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THE world’s tallest bridge has opened to the public — cutting journeys from a staggering two hours to just two minutes.

China‘s Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in Guizhou province is a whopping nine times higher than the Golden Gate Bridge and twice the height of the Eiffel Tower.

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It is almost as tall as the 632-metre, 128-story Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building.

As well as breaking world-records, the bridge has increases connectivity in the region.

Locals were previously forced to spend almost two hours navigating the vast canyon.

But now, travel time is reduced to just two minutes.

The mighty structure took three years to build, requiring advanced technologies, such as satellite navigation and drones.

Soaring 2,050 feet over the Beipan River, travelling over the world’s tallest bridge will not be for the fainthearted.

The gargantuan structure features massive steel reinforcements weighing 215 metric tons.

These will help support the heavy loads going across the 0.9 mile-long structure.

Officials also believe the crossing will stimulate economic development in Guizhou, one of China’s lesser developed provinces. 

Chen Jianlei, deputy director of Guizhou Transport Department told China Daily: “The completion of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge will strengthen economic ties between [neighbouring cities] Guiyang, Anshun and Qianxinan, fostering regional economic integration.”

The chief engineer of the record-breaking bridge has said that seeing his project come to life gives him “a profound sense of achievement and pride.”

The central element of the bridge, its primary load-bearing part, is made up of 93 segments weighing a collective 22,000 tons – or three times the weight of the Eiffel Tower.

Work on the £227 million project began in 2022.

Until it opens, the title of tallest bridge in the world will remain with the Beipanjiang Bridge in Guizhou province around 200 miles north of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge.

The bridge with four lanes of traffic was finished in 2016 and stands 1788 feet over the Beipan River.

Meanwhile, construction has started once again on the world’s tallest skyscraper that was left half-built seven years ago.

Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Tower, once completed, will be three times taller than the Shard and will dwarf all other developments.

The enormous tower would stand 3,280ft high when completed.

The Jeddah Tower has long been touted as the next Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building in Dubai, at 2,723ft.

Following the unveiling of incredible plans for one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, which will include the highest nightclub and observation deck on the planet.

The Burj Azizi also set for Dubai will be a staggering 2,379ft tall.

Azizi Developments say construction of the £1.15 billion tower – twice the size of The Shard – has already begun and is expected to be completed in 2028.

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El Gouna, just 30 minutes north of Hurghada, Egypt, is a luxurious self-contained resort town offering a plethora of activities and a variety of opulent hotels catering to all sorts of holidays, from honeymoons to family trips and golfing breaks.

The Red Sea, renowned for its winter sunshine destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada in Egypt, remains a top choice for those craving winter warmth.

Boasting glorious weather throughout the year and reasonably short flight times, it’s a perfect option for UK holidaymakers. Moreover, the abundance of package deals makes organising a spontaneous escape incredibly straightforward.

However, if you’re seeking something rather more distinctive, whilst still accessible, there’s a destination that’s well-known among Egyptians and kitesurfing enthusiasts, but remains largely undiscovered by many Brits.

OPINION

READ MORE: UK’s prettiest train station once ‘left for dead’ – it’s like going back in time

El Gouna, merely 30 minutes north of Hurghada, Egypt, is an upmarket self-contained resort town providing countless activities and an array of lavish hotels suitable for all types of breaks, from romantic getaways to family holidays and golfing retreats, reports MyLondon.

Melanie Kaidan, senior lifestyle reporter at the Express, experienced El Gouna first-hand. She said: “During my 5-night holiday, I was able to sample only a few of the many excursions and comforts this town has to offer, starting with a thrilling desert quad bike safari, where I visited a Bedouin encampment at sunset.”

She added: “Staying at the Steigenberger Golf Resort gave me an outlook into the more mature, relaxed side of the resort, where crowds vary from families with young children to seniors golfing on the hotel’s own 18-hole championship golf course located on the other side of the lagoon.”

For those craving a more energetic break, the celebrated Mangroovy Beach draws kitesurfers from far and wide, whilst the stylish Casa Cook Hotel sits conveniently beside a kite centre which Melanie described as ideal for visitors “who like to get up and go”.

El Gouna offers far more than its stunning golden sandy shores – it boasts magnificent coral reefs and shipwrecks, including the celebrated Sha’ab El Erg and Careless Reef. These aquatic treasures await discovery through snorkelling and diving excursions.

Navigating the resort proves effortless, with journeys lasting no longer than 20 minutes. Melanie recommended: “For those seeking a truly local experience, tuk-tuks are a whimsical way to explore the town that makes spontaneous stops much easier and fun.”

READ MORE: ‘I escaped the rainy UK to tax-free Qatar – both life and the weather is much better’

She also highlighted the vibrant evening entertainment. Melanie explained: “When it comes to dining and nightlife, Abu Tig Marina and the Downtown area are the places to be, with local shops and restaurants offering something for everyone. At dawn, these areas come to life, becoming a hotspot for visitors looking to try different cuisines, from the top-rated African eatery Bongoyo, to Camino, a lively Latin restaurant.”

Another top-rated activity in El Gouna is crafting your own fragrance. Melanie said: “I’d strongly recommend anyone going to El Gouna create their own scent to remember their holiday at Norshek, a little store selling hair and body products made with natural oils. Here, you can customise your body butter, hand wash, perfume or hair conditioner to your liking. Try oud and pomegranate for a sweet and indulgent, long-lasting mix.”

For lovers of Indian food, Melanie suggested Tandoor as essential, “not only for its privileged location overlooking the entire marina but also for its superb fare, featuring all the classics as well as a few unique fusion dishes.”

Melanie also suggested Fanadir Marina for a more sophisticated, peaceful setting, enabling guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of moored boats whilst dining. She also put forward Villa Caracas for traditional Lebanese cuisine, whilst its neighbour, Marzipan, offers “authentic Egyptian fare in abundant portions that are ideal for sharing”.

Another outstanding aspect of El Gouna is its proximity to Luxor. A day excursion here starts with an otherworldly journey through the desert and showcases some of Egypt’s most breathtaking monuments, including the colossal Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, an ancient Royal burial ground from Egypt’s New Kingdom period.

For those choosing to spend the night in Luxor, an early morning hot air balloon ride offers a unique chance to spot many of the ancient landmarks, including the imposing mortuary temple of Hatshepsut. The stark contrast between the lush, cultivated fields along the Nile River and the surrounding desert and mountains is truly a sight to behold.

READ MORE: UK seaside town brought back to life with vibrant event that locals love

Getting there

Travelling to El Gouna from the UK is simple. You’ll need to catch a flight to Hurghada (HRG) airport, with a flight time of around five hours.

British airlines fly to Hurghada from several UK airports, including Gatwick and Luton. Once there, it’s a 30-minute drive to El Gouna either by transfer or taxi.

Return flights in October start at around £147 per person, although this might change depending on the time of purchase. According to Booking.com, last-minute hotel bookings start at around £100 per night for highly-rated, five-star accommodation.

A massive Russian aerial bombardment that lasted more than 12 hours has killed at least four people and injured 40 others in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the deaths occurred in the capital, Kyiv, and the victims included a 12-year-old girl.

Russia launched nearly 600 drones and several dozen missiles toward seven regions of Ukraine, its air force said. Zelensky said the “vile” attack also saw at least 16 people injured in the Zaporizhzhia region, including three children.

He warned that Ukraine would retaliate and said the attack showed Moscow “wants to continue fighting and killing”. Russia has not yet commented on the latest attack.

Saturday night’s extended barrage is one of the heaviest overnight aerial bombardments in recent months as Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues in its third year.

Zelensky said many of the projectiles were aimed at Kyiv, where the Institute of Cardiology had been damaged.

A bread factory, an automobile rubber factory, as well as apartment buildings and civilian infrastructure were also targeted, he said.

Zelensky said that Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa regions were also hit. Sumy’s regional governor said a 59-year-old man had died in strikes in the past day.

Zaporizhzhia’s Governor Ivan Fedorov said the three children who were injured included two boys, aged 11 and 12, and a nine-year-old girl.

One boy was caught in an explosion while the other had suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, he said. Both are in a serious condition.

Zelensky vowed that Ukraine “will strike back” in a bid to “force diplomacy” from Russia, and said he was counting on a “strong reaction” from Europe and the United States.

“This dastardly attack took place in fact as the end of the week of the UN General Assembly, and this is how Russia declares its real position,” he said.

Zelensky reiterated his support of US President Donald Trump’s threat of harsher sanctions on Russia, as well as his call for European allies to curb their Russian oil and gas imports.

Trump has recently shifted his position on the war, saying for the first time last week that he thought Ukraine could retake the land it had lost from Moscow as the Russian economy flagged under the strain of a prolonged war.

The US president has so far desisted from imposing further sanctions on Russia, but has appeared increasingly frustrated with the lack of eagerness from the Kremlin to begin peace talks.

Zelensky warned on Saturday that Russia would not stop with his country – which is why it was testing European air defences with the recent incursions in several countries belonging to the Nato military alliance.

Meanwhile, jets were scrambled in neighbouring Poland early on Sunday as Russia hit western Ukraine, the nation’s armed forces said.

The Polish military further described the actions – which have become routine since Polish and Nato aircraft shot down three Russian drones in Poland’s airspace on 10 September – as preventative.

Earlier this week, Moscow denied responsibility after Denmark said drones were flown over its airports. Denmark itself has said the incidents appeared to be the work of a “professional actor”, without specifying who this may be.

Estonia and Romania have also accused Russia of violating their airspace.

After the incursions, Nato launched a mission to bolster its eastern flank.

Trump has gone as far as to say that Nato nations should shoot down Russian planes in their airspace.

In a speech to the UN General Assembly on Saturday, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said his country had no intention of attacking EU or Nato member states – but warned of a “decisive response” to any “aggression” directed towards Moscow.

Budapest in Hungary is home to hearty dishes such as goulash, blood sausage, pörkölt, somló trifle and lángos. It has been named the authentic food capital of Europe

Budapest has been named as Europe’s best city for authentic food experiences.

The Hungarian capital is the place to go if you’re after delicious food served up in independent restaurants. It is also a relatively short three-hours away from the UK on flights that cost from £14.

To help tourists expand their palettes, Saga Holidays conducted a study to uncover Europe’s most authentic food destinations by analysing 5,000 restaurants across 125 European cities. Researchers picked through Google review data to track how often diners praised restaurants and dishes as ‘authentic’, alongside an overall sentiment score, to create a final ranking of authentic food cities.

Food can be a celebration of culture and for many, it can be what holiday itineraries revolve around. Yet, while nearly 8 in 10 Brits (79%) say finding authentic food is important when abroad, three-quarters admit that they struggle to know where to go beyond the tourist hotspots.

Budapest (98/100) tops Saga Holidays’ authentic food ranking. There is a good reason why Budapest is known as ‘The Paris of the East’. In addition to its grand, towering town houses and city blocks that bear more than a passing resemblance to the French capital, it also shares a love of fine, artery-clogging dining.

Hungarian cuisine is hearty and filling, with a heavy use of meats. Among the must-try foods are:

• Goulash: A hearty beef soup with potatoes and carrots.
• Hortobágy crêpes: Hungary’s more refined take on enchiladas—these savory crepes are stuffed with stew or minced meat and topped with a creamy paprika sauce. They make excellent starters or even a main course.
• Pörkölt/Paprikás: A thick stew, either plain or mixed with sour cream, often mistaken internationally for goulash. Catfish served with curd cheese and dill noodles are a particularly fine version.
• Roast sausage and blood sausage (hurka-kolbász): Best enjoyed at authentic butcher shops like Pinczi, accompanied by pickled vegetables, mustard (or horseradish), fresh white bread, and a cold beer.
• Lángos: Hungarians traditionally eat it with salt, garlic, sour cream, and/or cheese. The wild versions topped with sausage or kebab are mostly designed to appeal to tourists.
• Somló trifle: A delicious walnut sponge cake dessert layered with chocolate sauce and whipped cream.
• Chimney cake: A sweet, spiral-shaped pull-apart bread roasted over charcoal and coated in your choice of toppings—usually nuts, cinnamon, vanilla sugar, cocoa, or coconut flakes.

Budapest local Vernazza has put together a fantastic guide for first-time visitors to the Hungarian capital. The guide offers many great suggestions for places to eat, drink, party, and much else. It also includes some advice about cultural customs that may come as a shock.

“Brusque service by waiters is one of the most common complaints of tourists about their visit to Hungary. Prepare for that, but also remember that the lack of US-style overly friendliness is not necessarily rudeness in itself, just formality,” Vernazza writes.

For the more authentic experience, stay away from the tourist traps around Váci utca, along the Danube and on Andrássy út. Menus displayed in English outside a restaurant are typically a sign that an eatery is not frequented by locals, as is a host tempting you in.

“Waiters in folk dresses, excessive decoration, or live gypsy music are sure signs of a place you don’t want to eat at. In case you prefer the folksy experience, one exception to this rule is Paprika Vendéglő next to Heroes’ Square,” Vernazza continues.

The Sunday farmers’ at Szimpla ruin pub serves up artisanal, vegan and otherwise niche products, while more traditional fare is often on offer from the outdoor stalls of Hunyadi tér, Fény utca or the Lehel tér hall.

In terms of restaurants, Budapest is a big city of nearly two million that stretches about 35km from east to west, so where you decide to eat will likely depend on where you’re staying. Here are some of the more hotly tipped options:

• Rosenstein (a traditional Hungarian restaurant)
• Két Szerecsen (cozy Hungarian)
• Olimpia (casual fine dining)
• Borkonyha (business casual fine dining, Michelin-star)
• Kispiac (modern Hungarian)
• Tüköry (traditional Hungarian on a budget)
• Ruben (traditional Hungarian on a budget)

Saga’s authentic food cities

1. Budapest, Hungary
2. Piraeus, Greece
3. Athens, Greece
4. Vienna, Austria
5. Krakow, Poland
6. Prague, Czech Republic
7. Valletta, Malta
8. Warsaw, Poland
9. Munich, Germany
10. Milan, Italy

It is not too difficult to work out why the aviation routes between the UK and Dublin are so well used, given the large number of people born in Ireland who now live in the UK

Dublin has been unveiled as the most popular international destination for UK air travellers in the first six months of 2025.

According to new analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data by air passenger rights experts, AirAdvisor, over 4.8 million passengers flew between the UK and the Emerald Isle’s major airport, Dublin Airport, between January and June 2025.

In previous years, Palma De Mallorca in Spain and the Dutch capital Amsterdam claimed the top spot in the frequent flights ranking.

Other destinations that frequently welcome large numbers of UK travellers include Alicante, Malaga, Faro, and Dubai. European capital cities, including Madrid, Paris, and Lisbon, also experience significant traffic to and from the UK.

AirAdvisor CEO Anton Radchenko said: “Ireland is an extremely popular destination for UK travellers due to the two countries’ historic connections. It’s a busy route for holidaymakers between the nations’ major cities and also people visiting family members based either side of the Irish Sea.

“Amsterdam remains a popular city break spot for UK travellers while those looking for year-round sun often opt for destinations like Dubai and Tenerife.”

It is not too difficult to work out why the aviation routes between the UK and Dublin are so well used.

According to the Office for National Statistic’s anual population survey, there were approximately 412,000 people who were born in the Republic of Ireland living in the UK as of June 2021. The number of people of Irish ancestry in the UK is significantly higher, with estimates suggesting around six million people have at least one Irish grandparent.

Many of those people still have connections to the Irish capital, giving them a very good reason to hop on a Ryanair or Aer Lingus flight and head back. It is often cheap. A flight from the UK to Dublin can be booked for as little as £16 next week. Kayak also has rooms for from £37 a night.

For those who don’t have such a connection, there are plenty of reasons to hop on the hour long flight from the UK and visit Dublin.

A trip to the Guinness Storehouse is a must for most visitors — and it absolutely lives up to the hype. Whether you join a guided tour or take your time exploring solo, you’ll get a fascinating look at how the iconic Irish stout is brewed — and of course, there’s a tasting involved.

History enthusiasts will feel right at home at Malahide Castle. Set in picturesque surroundings, the castle invites you to step back in time with guided tours and stories from centuries past. Afterwards, wander through the serene gardens for a relaxing stroll.

Another historic highlight comes in the Book of Kells Exhibition, where you can view one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts in existence.

There are plenty of museums in the city, including:

• Kilmainham Gaol: This former prison offers powerful insights into Ireland’s complex past.
• Dublin Writers Museum: A literary pilgrimage for fans of James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and other Irish greats.

• The Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum is a treasure trove of memorabilia and a hit with music lovers.
• The Little Museum of Dublin showcases the city’s modern history, with an entire room dedicated to U2.
• The Irish Whiskey Museum, where you can learn all about one of Ireland’s most beloved exports.

If you’re keen to indulge in a little retail therapy, Dublin has you covered. Grafton Street and Henry Street are the main shopping thoroughfares, packed with everything from designer brands to high-street favourites.

For something more unique, Dublin’s street markets are full of character. One standout is the Dublin Flea Market, offering everything from vintage clothes to quirky collectables and furniture. Just note: it only runs on the last Sunday of each month.

A BLOCK of flats erupted has into flames – with dozens of firefighters rushing to the scene.

Ten fire engines and 70 personnel are battling the blaze this morning in Enfield, London.

London Fire Brigade received reports of the fire at two second storey flats in Maybury Close at just before 5.20am.

An LFB statement said: “Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been called to a flat fire on Maybury Close in Enfield.

“Two flats on the second floor of a three storey block of flats are alight.

“The Brigade’s 999 Control officers received their first call about the fire at 0519. They mobilised crews from Enfield, Edmonton and surrounding fire stations who are currently in attendance.

“The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”

Have you been affected by this incident? Email [email protected]

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There are plenty of great destinations to try out for solo travellers but there is one European country that stands out above the rest and even better it is only a three hour flight from the UK

The prospect of solo travel can be intimidating for many, with the thought of a lengthy and uncomfortable journey often serving as a deterrent. There’s a common belief that an individual must venture far and wide to experience new flavours, immerse themselves in cultural activities, meet like-minded individuals, or delve into a country’s rich history.

However, it appears that these experiences can be found much closer to home – specifically, in Europe. Lithuania ticks all these boxes, and the best part is, travellers don’t have to endure a long-haul flight.

While embarking on a solo adventure to distant locations, like Australia or Thailand, is undoubtedly an extraordinary opportunity, planning such these trips can be time-consuming and the journey itself can be quite exhausting, especially when travelling alone.

On the other hand, hidden gems like Lithuania offer a significantly shorter travel time, with flights from the UK capital taking less than three hours, reports the Express.

What’s more, Vilnius Airport’s proximity to the city centre means it takes just half an hour to reach the number of hotels and hostels available, allowing solo travellers to maximise their time exploring the city’s heart.

Another crucial factor for those considering embarking on a solo travel adventure is ensuring the destination is safe and easily navigable.

In Lithuania, visitors can rest assured that they will feel secure, regardless of their chosen accommodation.

Based on the Institute for Economics & Peace 2023 Global Peace Index, Lithuania has surpassed its neighbouring countries Latvia, Estonia and Poland when it comes to overall safety.

Meanwhile in the 2024 study, Lithuania jumped six places to 31st in the rankings beating the likes of Poland, Italy and the UK.

For travellers keen to dive deep into Lithuanian culture and perhaps extend their stay for a more substantial visit, there are numerous options to explore.

Vilnius serves as Lithuania’s capital, and the historic old town stands out as the must-see attraction, earning praise from TripAdvisor users with an impressive 4.6-star rating.

One visitor enthused: “Loved walking around to see the charming old town and its establishments. My visit was in December during the Christmas season so the visit was extra special. Many good shops to visit and tasty food to try! Would definitely recommend it as there must be something for everyone.”

Another traveller said: “Vilnius old town is an architectural gem. There are many styles but the stand out is the Baroque period of building. It’s fascinating to go from medieval to Baroque in the street and to have such a rich cultural history laid before you. Also, the terrain is undulating with some steep hills which gives it an other dimension.”

A third visitor shared: “We explored the old town with a local expert, as part of an Insight Vacations ‘Northern Capitals’ tour. Lovely old buildings and so much history!

“Some of the shops are excellent for gifts etc, including amber. We had an excellent dinner at a local beer restaurant (also had other beverages) – most enjoyable!” The KGB Museum (Genocido Auku Muziejus) ranks as the second top-rated spot on the travel review platform.

This niche museum is devoted to documenting the 50-year Soviet rule over Lithuania.

A visitor remarked: “This is a fairly small museum but is packed with information exposing some of the horrors of Lithuania’s past right up to the 1980’s. The price to enter was six euros per person and we easily spent 2.5 hours there.

“So much to read & look at but if you prefer you can pay for an audio tour which I believe was around 20 euros. Included in the price you can visit the cells & outdoor yard space downstairs, there were far more than I was expecting which gave a grim but interesting insight into what took place here.”

Another added: “What an experience. We didn’t really know much about the history of Lithuania and the Soviet Union and this was very informative and disturbing.”

A user said: “We booked an English tour beforehand. We were so glad we did. The tour was just for the two of us and the guide was excellent. He answered all our questions and gave us a really comprehensive explanation of how the building was used by the KGB.”

Where to stay in Lithuania?

Securing an apartment or even a whole cottage is straightforward, and luxury five-star hotels begin at a mere €150 (£130) per night. Additionally, Lithuania boasts a selection of hostels for those on a budget.

The sun isn’t the only source of radiant positivity during Lithuania’s summer. The locals exude such a cheerful vibe that Lithuania clinched the top spot for individuals under 30 in the annual World Happiness Report, ranking 16th overall.

Lithuanians are immensely proud of this accolade and are eager to share their warmth and joy with solo travellers keen to explore the marvels of Lithuania and its rich culture.

How to reach Lithuania?

Numerous UK airports offer flights to Lithuania. From London, you can jet off to Vilnius, Kaunas, and Palanga.

These direct flights take approximately two hours and 45 minutes. On average, these flights are priced at £57, with budget airlines like Wizz Air and Ryanair offering services to Lithuania.

For those in Manchester, Belfast, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, you’ll need to catch a connecting flight via London before heading to the Balkan nation.

Autumn can be an ideal season for a European city break but there’s one destination that often gets overlooked despite October being one of the best times to visit

Brits looking for city break inspiration this autumn may want to consider a trip to an often-overlooked city in France.

Despite being just an hour’s flight from the UK and boasting beautiful medieval buildings and a grand cathedral, Rennes is a city that tourists will often miss because they’re flocking to hotspots such as Paris or Marseille. However, because it’s as popular, Rennes actually offers up plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, not to mention you can get cheap flights if you do want to visit.

(If you have Paris on the bucket list, Rennes sits just a 90-minute journey away if you did want to extend the itinerary to check it out!).

The city is packed with a plethora of shops, cafés and bars, not to mention it’s got a buzzing art scene from the street art to the Fine Arts Museum. For music fans there are plenty of live music venues and festivals throughout the year where you can check out some lesser-known artists as well as bigger names.

Oh, and if you’re a foodie then you will want to time your break over a weekend, as Rennes hosts France’s second largest market every Saturday, serving up heaps of that world-famous French cuisine including local hits such as sausage wrapped in buckwheat pancakes.

One of the biggest draws for Rennes is the ease with which it can be visited from the UK. Flights take approximately an hour from London, and the journey from the airport to the city centre can be done in under 15 minutes.

These were big factors in a recent study from travel insiders at Holidu who ranked Europe’s best cities for an overnight break, with Rennes taking the crown. Researchers looked at a host of attributes including flight time from the UK, time between the airport and city centre, time spent walking between the top three biggest attractions, and the average cost of a hotel stay per night (in the case of the French city, this averaged out at about £69.39).

Autumn can be one of the best times to visit too, with temperatures remaining around 22C in September, and 17C in October. The latter may be more appealing to those on a budget; October is one of the best times to book flights as you can find fares from £49 with Skyscanner. Currently easyJet is the only airline offering direct flights from the UK, with routes departing from either London Gatwick or Manchester. As for your accommodation, Kayak has Rennes hotels from £42 a night outside of the peak holiday seasons.

Rennes wasn’t the only French city to impress in the Holidu rankings. It was closely followed by Nantes, which also boasted a flight time of around an hour, not to mention all of its major attractions sit within a 39-minute walk.

Do you have a story that you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

ONE of Olivia Attwood’s class of Bad Boyfriends has admitted to cheating on his partner for a sordid romp with a stranger as she waited for him in the car.

The group on the ITV2 programme were left absolutely gobsmacked when Dan revealed that one of the many times he had been unfaithful to Ellie came as she waited to pick him up from a festival alongside her mum.

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Ellie had been sitting in her car unable to track her partner for four hours as he got down and dirty with a stranger – unbeknownst to Ellie.

Dan was forced to own up to his cheating when he was questioned by Olivia Attwood on if he was still holding some secrets back from his partner.

Ellie was aware that Dan had been unfaithful to her with two women but in The Sun’s exclusive first-look clip, he is forced to confess to another even more shocking cheating scandal.

Olivia can be seen saying to the bad lad: “Have you slept with more girls than the two that Ellie knows about?”

Replying sheepishly, he says: “Yes, I have.”

Ellie can be seen stopping in her tracks whilst host Olivia’s eyes widen at the unexpected cheating admission.

In total shock, she asks him: “Where? When? Who is it?”

He nervously confirms that it was when he went to Boardmasters festival.

Ellie can be seen turning to not face him as she shockingly reveals: “I was at the car park waiting for FOUR hours to pick him up.

“With my mum!”

A horrified Olivia then questioned if this was when Dan was sleeping with someone to which he nodded his head.

When pressed by the host on who it was, Dan can be heard mumbling: “Some girl, some random girl.”

Ellie then says: “I doubt he even knows, he was that f***ed when he came out.”

Olivia then turns her attention to Ellie as she gives her a pep talk over the fact she appears unsurprised at her boyfriend’s cruel ways.

The TV star says: “I think the lack of surprise to some pretty serious allegations is a problem.

“This shouldn’t be normal, unshocking stuff.

“You should not be settling for so little, so soon.”

But will Ellie and Dan be able to work it out and has the bad lad changed for good?

Olivia Attwood’s Bad Boyfriends continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.

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Rome is often called the most beautiful city in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The Italian capital is full of history, world-famous landmarks and beautiful buildings at every turn

Countless European cities are hailed as stunning destinations.

Travellers frequently gush about destinations such as Paris, Vienna, Prague and Budapest, whilst here in Britain, Edinburgh is regularly dubbed among the most gorgeous. However, according to seasoned globetrotters, none can match Italy’s capital: Rome.

Those who have explored the Eternal City declare it the most breathtaking destination they’ve ever encountered, boasting streets steeped in history, world-renowned landmarks and magnificent architecture around every corner.

READ MORE: Historic European city has highs of 27C in October and is totally ‘magical’

OPINION

One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Honestly the most beautiful city ever! Every corner has something incredible to see.” Another commented: “Rome is beautiful. It is like a huge museum, and you get to experience it just by walking around.”

A third remarked: “Yes, Rome is the most beautiful city. Easy to walk, full of surprises and wonderful monuments.” Someone else described the historic centre as the place that “makes this city the most beautiful in the world”.

The Italian capital brims with iconic attractions, including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and the Vatican. Yet many insist it’s the ambience that truly sets it apart.

One traveller who explored the city noted: “Rome is like nowhere else. Beautiful buildings, amazing food, and history at every step. Just go, you won’t regret it.”

READ MORE: Charming UK market town where you can get get a house for less than £150k

Getting to Rome from Britain couldn’t be simpler, reports the Express. One-way Ryanair flights from London Stansted to Rome Ciampino on certain dates in September and October are available from £25, with the journey taking just 2.5 hours. Once you’ve touched down, the city centre is a mere 7.5 miles away and can be easily accessed by train or taxi.

Moreover, with the summer holidays behind us, September and October are fantastic times to visit as many attractions are less busy and can be enjoyed without enduring lengthy queues. The weather remains pleasant with an average temperature of 22C in October.

Beyond the main sights, many tourists find that simply wandering the streets is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Rome. One traveller shared: “We didn’t even plan everything, we just walked, and every street had something beautiful.”

One of the few gripes visitors often have is the traffic and the crowds, particularly during the summer months. That’s why it’s beneficial to visit Rome outside of the peak holiday season. While the traffic may still be hectic, the throngs of tourists will be significantly reduced.

Avis has ranked the best hidden European castles for a magical and secluded holiday. The list includes a Gothic fortress in Romania and two marvels of the Scottish Highlands

If you’re looking to trade city skylines for castles and rolling landscapes then these European destinations should be on your radar. Home to architecturally impressive and enchanting castles, these holiday spots are ideal for a secluded autumn adventure.

Avis has analysed social media trends, Google search data, TripAdvisor reviews and airport proximity to uncover Europe’s “most magical and secluded castles”. After assessing more than 50 destinations, these are the three that came out on top.

Corvin Castle in Romania was crowned the most secluded castle for a magical European holiday. The dramatic Gothic-Renaissance fortress in Hunedoara is less well-known and documented on social media than flashier landmarks, but that adds to its unique charm.

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According to Avis, Corvin Castle garnered 18k monthly searches and only 15k Instagram hashtags. Situated slightly out of the way, it is approximately a two-hour drive from Timisoara.

As one of the largest castles in Europe and home to one of Romania’s Seven Wonders, Corvin Castle is said to have imprisoned Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula.

Scotland’s hidden gems also feature heavily on the list of magical, secluded castles. Eilean Donan Castle, which is located where three lochs meet in Scotland, earned second place on the list.

Sitting on a tidal island, the castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and dates back to the 13th century. However, with only 1000 Instagram hashtags and nearly 50k monthly searches, this destination flies surprisingly low under the radar.

Eilean Donan Castle is ideal for travellers looking to feel transported to another time period, or who wish to make their Highland fairytale come to life.

While the closest airport, Inverness, is about 83 kilometres away, the long drive offers an opportunity to explore the Scottish Highlands and take in feats of nature like Ben Nevis, Glen Coe and Loch Ness. While in Scotland, you could also add a trip to Inveraray Castle to your itinerary, another hidden gem that features on Avis’ top 10 list.

Another castle that deserves a worthy shout-out is Predjama Castle in Slovenia, which ranked third on the most secluded list. Built directly into the mouth of a cave on a cliff face, this castle offers a unique and unreal visual.

Situated 114 kilometres from Ljubljana airport, this castle has an average search volume of 111k and 117k Instagram hashtags according to Avis’ analysis. Dating back over 800 years, the Predjama Castle mixes natural beauty with human innovation and lore.

Full top 10 destination list

• Corvin Castle, Romania
• Predjama Grad, Slovenia
• Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
• Inveraray Castle, Scotland
• Malbork Castle, Poland
• Hohenschwangau, Germany
• Heidelberg Castle, Germany
• Alcázar de Segovia, Spain
• Castello di Celsa, Italy
• Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, France

TRAITORS star Freddie Fraser shocks fans with ‘cheating’ vid hours after Yasmin and Jamie split.

The BBC mystery game competitor has been caught up in the midst of controversy after the former Love island couple called it quits.

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At the National Television Awards, we exclusively revealed how Yasmin was cosying up to Freddie.

She even whispered in the ear of The Traitors star to escape prying eyes, saying: “We need to go somewhere private, no one can see.”

Meanwhile Jamie lamented her disappearance, and as our exclusive video shows.

He was heard telling pals she had “f**ked off” – appearing to admit that the TV couple were on the rocks.

Now Freddie has caused a stir with his latest TikTok video where he flaunted his sleek black wide leg suit and double breasted jacket he wore to the event.

But in a more pointed nod, the song he used as the backing track was Rihanna‘s 2007 hit track, Breakin’ Dishes.

In an even more cheeky move, the lyrics of the song are: “Is he cheatin’?

“Man, I don’t know. I’m lookin’ ’round for somethin’ else to throw.”

Given the recent news, fans could not help but see the irony of the track as they took to the comments section with a flurry of speculation.

One user exclaimed: “The song seems fitting.”

A second fan took note of the lyrics as they simply commented with their spin on the quote, writing: “Is she cheating…..cause her man don’t know”!!”

“[Crying with laughter emoji] song choice,” said a third follower.

While a fourth stated: “The song choice is wildddd after the reports today [bold eyes emoji]”

As someone else claimed: “Sings really fitting well rn [two skull emojis].”

LOVE ISLAND VOTING PERCENTAGES

TONI and Cach won the Love Island 2025 final – yet what were the exact voting percentages?

Las Vegas waitress Toni Laites and professional dancer Cach Mercer went head-to-head with OG islanders Shakira Khan and Harry Cooksley in a nail-biting finale.

However, Toni and Cach were triumphant and won the summer series after surviving a love triangle just two weeks before the final.

A results table shared on Love Island’s Instagram account this afternoon showed Toni and Cach were the runaway winners on the night, taking over a third of the votes, with 33.5% of viewers backing them for the crown.

However, Shakira and Harry drew a sizeable 26.2% of the votes, and Yas and Jamie were not far behind taking 22% on the nose.

Aesthetics practitioner Angel, 26, only made her debut on July 17, but managed to secure an impressive 18.3% of the overall voting audience with Casa Amor boy Ty.

While a sixth remarked: “The song choice is crazy if I’m being honest”

And a seventh added: “The song choice [crying with laughter emoji],” alongside a GIF of Sharon Osbourne bursting into hysterics on The X Factor.

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BOXING fans were left seething after Netflix started experiencing technical issues just hours before Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford’s super-middleweight melee.

It was announced in June that the streaming powerhouse had acquired the rights for the historic undisputed 168lbs showdown.

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The service was nigh on flawless up until the interim WBC super-middleweight bout between Lester Martinez and Christian Mbilil.

Fight fans started experiencing a host of issues, with some joining the party later on unable to open the live programme on the app.

And several flocked to social media to express their frustrations.

One wrote on X: “Netflix already down. That’s a fine how do you do.”

Another said: “Stream quality is going down as we approach the main event.”

And another said: “I decided to stick it out and Netflix is DOWN!

“TRY AGAIN LATER is the message! For a Live Event!

One remarked: “Netflix is on their BS again.”

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CANELO VS CRAWFORD LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM THE FIGHT OF THE CENTURY

Another chimed in: “Netflix don’t ever stream another fight again.”

Despite a litany of viewers having issues, several had no problems streaming the card and praised Netflix for the quality of the stream.

One said: “This Netflix stream ain’t buffered not once.”

And another said: “How does Netflix stream in 8k so well?”

Netflix experienced similar technical issues when it streamed Mike Tyson‘s crossover clash with social media sensation Jake Paul last November.

The intense demand to watch Iron Mike’s return to professional action led to issues with the stream’s quality and left several fans unable to log in to the app entirely.

Open All Hours was one of the BBC’s most enduring and fondly remembered comedies of its era – and now Sir David Jason is returning to play Granville one last time

Sir David Jason is returning to play Granville for a final time in an Open All Hours TV Special. The new U&GOLD programme sees him closing the shop for the night while offering a touching glimpse into how his life has moved on since we last saw the BBC sitcom character.

Open All Hours: Inside Out will be a 90 minute feature-length retrospective that celebrates one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms and also includes a brand-new short scene, penned by original writer Roy Clarke. Sir David, 85, said: “It’s so good to be back! I played Granville for over half my life and so this show holds a very special place in my heart.

“There are countless memories and stories about this show, and I am thrilled to be able to share those with everyone.”

Corner-shop comedy Open All Hours first hit TV screens back in 1973 on the BBC with a one-off pilot, before it became a full series in 1976. The sitcom went on to run for four series until 1985, becoming one of the BBC’s most enduring and fondly remembered comedies of its era.

The comedy starred the legendary Ronnie Barker as Arkwright, a penny-pinching, stammering shopkeeper who’d do almost anything to save money.

At his side was a then-rising star in David Jason, who played his long-suffering nephew and assistant Granville. Together, the pair brought to life the quirks, chaos and cheekiness of running a small shop, with regular customers and neighbours popping in to add to the storylines.

The heart of the comedy lay in Arkwright’s obsession with Nurse Gladys Emmanuel, played by Lynda Baron, whose sharp wit and warmth provided a perfect foil to his penny-pinching schemes.

Although the sitcom only produced 26 episodes in total, its popularity never faded. Reruns on the BBC and later UKTV Gold introduced it to new generations.

2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the classic comedy, with Sir David Jason being the only actor to have starred in every episode of the original series, and the re-boot, Still Open All Hours. Sir David will discuss his personal journey on the show, revealing exclusive behind-the-scenes moments as well as some of his fondest memories from his time playing grocer, Granville.

Sir David will also be joined by some of his fellow cast who lift the lid on their experiences and celebrate one of the most iconic comedies of all time.

Senior Commissioning Editor, Mark Iddon said: “I can’t wait for U&Gold audiences to see what we have cooked up for them. Open All Hours is one of those rare beasts that even after 50 years is still as timeless and relevant as ever.”

Director of Programming Gerald Casey said: “Open All Hours is a classic, and part of our DNA here at U&Gold. We are thrilled to be able to give viewers more of what they love with Sir David Jason lifting the lid on some of his fondest memories on set alongside fellow cast members.”

The sitcom was so popular that the BBC revived it in 2013 with Still Open All Hours , once again fronted by David Jason, this time taking over the shop himself.

That spin-off ran for six series and speaking last year Jason admitted he would like the chance to revisit the show as a final series remains unmade and the storyline unfinished.

Asked if it is ever going to be finished, David said in 2024: “That would be wonderful, but you’d have to get in touch with Mr. BBC about that. The script is written by Roy Clark. It’s there and all it needs is the BBC to commission it and everybody that was in the original in the series was up for doing the last series because everybody thought it would be nice to the sew up the parcel, the one that Granville gets married to Wavy Mavy(Mavis), which we haven’t done, but that is what it’s about. Finally he makes an honest woman of her.”

Asked if it will happen, he added: “I’d like to think so, yes, but because the gap is getting longer without a commission… You can’t commission it and do it next week. You have to put all the bits together. That takes a lot of time putting that together. So the longer you don’t commission something, the more you get in trouble pushing it away.”

The new special and extra scene may be his way of saying goodbye to the show now instead.

Sir David credits Open All Hours co-star Ronnie Barker for some of his success on screen.

He said: “Ronnie wasn’t aware of the influence that he was having on me and I kept it quiet, as you do. But was an amazing influence and one of the big things that I tried to emphasise in the book was he was one of the kindest, nicest actors to work with. Most of them are, to be honest, but Ronnie was special.” The original Open All Hours was set in a grocer’s shop in South Yorkshire. The owner, Albert Arkwright was played by Ronnie Barker and was a middle-aged man who was tight with his money but also had a knack for selling. His nephew Granville was played by David Jason) and was a put-upon errand boy lacking a social life because of the amount of work his uncle gave him.

* Open All Hours: Inside Out is in production now and will air on U&GOLD in 2026.

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This huge playground is said to be ‘better than Disneyland’ and is easy for Brits to get to in a day – and it has over 350 different attractions for all ages to enjoy

With more than 350 attractions, this mega playground is bigger than Disneyland – and it takes under an hour to get there. Located in Linnaeushof, in the Netherlands, it’s the biggest in Europe and you can visit it in a day.

Brits can travel to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, and it’s then just a 20 minute drive to the park, making it an epic day trip for adventure seekers.

With three main sections – an indoor playground, an outdoor playground and a water playground, there is so much to do. The outdoor area is the main attraction including the Pirate Island in the middle of the pedalo lake, which can only be reached by rope bridge which also has paddle boats for both kids and adults.

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There are views from the Cool Tower, where you lift yourself to 30ft in the air via pull rope, as well as an obstacle course, cable car, driving traffic garden and mini golf too.

The Playground Express runs every day throughout the park amd there is also the Oasis water playground, which has fountains, climbing structures and splash pools.

There is also a separate toddler playground with a sandpit, bouncy castle and Toddlerland playpark and the indoor playground has everything from bumper cars and air karts, as well as a play castle. The park is open from March to October with tickets ranging from €15 to €18, although the go karts cost an extra €7.

It comes as one of Europe’s top-rated theme parks, which happens to have no rides, is planning a UK site. Puy du Fou is the creator of award-winning history-themed destinations in France and Spain of the same name. It welcomes in 2.8 million visitors a year and shows them a good time not via the medium of rides, but through its historical attractions.

At its Toledo and Les Epesses bases, Puy du Fou puts on dozens of action-packed shows in which gladiators, Vikings, warriors from the Middle Ages, and many others besides clash swords, ride horses, and set off pyrotechnics. The two sites are often rated as among the best theme parks in the world, delivering as they do a history-spanning live-action role-player’s dream.

Now, Puy du Fou has unveiled plans to move to the UK. It has submitted an outline planning application to Cherwell District Council for a £600 million park near Bicester, which is best known for housing a discount fashion retail park beloved by Chinese tourists.

If approved, the new park will open in phases beginning in 2029. By the time the park is fully developed it will directly employ around 2,000 people, support a further 6,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, suppliers and other local businesses, and deliver a £500m a year boost to the local and regional economy, Puy du Fou has claimed in a press release.

SEVERAL major high street bank brands are set to slash opening hours at hundreds of branches within days, The Sun can reveal.

Lloyds Banking Group, which operates Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland, is set to shake-up opening hours at all 757 of its branches from September 29.

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The move is being branded as a step towards consistency and improved staff wellbeing, but it will also mean less time for customers to access in-person banking services.

Under the new rules, branches will open later and close earlier than many currently do.

Weekday opening times will shift from 9am to 9.30am, with an even later start of 10am on Wednesdays to allow for dedicated staff training and development.

Closing times, which currently vary between 4.30pm and 5pm depending on the branch, will now be standardised to between 3.30pm and 4.30pm.

This means customers who previously had access to branches for longer hours will now lose up to 90 minutes of service each day.

Saturday hours are also being reduced, with branches opening at 9.30am instead of 9am.

Most will close by either 1pm or 3pm, cutting 30 minutes from morning banking services.

These changes will result in a net reduction of banking hours across the week.

For example, customers who rely on branches that currently open at 9am and close at 5pm could lose significant time for banking tasks.

The reduction in opening hours reflects a broader trend in the banking industry, as more customers shift to online and mobile banking.

With fewer people visiting branches in person, banks are cutting back on physical service times.

The changes are set to come into effect on September 29, with staff already being informed of the adjustments.

Customers who rely on in-branch services are being advised to check the new opening hours before planning their visits.

You can check your local branch’s operating hours by visiting branches.lloydsbank.com.

Lloyds Banking Group was contacted for comment.

How do I switch bank accounts?

SWITCHING bank accounts is a simple process and can usually be done through the Current Account Switch Service (CASS).

Dozens of high street banks and building societies are signed up – there’s a full list on CASS’ website.

Under the switching service, swapping banks should take seven working days.

You don’t have to remember to move direct debits across when moving, as this is done for you.

All you have to do is apply for the new account you want, and the new bank will tell your existing one you’re moving.

There are a few things you can do before switching though, including choosing your switch date and transferring any old bank statements to your new account.

You should get in touch with your existing bank for any old statements.

When switching current accounts, consider what other perks might come with joining a specific bank or building society.

Some banks offer 0% overdrafts up to a certain limit, and others might offer better rates on savings accounts.

And some banks offer free travel or mobile phone insurance with their current accounts – but these accounts might come with a monthly fee.

Other bank changes

Lloyds, Halifax, NatWest and Bank of Scotland is also closing a total of 119 branches over the next few months.

Last month, the Co-operative Bank announced plans to reduce opening hours at some of its branches by up to three hours a day.

In addition, 18 of these branches will close for one weekday each week.

Starting in January 2026, up to 25 of the affected branches will also shut on Saturdays.

However, the bank has confirmed that none of its branches will be permanently closed as part of these changes.

In June, Santander cut opening hours in half at 36 branches.

This move came as part of a broader restructuring, which also includes the closure of 95 branches and the conversion of 18 to “counter-free” service desks.

In April, Nationwide revised the opening times at 12 high street branches.

This means the days when your local branch would normally be closed have now been shifted to different days of the week.

Pakistan began evacuations last month after India released water from overflowing dams into low-lying border regions.

Nearly 300,000 people have been evacuated in the past 48 hours from flood-hit areas of Pakistan’s Punjab province following the latest flood alerts by India, officials have said, bringing the total number of people displaced since last month to 1.3 million.

A new flood alert was shared with Pakistan by neighbouring India through diplomatic channels early on Wednesday, said Arfan Ali Kathia, director-general of Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority.

Floodwaters have submerged dozens of villages in Punjab’s Muzaffargarh district, after earlier inundating Narowal and Sialkot, both near the border with India.

Authorities are also struggling to divert overflowing rivers onto farmlands to protect major cities, as part of one of the largest rescue and relief operations in the history of Punjab, which straddles eastern Pakistan and northwestern India.

The flood alert on Wednesday was the second in 24 hours following heavy rains and water releases from dams in India.

Thousands of rescuers using boats are taking part in the relief and rescue operations, while the military has also been deployed to transport people and animals from inundated villages, said Kathia.

Rescuers are also using drones to find people stranded on rooftops in the flood-hit areas. Kathia said more than 3.3 million people across 33,000 villages in the province have been affected. The damage is still being assessed and all those who lost homes and crops would be compensated by the Punjab government, he said.

Landslides and flooding have killed at least 30 people in India’s Punjab state, home to more than 30 million people, and nearly 20,000 have been evacuated since August 1.

In Pakistan, tent villages are being set up and food and other essential items are being supplied to flood-affected people, said Kathia, though many survivors complained about a lack of government aid.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited flood-hit areas in Muzaffargarh on Wednesday, meeting with displaced families at the camps.

About 40,000 people are in the relief camps, according to the National Disaster Management Authority. It remains unclear where the rest are sheltering.

Malik Ramzan, a displaced resident, said he chose to stay near his inundated home rather than enter a relief camp. “There are no liveable facilities in the camps,” he said. “Food isn’t delivered on time, and we are treated like beggars.”

Facilities at the camps “are very poor,” said Al Jazeera’s Kamal Hyder, reporting from Multan in Punjab. “There’s no clean drinking water, no proper toilet facilities, plus the fact that it’s very hot and humid, so it leads to dehydration.”

While these families have fans to keep cool in the heat, “there are frequent power breakdowns, so these people now are very vulnerable when it comes to their health and, of course, the outbreak of diseases.”

Last week’s flooding mainly hit districts in Kasur, Bahawalpur and Narowal.

Pakistan began mass evacuations last month after India released water from overflowing dams into low-lying border regions.

The latest floods are the worst since 2022, when climate-induced flooding killed nearly 1,700 people in Pakistan.

The Mediterranean island is a perfect holiday destination for many reasons – and we don’t just mean the beaches

The Mediterranean island of Sardinia, boasting a perfect mix of scorching weather, delectable cuisine, rich history, city life and stunning beaches, is surprisingly not even in the top ten islands most frequented by British holidaymakers. This list is dominated by Spanish destinations like Tenerife, Majorca and Lanzarote, as well as Greek islands such as Santorini, Corfu and Rhodes, reports the Express.

However, those in the know would argue that this Mediterranean gem outshines them all. One of its major attractions is the staggering number of gorgeous beaches dotted along the coast every few miles.

Sardinia, nestled halfway between the coasts of Italy and Spain in the Med, is far less popular and less well-known than the tourist hotspots of Spain and Greece. These locations are now so overrun with tourists each year that locals are pushing back against over-tourism.

Sardinia is an ideal holiday destination for numerous reasons: it’s a vast island, offering plenty of space, meaning you’re not forced to cram into one or two overcrowded tourist spots.

It boasts a large city, Cagliari, on its southern tip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of city life, complete with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. At the opposite end of the island lies Alghero, a reasonably large town also teeming with a lively dining scene.

The island is a haven of luxury, with its north-eastern shore attracting well-heeled European tourists to Porto Cervo. Here, you can spend your time admiring the heavily-guarded yachts and guessing their owners.

As expected from any Italian destination, the food scene is sensational with a plethora of dining options. Despite being less touristy than Majorca, many of Sardinia’s restaurants cater mainly for locals, ensuring high-quality cuisine.

But perhaps the jewel in Sardinia’s crown is the extraordinary number of stunning beaches. Each one could be considered a national treasure if located in another European country.

In fact, two Sardinian beaches made it onto a recent list of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches, with one securing second place.

The best beaches in Sardinia

Choosing the “best” beaches in Sardinia is almost impossible due to the sheer number of worthy contenders scattered around the island. Here are just a few suggestions, but you may discover your own favourites through personal exploration.

Besides the main island, the Maddalena archipelago, a group of islands off Sardinia’s north coast, also boasts a collection of beautiful beaches.

1. Cala Mariolu
2. Siaggia della Pelosa
3. Spiaggia del Pirata
4. Spiaggia Rena Bianca
5. Cala Corsara, La Maddalena

Sardinia can, naturally, become crowded during the peak months of July and August, when numerous Italians take their own holidays there. Costa Smeralda ranks amongst the most sought-after destinations. It’s also rather a celebrity magnet and the part of the island where affluence is most apparent.

If you fancy some celebrity-spotting, this is certainly the spot to visit, with Spiagga del Principe being the top beach to potentially glimpse a Hollywood star, music mogul or business leader. Lonely Planet said: ” A number of beautiful coves necklace the fabulous swoop of coastline where Gallura’s wind-whipped granite mountains tumble down to fjordlike inlets in the emerald sea.

“One of the finest is the Spiaggia del Principe, a stunning crescent of pale sand snuggled among low cliffs named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, who has given it his seal of approval.”

Where to stay in Sardinia

Where you decide to base yourself in Sardinia hinges on the type of break you’re after. Cagliari stands as the island’s biggest population centre, a thriving city offering an ideal blend of historical and contemporary elements.

It isn’t particularly a tourist hub, so the eateries here serve primarily Italians, ensuring you can trust their standard.

Even Cagliari boasts a gorgeous beach of its own, the enormous Poetto, just a brief journey from the city centre, where locals escape whenever possible. At the other end of the island, you’ll find Alghero, a cosy town boasting several beaches and nearby attractions, including stunning country villages.

From here, you can hop on a boat to Neptune’s Cave, a breath-taking seafront cavern where stalactites dangle above the water.

On the east coast, you’ll discover the luxury hotspots of Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda, a playground for the rich and famous. If rubbing shoulders with high society isn’t your cup of tea just yet, then Cannigione, a modest small town nearby, offers plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars.

Similarly, if you’re after a location that’s close to the city but also boasts a good selection of beaches, give Villasimius in the south a go. It’s just a short drive from Cagliari.

Where to eat in Sardinia

The choices are virtually limitless, with all the major towns and cities offering an array of authentic options that cater more to Italians than tourists.

But one dining experience you simply can’t miss is the agriturismo. This Italian concept sees traditional farms adapt to accommodate visitors looking to eat or stay (or both). The menus are extensive and fantastic, leaving you stuffed with the finest locally-produced food. There’s nothing quite like it.

How to get to Sardinia

Sardinia’s main airports are located at Cagliari on the south coast and Olbia on the north-eastern coast. Regular flights to either are available from UK airports.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

More than 360 people, including 130 children, have died from hunger since the start of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza.

A total of 185 people in Gaza died “due to malnutrition” in August, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, as an additional 13 people, including three children, have died in 24 hours since then as the catastrophic effects of Israeli-induced famine in the enclave worsen.

The statement issued on Tuesday said more than 83 people, including 15 children, had died since the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a United Nations-backed global hunger-monitoring system, declared last month that parts of Gaza were undergoing a full-blown famine.

The Health Ministry also said 43,000 children below the age of five were suffering from malnutrition along with more than 55,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women. Two-thirds of pregnant women were suffering from anaemia, the highest rate in years, it added. Mothers and newborns are the most at risk from malnutrition.

The total number of hunger-related deaths in the besieged enclave now stands at 361, including 130 children, since the start of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza on October 7, 2023.

Israel has killed at least 63,633 people in Gaza and wounded 160,914 during the war, according to the Ministry of Health.

The IPC declared on August 22 that 514,000 people in the Gaza Strip, close to a quarter of the enclave’s population, are experiencing famine. It expected the number to rise to 641,000 by the end of September.

The IPC made its declaration after more than 22 months of war, during which Israeli forces have destroyed medical facilities, schools, infrastructure and bakeries; blocked the entry of aid into the besieged Strip; and targeted and killed Palestinians seeking food aid.

This is the first time the IPC has recorded famine outside Africa, and the global group predicted that famine conditions would spread to Deir el-Balah in central Gaza and Khan Younis in the south by the end of this month.

After the IPC’s declaration, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the famine a “man-made disaster, a moral indictment and a failure of humanity itself”.

Guterres said Israel had “unequivocal obligations” under international law as an occupying power to ensure food and medical supplies enter Gaza.

Humanitarian organisations have demanded action. For its part, Israel rejected the findings, saying there was no famine in Gaza despite the IPC’s overwhelming evidence.

At least 63 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza since dawn on Tuesday, among them 41 in Gaza City alone, medical sources told Al Jazeera. Among the killed, 19 were aid seekers situated in central and southern Gaza.

Israeli attacks are mainly, but not solely, now focused on Gaza City, the territory’s largest urban centre, as the Israeli army relentlessly bombards it and tries to forcibly displace its residents to the southern part of the enclave.

“Civilians on the ground are bearing the brunt. There are still hundreds of thousands of families in Gaza City,” reported Al Jazeera correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum at midday from Deir el-Balah. “They refuse to leave because they know that there are no safe spaces in central and southern Gaza and they would rather stay close to their communities and what’s left of their houses.”

Once teeming and crowded with residential buildings, Gaza City has been home to one million Palestinians, nearly half of Gaza’s population, but it is now a landscape of rubble.

The world’s top genocide scholars formally declared that Israel’s war on Gaza meets the legal definition of genocide, marking a landmark intervention from leading experts in the field of international law.

The International Association of Genocide Scholars, a 500-member body of academics founded in 1994, passed a resolution on Monday stating that Israel’s policies and actions in Gaza fulfil the definition of genocide set out in the 1948 UN Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.