launches

FANCY a day at the theme park over Easter? Well, how about two days out for the price of one?

Drayton Manor has launched a brand-new offer for the month of April where visitors can buy one ticket and return again at no extra cost.

Fans of the theme park in Tamworth won’t want to miss its newly launched free return deal.

If you buy a standard day ticket between now and April 19, 2026, you can return for no extra cost on or before April 30, 2026.

From just £29.50, guests can go on more than 50 rides and attractions at the park – and then do it all again before the end of April for free.

Drayton Manor has plenty of thrilling rollercoasters, as well as family-friendly rides, and a zoo with over 500 animals like red pandas, bears, reptiles and birds of prey.

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The theme park is the only one in Europe with a dedicated area for Thomas the Tank Engine.

Thomas Land has lots of attractions including a rollercoaster, water ride, drop tower and of course train rides with Thomas, Percy and Rosie.

Throughout the Easter holidays, until April 19, is a Care Bear takeover with character meet-and-greets.

At the end of the day, there’s even a Care Bears end-of-day show on the lake.

In 2024, Drayton Manor opened its Wild West themed world called Frontier Falls.

Inside is a new rollercoaster called Gold Rush where visitors are whisked away in a runaway mining cart.

It’s the first of its kind in the UK to have a backward launch into an outdoor gravity track.

The rollercoaster has a two-minute ride time, with Drayton Manor claiming it to be the longest track length for a family coaster in the country.

This Spanish hotel is right next to a huge theme park with over 40 attractions…

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Hotel Best Punta Dorada, Salou

The Spanish resort is a popular destination near PortAventura World, a theme park with over 40 attractions and huge rollercoasters. It’s also close to sandy beaches like Platja de Llevant, and the scenic Camí de Ronda coastal walk. The hotel itself has an outdoor swimming pool to enjoy, as well as two bars along with evening entertainment and shows.

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Last year, Drayton Manor was voted the ‘UK’s best value theme park‘ .

The awards were organised by ThemeParks-UK.com, and winners were announced after a series of votes made by 330,000 members of British public along with scores from expert judges.

Drayton Manor scooped up the award for Best Value Theme Park.

It also came in second place for Best (Large) Theme Park for Families, and for Best Theme Park for Toddlers.

Drayton Manor came in first place for Best New Accessibility Initiative, and third for Best Use of IP in an Attraction.

For more on theme parks, here are seven great UK seaside towns with beachfront theme parks – and you can stay with Hols from £9.50.

And here are the top six UK theme parks you can easily reach by train – and how to find the cheapest family fares.

Kinross Gold (KGC) has started the process of obtaining the environmental permit to develop its $1.5B Lobo Marte gold project in northern Chile, the government said Wednesday.

The permit application, submitted to Chile’s Environmental Assessment Service, seeks approval for the production of

A BRAND-NEW sleeper train route has launched in Europe – and Brits can very easily hop onboard from Paris.

European Sleeper will connect three cities in 15 hours and you can spend the journey tucked up in a cosy cabin.

For anyone wanting city breaks without the fuss of taking flights, this is a great solution.

The sleeper train links Paris, Brussels and Berlin.

So anyone from the UK wanting to join the service can simply head to Paris Gare du Nord – which is where the Eurostar from London St Pancras gets in.

The sleeper service runs three times a week and one-way tickets from Paris to Brussels from £21.70.

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If you do the whole journey, tickets can still be as little as £52.08.

The route departs on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

There are various different tickets available, the cheapest are for “like-minded people travelling on a budget”.

Literally called ‘budget’, passengers who opt for this option get a seat in a six person compartment which starts from €59.99 (£52.08) – for a one-way journey from Paris to Berlin.

A classic cabin is “ideal for small groups, families and solo travellers.”

It can seat up to five people and has compact couchette beds with sheets and blankets – it has private options available too.

One-way tickets start from €79.99 (£69.46)

Comfort cabins are, as the name suggests, more comfortable than the other two options.

It’s a three-person compartment with private options available if you want to travel in style.

It comes with a mattress, sheets, duvet and a separate seating area.

Sun Travel found one-way tickets from €119.99 (£104.21).

To add on breakfast, which is a hot drink, juice, yoghurt with granola and crackers with various toppings, it’s an extra €14.00 (£12.16).

The Comfort Plus cabins are the most premium, and also have three beds and a separate seating area.

Passengers also get towels, toiletries, breakfast, mineral water and a welcome drink included.

One-way tickets start from €159.99 (£138.95).

From July 13, 2026, a stop in Hamburg will be added to the route.

Here’s another sleeper route launching this year…

European sleeper has also launched a route between Brussels in Belgium and Milan in Italy…

The train will stop at Brussels in Belgium; Cologne in Germany; Zurich in Switzerland and Milan in Italy.

However, the anticipated launch date of the train has been pushed back from June 18 to September 9, with tickets available to book from March 17.

The train will operate from Brussels on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from Milan on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

From Brussels, the train will leave at 5:56pm each time, stopping in Cologne at 10:07pm, Zurich the following day at 6:42am and finally arriving in Milan at 11:30am.

From Milan, the train will leave at 5:30pm each time, stopping in Zurich at 10:35pm, Cologne the following day at 7:59am and finally Brussels at 11:10am.

Other stops on the route include Liège in Belgium; Aachen in Germany; Arth-Goldau, Göschenen, Bellinzona, Lugano and Chiasso in Switzerland and Lake Como in Italy.

Tickets for a shared classic compartment start from €49.99 (£43.31) one-way.

Alternatively, you can book a private space from €179.99 (£155.96) either in a classic compartment for up to five people or a comfort compartment for up to three people.

Here’s another new European train that goes through seven countries and costs just £99.

And this new overnight sleeper train to connect 100 European cities with private cabins and panoramic views.

AN AIRLINE has returned to a major UK airport for the first time in two years.

ITA Airways has returned to London Heathrow Airport after two years and has launched a route to Italy.

The Italian airline is operating two flights a day between the UK and Rome, Italy after securing slots from Lufthansa.

The flights from London Heathrow will depart each day at 10:30am, landing at 2:10pm and the second flight will take off at 4:30pm and arrive at 8:10pm.

Flights from Rome to Heathrow will leave at 7:50am and arrive in London at 9:40am and then at 1:50pm, arriving at 3:40pm each day.

A one-way flight in April costs as little as £57.45 with the airline.

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Last year, Rome was named the world’s best food destination in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

The awards recognise destinations with a high volume of “above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period”.

TripAdvisor stated: “In Rome, you can drink from a street fountain fed by an ancient aqueduct.

“Or see the same profile on a statue in the Capitoline Museum and the guy making your cappuccino.”

Italy might be well-known for being the home of pizza and pasta, but more specifically a number of great dishes originated from Rome.

For example, Cacio e Pepe, spaghetti carbonara and tray-baked pizza were all created in the city.

Earlier this year, Rome was also named the best city for ‘noctourism’ by Radical Storage.

The luggage storage platform assessed over 50 destinations across four categories including experiences (such as the number of night tours) and natural factors (light pollution levels).

Rome came out on top scoring 6.07 overall out of 10.

The Italian capital scored particularly well in the experience category (9.2 out of 10), offering an impressive 305 night tours.

ITA Airways used to operate flights from London Heathrow but suspended operations due to high costs.

The airline also did not own its Heathrow slots, instead it was leasing them from Etihad Airways for around £3.3million per year.

Instead, the airline turned to focus on London City Airport and London Gatwick Airport.

The airline’s return to Heathrow Terminal 2 has been made possible through its partnership with the Lufthansa Group, which means the airline has been given slots at the airport by Lufthansa.

According to Travel Weekly, the airline said in a statement: “The resumption of flights from Europe’s busiest airport – the most connected airport in the world – was made possible thanks to the co-operation with Lufthansa, which made the necessary airport slots available to ITA Airways.

“Connections between the British capital and Milan Linate will continue to operate via London City Airport.”

ITA Airways chief executive Joerg Eberhart added: “Today we celebrate a major milestone: our company is back at Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport and the most connected airport in the world.

“Returning to Heathrow will bring many advantages.

“Thanks to the characteristics of the airport, we will be able to operate flights with larger aircraft and greater capacity, increasing both passengers and revenues.”

In other flight news, a UK airport has revealed plans for its first long-haul flights in 15 years – with a massive £500million investment.

Plus, find out when flights are cheapest and what is the best day to book a flight, here.

A Lebanese family in Beirut has launched a mobile aid initiative to support people displaced by the ongoing conflict.

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JEDWARD star John Grimes hard launched his new girlfriend on social media today, and she’s absolutely stunning.

It comes just before the singer is due to appear on Celebrity Ex On The Beach.

Taking to the official Jedward Instagram page that he shares with twin brother Edward, John shared some cosy snaps of himself with his lady on a day out in London.

In the photos the loved-up duo are standing in front of the iconic Tower Bridge.

The beautiful brunette rests her hand on John’s chest while he wraps his around her waist.

The happy couple beam at the camera, both dressed up with sparkles as the sun sets.

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John is wearing a pair of silver sequin trousers with a matching black jacket with silver accent details.

Meanwhile his girlfriend is wearing a pretty pastel blue dress with large round sequins clinging to the skirt.

Penned sweetly in the caption, John romantically said: “Here’s to a new chapter and making memories with the best girl xxx.”

Fans of the star rushed to the post’s comments section to share their congratulations and wish the pair lots of happiness.

One user said: “So happy for you.”

A second shared: “Wishing you both all the best!,” followed by emojis of a heart and a sparkle.

A third added: “Congrats! Wishing you and this lovely lass all the best!”

A fourth said: “10 year old me would’ve cried my eyes out at this back in 2009.”

John’s time on Celeb Ex On The Beach will mark his first professional project away from his twin brother.

In the first-look at the new episodes, John is stunned to be reunited with former flame Sarah Carragher – but it’s not long before they pick up where they left off.

He tells her: “No one really ever came close to what we had.” 

John and Sarah are then seen kissing, suggesting the shock reunion was a successful one. 

While he’s never publicly spoken about his relationship with Sarah, John previously revealed he prefers to keep his private life separate from his work after shooting to fame on The X Factor in 2009.

He said in 2017: “I’ve had two long-term relationships that were private. That wasn’t part of my career.”

POPULAR airline JET2 has launched its first flights from a major UK airport.

Jet2 flights to Tenerife and Alicante in Spain have taken off from London Gatwick, marking its first flights from the airport.

This summer, travellers can fly to 29 destinations with Jet2 from Gatwick, including the Canary Islands, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, Malta, Italy, Croatia, Bulgaria and Cyprus.

And the airline won’t stop at the end of the season either, as for the winter season it will fly to 14 winter sun destinations, ideal for Brits wanting to escape the cold.

Jet2 will also fly to five ski destinations and four Christmas market spots over the winter period.

Looking ahead to next year, even more routes will be added.

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The airline’s routes will rise from 29 to 34 destinations including flights to Lesbos – a large island in Greece – which will operate weekly.

Lesbos is Greece’s third largest island and boasts a lot of history as well as sprawling olive groves.

For those flying from Gatwick with Jet2, there will be six aircraft including the new Airbus A321neo aircraft.

Jet2’s arrival at the UK’s second largest airport comes after increased demand, especially with travellers from the South East of England and marks the airline’s 14th base.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Today is an incredibly exciting moment for Jet2, as we welcome our first customers at London Gatwick and wave off our inaugural flight.

“After years of demand to come to London Gatwick, we are delighted to be bringing our award-winning service, recognised 11 years in a row by Which? as its recommended travel provider, to the UK’s largest beach and city leisure destination airport.

He added: “Since going on sale, we have experienced phenomenal demand from customers and independent travel agents, and we are looking forward to a hugely successful future from our newest UK airport base.”

The arrival of Jet2 at London Gatwick Airport is the airport’s largest airline launch in more than a decade.

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive, London Gatwick said: “Today’s inaugural Jet2 flights mark an exciting moment for London Gatwick and for passengers across the region.

“The launch of 29 new routes and the creation of more than 300 jobs demonstrate the strength of demand for travel from our airport and the confidence airlines have in London Gatwick as a place to grow.”

According to The Independent, Jet2 has been trying to get slots at Gatwick Airport for years and it was only when slots were freed up that the airline could move in, first announcing this four months ago.

In other flight news, easyJet has returned to a major UK airport after six years away and has announced 11 new routes.

Plus, how savvy Brits are bagging £449 return flights to Australia with clever £5 subscription service.

Providing extra comfort for their economy passengers, a major airline that flies from the UK to more than 340 destinations, is set to launch seats that turn into a ‘flat bed’

A major airline flying to popular holiday destinations from the UK is introducing economy seats that transform into a ‘flat bed’.

United Airlines, which flies from the UK to more than 340 destinations worldwide, will launch a new dedicated row of three economy seats that can transform into a “lie-flat mattress-like space”. It will give passengers more room on long-haul flights while flying in economy.

The new seats will be individually adjustable with leg rests that fold up to a 90-degree angle, so travellers can either stretch out while watching a movie or use it as a bed to catch a restful night’s sleep. Passengers will be treated to a “custom-fitted mattress pad, specially sized blankets, extra pillows” as the seats adjust into a flat bed after takeoff.

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Children in the dedicated row will also receive a plush toy and a family travel kit as part of the additional amenities. The airline noted that the launch of the ‘United Relax Row’ will be ideal for families with young children, couples and solo travellers who would like more space.

After United Airlines shared the news on X, formerly Twitter, it was met with enthusiasm from travellers. One commented: “This is brilliant and I bet everyone is going to copy it.”

“Much needed. United is innovating faster than anyone”, a second said. A third added: “This is a brilliant and thoughtful idea to make customers feel more comfortable. Well done!”

“Gamechanger for travelling with small kids”, another traveller noted. “Brilliant, you have hooked me for many years but with this may be I am now double hooked. This is super helpful especially on those night European routes,” one more said.

Once launched, the initiative will be a first for a North American airline offering this type of seat and comfort for economy passengers. United Airlines flies from the UK to popular holiday destinations such as New York, LA, Chicago and Orlando.

The United Relax Row is expected to launch in 2027, with plans to offer the extra space on more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030. There will be up to 12 United Relax Row sections on each plane, located between United Economy and United Premium Plus.

United’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Nocella, said: “As a leading premium airline, we’re committed to delivering new, industry-leading experiences for all of our customers – and the United Relax Row is the perfect example of that. Customers travelling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them.

“United is the only North American airline offering a product like the United Relax Row and is one of the many reasons why we’re continuing to win brand loyal customers.”

For more information or to check flights with United Airlines, you can visit their website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

AN American airline’s plan for new couches in economy has been hailed as a “game changer.”

It means a far more comfortable flight for travelers seeking additional space to sleep.

United Airlines has announced a “relaxed row” to allow travelers to stretch out and have a better rest in economy class.

It involves transforming economy seats into a couch between two rows of seats.

The initiative will provide more comfortable international travel, the airline said yesterday.

“Customers will get a custom-fitted mattress pad, specially sized blankets, extra pillows and a stuffed plush for children to help create a cozy, tranquil environment,” the carrier explained.

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“Sounds like heaven to me,” said one thrilled customer.

United‘s relax row option is expected to be available from 2027.

Prices for the perk haven’t been released as yet.

“Customers traveling in United economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them,” said Andrew Nocella, executive VP.

Once available, United will be “the first North American airline to offer this kind of seating option and holds North American exclusivity on the design,” the carrier said.

The lie-down couch-style seating will eventually be rolled out across some 1,000 United planes by 2030.

More on United Airlines’ ‘relaxed row’ economy seats that transform into a couch

The option will be available for United customers traveling in the economy cabin on long-haul flights from 2027

A new, dedicated row of three seats will be outfitted with individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle.

The formation of the couch will create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.

Customers traveling in United relax row will receive additional amenities for their international flight.

This includes a custom-fitted mattress pad, a specially sized plush blanket, two additional pillows, as well as a plush toy and children’s travel kit for families.

The airline plans to offer it on more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030.

The seats will be located between United economy and premium plus, with up to 12 relax row sections on each plane.

They aren’t just available for families, as single travelers can also purchase the row, added United.

Source: United Airlines YouTube

Around nine to 12 couches will be available per aircraft.

The seats will have individually adjustable, flip-up leg rests.

These can then be angled to create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.

Their provision follows a similar option offered by Air New Zealand, which already offers a row of economy seats that convert into a lie-flat couch after takeoff.

Travelers commenting on United’s version have said that it will be worth the extra money.

“I’ve used the sky couch a bunch, and for traveling with young kids on long haul flights it’s an absolute game changer, worth every penny,” raved one flyer on Reddit yesterday.

“I love the skycouch on Air New Zealand and have used it multiple times between the US and Auckland,” wrote another traveler.

“Obviously you don’t get the bells and whistles of a first class seat, but the lie flat feature is the only thing that allows me to sleep on airplanes so for me it’s perfect.”

“Family and I use the Air NZ sky couch every time we travel between NZ/US,” shared one parent.

“It’s a game changer and we always choose Air NZ for that reason. Will start looking seriously at UAL now for our travels.”

IF you thought being able to lay down on a plane was just for first and business class, think again.

United Airlines is introducing a new ‘Relax Row’ making travel in economy much more comfortable.

Launching in 2027, the Relax Row is a dedicated row of three seats that can transform into a ‘couch’, or lie-flat bed.

The seats will be designed with adjustable leg rests that can fold up and mattress pad placed on top.

Travellers can then stretch out whether they want to spend their journey sleeping or watching a film.

The airline said: “The United Relax Row is ideal for families traveling with small children, solo travelers and couples who want the value of United Economy but with a little extra comfort.”

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Along with a mattress pad, those on the Relax Row will get blankets, extra pillows, a toy and children’s travel kit.

The new Relax Row will appear on United Airlines aircraft in 2027.

By 2030, the airline said it will be on more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 widebody aircraft with 12 Relax Row sections on each plane.

Andrew Nocella, United’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “Customers traveling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them.

“United is the only North American airline offering a product like the United Relax Row and is one of the many reasons why we’re continuing to win brand loyal customers.”

The cost of the new seat option is yet to be confirmed.

United Airlines has other perks for families including free family seating, which allows children under 12 to sit next to an accompanying adult for free at time of booking.

And while United Airlines will be the first North American airline to offer lie-flat seats in economy, there other airlines who already offer this for their passengers.

Air New Zealand has its Skycouch which is the same – a row of three economy seats that transform into a lie-flat bed.

Lufthansa have what they call the Sleeper’s Row which is for long-haul flights that are over 11 hours long.

Passengers get a full row of three or four seats with a mattress topper, pillow, and blanket at the airport.

The additional charge for this is between €169–€249 (£146.28-£215.52).

For more on airlines, here are the best ones in the world – and one in the UK makes the list.

And from one Travel Writer who has visited 50 countries – here’s why she rates this much-loathed budget airline.

EASYJET has launched a huge sale with millions of seats on offer for winter 2027 including the February half-term.

The budget airline’s Big Seat Release has over seven million seats on flights to and from the UK on sale for between February 1 and March 21, 2027.

Travellers can choose from over 140 destinations across Europe and North Africa from 22 UK airports.

Flight offers include one-way flights to Paris from London Gatwick, costing £31.99 on February 2, 2027.

You could also travel to Dusseldorf in Germany, Geneva in Switzerland, and Grenoble and Nantes in France for the same price.

If you fancy travelling further afield, you could fly to Agadir in Morocco from London Gatwick on February 23, 2027, for £37.99 one-way.

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Agadir was recently named the most affordable break for summer 2026 by loveholidays, with a week holiday to the seaside city costing as little as £24 per person per night between June and August.

The Moroccan city is surrounded by mountains and also boasts a six-mile long golden beach.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited the city and said: “The Moroccan city is home to the country’s largest market, Souk El Had, as well as a bustling harbour and modern marina.

“Rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1960, the sprawling city nestles against the Atlantic Ocean and its palm-lined wide roads feel more Miami than Morocco.”

Other bucket-list destinations include Reykjavik in Iceland, with flights costing from £44.17 per way and Thessaloniki in Greece, costing from £48.99 per way.

To find easyJet‘s lowest fares, head to the low fare finder section of the easyJet website where the best value fares are shown.

EasyJet holidays also has thousands of package holidays available, including to destinations such as the Canary Islands, Morocco and Tunisia.

All of the holiday packages include flights and a hotel, with a 23kg luggage allowance and transfers for beach getaways.

Kevin Doyle, UK Country Manager for easyJet, said: “Putting millions more seats and package holidays on sale today for next winter means our customers across the UK can book early and enjoy great value to Europe’s most popular leisure destinations, including firm favourites such as Amsterdam, Paris, Alicante, Tenerife, and Malaga.

“With hundreds of routes available from 22 UK airports, our short-haul network offers unrivalled choice for those planning their holidays for next year, to book with ease, and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”

In other flight news, one of the world’s best cities is getting more flights and TUI holiday packages – with mega cheap food and island beaches.

Plus, one of Europe’s cheapest city break destinations has £2 beers and a massive waterpark and now has new UK flights.

Iran has launched a round of missiles targeting Israel, causing damage and injuries in Tel Aviv, as uncertainty swirled over possible talks to end the three-week US-Israel war on Iran.

The missiles triggered air raid sirens in Israel on Tuesday, including in Tel Aviv, where gaping holes were torn through a multistorey apartment building. It was not immediately clear whether the damage was caused by a direct hit or debris from an interception.

Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency medical service said: “Six people were lightly injured at four different sites.”

Police in Tel Aviv said they were dealing with “several impact sites of munitions”.

Israel’s National Fire and Rescue Authority said the search was on for people trapped in one building in Tel Aviv, adding that civilians were found in a shelter in another damaged building.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said on Tuesday that its jets carried out a wave of strikes in central Tehran on Monday, targeting key command centres, including facilities associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ intelligence arm and the Iranian Intelligence Ministry. It said more than 50 additional targets were hit overnight, including ballistic missile storage and launch sites.

WHILE most Brits are busy planning their summer holidays right now, the clever ones are thinking further ahead.

Club Med has just launched its Winter 2026/27 Sale, and all you’ll need to pay right now is a £150-per-person deposit – but you’ll need to act fast.

Club Med Winter 2026/7 Sale: Pay £150pp deposit

The Club Med sale, which runs until midnight on Friday (27th March), offers tiered discounts across a huge range of sunny destinations for departures between November 2026 and May 2027.

Nobody can be blamed for not thinking ahead to next winter: we’re barely out of the last one, after all.

But this is a great chance to guarantee some much-needed winter sunshine and – just as crucially – futureproof your next big holiday against the rising costs that have been predicted amid surging prices and cancelled flights.

Club Med tends to run very short-term deals on its packages; the last one we spotted was back in February, on ski holidays in the Alps.

In this new flash sale, you can save up to 15% on Superior rooms, while Deluxe rooms, Suites and Villas are slashed by 20%.

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Club Med Winter 2026/7 Sale: Pay £150pp deposit

It is particularly good news for families, with kids under six staying for free and the largest discounts applied to high-capacity villas.

There’s also a brand-new South Africa resort available to book, where thrill-seekers can surf the waves or fly over sugarcane fields on a trapeze.

You can even add a safari at the Vikela Safari Lodge to spot Africa’s legendary Big Five game animals (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo).

Families looking for a tropical paradise may prefer Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, which features a dedicated acrobatics playground and white-sand beaches.

Parents can even treat themselves to the Tiara space, where free Champagne is served every evening from 6 pm.

Couples can escape to Marrakech La Palmeraie, tucked away in Morocco’s oldest palm grove, with tranquil courtyards and top-tier food.

If you want to dodge the noise of the city’s souks, the Riad Luxury Space offers a private oasis for an intimate getaway.

Best of all, you don’t need a huge layout to secure these rates.

A low deposit of just £150 per person locks in the current price, protecting your 2027 holiday budget against future price increases.

Club Med Sun resorts on sale this week

From gorgeous Caribbean islands to bustling desert retreats, there’s a massive selection of world-class resorts included in Club Med’s sale.

• South Africa: Beach and Safari – book here
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: All-inclusive paradise – book here
• Marrakech, Morocco: Gateway to the Red City – book here
• Cancun, Mexico: Luxury beachfront – book here
• Maldives: Ultimate island escape – book here

With the 20% discount applied automatically, these high-demand spots are expected to move fast.

If you want to bag a winter sun bargain without the eye-watering price tag, you’ll need to move fast before these deals vanish on Friday.

Amazon slashes Ryanair-friendly cabin backpack

Jetting off with Ryanair soon? Make sure you take the right hand luggage.

Amazon has slashed the cost of an underseat cabin backpack, which is designed in line with the airline’s new free luggage rules.

Pack your luggage in this to avoid getting hit with those pesky extra fees at the gate.

• Taygeer Underseat Cabin Bag, from £18.99 (was £29.99) – buy here

March 17 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s government has launched a major initiative to foster domestic artificial intelligence semiconductor companies, committing tens of billions of dollars as part of a broader national investment plan.

The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Financial Services Commission held a public-private meeting in Seoul on Tuesday to introduce the so-called “K-NVIDIA Project,” a strategy aimed at building globally competitive AI chipmakers.

Under the plan, the government will allocate 30 trillion won (about $22.5 billion) to artificial intelligence and about 21 trillion won (about $15.8 billion) to semiconductors from a 150 trillion won ($112.5 billion) National Growth Fund to be created over five years.

Officials said the initiative is designed to nurture homegrown AI chip firms capable of competing with global industry leaders, strengthening South Korea’s position in next-generation technologies.

Participants at the meeting included Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon, Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eun-won and Korea Development Bank Chairman Park Sang-jin, along with executives from local AI semiconductor firms.

Industry representatives from companies such as FuriosaAI, DeepX, Mobilint, HyperExcel and Rebellion also attended the session.

The meeting brought together government officials and private-sector leaders to discuss investment strategies, technological development and policy support for the emerging AI semiconductor ecosystem.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260317010005198

The popular airline has made the big announcement to relaunch the daily flights as part of its winter expansion, serving travellers and residents of both countries

British Airways have made a huge announcement that they are relaunching daily flights to a popular city for UK passengers – ahead of a couple of huge worldwide sporting events.

The airline will be returning to Melbourne after a 20-year hiatus.

BA made the announcement on Tuesday, March 17 that flights will be starting in January 2027.

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The flights will commence flights to Melbourne from January 9, 2027, launching in time for the Australian Open and the Melbourne Grand Prix. Flights will operate year-round from London Heathrow, via Kuala Lumpur, on a daily basis.

Passengers will be able to choose from First, World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and Club World (business class) in both directions.

Return fares start from £1,130 (including taxes and carrier fees) and are on sale from today.

The UK airline halted all services from Melbourne Airport in March 2006 with other companies being relied on for people to make the London-Melbourne journey.

Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus said the announcement underscored Melbourne’s place as Australia’s largest and best connected 24-hour gateway.

“We are thrilled to welcome British Airways back to Melbourne Airport and we’re incredibly excited about what this extra choice means for travellers and exporters,” she said.

“British Airways is one of the world’s most recognisable airlines and in its more than 100 years of flying has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence and reliability.

“With the largest choice of airlines flying to the UK and Europe, 24-hour operations and the shortest minimum connection time of any Australian airport, Melbourne Airport is now the clear choice for Europeans heading to Australia or Australians looking to travel abroad.

“London is one of the world’s great global cities and a critical hub for business, tourism and education, while Melbourne was last week voted Time Out’s “best city in the world” as well as being home to the largest British expat community in Australia, so there will be no shortage of two-way demand.”

The move is part of a significant planned expansion to BA’s network for winter 2026, with the addition of Colombo in Sri Lanka as well.

The Israeli army says its forces are striking key sites in southern Lebanon, as fierce clashes with Hezbollah continue near the town of Khiam.

The Israeli military says its troops have begun ground operations in southern Lebanon as fighting against Hezbollah intensifies around the strategic southern town of Khiam.

At least three air strikes struck the city of Khiam, Al Jazeera Arabic reported on Monday.

Khiam, a stronghold of Hezbollah, is strategically located and is seen as a gateway to southern Lebanon. The latest war started after Hezbollah fired rockets in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hezbollah had not attacked Israel since the 2024 ceasefire despite repeated Israeli violations of the United States-brokered deal.

On Monday morning, two Israeli air raids targeted the town of Yater, Al Jazeera Arabic reported. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

Israel also launched raids on Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya and Chaqra, also in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera Arabic. Two raids were also conducted on the towns of Qantara and as-Sawana.

The Israeli army, in a post on X, said on Monday that its troops in recent days were “focused on ground operations on key targets in southern Lebanon to expand the forward defence area”.

“This operation is part of the effort to establish the forward defence, which includes destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating terrorists,” it added.

Importance of Khiam

Khiam sits on high ground just a few kilometres from the Israeli border and the Litani River, giving it a commanding view over northern Israel and nearby Lebanese plains.

Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr said a “major battle was under way” in and around Khiam. “The elevation of Khiam for both sides gives them a strategic advantage,” she said.

Moreover, Khodr noted the town lies on a “long and important junction … a road that leads to the eastern and western sectors of southern Lebanon”.

“One of the roads leads to the Bekaa Valley too in eastern Lebanon, another area where Hezbollah has influence,” she said.

“What Israel has been trying to do is really cut the supply lines and the difficult capabilities of Hezbollah, so it’s unable to bring in more weapons and fighters to areas south of the Litani River.”

More than 800,000 people, including women and children, have been forced to flee from their homes as the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for many neighbourhoods in southern Lebanon, as well as the capital, Beirut.

Israeli attacks in Lebanon have so far killed at least 850 people, among them 107 children and 66 women.

March 15 (Asia Today) — North Korea conducted a large-scale rocket artillery test shortly after key U.S. air defense assets stationed in South Korea were redeployed to the Middle East, a move analysts say may have been intended to test potential security gaps on the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea fired more than 10 ballistic missiles and conducted a saturation strike drill using 600-millimeter multiple rocket launchers, according to state media.

The Korean Central News Agency said the exercise took place Friday under the supervision of leader Kim Jong Un, who was accompanied by his daughter Ju Ae.

The rockets struck targets on islands in the East Sea roughly 364 kilometers away with what the report described as “100% accuracy.”

The launch involved the simultaneous firing of 12 rockets from the super-large multiple rocket launcher system, one of Pyongyang’s most powerful short-range strike platforms.

Kim said the weapons were capable of striking hostile forces within a 420-kilometer range and emphasized their potential to deliver the destructive power of tactical nuclear weapons.

Military analysts said the drill also showcased improvements to the launcher system.

A new five-tube wheeled launcher appeared designed to reduce vibration during firing, while the time required to raise the launcher to firing position was reportedly shortened to less than one minute.

The changes would allow faster deployment and rapid relocation after firing, a tactic commonly known as “shoot and scoot.”

The approach is intended to help launch units evade detection and counterstrikes by South Korean and U.S. forces.

Experts say the tactic could complicate efforts by the allied kill chain system designed to detect launches and rapidly strike missile sites.

The missile launches came after reports that key U.S. missile defense systems previously deployed in South Korea – including the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system and Patriot batteries – were partially redeployed to support U.S. operations in the Middle East amid the conflict with Iran.

Analysts say the timing suggests North Korea may be attempting to test the readiness of South Korean and U.S. forces during a period when U.S. assets are being shifted to other theaters.

Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, said the exercise appeared designed to assess South Korea’s military preparedness while amplifying concerns about regional security.

The missile launches also occurred ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to China later this month.

Some analysts say Pyongyang may be signaling its preference for direct negotiations with Washington rather than talks mediated by Seoul.

North Korea has increasingly framed relations with South Korea in terms of “two hostile states,” a position that reflects its strategy of engaging the United States while sidelining the South Korean government.

Lim Eul-chul of Kyungnam University’s Institute for Far Eastern Studies said North Korea may view the shifting deployment of U.S. forces as evidence of a more transactional alliance structure under the Trump administration.

“If Pyongyang believes U.S. forces can be redeployed elsewhere depending on strategic priorities, it may attempt to exploit that perception by conducting more aggressive military tests,” Lim said.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260315010004203

March 14 (UPI) — North Korea launched 10 ballistic missiles into the sea on Saturday — which landed just outside Japan’s economic zone in the East Sea — in a show of force amid a U.S.-South Korea military exercise.

The launch, confirmed by the Japanese and South Korean defense ministries, is one of the largest North Korea shows of force that it has ever launched, The Japan Times and The Independent reported.

The missiles were launched from the west coast of North Korea, flying roughly 211 miles before falling just outside the Sea of Japan.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense in a statement called the launch a continued effort to “threaten the peace and security of Japan, the region and the international community.”

Shinjiro Koizumi, the Japanese defense minister, added that the ministry would remain in close contact with the United States and other allies “to remain fully vigilant and maintain surveillance in preparation for any unforeseen contingencies.”

The launch is the largest since at least November 2022, when Kim Jong Un’s regime launched a volley of 23 missiles that included short-range ballistic missiles and surface-to-air missiles, among others.

Analysts have said that it is unlikely that North Korea would attack U.S. or other nation’s assets in the region while the United States has diverted missile defense systems, among other things, to the Middle East amid the war in Iran.

They say, rather, that the show of force is meant to show that it can defend itself if it is invaded.

North Korea’s launch also comes as the United States and South Korea are about halfway through the annual 11-day Freedom Shield combined joint exercise that includes land, air and sea training events to allow the two nation’s armed forces to integrate seamlessly in combat.

One warship that was involved with the exercise, the USS Tripoli, an amphibious assault ship carrying 2,500 Marines and 2,500 sailors, has been redeployed to the Middle East to bolster U.S. military power there amid the war in Iran.

A video circulating online appears to show signature collectors paying people to sign initiative petitions under other people’s names, according to officials, and now the state has opened an investigation.

The video, filmed by videographer JJ Smith, shows a long queue leading to a table set up at 6th and Mission streets in San Francisco. A man in line says they are being offered $5 to sign petitions. At the table, where there are lists with the information of apparent registered voters, a woman confirms the payment and — using a highlighter — instructs a person on the name and address that she is supposed to use.

“I get $5 too?” the videographer asks.

“Yeah,” says the woman.

“And what is it?”

“Just sign it,” she says.

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Petitions connected to at least three ballot campaigns — including the billionaire-backed effort to thwart California’s proposed billionaire tax — appear in the video.

“I approached some people and asked them what they were there for,” Smith told The Times. “They told me they didn’t know what they were signing for, that they just wanted the $5.”

Smith said he watched the scene for hours and estimated that a few hundred people cycled through the line over roughly two hours.

Those running the table did not ask for anyone’s identification and gave no explanation of what was actually being signed, he said.

The video showed voter data from San Luis Obispo County that was both visible and, as details were spoken aloud, audible in the footage.

The county acted immediately after becoming aware of the video and initiated an investigation through the fraud unit of the California secretary of state’s office, said Erin Clausen, public information officer for the San Luis Obispo county clerk’s office.

Clausen noted that, although voter registration data can be legally requested from county election offices, the data in this case may have been used inappropriately. The county is also planning on reaching out directly to voters who were specifically mentioned or identified in the video, according to Clausen.

“The activity shown in the video, if verified, would violate California election law,” County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano said in a formal statement released Wednesday morning.

The secretary of state’s office confirmed it had opened a formal investigation.

“Under California law, it is illegal to give money or other valuable consideration to another in exchange for their signature on an initiative petition,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “ Those who abuse our system will be held accountable.”

The office is working with local officials and encouraged anyone with information to file a complaint.

One political committee, Californians for a More Transparent and Effective Government, confirmed its petitions were among those whose signature gatherers were allegedly paying people to sign and moved quickly to distance itself from the activity.

“Under no circumstance do we tolerate this type of activity in the signature gathering process,” said spokesperson Molly Weedn. “We’ve taken immediate action and have demanded that the signature gathering firm identify these circulators and reject their petitions.” Weedn said the collectors were subcontractors, not campaign employees, and that attorneys were contacting authorities.

That committee is funded by another group, Building a Better California, which was also among campaigns that appeared in the video. The other was for a proposed initiative called the Retirement and Personal Savings Protection Act of 2026. Representatives for the latter two have not responded to requests for comment.

Smith said this was not the first time he had witnessed this type of activity in the area.

“I saw something similar with ballots three days ago,” he said.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can submit a complaint to the Office of the California Secretary of State or contact their local county elections office.

Times staff writer Seema Mehta contributed to this report.

BUTLIN’S has launched a brand new darts attraction at all three of its resorts.

In partnership with the Junior Darts Corporation (JDC), the JDC Butlin’s Darts Academy will allow kids to participate in darts sessions.

The JDC Butlin’s Darts Academy is included in all School Holiday Breaks and involves a two-hour session aimed at beginners and kids with some experience.

The session will be run by academy leaders, who will guide each player to improve their darts skills.

The leaders will also teach the kids the basics of the sport and give them the chance to play the interactive ABC darts game.

The academy is suitable for children aged eight to 16 and it is already open at the Minehead resort and will be available on all School Holiday Breaks from Easter at the Bognor Regis and Skegness resorts.

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Mike Godolphin, Entertainment Director at Butlin’s said: “If you’ve got the next Luke Littler or Beau Greaves at home, then our new JDC Butlin’s Darts Academy will be perfect on your next school holiday break.

“We’re always looking at ways to give our guests new experiences and with the huge rise in popularity of darts this new session is the perfect way for kids to get involved in the sport.

“And what’s best, this amazing new activity is included in the price of the break.”

Darren Barson from the Junior Darts Corporation, said: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Butlin’s.

“This partnership will give children a unique opportunity to learn a new sport while having fun during their holidays.”

Also this Easter holidays, between April 10 and 12, the three Butlin’s resorts will be hosting three-nights of birthday celebrations to mark 90 years since the first resort opened.

There will be fireworks with performances by the Redcoats alongside mascots Billy and Bonnie.

There will be a new Birthday Party Bingo in Reds as well, with themed games, dancing and a special moment when the number 90 is called out.

Adults can also enjoy special birthday cocktails as well.

A three-night birthday celebration break starts from £214 and includes all that you usually get from a Butlin’s break plus the Easter entertainment line up which includes The Masked Singer and Maximum Pro Wrestling.

Godolphin added: “No one does it bigger and better than Butlin’s, and we’ve been proudly doing it for 90 years.

“A milestone this special deserves a Butlin’s style celebration to match.

“From the spectacular firework and laser display and incredible entertainment across the weekend, we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone across the three resorts.

“This weekend is not only dedicated to the memories made over the last nine decades at our resorts.

“We’re also looking to the future, and all the special moments that will be made at Butlin’s in the next 90 years.”

In other holiday resort news, these are 14 of the best holiday parks in the UK from £19 a night – including beach resorts and huge waterparks.

Plus, we reveal the nine most popular Hols From £9.50 holiday parks of last year – as booking opens for 2026.

Israeli forces dug up graves during an airborne operation in eastern Lebanon, in search of the remains of a pilot who went missing nearly 40 years ago.

Witness videos captured Iranian projectiles soaring over Tel Aviv as sirens blared and Israeli interceptors launched. Residents could be heard shouting as one of the missiles appeared to break apart into dozens of smaller projectiles.