Precious crown jewels including the Parure Marie-Amélie diadème are yet to be recovered
Two more people have been charged over a theft at the Louvre Museum last month, the Paris prosecutor’s office said.
A 38-year-old woman has been charged with complicity in organised theft and criminal conspiracy with a view to committing a crime. Separately, a man, aged 37, was charged with theft and criminal conspiracy. Both denied any involvement.
Two men who had previously been arrested were already charged with theft and criminal conspiracy after officials said they had “partially recognised” their involvement in the heist.
Jewels worth €88m (£76m; $102m) were taken from the world’s most-visited museum on 19 October.
Louvre Museum
Louvre Museum
The Marie-Louise necklace and a pair of earrings were among the eight items stolen
A tiara worn by the Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, was taken
Four men carried out the lightning-quick daylight theft.
Two of the alleged thieves – who had been arrested earlier – later admitted their involvement. Another person arrested this week is thought to have taken part in the heist, while the fourth has not yet been caught.
On Saturday, the woman who has been charged was in tears as she appeared before a magistrate and confirmed that she lived in Paris’s northern suburb of La Courneuve, a journalist working for the AFP news agency reported.
The magistrate later ruled that the woman – who has not been named – must stay in custody.
The 37-year-old man – whose identity has also not been revealed – was also ordered to stay in pre-trial detention. He is known to the French justice system for past robberies.
The two were among five people arrested earlier this week in and around the French capital. Three of those held have been released without charge.
Watch: Two people leave Louvre in lift mounted to vehicle
On the day of the heist, the robbers arrived at 09:30 (07:30 GMT), just after the museum opened to visitors, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said last week.
The suspects arrived with a stolen vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to gain access to the Galerie d’Apollon (Gallery of Apollo) via a balcony close to the River Seine. The men used a disc cutter to crack open display cases housing the jewellery.
Prosecutors said the thieves were inside for four minutes and made their escape on two scooters waiting outside at 09:38, before switching to cars.
One of the stolen items – a crown – was dropped during the escape. The other seven jewels have not been found.
The fear is that they have already been spirited abroad, though the prosecutor in charge of the case has said she is still hopeful they can be retrieved intact.
Preliminary results of an enquiry into the robbery were released by Culture Minister Rachida Dati on Friday. She said that for years museum authorities had gravely underestimated the risks of intrusion, and she promised new measures would be in place by the end of the year.
Shortly after the theft it was revealed by the Louvre’s director that the only camera monitoring the Galerie d’Apollon was pointing away from a balcony the thieves climbed over to break in.
Since the incident, security measures have been tightened around France’s cultural institutions.
The Louvre has transferred some of its most precious jewels to the Bank of France following the heist.
As the number of arrests climbs to seven, none of the priceless Napoleonic-era jewellery has been recovered.
Published On 30 Oct 202530 Oct 2025
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Paris police have arrested five new suspects in the Louvre crown jewel heist, the Paris prosecutor has confirmed, a day after prosecutors said two other suspects had “partially” admitted to charges of theft and conspiracy.
The group includes one “main” suspect, according to Paris Public Prosecutor Laure Beccuau, the AFP news agency reported on Thursday. Quoting judiciary sources, radio station RTL said the arrests unfolded simultaneously throughout the Paris area late on Wednesday evening.
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“We had him in our sights,” Beccuau said of the prime suspect.
Details of the five Thursday arrests, including the suspects’ identities, were not immediately available.
On the morning of October 19, as visitors roamed the halls of the world’s most-visited museum, a group of intruders broke into the Apollo Gallery through an upstairs window and snatched eight pieces of priceless jewellery in a four-minute heist that has reverberated through the art world.
The stolen jewels, which have not been recovered, included 19th-century tiaras, necklaces, earrings and a brooch belonging to the wives of French Emperor Napoleon I and Napoleon III.
Since then, investigators have raced to locate the thieves, initially believed to include at least four people.
On Wednesday, Beccuau said two suspects would be brought before magistrates to be charged with organised theft, which carries a 15-year prison sentence, and criminal conspiracy, punishable by 10 years.
The duo – a 34-year-old Algerian national and a 39-year-old who were arrested in the northern Paris suburb of Aubervilliers on Saturday – had “partially admitt[ed] to the charges”, Beccuau told a news conference.
A tiara adorned with pearls worn by French Empress Eugenie, which was among the items stolen by thieves during a heist at Paris’s Louvre Museum on October 19, 2025 [Louvre Museum/Handout via Reuters]
Last week, the Louvre director told the French Senate the museum’s security operations “did not detect the arrival of the thieves soon enough”.
The Louvre curator has estimated the jewels amount to about 88 million euros ($102m) in value.
“Today we are experiencing a terrible failure at the Louvre, which I take my share of responsibility in,” the director said, adding that she submitted her resignation to the culture minister, who turned it down.
French authorities have detained several men in connection to the recent theft of precious jewellery from the world-renowned Louvre museum in Paris, the Paris prosecutor has said.
French media reported that one of the suspects was apprehended around 10 pm (20:00 GMT) on Saturday at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport as he was about to board a plane abroad, French media Le Parisien and Paris Match reported on Sunday, and the second was arrested not long after in the Paris region, according to Le Parisien.
The Louvre Museum in the French capital closed one week ago after a group of intruders successfully stole eight pieces of priceless jewellery in a quick-hit four-minute heist in broad daylight that rocked the world’s most-visited museum and was followed raptly around the globe.
The robbers had climbed the extendable ladder of a movers’ truck and cut into a first-floor gallery.
They dropped a crown as they fled down the ladder and onto scooters, but managed to steal eight other pieces, include an emerald-and-diamond necklace that Napoleon Bonaparte gave his wife, Empress Marie-Louise.
Officials said the jewels were worth an estimated $102 million but held incalculable cultural value.
An intensive manhunt for the thieves has been ongoing, involving dozens of investigators.
The brazen theft has made headlines across the world and sparked a debate in France about the security of cultural institutions.
Police initially cordoned off the museum – famously home to Leonardo da Vinci’s painting Mona Lisa – with tape and as armed soldiers patrolled its iconic glass pyramid entrance.
‘An embarrassment’: BBC reports at the scene of Louvre robbery
The Louvre Museum in Paris has been forced to close while police investigate a brazen heist which targeted France’s priceless crown jewels.
Thieves wielding power tools broke into the world’s most visited museum in broad daylight, before escaping on scooters with eight “priceless” items of jewellery.
Here is what we know about the crime which has stunned France.
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The robbers reached a first-floor window and cut through glass panes to gain access to the museum’s gilded Galerie d’Apollon
How did the theft unfold?
The theft occurred on Sunday between 09:30 and 09:40 local time, shortly after the museum opened to visitors.
Four thieves used a vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to gain access to the Galerie d’Apollon (Gallery of Apollo) via a balcony close to the River Seine.
Pictures from the scene showed a vehicle-mounted ladder leading up to a first-floor window.
Two of the thieves cut through glass panes with a battery-powered disc cutter and entered the museum.
They then threatened the guards, who evacuated the premises, and stole items from two glass display cases.
The museum’s alarms sounded correctly and museum staff followed protocol by contacting security forces and protecting visitors, the culture ministry said in a statement.
The gang had tried to set fire to their vehicle outside but were prevented by the intervention of a museum staff-member, it added.
Culture Minister Rachida Dati told French news outlet TF1 that footage of the theft showed the masked robbers entering “calmly” and smashing display cases containing the jewels.
No one was injured in the incident, with Dati saying there was “no violence, very professional”.
She described the thieves as seemingly being “experienced” with a well-prepared plan to flee on two scooters.
Getty Images
The thieves approached the building from the River Seine bankside
Investigators are looking for four suspects and are studying CCTV footage from the escape route.
The whole raid happened “very, very fast”, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told France Inter radio, and was over in a handful of minutes.
One witness described scenes of “total panic” as the museum was evacuated. Later images showed entrances closed off with metal gates.
Police and staff ushered confused crowds away from the Louvre
What was stolen
According to the authorities, eight items were taken, including diadems, necklaces, ear-rings and brooches. All are from the 19th century, and once belonged to French royalty.
France’s ministry of culture said the stolen items were:
a tiara and brooch belonging to Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III
an emerald necklace and a pair of emerald earrings from Empress Marie Louise
a tiara, necklace and single earring from the sapphire set that belonged to Queen Marie-Amelie and Queen Hortense
a brooch known as the “reliquary brooch”
Between them, these pieces are adorned with thousands of diamonds and other precious gemstones.
Two more items, including Empress Eugénie’s crown, were found near the scene, apparently having been dropped during the escape. The authorities are examining them for damage.
Nuñez described the stolen jewels “priceless” and “of immeasurable heritage value”.
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The stolen items include Empress Eugénie’s brooch, which is encrusted with more than 2,000 diamonds.
Also stolen was this emerald necklace, which was once owned by Empress Marie Louise
Louvre crowds evacuate after museum robbery
Have similar thefts happened before?
In 1911, an Italian museum employee was able to make off with the Mona Lisa under his coat after lifting the painting – which was then little-known to the public – straight off the wall of a quiet gallery.
It was recovered after two years and the culprit later said he was motivated by the belief the Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece belonged in Italy.
Fewer chances are taken with the Mona Lisa these days: the painting, perhaps the most renowned in the museum’s collection, hangs in a high-security glass compartment.
In 1998, the Le Chemin de Sevres – a 19th century painting by Camille Corot – was stolen and has never been found. The incident prompted a massive overhaul of museum security.
There has been a recent spate of thefts targeting French museums.
Last month, thieves broke into the Adrien Dubouche Museum in Limoges and stole porcelain works reputedly worth €9.5m ($11m / £8.25m).
In November 2024, seven items of “great historic and heritage value” were stolen from the Cognacq-Jay Museum in the capital. Five were recovered a few days ago.
The same month, armed robbers raided the Hieron Museum in Burgundy, firing shots before escaping with millions of pounds worth of 20th century artworks.
Dunsop Bridge, nestled in the heart of the Forest of Bowland, is the closest village to the exact centre of the UK, which has been pinpointed by Ordnance Survey
Dunsop Bridge is recognised as being the centre of the UK
The exact centre of the nation is pinpointed on a hillside just northwest of the village, near the Whitendale Hanging Stones. Dunsop Bridge, nestled in the heart of the Forest of Bowland and located about nine miles from Clitheroe, is the closest village to this precise midpoint.
Although often cited as the UK’s centre – marked by a commemorative plaque on its village green – the actual central spot lies a few miles northwest on a hillside above the village.
Once part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, the tiny, picturesque village became part of Lancashire after boundary changes in 1974.
Not only is the village famous for its central location, but it also houses the 100,000th BT phone box, installed by explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes in 1992, reports Lancs Live.
Situated where the River Dunsop meets the River Hodder, Dunsop Bridge is a popular destination for walkers. Favourite routes include the Saddle Fell Top and Slaidburn Walk, drawing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Much of the surrounding land is owned by the Duchy of Lancaster. In 2006, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited the village, strolling through the area, visiting the Puddleducks Cafe, and watching a cow’s hoof trimming at Radholme Laund Farm.
Their visit concluded with lunch at The Inn at Whitewell to celebrate the Queen’s 80th birthday.
Renowned for its tranquil ambience and breathtaking moorland vistas, Dunsop Bridge acts as the entrance to the renowned Trough of Bowland.
The Forest of Bowland National Landscape celebrates the village’s “lovely winding paths” and its charm as an ideal location for picnics or a peaceful tea stop, featuring resident ducks and verdant banks.
The Forest of Bowland National Landscape website states: “Dunsop Bridge is the entrance to the famous Trough of Bowland. Lovely winding paths from here through the moors to Lancaster are popular with thousands of fell walkers.
“With resident ducks and grassy banks it is the perfect place to stop for a picnic or a cup of tea and a cake at the cafe.”
Whether for rambling or simply absorbing the tranquil environment, Dunsop Bridge continues to be a treasured jewel in Britain’s crown.
A man shared how he went through a horrifying flight experience, and it was all down to the piece of jewellery he had been constantly wearing since the start of this year
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He was denied boarding (Stock Image)(Image: Getty Images)
A man was left vowing to “never” wear a piece of jewellery again after he was denied boarding a plane thanks to it. Wearable smart rings have become all the rage as an alternative to the sometimes clunky smart watch. But when Daniel Rotar noticed his ring wouldn’t come off his finger just before he was meant to board a flight, he was left incredibly stressed.
Sharing a picture of the ring stuck on his finger, he wrote on X: “Ahhh…this is…not good. My Samsung Galaxy Ring’s battery started swelling. While it’s on my finger. And while I’m about to board a flight. Now I cannot take it off, and this thing hurts”.
He shared another picture, writing: “You can see the battery expanding. Not great for something that’s now stuck to my finger”.
Some asked how long he’d had the device, and Daniel explained he bought it in January 2025. Some Samsung rings retail for £399, depending on the model.
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He wrote: “Had it since January 2025. No clue on the battery health (never checked it and not even sure if that’s visible in the app).
“I think it definitely had some battery issue before, as it stopped lasting for more than 1.5 days. When I first got it, it was close to the advertised seven days, so I even stopped charging it regularly because of this. When it swelled, it had no battery juice left in it”.
Somebody shared that the same thing happened to them with a smart ring, saying: “I cut it off with a Dremel. If you do this, be sure you do not cut the battery, and slide a file underneath so you don’t slice your finger. I just saved you four hours in urgent care! Good luck”.
Another urged: “Go up to the nearest restaurant and tell them you need a stick of butter warmed for 30 seconds. Finger the butter and then wiggle that thing off”.
One man seethed: “This is so messed up. It’s one thing for a battery in a phone or even smartwatch to expand like this (at least you can take it out of your pocket or off your wrist), but a ring…very glad to see you got it removed ok”.
Daniel then shared an update, saying: “I was denied boarding due to this (been travelling for 47 hours straight, so this is really nice). Need to pay for a hotel for the night now and get back home tomorrow”.
He also shared that he “was sent to the hospital, as an emergency,” and “the ring got removed”.
“You can see the battery all swollen. Won’t be wearing a smart ring ever again,” he fumed.
Someone wrote: “Dude, I’m sorry you had to go through this”. Daniel said he was just glad his finger was “fine”.
Another person suggested they should be designed with a gap in them instead to get on and off easier.
A spokesperson for Samsung said: “The safety of our customers is our top priority. This is an extremely rare case, and we are in direct contact with Mr Rotar to retrieve the product and learn about the concerns”.
Dani Dyer showed off a stunning tribute to her children with a personalised multi nameplate necklace that she had made just in time for her Strictly Come Dancing appearance
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Dani Dyer is getting ready to appear in Strictly Come Dancing 2025(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)
Ready for her first appearance on this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, contestant Dani Dyer has been showing fans some behind the scenes snaps, with one in particular causing a stir with fans. In one photo, the former Love Island winner showed off a stunning nameplate necklace she’d had made with each of her children’s names – Summer, Star and Santi (short for Santiago) – that fans couldn’t get enough of.
One comment said: “Loved the necklace” whilst plenty of others were begging for details. Although Dani didn’t share where she’d bought it, our sleuthing skills have tracked down one that’s identical, with the Multi Crystal Cursive Name Necklacehailing from Abbott Lyon.
Whilst we can’t say for certain, we’re pretty sure that this is the exact same necklace Dani had made as a tribute to her children. The Abbott Lyon necklace lets you choose up to five different names that can be added to it, and comes in either gold or silver with a cubic zirconia crystal finish.
The brand is popular with other celebs, with both Stacey Solomon and Olivia Attwood both recently launching their very own collections with Abbott Lyon, so it wouldn’t be a surprise that Dani has taken a leaf out of their book. The Multi Crystal Cursive Name Necklaceis also pretty affordable, costing between £95 for two names or up to £110 for five different names, and if you use the code TAKE10 you’ll save 10% – bringing it down to £85.50 – not to mention orders over £79 get a free bracelet worth £49.
Dani showed off the meaningful necklace on Instagram(Image: Dani Dyer/Instagram)
You also have the option of customising the chain length, and each name can carry up to eight characters. The Crystal Cursive Name Necklaceis made from 18k gold-plated stainless steel, and is water, sweat and heat resistant – perfectly for wearing whilst dancing on Strictly.
If the sparkles aren’t for you, you could also head over to PRYA, where the Miami Multiple Name Necklaceis currently on sale. Usually priced at £78 for two names, or £128 for five names, the necklace has been slashed to £50 for two names, or £68 for five – making it a huge saving.
For something a little more dainty, the Multiple Name Necklacefrom Abiza is available at Not on the High Street, and also has a 20% discount at the moment, slashing it from £53 to £43.40. You can add up to four names, which incurs an extra cost of £22.40, making it £65.80.
Dani’s necklace looks to be from Abbott Lyon(Image: Abbott Lyon)
However Abbott Lyon’s Crystal Cursive Name Necklace is your top pick if you want to copy Dani’s look, and it seems shoppers are also huge fans of the necklace. It currently only has two reviews, but they’re both five star ones with one simply writing: “Beautiful necklace.”
Whilst the second said: “I brought this for my sister she was almost in tears I am so bad at keeping secrets I didn’t tell her that I was going to order something like this she has always wanted something personalized with her children’s names it come out so outstanding it looked great the quality and care that went into it was above and beyond.”
Whilst the necklace makes a great treat for yourself, it also makes a beautiful meaningful gift – especially as we start to head towards Christmas. And don’t forget to take advantage of the discount code while it’s still available – you can keep the free bracelet for yourself, or consider it one Christmas gift to cross off your list!
The United Arab Emirates has quickly become a favourite holiday spot for UK travellers, and it’s not hard to understand the appeal
15:13, 09 Sep 2025Updated 15:13, 09 Sep 2025
Ras Al Khaimah City often gets overlooked because of Dubai (Image: Jeff Kingma via Getty Images)
The United Arab Emirates has swiftly emerged as a top holiday destination for British tourists, and it’s easy to see why. Boasting diverse landscapes from deserts and oases to mountains and valleys, the UAE caters to all kinds of holidaymakers, whilst showcasing year-round luxury living.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi shine as the crown jewels of the UAE’s premium travel scene. However, merely an hour’s journey from Dubai sits a hidden paradise that guests have dubbed the nation’s best-kept secret.
Harry Leach ventured to Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the UAE’s most northern emirate, last November seeking thrills – and discovered them in abundance, reports Bristol Live.
Al Marjan Island is still establishing itself as a holiday hotspot(Image: (Image: Getty))
Upon his arrival, Harry watched daredevils racing along the planet’s most extensive zipline, Jais Flight, hitting jaw-dropping speeds of up to 100mph across the 1.75-mile track.
He captured the moment: “Ahead of me, adrenaline junkies shoot across the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, reaching hair-raising speeds of up to 100mph on the 1.75-mile journey,” before noting, “Suspended in Superman positions, 4,869ft above sea level, I can just make out their gleeful shrieks as they reach safety after a three-minute dopamine hit.
“To my right is the Jais Sledder: a 1.14-mile mountainside toboggan on a low-slung track. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted, and I’d argue far more exhilarating than any rollercoaster at Alton Towers.”
Harry summed up his experience: “This is Ras Al Khaimah, only a short 45-minute drive away from Dubai airport. It’s a thrillseekers’ dream destination while also a relaxing desert paradise.”
Harry enjoyed a lavish break at the five-star Mövenpick Resort, positioned on Al Marjan Island’s stunning coral-shaped isles, encircled by the Persian Gulf’s glistening azure waters.
“When I arrived in late November, temperatures were still reaching 30C and above, despite being on the cusp of winter,” he explained.
His trip was made even more pleasant thanks to an ocean breeze which helped make the intense sunshine more bearable – a crucial element for someone who must slather on factor 50 throughout the British summer.
The resort catered to a diverse crowd, from older tourists and youngsters to families seeking retreat, solo travellers in search of tranquillity, adrenaline junkies, and those content with lounging on deck chairs.
Harry found an array of activities at his disposal, including relaxing in the spa, immersing himself in an online gaming cave, trying out arcade games, watching over kids in the play centre, and enjoying frequent live shows.
After a strenuous gym session, Harry treated himself to what he described as the ultimate post-workout reward: “I followed up a tough gym session by treating myself to the best post-workout meal available: Mövenpick’s ‘chocolate hour’ – 60 minutes of complimentary eclairs, truffles and choccy fondue. It’s pure indulgence.”
Despite the number of options to keep him occupied, he felt that “There’s a lot going on, a lot to see, a lot to do, but it never feels overwhelming.”
“It goes without saying that Mövenpick, a well-established Swiss hotel management brand in Europe, has exceptional dining options – with four first-rate restaurants on site, all focusing on sustainability and fresh food, each with their unique style, character and draw.”
Harry enjoyed a lavish break at the five-star Mövenpick Resort on Marjan Island(Image: (Image: Getty))
The Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island’s culinary heart is The Market, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which has been hailed as the hotel’s vibrant hub by visitor Harry.
Sharing his experience, Harry highlighted the dedication to genuine dining: “It’s about creating meals from the heart,” a philosophy echoed by Chef Rajiv Ranjan Singh during a masterclass in preparing Switzerland’s cherished rösti.
The resort isn’t only renowned for its cuisine but also for its lavish Neo Sky Bar. Additionally, it provides views of the round-the-clock building site for the UAE’s first casino, expected to welcome guests in 2027.
This £3 billion project is set to boost visitor numbers to Al Marjan Island, a destination still establishing itself as a holiday hotspot, particularly amongst Western travellers despite its relatively young 12-year existence.
Looking back on his stay, Harry said: “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived here. But after five days, I left feeling revitalised and refreshed. The warmth and friendliness of locals and the tranquillity of the island made it a tough goodbye on the final morning.”
He added: “Dubai gets most of the attention, and grabs the headlines, and perhaps that will always be the case.
“But I’m fine with that because Al Marjan Island is currently the country’s best-kept secret.”
This Lower East Side hotel is not only in the centre of one of the city’s most eclectic boroughs, but is home to a live music venue, a rooftop bar, and an underground nightclub.
They say New York is the city that never sleeps, and this downtown hotel proves that. I stayed at the Moxy Lower East Side hotel, a haven for eclectic travellers looking to ditch high-brow Manhattan for a taste of the urban boroughs.
Located on Bowery, the Moxy is in the centre of the Lower East Side, with SoHo and Chinatown within walking distance. However, the true draw of the area is its lively atmosphere, with crowds filling the streets in the evenings as they sit outside bars, restaurants, and music venues.
Graffiti-filled corners and event spaces pack the area, which is the birthplace of American punk rock and new wave music. Paying homage to this, the Moxy Lower East Side has so many venues that you don’t need to leave to experience some of the borough’s rich culture.
Hotel guests have first dibs on reservations at the busy lounge, which offers bespoke cocktails and bites
“That’s where I go if I want a real night out with my wife,” a local tells me. “First, hitting the rooftop for a pre-drink, then dinner, before catching some live music, and then, if I’m up for it, I’ll go down to the club for a dance.”
It’s almost hard to believe all of that can be done in what’s known as Marriott’s budget-brand Moxy. But lo and behold, as you walk into the modern hotel, there is a piano lounge to the left. Silver Lining Lounge offers nightly acts, including bands, resident performers, and jazz acts in its soundproof location – where hotel guests have first dibs at reservations. BRIT Award winner Lola Young also performed at the venue earlier this year in what was her first NYC showcase, while chart topper Benson Boone has also graced the boards.
The Highlight Room is a rooftop bar at the hotel, with DJs, sunset views and cocktails on offer
With a large stage at the front of the room, the venue – owned by Tao Group hospitality – has table service and offers specialty cocktails alongside light bites such as tacos, fries and oysters.
Across the lobby is The Fix, which is your typical hotel bar filled with families, professionals catching up on work, and friends grabbing drinks. When it hits 9pm, a DJ arrives to lift the mood of the lobby, meaning you get a lively entrance if you’ve got a late check-in time.
Because of its location and modern design, the hotel is a hotspot for Instagram events – something which is in full swing on the Friday night I’m staying. “We’ve got a pop-up jewellery making class for influencers going on,” the hotel manager tells me as we slide past glamorous social media stars on the way to the lifts.
The Moxy Lower East Side hotel is home to a live music venue, a rooftop bar, and an underground nightclub
On the top floor of the 303-room hotel is the Highlight Room rooftop bar, which is bustling as I head up for a drink around sunset. With a DJ booth in the corner, indoor and outdoor seating, and an atmosphere that screams glamorous New York City, this is clearly a popular gem for locals looking to let loose after a busy week.
While the hotel doesn’t have a typical restaurant to grab some buffet food, it does have a high-brow modern Japanese eatery, which is well-known in the area and popular amongst celebrities. From sushi platters to wagyu beef and crown melon, Sake No Hana is truly a dining experience and rivals famous friend Nobu, which is just a 30-minute walk away.
We tried some of the mouth-watering sushi and wagyu beef on offer
Just when I thought there couldn’t possibly be any more nightlife under one roof, I was taken down to the Moxy’s subterranean nightclub, Loosie’s. The small venue is decked out with VIP booths and a sizable dancefloor, meaning visitors can party until 4 am and not have too far to go back to their rooms.
The Highlight Room, Loosie’s, and Silver Lining lounge all have separate entrances from the main hotel, meaning they’re not just for guests to enjoy. In fact, most of the guests inside the Moxy venues were locals taking in the music, food, and cocktails.
Book it
Moxy Lower East Side has rates from $179 (£133) per night. Book at moxylowereastside.com
THIS is the astonishing moment a “jewellery thief” is wrestled to the ground and held in a “lion killer” chokehold by tourists.
Brazilian brothers Gabriel and Gustavo Galindo sprung into action after hearing screams from a man claiming he had been robbed.
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The Brazilian tackled the man to the groundCredit: Instagram
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He held him there in a chokehold until cops arrivedCredit: Instagram
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The man appeared to try and wriggle awayCredit: Instagram
Both black belts in Jiu-Jitsu, the siblings quickly put the alleged thief into a “lion killer” chokehold – a popular martial art move that can, in some instances, be deadly.
When police arrived 10 minutes later to escort the man away, applause and cheers erupted for the two brothers.
Shocking footage shows the man pinned to the ground as he attempts to wriggle out of the stranglehold.
According to Brazilian news, the alleged thief tried to bite Gabriel before being warned to “stay still” or leave without an arm.
Gabriel said: “I put him on the ground to show him Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
“By then, there was already a crowd of people enraged with anger towards the unfortunate man.
“Some angry people started to beat him up, but I didn’t have the heart to let them hurt him too badly.”
“We stopped the robbery, taught the thief a lesson, and kept everyone safe.”
Posting the video online, Gabriel quipped: “Enjoying ourselves in Barcelona.”
The clip has massed thousands of views, with hundreds congratulating the holidaygoers for their efforts.
Thief tackled & put in chokehold by tourist after ‘trying to steal camera’
One user hailed the lads “champions” while another crowned them modern day superheroes.
The pair, who were in Barcelona, Spain on a European tour with their family at the time, later said they were left with a “good story to tell”.
Gabriel said: “And we went back to enjoying our day in Barcelona—with a great story to tell.”
Barcelona is notorious for its rampant thieves who target unsuspecting tourists.
Just a couple months ago, extraordinary footage emerged of another tourist tackling a thief to the ground and holding him in a chokehold.
Meanwhile, aast August, Sir Ben Ainslie was robbed at knifepoint for his £17,000 Rolex in the Spanish city.
Ainslie, 47, recalled the horror as a gang mugged him while out for a meal on Saturday night in Barcelona.
The terrifying attack unfolded when he was leaving a restaurant, as reported by local media La Vanguardia.
And last year, unbelievable footage captured a thief swiping a Brit tourist’s phone just as he proposed to his girlfriend in Barcelona.
Footage showed Charlie Bullock surprising his now-fiancée Hannah McNaghten by going down on one knee – but the romantic moment is cut short as a thug is captured nabbing the device.
Charlie propped up his phone on the wall as the two posed for a picture outside Barcelona‘s famous Arc de Triomf, with Hannah totally unaware of what would happen next.
And in 2022, Barcelona FC star Robert Lewandowski chased a thief who stole his £59,000 watch as he signed autographs.
Before an evening training session, the Poland hitman stopped to greet fans outside the club’s Ciutat Esportiva complex.
But one crafty thief used the distraction to open Lewandowski’s car door and make off with the high-end time piece.
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The brothers said they enjoyed the rest of their day with a good story to tell
A mum of two tried out the UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark, and she was seriously impressed with what she found, calling it ‘the perfect family day out’ for her brood
Splashdown Quaywest is a “perfect family day out”(Image: Frank P Matthews Trees)
The summer holidays are stretching ahead of us, and for parents across the UK prospect of keeping the kids entertained whilst they are off school can sometimes be pretty daunting.
Many families throughout the country are working to pretty tight budgets, so parents are often on the lookout for days out that won’t break the bank.
If you’re looking for a day out to remember with the whole family, then one mum-of-two has recommended paying the UK’s biggest waterpark a visit this summer – which promises fun for every age group.
Perched right by the stunning beach, Goodrington Sands, Splashdown Quaywest is a jewel in Devon’s crown as the largest outdoor waterpark in the country.
Mum of two, Chloe Sweet, posted about her family’s day out to the waterpark on her TikTok account, which boasts 113,000 followers.
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She was seriously impressed with the range of what the waterpark offered, with something to keep children of every age entertained.
“There’s 18 waterslides in total,” Chloe explained in her video, “If you’re into that adrenaline buzz, it’s got some serious fast flumes for older children and adults, you’ve got the slides such as the devil’s drop, the screamer, Kamikaze, and much more that will test [your] nerves”.
Chloe Sweet was seriously impressed with the waterpark(Image: Frank P Matthews Trees)
However, the facilities and slides for younger children and toddlers left Chloe really impressed, with one area a major perk for young families.
“They have a dedicated section called Shipwreck Island, which is amazing for toddlers and little ones. There’s seven slides in this section, and it’s just the right height for toddlers.
“The water is all shallow, so you don’t have to stress, it’s like a big massive splash zone.”
Chloe added, “They have water sprinkling out all over and, of course, the big massive tipping bucket that soaks everyone every couple of minutes, the kids absolutely enjoyed themselves”.
The mum of two explained the different tickets you can get for the waterpark, which include two, three, and four-hour slots, as well as entire day passes.
The waterpark warns on their website that you cannot get tickets on the door for this attraction, so anyone interested in spending a day out there has to make sure they have booked their slot ahead.
From daredevil rides to a toddler area, there is fun for all the family(Image: Frank P Matthews Trees)
Chloe added that there were good food offerings available at the waterpark, including things like burgers, but that her family opted to bring packed lunches – and there was plenty of space for them to enjoy their little picnic.
There’s also an ice cream stand, which families will definitely make the most of during a hot summer’s day, and Chloe advised that if you are planning on booking a two or three-hour slot, you should make the most of the day out by spending time at the beach next door as well.
She called Splashdown Quaywest the “perfect family day out,” and people in the comments seemed keen to try it out, with many asking for further details, and one user writing: “That’s awesome, looks like it’s abroad.” and another commenting: “Went Monday…I love it’.
If you’re a fan of taking your holidays onboard luxury cruiseliners to travel the world and experience far flung destinations, you might want to pay more attention to the type of jewellery you choose to take with you
Wearing a black ring could come with its risks, apparently (Image: Getty Images)
Cruises are an increasingly popular way to enjoy a trip away from home to visit multiple destinations during one holiday. You only have to unpack once and get to enjoy all the onboard amenities, activities and fine dining right on your cabin doorstep every day.
You could be an experienced cruise traveller or be considering the option for your next vacation but it seems there’s a whole lot more that goes on behind the scenes than you might expect.
When it comes to choosing what accessories you take with you, it may, or may not – depending on your preference – pay to be wary of packing a certain type of jewellery.
Be careful if you wear a black ring…(Image: Getty Images)
According to one cruise worker who sailed the seas for 10 years, if you wear a black ring or jewellery with a pineapple theme, you could be approached by people with a preference for a particular type of lifestyle.
Lucy Southerton, 28, from Birmingham has plenty of knowledge about what goes on in the darker corners of the huge ships and has shared her experiences on her YouTube channel Cruising as Crew.
An upside down pineapple is a sure sign of a swinger(Image: Getty Images)
In one video from 2023, she claims that “swinging is a popular pastime” onboard the floating hotels – and suggests it could be because cruises offer an “enclosed population of people”.
Couples who enjoy swapping sexual partners, use certain techniques to identify other potential companions onboard, according to the former cruise worker.
Lucy shares her experiences of working on cruises on her YouTube account (Image: Cruising As Crew)
One of them is by displaying the upside down pineapple symbol in some way. “Some people put the upside down pineapple on their cabin door,” Lucy says. “Some people wear an upside down pineapple like a hat or brooch.”
But there’s also a more “inconspicuous” way to alert others to your desires than dangling a spiky fruit from your person – and that’s by wearing a black ring on your right hand, apparently.
Although as Lucy points out, this more subtle sign can have its issues. “Imagine if you went up to someone and you’re like [in a suggestive voice], ‘Hey, I can see that black ring on your right hand,’ and they’re like, ‘Yeah it’s just a black ring on my right hand’. You can never really be sure whether that’s just something they like to wear, or if it’s a signal,” she warns.
Swinging is apparently quite popular on cruises(Image: Getty Images)
According to Lucy, the third signpost that someone is a swinger open to offers is a male and female sign with “a third gender sign in there”. She also shares an “embarrassing story” about how she came to realise the significance of the pineapple. Revealing that a long time ago she used to work in a ship’s spa, she said a couple came in for a couple’s massage.
When she went back to the treatment room after they had got dressed to tell them about aftercare such as drinking plenty of water, she noticed they were both wearing silver upside down pineapple necklaces. “They weren’t like this bright yellow upside down. They’ve very subtle, very, very nice,” she recalls. “And I was like, ‘Oh I love your necklaces. I think it’s so cute that you’re both wearing matching necklaces. That’s really sweet, but why the pineapple? Like what does that represent to you in your relationship?’.”
The couple who she had built up a rapport with after treating them a few times, burst out laughing. “They were like, ‘Look, we’re swingers and this is how people can identify us as swingers,’.” Intrigued, she went on to have a conversation about it with them where they told her the terminology used within the community.
There’s even a terminology used within the swinging community(Image: Getty Images)
Apparently, a unicorn is a woman who wants to swing on her own and swing with another couple. “They’re basically like mythical creatures,” she says the couple informed her. “They don’t exist and if you find one then you’ve hit the jackpot.”
A rhino is a single man willing to swing, while a mermaid is a married woman who wants to swing with a couple on her own. The word ‘play’ means sex, so you may say you don’t play on the first date. Rainbow means they don’t discriminate on gender and will swing with “everyone and anyone”. While ‘DDF’ is drug and disease free.
Comments on Lucy’s video, which has had over a million views, were suitably amusing. “Thanks for the info on the up side down pineapple. I will be placing a sticker of one on my brother and sister in laws cabin door on our upcoming cruise. Boy will they be surprised:),” joked one.
Another shared: “I’ll never forget the amount of attention I got in the buffet on my first ever cruise – I bought shorts that had loads of little pineapples in all different directions – I innocently thought they were just ‘nice and summery’ – how wrong I was… Ha!”
A third wrote: “Jee whizz, I will have to make sure my pineapple earrings are pointing up,” while a fourth revealed: “My partner bought me a nice black ring for Valentine’s Day. Damn…I’ll have to have a chat with her.”
Over 13,000 shops closed across the UK last year – including thousands of independents – but Stamford’s high street continues to flourish and there’s a reason why
Toby Codd, Photos by Adam Gerrard and Mariam Khan
17:20, 22 Jun 2025
Whilst other retailers may be feeling the pinch, Stamford retailers are thriving (Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
High streets across the nation are facing closures, with many empty shopfronts, but one little town is thriving instead.
Stamford, a market town with a population of just over 20,000 in Lincolnshire, boasts the most listed buildings for a town of its size, with more than 600, and is home to around 170 independent shops. Whilst other retailers may be feeling the pinch, Stamford continues to buck the national trend, with businesses thriving thanks to a loyal community, a strong tourist pull and a close-knit network of traders supporting one another, the Express reports.
“The message is pretty clear – use us or lose us,” says Ben Stevenson, owner of jewellery shop Rubirox, which just marked its 15th birthday. “If you want us to stay here then you need to keep shopping in the town. And people do! It’s a great town to be based in.”
Just one of the colourful shopfronts in Stamford(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
Rubirox sits proudly on St Mary’s Street – crowned the UK’s best high street for independent shops last year. Ben credits the success to Stamford’s unique sense of community and said: “A lot of the locals want to support their businesses.”
Over 13,000 shops closed across the UK last year – including thousands of independents – but Stamford’s high street continues to flourish. Sarah Sewell, who runs Energy Clothing and is chair of Shop Stamford, started the initiative to promote the town’s shops eight years ago.
Ben Stevenson from Rubirox.(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
“We’ve got a good regular customer base from the local community,” she says. “That sense of trust we’ve built over time.”
Their annual Little Book of Stamford highlights shops, includes a town map, and is distributed around local hotels and campsites. Shop Stamford started on social media as a campaign to promote the town but now it’s in its fifth edition being published as a book as disturbed widely so when people arrive they can get their hands on it and know exactly what’s on offer.
Markets play a vital role in the town’s success, with over 70 stalls filling Broad Street and Ironmonger Street every Friday. From produce and flowers these markets along the farmers’ markets and weekend stalls in Red Lion Square regularly draw crowds to the town.
The quaint town draws visitors thanks to its community spirit(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
Stamford’s historical charm also keeps the visitors coming. Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan mansion just outside the town, was used as Windsor Castle in The Crown, while Pride and Prejudice fans might recognise scenes shot in the town centre.
For Molly Clegg, who runs Murano Silver, the town’s success lies in its community of shops, not competition. “You can have the best shop in the world but if you’re the only shop in the town, you’re trying to bring people in yourself,” she says.
“Because there’s lots of us, and we work well together as a community, it brings people to the town rather than to an individual place. I’m not the only jewellers’ in Stamford, there are other brilliant ones here. But we always refer each other to customers.”
Support from local landlords also plays a role. Nicholas Rudd-Jones, who helps produce the Little Book of Stamford, says: “You get relatively smaller scale landlords in Stamford who own 20 to 30 properties and favour the independent sector. This is quite important in helping the businesses.”
Molly Clegg from Murano Silver. (Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
Stamford has also held onto its reputation as a top spot for a weekend break or relaxing day out. The Crown Hotel, a coaching inn dating back to the 1800s remains a staple.
“You can come here and have a coffee, have your brunch, have your lunch, do some shopping, you can have an hour wandering around looking at architecture, you can visit a church. We’ve got the whole experience here,” says its owner Michael Thurlby.
He says even in November, business is steady.
It seems that Stamford has found the perfect mix to keep thriving and to keep its community happy and it all comes down to community and neighbourly spirit, businesses working together to bring in crowds and promote one another and landlords being invested in businesses thriving.
Monica Vinader has added even more styles to their summer sale with up to 60% off necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets and more
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Kate Middleton wearing the Monica Vinader Siren Wire Earrings(Image: Monica Vinader)
Monica Vinader, the popular jewellery brand favoured by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and royalty including the Princess of Wales, has reduced prices further on its website, with up to 60% off summer picks. Known for being one of the more affordable accessory retailers, you can now pick up Monica Vinader pieces at a reduced price.
With over 600 pieces of Monica Vinader jewellery to choose from, including stackable rings, personalised necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more, prices now start at £14. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself or a loved one to something sparkly for less.
Shoppers on the hunt for a versatile pair of earrings perfect for daily wear, the Siren Mini Domed Huggies are down from £60 to £39. Constructed from 18K gold vermeil, one customer said: “Such a beautiful, classy, comfy everyday hoop, which I never need to take out to sleep. Would highly recommend, particularly for the price.”
However, not everyone is satisfied with the size and another person expressed their surprise at the compactness, noting they were ‘shocked at how small they were’. For those considering a present, the Linear Disc Friendship Bracelet could be an ideal pick. Discounted from its regular £99 to £64.25 thanks to the sale offering 35% off – it’s available in various finishes.
A delighted shopper left a review saying: “Small delicate charm bracelet that would make a lovely gift. Simple style that can be easily layered up with other pieces. Easy to fasten on your own too. Also come in a cute little gift box if you were purchasing as a present.”
Yet someone else commented on the difficulty of fastening, stating: “Can be a little tricky to tighten and loosen, couldn’t get over my big hands to start with, may need to utilise a friend to help but makes it more secure.”
Kate Middleton wearing Monica Vinader Nura Pearl Necklace (Image: Getty)
Missoma is also running an up to 50% off summer sale. Pearls are featured in the sale, with the Savi Seed Pear Bracelet reduced by 26%. The limited edition bracelet is a ‘cute and elegant piece’, discounted to £73 down from £98.
Love Island fans are in luck as the exact necklace Samie Elishi wore on the show is finally back in stock. Called the San Pietro necklace by Soru, the £270 piece ‘goes with anything and stands out’.
For a splash of colour, take a look at the Monica Vinader Siren Stacking Ring. With a variety of stones and metal finishes on offer at different price points, one standout is the 18K gold vermeil with amazonite, reduced from £80 to £48.
Perfect for layering with other pieces, one happy customer wrote: “I bought this for my friend for her 40th birthday. It looks so stunning! I’m so pleased with it, and she loves it too.” You can browse the full Monica Vinader summer sale online.
Antiques Roadshow expert John Benjamin was on hand to deliver a valuation on a pair of drop earrings and a sapphire ring
22:19, 01 Jun 2025Updated 22:19, 01 Jun 2025
On Sunday’s Antiques Roadshow, expert John Benjamin gave two hopeful guests some disappointing news at the stunning Wollaton Hall in Nottingham.
The episode featured locals bringing in their treasures, with a pair of guests presenting family Art Deco jewellery for valuation. At first glance inside an old tin, John discovered exquisite platinum drop earrings and a sapphire ring.
One of the guests related the tale of his mother receiving the jewels from a friend, who was acquainted with a man with connections to France.
John, upon closer inspection, found a significant alteration: “Someone who has owned these in their history has taken them to a jeweller and said: ‘I’m not sure if I like the fittings!’
Antiques Roadshow expert, John Benjamin, delivered some ‘bad news’ to two guests on Sunday’s episode of the show(Image: BBC)
“So what they’ve done is they’ve removed the original fittings from the back and they’ve soldered on these long gold sort of posts with nine carat gold screw fittings at the end”, reports Edinburgh Live.
While examining the ring, John revealed a surprising fact about its authenticity, revealing: “Here’s an interesting point, in the 1920s, when that was made, synthetic rubies and sapphires were beginning to appear on the market.”
He delivered the blow when he declared: “The sapphires on the shoulders in the ring are actually synthetic. They’re not real. So, there we are.”
During the valuation, he revealed: “Here’s the bad news, those drops, today, if they were having the original fittings on them. I think would be worth between £4,000 and £5,000.
He found a spectacular pair of drop earrings set in platinum and a sapphire ring(Image: BBC)
“But because the fittings have been changed, I think we’ve got to now drop that price to probably £2,500 to £3,000 simply because of a clumsy conversion.”
Regarding the sapphire ring, he estimated: “The ring about £1500.”
This led to one of the guests quipping: “How much is the box worth?” which prompted John to respond with a chuckle: “Priceless, absolutely priceless the box!”
In another segment, art expert Rupert Maas appraised a monochrome painting of Princess Daisy of Pless, an icon of Edwardian high society.
One of the guests explained that it was given to his mother by a friend of hers who had met a guy who spent a lot of time in France(Image: BBC)
The owner explained how her father had found the artwork in a Watford junk shop for a mere £13.50.
Rupert encouraged her to keep it on display, especially after revealing its surprising value of £2,000 to £3,000.
The owner was shocked, saying: “Really? Gosh! I was thinking you were going to say a couple of hundred,” to which Rupert acknowledged it wasn’t a huge sum but definitely a significant increase from what was paid.
Antiques Roadshow continues on Sundays at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
A MUCH-LOVED jewellers is set to close its doors for good after more than 20 years on the high street.
The jewellery shop has launched an ‘everything must go’ sale, ahead of its closure.
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Whittakers Jewellers is closing its branch in Yarm
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Shoppers will be able to land massive deals in its closing sale
Whittakers Jewellers, which has been a staple of Yarm High Street for 21 years, has confirmed its final day of trading will be Saturday, May 31.
The long-running store first announced its closure back in November, sparking sadness among loyal locals.
Since then, big bold signs have filled the shop windows, shouting about the store’s closing down sale with jewellery fans flocking in for a final bargain.
But now, with the countdown officially on, fresh signs have gone up confirming its last day is just days away.
The store have slashed jewellery prices from as much as 70% off.
The store posted one hot deal to its Facebook, where a diamond ring was slashed from £7,350 to £2,190.
The deal meant shoppers would save a massive £5,000.
The family-run store has thanked customers for their loyalty over the years in a heartfelt Facebook message.
It said: “We are sad we are leaving but we have treasured the 21 years we’ve been here on the High Street.
“We think of our customers as family and friends… we will miss you all.”
Whittakers have built up a massively loyal customer base and is located between the Lucy Pittaway art store and The Keys pub.
Four members of the Evans family have run the business since March 2004.
Bosses of the jewellers told Teesside Live they had expanded over the years – and even opened the first Pandora shop in the country.
But they added they always looked to maintain a “genuine, homey feel”.
Fans of the jewellers say it will leave a huge hole in the town, with one heartbroken shopper writing: “It’ll be such a big loss to the high street and to me.
“I’ve had the pleasure of purchasing so many lovely items over the years”
Another added: “Big loss to Yarm High Street.”
While a third said: “Thank you for your beautiful jewellery and fabulous staff. You will all be greatly missed”
Popular retailer to RETURN 13 years after collapsing into administration and shutting 236 stores
It’s not the only jewellery giant feeling the pinch.
G Hewitt & Son, a 154-year-old jewellers, and one of the UK’s first Rolex retailers, launched a once-in-a-lifetime closing down sale last month.
The shop told followers on Facebook: “Everything must go – don’t miss out on huge savings.”
Meanwhile, The Watches of Switzerland Group – based in Leicestershire – has confirmed it will close 16 showrooms across the country and that 40 people were expected to leave the business.
Similarly, Terence Lett Jewellers, located on the high street in Witney, Oxfordshire, has announced its decision to shut up shop.
And loyal customers of Jane Allen Jewellers in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales were left distraught to hear the update and have been mourning the imminent loss.
With more and more historic jewellers disappearing from high streets, Whittakers’ final goodbye will be bittersweet for shoppers in Yarm.
Locals now have just days left to bag a bargain and say farewell to one of the town’s best-loved shops.
RETAIL SECTOR STRUGGLES
Its not just jewellery stores that are suffering to stay open.
It’s worth bearing in mind, larger retail chains often open and close branches based on customer demand and sales.
Sometimes a single store might shut because a lease is ending and the chain has decided it is better to direct cash into other shops or opening new ones.
However, the retail sector more broadly has struggled since the 2008 financial crash.
The Centre for Retail Research has said the industry has been going through a “permacrisis” during this period.
There are a number of reasons the sector is struggling, one being the rise of online shopping.
This has seen footfall to high street stores fall seeing large swathes of branches close across the UK.
Challenging economic conditions in recent years, including soaring inflation, have dented shoppers’ wallets and purses too.
While some bigger retailers have struggled to stay afloat, including Wilko, in recent years independent shops have suffered the most.
The Centre for Retail Research said more than 13,000 high street shops closed in 2024, with over 11,000 of these independents.
RETAIL PAIN IN 2025
The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.
Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.
A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.
Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.
The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.
It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.
Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”
Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.
“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”
You may think you are safe in a tourist hotspot like Barcelona
Holiday season is almost in full swing with just weeks until we hit the peak summer travel window, and millions of people will head from the UK to familiar locations in the sun. Each year we make more than 55million holiday trips abroad, with places like Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Portugal topping the list of destinations.
People from the UK usually travel to familiar locations, believing they will be safe from crime and disease, while shunning places they think may be more ‘trouble’. But travel experts have warned some of the most familiar spots are actually the most dangerous – where you are most likely to experience things like becoming a victim of crime.
Those destinations include familiar favourites such as Spain, France, Italy and Turkey.
France is renowned for crime such as pickpocketing
Diana Peng from Just Wanderlust said: “Places that are regarded as safe but aren’t include popular places such as Paris and Barcelona. I’ve heard so many horror stories from travelers to those cities and I’ve also been the target of crime in those cities – it is rampant and yet, it’s barely discussed.
“Groups of pickpockets and scammers frequently work the tourist crowds in these popular cities. They are also easy targets: preoccupied, lost, or trying to get photos more so than paying attention to their surroundings.”
Patrick Farrell of Viceroy Bali added: “Regions like Cancun and Acapulco in Mexico make me think they are safe, when in fact, they are not. I have received clients who booked luxury wellness retreats there, only for them to experience unforeseen safety concerns outside the resort areas.
“Furthermore, cities like Paris and Barcelona are pretty in their own right, but they do pose some level of safety concern. The two cities have a high risk of pickpocketing and scamming tourists. My advice always is to look at government-issued travel advisories, and talking to someone who knows the city is very useful.”
Ross Thompson at Covac Global said: “Places like Naples, Italy and Tokyo, Japan sit on massive seismic and geologic risks. Naples sits near Mt Vesuvius which is an active volcano that last erupted in 1944. While it’s closely monitored it sits near a highly dense population and is closely monitored for a reason.
Barcelona in Spain, the most popular country for UK holidaymakers
“Tokyo sits on a major seismic zone where an earthquake or tsunami can strike not only Tokyo but many other highly visited Japanese cities without warning causing massive destruction.”
He added: “Hidden risks can manifest politically, even if they say it is welcoming to Western tourists, they may have less noted political or civil strife either internally or externally. Think about the attempted coup in Turkey in 2016 where the opposition actually seized airports, bridges and media entities and both tanks and fighter jets filled the cities and skies.”
Ross also warned about ‘kidnapping in Mexico’s most popular cities’ and the risk of illness in Western Africa, Thailand and Brazil.
He highlighted Bali in Indonesia as a particular risk – surrounded by active volcanoes, at threat of political upheaval and home to ‘a host of exotic diseases including Dengue Fever, Malaria and Typhoid’
He said: “And when disaster does strike – you’re on an island and you and everyone else wants out.”
Christian Petzold, travel expert at BCN Travel, said: “Mexico is the proverbial example. Cities like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are tourist havens: splendour and creation in concert. Yet, in the past few years, intermittent conflicts of criminal gangs have touched even these sanctuaries of tourism, some directly in the proximity of tourist zones.”
Thailand brings risks of crime, political problems and disease in some areas
He added: “Paris, on the other hand, although arguably one of the most visited cities, is known for petty crimes around Gare du Nord, Montmartre, and near the Eiffel Tower. Pickpocketing is almost a fine art there, whereas protests and strikes disrupt transport and city services with unpredictability. I always recommend guests carry crossbody bags, beware of strangers who get too friendly too fast, and keep eyes and ears open for local news updates.
“Rome has a similar ambience. Whereas it is rich in history and culture, Termini Station and some venues near the Vatican attract scams and thefts: from fake helpful locals to those touting friendship bracelets or petitions, the usual distraction-and-robbery routine.
“Thailand poses a curious case. Generally safe and world-renowned for hospitality, guests should be wary of certain transportation modes, especially tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis, which are often unregulated. Some islands like Koh Tao have been in the spotlight due to a string of deaths of tourists that went unsolved amidst rumblings of local corruption. When it comes to political differences in Bangkok, protests tend to escalate relatively quickly, thereby promptly throwing an alienated tourist into the midst of demonstrations.”
How to stay safe on a foreign holiday
Staying safe on a foreign holiday involves a mix of preparation, awareness, and common sense. Here’s the best advice broken down into key areas:
Before You Go
Research the Destination Check travel advice from the UK Foreign Office: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. Understand local laws, customs, and any safety concerns (crime, weather, political instability, etc.).
Get Travel Insurance Make sure it covers health emergencies, cancellations, theft, and adventure activities if applicable.
Copies of Important Documents Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, travel insurance, visa, and emergency contacts.
While You’re There
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places (tourist hotspots, public transport).
Protect Your Valuables Use a money belt or hidden pouch. Leave expensive jewellery and unnecessary tech at home or in a safe.
Use Reliable Transport Use official taxis, ride apps (e.g., Uber), or public transport where safe. Don’t hitchhike.
Be Cautious with Alcohol Drink in moderation and never leave drinks unattended. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
Local Laws and Etiquette Respect dress codes, especially in religious or conservative areas. Know what’s illegal – e.g., vaping in Thailand, chewing gum in Singapore.
Health & Emergency
Know Emergency Numbers Not all countries use 112 or 999. Look up the local emergency number.
Medications Bring enough prescribed medication with a copy of your prescription. Check if your medication is legal in your destination country.
Vaccinations & Health Risks Visit a travel clinic for any necessary jabs or malaria tablets.
Avoid Unsafe Food/Water In higher-risk areas, stick to bottled water and avoid street food that isn’t freshly cooked.
Tech & Communication
Stay Connected Get a local SIM or roaming plan. Share your itinerary and daily check-ins with someone back home.
Antiques Roadshow expert Joanna Hardy was left gobsmacked as she shared the true value of a guest’s family heirloom – and even admitted that the item had made her ‘tingle’
An Antiques Roadshow expert was left astonied as she revealed the astonishing value of a guest’s treasured family heirloom.
The beloved BBC show rolled out another episode on Sunday (May 18) with Fiona Bruce once again steering the ship. This week, the team set up camp at the majestic Beaumaris Castle on the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales.
Eager individuals flocked to flaunt their cherished items to the Antiques Roadshow connoisseurs for appraisal. But the atmosphere intensified when expert Joanna Hardy stumbled upon a simply “extraordinary” bracelet.
Basking in the sunlight, Joanna exclaimed: “This bracelet is just glistening in the sun here,” and marvelled at its appearance with “And we’ve got the gold nuggets which is as if they’d come out of the ground. I mean they just look extraordinary.”
The guest showed off a gold bracelet
The owner of the bracelet recounted its history, saying: “This was a bracelet that my grandfather gave to my grandmother.”, reports Edinburgh Live.
She continued with tales of her grandfather’s time working at the Frontino mines in Segovia, Colombia during the ’30s and ’40s as an engineer, stating: “And my grandfather worked in Segovia, in Colombia in the Frontino mines in the ’30s and ’40s.
“He was an engineer so I don’t believe he mined those from hand, but I think he must have got those from there.”
The expert was impressed
Joanna discussed the jewellery’s avant-garde style for its era: “It would have been ahead of its time for the ’30s. If we think about ’30s jewellery and the Art Deco jewellery and its diamonds and it’s all very geometric.”
The guest had also brought along photographs of her grandparents from their time in Colombia. Further enamoured by the piece, Joanna commented: “It’s just got that raw energy about it.”
The guest expressed her affection for the heirloom, revealing: “I love it when I wear it.”
The guest was left speechless
Regarding the item’s value, Joanna revealed: “Gold has never been higher than today, so at auction I think you’d be looking at around £5,000.”
Instantly, the guest was taken aback and exclaimed: “Wow!” Overwhelmed and struggling to articulate her surprise, she continued: “Okay, wow… that’s quite a lot more than..”
She then expressed her astonishment further by saying, “Oh everybody says that I know. It’s really a lot more than I thought. Thank you very much!” Joanna, delighted by the guest’s response, shared in the excitement: “Oh you’ve made me tingle as well!”.
As the temperatures are set to get warmer, now is the time to get out into the great outdoors and make the most of the weather.
Hereford’s beautiful city centre(Image: joe daniel price via Getty Images)
With the mercury on the rise, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the great outdoors and bask in the delightful weather. For those who relish a good stroll, accompanied by tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks, you’ll find that time whizzes by while you’re getting your steps in.
Walking isn’t just a calorie burner; it’s also fantastic for elevating your spirits, enhancing circulation, reducing blood pressure, and increasing your heart rate. Recent findings have pinpointed the UK city that reigns supreme for a leisurely walk. This accolade comes from Injury Claims, who analysed over 200,000 park reviews from 74 key UK cities and towns.
Hereford emerged victorious, with a plethora of Tripadvisor reviews praising its “relaxing”, “peaceful”, “calm”, and “tranquil” ambiance, earning the city an impressive score of 28.88%.
What is there to do in Hereford?
Nestled in Herefordshire, this cathedral city sits gracefully along the River Wye, a mere 16 miles from the Welsh border. Boasting a population exceeding 53,000, Hereford stands as the largest settlement in Hertfordshire, reports the Express.
The city’s crown jewel for nature lovers is Weir Garden, celebrated for its lush woodlands and immaculate gardens. As a proud part of the National Trust, it boasts a stellar 4.5 rating on Google.
Some visitors have left glowing reviews about the beauty of the gardens. One enthused: “Beautiful gardens in any weather, the area down by the river is stunning, also from the top of the hill, the view of the river is great for any photographer.”
Another shared their serene experience: “A quiet walk round the gardens for a moment of reflection. Lovely views from the top of the gardens, looking down to the river Wye.
The River Wye runs through Hereford(Image: Chris Griffiths via Getty Images)
“Quite a few families with their children and people with their dogs, which was lovely to see.” And another commented on their recent visit: “Had a lovely walk here last weekend, really beautiful views of the river and the gardens.
“I also really loved the walled garden here too, lots of plants and vegetables being grown that you can look at as well as a greenhouse you can go in.” Castle Green is another recommended spot – it’s a public park set on the old grounds of Hereford Castle and entry won’t cost you a penny.
This park boasts a stellar 4.4 rating on Google, with one visitor remarking: “Lovely spot on a sunny day. Gardens well tended. Stroll along the River Wye, or walk over the bridge into the bigger King George V Playing fields.
“Huge space, great for picnics, games, relaxing.” Yet another said: “A lovely place to chill out in the sun! Very beautiful.”
And a third added: “Lovely area to relax with a picnic etc. Grassed area where you can sit or play games. Path that goes around the outside so good for jogging.”
They also highlighted its convenience: “Ideally situated as close to town and also other places like swimming pool and Bishops Meadow.”
How to get to Hereford
If you’re planning a road trip from London, it’s a journey of roughly four hours covering 135 miles – though do bear in mind that traffic could add to your travel time.
For those setting off from other major cities, the distances are considerably less: Birmingham is just 58 miles away, Cardiff is a mere 56 miles, and Manchester is a bit further at 138 miles.
Public transport links are also plentiful. Direct trains run daily to Hereford, Ledbury and Colwall from Birmingham New Street Station, and there’s a regular service between Manchester and Cardiff.
And for those in the capital, direct trains from London Paddington to Hereford will get you there in about three hours.
Here are the top 10 places to go for a walk, according to Injury Claims:
