Italy

These fees are legally required, and few people are exempt from paying up

Holidaymakers planning a trip abroad in 2026 should ensure they set aside funds for an additional levy that visitors are anticipated to pay when travelling to parts of Europe. Certain popular cities could hit travellers with an extra €16 per night during their stay.

Dozens of destinations across the globe already impose a ‘tourist tax’ to help maintain the areas that both residents and visitors enjoy. These charges are typically applied on a nightly per-person basis, or as a percentage of the overall accommodation costs.

Such taxes are generally settled at check-in or checkout directly with the accommodation provider. The majority of tourists are legally required to pay these charges (children and those with disabilities are ordinarily exempt) or risk having their hotel reservations cancelled.

Consumer group Which? has recently published a summary of sought-after holiday destinations that people commonly flock to throughout the summer months. Some opt for short city breaks, while others may spend longer periods at holiday resorts, but most will need to factor in an arrival tax when budgeting.

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Spain and Portugal have charges ranging from €2 to €25, while certain locations in France could levy up to €16 per night at some accommodation providers. Italy remains a firm favourite for those seeking a quick city break, yet hotels in some areas could charge as much as €10 per night, reports the Mirror.

Popular EU cities and what they charge in tourist taxes: From July 2026, tourists visiting Edinburgh, Scotland, will be required to pay a levy of “5% of the cost of the accommodation of [the] first five nights’ stay”. Wales is set to follow in 2027 with a charge of £1.30 “per night” in areas where local councils opt to bring it in.

While it’s not officially classed as a ‘tourist tax’, UK visitors will need to fork out a £17 visa fee from late 2026 to enter 30 European countries. This would come on top of any local tourist levies.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a compulsory digital travel authorisation launching in late 2026 for visa-exempt nationals (including UK, US, Canada, Australia) visiting 30 European countries. The ETIAS is a one-off, separate payment needed to enter the Schengen Area of Europe. Once purchased, it remains valid for three years. The countries that will require this ‘e-visa’ include:

I am a journalist; storytelling is my craft.

Words are the tools I turn to, again and again, to make sense of events and shape them into narratives that do them justice. And yet, when it comes to the genocide in Gaza, my birthplace, language feels wholly inadequate.

There is a limit to what words can say. At a certain point, the instinct to describe, to explain and to make sense of what has unfolded begins to break down under the sheer scale of devastation and pain.

One scene from the start of the war has lingered in my mind: A bulldozer burying 111 unidentified bodies, wrapped in bright blue bags, in a mass grave. It appeared briefly in the endless scroll of social media before it disappeared again, replaced by yet another shocking scene. And another.

A hundred and eleven souls about whom we knew nothing; not their names, not their dreams or what their final moments were. A New York Times headline read: More Than 100 Bodies Are Delivered to a Mass Grave in Southern Gaza. Omission of the perpetrator aside, could that possibly capture the magnitude of such an event?

Every attempt to describe in words what Israel has inflicted on Gaza and its people has felt reductive, compressing something vast, ongoing and staggeringly lethal into language that cannot possibly hold it. What remains is a tension at the heart of the act of telling itself; knowing no account will ever be enough, how do you tell stories of such unspeakable horrors?

This tension lies at the heart of the Gaza Genocide Tapestry, which I am co-curating and which will be displayed at this year’s Venice Biennale. It is an art project that brings together Palestinian women in occupied Palestine and refugee camps in Lebanon and Jordan to document Gaza’s destruction in real time. They tell these stories in the way they know best: Needle and thread.

Through 100 embroidered panels, each composed of 55,000 stitches, these women have created a testimonial that refuses to let the world forget what has been done and to whom.

Each panel tells a fragment of what has happened: A journalist weeping over his child’s dead body; young girls with empty pots being crushed at a soup kitchen; a child crying as her world crumbles around her.

Some of these images forced themselves into the public consciousness, if only for a moment; Khalid Nabhan hugging his dead granddaughter, the “soul of his soul”, for the last time before joining her a year later, or Dr Hussam Abu Safia walking towards a tank on the orders of Israeli soldiers, to then never be seen again.

But most images from Gaza are not granted that pause. They pass without names, context or farewell.

The tapestry defies this. To embroider is to decide something is worth the effort – hours, days and weeks of labour. This is to insist it is not lost to the sheer volume of images that pass briefly before our eyes.

A national archive in thread

The Gaza Genocide Tapestry is a new chapter of the award-winning Palestine History Tapestry Project, which I co-chair alongside Gaza-born designer Ibrahim Muhtadi. Following in the tradition of the famous Bayeux Tapestry and the Great Tapestry of Scotland, it is the largest body of Palestinian embroidery narrating the history of Palestine and its people.

The tapestry was started in 2011 in Oxford by Jan Chalmers, a British nurse who lived and worked in Gaza for two years in the 1960s. An avid embroiderer, Jan was previously involved with the Keiskamma History Tapestry, which chronicles the history of South Africa’s Xhosa people and now hangs in the South African parliament.

Recognising the centuries-old embroidery tradition of Palestinians, tatreez, Jan believed a Palestinian history tapestry was in order. I met Jan in 2013 in Oxford during my postgraduate studies. That is when I first joined this invaluable effort.

Tatreez, recognised by UNESCO in 2021, has long expressed Palestinian heritage and belonging. Its motifs encoded identity, place and social status. After the 1948 Nakba, it became a means of preserving Palestinian culture in the face of attempted erasure. Today it is something else again: Testimony.

Not long after Israel unleashed its devastating military assault on Gaza in 2023, the tapestry found new momentum by merging with the Palestine Museum US, an independent institution founded and led by Palestinian American entrepreneur Faisal Saleh. The tapestry is now housed at the museum in Woodbridge, Connecticut, and travels from there for exhibits worldwide.

It was within this expanded framework that the Gaza Genocide Tapestry took shape. Jan, Ibrahim, Faisal, and I came together to discuss how best to document the genocide. We initially created two panels to mark this dark moment in Palestinian history – Gaza on Fire and The Palestinian Phoenix. Faisal then proposed we do 100 panels focused solely on Gaza.

The challenge of producing in a single year what had previously taken a decade was formidable, but it was an urgency dictated by an unfolding genocide and made possible by the scale, visibility and global reach the museum provided.

United in pain

Women in Gaza were initially among the most active contributors to the Palestine History Tapestry. Their work was vibrant and meticulous, and offered them a means of support. But as bombardment intensified, most became unreachable, often displaced multiple times. Materials could not enter Gaza, and finished panels could not leave.

Gaza’s women became the subjects of the story, rather than its narrators.

But the tapestry, at its core, is a kind of “lam shamel” (Arabic for family reunion), as one embroiderer put it. Despite borders and forced displacement, the labour of Palestinian women everywhere converges into a single visual record of the Palestinian experience.

For Iman Shehabi, Basma Natour and the dozen women in Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp, embroidery is how they make a living. But the tapestry project, they said, “restored” a part of their “dignity”.

“It was a space where heritage pulsed, and where our needles stitched both our pains and our hopes,” they wrote to us in a letter upon completion of their panels.

And it is not only the embroiderers who contributed. One of the panels in the Gaza Genocide Tapestry, embroidered by Shahla Mahareeq in Ramallah, was based on an image of Hind Rajab illustrated by London-based artist Khadija Said.

A panel of blindfolded men, arbitrarily detained by Israeli soldiers in Gaza, was painted by Haifa-based lawyer and rights activist Janan Abdu, a Palestinian citizen of Israel. It was embroidered by Bothaina Youssef in Lebanon’s Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp.

Another artwork by Gaza-based artist Mohammed Alhaj, depicting displacement in Gaza, was also embroidered in Lebanon by Kifah Kurdieh, before a million people in southern Lebanon were themselves displaced.

The process of putting together the Gaza Genocide Tapestry has been painstaking. For more than a year, Faisal, Jan, Ibrahim and I held weekly meetings to research and select representative panels across various themes and coordinate the work. Each panel had to be translated by Ibrahim into a format that could be embroidered, then sent to a woman to stitch through field coordinators in each location.

There were constant questions, both ethical and practical. What do we choose to include, and what is left out? What does it mean to translate suffering into a stitched pattern?

At the Venice Biennale

Starting May 9, the Gaza Genocide Tapestry will be exhibited publicly at Palazzo Mora under the title:
“- – – – – – – – – – -” *
*Gaza – No Words – See The Exhibit

It will be available for viewing through November.

When we were informed in November last year that our biennale submission was selected, I felt a complicated kind of recognition. On one hand, it is an honour and a chance for this work, and the women behind it, to be seen on one of the world’s most prominent cultural stages.

On the other hand, it captured the paradox of a world increasingly willing to name what is happening in Gaza, to look it in the eye, call it a genocide, and yet remain unable or unwilling to stop it. What does it say about humanity when art becomes a primary site of real-time testimony because political systems have failed?

I have no simple answer. What I know is this: Palestinian women continue to tell these stories and demand accountability. Theirs is a collective response to my late mentor Refaat Alareer’s final instruction before he was killed: “If I must die, you must live to tell my story.”

At this year’s Venice Biennale, the story isn’t just about what’s on display—but what’s missing. Withdrawn countries, postponed ceremonies, and a fractured jury have turned the world’s oldest art exhibition into a stage for geopolitical tension.
Al Jazeera’s Karly Abou Samra explains.

ROME — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged European allies Friday to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete action against Iran, even as he sought to repair strained ties with Italy and the Vatican during a two-day visit following tensions over the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran.

Speaking after meetings with Premier Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, Rubio warned that Tehran was attempting to assert control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling the move “unacceptable” and a threat to global security.

“Everybody says Iran is a threat. Everybody says that Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon … but you’ve got to do something about it,” Rubio told reporters in Rome. “If the answer is no … then you better have something more than just strongly worded statements to back it up.”

Clear ‘red line’

Rubio said Iran was trying to normalize control over an international waterway, a precedent he warned could encourage similar actions elsewhere. He also cautioned Tehran against targeting U.S. maritime assets, saying the United States had thwarted attacks on three Navy ships in the strait.

“The red line is clear. They threaten Americans, they are going to be blown up,” he said.

Rubio said Washington was pursuing a diplomatic track, including a proposed U.N. Security Council resolution aimed at preserving freedom of navigation. He added the U.S. was awaiting Iran’s response on Friday to ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Rubio’s visit comes after weeks of sharp disagreements between Washington and Rome over the Iran war, tariffs and President Trump’s criticism of both Meloni and Pope Leo XIV.

Differences remain over Iran war

Meloni described her meeting with Rubio as “constructive, frank and productive,” focused on both bilateral relations and major international issues. She said the talks covered strategic topics, including the Middle East, freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Ukraine, China and areas of Italian interest such as Libya and Lebanon.

“We both understand how important the trans-Atlantic relationship is, but we also understand that each country must defend its own national interests,” Meloni stressed after the meeting.

Tajani struck a more conciliatory tone after meeting his U.S. counterpart, reaffirming the importance of the trans-Atlantic alliance.

“I am convinced Europe needs America — Italy needs America — and the United States also needs Europe and Italy,” Tajani said, adding he hoped “tensions have been calmed.”

He said discussions covered the Iran conflict and its spillover into Lebanon, as well as Venezuela and Cuba. The U.S. State Department said Rubio also raised the need to protect economic interests and end the war in Ukraine.

Despite the effort to ease tensions, differences remain over the Iran conflict. Italy has opposed the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign, with Meloni calling it “illegal,” and has resisted involvement in offensive operations.

Tajani said Italy would be prepared to contribute naval forces to demine the Strait of Hormuz once a permanent ceasefire is reached, and would maintain its role in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. He also stressed the importance of continued U.S. troop presence in Europe amid concerns about possible reductions.

No final decision on NATO troops adjustments

Rubio said “no final decision” had been made on NATO troop adjustments, noting that any changes would depend on U.S. national interests and global priorities.

The U.S. has announced a decision to pull 5,000 military personnel from Germany and Trump has threatened to withdraw more troops from Italy and Spain over their stance on the war.

Italy, a key logistics hub for U.S. and allied operations in the Mediterranean and beyond, has already signaled limits to its cooperation. In March, it declined to allow U.S. bombers bound for the Middle East to use a base in Sicily without parliamentary approval, reflecting constitutional constraints and strong domestic opposition to the war.

Meloni, weakened by a recent referendum defeat and facing public unease over the conflict, has insisted that any use of Italian bases for offensive operations would require parliamentary backing.

The war has also raised economic concerns in Italy, with Meloni warning that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz risk driving up energy costs and inflation, while U.S. tariff threats weigh on the country’s export-driven economy.

An attempt to de-escalate at the Vatican

Rubio also sought to ease tensions with the Vatican following Trump’s criticism of the pope’s calls for peace. After a lengthy meeting on Thursday with the pontiff and Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Rubio said Washington remained committed to a “productive and fruitful” relationship with the Catholic Church.

“The president’s perspective is clear. He thinks that Iran is a threat, and it needs to be addressed. And that position remains unchanged,” Rubio said.

Rubio confirmed that Cuba was also discussed at the Vatican, with Washington hoping the church’s Caritas charity organization would continue distributing humanitarian aid.

Rubio said the U.S. has provided about $6 million in humanitarian aid to Cuba, to be distributed through Caritas, should the Cubans allow it. He added Washington has also offered up to $100 million in additional aid, but the Cuban government has not accepted it so far. Rubio blamed Cuba’s government for blocking assistance and worsening conditions, describing it as “incompetent.”

U.S. officials said the Vatican talks underscored strong bilateral ties and a shared commitment to promoting peace, even as differences over the Iran war persist.

Zampano and Winfield write for the Associated Press.

Jet2 has launched new direct flights with the CEO saying the destination will be a ‘popular’ one for customers seeking culture and sunshine

Jet2 has launched a new service as it vows to offer passengers a slice of ‘sunshine paradise’. The UK airline’s first service to Palermo has taken off from Manchester Airport – with more to follow shortly from other UK airports.

The launch signals the start of Jet2’s operations to the Sicilian capital for the very first time this summer 2026, opening up the stunning island of Sicily to British holidaymakers. Jet2 will run twice-weekly services (Tuesdays and Fridays) from Manchester Airport to Palermo through to 3rd November 2026 in a piece of good news for passengers after weeks of headlines about the war in Iran and its possible impact on UK airlines.

Jet2 has also confirmed that travellers in the Midlands and Northeast will be able to get in on the action, with flights and holidays set to launch from Birmingham Airport on Wednesday 6th May and from Newcastle International Airport on Tuesday 26th May. From Birmingham, Jet2 will operate weekly Wednesday flights until 28th October 2026, while weekly Tuesday services will also be available from Newcastle Airport through to 3rd November 2026. The airline says all routes to Palermo are exclusive to Jet2.

Palermo marks Jet2’s latest expansion into Italy, bringing the total number of Italian airports served by the carrier to nine, including two in Sicily. Altogether, Jet2 has 12 weekly flights on sale to Sicily for summer 2026.

In a statement, the firm said: “The introduction of this new destination gives customers great access to the resorts of Campofelice Di Roccella, Cefalu and Pollinia on the island of Sicily, a sunshine paradise on the north-western coastline that offers stunning scenery, city sights and dramatic landscapes. From the beautiful beaches to the outstanding architecture, there is also the capital’s rich ancient history where there are myths and legends weaved into every captivating corner.”

Jet2 says it was the first UK airline and tour operator to confirm it will not introduce surcharges on any booked flights or holidays to cover cost increases, such as jet fuel, assuring customers that the price they book with Jet2 is the price they will pay. Jet fuel shortages caused by the Iran conflict have made the commodity more expensive for airlines.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “We are delighted to see Jet2’s first flight to Palermo take-off from Manchester Airport. To celebrate this new addition to our summer 2026 programme to Italy, we had our trademark red branding at the gate of the inaugural flight and also surprised one lucky customer with a pair of free return flights.

“We have no doubt that Palermo will be a popular destination for customers and independent travel agents looking to book getaways that combine culture and sunshine, and we look forward to taking them on our award-winning flights and holidays.”

Cut back booze at airports says Ryanair boss

The news comes as Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary today said airports should be banned from serving alcohol to passengers before early morning flights. “There should be no alcohol served at airports outside (those) licensing hours,” he told the Times.

He added: “We are reasonably responsible, but the ones who are not responsible, the ones who are profiteering off it, are the airports who have these bars open at five or six o’clock in the morning and during delays are quite happy to send these people as much alcohol as they want because they know they’re going to export the problem to the airlines.”

May 4 (UPI) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet this week with Pope Leo XIV in Italy, with planned topics including the Middle East and Cuba.

The State Department announced Monday that Rubio will meet this week with Leo, and an official Vatican calendar notice confirmed the meeting will take place Thursday.

The Washington Post quoted the announcement as saying Rubio, a prominent Catholic in President Donald Trump‘s administration, will “discuss the situation in the Middle East and mutual interests in the Western Hemisphere.”

A USA Today report indicated Rubio and Leo are also expected to discuss Cuba, which has been subject to a U.S. oil embargo and other measures in an attempt to force the smaller country into an economic deal.

The meeting will be the first time a high-ranking administration official has met with the pope since Trump took to social media last month to brand Leo “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.”

“He wasn’t on any list to be Pope, and was only put there by the Church because he was an American, and they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald J. Trump,” Trump wrote in April. “If I wasn’t in the White House, Leo wouldn’t be in the Vatican.”

Rubio and Vice President JD Vance previously met with Leo during a private audience at the Vatican in May 2025, one day after the pope’s Inauguration Mass.

Inter Milan win their 21st Scudetto, edging Napoli, with three matches remaining in the Italian football league season.

Celebrations have erupted across Milan after Inter clinched the Serie A title with a 2-0 victory over Parma, sending thousands of supporters into the streets.

The Piazza del Duomo was filled with fans clad in blue and black on Sunday, moments after the final whistle at the nearby San Siro, as flares and fireworks lit up the night sky.

Marcus Thuram opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time before Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealed the win 10 minutes from time. The winners moved up to 82 points and clinched their 21st Scudetto with three matches remaining in the campaign.

Inter entered the match knowing a point would be enough after second-placed Napoli were held to a 0-0 draw at Como on Saturday, and their own result the next day handed them an unbeatable 12-point lead at the top.

Despite the scarcity of clear-cut chances, Inter controlled much of the first half and established themselves deep in the Parma half.

The hosts came close in the 25th minute when a powerful close-range shot from Nicolo Barella struck the underside of the bar. The rebound then hit Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki on the back, but the Japan international reacted quickly to tip the ball away from near the line and out of danger.

Thuram sparked a frenzy among the home supporters in first-half stoppage time, slotting home after being found unmarked by a Piotr Zielinski through ball to put Inter ahead.

The second half followed a similar pattern with Inter remaining in control but failing to capitalise on their dominance as supporters inside the stadium grew increasingly focused on the clock ticking to 90 minutes.

Federico Dimarco delivered a near-perfect cross to Denzel Dumfries in the closing stages, but the defender failed to control his first touch, sending the close-range effort high over the bar and missing the chance to seal the match.

Mkhitaryan sealed the victory 10 minutes from time, tapping in a low cross from Lautaro Martinez to secure the points and spark title celebrations among Inter supporters.

For Inter, the triumph offered redemption after the heartbreak of last season when the club lost the Serie A title on the last match day before a 5-0 thrashing by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.

“We feel so happy now. It was not easy to start again after a season where we lost all the competitions we were in right at the end, but I am very happy today with this achievement,” Martinez said.

“It was a very important objective for us, perhaps many didn’t see us being favourites considering what happened last term, but we worked so hard on and off the field.”

The atmosphere in the Italian metropolis stood in stark contrast to a year ago when supporters faced the combined heartbreak of losing the league title to Napoli on the final day and suffering defeat in the Champions League final.

“I have no words. In spite of everyone who jinxed us from start to finish. Go Inter, always,” Inter fan Fabio said. “Wonderful. Amazing. And compared to how it ended last year, this year we deserve everything.”

Many supporters were seen in tears at the celebrations.

“It was more than deserved. It was a difficult league season at the start because it was always there, neck and neck,” fellow Inter fan Federico said.

The festivities are expected to continue ahead of the Coppa Italia final on May 13 when Lazio stand in the way of a domestic double for Inter.

Italy and Portugal have been tipped to follow Greece in scrapping the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) border checks at airports, which have caused chaos for some British holidaymakers

Travel experts believe Italy and Portugal could be the next two countries to ditch EU border checks at airports.

Many British holidaymakers are suffering delays at airports on continental Europe because of the rollout of new border rules. The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) involves people from external countries such as the UK having their fingerprints registered and photograph taken to enter the Schengen Area.

More than 100 easyJet passengers stuck in delays at passport desks at Milan Linate airport missed a flight to Manchester last month. Greece has already ditched the new rules for UK holidaymakers until September after they led to huge queues.

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Airports in Portugal are reportedly already waving passengers through if queues get too big. Italy is expected to follow Greece and allow people to enter on a passport stamp as the May half-term looms. Places like Spain, France and Croatia could do the same.

Seamus McCauley, of travel company Holiday Extras, told the Mail: “The rollout has been an utter fiasco. British tourists are worth €3.5billion a year to the Greek economy and it has rightly decided it will not jeopardise that because EES is not working properly.”

He said it “seems certain” Italy and Portugal will do the same as Greece. He added: “After that the whole system could collapse like a house of cards, with Spain, France and Croatia coming to the same conclusion because nobody wants to see their tourist trade go to another country simply to comply with the EU.

“Greece broke ranks and Portugal keeps suspending the rules. Others are almost certain to follow. Something has to give.”

It comes as Ryanair says passengers who need to use its airport check-in or bag-drop services will be required to finish the process 20 minutes earlier.

The airline announced it will close the services an hour before the scheduled departure of a flight – compared to 40 minutes at the moment – to give passengers more time to get through security and passport checks.

This will reduce the “very small number of passengers” who miss their flight while stuck in queues, the carrier added. Ryanair’s website says passengers who fail to check in on time “may be denied boarding without refund”.

The new policy will be in place from November 10.

Zanardi, who lost his legs in a racing crash, was credited with helping transform the perception of disability in Italy.

Alex Zanardi, the Italian Formula One driver who became a Paralympic cycling champion after losing both legs in an accident, has died aged 59, his family announced.

Zanardi, one of his country’s most loved and respected sportsmen, who was credited with helping transform the perception of disability in Italy, died on Friday evening.

In a statement issued on Saturday through the charity he founded, Obiettivo3, his family said he died “suddenly”, but also “peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends”.

“The family would like to express ⁠their heartfelt thanks to all those who are showing their support at this time and ⁠asks that their grief and privacy be ⁠respected during this period of mourning.”

Zanardi’s death comes six years after the four-time Paralympic gold medal winner suffered a second horror crash in June 2020, when his handbike crashed into an oncoming truck during a race in Tuscany.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed Zanardi as “a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength and dignity”.

Cordiano Dagnoni, head of the Italian Cycling Federation, said he “transformed the culture of our country, bringing joy and happiness to those fortunate enough to know him, and hope to so many in Italy and around the world”.

He said there would be a minute’s silence observed at this weekend’s races in tribute to the athlete.

Zanardi raced for Jordan, Minardi and Lotus in F1 in the early 1990s before switching to the CART championship in the United States where he was series champion in 1997 and 1998.

He returned to F1 with Williams in 1999 before heading back to CART.

Zanardi almost died in a horrific accident in 2001 at the Lausitzring track in Germany, after which he had both legs amputated.

His car had stalled in the middle of the track after a spin and was struck by another car at a speed of more than 300km/h (186mph).

Yet he went on to become one of the best-known figures in Paralympic sports, winning two gold medals at the 2012 London Games and two more in Rio de Janeiro, four years later.

In June 2020, he was involved in another terrible accident, this time in Tuscany. He suffered serious head injuries and only returned home 18 months later.

Zanardi, born in Bologna on October 23, 1966, leaves his wife Daniela and son Niccolo.

This beach stuns visitors with its white sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

The best bit of summer is unwinding on a spectacular beach with waves gently rolling onto the shore, seagulls crying above and sunshine beaming down. If this represents your ideal day, it’s essential that you discover the perfect beach to experience it on.

Fortunately, recent research has just ranked some of Europe’s finest beaches to identify the ultimate summer getaway destination. The study, carried out by airport transfer firm hoppa, has examined dozens of sought-after holiday destinations.

Each location was assessed based on its average three-star hotel price, journey time from airport to beach, and Google reviews to determine the very best options.

Taking the top spot as the finest beach for summer 2026 is Praia da Falésia in Portugal. Situated in the renowned Algarve area, this beach offers an utterly stunning day out, reports the Express.

The pale sand extends over 8km, protected by striking orange and white cliffs.

Those who visit the beach describe it as among the finest in the area, with one individual commenting on Tripadvisor: “The blend of the colours of the golden sand, the crystal blue sea and the imposing cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.”

Another said: “A wide expanse of golden and red sand, nice rock formations in the background and the waves here are gentle, perfect for swimming. It’s a popular beach, but due to its size, it’s a big, long beach; it never seems crowded even in high season.

“It’s a beach to most definitely check out if you’re planning a holiday to Albufeira.”

With lifeguards on duty and sunloungers available to hire, it caters to every need. Suitable for both families and couples, the beach’s generous size means it rarely feels overcrowded.

Europe’s best-rated beaches

• Praia da Falésia — Algarve, Portugal

• Platja de Muro — Majorca, Spain

• Myrtos Beach — Kefalonia, Greece

• Promenade des Anglais Beach — Nice, France

• Playa de Poniente — Benidorm, Spain

An estimated five million people travel from the UK to Italy on holiday each year – and chef Vincenzo Prosperi has named the one authentic city that should be on every traveller’s radar

An Italian chef has highlighted an “authentic” city worth visiting – and it’s not Milan, Venice or Florence. The recommendation comes as roughly five million Britons jet off to Italy for holidays each year.

While countless holidaymakers head for coastal spots like Puglia or Rimini, the nation is equally renowned for its stunning city escapes. According to chef Vincenzo Prosperi, known as Vincenzo Plates online, there’s one particular city that offers a genuine taste of Italy.

Vincenzo champions Bari on the Adriatic Sea as an “old town where the nonnas make pasta on the sea”. In a YouTube video, he said: “A really wonderful city.

“It has really improved in the last 10 years. It is one of the best places to see in the south of Italy. This is authentic, this is great.”

Boasting just over 315,000 residents, Bari ranks amongst the most significant cities in southern Italy. It serves as both a breathtaking Mediterranean port and a thriving university hub, reports the Express.

Bari divides into separate districts. The old town, known as Bari Vecchia, comprises a maze of ancient streets housing the historic Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which originates from the 11th century.

The delightful Piazza del Ferrarese gazes out over the Augusto Imperatore waterfront while its palm-lined avenues provide the ideal fusion of historic town and contemporary seafront. Its name derives from a Ferrara merchant who resided there during the 1600s and maintained his warehouses on the square.

Remnants of a Roman road stretching back to the 2nd century lie cordoned off on the piazza. Nowadays tourists can savour a peaceful moment while observing the vibrant boats gently rocking in the harbour.

Meanwhile, the Murak Quarter, constructed under Joachim Murat, serves as the pulsating centre of contemporary Bari. It’s renowned for its orderly grid pattern of streets, thriving retail area, and lively café scene.

Its energetic character stands in stark contrast to the ancient old town. Travel authority Mark Wolters advises that anyone visiting Bari must head to Strada Arco Bass where residents prepare orecchiette pasta right on the street.

In a YouTube video, he said: “When you come here, you’re going to see there’s a street where all these grandmas, all these ladies, are making orecchiette, they’re making a special kind of pasta from here.”

He added: “We bought two bags for like five euros and it was so worth it. We got to see the lady and she was making them and they had them out there, it was a really cool thing.”

Mark also urges travellers to Bari to try the focaccia barese – a bread crafted from mashed potato and semolina flour. He said: “Focaccia is like a really fluffy, almost like a pizza-bread dough bread, and in it they put tomatoes and olives and it is fantastic, it’s a really special one from here.”

The expert advises that anyone keen on embarking on a road trip around the wider Puglia region should pick up a hire car at Bari airport before exploring the surrounding area. He explains that you “don’t want to drive” in the city itself, particularly around the old town.

Flights from the UK to Bari start at around £70 on Skyscanner. During the summer months, temperatures can soar to as high as 30C, with May typically seeing highs of around 23C.

As an Australian living in Italy, I grew up within an hour of some of the most pristine coastline in the world, so the Italian penchant for private beach clubs is something I’ll never quite grow accustomed to.

Along some of Italy’s most naturally beautiful stretches of beach, from the Amalfi Coast to the Cinque Terre, private, exclusive beach clubs and five-star hotels occupy the best patches of shoreline. The natural beauty that made these places famous can feel increasingly roped off.

In Australia, beaches are natural places to be shared. There’s a more relaxed approach to bathing along open stretches of sand framed by nothing but trees, rocks and dunes. For those seeking a back-to-nature holiday, here are six of Italy’s most beautiful free beaches where the coastline remains untouched and open to all.

Riviera del Conero, Marche

The Riviera del Conero is the Marche’s most precious jewel, in a region still largely unchanged by mass tourism. You’ll rarely hear any language other than Italian as it’s all locals and other Italians on their summer holidays.

Set against a stunning backdrop of limestone cliffs covered in pine trees, a series of protected bays with clear green-blue water and white pebbles make up this stretch of coastline within the Conero regional park.

Sirolo is a long, natural beach at the end of a meandering downhill walk through the trees. There’s plenty of space to lay down your towel on the smooth rocks, with the option of paid chairs and umbrellas, too.

Portonovo Bay offers low-key retro 60s beach clubs and long stretches of free beach. Ristorante Emilia has been the standout lunch spot here since 1950, serving up their signature spaghetti with mussels prised by hand every morning from the nearby rocks.
In Sirolo, San Michele Relais & Spa has doubles from €108, and Camping Village Internazionale has cabins from about €100

Gargano, Puglia

While southern Puglia’s beaches are at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists, the rugged Gargano peninsula, which juts out from northern Puglia into the Adriatic, is far less known. Part of Gargano national park, it’s full of rocky coves, quiet bays and long pebbled beaches framed by olive groves.

Portogreco, a tiny cove and popular free beach, is framed by sea caves and rocks perfect for high diving, and offers fantastic snorkelling in the clear waters.

Vignanotica is a long, skinny pebble beach, backed by a sheer limestone cliff that mercifully shades the shoreline by late afternoon in summer.

Make the scenic trip an hour north along the coast for lunch at Al Trabucco da Mimì in Peschici for fresh seafood caught and served on a traditional wooden fishing platform. Order the mixed seafood grill to sample it all.
HMO Glamping in Vignanotica has tents from about €110, or Baia delle Zagare resort in Mattinata has doubles from €150

Ponza, Lazio

A favourite summer escape for Romans, the island of Ponza sits a short ferry ride from mainland Lazio. Pastel houses cluster around a port town unchanged by time. The island opens up into wild coves and quiet swimming spots, the best ones accessible only by boat.

Frontone, the island’s longest beach, is reached by water taxi from Ponza. While some of the shoreline is occupied by beach clubs, there’s still plenty of free beach, and savvy locals know to perch on the rocks at the southern end.

Some of Ponza’s most spectacular swimming spots, such as Chiaia di Luna – a crescent-shaped cove surrounded by soaring orange cliffs – are accessible only from the water, so hiring a dinghy or a captained boat is part of the experience.

Take lunch at Ristoro da Gerardo, which has the best views over Frontone from its rustic raffia-shaded terrace. The homestyle menu offers aubergine parmigiana alongside Ponzese octopus stew, and dessert is figs picked onsite. Guests are invited to stay for a post-lunch nap on loungers shaded by trees.
Hotel Chiaia di Luna has doubles from €115

Pantelleria, Sicily

Closer to Tunisia than Sicily, this slow-paced island feels completely removed from mainland Italy and offers full immersion in the elements. Without a single sandy beach, visitors and locals lay down their towels on the flat volcanic rocks and dive into the clear blue water, amid arid, wind-battered landscapes.

Balata dei Turchi is a secluded bay of volcanic rock at the wilder southern end of the island that is ideal for snorkelling, with clean waters and submerged rocks teeming with bright coral and fish. Nearby at Nikà, underwater thermal springs bubble up out of the sea while you swim.

Laghetto delle Ondine lies at the end of a short hike across otherworldly volcanic terrain, where waves crash against the walls of calm rock pools the size of swimming pools.

At sunset, snag an outdoor table at Dispensa Pantesca in Scauri for an antipasto plate of local specialities, including Pantelleria’s aromatic capers. Or book a more formal dinner in the courtyard next door at sister restaurant La Nicchia.
Stay in traditional dammusi (houses made from volcanic stone) at Pantelleria Dream Resort near Kamma from €170, or at Dammuso Biancolilla near Scauri from €140

Elba, Tuscany

Part of the Tuscan Archipelago, Elba lies 35 miles (55km) east of Corsica, with similarly clear waters and mountainous terrain. Still relatively under the radar outside Italy, the island has 90 miles of coastline, scattered with wild bays and tiny beaches. It’s larger than many visitors expect, so where you base yourself makes all the difference.

Nisporto is a quiet, unspoilt bay enclosed by pine-covered hills at the end of a winding road, giving it a secluded feel, even in summer. The flat sand-and-pebble beach and the gentle waves make it perfect for families with kids. The transparent waters and seabeds rich in marine life are great for snorkelling, or rent a pedalo or canoe to explore the coastline beyond.

In Portoferraio, book dinner at Teatro Bistro for the spectacular views from the terrace, and order the spaghetti with cured mullet bottarga, a Tuscan coastal delicacy.
In Nisporto, Residence La Cota Quinta has apartments from about €80 a night (three-night minimum stay) or Sole e Mare camping village has bungalows from €400 a week for two

Maremma, Tuscany

Just outside the walled city of Grosseto, the regional park of Maremma stretches from the Uccellina mountains to the Tyrrhenian Sea, protecting one of Italy’s most untouched coastlines.

The park’s wild sandy beaches are completely devoid of umbrellas, bars and beach clubs, the only structures being improvised driftwood forts providing refuge from the sun.

Marina di Alberese is the most accessible beach inside the park, the shoreline stretching for miles. Traipse along the coast to quieter Collelungo, or reach it on foot or bike via trails within the lush park.

Easy cycle paths, with bikes and e-bikes readily available to rent, lead through the park from Grosseto to the beaches, passing herds of horned Maremma cows and wild horses.

Stop for a tasting plate of cheeses made at dairy La Maremmana. Their speciality is the buffalo mozzarella, and they’ll pack up extras to take away for a picnic at the beach.
Agriturismo il Melograno di Banditella in Alberese has doubles from €120 B&B

From popular beach resorts to bustling European cities, language experts reveal the holiday destinations that British tourists commonly mispronounce — plus how to say them correctly

Brits are passionate about their overseas holidays. One advantage of living in the UK is having Europe right on our doorstep – yet many people may be completely unaware of how to pronounce their chosen destination correctly.

Linguistic specialists at the learning app Preply have compiled a list of locations Brits most frequently mispronounce. If you’re arranging a trip to any of these spots, verify your pronunciation using Preply’s handy guide (below). Mastering the correct pronunciation of your dream destination could help you avoid embarrassment while you’re there, reports the Express.

Cannes, France

The pronunciation of this glamorous French resort continues to catch people out. Many Brits naturally pronounce the final “s” or insert an additional syllable, but it’s actually a quick single syllable “kan”.

Phuket, Thailand

This stunning island getaway is incredibly popular among British holidaymakers but remains consistently mispronounced. The spelling can be deceptive, but the proper pronunciation is much simpler, beginning with a soft “p” to create “poo-ket”.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Renowned for its pastel-coloured buildings and picturesque harbours, this beautiful Italian coastal stretch welcomes millions of visitors annually, and countless people are getting it wrong.

Don’t rely on English pronunciation rules; instead, follow Italian conventions, starting with “cheen-kweh” and finishing with a rolled “teh-rreh”.

Kraków, Poland

This Polish city is regularly mispronounced. The main error is overemphasising the “ow” ending, when it ought to be a gentler “kov”.

Ibiza, Spain

It may be among the UK’s most beloved party destinations, but that hasn’t protected it from mispronunciation. Numerous people continue to overpronounce the “z” when it should actually be a gentle “th” sound.

Lagos, Portugal

This Algarve holiday favourite is frequently mispronounced by visitors. English speakers tend to pronounce it phonetically, whereas in Portuguese, the ending features a gentler “sh” sound, creating “lah-gosh”.

Budapest, Hungary

Common mispronunciation: “Buda-pest”

Hungary’s capital presents difficulties due to its misleading spelling. The proper pronunciation replaces the hard “pest” with a gentler “pesht”.

Barcelona, Spain

Despite Barcelona being an exceptionally popular tourist destination, many continue to anglicise the name. In Spanish, the “c” is pronounced “th”.

Marylebone, London

Despite being on British home turf, many people still struggle to pronounce certain locations. Marylebone is among these places. Instead of pronouncing it phonetically, it’s shortened to “Mar-li-bone”.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital represents a classic stumbling block for tourists, who frequently over-enunciate every letter while attempting to get it correct. In practice, locals adopt a considerably more casual approach, dropping the ending completely and keeping it brief and low-key: “Edin-bruh.”

Padua – the perfect base for visiting Venice

When we visited Venice, we stayed in Padua. It’s half an hour to Venezia Mestre (Venice’s mainland suburb), trains are frequent and cheap, as long as you avoid expresses, and easy to book if you have the Trenitalia app. You’ll find accommodation and restaurants significantly cheaper if you are based in Padua and day trip into Venice, and Padua is worth exploring in its own right. There are also trains to Vicenza, Verona, Bologna and Bassano del Grappa – we found it the perfect base for a public transport trip in north-east Italy.
Fergal O’Shea

History in the mountains near Turin

On a recent break in Turin, we made the short hop to the mountain town of Susa. Situated in a stunning valley on the old Roman road to Gaul, Susa’s historic centre is a charming mix of medieval and Roman architecture set against classic alpine loveliness. We were astounded by the jaw-droppingly well preserved Arch of Augustus, built in the 1st century BC to demonstrate the loyalty of the local tribes to Rome. In typical Italian fashion, the modern road runs right underneath. Heading back to Turin, look out for the dramatic mountaintop abbey, the Sacra di San Michele, which was among the inspirations for Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose.
Peter

Escaping the Colosseum crowds in Rome

In Rome, take Metro Line C to the Colosseo/Fori Imperiali station, which doubles as a subterranean museum, showcasing ancient lead pipes and original Roman saunas for just a €1.50 fare. Afterwards, escape the Colosseum frenzy at the nearby Casina del Salvi. This hidden gem on the edge of Parco archeologico del Celio offers a stunning and tranquil sun terrace overlooking the Colosseum. It’s the perfect spot for an espresso or a sandwich, providing a peaceful, panoramic sanctuary just steps from the tourist trail. A true local secret for the price of a coffee.
Alice

Exploring the Cinque Terre by bicycle

The villages of the Cinque Terre are very popular – perhaps too popular? I suggest a stay in Levanto. You can easily do a train trip to the famous five towns, but I recommend hiring bikes in Levanto. Then you can cycle along resurfaced old train routes, called the Maremonti path, for about two miles, delightfully shaded from the sun, to Bonnasola. You can stop en route at beaches only accessible by foot or bike. Then cycle on to Framura and have a gorgeous lunch at the tiny harbour, where it’s also OK to swim. The joy is that it’s not only beautiful but quiet too. A real treat. I’ve cycled this path with a baby and a teen.
Kate

Sea kayaking off Sicily

The island of Vulcano lies in the Aeolian archipelago off the coast of Sicily. We were there for a kayak trip in the safe hands of our friendly guide Eugenio. He knows every little stone of the sea stacks, arches, coves and caves along the rugged coast. We played in the swells on the cobalt sea and dipped our toes in the fumaroles rising up on a volcanic black sand beach. One highlight was Eugenio’s abundant home-cooked lunch, which he had stowed on his kayak, including biscotti dipped in local malvasia wine – a well-deserved reward after a morning’s paddle. We went with Sicily in Kayak, which operates excursions from half a day to six days, some including hiking and snorkelling.
Phil Davis

Riviera vibes on the Adriatic

On Italy’s Adriatic coast in the Marche region, Grottammare has beaches that stretch the length of the town and beyond. The palm-lined lungomare promenade, dotted with bars and restaurants, has a classic Riviera vibe. In Grottammare Alta old town, the honey-coloured stone and medieval alleys packed with colourful plant pots explain why the place is listed as one of the borghi più belli d’Italia – the most beautiful villages in the country. From the Piazza Peretti’s loggia, there are incredible views across the town to the sea. Hop on a train to explore larger towns like Ascoli, Piceno and Pesaro, or simply enjoy Grottammare’s relaxed atmosphere.
Deborah

A peaceful archaeological park in Sicily

Syracuse has an amazing amphitheatre. However, the highlight of our trip to the area was Akrai archaeological park about 45 minutes inland. It is on a smaller scale, but has an amphitheatre and catacombs around which we could wander freely. As it’s off the beaten track, it has few visitors, making it a beautifully calm place away from the larger crowds in the city. The nearby village of Palazzolo Acreide is also worth a wander and has delicious lunch options.
Dawn

Another side to Florence

There’s a different side to Florence in the summer, if you know where to look. Follow the banks of the River Arno east beyond the centre and you’ll come across a real slice of local life. Nestled among the trees, pop-up bars and food stalls appear, often with live music. This is where the city’s residents come to socialise at the end of the day. It’s relaxed, informal and a mix of generations. Start near the Ponte San Niccolò, then walk east towards Lungarno del Tempio. Grab a drink, stop for a pizza and hang out like a local. After a day’s sightseeing, it’s the best area of the city to unwind in.
Paul

A fascinating 1930s villa in Milan

Italy is mostly associated with ancient architecture, but the high point of our recent trip to Milan was the 1930s Villa Necchi Campiglio. The Italian rationalist villa is a fascinating mix of elegant, spacious modernism and more elaborate 18th-century styled rooms – two radically different architects were employed at separate stages. The villa also boasts Milan’s first private swimming pool. Film buffs may recognise the house from Luca Guadagnino’s I Am Love or Ridley Scott’s House of Gucci, yet it remains under the radar – my wife’s Milan-born cousin had never heard of it. What a pleasure then to introduce him to one of the city’s most striking hidden gems.
David M

Winning tip: a brutalist masterpiece in Trieste

On a walking tour of Trieste, I spotted a curious building high up in the distance – the Temple of Monte Grisa, a brutalist masterpiece of a cathedral on the edge of the Karst plateau. It is accessible via a steep hike (or bus) through the village of Prosecco, during which you are treated to a magnificent view of the Gulf of Trieste. Inside, the architecture is breathtaking – a repeating M-shaped pattern of concrete and gigantic modernist representations of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus. Go on a sunny day to make the most of the shadows and light.
Richard

Gregg Wallace, who was sacked from Masterchef last year following an investigation into 83 historical allegations of workplace misconduct, has confirmed his “new chapter”

Former Masterchef host Gregg Wallace is leaving the UK for Italy after being forced to sell his “enormous” £1million home.

The TV chef, 61, was axed from the popular BBC programme last year after he was accused of “inappropriate behaviour”, including allegations of touching an assistant’s bum on the show. An investigation into 83 historical allegations of workplace misconduct, with 45 accusations against him subsequently upheld.

Reports emerged in October Gregg was claiming up to £10,000 in damages from the BBC and one of its subsidiaries following his axe from MasterChef. The TV presenter claimed they allegedly caused him “distress and harassment” by failing to disclose to him his personal data.

But now the presenter has confirmed his “new chapter”, telling his Instagram following he will leave the UK for Italy by the end of the month. Gregg added he will homeschool his autistic son there.

READ MORE: Grace Dent gives brutally honest response to taking over MasterChef hosting roleREAD MORE: BBC scandals in full – Scott Mills axed over historic relationship and ‘personal conduct’

Gregg’s wife, Anne-Marie Sterpini, whom he met on Twitter, is Italian. They tied the knot in 2016, four years after Gregg’s divorce to his third wife Heidi Brown.

Speaking in his social media video, Gregg said: “I’ve always loved Italy and we plan to move around and rent in different places which is quite an adventure and with the help of my autism specialist mates, I am going to homeschool Sid as well. It is a new chapter for us. It is a life that should be full of travel and adventure and I’m very very much looking forward too it.”

But the entrepreneur, who also hosted Saturday Kitchen, is also planning to buy a “much more modest”house in Yorkshire — close to where his daughter lives. He will then divide his time between Italy and Yorkshire, it is thought.

It comes after Gregg revealed earlier this month that he is selling his £1million Kent home after being left “unable to live the life he used to have”. The chef has not had a TV job since the BBC sacked him from Masterchef, a role he had held for nearly two decades.

The ex BBC star plans to sell the “enormous” home which sits on five acres of land along with its stables and pond. Gregg, who bought the home back in 2017, said he was making the move not only for a slower pace of life but also to ensure financial security for Anne-Marie, 38, and son Sid, six.

He said: “I can’t have the life I used to have but whether you chose to believe it or not, I really wanted to come out of that anyway, but obviously not in the dramatic way that I did.

“I want to ease off a little bit, I want to relax a little bit. but that also comes with wanting financial security for me and my family because I’ve got a wife that is much younger than me and a special needs little boy, Sid.”

Destinations loved by Brits are actually paying people to move there. If you fancy a life in the sun, you could make some extra cash while topping up your tan in Spain or Italy

Many people may dream of moving abroad, but you might not realise that some countries will actually pay you to do so. If you fancy living in the glorious sunshine, and making some money in the process, you could actually embark on the travel adventure of a lifetime by packing your bags for good.

Countries like Spain, Italy and Greece will actually pay Brits “thousands” to relocate and start a new life abroad. If you’re fed up of the weather, fancy starting a fresh chapter or simply want to move to somewhere totally different, it may be something worth considering to liven things up.

Schemes people can use were recently highlighted on TikTok by History On A Map to tell people what they need to know. It’s incredible to think you can be paid to relocate to these beautiful countries.

Italy

Italy is one country that pays people to relocate. If you fancy tucking into pasta, enjoying gorgeous wine and immersing yourself in history a little more, you can actually be paid to move here. It explained: “Regions like Calabria, Molise and Sardinia are suffering from massive depopulation.

“To revive these ghost towns, the local governments are offering between €10,000 (£8,705.50) to €30,000 (£26,116.50) to people under 40 who are willing to settle there.”

It turns out Italian regions such as Calabria, Molise and Sardinia offer financial incentives to boost declining populations in rural areas. There are reported to be schemes that offer up to €30,000 to people willing to move to towns with fewer than 2,000 to 3,000 residents.

Usually, to benefit from the scheme, applicants need to be under 40, start a business or renovate a home. There are some guidelines people need to follow to be able to benefit.

Spain

Again, towns in rural areas are looking for people to move there, such as Ponga in Asturias. The video detailed: “As part of the empty Spain initiative, the town of Ponga is offering €3,100 per person just to move there.”

According to reports, this figure is actually claimed to be between €2,971 and €3,000 per person (often reported as roughly £2,600) to new residents. However, there are additional incentives for couples and families to boost its dwindling population.

If you fancy taking the leap, the scheme requires a five-year commitment to live in the area. In other words, you need to be sure before you apply to move.

Greece

You can also move to the tiny island of Antikythera in Greece. It’s said people can be paid up to €500 per month for the first three years.

The relocation package aims to repopulate the area, providing new residents with a house, a plot of land and the monthly payments. The initiative primarily targets families and skilled professionals such as bakers, builders and farmers to support the local community.

Other options

The video also highlights that people can be paid to move to Japan. The amounts people can be paid differ, as every scheme has its own set of guidelines, and may not be as much as detailed in the video.

While people can’t be paid for simply moving to Ireland, grants are available for people who move to renovate properties on its remote offshore islands. There are all sorts of schemes people can benefit from, but it’s not as easy as packing your bags.

There are rules people need to follow to benefit, and they vary depending on where you want to apply to move. Do your research to find out more.

Discover L’Andana, a luxury Tuscan hotel set in a historic Medici villa in the heart of Maremma, Italy, offering Michelin-starred dining, ESPA spa treatments, pasta-making classes, and wine tastings amid stunning countryside views

When you picture Italy – undulating manicured hillsides, country lanes bordered by towering cypress trees, terracotta hamlets and sunlight glinting off church domes, it’s most likely Tuscany that springs to mind. From Florence’s misty cupolas to the wine-drenched estates of the Chianti hills, countless scenes from Tuscany align perfectly with our quintessential vision of holidays.

It would be tempting to think, given the abundance of Instagram-perfect shots of this Italian paradise, that the actual experience might fall short of expectations. Far from it – in truth, nothing matches the enchanting atmosphere when you’re witnessing its splendour first-hand. If you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic, cuisine-filled escape, this is your ideal destination, reports OK!

Why this stunning hotel is the ultimate Tuscany choice

We checked into the stunning L’Andana Hotel nestled in the heart of Maremma, a delightful, less-travelled corner of the region where Italians themselves love to holiday. We discovered that Maremma is dubbed the “wild west” of Tuscany, which became entirely understandable when we encountered cacti and herds of cattle with remarkably long horns. You’re unmistakably deep in the Italian countryside here.

L’Andana is a blissful retreat in the low hills, and arriving at the estate felt like those Tuscan roads you see in films, along a 2km-long driveway flanked by tall green trees on both sides. This former Medici villa, once the summer residence of Grand Duke Leopold II and his court, exudes a regal sense of grandeur. Decorated in warm shades of butter, mustard and ochre, with traditional Tuscan-style furnishings and sweeping windows that frame breathtaking views of the Maremma landscape, every detail delights. From the warm hospitality to the genuinely authentic atmosphere, it truly felt like a real “casa”.

Wine tasting at the hotel and local vineyards

Tuscany’s wine scene is as rich and layered as its scenery. Vineyards stretch out in virtually every direction, and it’s a real privilege to stay somewhere that cultivates its own grapes. The hotel produces its own wine on site and offers tasting sessions for guests, paired with a three-course light lunch. We also ventured beyond the resort to Petra, another winery under the same ownership as L’Andana’s, where yet more spectacular vistas — and vintages — awaited.

We dubbed the building there “the Tuscan Chichén Itzá”, owing to its remarkable architecture that bears a striking resemblance to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

What to do around the grounds and in the spa

Despite its peaceful and unhurried atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to keep you busy, with two swimming pools, tennis courts and a vast golf course all on offer. We chose ultimate relaxation with an ESPA massage, alongside a leisurely bike ride with an expert guide beyond the resort grounds. The scenery was utterly stunning and proved to be amongst the trip’s standout moments. These represent just a fraction of the numerous activities the hotel can organise for guests – they can also arrange horse riding, yoga sessions and beach excursions.

A pasta-making masterclass with an Italian chef

Food enthusiasts will thrive here, particularly with the gourmet offerings at L’Andana’s Michelin-starred La Trattoria Enrico Bartolini. To truly embrace the culinary culture, however, book a pasta making class with an Italian chef. We mastered the proper techniques and savoured our own freshly-made pasta with bolognese. There’s surely no finer location to learn the art of pasta making.

Discovering Castiglione della Pescaia: a coastal hidden gem

Each evening at the resort we’d spot twinkling lights in the distance; this, we learnt, was a charming little seaside town called Castiglione della Pescaia, merely a 15-minute drive from the hotel. We called in here while returning from the Petra winery, and it felt as though we’d stumbled upon a hidden treasure. It resembles one of those charming European towns featured in romantic comedies, brimming with winding, cobblestone lanes, pastel-painted houses with vibrant shutters, and lively eateries. We discovered one meandering pathway that guided us all the way down to a breathtaking view of the sea at sunset, with the entire landscape before us bathed in gold. It was the most spectacular conclusion to the day – and to this remarkable stay.

Planning a trip to Tuscany? Here’s how to book this hotel

Double rooms at L’Andana start from around £382 per night based on two sharing, including breakfast. Book at andana.it

French President Emmanuel Macron said he welcomed the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the Lebanon ceasefire, as the US and Iran declared the key waterway open. His comments came as European leaders discuss a post-war Hormuz maritime force.

easyJet issued an ‘important update’ earlier this month

easyJet has issued an alert to passengers travelling to more than 100 destinations with the airline after a major rule change that has come in post-Brexit.

In an “important update” issued earlier this month, easyJet warned queue times may be affected and said: “Airports across Europe may experience longer queues at passport control whilst the new European Entry/Exit System (EES) border checks are being completed. This will mean you may need to have your biometrics taken including your face and fingerprints scanned.”

Passengers are advised to plan travel to and through the airport, factoring in that they may have to queue for longer than previously. Anyone who needs to use Bag Drop should do so as soon as it opens, and travellers should make sure they have all necessary documents to hand.

easyJet is also urging people to go through security as early as possible and to head to the gate or boarding area as soon as it is announced. The travel operator further said there may be additional checks at passport control before your gate and added: “You may experience longer queues in your arrival airport”.

Full list of easyJet destinations under the new EES

• Ajaccio, Corsica (AJA) – France
• Akureyri (AEY) – Iceland
• Alicante (ALC) – Spain
• Almeria (LEI) – Spain
• Amsterdam (AMS) – Netherlands
• Athens (ATH) – Greece
• Barcelona (BCN) – Spain
• Bari (BRI) – Italy
• Basel (BSL) – Switzerland
• Bastia, Corsica (BIA) – France
• Berlin Brandenburg (BER) – Germany
• Biarritz (BIQ) – France
• Bilbao (BIO) – Spain
• Bordeaux (BOD) – France
• Brest Brittany (BES) – France
• Brindisi (BDS) – Italy
• Brussels Intl (BRU) – Belgium
• Budapest (BUD) – Hungary
• Burgas (BOJ) – Bulgaria
• Calvi, Corsica (CLY) – France
• Copenhagen (CPH) – Denmark
• Corfu (CFU) – Greece
• Costiera Amalfitana Salerno, Naples (QSR) – Italy
• Crete Chania (CHQ) – Greece
• Crete Heraklion (HER) – Greece
• Dubrovnik (DBV) – Croatia
• Dusseldorf (DUS) – Germany
• Evenes-Lofoten (EVE) – Norway
• Faro (FAO) – Portugal
• Figari, Corsica (FSC) – France
• Frankfurt International (FRA) – Germany
• Friedrichshafen (FDH) – Germany
• Fuerteventura (FUE) – Spain
• Geneva (GVA) – Switzerland
• Gibraltar (GIB) – Gibraltar
• Gran Canaria (LPA) – Spain
• Grenoble (GNB) – France
• Hamburg (HAM) – Germany
• Ibiza (IBZ) – Spain
• Innsbruck (INN) – Austria
• Kalamata (KLX) – Greece
• Kefalonia (EFL) – Greece
• Kittila (KTT) – Finland
• Kos (KGS) – Greece
• Krakow (KRK) – Poland
• La Coruña (LCG) – Spain
• La Rochelle (LRH) – France
• Lamezia (SUF) – Italy
• Lanzarote (ACE) – Spain
• Lille (LIL) – France
• Lisbon (LIS) – Portugal
• Ljubljana (LJU) – Slovenia
• Luxembourg (LUX) – Luxembourg
• Lyon (LYS) – France
• Madeira Funchal (FNC) – Portugal
• Madrid (MAD) – Spain
• Majorca Palma (PMI) – Spain
• Malaga (AGP) – Spain
• Malta (MLA) – Malta
• Marseille Provence (MRS) – France
• Menorca Mahon (MAH) – Spain
• Milan Linate (LIN) – Italy
• Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Italy
• Montpellier (MPL) – France
• Munich (MUC) – Germany
• Murcia Intl (RMU) – Spain
• Mykonos (JMK) – Greece
• Nantes (NTE) – France
• Naples (NAP) – Italy
• Nice (NCE) – France
• Oslo (OSL) – Norway
• Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – France
• Paris Orly (ORY) – France
• Pisa (Tuscany) (PSA) – Italy
• Porto (OPO) – Portugal
• Porto Santo (PXO) – Portugal
• Prague (PRG) – Czech Republic
• Preveza (PVK) – Greece
• Pula (PUY) – Croatia
• Rennes (RNS) – France
• Reus (REU) – Spain
• Reykjavik Keflavik (KEF) – Iceland
• Rhodes (RHO) – Greece
• Rimini (RMI) – Italy
• Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – Italy
• Rovaniemi (RVN) – Finland
• Salzburg (SZG) – Austria
• Santa Cruz de la Palma (SPC) – Spain
• Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) – Spain
• Santorini (JTR) – Greece
• Sardinia Cagliari (CAG) – Italy
• Sardinia Olbia (OLB) – Italy
• Scandinavian Mountains (SCR) – Sweden
• Seville (SVQ) – Spain
• Sicily Catania (CTA) – Italy
• Sicily Lampedusa (LMP) – Italy
• Sicily Palermo (PMO) – Italy
• Skiathos (JSI) – Greece
• Sofia (SOF) – Bulgaria
• Split (SPU) – Croatia
• Strasbourg (SXB) – France
• Tenerife South (TFS) – Spain
• Thessaloniki (SKG) – Greece
• Toulouse (TLS) – France
• Tromsø (TOS) – Norway
• Turin (TRN) – Italy
• Valencia (VLC) – Spain
• Venice Marco Polo (VCE) – Italy
• Verona (VRN) – Italy
• Vienna (VIE) – Austria
• Zadar (ZAD) – Croatia
• Zante Zakynthos (ZTH) – Greece
• Zurich (ZRH) – Switzerland

The EES applies to 29 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The above list of airports are the Schengen area destinations you can fly to with easyJet from the UK, as of the airline’s website at the time of publication.

Alex Manninger played for Arsenal, Liverpool and Juventus at peak of his career while winning 33 Austria caps.

Former Austria goalkeeper Alex Manninger, who played for Arsenal and a string of Italian clubs, has died at ⁠the age of 48 when the car he was driving was hit by a train at a crossing near Salzburg.

The Austrian Football Association (OEFB) and clubs associated with ⁠the player, who retired as a professional in 2017, mourned his passing on Thursday.

Manninger made 33 appearances for Austria and played for Arsenal from 1997 to 2001 with the club winning the league title and FA Cup in the 1997-1998 season. He ‌ended his career at Liverpool in 2017.

In Italy, the Austrian played for Fiorentina, Torino, Bologna, Siena, Udinese and Juventus.

“Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador of Austrian football on and off the pitch,” OEFB Sporting Director Peter Schoettel said in a statement.

“With his international career, he has set standards and inspired and shaped many young goalkeepers. His professionalism, his calmness and his reliability made him an ⁠important part of his teams and also of the national ⁠team.”

Salzburg police said in a statement that the accident happened about 8:20am (06:20 GMT). First responders freed the driver from the vehicle, but resuscitation was unsuccessful.

“According to initial investigations, the car was ⁠hit by a railcar of the Salzburger Lokalbahn while crossing the railway crossing and dragged along. The driver was alone ⁠in the vehicle. The train driver was uninjured,” ⁠the police said.

Fiorentina said they will observe a minute’s silence and wear black armbands for Thursday’s home Conference League game with Crystal Palace while league leaders Arsenal conveyed their shock on social media.

Other clubs, including ‌Liverpool, issued statements of condolence.

“Today is a very sad day. We have lost not only a great athlete, but a man of rare values: humility, dedication, and ‌an ‌exceptional sense of professionalism,” Juventus said

“Alex Manninger will be remembered for the example he set, on and off the pitch.”

Arriving at his training session, Cole was all business, talking mostly in English while throwing in Italian phrases.

One local staff member was impressed by his willingness to tidy up the equipment, which he said was uncommon for a player who had enjoyed such a successful playing career.

To Cole, a former schoolboy from east London, that behaviour is normal. Even his new title – ‘Mister’, bestowed on all managers in Italy – is something he is still getting used to.

“I don’t see myself above anyone at this club,” he said. “Of course I have to be the leader of the group, but I’ll pick up a cone.”

Cole had some awareness of what he was arriving into in Emilia‑Romagna – nicknamed Italy’s ‘food valley’ and famous for parmigiano reggiano, balsamic vinegar from Modena and prosciutto di parma – with his wife Sharon Canu an important sounding board.

“I certainly didn’t go looking for an Italian wife [when he joined Roma in 2014], but I came back with one,” he joked.

“Sharon has been great for me. She’s from Rome, but she understands that people in smaller cities really love the club where they live. I have to embrace that.”

One example is Cole’s routine of buying a five euro ‘piadina’ – an Italian flatbread sandwich – from a stall outside Cesena’s stadium before his media conferences. The food stand also regularly feeds the squad after home matches.

In this working‑class town of fewer than 100,000 people, Cole’s side are underdogs in Serie B – something he identifies with.

“I liked that the owners have a similar background to me – hard work, graft, underdogs nobody believed in – but they created a really successful business,” he said.

“They also wanted someone to believe in them and give them a chance.”

Cesena, like most Italian clubs, rent their stadium and training facilities from the local authority, but Cole has innovated where he can.

He created a video analysis room and uses a high-angle tactical camera to film his sessions, which he watches back in full every day.

“I came here thinking something had to change,” Cole said. “We hadn’t won away from home for a long time, so that had to change – it wasn’t working.

“We’d gone a number of games without a win, so that had to change too. We needed higher intensity in training and matches. The style of football had to change.

“We had to be more adaptable to the different styles we come up against, and we needed more control in games through possession.”

In his first media conference, Cole also called out Italy’s failure to qualify for three consecutive World Cups as a sign they needed to be open to new styles of football, which he is implementing before a trip to face Palermo on Saturday.

Many passengers are facing waits of up to three hours at Spanish airports due to the new controls

Travellers in Spain are experiencing significant delays at airports. And experts are warning that one particular group is bearing the brunt of new border controls, according to a Spanish travel organisation.

There have been widespread reports of waiting times of up to three hours. New regulations have been introduced, with some passengers in particular facing very long waits.

Spanish media reports indicate waiting times of up to three hours at Palma airport alone, with similar delays reported in France, Greece, Italy and beyond. Travel group Aviba is now calling for urgent measures to prevent chaos this coming summer.

Pedro Fiol, president of the travel association, is demanding immediate action to avert disruption this summer, and has revealed he has been pushing for such measures for months, according to Ultimata Hora. The new system has only just been introduced, having fully launched on April 10, following a trial period that began late last year.

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) initially began operations on 12 October 2025, with a phased rollout across 29 European countries. Now it is fully in place.

The system replaces passport stamping with digitally recorded entries, exits or refusals of entry of non-EU nationals arriving for short stays. Travellers’ facial images, fingerprints and personal data from the travel document will also be recorded.

Mr Fiol said: “The implementation of the new European Border and Security System (EES) is already beginning to be felt at the Balearic airports, especially at Son Sant Joan, the main gateway to Mallorca, where we are still operating with a hybrid model. At certain times, it is causing some slowdowns in the controls, particularly for non-EU passengers.”

He warned that “we are facing a structural change in how borders are managed across Europe: biometric registration is replacing manual passport stamping, and this means more time for the passenger’s first contact with their destination.” In his view, so far “the experience has been inconsistent: some days the operation runs relatively smoothly, while others, according to agencies and tour operators, can take more than two hours from the moment the plane lands until the traveller collects their luggage, and even nearly three hours in some specific cases.”

Ultima Hora reports that the National Police have acknowledged the delays, though they say they have seen no evidence of prolonged hold-ups. Sources close to the security forces have told Spanish media that additional staff have been deployed during peak hours in a bid to ease any difficulties that may occur during periods of heavy passenger congestion at checkpoints.

Travellers passing through airports in countries including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Greece are facing waits of several hours at border controls, according to the Airports Council International (ACI). Olivier Jankovec, the director of the ACI European division, told the Financial Times: “This situation, in the coming weeks and certainly over the peak summer months, is going to be simply unmanageable.

“We are seeing those queueing times now, at peak times, when traffic is just starting to build up.” A spokesperson for the European Commission told the Guardian: “What we can see from the first days of full operation is that the system is working very well. In the overwhelming majority of member states there are no issues.”

The commission said that the average registration of a passenger was 70 seconds, although the ACI has claimed that it can take up to five minutes. The spokesperson said there were a “few member states where technical issues have been detected” but that they “are being addressed”.

They said: “It is up to member states to ensure the proper implementation of the EES on the ground.” Luke Fitzpatrick, from independent travel agency Perfect Getaways, told the BBC this week that travellers should plan ahead to make border checks as smooth as possible.

“It’s about being as prepared as you can be,” Fitzpatrick told BBC Radio Merseyside. “There is a lot of uncertainty at the moment as people are getting used to the new system.”

While he said the advice was to arrive at the airport “at least three hours early”, he said it could be more difficult for people booked on a package holiday. “If you’re on a shared transfer back, everyone’s coming together at the same time,” he said.

EES changes and the impact on transfer and pick-ups

Pedro Fiol told Ultima Hora that “this situation is forcing a restructuring of transfer and pick-up operations at destinations to better co-ordinate exact times, avoid additional downtime, and guarantee the smoothest possible service.” Given this situation, he says that “travel agencies are concerned that if resources are not properly allocated at airports with such high tourist pressure as those in the Balearic Islands, significant queues and a negative first experience for visitors are possible.”

What do Brit tourists need to do with EES rules?

The govuk website states that “if you are travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay using a UK passport, you may be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.

“EES registration is replacing the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU. EES may take each passenger extra time to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border.”

The countries in the Schengen area are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.