Holidays

THERE’S a huge landmark that’s been under renovation for the last decade – and it’s under three hours away from the UK.

The huge structure overlooks the capital of Hungary and is about to reopen in March 2026.

If you’ve been to Budapest in the past decade, you might have noticed that the Citadella that sits on Gellért Hill has been undergoing a huge renovation.

It’s been shut for 11 years so far and has been undergoing a major renovation since 2020 – but it’s finally about to reopen.

The work has cost an estimated HUF 20 billion which is just under £46million.

While efforts have gone into maintaining the original structure,new features have been added too.

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One of those is a new pedestrian bridge built entirely of glass.

There will also be a walk-through exhibition on Hungary’s history, called ‘The Bastion of Freedom’ which will be inside the large rondella.

The inner courtyard will have a new water feature and an eternal flame.

There’ll also be a new café and gift shop, and it will have incredible panoramic city views overlooking Danube, Buda Castle and Margaret Island.

Outside, locals and tourists will have plenty of room to enjoy the views as there will be twice as much green space as before.

There will be 10,000 shrubs, 100,000 perennials, and over half a million bulbs that will be planted in the area, along with 128 large trees.

The site is free to explore as it is an open outdoor public site – but you might need to pay to go inside.

The Citadella in Budapest was built by the Austrian Habsburg Empire between 1850 and 1854.

Its purpose was to serve as a military stronghold after the Hungarian Revolution between 1848 and 1849, which is why it sits on a hill overlooking the city.

Now, it’s considered a symbol of freedom with The Liberty Statue representing Hungary’s independence – it was added in 1947.

The Citadella is due to reopen to the public on Hungary’s Independence Day, March 15, 2026.

Budapest is a popular city break destination for Brits as it’s just a two and a half hour flight away from the UK.

Other popular historical sites include the Buda Castle district, the Matthias Church and and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Budapest is also known for its famous thermal baths – for example the Szechenyi Baths in Budapest is one of the best and largest spa baths in Europe.

It has 15 indoor baths and 3 grand outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms with a ticket costing around £22.

For more trips to Europe – here are 39 of the best city break destinations – and the no.1 is VERY cheap.

Plus, discover the five European cities with lesser-known tours that let you explore like a local.

A family-friendly UK holiday can be had for just £6.60 per person per night – but there are a few things you’ll need to know before booking this Kent caravan park

An online travel expert has discovered what he claims to be the UK’s most affordable holiday, costing a mere £6 per person per night. Haven, who runs the site, assures guests of “the warmest welcome possible” at their coastal holiday parks scattered across the UK.

YouTuber Steven decided to put this promise to the test by visiting their Kent Coast Caravan Park, just an hour’s drive from London.

On his Beachlife and Beyond channel, Steven meticulously outlined what you receive for your money, expressing overall high levels of satisfaction. However, there were a couple of unpleasant surprises that made Haven’s welcome slightly less warm than Steven had anticipated.

Upon arrival at the park for his off-peak getaway, Steven noted that the weather was “absolutely awful”. Despite this, he remained optimistic, and an initial inspection of the accommodation left a positive first impression.

Steven reported that everything was immaculately clean, but he wasn’t convinced by the comfort of the sofa-bed that unfolded from the large corner sofa. He advised: “I recommend, if you’re going to come to one of these caravans, bring your own duvet cover and sleep on top of that. Otherwise the poor sod who ends up lying on this is going to have a really bad back.”

Despite that initial hiccup, Haven staff were quick to provide extra bedding when Steven raised the issue. The caravan was equipped with a decent-sized telly, which was likely to be in high demand given the dismal weather that week.

Steven advised: “We’ve brought our own laptop and HDMI cable, that’s another top tip for you. Haven sites don’t tend to have very good internet…so download some films, stick them on a laptop, bring an HDMI cable and you’re grand.”

In a surprising twist, the caravan boasted not one but two microwaves. Steven also noted: “This is a first for us, a dishwasher in a Bronze caravan.”

The bedroom came complete with sheets and pillowcases – a rarity at similar sites, according to Steven. He was further impressed by the addition of a second TV in the main bedroom.

“I am beyond impressed,” he said.

For those looking for entertainment outside the caravan, there’s a Wetherspoons on site, along with bingo and other activities. However, guests will need to purchase one of Haven’s “Play Passes” to access these facilities.

Without these passes, Steven warned, you’re “effectively banned from the rest of the site”. He added: “They’ve got ‘Gandalf’ on the door stopping you getting into anything.”

While there’s a supermarket on site, prices can be steep, so Steven made the half-hour journey to an Aldi in nearby Rochester for his weekly shop. For those preferring not to drive, supermarket deliveries are available direct to caravans.

The park also boasts a fish and chip restaurant, a Papa John’s pizza franchise, and a Burger King offering caravan delivery.

With the miserable weather, the caravan grew rather cold by afternoon. He grabbed a quick evening meal before venturing out to experience the park’s entertainment.

“Microwave curry in a caravan,” he remarked. “Don’t tell me I’m not a man of culture.”

Despite being low season for British holidays, the bingo hall was surprisingly packed. “Everyone who’s a seasoned holiday park-goer will know that they take bingo very seriously,” he noted. “They are hardcore.”

There’s absolutely no mercy for anyone getting overexcited and calling “House” prematurely, with the entire room of holidaymakers chanting “Shame on you”.

Even when British weather disappoints, several indoor alternatives keep restless children occupied, including two sizeable amusement arcades.

However, disaster struck upon Steven’s return to his caravan when he discovered the shower’s temperature dial was jammed on the coldest setting. He resorted to boiling kettle water for washing.

Despite the shower malfunctioning, Haven responded swiftly by sending a security guard and arranging for a plumber to visit the next day. However, it became apparent that the shower issue couldn’t be resolved immediately.

On the third day, things took a turn for the worse when the site experienced a power outage. A representative from Haven was contacted, who expressed their pleasure that Steven had enjoyed his stay, whilst also apologising for the power disruption.

Regardless of these hiccups, Steven was thrilled with the value he got from his holiday: “We paid a total of £99 for five people for three nights.

“That’s the equivalent of £20 each for the stay, which makes it £6.60 a night.”

He further noted that without the entertainment passes, the cost would have been around £4 per person per night.

ONE of Europe’s most underrated cities will soon get a metro system after decades of planning.

Belgrade in Serbia – one of the oldest city’s is Europe – is also Europe‘s biggest capital city without a subway, but soon that will change.

As part of a contract between Chinese and French construction companies, Belgrade’s first subway line is expected to open in 2030 costing around €4.4billion (£3.8billion).

A second line will follow in the early 2030s and a third line has also been planned.

Designs for the new metro network in the city could include driverless trains that would be operated from a single hub and doors separating the platforms from the track.

Digging of the tunnels will start next spring, with each tunnel set to be around 100 metres long and cost around €20million (£17.5million).

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According to Bloomberg, Andreja Mladenovic, who runs JKP Belgrade Metro and Train, who is overseeing the project, said: “Belgrade has grown far too big not to have a subway.

“It’s an absolute game changer.”

He added: “It costs more at first when you build it, but cuts costs later.

“It’ll be state-of-the-art, and worth it.”

Plans for a subway network in the city were first considered in the 1930s when the capital was growing in population.

However, World War II stopped these plans going ahead.

In the 1960s, Belgrade’s economy was expanding again and new plans were drawn up in the 70s, however these went nowhere.

In the early 80s, a debt crisis meant all hopes were lost for a metro network, and over the following decade, Yugoslavia disintegrated.

It wasn’t until 1999 that Belgrade could rebuild itself.

Today, the often-overlooked city is home to floating nightclubs and secluded beaches.

As a result of sitting on two rivers, Belgrade has a number of floating restaurants, bars and nightclubs referred to as ‘Splavs’.

Along the Sava River, Splavs often play pop music, whereas the Splavs that are found on the banks of the Danube River have more of a rock vibe.

And drinks onboard are super cheap, with a beer setting you back around £3.40 or a cocktail setting you back around £4.75.

But Belgrade doesn’t just have floating bars and restaurants, there are also a number of historical locations to explore.

For example, you could head to the Belgrade Fortress, which was built back in the third century to protect the city from invaders.

The fortress, of course, has a number of panoramic viewpoints, but visitors can also participate in a number of activities and attractions, as well as explore museums.

You could also visit the Church of Saint Sava, which is a large Orthodox church.

Or explore the Nikola Tesla Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous inventor.

The museum contains many of his personal belongings as well as his inventions.

Return flights from London Luton Airport to Belgrade cost around £36 in January and the flight takes around three hours.

In other rail news, a world-famous English city is getting a new train station in huge £6.7billion plans.

Plus, a brand new crime-themed train experience is coming to UK city… but you don’t actually go anywhere.

IF you cross the Tamar Bridge from Devon, there is a pretty riverside town that is often dubbed the Gateway to Cornwall.

And the destination that sits on the waterfront has lots to see from historical cottages to a cosy award-winning pub.

Saltash is found on the western banks of the River Tamar right on the county’s natural border with Devon.

Thanks to its location, it’s known as the ‘Gateway to Cornwall‘.

Saltash is the very first town in Cornwall anyone will come to if they cross the border over the Tamar Bridge.

It’s also accessible by the Royal Albert Railway Bridge which is known as one of the UK’s Brunel Bridges – as it was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

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Anyone stopping to explore the town will find plenty of restaurants, cafes and independent shops.

Saltash even has an award-winning pub called The Two Bridges Inn.

It was voted Pub of the Year for 2025 by CornwallLive.

The pub sits on a hill with a view of the Royal Albert Bridge if you sit in the large beer garden.

It was selected by a public vote where Cornwall’s pub lovers voted for their favourite place to drink and eat.

Throughout the year, the pub hosts events like Murder Mystery evenings, Music Bingo, discos, quizzes and lots of live music.

Of course there are ale and cider festivals throughout the year too.

Visitors can explore the town on The Saltash Heritage Walk which is a series of trails exploring the town’s history.

It focuses on the area near the river and its connection to Elizabethan times, the Norman church, and Tudor architecture.

Someone who took on the walk wrote on Tripadvisor: “There is plenty of history to see in such a small town, lots of old-worldy buildings if you venture down most nooks or crannies.”

One historical attraction in Saltash is Mary Newman’s Cottage.

The a grade two listed cottage was built around 1480 and is even said to be the home/birthplace of Sir Francis Drake’s first wife.

Inside it’s authentically furnished and visitors can look at traditional Tudor tools, costumes and games.

Other areas to explore nearby are Whitsand Bay and Bodmin Moor.

If you’re looking for an alternative to Cornwall then one writer says to visit her seaside county instead with less rain, and earlier sunrises.

Plus, find out more on the UK’s most popular holiday destination has world-class beaches, great pubs and TV-famous attractions.

These pretty twin beach villages are in the ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall…

Down the coast from Saltash are the twin beach villages Kingsand and Cawsand.

Kingsand and Cawsand sit side by side on the south east of the county.

They are often described as being in the ‘forgotten corner’ due to their secluded location on the Rame Peninsula.

The adjoining villages aren’t visited by tourists as much as the likes of St Ives, Port Isaac, Mevagissey, and Mousehole.

But both villages have beautiful shingle beaches and cosy looking cottages.

The banks of Cawsand have plenty of rockpools to explore, and when the sea is calm, boats can be hired for another adventure.

During the summer season, a vintage ice cream called Cawsand Bay Vintage Scoops on the promenade next to Cawsand beach to serve iced treats.

The village of Kingsand has another of the area’s favourite beaches.

The bay is well sheltered so it’s perfect for swimming, and it’s dog-friendly all year round.

The two village were historically separated by a stream, with Kingsand in Devon and Cawsand in Cornwall.

This division continued until 1844, when the boundary was adjusted, and Kingsand officially became part of Cornwall as well.

Both have a rich history of smuggling and fishing, you can even see remains of old pilchard cellars from the late 16th century on the shoreline beyond Kingsand.

The village boasts harming harbour, stunning coastal walks and an ancient church dating back to 440 AD

It’s almost December and the weather is pretty chilly, but it doesn’t mean we have to hibernate. There are so many stunning places in the UK that are perfect for a wintery trip, even when it’s cold outside.

One of these places is Cemaes in Wales, which journalist Catrin Williams recently visited. It’s the most northerly village in the country, and Catrin described it as the ‘perfect day out’. With a dramatic coastal walk and plenty of great shops and eateries, it’s not hard to see why.

Cemaes, originally a humble fishing village, has evolved into a bustling port over the centuries. Ships were constructed in the safety of the harbour, and locally quarried limestone, marble, bricks, corn, and ochre were shipped far and wide, according to North Wales Live.

Catrin said: “Walking along the harbour, it’s easy to imagine the buzz of trade that must have once filled the air.

“The high street is full of charm, it is lined with pretty and colourful houses. Small shops sell everything from handcrafted decorations to local crafts, and the cafes are equally inviting.”

Catrin stopped by Caffi Bane and got to a hot chocolate, the perfect pick-me-up on a chilly winter morning.

On the same street, the Stag Pub is a true local gem, buzzing with a friendly atmosphere and contributing to the village’s sense of community. There’s also a fish and chip shop that seemed to be very popular.

Catrin continued: “The beach is another highlight. Here, I discovered St Patrick’s Bell, part of a series of Time and Tide bells scattered around the coast of Great Britain.

“These bells ring with the high tide and serve as a thoughtful reminder of rising sea levels. I watched as the tide rolled in over Traeth Mawr, the beach with its stunning harbour view, it is a place that somehow feels both peaceful and alive with history.”

From the shore, Catrin walked along a section of the Anglesey Coastal Path, which forms part of the larger Wales Coast Path. The route offers breathtaking views of the sea on one side and rugged cliffs on the other, creating a picturesque landscape.

According to Catrin, the highlight of her visit was at the end of the walk: Llanbadrig Church, also known as St. Patrick’s Church. This is considered one of the oldest churches in Wales, with its roots tracing back to 440 AD, while the current structure is believed to have been built in the 12th century.

Local folklore tells the tale of a young St. Patrick who was shipwrecked on Ynys Badrig in the 5th century. Miraculously surviving the ordeal, he founded the church as an act of gratitude to God.

Raving about the village, Catrin said: “All in all, my day in Cemaes Bay was a perfect blend of history and beautiful scenery. Even in the quieter months of winter, there’s a warmth to the village that makes it feel welcoming.

“From the colourful streets and cosy cafes to the dramatic coastline and centuries-old church, it’s a place that is definitely worth a visit.”

ONE of the world’s most famous museums is set to nearly double its entry fee for tourists.

The Louvre museum in Paris will increase its ticket prices by 45 per cent for most non-European Union visitors, which includes Brits.

The price hike is set to be introduced early next year, with tourists from countries including the UK, US and China having to pay €32 (£28) to enter the museum.

It is set to raise millions of euros each year to fund a huge overhaul of the Louvre’s most famous gallery.

The price increase follows a heist that took place in October that hit the news globally.

Security and management have been criticised since the incident, which saw four people steal jewellery worth over £76million from the museum.

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After the heist, an audit on the museum was carried out which highlighted how the museum has inadequate security systems and aging infrastructure.

As a result, from January 14, visitors from countries outside the European Economic Area (EU member states, as well as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) will need to pay an extra €10 (£8.76) to enter the museum.

The new price jump is estimated to raise between €15million (£13.1million) to €20million (£17.5million) each year for the museum, which will go towards supporting the Louvre’s modernisation plans.

Over the past year, the museum has faced a number of issues to do with its structure.

Back in January, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Louvre announced that the museum would be getting improvements and as a part of that suggested higher fees for non-EU residents in 2026.

As part of the report, Macron also said that the Mona Lisa would be moved to a new room to deal with the overcrowding.

It followed the leak of a letter from the museum’s director Laurence des Cars, which highlighted how the museum had several structural issues, water leaks and even that the museum could no longer cope with the current numbers of visitors heading to the attraction each day.

The Louvre will also have a number of other areas renovated, with new facilities added too, such as toilets and restaurants.

And earlier this month, the museum announced that the gallery which houses Greek ceramics was closed due to structural issues.

Each year the Louvre welcomes around nine million people, and more than a 10th of visitors are from the US.

Complaints about overcrowding and long queues at the museum have been going on for a while now, especially through the Salle des Etats gallery, which is where the famous Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is displayed.

Many visitors note how you actually only get a few seconds to see the painting and snap a picture.

The report carried out after the heist last month also revealed that the museum was spending more money on buying new artworks than actually maintaining the attraction itself.

In other museum news, the UK’s newest national museum is more like an IKEA store – and Kate Middleton is already a fan.

Plus, a new £12.5 million museum based on a very famous children’s artist to be ‘world’s largest of its kind’.

LOVEHOLIDAYS has kicked off its biggest ever Black Friday sale until midnight on December 2.

So if you’re planning a last-minute winter sun break or planning for a spectacular summer 2026 trip, you’re in luck, as there are huge savings on your next getaway.

loveholidays Black Friday deals

From classic Canary escapes to budget-friendly visits to Tunisia, these deals are delivering serious value for money.

The standout offer for would-be travellers is up to £550 off selected package holidays, based on bookings for four people.

On top of that, holidaymakers can get extra savings of up to £200 off bookings when using the code BFEXTRA at checkout, which is until 2 December.

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There’s also extra price cuts on flights and transfers, with deposits starting from as little as £19 per person.

If you spot something good for the dates you want, we’d recommend snapping it up, as winter sun at these prices rarely sticks around.

Prices are also expected to fall even further, so it’s worth checking the loveholidays website through Cyber weekend for new offers.

loveholidays Black Friday deals not to be missed

These are some of the top offers we found in the Black Friday sale to book between now and 2026

• Pebbles Resort St Paul’s Bay, Malta – Flights and room only, 2 people for 7 nights from £298 (was £335) – book here
• Ona Hollywood Mirage Tenerife, Canary Islands – Flights and room only, 2 people for 7 nights from £698 (was £749) – book here
• Be Live Collection Marrakech (Adults Only) Morrocco – Flights and all inclusive, 2 people for 7 nights from £1038 (was £1160) – book here
• Aska Lara Resort & Spa Antalya, Turkey – Flights and all inclusive, 2 people for 7 nights from £718 (was £775) – book here
• MGM Grand Las Vegas, USA – Flights and room only, 2 people for 7 nights from £569pp (£200 below peak price) – book here
• TRS Yucatan Hotel, Mexico – Flights and all inclusive, 2 people for 7 nights from £2778 (was £2962) – book here

Remember, some of these deals are last-minute for 2025, and many are deals for those who want to book ahead of the 2026 rush.

Head over to loveholidays to find the best Black Friday deals for you while they last.

Black Friday is a great opportunity to snap up a discounted holiday, whether you’re looking for a European getaway or to finally book that long-haul flight, but there’s one blunder to stay clear of

Black Friday deals are now in full swing, and there are some fantastic holiday packages available at a discounted rate. However, amid the excitement of booking that next getaway, a travel expert has outlined the one mistake you need to avoid.

From today (Friday, 28 November) the internet is ablaze with tempting offers during the annual Black Friday event, with many discounts also available before and after this date. Some of the most appealing offers are those related to our next holiday, whether that’s booking a tropical getaway for early next year or a last-minute trip to explore a charming European Christmas market.

A vast number of airlines, travel booking websites, and hotels offer major deals and discounts during Black Friday, but there’s something we need to be aware of when planning that desirable trip. Travel expert and Managing Director at hoppa, Chris Harrington, warned that the cheapest deal isn’t always the best for value.

“Black Friday deals can be extremely tempting, with many companies offering as much as £100 off per person or 20% off overall flights. But these headline prices can often hide add-ons,” Chris shared. “So be sure to check what’s included in your deal, such as resort fees, airport transfers and cancellation policies, before comparing offers.”

To help us navigate the chaos of Black Friday deals, Chris outlined additional top tips, including how to make the most of the annual sale. A key point is to verify your flight times before confirming the booking.

He explained: “Sometimes, a deal can be too good to be true. Sure, it may look like you’re getting a steal, but the flight may be going cheap because it departs at 5am or there’s a 12-hour layover. If the deal is a long-distance flight, be sure to check both legs of the journey to ensure you’re not stuck with ridiculously long layovers or connection times that are too tight to make comfortably.”

Black Friday doesn’t just need to be for booking a new holiday, but you can also take advantage of the deals when it comes to upgrading your flights or hotel. The expert said: “In addition to bagging a cheaper deal than usual, there’s also the opportunity to secure an upgrade at a fraction of the usual cost. This can range from flight upgrades to all-inclusive resorts and hotels with more luxurious facilities. If you fancy a sweeter deal, now is the time to cash in.”

Furthermore, Chris pointed out that it’s a good idea to have a flexible booking policy, particularly for trips next year. “If you’re booking trips for this time of year, keep in mind the likelihood of weather disruptions like heavy snowfall and storms. I suggest prioritising Black Friday deals that include a flexible cancellation policy or allow you to exchange flights. A slightly higher upfront cost can save you hundreds if plans need to change,” Chris shared.

While it may seem like you need to rush to book the holiday before it’s sold out or before the end of November 28, you still need to be sensible with your decisions.

“Deals can move quickly, but keep a steady head and spend some time checking recent price trends by using price comparison websites or fare-tracking tools, as it may turn out to not be a decent deal at all. If the price has been inflated before the discount, it’s not a true saving. Something I’d suggest is to keep a budget in mind in terms of how much you wish to spend and stick to it to avoid overspending,” he continued.

If you follow these simple tips from Chris, you will help ensure a great bargain while enjoying the best possible holiday, without any hidden surprises. The expert added: “Black Friday is a brilliant opportunity to secure yourself a great deal or treat yourself to that extra bit of luxury, but take the time to do your research before booking. Compare what’s included, check the fine print, and make sure the deal supports the kind of holiday you actually want. A little diligence now can save you a lot of stress later.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

Jailza Gatehouse, 60, from Hemel Hempstead says the side effects of the menopause improved after she started taking ‘extreme day trips’, and now she has embarked on 70

A woman who began embarking on ‘extreme day trips’ to tackle menopause -related insomnia has now completed 70 such journeys in just 12 months.

Jailza Gatehouse, 60, embarked on her first EDT last October – a distinctive travel approach involving stays of no more than 24 hours. The mother-of-two from Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, admits she had been observing others’ adventures in an online community for some time, never imagining she would attempt one herself.

Yet once she began, Jailza discovered she was hooked, and has since undertaken 70 EDTs, exploring every European nation except Russia and Ukraine. The Brazilian-born mum reveals that sleepless nights brought on by the menopause prompted her to take action, believing there had to be a more productive use of her time than lying awake in bed.

Since beginning these expeditions, she reports sleeping soundly, as the extensive travel leaves her thoroughly exhausted.

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She said: “With my menopause I could never sleep. I would wake up at one in the morning. Menopause used to take over my life. With EDTs, instead of waking up and doing nothing, I go to the airport. And because you walk so much and get so tired I sleep. Now when I am up I go and see the world.

“EDTs changed my life. Menopause was driving me mad. I am taking a short break now for Christmas and already I can’t sleep again. I had to book another one.”

Jailza’s maiden voyage was to Dublin on October 4 last year, as it was just an hour away and still within the UK, costing only £17.99 each way. She admitted that initially she felt extremely nervous, having always harboured concerns about her safety abroad, but those fears have since disappeared.

She explained: “I was in the group for a while but I just read the posts. I thought ‘that’s not me I could never go anywhere by myself.’ After I did my first one I just couldn’t stop. The EDTs brought me back to life. Because I don’t work I was bored, my life was boring. I needed to do something, I just didn’t know what.

“In the past I have said to my husband that we should visit places, and he always said that they don’t like black people there. My mind was always like that, I couldn’t go anywhere because they wouldn’t like black people. When I was on my way to Dublin I remember panicking. I felt so paranoid. I wanted to cry. But when I got there it was nothing like I had thought. It brought my confidence back. EDTs are becoming my therapy.”

Jailza, who invariably travels alone, says her favourite destinations include Italy, Greece, Barcelona, and Budapest, citing her passion for architecture.

The mother hasn’t revisited any destination yet, though certain cities like Prague have captured her heart enough to warrant a return trip. The adventurous traveller has even ventured to Transnistria, an unrecognised state sandwiched between Moldova and Ukraine which appears on the government’s ‘do not travel’ list, describing it as “amazing.”

Jailza hasn’t kept track of her total spending, but admits she rarely secures bargains as she books her journeys last minute, explaining “if I want to go then I go.” Her travel advice includes thoroughly researching your destination, avoiding the front seat in taxis, and not hesitating to ask locals for information.

Her packing essentials consist of two power banks, a brolly, spare socks, and an extra top in case of spillages.

She added: “In the beginning people thought I was crazy. But now they have seen that I can do it, they are all starting to go too. Don’t hold yourself back. Just do it. I have had the best year of my life. After that first trip I have never been scared anywhere.”

Jailza shows no signs of slowing down, with a trip to Marseille in France scheduled for next week, and further visits to Milan and Krakow already in the diary. Looking ahead, she’s keen to expand her horizons further afield, even if it means abandoning her 24-hour time restriction.

Whether you’re looking to book your next summer getaway at a beach resort or a city weekend break, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have released some major deals with up to £400 off

While we might be engrossed in the festivities, with less than a month until Christmas, it’s never too early to start planning for that holiday next year. And this week might be the best time, as Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have released some remarkable deals with savings of up to £400 for a family of four travelling to European hotspots.

Today (28 November) marks Black Friday, with a catalogue of airlines, hotels, and travel booking websites offering significant savings to mark the occasion. This includes Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, which have released huge deals available on all flights and holidays from today.

The leading leisure airline and the UK’s largest tour operator is offering holidaymakers £100 off per person on all holidays on sale across Winter 25/26, Summer 26, Winter 26/27 and Summer 27. This means a family of four can save a whopping £400 for a holiday in Spain or Portugal, and still travel during the school holidays.

This doesn’t just apply to families, but also to couples who book a getaway with Jet2holidays during the Black Friday sale, which could result in a £200 discount. There are also millions of hotels and resorts that offer free accommodations for children, providing even further savings.

The Black Friday deals are applicable to all new bookings made with Jet2holidays, Jet2Villas, Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays or Indulgent Escapes by Jet2holidays. This provides even more flexibility to travellers with the option to stay at an all-inclusive beach resort or opt for a quieter getaway in a villa situated in the hills.

But that’s not all. Holidaymakers can also enjoy a 20% discount off all Jet2.com flights on sale. After all, as we’ve all heard amid the tunes of Jess Glynne, “nothing beats a Jet2 holiday”.

Steve Heapy, CEO at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “There is nothing better than knowing you have a holiday booked and something to look forward to. The savings we are offering during our biggest, boldest and best Black Friday event ever means that customers can enjoy the feeling of knowing their holiday is in the diary whilst getting a fantastic deal on a discounted getaway or fare at the same time.

“Whether it is a family holiday, a break with the other half, or a group get together, we know everyone really needs that well-deserved holiday. With deals this good, there is no better time to book, so make sure you do not miss out on our Black Friday sale and get that sunshine boxed up with the nation’s favourite and most trusted holiday provider.”

For more information or to book your next getaway, you can visit the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays websites.

A POPULAR holiday chain has ditched plans to open a new Wetherspoons pub at one of its sites.

Haven had planned to invest more than £3million to build a new Wetherspoons pub at a North Wales site.

According to a number of sources, the pub – which was set to be the largest of a number of pubs Haven is building at its parks – fell victim to the incoming tourism tax in Wales.

Plans for the JD Wetherspoon pub at the Presthaven holiday park were approved earlier this year by Flintshire County Council.

However, according to North Wales Live, a source stated that Haven is concerned that the tourism tax in Wales will cause more families to head to England than Wales.

Whilst Haven did not discuss the impact of the tourism tax, they did confirm they will not be moving ahead with the plans for Presthaven this winter.

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A Haven spokesman said: “Haven is always exploring potential opportunities to further develop our offering with a range of factors influencing which projects go ahead.

“This weekend we were excited to be able to announce that four new JD Wetherspoon pubs will be built this winter at our Hopton, Lakeland, Cala Gran and Riviere Sands parks.”

The Welsh tourist tax, which is also known as the Visitor Levy, is a local charge on overnight visitors.

And it is set to be introduced in April 2027.

Essentially, local councils will decide if they wish to add the tax to their area.

Currently, the proposed rates sit at £1.30 per person per night for accommodation like hotels and 75p for campsites and hostels.

Money raised from the Visitor Levy is set to be used for tourism-related improvements and local projects.

The Welsh Government finance secretary Mark Drakeford said: “The visitor levy represents a small contribution that will make a big difference by helping to maintain and enhance the very attractions that make Wales such a wonderful place to visit and to live.

“This historic legislation gives Wales the same tools used so successfully by destinations all over the world to balance the benefits and pressures of tourism between visitors and residents.”

Earlier in November, the holiday park brand announced that it would be opening four new JD Wetherspoon pubs in the UK in spring 2026.

These include new boozers at Cala Gran in Blackpool, Hopton in Norfolk, Lakeland in the Lake District and Riviere Sands in Cornwall.

Currently, there aren’t many details about the new pubs but Haven said that they will be “linked to the proud heritage of the local area our parks are located in”.

In addition, the new £9million pub project is part of a bigger £14million investment plan in Haven’s food and drink options across the parks.

And Haven is also splashing out £10million on a new water park at their Kent Coast site.

In other holiday park news, a UK holiday park operator has gone into administration affecting 11 resorts.

Plus, the price of holiday park breaks could DOUBLE thanks to new Budget ‘tourist tax’.

JET2 is cutting two routes from East Midlands from its summer programme.

The airline will no longer fly to a beach region in Spain and a popular Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast.

Jet2 has confirmed it is scrapping two routes from East Midlands Airport – to Costa de Almería and Split.

Jet2 said: “As a successful business, we are constantly reviewing our flying programme in response to demand. While this gives us the ability to add more award-winning flights and holidays, we may also very occasionally withdraw flights.

“Following a recent review of our flying programme from East Midlands Airport, we are making some adjustments and have taken the decision to withdraw services to Costa de Almería and Split for summer 2026.”

The route between the airport and Costa de Almería had been in operation for over five years.

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The region in Spain is known for being less touristy than the likes of the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava.

The region has wild beaches, desert-like landscapes and even mountains.

One popular spot is Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park which is known for its beautiful golden beaches and coves.

For anyone who still wants to explore Costa de Almería, easyJet still flies to Almería from Liverpool, London Gatwick and Bristol.

The other axed route is to Split which is the second-largest city of Croatia after the capital Zagreb.

Popular spots include the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Riva promenade. 

The best beaches in Split include Bačvice Beach for its proximity and sandy shore, Kasjuni Beach for its clear waters and upscale amenities, and Žnjan Beach for its popularity and family-friendly atmosphere.

During summer 2026, there will be direct flights to Split operated by Wizz Air, easyJet and British Airways from London airports, Bristol and Manchester.

The airline has also pushed back its East Midlands to Agadir service until next winter.

The journey will commence in winter 2026 with the first flight departing on October 15 – one-way flights as little as £76.

At the moment, flights are scheduled up until March 18, 2027.

Jet2 is also restarting flights to a Brit-loved holiday destination for the first time in more than a decade.

It will start flights to two destinations in Egypt, after scrapping routes back in 2011.

The Egyptian Cabinet Presidency has reported that there will be seven weekly flights to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with Jet2 from 2027.

Plus, Jet2 will launch first ever flights from major UK airport with 29 new ‘sunshine’ routes.

And hear from one man who visits Spain at least 8 times a year – how to avoid the common tourist mistakes that cost you money.

THE countdown to Christmas is well and truly on.

With the holiday fast approaching, the calendar is stacked with fun shows guaranteed to spread festive cheer.

The Sun has handpicked an exciting range of productions across the country that are aimed specially at a younger audience.

And with everything from enchanting puppet shows to cheeky pantos on offer across England‘s major cities, families planning their next trip to the theatre are spoilt for choice.

London

Elf The Musical

Based on the hit holiday film, this musical adaptation brings the tale of main character Buddy – a human raised by elves – to the West End.

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Follow Buddy as he journeys from the North Pole to New York City, and enjoy a soundtrack that has seen it crowned the “ultimate Christmas show”.

Aldwych Theatre: October 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026 (ages 4+)

Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas

CBeebies star Maddie Moate has earned an Olivier Award nomination for Best Family Show with this science-y performance.

Maddie – along with elves Tinker and Goggles – makes a bit of a mess of Santa’s workshop with her fun experiments, so can the audience help her fix it up?

Garrick Theatre: December 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (ages 4+)

The Nutcracker: English National Ballet

It doesn’t get much more Christmassy than getting lost in the world of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

English National Ballet returns with a truly magical production of over 100 dancers that will amaze child audiences and leave them dreaming of tutus and the Land of Sweets.

London Coliseum: December 11, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (ages 5+)

Cinderella (Panto)

Cinderella, the Ugly Sisters and her Fairy Godmother are back on stage for the ultimate seasonal pantomime.

From outlandish costumes to show tunes and plenty of audience participation, get ready for a theatre extravaganza that all the family can enjoy.

Hackney Empire: November 22 – December 31, 2025 (all ages)

The Snowflake

This feel-good show tells the story of a little girl, her Pappie and a snowflake who are all searching for something.

Benji Davies’ picture book is transformed into an imaginative production complete with puppetry that will leave little ones charmed.

Polka Theatre: November 29, 2025 – January 25, 2026 (all ages)

The Snowman

Back for its 28th year, it’s safe to say that this dance-filled spectacle has become a winter favourite.

Hear the orchestra play the famous song Walking in the Air while The Snowman and his friends whisk you off to a dreamy wonderland.

Peacock Theatre: November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (all ages)

Jack and the Beanstalk

Join Jack on his climb up the beanstalk for an evening of slapstick humour and catchy numbers.

Reimagined as a milkman, Jack prepares to confront the giant with a can of squirty cream.

King’s Head Theatre: November 23, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (all ages)

Manchester

The Muppet Christmas Carol In Concert

Watching the Muppet version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a holiday staple for many families.

You can turn the magic up a notch at this concert and film viewing, where a live orchestra accompanies Kermit, Gonzo, Rizzo and Scrooge on the big screen.

The Bridgewater Hall: November 22, 2025

Robin Hood: The Magical Panto Adventure

The Merry Men live up to their name in this action-packed panto starring Jason Manford.

Expect mischief as the timeless story takes on a festive, musical theatre twist.

Opera House Manchester: December 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Rumpelstiltskin

This fairytale is brought to life by an all-local Mancunian cast.

Grumpy Rumpelstiltskin fills the theatre with holiday cheer and all the trimmings of a great pantomime, getting five-star reviews.

Contact Theatre: December 11 – 31, 2025 (all ages)

Birmingham

The Owl Who Came for Christmas

When Rosie the Owl finds herself in a family’s Christmas tree, her new hosts must help her find her way back home.

The audience can get involved in this charming production as performers and puppeteers tell Rosie’s story.

Midlands Arts Centre: December 1 – 28, 2025 (ages 3+)

The Nutcracker: Birmingham Royal Ballet

You don’t need to go to London to see world-class ballerinas, and Birmingham Royal Ballet’s “wow-factor” Christmas production boasts everything from snowfall to swordfights.

Audio described, signed and relaxed performances are available, meaning children with additional needs can also be enchanted in a way that’s comfortable for them.

Birmingham Hippodrome: November 21 – December 13, 2025

No Such Thing As Wolves

Hettie Hedgehog and Sydney Squirrel take centre stage in the latest show by My First Musical – then wolves step on the scene.

Spend an evening howling with laughter while Hettie and Sydney try to make new friends on their wintry adventure.

Birmingham Hippodrome: December 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (ages 3+)

Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas

London’s most iconic detective does some seasonal sleuthing in this comedy whodunnit with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

It’s best for those aged 10 and upwards, but kids as young as five are welcome.

Birmingham Rep: November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026 (ages 10+)

Liverpool

Little Bear with the Christmas Lights

Despite her Christmas prep almost being complete, Little Bear is missing the perfect twinkly lights.

Little ones can accompany her on an interactive, sensory adventure to find the perfect lights – but watch out for snowballs!

Shakespeare North Playhouse: December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas

One brave boy is on a mission to save Christmas from Santa himself, and he’ll be encountering Victorian villains and Medieval monks along the way.

There are only two performances of this show, so secure a ticket while you can.

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall: December 18, 2025 (ages 4+)

Cinderella

If you prefer a play to a panto, this new production brings the spellbinding fairytale to life in a new way.

Adapted with a local twist, Prince Flarf must search the Kingdom of Prescotisia to find the owner of the glass slipper.

Shakespeare North Playhouse: November 21, 2025 – January 10, 2026 (all ages)

Leeds

Stick Man

Stick Man gets into a bit of a pickle when he goes out for a morning jog in the snow.

Freckle Productions’ award-winning show features music, dancing and puppetry by its trio of actors as Stick Man tries to get back to his family tree.

Leeds Playhouse: December 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (ages 3+)

Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto

Celebrated as “the pinnacle of panto”, this festive production sees Aladdin return on his flying carpet.

Plus, all its rock ‘n’ roll numbers are performed live on stage by a cast of multi-talented actor-musicians.

City Varieties Music Hall: November 28, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (ages 4+)

The Elves and the Storyteller

The Storyteller once held so much magic, but now, they seem to have lost their sparkle – can two little elves complete a mission from Father Christmas to help them get it back?

This show has a ‘Pay What You Can’ pricing system, so it can even be enjoyed on a tight budget.

Leeds Central Library: December 6 – 31, 2025 (ages 4+)

Christopher’s Christmas

Written specially for younger kids, this chaotic Christmassy tale is all about Christopher Nibble the guinea pig.

Father Christmas gets lost after his Santa Nav breaks, and it’s all up to Christopher and his family to try and save the holiday.

Carriageworks Theatre: December 14 – 31, 2025 (ages 2+)

Newcastle

The Big Family Christmas Show!

A family comedy show that’s appropriate but funny for all ages is back by popular demand, complete with sketches, songs and stand-up.

There’s only one performance of this “must-do event”, so grab a ticket early to avoid disappointment.

The Stand Comedy Club: December 21, 2025 (ages 5+)

Rockin’ Reindeer

Nestled within Newcastle’s Christmas Village but with sheltered seating, the Rockin’ Reindeer stage is where you’ll find a range of mini shows bringing iconic Christmas characters to life.

Pick between The Grinch, Santa’s Superstars, The Ice Kingdom and Tinsel Tots.

Old Eldon Square: November 15 – December 24, 2025

Where Do All The Kittiwakes Go At Christmas?

Without any fish ‘n’ chips to steal on the winter beaches, a couple seaside birds find somewhere else to go.

This alternative production is performed with a two-person cast and has been created using ideas from local schoolchildren.

Live Theatre: December 9 – 21, 2025 (all ages)

Bristol

A Christmas Carol

Prepare to spend a ghostly evening with Ebenezer Scrooge.

Dickens’ classic tale will take you on a journey from “Bah, humbug!” to yuletide warmth using humour – and just a little bit of haunting.

Redgrave Theatre: November 24 – 29, 2025 (ages 8+)

Rapunzel: A Hairy Tale

Original music, playful plot twists and plenty of hair are at the heart of this mischievous adaptation of the famous Brothers Grimm fairytale.

You can also enjoy BSL interpreted performances as well as captioned shows on selected dates.

Factory Theatre: November 27, 2025 – January 17, 2026 (ages 7+)

Antarctica

In the space of “a magical 50 minutes”, Antarctica transports the audience to the snowy South Pole to join penguins and explorers.

For an extra cosy evening, book a pyjama night performance and watch the story unfold while wearing your comfies and sipping on a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

The Weston Studio: December 5, 2025 – January 10, 2026 (all ages)

All Wrapped Up

Performers of all ages star in this showstopping, foot-tapping treat.

The venue also offers pre-show pizzas, so you can fill your tummy before the belly-aching laughter begins.

Hen & Chicken Studio: December 15 – 17, 2025

The Snowman in Concert: Music, Story & Performance

Spellbinding narrators, aerial performers and a live musicians come together in a theatrical triple-whammy.

Feel the magic of well-known story as this enchanting production melts your heart.

Spiegeltent: December 13, 2025 (all ages)

Walt Disney World super fan Scott Wells shares how to save on your 2026 holiday with these Black Friday deals

2026 is fast approaching which means that holiday planning is underway, and there’s always one place I look forward to returning to every year, Orlando, Florida. You could say I’m somewhat of a theme park fan. I have unashamedly visited Walt Disney World over 12 times in my life, and it doesn’t look like I’m going to slow down, thanks to the Walt Disney World Resort Black Friday deals that are on offer this year.

From hotel stays, dining deals, and ticket passes, you can save over a whopping £500 for you and your families. The magical area of Walt Disney World Florida is made up of six phenomenal theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and two waterparks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Walt Disney World Resort has launched a brilliant offer for selected 2026 holidays where guests who book their hotel and park tickets package by 31st March 2026 on selected travel dates can experience up to 25% discount.

The offer is applicable to selected Disney Resort Hotels and up to 25% discount on Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket that includes the amazing Disney Memory Maker. Plus, if guests book a flight-inclusive package by 26th February 2026, they will save an extra £500.

One of the best parts of this deal, besides the savings, is that it includes Disney Memory Maker. This is a photo package that allows unlimited downloads of all of your professional photos and videos from around the parks, character meets, and attraction pictures. This service usually costs around £160 ($210), so having this included will immediately have you saving even more money.

Another of the biggest offerings is a 20% saving off a range of tickets through Attraction Tickets.

Attraction Tickets is the place not only I, but many theme park fans return to to book their tickets year after year as they have great offers all year round. However, their Black Friday deal is one not to miss out on.

Not only do they do an option of the Walt Disney World 14-day Disney Magic Ticket with Memory Maker, but they also have deals on single-entry, multi-attraction, and combo passes so you can save on whatever your plans for you exciting trip are.

The offer runs from 6th November, to December 1st 2025, with up to 20% off the likes of Universal Orlando and more using the code BLACKFRIDAY.

We all know these types of holidays aren’t always the most affordable, so if you’ve not started planning your holidays for 2026, then now is one of the best times as you can find yourself big savings during the Black Friday period. I’ll see you at Cinderella’s castle.