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Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin were stabbed to death in their home in Moscow, Idaho, in 2022, with roommates Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke surviving

Friends of the two University of Idaho students who survived the brutal stabbing of four roommates in 2022 have revealed why the pair didn’t call 911 for several hours after the massacre.

The revelations come in One Night in Idaho, a new Prime Video docuseries that premiered on July 11. The show includes interviews with relatives and friends of the victims – Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin – as well as insight into the surviving roommates’ state of mind in the hours following the killings.

Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, who lived in the Moscow, Idaho, off-campus house where the four students were murdered, were home at the time but were unharmed. They placed the 911 call at 11:58am on November 13, 2022 – roughly eight hours after the attack, which investigators believe happened between 4am and 4.20am.

READ MORE: True Crime fans told to watch Prime Video’s new ‘gut wrenching’ documentary

Dylan later told police she had opened her bedroom door around 4am after hearing noises and saw a masked man with bushy eyebrows walking toward a sliding glass door before locking herself in her room, according to a probable cause affidavit.

Speaking in the docuseries, friends Hunter Johnson, Emily Alandt and Josie Lauteren shared how Dylan and Bethany contacted them that morning asking for help. “She was like, ‘Something weird happened last night. I don’t really know if I was dreaming or not, but I’m really scared. Can you come check out the house?’” Emily recalled.

Dylan told her she had been in the basement with Bethany and had tried calling Xana several times but received no response. Emily said she didn’t initially think the request was serious. “I was like, ‘Ha, ha, sure. Should I bring my pepper spray?’ Not thinking anything of it,” she said.

Josie explained that Dylan had previously called friends for support after hearing strange noises in the house. “She’s called us before and been like, ‘Oh, I’m scared. Can you bring your boyfriends over?’ But it was never anything serious… because it’s Moscow.”

When Emily, Josie and Hunter arrived at the house, they quickly realised something was terribly wrong. “Dylan and Bethany had exited the house. They looked frightened, just kind of like, hands on their mouth, like, ‘I don’t know what’s going on,’” Emily said.

“As soon as I stepped in the house, I was like, ‘Oh, something is so not right.’ Like, you could feel it almost,” Josie added. Hunter, who entered the home first, urged them to call police without revealing what he actually saw when entering Xana and Ethan’s bedroom.

“Hunter had enough courage to tell them to call the police for not a real reason,” Alandt said. “He worded it very nicely. He said, ‘Tell them there’s an unconscious person.’ Hunter saved all of us extreme trauma by not letting us know anything.”

Dylan made the 911 call, but was too distraught to speak. “I had to take the phone from her because she was so completely hysterical,” Josie said. “They’re like, ‘What’s the address, what’s the address?’ and I was like, ‘1122 King Road.’”

Even then, Josie said she believed paramedics might revive the victims. “I mean, even when [Hunter] said they had no pulse, I still was like, ‘Oh, the paramedics are gonna come and revive them.’”

In the series, the friends say Dylan and Bethany’s delay in calling 911, and hazy memory, was likely caused by shock and confusion. “It wasn’t until the morning that [Dylan] realised, holy s***, that couldn’t have been a dream,” Emily said.

“She just called and said, ‘Something weird happened, I thought it was a dream, I’m not quite sure anymore. I tried to call everybody to wake them up and no one’s answering.’”

Bryan Kohberger was arrested nearly six weeks after the murders and charged with four counts of murder and one count of felony burglary. On July 2, Kohberger pleaded guilty to all charges. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 23 and faces life in prison.

Dylan and Bethany did not take part in the documentary and have not commented publicly about the new revelations. A psychologist in the docuseries said it’s likely Dylan – who came face to face with the killer – acted in a “trauma response”.

READ MORE: Boots slashes price of Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty set by 53% saving more than £40

The plane to London Gatwick from Cancun was diverted almost five hours into the flight

Passengers were left stranded at an airport for over 17 hours a flight was diverted due to a couple apparently smoking onboard. Brit Terry Lawrance, 66, said it was like a “war zone” with passengers camped out on rows of airbeds, after his flight home from Cancun, Mexico, on was grounded.

About an hour after take-off on July 8, the captain of the London Gatwick-bound TUI flight announced two passengers had been smoking in the toilets, and that if it continued, he would have to divert. After another three-and-a-half hours, the captain announced the plane would now be diverting to Bangor International Airport, Maine, US.

They landed at 21.30 local time – and the two alleged smokers were turfed off the flight. But Terry said the other passengers sat in their seats for another five hours and even taxied to take-off, before the flight was abandoned as the original crew were not able to continue to operate the rest of the flight back to Gatwick due to legal working hours.

Consequently, a relief flight was readied immediately, and a new crew were dispatched from the UK to the US to fly everyone back. The passengers were then kept in a room – which Terry claims is part of the military airbase section of the airport – for over 15 hours while the airline works to sort a relief crew.

A flight to take passengers home to Gatwick eventually took off at 15:00 local time (20:00 BST) on Wednesday, July 9 – with all passengers now safely home. Videos taken by Terry show rows of beds as passengers awaited updates, whilst another video shows vehicles approaching the plane after touching down in Bangor.

Terry said: “We were there for over 12 hours – it all went pear shaped. Everybody was fed up. In fairness, they started bringing out airbeds, but it was like free-for-all for vultures.

“It was like a warzone in a lounge – rows and rows of beds. All our luggage was still on the plane whilst we waited. TUI told us a relief crew was being sent from the UK because the current crew had used up their hours.”

Tracking on Flightradar24 shows the plane turning back towards Maine, shortly after entering Canadian airspace. Terry said: “After an hour the captain came on and said someone had been smoking in the toilet – he read the riot act and said if it continues, we’d have to divert.

“About three hours later, around the border with Canada and he came on to let us know that the plane was being diverted to Bangor, Maine. Once we landed, they removed the two passengers.

“They were obviously drunk. The captain then said we’d be getting going again once the paperwork has been done. We were sat on the plane on the ground for five hours – the plane started taxing again and we thought ‘great’ and then they said there was a problem with flight plan, and we have to get off.

“Next thing, we’re not going anywhere, and we’ve got to stay in this small lounge. We waited six or seven hours before we were offered a drink.”

TUI declined to comment.

A FIRST-TIME mum dreading flying with her baby daughter has shared how she got through it without any tears

Lala, from Germany, took to social media to share her genius parenting hack just in time for any summer holidays you have planned.

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And the best part is that the travel hack costs just 45p.

In the clip, Lala and her partner could be seen boarding the plane with their baby asleep in her mum’s arms.

She said: “This was her very first flight and we timed it perfectly with her nap. She slept right through takeoff but eventually she woke up.”

So how did the parents keep her entertained for the three hour flight? Lettuce.

Lala said they often give their tot lettuce when they’re trying to eat in peace, so decided to try it on the plane.

“It always keeps her occupied for so long. And I thought, if it works at home, why would it not work on a plane?” she explained.

Like most kids, her daughter was obsessed with tearing things up and trying to put them in her mouth.

“Like bread, paper, tissue, anything. But bread is way too messy, like there are crumbs everywhere,” she explained. And with paper or tissue, we always have to keep an eye on her that she doesn’t eat it. But lettuce?

“Lettuce is genius. It has a really fun texture and it’s not messy at all. And it’s safe if she decides to munch on it. Not just safe, but it’s actually a really refreshing and healthy snack for her.”

“This kept her occupied almost the entire flight.”

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While Lala’s easy travel hack was worth giving a go, it’s worth noting that some airlines may not let you bring it on, depending on what country you are flying to.

Others may not let you bring it into the country when you land so you’ll have to chuck it away.

But that won’t matter too much as the hack costs just 45p as two heads of lettuce cost 90p from Waitrose.

The clip quickly went viral on her TikTok account @lalaleluu with over 1.7 million views and 267k likes.

Plenty of parents took to the comments thanking her for the advice.

One person wrote: “Wow this is genius. About to take my baby on her first flight alone and I might try this.”

Another commented: “I have a 14 hour flight with my baby next month. I’ll just bring a whole field.”

“You, Lala, have just unlocked a whole new toy for all of us mums out there thank you,” penned a third.

Meanwhile a fourth said: “This is some next level parenting!! Bravo!!”

“Genius idea,” claimed a fifth

Someone else added: “This is such a good idea!!”

Nestled on the east coast of Kent, this beach is often deemed one of the UK’s most photogenic coastal spots

If you’re looking for a perfect beach day out this summer, look no further. A travel influencer has now flagged an idyllic, lesser-known gem – and it’s only two hours from London.

Step on the fine golden sands of this east coast beach and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in Italy or Greece. The scenic spot is framed by white cliffs, chalk stacks and caves accessible when tides are low.

TikTok creator ‘Lotteboo‘ recently expressed her admiration for the bay in a quick video. She named it a ‘fairytale’ spot in the UK while adding: “Tucked between Broadstairs and Margate on the east coast of Kent, Botany Bay is one of the UK’s most photogenic beaches — known for its dramatic chalk stacks, golden sands, and hidden sea caves that are only accessible at low tide.

“There’s a small car park right next to the beach (Botany Bay Hotel car park – CT10 3LG), but it fills up fast on sunny days. Alternatively, you can park at Kingsgate Bay or Joss Bay and walk along the coast (about 15–20 minutes with sea views all the way).”

As the influencer mentioned, the beach in question is none other than Botany Bay in Kent. For Londoners near Waterloo, it can take just over two hours to drive there, though this depends on traffic.

While many visitors simply enjoy lounging on its golden sands, others may safely enjoy a dip in the sea. According to Visit Kent, Botany Bay is among many of the county’s beaches to have received a Blue Flag award for water quality and top-tier cleanliness.

Fossil-finding and rock pool exploring are two other popular pastimes at the bay as well. Although it’s not part of the UK’s Jurassic Coast, Kent is often believed to be one of the best sites for fossil discoveries in the UK.

As of now, Botany Bay has an impressive 4.2-star rating on Tripadvisor, with some visitors even claiming to have spotted starfish and crabs while there. Among the overwhelming comments, one read: “Lovely spot for a small and secluded beach at low tide you can explore the rock pools and find crabs, shrimp, starfish, walk around in to the second small beach (until tide is in).

“…Water is sometimes seaweed mixed, but a sandy beach to at least get you to shoulder height for a swim, although there is seaweed in the deep parts, nice beach cafe with food and drinks and ice cream, didn’t use the toilets but I also took my rubbish home.”

Meanwhile, another person wrote: “Great bay, secluded, very pretty and very well maintained, surprisingly little rubbish in the beaches and coastal area.” Someone else added: “The beach was clean with wide open spaces for our dog to run free.”

It’s also worth noting that Margate, a quaint seaside town, is only a short drive from Botany Bay. Visitors here can enjoy a variety of unique shops and restaurants, visit another beach, or head to Dreamland, a free vintage-style amusement park.

Although it might not boast quite the same scorching temperatures as other seaside spots abroad, it’s still worth a day trip while Britain’s still sunny this summer.

What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below

The Channel 4 show 24 Hours in Police Custody followed Craig France, 34, who would pursue women late at night, lure them to his ‘after-parties’ back at home where he’d commit sexual offences

24 Hours in Police Custody’s latest two-part episode focused on the harrowing case of a serial rapist who deliberately preyed on vulnerable women at night-time, enticing them to his ‘after-parties’ where he’d film himself sexually abusing them while they were unconscious.

Craig France, 34, was well known in and around the Peterborough area. He was a regular in the town’s pubs and nightclubs, especially at weekends — a party boy persona that hid his deepest and darkest secrets.

The Mirror takes a look at exactly what has happened to the vile criminal ever since his arrest on the hit Channel 4 programme.

Craig France case details

In the chilling first episode, it was recalled how the investigation first started. One caller had claimed she was raped by France, but had little to no memory of exactly what transpired.

READ MORE: Chilling details of sexual predator who filmed himself abusing unconscious women at ‘after-parties’

Cambridgeshire Police would go on to arrest the 34-year-old and execute a search of his home address. They found 10 digital recording devices which had video footage of the alleged victim, incapacitated, being dragged in and out of the hot tub located in his rear garden.

Then a second young woman would come forward with similar allegations. Despite not remembering the incident entirely, the victim – who was 18-years-old at the time of the alleged crime – recalls meeting “good friend” France at a nightclub, and how many times they, along with other people, would end up back at his home.

She remembers at times waking up with lower stomach pain, as well as bleeding and bad cramps, and France would later send her footage of them engaging in sexual contact. Something she could not remember.

In total, police obtained thousands of images and over 4,000 videos containing France and several victims off his numerous devices. Officers then had the difficult task of telling the other women identified in the clips.

Where is Craig France now?

France would go on to plead guilty in March this year, admitting to sexual offences against four women, including rape and assault, and was sentenced to 10 years and seven months in incarceration. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) would also enact a forfeiture and destruction order for his many devices.

Andrew Young, from the CPS, explained: “Craig France is a deplorable predator who targeted young women and established their trust before ruthlessly exploiting them. By filming and photographing the offences, France built up and extensive set of images which were stored in his phone, all kept for his own sexual gratification, he and he alone is to blame for his disgusting offending.

“Determined to seek justice for the brave women he abused, the CPS worked closely with Cambridgeshire Police to demonstrate the extent of his offending and built a set of charges which gave France little option to plead guilty to. The bravery and resilience shown by his victims during this process has been extraordinary, and we hope they feel justice has been served for them.

“The CPS will continue to work tirelessly to pursue those who commit sexual abuse and hold them accountable for their crimes, including asking the court that any relevant devices and images obtained as part of the offending are forfeited and destroyed.”

Raising awareness

Detective Chief Inspector Helen Tebbit, along with her team who featured on 24 Hours in Police Custody, said in a statement: “Firstly, I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to the victims, who, despite their ordeals, supported the investigation and bravely shared their stories on 24 Hours in Police Custody. This programme will show that sexual predators can cleverly disguise their depraved behaviours — victims may not realise they are being groomed.

“France portrayed himself as everyone’s best friend — caring, fun, and provided what his victims thought was a safe place to party. But in reality, he preyed on young women who had barely entered adulthood for his own sexual gratification. I would encourage anyone who thinks they might’ve been a victim of a sexual offence to contact us on 101 or via web chat on the force website.”

Authorities believe there are more unidentified victims of France’s out there, and there’s hope the two-part episode will help raise awareness and give them enough bravery to come forward.

Speaking to the BBC, Tebbit remarked: “I don’t think we will ever fully understand how many victims there are of Craig France. But I do think that there are likely more victims out there. I hope that anyone watching the programme sees that we have a team of specially trained officers who who will work tirelessly to ensure we do the very best for victims of serious sexual violence and hopefully that comes across.”

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Roman Starovoit was found dead near his car in the Moscow region hours after President Vladimir Putin dismissed him.

Russia’s top criminal investigation agency is probing the death of Roman Starovoit, a former transport minister whose body was found with a gunshot wound near his car, hours after President Vladimir Putin dismissed him from his post.

Authorities on Monday said the 53-year-old politician’s body was discovered near a Tesla vehicle abandoned near a park in the Moscow region, with a pistol, registered in Starovoit’s name, located nearby.

The Investigative Committee has opened a case to determine the full circumstances of his death, suggesting it could be suicide. Russian media, citing law enforcement sources, said the gunshot appeared to be self-inflicted.

However, the timing of the death has prompted speculation.

Putin issued a decree earlier on Monday, removing Starovoit as transport minister, a role he had held for just more than a year. No explanation was provided.

Political commentators quickly linked the decision to a long-running corruption investigation in the Kursk region, where Starovoit previously served as governor.

The probe centres on whether 19.4 billion roubles ($246m) allocated in 2022 to bolster border defences in Kursk were embezzled.

The funds were meant to reinforce Russia’s frontier with Ukraine, but Ukrainian forces launched a cross-border assault into the region three months into Starovoit’s ministerial term – the largest such incursion since World War II.

In April, his successor and former deputy in Kursk, Alexei Smirnov, was charged with embezzling defence funds. Several Russian outlets reported on Monday that Smirnov, who denies wrongdoing, had told investigators Starovoit was also involved in the alleged fraud.

The incident casts a shadow over Russia’s transport sector, already grappling with wartime pressures.

Western sanctions have left the aviation industry struggling for spare parts, while soaring interest rates have pushed Russian Railways – the country’s largest employer – into financial strain.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s drone attacks continue to disrupt domestic air traffic, forcing temporary airport closures and leading to logistical uncertainty.

Following Starovoit’s dismissal, the Kremlin announced that Andrei Nikitin, former governor of the Novgorod region, had been appointed as acting transport minister. Photographs released by state media showed him shaking hands with Putin.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Putin believed Nikitin had the necessary experience to steer the ministry through current challenges. At his meeting with the president, Nikitin pledged to modernise the sector by boosting digital infrastructure to improve cargo flows and cross-border trade.

WASHINGTON — There’s no filibuster in the House, but Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries essentially conducted one anyway.

Jeffries held the House floor for more than eight hours Thursday, taking his “sweet time” with a marathon floor speech that delayed passage of Republicans’ massive tax and spending cuts legislation and gave his minority party a lengthy spotlight to excoriate what he called an “immoral” bill.

As Democratic leader, Jeffries can speak for as long as he wants during debate on legislation — hence its nickname on Capitol Hill, the “magic minute,” that lasts as long as leaders are speaking.

He began the speech at 4:53 a.m. EDT and finished at 1:37 p.m. EDT, 8 hours, 44 minutes later, breaking the record set by then-Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) in 2021, when he was the GOP leader. McCarthy spoke for 8 hours, 32 minutes when he angrily criticized Democrats’ “Build Back Better” legislation, breaking a record set by Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), when she spoke about immigration for 8 hours, 7 minutes in 2018.

“I feel an obligation, Mr. Speaker, to stand on this House floor and take my sweet time,” Jeffries said as he opened.

The speech pushed a final vote on Republican President Trump’s tax bill, initially expected in the early morning, into the daylight hours. The New York Democrat used the time to criticize the bill’s healthcare and food aid cuts, tax breaks for the wealthy and rollbacks to renewable energy programs, among other parts of the bill that Democrats decry.

He also killed time by riffing on hip-hop, King George III and his own life story, among other diversions. He called out Republicans who have voiced concerns about the bill, read stories from people concerned about their health care from those GOP lawmakers’ districts and praised his own members, some of whom sat behind him and cheered, clapped, laughed and joined hands.

“This reckless Republican budget is an immoral document, and that is why I stand here on the floor of the House of Representatives with my colleagues in the House Democratic caucus to stand up and push back against it with everything we have,” Jeffries said.

He ended the speech in the cadence of a Sunday sermon, with most of the Democratic caucus in a tight huddle around him. One colleague called out, “Bring it home, Hakeem!”

“We don’t work for President Donald Trump,” Jeffries said, as a handful of Republicans across the aisle sat silent and occasionally snickered at the leader as he kept talking.

He invoked the late John Lewis, a civil rights activist in the 1960s and longtime Democratic congressman from Georgia. “Get into good trouble, necessary trouble,” Jeffries said. “We’re going to press on until victory is won.”

Jeffries sneaked small bites of food and drank liquids to boost his energy, but did not leave the chamber or his podium. The speech would be over if he did.

Democrats were powerless to stop the huge bill, which Republicans are passing by using an obscure budget procedure that bypasses the Senate filibuster. So they were using the powers they do have, mostly to delay. In the Senate, Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York forced Senate clerks to read the bill for almost 16 hours over the weekend.

Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) similarly gained attention in April when he spoke for more than 25 hours on the Senate floor about the first months of Trump’s presidency and broke the record for the longest continuous Senate floor speech in the chamber’s history. Booker was assisted by fellow Democrats who gave him a break from speaking by asking him questions on the Senate floor, but Jeffries’ “magic minute” did not allow for any interaction with other members.

Republicans who were sitting on the floor when Jeffries started trickled out, leaving half the chamber empty. When the speech was over, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-Mo.) called it “a bunch of hogwash.”

The speech “will not change the outcome that you will see very shortly,” Smith said.

After the bill passed, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said that Democrats “wanted to speak for hours and hours and break records because they wanted to stand in the way of history.”

Jalonick writes for the Associated Press. A.P. writers Matt Brown, Kevin Freking, Lisa Mascaro and Leah Askrinam contributed to this report.

EUROSTAR passengers were stuck for up to seven hours yesterday after two people were hit by trains.

The operator warned that delays and disruptions will continue into this morning.

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Trains in both directions between London St Pancras International and Gare Du Nord in Paris were either cancelled or delayed for hours.

It followed two separate fatalities, the first between Lille and Paris and around 5pm.

The second person was hit between Lille and Arras, according to local media.

Eurostar posted on X this morning to say trains will be running, but there area a “few cancellations” and “a lot of passengers travelling”.

“So the situation might still be difficult.”

Yesterday, there were massive queues at both the UK and French railway stations.

Many furious passengers who were stuck for hours took to social media to demand compensation.

One train, due to leave London at 2.31pm, was supposed to arrive at 5.57pm.

But it was delayed for four hours and didn’t get in until nearly 10pm.

Another frustrated passenger said they were on a train from London to Paris but they were stuck on it for seven hours.

Naomi Sanger, from Snodland, told KentOnline she boarded the 4.31pm at Gare Du Nord but it never left and she was left stranded at the station.

She posted on X that the food and drinks supply was running out, and the air con was not working.

In a statement on X, Eurostar said: “Due to a person struck by a train near Lille Europe, we are expecting delays and cancellations to our services this evening.

“We advise changing your journey for a different travel date.”

On Wednesday, Eurostar travellers were also hit by delays after a person was hit on the rails in France.

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An eerie relic of the Soviet Union, this separatist region filled with Lenin statues and Putin souvenirs declared independence back in 1990 – but is internationally not recognised as an actual country

Touted as a ‘surreal relic of Soviet times’, this tiny country is attracting tourists from around the world – despite technically not even existing.

Eerily trapped in a ‘time warp bubble’, Transnistria is a separatist region sandwiched between the Dniester River and Ukrainian border. In 1990, it broke away from Moldova, becoming a de facto independent, semi-presidential republic with its own government, parliament, military, police, currency, postal system and vehicle registration.

Transnistria has even adopted its very own constitution, flag (which features the communist hammer and sickle), national anthem and coat of arms. However, it is internationally unrecognised, and is still seen as part of Moldova.

READ MORE: Abandoned UK island untouched for nearly 100 years just yards from seaside town

With political, economical, and military ties to Russia, the narrow strip of land – located some three hours away from the UK – has preserved its idolisation of the USSR, despite its downfall. In the capital of Tiraspol, tourists will be able to spot soaring statues of Vladimir Lenin, run-down buses travelling along electrified lines, and souvenir shops flogging posters of Putin.

It feels as though the area has become stuck in the 1950s, and has recently become a potential site for Russia to deploy 10,000 troops. The area is also facing ‘deep economic contraction’ as Russia – which had previously supplied the de-facto state with near-free gas, has started to impose tighter restrictions.

“A referendum on independence in September 2006, not recognised by Moldova or the international community, saw the territory reassert its demand for independence and vote in support of ensuing a union with Russia,” reports the BBC. “After Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine sealed its border with Transnistria – this had been the main route for imports – making Transnistria wholly reliant on Moldova for imports through its own border.”

It’s therefore no surprise that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) currently advises Brits against all travel to Transnistria. “There is widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders,” the body warns.

“Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government. FCDO’s ability to offer support is extremely limited and will be more limited if there is military action on or near the Moldova-Ukraine border.”

The UK government also warns that Moldova announced an energy state of emergency on December 16, 2024, linked to the cut-off of gas supplies on January 1, 2025. This may result in widespread blackouts.

Despite the warnings, several Brits have headed over to Transnistria, promoting it as the ‘cheapest’ place in Europe. User Kieran Brown, who visited last year, raved about the region – claiming a bottle of vodka from the shops costs just $1 (approximately 74p).

“The Soviet vibes can really be felt here in the capital of Tiraspol,” he said. “Many things have been left unchanged since the USSR. This truly was one of the most interesting places I’ve ever visited in my life.”

*Heading to a country on the FCDO’s do not travel list could void your insurance. You can read the government’s full advice here.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

A travel enthusiast shared a clip from her trip to a theme park which has twice been named the best in the world, and it’s all down to one surprising difference

If you are looking for an alternative holiday spot this summer, one woman has just the recommendation. Despite being named ‘best theme park in the world’ twice, Puy du Fou in the Pays de la Loire region of France remains a hidden gem to many.

Travel expert Bonnie Rakhit posted a clip on TikTok showcasing her visit to what she claims is the country’s “best kept secret.” “It’s without doubt the most magical theme park I have ever visited,” she exclaimed. Just an hour’s drive from Nantes, Bonnie suggests the site is the perfect quick getaway from the UK. So what makes this place so unique?

“There are no rides here,” says Bonnie. “Instead you go on a time-travelling adventure from Roman gladiators to Viking raids, and the legend of King Arthur to the splendour of the Palace of Versailles across 50 hectares of breathtaking scenery.”

Bonnie also notes that the park is home to 20 internationally acclaimed shows, providing an all-encompassing experience for the entire family.

Each spectacle has been translated into English, with scripts accessible through the park’s mobile app.

“The magic doesn’t stop at night,” Bonnie added. “We stayed at Le Grand Siecle – a hotel inspired by Louis XIV’s Court. There’s also a medieval village, a Camelot-style tented camp, an ancient Roman town and a castle called the Citadel.”

Concluding her review, Bonnie said Puy Du Fou plays host to over 2.8million visitors annually. “It’s easy to see why,” she said.

“It’s inspiring and completely unique – this isn’t just a theme park, it’s a journey through time. Add it to your bucket list.”

Engaging with her post on TikTok, one fan raved: “I have been a few times and it is insane, seriously amazing. The Coliseum is crazy!”

Another person remarked: “I love Puy de Fou, used to live in Nantes and went many times. The evening shows are amazing! Planet Sauvage is also fab and the best safari park I have ever seen.”

Whilst a third praised: “This is genuinely the best park I have ever been to! So incredible I would say Europa Park is good for rollercoasters (although i don’t think it’s the best one in Europe but it’s nice) but Puy Du Fou is amazing for story telling! Like incredibly impressive!”.

According to the English language section of the Puy de Fou official website, prices for an overnight stay start from £63.38 per person. This not only includes entry to the park and all its spectacles but also an overnight hotel stay complete with breakfast (at either an on-site hotel or in partnership accommodations near Puy du Fou) and complimentary translation services for all attractions.

For those looking to visit the park alone, tickets are available for one, two, or three-day adventures, kicking off at a modest £31.69 per person.

The site further states: “The Puy du Fou experience is designed for all ages to enjoy. Children and parents alike will be captivated all the way through as the shows are short and feature many amazing effects.

“The few scenes that may alarm very young children due to their spectacular realism are indicated by a symbol in the mobile app and Visitor Guide.”

Following rising passenger numbers and impressive financial results, Eurostar is investing £1.7bn to launch a fleet of up to 50 trains that operate three new direct routes, including two from the UK

Eurostar is ramping up its railway offerings as part of a major €2 billion (approximately £1.7bn) investment.

Earlier this month, the company announced it would launch a fleet of up to 50 trains that will be in service from the early 2030s, operating three new direct routes. The announcement comes after Eurostar released its 2024 financial results, which found it had achieved an impressive EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) of €346 million (£296 million).

In a press release, Eurostar said passenger numbers rose to over 19.5 million, marking a five per cent year-on-year increase. It follows the ‘successful reinstatement’ of direct services between London, Rotterdam and Amsterdam in February this year, which will see a fourth daily service added from September 9 and a fifth from mid-December.

READ MORE: New 20k-mile train to link 100 EU cities with £67 tickets – but there’s a catch

In the next decade, Brits will be able to hop on a train at London St Pancras and travel straight to Frankfurt in Germany. This city is known for homing one of the largest financial hubs in Europe, and has become a tourist hotspot in recent years thanks to its stunning architecture, ubiquitous history and close proximity to the ethereal Hohenzollern Castle.

Alternatively, Brits will be able to head directly to Geneva in Switzerland, and marvel at the stunning Mont Blanc in the Alps. Geneva is an excellent base for ski enthusiasts, offering convenient access to a plethora of resorts including Villars, Gryon, and Les Diablerets. The upgrade will also see trains running straight from Amsterdam/Brussels to Geneva.

Eurostar’s CEO Gwendoline Cazenave said the company was witnessing ‘strong demand’ for train travel across Europe, with customers wanting to ‘go further by rail than ever before’. “Despite the challenging economic climate, Eurostar is growing and has bold ambitions for the future,” she added.

“Our new fleet will make new destinations for customers a reality – notably direct trains between London and Germany, and between London and Switzerland for the first time. A new golden age of international sustainable travel is here.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also welcomed the announcement, describing it as a ‘huge step in promoting green travel across Europe’ as well as boosting the UK’s international rail connections. “Today’s announcement by Eurostar shows that the government’s plan for change is rapidly strengthening the links between major cities in counties across Europe, creating more opportunities to travel, work, and socialise,” the politician said.

Eurostar’s expansion comes as several companies are desperate to gain access to the Temple Mills depot in north-east London, which Eurostar currently monopolises. As previously reported, a report conducted by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) found: “There is some available capacity at Temple Mills International (TMI) depot for more trains to be stabled, serviced and maintained.”

The investigation is great news for Virgin Group, which says it is now ‘ready to take up the challenge’ of launching high-speed passenger train services through the Channel Tunnel. “The Temple Mills depot is the only facility in the UK which can accommodate European-style trains and claims suggesting it was at capacity have been blocking Virgin from coming to the line,” a spokesperson said. “Virgin is therefore very pleased with the outcome and we thank the ORR for commissioning this report, which will now unlock competition on the cross-Channel route for the benefit of all passengers.”

Alstom, a French manufacturer specialising in locomotives, is also in talks to use its new Avelia Horizon trains to ramp up journeys across Europe. The company has already signed an €850 million (around £715 million) contract to provide and maintain 12 of its double-decker trains for a Proxima, a private operator in France – as well as France’s state-owned company The Société nationale des chemins de fer français (SNCF).

Chief executive Henri Poupart-Lafarge says the new fleet could lower fares and increase capacity in the undersea Channel Tunnel, which connects the UK to France. However, it will first need to seek approval from regulators to make sure it adheres to strict Channel Tunnel safety rules.

What do you think of the Eurostar announcement? Let us know in the comments section below

A 22 year old woman was left horrified by the view after travelling for over 30 hours to see the historic World Heritage site, Machu Picchu – and others were just as disappointed by their visits

Set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, you’ll find the majestic Machu Picchu. Built in the fifteenth century, it was abandoned when the Incan Empire was conquered by the Spaniards in the sixteenth century. It wasn’t until 1911 that the archaeological complex was made known to the outside world.

As well as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was selected as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007. This ramped up the number of tourists who visit – and the Incan citadel attracts around 1.6 million visitors a year.

One of the many tourists who has visited the historic site is globe-trotter Leonie, who took to her TikTok page to share a video of herself after reaching Machu Picchu. She travelled for around 30 hours to get there, so was expecting big things.

However, she seemed pretty underwhelmed when she saw the view. In an online post, she said: “Seeing one of Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu. Did 8 hours plane, 17 hours of bus, biking and rafting, 5 hours of hiking for this view.”

Leonie posed with her hands over her mouth in dismay, before turning the camera to show how cloudy it was on site. Instead of seeing the historic houses and buildings, the view was concealed by a thick, grey fog that made the whole mountain look eerily creepy.

According to Exploor Peru, Machu Picchu is often covered in fog, especially in the early mornings, due to its high altitude and proximity to the Amazon rainforest. The fog can be quite dense, particularly during the rainy season (November to March), and can obscure views of the ruins and surrounding peaks.

However, the fog often clears out as the day progresses, and sunny periods can follow, revealing the stunning landscape.

Several people soon took to the comment section of Leonie’s video, which has been viewed more than 8.8 million times. It turns out, Leonie wasn’t the only one who had been left underwhelmed by her visit.

“Machu Picchu was so disappointing when I went in January,” one person commented.

Meanwhile, a second viewer wrote: “I’d stay there for days waiting to clear out – no way.”

Another person said: “Bruh this is why I’m avoiding planning a trip to see Machu Picchu or the Northern Lights – I couldn’t deal with the disappointment.”

However, on the bright side, another viewer wrote: “You know it’s about the journey, not always the destination.”

Jet2 has issued a message to all holidaymakers who plan to travel with the airline this summer, as well as Jet2holidays customers. The operator is advising customers to check the “latest travel information” section on Jet2’s websites “at least 12 hours” before their flight to get the most current details.

Jet2 has issued a 12-hour warning to anyone with flights booked on the airline this summer.

Britain’s third-largest airline has dished out some sage advice to flyers, strongly recommending them to check the “latest travel information” on Jet2’s website at least 12 hours before flying to make sure they get any last-minute updates.

The company advises travellers: “Please check this section of the website at least 12 hours before your flight for the latest flight information. Further information can be found by using the [above] search panel by entering your flight number or route. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time.

“Please remember – check-in desks close 40 minutes before this. In the event of flight disruption our dedicated Operations teams are working hard behind the scenes at our UK-based HQ to get you on your way as soon as possible.”

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

READ MORE: Europe’s ‘Ant and Dec but with brains’ produce feel-good film of the summer

Jet2 jets off from an array of airports spanning the UK, including but not limited to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Manchester Airport, and Glasgow Airport, going to over 75 exciting spots around Europe and even farther.

Jet2 passengers can check-in for their flight starting 28 days before and ending 5 hours before the scheduled departure time – though this depends on the departure destination. Jet2 passengers that have not yet checked in online can opt in for seat selection and also receive a printed boarding pass at a ticket counter. Those that opt for online check in can download a mobile boarding pass to their device.

Jet2 is also one of a few airlines that offers Twilight Check In, which enables passengers flying at midday to drop off their bags the evening before their flight. However, this service is only available between certain hours and at certain airports.

Jet2 passengers with flights departing before midday can drop off their bags at Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow International, London Stansted, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester or Newcastle Airports.

Even more conveniently, if you are travelling as part of a group not all passengers need to go to the airport for the twilight bag drop-off. Every one passenger is able to check bags for up to six people. Jet2’s Twilight Check-in service is free of charge and open between 16:30 and 21:00 the evening before your morning flight.

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Jet2 was recently crowned the best short-haul airline in the world. Which? conducted its annual airline satisfaction survey, gathering feedback from travellers about their flying experiences over the past year. The survey analysed data from more than 9,000 flights.

Jet2 was the best-performing short-haul airline, netting an impressive customer score of 80 percent. It is the fourth year in a row that the airline secured the top spot, earning high praise for customer service, booking process, cleanliness, and value for money.

For those wanting a picturesque location without committing to a long-haul flight, Croatia might be the perfect solution

A popular beach praised for its turquoise sea and white sand is just hours away from the UK. For holidaymakers wanting a picturesque location without committing to a long-haul flight, Croatia might be the perfect solution.

Just a three-hour flight from the UK, Croatia is known for its white sand, turquoise seas, car-free islands and dramatic cliffside coves. According to rental experts Villsy.com, Croatia offers all the beauty of the Maldives without the long-haul journey.

Croatian coastal bathing areas, according to the European Environment Agency’s report, are the cleanest in Europe. Tamed by its 1,244 islands, the Croatian sea is also very calm.

Toni Hrelja, founder of Villsy.com, shared a local’s guide to Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, including hidden gems where the “crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery rival the Maldives.” Among them is Sakarun beach on Dugi Otok island.

According to Toni, Sakarun beach “stuns” with its shallow turquoise sea and white sand mixed with smooth pebbles. The beach features a “calm lagoon with a wide sheltered bay”, which offers the shade of the pine trees.

The beach is located on Dugi Otok, an elongated island with small, peaceful villages. The island is home to only 1,500 people, and a huge nature spot Telašćica Nature Park.

On TripAdvisor, the beach is described as a “hidden gem”, “a magical place” and a “pearl of sand.” It has been given a 3.5 rating overall.

One reviewer said: “Sakarun is the most beautiful beach I have ever been. Crystal clear turquoise water, light sand, amazing view.”

A second wrote: “One of the most beautiful beaches you can find in Croatia! It’s worth spending at least a day there. We left Zadar with a tour that included a transfer with a fast catamaran (we arrived on the island in an hour) then they took us to the beach by coach!

“Wonderful. You have to walk a little to reach the bus and then to reach the beach but it’s worth it. I recommend reaching the pine forest at the end of the beach to settle in the shade. There are a couple of bars, a small shop selling beach supplies and some chemical toilets that are generally clean. There are no showers.”

Another added: “Carribean sea in Croatia. Far away the most beautiful beach in Croatia. Difficult to reach, the best way is by boat. A nice sandy beach with clear blue water.”

Toni added: “Due to the island being remote, the beach isn’t crowded, even in the peak season, but it takes an effort to reach it.” There are direct flights from London, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Liverpool and Bournemouth to Zadar.

From Zadar there are two ways to reach the island – either to take the ferry to Brbinj (1:45) or a passenger catamaran to Božava (1:20). If you don’t have a car to drive around the island, there’s a tourist train from Božava to Sakarun that goes every two hours.

A popular Spanish airport, which welcomed more than six million visitors last year, has confirmed it will extend its opening hours after the summer period – providing more flexibility for airlines

A popular airport in the Canary Islands will undergo a major shakeup, as it continues to ‘strengthen links’ to the holiday hotspot.

For years, Fuerteventura was dismissed as the ‘boring’ side of the archipelago – constantly overshadowed by neighbouring party resorts in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. However, the destination – which is the second largest Canary Island – has witnessed a huge tourist boom.

Lured in by its unspoilt golden beaches, cobalt waters, rugged volcanos and rich wildlife – Fuerteventura’s mass appeal is finally starting to be appreciated. It’s great for surfers, water sports enthusiasts, hikers, or those that just want to chill by the pool with a good book.

Last year, the island’s airport handled a whopping 6.4 million passengers – marking a 7.1 per cent increase from 2023 and a huge 14.4 per cent spike compared to pre-covid years. Now, it is extending its operating hours – but there is a catch.

READ MORE: Huge blow to Greece as tourists abandon popular island for key reason

According to Canarian Weekly, Fuerteventura Airport currently closes at 10.30pm, but a new timetable will push this back by 30 minutes, until 11pm. However, the extension won’t come into effect until November 1, meaning passengers flying to the hotspot during the summer won’t be impacted by the change.

The move comes as Spain’s airport operator AENA has also given the green-light for La Palma Airport to open until 11pm. In a statement sent to the Mirror, AENA confirmed the airport will also have the option to extend its operating hours by one hour, until midnight, upon request from an operator.

“The schedule extension can be requested to accommodate previously scheduled commercial flights that have experienced delays and need to operate after the regular closing time due to unforeseen causes, such as operational issues or weather conditions,” a spokesperson said. “All involved groups and organisations, which were previously consulted to conduct the technical feasibility study, have been informed.

“Modifications to an airport’s operating hours begin with a request from at least one airline, which provides a reasoned justification through a firm proposal for scheduling additional flights during that time. The procedure requires a detailed prior study of its feasibility, not only from a financial perspective, but also from the priorities and perspectives of all parties, including inter-island connectivity.”

While a later closing time can provide more flexibility for airlines – it may not go down well with residents who live nearby. Fuerteventura’s skyrocketing popularity has dragged it into Spain’s escalating anti-tourist sentiment, as Brits take the blame for the country’s worsening housing crisis.

Over the last year, several protests have erupted across the island, as banner-waving residents demand tourists ‘go home’. As previously reported, the island’s government has confirmed it will introduce a tourist tax for entering the wild beach of Cofete, the awe-inspiring sand dunes of Correlejo and the vast sea caves of Ajuy.

Jessica de León, Minister of Tourism and Employment of the Government of the Canary Islands, has insisted that Fuerteventura ‘must now be incorporated into the regional debate on the ecotax in protected natural spaces’. Fuerteventura’s president, Lola Garcia, also said the collection of a tourist tax was necessary to raise money for the maintenance of the natural spaces visited by hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers each year.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

THE MET Office has issued a fresh warning for thunderstorms this weekend, with up to 50mm of rain expected to fall in just a few hours.

The alert signals the arrival of severe weather, bringing the risk of flooding, hail, and lightning strikes across the UK.

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Brits are urged to be prepared as intense storms are set to hit several regions, sparking concerns of widespread disruption.

The weather warnings will affect several areas, including London, the South East, and the East of England, until 5am Sunday morning.

There is also a follow-up amber warning that continues until 5am on Monday.

The Met Office has highlighted the risk of “fast flowing or deep floodwater” that could endanger lives, with some communities potentially becoming cut off due to flooding.

During the thunderstorms, some parts of the UK could receive up to 50mm of rain in just a few hours.

This will bring major disruption, including road closures, train cancellations, and power outages.

The Met Office also warned of the potential for strong winds, reaching up to 50mph, which could exacerbate the impact of the storms.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin commented that the day would start off “hot and humid,” with some areas of the country potentially seeing temperatures climb as high as 30°C.

However, conditions will soon change, with thunderstorms beginning around 2pm in Wales and the South West, spreading to other areas later in the day.

Parts of southern England, including London, could see temperatures remain as high as 28°C on Friday evening, though the heat will quickly give way to more unsettled weather.

With 30–50mm of rain expected in some areas before the storms ease early on Saturday, residents across Greater London, Plymouth, Bath, Brighton, Norwich, and parts of the South East are advised to remain alert.

Cardiff and other southern regions could experience the heaviest downpours, with some areas possibly receiving up to 80mm of rain.

This level of rainfall is likely to cause significant surface water flooding, making driving conditions dangerous and leading to the risk of accidents.

The situation has already caused significant flooding in parts of the South West, particularly in Plymouth, where local residents battled knee-deep water.

The storms have already resulted in closures, with some roads, such as Gdynia Way and Kings Street, shut down due to flooding.

The Theatre Royal in Plymouth has also closed its doors as a result of flood damage.

James Mackenzie-Blackman, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of TRP, stated: “The torrential rain has required us to close the Theatre Royal today as we continue to deal with a significant flood into our basement.

Our priority is the safety of our staff, our artists, visitors and participants.”

In addition to the potential flooding, strong winds of up to 50mph are expected to cause problems along coasts and hills, further complicating the situation for drivers and emergency services.

Local authorities have advised caution when travelling, particularly in affected areas, as there may be delays and possible cancellations to train and bus services.

The disruption could continue into the weekend, particularly in areas where floodwater lingers.

The Met Office has issued a warning about the increased risk of power cuts, especially in areas where storms bring lightning strikes.

Residents are urged to be prepared for the possibility of service interruptions, with some homes and businesses potentially losing power due to the extreme weather.

This follows Friday’s amber weather warning for thunderstorms, hail, and lightning strikes.

The public is encouraged to monitor the weather closely and take precautions to protect themselves and their property.

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