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IF you’ve got any theme park fanatics in the family, you’ll want to read on.

While the UK’s biggest theme parks are home to some world-class rollercoasters and rides, they aren’t always the kindest to your bank balance.

Once you add up entry for the whole family, parking, and a place to stay for the weekend, sometimes you’re looking at spending hundreds.

But we’ve mapped the most affordable theme parks in the UK, plus cheap hotels and holiday parks nearby.

Research from credit card brand Aqua has found the UK’s top 10 most affordable theme parks.

The rankings are based on factors like the price of a peak-season weekend adult ticket, and bang for your buck when it comes to the number of rollercoasters at the park.

10. The Milky Way Adventure Park / Twinlakes Family Theme Park

In joint-10th place for the best-value theme parks are The Milky Way Adventure Park in North Devon and Twinlakes Family Theme Park in Melton Mowbray.

Both parks have an average adult ticket price of £20, with just three rollercoasters in each park; however, they have plenty of other attractions and lots to do for younger children.

All rides at The Milky Way Adventure Park are included with the cost of your entry, and include the Gravity Rider tubing slide, the Cosmic Caterpillar coaster, and the Milky Way Train, which takes you around the scenic countryside grounds.

Twinlakes Family Theme Park is an all-weather option with indoor activities like soft play and the Davy Jones indoor water ride, plus outdoor fun like a splash park and live falconry performances.

Another plus of both attractions is that you can park for free.

However, when it comes to a place to stay, Twinlakes is drastically cheaper.

A hotel stay near Twinlakes averages £172 per night, whereas it averages £260 for a stay near Milky Way.

For an affordable stay just five minutes down the road from The Milky Way Adventure Park, opt for Parkdean Resorts Bideford Bay Holiday Park.

A two-night stay in June in a Bronze caravan, which sleeps up to six, starts from £141.

If you stay as a group of six, that works out to £11.75pp per night.

For an affordable stay near Twinlakes, try their heated pods. You can stay two nights in a lodge that sleeps up to six, with theme park tickets included, for £199 total.

If you fill the lodge, that works out to just over £33pp for two nights’ accommodation, theme park entry and all of your rides already paid for.

9. Paultons Park

Paultons Park in the New Forest ranks at number nine, with an entry ticket costing a pricey £46.75pp – but there are 10 thrilling rollercoasters here to enjoy, plus plenty more, including a brand new theme park land.

The new £12m Viking-themed land, Valgard – Realm of the Vikings, which opened on May 16, will feature an inverted rollercoaster called Drakon.

The theme park has plenty more to see and do, such as the spooky Ghostly Manor ride and family-friendly, dinosaur-themed coaster Flight of the Pterosaur.

Even though the entry cost is steep, kids under 1m in height go free – plus the cost per coaster, if you ride them all, works out to an affordable £4.68.

When it comes to accommodation, a nearby hotel averages at £234 per night, which brings this theme park down in the rankings.

However, we’ve found an affordable stay at the nearby Sandy Balls holiday village.

A three-night stay in a six-berth luxury caravan from June 29 costs £296 total – working out at £16.44pp per night.

8. Adventure Island

Southend-on-Sea‘s Adventure Island ranks at number eight, and is a free-admission theme park, meaning it’s free to walk around. But to access the rides, you’ll need a £25 wristband.

There are more than 40 rides and attractions to choose from here, including seven rollercoasters.

Popular rides and attractions include Axis, the huge pendulum swing ride, and Rage, a thrilling, twisting rollercoaster.

The cost per ride averages at an affordable £3.57, according to Aqua, making this seaside theme park a wallet-friendly choice.

As for accommodation nearby, the average hotel would set you back £196 per night.

However, a stay at the Premier Inn Southend On Sea (Eastern Esplanade) starts at just £68 a night.

7. Alton Towers Resort

Popular theme park Alton Towers in Stoke-on-Trent comes in at number seven, with an average adult ticket price of £38 for 19 rollercoasters – some of which are world-famous.

Younger children will love the new Bluey coaster and Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop ride, while adrenaline junkies can take on The Smiler or Oblivion.

The average cost per coaster here is £2, so it’s fair to say that you get some great bang for your buck at this theme park.

However, it is worth noting that the cheapest parking available is £13, and the average cost of a nearby hotel is £171 a night.

For a budget-friendly base, opt for the Weathervane Hotel by Greene King Inns, where you can bag a double room for two nights for just £125.

6. Drayton Manor Resort

Drayton Manor in Tamworth offers a great-value family day out, with entry tickets averaging at £30, 12 rollercoasters, and over 50 rides and attractions.

Family favourites include Thomas Land, a Thomas the Tank Engine-themed area with 25 rides and attractions of its own, and adrenaline zones, Vikings and Adventure Cove.

Some of the park’s most popular coasters are The Wave, an inverting coaster, and Gold Rush, the wild west-themed ride that opened in 2024.

The average cost per rollercoaster works out to £2.46. Parking costs a reasonable £10, and the average nearby hotel costs £141 per night.

Stay at the nearby Travelodge Tamworth M42 with double rooms from £28.99 a night.

5. Codona’s

Codona’s Amusement Park in Aberdeen is a traditional beachfront amusement park with seven exciting rollercoasters.

There are several ticket options to choose from, which include various perks like food and rounds of mini golf, but the average adult ticket costs £25.

Popular rides include the Dead Man’s Drop, a tower ride that launches you into the sky before sending you plummeting back down, and the refreshing White Water Log Flume.

There’s also karting, bumper boats, adventure golf and a Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the city skyline. The average cost per rollercoaster based on ticket price works out to £3.57 per coaster.

The average hotel cost nearby is £149 per night, but you can stay in a double room at the Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen City Centre from £51 per night.

4. M&D’s Scotland Theme Park

M&D’s in Strathclyde is an all-singing, all-dancing attraction known as Scotland’s Theme Park, and it has an affordable entry cost of £20.

There are both fairground-style rides and thrill coasters here, making M&D’s a fantastic option for a family day out or staycation.

The Runaway Mine Train is a fan-favourite and takes riders through twists and turns through a mining town on an adorable miniature train.

For something more adrenaline-pumping, there’s Freak Out – a spectacular, spinning pendulum ride that can be seen (and heard) from the other side of the park.

The cost per coaster works out to just £2.49, and there’s plenty more weather-proof things to see and do, like 10-pin bowling and exploring one of the largest indoor amusement arcades in Scotland.

The average cost of a hotel in the area is £174 per night, but you can stay 3 minutes away in a double room at the Holiday Inn Express Strathclyde Park from £69 per night.

3. Fantasy Island / Gulliver’s Land

Coming in joint-third for the UK’s best-value theme parks are Fantasy Island in Ingoldmells near Skegness and Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes.

The average adult ticket price for both parks is £26. Fantasy Island has 10 rollercoasters, and Gulliver’s Land has just seven.

Fantasy Island offers colourful and thrilling loop rides right on the beach front of seaside town Ingoldmells, plus classics like water rapids, bumper cars and a log flume.

The big three thrill rides at Fantasy Island are The Odyssey, a looping coaster, Millennium, a high-speed ride and The Volcano, a tower ride that shoots you high into the sky.

Gulliver’s Land, on the other hand, focuses on rides and attractions for primarily younger children.

There are rides like The Wriggler, a caterpillar coaster, and the Rockin’ Tug, a gentle pirate boat ride.

Mini thrill seekers can also enjoy the tall Tree Top Swings, or soar into the skies on the 360° ride Dragon Siege.

There’s also a dinosaur sculpture area, and a farm park where you can meet the animals.

The average cost per rollercoaster at Gulliver’s Land is £3.71, whereas at Fantasy Island it works out to £2.61.

But Gulliver’s Land takes the edge when it comes to parking, as you can park for free, whereas parking at Fantasy Island starts at £8.

The average cost for a hotel near both theme parks is £135.

For a cheap place to stay near Fantasy Island, book a Silver Caravan at Coastfields in Ingoldmells – three nights over a weekend in a six-berth caravan starts from £205 total in June.

And for somewhere to stay near Gulliver’s Land, go for the Holiday Inn Express Milton Keynes, where you can bag a double room with a hot breakfast included from £86 per night.

2. Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park

Lightwater Valley in North Yorkshire ranks as the second best-value UK theme park, with an average adult ticket price of £25.

With a lineup of 11 family-friendly coasters to choose from, riding each works out to just £2.23 per ride.

There are wholesome, family-friendly coasters like the Ladybird and Spin Bug, and fun extras like a Jeep Safari as well as several miniature train rides.

Plus, 2026 brings a new ride, the Spinning Racer, to the park, a colourful, curving rollercoaster that looks like a giant Scalextric track.

While you can park for free, which is a plus, the average cost of a hotel nearby is a hefty £222 a night.

Luckily, we’ve found a much cheaper option. You can book a double room at the Premier Inn Thirsk hotel from £57 per night.

1. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

The best-value theme park according to the data is family-favourite Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

While the average adult ticket price is £32, there are a whopping 26 coasters to have a go on – that works out to a cost of £1.22 per ride.

Rollercoasters include the Big One, with a 235ft drop, and Launch Pad, which shoots you to speeds of 80mph.

There are also dark rides like the Ghost Train and Valhalla, plus Nickelodeon-themed rides like SpongeBob’s Splash Bash and the toddler-friendly Bikini Bottom Bus Tour.

Plus, there’s a major new ride coming this year – the £8m Aviktas, a record-breaking gyro swing ride, is set to become the tallest in the UK, at 138ft tall, and is set to open this month.

The cheapest available parking nearby is £15, and the average price for a hotel in the area is £121.

For a budget-friendly base for your Blackpool staycation, stay at Haven Marton Mere, where four nights in a saver caravan which sleeps four starts at £49 this June.

Finding affordable hotel accommodation in Europe’s coastal hotspots in summer can be a challenge, especially if you’d rather not settle for a soulless budget chain or youth hostel. Whether it’s a grand old hotel on the French Riviera that oozes faded glamour or a charming guesthouse on the Amalfi coast, we’d love to hear about European seaside hotels that feel special without blowing the budget.

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on Monday 8 June at 10am BST

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

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WITH two beaches, a canal and a castle, the town of Bude has a lot going on.

And as a one-time local, I’ve got the lowdown on all the best things to see and do in this seaside gem on Cornwall’s north coast.

The Summerleaze and Crooklets beaches have lifeguards between May and late September.

Both are ideal for surfing and bodyboarding and, if the sea is having a rare flat day, the swimmers and paddleboarders get their turn.

Book a lesson with the patient and knowledgeable instructors at Big Blue Surf School and you’ll be on your feet riding those waves before you know it.

When the tide is low, you can wander along the shore from Crooklets to Sandymouth.

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It’s two miles of gloriousness, taking about an hour. Just check the tide times first.

Bude Sea Pool is a large, semi-natural tidal pool between the two beaches. It’s free and an ideal place to swim safely.

Go early morning or later in the evening for the quietest times.

If you want to upgrade your trip, hire a beach hut from the local council.

My favourite place in Bude is the wood-fired Ocean Soul Sauna overlooking Crooklets Beach.

During the summer months, you can book a sauna/yoga combo.

Bude has dramatic, fiery sunsets and watching the sun go down while enjoying a barbecue on the beach makes for a memorable evening.

If hiking is your thing, the South West Coast Path has incredible scenery.

Unlike many High Streets up and down the country, Bude’s is thriving.

It’s the perfect mix of independent shops and eateries, combined with the larger chains we know and love.

Buffy’s is my go-to for breakfast, which is under a tenner for quality food and a coffee.

Newly-opened Coffee Bay is a favourite stop for an afternoon pick-me-up, with the most decadent cakes and cookies in town.

When it comes to dinner, Elements is my favourite for a family meal.

The menu of pizza, pasta, salads and specials is simple but perfectly cooked and presented.

Even on busy evenings, the service is fast and the delicious cocktails are guaranteed to go down well.

My favourite summer tipple is Cornish Country Garden — Bude gin, vodka and elderflower cordial — enjoyed on their seafront terrace.

Fans of local ale should visit The Barrel At Bude.

The award-winning micropub doesn’t have wifi, fruit machines or a jukebox, meaning, shock horror, you have to talk to each other.

My favourite shop in Bude is Spencer Thorn, which has a lovely combo of books and gifts.

When the weather is good, it’s easy to have a great day without shelling out a fortune, too.

Bude Castle, built on shifting sand dunes in 1830, is free to enter, with an exhibition covering prehistory to the present day.

Here, you can learn about the unique geology of the coastline, which is so unusual it is known as Bude formation.

There’s also information on the town’s maritime links and the history behind the Bude Canal.

The circus comes to the outskirts of town each August, and during the summer holidays there are weekly, free circus-skills workshops on the castle’s green, where you can try juggling and riding a unicycle.

For the energetic, the 360ft inflatable Monster Slip And Slide water slide on the outskirts of Bude should feature on your holiday to-do list.

For somewhere to stay, you can’t beat the Premier Inn, with its central location and free parking.

Whether you fancy an active holiday of surfing, walking and swimming or prefer to relax with great food and drink, Bude hits the spot.

A HOLIDAY park with glamping pods and lodges could be built on an old torpedo site in Scotland.

The former testing area for missiles has been derelict for 40 years, but could soon be completely transformed and become a go-to staycation spot.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

On the shores of Loch Long in Argyll & Bute is an old Ministry of Defence site that was used been 1912 and 1986.

It was predominantly used during World War Two, and as many as 12,000 torpedoes were fired down Loch Long.

Since its closure 40 years ago, the site in Arrochar has been abandoned and left derelict.

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A planning application to redevelop the area was first submitted in 2023.

Three years on, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority has approved a mixed-use tourism development by Ardnagal Estates.

Former proposals for the site included 14 holiday homes, 34 holiday lodges, and a 34-bedroom budget hotel.

Also included in the initial plans was a cafe, shop, a 40-bed bunkhouse, six motorhome pitches and 20 glamping pods as well as parking, composting toilets and shower block.

Another proposed feature was to revitalise the pier so that the public and community could access the loch.

Leisure on the site would include a play park that will add “family-friendly amenity for residents and visitors”.

Previous plans were to build a 130-bedroom hotel although it isn’t clear if this is part of the current plans.

Claire Chapman, the park authority’s planning and access committee chairwoman, said: “The approval of this long-standing derelict site’s redevelopment is a significant step forward in addressing what has been a blight on both the local community and the environment.

“The site has been identified in both the existing local development plan, which guides new development in the National Park, and in the community’s local place plan.”

POWDERY sands, vibrant wildlife, crystal waters and less crowds – one Caribbean island has it all.

South Caicos is one of the islands found in Turks and Caicos, a British Overseas Territory in the Atlantic Ocean.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The picturesque island often known as the fishing capital of the archipelago, with a variety of sea life including eagle rays, hawksbill sea turtles, nurse sharks, parrotfish, bonefish and conch.

Despite historically having a prominent fishing and salt industry, today the island remains largely untouched and according to Travel and Leisure, it is becoming the next Caribbean hotspot.

When it comes to things to do on the island, a lot of the top activities revolve around the local wildlife.

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For example, you can go bird watching at the salt ponds across the island.

These salt ponds were operational until the 1960s, but today stand still as a haven for birds including wild flamingos.

The salt ponds aren’t just home to birds though; you might even catch a glimpse of a wild donkey.

Another wildlife-based activity you can do from the island, is heading on a boat tour to see whales such as humpbacks, between January and April.

Thanks to the island being largely underdeveloped, it is also a great spot to stargaze as there is little light pollution.

Cockburn Harbour is the main town on the island and here, visitors can expect to see dramatic cliffs and reefs – which make for great snorkelling spots.

The town itself boasts Bermudian style buildings as well as stone walls down each street and is the best place to try some of the local cuisine such as conch fritters and conch salad, spiny lobster in garlic butter and whole boiled fish.

Another popular spot to visit nearby, is The Boiling Hole, which is a tidal pool connected to the ocean via underground caves.

If you head to the outskirts of Cockburn Harbour, you’ll see the salt salinas (marshes and ponds) as well.

Away from the main town, head to Highland House and Government Hill, where you’ll find a ruined colonial home that has views of the town as well as the surrounding area.

Down from Highland House, you can visit Highlands Beach – a rugged spot backed by limestone rocks and sand dunes, that also makes a great start or end point for hikes.

At the north end of the island, there’s the remote Plandon Cay Cut and beach, and if you want a more swimmin-g friendly spot, head to Long Beach, which stretches on for 1.25 miles.

This spot is often thought to be the best on the island for snorkelling as well.

If you happen to be on the island in May, you can experience the Annual South Caicos Regatta where there are a number of parties, boat races and games.

There are even beauty pageants, Maypole dancing and float parades as well.

In fact, it is the oldest native festival across the Turks and Caicos islands.

When it comes to places to stay in South Caicos there are a few options – though be warned they do come with a bit of a price tag.

For example you could stay at the Sailrock South Caicos, an SLH Hotel, from £611 per night.

The hotel features a variety of suites and villas as well as a spa, Ridgetop Spa Cabanas, sailing experiences, snorkelling and sand volleyball.

There’s also Marriott’s Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa which was named one of the best new hotels of 2025 by Travel and Leisure.

Inside, there are around 100 rooms for guests to choose from as well as a sprawling swimming pool, spa and a number of experiences including sunset cruises and flyfishing sessions.

A stay at the resort costs from £525 per night.

The best way to get to the island is by catching a short 20-minute flight from Providenciales.

A one-way flight between London and Providenciales in June costs from £362 per person.

AS the travel team at the Sun, it’s fair to say we’ve stayed in our share of hotels around the world.

Racking up thousands of hotel stays between us all, it also means we’re pros when it comes to what works – and what definitely doesn’t.

So we’ve rounded up 20 of the things we despise in hotels… and you’ve most likely experienced most of them too.

Lack of teabag choices

Everyone loves a strong cup of English Breakfast tea – apart from me, that is.

Personally, when I can’t sleep after a long flight, I want something like a chamomile or a mint tea.

Yet hotels seem to forget this and simply give a few – cheap – bags of your classic brew, forgetting about us herbal lovers.

I’ve had to become that person who takes my own teabags on holiday – and I’m not the only one, apparently. – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

No plugs near the bed

In 2026, it astounds me that you can still get a hotel room without plug sockets next to the bed.

Okay, if you are a tiny guesthouse then I appreciate you don’t necessarily have the cash to be rewiring all your rooms.

But I’ve been to a number of 3-star and upwards properties that have
clearly renovated their rooms in the last 10 years and STILL didn’t
decide to put a phone charger-friendly socket next to the bedside
table.

I really don’t want to be wandering through a pitch black room in the
middle of the night to turn off my alarm or check texts. Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)

Complicated air conditioning

We all love a sunny, hot holiday, but sometimes it gets too much and you are desperate for a bit of air-con to cool you down as you unpack.

Only to be faced with a room that’s hotter than hell and an air-conditioning display that would challenge even a Mensa champ.

No matter how many times you press the inexplicably-labelled buttons the room temperature remains stubbornly hot. There’s never any instructions and all the displays seem completly counter-intuitive.

While I’ve done battle with air-con systems to cool me down regularly, in some rare cases it works so efficiently you are walking into a fridge every time you return to your room, forcing you to go to sleep in a jumper just to keep warm. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Glass walled showers

There’s nothing more embarrassing than booking a girls trip away and discovering that a room shared between three friends has a see-through shower.

This happened to me on a recent trip, when my friends and I could see straight from the bedroom into the shower.

I understand the design choice, generally it makes the room look bigger.

But in practice, who really wants to be on full display while having a holiday wash whether or not you’re with your partner? Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Early swimming pool closing times

One of the best ways to stave off that all-inclusive bloating is a beautiful morning swim. So why do hotels have such strict opening and closing times for their pools?

I’ve been told off on multiple occasions for trying to have a few quick pre-breakfast laps at 7am, despite it only opening at 9am.

And don’t get me started on those 6pm pool closures too… Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Confusing lighting

It’s been a long, hard day of travelling and you are finally ready to settle down for the night and enjoy that lovely big bed.

Exhausted, you begin the lighting lottery, randomly turning unlabelled switches off and on again in an attempt to lose the light.

In most cases, the ones you have by the bed bear no relation to the lights in the room and you’re forced to rise from your comfy bed in the semi-darkness in an attempt to unplug random lamps or work out how the one pesky light in the doorway can be turned off.

Of course, the minute you finally have the room in total darkness you realise you’re no where near the bed – forcing a comic caper of feeling your way back without bumping into unfamiliar furniture. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Overeager luggage handlers

I’ve dragged my luggage from taxi to train, up a steep set of stairs, through the airport and out the other side again without a single helping hand.

So what makes you think that I’m incapable of carrying it several yards from the hotel reception to the lift?

Despite my polite pleas that I’d rather take it myself and that I really can manage, so many are way too insistent.

The simple truth of it is, I don’t want to have to wait for my case to be delivered to my room – I want to be able to freshen up and shower or get changed straight into my bikini to catch the last of the sun without unnecessarily wasting time waiting around in my room.

Plus, I find the whole thing rather awkward from he hovering in the door – does this mean I need to tip – to the unnecessary explaining how the safe works. It’s a hard no from me. Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Lack of clothes hangers

I’m both an unpacker and an overpacker – even if I am only staying in a hotel room for a couple of nights, I like to get all my clothes hung up and put away, just like they would be at home.

Suitcase open, you swing open the wardrobe doors to be confronted by one of my least favourite things – those fiendish attached hangers you have to thread back onto a built-in contraption.

Cue frustrating minutes that should be spent enjoying the view or testing the comfiness of the bed instead doing battle as you try – and fail – to attach them in a move similar to threading a needle. 

Not only that but what also drives me nuts are miserly hotels that provide you with just four or five hangers for a week-long stay – forcing me to work out a complicated phone system to call housekeeping to ask for enough hangers to put all my clothes away! – Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Breakfast toast conveyor belts

There’s no doubt about it, hotel breakfasts are one of the best parts of being on holiday – but can we acknowledge the toaster of doom?

Every hotel seems to have adopted the same conveyor belt toaster, which barely warms your bread on its first cycle, and burns it to a crisp on the second.

I don’t understand why hotels insist on this method of making toast. Why do I have to commit five minutes of my life to watching a piece of bread spin around, only for it to get spat out and land in a pile of everyone else’s crumbs?

So I’ve permanently ditched the toaster of doom – I’d much rather pop my poached eggs on top of some crispy potatoes instead. Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Tiny dressing gowns

I have a question for hoteliers: what’s the average clothing size of guests at your hotel? Because when it comes to dressing gowns, it seems you only provide sizes that could fit a small child – and I can’t see the point in offering an amenity that is simply unusable. 

For every hotel with complimentary dressing gowns that I’ve visited in my time on the travel desk at The Sun, I’d estimate that four out of five of them come up short when it comes to gowns – literally.

Rarely is there enough material to wrap around my entire body in the cosy fashion that any proper dressing gown should.

And it’s simply not sexy looking like a sausage sandwiched into too tight a casing. Sort it out, please. Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Loads of bed cushions

I have no issue with cushions on a sofa, or even on a bed at home. But on a hotel bed? Gross. You have no idea what people have done with them.

At best, the crime would be multiple guests using it as a pillow and
it never getting washed. At worst? Well… what human beings get up to behind closed hotel room doors will never cease to stun me.

There is no need for a cushion on a bed. Four freshly-laundered, white pillows are the perfect amount for both propping yourself up to watch TV and also getting a good night’s sleep.

Any decent receptionist should be happy to send up a couple more if needed. Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)

Filtered water taps in hallways

In a bid to be more eco-friendly, there is a new hotel design being rolled out that I despise – filtered water taps in hallways.

They cite the change as being one to reduce water bottles, often providing free glass bottles in rooms to fill up instead.

But I hate waking up in the night and having to throw a dressing gown on to leave me room, wander down the hallway and find the damn tap because I ran out of water.

It was certainly no help during an unlucky bout of stomach flu when I was dehydrated but unable to even leave the room – and with tiny bathroom sinks, barely able to fill a water bottle. Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

No bathroom doors

At home, you wouldn’t put your toilet behind a sliding, often frosted glass door.

So I don’t understand why this would be any different on holiday.

In fact, with people having various reactions to travelling when it comes to toilet habits, I’d argue that doors are more needed than ever in a hotel.

Just like with glass showers, it comes down to a matter of privacy. I’d definitely settle for less space in a hotel room if it came with a solid bathroom door so I’m able to use the facilities in peace. Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Family lounger hoggers

This is not a hotel fault – it’s all about the guests. It’s the families who reserve four-plus sun loungers by the pool each day, for both the parents and the kids – but the kids never actually use them.

Last summer, I looked around the hotel pool and there were scores of sunbeds reserved with kids’ towels and inflatables.

Mum and dad would spend both morning and afternoon making good use of their beds, while the kids went off for hours at a time.

Come on guys, surely Flipper the inflatable dolphin doesn’t need its
own lounger… Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)

Receptionless hotels

Commonly seen in city aparthotels, it seems receptionists are a thing of the past.

I’ve stayed at a number recently which brag about having a contactless check in, meaning everything is done via the app.

This might be a joy for some people, but I cannot explain how helpful it is to have a person to ask, often known the best places for dinner, nearby bars or even helpful transport tips.

Google only goes so far, and I miss the personal experience that is sadly being lost. Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Confusing spa locations

If I’m booking a spa break and it’s advertised as such, I don’t really want to be walking through the reception and restaurant in my bikini and barely-there dressing gown – especially while other guests are fully clothed.

It feels a little like that common nightmare where you’re in a crowd and suddenly realise you’re the only one that’s naked.

Ideally the spa should be positioned within easy access of most bedrooms and not in an area where guests have to shuffle uncomfortably through public areas.

It’s even better if the onsite lunch spot is for spa guests only. Dining in your dressing gown doesn’t feel so odd when everyone’s doing it – and it’s a proper luxury. Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Telephones with bright lights

You’ve managed to do it all – suss out the six light-switches on the wall, turn the air-conditioning down, and lay down ready for a good night’s sleep, turn the final light off, and all of a sudden – your room is aglow.

Why oh why do hotels choose to put a telephone on the desk opposite your bed with a bright light on it? They’re always coloured red or green and are ridiculously bright. It seems completely necessary to light them up like that.

If the hotel is that concerned you need to use the phone during the night, put it by the bedside table within arms reach.

I always end up having to put a towel over it to dull the glow, or use an eyemask to block out the obnoxious light. Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Noisy adjoining rooms

For big families or friend groups, rooms with adjoining doors are a godsend.

For an often-solo traveller, they are my worst nightmare.

I’ve had to ask to move rooms on multiple occasions when I’ve been put in one, due to the lack of noise-insulation they have when next to very loud strangers.

I’ll never forget my 3am pyjama walk to a new room after my neighbours VERY interesting yet noisy argument on the phone. Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

TVs that barely work

I get it. Updating TVs can be pricey, but at least give me basic channels that actually work.

I like having some background noise when I’m getting ready in the mornings and the TV helps me unwind after a day of exploration.

In an ideal world, every hotel TV would be fitted with chrome cast so that guests can stream their favourite shows straight from their phone. And perhaps I sound a little spoiled when I say that a lack of smart tvs is my biggest bug bear.

But if you can’t afford to buy more modern TVs then give us the Freeview channels as a basic, otherwise your telly is just a very ugly accessory Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Gyms with barely any equipment

When you book your hotel stay and see that it has a gym, it feels like an absolute win, and for those who work out every day – it’s a must.

But there’s nothing worse than turning up with your gym gear on, only to see one exercise bike and some sad dumbbells in the corner of a windowless, carpeted room.

Then it’s time to come up with some sort of makeshift spin class that completely throws you off your schedule, or walk away with the guilt of missing your workout for the day.

I’d almost prefer if there were no gym at all – but I wish hotels were at least honest about their ‘fitness centres’ so it would save me packing my gymwear. – Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Hotel rooms in Los Angeles and other FIFA World Cup host cities could sit empty, despite high expectations that the global sporting event would be a boon to the city.

The soccer tournament, which has sold more than 5 million tickets so far, has historically triggered a surge of international and domestic tourism and infused host cities with an economic boost.

This year, however, 80% of hotels surveyed by the American Hotel and Lodging Assn. said bookings are lagging behind initial forecasts. The hotel association partly blames FIFA for the slowdown, saying the organization overbooked blocks of hotel rooms that did not reflect true demand.

Travel also is being hampered by higher airfares and gas prices due to the conflict in Iran. Visa barriers and broader geopolitical concerns are suppressing international travel demand, the report said.

“With just two months until kickoff, indicators suggest the anticipated economic lift may fall short of expectations,” the report said. The number of tickets sold for the tournament “has not yet translated into strong hotel bookings.”

In L.A., where World Cup games will be played next month at SoFi stadium, more than 65% of hotel respondents said room bookings were below estimated demand.

Many respondents said bookings were even lagging behind that of a typical summer.

Hotels in Los Angeles cited visa complications and long distances from the venue as obstacles to bookings. According to the report, FIFA booked thousands of rooms in downtown Los Angeles that it canceled.

Ahead of all World Cup tournaments, FIFA places large blocks of rooms on hold across various properties for FIFA staff, mediaand other stakeholders. As the tournament draws closer, FIFA will adjust its plans based on demand.

“All room releases were conducted in line with contractually agreed timelines with hotel partners, a standard practice for an event of this scale,” a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement. “Throughout the planning process, FIFA’s Accommodations team maintained consistent discussions with hotel stakeholders.”

The spokesperson added that global demand for the 2026 World Cup is unprecedented.

“FIFA room block over-commitment created an artificial early demand signal that has since unraveled,” the hotel association report said. “Many hotels indicate that early booking signals overstated true demand.”

About half of hotel respondents reported cancellations or releases of previously booked blocks of rooms, the report said.

The staggering price of World Cup tickets this year could also be keeping away fans, said journalist and author Simon Kuper, who writes about soccer economics. Face values for tickets have climbed as high as $7,875.

“All the ticket prices in this World Cup are inconceivable for previous World Cups,” Kuper said. “It’s very much a new phenomenon.”

FIFA is projecting revenue between $11 billion and $13 billion for the four-year World Cup cycle, which ends when the tournament does.

Nonetheless, L.A. is expecting a major jump in tourism for the World Cup in June and the 2028 Olympic Games.

That would be welcome for an industry that is coming off some tough times.

Last year, tourist spending in L.A. fell for the first time since the pandemic began as wildfires, raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and trade tensions discouraged people from visiting, including tourists from Canada who traditionally flock to Palm Springs and other cities in Southern California during the winter months.

International air arrivals to L.A. County fell more than 30% from August to November of 2025. In Los Angeles, current international arrivals are fewer than in previous months, though the state saw an overall 3% increase last year.

The L.A. market “faces several challenges that are tempering hotel performance expectations,” said Ralph Posner, chief communications officer for the American Hotel and Lodging Assn.

“L.A.’s purported hotel underperformance is compounded by a unique combination of early FIFA block over-commitment creating artificial demand, concerns about visa barriers and operating costs,” he said. “The market was positioned as a flagship host city but is now absorbing a gap between expectation and reality.”

Surging hotel room costs in host cities are also a deterrent. For example, the Renaissance Hotel in Seattle, within walking distance of Lumen Field, is renting a King guest room for less than $300 the weekend before the World Cup. For the weekend of the U.S. game there, the rate is more than $1,000 for the same room.

To save costs, some fans are choosing to stay farther from the venues or opting for alternative lodgings such as Airbnbs. Airbnb’s chief financial officer said the World Cup is expected to be the largest event in the company’s history.

The hotel association said that even though initial indications are bad, things could still get better.

“We are hopeful that momentum will build over the next few weeks in the lead up to the games,” Posner said.

Times staff writer Kevin Baxter contributed to this report.

Hotel operators avoid a ‘very real threat’ by signing a deal with 25,000 workers as the city hosts the 2026 tournament.

New York City hotel operators and ⁠unions have reached an eight-year labour deal covering about 25,000 workers, averting a strike over wages, workloads and staffing levels that had threatened to disrupt the city ⁠before the FIFA World Cup, said the head of the Hotel Association of New York City.

Vijay Dandapani, the association’s president and chief executive, said on Tuesday that the mood among owners was “overall positive” after weeks of negotiations, though the industry made significant concessions.

“We came ‌a long way from where things were,” Dandapani said.

The United States will cohost the tournament with Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

While FIFA, football’s global governing body and tournament organiser, was not involved in the talks, the prospect of an influx of fans raised the stakes.

A union campaign had warned of a possible strike and urged visitors to avoid affected hotels.

The potential walkout was a “very real threat”, Dandapani said, noting recent labour actions in US cities including Los Angeles and ⁠Boston.

Dandapani said a figure of about $200,000 reflected compensation at the end of the agreement, not at the outset.

Hotel owners entered the talks aiming to preserve profitability, arguing New York’s lodging market has not ⁠fully recovered from the pandemic. Occupancy remains below 2019 levels, and inflation-adjusted room rates have yet to catch up, he ⁠said.

He also cited broader pressures, including the US-Israel war on Iran, tariffs and visa issues.

The deal follows the withdrawal of a proposed city measure that operators said would have sharply raised labour costs by limiting room attendants’ workloads and requiring double pay beyond certain ‌thresholds. Owners estimated it could have lifted wage costs by about 40 percent.

The new pact will still add costs, though operators expect tourism demand and major events to ‌support ‌revenue.

The AHLA said hotels spent years preparing and have made “significant investments” based upon official projections.

A study commissioned by Fifa,, external released last year, predicted that in the US the World Cup could create 185,000 jobs, adding $17.2bn (£12.7bn) in gross domestic product.

The hotels were planning for an influx of international travellers, who book longer stays with a higher spend.

But the AHLA said fewer overseas fans “threatens the broader economic impact” with just over three weeks until the opening game on 11 June.

The AHLA said the large-scale bookings made by Fifa in all cities “shaped revenue forecasts, staffing plans and preparations”.

It said this booking policy “manufactured artificial demand” and masked the fact that tourist flow is going to be lower than predicted.

Up to 70% of rooms reserved by Fifa in Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Seattle have been cancelled, the AHLA said.

In a statement Fifa rejected the AHLA’s claims and said it had followed agreements made with hotel chains.

“All room releases were conducted in line with contractually agreed timelines with hotel partners – a standard practice for an event of this scale,” a Fifa spokesperson said.

“In many cases, room releases were made ahead of established deadlines to further accommodate requests from hotels.

“Throughout the planning process, Fifa’s accommodations team maintained consistent discussions with hotel stakeholders, including room block adjustments, agreeing to rates, confirming room types and regular reporting, supported by townhall and ongoing communication.”

Prices spiked after the draw was made, as soon as fans knew which cities their teams would be in.

There has been a gradual fall since then, reportedly by a further 20% in recent weeks.

But this could be too late to entice fans back.

Hotel prices in cities like Boston are still more than $300 (£224) a night, and most fans are working to a lower budget.

Chris Hancock, an England fan who has been to four World Cups, told BBC Sport that his group of five are travelling on an accommodation budget of $75 (£56) per person per night.

They will hire a car in each city and book a mix of hotels and Airbnb accommodation between 45 minutes to an hour away.

“We always tend to stay out of town a little bit and cut the cost that way, so we’re not in the middle of Dallas, Boston or New York,” Hancock said.

“If you’re out of the city centres where everything’s happening, you can get some cheaper deals.

“We’re working within that budget. And at the minute we should be well under that.”

The AHLA told BBC Sport it “expects occupancy to strengthen in June and July”.

“We know that many fans are still waiting on tickets and schedules to become clearer before finalising plans,” a spokesperson said.

“We believe bookings will pick up in the weeks ahead. Hotels are ready to welcome guests and ensure that they have the best possible experience.”

Airbnb says the World Cup is on course to be the “biggest hosting event in Airbnb’s history”, overtaking the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.

Hotels might need to rely on making gains in the knockout rounds, when fans have to make bookings at short notice.

But the World Cup seems unlikely to bring in the revenue that was being predicted.

WITH the bank holiday weekend fast approaching and the weather looking warm, you might want to book a last-minute staycation…

Well, the good news is that whether you want to head north or south, seaside destinations across the country still have availability as temperatures are set to reach up to 28C.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Stowford Farm Meadows, Devon

Found in Combe Martin in Devon, you could book an electric grass pitch at Stowford Farm Meadows for four people between May 22 and 25 for just £104.

The nearest beach is a short 10 minute drive away and at the park you can enjoy a swimming pool and bar.

The holiday park also offers entertainment such as daytime kids shows and bingo in the evenings.

Read more on travel inspo

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Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Isle of Wight

Found on the Isle of Wight, you could book a safari tent for four people for £247, staying from Friday May 22 to Sunday May 24.

The Parkdean Resort is just a 15 minute walk downhill to Shanklin Beach and to get back to the resort, instead of walking you can hop on a shuttle.

Then also at the park, there is indoor and outdoor entertainment for guests including an arts and crafts den, new adventure golf and a swimming pool with a water slide.

Pevensey Bay, Sussex

Pevensey Bay Holiday Park near Eastbourne in East Sussex is located right on the beach and over the bank holiday weekend a family of four can stay for £483 between May 22 and May 25.

At the holiday park families can also enjoy a pool and golf.

And if you want to explore a little further, then you can head off on a walk on the Seven Sisters cliff top trail, which has panoramic views of the English Channel.

Waxham Sands Holiday Park, Norfolk

Found in Great Yarmouth, dog-friendly Waxham Sands Holiday Park has stays for this weekend between May 22 and 25 for just £390.15 for a family of four.

The holiday park has direct access to the beach, with it being just a two-minute walk away.

The holiday park has a woodland walk as well as a board game library, adventure golf and a playground, too.

Marine Holiday Park, Rhyl

Over in Rhyl, you could head to Marine Holiday Park for three nights between May 22 and 25 for a family of four, costing £432.

The holiday park boasts a bar, nightclub, kid’s club, children’s pool, outdoor play area and even a hot tub.

Plus, if that wasn’t enough Rhyl Beach is less than a 30-minute walk away.

St Margaret’s Bay Holiday Park, Kent

The Parkdean Resort of St Margaret’s Bay Holiday Park in Kent has stays this weekend for a family of four from £359.

The park is just one mile from the White Cliffs of Dover and is the beach is just a 20-minute walk away.

When it comes to things to do at the park, there is a large indoor pool, spa pool, sauna and even a solarium.

Naze Marine Holiday Park, Essex

Another Parkdean Resort close to the seaside is Naze Marine Holiday Park in Walton-on-the-Naze in Essex, where families of four can stay between May 22 and 25 for £373.

The holiday park is just a couple of minutese walk from the beach where there are a couple of cafes to grab a bite to eat and as for the park itself, guests will be able to enjoy an indoor pool, laser quest and evening entertainment.

Nearby in Walton, guests can also explore one of the longest piers in the country with arcades and bowling.

The Grand Scarborough

Up in the North, you could head to Scarborough and stay at The Grand Scarborough Hotel between May 22 and 25 for just £213.

The hotel is in a great location overlooking the Harbour and South Bay.

Inside, the hotel is themed around time including seasons, months, weeks and days – and even has 52 chimneys!

Cavendish Hotel, Eastbourne

Just the two of you? Head to the Cavendish Hotel in Eastbourne for £283, staying between May 22 and 25.

The hotel is located directly on the beach and features modern swish interiors throughout.

The hotel also has a restaurant and library.

Travelodge Morecambe, Lancashire

For just £271, you could stay at the seaside Travelodge Morecambe between May 22 and 25.

Not only is the hotel located right by the beach, but some rooms have recently been upgraded as well.

The Dolau Inn, New Quay in Wales

Just a two-minute walk from Dolau Beach, you could stay at The Dolau Inn between May 22 and 25 for £124.

All rooms feature a private shower and boast a cosy interior.

In the surrounding area, guests can explore the town as well as other nearby beaches.

Haven Riviere Sands, Cornwall

If you fancy heading to Cornwall, there is still some availability at Haven’s Riviere Sands in Cornwall for three nights between May 22 and 25 from £249 for a family of four.

The holiday park backs onto Towans Beach, which has previously been named the best beach in the UK.

At the park there is also an outdoor pool with a waterslide, indoor pool, entertainment for adults and kids and even a new Wetherspoons pub.

Perran Sands Holiday Park, Cornwall

Also in Cornwall, Perran Sands Holiday Park also has availability for this weekend with a stay between May 22 and 25 for four people costing from £259.

The park is right by Perranporth Beach, which is a top spot for surfing and heading for a scenic walk along the coastal path.

The holiday park also features an indoor pool and a number of spots to grab a bite to eat.

The Royal Boston Hotel by Compass Hospitality, Blackpool

If you are wanting to head to Blackpool, then you can opt to stay at The Royal Boston Hotel this weekend between May 22 and 25, costing from £206 for two people.

The hotel can be found directly on Blackpool’s seafront and is just a five-minute drive from the famous Blackpool Tower.

Each room is well-equipped too, with an en suite, TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

Hele Valley Holiday Park, Ilfracombe

Fancy glamping instead? The head to Hele Valley Holiday Park in Ilfracombe where glamping for two people between May 22 and 23 costs from £180.

Each glamping pod has a bench outside for enjoying meals as well as heating and lighting on the inside.

And the beach is just a five-minute walk away.

West Point Woods, Barrow in Furness

A glamping pod for up to three people at West Point Woods in Barrow in Furness costs from £375 for a stay between May 22 and 25.

This glamping spot is ideal for wildlife lovers as the site is surrounded by Walney Island Nature Reserve.

Guests can also easily reach Earnse Bay if they fancy a day at the beach.

Butlin’s Bognor Regis

If you want a family break with loads to do, then head to Butlin’s in Bognor Regis, with a stay between May 22 and 25 costing £433 for a family of four.

The resort sits right by the beach, which is expansive and a great swimming spot.

In the resort itself, you can expect tonnes of shows and activities, as well as arcades, crazy golf and a huge swimming complex.

West Bay Holiday Park, Dorset

You could stay in a two-bedroom safari tent sleeping up to six people at West Bay Holiday Park in Dorset between May 22 and 25 for £409.

From the holiday park, you can walk to the harbour and beach, which stretches for miles.

And then, as for things to do when onsite, the park has an indoor pool, bike hire and an adventure playground.

Mercure Paignton Hotel, Devon

Looking out onto a green and then the beach and sea, you could stay at the Mercure Paignton Hotel in Devon this weekend from £396 for two people.

From the hotel you can easily explore the town centre as well as the pier, which boasts games, crazy golf, arcades and fish and chips.

Travelodge Aberdeen Central, Scotland

Located near to Aberdeen train station and the ferry terminal, Travelodge Aberdeen Central has stays left for the weekend from just £102.

The Travelodge has everything you would expect including tea and coffee making facilities.

From the hotel, it takes under 30 minutes to walk to the beach where you will find Codona’s funfair.

The UK’s Foreign Office has explained why

With warmer weather finally on the horizon, many Brits are turning their attention to the summer months and making holiday plans.

Spain continues to be the top choice for British tourists, with millions flocking to the European country each year, keen to bask in the sun, relax on its shores and enjoy the cuisine. When travelling overseas, it’s essential to get clued up on any local laws or rules you’ll be expected to follow while you’re there. And if Spain is in your sights this year, there’s one rule you may not know about.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) regularly provides travel advice for Brits visiting more than 220 countries and territories around the world. In its comprehensive guidance for Spain, the FCDO specifically highlights balconies.

While balconies are ideal for providing a vista and giving guests somewhere to relax outdoors, holidaymakers are required to behave responsibly. FCDO guidance for Spain warns: “Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.”

Those travelling to Spain are also cautioned that they must present ID if asked by a police officer. The FCDO adds: “This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces.

“The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity. Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.”

FAMILY holidays abroad aren’t easy on the wallet, with the costs of your hotel, dinners, and days out to water parks and attractions piling up.

So for many parents, a hotel with its own water park is the ultimate holiday holy grail.

It’s the difference between spending money on expensive day trips, versus a week where the kids are entertained on-site, from breakfast until bedtime.

But finding a resort with that “wow factor” that is also actually affordable is easier said that done.

To skip the stress, travel insiders at top holiday companies have selected some of their best 2026 summer holiday deals, and we’ve put together ten of the most exciting all-inclusive gems across Europe and beyond.

From fairytale castle resorts in Turkey to a sparkling-new jungle-themed aqua park in Egypt, here are travel companies’ top picks for all-inclusive water park hotels for the summer – that the kids are bound to love.

Travel experts from Loveholidays hand-selected the following deals in cost-friendly Tunisia, Bulgaria and Turkey.

Plus, all of these breaks are within the school summer holidays.

Skanes Serail and Aquapark, Tunisia

The Skanes Serail and Aquapark is a huge, rainbow-coloured resort that’s perfect for an action-packed holiday in the sun.

Loveholidays called the resort “a superb choice for families looking for an action-packed holiday in the sun”.

“With its on-site waterpark, children’s pool and mini-club, there’s plenty to keep younger guests entertained throughout the day.

“Set on a private beach with sun loungers and parasols provided, this hotel offers a fantastic blend of beachside relaxation and aquatic fun.”

Take your pick of giant swirly water slides that land you straight in the refreshing pool, or make use of the hotel’s private beach, spa and sports courts.

There’s 224 comfy air-conditioned rooms here, plus three restaurants, a poolside bar and even a beachside barbecue for when you get hungry.

And with a price that works out to around just £72.71pp per night, that’s a great deal for an all-inclusive mega resort stay.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay from 26 July, including return flights from London Southend, for £509pp.

Aquamarine – All Inclusive, Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

This four-star stay sits in the lively resort of Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, and makes for an ideal family holiday base.

Loveholidays decribed the hotel as a top pick “for families looking for a budget-friendly holiday in the sun”.

“Located in the vibrant Sunny Beach resort, this welcoming property offers excellent facilities for children including a kids’ club and playground, making it an ideal base for memorable family holidays.”

There’s plenty for kids here, including an adventure playground, kids club and activities like beach volleyball and an indoor games room.

There’s an outdoor pool for both adults and kids, the latter with a mini splash park and waterslides.

The golden sands of Sunny Beach are just a five-minute walk away.

Plus the hotel provides loungers and parasols so you don’t have to scramble for a spot.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay from 23 July, including return flights from London Luton, for £559pp.

Club Dizalya Hotel – All Inclusive, Konakli, Antalya, Turkey

This luxurious-looking, four-star all-inclusive resort comes with its own private beach and a giant, palm-lined pool with two big water slides.

Loveholidays named the hotel “a superb choice for families looking for a beach holiday in Turkey”.

“Set just a stone’s throw from a private sandy and shingle beach, this resort offers excellent facilities for children including a kids’ club and playground.

“With its all-inclusive package and range of amenities, it provides everything needed for a memorable family getaway.”

The hotel grounds themselves are beautifully-decorated with blooming purple Bougainvillea.

On the beach you’ll find plenty of loungers and thatched parasols facing the glimmering Black Sea.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay from 4 August, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £599pp.

Travel experts from On the Beach chose resorts for Sun readers in sunny Sharm el Sheikh, Belek in Turkey and Salou, Spain.

Rixos Radamis Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Rixos hotels are known for their ultra-all-inclusive luxury, and their spot in Sharm El Sheikh is no exception.

On the Beach labelled the Rixos Radamis “a top luxury family resort with premium all-inclusive service and access to one of Egypt’s best upscale aqua park experiences”.

Better yet, they have has just opened up their new 35,000sqm Aquamania Jungle Park in March of 2026.

This new aqua park has 28 water rides, including the thrilling RocketBLAST water coaster, tube rides and plenty of themed splash zones.

And when it comes to keeping the kids entertained, this resort has far more than your standard kids club.

Rixy Kids Town is an immersive mini town where kids can act out their dream jobs as detectives, scientists, chefs and more in interactive activities.

On the Beach offer a 6-night stay, including return flights from London Luton, for £633pp.

The Land of Legends Kingdom Hotel, Belek, Turkey

This massive five star-rated resort really lives up to its name, The Land of Legends.

On the Beach named this resort “the best overall waterpark hotel because it combines a huge aqua park, thrilling slides and a full theme park experience all in one resort”.

This hotel complex not only has its own huge water park, but even its own theme park with rollercoasters, a 5D cinema and luxurious spa.

This resort has one seriously epic water park, towered over by Magicone, a giant water slide that swirls you into what looks like a black hole before shooting you down into a massive, lagoon-like pool.

Plus the entertainment doesn’t stop there, with kids’ circus shows, boat parades and even free entry into the largest theme park in Turkey on-site.

On the Beach offer a 6-night stay from 4 July, including return flights from London Stansted, for £778pp.

Granada Luxury Belek Hotel, Turkey

If you let a child design the ultimate holiday resort, it would probably look exactly like the Granada Luxury Belek.

On the Beach called the resort “one of the best family resorts in Turkey thanks to its massive on-site aquapark, lazy rivers and huge variety of pools and slides”.

This massive Turkish resort is home to the Wonderland, a giant fairytale-themed water park.

The water park has plenty of spectacular slides that you enter from a spectacular castle, a wave pool, lazy river, 12 adult pools and five kids’ pools.

There are also three pristine artificial beaches on site, for when you’re done splashing around and want to soak up some sun.

Pair this with an on-site Chocolatier, large, family-friendly rooms with swim-up pools, and themed bars like the Wizard Bar and Street Bar Disco – and you’ve got yourself the dream family holiday destination.

On the Beach offer a 6-night stay from 4 July, including return flights from London Stansted, for £568pp.

PortAventura Hotel Gold River & Theme Park, Spain

Immerse yourself in this Western-themed hotel in sunny Salou, a resort designed to feel like an American Wild West frontier town.

This pick from On the Beach is “perfect for families who want both rollercoasters and water slides, with direct access to PortAventura’s famous theme and water parks”.

A stay here includes unlimited access to PortAventura Park, where you can take on over 40 rides and rollercoasters.

You’ll also get entry to Caribe Aquatic Park, a tropical garden paradise of thrilling slides and waterfalls.

And if that’s not enough, you’ll get day tickets to Ferrari Land, too – home to Red Force, the tallest and fastest rollercoaster in Europe.

To top it all off, one child stays free with this deal from On the Beach.

On the Beach offer a 6-night stay, including return flights from Birmingham, for £475pp.

A holiday deals expert from comparison site Travel Supermarket selected the following deals on the Turkish Riviera and the east coast of Majorca.

Eftalia Splash Resort, Antalya, Turkey

This family-friendly resort on the beachfront of the Turkish Riviera has a huge outdoor freshwater pool, plus its own on-site splash park with eight water slides.

Jacob Lewis, guest travel expert at TravelSupermarket, says: “You essentially get two water parks for the price of one here.

“You get the hotel’s own slide-packed aqua park, plus free access to the enormous Eftalia Island complex down the road, where 14 huge slides, a lazy river and pirate-themed splash pools will keep kids of every age happy.”

You’ll never have the same meal twice here. There are six dining spots including two massive buffet options, plus international favourites like Italian and Chinese restaurants.

There are also five bars, including one on the beach, a pool bar and a disco.

Not only is there plenty to see and do on-site, but the hotel offers a free shuttle service to the local sandy beach.

You’re also only a two-minute shuttle away from ANOTHER aqua park at Eftalia Island – and this one has 14 water slides. The best part is that this hotel’s all-inclusive offer extends to the facilities at Eftalia Island, too.

Travel Supermarket offer a 7-night stay from 11th August, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £620pp.

Globales Apartotel Bouganvilla, Majorca

This aparthotel and splash park in Sa Coma, Majorca is a massive playground for families.

Jacob Lewis, guest travel expert at TravelSupermarket, says: “This one’s a great shout for bigger families watching the budget – it’s got its own massive Splash World water park that only hotel guests can use, so there’s no queueing behind day-trippers.

“Plus there’s roomy apartments that sleep up to six. If and when the kids have finally had enough of the slides, a free shuttle whisks you down to Sa Coma’s gorgeous white-sand beach.”

Here you’ll find two giant pools, plus water slides ranging from winding fast rides for adults, to mini slides for little ones to make a splash.

Make the most of your all-inclusive package with trips to the on-site pizzeria and barbecue restaurant, or fill up on favourites at the buffet.

For a fun-filled day out, hop on the miniature train into the town centre for souvenir shopping and beach-side strolls.

Travel Supermarket offer a 7-night stay from 4 August, including return flights from Manchester, for £769pp.

For a family holiday that feels like real affordable luxury, try this glamorous resort in Ibiza that’s steps away from a water park.

TUI BLUE Aura, Ibiza, Spain

The four-star TUI BLUE Aura has a luxurious feel with a tranquil infinity pool, boho-inspired rooms and dining spaces – and a fantastic water park just next door.

Standing out from the crowd, this hotel features sensory rooms for kids and a curated itinerary of family activities.

Instead of your standard kids club, expect daily experiences like cooking workshops and garden games designed for all ages.

Other hotel highlights include Parent & Tot swim classes, Swim Fit for adults and wellness activities like yoga and meditation sessions.

When you’re ready for some more excitement, walk over to the water park for free-entry access to speedy water slides, tubing and a pirate play zone for the little ones.

TUI offer a 6-night stay from 9 July, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £873pp.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

PROPOSALS for a new £600million UK theme park have been backed by the British Tourist Authority (BTA).

The Government-funded tourist authority is supporting the plans for the historical park, which will offer live shows and reenactments.

French firm Puy du Fou submitted plans to build a site north of Bicester near the M40.

In the supporting letter, BTA director Andrew Stokes, praised the ride-free park’s established track record in France and Spain, saying it offers a “truly distinctive visitor experience through its historic theme park concept”.

He also commended the park’s collaborative approach in working with Experience Oxfordshire to create a fully authentic experience.

BTA said it “can see the potential for this project to generate significant interest and excitement among domestic and international visitors alike”.

PARK UP

Inside the huge new £12million land opening at the UK’s ‘theme park of the year’

RIDE ON

Little-known European theme park’s £43m makeover has ‘island’ lands and new rides

Stokes added that the plans “demonstrate confidence in the UK as a destination, in our leisure sector, and in the long-term strength of the visitor economy”.

The site will include four period villages with 13 live shows and have also been backed by Experience Oxfordshire.

Support chief executive Hayley Beer-Gamage said: “The decision by Puy du Fou to invest in Oxfordshire, and specifically within the Cherwell district, is a strong endorsement of the area as a globally recognised destination.

“This investment will drive job creation, stimulate economic growth, and increase visitor spend across both the district and the wider county.”

According to the park operator, the site will directly employ around 2,000 people, while supporting a further 6,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, suppliers, and other local businesses.

Puy du Fou also said it will deliver a £500million annual boost to the local and regional economy.

In a report published earlier this year, BTA broke down the long-term economic benefits for Oxfordshire and the Cherwell district.

“Tourism has a significantly positive regional economic impact across the UK”, Stokes said.

“Relevant to Oxfordshire and Cherwell, the South East region is the second largest recipient, accounting for £17 billion of economic activity in 2024.”

Puy du Fou first opened in 1978, and is rated the second best attraction in France behind Disneyland Paris.

FANCY grabbing a last-minute break during May half-term?
There are lots of late deals offering adventures and attractions galore.

Cruise on a fabulous liner, escape to the countryside, explore a city or bed down in a zoo. Trisha Harbord selects ten top getaways for all budgets, at home and abroad.

FRENCH FANCY

OOH la la! The French seaside resort of Le Touquet will be holding a British Week from May 25 to 31.

There will be a host of activities delivered in English, such as guided horse rides, while the seven miles of coastline and dunes make Le Touquet perfect for sand-yachting.

The resort, an hour’s drive from Calais, has over 70 restaurants, for all tastes and budgets.

GO: Two nights’ room-only at the 3* ibis Styles, for two adults and two children, is from £366. See all.accor.com. Return ferry from Dover costs from £118. See irishferries.com.

BEACH PLEASE

Spanish TUI hotel to reopen next summer for adults only and it’s on the beach

RETREAT YOURSELF

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CRUISE CONTROL

YOU can’t beat a cruise for having everything on tap, and we really rate the no-fly MSC voyages on super-modern Virtuosa.

Enjoy five pools, a waterpark, clubs for kids, superb shows and an indoor promenade with restaurants, bars and shops.

The ship, sailing from Southampton, also has the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, who shakes and stirs cocktails.

GO: Two nights’ full-board from May 23 costs from £265pp. Five nights from May 25, visiting four ports including Bruges and Rotterdam, costs from £541pp. See cruise.co.uk.

MINT IMPERIAL

SPOIL yourself at the 5* Imperial Island Resort in Paphos, which reopened this week. Everything has been upgraded, from the rooms to the food, spa and kids’ clubs.

There are new outdoor play areas at the Cyprus hotel and numerous sports on offer.

Soak up the sun on the adjacent beach or head to Paphos Archaeological Museum and the medieval fort that overlooks the harbour.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive, based on two adults and two children sharing a superior family room, plus Gatwick flights on May 24, is from £1,072pp. See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

ITALIAN JOB

THERE aren’t many kids who don’t like pizza, pasta and ice cream – and they can have all those on a cultural trip to Rome.

The Vatican museums, beautiful Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum amphitheatre are all must-sees.

There are also many children’s attractions, including interactive museums about everything from video games to illusions.

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3* Hotel Morgana, including flights from Birmingham on May 25, costs from £469pp, based on a family of four. See jet2holidays.com.

STAR PLAYA

MENORCA may be one of the quieter Balearic Islands, but you won’t be bored here.

Choose from lying on the beach or going hiking, cycling or horse riding.

The 3H Vibra Caleta Playa apartments, surrounding a pool with kids’ area, all have air-con, kitchenettes and a balcony or terrace.

They are close to a sandy cove in Santandria and the historic former capital, Ciutadella.

GO: Five nights’ self-catering in a one-bed apartment for two adults and children, including flights from Gatwick on May 24, costs from £442 per person. See firstchoice.co.uk.

GO FOR ’BROKE

THERE’S a great deal from Pembrokeshire’s 4* Ty Hotel Milford Waterfront, with kids staying free during half-term.

The offer at the hotel, which overlooks the Milford Haven marina, runs rom May 22 to 31.

If the children love dinosaurs, be there on May 27 when Dinomania comes to town.

You can also rent kayaks from the beach activity centre, visit the maritime heritage museum, go hiking or enjoy ten-pin bowling.

GO: A family room for two adults and two children, including breakfast, is from £104. See ty-hotels.com and milfordwaterfront.co.uk.

RURAL SAVINGS

GET back to nature with up to 30 per cent off countryside breaks with Landal, which has resorts in areas including Yorkshire, Cumbria, Northamptonshire and Scotland.

Woodland Lakes, near Thirsk, North Yorks, has indoor pool, kids’ play areas, archery, fishing and a wellness centre.

It’s close to the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales and only a half-hour drive from the historic city of York.

GO: Four nights’ self-catering in a lodge sleeping four people from May 25 costs from £639. See landal.co.uk.

PIER WE GO

IT should be a great week in Great Yarmouth, with plenty to do in the Norfolk resort.

A pantomime of The Wizard Of Oz is being performed at Britannia Pier’s theatre between May 28 and 31, and the town has a festival of circus and arts from May 28 to 30.

Stay at Richardson’s Hemsby Beach holiday park and you’ll be spoiled for family-friendly activities, too.

GO: Four nights’ self-catering in a two- bedroom chalet from May 25 costs from £419. Details at richardsonsholidayparks.co.uk and visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk.

SHOW STOPPERS

TELLY favourites are appearing at Butlin’s, and there are three-night late deals from £48pp. Headline acts include The Masked Singer Live and the new Maximum Pro Wrestling show.

The resorts – in Skegness, Lincs, Somerset’s Minehead and Bognor Regis in West Sussex – also boast Splash Waterworld pools with slides, unlimited fairground rides and soft-play areas for kids.

GO: Three nights for four people sharing a two-bedroom Comfort room in Minehead from May 29 costs from £192. For more information or to book, see butlins.com.

WHERE THE ART IS

HELP Whipsnade Zoo roar into the Guinness World Records book as one of more than 14,000 people taking part in a paint-by- numbers challenge from May 23 to 31.

The masterpiece featuring 200 animals will celebrate the 200th birthday of ZLS – the conservation charity behind the Bedfordshire zoo.

Families picking up a brush will need to register on the GWR Verify app. Stay overnight in one of the zoo’s lodges and enjoy zoo tickets, private tours, breakfast and dinner.

GO: A lodge for two adults and two children is from £520. See whipsnadezoo.org.

THE new EES rules have caused chaos for Brits heading on their recent holidays with reports of three-hour long queues and even cases of missed flights.

So if you’re after an easy escape to a beautiful island with no biometric requirements, there is a European country which is hitting highs of 26C next week.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

EES has been causing chaos across Europe in places like Lanzarote and Greece, but Cyprus doesn’t follow these new rules.

Cyprus is an EU member state, but isn’t part of the Schengen area, and so it didn’t have to enforce the new EES requirement.

In fact, Brits with a valid passport can visit the country for up to 90 days without the need for a visa.

GO ALL IN

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The island itself gets over 300 days of sunshine each year and is known for having beautiful beaches – including one of the best in the world.

In the Europe list of ‘World’s Best Beaches‘, Golden Beach found on the Karpaz Peninsula in the north of the island comes in at number 30 out of 50.

The beach has 2.4 miles of sand and is known for its wild beauty and sand dunes – it’s a place where you’ll find sea turtle nesting grounds.

Some of the most popular spots in Cyprus include Limassol and Paphos.

Larnaca is another, and it’s a favourite destination of singer Peter Andre’s who has his own villa there – and knows lots of great restaurants in the area.

Talking to Sun Travel, he said: “For anyone going to Larnaca, I have three recommendations. One is a new restaurants called Theta in Perivolia which is very near the airport.

“It does Mediterranean food, but done in the style of a Dubai 5-star restaurant.

“There’s another one called Opa Souvlaki Kiti, it’s not fancy, but if you want a proper Greek kebab done the Cypriot way, go there.”

When it comes to eating and drinking out in Cyprus, you can pick up a beer from €3 (£2.59) and an inexpensive meal can start from €15 (£12.97).

With UK temperatures dropping and potential drizzle forecast for next week, you might want to consider booking a last-minute break – and there are still some great deals about.

With On The Beach, you can jet off to Paphos for an all-inclusive break from £440pp – or £63pppn.

This is for a seven-night stay at the Hylatio Tourist Village which has a sun terrace, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts and entertainment nights with live music.

The site has its own restaurant and bar – and the price includes all three meals and snacks as well as flights that depart on May 11.

The complex is a short walk from the Blue Flag Pissouri Beach.

Another deal from On the Beach is at Atlantica Panthea Resort in the Larnaca region which can be booked from £455pp – or £65pppn.

Minutes from the beach, the hotel also has its own swim spots from outdoor pool to heated ones indoors.

Rooms vary from doubles to family size and suites – all with neutral decor and private balconies or terrace.

There are multiple restaurants, bars and snack spots for guests.

Flights depart London Gatwick on May 13 returning on May 20.

FANCY holiday abroad vibes without actually leaving the country?

There’s some great hotels across the UK that feel like you’re somewhere like the Med or even Miami – so we’ve rounded up some of the best.

Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend -on-Sea

Roslin Beach Hotel is on the sandy beach of Thorpe Bay Beach is often compared to places in the US.

One previous guest said: “We could have been staying on the Florida Keys”.

It’s not the first time Southend-on-Sea has been compared to the US either.

In 2023, Tory councillor Daniel Nelson told the Southend Echo that tourism events played an important role “in the reinvigoration of the city and that Southend has the potential to become a Miami-on-Thames.”

PLAY ON

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SEA YOU THERE

I stayed at the affordable seaside hotel right by the train station

The Gallivant, Sussex

The Hamptons is known for its white wooden buildings and sandy beaches. And The Gallivant in Camber Sands is often said to be similar.

The American comparison to the Essex seaside is because of the shaker style it’s built in – and you can even book a room called the ‘Large Hampton’.

Not only that, but the dune-backed beaches of Camber Sands are a spitting image of the ones in Montauk, a hamlet in East Hampton.

The Times said “think New York’s Hamptons by way of Camber Sands” while House & Garden added it “brings a bit of the Hamptons and Scandi-vibe to Sussex”.

The Nici, Bournemouth

If you’ve ever wanted a slice of Miami without wanting to leave the country, then why not head to… Bournemouth?

The Nici Hotel, found on the seafront of the seaside town, opened in 2022.

There’s the South Beach Restaurant, which serves “champagne afternoon teas and classics with a Miami twist”.

Otherwise other nods include retro cocktail cabinets in the rooms, faux palm trees throughout and even art of Che Guevara.

Previous guests have raved about it too – one said: “Beautiful setting and very cool decor. Feels like Miami!”

Gara Rock, Devon

A rarity in the UK, Gara Rock has its own private swimming pool overlooking the ocean more comment in the Med.

Grab some pizza and a glass of rose wine and you’ll feel like you’re hundreds of miles away.

It even has a private beach too, if you fancy an ocean dip, or plash out on a “beach butler” and you can get unlimited cocktails delivered straight to you.

Hotel Tresanton, Cornwall

In St Mawes is Hotel Tresanton and at first glance may not look much like Italy, but head down to the hotel’s own Beach Club which overlooks the cliffs and, with the blue and white striped umbrellas, will transport you straight to the Italian Riviera.

The website states: “The Mediterranean style brings a feel of the Amalfi coast, with blue and white striped umbrellas and semi-tropical planting.”

Or, splash out on the classic Italian sailing yacht–Pinuccia where you can spend the night onboard with dinner and breakfast – and a bottle of champagne.

One person even said:  “It’s like a perfectly decorated small Italian hotel on the Amalfi Coast but further north on the sea in Cornwall.”

Art’otel, London

One of the new hotels to open in the Battersea Power Station, Art’otel has some of the best views from the top.

The rooftop infinity pool could even double for Dubai, with its luxury sunloungers and skyscraper views.

Of course, it is usually only open to hotel guests although they do have some open events to non-guests.

This includes as aqua aerobics, aqua board pilates and yoga, all of which come with breakfast and start from £25.

WITHIN minutes of landing at Madeira’s Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, we were picked up by . . . Ronaldo.  

No, not that one, but a taxi driver who said he was actually named after former US President Ronald Reagan, not the footballer. 

And he wasted no time in pointing out one of the island’s most famous landmarks, another Ronaldo.  

The bronze statue of the footballer outside the Pestana CR7 hotel in Funchal, the island’s main town, is certainly memorable — not necessarily for the reasons the sculptor intended.  

The two-metre, 800kg statue has a noticeably polished groin. Rubbing this delicate spot is meant to bring good luck, so it was obviously important I gave it a try.  

But Madeira — a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic — isn’t just a shrine to football greatness, it’s been attracting Brits long before free kicks and trophies.  

GO SEA IT

The island nicknamed the ‘Greek Caribbean’ which is just a £29 flight away

HOLI-YAY

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According to our wonderfully knowledgeable guide, Graca Lopes, Victorians flocked here in the 19th Century for health reasons.  

Madeira’s mild, subtropical climate (16C to 22C year round) and pure air make it ideal for respiratory health. The wild volcanic views, lush forests and fresh sea air are great for mental health and longevity too. Anti- ageing and an escape from rainy Britain? Count me in!  

I’d heard Madeira described, slightly unfairly, as a haven for “energetic retirees with hiking poles”. And yes, there are plenty of older people and spectacular walks, but there’s definitely more on offer too. 

Madeira is surprisingly compact. At 35 miles long and 14 miles wide, it’s roughly the same size as Greater Manchester. 

The roads twist and climb at angles, often narrowing to only the width of a decent hallway. There is fun to be had on these winding roads on the island’s famous — and slightly bonkers — toboggan ride.  

It involves a wicker basket hurtling down steep streets from hilltop area Monte, steered by two men in straw hats using nothing but their shoes as brakes. It’s in equal parts terrifying and hilarious but in the 19th Century it was the quickest way to travel.  

There are plenty of other adventures to be had in Madeira. A Jeep safari along the rugged northeast coast, with AdventureLand tours, shows off the island at its most dramatic. 

One minute the open-sided truck is climbing steep, muddy tracks, the next you are looking out over sheer cliffs to the vast swathes of the Atlantic.  

The tour also includes a chance to admire the unique triangular-shaped houses at Santana with their traditional, red, white and blue paintwork and steep, thatched roofs. 

There’s whale and dolphin watching too. We spent the morning with Rota dos Cetaceos Tours. A marine biologist on board explained more about these incredible creatures. 

And for some of the most stunning beaches I’ve seen, take a day trip over to the neighbouring island of Porto Santo. It’s a two and a half hour ferry ride away but you’ll be rewarded with incredible beaches, including Calheta Beach, with its 9km of soft sands surrounded by unique rock formations. 

These adventures were complemented by our gorgeous base, The Vine, a sleek, stylish boutique hotel in the centre of Funchal. 

The interior design is inspired by wine. The furniture mimics twisted vines, there are grape-purple fabrics and the spa offers vinotherapy massages and facials.

The five-star hotel’s rooftop has a pool, Bali beds and bar, along with stunning views of the bay.

We took a walking tour of the town with guide Gracia. The cobbled streets lead to sea views and every corner seems to involve either food, history or both.  

One must-see is The Painted Doors of Rua de Santa Maria — where artists decorated 200 of the street’s doors as it rises to the church of Santa Maria Maior. 

In the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos we had lunch at the Restaurante Vila do Peixe. With incredible views, customers can choose fish fresh from the counter. The platter is around £35. 

Another traditional treat is the tipple ­poncha. According to locals it’s the answer to any problems life can throw at you. 

Got a cold? Poncha. Heartbreak? Poncha. Existential dread? Double poncha. 

By day two I was fairly certain it could also strip paint and power small machinery. 

We had dinners at various restaurants including the Three House Bake — a boutique hotel, restaurant and rooftop bar with a DJ and BBQ in Funchal town.  

The Jard.in Magnólia in Quinta Magnólia, a 19th Century estate with huge botanical gardens, served up a great steak and seabass with lime risotto, with prices from around £22 for a main.

But Avista, probably the poshest restaurant in Funchal, set on a clifftop, was sensational.

The staff were incredible and the food was too. We had a seven-course pairing menu that featured Algarve red prawns, black Angus steak tartare and a chocolate tangerine dessert. 

The tasting menu isn’t cheap, at around £80pp, but it’s definitely one for a special celebration.  

Our final day saw us exploring a levada walk — unique hiking experiences using Madeira’s 1,350miles of 15th Century irrigation channels that now double as scenic trails.  

There’s a huge variety of walks that promise strolls among lush forests, dramatic mountain scenery and stunning waterfalls. 

Among the most popular is the Levada das 25 Fontes, a popular trail near Rabaçal leading to a cascading waterfall lagoon. 

And then, just like that, it was time to leave. A final breakfast, a last look at the sea, and I’m back at the airport half expecting Ronaldo (either one) to wave me off.

Sadly, neither does. But Madeira has already done enough to win me over. 

OUR Spotlight On Column shines a light on both the little known and the much loved holiday destinations.

This week we’re talking Singapore, including some hidden gems and new hotels.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited.

She explained: “I didn’t expect to love the city as much as I did, but I loved how safe and clean it felt compared to other major cities.

“It’s the kind of place where you’ll never struggle to find amazing food, no matter what your budget it.

TAKING OFF

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GRAND TOUR

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“Make sure to look up too – most buildings have living walls or rooftop gardens as strict rules mean any new structures must replace greenery it builds on.”

Here are some of our other top tips if you fancy a trip to the stopover city.

MUST SEE/DO:

The most fun way to get around the city is with a Singapore Sidecar (sideways.sg) where you are driven around by experienced riders.

With options of different tours, one of the best takes you everywhere from the finance district to the huge murals of Yip Yew Chong, who depicts scenes of traditional Singapore.

The tours include numerous photo stops, and the guides know all the answers to any questions you might have too.

Wait for night to fall and then hop over to Garden by The Bay to watch the light show of the famous trees.

HIDDEN GEM

The neighbourhood of Joo Chiat is no longer a hidden gem, after being named one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods.

But tourists often skip over Tin Yeang Restaurant, despite it being a great place to mingle with the locals.

It’s loud, its busy, but you can learn a lot about the culture while enjoying prata (crispy pancakes) with fish curry for just a few pounds.

It’s right by the multicoloured Peranakan houses too, so you can explore the mix of Chinese and Malay heritages afterwards.

BEST VIEW

When it comes to gardens, Singapore goes up by putting them on top of skyscrapers. 

And the best free view is found at Henderson Wave Bridge, the highest footbridge in the city,

Join the other joggers and dog walkers to get views of both the city and nature, without paying a penny.

RATED RESTAURANT

Keng Eng Kee is an institution of a restaurant.

Family-run for more than 50 years, sibling Paul, Wayne and Jia Min are joined by the rest of their relatives when it gets busy.

Plastic bibs are supplied (and needed) for the most popular dishes, the chilli crab, a well as the marmite chicken. Unusual, but salty and delicious.

Make sure to book, as they can easily serve up to 800 tables a weekend.

On a budget? Don’t forget Hawker Chan, an indoor market food hall where you can get Michelin meals for less than a fiver.

BEST BAR

If you only go to one bar, it has to be Jigger + Pony, often named one of the best in the world.

Think speakeasy interiors and pretend magazines that disguise the menu, peppered with articles of the bar’s history.

The Clover Club is a must but staff are also on hand if nothing takes your fancy, to mix something up for you.

You’ll find yourself spending hours there, with fantastic music and service encouraging you to stay late into the night.

HOTEL PICK

Mama Shelter‘s first hotel in Asia, the new opening last year is bringing French flair to Singapore.

The 115 rooms include an unusual two-person bunk option, the perfect option if staying with friends.

Mama’s restaurant is just as fun with eclectic interiors and live music. Try the Szechuan Crispy Chicken and a Ms Violet cocktail (followed by a hungover coffee at Mama Kiss cafe).

Rooms cost from £120 per night. See mamashelter.com.

ON August 12, a total solar eclipse will sweep across northern Spain and the Balearics – the first to cross mainland Europe since 1999, and the first visible in Spain since 1905.

For UK holidaymakers, it’s a rare chance to pair a week in the sun with a once-in-a-lifetime moment – totality arriving with the sun just degrees above the horizon, creating what astronomers are calling a “sunset eclipse”.

Astro-tourism is tipped to be big for this year off the back of this — but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

TravelSupermarket has done some digging to discover the perfect holidays to pair fun in the sun with a chance to view the eclipse.

Head of Holidays Chris Webber says: “What makes August 12 special is the timing.

“Because the eclipse arrives just before sunset, anyone on the Balearics will see totality with the sun sitting just above the horizon.

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“Our advice is simple — if you want to be there, book now.

“The eclipse falls in the peak of the school holidays, and west-facing hotels on Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca are already getting snapped up.”

Here, LISA MINOT, Head of Travel, shines a light on six great places to see the phenomenon.

NOJA, CANTABRIA

TUCKED on Cantabria’s north coast, Noja is a proper Atlantic surf town and an under-the-radar shout for eclipse watchers.

Playa de Ris faces north-west, picking up clean swell off the Bay of Biscay and giving a clear, unbroken sightline as the sun drops — so you could even be out catching waves when it happens.

It’s not a polished resort town, more of a wild, local and friendly vibe.

Stay at La Casona de Noja, a small, intimate bolthole a short walk from both the town centre and the beach — plain but comfortable, with an on-site restaurant and bar.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 2* La Casona de Noja is from £779pp including flights from Gatwick on August 6.

See travelsupermarket.com.

MADRID & TOTALITY DAY TRIP

MADRID sits just outside the path of totality, but it makes a brilliant base for combining a city break with the main event.

From the capital, it’s a straightforward run north into Castilla y León, with Burgos and Valladolid both in the path of totality.

Zaragoza is another well-connected option. On the day, the priority is an open view of the low western sky.

For your city stay, the 4* NH Madrid Balboa is a great choice in the upscale Salamanca district, minutes from the Retiro Park and the city’s designer shopping streets, with light, wood-floored rooms and a daily breakfast buffet.

GO: Three nights’ room-only at the NH Madrid Balboa is from £354pp including flights from Stansted on August 11, hand luggage only.

See tui.co.uk.

SALOU, COSTA DORADA

FOR families who want the eclipse built into a classic Med beach holiday, Salou is the pick.

The Costa Dorada sits in the path of totality, and Salou’s long, west-facing promenade means you can watch the eclipse without leaving your hotel terrace.

PortAventura is half an hour up the road if you want to build the week around theme parks too.

The Cala Font hotel is perched above its own cove just outside Salou, with pools, a spa and half-board dining — solid, sociable and built for a family week.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the 4* Cala Font hotel is from £868pp including flights from Stansted on August 6.

For more info, see travelsupermarket.com.

PEGUERA, MAJORCA

MAJORCA is arguably the most exciting spot of the lot.

The eclipse will reach the island with the sun only a couple of degrees above the horizon — a true sunset eclipse.

The west coast is the place to be for the clearest sightline, and Peguera, on the south-west, ticks the box — a laid-back resort with wide, west-facing beaches at Platja de Palmira and Playas de Paguera.

For your perfect stay, the 4* Hotel Vibra Beverly Playa sits right on the coast in Peguera, with two outdoor pools, a kids’ club and buffet dining for a great family break.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Hotel Vibra Beverly Playa is from £841pp including flights from Luton on August 11.

See firstchoice.co.uk.

SAN ANTONIO, IBIZA

SAN Antonio already has a reputation as the sunset capital of Ibiza — Café del Mar and the Sunset Strip exist for a reason.

That same west-facing orientation makes it one of the best spots on the island to catch totality as the sun drops into the Mediterranean.

The path of totality runs right across Ibiza, and San Antonio Bay delivers the open horizon needed to see it properly.

Stay at the THB Ocean Beach, a 4* adults-only on the seafront in San Antonio Bay, with a rooftop pool, Bali beds and direct access to O Beach Ibiza next door.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at THB Ocean Beach is from £1,374pp including flights from Gatwick on August 10, 22kg luggage and transfers.

See jet2holidays.com.

CIUTADELLA, MENORCA

IF Ibiza is the party end of the Balearic eclipse trail, Ciutadella is the quiet one.

Sitting on Menorca’s west coast, the old capital is already known for some of the island’s finest sunset spots.

Castell de Sant Nicolau is a ten-minute walk from the centre, and Pont d’en Gil and the Punta Nati lighthouse are both a short drive away, all with wide, unobstructed views west across the Mediterranean towards Mallorca.

For travellers who want the eclipse without the crowds, this is it.

The 2* Alfons Hotel is in the heart of Ciutadella, a short walk from the beaches and the town’s cobbled centre, with a small spa, sun terrace and restaurant.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Alfons is from £998pp including flights from Gatwick on August 11, 22kg luggage and transfers.

See travelsupermarket.com.

Spain is the most popular holiday destination for Brits

Now that warmer weather is finally arriving, many of us are casting our eyes towards the summer months and planning holidays. Spain remains the most sought-after destination for British travellers, with millions descending on the European nation each year, eager to soak up the sunshine, lounge on its beaches and sample the local food.

When heading abroad, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with any local laws or regulations you’ll need to abide by during your stay. And if Spain is on your radar this year, there’s one balcony rule you might not be aware of.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) routinely issues travel guidance for Brits venturing to more than 220 countries and territories across the globe. Within its extensive advice for Spain, the FCDO makes specific mention of balconies.

While balconies are great for offering a view and giving guests a spot to unwind in the open air, holidaymakers are expected to conduct themselves appropriately. FCDO guidance for Spain reads: “Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.”

Those heading to Spain are also reminded that they must produce ID if requested by a police officer. The FCDO adds: “This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces.

“The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity. Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.”

Luxury hotel designer Tatiana Sheveleva, who has worked with brands such as The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis, has been involved in some remarkable projects and knows a thing or two about hospitality

A luxury hotel designer has revealed the key feature in every room that guests might miss, but it can make a huge difference.

Tatiana Sheveleva, originally from Kazakhstan but living in Toronto, Canada, has been a luxury hospitality designer, including for hotels, resorts and yachts, for 15 years and runs her company, Chapi Design. During her creative career, she’s worked on incredible projects with major brands, including St. Regis Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, and The Luxury Collection.

These projects have taken Tatiana all over the world, designing interiors for hotels and resorts in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Peru, Antigua, Orlando, Nashville, and Toronto. She’s even designed a luxury yacht for the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Luminara, which boasts 226 suites with private terraces, five restaurants, seven bars, and a wine vault.

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One of Tatiana’s most recent projects was for St. Regis in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, which was completed last year. “I like to do big properties, and everything we design [at Chapi Design] is custom-made,” Tatiana told the Mirror, “I have been very fortunate to work on different properties around the world.

“But it’s still so surreal for me that I’m working on the most amazing properties in the world, even though I have been doing this for 15 years.”

With a wealth of expertise on luxury interior designs, Tatiana revealed that there’s one key element in every hotel room that guests regularly miss.

The designer said: “The most money is spent on the headboard. Typically, it’s the most expensive piece as it’s often a feature. How you design the headboard depends on the bed’s location, and it can be a strong element of the project’s narrative.”

Tatiana revealed another important feature of any hotel room. “I would say the bathroom, believe it or not. It always gives the guests a good impression, and it’s the first place they go when they check into the room.

“The bathroom area is important. If you design a very unique layout for the washroom, people will start to talk about it. In the washroom, you can create something very sculptural and unique.

“If you are successful enough to create this interesting washroom, first of all, people will be spending more time there, they will have a bath and feel more relaxed. And actually, we spend a lot of our time in there.”

She added: “The light in the bathroom should be accommodating for different scenarios, bright enough to put on make-up but cosy and romantic at the same time. For me, every single washroom I design is very unique.”

Another feature of a hotel room that Tatania argues warrants attention is the bed.

“The mattress has to be comfortable, and the bedding. Also, there might be special glasses by the bedside table; it’s these details,” she said.

The designer likes to add a special feature inside the closet, such as interesting wallpaper, a splash of color, or a pretty stone.

“That’s a unique element you don’t notice right away, but you notice it after,” she added.

For Tatiana, the joy of the job comes from travelling and working with different people. She said: “The whole process is quite fun, and during this process, you get to meet a lot of interesting people who are passionate about projects. I also like to investigate new locations and new countries, because when I was in Kazakhstan, I didn’t really travel much. So, my first project for St. Regis was in Mexico, and it was my dream to go there.

“Mexico has a very unique culture, it’s very colourful, there’s amazing food, and they use alot of bright colours – there’s a lot of celebrations. It was very different, and I was very excited about that. The Dominican Republic is the same. It’s very comfortable, the people and land, it’s very nice.”

And her travels aren’t stopping anytime soon. Tatiana is currently working on mega interior design projects for St. Regis in Costa Rica, The Luxury Collection Hotel in Mexico, and Luxury Hotels in Peru and Antigua, and some projects can take as long as six years to complete.

You can read more about Tatiana’s projects on the Chapi Design website. You can also follow their Instagram page.

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