Hotel

An expert braved a mini tour of the UK’s ‘worst hotel chain’ properties and reportedly found a tissue in a kettle, scum in a pool, a view of an overflowing skip and mismatched, tired furniture were among the delights waiting to greet him

After a hotel chain was named the worst in Britain for the 11th consecutive year, a curious expert decided to investigate to see if things were really that bad at their numerous properties across the country in prime locations.

Britannia Hotels has consistently been awarded the dubious title of worst hotel chain in surveys conducted by consumer magazine Which? Many of its individual properties also have low to average scores on Tripadvisor where visitors have left scathing reviews.

Guest complaints include issues with cleanliness, tired furniture, poor service and barely edible food. It comes after a Brit abroad slams all-inclusive hotel food asking ‘what on earth is this?’

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Travel writer Gavin Haines wanted to see if the reports and findings were accurate and if things were really that bad on site. He stayed at three different hotels belonging to Britannia and it’s safe to say what he experienced certainly backed the research and reviews.

He had contacted Which? editor Rory Boland about the “abysmal” overall customer satisfaction ratings and was advised not to even bother visiting. “With over a decade of dismal reviews, our results suggest that Britannia should be avoided at all costs,” he was told.

Despite this he braved a stay at the Royal Bath in the traditional coastal town of Bournemouth. The grand hotel has a rich history – it was opened in 1838 on Queen Victoria’s Coronation Day and was the first hotel in the town.

It is set in its own landscaped grounds with spectacular views out to sea, which, its dedicated wedding website claims, makes it the perfect spot for your special day.

However Gavin found the venue’s interior special in a very different way. “The mismatched furniture looks like it was sourced in haste from a house clearance shop and makes me feel homesick,” he writes in the Telegraph.

“While the views make me want to call the Samaritans (if we can reasonably describe a rusty air conditioning unit, some broken guttering and fag ends on an enclosed flat roof as views).”

He couldn’t even bring himself to make a brew to improve his experience because the kettle had tissue inside it, “for reasons I’d rather not speculate on”.

One of the Royal Bath’s selling points is its spa with a heated indoor pool, steam room and gym. Unfortunately this also let the side down with a reported “line of scum” clinging to the tiles in the pool.

On Tripadvisor, where the hotel has a 2.6 score out of 5, one recent review backed his slimy discovery. In July this year, one visitor was looking forward to a spa day with high tea that had been booked by a friend but was incredibly “disappointed” by what they encountered.

“The Spa and pool was shabby, dated with missing tiles and broken lockers,” they revealed. “Nobody was at the desk so we had to wait to be allowed in. The crescent shaped pool was full of kids and toddlers, a tiny jacuzzi and sauna which were full and there were not enough loungers to accommodate everyone and hardly creating a peaceful luxurious experience!”

The high tea was more of a low point as well with, “sweaty cheese and curling bread”. When it came to Gavin’s dining experience, he did note that there probably wasn’t anywhere else in the popular town where you could get a three course meal for £15 in such grand surroundings, but you “get what you pay for”.

In his case it was a rock hard bread roll, overcooked and undercooked (quite a feat) carrots in the beef stew and a glow in the dark dessert.

Unfortunately his nights at other properties in the group were on par. The “ironically named” Palace Hotel in Buxton (3 out of 5 on TripAdvisor), like the Royal Bath, is a beautiful old building in a classical style set in five acres of gardens.

Sadly he didn’t get to admire these out of the window of his room that was “so cold I didn’t want to get out of bed”. Instead he was met with the choice view of an overflowing skip and old furniture dumped in a grotty car park.

While other visitors were similarly disappointed with the hotel, with many on Tripadvisor complaining of dirty rooms with poor facilities, there were those who appreciated its faded grandeur: “This hotel has lots of character & charm, yes parts are dated but that adds to its beauty,” shared one.

Another agreed: “For me the grandness of the building and the aspect looking out of the town was wonderful. Room didn’t have a window – as a result I had the best night’s sleep – didn’t know what time it was! I’d visit again – can put up with a bit of outdatedness for the charm and style of the place.”

Meanwhile, Gavin’s not-so-magical mystery tour had more delights in store at the Grand Burstin, Folkestone (2.7 out of 5 on TripAdvisor). The hotel made headlines in 2022 when chunks of its facade blew off, plummeting below onto a coach in the car park. Two people were injured. The year before a family cut short their stay there and likened it to Fawlty Towers – the disastrous hotel in John Cleese’s classic comedy.

So Gavin probably arrived with some understandable fear and trepidation, which would have been entirely justified but here he was treated to rose petals in his room.

However it seemed these weren’t a romantic welcome token from a thoughtful housekeeper and instead, “had presumably featured in a recent low-budget dirty weekend”. The spa facilities here were described as “scuzzy” and evoked “verruca socks”.

With plenty of Tripadvisor reviews of the various properties calling out their tired appearance, there are also those that highlight improvements that have been made, especially at the Royal Bath.

Britannia has invested £1million there recently but it seems, as with a lot of its premises, it’s pot luck what room you are allocated. One horrified guest says they were given a “cheap, nasty and dinky” room without a window in the “stinking” East Wing. While on the flip side, another was reportedly allocated a “spacious” room with a sea view, despite not paying extra for it.

It’s a similar pattern at the Burstin. While the reviewer wasn’t at all impressed with his room, others had a very different experience. One returning guest was perfectly happy with their allocation in August this year. They wrote on Tripadvisor: “Another superb stay here. But this time an even better room with an even better perfect sea view. Room was lovely clean and comfortable Well done Grand Burstin.”

Another who was wary of what to expect after reading poor reviews shared: “I was pleasantly surprised by the hotel. Its not the Ritz or something flash and modern, it is what you pay for – a budget hotel.”

The Mirror has contacted Britannia Hotels for comment.

A GUNMAN killed his former wife’s new partner and her mum outside a hotel before turning the gun on himself in a horrifying shooting.

The shooter also left his ex-wife seriously injured in the terrifying attack in Naples, Italy.

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Two victims were found on the road outside a hotel, while the third victim died from their injuries in hospital.

The 69-year-old gunman reportedly shot and killed his ex-wife’s partner, 48, and her 63-year-old mum, who was a Ukrainian national.

He then reportedly chased and shot his ex-wife, 42, who was also of Ukrainian origin.

She is currently at the Rizzolo hospital in Lacco Ameno.

The attacker was also rushed to hospital after he turned the gun on himself, and died later.

The shocking attack took place on Saturday at around 6:30pm on the island of Ischia in the Cuotto area in Forio.

Local cops said the area is still cordoned off while they continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack.

State police and volunteers are helping with the investigation.

The shocking attack comes after a shooting left a mobster’s niece dead in a nightclub as part of a suspected mafia war last year.

Antonia Lopez, 19, was reportedly killed as scores were being settled between gangs involved in drug trafficking and extortion.

The young woman was gunned down at Bahia nightclub in Puglia, Italy, as Michele Lavopa, 21, allegedly sought to kill a different man – Eugenio Palermiti, 21.

Lavopa handed himself into police after his mother convinced him to and confessed, La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno reported.

He has now been charged with voluntary homicide, quadruple attempted homicide, and possession and carrying of a firearm.

The three involved were all scions of different criminal gangs, with Lopez pals with target Palermiti.

And in 2021, two young brothers were killed by a crazed shooter, with the boys holding their father’s hand as they died.

David and Daniel Fusinato, aged five and 10, were shot while playing in the street in the Italian town Ardea, near Rome.

Their grandmother, Sonia di Gennaro, said the boys’ dad – Domenico – was with them until the very end.

She told Italian newspaper La Stampa: “They died holding their father’s hand.

“The ambulance arrived too late, it took half an hour.”

A top five-star London hotel has been named the third best place to stay in the world – and it’s had guests such as the royal family and A-list celebrities come to stay

London is full of allure and charm so it’s no wonder one of the oldest and grandest hotels is a go-to favourite fit for royals and celebrities.

Claridge’s hotel in Mayfair still ranks as one of the world’s top places to stay – and named as one of the 50 greatest luxury hotels on Earth by luxury lifestyle guide Robb Report.

It’s the only UK hotel to make the cut, and came in impressively at third place, just behind Florence’s Collegio alla Querce in second, and Rosewood Amsterdam in first place. The historic five-star hotel was opened in 1821, and has been home to many iconic names including Queen Victoria and Kate Moss.

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The hotel has 269 rooms, all fit for royalty, as well as a subterranean spa, a fancy gym and two very prestigious restaurants, making it a seriously luxurious place to lay your head.

Robb Report said: “This grande dame of the London hotel scene is a beloved, determinedly British institution that’s been part of English life for decades, yet it retains a youthful vigor.”

Claridge’s has one of the most expensive suites to book in London called the Royal Suite. A one-night stay in the regal room will set you back a staggering £21,600, but it’s your chance to live like royalty for the day. The Royal Suite does luxury in an old-school way, decked out with regal and historical motifs throughout.

From design elements reflecting the coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth II, to an original Gilbert and Sullivan grand piano in the lounge, and hand-painted national flowers by the artisans of de Gournay lining the dining room.

There is also a round-the-clock butler for all your needs during your stay. For a regular balcony room, prices start from around £1,269 per night, and while it’s pricey, guests have rated it an impressive 9.6 star rating.

One visitor said: “This was our first time at Claridges. Everything was top notch, our room 521 was stunning, a massive room with a really good size balcony. It’s not cheap, but, treat yourselves. Life’s short. We have already started saving again for another visit.”

A second commented: “The best place on earth. Luxurious, yet warm and welcoming. Staff and service like no other! 2nd to none!!”

And a third said: “We had a wonderful 2-night stay. The hotel was superb and the staff were impeccable. The experience we had in the hotel restaurants and bars was amazing.”

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The hotel can be easily accessed by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen

Ever fancied a quick nap in one of IKEA’s cosy display bedrooms? Turns out, you can do just that. Travel influencer Chelsea Dickenson, known online as the ‘Holiday Expert’, recently visited the furniture store’s world-first hotel and shared her verdict on its facilities.

Aptly named IKEA Hotell, this accommodation is situated in Älmhult, Sweden, but can be accessed easily by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen. It boasts a lounge area, cinema, restaurant and even a museum, which hotel guests can enter for free.

“I went to the world’s only IKEA HOTEL with @thismorning,” Chelsea wrote on Instagram. “…What’s even better is that you can catch a direct 1 hour 45 min train from Copenhagen Airport for just £22.

“Plus, you could stay the night and then catch a direct train to Stockholm in three hours and make it into an epic Scandi train trip!” In general, Chelsea said that staying in a cabin costs £45 per night, while double rooms cost £100 and family spaces are priced at £125.

Various perks come with a stay at the hotel, too, including free laundry facilities, a gym, and a kids’ play area. Breakfast is also included in the price.

However, one aspect in particular blew Chelsea away. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this was the food, with meatballs and even a ‘luxury hotdog range’ available at different spots around the premises.

Chelsea continued: “Meatballs available at the hotel and the museum restaurant – but expect fancier fair at their ‘Grillen’ restaurant, though they have a luxury hotdog range!!”

She later added: “Honestly, I know I was there for work but I BLOODY LOVED IT and thought it was great value for what you got! Plus, I was blown away by the food at Grillen. It was really, really good and not as ££ as I thought it would be for Sweden!”

Chelsea’s review was quickly showered with intrigued comments from viewers. Some even confirmed personally that the IKEA hotel exceeded their expectations, describing it as far nicer than they had imagined.

One person wrote: “We have just returned from a Scandinavian holiday and we stayed here. We made a detour especially. It was so much better than we thought it would be.” Meanwhile, another person said: “I had a reservation there for autumn 2020 (so that never happened!) and it’s still on my bucket list.”

Someone else added: “This sounds like such an incredible adventure!” For those interested in learning more about Chelsea’s stay at the IKEA hotel, you can watch her full review on ITVX here.

Additional information is available at the IKEA Hotell website here.

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People have been left in stitches of laughter after hearing about a woman’s story while holidaying in Ibiza – she thought she had hit the jackpot and met Wayne Lineker but the truth left her red-faced

A young woman on a girls’ holiday with her mate was absolutely buzzing after she believed she’d encountered her “hero”, Wayne Lineker. Gary Lineker ‘s brother can frequently be found chatting to punters at his cherished party destination, Ocean Beach in Ibiza – with countless visitors clamouring for snaps with his during their visit.

The Spanish beach club has enjoyed tremendous success since launching 13 years ago, and remains essential for Brits visiting the party isle. Celebrities including Ed Sheeran, Jason Derulo, Jack Grealish and Conor McGregor have been photographed at the San Antonio venue. One woman was thrilled after meeting who she believed was Wayne Lineker, who has remained single for seven years.

She became even more excited when he reportedly offered to buy her a drink. The party-goer was holidaying with a friend she’s called Faye, and the duo were staying at Ibiza Rocks. One day while at the poolside party hotel, the two women were approached by some “absolute sorts” they nicknamed “Ibiza Final Bosses”. The blokes invited them to Ocean Beach for the day, which they accepted.

She and her mate headed to the beach club with the group and claims she was “having the time of her life” with them, until something caught her attention. She revealed in a frank TikTok video : “Out the corner of my eye I could see Wayne Lineker. I know exactly who Wayne Lineker is, I know he is into brunettes.”

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She continued: “My mate Faye doesn’t know who he is. He approaches and asks ‘do you want a drink’. I respond ‘I’ve got my own drinks but sure I’d love you to get me a drink’. So we end up spending time with Wayne Lineker and his companion, let’s call him Barry for the story.”

Lacy explained she and her friend departed from the initial group they’d joined at the beach club, hoping to spend their day with ‘Wayne’ and his mate. She observed they were having “a great time”.

The pair were invited to an afterparty at the location where the two men were staying. Lacy revealed: “I’m like absolutely, I’m thinking there’s going to a party, this is going to be lit, me and Wayne are going to be a thing, I’m literally going to come back to Torquay engaged. I manifested the whole thing.”

However, she began feeling doubtful when they climbed into a vehicle to reach the party. “I thought we were going to get into a Range Rover, it wasn’t quite that,” she revealed.

Lacy explained she hadn’t realised how intoxicated they were until that point. She described how they exited the car and entered a hotel, despite anticipating a large villa gathering.

“It is a disappointment to say the least,” she remarked.

Please note the follow video contains strong language.

She continued: “So we’re all sat in this twin room with Wayne, Barry, my mate Faye and me. They’re like ‘do you want a drink’, I’m like ‘yeah sure’. Anyway we do the whole formal thing of asking each other’s names.”

Lacy revealed she jokingly asked ‘Wayne’ what his name was, completely convinced it was him, and was stunned when he replied saying ‘Tim’.

She explained: “I said you’re so funny. He goes, ‘what do you mean’. I go ‘you’re name’s not Tim’, he goes ‘yeah my name’s Tim’. So it’s at that moment I realise what I’ve done. This ain’t Wayne Lineker.”

She continued: “I realised I have royally f***ed up. I have brought us to the back end of Ibiza where I have never even visited with this guy Tim – and now come to think of it, he doesn’t even look anything like Wayne Lineker. I am that lit, I’m stuck in this crazy hotel room with my mate.”

She feigned illness so she and her pal could make their getaway.

But matters got worse when they couldn’t find a taxi for more than an hour.

Lacy continued: “I am stuck in a hotel room with f***ing Barry, Wayne, Faye, and me drinking the worst f***ing prosecco while all the Ibiza final bosses are at a party.”

Wayne Lineker, who also runs Linekers bars and Bam-Bu-Ku, spotted the post and replied in the comments.

Wayne quipped: “Who’s Barry? Must be Dean Gaffney.”

Lacy fired back: “No way has Wayne entered the chat. Deffo not as hot as Dean Gaffney, more like Barry from Eastenders. Don’t worry Wayne I would recognise you in a crowded room any day of the week…it was an off brand night.”

The video was a hit with viewers, with one quipping: “What in the Jet 2 Holidays is going on here.”

Another chimed in with: “Wayne Lineker from Temu,”. A third couldn’t contain their laughter, commenting: “I am crying,” while another person penned: “I have never laughed so much at 7am on a Sunday morning.”

Another fan added: “Haha brilliant. Knew that was coming. Sounds like something I’d do. At least you have a great story to tell.”

One viewer shared a personal anecdote, stating: “Wayne Lineker tried chatting me up in his bar in Tenerife 35 years ago! He’s spent his life trying to pull women. I think you can do better.”

A British grandad has died after falling ill from eating ‘half cooked’ chicken at a luxury hotel in Fuerteventura. His wife is urging others to be aware of the signs as she shares her heartbreak

A British dad suffered two major symptoms before he died from eating “half cooked” chicken at a luxury hotel resort, an inquest has heard.

Leslie Green, 70, passed away after contracting salmonella during his holiday at the Occidental Jandia Playa resort in Fuerteventura. The grandfather-of-one was celebrating his milestone birthday with his family when he fell ill during the second week of the £2,300 stay.

He was admitted to a Spanish hospital where he developed complications, including kidney failure and sepsis. Leslie, of Little Lever, Bolton, Greater Manchester, sadly died in hospital around four weeks later from multi-organ failure.

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An inquest has now determined that the man passed away from food poisoning he contracted as a result of eating partially cooked chicken on holiday. Leslie, a retired newspaper delivery driver for the Manchester Evening News, fell ill on October 9 last year with symptoms including diarrhoea, which led to dehydration.

Julie, Leslie’s wife of 38 years, said the couple had concerns a carbonara sauce they ate one day was lukewarm while she found her chicken undercooked during another meal. She also claimed she didn’t see any staff washing their hands and newly cooked food would be mixed with food that had been stood.

She was also left seriously ill after she too got salmonella on the day of her 60th birthday and spent a week in hospital. Julie said she and Leslie had only eaten from the buffet in the hotel during their holiday. The hearing at Rochdale Coroner’s Court concluded Leslie died of multi-organ failure as a result of sepsis, caused by salmonella.

After the hearing, Julie said: “It’s almost impossible to find the words to describe the last few months and trying to come to terms with Leslie’s death.

“Leslie was such a loving and caring husband and dad. He was my best friend and life without him will never be the same. I still struggle to comprehend how we went on holiday, but Leslie didn’t come home. Leslie was the head of our family and someone everyone looked to for help and guidance.”

“There’s now a gaping hole in our family that can never be filled. I’d do anything not to be in this position and for Leslie to be in our lives, but I know that’s not possible.

“Listening to the evidence has been difficult but it was something I was determined to do to honour Leslie’s memory. I just hope that by speaking out I can prevent anyone else suffering like Leslie did. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”

Leslie, who had turned 70 in July 2024 and was placed in an induced coma after falling ill, died hours after his life-support machine was switched off on November 4. His body was repatriated a week later. The Occidental Jandia Playa was approached for comment.

Salmonellosis develops after ingesting salmonella bacteria, and symptoms usually take between 12 and 72 hours to develop.

Seven main signs of food poisoning:

• Diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting
• Fever
• High temperature
• Aches and pains
• Generally feeling unwell

Natali Khomenko has opened up about the unsettling experience in her Tokyo hotel room, and has said she has been left struggling with anxiety and PTSD in the wake of her ordeal

A woman has recalled a terrifying encounter she had with an unknown man she found hiding under her bed in a hotel.

Natali Khomenko, who lives in Thailand, decided to embark on a solo trip to Japan in March. Having arrived in the country, she checked in to her accommodation and was given a key card that would give her access the room.

Everything appeared fine so she set off the following day for some sightseeing, but she was in for a distressing ordeal upon her return. It comes after a warning has been issued to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

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In a clip shared on her Instagram account, Natali explained: “I booked my solo trip to Japan because I thought Japan was a very safe country. I stayed in a very well-known chain hotel in Japan,” she said, adding that she stayed in the room for a day and everything seemed normal.

However, the next day when she returned to her room after a day of soaking up culture, she was shocked by what she found. “I unlocked my room, took off my clothes and laid down on the bed. That’s when I encountered a weird smell,” she said, adding that at first she thought it was coming from her hair or the bedsheets.

She even joked to herself about it ‘smelling like a dead body’ under her bed, but when she looked under it, she was horrified to see a pair of eyes staring at her.

“I saw an Asian man under my bed. I started to jump and scream and then the man climbed out from under my bed and stared at me for three seconds. Those seconds felt like my life was over,” she revealed.

Speaking to The Guardian , Natali further described the man as “east Asian, between 20 and 30, slightly overweight, a bowl haircut and black clothes.”

“I began to hyperventilate and froze on the spot, unsure whether he was about to jump on me, choke me or even try to kill me,” she said.

After the shocking incident, Natali said she immediately called the hotel administration and the police, and they found a power bank and USB cable under her bed.

She said she kept asking the hotel how the situation had happened, but they didn’t have any answers for her. “Even more, they suggested upfront that police won’t find the intruder because they had no cameras,” she continued.

She immediately changed hotels and demanded a full refund the following day. But she claims the hotel didn’t contact her back. She then reached out to holiday operator who she had booked the hotel through, and they offered her $178 (£133) in coupons – despite the fact she had paid $600 (£450) for three nights.

Having contacted the hotel once more, Natali was finally given a refund. But the emotional toll has been far greater. The woman has been struggling with anxiety and PTSD since returning home.

“Sadly, I’ve also had men write to me, claiming it’s my fault or that I just want to denigrate Japan. But all I want is justice, and to raise awareness so this doesn’t happen to anyone else. Women already have to worry about their safety too much, and this is another example of things not being taken as seriously as they should,” Natali said.

For years Alex Polizzi has been helping to turn around the fortunes of struggling hotels, but she has recently revealed how there is one place that she will never return to

The Hotel Inspector star Alex Polizzi has revealed she will never return to Hong Kong after finding the city “overcrowded, dirty and polluted”.

Since 2008, Alex has appeared on the Channel 5 show where she tried to revive the fortunes of some of Britain’s ailing hotels to prevent them from closing down.

During an interview with the Times she revealed that one negative experience during a trip abroad means she will never return to the destination.

Recalling her trip to Asia in the 1990s, she said: “One place I’d never go back to is Hong Kong, where I trained at the Mandarin Oriental for three years in my twenties. I found the region overcrowded, dirty and polluted.”

Despite her damning take, Alex conceded that the destination would have been better suited to the more wealthy, adding: “It’s a fun place to visit if you’re really rich, but not if you’re not.”

With a population of 7.5 million fitting into just 430 square miles, Hong Kong is the fourth most densely populated region in the world, trailing just Macau, Monaco and Singapore.

After originally starting a wholesale bakery business with her then boyfriend in the late 90s, she made the decision to pursue a career in hotel management.

Starting out at her mother Olga Polizzi’s Hotel Endsleigh in Milton Abbot, Devon, it was in 2021 that the mother and daughter would join forces and open The Star in Alfriston, in East Sussex.

However, Alex is possibly best-known for her broadcasting career and more specifically hosting The Hotel Inspector on Channel 5, taking over from Ruth Watson in 2008.

With her stock continuing to rise during her time on the show, she has also been seen on various other shows including BBC’s Alex Polizzi: The Fixer, Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial as well as Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy and Alex Polizzi: My Hotel Nightmare on Channel 5.

Alex is also the niece of Sir Rocco Forte, one of, if not the most notorious name in the industry.

Starting his hotel empire with his sister Olga Polizzi, in 1996, Sir Rocco owns and operates an impressive 14 luxury hotels across Europe. The company currently has two locations in the UK, Brown’s Hotel, London and The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh.

The Hotel Inspector is set to return to our screens tomorrow evening (Thursday, August 7) at 8pm on Channel 5.

L.A.’s plan to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games was already facing a thorny set of challenges, including the scramble to secure lucrative sponsorships and the search for buses to shuttle athletes and spectators across the region.

Now, organizers could soon be faced with yet another threat: a proposed ballot measure that, according to city officials, could force at least five Olympic venues to go before voters for approval.

Unite Here Local 11, which represents hotel and restaurant workers, filed paperwork in June for a ballot measure requiring L.A. voters to sign off on the development or expansion of major “event centers” such as sports arenas, concert halls, hotels and convention facilities. The measure takes aim not just at permanent projects but also temporary structures, including those that add more than 50,000 square feet of space or 1,000 seats.

Former City Councilmember Paul Krekorian, who heads Mayor Karen Bass’ Office of Special Events, identified five Olympic venues that could be subjected to a citywide election, including the Los Angeles Convention Center, the John C. Argue Swim Stadium in Exposition Park and the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area in the San Fernando Valley, which is set to host skateboarding, 3-on-3 basketball and other competitions.

“The proposed measure would make vital projects essential for our city and these Games potentially impossible to complete,” Krekorian said in a statement to The Times. “It would also require costly special elections before even relatively small projects could begin.”

A representative for LA28, the nonprofit organizing the Games, declined to confirm whether any Olympic venues would be affected by the proposal, saying only that it is monitoring the situation.

Unite Here has billed the proposal as one of its responses to a business group that is seeking to overturn the so-called Olympic Wage passed by the City Council in May, which hikes the minimum wage for hotel and airport workers to $30 per hour in 2028.

The union has not begun gathering signatures for the proposal, which is under review by the City Clerk’s office. If it qualifies, it likely wouldn’t appear on a ballot until June 2026. Nevertheless, it has already raised alarms at City Hall, where some elected officials have portrayed it as irresponsible.

Councilmember Traci Park, who represents coastal neighborhoods, said she fears the measure will force a citywide vote on an Olympic venue planned at Venice Beach, which is set to host road cycling, the marathon and the triathlon. She said it would also be more difficult for the city to attract new hotels and possibly expand its Convention Center.

“This is an absolute assault on our local economy. It’s spiteful and politically motivated,” she said.

Park, who voted against the $30 tourism minimum wage, has been at odds with Unite Here for more than a year. Councilmember Tim McOsker, whose 2022 election was backed by Unite Here and who supported the minimum wage hike, also voiced concerns, calling the proposed ballot measure “an attack on workers.”

McOsker, whose district includes the Port of Los Angeles, said he believes the proposal would force a vote on a plan to create a temporary viewing area for Olympic sailing at Berth 46 in San Pedro. He also fears it would trigger a citywide election for a 6,200-seat amphitheater planned in San Pedro’s West Harbor, a project that is not connected to the Games.

“This is bad for people who build things, bad for people who operate things, bad for people who work in buildings like these,” he said. “[The proposal] harms real people and it harms the economy.”

Ada Briceño, co-president of Unite Here Local 11 and also a candidate for state Assembly, declined to answer questions about the criticism of the proposal. Two other Unite Here representatives did not respond to The Times’ inquiries.

The union’s proposal, titled “Ordinance to Require Voter Approval of Major Development Projects,” argues that sports arenas and other major event venues “do not always justify their cost.”

Unite Here spokesperson Maria Hernandez told The Times earlier this year that the proposal would apply to Olympic venues that reach a certain size, but declined to give specifics. She said it was not clear whether the ballot proposal would impede efforts to expand the Convention Center, saying in an email that “it depends on the timing.”

The ballot proposal would not apply to athletic venues planned by LA28 in other nearby cities, such as Long Beach, Carson, Inglewood, Anaheim and El Monte. As a result, L.A. could face the potentially humiliating prospect of hosting a Games where only a handful of venues are within city limits.

“If it makes it on the ballot, there are projects and events that will be moved out of the city of Los Angeles rather than trying to win at the ballot box,” said Stuart Waldman, president of the Valley Industry and Commerce Assn., a business group.

The city’s future economic health could depend on the success or failure of LA28. Under its host agreement, the city would be on the hook for the first $270 million in losses if the Olympics end up in the red.

Critics have also voiced concern that the quadrennial athletic event could displace low-income tenants, particularly those who live near Olympic venues.

Voters should have been given the opportunity to decide whether L.A. should host the Olympics from the very beginning, said Eric Sheehan, spokesperson for NOlympics, which opposes the 2028 Games. Nevertheless, Sheehan voiced little enthusiasm for the union proposal, saying it doesn’t go far enough.

“What would be stronger would be the chance for Angelenos to vote on whether or not we want the Olympics at all,” he said.

The proposed ballot measure from Unite Here states that hotels can have harmful effects on a city, impeding the construction of new housing and creating a burden on social services. It goes on to offer similar warnings about large-scale development projects, saying they “often involve significant expenditures of taxpayer money” — an argument disputed by some city officials.

Those projects “may take the place of other projects that otherwise could have more directly benefited city residents,” the measure states.

Times staff writer Thuc Nhi Nguyen contributed to this report.

WHEN Michelle Dell booked a summer holiday to Gran Canaria, she expected two weeks of fun in the sun.

But just days after arriving, the Sheffield mum fell gravely ill – and before long, she knew she was dying.

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The terrifying ordeal left an even deeper scar on her daughter Lizzie, then 11, who developed a devastating phobia that ruled her life for the next 12 years.

Michelle tells The Sun: “I feel lucky every day of my life to still be here but, also, I have felt terrible guilt for what happened to Lizzie – wondering if we could have done anything differently.

“It took me four years to recover and I now have lots of long-term health problems.

“None of that matters though, because I’m still here.” 

The family’s nightmare began in the summer of 2012 after jetting to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands with friends.

The group upgraded to a new four-star hotel in the popular seaside resort Playa del Ingles after two nights, because the first one they had booked was disappointing. 

Michelle, along with husband Wayne, 52, and daughters Lizzie and Rosie, then 10, were in an apartment, with six other pals on the trip located next door.

On the third night of the holiday, the group went for a buffet dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. 

Michelle says: “As all-inclusives go, this one felt good quality and the choice of food was good.

“I’m a bit of a clean freak and it seemed very clean.

“I and five others in the group went for the Spanish omelette, which tasted perfectly good.” 

The group headed out for a few rosés, gin and tonics and Spanish lagers at a nearby bar.

But the next day, things took a dramatic turn.

Michelle says: “In the morning, I went onto my balcony and our friends next door said one of the group had been up all night sick with a bug.

“We had a bit of a giggle and made light of it because we thought it was very minor but as I was talking, I thought, ‘Oh goodness, I need the toilet.’”

Michelle suffered sudden diarrhoea, but assumed it was a minor travel bug.

Within hours, four others were sick. Michelle was getting worse with every passing minute.

It was like the worst horror film I’d ever seen. There was blood all over the floor, sick everywhere and she was screaming in agony

LizzieDaughter

She says: “I was doubled over in agony. I’m not really one to make a fuss but it was absolutely the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life.

“It was as though somebody’s hands were inside my tummy twisting it and the pain wouldn’t stop.”

The hotel doctor was called and tried multiple times to put a cannula in her arm to get fluids in, but Michelle was too poorly and couldn’t be rehydrated. 

Michelle says: “By this time I felt like I’d been drugged and was drifting in and out of consciousness.”

Wayne and Michelle had tried to shield the girls from the events unfolding by asking them to stay in their beds – which were separated from their bed by a small partition wall.

But for Lizzie, hearing her mum’s screams was distressing.

Lizzie says: “When I did see her it was like the worst horror film I’d ever seen. 

“There was blood all over the floor from the cannula being taken in and out. 

“There was sick everywhere because mum was vomiting so much. She was screaming in agony.”

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Taken to a local hospital in Maspalomas, she was given fluids and sent back to the hotel hours later – still with no diagnosis.

The next day, on day five of the holiday, she collapsed again and was rushed to a larger hospital.

Doctors soon discovered she had contracted an extreme case of salmonella – a bacterial infection linked to food poisoning.

Michelle says: “My body was swollen and huge with the fluids. My eyelids couldn’t even open properly.

“I remember phoning my mum in England from my bed and saying, ‘I think I’m going to die.’

“There was something telling my brain: ‘It doesn’t matter what you do now, your body’s taken over.’ I thought my internal organs were shutting down.”

As the rest of the group began to recover, Wayne stayed with the kids, trying to keep things as normal as possible. 

In despair, Michelle called him.

She says: “I told him, ‘You need to come back to the hospital because something’s happening. I’m falling really ill again’.

“He was having pizza with the girls, but I insisted, ‘You need to come now. This is really serious’.

“The staff kept saying, ‘You are fine’. I’m not a melodramatic person but when he came in, I sobbed.

“I told him, ‘I am not fine. I’m going to die. You need to tell them to get me a doctor now to do more tests. Please make them understand I’m just not a hysterical woman. I am ill’.”

The worrying rise in salmonella cases

By Isabel Shaw, Health Reporter

SALMONELLA cases are at a record high in Britain – and there are some key signs you can look out for.

In the most recent outbreak, over 100 people were sickened and 14 rushed to hospital after eating tomatoes.

Health officials urged Brits to be on high alert for the symptoms of salmonella infection, which can last anywhere from four to seven days.

Cases hit a record decade high in 2024, soaring by almost a fifth in a single year to over 10,000 cases, UKHSA data shows.

Separate statistics reveal cases in the first quarter of 2025 were even higher than 2024, with some 1,588 cases logged between January and March 2025, up on the 1,541 reported over the same period in 2024.

By comparison, there were 1,328 reports between January and March 2023.  

Children under 10 were particularly affected, accounting for 21.5 per cent of cases. 

Salmonella, which lives in the guts of animals and humans and spreads through contaminated poo, can cause a sudden bout of fever, vomiting, explosive diarrhoea, stomach pains and headaches, often striking within hours of eating tainted food.

The bacteria, which often taints food if grown in dirty water or handled with grubby hands, attacks the gut lining, damaging cells and stopping the body from soaking up water.

This is what leads to the painful cramps and non-stop diarrhoea as the body flushes out the water it couldn’t absorb.

Most people recover without treatment, but in rare cases it can turn deadly.

Around one in 50 sufferers go on to develop a serious blood infection, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk of complications.

Thankfully, deaths remain rare in the UK, with fatal cases making up just 0.2 per cent of reports.

Wayne fought Michelle’s corner and doctors agreed to retest her.

They found she had sepsis, a deadly immune reaction to an infection that needs to be treated rapidly.

One of the key symptoms of sepsis is someone saying they feel like they are dying, according to the UK Sepsis Trust, as well as a high temperature, chills, a rapid heart rate, a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed and breathlessness.

The body overreacts to the infection and starts attacking itself, damaging its own tissues and organs.

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Michelle began to stabilise after her treatment was changed, with a new antibiotic.

Later, doctors told her they believed it was the hotel’s Spanish omelette that caused her illness, due to the timings of events.

Friends also told Michelle that other guests, like the five in her party, had eaten the omelettes and got sick too.

Michelle’s daughters flew home with the rest of the group after the fortnight holiday ended and went to stay with their grandparents, while Wayne stayed at Michelle’s bedside.

She gradually started to feel better, and flew home a week later, but has been left with after-effects, as 40 per cent of survivors are.

She lives with chronic fatigue (also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, or ME), non-epileptic seizures, chronic migraines and functional neurological disorder  – a problem with how the brain receives and sends information to the rest of the body.

‘I’d give myself black eyes’

It wasn’t just her life that was changed though. Daughter Lizzie, who was traumatised by her mum’s brush with death, was also deeply affected. 

Lizzie says: “I’d seen my mum so ill in the hotel, and then we’d seen her in hospital looking grey and almost dead.

“The second I got home, the first thing that I got in my head was, ‘OK, so I’m not going to eat.’ In my head, it was a case of, ‘If you eat, you could die’.”

From a healthy 11-year-old, Lizzie grew anxious and gaunt, surviving only on bread sticks, cereal and packaged snacks.

In 2017, five years after the holiday, 16-year-old Lizzie suffered a full-blown panic attack on a train after seeing someone being sick.

She says: “I’d never had one properly like that so when I got home I Googled my symptoms and that’s the first time I read about emetophobia – a fear of vomiting. That was me.”

It spiralled into constant anxiety and self-harm, as Lizzie tried to focus on anything but the fear.

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“There were days when I had seven or eight panic attacks and wherever I was – on a plane or on a train – I’d start screaming,” she says.

“Looking back, the panic attacks were just this need to create another feeling other than sickness, so I’d create pain. 

“I’d even give myself black eyes from hitting myself.”

Though talented Lizzie had won a place at drama school in Manchester, she lived alone and didn’t socialise.

She says: “I didn’t do anything for 12 years. I went to drama school in Manchester but lived on my own because I didn’t want to be around others. 

“I didn’t go to parties. I didn’t drink.”

In 2023, Lizzie took a dream job as a Christmas elf in Lapland – but was sent home months later after her weight plummeted from nine stone to just five stone two pounds.

I cherish every day. I’ve gone from seeing my daughter’s life slipping away to seeing her embracing it

Michelle DellMum

She says: “Being abroad, I was just unable to eat anything cooked by others, so I’d be eating breakfast bars from the local shop and not a lot else.

“It got even worse when my flatmate out there got sick.

“I didn’t tell anyone about my worries with food but I was sent home from the job. 

“Not long after that I lost my acting agent because I just wasn’t well enough to get parts.

“It’s really sad because I wanted to live, but I’d completely lost all joy in life. 

“I was sick of looking at myself in the mirror covered in bruises.”

Michelle, who works as a college lecturer with inclusion students, was desperate to help her daughter. 

They saw private and NHS specialists, as well as multiple therapists. 

What is emetophobia and how can you overcome it?

By Nik and Eva Speakman

Emetophobia is an intense fear of vomiting. It is a debilitating and often misunderstood phobia. 

It can manifest in a range of obsessive-compulsive behaviours, such as excessive sanitisation, extreme food restrictions, eating disorders, health anxiety, and avoidance of travel, medical environments, and even children. 

Social withdrawal is common, with many sufferers limiting contact with others for fear of illness, vomit and vomit-causing bugs. 

While it is especially prevalent among women, emetophobia remains under-recognised within the medical community, despite being the most common phobia seen in our clinic. 

It’s estimated that up to 5.5million people in the UK may be affected, yet provision of effective treatment is still limited.

Emetophobia is not innate. It typically stems from a distressing childhood experience, such as a traumatic incident at school or mirroring an anxious parent’s behaviour. 

The key to recovery lies in positively reframing these formative experiences with an experienced therapist.

Using a simple self-help exercise can really help. Create two columns – Fears vs Facts – to challenge distorted beliefs with logic and evidence.

She says: “We were in despair because my husband and I felt like we had exhausted every option. 

“Then I saw there was an emetophobia class with The Speakmans in February 2025 in Manchester and I just booked it instantly.

“I held out no hope but I was just happy Lizzie was willing to go.”

Life change experts Nik and Eva Speakman are known for helping thousands overcome phobias. 

Lizzie says: “I went into their workshop and by the time I left they’d literally changed my life.

“I shared my story, very nervously on stage. They completely changed the way I had thought about things.

“They told me: ‘Being sick didn’t nearly kill your mum, it was the egg. Being sick had actually helped save her.’ 

“Twenty-five minutes into speaking to them, I felt completely different.

“Two weeks later, I couldn’t believe it. I got norovirus.

“I’d spent 12 years trying to avoid being sick and now I had it, full on.

“But I was absolutely fine. I was sick all night, non-stop, no issue, no panic attacks.”

Today, Lizzie is thriving – eating normally, running a performing arts school and planning a holiday to Greece.

She says: “I still have some of the thoughts but they don’t stop me from eating three meals a day, piling the food on. I just don’t worry about being sick anymore.

“I used to think I wouldn’t be here for much longer.  Now, it’s like I am living properly because I haven’t for so long’.”

Michelle remains full of gratitude having nearly lost her life and watching her daughter turn her life around.

“I cherish every day,” she says. “I’ve gone from seeing my daughter’s life slipping away to seeing her embracing it. I will forever be grateful to The Speakmans.”

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For more real-life examples, practical tips, and expert support, tune in to The Speakmans’ Hope Clinic podcast, where emetophobia – and other common issues – are treated live.

To learn more about The Speakmans’ Emetophobia Masterclasses, email: [email protected].

There’s a sinister feature that some holidaymakers have claimed they have found in their hotel rooms – and an expert has shared some vital ways to check for yourself

British holidaymakers staying in hotels have been advised to check the mirrors for one ominous reason.

Many travellers prioritise a brief search of the hotel room when checking into their pad to ensure there are no unusual-looking stains or unexpected items lurking. But the hotel mirror is one part of the room we should all be adding to our list, and it’s not for the reason you might think.

Over on social media, many holidaymakers have recounted tales of discovering two-way mirrors in their hotel, B&B, or holiday rental. For those unfortunate travellers, their holiday, which was meant to be a relaxing breakaway, turned into a holiday from hell.

In a bid to avoid the discomfort of knowing your privacy has been ripped away, John Cutts, founder of MeandMyGlass.co.uk and a mirror expert, has offered advice on how to determine if your hotel mirror is two-way.

He shared: “The thought of someone using a mirror to spy on guests is disturbing, to say the least. The good news is there are multiple ways you can check for a two-way mirror when staying in a hotel, motel or B&B.”

John divulged his top five tips for determining whether a mirror is functioning both ways, reports the Express. Here’s everything you need to know.

Fingernail test

Try placing your fingernail onto the mirror, if there’s no gap between your finger and its reflection, it could suggest a two-way mirror. With a standard mirror, there will be a gap between your fingernail and its reflection.

Tap test

Sound can be a significant clue in determining if a mirror is two-way. Tap the glass around all four corners and in the middle. If it emits a hollow sound, there’s a high chance there’s something on the other side.

Use phone torch

Stand facing the mirror and shine a torch on the glass to see if the light reflects back at you. If it doesn’t bounce back, then the light will shine through on a two-way mirror, revealing what’s behind the glass.

Examine installation

If the mirror is hanging, it’s unlikely to be a two-way mirror. Two-way mirrors tend to be integrated into the wall rather than simply hanging on it.

Inspect reflection closely

Press your face against the mirror with your hands beside your head, blocking out any light. If the mirror is two-way, you might be able to see straight through.

Fifteen people have been arrested after protests across England outside hotels used to house asylum seekers.

Anti-migrant groups and counter demonstrators clashed in London and Newcastle, and before a march in Manchester city centre.

Nine people were arrested in the capital, seven for breaching Public Order Act conditions, the Metropolitan Police said.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper says she wants to “restore order and control” to the asylum system by fast-tracking the appeals process.

She told the paper changes to the way appeals on asylum are handled will take place in the autumn, adding: “If we speed up the decision-making appeal system and also then keep increasing returns, we hope to be able to make quite a big reduction in the overall numbers.”

The Home Office has said the number of hotels being used for asylum seekers has decreased from more than 400 in summer 2023, to less than 210.

It also announced plans to end the use of hotels to house migrants by 2029, which Chancellor Rachel Reeves says will save £1bn a year.

A series of protests outside the migrant hotels have been taking place in recent weeks.

The protest in London on Saturday was held outside of the Thistle City Barbican Hotel in Islington, with a counter-protest led by the group Stand Up To Racism.

The Met said the protest was organised by local residents under the banner “Thistle Barbican needs to go – locals say no”.

But police said it had been “endorsed by groups from outside the local community which is likely to increase the number of people attending”.

The MP for Islington North, former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn had urged people to join the counter-protest.

The police had imposed special restrictions ahead of the London demonstration, including setting out specific areas where each group had to remain.

In Newcastle, a protest and counter-protest took place outside The New Bridge Hotel.

Four people were arrested and remain in custody, according to Northumbria Police.

“The right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, which the police uphold,” a spokesperson for the force said.

“However, we will not accept people using them as a means to commit crime or disorder.”

About 1,500 people waved England and Union flags in a march organised by the Britain First group from Manchester Piccadilly rail station to outside the Central Library, where they held a rally.

About 250 people were also estimated to be at a counter-demonstration led by the Stand up to Racism organisation, with police keeping the groups apart in St Peter’s Square.

Greater Manchester Police said that a “number of demonstrations passed by peacefully” with “no incidents of note”.

But two arrests were made during a confrontation at the start of the march, the statement added.

One person was arrested for theft and the other for obstructing an arrest.

MIGRANT hotel residents have been spotted laughing while they video protesters and counter-demonstrators clash.

People believed to be asylum seekers inside the Thistle City Barbican Hotel, in Islington, waved and blew kisses at protesters in the street below.

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The protest outside the north London hotel was sparked today, while another demonstration will also take place in Newcastle outside The New Bridge Hotel.

The Metropolitan Police said the display was organised by local residents under the banner “Thistle Barbican needs to go – locals say no”.

Online groups called Patriots of Britain and Together for the Children have voiced their support for the demonstration.

A counter-protest, created by Stand Up To Racism, has also unfolded.

On student involved said he wants migrants to “feel safe” in the UK.

Pat Prendergast, 21, said: “I want people to feel safe. I think the (rival protesters) over there are making people feel unsafe.

“I want to stand up in solidarity and say that, you know, we want people here.

“We want migrants. We want asylum seekers.”

Meanwhile people against the hotel being used for migrants shouted “get these scum off our streets”, while waving England flags.

A large group of masked protesters dressed in black and chanted “we are anti-fascist”.

A man donning an England football shirt was also arrested by police after an aggressive altercation with officers.

There were clashes before cops separate the two groups.

Chief Superintendent Clair Haynes, in charge of the policing operation, said: “We have been in discussions with the organisers of both protests in recent days, building on the ongoing engagement between local officers, community groups and partners.

“We understand that there are strongly held views on all sides.

“Our officers will police without fear or favour, ensuring those exercising their right to protest can do so safely, but intervening at the first sign of actions that cross the line into criminality.

“We have used our powers under the Public Order Act to put conditions in place to prevent serious disorder and to minimise serious disruption to the lives of people and businesses in the local community.

“Those conditions identify two distinct protest areas where the protests must take place, meaning the groups will be separated but still within sight and sound of each other.”

In a statement, the organisers of the counter protest said: “Yet again far-right and fascist thugs are intent on bringing their message of hate to Newcastle.

“They aim to build on years of Islamophobia, anti-migrant sentiment and scapegoating.

“In Epping and elsewhere recently we have already seen intimidation and violence aimed at refugees, migrants and asylum seekers.

“Newcastle, like the rest of the North East, has a well-earned reputation for unity in the face of those who seek to divide us.

“Whatever problems we face, racism and division are not the answer.”

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.

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Two young men have died in the last two weeks after falling from the balcony at Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio, which is known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere but has now been dubbed a ‘death hotel’

The notorious Ibiza Rocks Hotel has faced another tragedy after a Brit holidaymaker fell to his death from the hotel’s balcony.

Gary Kelly, 19, was visiting the Spanish island when he fell from the third floor of the four-star Ibiza Rocks Hotel just after midnight on Monday. Two ambulances were sent to the scene, but paramedics said there was nothing they could do to save him.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed this morning: “We are investigating the death of a 19-year-old British man at a hotel in San Antonio in Ibiza. The alarm was raised around 12.40am this morning.

“Our officers were sent to the scene but the man in question was already dead by the time help arrived. The fall was from from the third floor of the hotel to an outside part of the complex. Court officials authorised the removal of his body at 2.40am this morning.

“The fall could be accidental based on the early information obtained from cameras but as part of the investigation possible witnesses will need to be located and interviewed. The results of the post-mortem will also be important to the investigation.”

Well-placed sources confirmed the hotel where the tragedy occurred is the famous Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio. The source said: “The post-mortem will help to determine if the man who died had consumed alcohol or taken drugs beforehand and in what quantities.”

The teen’s tragic death comes just a fortnight after Scottish holidaymaker Evan Thomson lost his life after falling from his sixth-floor balcony at the same hotel while celebrating his 26th birthday with friends. Evan was pronounced dead at the scene after medics rushed to the hotel at around 6am on July 7.

Friends and family of Evan blasted bosses over how the aftermath of his death was handled, and claimed the hotel resumed normal operations less than 90 minutes after his traumatic death. They were enraged by social media posts allegedly uploaded hours later advertising their next pool party.

They also claimed they sat in an office “without answers” for an hour after they were informed of Evan’s death before being allowed back to their rooms. Pals of the Brit said they were told to pack up their belongings before being transferred to another nearby hotel.

Evan’s sister Teila said: “Ibiza is known for its partying and it just stuns me that they don’t have higher safety precautions. Pray nobody else suffers. And, once it did happen, the hotel’s response was just completely heartbreaking; almost as if it never happened. I pray no other family has to go through this.”

Remi Duncan, 23, said: “It was disgusting. There was minimal respect for the situation, considering the music went back on soon after Evan had died. It puts a pit in your stomach.”

In April a 33-year-old British woman died at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel. Local police and paramedics rushed to the hotel, situated just metres from one of the world’s most famous sunsets, after the alarm was raised around 6.30pm on April 30.

Emergency responders confirmed when they arrived the holidaymaker had gone into cardiac arrest and spent around 40 minutes practicing CPR on her to try to revive her. She was declared dead at the scene after efforts to save her life proved unsuccessful. Well-placed sources said at the time there was nothing pointing to the death being suspicious.

On April 27 a 19-year-old Italian tourist of Turkish origin plunged to her death from the fourth-floor at the same hotel. She had flown to the island the previous day and gone out partying. She was said at the time to have tried to been trying to reach her room via a balcony from a shared area of the hotel after realising she didn’t have her key card when she lost her footing and fell. Her lifeless body was discovered around 9am on April 27.

In light of Gary’s death, Ibiza Rocks hotel has suspended its events as authorities conduct their inquiries. A statement read: “We are deeply shocked and devastated by the recent incidents that have tragically occurred. Our priority is to support those affected and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time and to fully assist the authorities with their investigations.

“The safety and wellbeing of our guests has and always will remain our highest priority. Given the seriousness of the situation and out of respect for those involved we believe it is right to pause our advertised events programme at this time. All customers will be informed directly via email.”

The Ibiza Rocks Hotel, a hotspot known for its live music poolside events featuring top artists and DJs, is a magnet for British holidaymakers. The venue boasts a large pool, sun terraces, bars, and entertainment, drawing in young Brits with its vibrant atmosphere. Tourists are often seen dancing on balconies up to six floors above the music stage or in the swimming pool, often while intoxicated.

One person who stayed there “many years ago” told the Mirror: “It was full of 18-24 year olds, girls were more interested in their looks etc than getting drunk but the boys were getting very drunk and high. Drugs were most of the problem. I actually saw the body of a teenager lying on the ground after he fell from the balcony of a hotel nearby. It turned out he was the precious son of a good family who was on his first boys holiday and was a talented rugby player.”

They added: “The main trouble is ketamine – it makes users hallucinate and feel invincible. Spanish police once said it was main reason for the balcony deaths – and the fact that guys try to get to each other balconies for a laugh. It has not changed sadly.”

Former guests at the hotel have shared their thoughts on social media. One partygoer wrote: “It’s a really fun place… until it isn’t. It’s 24/7 carnage, just party after party with everyone dancing on balconies or swimming in pools even though they’re wasted.”

Another expressed on X: “This place needs shut down! The stories that are coming out and the way they treat their guests is appalling! A pattern like this shows serious safety failings but they continued business as usual and now unfortunately another young man has died! Heartbreaking.”

Someone else commented: “The balcony railings are far too low it seems to me.” Another fumed: “How many people need to die before you ACTUALLY do something about the safety of your hotel! absolutely ridiculous!!!!! Rest in peace Evan, so lucky to have known you.”

On TripAdvisor, yet another slammed: “A horror, to flee absolutely!! Hotel just horrible. Customers are disrespectful and there is no control or oversight by staff. If you want to spend a sleepless night, you’ve come to the right place: it’s noisy, poorly insulated, and chaos reigns all night. No respect for the rest of others. A frankly unpleasant experience from start to finish. Go your way!”

In a review from August last year one holidaymaker wrote: “DECADENT! Hotel is full of drunk people screaming and shouting 24/7 – security is rude and they don’t have control over it”.

Despite concerns being raised, the hotel has previously received a huge number of positive comments following a stay at the party hotel. One traveller wrote on Tripadvisor: “Wow!!! I have just got back from 4 nights @ Ibiza Rocks and it has been INCREDIBLE! I travelled alone with a friend meeting me out there later in the week!”

A second added: “This hotel is absolutely wild and is totally for the party goers in Ibiza. There is music daily. The hotel is very clean, staff are fabulous and so accommodating. I was expecting a very young crowd here but surprising the age group was late 20’s to mid 40’s which was great. It was definitely an experience”.

A third shared: “Stayed for a hen party with a group of 15 girls – hotel was fantastic, rooms were clean & staff were really friendly & helpful – highly recommend the rooftop room for hens was so great having the extra space! The chill pool is so good, prices there are so reasonable too – shop on site and also right opposite with everything you need – walking distance to everywhere you want to go that side of the Island!”

The Mirror has contacted Ibiza Rocks Hotel for a comment.

Brit tourists should not be used as a ‘punching bag’ for the worsening housing crisis impacting Spain, hotel bosses have warned in a major clap-back at protesting locals

Hotel bosses on a tourist-engulf Spanish island have jumped to the defence of Brits following a string of confrontational protests. Last year, a staggering 15.3 million international visitors flocked to the Balearics – a beautiful archipelago made up of Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca. The influx resulted in fed-up locals storming the streets en masse – waving banners demanding holidaymakers ‘go home’.

Arguing the rising demand of holiday rentals is pricing them out of the property market – and worsening the country’s housing crisis – residents even took to squirting Brits with water pistols to get their message across.

READ MORE: Tiny Greek island dubbed ‘a smaller Mykonos’ named voted best in the world

The latest protest, which took place just last month, comes as activists vowed to unleash ‘misery’ for Brits during the busy summer period. However, it seems the Mallorca Hotel Business Federation (FEHM) is pushing back on the island’s anti-tourist landscape by launching a new campaign.

The initiative, which aims to thank millions of tourists for visiting the island and raise awareness of the ‘importance of tourism’ to the economy, has seen around twenty billboards distributed throughout Mallorca, using positive and welcoming messages in English and German.

According to local news site Majorca Daily Bulletin, Javier Vich, the president of the federation, said: “We cannot allow a radical minority to damage the work carried out over many years by so many people who have made tourism their way of life… Tourism cannot be the punching bag for all the structural problems of this community.”

Javier added that every month during the high season, a staggering 235,000 salaries are paid in sectors linked to tourism. This includes workers in the transport, catering, culture, leisure and hospitality sectors.

The hotel boss went on to argue that Spain risks suffering a slowdown in bookings during the summer season, and more and more Brits flock to rival destinations like Greece and Turkey – which ‘welcome tourists with a red carpet’. Even Morocco – which has long struggled to attract high levels of tourism, has seen its visitor numbers surge in recent months.

“We must also be aware of their value,” Javier warned. “Mallorca has been, is and must continue to be a hospitable land…” While the campaign may be well received by self-serving hotel bosses, that cash in on tourism, it’s safe to say the news won’t go down well with locals demanding change.

And still – despite the alarming number of protests and graffiti that have been smeared across Spain – British expat Sandra Laurie, who has lived in Spain for nine years, says Brits should continue visiting Spain. “Local businesses, restaurants, and shops have built their success on welcoming tourists from all over the world,” she exclusively told the Mirror earlier this year.

“If you have a trip planned—don’t let the headlines deter you. The Costa del Sol and other popular destinations are buzzing with life. The beaches are packed, the pueblos are alive with energy, and both locals and tourists are soaking up the sun, relaxing, and making the most of everything Spain has to offer.” Of course, Sandra says being a ‘respectful’ visitor is key to being welcomed to the sunny country.

Has rising anti-tourist sentiment put you off visiting Spain, or ruined your holiday? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story

We checked in to the family-friendly medieval-themed hotel at Warwick Castle, where families can enjoy live jousting and banquet dinners. Here’s what we thought…

It’s not every Saturday that you’re greeted by a 14-foot knight in shining armour sitting atop a giant horse – but that’s exactly the memorable welcome we received when we checked in to Warwick Castle’s medieval-themed hotel.

The Warwick Castle Hotel, which opened its doors in July 2024, is nestled within the 64-acre grounds of the historic 11th-century castle. With 60 rooms available to book, it’s the perfect overnight getaway for families and history buffs seeking a royal experience, and a great getaway during the summer holidays.

What can you do at Warwick Castle?

Our day began at the castle’s Zog area, a playground filled with friendly dragons that kept my little ones entertained while I savoured a quick coffee from the refreshments huts.

Next, we ventured into the Horrible Histories Maze; we may have gotten lost for longer than anticipated but the kids had a blast collecting stamps scattered throughout the maze for their passports, reports OK!.

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For those with a strong stomach, the castle’s dungeon and gaol let you experience the smells and sounds of the torture chambers of days gone by. Meanwhile, the Princess Tower provides an opportunity for the young ones to dress up in their finest gowns.

We then made our way to the main arena to witness an exhilarating War of the Roses live event featuring jousting knights on horses. The performance was superb, and we all rooted for the Earl of Warwick.

We also made a beeline for The Falconer’s Quest show, the UK’s largest birds of prey attraction, where we watched birds from around the globe soar above us.

The castle itself is impressively preserved, and we certainly clocked up our step count as we ascended the stairs to the ramparts and towers, peeking through the stone slits where arrows once whizzed by and gazing down at the spots where waste was hurled onto unsuspecting attackers. The climb rewarded us with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

We also explored the Great Hall and State Rooms, grand spaces filled with 17th and 18th-century opulence and collections of weapons and armour. The castle offers complimentary history tours, which I would have happily joined if my children hadn’t been so keen on getting ice creams (which, admittedly, were a welcome treat after a day packed with walking, climbing and jousting).

Warwick Castle Hotel

As the day drew to a close we made our way back to the hotel, conveniently located just a short stroll from the castle. The hotel’s exterior blends seamlessly with its surroundings, resembling a medieval hall.

Upon entering the reception, we were greeted by talking portraits whose eyes followed us around the room and which gave us a brief history of the castle and its grounds.

The hotel rooms pay homage to the Wars of the Roses, featuring rose motifs, chambers adorned with richly coloured fabrics, wooden beams, and shields adorning the walls. Designed with families in mind, the rooms offer bunk beds, a pull-out bed for an additional child, and a cot. The bathrooms are equipped with both a bath and a shower, along with some delightful herbal toiletries.

For evening meals, the Knight’s Village Restaurant offers a ‘medieval banquet’ buffet in a large hall, akin to a Sunday carvery. However, we opted for the snack bar in the glamping area where the evening entertainment was held, featuring archery lessons and a knight-themed bedtime story.

In between munching on burgers the kids were busy making friends with other sword-wielding children, while we relaxed with a drink amongst other slightly tired parents, content knowing we would end our night in a cosy bed fit for any aspiring knight or princess.

The next morning, breakfast (included for all guests) was a lively event in the hall, serving up a full English or pancakes along with fruit, cereals and pastries. It’s advisable to book well ahead to secure a good time slot.

As we bid farewell to the Earl of Warwick atop his prancing horse and waved goodbye to the talking portraits, we unanimously agreed that our visit to Warwick Castle was a day – and knight – to remember.

How much does it cost to stay at Warwick Castle Hotel?

Rooms at Warwick Castle Hotel start from £159 for a family of four on a B&B basis, or from £199 for a family of four, which includes B&B and a one-day ticket.

For other ideas for family days out this summer, Virgin Experience Days is running a major summer sale, and this offer lets you get a family trip to Legoland Windsor Resort with a huge £48 saving.

Red Letter Days is also currently offering Thorpe Park Resort Entry Tickets for Two, which you can get for £70.

Having high expectations when you’re visiting the best hotel in England isn’t a bad thing, but Danielle Kate Wroe was holding her breath to see whether Mallory Court could live up to them…

Danielle is a Social News Reporter for the social newsdesk, serving titles including The Mirror. She previously worked as a Lifestyle Writer for The Mirror. She has a special interest in books, feminism, stories from the LGBTQ+ community, and fashion. She’s also worked for Reach PLC’s InYourArea team as a Senior Community Content Curator.

The expectations are high when arriving at a hotel that has been named the best in England.

Earlier this year, the Mallory Court Country House Hotel and Spa was crowned the best large hotel by a panel of VisitEngland judges, who fell in love with the Warwickshire manor.

The experts heaped praise on Mallory Court, describing it as providing ‘a serene base ‘set within 10 acres of landscaped gardens, crammed full of all the modern amenities and luxury trimmings you could possibly want.

What’s more, the hotel was recently described as being an absolute bargain, with one reviewer noting that the price of a room for the night is half that of a similar country house. So, a lot to live up to.

Do you have a travel story you think we should cover? Let us know! Email [email protected]

We wandered around the gardens, and General Manager Josefine Blomqvist told us that Mallory Court is working to become more sustainable by growing its own produce—and the bees that buzz around the garden are part of that effort.

After getting ready for dinner, we headed to the lovely garden area and drank a glass of champagne as we enjoyed the stunning views. It felt like I’d stepped straight into an episode of Bridgerton, pretending that I was the lady of the manor. Once we’d enjoyed some olives and salted beans with our drink, we were taken through into the dining area.

My partner and I opted for the tasting menu curated by MasterChef winner Stu Deeley. I hadn’t indulged in a tasting menu for quite some time, so this was an exciting fine-dining experience. Plus, the sommelier went to great lengths to find the perfect bottle of wine for us to share as we dined. We opted for a Chinon Blanc Les Bondonnières Couly-Dutheil 2023, and it complemented each course perfectly. It was crisp but not too sweet—I’d definitely buy a bottle to enjoy at home.

We started with canapés and an amuse-bouche, one of which was the most melt-in-the-mouth goat cheese I have ever tasted. This was followed by a malted loaf from Silvertree Bakery with estate dairy cultured butter, burrata with pea and mint gazpacho and artichoke, a crispy Burford Brown egg, barbecued leek and warm tartare sauce, Cornish monkfish, borlotti bean cassoulet, baby courgette, brown shrimps, Espelette and nduja sauce, and finally the Oxfordshire hogget with potato terrine, French beans, and salsa verde.

The meal delivered flavour sensations like I’ve never experienced before, especially the warm tartare sauce. It was unusual, but divine. The final part of the meal was, of course, dessert. The chocolate fondant tart was incredibly luxurious, with the mint ice cream providing a somewhat nostalgic taste. It reminded me of being a child and smelling mint in my mum’s garden—so it was not only delicious but also evoked lovely memories.

We finished off with some warm madeleines, a welcome way to round off the meal perfectly. We dined for three and a half hours, laughing and joking with our lovely waitress all night long, and left very satisfied.

Upon returning to the room, we were thrilled to see it had been turned down for the evening: the curtains were drawn, the fan turned back on, and we’d been left a gorgeous little jar of honey from the Mallory Bees. This was a lovely touch, given to guests for special occasions. I can confirm—it’s one of the nicest honeys I’ve ever tasted.

We got ready for bed, and I had a perfect night’s sleep. I didn’t even stir once, which, in the heat we were experiencing, was a surprise. The bed wasn’t too soft nor too firm—a real Goldilocks bed, if you will.

The morning after, I made full use of the garden and went outside to read before getting ready for the day, while my partner made use of the spa facilities. He used the indoor and outdoor pools, and I went to have a nosy—they were immaculately clean and lovely. We headed to breakfast, where I enjoyed eggs royale and my partner had a full English. We also had orange juice and coffee. Again, the staff were lovely and welcoming and truly couldn’t do enough for us. Afterwards, we wandered past our private garden and into the hotel grounds, exploring the nooks and crannies. It’s like a magical fairy world.

I can truly appreciate why this hotel won Large Hotel of the Year at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025. My only query is: why on earth isn’t this hotel five-star? Because it more than deserves to be. It’s undeniably the nicest place I’ve stayed in this country—and I’ve been to some seriously fancy hotels. But Mallory Court is magical.

Book it

A classic room costs between £240 and £340 per night. Visit Mallory’s website to book.