‘We can talk about culture, churches, monasteries, whatever, but the main thing here is eating and drinking.” My guide, Loreto Esteban Guijarro, is keen to ensure I have my priorities straight. I’m with Loreto to discover the food and wine culture of Spain’s Burgos province, a high-altitude area ringed by distant mountains. In summer the days are hot, and at night temperatures plummet. To thrive in these extremes, the food, the wine, and even perhaps the people, are robust and straight-talking.
I’m staying deep in wine country at the rural Posada de Pradoray, built as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Lerma in 1601. The thick stone walls, dark polished wood and heavy doors leading to simple rooms with vineyard views suggest little has changed in this landscape for centuries. Burgos is part of the Ribera del Duero wine region which stretches for 71 miles following the Duero River through the provinces of Burgos, Segovia, Soria and Valladolid.
Since the appellation was recognised in 1982 the region has seen huge changes, with the number of wineries increasing from nine to more than 300. Now, there’s a wine route to help explore villages, wineries, restaurants and visitor experiences across the region, with plenty of sampling. My hotel is just outside Aranda de Duero, the main town in the region (population 33,000), 62 miles east of Valladolid and 102 miles north of Madrid. From here I’m following the river on day trips to get a taste of what’s on offer.
Ailsa Sheldon at Bodegas Portia
Bodegas Portia is built on the edge of the tiny town of Gumiel de Izán, eight miles (13km) north of Aranda. Designed by Norman Foster, it’s one of the new wave of wineries in the region, with a futuristic trefoil shape, like a spaceship that’s landed in these sun-scorched fields. It’s built partly underground to meld into the landscape but also in recognition of the area’s unique winemaking traditions.
Later, I meet the mayor of Gumiel de Izán, Jesús Briones, at his home – a tour with Loreto opens many doors, she knows everyone. “You’ve seen the wine cathedral [as local people refer to Portia], now see the caves,” he says. Jesús invites us into his garage from which, between tins of paint and boxes of faded Christmas decorations, stone steps twist underground. A single bulb illuminates a rough hewn cave full of barrels, dating back hundreds of years. Traditionally, wine in this region was made and stored in deep, hand-dug caves where the temperatures are stable.
Jesús’s basement isn’t unusual: underneath these streets is a warren of caves, some used, some forgotten. Down here glasses are eschewed in favour of a porrón, a glass jug with a long, narrow spout designed for sharing wine. To drink from it is a leap of faith, pouring wine above your mouth, avoiding speckling your face and clothes with crimson Tempranillo and without the porrón touching your lips. I manage it (mostly).
Wine cellars at Moradillo de Roa. Photograph: Maria Galan/Alamy
Gumiel de Izán has seen a recent uptick in visitors thanks to a National Geographic article that noted visual similarities between the baroque facade of the town’s Iglesia de Santa Maria, and “the treasury” rock-cut tomb in Petra, Jordan. Gazing up at the intricate sandstone carvings from the village square, I’d say here’s definitely a resemblance, and it’s helped to put the town on the map. “Anything that brings visitors,” says Jesús. “We need reasons for young people to stay.”
At Nabal winery a few miles along the road I meet one young person who’s done just that: Luz Briones studied translation but became fascinated by wine in her early 20s. She leads us through vineyards ranging from 30 years old to more than a century. “We believe in the power of time,” Luz says. “Time in vineyards, time in barrels, time in bottles.” Grapes have to work hard here, developing thick skins to cope with temperature fluctuations and creating rich, tannic wines. In the storeroom, Benedictine chanting is played to the maturing barrels, an acknowledgment of centuries of wine-making by monks. Luz says security guards report lights and music turning on when the building is empty and shows us a large stain that has appeared on the wall resembling, if you squint, a monk drinking wine. The angels’ share perhaps?
We travel downstream, the Duero snaking just out of sight, its presence marked by rippling valleys covered in vines, all benefiting from the river’s proximity. Early in the year the land looks barren, with spiky bare vines and cracked red earth, but in summer fields of lavender and sunflowers create a colourful patchwork with the green of the grapes. In the village of Moradillo de Roa, south of Aranda, we meet Paola González Ortiz carrying a porrón. She’s part of a young team offering tours of a tiny winery museum, demonstrating the heavy labour and huge weights once needed to crush grapes. The village is famed for its grassy hillocks full of wine cellar entrances, often compared to Tolkien’s The Shire. Ducking low, I follow Paola down winding steps into the hillside (being Hobbit height would help). As we share wine from the porrón, a little light filtering through the air vents, Paola says she hopes increased tourism, whether for food and wine or scenic lookalikes, will help create more year-round jobs here. Moradillo de Roa has 157 wine cellars, and a population of 162. To attract young people, the village has started hosting porrón singles nights in the town square.
Iglesia de Santa Maria in the village of Gumiel de Izán. Photograph: Blanca Saenz de Castillo/Alamy
I end my tour back in Aranda, with a final wine cellar, this one beneath Don Carlos wine shop. Through a dynamic tasting, Cristina López Nuñez tells stories of wine and winemakers, and why the region needs both traditions and youthful innovation. “It’s like wine. Younger grapes have more energy but fewer stories like children,” she says. “The older grapes have less energy but much better stories, like older people. The old vines with deep roots give complexity, the younger vines with shallow roots are juicy. We need both.”
When I emerge back above ground, the sleepy town has transformed. Before I saw only old men sipping coffee and smoking at wine-barrel tables, and a gaggle of children chasing a football past the imposing gothic churches. At dusk, everything changes as the bars switch from coffee to wine. “We never entertain at home,” says Loreto. “Why would we?”
At El Lagar de Isilla, the bar fills with people of all ages in office attire, hi-vis jackets, or dressed for a night out. We feast on bechamel-topped salt cod, gildas with fat olives and anchovies, and octopus cooked with potatoes and sweet paprika. The wine is cheap and delicious, straight from the restaurant’s own vineyard, and the atmosphere is lively. Loreto is satisfied: “I told you, it’s about eating and drinking – and who you share it with.” I can drink to that.
This seaside town has a reputation for being one of the country’s most expensive but I was forced to second-guess my assumptions
As I wandered its cobbled streets and Georgian lanes, it became clear that this town doesn’t fit the usual stereotype(Image: Jonathan Buckmaster)
When I arrived at this seaside town, I expected the usual trappings of a millionaire’s coastal enclave: quiet streets, immaculate homes and the faint sense that everything is just a little too polished. After all, this New Forest harbour town is one of the most expensive coastal spots in Britain, with average house prices more than double the national average at £600,000, Express reports.
I was expecting it to be the kind of place where second homes outnumber locals, where the shops sell handmade dog treats, and where residents drive the kind of cars that never seem to gather dust. But as I wandered its cobbled streets and Georgian lanes, it became clear that Lymington in Hampshire doesn’t fit that stereotype.
For all its quiet wealth and picture-perfect charm, the town felt unexpectedly alive. What surprised me most wasn’t the grandeur of the homes or the sparkle of the Solent. It was the sense of community that seemed to ripple through everything. Even in a place where many doors stay closed for much of the year, there’s warmth and connection that you can feel as soon as you arrive.
Taking a stroll down the High Street on market day, the stretch of road transforms into a bustling corridor of colour and conversation. Locals chat across stalls piled high with artisan bread, handmade soaps and the day’s catch from the nearby quay. There’s the smell of roasted coffee from one of the independent cafes and the sound of a busker’s guitar drifting between the Georgian facades.
Down by the quay, children crouch on the old stone walls, dangling lines and bacon rinds into the water in hopes of catching crabs. The chatter of families mixes with the clang of yacht masts in the marina. Behind them, pubs like The Ship Inn and The Mayflower are full with people swapping stories over pints, as they’ve done for generations.
A few streets away, tucked behind the main road, small galleries and bookshops hum with quiet trade. And that’s the contradiction that makes Lymington fascinating. There’s no denying that many homes sit empty for large parts of the year. Walk along Captain’s Row or past the elegant townhouses near Bath Road, and you’ll spot drawn curtains and pristine gardens with not a footprint in sight. Yet somehow, the town refuses to feel hollow. Residents talk about the issue openly.
“It’s frustrating,” admits Adam Stote, 55, who recently downsized to a smaller property near the river. “We all wish more homes were lived in full-time. But the people who are here, we make up for it. There’s a real community and everyone looks out for each other.”
Part of that may come from the setting itself. The Solent glitters on one side, the New Forest rolls in from the other, and in between, Lymington feels cocooned, almost self-contained. It’s a place where the pace slows, where people stop to talk, and where heritage feels more like a habit than a history lesson.
Unlike other luxury coastal enclaves, the flash of Sandbanks, the celebrity polish of Salcombe, Lymington’s wealth whispers rather than shouts. Residents here seem to gladly trade glistening supercars and infinity pools for sea salt-dusted climbing ivy on weathered bricks. This difference adds to the town’s traditional character, from the quirky antique shops to the long-running St Barbe Museum and community theatre. Even the famous seawater baths, dating back to the 19th century, are run by locals who fought to keep them open.
Of course, Lymington isn’t perfect. The housing market prices out young families and parking is an eternal headache. As I walked back toward the train station, the tide was slipping out of the harbour and the sky had turned gold over the masts. It may be one of the most expensive seaside towns in Britain, but it’s also one of the few that still feels like a community first, and a postcard second.
Garry Beach, in the north of the Isle of Lewis, has been named the most underrated beach in the whole of the UK by Boat Booker. Milo Boyd went to see what everyone has been missing
Milo Boyd is a Digital Travel reporter who covers aviation news, the environment, the cruise industry and much else including travel tips, bargain holiday suggestions and inspirational global trips.
Far, far away – perhaps as far away as you can get from Greggs in the UK – is the country’s most underrated beach.
The Outer Hebrides may not be home to a single outlet of the beloved sausage roll franchise, but it does have Garry Beach. It sits high up on the largest of the Western Isles, Lewis.
Garry has just been named the most underrated beach in the UK by Boat Booker. Studying Google Maps beaches tagged as “secluded” and “secret,” and then ranking those with fewer than 100 reviews, the firm highlighted those coastal spots with pristine waters and dramatic scenery where relatively few have trodden.
Scotland dominates the rankings, with six locations in the top 10. Spots on islands such as Mull and Barra are high up. Porth Trwyn in Wales is the highest-ranked non-Scottish beach, coming in at four.
Milo Boyd
Milo Boyd
It is easy to understand why the Hebridean seaside might be underrated, given how remote and difficult most of it is to get. And this particularly goes for Garry Beach.
I spent two days, about eight hours of driving, a three-hour ferry, and a five-hour train, getting to the Isle of Lewis, before another hour on the road north of Stornoway to Garry Beach. I did so in a hefty Range Rover which I borrowed from the kind people at Turo rental car.
If the journey 668 miles from London to Stornoway doesn’t put you off, then the 15 miles from Stornoway to Garry Beach might. I’d argue it’s among the dullest, bleakest stretches of countryside in the UK.
Sitting in the back of the spacious Sport 2020, my Swedish in-laws kept muttering about just how bleak a destination it was. But, when we arrived, North Lewis’s less fetching roads were quickly forgotten. The beach itself is lovely.
A small car park holding around five vehicles was situated a short two-minute walk from the water’s edge. From there, we wandered over a grassy knoll onto the sandy bay, which stretches several hundred metres on either side.
Like many of the more remote Scottish beaches – and particularly the sandy ones that can be found in the Hebrides and Shetland – the water is a brilliant blue that feels like it’s been lifted by a fire-fighting plane straight out of a rum advert filmed in the Caribbean and dumped several thousand miles away for the benefit of a handful of dog walkers and a lone fisherman.
The beach sits on the eastern edge of Lewis, meaning it is not treated to the dramatic waves and salty spray of the island’s Atlantic coast. Things are a little more gentle here. Rather than smashing them in a froth, waves lap around the intriguing rock formations that stick up from the sand. Several have been eroded to create excellent climbing platforms and archways into the surf.
Beyond the fact that the Isle of Lewis is miles away from all but the 20,000 or so people who live there, Garry Beach has another major issue: the weather.
The hottest temperature ever recorded on Lewis was 26.3 °C, back in 1999. Unless you’re incredibly lucky, this beach requires a serious raincoat and the ability to withstand Hebridean gales.
During the high season of July, sunseekers can expect 12 days of rain and the mercury to hit average highs of 16C. That is roughly 7C colder than the southern coast of England.
Unless you are made of incredibly stern stuff, this is not a beach for lounging on the sand for hours on end or frolicking in the waves. It is a beach that combines the beautiful and the bleak of the British Isles’ coastline in a way that few other places anywhere can.
If you like the sound of what Garry is offering, but don’t think you can face the mammoth journey, then there are some slightly closer options. One of my personal favourites is Sandaig, a beach several miles from the beautiful Scottish village of Glenelg.
The peaceful spot was immortalised as Camusfearna in ‘Ring of Bright Water’, a book written by Gavin Maxwell about his life living alongside pet otters.
Not only is the water sparkling and very tempting for those who can handle the intense chill of a Scottish sea loch, winding paths lined by little bushes and tree run between craggy rock towers, creating the perfect arena for a game of Flags or 40:40. If the weather does close in a little, then there’s plenty of driftwood lying around that can be used to warm a chilled party huddled in one of Sandaig’s natural rock alcoves.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director of TUI UK&I said: “We’re thrilled to be the first major tour operator to extend our free kids’ places programme to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, responding directly to the growing demand we’ve seen for long-haul family adventures.
Most read in Beach holidays
“With thousands of free kids’ places available across our Summer 2027 programme, we’re making bucket-list family holidays more accessible than ever before.
“For Summer 2027, we are excited to be offering our widest range of destinations with free kids’ places, the convenience of flying from 23 UK regional airports, and the exceptional service of our UK accredited TUI staff who run kids’ clubs across more than 120 hotels.”
Free Child Places are when a child can go free on a holiday, when staying with two-fully paying adults, at no extra cost.
Most accept children to be under the age of 16 to get the free place.
Generally, a free child place can only be claimed if there are two full-paying adults on a holiday booking. It means that when a pair of adults book a room, one child can stay for no extra cost.
The cut-off for a free child place is 16 years old with most holiday companies.
It includes the return flight, as well as accommodation, transfers and any food board.
Some of the current Free Child Place TUI deals on offer include a week in Majorca for £362pp,
Despite a handful of popular Día de los Muertos events facing cancellation due to community fears surrounding ICE operations, many annual celebrations throughout Southern California will continue to honor the dearly departed as planned.
Organizers for the Oct. 18 El Sereno Día de los Muertos Festival are working with Councilwoman Ysabel Jurado and her team to ensure the safety of its attendees during a precarious time for immigrant communities. Others, like the Museum of Latin American Art’s Day of the Dead Family Festival on Oct. 26, are placing an added emphasis on resilience.
This year, De Los is hosting a free community celebration to commemorate the holiday on Oct. 25 from 2 to 10 p.m. at the Las Fotos Project. Attendees can enjoy a community altar, a skull decorating workshop, face painting and more.
De Los will also be accepting submissions for our annual digital altar from Oct. 15 to Nov. 2. Community members can submit a photograph or memento to honor the memory of their dearly departed — pets included.
Here is a list of other Día de los Muertos observations and events taking place across Southern California.
WINTER sun can be hard to come by in the Mediterranean, but Sun Travel has found some very popular destinations that are still hot in November.
With travel time less than five hours, highs over 20C and flights for £19.99 or less – here are the places you should look to book for winter getaway.
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Escapes to the likes of Tenerife can cost as little as £14.99Credit: AlamyMarrakech is full of colourful markets with plenty of beautiful goodiesCredit: Alamy
Marrakech, Morocco
A flight to Marrakech takes up to four hours and is well worth it thanks to the November temperatures of 22C.
The city is known for its souks, historic palaces and bustling medina – so there’s plenty to do on your break even if its not by the beach.
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
Lisa explored the cuisine of Morocco three-hour food tour of the Medina with Get Your Guide for just £35 per person.
Just an hour outside of the city is the Agafay Desert where you can zoom over sand dunes in buggies and see camels.
Not only are temperatures mild, but Marrakech gets around seven hours of sunshine per day and little rainfall.
The capital of Malta, Valletta, is three and a half hours away; it’s known for its pretty Baroque architecture and the Grand Harbour.
One writer discovered underground tunnels during her visit to VallettaCredit: Alamy
While Valletta doesn’t have beaches per se, it does have great waterfront views, and you can enjoy them in weather that reaches highs of 21C in November.
SEO EditorNuria Cremer-Vazquezrevealed more about the island on her recent trip to Malta, she said: “This tinyMediterraneancountry is smaller than the Isle of Wight, which goes some way in explaining why its food goes under many people’s radars; the limited land area means Maltese produce is barely exported, so you have to try it at source.
“One dinner, we could taste the different cultures that have calledMaltahome over the centuries — Italian in the ricotta parcels and focaccia, Arabian in the date-based sweets and bigilla (a hummus-like dip made from beans), Spanish in the bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled in olive oil.“
You can easily swim in the sea when it’s 22C in PaphosCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Paphos, Cyprus
While it might not technically be the hottest place in Cyprus during November, it’s much cheaper to get to Paphos than its neighbours Larnaca and Limassol.
Paphos is on the southwest coast of the island of Cyprus and throughout the year has plenty of sunshine – even in November.
It sees around seven hours of sunshine per day with daytime temperatures averaging around 22C, so it’s even warm enough to go sea swimming.
One writer who visited Paphos revealed that the city will really appeal to Brits, he said: “Here, everyone drives on the left and even the cabbies obey the speed limit.
“It’s things like that, along with 300 days of glorious sunshine a year and no real language barrier (and even the fact Cyprus uses the UK three-pin plug!), that make the island so popular with us Brits.
“Paphos’s bars and boutiques are worth checking out but make sure you eat at the fantastic Agora Tavern, a family-owned place on a hill overlooking the sea.
“There are just two things on the menu, the small meze and the large one. Choose your size and enjoy this fabulous array of local delicacies all chosen for you.”
Flights to Paphos start from £14.99 if travelling from Manchester and London Stansted in November and takes around four hours 30 minutes.
Seville is a very colourful city and is lined with orange treesCredit: Alamy
Seville, Spain
Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia and known for its historic buildings, busy streets full of cafes and ice cream parlours.
There are thousands of street-planted bitter orange trees and you don’t have to walk far to see some authentic flamenco dancing and great tapas.
In November, Seville has average high temperatures of 20C and averages out at having just five days of rainfall.
Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey who recently went to the city, revealed how to get free tickets to attractions around the city. She said: “The Royal Alcázar of Seville, a palace dating back 1,000 years, offers limited free tickets on Mondays between 6pm and 7pm.
“Or for Seville Cathedral, there are 100 free tickets a day between 2pm and 3pm.”
Flights from Edinburgh to Seville with Ryanair start from £16 in November – and it’s just a two hour 45 minutes journey.
Palermo gives tourists a chance for a city or beach breakCredit: Alamy
Palermo, Italy
In just over three hours, you can ditch the dingy UK for the beautiful island of Sicily which has highs of 20C in November.
Palermo is the capital of the Italian island of Sicily and thanks to its seaside location, has the best of both worlds – city and beach break.
She told us: “The capital city still remains authentically Sicilian – only 30 per cent of people there speak English.
“Head to the Via Maqueda where new and exciting cocktail bars sprout up on a daily basis.
“Walk along Via Vittorio Emanuele (the main pedestrian street) until you’ve reached the beautiful Cathedral.
“The entire street has some of the coziest aperitivo spots in the city – whether you like seafood, pizza, or pasta, there’s a bit of something for everyone.”
If you’re after a beach holiday, then head to the village of Mondello or the town of San Vito Lo Capo.
Flights from London Stansted to Palermo in Italy start from £19.99 with Ryanair and takes around three hours.
Funchal is the capital of the Portuguese archipelago, MadeiraCredit: pawel.gaul
The capital of the archipelago isFunchalwhich is on the main island’s south coast – and where you can fly directly to from the UK.
In November, Funchal has high temperatures of 23C, so it’s pleasant for walking or exploring the beaches.
You won’t get any soft golden sands here though, it’ll be black thanks to its volcanic surroundings – Funchal has a few small beaches, includingPraia Formosa andPraia de São Tiago.
If you don’t fancy the walk or the toboggan, take the cable car where you’ll get incredible views over Funchal.
When you get into the city, make sure to explore the old town and busy Lavradores market.
Flights from London Stansted to Funchal in November start from £14.99 with Ryanair.
Tenerife offers sun and mild temperatures throughout winterCredit: Alamy
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Heading to Tenerife may take a little longer on the plane, around four and a half hours, but you’re likely to get warm weather and plenty of sun.
Temperatures in Tenerife can be as high as 24C in November.
The Canary Islands are generally hot year-round because of their location – it’s on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert.
The most popular places in Tenerife its beaches, when Sun Travel chatted to some locals, they revealed the spot where the locals hang out.
Rick Cosgrove who lives and works on the island said: “La Tejita, near the airport in the south of the island, is the largest sandy beach in Tenerife and used mainly by locals (also one of the island’s windiest, it is popular with windsurfers).
“Two of the favourite black sand beaches among locals are Playa san Juan, up the coast from Costa Adeje, and Las Galletas beach, not far from Los Cristianos.”
ONE European island with dreamy beaches and a crowd-free city has been named as a top destination for 2026 holidays.
Whilst it is part of Italy, Sardinia is actually located closer to Africa than mainland Italy and as a result, it boasts warm temperatures and exotic fauna and flora.
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Sardinia in Italy is actually closer to Africa than the mainlandCredit: Cyann FieldingThe stunning island has recently been named by Expedia as a destination of the yearCredit: Cyann Fielding
And now it has been named as a Destination of the Year by Expedia Group’s Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report, which gathered data from millions of visitors and revealed that searches for Sardinia holidays have risen by 63 per cent.
Having recently visited, I know exactly why – Sardinia is a Mediterranean gem unlike any other.
Most travellers head to Olbia in the north of the island, but Cagliari in the south – the capital of the island – is also a great destination to explore.
The south of the island and around Cagliari is full of quaint villages, rocky hills and breathtaking beaches.
I stayed in a small village called Chia, which is home to two Hilton hotels.
The resort has a number of pools to enjoy and there are two hidden beaches resort guests can access, both with crystal-clear warm waters and hardly any people.
Rooms at one of the hotels – the Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia – start from £257 per night, for two people including breakfast.
You can also do a number of activities from the resort, including a two-hour horse ride up into the island’s hills.
It was such an amazing way to see the island and experience a bit of local life.
And from the resort, it took me less than an hour to reach Cagliari.
The city is small, but even on a sunny Saturday at the end of August, its streets were quiet from hordes of tourists.
As well as sitting on the coast with panoramic views of the sea, the city has a great blend of culture and history.
One of my favourite spots in the city is Bastione di Saint Remy – a neoclassical fortress made from white and yellow limestone.
While you do have to climb tens of steps, once at the top of the monument you are treated to spectacular views of not only the city, but the islands stretching coastline.
For a while I just sat enjoying the blazing sunshine and the views, with boats whizzing in and out of the port accompanied by the sounds of bustling cafes on the city’s streets below me.
Around Bastione di Saint Remy, there are many winding streets with quaint shops and cafes to explore, which form the city’s historic quarter.
I stayed in Chia, where there are two Hilton hotels with access to two beachesCredit: Cyann Fielding
Prices in the shops and cafes are cheap too, with coffees setting you back around 87p to £1.74.
Food didn’t set me back much either, with a salmon and avocado brunch setting me back less than a tenner at Ex Tipografia.
Cattedrale di Santa Maria, Cagliari’s main cathedral is also worth exploring.
It features a mix of different architectural styles and has a stunning crypt inside – just remember if you are visiting to cover up as this is a place of worship.
Make sure to not miss The Underground Cagliari Tour – this unique activity takes you to three different underground sites across the city.
Stops include the Salesian Institute Tunnel-Shelter, which was used by a school as a shelter during heavy WWII bombings.
The entire tunnel is also lit by candles when you visit.
The second stop is at the Crypt of Santa Restituta – it is a natural cave that has been expanded over centuries and has also served as a place of worship.
Also make sure to head to Cagliari, the capital of the island, where there is a limestone monument that you can climb to capture breathtaking views of the cityCredit: Cyann Fielding
Finally, you head to the Archaeological Area of Sant’Eulalia, which sits beneath the Church of Sant’Eulalia in the Marina district and reveals the remains of a Roman road.
The tour costs from £26.61 per person.
If you want to enjoy the Mediterraneanweather, make sure to explore Orto Botanico.
It is a huge garden with lots of different varieties of plants and Roman archaeological remains and it costs less than £4 to visit.
Return flights to Cagliari cost as little as £38 in November from London with Ryanair.
A MAJOR cruise line has revealed it will be launching a 124-day voyage around the world in 2028.
The Epic World Explorer will be one of P&O Cruises longest-ever world voyages.
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The 124-day voyage will head to over 30 destinations including Tokyo in Japan (pictured)Credit: GettyOther key stops are San Francisco in America (pictured)Credit: GettyAnd passengers can also enjoy some sun in Cape Verde (pictured)Credit: Getty
The cruise line’s Arcadia ship will set off from Southampton on January 6, 2028 and finish back in Southampton on May 10, 2028.
The 124-night cruise – which is exclusively for adults – will focus on the Far East with stops in South Korea and Thailand.
It will also call into Japan for the first time since 2019, with a new overnight stop in Tokyo with calls to Kagoshima and Nagasaki.
In fact, there are over 30 destinations on the voyage.
Prices for the cruise start from £11,199 per person.
On board the ship, which features an Art Deco domed roof and can accommodate up to 2,094 guests and 866 members of crew, there are 15 bars and restaurants, five entertainment venues and two swimming pools.
Included in the price of the cruise, guests get access to the Palladium, which is a three-tiered theatre that hosts live entertainment.
Shows include Magic Moments – it tells the story of Burt Bacharach’s life and music.
Or you could watch magic show, Unbelievable.
Also included is the Screening Room, which is a 30-seat cinema that shows the latest blockbusters.
For a bit of gambling, passengers can head to the Monte Carlo Casino with classic table games such as blackjack, roulette and poker.
Fancy some late night entertainment? Then there’s The Globe – a circular bar with live music, game shows and ballroom and Latin dance events.
Passengers don’t need to worry about missing the pub either, as they can enjoy The Rising Sun with interiors just like a British country pub.
There are cosy booths, a jukebox, darts, karaoke and even live sports screenings.
For travellers wanting to stay fit during their voyage, there are plenty of opportunities to do this.
In addition to a fully-equipped gym, there is also a sports court on board where passengers can play football, basketball, tennis or cricket.
There are even complimentary fitness classes too.
Onboard Arcadia, there are 15 bars and restaurants, five entertainment venues and two poolsCredit: Alamy
If treating yourself is more your thing, then there is The OasisSpa and Salon, complete with a hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room.
Guests can also grab a number of treatments like haircuts, massages and facials.
The ship has a number of pool areas as well – one of which has a retractable roof for all-weather enjoyment.
When it comes to food onboard the ship, travellers will never be short of choice.
At breakfast, The Belvedere offers a casual dining spot with an all-day buffet.
For a lighter lunch or fast food, there is the Neptune Grill which serves hot dogs and classic fish and chips.
Alternatively, you could grab some small plates at the Meridian Restaurant.
Steak lovers should then check out Marco Pierre White’s Ocean Grill.
One spot even looks like a traditional British pub with cosy interiorsCredit: pocruises.com
For a special treat, once a week on sea days the Arcadia serves typically British afternoon tea with cute sandwiches, sweet treats, warm scones and unlimited tea at the Meridian Restaurant.
The speciality restaurants onboard the ship are Marco Pierre White’s Ocean Grill, which serves a number of steaks and fresh seafood dishes and Sindhu, which combines Indian and British cuisine.
There are five types of cabins on board including inside, sea view, deluxe balcony, mini suite and suite.
The most basic cabin, which is inside, is simply inside with a comfy bed, tea and coffee making facilities and White Company toiletries.
There of course is also a TV with free movies and TV shows on.
There are five different types of cabin onboard the ship, which will set sail at the beginning of 2028Credit: pocruises.com
Sea view cabins then have the added benefit of a window or port hole.
In the deluxe balcony cabins, guests can enjoy a sea breeze in their own private outdoor space.
Mini suites then have an additional lounging area and at the top end, suites have a dedicated butler service as well as spacious accommodation and a large bathroom.
Guests in suites can also enjoy breakfast each day in an exclusive restaurant.
And at the end of your 124-day cruise, if you want to take home a souvenir to loved ones there are plenty of shops on board including jewellery, cosmetics, perfume, clothes and art and collectibles stores.
The sailing has been announced as part of P&O Cruises’ new winter 2027 and spring 2028 programme, which also includes a 75-night Grand Tour of South America.
The island was named the sunniest place in the UK by the Met Office – and it gets more sunshine than parts of Italy during the winter months
The stunning island is the ‘sunniest place in the UK’(Image: nicolamargaret via Getty Images)
You don’t need to jet off to far-flung destinations for a dose of winter sun – there’s a UK island that boasts more sunshine than parts of Italy.
The Isle of Wight has been crowned the sunniest spot in the UK by the Met Office, outshining even Milan and Geneva during the winter months.
According to research from Isle Escapes, the island enjoys an average of 78 hours of sunshine per month between November and February.
That’s a staggering 12 percent more than Milan’s 70 average hours, 15 percent more than Geneva’s 68 hours, and 20 percent more than Paris’ 65 average winter sunshine hours.
This balmy climate could be due to the warming effect of the Solent – the strait that separates the Isle of Wight from mainland England, reports the Express.
The island benefits from its own micro-climate, which means it typically avoids extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall and thunderstorms during the winter season.
Not only is it the sunniest place in the UK, but this is particularly noticeable during the winter, when the Isle of Wight basks in 42 percent more sunshine hours than the rest of the country.
If you’re keen to soak up some of this sun for yourself, the Isle of Wight offers a fantastic island getaway without straying too far from home.
Located just off the coast of Hampshire, the island is renowned as Britain’s dinosaur capital, with the remains of over 20 species discovered on the island.
The Isle of Wight is a top-notch destination for cycling enthusiasts, boasting numerous tracks and paths that crisscross the island.
For those up to the challenge, you can cycle around the island in a day – a well-signposted route of approximately 105km.
While mostly flat, there are some inclines that will give your thighs a workout, and it can get breezy, so be prepared.
If you’re after a more laid-back holiday, the Isle of Wight has plenty to offer. There’s a host of family-friendly attractions, including the Monkey Haven animal sanctuary, home to meerkats, gibbons, and even snakes, all cared for by keepers who love to chat about their work.
History buffs can visit Osborne – Queen Victoria’s country retreat and family home, now open for tours. After her first visit to Osborne, Queen Victoria wrote: ‘It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot’, and she wasn’t wrong.
A trip to Osborne offers something for everyone. Inside the house, you’ll get a glimpse into Royal life as you explore private apartments and grand reception rooms filled with beautiful furnishings and artworks from the Royal Collection.
And if the sun is out (which it likely will be), you can stroll through flower-filled gardens and relax on the beach where the Royal children learnt to swim.
If you’re yearning for a trip to the Isle of Wight, it’s easy to reach from mainland UK. Daily flights depart from Heathrow and Gatwick, or you can opt to fly to Bournemouth or Southampton before hopping on one of the 150 ferry connections to the island which take as little as 45 minutes.
Since the Isle of Wight is part of the UK, there’s no need for your passport – just pack your bag and perhaps a sunhat.
Anyone who has a holiday in Rome coming up has been issued a warning. One holidaymaker who has just been to the Italian capital told people to be on ‘high alert’ when visiting
A string of incidents have occurred in the city recently (file)(Image: Gary Yeowell via Getty Images)
A holidaymaker in Rome has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists heading to the Italian capital after enduring a horrifying experience during her break. Caroline Jansson turned to TikTok to reveal she had been “robbed of all of her personal belongings” and urged others visiting the city to stay alert to their surroundings.
“I’ve just been with the police and they told me they [thieves] specifically target tourists,” she began in a video. She went on, explaining that those with hire cars should stay especially watchful after learning at the police station that numerous others had fallen victim to luggage theft straight from their rented vehicles.
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“I talked to one woman who turned around to take a picture and she had her handbag stolen,” Caroline continued.
“There was another man who had his wallet and passport stolen out of his hand – so be very vigilant and look out for each other and each others’ suitcases because literally everything we had with us for the trip is now gone.”
Caroline revealed that consequently, she had lost numerous valuables including her iPad and two laptops in the European hotspot. Luckily one of those was a MacBook, enabling her to trace and find it inside one of the pinched bags – only to discover it had been abandoned in a ditch with no trace of her other belongings.
“We’re going to continue talking to the police and see how it goes,” Caroline said, before issuing a heartfelt plea to her followers to keep an eye out for her luggage if they happen to be in Rome.
In response, another tourist shared their own experience of theft in Rome. “We were robbed in the Rome train station,” they revealed. “Luckily an officer noticed this guy with a bag that didn’t match his look and we got it back. We were so lucky.”
A second person also revealed: “We were robbed, had our van smashed and they stole phones, iPads, handbag, money, camera. Police not interested. We were in a secure patrolled car park.”
Whilst a third TikTok user warned: “A group of three tried to pickpocket me and my husband on a very crowded bus. Just be careful and keep your belongings close to you and be aware.”
The UK government’s foreign travel advice section offers the following guidance for those visiting Rome, meanwhile.
“Thefts from parked cars happen in Rome, particularly in the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Thieves also target coastal areas and towns, and motorway service stations. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle – even out of sight in the boot – for any length of time.
“Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car.”
To reduce your personal risk:
keep sight of your belongings at all times
beware of thieves using distraction techniques
avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place such as a hotel safe
A secret flight tip could help ensure your luggage is among the first pieces to appear on the carousel once you’ve landed, and it doesn’t involve ‘fragile’ stickers
Waiting for airport luggage can be time consuming after a long flight(Image: Jackyenjoyphotography via Getty Images)
Airport journeys can be riddled with anxiety, from the nail-biting security queues to the dread of misplaced luggage that only subsides once you spot your case on the conveyor belt. Whilst keeping a watchful eye ensures nobody mistakenly grabs your bag, a clever hack could see you retrieving your suitcase ahead of the crowd after landing.
Travel experts at Escape.com have shared a cunning strategy: check in your luggage as late as possible without risking missing your flight. Airport ramp worker and gate agent Thomas Lo Sciuto revealed the insider knowledge: “Your best option is to be one of the last passengers to check your bags.
“This is because bags will always be loaded front to back on the bag carts.”
Yet timing alone doesn’t guarantee success. Occasionally, it’s down to the way you pack your belongings, reports the Mirror US.
If leaving check-in until the eleventh hour fills you with dread, SmarterTravel discloses that some carriers – such as Delta at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 – organise luggage by dimensions to achieve proper weight balance aboard the aircraft, suggesting an alternative approach worth considering.
Hand over your case at the check-in desk and curious about its journey afterwards?
Your luggage is sorted into large containers, or “cans”, which can carry multiple bags for easier transport.
As per travel site SmarterTravel: “In other words, how far back your bag ends up depends on the weight of the can and the needs of the plane, not when you check it.”
It’s worth noting that single-aisle planes usually store checked luggage in a holding area before being loaded onto the aircraft shortly before take-off. Thus, suitcases are likely to be loaded in the order they were checked in.
However, checking in early may actually work against you – your bag could be put at the back of the storage space and loaded last, although it would probably be the first to be unloaded.
Want to avoid a lengthy wait at the baggage carousel?
Marking your suitcase as “fragile” could do the trick. News site news.com.au suggests that labelling your suitcase “fragile” can result in ground staff loading your bag last, which means they could unload it first.
Suitcases are also more likely to be processed in batches, meaning the order may not always be the same.
But remember to remove any old “fragile” labels from a previous trip.
You can also jazz up your luggage with ribbons, brightly coloured labels, or a unique name tag so it’s easily spotted.
Travelling with only hand luggage is the quickest way to breeze through the airport.
However, to avoid having to check your bag in, make sure it meets the airline’s specific requirements.
A personal item, often referred to as a small bag, should fit under the seat in front of you and typically shouldn’t exceed 40x30x20cm.
Hand luggage must be stowed in the overhead locker. They usually weigh up to 10kg and are no larger than 56x45x25cm.
Among UK airlines, British Airways typically offers the most generous free hand luggage allowance on its basic fares.
Passengers are allowed to bring one 23kg hand luggage bag (56x45x25cm) and one smaller personal item (up to 40x30x15cm) free of charge.
Jet2 and Virgin Atlantic also allow a free hand luggage bag (10kg, 56x45x25cm) and a personal item. Always double-check with individual airlines before you travel.
The Bentham Line, nestled in the scenic northern English countryside, offers more than just a train ride; it’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in an almost three hour train ride to the coast
14:50, 15 Oct 2025Updated 15:03, 15 Oct 2025
The Bentham Line is tucked away in the picturesque northern English countryside(Image: The Bentham Line)
Lonely Planet, the renowned travel guide experts, have just unveiled their much-anticipated Best in Travel guide for 2025. The guide features 30 must-visit destinations for the upcoming year and reveals the top 10 travel trends.
One of these trends is the simple joy of train hopping, turning a regular train journey into an exciting adventure by getting off at different stops along the way. The Bentham Line, tucked away in the picturesque northern English countryside, offers more than just a means of transport; it’s a chance to embark on a nearly three-hour journey to the coast.
Labelled as a “near-secret” by the experts, this lesser-known 75-mile train route is predicted to be one of the UK’s best train journeys for 2025, reports the Express.
This historic line, which stretches between Leeds, Lancaster and Morecambe, meanders through charming villages, rolling hills and historic towns, encouraging travellers to step back in time.
For over 170 years, The Bentham Line has been a crucial link for local communities.
The 75-mile (120 km) trans-pennine journey starts in the heart of West Yorkshire, crosses stunning valleys, passes the Ribblehead Viaduct and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, before ending at the scenic shores of Morecambe Bay.
The Bentham Line, a gem in Scenic Rail Britain’s crown, is managed by a community rail partnership (CRP), bringing together local community groups and organisations to enhance the passenger experience.
Setting off from Leeds Station, the journey winds its way westwards, swiftly trading the city’s frantic energy for the peaceful countryside of the Yorkshire Dales.
The service calls at Shipley, Bingley, and Keighley before arriving at Skipton, dubbed the “Gateway to the Dales.”
Boasting a 900-year-old castle and a historic cobbled High Street, this town serves as a beloved day-trip spot encircled by stunning landscapes.
Another favourite destination to disembark is Giggleswick.
This charming village, nestled just beyond the market town of Settle, boasts numerous elegant properties and a historic church featuring captivating architectural details.
The distinctive copper dome of Giggleswick School’s Chapel dominates the horizon, creating a striking landmark across the region.
Every station along this route provides its own enchanting experience.
Step into yesteryear at Carnforth, where the railway station served as the backdrop for the most memorable moments in the 1945 classic Brief Encounter, or alight at Lancaster to discover the Edwardian butterfly conservatory in the ‘Taj Mahal of the North’ alongside Lancaster Castle.
Travellers can marvel at the classic Yorkshire stone architecture and the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct, a remarkable example of Victorian craftsmanship.
Beyond this point stretches the tranquil Lune Valley, an unspoilt expanse of countryside that traces the River Lune, providing breathtaking panoramas around every bend.
The journey concludes in Morecambe, a seaside town where the vast horizon meets the Irish Sea.
Known for its Winter Gardens, the iconic art deco Midland Hotel and its broad sandy bay, visitors are drawn here to enjoy fish and chips on the seafront after a charming train ride.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or simply in need of a breath of fresh air, The Bentham Line offers an effortless route through some of England’s most captivating landscapes.
It serves as a reminder that the finest travel experiences aren’t always about the destination, but the journey itself.
So, hop on board, and let the rhythm of the rails carry you away.
Jamal Robinson, who achieved his dream of retirement in 2024 and pays himself a whopping £138,000 a year, has revealed what he forks out to live in a “premium” area of Dubai “right off the beach”
Jamal Robinson achieved his dream of retirement in 2024 (Image: Facebook)
Jamal Robinson, who decided that he wanted to retire early when he was just a teenager, went from working as a church janitor to a position at Taco Bell for minimum wage, but would ultimately secure roles at Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon.
Jamal, who at the time of speaking was 40, achieved his dream of retirement in 2024. He’s now living as a US expat in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, and has managed to save a cash pot worth nearly $4million (about £3m).
A former executive director of generative AI at Microsoft, Jamal accumulated millions in savings and investments and pays himself a staggering figure of about £11,500 every month.
Jamal told CNBC Make It: “What I love most about Dubai is it really caters to people that have been retired and are looking for a lot of services and activities.”
He continued: “I found that, most often, the things that were promised to me in America actually existed here. So, the levels of safety, the levels of like integration of people into society where everyone’s accepted.”
Jamal revealed that he pays himself roughly $15,400 per month (about £11,500), but he tends to spend around $9,000 (£6,700), usually allowing himself around $2,000 for food (£1,500).
A chart displayed Jamal’s spending for December 2024 (which he conceded was a “unique” month). Among his outgoings were $4,429 (about £3,300) for rent, $2,840 ($2,100) for health and wellness, and a discretionary fund of $1,549 (£1,160).
He claimed that Dubai is “actually much cheaper” for him than the majority of the major US cities in which he’s lived. Jamal added that the UAE city allows people to live the “kind of lifestyle” they want and accommodates “a lot” of price points.
A city synonymous with luxury, Dubai is also a popular holiday destination and global hub for leisure and business. Home to more than 200 nationalities, it also boasts the tallest building in the world, the 828-metre Burj Khalifa.
In addition, curious visitors can take advantage of its luxurious malls and traditional souks, and, in further evidence of its wealth, you may even spot the police driving supercars.
According to the Telegraph, it’s expensive to live in Dubai, and expats will have to pay for medical insurance. Despite this, there’s no income tax imposed on people, meaning you keep more of the cash you earn.
It reports that, as of June 2024 (according to figures by CBRE), average yearly rents for apartments and villas were AED 56,000 (about £11,265) and AED 166,000 (£33,393). It also stated that the average salary of someone living in Dubai was £54,647.
Whether your dream escape involves tanning on a tropical beach or exploring Europe with a backpack, a smart booking strategy can make it a reality. Here are some tips to help you save money when booking your 2026 holiday…
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and Camilla Foster
14:06, 15 Oct 2025
There are plenty of ways to keep the cost of a holiday down(Image: Getty Images)
As the bitter cold arrives and we wrap ourselves in our cosiest knitted jumpers, it’s perfectly normal to start fantasising about warmer climes and thrilling getaways.
Whether you’re picturing yourself soaking up rays on a paradise beach or trekking across Europe with just a rucksack, clever booking tactics can turn those dreams into reality.
Making magical memories doesn’t have to break the bank, so here are two travel experts’ step-by-step guides to slashing costs when planning your 2026 getaway, and making sure that your break is budget-friendly as it can be.
“If you can book three to nine months in advance you can often get good deals, especially for packaged holidays or if you’re booking for a family,” says Laura Carden-Lovell, travel expert and head of operations at Transfer Travel.
“We’ve seen that slow travel, so taking longer to get to a destination, has been increasing in popularity,” Carden-Lovell points out. “So, taking the scenic train for example. Trains can be quite expensive so I would recommend booking these far in advance.”
Utilise comparison websites
Fight the temptation to snap up the first bargain that appears in your social media feed, as a little extra patience and detective work could uncover an even better offer.
“Have a look around and use comparison sites to compare prices before you hop onto the first holiday you see,” advises Carden-Lovell. “Comparison sites like Skyscanner and Hopper are brilliant.”
Purchase individual flights
“Booking one-way flights is often a great hack and can be a good way to reduce the prices of flights, as booking a return flight can often be more expensive,” says Carden-Lovell.
Is an all-inclusive break really good value?
Do your homework and weigh up self-catering options. Carden-Lovell suggests, “I think that all-inclusive holidays can be more convenient and potentially cheaper for families and bigger parties, but for solo travellers I think there are ways you could do it cheaper by just buying local food, for example,”.
Consider booking a holiday outside of the peak season to avoid inflated flight costs and crowds
“Shoulder season, typically between September and March (excluding Christmas and New Year), is probably the best time of year to go on holiday to get cheaper tickets,” Carden-Lovell advises. “Most destinations also tend to be less crowded this time of year.”
Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore, added: “Timing is everything. If you can, book flights for a Tuesday or Wednesday as midweek departures are often significantly cheaper than weekend travel. It’s also worth checking prices from regional airports, where lower demand can translate into smaller surcharges and more affordable fares.”
Resale platforms might be worth considering if your dates aren’t flexible
“If you can’t be flexible with dates, using resale marketplaces are often a good way to get a cheap holiday package,” says Carden-Lovell. “If someone can’t go on their holiday, they can list it on a resale marketplace like Transfer Travel and you can often get a really good bargain.”
Despite some negative perceptions, Carden-Lovell assures, “I know resale platforms have had a bad rep for not being safe and secure, but they are usually a simple, safe and legit way to do it, rather than Facebook marketplace. Just make sure you check that customer services are verifying each listing and that the platform you are using has a secure payment method.”
Consider trips to the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe or Scandinavia
Carden-Lovell suggests, “I think it is a good idea to stay away from the really popular destinations and to consider going on holiday somewhere like Eastern Europe instead, for example, which is likely to be cheaper in 2026,” He also mentions that “Coolcations are also trending and Scandinavian countries are really good and are generally cheaper to visit now. Mediterranean countries like Greece and Portugal are also looking super cheap in the forecast for 2026.”
Look at alternative accommodation
Why not swap those pricey hotels for something a bit different?
“For budget travellers, places like hostels are often really cheap and Airbnbs can often be a cheap alternative to typical hotels as well,” Carden-Lovell advises. “Staying outside the major tourist hubs is also a good tip to save money on accommodation during the summer holidays.”
Check on Sundays
“When it comes to accommodation, keep an eye on Sundays,” advises Maritz. “Industry data consistently shows that this is the cheapest day of the week to book hotels. Travellers should also consider package deals, as bundling flights, hotels and sometimes activities together often comes out cheaper and protects you from hidden costs.”
A ONE-of-a-kind ice rink will open next month at one of London’s most popular rooftop bars.
Anyone seeking Christmas fun will be able to ice skate at the highest rooftop bar in Peckham, and it has 360-degree views of the London skyline.
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London’s highest ice rink will open in Peckham next monthCredit: ICE at Bussey Rooftop BarThe Bussey Rooftop Bar is bustling in the summer and will transform for winterCredit: Instagram
On top of the Bussey Building in Peckham is a huge rooftop bar – and it is set to be turned into an ice rink for the winter season.
From November 17 until January 1, the Bussey Rooftop Bar area will be transformed into an ice rink with a bar.
On Facebook it said: “Tickets are LIVE for London’s freshest rooftop ice rink! Skate under the stars, then head to our Après Skate Bar for spiked hot chocs, winter spritzes, mulled magic and DJs every Fri & Sat bringing all the feels“.
The Bussey Rooftop Bar will become the Après Skate Bar and transform into a winter lodge – think twinkly lights, outdoor heaters and blankets.
Also on the rooftop, you’ll be able to buy bar snacks and grab stone-baked pizzas.
Tickets for the ice rink are on sale now and cost £14 for adults, £10 per person for family tickets, and £9 for children.
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor, loves the rooftop bar, she said: “One of my favourite places to go isPeckham, because of its famous rooftop. I’ve spent many a sunny day at the Bussey building, a rooftop on top of a car park.
“It serves amazing pizzas and beers and has fantastic music playing as well. When the sun goes down, make sure to grab afilmat Peckhamplex with £5.99 tickets all day, or Four Quarters, a retro arcade bar.“
The Bussey Building is an old factory around the corner from Peckham Rye that hosts club nights, yoga classes and artists’ spaces.
It’s home toRooftop Film Club, an open-air cinema that shows classic, cult, and new release films during the summertime.
Skaters will be able to enjoy sunset views from the rooftopCredit: AlamyThere will be plenty of food and Christmassy drinks tooCredit: Instagram
The Peckham bar has been included in guides for “Best Outdoor Bars in London” and “Best Rooftop Bars in London.
Some of the regulars are excited to try out the new space, one wrote on Instagram under the skating announcement: “Can’t wait!”
Another added: “Just when I thought bussey couldn’t get better”.
If the ticket you bought is refundable, you will receive the money back.
The cancellation charges, if you incur any, will be deducted from your refund.
A Qatar Airways plane, stationary at an airport.Credit: Alamy
Cancellation charges are applied to cover the transaction costs and to compensate the airline if they fail to resell your place.
If the fare you bought is non-refundable (such as Economy Lite), then you will not receive any money back, though you may be eligible for a refund on unutilised government taxes.
If you cancel within 24 hours of booking (and your flight is at least 7 days away), you are typically eligible for a full refund with no cancellation fee under the airline’s “24-Hour Risk-Free” policy.
How much does it cost to change a Qatar Airways flight?
The cost to change a Qatar Airways flight depends heavily on the type of fare class you bought and your Privilege Club status.
A fixed change fee will be applied to process the transaction, though this may be waived depending on your ticket.
Recent policy updates have introduced a low USD $25 change fee for changes made online for some fares.
However, for basic Economy Lite tickets, the fixed change fee can still be higher, ranging from USD $100 to USD $125.
Platinum and Gold members are often exempt from change fees when modifying their flight more than 24 hours before departure.
If the new flight you choose costs more than the one you had, you must pay the difference to even the amount up.
EASYJET has revealed it will be setting up an airport base next year in one of the most popular African cities with Brits – meaning more cheap flights.
The budget airline has announced it will be growing its program from Marrakech in Morocco.
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easyJet is expanding its program with more flights to and from MarrakeshCredit: Alamy Morocco is one of the cheapest countries for Brit to go on holidayCredit: Alamy
While the new routes aren’t currently from the UK, other existing routes will see more flights launched.
easyJet already flies from the UK to Marrakech from eight hubs including Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester London Gatwick, Luton and Southend.
In November, some of these one-way flights are as little as £14.99.
The new easyJet routes are from Hamburg, Lille and Strasbourg to Marrakech and Geneva to Tangier – each route will have twice weekly journeys meaning there will be hundreds of additional flights.
The consumer watchdog analysed the cost of 5,590 package holidays from some of the UK’s biggest tour operators, including Jet2holidays, TUI and easyJet Holidays.
Morocco was one of those places where holidaymakers can get more for their money.
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recently visited the Moroccan city with her familyCredit: Lisa MinotMarrakesh is known for its colourful Medina and marketsCredit: Henryk Sadura
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
Lisa also suggests visiting popular spots in the city of Marrakech like the Jemaa el-Fnaa square filled with cafes and colourful stalls.
It’s where visitors will see lots of performers from musicians to snakecharmers.
When you get hungry, make sure to visit one of the square’s many food stalls to pick up some maakouda – a traditional potato cake.
In the Kasbah district, you’ll find the Saadian Tombs. It’s a 14th-century site that was discovered in 1917 and the tombs are made from Italian Carrara marble.
For the best views, Lisa says head to Nobu Hotel’s rooftop where you can see the Atlas Mountains.
Of course you can tuck into some great food options too from quality sushi, and sip on a cocktail.
Another reason Morocco is set to be a big destination for next year is thanks to Ryanair.
The other budget airline announced that due to the axing of flights to Spain, the capacity removed from Spanish airports will be reallocated to more competitive European markets, including Morocco.
This means your holiday to Marrakech, or other Moroccan cities could become cheaper than a trip to Tenerife.
From December, as new coat of arms will appear on the front, designed by Prince Charles.
The British passport already changed back in 2020 from burgundy to blue, as well as to be signed in His Majesty’s name after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Burgundy passports and old blue design passports are still valid for use until they expire.
Just make sure to check the start date as a number of people have been caught out by confusing rules introduced post-Brexit.
About halfway on the long, dusty drive from Las Vegas to Reno, there’s a wide spot in the road known as Tonopah. And along Main Street in Tonopah stands perhaps the creepiest overnight option in all Nevada.
Bold claim, I know. But the Clown Motel is special. Owner Vijay Mehar has taken an old motel and filled it with clowns. Paintings, murals, dools, ceramic figures. Many of them frowning or shrieking.
What guests love, Mehar has learned, is fear, loathing, painted faces, circus vibes and hints of paranormal activity. To be afraid, basically.
“America’s Scariest Motel,” say the brochures by the register. “Let fear run down your spine.”
The 31 guest rooms teem with enough clown imagery to eclipse a Ringling Brothers reunion. The gift shop is vast and troubling. (Clown knife, anyone?)
And then there are the neighbors. The motel stands next to the Old Tonopah Cemetery, most of whose residents perished between 1900 and 1911, often in mining accidents.
Some guests sign up for ghost hunt tours or explore the cemetery after dark. Others settle in with a horror movie, perhaps one of the several made on site, along with countless Youtube videos.
When I visited in late 2024, Mehar said hundreds of people stop by the motel on busy days, mostly focusing on the gift shop and the crowded, dusty shelves of the lobby-adjacent clown museum.
“When we came here, there were 800 or 850 clowns,” Mehar said. “Right now, we have close to 6,000.”
Throughout the motel’s corridors, walls and no-frills guest rooms (rated at 3.5 stars by Yelp and Trip Advisor), the clowns continue against a color scheme of purple, yellow and red, augmented by polka dots of blue and green. Rates start at $99.
If you book Room 222, which highlights Clownvis (Elvis as a clown, basically), the motel warns that you may be awakened in the wee hours by a mysterious “malevolent entity.”
The hotel also advises all guests that, despite monthly pest-control visits, they may encounter “UFI’s (Unwanted Flying Insects),” because rooms open to the outdoors. (This part of Nevada is known for its many Mormon crickets.)
The top travel trends of 2026 have been revealed including “Fan Voyage”, “Hotel Hop” and “Salvaged Stays” according to a new report.
The Unpack ‘26 report, released by Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, polled 24,000 respondents across 18 countries and found a growing number of people booking trips specifically to see local immersive experiences.
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The top travel trends of 2026 have been revealedCredit: SWNS
“Fan Voyage” journeys see travel combined with unique, regional sporting activities, according to Expedia, including Sumo Wrestling in Japan or curling in Canada.
While people on a “Salvaged Stay” aim to mix historical architecture with modern amenities, checking into upcycled retreats such as former schoolhouses, train stations, and banks.
As a result, Hotels.com has seen an increase in searches for these types of stay – for example, Bodmin Jail Hotel, in Cornwall, is up by 110 per cent.
And this part of the group also found 59 per cent of British millennial travellers are making every trip count by booking multiple hotels within a single destination.
This emerging trend – dubbed Hotel Hop – is driven by travellers’ desire to explore different neighbourhoods (58 per cent) and keep trips varied (52 per cent).
Expedia also released its 2026 Destinations of the Year list powered by real-time data from millions of daily visitors to its site and app.
Six of these hotspots also meet the criteria for the brand’s new Smart Travel Health Check, a first-in-travel framework, inspired by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
It recognises destinations that offer meaningful travel experiences and proactively manage tourism in a sustainable way, helping to ease the strain on the world’s most overvisited cities.
And the top spots included Big Sky in Montana, USA, Okinawa in Japan, Hobart in Australia and Savoie in France, which has seen a 51 per cent search increase.
Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, said: “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations.
“We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”
Christopher Imbsen, vice president policy at WTTC, added: “Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check is an innovative initiative that reflects the urgent need to embrace responsible growth models that safeguard communities, protect cultural and natural heritage, and ensure the long-term resilience of destinations.”
Research conducted on behalf of the Vrbo arm of the company found trips in 2026 are fuelled by 91 per cent who are seeking getaways focused on reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.
As #BookTok continues to dominate social media, interest in literary-themed travels, ‘Readaways’ is also surging with Pinterest searches for “book club retreat ideas” up 265 per cent.
Top Holiday Trends for 2026
Fan Voyage (Expedia) – combining travel with unique sporting activities
Salvaged Stays (Hotels.com) – looking for hotels with unique architecture but up-to-date amenities
Hotel Hop (Hotels.com) – Trips featuring more than one venue to stay in
Readaways (Vrbo) – Getaways based on reading-related terms like ‘reading retreat’
Farm Charm (Vrbo) – Trips based on terms like ‘farm’ or ‘homestead’ for a cosy escape
Set-Jetting Forecast (Expedia) – Trips based on TV shows and movies
And reading-related terms in the holiday let company’s guest reviews have nearly tripled.
The slow travel movement is gaining ground, with 84 per cent of travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm.
They are searching for starlit skies over busy city lights in 2026.
Set-Jetting is back – and bigger than ever – with interest in travelling to destinations inspired by TV shows and movies accelerating.
And 53 per cent of global travellers say their desire to take a set-jetting trip has increased in the past year.
With The White Lotus’s next location in France still to be officially confirmed, the 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast reveals the next wave of cinematic escapes – including Tuscany, Italy inspired by Jay Kelly and Yorkshire, inspired by Wuthering Heights and Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.
