Longtail

THERE are hundreds of cities across Europe – but this one in Spain has been named the best place to visit this year.

European Best Destinations has announced the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’.

This ranking was made from the votes of travellers from 154 countries, highlighting the most “captivating places”.

Madrid claimed top spot with the publications said it’s “one of Europe’s most compelling capitals — where culture, lifestyle, gastronomy and quality of life converge with rare intensity”.

Madrid is a hit with Sun Travel too. Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey even called it her “new favourite Spanish destination“.

She praises it for its liveability along with its food and drink scene.

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Kara revealed some of her favourite spots too, she said: “At Pez, the only thing on the menu is huge sloppy pieces of tortilla chased with a cana (small beer) or tinto de verano for €2.50.

“My favourite rooftop bar is El Cielo de Montera, which felt more like a swanky rooftop members club.

“The pool is reserved for hotel guests, but its the best place for an Aperol Spritz and views of the city (costs €10 but it gets taken off bill).”

One highly-rated drinking spot is the Sky Bar terrace at the top of the Hotel Riu Plaza Espana.

It has 360-degree views of the city which visitors can enjoy with classy cocktails.

Or check out Calle 365 Discoteca, a stylish nightspot with dancing, delicious food trucks, cocktails and beers from just £2.50.

For live music head to Sala Equi which is a former adult-movie theatre turned bar and music venue.

Madrid is the birthplace of tablao flamenco and there are often high-quality performances with tablaos (flamenco venues) in the city centre.

In the summertime Madrid has lively plazas, and long, grand, tree-lined boulevards full of shops.

Madrid’s largest public park is El Retiro Park it has over 15,000 trees and is described as a ‘green oasis in the heart of the city’.

If you fancy getting on the water, visitors can hire a €4 rowing boat to take in King Alfonso XII’s monument from the lake.

Other top spots include the Prado Museum which contains some of Europe’s finest art collections.

There’s free entry between 6pm and 8pm Monday to Saturday.

Madrid is also one of Europe‘s most walkable cities so it’s easy for exploring, but it’s also very easy to use the Metro.

The city has over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year – mild temperatures start in spring at around 18C.

In the height of summer, the city can reach highs of 32C.

In March, Brits can fly from London Stansted to Madrid with Ryanair from £15.

Here are the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’…

1. Madrid, Spain
2. Nicosia, Cyprus
3. Stajerska Region, Slovenia
4. Verona, Italy
5. Paris, France
6. Camara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal
7. Alaçati, Turkey
8. Burano, Italy
9. Lisbon, Portugal
10. Almeria, Andalusia

Plus, here’s the Spanish city closest to the UK that’s quieter than Barcelona is getting new TUI holidays.

And this Spanish city that’s rarely visited by Brits has been named top destination this year with new train routes and world-famous cider.

A KIDS attraction based on a popular bunny character has closed its doors just a few years after opening.

The Peter Rabbit Explore & Play attraction in Blackpool has stopped taking bookings and revealed that it won’t reopen in 2026.

The experience that cost £1million to set up first opened in 2022 as one of Merlin Entertainments’ attractions.

Inside was a chance for children to step into the world of Peter Rabbit and Beatrix Potter’s other characters.

There were interactive play areas, like Jeremy Fisher’s Pond which was a sensory area with musical instruments.

At Mr McGregor’s Garden were fun slides and tunnels. Mr Bouncer’s Invention Workshop was filled with hosepipe telephones and even x-ray glasses for looking into the vegetable garden.

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At The Burrow, kids could help set the table for dinner, and even transform into one of the Peter Rabbit family.

Inside the Secret Tree house were the ‘real’ Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail so children could meet the characters.

However, in November 2025, the attraction closed its doors and hasn’t reopened since.

The website is still up and running, but visitors are unable to make bookings.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Tourism Ltd told local media: “We can confirm that Peter Rabbit™: Explore and Play closed in November and will not reopen for the 2026 season.

“The attraction sits within the same building as Madame Tussauds Blackpool, which we have operated since August.

“Since taking over, we have been reviewing refurbishment options for Madame Tussauds and are considering a number of options for the future use of the space.”

If little ones still want to explore the world of Peter Rabbit, there are a few other themed-attractions dotted around the country.

One is found at Willows Farm in St Albans where children can explore the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground, watch live shows and meet the characters.

It also has funfair rides, adventure play, tractor ride and farmyard animals – day tickets start rom £13.95.

Flamingo Land, which last year was named the best value theme park for attractions, also has a Peter Rabbit adventure.

There’s a Secret Treehouse, Benjamin Bunny’s Treetop Trail, Jeremy Fisher’s musical pond, and children can try their hand at painting at Pig Robinson’s Farm.

Mr Tod’s Lair has secret passages and there’s a character meet and greet too.

Flamingo Land theme park reopens on March 21, 2026 with tickets starting from £29.

For more on Blackpool, one Sun Writer says “I’ve been to Disney World 50 times and Britain’s ‘best big town’ is just as much fun”.

And this small UK seaside theme park named one of the best in the world with record-breaking coasters and new rides.

WHEN you picture Japan, what comes to mind?

Ultra-modern cities drenched in neon lights? Steam rising from a bowl of soul-warming ramen?

Maybe it’s the stillness of a Zen garden, or the striking silhouette of a Japanese castle. Perhaps it’s Sashimi hand-crafted with the freshest of fish.

You may think that experiencing all of the above means spending weeks journeying across the country with a rail pass and a backpack.

Luckily, you can find them all in one underrated region: Hyōgo prefecture.

Next door to touristy Kyoto, Hyōgo offers Samurai castles, hot spring baths, thrilling theme parks and world-class Wagyu all in one place.

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Hyōgo truly earns its nickname “Japan in Miniature”, as it packs some of Japan’s finest cultural and historical sights into one diverse region.

Plus, there’s never been a better time for Brits to visit Japan.

With the new JESTA travel authorisation system expected to arrive in 2028 – which will require Brits to pre-register before travelling – it’s worth ticking the trip off of your bucket list before the new program and its fees are introduced.

Plus, the yen remains weak against the British pound in 2026, so you can stretch your money further on food, shopping and hotels than ever before.

I enjoyed bowls of delicious ramen for just ¥700 (£3.28), and went shopping for high-quality clothing in UNIQLO for a fraction of UK prices.

So to see what this underrated region has to offer, I explored Hyōgo Prefecture from top to bottom – from the coastal hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen, down to the glitz of Kobe.

Himeji – samurai era castles, Japanese gardens and traditional restaurants

You might recognise this castle as Tiger Tanaka’s ninja training school in the Bond film You Only Live Twice.

Himeji Castle has also appeared in many classic samurai films such as Ran and Kagemusha, but this is much more than a famous filming location.

Himeji Castle is Japan’s most-visited castle – and it’s widely considered the most beautiful, too.

It’s easy to see why, I thought, as I approached the strikingly white hilltop fortress.

Himeji Castle is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned as the best-preserved feudal era samurai castle in Japan.

Although the hilltop fortification has existed since 1333, the castle as we see it today was built back in the early 17th century.

Since then, Himeji Castle remains remarkably intact, surviving events such as WWII bombing.

The bright white exterior and elegant tiered roofs are said to resemble a heron taking flight, earning it the nickname of the White Heron Castle.

Actually getting inside the castle, however, was quite the task.

Expertly designed to ward off intruders, you must get past multiple moats and a whopping 83 defensive features to make it inside.

These include false entrances, terrifying stone drops, plenty of gun ports and a disorienting, winding path up to the castle.

Even the plants beside the stone walls were a strategic part of the defence, with thorny, tangled overgrowth designed to stop attackers who tried to escape.

“Imagine you were an intruder trying to get in” said my Himeji Castle tour guide, as she pointed out endless stone drops, hidden gun ports and false entrances. “It would be near impossible!”

After admiring the architecture, I walked just five minutes to the peaceful grounds of the Kōko-en Garden.

Inside Kōko-en are nine Japanese gardens built upon the grounds of old samurai residences, with a large koi fish pond and traditional tea house.

These gardens are a must-see no matter which season you visit Japan.

Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer bursts with greenery and lotus flowers, whilst my winter visit still glowed with autumnal orange.

After wandering through bamboo, crossing stone bridges and hopping stepping stones over glossy waters, I settled down in the garden’s restaurant for a bite to eat.

Here you have your choice between lunch sets including grilled eel, crispy tempura and fluffy pancakes – all served with plenty of green tea and calming waterfall views.

Himeji felt like a snapshot of Japanese excellence, where expert craftsmanship and manicured gardens sit side by side in one unmissable city.

Kobe – world-famous Wagyu and glitzy nightlife

Just a 20-minute ride on the ultra-fast Shinkansen will take you from the historical marvels of Himeji straight to Hyōgo’s bustling capital: Kobe.

This glitzy city was made for wandering into jazz bars and soaking up neon lights, the lively promenade watched over by the glowing red Kobe Port Tower.

I spent days drifting between independent streetwear shops and artsy cafes, as well as making sure to stock up on clothes from trendy UNIQLO – which costs a fraction of the price in Japan compared to the UK.

Down by the waterfront at night, Kobe Harborland is the city at its most lively.

This area is packed with shops, museums, restaurants and a giant Ferris wheel, coming alive after dark.

But Kobe is best-known for its world-famous delicacy: Kobe beef.

To see if it lived up to the hype, I took a counter seat at a Teppanyaki restaurant to watch the chef cook the world-famous steak before my eyes.

I started by trying some Kobe beef sushi, priced at ¥1,260 (£6) – a dish I was unsure of at first, bu the raw beef dissolved on the tongue, leaving a rich, sweet flavour long after eating the rice.

Next came a whole platter packed with thin slices of delicate roast Kobe beef, served cold with a sweet sauce, priced at ¥2,970 (£14).

Last up was the dish I’d been waiting for: a Kobe beef fillet steak, which was buttery soft, oozing with juices and packed with Umami flavour.

Kobe beef steaks can certainly be a splurge (steak with veggies starts at ¥6,600, or £31 at Plaisir) but you can enjoy excellent Japanese beef on a budget too.

A premium Japanese beef burger, for example, costs just ¥1,300 (£6.16) at popular restaurant Brisk Stand.

In 2025, their signature Kittayatsu burger even won the Japan Burger Championship – not bad for a bite under £7.

Awaji Island – theme park paradise

Just a 30-minute bus hop from Kobe over the Akashi-Kaikyo suspension bridge, is Awaji Island – the home of jaw-dropping amusement parks.

Take your pick from three Hello Kitty attractions, fairy-tale and dinosaur worlds at Onokoro Theme Park, and anime fan heaven at a Naruto: Boruto themed land.

I chose to visit the Nijigen no Mori theme park – and whizz down a zip line into a giant Godzilla head.

The Godzilla Intercept Operation Awaji is the world’s largest Godzilla theme park land, made with the production company of the original movies.

The area includes a zip line, miniature movie, shooting game, museum, themed cafe and merchandise shop.

I opted for a light ticket, which grants access to the movie, zip line and shooting game for ¥2,800 (£13.25) per adult and ¥1,800 (£8.52) for children.

I shakily climbed several sets of stairs, and was asked if I’d prefer to zip past Godzilla’s body at 499 feet, or directly into his mouth at 531 feet.

I didn’t travel 13 hours to this Japanese island for nothing, so the choice to me was obvious.

The next and final task was to shoot at glowing targets on Godzilla’s body, whilst ducking down to avoid being seen by the creature.

I ended my visit by shopping for exclusive Godzilla gifts and eyeing up the unique meals on offer at the cafe – a Burning Godzilla Curry for ¥2,200 (£10.41) and Destroyah Hamburger Combo at ¥2,000 (£9.46).

You can book a ticket to the Godzilla Intercept Operation directly via the Nijigen no Mori website, or on apps such as Klook and GetYourGuide.

Kinosaki Onsen – a magical hot spring town

For something a little more relaxing, there’s the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen Town.

An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. These soothing geothermal pools are found all over Japan, thanks to the country’s volcanic landscape.

Onsens are said to have numerous health benefits due to their mineral-rich waters, and I was excited to check out their restorative reputation.

Kinosaki Onsen is a 1,300 year-old town where visitors can go onsen hopping, dipping in and out of seven public bathhouses lining its high street.

Visitors are encouraged to wear yukata (a lightweight Japanese robe), geta (traditional wooden sandals), as well as tabi (split-toe socks).

Kinosaki is a postcard-perfect town set along a quiet canal, lined by glowing stone lanterns and drooping willows. Dressed in traditional attire, I set out to explore its streets – and take part in the ritual of onsen.

The public bath experience is an unforgettable ritual, with a few customs to follow. Once shoes and belongings are stored away, you must bring only a small towel inside with you – which is often neatly folded upon your head when entering the water.

Once you’re in, it’s bliss, and I left with silky skin, and fully warmed through by the 40°C baths, ready to face the winter weather.

A Kinosaki day pass lets you dip in as many onsens as you please for just￥1,500 (£7.10).

They are available to buy at any of the seven bathhouses.

HAVE you ever dreamed of packing your bags and jetting off to find a place in the sun in Europe, but thought it wasn’t possible post- Brexit?

You might be surprised to learn how easy it is for British passport-holders to secure a visa to live in Portugal.

That’s exactly what I did last year, when, as a 39-year-old singleton, I rented out my one-bedroom flat in London and moved to Lisbon to work remotely on the D7 visa.

Here’s everything you need to know about why you should choose Portugal – and how to do the same thing I did.

Why move to Portugal?

When people ask me why I wanted to move to Portugal, I always say the same thing: the amazing weather!

I was thrilled to discover that temperatures reach 30C or more in July and August and rarely dip below 10C even in January, which makes a wonderful change from the endless rain and freezing winters that were really getting me down back home.

Plus, the nearest beaches to Lisbon are a 20-minute train ride along the coast at Carcavelos – or I can share an Uber with friends over the Tagus River to reach the stunning beaches at Costa da Caparica,
which is also a popular surfing spot.

I love having the culture and nightlife of the capital city on my doorstep.

But if you prefer a quieter life, you might want to head to the seaside suburb of Cascais, the picturesque former fishing town of Ericeira or the southern coastal region of the Algarve, which is particularly popular with Brits.

Wherever you go, the cost of living is much lower in Portugal than in the UK.

The rent for my modern two-bedroom apartment with a balcony and sunset views is around £1,100 a month – while I rent out my one-bedroom flat in London for £1,800.

Eating out is astonishingly cheap. I rarely pay more than £25 for two tasty courses and a couple of drinks.

A glass of delicious Portuguese white wine is around £2.50, and you can even get a whole bottle for the same price in supermarkets.

Taxis – a luxury I rarely enjoyed in London – are much more affordable too, with ride-hailing apps Uber and Bolt regularly applying automatic discounts of up to 45 per cent to try to attract customers.

My last trip back from the airport cost £6.50 for a 25-minute ride across the city.

Finally, it’s the slower pace of life that I love here.

The locals are friendly, it’s easy to make friends within the large expat community and the city is wonderfully walkable, so you don’t have to spend hours on public transport to get to work or meet up with friends (but if you do take the Metro or bus that’s super cheap too).

Since I quit my full-time job to go freelance and swapped dreary weather for sunshine and blue skies, my stress levels have plummeted and I couldn’t be happier that I chose to make Portugal my home.

What is the D7 visa?

Introduced in 2019 to attract foreign residents, the D7 is a passive income visa which requires you to prove you have an income of €10,440 (£8,825) a year from sources such as rental income, pensions or investment dividends – which works out to around £735 per month.

If, like me, you own a property in the UK and can make £735 a month in rent, you may be eligible for the D7 visa, which requires you to pay taxes in Portugal and stay in the country for eight months out of each year (or six months consecutively).

To apply for the two-year visa, you’ll first need proof of your passive income, such as a rental agreement, pension or investment statement.

You’ll need to obtain a NIF or Número de Identificação Fiscal (taxpayer identification number), open a Portuguese bank account and deposit savings of €10,440 (£8,825) for the first adult applying, plus 50 per cent of this amount for each additional adult and 30 per cent for each child, to prove you can support yourself or
your family financially.

You must show that you have secured one year’s accommodation in Portugal.

This could be a rental agreement or 12 months of Airbnb bookings, or if you happen to know someone who already lives in Portugal they can fill in what’s called a Term of Responsibility form to say you’ll be living with them.

You will also need six months of travel insurance and a DBS criminal record check issued by the UK government within two months of your visa application appointment.

Once you’ve ticked all these boxes, the next step is to make an appointment at the VFS Global centre Manchester or London to submit all your documents.

You will also have to hand over your passport, so make sure you don’t have any travel planned in the following 60 days, which is how long VFS Global estimates it takes to process a D7 visa.

However, my passport arrived back with my visa inside after just 22 days last May.

The D7 visa application process isn’t complicated but is time-consuming, so make a detailed to-do list that you can work through methodically.

I found Facebook groups such as ‘D7 Move to Portugal’ handy for asking questions whenever they cropped up during the six-month process.

For example, I learned there’s a branch of Portuguese bank Millennium BCP in London where you can open an account in person.

The hardest part for me was finding my apartment in Lisbon.

I viewed 17 flats during a 10-day trip, landing mine after applying for three flats in different neighbourhoods.

But now that I’m happily settled into my new life, I realise it was worth all the effort and admin.

My advice if you’re tempted to make the move and think you might be eligible for the D7 visa? Go for it!

DID you know the world’s ‘diamond capital’ is just a train ride away from the UK?

The unlikely city of Antwerp is becoming the new capital of cool and not just because of its gemstone claim to fame.

Often overlooked by its Belgium counterparts of Brussels and Bruge, Antwerp has more than 500 years for diamond trading history.

Currently handling around 80 per cent of the world’s rough diamonds, the diamond district itself has become a popular tourist spot with cafes and bars.

Yet the city is fast becoming the hot new weekend break destination.

Last year, Time Out named the neighbourhood of Borgerhout the second the coolest in the world.

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For attractions, there is Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), with live DJs and cocktail bars in summer, or the MoMu Fashion Museum.

Want to catch a show? The Quartier Latin is nicknamed the Theatre neighbourhood due to the sheer number of theatres and opera houses there are.

Make sure to get some famous frites as well as the famous Bolleke beer.

Or, go a bit higher class to one of the 16 Michelin-starred restaurants scattered throughout the city.

In the summer, head to Sint-Anneke beach on the river.

For one of the most unique stays, there is the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, in a former monastery and the city’s first five tar hotel.

Or there is August, just as beautiful and built in a former convent.

There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Antwerp – but instead can take the Eurostar via Brussels, taking just over three hours.

It’s worth the journey simply to go to Antwerp Centraal Station, which dates back to 1873.

The Sun’s Harry Corton recently visited the city.

He said: “Antwerp is a culture slap in the face with all the trappings of Amsterdam (yes, even a red light district!) but none of the tourist-trampled thoroughfares.

“A visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady, is essential. Take in the enormous marble turrets, ancient clock faces and magnificent stained-glass windows.

“Belgian beer culture is recognised by UNESCO as one of the great human wonders of the world and there are tons of places to sample the dizzying local delights.

“The best is Bier Central (De Keyserlei 25), where the 120-page ‘Beer Cyclodpedia’ offers over 100 different concoctions.”

Here are some of the cheapest places to fly to this year.

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THERE is a train station in the UK that is often said to be one of the best in the world – and as my regular station, I agree.

London St Pancras first opened in 1868, then a major terminal for the Midland Railway with routes up north.

However, it only became known as St Pancras International in 2007, after the introduction of the Eurostar.

Now, it has become a huge hub of a station, especially with the transformation of the area.

Just outside is Granary Square home to Coal Drops Yard with restaurants, shops and pop up markets.

And of course it is home to the famous British Library, one of the world’s biggest free libraries.

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The opening of the Google HQ has since led to it becoming a tourist hotspot, with cuisines ranging from Korean and Mexican to Indian and Sri Lankan on offer.

But back in the station – as someone who is often then after a late night out, it is easily one of my favourites in the UK.

It is certainly one of the country’s most beautiful, with the exterior red brick juxtaposed with the more modern glass interiors.

There is the famous free piano that often attracts both tourists and celebtrities.

Most recently, famous faces include Jeff Goldblum, Alicia Keys and Jessie J.

And of course there is Searcy’s, a cool champagne bar with yes, a champagne button, found in the train carriage-like booths.

It even lays claim to being Europe‘s longest champagne bar, stretching 98-metres.

A little known secret is to head to the nearby Booking Office 1869 bar too.

Visit at 5:05pm and you can get a free cocktail and history lesson…

London St Pancras station is also the only one to offer direct trains to Europe.

While other stations are hoping to relaunch European trains – including Ashford and Ebbsfleet – St Pancras is the only one with Eurostar trains to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.

Need somewhere to stay? Where better than the iconic St Pancras London Hotel.

Spice Girl fans head straight to the curved stairway, which featured in one of their music videos.

Otherwise it recently rebranded its restaurants, becoming a Hawksmoor, complete with a martini bar.

So with fantastic bars and restaurants, celebrity sighting and a huge amount of destinations on offer?

It’s no wonder its my favourite.

In the mean time, here are some of the world’s most beautiful stations.

And here is everything to know about the UK’s busiest train station getting a mega revamp.

WALKING back from her daily shop Beth Maitland, 32, isn’t worried about traffic jams, beeping horns or the cost-of-living crisis.

She’s more concerned about a local elephant trying to steal her bag of fruit.

It’s Beth’s ‘new normal’ since fleeing Britain over twelve months ago to begin her new life in Thailand, where rent is a fifth of the price, a dinner out costs just two quid, her front garden is a beach and her backyard rice paddies overlooked by a mountain range.

Thailand is routinely voted one of the top twelve destinations for Brit tourists where the pound goes a long way.

It’s estimated 55,000 Brits, from backpackers to retirees, have chosen to bail out of Britain, trading cold, gloomy weather for the tropical paradise and beaches known as the Land of Smiles.

Relocations have soared by a staggering 255 per cent since 2018, driven by Thailand’s Long-Term Residence or LTR visa which offers 10-year residency with tax exemption.

Beth, a former NHS maternity support staffer moved from Plymouth, Devon to the island oasis of Koh Samui in southern Thailand in March last year.

Talking exclusively to The Sun, Beth revealed: “I rent a two-bedroom cottage in the jungle, there are rice fields on one side, jungle on the other and it’s 15 minutes to the beach. From the roof I can check out the surf or plan a mountain hike in the other direction.

“If I paid the price I was paying in the UK, which was £700 for a studio flat in Plymouth, I could get a four-bedroom house with five bathrooms, a pool and a garden on the island’s outskirts with elephants as neighbours.

“The first month converting pounds to Thai currency – the Baht – was a nightmare and so was finding the perfect place to live. 

“Now it’s like I have lived here all my life. I am always shocked at how cheap food, accommodation and transport is compared to Britain. 

“The cost of living is so cheap I eat out for lunch and dinner every day. I haven’t had a ready meal since I moved here.

“Everything except British food is cheaper. For the first time in a decade, I feel I have a positive future, can buy a home, and achieve my career goals.”

Millennial Beth grew up in Plymouth and loved surfing in the summer months when the weather was good enough. 

She spent the next seven years working twelve-hour shifts as a nursing home assistant in Exeter before spending six months backpacking in Australia and Asia.

“I felt inspired by the Asian culture but thought I’d never be able to work or move there.

“I came back home in December 2019 to miserable winter weather and started work as an NHS maternity support staffer.”

Brighter future

When Covid hit, Beth says she found herself re-examining her life.

“Working during lockdown for the NHS was a privilege but it took its toll. I lost friends and patients.”

When the cost-of-living crisis hit Beth felt overwhelmed by work and a feeling her future wouldn’t be the one she wanted if she stayed in Britain.

“After rent and bills were paid, I was saving no money at all. When I hit 30, I knew if I didn’t act, I’d been in the same place with no savings when I hit 40. I couldn’t let history repeat.

“The government wasn’t offering young people like me hope. My friends could only buy a house if their parents helped.

“Other friends were marrying and having children admitting that they felt the goals they wanted for their twenties were no longer possible.”

It was when two of her close friends left to become digital nomads in Thailand and Bali in January 2024 Beth was inspired to act, realising she had a choice – commit to miserable weather, rising prices and a job in the NHS which wasn’t offering career development, or take a gamble, pursue a new career and move to Asia herself.

“Many of my work colleagues were shocked,” she says. “They couldn’t comprehend moving overseas, let alone to Thailand.

“It was terrifying and exciting for me but having friends living and working there already kept me going.” 

Beth isn’t the only millennial making the life-changing decision to flee to a new country instead of settling down and concentrating on their career here.

I sometimes think I have a career and life whiplash at the speed and dramatic change which occurred

Beth

The Currencies Direct’s British Expat Report 2024 revealed nearly 40 per cent of Brits are considering moving overseas due to the cost of living while a fifth, like Beth, feel a fresh start in another culture would be beneficial for their wellbeing and mental health.

And it’s the young who are leading the great British brain drain, and more than a third of people under 24 are planning to leave Britain in the next five years. 

Dramatic change

After a tip from a friend based in Thailand, Beth applied online as a full-time travel manager running group tours.

Just two Zoom interviews later and she was offered the job and within two months was living and working in Thailand.

Beth says even she was shocked by how quickly her life changed.

“I sometimes think I have a career and life whiplash at the speed and dramatic change which occurred.”

She explains: “I used to work part-time at holiday camps during my teenage years. As a maternity support worker, I was good at helping people before, during and after labour with all ranges of problems. 

Now two weeks of every month Beth travels with 30 holiday makers, overseeing their organised tour of Thailand’s islands and regional areas.

“Imagine running a creche on wheels for people of all ages and from all different countries on their first overseas holiday. I love it,” she says. 

“There is never a dull moment. People want to know if we are there yet, where the meet up point is, what the Wi-Fi code is, if they need sunblock, can they borrow a charger and when we are stopping for food. Or the loo.

“I must be a mother, nurse and organiser. I tell people making kittens and squirrels walk in a straight line is often easier.”

Beth then gets two weeks off and either spends time at her rented cottage or using it as a base to travel to other Asian countries.

She pays £150 a month rent for the two-bedroom countryside cottage which includes her water, electricity and air conditioning, as well as use of communal pool and gym.

“There are ten cottages and it’s full of long-term Brits based here. My phone bill is £20 a month and I share it with a friend.”

Beth says she now rarely cooks because the price of food at local restaurants and roadside food carts is so cheap.

My diet has improved dramatically. I haven’t had a microwave meal since I moved here. It’s fresh fruit and vegetables every day

Beth

“I have fruit or cereal for breakfast. I eat lunch and dinner out. It costs £2 for lunch or £3 for dinner. I usually grab stir fry, curry, Thai soup or rice dishes as well as a dessert, usually a sorbet, fruit platter or ice-cream.

“My diet has improved dramatically. I haven’t had a microwave meal since I moved here. It’s fresh fruit and vegetables every day.”

Cheap living

Grocery shopping isn’t the weekly trek to the supermarket like it is in Britain.

“I go to the local markets and buy bags of fruit and fresh meat if I plan to cook, which isn’t often.

“A pint of milk costs the equivalent of 56p, a large loaf of white bread is around 90p, a dozen eggs are 90p, a half a kilo of red meat is £7, chicken is just £1.85 a kilo. Cheese is the most expensive item costing £7 to £8 for half a kilo.”

Beth admits she does miss her British staples and those that are available come at a price.

“HP sauce costs £6 a bottle, Heinz Baked Beans are an eye watering £4.50 while a Lindt chocolate bar sets you back a fiver,” she says.

“I usually grab bread, milk, some cheese and a huge bag of vegetables and fruit for a fiver. Fortunately, good quality tea bags only cost £1 for a box here.”

Beth says wine is expensive costing £12 to £15 a bottle but local beers cost £1-£1.20 for a half litre bottle and cocktails are between £2 and £3.50, depending on the spirits you choose.

“If you go to a five-star hotel you will pay more. 

“Gym membership is £22 a month and a trip to a foreign cinema is £5.60 if you are missing home.

“I had to hunt down a good cafe for a cappuccino and it costs £1.70 for a catch up with my mates. I was paying £5.60 for a posh coffee at Starbucks in the UK, I can’t believe it.”

Beth says she doesn’t need a car and uses the local car or bike service called ‘Grab’, which is similar to Uber, to book travel online.

“A bike, which means I am a pillion passenger, is 50p and a taxi is around 78p a mile.

The standard of health care is better than Britain

Beth

“When I first moved here, I refused to use the motorbike ‘cab’ – now it’s second nature.

“If you do own or rent a car it costs 96p a litre to fill up the tank. A new Toyota Corolla sedan costs on average £19k new.”

Beth says if you have children private preschool starts at £275 a month per child and the private international primary school begins at £4,500 a year.

“I was stunned by the brilliant quality of healthcare available here in Thailand. When there was no delay to see a dentist or doctor I was gobsmacked. 

“The standard of health care is better than Britain.” 

Beth recently paid £50 to see a dental hygienist and £150 for a tooth extraction and filling. Back home I’d either be forced to wait one or two years to get an NHS dentist or pay more than £500 plus for the dental work.

Dinner splurges

According to financial website livingcost.org, Britain is ranked as the 11th most expensive country in the world while Thailand is the 114th most expensive.

Beth told us: “The cost of living is a lot cheaper – from shopping, to petrol, accommodation to food.

“If my friends and I went out for a splurge dinner, that costs us around a tenner for food and drinks all night plus the cab home.”

Beth usually buys her clothes at the local market but if she wants a retail hit H&M have stores in Thailand.

“If it gets hot, I peel off a layer. It can get cold during the equivalent of the winter months, and I pop on a sweater.

“It’s the wet season that causes problems but you learn to keep umbrellas handy.”

According to Beth, Thailand is now extra popular on the backpacking must-visit list with marijuana being legalised.

I feel calmer, more centred, and less stressed living here than I did in Britain

Beth

“Holiday makers are often shocked that pot cafes exist and pot is legally sold here,” she said.

Many of my thirty-something friends are moving here because Thailand is well known for its amazing spiritual and mental health clinics and holidays.

“It’s a very spiritual country. For people in their thirties moving here often means setting up wellbeing businesses or mediation and other fitness styled retreats.

“I feel calmer, more centred, and less stressed living here than I did in Britain,” she said.

“Everyone is meditating or trying a new yoga or healthy living trend.

“It’s a way many Brits not only embrace a new way of living, but a new career counselling or operating healing centres others move here to set up online businesses.”

Beth loves her new career path and says she is saving to buy a property on Koh Samui. 

“You can spend £70k for a basic three-bedroom apartment with four bathrooms, a communal pool and a countryside view. 

“When you consider that wouldn’t get me a static caravan in Britain it’s a brilliant option.”

Beth admits she misses her family and friends.

“I was homesick for the first six weeks. I try to come back to Britain once or twice a year.

“Once you make a few friends, join the various social media groups for expats and get yourself into a routine it becomes a new normal.

“I have hope again. I thought I would never feel this way. It turns out sun, surf and wrangling tourists is the perfect tonic.”

OUR Spotlight On column takes an in depth look at the best things to see and do in your fave holiday destinations and shines a light on some lesser-known spots too.

This week we’re looking at the much-loved city of Barcelona with a closer look at its Gothic Quarter in particular.

The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski says: “I’ve never understood why Barcelona’s Las Ramblas gets more attention than the Gothic Quarter when it comes to shopping.

“For starters, most of the shops there can be found in pretty much any major city – plus, it’s so bogged down with tourists that it’ll take you 30 minutes to stroll just 10 metres.

“The maze of narrow streets that make up the Gothic Quarter, however, are so much fun to explore, flanked by pokey antique stores and one-of-a-kind boutiques.

“You’ll find lots of little tapas joints and bars, too. Nevermind Bar has outrageously cheap drinks and nibbles – beers will set you back €3.50 while a hefty portion of chips costs €1.50”

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“The architecture is what makes this area of the city so special and you’ll feel instantly enveloped by the era in which these Gothic buildings were erected.

“Every street has its own story to tell and bears the scars of a different time. Bring your camera – it’s a great spot for those all important holiday snaps.”

MUST SEE / DO

The Barcelona Cathedral takes pride of place in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and is an absolute must for the bucket list.

The mighty structure dates back to the 13th century, although its main tower was built much more recently.

Entry costs €16pp and that includes access to its glorious rooftop, where you can soak up panoramic views of the city.

Make sure to take a stroll through El Call, too, the old Jewish Quarter.

HIDDEN GEM

The Gothic Quarter and its winding alleyways tend to be crammed full of tourists and locals, weaving between boutique stores and tiny cafes.

The Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, however, is a much quieter spot. That’s partly because not much else is there other than an old Baroque church that still bears visible scars from the Spanish Civil War.

Despite the horror these streets once saw, the atmosphere is extremely peaceful today with a water fountain at its centre, dulling the buzz of the nearby streets.

BEST VIEW

Barcelona isn’t short of cracking rooftops, offering a brilliant vantage point of the key sights. Terraza de Vivi, however, is one of the best.

Part of the Kimpton Vividora hotel, this laidback restaurant-cum-bar, splashed with tall potted plants, has cushioned corners to cosy down in with a cocktail while drinking in the sunset, watching the orange light reflect off the rooftops and church spires.

The vibe is just as energetic during the day, too, where locals and tourists alike spill in for brunch washed down with free-flowing mimosas and Bloody Marys.

RATED RESTAURANT

You won’t be short of places to sample local Catalan cuisine in the city centre – and make sure to order the Pa Amb Tomàquet if you do.

This bread-dish, drenched in tomato, olive oil and garlic, is a staple in these parts and can be found on many menus.

For something a little different, Kiltro Restobar puts a South American spin on traditional Catalan flavours.

The menu features moreish small plates like fried green banana with pulled pork, guacamole and pickled red onion as well as prawn ceviche drizzled in lime, cucumber, and Valentina sauce (a type of Mexican hot sauce).

People may come for the food but they stay for the cocktails and lively ambience.

BEST BAR

Few cocktail bars become true destination spots, but Paradiso is firmly one of them.

Regularly named as one of the top spots in The World’s 50 Best Bars, the experience begins before you’ve even ordered a drink, with entry through a seemingly ordinary refrigerator door inside a pastrami shop.

Once inside, the other-worldly space will blow you away with a carefully crafted menu of cocktail favourites as well as some very imaginative creations including a yellow glowing cocktail that relies on the natural luminescent properties of vitamin B2 and an unusual whisky-based drink infused with lavender, truffle honey and manchego cheese.

HOTEL PICK

The Kimpton Vividora Barcelona is perfectly-positioned within the Gothic Quarter, within reach of many key landmarks.

Rooms are very modern and trend-led but not to the detriment of cosiness and charm.

Solo travellers can check into a slightly more affordable City Single Room with a queen bed.

Rooms start from around £204 per night, on a room only basis. See ihg.com.

DID you know the first package holiday was actually in the UK, nearly 200 years ago?

My boys aged 13, 11 and six are all big steam train fans and we’ve had some amazing days out on heritage railways around the country. 

But what we didn’t realise riding the rails here in the Midlands, is that we were retracing a route that replicates the one chosen by package holiday pioneer Thomas Cook for his first ever excursion, some 185 years ago.

The stretch of track he used became so popular in Victorian times that a new line was eventually built to get passengers about, and you can still board heritage trains on the Great Central Railway today.

Nowadays, holidays offered by tour operators are all about flying abroad, fun in the sun and food and drink on tap.

But back then, a train trip between Leicester and Loughborough launched the concept of paying once and having all your needs met.

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About 500 passengers paid a shilling each for the trip, which included travel, refreshments and entertainment from a brass band.

Booze was a no-no as Thomas Cook and his first tourists were part of the temperance movement – it’s safe to say that things have moved on a bit since that first package holiday in 1841…

One thing that remains the same is that the Great Central Railway still offers a great family-friendly day out, with steam and diesel trains running on its eight-mile line between Leicester North and Loughborough.

If you’re looking for something to do over February halfterm, it’s the perfect option as it’s fantastic fun in all weathers and for all generations.

It’s lovely getting all cosy inside an old-fashioned carriage, enjoying the great British countryside passing by your window.

Some of our best trips have actually been on rainy days as the train tracks run alongside fields, woodland and even Swithland Reservoir so there is lots of wildlife to spot, without getting wet.

There are several old stations en route where you can hop on and off to enjoy kids’ activities, model railways, cafes and lots of heritage touches that bring the golden age of rail travel back to life.

Kids can ride for a quid at some points throughout the year and last year there was also a cut-price ticket for locals, so if you time your visit right or live nearby, you can bag a bargain day out.

There’s a couple of things you’ll want to bear in mind if you do decide to head to the Great Central Railway.

It’s not open every day so check out the website to find which trains are running when and for ticket prices, which can change depending on the season and what’s on offer.

There are special events throughout the year, including character appearances from family favourites like Paw Patrol or the Snowman.

Parking at Loughborough is on the road outside the station, so it can be tricky to find a space on busy days.

We usually head to Quorn to catch the train up and down the line from there, as it’s got a big car park and often has kids activities in its marquee. The other two stations also have parking.

There’s a small branch line to Mountsorrel and Rothley Community Heritage Centre, which only occasionally has trains running on it.

But if you can time your visit to coincide with the branch line being open, the heritage centre itself is well worth a visit, with a playground, den-building, woodland trails, a narrow gauge railway where you can take a short ride and a model train track where visitors can have a go at the controls for Thomas the Tank Engine or one of his friends.

It’s exciting times for the Great Central Railway, which is in the middle of a multimillion pound project to reconnect two stretches of track.

passengers will be able to travel on heritage trains for 18 miles between Nottingham and Leicester North for the first time since the line was axed in the 1960s and a small part of the track was built over.

So it’s full steam ahead for this half term and beyond.

DID you know there’s a place in the UK so dark that you can see planets, shooting stars, and even the Northern Lights.

There’s an observatory in Northumberland nestled in a huge National Park that’s set to be the ‘world’s best travel adventure’ for this year.

National Geographic recently revealed their ’20 travel adventures to book in 2026′.

And at the very top of the list is going on a ‘mini stargazing safari in Northumberland’.

The publication suggested that adventure-hungry Brits head up to Kielder Forest which has a huge public observatory and organises over 700 events a year.

Kielder Observatory is one of the best places to see the night sky as it sits in Europe’s largest Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park – Kielder Forest.

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It’s also the third-largest protected Dark Sky reserve in the world.

The fact it’s unaffected by light pollution means you’re likely to see thousands of stars and the Milky Way on a cloudless night.

Through binoculars or observatory telescopes, visitors can sometimes see Andromeda Galaxy, planets and the Northern Lights.

Many visitors say the experience was “unbelievable” and “out of this world” with lots seeing them.

One added: “When the clouds eventually started to clear we were given the chance to use the telescopes and stay a bit longer after the experience had finished to see Jupiter and some stars.

“Absolutely brilliant night, would fully recommend it to anyone! And the hot chocolate is amazing…”

Tickets for the observatory start from £25 and it’s open all year-round.

There are other experiences in the surrounding areas for stargazing; the local Twice Brewed Inn country pub offers some too.

You can enjoy a two course meal before an evening of stargazing with astronomers from the Kielder Observatory.

There’s even a ‘stargazing, supper and slumber’ package which is tailored to guests.

For those who are keen to embrace the great outdoors, you can also pitch up at the ‘remotest campsite in England‘ which is Kielder Village Camping & Caravan Site.

The three-star site is right in the heart of the forest, so there’s no phone signal and very little Wi-Fi.

Facilities include a dish washing room, showers, hair dryer sockets, drinking water, washing machines and BBQ stands.

It’s dog-friendly too and there’s a children’s play area onsite.

There are pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes, touring caravans and two family pods – these don’t have beds but are more weather-proof than tents.

The campsite will reopen to the public on March 27, 2026 with bookings available from February 1, 2026.

Rates start from £12 for a single occupancy tent, with two-man tents increasing to £20 per night – or £10 per person.

For more on the Northern Lights – here are the five best places to see the Northern Lights near the UK.

Plus, one Travel Writer spent the night in the UK’s biggest National Park with both stargazing and Northern Light spotting.

Here are the top 10 travel adventures to book in 2026…

Here are all the adventures you should book in 2026 according to National Geographic…

1. Stargazing Safari in Northumberland
2. Take a modern-day pilgrimage in Portugal
3. Conquer Slovenia in six days
4. Try forest bathing in Japan’s Kii Peninsula
5. Wallow in a warm mud bath in Italy
6. Get a change of scenery on a grief retreat
7. Sweat it out in an urban sauna in London
8. Soak with seaweed in Brittany
9. Take a football pilgrimage across South America
10. Play padel under the sizzling Spanish sun

WHO needs to hop over to France for some wine tasting when the UK is home to some that is better?

Kent is often called the Garden of England, and is home to many award-winning wines.

This has seen the opening of vineyard massively increase in recent years, with big names including Chapel Down and Balfour.

However, a small village that has remained off the beaten track is Braebourne.

With no nearby train stations – it sits between Ashford International and Westenhanger – it is often overlooked.

Yet is is home to Braebourne Vineyard, which offers unique wines such as a Pinot Noir.

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They’ve even won awards – the 2017 Blanc de Noirs and 2018 Classic Cuvée won silver in the WineGB Awards, while the 2019 Rosé de Noirs won Bronze

Visit in the summer and you can grab a seat within the vines, as well as enjoy flights of wines alongside some snacks or even go on a guided tour.

They recently also opened Fig Cottage, a cosy home than can be rented and overlooks the vineyard.

Otherwise just down the road is The Five Bells Inn, once named the best pub in Kent.

Both kid-friendly and dog-friendly, expect delicious menus that are everchanging, from charred corn and mushroom risottos to hearty burgers.

It has a huge pub garden in the summer too, with a shaded terrace and heaters for when the temperature dips.

You can stay here too, with rooms from £115 a night.

If you need to walk off all the wine and food, there are a number of great walks throughout the nearby North Downs villages as well.

Go off road or stay on the public footpath which goes through the nearby farmlands.

Trains to Ashford International take around 45 minutes from London, with taxis another 20 minutes to Braebourne.

Here’s another English village nearby that has one of the world’s best vineyards.

Or here’s how to find the “golden triangle” of vineyards in the UK.

TAKING that dream trip to the white sand beaches of Florida, Africa or the Caribbean may seem out of reach – but dream trips don’t have to cost the world.

Don’t believe us? We’ve dug deep to find some of the flashiest long haul holiday deals around which are so cheap you’d be forgiven for presuming you’re jetting much closer to home – including Mexico, Jamaica and even Thailand.

We’ve scoured holiday company sites to find some of the cheapest long haul holidays out there – all of which are seven nights and include your flights in the price.

So whether you want to sip from a fresh coconut on the beaches of Mexico, or spend the week in a circus-themed hotel in Las Vegas, these are some of the hottest deals you can snag for some long-haul sun.

Florida, USA – £479pp (kids stay free)

The Ramada By Wyndham Hotel & Water Park is heaven for families – a colourful holiday resort with its own waterpark, right in the heart of Florida.

There’s 180 comfortable rooms, including family-sized options – plus each comes with its own rainfall shower.

There’s loungers and a hot tub for relaxation time, plus you’ve got your pick of waterslides and a lazy river to drift along in, too.

Kissimmee sits south of Orlando, and the city is only a 25-minute drive to Walt Disney World and a 30-minute drive to Universal Orlando Resort.

And to top it all off, this hotel offers FREE child stays for ages 0 – 17.

Loveholidays offer seven nights’ room-only stay for £479pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Makadi Bay, Egypt – £403pp

Serenity Alma Resort is easily spotted from the coastline of Makadi Bay, with its giant castle structure overlooking a waterpark and theme park.

The hotel’s attached theme park, Luna Park, is complete with dodgems, a merry-go-round and a kids’ coaster – meaning you won’t have to leave the resort for a fun-filled day out.

Choose to dine in the hotel’s Italian, Mexican, Moroccan, Turkish, Asian or Indian à la carte restaurants – or head to the main restaurant for a classic buffet dinner.

Add two large pools and a private beach into the mix, and this castle hotel really starts to feel like a fairy tale come true.

The resort is based in Makadi Bay, Egypt, where you can snorkel the bright reefs of the Red Sea, or take a trip out to Makadi Water World.

First Choice offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay for £403pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – £449pp

You could spend the week in a luxurious 5-star adults-only hotel in Dubai for just £449pp.

The Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences boasts an on-site bowling alley, basketball court, a fully-equipped gym, plus a steam bath and sauna to retire to.

But perhaps the best feature of this hotel is its large outdoor pool facing the glimmering city skyline.

Accommodation comes as spacious pink and gold apartments with kitchenettes, flatscreen TVs and breathtaking views over the city skyline or vast blue creek.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for just £449pp, including return flights from London Stansted.

Las Vegas, USA – £509pp

Circus Circus in Las Vegas is more than a hotel – it’s a casino and theme park, too.

Step inside the Big Top, and you’ll find a stage with circus acts, an arcade and roller coaster rides, as well as two pools and a splash park.

The best rides at this hotel include the Canyon Blaster, with the world’s only indoor double loop, and a ride simply named “Chaos” which is just as unpredictable as it sounds.

Plus this hotel is set smack bang on the Las Vegas strip, right in the middle of the action.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £509pp, including return flights from London Heathrow.

Tululm, Mexico – £429pp

Mexico’s Tulum is a blissful coastal town on the Caribbean Coast, with some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Spots such as Paradise Beach and Playa Santa Fe almost don’t look real, with vibrant green palms overlooking turquoise waters and sugar-white sand.

Plus beaches such as Playa Pescadores and Playa Ruinas are right by Mayan ruins and archaeological sites, so you can combine your historical sightseeing with swimming and sunbathing, all in one day.

The Oyo Hotel Palma Real is a budget-friendly base that’s only a 25-minute drive from the beach and the fascinating Mayan Ruins.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £429pp, including return flights from Birmingham.

Bangkok, Thailand – £509pp

Visiting Thailand just became a whole lot cheaper, with this package hotel and flights deal costing just £509pp with Loveholidays.

This city blends world-class nightlife with ornate temples and peaceful manicured parks.

Spend your days strolling or boating down Thailand’s “River of Kings”, the Chao Phraya River, to see remarkable temples such as Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn.

As the sun sets, head towards Sukhumvit for trendy rooftop bars and street food at the cosy mini food market Soi 38.

Plus, staying at the King One Suvarnabhumi gives you a budget-friendly base to return to with air-conditioned rooms and spacious beds.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £509pp, including return flights from London Heathrow.

Chicago, USA – £449pp

Home of the world’s first skyscraper, house music, and of course the deep dish pizza – you’ll find a real slice of Americana in Chicago.

Top sights here include the famous “bean” of Milennium Park (or the Cloud Gate sculpture) and the Centennial Wheel, which comes with views over the city and Lake Michigan.

A stay at the four-star Chicago Hotel Collection – Magnificent Mile doesn’t disappoint, with rooftop igloo seating and a 24-hour gym.

Here you’re only steps away from shopping on State Street, and the mall located inside of a skyscraper – Water Tower Place.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £449pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Bavaro, Dominican Republic – £539pp

The Dominican Republic’s Bavaro is a 10-mile strip of beach lined with action-packed resorts and luxurious hotels.

Facing the calm, crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea, Hotel Capriccio Mare has the exterior of a bright white island villa.

The hotel’s position on Bavaro’s coastline is perfect for exploring the popular resort town of Punta Cana.

Whether its strolling the sands to grab a fresh coconut with a straw, or venturing out on a catamaran trip to Saona Island, this dreamy Caribbean resort is not one to miss.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £539pp, including return flights from Manchester.

Hurghada, Egypt – £397pp

Egypt‘s Hurghada sees year-round sun and temperatures reaching the mid-20s during British winter time.

To make the most of the sunny weather, there’s beaches like the trendy El Gouna and the peaceful Mahmya Beach to laze out on.

And for the adventurous type, there’s desert safaris and snorkelling on offer – plus Makadi Water World always keeps kids happy.

The Palm Inn hotel is just a 5-minute walk to the closest beach, where there’s kite-surfing and boat trips available.

First Choice offer a 7-night stay with breakfast at the Palm Inn Hotel for £397pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Orlando, Florida, USA – £469pp

Spending a week in Orlando with flights and accommodation included for under £500pp is quite the steal.

Especially when the hotel is just steps from Florida Mall and only 14 minutes’ drive from Disney World.

The Garnet Inn & Suites, Orlando is a clean and conveniently-located place to stay, with its own palm-lined pool and a tasty Colombian grill restaurant right next door.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay with breakfast for £469pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Negril, Jamaica – £609pp

The “Capital of Casual” of Negril, Jamaica sits at on the western tip of the paradisaical island.

Famously frequented by the likes of Bob Marley and The Rolling Stones, this easy-going resort town makes for an idyllic escape.

Here you’ll find the Seven Mile Beach, where visitors roam the sands via horseback and explore the seas by snorkel.

There are day-trip opportunities to swim through the tunnels of Joseph’s Cave, plus daytime party cruises to let loose out on the water.

Plus a stay at Samsara on the Cliffs situates you right by beachfront smoothie stalls and reggae bars.

On the Beach offer a 7-night room-only stay for £830pp, including return flights from Manchester.

Ocean City, Maryland, USA – £469pp (kids stay free)

This beachfront mega resort in USA‘s Maryland boasts plenty of exciting activities, with outdoor and indoor options perfect for all weather.

The Hilton Garden Inn Ocean City Oceanfront contains a games room, casino, fitness studios and more.

Outdoors, there’s sports courts as well as sailing and jet-ski options.

A 2-minute walk brings you to Ocean City Boardwalk, where you’ll find an American take on a seaside promenade with food stalls and carnival rides.

There’s also a beach volleyball courts, a skate park and tandem bikes available to stay active whilst making the most of Maryland’s coast.

Plus here you can bring up to two children aged 18 and under to stay for free, when sharing a family room.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £469pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Cancun, Mexico – £449pp

Cancun is a classic long haul holiday destination, famous for its blend of blissful beaches and fascinating historical sites.

One of the most popular beaches is Playa Langosta, which has shallow waters perfect for families to wade into.

Playa Tortugas is a livelier option, with plenty of activities like snorkelling and bungee jumping available.

Plus you can tick off one of the New Seven Wonders of the World whilst you’re there, and take a day’s excursion to visit Chichen Itza.

A stay at the Departamentos Villas Capdeviel gives you a roomy apartment to return to after a day’s exploring.

First Choice offer a 7-night room-only stay for £449pp, including return flights from Birmingham.

New Jersey, USA – £479pp (kids stay free)

New York‘s neighbour state New Jersey has plenty to see and do across its near-130 miles.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is the oldest and longest oceanfront boardwalk in the world – and you’ll find it dotted with everything from waterparks to world-renowned casinos.

Top attractions to stop at along the way include the Steel Pier Amusement Park and stopping to admire the grand Absecon Lighthouse.

Over in Cape May you’ll find one of the state’s prettiest seaside resorts, where romantic streets are lined with giant Victorian houses, each brightly painted and decorated with picket fence-white balconies.

The Travelodge by Wyndham Absecon Atlantic City is a comfortable option, close to top Atlantic City casinos including Golden Nugget and Borgada.

Or if you’re planning a more family-oriented trip, kids can stay for free (applies to up to two children under 18).

Plus it’s only one-and-a-half-hour’s drive away from New York City if you’re looking to tick off a visit to the Big Apple on your trip to the states.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night room-only stay for £479pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

The Gambia – £589pp

The Gambia offers incredible value stays in stunning coastal landscapes.

With dry, bright days and temperatures averaging 32°C during British winter, this escape is made even better by the zero-hour time difference.

Whether you want to kayak your way through mangroves or lounge on the sand, this region caters to both adventurers and sun-seekers.

Baboon Islands is a must-visit to spot wildlife including chimpanzees, hippos and crocodiles.

Or take a trip to Kololi for a buzzing resort atmosphere filled with clubs, traditional music, and beachside barbecues.

First Choice offer a 7-night stay with breakfast for £589pp, including return flights from Manchester.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt – £660pp (kids stay free)

The Coral Sea Aqua Club is home to a waterpark, wave pool, lazy river and plenty more to splash about in to cool off from the Egyptian heat.

And when you’re not spending time zipping down waterslides or lounging by the two giant pools, there’s an action-packed entertainment programme to make the most of.

Whether you spend your nights dancing at the mini discos and singing along to live music, or heading out to explore the glowing markets of nearby El-Khan – you’ll be spoilt for choice with things to do.

Plus this hotel is part of TUI‘s Free Kid’s Place offer, where one free kid’s place is available per two paying adults at select resorts.

TUI offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay for £660pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.

Prices correct at the time of writing.

VICTORIA and Nicola clashed again this week – but for once it wasn’t with each other. 

The pair released brand new modelling shoots on exactly the same day as they made a bid to put Brooklyn’s statement behind them. 

Nicola has been signed up as the face of Italian fashion brand Genny to front their new Spring/Summer 2026 collection. 

As well as a pink trouser suit, Nicola wore a number of elaborate, colourful gowns for the brand.

Victoria meanwhile launched her debut eyewear range on the same day. 

She posed up in a pair of her own frames and said: “I wanted strong, instantly recognisable silhouettes that felt effortless to wear, so the focus for this collection was really on refining shape and proportion.” 

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It came just one day after David signed a huge 20-year deal for creating fragrances. 

He entered a new agreement with Interparfums, Inc to make scents under his brand. 

David said: “Together with their world-leading team, we will create products that are distinctive and timeless. I can’t wait to get started.” 

The family feud exploded after Brooklyn accused mum Victoria of ruining his wedding by dancing “inappropriately on me in front of everyone”.

Brooklyn, who wed actress Nicola Peltz in April 2022, said: “I’ve never felt more uncomfortable or humiliated in my entire life.”

The aspiring chef, 26, shared a furious tirade on Instagram in a move to defend his wife Nicola, and himself, amid the bitter family feud.

In six blistering posts on his Instagram stories, he claimed dad David and Victoria have been trying to “endlessly ruin my relationship” with Nicola.

DARK skies tourism is set to be one of the defining travel trends this summer, as holidaymakers prepare to flock to parts of Spain to catch the solar eclipse.

On August 12, hotspots like Valencia, Palma Mallorca, and Ibiza are expected to see a surge in visitors.

Travellers are set to combine their love of sun-soaked getaways with a rare celestial spectacle, according to The Great British Holiday Audit by easyJet and easyJet Holidays.

These parts of Spain are perfectly positioned in the path of the solar eclipse, and benefit from long summer days and typically clear skies.

The trend has been driven by Gen Z, TikTok, and a growing fascination with astronomy and astrophotography.

This is a continuation of 2025’s wave of interest, which saw Brits witness phenomena such as the Northern Lights from the UK for the first time in decades.

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The report also highlighted that longer short-haul flights of five to six hours are fast becoming the new norm.

Tunisia, and its lesser-known island of Djerba, continues to grow in popularity, with the airline seeing a 12 per cent increase in flights to the country, while the Georgian capital of Tbilisi is gaining traction as a city break destination.

There has also been a 21 per cent rise in travel to longer-leisure hotspots such as Morocco, Turkey and Cyprus.

A spiritual revival is also taking shape among younger generations, as Gen P travellers – those in their formative educational years during the pandemic – embrace pilgrimage routes across Europe, including Santiago de Compostela and Lourdes.

Holidaymakers are increasingly opting to ‘try before they fly’, using vlogs and VR experiences to explore destinations before booking, according to the report.

Technology is breaking down language barriers and giving travellers the confidence to explore new places.

The report, which also surveyed 2,000 travelling adults, found 22 per cent are now using translation technology while abroad.

Travel writer Nigel Thompson, who co-authored the report, said: “We’re seeing travellers plan around passions and purpose – whether that’s spirituality, culture, sport or nature.

“It looks like 2026 is about meaning as much as mobility, but value remains a key factor.”

Screen-led travel is also set for a resurgence, with the return of The White Lotus to Europe expected to drive fresh interest in destinations across the south of France.

Meanwhile, ‘canon country tourism’ will see travellers flock to locations made famous through classic literature and modern retellings – from Shakespeare’s Verona to Hemingway’s Pamplona.

The findings show 28 per cent of holidaymakers would choose a destination based on TV, books or film.

Sport is also shaping travel habits this year, and despite the World Cup taking place across the Atlantic, many fans are opting to soak up the atmosphere closer to home, saving time and money by travelling to local fan zones across Europe.

At the same time, the padel phenomenon is fuelling a new wave of sports-focused holidays, particularly in Spain, where its popularity has overtaken tennis.

The research found 10 per cent of holidaymakers are now trying padel or pickleball while on holiday.

Kenton Jarvis, easyJet’s CEO, added: “We’re always looking at ways our customers plan, book and holiday.

“We can already see some shifts in customer behaviour, like longer short-haul routes growing in popularity and technology playing a greater role both in making unfamiliar destinations feel accessible and helping us operate efficiently to keep fares low and journeys seamless.

“It is great to see more people exploring new destinations, using new technology in innovative ways and seeking out alternative experiences.

“I am proud of the part easyJet continues to play in helping to shape how each generation travels, while always aiming to make travel easy and accessible for all.”

The report also highlights how travel is being shaped by generational differences and life stages.

Parents with pre-school children are making the most of flexibility, travelling more before term-time restrictions begin.

Whereas ‘Home Alone’ parents – whose adult children stay behind to house-sit or pet-sit – are rediscovering the freedom to travel again.

Garry Wilson, CEO at easyJet Holidays, said: “In 2026, there’s a clear desire to make holidays count.

“We’re seeing customers become far more intentional about how and when they travel, whether that’s getting away before everyday routines take over, switching off from screens, or planning trips around meaningful moments you simply can’t recreate at home.

“From community organised trips to experience-led breaks, people are prioritising connection, wellbeing and memories that last, not just time away.”

WILD swimming has become increasingly popular with Brits across the country who head down to lakes, ponds and the beach for a cold dip.

Now, another addition could be on the cards – and if plans go ahead, this swim spot would be the first of its kind in the world.

There are plans for a former London gasholder site to be turned into a new wild swimming pond that’s likely to become a very popular spot with the locals.

The Grade II listed site in Southwark sits on Old Kent Road and hasn’t been used since 1953.

However, Southwark Council bought much of the land in 2017 for £15 million and have big plans for the area.

Its new proposals are to create a cold water swimming spot in the centre of the historic structure that was once the world’s biggest gasworks site.

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So there would be no need to change the structure.

If this goes ahead, the project would also see a natural reed-based filtration system built to keep the pool water fresh.

Plans have also proposed a café, shop, and changing rooms which would pay towards the pool’s upkeep.

The development is set to be renamed Livesey Park after gasworks pioneer George Livesey.

Southwark Labour Councillor Helen Dennis told Southwark News: “The idea for a wild swimming pond in the planned Livesey Park is at an early stage but would transform the area with such an exciting and unique offer, and is a good example of what can be made possible through investment and contributions from developers.

“We are determined for the Old Kent Road regeneration to deliver a greener and healthier neighbourhood, ensuring that development results in new and improved parks and community facilities.”

Before work begins there will be more detailed proposals and consultation on the project.

Development would begin at the earliest in 2027 or 2028.

It’s not the first time that an idea has been proposed for the site.

Back in 2020, a developer wanted to build London’s first alligator park there, as reported by Southwark News.

Inside the gasholder would be a pool for alligators that went 20metres deep, and the frame of the gasholder would be made of glass to create a ‘Florida-like’ feel.

Similarly, some of the former gasworks sites in London are currently, or are set to go through a transformation.

The Bromley-by-Bow gasworks received planning permission for a revamp in March 2025.

The seven huge structures in the district won’t be destroyed but instead will be converted.

The site will have over 2,000 homes, with 70 per cent of the site being open space, there will be a 4.2-acre park full of wildflowers overlooking the River Lea.

The Grade II-listed gasworks structures were built between 1870 and 1882 and officially closed in 1976.

The development of the site will mean this is the first time the gasworks will be open to the public in over 150 years.

The gasworks in Bethnal Green is another that’s undergoing redevelopment – construction here started in August 2022.

The Bethnal Green project includes 555 homes, and 45,000 square feet of ground floor commercial and community space.

There will also be a 1.7-acre public park, green areas by the canal along with new pedestrian and cycle routes.

For more on lidos, this one in the UK was forced to close in 2023 but it is set to reopen soon.

Plus, this UK island has fairy pools that you can swim in – and nearby camping for £6.

FROM playing music out loud to putting your feet on the seats – travelling by train in the UK can be an infuriating experience.

But I’ve found a new frustrating trend – reserved carriages for school groups.

As someone who regularly commutes to London by train, I already have the daily battle of finding a seat, especially one with a table.

But I’ve noticed a recent surge in entire carriages being booked by teachers ahead of taking entire classes into London for the day.

According to Southeastern: “If your group is at least 30 people, we can look into reserving a carriage for you, although it may not always be possible during busier periods.

“Reserved carriages will generally be at the rear of a train, and will be marked with labels in the windows and on the doors stating that the carriage is reserved for your group.

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“There isn’t a charge for reserving a carriage.”

While this may sound grumpy at first – after all, who wants to try and find 30 seats for school kids – my complaint comes with both the timing and space.

My train is regularly a four-carriage train until later in the journey.

Not only that, but as a commuter train, seats cannot be reserved until other train operators, so most seats are find-as-you-get-on.

So with a whole carriage taken up by a school, it ends up making these other busy carriages already a lot more chaotic.

A poor train conductor had the awkward task of kicking everyone already sitting in the carriage before the reserved time out onto the platform as they waited for an attachment

Not only that, but many of them are being booked for the morning commute, often around 9am.

In my opinion, there should be blocked out times to allow weary office-dwellers their last chance of respite before having to be stuck staring at a computer for nine hours.

At least there is one upside – I know which carriage to actively avoid unless I want to be subjected to streams of TikTok videos being played out loud next to me.

However, the Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire backs reserved carriages.

She said: “As a school mum who has been on a lot of class trips in recent years, I think this decision by the train company to reserve an entire carriage for the kids is genius. 

“Herding a group of children on and off transport through London – one of the world’s busiest cities – is a nightmare. 

“Will you get them all in one carriage? Will one get left behind? Will they all get seats?

“Will the ‘other’ members of the public get annoyed with the exceptionally loud noise that accompanies 30-plus kids on a day out? 

“This allows them to make sure all of the children travel safely, while causing minimal issues for other passengers. 

“It’s so smart, I’m considering suggesting it to my child’s school next time that I accompany them on a trip.”

A train company recently launched adult-only carriages.

And here’s a converted train carriage you can spend the night in.

HAVEN’T you heard? Going abroad for a holiday is out in the year 2026, but cosy cottage staycations and UK city breaks are well and truly back.

If you’re thinking of ditching an overseas break for somewhere closer to home, these are our top picks from postcard-perfect villages, to busy cities and even our favourite hotels.

Sykes Holiday Cottages has predicted a record high for staycations in 2026, reporting that bookings made in January are up 9 per cent year-on-year.

So where should you book? The Sun Travel team has plenty of suggestions…

Skegness, Lincolnshire

For fun at the beach, Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot suggests a trip to this popular seaside town: “The original Lincolnshire seaside town of Skegness is celebrating a landmark birthday in 2026 – the 90th birthday of the very first Butlin’s holiday camp.

“Founded by Billy Butlin, it offered affordable, organised seaside holidays  and helped popularise the all-in, onsite entertainment model that has stood the test of time.

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“This year will see a host of special events at Butlin’s to celebrate, including a special weekend over the Easter weekend including a dazzling firework and laser show on April 11.

“Of course, there’s lots more to see and do – from classic arcade amusements and fish and chips on the pier to bucket and spade beach fun.

“For a must-do day out, Natureland Seal Sanctuary’s rescue and rehabilitation work makes for a fascinating visit and the Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve promises dunes, saltmarshes and birdlife for nature lovers.”

Snettisham, Norfolk

Travel Reporter Jenna Stevens recommends a visit to her hometown, she said: “Born and raised in North West Norfolk, I’ve seen hordes of tourists flock to my county every year for a summer staycation.

“But I’m always surprised when holidaymakers head for the same few touristy spots, and miss out on exploring our quiet, pretty villages such as Snettisham.

“Snettisham Beach is a quiet yet arguably more beautiful alternative to Hunstanton or Holkham. It’s known for dramatic orange sunsets and spectacular displays of pink-footed geese sweeping across the horizon.

“Head out for breakfast to the trendy Old Store for a full-on fry up with duck fat hash browns, and spend the day hand-feeding farm animals and heading out on deer safari at the family-friendly Snettisham Park.

“When the evening creeps in, head to The Rose and Crown for a pint of local ale and an unbeatably cosy pub atmosphere. As the working day winds down, the 14th-century pub is packed with local cricket players and dog-walkers settling down by the fire – who will happily talk your ear off about the best hidden spots in Norfolk.

“Plus, Snettisham is only a 10-minute drive to the royal residence and beautiful woodlands of Sandringham, which has a large wooden playground and plenty of walking trails marked by wooden animal sculptures.”

Burford, The Cotswolds

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “While you might be tempted over to the Cotswolds for the world-famous Bourton-on-Water, or for a pint at Clarkson’s Farm, you’d be remiss to skip out on a trip to Burford.

“The main high street is one of the prettiest in the area with barely any chain restaurants and shops.

“The sandy yellow Cotswold stone is instead used for vintage sweet shops, pubs dating back hundreds of years and cosy gift shops selling twee home goods.

“Make sure to grab a cake and a coffee at Hunter’s Cake Company, or some afternoon tea at Huffkins. Any leftover crusts can be taken to the river at the bottom of the hill, to make friends with the eager ducks.”

Grantchester, Cambridgeshire

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill visited one destination that’s used as a TV backdrop of the same name, she said: “Just 15-minutes outside of Cambridge is the beautiful village of Grantchester.

“Most people would have heard of Grantchester because of the television series starring Robson Green and Rishi Nair that’s set in the 1950s and has been filmed in the actual village for years.

“Lots of visitors take pictures outside the vicarage and the church – but where I headed was for a relaxing walk along the River Cam before stopping in The Orchard Tea Garden set in an actual apple orchard.

“It’s famous for having a number of literary legends visit, like Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster. While you’re there I’d suggest picking up a homemade scone, which you get with a pot of jam and clotted cream for £5.40.”

Unplugged, Wales

For those seeking a peaceful break, Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski, has a hotel suggestion that will top all others when it comes to switching off. “The Unplugged brand first popped up on my radar a few years back, during another frenzied lockdown when life was lived primarily through screens and burnout felt inevitable.

“The off-grid cabin company specialises in digital detoxes – a trend that will certainly be growing in 2026. The idea is that visitors lock away their devices in the safe until the end of their stay (a basic Nokia phone is provided for emergencies).

“Stays can be booked for three nights minimum – to ensure guests fully reap the physical and mental health benefits of going phone-free. Dotted across the country, each of the two-person cabins, of which there are now over 50, stand solo, immersed in nature, (bar a few paired ones, for the purpose of group bookings).

“I’ve got my eye on Taffy, a cosy, dog-friendly cabin in Powys, Wales, where walking trails are aplenty. It comes with a private hot tub, meaning evenings can be spent soaking in the bubbles under a starry sky.

“All the essentials are provided, including a kitchenette, bathroom and roaring log burner, plus there’s board games and books for entertainment as well as an outdoor seating area. Prices for Unplugged start at £420 in total for three nights.”

Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

One of the most beautiful towns is in the North of England, and Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey insists you visit, she said: “If you ever wanted to feel like you stepped into a pretty postcard picture, then the closest you will get to that is going to Knaresborough.

“The tiny market town almost looks fake, from the historic viaduct going over the river to the trains trundling along over the top.

“Add in a few kayakers on the water, and it’s the perfect place to lose a few hours. Kill some time before your train home with a glass of wine at The Mitre.

“And don’t forget to pop to the nearby York to Betty’s for a famous Fat Rascal scone.”

Newcastle

Travel Reporter Jenna Stevens said there’s one city with lots of bars, and plenty of culture too. “I first went to Newcastle to visit a friend at university and check out its legendary nightlife scene.

“And whilst the nightlife is a huge part of what makes Newcastle such a great city break – I was shocked by just how much this city has to offer.
Stepping out of the central train station, you’ll be wandering through cobbled streets overlooked by grand neoclassical stone buildings through Grainger Town.

“Head towards the Quayside, and you’ll start to see more of the city’s industrial side. There’s a series of seven pretty bridges that stretch over the river, which glows with neon city reflections at nighttime.

“For a dose of history, Newcastle Castle is a sight to behold with over 2,000 years of heritage, plus you can even climb to its rooftop for the best panoramic views across the city skyline.

“But if you do want to dip into the famous nightlife, I recommend heading to The Bigg Market or the Ouseburn for cheap pints and an electric atmosphere.”

University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

When heading to the city of Cambridge, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey says there’s only one hotel you should check into. She said: “I might be cheating on my home city of Oxford, but the University Arms Hotel in Cambridge makes it worth it.

“The historic hotel is a must for any tourist who wants to immerse themselves in British history. Rooms are named after famous Cambridge alumni – the best being the Hawking Suite which overlooks the common.

“Bathrooms play readings of The Wind in the Willows and you can grab a book and a treat in the Library room to wind down in.

“Complimentary blue bikes for pedalling around town, free Saturday walking tours and even punting packages in the summer – it’s the quintessential English escape.”

Cornwall

For Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski, there’s one spot you can’t miss. She said: “You don’t need me to tell you that Cornwall is a staycation hotspot year in year out.

“There’s a reason I still haven’t tired of the coast-rich region with its sweeping, blustery beaches – despite visiting at least four times annually.

“It’s the constant newness: more quality restaurants, another music festival, and undiscovered cultural experiences. Even some of the historic and nature-focused sites, a big part of what makes the south west so special, are regularly being given a new lease of life.

“The Cornish coastal meadows project, due to be completed this year, will see the addition of new grasslands, encouraging more plant growth and thriving wildlife from bees and butterflies to grasshoppers.

“Stay at the recently renovated Pedn Olva, a pub with rooms that’s been carved into the craggy cliff-face facing the choppy sea in St Ives. Gobble up a bowl of crabby fries, before retiring to the bedroom to stargaze (rooms come with mini telescopes).”

Celtic Manor, Wales

When it comes to staycations, there’s one hotel that stands out for Head of Sun Travel, Lisa Minot. She revealed: “This high-end destination resort is a must-visit for stays that combine championship golf courses with luxury accommodation and an excellent spa.

“Set in 2,000 acres of scenic parkland in the Usk Valley near Newport in South Wales, it features three championship golf courses and has hosted the Ryder Cup.

“Celtic Manor has also welcomed the rich and famous. Former US president Barack Obama stayed in their fabulous four-bedroom huge Hunter Lodges when the NATO Summit was held at the resort in 2014.

“I’ve stayed in one of the lodges – and possibly even in the same bed – and can testify they offer the very best of lodge living for large groups complete with an open-plan living/dining room with vaulted ceilings and outdoor terrace with stunning golf course views from its own hot tub.

“It’s a great option for a hen or stag weekend with a difference.”

New Forest, Hampshire

Down in Hampshire, the New Forest is ripe for exploring with heathland, forest trails, wildlife and pretty villages which Travel Reporter Alice Penwill found when she visited.

She said: “I loved wandering through Brockenhurst where you see all the beautiful wild ponies, donkeys and cows roaming around – some even take a gander down the high street.

“The lovely houses even have grates on their driveway so the animals don’t wander up to the front door.

“After a long walk there are a number of pubs with big gardens where you can have a refreshing drink like The Snakecatcher, Foresters Arms and The Huntsman.”

York

Another must-visit city is the vibrant York according to Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski, she told us: “Was it the higgled piggledy buildings flanking the narrow alleyways or maybe the grand cathedral with its looming Gothic tower that first made me fall in love with York?

“Or perhaps it was merely the friendly folk who filled its cafes and shops. The Yorkshire lot seem a little more cheery than those down south. Either way, charming York is one of my favourite cities in the UK and I believe it should be on everyone’s bucket list.

“The main hub, within the City Walls (a landmark in themselves, dating back to Roman times) is my favourite area. Here you’ll find Betty’s Tea Room – an absolute must visit. The first of these fancy northern cafes opened in Harrogate way back in 1919.

“Today there are five scattered across Yorkshire, including one in York itself. Sip on tea (Yorkshire, of course) served from polished silver pots and tuck into traditional bakes like the fat rascal, a type of chunky scone crammed with fruit and spices that was invented in this county.”

Chester

Another favourite from Head of Sun Travel, Lisa Minot is this spot in the North West of England, she said: “It’s been dubbed the prettiest city in England and I can definitely say I agree – Chester’s historic centre is a delight to explore.

“Shopaholics will have even more reason to visit in 2026 with the launch of the H Beauty store from Harrods on February 6.

“Set in the former Browns of Chester building, an Edwardian beauty on Eastgate Rows, it will feature a champagne bar, blow-dry bar, interactive play tables and of course, lots of high end beauty products.

“There’s more shopping delights on The Rows, a two-tier medieval galleries, covered walkways lined with timber-framed facades, boutiques and cafes stacked above street level.

“And of course, you can’t miss a walk around the City Walls, the most complete circuit of Roman and medieval walls in Britain that gives you  scenic stroll with great views over the town, gardens and river.”

Anglesey, Wales

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill found a beautiful Welsh village on a trip to Anglesey, she said: “I’ve always loved peace and quiet on holiday rather than a rowdy night out, so when I stumbled upon the village of Moelfre on a trip to Anglesey, I was delighted.

“The quaint former fishing village has beautiful pebbled coves and long stretching strips of land out to sea with lighthouses perched on top.

“One must-do is stop into Ann’s Pantry for a Welsh beer or a generously sized scone, and the Coastal Cafe for fish and chips – it’s so popular that locals and holidaymakers queue out the door during the weekend.

“Just a short walk away is Traeth Lligwy beach which you can reach while hiking the coastal path.

“It has stretches of golden sands, and when the tide goes out, a natural paddling pool forms in the middle as water gets trapped behind a sandbank. Some sunbathers even spot dolphins amongst the sea waves.”

For more suggestions from our travel experts, these are our favourite day trips in the South East – from pubs with a view to quiet beaches.

And for more inspiration, here are our travel team’s best trips of 2025 – from new theme parks to private UK islands.

THE Cotswolds is known for their beauty with quaint cottages and winding streets and there’s one very similar town over 100 miles away.

Saffron Walden is nestled in the Essex countryside.

In 2025, the Essex town was named the “best place to live in the UK” by The Times, and it does have a likeness to the popular Cotswolds.

The town is filled with wonky Tudor houses, winding streets and a plethora of independent shops.

There’s The Toy Box which sells old-school toys and has been in the town for 40-years, The Corner Cupboard where you can find antique jewellery, and Hart’s Books.

Saffron Walden is well-known for its big outdoor market which it’s held since 1141 – and you can see it for yourself on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

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Stalls sell food from fresh fruit and vegetables, to olives, bread, fish, flowers, antiques and jewellery.

If you’re lucky you may even spot a celeb like Jamie Oliver, who lives nearby and is often seen picking up fresh ingredients at the stalls.

There are lots of cafes around the town too from The Goat and Grass to Waffle and Coffee to Chater’s.

When it comes to pubs, you’re spoiled for choice – and lots of them have scooped up awards in recent years too.

In 2022, the Railway Arms was awarded CAMRA County Pub of the Year and North West Essex Pub of the Year in May.

The pub serves all sorts and drinks and snacks, although you won’t find pub grub here – but there are food trucks every Thursday.

The Railway Arms closed in 2017 but reopened in 2020 as Saffron Walden’s first community-run free house pub – and it holds a quiz every Sunday.

The Eight Bells on Bridge Street is also a popular spot and has a beautiful interior with beams and antler light fixings.

With a set menu you can get two courses for £19.50 or three for £24.50.

You can dine on the likes of prawn cocktail, chicken kiev, smoked haddock kedgeree and to finish, sticky toffee pudding or vanilla cheesecake.

While it’s not actually in Saffron Walden, The Cricketers Arms is a short drive away in Rickling Green and won Best Destination Pub 2025 Muddy Awards.

It was also awarded 1 AA Rosette for culinary excellence.

The pub is known for its hearty Sunday meals like the ‘Tear & Share’ lamb shoulder and three meats ‘Pig n Mix’ roast.

On the outskirts of Saffron Walden is Audley End an English Heritage House – but there’s lots to do on the grounds.

Here, you’ll even find a miniature railway which will reopen for Mother’s Day weekend.

There are events held throughout the year too like Woodland Adventure Days where kids can explore the playground, discover the fairy walk – and ride one of the trains.

Saffron Walden even has its own vineyard called Saffron Grange.

The family-run vineyard makes English sparkling wine including white and rosé.

If you fancy a tour, and a tasting – you can book one from £25 per person.

It’s easy to explore Saffron Walden in a day too as it’s a 30-minute drive from the city of Cambridge.

If you’re going by train, from London it can take as little as 55-minute which gets you into the nearest station at Audley End.

From there, it’s just a 7-minute drive into the Essex town.

For more on Essex, check out England’s smallest town has riverfront pubs, man-made beach and its own train station.

And make sure to discover the ‘other side’ to the county with sandy beaches and the biggest pleasure pier in the UK.

Hear what one reporter got up to on a trip to the pretty Essex town…

Senior Consumer Reporter Adele Cooke headed to Saffron Walden for a weekend getaway, and here’s what she thought…

“Before I boarded the train for my weekend break, Essex conjured up images of Gemma Collins rather than a refined getaway.

So it was a pleasant surprise to arrive at our cottage set in the splendour of Audley End House and Gardens, just outside Saffron Walden. If you are looking for a place to get away from it all, it’s perfect.

“The 17th-century manor has been visited by everyone from Elizabeth I to screen royalty Olivia Colman, who filmed scenes for Netflix series The Crown.

“In nearby Saffron Walden there were more surprises. Coffee in hand, we took a stroll to St Mary’s Church, which dates to Norman times and is still the tallest building in Essex with its spire topping out at 193ft.

“Then it was on to Bridge End Gardens and its maze –  before a pint at the Cross Keys Hotel, also known for its great food. The fun continued with a visit to one of Essex’s Tiptree tea rooms. I knew Tiptree as the makers of tasty jams, often served in little jars at posh hotels.

“But I was surprised to learn the Essex-born company also has eight tea rooms and even a museum.

“We got the day off to the best of starts at Tiptree’s Courtyard tea room in Saffron Walden with their traditional breakfast, a Full English complete with tasty local sausages, bacon, egg and even some traditional Tiptree brown sauce.”

YOU might think a holiday city break with the entire family would be an expensive staycation – but I’ve found a cheap way to do it.

My family of five stays in a different UK city or town every February half-term for less than £50, thanks to a cheap-as-chips offer from the Youth Hostel Association.

What we especially love about our little break away is that we can get a room in a beautiful building in a luxury location for very little money.

Family rooms and cabins are already pretty affordable at this time of year anyway and the annual YHA January Sale discount code takes an extra 20 per cent off, which makes it incredible value for money.

The deal is still running and covers February half-term and the Easter holidays, so you can take a trip to city, countryside or coastal hostels during the school holidays for next to nothing. 

We love a city break at this time of year as it’s the perfect way to while away the grey days. Generally there are very few tourists about and we can normally find lots of free stuff to do indoors at museums and the like. 

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My favourite was when we stayed at YHA Chester Trafford Hall a couple of years ago, as that was the perfect blend of city and countryside.

It was glorious to be greeted by a carpet of snowdrops as we arrived at the hostel, an old Georgian mansion set in lovely grounds.

You can hop on the bus nearby to get into the city centre in less than half an hour and go for a wander through the historic streets, taking in Roman ruins and the Rows, covered wooden walkways that allow access to shops at first-floor and street level, a famous feature of the city since medieval times. 

Our family room only cost £29.25 (£5.85pppn) and another great element of a hostel stay is that there’s generally a self-catering kitchen, a restaurant where kids eat for £1 and a games room.

We can choose whether to cook for ourselves or order from the restaurant menu and the boys have somewhere to entertain themselves while waiting for food.

It’s lovely staying somewhere that’s got a bit of character and seeing a historic building given a new lease of life for the 21st century.

And it’s great to chat to other guests using the communal areas and pick up tips for where to visit next.

This February, we’re heading for Canterbury to stay in a cosy log cabin for just £34 a night for the five of us – which works out at £6.80 each.

We can’t wait to check out the sights, including the historic cathedral, and hopefully head to the Kent coast if the weather is okay.

It was a bit of a toss up between Canterbury and staying at the iconic Albert Docks in Liverpool for just £28 for a room for four people.

I’ve been visiting this northern powerhouse since I was a child and I love the warm Scouse welcome we always get when we go back.

So if you want to follow in the footsteps of the Beatles or take a ferry across the Mersey, this could be the perfect base for you. 

YHA Manchester also has £40 rooms for a family of five and its canalside location is just a 15-minute walk from the city centre.

One year, we took a trip to YHA Bath, another gorgeous Georgian villa a walk or bus ride away from the city centre.

Bath can get pretty crowded once the weather warms up so going in February is perfect if you don’t want too much hustle and bustle. A stay in a family room there is £72 during half-term.

Using a youth hostel as a base can also be a really affordable way to visit the capital over in the holidays. We stayed in a log cabin at YHA Lee Valley one February, which is next to Cheshunt railway station, where trains stop en route to Liverpool Street.

It was slightly surreal waking up in a nature reserve surrounded by birdsong and then being in the heart of the city within half an hour. The best London deal I’ve spotted for this half-term is at YHA Earls Court, where a six-bed family room costs just £48.

If you’re not a fan of city breaks, the January sale discount code also works for lots of the Lake District hostels and other countryside locations, which often have outdoor cabins and glamping options as well as family rooms. 

We visit YHA Stratford-upon-Avon most years to stay in the deluxe camping pods behind the main building.

They’ve got a little kitchenette and a built-in shower room with toilet, so the pods are a lovely place to get a bit of peace and quiet, before heading into town to enjoy some of the tourist hotspots before they get busy later in the year.

We’ve stayed for less than £20 a night for all of us before, but this half-term, the pods cost £48 using the sale code.

You really can’t beat a YHA stay if you want to bag a bargain and take the family away for a night in half-term for next to nothing. 

For more budget stays here are the UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks, B&Bs and pubs from just £22 a night.

And if you’re heading abroad – here are the most popular hotels in the loveholidays sale with rooftop pools and beautiful beaches… and holidays from £149.

A MAJOR character from Sex and the City was seen looking sexier than ever.

The SATC heartthrob was spotted out and about walking his dogs, and honestly, he’s still looking good more than 20 years after his Sex and the City days.

The 58-year-old actor, who played Carrie’s writer boyfriend, was rocking a seriously shaggy beard during the low-key outing.

Ron Livingston, the star behind the oft-debated Jack Berger character in the series, threw on a blue flannel shirt for the casual dog walk.

Yeah, that’s the guy who had the audacity to break up with Carrie using a Post-it note that said, “I’m sorry. I can’t. Don’t hate me.”

That Post-it breakup is still one of the most talked-about moments in the entire series, and an iconic moment in television history.

For the walk in Hollywood, he added baggy blue jeans to his flannel shirt, a white undershirt, and some dark red leather sneakers.

Wife and fellow actor, Rosemarie DeWitt, joined him on the dog walk in a sporty black and white look with a floppy hat.

Ron’s joked before that he got “death threats from scrunchie nation” after another scene where Berger defended a woman’s hair scrunchie.

Berger is also the one who dropped the legendary, “He’s just not that into you,” line on Miranda during that dinner with all the girls.

Since his SATC days, Ron’s been busy with stuff like The Conjuring, Boardwalk Empire, and his hit show, Loudermilk.

Ron was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and attended Yale along with Anderson Cooper, while singing in the a capella group, the Whiffenpoofs.

He first became known for his lead role as Peter Gibbons in the classic American movie, Office Space.

He’s also well-known for playing Captain Lewis Nixon in Band of Brothers, the HBO war series, for which he was nominated for a Golden Globe.

Unlike SJP, Ron’s kept his personal life pretty private compared to when he was in the Sex and the City spotlight.

He married Rosemarie in 2009, and the pair have two children together.

This casual dog-walking look shows he’s totally fine living a chill life away from all the Hollywood craziness.

Fans were pumped to see him looking good and living his best life.

That shaggy beard gives him a totally different vibe from his clean-cut Berger days — more rugged and distinguished now.

Even after more than 20 years, SATC fans still remember Berger as one of Carrie’s most memorable boyfriends before she met Petrovsky and ended up with Mr Big.

YOU can barely explore the Cotswolds without bumping into a famous face or two.

While not strictly true – the region stretches 800 square miles after all – it is certainly the spot outside of London which has the highest proportions of A-Listers.

The most popular place is Chipping Norton, with everyone from David Cameron to Jamie Oliver living nearby.

Yet many of them have chosen to live in the smaller villages to get away from any overzealous tourists wanting to catch them.

So here are some of the lesser-known villages which have welcomed famous faces over the years, as well as what to do in each destination.

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The tiny village doesn’t have any pubs or shops, but there is the nearby Coates Roundhouse, one of the few remaining on the River Thames, as well as the Sapperton Canal Tunnel.

Otherwise you will have to head to the the nearest pub just down the road, the Thames Head Wharf, or to Cirencester which is a 10 minute drive.

Great Tew

The Beckham’s famously live near Chipping Norton, but they are in the village of Great Tew.

Here you’ll find the 16th century Falkland Arms pub, which also is a four-star hotel.

And next door is the thatched roof Quince and Clover at Great Tew, for a tea and cake.

For other activities, just outside the village is everything from celeb-loved Soho Farmhouse, to clay pigeon shooting and flying schools.

Chadlington

Another member of the Chippy Crew, Jeremy Clarkson famously lives near Chipping Norton and the village of Chadlington.

It has the cosy Cafe de la Post, run by an Australian couple with freshly made pastries and breads, or The Tite Inn pub with a popular beer garden in the summer.

Pick up some bits from the local Chadlington Quality Foods deli, or hop down the road to Clarkson’s Diddly Squat.

Little Farringdon

Near Lechlade is the tiny village of Little Farringon – where model Kate Moss is said to love.

Due to its size, you won’t find much to do here. However, it is right by Horseshoe Lake, a massive water activity centre with everything from kayaking and sailing to swimming and paddleboarding.

For pubs, cafes and hotels, the town of Lechlade is a three minute drive – make sure to pop into the aptly named The Riverside pub for a pint and place to stay right by the water.

Bisley

Home of the former Rivals author Jilly Cooper until her death last year, Bisley is another small village off the beaten track.

The only thing to do in the village is head to the 17th century The Bear Inn pub, which has been praised for its old world vibes.

Time is right and you might stumble into their annual flower show, or annual music festival in the summer.

Chalford

The home of actor Jamie Dornan, the larger village of Chalford is to the west of the even bigger Cirencester.

Bizarrely, it has previously been compared to Switzerland due to its steep hills and alpine feel.

Otherwise there is RMC Retro, a technology museum with vintage consoles and arcades, as well as a number of art galleries.

Grab some fresh produce at the local Chalford Village Shop, before stopping for lunch at the Lavender Bakehouse & Coffee Shop.