthouse that makes foghorn noises about halfway around to complete the coastal vibe.
I was impressed by the sheer amount of attractions packed onto the pier, with dodgems, bowling, soft play and the Jurassic Pier dino experience inside and 16 rides including rollercoasters, water rides and a waltzer outside.
Every now and again, you get a glimpse between the planks of the boardwalk and realise that you’re strolling above the sea.
What a feat of engineering to build something that can support so many heavy rides and flocks of visitors while standing in sea water for more than a century and a half!
My kids always have so much fun when we go as here is loads for every age rangeIt is easy to walk around as well, even in the summerCredit: Alamy
Our wristbands, which cost £22.50 in advance or £30 in person, covered unlimited rides, excluding the go-karts, the 18 holes of Skull Point adventure golf, a turn on the big wheel, a visit to the 4d show and dino models of Jurassic Pier and arcade credits.
You can also buy rechargeable fun cards which you top up and tap to pay for rides and arcade games. Entry to the pier is free, so you only need to pay for those who want to ride or play.
We were there on the warmest day of the year so far so strolling onto the beach just a few strides from the pier was a massive bonus.
We spent time digging in the sand, enjoying a picnic and paddling in the sea before giving the Ferris Wheel a go. It was lovely to look down on all the happy holidaymakers enjoying their day below us.
The arcades are noisy but funCredit: GettyClacton is around 90 minutes by train from LondonCredit: Getty
Of course, there’s more to Clacton than just the pier and nearby you’ll find the Pavilion Fun Park, which also has rides, bowling and a waterpark, the Upside Down House and even the town’s own Wetherspoons, the Moon and Starfish.
If the weather isn’t great, there’s two theatres and a cinema in the town centre to keep everyone entertained. The air show on the August bank holiday weekend is a highlight of Clacton’s summer season.
If you’re arriving by car, there’s free roadside parking along the front for up to three hours or the railway station is only a short walk inland, with trains out of London Liverpool Street taking 90 minutes.
Like many seaside towns, there’s parts of Clacton that are a bit rundown, including the High Street superstore that closed in 2021 and has not yet found a new lease of life.
But with glorious gardens, a picture-perfect pier and beautiful beaches along its shoreline, Clacton certainly makes the most of its coast.
If you’re after a best-of-British bucket-and-spade trip that won’t break the bank, this star of the Sunshine Coast could be the perfect place to soak up the rays on your summer staycay.
NEW rules will now allow airlines in the UK to axe flights without repercussions this summer due to ongoing fears of a jet fuel crisis.
The Department for Transport has unveiled new measures which will allow airlines to cancel flights up to two weeks in advance, without losing their airport slots.
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Instead, airlines will be able to group passengers onto other flights that same day, and operate fewer routes a day.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said it would “give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer“
While this is said to be “protecting summerholidays” it could see passengers forced onto flights at completely different times that they had booked.
Which? Travel editor Rory Boland said: “It’s not fair for the rules to now be bent in favour of airlines and potentially leave passengers holding the bill.
“Many passengers will understand that disruptions can occur and may be happy to travel a few hours or a day later, but for those on short trips or connecting flights it could mean the trip is no longer worthwhile.
“Before any changes are made, passengers need cast-iron assurances that their rights will not be weakened and that airlines cannot use reform as cover to shift the cost of disruption onto travellers.”
However, it has been backed by Airlines UK, which represents UK carriers, as they said it would “avoid unnecessary flying and continue operating as efficiently as possible while protecting connectivity for passengers and trade”.
While jet fuel shortages – caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are yet to massively effect UK airlines, many others around the world have ben formed to axe flights.
OUR Spotlight On column explores everything from lesser-visited cities to top holiday destinations.
This week, we’re shining the light on San Antonio on the Spanish island of Ibiza, the heart of all things party.
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There is so much to do in San Antonio in IbizaCredit: AlamyIbiza is one of my favourite Spanish islands to visitPike’s is famous for its raucous historyCredit: Getty
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.
The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski explains: “The White Isle, home to world famous super clubs including Hi the best club in the world, can be a notoriously pricey destination – especially when it comes to food and drink.
“San Antonio in particular is known to be one of Ibiza’s party hotspots, but you can save hundreds if you plan ahead, booking club nights and drinks packages in advance.
“Ditch the famous sunset spot of Cafe Mambo for Kuhmaras (more on that below) and you’ll be able to score drinks for a fraction of the cost, with cocktails from just €12.
“If you plan your visit for the start or end of the party season, you’ll find hotels are a lot more affordable, too. But the island will be no less pumping.”
Here are some of her other top tips.
MUST SEE
This sun-drenched island eat, sleeps and breathes hedonism and the best way to experience that is by exploring the clubbing scene.
Pikes is one of Ibiza’s most historically significant venues.
The 500-year-old traditional finca opened as a club in 1980 and has hosted some legendary fiestas in its time, including Freddie Mercury’s 41st birthday bash, during which a whopping 350 bottles of champagne were drank.
The club now operates under a strict over 27s policy in a bid to maintain its authentic, non-posey ambience, reminiscent of the island’s 90s glory days.
HIDDEN GEM
For a spot of culture, hidden on the cliffs in between San Antonio and Santa Agnes is Cova de Ses Fontanelles, a small and lonely cove.
Accessible via a cliff side dirt track is a network of caves, positioned 50 metres above the sea level, which are home to the only remaining cave paintings in the Pityusic Islands (Ibiza and Formentera).
BEST VIEW
In the afternoon, most holidaymakers head straight for the notorious Café Mambo to watch its spectacular sunsets.
Its views are world famous, but that means queues are long and drink prices are steep.
It sits on the opposite side of the bay to Mambo so boasts the same glorious sunsets as its rival, only here you won’t be fighting for a table.
Its website proudly declares that “there are no VIP lists, no showing off, no inflated prices”.
Mambo cafe is busy, but an institutionCredit: AlamyINNSiDE Ibiza Beach is a must if not just for the rooftop poolCredit: Supplied
RATED RESTAURANT
Ibiza is not short of excellent restaurants that are globally-renowned for their high-end grub, but for a flavour of authentic Spain, head to Tapas Ibiza.
Set back a little from the ocean, this joint offers an unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere.
Small plates start from around €10, including padron peppers scorched and sprinkled in sea salt – and you’ve got to try the king prawns served in a sizzling pot with garlic, smoked paprika, coriander and lime.
Wash it back with a refreshing Basil Smash made with Bombay Gin, fresh basil, ginger, lemon and cucumber.
BEST BAR
Take your pick of dive-style bars along the main strip or opt for one of the high-end rooftop joints, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
For laidback day time drinking, Reggae Reggae Beach Bar is where to head.
Here you can kick back in a hammock with a Jamaican-inspired cocktail in hand.
For something a little more elevated (literally), Rooftop Nine at INNSiDE Ibiza Beach hotel serves up fruity cocktails and chilled wine come day or night, all with glorious ocean views.
HOTEL PICK
The 4* Innside Ibiza Beach is the perfect middle ground for those wanting to dip their toes into Ibiza’s party scene but with a relaxing space to come back to.
Its rooms have a breezy feel to them – think white-washed walls with woody accents – and many boast epic views of the ocean.
Mediterranean grub is served alongside thumping DJ beats on the rooftop bar while international grub is dished up in the Breeza Bar & Restaurant, just steps from the ocean.
The hotel can arrange adventurous excursions from fishing and sky diving to snorkelling and bike rides.
Rooms cost from £116 per night on a B&B basis. See melia.com.
For more on Spain, here are some of our favourite holiday spots…
*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Hotel Best Punta Dorada, Salou
The Spanish resort is a popular destination near PortAventura World, a theme park with over 40 attractions and huge rollercoasters. It’s also close to sandy beaches like Platja de Llevant, and the scenic Camí de Ronda coastal walk.The hotel itself has an outdoor swimming pool to enjoy, as well as two bars along with evening entertainment and shows.
With its palm tree-lined pool and Mediterranean backdrop, it’s a miracle this Majorca resort is so affordable. Expect a classic family holiday feel – where days revolve around soaking up the Spanish sunshine, chilling by the spacious pool and sipping on frozen cocktails. Set away from the busier resorts, it’s a good option if you’re after a more out-of-the-way escape.
The Magic Aqua Rock Gardens Hotel is African-themed and less than a mile from the beach. It has two outdoor pools, including a children’s freshwater pool with a waterfall and a tipping water bucket for the little ones. There’s also an aquapark with slides, and a kids club for both younger children and teens.
For a calmer side of Ibiza, this hillside resort has two pools, a kids’ splash zone, and an all-inclusive buffet with a poolside bar. It’s a 10-minute walk from Cala Llonga’s shallow turquoise bay, offering a scenic, family-friendly base away from the island’s main party zone.
My favourite way to enter Rione Sanità is by elevator: descending from a bridge into cobblestoned streets buzzing with mopeds and flanked by opulent but decaying 18th-century palazzi. Through the grand doorways of these once noble palaces are courtyards where bakers, butchers, cobblers and the odd contraband cigarette vendor do business.
La Sanità – to the locals – is a thriving working-class district with a grand history. In the 17th century, the Spanish viceroys took a fancy to the area perched on the hill above the dense and crowded streets of the old town. Its name, which translates as “healthy district”, reflected a cleaner reputation (rainfall ran downhill, depositing debris and waste in the historic centre below). They built vast houses here in the 18th century (see Palazzo dello Spagnolo and Palazzo San Felice), with architects vying for attention as the court passed through to Capodimonte, the royal summer residence above the city. Business flourished until Napoleon arrived in the early 19th century, found the route too slow, and built the overpass that eventually suffocated the area and left it fighting for its life.
Emboldened by one too many fatal gang wars and a blighted reputation, local residents came together several years ago to form associations such as Napoli in Vita, with the aim of opening up the area, supporting local business and creating employment. The result is a neighbourhood renaissance led by the community for the community, which has quickly become an example for the whole city in the midst of mass touristification.
Where to eat and drink
Sophia Loren in the kitchen. Photograph: Shutterstock
Trying the local pizzerias is non-negotiable. It was in La Sanità that Sophia Loren famously kneaded pizza dough in Vittorio De Sica’s film L’oro di Napoli (Gold of Naples); and the award-winning Isabella De Cham runs the city’s first all-female fried pizza spot – her tiny montanare pizzas are loaded with cheese, vegetables and ham.
Pizzeria Oliva da Carla e Salvatore, the locals’ favourite, has a view of the majolica-clad basilica. Concettina ai Tre Santi draws food pilgrims from across the world for head chef Ciro Oliva’s deconstructed pizza and his focus on using the best local producers and ingredients. Wash it down with Vesuvian wine at Antica Cantina Sepe on Via Vergini, a fixture for generations and one of the forces quietly reshaping the neighbourhood by hosting community events and keeping prices affordable and inclusive.
Cultural experiences
Entrance chamber of the catacombs of San Gaudioso. Photograph: Robert Harding/Alamy
There is as much to see below ground in La Sanità as above. In the Hellenistic period, it was a sacred burial ground and beneath the soft tufo stone lies a warren of tunnels and hollowed-out chambers, now home to garages and workshops such as Fonderia Mercogliano, which casts religious objects from metal. The San Gennaro and San Gaudioso catacombs are run by a social cooperative, La Paranza, which employs young people from the neighbourhood and offers a fascinating tour, showing how the ancient populations negotiated death and legacy. The highlight is the Ipogeo dei Cristallini, a Greco-Roman crypt, recently uncovered beneath a 17th-century apartment block, featuring a perfectly intact relief sculpture of Medusa. It’s a marvel.
Where to shop
Fiocco di Neve (snowflake) brioche filled with cream and ricotta at Poppella. Photograph: RealyEasyStar/Pasquale Sorrentino/Alamy
La Sanità is a den of indulgence, but it is the bakeries that set it apart, each with its own speciality. You can find taralli (crunchy savoury biscuits made with fennel seed and black pepper to accompany a beer) at Panificio Coppola Antonio; a perfectly moist rum babà at Pasticceria Mignone; and for La Sanità’s most famous sweet export head to Pasticceria Poppella for fiocchi di neve (snowflakes), small, soft brioche filled with a secret recipe of cream and ricotta.
A large mural in Via Sanità. Photograph: James Talalay/Alamy
Don’t miss
La Sanità has long been home to craftsmen and artists, their workshops tucked into courtyards and up hidden stairways. Omega Guanti has been hand-stitching leather gloves since the Bourbon period for the likes of Dior. Michele Iodice, a celebrated Neapolitan sculptor, works and exhibits from his studio dug into the tufo stone that is in itself a masterpiece. Atelier Alifuoco, a shared studio space, is home to the next generation of the city’s artists.
Where to stay
Casa D’Anna ai Cristallini (doubles from €220) is more sumptuous private home than hotel, where tasteful art lines the walls and photography books are stacked on antique furniture. Down the road, artist Vincenzo Oste and his wife Inès Sellami incorporate art, design and artisan work at their guesthouse Atelier Inès (doubles from €265), inside their newly restored palazzo, set within a leafy courtyard.
