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Eurostar can be a really easy way to get across to France and Belgium but there’s one mistake passengers always make – and it can leave you waiting longer

With family in Belgium, Eurostar has always been one of the easiest ways for me to visit thanks to the direct trains between London and Brussels.

On a recent trip, I realised that over the years I’ve racked up over 50 Eurostar journeys. It often works out cheaper than flying for me; there are regular sales where you can snap up £39 tickets if you’re willing to get the early morning/late night trains, and sometimes there are even tempting deals to upgrade to the Eurostar Plus seats with perks including more legroom and a light meal.

I like to think that I’ve nearly perfected the art of a seamless Eurostar arrival for check-in (have your documents ready, gadgets out before you reach security screening, coffee and snacks bought to avoid the rush at the only Pret that’s available once you go through border control).

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However, there’s one mistake that I always see people making – and it can actually mean that they end up having to wait around longer for their train. While airlines often require you to arrive around two to three hours before a flight, that window is a lot smaller for Eurostar; and they won’t let you join the queue if you arrive too early.

Usually when you arrive at the Eurostar departures queues, there are staff members holding signs with the train numbers and departure times; if yours isn’t on that list, then it’s unlikely they will let you through. There are typically about two to three trains’ worth of passengers being allowed into the hall, and even that can leave it feeling crowded if there’s any sort of delay.

It means that often overly-eager passengers end up having to awkwardly hang around outside the queues to enter the Eurostar terminal, and I’ve seen people get frustrated that they’re basically just sat waiting to go and queue.

It’s not just in London; Brussels also operates a similar system meaning that if you arrive early, you won’t be allowed to enter the terminal until the check-in window opens for your train.

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Eurostar has some rough guidelines on its website here although always check your booking details as sometimes these can change depending on the months you’re travelling, or if there are any delays that affect your travel.

Typically, Eurostar recommends that you arrive 75 minutes before your departure time in London. For Paris, there’s a wider window of up to 90 minutes, while in Brussels it’s a lot shorter with arrival times of up to an hour before departure.

Of course there’s the flip side; the gates usually close about 30 minutes before departure so don’t leave it so late thinking you can just rock up 10 minutes beforehand and that they’ll let you fly past the security queues and border control etc. (I’ve seen people looking very stressed as they try to rush through security and leg it for their train).

I still find it an overall smoother and easier process than navigating through the airport – especially with the lack of 100ml liquid rules at Eurostar, and a much more relaxed approach to the luggage you bring with you!

I’ve visited 26 places in ten countries over the past 12 months. A number I’d argue is a few more than ideal, at least if you want to avoid the sensation of constantly rushing around, and being stuck in a loop of packing and unpacking a toiletries bag.

Over the past year, I’ve managed to tick off 10 countries and 26 destinations from my travel list. A number that’s a tad more than ideal if you’re not keen on the constant hustle and bustle, and the never-ending cycle of packing and unpacking toiletries.

Among these destinations are some that still leave me in awe. The alien-like landscape of Deception Island in Antarctica, a whale graveyard, is undoubtedly the highlight.

Likewise, the sight of condors soaring above as I trekked up an Andes mountain following a gaucho’s trail is something I won’t forget anytime soon.

Closer to home, this was the year I finally set foot on Lindisfarne in Northumberland. This tidal island, which recently featured in Danny Boyle’s zombie film, 28 Years Later, is truly magical.

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My visit last midsummer was particularly memorable with the sun shining, beetles scurrying in the grass, and seals serenading across the bay. However, it’s not any of these places that I’m eager to revisit next year, fingers crossed. That honour goes to Catania.

I had a fleeting, 12-hour visit to this Sicilian city in August and now, I’m resolved to go back.

If you’ve been to this Italian island, chances are you landed in the much larger and more famous Palermo. It’s a captivating city, brimming with attractions like a sprawling botanical garden, the beautifully restored Palazzo Butera, and a top-notch puppet museum.

Despite its charm, there’s a sense that Palermo has perhaps overindulged the tourist trade. Its renowned Capo Market has shifted from selling fresh produce to street food, and the daily queue for a baked goodie at the former monastery, Santa Caterina, often stretches to 100 people.

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In contrast, Catania, located roughly 200 km east of Palermo on Sicily’s coast, exudes an authenticity and tranquillity that sets it apart from its older sibling.

While Palermo is large, audacious and rough around the edges, Catania is neater, more stylish and refined. The city, home to 300,000 residents, was established by the Greeks in the 8th century BC and has been shaped by centuries of conquest and natural disasters, most notably the catastrophic earthquake of 1693.

This rebuilding led to the creation of its stunning Baroque architecture, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stroll through the historic centre leads you to Piazza del Duomo, where the grand Catania Cathedral and the famous Fontana dell’Elefante, a lava-stone elephant statue that has become the city’s emblem, reside.

The Via dei Crociferi, adorned with ornate churches and monasteries, is frequently hailed as one of Sicily’s most beautiful streets.

One of the most captivating reasons to visit Catania, and why I’m so eager to go back, is its breathtaking location. The city is nestled between the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. After an evening spent sipping spritz and carafes of light table wine, our group climbed onto the roof of our apartment block and looked north.

Illuminating the dark sky above us was a burst of orange. Lava was erupting from the top of Etna.

Vibrant buses bound for the volcano regularly set off from Catania, transporting daring tourists up the volcano and through lava fields, craters, and even vineyards that flourish in the fertile volcanic soil.

For those not captivated by volcanoes and stunning architecture, spending a week just eating and drinking is arguably just as satisfying. Street food plays a significant role in daily life there and has a rich history.

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If arancini balls, cannoli, and granita (a refreshing Sicilian sorbet sometimes served in a warm brioche) didn’t originate here, they’ve certainly been perfected.

The fun carries on at the La Pescheria market, situated near Piazza del Duomo, where Sicilian-speaking stallholders will sell you a cone of deep-fried seafood.

The great news for those, like me, planning a trip to Catania is that there are direct flights from London Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Manchester airports, with airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair providing services. One-way tickets this month start from just £19.

Perhaps a bargain too tempting to pass up….

I’ve visited 12 new countries this year, and even though each one has its own charm, I’d say there’s one that didn’t quite cut it

This year has been a rollercoaster of adventures for me. I’ve had the good fortune to discover new cities, sample local cuisines, and meet individuals whose tales have lingered with me long after my journey’s end. From savouring Italian dishes in Sardinia to exploring Poland, I’ve ticked off 12 new countries on my travel list in 2025.

Each nation has offered something unique, but not every destination leaves you yearning for more. Among all the places I’ve visited, there’s one country I wouldn’t be in a hurry to return to.

That’s not because it wasn’t stunning, but because sometimes travelling teaches you what you do and don’t want from a trip.

One of my stops this year was Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean that many people describe as a true paradise, reports the Express.

It was exactly that, turquoise waters, palm tree-fringed beaches and sunsets that look like they’re straight out of a film. It’s the kind of place that many people dream of visiting, but for me, it just didn’t live up to the hype.

For starters, it’s a very, very long way from the UK. It’s around 12 hours of flying, not including the connections and airport hours that make the journey feel even longer.

By the time I finally landed, I was expecting something truly unforgettable, but I found myself wondering whether the distance was really worth it.

The island itself is undeniably beautiful, but after a few days, I felt like I had seen most of what there was to see. Aside from the beaches and a few nature spots, there isn’t a lot to do.

Now, I understand that Mauritius isn’t typically a destination for exploration, but more of a tranquil retreat. However, during my visit, I realised that I’m more of an adventurer when it comes to holidays.

Mauritius is undoubtedly appealing to newlyweds or those seeking a serene getaway. It’s calm, and the locals are friendly and hospitable.

Yet, for me, it lacked the magic that makes me fall head over heels for a location. It’s one of those places I’m pleased to have visited once, but I don’t feel compelled to return.

On the other hand, out of the other 11 countries I’ve travelled to this year, some have left me eager to go back. From the late-night street food in South Korea to the relaxed allure of Belgium, each place has made a lasting impression.

Even closer to home, Jersey took me by surprise with its blend of British familiarity and tranquil island life, while Croatia won me over with its historic towns.

Mauritius might not have been the ideal holiday spot for me, but even that experience played a part in my year of globetrotting.

British blogger Kieren Adam Owen, better known as JimmyTheGiant, has become a passionate defender of Ukraine since marrying Vlada after meeting her on a holiday in Thailand

“The first thing you notice about Ukraine is how spotless the toilets are.”

British blogger Kieren Adam Owen, better known as JimmyTheGiant, was taken aback by the sparkling state of the bathrooms in Lviv when he visited the Ukrainian city for the first time after meeting his now-wife, Vlada, whom he had fallen head over heels for during a holiday in Thailand.

But it’s not just the immaculate nature of the WCs that caught Keiren’s eye. He is now a great enthusiast for the food, the coffee, the community life in the countryside and much else in Ukraine.

He is not the only one to have fallen for a nation that has been devastated by the war, or who is willing to go to great lengths to get there. According to data compiled by the State Border Service of Ukraine and VisitKyiv.com for the first half of 2025, foreigners crossed the Ukrainian border 1,194,983 times – 6,000 more than in the same period last year. That is, of course, a much smaller number than before the war and the coronavirus pandemic. In 2019, 13.4million tourists visited Ukraine.

All those who do go are risking their lives to varying degrees. As of 30 September 2025, 14,383 civilians had been killed in the war, according to the OHCHR. The UK Foreign Office states bluntly that it “advises against all travel to parts of Ukraine.”

Kieren is clearly aware of these dangers and not immune to fear. When in the country, whenever the air raid sirens begin to ring out, he immediately rushes down to the shelter: unlike some war-weary Ukrainians. “I can imagine that when you live there, you don’t always want to go to a shelter — probably because it’s a headache, and you know that the actual attacks that hit are fewer than the ones you hear the sirens for. But when you’re traveling, you can kind of do it, so I always just go to the shelter whenever,” he told the Mirror.

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While most today are travelling for work or family events, some head to the war-torn country simply to explore. Others are on pilgrimage to Uman – an annual trip when thousands of Hasidim visit the tomb of Rabbi Nachman, founder of Bratslav Hasidism. Humanitarian trips are common, with large numbers travelling to participate in dozens of reconstruction projects crucial for a country that has been battered by missiles and drone strikes since February 2022.

Surprisingly, it is not in the cities that Keiren has felt most scared. Rather, it is in the rural areas without bomb shelters where he’s most feared for his life. There, he has watched rockets falling right above his head, with nowhere to hide except the house he was living in. “You feel more vulnerable there — there’s only ‘God’s protection’,” he said.

Kieren was once best known for his analytical takes on economics and politics, before he began producing documentary reports from Ukraine. The change in direction came after he married Vlada.

Now he spends a significant portion of his time promoting the lesser-known aspects of one of Europe’s poorest countries.

In a 52-minute YouTube video titled ‘How Ukraine changed my life‘, which he published earlier this year, the Milton Keynes lad explained how the country stole his heart.

“Your image of Ukraine is of this very brutalist, post-Soviet, kind of depressing, poor place, and Lviv just shattered this mental image. You’re walking on these cobbled streets, and you see all these beautiful, stunning, classical buildings. Everyone around you is cooler than you, dressed cooler than you, they’re just stylish, chill bras. Every single restaurant or cafe is on the level of the coolest of cool places in London, even better in some cases. The coffee… I literally became a coffee snob because of that trip.”

Keiren’s adulation for Ukraine stretches to the rural areas, where his in-laws live. There, wages are much lower than in Lviv and the capital Kyiv, yet access to great stretches of arable countryside abounds. Many work the land alongside their day jobs, building up larders with conserves and wines, as small-holding, subsistence farmers.

“I would argue in some regards, they live a much more fulfilling life than many poor people in the UK,” Kieren says in his video, noting the level of community cohesion, access to nature and fresh food many rural Ukrainians enjoy.

Kieren makes clear that he “isn’t saying that their lives are heaven” or that serious poverty, access issues for disabled people, and low life expectancy aren’t serious issues in the country.

Kieren has never been close to the front line, where the level of danger is much higher. Despite the risks he runs by being in Ukraine, he is keen to keep returning to a country he has fallen in love with.

“This is how high-quality everything is. I miss how everywhere you go, everything just feels perfect. That’s super nice. And the vibe. It’s just nice to be in Ukraine — the trees, the streets of Kyiv, the people who, despite the war, remain friendly and create an incredible atmosphere,” he continued.

For many Brits who find a second home abroad, the financial clout of the pound is a significant benefit. As he earns money in Britain, Kieren can afford more than he would back in the UK.

“When you come here, you feel like a millionaire,” he joked. “So you can have a really enjoyable week, constantly visiting various establishments.”

Kieren’s top recommendation is the restaurant 100 rokiv tomu vpered (100 Years Ahead), run by renowned Ukrainian chef Yevgen Klopotenko, who serves up traditional dishes, such as borscht, and the less typical fried bees. Another favourite place is Musafir, a Crimean Tatar restaurant known for its fried, doughy chibereks.

When not indulging in the local fare, Keiren enjoys spending time on Reitarska Street, an artistic hub in Kyiv, and Andriivskyi Uzviz. Kieren also recommends visiting the Golden Gate in the city center, a historic structure that was once the entrance to Kyiv, as well as having a picnic in one of Kyiv’s parks, such as Taras Shevchenko Park.

The top 10 countries by number of entries into Ukraine in the first half of 2025

1. Moldova — 509,219
2. Romania — 197,012
3. Poland — 116,589
4. Hungary — 60,400
5. Slovakia — 35,279
6. Israel — 26,869
7. Germany — 23,687
8. Turkey — 22,858
9. United States — 22,840
10. United Kingdom — 17,210

Under a two-hour flight from the UK is a ‘magical’ and ‘beautiful’ theme park, boasting 30 rides and attractions that offers a great alternative to Disneyland – and it’s much cheaper

Disneyland has long been dubbed ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’, but with that comes a hefty price tag, particularly if you’re taking the whole family. Thankfully, there’s a cheaper alternative for a fraction of the price, and it’s even been said to have been inspired by Walt Disney itself.

Less than a two-hour flight from the UK is Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, known for its “cosy, wholesome and magical atmosphere.” It claims to be the second-oldest amusement park in the world, having opened in 1843, and boasts around 30 fun-packed rides and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Located in the heart of the city and set within the stunning backdrop of the Danish capital, it has been labelled “the most beautiful park” by one avid traveller and content creator called Emily. And one of the most appealing qualities about this theme park is that tickets start from as little as £11.10 per person.

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Sharing details of the beloved and overlooked Disneyland alternative, Emily posted a TikTok video on her page, @upfoldadventures, during a family day out. At the start of the video, she told her 10.9K followers, “If Disneyland Paris is out of your budget this year, I have the next best thing, and no, it’s not Efteling.

“If you love Disney but you hate the crowds and you want the magic but at half the price, well this park has those Disney magical storybook vibes but without the chaos and when it gets dark and all the lights come on, you will understand why this is called ‘Europe’s hidden Disney.'”

She added: “It is one of the world’s oldest theme parks and it is truly magical – it is honestly like stepping foot into a storybook.

“The rides are classic and stunning, the park is spotless, there’s live music, there’s shows and the food is phenomenal – don’t just think this is gonna be theme park junk, no, it is genuinely some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life.”

One of the main attractions at Tivoli Gardens is the giant Ferris Wheel that was built in 1943. It also offers views 63m above the ground on the Golden Tower, and a thrilling ride on its wooden Roller Coaster, which was erected all the way back in 1914.

In addition, visitors can whiz around on their bumper cars and carousel rides, or admire the picturesque surroundings in the Hanging Gardens. And that’s not all, as the theme park is also packed with shops, stages, theatre spaces and a food hall to keep the family happy.

While the savvy saving mum is a huge fan of Disneyland Paris, she was left delighted after a day out at Tivoli Gardens. In the video she added: “So if you love the Disney vibe, well then you’re gonna fall in love with it, because it is such a cosy, wholesome, magical atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of Disneyland Paris – and before Disney even existed, this park was creating all the magic.”

Standard weekday tickets for Tivoli Gardens start from just £11.10 for children aged 3-7, while a standard adult ticket costs just £22.21. A weekday ticket and ride pass, offering full access to all the attractions, will set you back £25.01 for children aged 3-7 and £50.14 for an adult ticket.

Children under 3 are free at Tivoli Gardens. Prices can vary, so it’s best to check their website for more details.

Diana Winskill, from Somerset, has lived in Majorca for the last 26 years, having moved to the Spanish island with her husband and kids to work as a TUI holiday rep

When Diana Winskill from Somerset left the UK for a six-month stint in Majorca as a TUI rep in 1999, she never imagined she’d still be welcoming British holidaymakers 26 years later—and still loving every minute.

While a lot has changed in the country and the world over the past quarter of a century, holidaymakers’ patterns are pleasingly regular.

“Brits still absolutely love their all-inclusive holidays. Knowing everything’s included means they can really indulge and not worry about extra costs. And then there’s bingo. Without fail, we have our loyal customers who love their bingo every evening. That’s never changed in my 26 years.”

For the past seven years, Diana has been a friendly face at one of the island’s most popular TUI hotels, the Globales Santa Lucia, welcoming and farewelling hundreds of British travellers each day.

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“I came here when I was 23 for what was supposed to be six months. I met my English-born husband Chris here, we had two daughters, Imogen and Amelia, and I’ve now lived in Majorca longer than I ever lived in the UK,” said Diana.

However, Diana has noticed some major shifts. British holidaymakers are increasingly seeking experiential travel, wanting to immerse themselves in local culture rather than just lounging by the pool.

“Excursions to see the markets in Majorca are getting much more popular. People want to get out and experience the local culture they’re in, and TUI have so many to choose from with local guides who know the island back to front. I’ve also noticed a rise in friendship groups travelling together, moving away from the traditional family or couple getaways”.

However, the biggest transformation has been technology.

“The TUI app has revolutionised everything. Customers now get all their transfer times and can book experiences directly on their phones. When I first started, we wrote everything by hand and phoned through excursion bookings.”

Yet despite the digital revolution, Diana insists that face-to-face contact remains crucial.

“Welcome meetings are still incredibly popular. In a world where everything’s going digital, people still love asking questions and meeting in person. Sometimes you just cannot replace human contact. And so we focus on ensuring we have the knowledge and know-how of the destination to help ensure our guests have the most memorable holidays.”

The adults- only Hotel Globales Santa Lucia is located between the beaches of Son Matias and Palma Nova, meaning there is sea views from each room and it’s just a five minute walk into town. It features an indoor and outdoor pool, and a sociable buffet restaurant and two bars.

“One customer told me she’d been back four times this year just to see me because I make her holiday so special. That’s what makes this job incredible. A lot of people think we’re just salespeople with a smile, but you have to be so well-rounded. We support people when things go wrong, but we’re also there for the magical moments. Holidays mean so much to people”.

Working from a beautiful beachfront hotel with year-round sunshine certainly has its perks.

“Even in winter, the average temperature only drops to 13 degrees, and you still get the most beautiful sunshine even in the colder months. My colleagues have become my family, and honestly, working around people on holiday is infectious because everyone’s so positive.”

LONDON hotel prices can cost more than a holiday abroad these days, but one very central spot costs just £110 a night for two people – and it is all-inclusive.

Trudging through puddles from Marble Arch, I was on my way to one of the capital’s thousands of hotels – just this one had a big promise.

Z Hotels Gloucester Place offers a room package that is all-inclusive – soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks, lunch, dinner… you name it.

The hotel chain has 12 locations across London and there is a room for each type of budget.

For example, you could stay in a Z Inside Double (which means no window) for as little as £50 in Victoria.

Family rooms at the City site cost from just £100 a night.

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And then of course, there is the Z Club room, exclusively at the Gloucester Place hotel – where each room features a king-size bed and all drinks and food are included in the price of the room.

This sounded to good to be true, so, of course, I had to put it to the test.

The evening all-inclusive food and drink experience

Just a 10-minute walk from Marble Arch tube station or five-minutes from Baker Street, Z Hotels Gloucester Place takes up six townhouses.

Guests can check-in at 3pm, which is exactly what I did to make the most of the offering and I kicked it off by immediately helping myself to my first can of Fanta.

After exploring my room (more on this later), I headed down to the kitchen area, that also doubles up as the reception for the building.

With my laptop under one arm and fluffy jumper under the other, I was ready to make myself comfortable and tuck into as many different food and drinks as I could.

At 3pm, they were offering an afternoon tea selection, which included ham and cheese croissants and a cake stand featuring macaroons, brownies, flapjacks, and pots of tiramisu.

I picked up a handful of sweet treats, including one of the croissants and helped myself to my second can of Fanta.

There was also a made to order selection on a dinner menu, which featured wide choice of sandwiches and salads.

I ordered the salmon and sauerkraut ciabatta.

The food was simple, but it was all tasty and reminded me of the sandwiches and cakes I usually pick up in one of London’s many hipster coffee shops.

However, this would usually set me back £18 for a coffee, pastry or cake and sandwich.

Just an hour later a selection of cheeses and crackers, with grapes, chutney, houmous and olives appeared.

I helped myself to the black bomber cheddar, with a dollop of caramelised onion chutney and some crackers.

For second helping I went for some olives, camembert and crackers.

Over the course of another hour, I went back and forth helping myself to the selection.

I was the only one there – though this was unusual according to the host.

As I enjoyed my plates of food, I also sipped on a glass of sauvignon blanc – one of three white wines on offer.

If I wanted to, I could have also opted for red wine, cider or beer as well.

After a couple of glasses, it was time for bed – with a suitably full belly.

The breakfast all-inclusive food and drink experience

When morning arrived, a breakfast spread included toast, flatbreads with omelette and bacon, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt and pastries.

I opted for some cold apple juice, and helped myself to a coffee, plus a tomato and cheese flatbread, some fruit compote and yogurt.

Before leaving I even grabbed a banana and coffee in a takeaway cup for the road.

But what was the room like?

Given the low price tag, wasn’t expecting plush velvet curtains and Egyptian cotton sheets but I was left pleasantly surprised on entering my room.

The ceilings where high, making the space feel bigger – not that the room was small.

Dominating the room, the king-size bed was inviting and the en-suite was also large, with a powerful shower and stacks of white towels.

Tucked around one corner of my room was an extension, where I found a hidden wardrobe equipped with hangers, an iron and ironing board and a hairdryer.

Two large windows looked out onto the pretty Marylebone street below with iconic red London buses occasionally driving past.

One of the bedside tables doubled up as a tea and coffee station, with a small kettle and two bottles of water, plus sachets of oat (and normal) milk – a lovely detail.

The room also had a TV with the Sky channels on and switches by the bed included USB ports, both UK and EU plug sockets and a dimmer switch for the light.

All in all, the room was simplistic, neat and clean – the only thing I would say it was missing was a floor length mirror.

Do you get bang for your buck?

This hotel is a genuine find.

Completely switching up the typical London hotel experience, Z Hotels Gloucester Place gives some serious value for money.

Totting up all the food I had going off of the average prices usually found for each item in London, I spent way more than my £55-a-head price tag.

In comparison to other budget hotels, I would say the room itself is on par with Travelodge and Premier Inn.

But these hotels in the same area cost considerably more.

For example, to stay at Travelodge Marylebone during the last couple weeks of October, you’ll likely pay £170.99 – and that is before WiFi (an additional £3.50) and breakfast (an additional £5.95 per person per day).

Hub by Premier Inn in Soho is similar, with a one night stay on October 28 costing £199 for a standard room – you would then need to add £8 each for breakfast.

If heading to London and wanting somewhere central to stay, I wouldn’t look at any other option – Z Hotels Gloucester Place really is the best offer out there – and you definitely won’t regret the gooey and decadent brownies.

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IT’S that time of year when theme parks go from shouts of joy to screams of terror – and none more so than Universal Studios, where its Halloween Horror Nights return for their 34th year.

I am a big Universal Studios fan — having been to Orlando, Florida three times this year alone, and racked up 12 visits in my lifetime.

But this is the first time I’ve felt brave enough to try the spooky events that take over the parks from the end of August until November 2.

To up the ante, I decide to swap the Sunshine State for Los Angeles and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Here, in the daytime, you’ve got much-loved characters such as Shaggy and Scooby-Doo, and Glinda from Wicked roaming the park.

But as the sun sets and evening descends, to mark the reopening of the park for Halloween Horror Nights, these cute characters vanish.

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And in their place come killer clowns such as Art from the film Terrifier, and towering crows who plays tricks on innocent attendees.

The overall experience involves eight haunted houses, four scare zones, two live shows and one terror tram.

My one piece of advice? No amount of preparation will have you ready for what Universal has in store for you.

The creative teams excel at putting you front and centre of some of the biggest movies and shows, including Terrifier, Five Nights At Freddy’s, Fallout, Friday The 13th, WWE: The Wyatt Sicks, Poltergeist — and their own creations, Monstruos 3: The Ghosts Of Latin America, and Scarecrow with music by Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash.

The Poltergeist house returns as a fan favourite, which first appeared in 2018.

Only this time, as you walk through a room that resembles the inside of a brain, your senses become overwhelmed by a strong musky smell.

The haunted houses are packed with more jump scares than ever before and, despite having become slightly desensitised to the frights, I don’t think it’s possible to ever become accustomed to a demonic scarecrow running at you.

Just when I thought it was safe, numerous versions of serial killer Jason Voorhees (from Friday The 13th) leapt out to grab me as I headed for the safety of the exit.

It might not sound like fun, but trust me when I say the laughs come later as you recall your hilarious reactions and those of your pals.

When you’re not being tortured in the haunted houses, you can venture through various scare zones located around the park.

My best tip for those who are most fearful is to act confident, as the actors prey on the weak. If you clock them coming towards you, they will most likely choose another target.

For Horror Nights, The Studio Tour has been overtaken by the Terror Tram, which transports guests to the middle of the sound stages where they’ll be faced with the villains of Blumhouse movies including The Exorcist, The Purge, Happy Death Day, M3GAN and more.

This was a highlight of the event for me, as I felt all-consumed by the smoke, lights, music and actors jumping out from behind hidden doors.
After all that horror, you’ll have deserved a well-earned break.

There are plenty of themed drinks and food options to calm your nerves, whether it’s a Jason mask s’more, Art sunflower cookie sunglasses, or Fallout’s RadAway non-alcoholic concoction that’s served in a blood bag.

If the scares become too much, there’s plenty else to keep visitors busy in LA at this time of year.

Golden era of film

Take a hike with Bikes and Hikes up to the Hollywood sign and hear the tales of the area while you climb.

Or you can visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to see landmarks such as the Chinese Theatre, and stop for a spot of lunch or dinner at the Shirley Brasserie situated inside the Roosevelt Hotel.

Just down the road from here is the Hollywood Museum, which is filled with thousands of costumes, props and sets from the golden era of film.

If you want to see some of the movie magic, then take a trip to Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood.

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This is a brilliant journey around popular TV show and film sets, from Friends to Gilmore Girls, and you can get close to costumes and props from the likes of Harry Potter and Batman.

Keep your ears tuned in wherever you go though. If you listen hard you may still hear the distant screams from Universal Studios.

AS the Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor, I’ve racked up the air miles over the years – travelling to over 55 countries and more than 100 cities.

So when it comes to winter sun, I can of course wax lyrical about the beauty of Hawaii or the stunning beaches of St Kitts. But I’ve also found some of the biggest winter sun bargains, where you needn’t go too far.

By that, I mean nothing more than seven hours, which edges the flight into the long-haul category, although some are less than three hours away.

So I’ve done the hard work for you, and found seven places under seven hours away, where you can find everything from cheap hotels and affordable wine to bargain packages and beautiful beaches.

Faro, Portugal

Flight time to Faro – 2hr35

The Algarve is one of the most popular destinations to visit when seeking some European sun in winter.

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And while most Brits fly into Faro and then leave for the coastal resorts, I think the city is worth a cheap winter break on its own.

It’s around 16C in December, so you can get away with a t-shirt.

And there are a group of tiny islands that barely any tourists know about, that are a quick boat trip from the mainland.

You can get to the ‘Caribbean of Portugal’ called Ilha Deserta in just 20 minutes.

Not only are the beaches empty on the island, but it has just one restaurant, Estamine, where you can get a fresh fish tasting menu for €25 (£21.77) for two.

And Portugal is known for its extremely affordable restaurants and bars.

Adega Amável is where you’ll find the locals, and it’s a bit of a squeeze but worth it when beers and glasses of wine are less than €3 (£2.61).

Budget hotels can be found for £30, although I loved 3HB, Faro’s first five-star hotel (starting from £415pp, for four nights with flights with easyJet holidays in November).

Loveholidays has seven-night stays in Faro in November for £199pp with return flights.

Seville, Spain

Flight time to Seville – 2hr45

One of the closest places for some winter sun from the UK is Seville, which is one of the warmest places on the Spanish mainland.

It’s one of my favourite Spanish cities to visit and you can expect temperatures around 17C in December – so definitely t-shirt weather.

If you want to eat where the locals go, try and squeeze into Bar Alfalfa.

You can get an authentic tostada con tomate (toast with tomatoes) and a coffee for just €2.60 (£2.26), or a tinto de verano (red wine and lemonade) for €1.50 (£1.31).

If you don’t want to splash out for an expensive flamenco show, you can catch some live performances in many of Seville’s parks as well.

El Rinconcillo is Seville’s oldest bar, and you can get a large glass of wine for just €3.20 (£2.80).

There are ways to get free tickets for some of the city’s top attractions, too.

The Royal Alcazar Palace has free tickets on Mondays for the last hour, which can be found on the website.

And the Cathedral de Sevilla – the world’s biggest Gothic cathedral – also has free tickets from 2pm to 3pm on Mondays.

EasyJet has package holidays for £166pp, when staying three nights on January 5 at the Illunion Alcora Sevilla.

Or you can do three nights at the Hotel Vertice Alijarafe on January 21 with Loveholidays for £139pp, with return flights.

Agadir, Morocco

Flight time to Agadir – 3hr50

Morocco is one of the nearest places to the UK for reliable winter sun.

While I love Marrakech and Casablanca, one of my favourites is Agadir, which was also named the cheapest package holiday destination by Which? last year.

The coastal town is often twinned with Taghazout, a surfer village with a huge beach.

Not only is it warm, but it is a great place to stock up on Christmas presents for a bargain.

You can head to Souk El Had, the biggest souk in Morocco, which is pretty chaotic, and you can find literally everything.

But I loved the Complexe Artisanal, a more manageable market, with wicker lights, hand-painted vases and authentic wooden sculptures, all for a bargain.

I managed to buy candles for under £5, where I picked my own essential oil to go in them, which looked identical to the ones in Oliver Bonas that cost £20.

A hand-glazed sugar jar set me back just £12, and looked just like ones from the trendy brand HK Living, which retail at £35.

TUI has seven-night holidays to Agadir from £310 each when travelling in November.

El Gouna, Egypt

Flight time to El Gouna – 5hr25

Just outside of Hurghada, El Gouna is a lesser-known area of Egypt that has some amazingly affordable holiday resorts.

The gated manmade island feels extremely safe, and it’s still 24C in December, so you can make the most of the pools and beaches.

It’s a place for luxury on a budget – I stayed at the Cooks Club Hotel, which was a four-star hotel for around £80 a night, but felt like a five-star.

But if you want a real five-star, you can find stays at ones like Movenpick for as little as £130 a night.

You can head to Downtown Abu Tig Marina for some cheap eats and beach clubs, as well as happy hours where you get a second cocktail free.

Most of the time, you will spend your time relaxing at the hotel pool, as it is more of a fly and flop destination.

But there are some great, affordable day trips if you do want a day out, including quad biking in the desert for under £10 with Get Your Guide.

Loveholidays has seven-night holidays in December for £399pp at a number of four-star hotels, which include your breakfast and flights.

Boa Vista, Cape Verde

Flight time to Cape Verde – 6hr15

One of the closest African islands to get to, Cape Verde, is now easier to reach thanks to new easyJet flights from the UK.

Most people head to the busier Sal, but I recommend going to the quieter Boa Vista.

It has 27C highs in winter, there is just one hour’s time difference, and you won’t see many crowds even in the busy season.

The quiet beaches – in particular Santa Monica – felt more like a private island in the Maldives, with soft white sands and barely a soul in sight.

One of my fave shops was Olaria di Rabli, a tiny ceramic store where you can pick up some souvenirs for just a few pounds.

Morabeza Beach Bar had more Bali vibes, with Reggae nights and sunset parties with DJs.

It’s also where you can find a cheap beer, with a local bottle of Strella around €2 (£1.74), or a glass of wine for €3 (£2.61). Even a cocktail of a mojito or an Aperol spritz was just €5 (£4.35).

Otherwise, it is a great, affordable fly and flop destination where you can while away the days making the most of the all-inclusive buffet, without spending a penny extra.

Loveholidays has seven-night holidays in Boa Vista from £459pp in November.

Or, TUI has all-inclusive seven-night holidays from £686pp.

Pointe Sarene, Senegal

Flight time to Senegal – 6hr15

If you want the feel of the Caribbean on a budget, then a Senegal holiday resort is where you will want to head.

Not only is there no jet lag with just one hour’s time difference, but Senegal remains above 26C all year round, with highs of 30C in winter.

It has seen a boom in popularity since 2022, when TUI launched the only direct flights from the UK.

Pointe Serene is where you will find most of the beach resorts, and most are fairly affordable when it comes to all-inclusive packages.

I stayed at the Riu Baobab, which had it all – swimming pool, bars, all your food and drink included and an on-site water slide complex.

You can also book day trips, including Goree Island or half-day safaris for less than £60 each.

TUI has seven-night all-inclusive Senegal holidays from £901pp when travelling in November.

Doha, Qatar

Flight time to Doha – 6hr50

If you want the glamour of Dubai on a bit of a budget, I’d recommend heading to Doha.

I flew there as a stopover when heading to Sri Lanka, but was left stunned by the affordable glitz.

I stayed at five-star The Ned, an incredibly fancy outpost of the Soho House-owned hotel, housed in the Ministry of Interior building.

Giving celebrity member clubs vibes, rooms start from £170 a night – it might sound expensive, but it’s much cheaper than the Ned London, where prices soar past £300.

Stay for three nights and you get 20 per cent off the price as well.

But if you want even more of a budget, there are basic hotels for just £25, such as the Plaza Inn hotel or the Palm Inn Hotel.

Want some beach time? Doha Beach Club is free to visit on Tuesdays for women, or you can pay £6 off-peak peak which gets you a towel and umbrella.

If you don’t want to spend a whole trip in Doha, Qatar Airways has its Qatar Stopover if you are connecting in the city.

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Say you are heading to somewhere like Thailand or Australia via Doha with the airline, you can stay in the city for up to 96 hours, and pay as little as £11 a night at a hotel before hopping on your connecting flight.

British Airways has seven-night holidays from £663pp when travelling in February.

A seasoned cabin crew member believes there’s one secret trick that could be a gamechanger — and it’s designed to make the dreaded take-off and landing much easier for the little ones.

Air travel with children is often a stressful feat as they tend to experience discomfort while flying and react to it in different ways. As we approach the October half term, when many families will be jetting off for a well-deserved break, a seasoned cabin crew member has revealed her top tips for travelling with kids.

Andrea Owen, a TUI Cabin Crew member since 2003, has clocked up at least 3,000 flights in her 22-year career. From short hops to long-haul journeys, she’s witnessed hundreds of families take to the skies each week, heading to popular holiday spots like Majorca, the Canaries, Mexico and Jamaica.

With such a wealth of experience, there’s little Andrea hasn’t encountered. She’s seen families cool, calm and collected during their flight, some bubbling over with excitement, while others appear utterly frazzled and overwhelmed.

Andrea reveals: “After all these years of flying, I have looked after thousands of families. I can tell you that the secret to stress-free family travel is preparation. I always tell parents to expect the unexpected, pack more snacks than you think you’ll need, and don’t be afraid to ask crew for help. A lot of us are parents too, and we genuinely want every family to have a great start to their holiday.”

In fact, Andrea believes there’s one secret trick that could be a game-changer — and it’s designed to make the dreaded take-off and landing much easier for the little ones.

Read on for some of Andrea’s tried-and-tested tricks and tips for families travelling with kids in flights this October half term.

Relieve ear pressure

Andrea has shared some top-tier advice for take-offs and landings with young kids. She shares: “This is one of the most common concerns parents ask me about, and it’s really easy to solve. For babies and toddlers, feeding during take-off and landing is brilliant, whether that’s breastfeeding, a bottle, or even just a dummy – the sucking motion helps equalise ear pressure.

“For older children, give them chewy sweets or lollipops about 30 minutes before landing as that’s when the pressure really starts to build. I’ve seen many tears avoided with this simple trick.”

Always carry a range of activities

Andrea recommends throwing together a bag with a mix of toys, activities, and snacks to keep things interesting — and your child engaged. She reveals: “What works brilliantly is either letting them pack their own bag so they’re excited or pack some surprise toys they haven’t seen before. Keep everything small and compact with plenty of pencils, crayons, and paper.

“A surprise sticker book with a little bag of sweets is absolute gold. The games I see working best are Snap, Dobble, and colouring. And here’s a lovely tip – encourage your children to draw pictures for the cabin crew. We absolutely love receiving them and always have a stash of stickers at the ready for every flight.”

Figure out the exact time to board the flight

The in-flight expert notes: “This one really depends on your child’s personality, and you know them best. Some families find that boarding as soon as possible gives them that extra breathing space to get settled, stow the bags, and get the kids comfortable in their seats without feeling rushed. But I’ve also seen plenty of parents who swear by boarding last, especially if their little ones can’t sit still for long.”

Dress kids in multiple layers

The temperature on board can fluctuate throughout the flight. That’s why Andrea always suggests dressing children in layers so they can add or remove clothing to keep themselves comfortable.

She notes: “It’s always handy to pack a spare pair of clothes in your hand luggage just in case of a spill or accident. I’ve seen many parents caught out without a change of clothes, and it makes the rest of the flight uncomfortable for the both of you.”

Pack the home comforts

Andrea advises packing home comforts like a small pillow, blanket or cuddly toys to help children of all ages feel more relaxed.

She shares: “If you’re travelling at times when your child would normally be having a nap or going to bed, I really encourage parents to try and stick to that routine as much as possible. Let them sleep if they want to, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling so much fresher and ready to enjoy your holiday.

“It’s also worth thinking about time zones if you’re flying long haul. Maybe start adjusting their sleep schedule a day or two before you travel. A well-rested child makes for a much happier holiday start.”

Prepare them in advance

The cabin crew expert has some pre-flight advice for parents travelling with kids. “Preparation is everything when it comes to keeping children calm. Before you leave for the airport, talk through exactly what’s going to happen. Checking in, going through security, boarding the plane, and what take-off and landing will feel like.”

Andrea advises: “Let them know about the noises they might hear and explain that their ears might feel different. This is particularly useful if your child is neurodiverse. The key is to make it sound like an exciting adventure rather than something to worry about.”

Snack trays come in handy

Andrea reveals: “Those little snack trays with multiple compartments come in handy. Kids absolutely love them and there’s something about having lots of different treats in separate sections that keeps them entertained for ages. You can fill each compartment with different snacks: fruit, crackers, cheese cubes, raisins, a couple of sweets.”

She adds: “It turns snack time into something fun and interactive, and it means you’re not constantly rummaging through bags. We also have healthy snack boxes for kids available onboard which they love, so there will always be something they can eat.”

Don’t hesitate to ask cabin crew for assistance

Andrea emphasises that cabin crew recognise how daunting it can be for parents travelling with children. She says: “Don’t ever feel worried about asking us for help, that’s what we’re here for. Over my 22 years of flying, I’ve seen everything. We’ve warmed countless bottles, fetched extra sick bags, provided colouring sheets, and even entertained little ones while parents take a breather.

“Many of us are parents ourselves, so we completely understand how overwhelming it can feel. Whether you need extra wipes, help with the overhead locker, or just some reassurance, we’re here to make your journey smoother.”

Andrea advises: “We know flying can feel overwhelming for families, whether it’s your first flight with kids or you have an anxious flyer in the family, there are lots of simple and easy tips you can put into place to make it seem that little bit less daunting.”

KEEPING the kids busy during October half term is probably the easiest of the school holidays, with Halloween events and pumpkin patches popping up everywhere. 

As a mum, getting a bit extra for your buck is always a win, so I was impressed that family-friendly theme park, Legolandd Windsor, have a special Halloween festival that is included with your admission ticket. 

Legoland’s aptly-named ‘Brick or Treat’ event runs throughout the month of October with activities on select dates until November 1st 2025.

As part of the spooky celebration, there are lots of extras on offer for kids, including a Trick or Treat trail, themed shows, character meet and greets, Lego-build activities and themed photo opportunities. 

This year, the park has also unveiled the UK’s first-ever Lego pumpkin patch, painstakingly made from almost 45,000 individual Lego bricks.  

The impressive Halloween sculptures took 134 hours of expert model-making to build.

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I headed to the theme park in Berkshire with some friends and a gaggle of kids aged between four and fifteen. 

I have been to Walt Disney World in Florida more than 50 times and have been to Halloween events at the US Disney parks, Disneyland Paris and other theme parks that celebrate Halloween, such as Universal Studios, Thrope Park and Paultons Park.

However, it was my first time going to Legoland in the UK and I was impressed with how much was on offer for all ages. 

As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by Lego-themed Halloween decorations.

The front entrance was adorned with giant Duplo pumpkins and spooky music was playing.

We started with the Spinning Spider ride, which felt fitting with the ‘creepy’ theme. 

Then, the kids were desperate to try the famous Dragon coaster in the Knight’s Kingdom area.

This is a great starter coaster for younger children who want to try the big rides, but feel a bit nervous. This coaster is gentle and fast enough to be thrilling, without being too scary.

As someone who goes to theme parks often, I love rides that families can all enjoy equally, together. 

From here, the kids spotted their first Trick or Treat station ‘scary sweets’. 

No prizes for guessing what goods were secured here, but the kids were more than happy scoffing their Haribo jellies as we headed to one of Legoland’s most famous rides – Lego Ninjago.

This ride is a very clever moving computer game simulator, where we had to use our hands to lob LEGO at the ‘bad guys’. 

The kids thought it was brilliant, but the adult scores were painfully low. I will have to practice my gaming skills for next time… 

Considering the Halloween extras, the lines for attractions weren’t that long.

Some of the big rides, including Lego Ninjago, Hydra’s Challenge, The Dragon and the Mini Figure were not too bad, with the longest being 40 minutes. 

However, most other attractions at the park had lines shorter than 15 minutes.

As well as the trick of treat stations, some of which were giving out posters and activity packs instead of sweets, there were some simple decorations across the park and a special Halloween show.

Lord Vampyre’s House Party is a stage show on at various times during the day, encouraging guests to ‘dance their bones-off’. 

On the lake, the Monster Jam Harbour Show has rock and roll performances, special effects, and Lego monsters getting up to mischief on stage. 

For lunch, there is a limited-edition Halloween menu at dining locations around the park.

If you fancy a scary snack, you can tuck into a Monster Burger, Scampi Fright Bites, Toffee Apple Popcorn and Ice-Screams. 

The only disappointment for us is that we didn’t see any of the Lego characters around the park. 

The weather was a bit blustery, so it may have been to do with the conditions that day, but it wasn’t very clear from the map or signage exactly where we had to go to meet them. 

Still, there was plenty to do and the park shuts at 5pm, so we didn’t even get on to all of the attractions we planned to ride before the end of the day.

We had a great time at Legoland and the kids really enjoyed all the extra haunts – it’s great value for money considering there is no extra cost to go during Brick or Treat. 

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With extra perks and less crowds than summer, it’s a top time to visit. 

Tickets for Legoland Windsor start from £34 per person, with kids under 90cm going free.  

A seasoned globetrotter has visited more than 90 countries and has one ‘soulless spot’ he has no desire to revisit – and its not just the culture that has put him off

A well-travelled explorer who has visited more than 90 nations spanning six continents has revealed which region he considers his worst destination.

Gabriel Morris, a globe-trotting YouTube content creator, has spent over three decades travelling the world.

To be precise, Gabriel has visited “97 United Nations member states plus the three disputed countries of Kosovo, Northern Cyprus, and Taiwan which do not have UN member status.”

Yet, there’s one ‘soulless spot’ from his vast travels that he has pledged never to return to.

With 613,000 subscribers on YouTube, Gabriel’s travel content regularly garners substantial attention and engagement from fellow explorers and enthusiasts keen to learn about his adventures, reports the Express.

In his latest video titled ‘I’ve Been to 100 Countries – Which Place is the Worst?’, the YouTuber revealed that the Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf) ranks as the most disappointing location he’s experienced.

Speaking to his viewers, Gabriel explained: “I’ve seen a fair amount of the world and many of those countries I’ve been to over and over and travelled around a lot. I’ll just tell you at the beginning here, my least favourite part of the world is the Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf).”

It’s worth noting Iran refers to it as the Persian Gulf, whilst the nations situated on the southern and western shores of the Gulf call it the Arabian Gulf.

So, why does Gabriel find the Persian Gulf region less appealing?

The content creator explains: “Now, I haven’t been to Iran, and Iran looks absolutely incredible. And so I’m not including Iran in this. I don’t know that along the Persian Gulf there is anything especially nice to see there.”

Gabriel has travelled to countless destinations around the Persian Gulf, including Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh and Jeddah, where he rented a vehicle for a day to explore beyond the urban limits, plus Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, encompassing Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Yet none of these destinations particularly enchanted him.

He said: “There’s a little bit more to see in the desert outside of the cities, but not very much. Mostly it’s just flat desert. Basically, I am thinking of the main cities on the Persian Gulf, and then including the cities of Saudi Arabia, which aren’t near the Persian Gulf but do border it. I just find these cities to be devoid of anything particularly interesting as a traveller. I find them to be very boring and stale.

“The streets are practically empty of people other than those in their cars. You don’t get the bustling, busy marketplace experience. All of those cities are built in a very similar style of massive skyscrapers. It makes for an impressive skyline, but then you get there on the ground and it’s big, wide streets that can be almost impossible to cross. There’s lots of traffic, massive distances, and not really anything that I want to do there. You can go in malls, you can go to some restaurants. Alcohol is banned for the most part, so that’s another drawback.”

Branding them as “soulless”, Gabriel added: “I just find them to be kind of soulless and not unique in any way. You could drop me in any one of those cities and not tell me which one it is, and unless you had a view of, say, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai or some particular landmark, if you were in a typical neighbourhood you couldn’t distinguish it from any of the others. They’re all built exactly the same and just super boring. Now, they aren’t bad places to live necessarily or to raise a family. They are safe, they’re clean, and they’re hassle-free. There’s no hustling, scams, or anything really to worry about.”

Apart from Qatar and Dubai, which Gabriel ranks as his top two destinations respectively, Gabriel reckons that of all the places around the world, he has “no desire to go back to that part of the world”, though he admits the culture is “certainly fine”.

Nevertheless, Gabriel thinks there’s another problem at hand.

He explained: “Most of the people you’re going to interact with aren’t even the local Saudis, Emiratis, Qataris, Kuwaitis, or Bahrainis, because the local populations in all those countries are actually a minority. The majority of people you’ll encounter are workers from South Asia – Indians, Pakistanis, lots of Bangladeshis – who are working in restaurants, malls, hotels, and other service positions.

“The locals, as I understand it, receive paychecks from oil revenue and don’t really have to work, at least not in the typical service jobs. Maybe that’s not true in every country, but in general, if they are working, it’s more likely to be in business or professional roles, so you’re unlikely to interact with them as a visitor. That’s just one more thing that makes the experience feel kind of watered down – you don’t really get much of a local cultural experience. So, it’s nothing personal against the people,” Gabriel concludes. The digital creator had a rather unnerving encounter in Kuwait City when he was stopped and questioned for filming.

Recalling the incident, Gabriel shared: “I think it was in Kuwait City where I got questioned for filming. I was filming near one of the palaces – or something like that – and I had made a point of not filming one particular place that I thought could be a problem.

“But then I started filming something else, and a security guard waved me over. At that point, you definitely don’t want to run or try to avoid them, because that just makes things worse. So I walked over, and I believe he spoke English. He asked me what I was filming for, asked a few questions, and then let me go. But despite the relatively harmless outcome, it was still a very harrowing experience in the moment – being questioned by an authority figure without knowing how it’s going to play out.”

Reflecting on the potential outcomes of the encounter, Gabriel added: “They could easily say, “I want you to talk to my superior,” and then you’re being taken into some office where they’re suspicious of you and start asking more questions. It’s always a pretty traumatic experience, and it basically makes you want to leave. That’s exactly how I felt afterward-I just hoped I could get out of there without any more hassle. So that was one more drawback.”

A Place in the Sun host Laura Hamilton has been at the helm of the Channel 4 programme for more than a decade and has visited some breathtaking locations over the years

Laura Hamilton has looked back on her 13-year stint presenting A Place in the Sun and revealed her three top destinations. It’s fair to say that Laura, having hosted the sun-soaked Channel 4 property-hunting show for over a decade, has clocked up some serious air miles.

You would also expect that, after more than ten years of globetrotting, picking a favourite spot would prove tricky. But thankfully, for curious fans, Laura has whittled it down to just three choices.

During a recent chat where Laura discussed the programme’s enduring popularity, she was quizzed about her most cherished locations.

She told Woman magazine how the first holds special family significance.

South Africa

“I loved filming in South Africa,” Laura revealed. “My dad was born there. It was great to get to see that.” South Africa, perched at the southern tip of the African continent, boasts one of Africa’s largest and most developed economies.

The nation has 12 official languages, encompassing Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, and IsiNdebele. It’s also renowned as a wildlife paradise, home to everything from lions and elephants to vervet monkeys and baboons.

Meanwhile, along the coastline, adventurous tourists might even glimpse great white sharks and dolphins.

Morzine, France

Laura’s second choice was considerably nearer to home. She revealed: “I also loved filming in Morzine, in the mountains of France. I’m a big skier and it was great to see it in the summer months.

Morzine is an alpine village nestled within the Chablais mountain range, positioned between the towering 4,800-metre Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. This bustling ski resort boasts a rich history spanning more than 1,000 years.

In earlier centuries, monks and miners made Morzine their home. However, by the 1800s, with advancing technology, the area became renowned for its slate mining operations, an industry that brought wealth to the town.

Granada, Spain

Lastly, Laura selected Spain’s stunning city of Granada and its encompassing mountain range. She went on: “Granada, Sierra Nevada, was amazing. Being on the beach in the morning and the slopes in the afternoon – that’s amazing. There are places I’ve seen that I would probably not have got to go to.”

Sierra Nevada describes a mountain range in Spain, located in the Andalusian province of Granada. It’s reportedly also the location of Europe’s most southerly ski resort, providing spectacular views across the Mediterranean.

This comes after reports revealed how Laura admitted to occasionally feeling exasperated by some “crazy” buyers on the programme. Speaking in the same interview, she was questioned whether people ever participate in the show simply to secure a free trip.

She dismissed this idea, explaining how it’s a “week’s work” and a massive decision for those taking part. Nevertheless, she also described how she has presented properties to people and thought “you’re crazy” when they choose not to purchase them.

A woman who has visited 100 countries has revealed the one that stands out above all others as she reflects on her globe-trotting adventures

A globe-trotting woman who has explored 100 countries has revealed which destination reigns supreme above all others. Marta Luisa García, 52, has dedicated much of her life to roaming the planet, journeying everywhere from Namibia to Europe‘s grand capitals and far beyond.

Her wanderlust began when her elder brother received an Atlas for his First Communion, leaving her captivated by the nations within its pages. This grew into an obsession with travel programmes on the telly as she became enthralled by their tales.

Yet among all the spectacular marvels she’s witnessed, Marta, hailing from A Coruña, Spain, has confessed to having a clear favourite, reports the Express.

Marta’s favourite country

Chatting to La Voz De Galicia, Marta revealed her adoration for tropical shores including the Maldives but particularly Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Regarding the latter, she declared: “For me, French Polynesia is a dream trip.”

French Polynesia stands as an overseas territory of France, comprising islands such as Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Mo’orea. A standard flight deal to the island haven of Bora Bora – roughly 9,500 miles distant in the South Pacific – can begin from £2,200 per person.

However, those fortunate enough to have visited insist it’s worth every single penny, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters to discover, stunning scenery and Maldives-style overwater retreats.

Most visited spots

Marta confessed that her love for travel wasn’t limited to French Polynesia. She revealed that France and Italy were the countries she had visited most frequently, attributing this to their proximity and affordability, stating: “I’ve been to France for £10 return.”

Despite having travelled extensively, Marta still has a few destinations left on her bucket list. She shared: “Today, of the seven wonders of the world, only Machu Picchu remains for me to see. I haven’t been to Peru, but I’m terrified of altitude sickness.”

Other favourites of world travellers

Marta isn’t the only globetrotter with favouite destinations. Earlier this year, Cameron Mofid, who has visited every UN-recognised country and territory, also shared his top picks.

After completing his global tour in April with a trip to North Korea, he spoke about his favourite countries and territories, two of which are currently subject to travel warnings from the UK’s FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office).

In a conversation with CNN, he singled out Algeria and Yemen as standout destinations. Speaking about Algeria, he said: “It’s one of my favourite countries in the whole world. The countries that receive the least amount of tourism are often the ones where you have the best experience, because you feel totally immersed in their culture.”

Meanwhile, Yemen caught his eye due to the sensation of stepping back in time. He remarked: “To see people dress the same way that they were hundreds if not thousands of years ago. To see people living in mud houses, to see people still using flip phones.”

The Canary Islands are a popular holiday destination for Brits, but one thing has stopped me from returning in recent years.

I’ve holidayed on every Canary Island you can think of – Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, La Palma. These islands are a hit with travellers globally for their agreeable weather and stunning landscapes.

They’re often referred to as the “Islands of Eternal Spring” due to their consistently mild temperatures throughout the year, rarely dipping below 18°C.

These islands emerged from ancient volcanic eruptions, and their volcanoes remain active to this day. Mount Teide in Tenerife is not only Spain’s tallest peak but also ranks as the third-highest volcanic structure globally.

I’ve relished numerous ascents to Teide’s summit, yet despite the archipelago’s allure, one aspect has deterred me from returning lately.

That would be the black sandy shores. Tenerife boasts an array of black sand beaches, particularly in its northern regions, reports the Express.

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Although there are white sand and pebble beaches too, they’re less prevalent.

The black sand originates from volcanic lava, which, over time and under the relentless motion of the ocean, gets pulverised into fine grains.

Lanzarote is home to several black sand beaches as well, including Playa de Janubio and Playa de El Golfo. While these beaches are undoubtedly picturesque and steeped in natural history, they just don’t cut it for me when it comes to beach holidays.

During the intense heat of Canary summers, I’ve always found the black sand to be unbearably hot underfoot, absorbing more sunlight than its white or golden counterparts.

I found the beaches to be less appealing than the idyllic images on postcards had led me to believe.

Take Sardinia, for instance, which I recently visited during my holiday. It was adorned with pristine white beaches and crystal clear water everywhere, offering a more luxurious and tropical feel compared to my time in the Canaries.

However, it’s worth noting that many people are drawn to black sand beaches for their dramatic beauty, rarity, and association with volcanic landscapes, so it really boils down to personal preference.

There are also some golden beaches on the islands. Las Teresitas, situated near Tenerife’s capital, is a golden sand beach renowned for its tranquil, shallow, and safe waters.

This man-made beach was constructed in the 1960s using over 5,000 tonnes of sand from the Sahara Desert. Despite being a stunning beach, it’s always bustling as tourists and locals alike vie for a spot.

ED MILIBAND is a “walking, talking cost-of-living crisis”, according to shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho.

The senior MP — who will tomorrow unveil Tory plans for cheaper utilities — vowed to get her Labour arch-rival SACKED as gas and electricity costs rose again this week on his watch.

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Experts have warned that Red Ed, who promised to cut energy bills by up to £300 a year before the 2024 General Election, will only drive prices higher with his Net Zero obsession.

Already, £1billion has been spent this year switching off wind turbines when it got too blowy for the network to cope.

Other sources, such as gas-fired plants, then had to be paid to be used as a replacement. The shutdown has pushed household bills up by £15 a year.

In an interview with the Sun on Sunday, Ms Coutinho fumed: “Ed Miliband is a disaster.

“Every decision (he) has made in government is going to send people’s bills up.

“He promised people £300 off their bills, and so far they’re already £200 up. People are rightly furious.

“I don’t know what he’s on. He is a walking, talking cost-of-living crisis.

“I’m going to make it my mission in this parliament to get him sacked.”

She continues: “I think he can’t add up because if you look at what he’s doing, gas at the moment is about £55 a megawatt-hour.

“He said he’s willing to pay up to £117 for offshore wind this year, and then he talks about cutting people’s bills. You don’t need a calculator to see that is just total madness.”

The top Tory also slated Energy Secretary Mr Miliband for “signing up to 20-year contracts” for offshore wind, adding: “We’re going to be saddled with these incredibly high prices for decades.”

Ms Coutinho is the face of the Conservative Party’s scepticism over a move to Net Zero.

At their annual conference in Manchester tomorrow, she will outline proposals to cut bills by scrapping green levies.

She said: “The most important thing the country needs — and we’re unashamed about this — is lower energy bills.

“Our priority for energy policy going forward will be simple: Make electricity cheaper.

“It will be good for growth, it’s good for cost-of-living — something we know lots of families are still struggling with — and, most importantly, it will be good for the whole of the UK to have much cheaper energy bills.”

Levies funding environmental and social projects add around £140 to annual electricity bills and £50 to gas bills, says innovation agency Nesta.

It comes as the UK energy price cap rose again this week by two per cent, meaning the average household paying for gas and electricity by direct debit will see costs increase from £1,720 to £1,755 per year.

Ms Coutinho’s stance marks a much harder line on eco-policies as the Tories try to stave off Nigel Farage’s party.

Reform UK promised to scrap the Net Zero target and told wind and solar developers they will end green energy subsidies if they win power.

It has prompted Mr Miliband to liken the Tories to a “Reform tribute act”.

But Ms Coutinho said: “That’s absolute rubbish, If you look at Reform, they’ve got the economics of Jeremy Corbyn.”

She claimed there was a huge black hole in Reform’s spending plans, adding: “That simply isn’t going to work for a country where you’ve got interest rates high, inflation is high. We need to be bringing those things down. So we need to live within our means.”

Tories have pledged to scrap the restrictive Climate Change Act 2008 brought in by the last Labour government, and the target of Net Zero emissions by 2050 enshrined by Tory PM Theresa May in 2019.

Ms Coutinho said: “We’ve got new leadership now and both Kemi and I strongly feel that the biggest problem that this country faces is that we’ve got the highest industrial electricity prices in the world and the second highest domestic prices. Now that’s just not going to work for Britain.”

Tories would also abolish quango the Climate Change Committee, which advises the Government on Net Zero.

Ms Coutinho said: “For too long, energy policy has been in the hands of people who are unelected and unaccountable — and that’s just not right.”

And she has left the door open to fracking.

A ban was lifted by Liz Truss during her short tenure in Downing Street – but this was abandoned by her successor Rishi Sunak.

Ms Coutinho added: “We’re a small dense island and it can be very disruptive. So it shouldn’t be done to communities without their say so.”

The shadow cabinet member admitted people are frustrated the Tories have taken their time to come up with policies after their disastrous loss at last year’s General Election.

But she insisted: “At conference, you’ll see a lot more from us. This is the moment where we’ll start telling people all the results of our work, and be able to explain what our plan is.

“The difference between us and Labour and Reform is our plans are real, they’re fully funded, they can be delivered tomorrow.”

She promised the Tories will bring forward plans the public can trust, adding: “People have really lost faith in government to be able to do the things that they want it to do. So we need to rebuild that trust.”

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A FORMER flight attendant has revealed some of her shocking mile-high experiences – from love rat pilots to passenger deaths.

Alanna Pow joined the cabin crew when she was just 19-years-old and worked on short-haul flights for three years before leaving the industry behind.

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The 22-year-old, who is now a model with three million followers across social media @alannasworldx,liked her job but admits certain situations could be very challenging.

And she was left stunned by some of the things she witnessed.

“What happens on flights is crazy,” said Alanna.

“For one thing, passengers die on planes more than people think.

“On our way from Melbourne to Cairns, an old man was in the toilet for half an hour or so.

“We opened the door to check on him and his body fell out onto my colleague.

“He was unresponsive and his poor wife was on the plane.

“We have a defibrillator onboard so we tried to resuscitate him, but it was too late.

“So, we just had to lay the passenger’s body down on the floor until we landed.

“What flight attendants go through and what we have to be trained in makes me sad.

“I was only 21 at the time and it’s such a big responsibility.”

The adult model also revealed that romances between cabin crew, pilots and passengers are rife.

She herself admits to having flings with three pilots – and even once hooked up with a passenger who slipped her his business card in first class.

Alanna said: “Some pilots are so flirty that you get warned about them by other colleagues and they can do what they want, because they’re in charge of the plane.

“Most of them are cheats.

“I slept with three pilots and one had a girlfriend.

“Sometimes they would see my name on the sheet and invite me into the cockpit for take-off and landing.

“One pilot would come over to mine when he had layovers even though he had a girlfriend, which was really bad.

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“When you have stopovers, all the cabin crew and pilots spend it together.”

Alanna also shared two tips for passengers who want a smooth ride.

She said: “Always be nice to flight attendants.

“And always have cash on you in the right currency to bribe people if your bag is overweight.”

The model quit flying and joined OnlyFans in 2023 after rumours circulated that she was already an adult star.

She said: “Passengers and colleagues always assumed I was on OnlyFans before I was because of my body type and the photos that I posted on Instagram.

“They weren’t too crazy but because I had really big boobs they always were out.

“I love flying and I love traveling as every flight attendant would say, though it got a bit boring after one year because the flights I was on were domestic.

“And the early mornings and long hours are hard.

“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to go back to a normal job.”

There are hundreds of places to explore in Europe, from quaint seaside towns to medieval cities – but which is the safest to visit? A travel expert has ranked them and revealed their top 10

An avid traveller has revealed the safest places to visit in Europe – and it might not be where you’d expect.

When looking for the next getaway or city break, it can be hard to narrow down the ideal location, especially if you’re looking for somewhere new to visit. A key factor that many consider is how safe the location is – so they can wander around the foreign streets freely without the extra stress of looking over their shoulder.

In a bid to help others book their dream vacation, solo traveller and European expert, Luke Patrick Hoogmoed, curated a list of European capitals that were dubbed the safest, with the lowest level of crime. Sharing a video on his Instagram account, which boasts over 500K followers, he revealed the list, counting down from 10 to number 1. Here’s what the traveller expert said…

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10. Copenhagen, Denmark

The capital of Denmark is a charming and modern city, known for its biking culture and brightly coloured buildings with Scandinavian designs. The expert said, “People trust each other and follow the rules. The streets are well-lit and easy to walk at night. Visit Nyhavn for colorful views by the water.”

9. Prague, Czech Republic

Often called the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, the capital of the Czech Republic boasts cobbled streets, medieval bridges and fairy-tale-like churches with a vibrant yet welcoming feel. The traveller noted, “The city is full of life but feels calm. Police are present and public spaces are kept safe. Don’t miss Charles Bridge at sunrise.”

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

It may be small, but the capital of Slovakia is filled with character, with lively squares that go uncrowded and a relaxed vibe for an easy getaway. “It’s small and easy to get around. Most areas are quiet and crime is rare. Bratislava Castle has the best views of the city,” the expert revealed.

7. Warsaw, Poland

Blending history and modern energy, the capital of Poland has riverside parks, baroque churches, historic landmarks and an Old Town that was reconstructed. Luke shared: “The city is busy but well-organised. Public transport and streets are safe to use. The Old Town Market Square is a must-see.”

6. Helsinki, Finland

The capital of Finland has been described as modern yet serene, with maritime beauty and an urban blend. “People look out for one another. It’s clean, peaceful, and safe to walk anywhere. Visit Suomenlinna island for a nice getaway from the busy city centre,” the expert noted.

5. Tallinn, Estonia

The small capital of Estonia is a preserved medieval city where you can walk the streets filled with character and experience its contemporary edge. “The old town is well-lit and lively. Crime levels are low and people feel secure. Toompea Hill offers great city views,” Luke said.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

A small yet vibrant and picturesque city, with a lively cultural scene, surrounded by majestic mountains. The expert revealed: “Almost everyone knows each other. Violence and serious crime are very rare. I filmed the clip from the top of the Hallgrímskirkja Church.”

3. Zagreb, Croatia

With an Upper and Lower Town to be explored, the capital of Croatia has a charming feel with a warmth and elegance that runs through to its residents. “It’s relaxed and friendly. The police are active and keep the streets safe. The Upper Town is perfect for a peaceful walk,” the traveller said.

2. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Intimate and walkable, the capital of Slovenia is known for its modern architecture, outdoor living and fairytale-like backdrop. Luke noted, “The city is small and welcoming. It’s easy to walk around without worry. Ljubljana Castle overlooks the whole city.”

1. Bern, Switzerland

With medieval buildings, arcaded walkways and cobbled streets, the Swiss capital is filled with history and beauty around every corner. Ranked as the safest, the expert said: “Calm streets and orderly life. Safety is part of everyday living here. The Rose Garden has the best view of the old town.”

Stephen Low, 48, was celebrating the end of his first year teaching English in South Korea when he decided to go on a hike near the North-South border – but he got more than he bargained for

A British man found himself at the business end of a South Korean guard’s gun during an innocent hike.

Stephen Low had just finished his first year teaching English at a school near the infamous DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North and South Korea. He had no idea then that his language teaching abilities were ultimately what would rescue him when facing the barrel of a gun.

The now 48-year-old decided to walk down a well-known trail near the North-South border. There, sniper posts and echoes of conflict provided a spine-chilling reminder of the hostilities across the divide.

Stephen knew the area was no place to mess around. In fact, one of his friends found themselves in hot water after they hopped on a military bus by mistake and “ended up in the military side of the DMZ.”

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“I just went hiking up to a hiking trail,” Stephen said.

As he approached the peak, the temperature dropped dramatically, and so Stephen sought refuge in one of the shelters scattered around the mountainside. He warmed himself by igniting a small fire, using a copy of the vampire fantasy novel Twilight as tinder.

Unfortunately, much like the romance in the Stephenie Meyer book, the fire burned too hot.

“As the fire burned, lots of thick smoke began wafting out from the hut. Suddenly, I heard shouting and as I emerged coughing and spluttering from the smoke-filled sniper hole, a ton of soldiers came down the mountain; they must have thought they were under attack,” Stephen continued.

Happily the teacher managed to slip away from the fire and the approaching soldiers, only to come face-to-face with a beekeeper, surrounded by bees.

“The bees swarmed me and got inside my clothing. I basically tore everything off to avoid being stung and ended up in just my boots, beanie, and boxers, which just so happened to be Union Jack boxers. That beekeeper must have thought I looked crazy…patriotic, but crazy,” he continued.

The misadventure wasn’t to end there however. Stephen rushed back towards the town where he was staying, only to stumble into a soldier. Despite Stephen’s best efforts to explain in Korean that he was simply lost, the guard remained deeply suspicious.

And as he stared at the guard’s M16 machine gun with its grenade launcher attachment, Stephen realized he needed to be far more persuasive. In a desperate bid to prove his innocence, Stephen called a former Korean student of his, who was now serving as the personal doctor to the South Korean president.

Handing the phone to the guard, Stephen pleaded, “Hangook chingu, Hangook chingu!”, translating to “Korean friend, Korean friend!”.

Despite initial fears that the guard was trigger-happy, he took the call instead. The ex-student managed to convince the soldier to escort Stephen safely through the base.

Stephen recounted, “It was hard to believe the guard actually thought I was a spy. But it’s exactly what my friend later told me the guard was accusing me of being. Back then, South Koreans were very wary of North Korean espionage; you even had options on your mobile emergency list for reporting spies!”.

“The guard was prepared for a North Korean around the corner, not a semi-naked hiker from the UK. South Korean guards have emergency numbers on speed dial that let them report a spy.”

While having a gun waved in your face is an experience best avoided if possible, the whole escapade has taught Stephen a valuable lesson.

“The lesson learnt is don’t set fire to things in public places,” he concluded.

New York — It was a quiet, while not quite silent, morning for the “Table of Silence Project” Thursday, on the plaza of Lincoln Center and in front of David Geffen Hall, home of the New York Philharmonic. Commemorating the 24th anniversary of 9/11, white-robed members of the Buglisi Dance Theatre circled the plaza, a few with megaphones for chants, an occasional violin joining in, mellowing even the sounds of background traffic roaring down busy Broadway.

On this solemn but beautiful New York day and after more than two years in waiting, Gustavo Dudamel took charge, at least in practice, of the New York Philharmonic. Six decades ago, during the Leonard Bernstein era, America’s oldest and most celebrated orchestra had the city’s (and much of the nation’s) full attention in a way it hasn’t since. Could that happen again?

When Dudamel announced in early February 2023 that he would leave the Los Angeles Philharmonic to become music and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic in the fall of 2026, he became instant celebrity news here. A New York Philharmonic player gives Dudamel a cheesecake, and the New York Times writes a story.

This season Dudamel gains his first official title: music and artistic director designate. But the orchestra is basically his baby now. His photo is plastered on the orchestra’s posters and publicity. And on Thursday night, Dudamel, for the first time, opened the New York Philharmonic’s new season. After two weeks this month, he will have a sizable presence later winter and in spring, while also closing out his last L.A. Phil season with major programs.

Dudamel arrived in New York on Tuesday, having spent two weeks conducting the Simon Bolivar Orchestra of Venezuela, his homeland orchestra, to open Coldplay’s concerts at Glastonbury in England, just as the newly named U.S. Department of War immediately began to live up to its name by sending warships to Dudamel’s native Venezuela and threatening regime change.

But here in New York, Dudamel paid tribute to a new city in his life with Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Charles Ives’ Symphony No. 2. In 1945, Bartók, having fled Nazi-invaded Hungary, wrote his final piano concerto in a New York apartment on 57th Street, a block west of Carnegie Hall. Bernstein led the New York Philharmonic premiere of Ives’ Second — the first great American symphony — at Carnegie, then the New York Philharmonic’s home, six years later.

Still, the first orchestral sounds that emanated from the Dudamel designated directorship turned out to be barely heard, while not silent, percussion stirrings. Following a season-opening tradition he began when he became music director of the L.A. Phil, Dudamel began the program with a world premiere.

For this, he directed New Yorkers’ attention westward. In “of light and stone,” Leilehua Lanzilotti sets the sonic stage for an evocation of Hawaii, where she resides, before statehood. She makes references to King Kalakaua, Queen Lili’uokalani and other Hawaiian nobility few in a mainland audience are likely to know. There are fragments of Hawaiian song, a dance of the wind.

Nothing settles in this four-part, 15-minute song of a land, a score that falls somewhere between history lesson and color-field sonic landscape. A whisp of a canorous clarinet or a rumbling rattle is all it takes for a kind of instant transport to a far-off time and place. New York Philharmonic audiences can be cool, but they’ve demonstratively taken to Dudamel at Geffen, and an ethereal performance appeared to open ears.

The young Korean pianist, Yunchan Lim, who became instantly hot after winning the Van Cliburn competition three years ago, was soloist in Bartók’s Third Piano Concerto. Lim will be a soloist with Dudamel and the L.A. Phil this season as well as give a solo recital in Walt Disney Concert Hall. He is an exceptional pianist. He too opens ears and can transport a listener to a distant land. And Lim’s case is far more distant or far less knowable than Hawaii.

Lim’s Bartók exists in a world of the pianist’s own. Every phrase is for him an oddity, as if he had found some weird object in an imaginary world and was figuring out what he might do with it. His tools were rhythm, accents and dynamics, each a quirky new toy. The New York Philharmonic produced beauty and excitement, but Lim went his own way that wasn’t quite imaginative enough to improve on Bartók. Here we go again with an exceptional young soloist being pushed into the limelight too soon.

The New York Philharmonic owns Ives’ Second. Written in the first decade of the 20th century, the symphony offered a whole new way of thinking about American and European music and it sat dormant for some four decades before Bernstein premiered it. But that 1951 performance had a huge effect on how to transform folk music, popular music, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and what-not, twisted, transformed and tacked together. Bernstein later recorded it twice with the New York Philharmonic. The first time full of beans that revived it for good. The second time in 1987 as a glorious spiritual exercise. Hearing that performance live left me in a state of rapture.

Dudamel has made a specialty of the symphony himself, conducting it with the Vienna Philharmonic, recording it with the L.A. Phil and now going to the source. His performance Thursday night did not try to follow in Bernstein’s footsteps or necessarily Dudamel’s own. The performance flowed with exquisite lyricism and mustered a thrilling finale.

In Vienna, Dudamel was more robust. At Disney, Dudamel found exceptional expression in every little detail. That was the Dudamel that we last saw at the Hollywood Bowl this summer when he conducted Mahler’s First more vividly than ever.

That is not, quite yet, the Dudamel for New York. Here his Ives seemed to be laying the groundwork, letting his new orchestra show him what it can do before he begins, as he surely will, digging deeper.

It took a once controversial effort for Bernstein to transform an uptight virtuosic New York Philharmonic into a tight but electric one. Now it’s Dudamel’s turn for transmogrification, and he’s made a promising beginning.