Park

“South Park” creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, who this summer landed one of the richest TV deals ever, are being called Scrooges by performers at their Casa Bonita restaurant near Denver.

In late October, the performers, including the famed cliff divers, went on a three-day strike, citing unsafe working conditions and stalled negotiations over their first contract. The performers voted unanimously to unionize with Actors’ Equity Assn. a year ago.

The strike ended when the restaurant’s management agreed to bring in a mediator to assist in the negotiations.

But the standoff has continued, prompting Actors’ Equity to take out an ad in the Denver Post this week that depicts a “South Park” cartoon-like Parker and Stone awash in hundred-dollar bills while their staff, including a gorilla and a person clad in a swimsuit, shivers outside in the Colorado cold.

The union said its goal is to prod the star producers to resolve the labor tensions by giving about 60 Casa Bonita performers, including magicians and puppeteers, a pay increase and other benefits along with their first contract.

A full page ad is running in the Denver Post on Dec 24.

(Actors’ Equity Association)

Other Casa Bonita workers voted earlier this month to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 7.

“At Casa Bonita, we value all of our team members and their well being,” the restaurant management said in a statement. “We are negotiating in good faith with our unionized team members in the hopes of concluding fair collective bargaining agreements.”

Parker and Stone declined to comment through a spokesperson.

The pair, who also created the hit Broadway play “The Book of Mormon,” rescued the kitschy, bright-pink Mexican-themed eatery in Lakewood, Colo., from bankruptcy in 2021 and have since plowed more than $40 million into the restaurant to upgrade and correct unsafe electrical, plumbing and structural issues after the facility had fallen into disrepair.

For “South Park” super-fans, the venue has become something of a mecca since first being featured in the seventh season of the long-running Comedy Central cartoon.

In that episode, Cartman flips out when Kyle invites Stan, Kenny and Butters Stotch to his birthday party at Casa Bonita (not Cartman), where they are serenaded by the restaurant’s ubiquitous mariachi bands.

Along with legions of other kids who grew up in Colorado, Parker and Stone fondly remember making the trek to the Casa Bonita of their 1980s youth. Restoring the restaurant has become a passion project for the writers, a journey that became grist for a documentary, “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!,” which streams on Paramount+.

In July, Paramount managers were eager to tie up loose ends to facilitate the company’s sale to David Ellison’s Skydance Media and RedBird Capital Partners. The incoming management team also became involved in the protracted negotiations to strike a new deal with Parker and Stone’s production company, Park County, to avoid having the situation unravel, possibly tripping up their corporate takeover.

Paramount ultimately agreed to extend the overall deal for Park County as well as lock up the show’s exclusive global streaming rights for $300 million a year over five years. Until this year, the show streamed exclusively on HBO Max.

The overall deal is slated to bring Parker and Stone’s firm $1.25 billion through 2030.

As part of the pact, the team agreed to create 50 new “South Park” episodes for Paramount. The series has enjoyed a ratings bounce and increased cultural resonance this year as it routinely roasts President Trump.

Actors’ Equity, which also represents Broadway performers, is seeking pay raises for its members at Casa Bonita. Union representatives said performers’ wages there average $21 to $26 an hour.

“Matt and Trey have become fabulously wealthy by pointing out the hypocrisy of rich and powerful people,” said David Levy, communications director for Actors’ Equity. “And now they are behaving exactly like the people they like to take down.”

The Ford Mustang was built in Detroit, introduced to the world in New York and, according to a new exhibit on the border of downtown and Boyle Heights, romanticized by Los Angeles.

Part advertisement, part history lesson and part playground, “American Icon: A Mustang Immersive Experience” uses theme park-inspired trappings to celebrate a work of mechanical artistry. The car — first introduced in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair as a sporty, compact coup with just a little bit of an edge — is given a hero’s treatment. Inside the warehouse-like Ace Mission Studios, “American Icon” tracks the Mustang’s evolution from the suburban garage to the race track, and uses projections and a 4D theater experience to transform what could have been a showroom experience into something built more for a video game.

With installations focused on the fabled, traffic-free, open road “freedom” that car manufacturers like to so often tout, there’s something quaintly old fashioned here. The Mustang is presented as a car for young couples on the go, optimistically envisioning an America when home and car ownership were a given.

Visitors watch an immersive 4D short film.

(Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times)

The seats inside a 4D theater vibrate and feature water and scent effects.

(Ronaldo Bolanos / Los Angeles Times)

In that sense, it’s a car enthusiast’s fantasy. But can it inspire a new generation of car dreamers, especially at a time when some data indicates younger audiences may be holding off on a car purchase?

While no cars are for sale at “American Icon” — there is an assortment of specially branded Mustang merch, however, much of it nostalgically focused on 1964 — such an immersive endeavor makes sense, says researcher Jason Jordhamo, a marketing director for Polk Automotive Solutions from S&P Global Mobility. Enticing audiences today, he says, involves a more personal touch than a big TV ad spend or a sponsorship deal.

“It’s less time in the dealership,” Jordhamo says of reaching younger consumers, especially Gen Z. “Those traditional things have to be let go of.”

Jordhamo notes that new vehicle registration among those aged 18-34 has dipped about 2% in recent years. Anecdotally, he cites a multitude of factors, ranging from growing environmental consciousness — hybrids and electric vehicles are big with the age bracket — to the ease of rideshare, especially in major cities.

But there are other causes for concern. “There’s a lot of things that are challenging in that space,” Jordhamo says. “One is affordability, which is huge. The cost for purchasing a vehicle — the monthly costs — have gone up 30% since the beginning of this decade. And the average loan payment nationally has been over $750 all calendar year.”

With the “Pick Your Pony” interactive feature, guests can listen to different Mustang engine sounds.

(Ronaldo Bolanos / Los Angeles Times)

Immersive experiences, which typically denote either some level of participation on the part of the guest or attempt to envelope the attendee in all-encompassing imagery, are common in Hollywood and often seen as a way of reaching a younger consumer weaned on interactive entertainment. They’ve been utilized heavily by studios such as Netflix for pop-ups themed to “Arcane,” “Squid Game” and more, but brands and personalities as varied as the Catholic Church, McDonald’s and even Mariah Carey have gotten in on the experiential action. Car companies, too, have dabbled, be it partnering with video game franchises such as “Gran Turismo” or “Rocket League” or, as Ford already does, offering real-life experiences such as off-roading in a Bronco at various U.S. locales.

“It’s more than just steel and rubber,” says Ford’s communications director Mike Levine when asked why Mustang was pegged for such an experience. “Mustang’s impact on America should be appreciated like an art exhibit.”

Seated before a crisply, powdered blue 1965 Mustang on a turntable, the exhibit’s first major room comes alive to simulate movement as the surrounding four walls use projections to place us on idealized versions of Venice Beach and Route 66. The glimmering rhythm of Martha and the Vandellas’ “Nowhere to Run” sets the tone as visions of cruise culture innocence aim to make us feel as if we’re on a ride through Southern California. All that’s missing to complete the mood is someone to deliver us a milkshake.

Several generations of Mustangs are projected behind a real vehicle.

(Ronaldo Bolanos / Los Angeles Times)

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Levine says Los Angeles rather than Detroit was chosen as the first of a planned many stops for “American Icon” in part due to the city’s iconography, pointing to historic drives such as Pacific Coast and Angeles Crest highways as scenic backdrops for our car-focused culture. While experiential marketing is all the buzz in recent years, Levine says this is the first installation of its kind for Ford.

“So far, so good,” said Enzo Sanchez, 22, when asked on a recent weekday if he was enjoying “American Icon,” which culminates in a 4D theater experience that serves as a mini motion simulator. Expect to get splashed with a drop of water as the smell of burning rubber fills the room. The mini film — about five minutes — has Mustang drivers saving a post-apocalyptic world from a rogue AI. “Terminator,” but if Mustangs came to the rescue.

Sanchez, named after famed racer and entrepreneur Enzo Ferrari, comes from a car enthusiast family. His father pointed to a wall dedicated to appearances of the Mustang in popular culture, and singled out a framed portrait of Johnny Mathis’ LP “Those Were the Days,” which features the automobile, and said he would have to track down a copy.

“It just transports you,” Sanchez says of his love of the Mustang, adding that he first became aware of “American Icon” on a recent trip to mid-Wilshire’s Petersen Automotive Museum, which helped curate the exhibition. Sanchez noticed one of its famed 1967 Mustangs, the so-called “Eleanor” from “Gone in 60 Seconds,” was absent, and when Sanchez inquired as to its whereabouts, he was told that it would be popping up at “American Icon.” The vehicle shares space with Mustangs from “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Kick-Ass” and “Transformers” at the exhibition.

The Mustang, says Ford’s Levine, has been among the most popular movie vehicles, adding that “Gone in 60 Seconds” showcases the car as much as it does the city of Los Angeles. He, too, has seen the headlines that proclaim Gen Z is shifting away from car ownership. For now, he says, he isn’t concerned.

“I heard the same thing about millennials, who weren’t going to buy cars,” he says. “As a parent of two Gen Z children, they love cars. Their friends have cars. They want something they can enjoy.”

A rotating platform and video projections make a Ford Mustang look like it’s driving on a road.

(Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times)

And as Ford bets on with “American Icon,” they want something they can experience.

“This is a different way to reach a Gen Z customer that is very much looking for or has seen engaging content online,” he says. “And when you come in to do that experience, it’s really every sense. When you do the 4D ride, it is every sense. You smell. You feel it. You hear it. You see it. And when you’re immersed on that level, you put the phone down.”

And that, of course, is an essential rule to enjoying the road.

If your dog has missed out on the festive fun so far, there’s still time to book them into Paws in the Park at LEGOLAND Windsor. There’s even the chance for them to give Santa their wish list

If you’re looking for a festive family day out that includes your four-legged friend, then LEGOLAND Windsor is offering a day that dogs will love. On December 21 and 28, the iconic theme park will host Paws in the Park, a special event that allows dogs to accompany their owners to the attraction’s Christmas celebrations.

While most dogs don’t have much interest in LEGO, beyond chewing any stray pieces found on the floor, they’ll no doubt love the festive atmosphere of the park and a new place for walkies. Dogs can sniff their way around the park while owners enjoy over 20 rides, Christmas shows, and the Elf Training Academy.

And if your dog is on the nice list this year, why not treat them to a visit to see Santa himself? After 5pm, Santa’s Grotto in the Christmas Kingdom is open to doggos who are hoping for a visit from Santa Paws this year.

Owners who want to bring their dog to the park will need to pay for a £10 Pet Pass in addition to tickets for any humans visiting, and there are a few rules to follow. Dogs need to be kept on a lead, and you must bring any dog food and snacks with you, although there will be water points throughout the park.

Paws in the Park is part of Christmas at LEGOLAND, the theme park’s festive offering which describes itself as ‘the ultimate Christmas day out’. Until January 4, the park will be decked out in Christmas décor, turning it into a brick-shaped winter wonderland.

A number of rides are still open over Christmas, including The Dragon rollercoaster and the ever-popular LEGO City Driving School. Little kids will especially love the DUPLO Dino Coaster, based on the beloved toddler toys, and the LEGOLAND Express train which takes you on a tour of the park.

You can meet Santa and his elves in LEGO form, before dropping into the grotto to meet Father Christmas himself and give him your Christmas wishes. Visitors get a special LEGO gift to remember their trip.

LEGOLAND’s Christmas attractions also include the Festival of Flurries show, a musical where the audience are encouraged to dance and sing along in a lively yuletide show. As you walk through the park, you may also spot the Nutcracker’s Marching Band, a group playing brass band versions of your favourite Christmas songs.

And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to play with the beloved brick toys, including Build to Give. For every LEGO heart built in the workshop, a LEGO set will be donated.

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In addition to LEGOLAND Windsor, there are three European LEGO-themed parks, perhaps the most famous being in Billund, Denmark, the home of LEGO. Recently, LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany announced they’d be adding a new Harry Potter land to their list of attractions, which will include Wizarding World-themed rides and accommodation. The park plans to release more information on this new land in the next 12 months.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

UNIVERSAL has finally been given the green light to open a theme park in the UK.

The famous film studios has been given planning permission to start building the theme park.

A Special Development Order (SDO) has been granted by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, which allows the theme park to skip local planning procedures.

This means it will allow it to be built in the suggested location near Bedford.

Expected to start works in January 2026, the park could open as soon as 2031.

It will be the first Universal theme park for both the UK and Europe, with current resorts only across the US and Asia.

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Local Labour MP Mohammad Yasin praised the “landmark moment,” adding: “The confirmation of planning permission for the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex is transformational and will be felt for decades to come.”

Estimated to cost £6.6billion to build, it could attract as many as eight million visitors a year.

Little is currently known about what kind of themed lands and rides would open at the UK Universal.

Rumours suggest James Bond, Paddington and Lord of the Rings, Minions, Jurassic World, and Back to the Future.

It is unlikely to include Harry Potter due to licensing rules and the nearby Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction in the nearby Leavesden.

Set across 662 acres, there will be four ‘zones’; the Core Zone, Lake Zone, West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone.

The Core Zone is likely to be the entrance area, as well as where the theme park and waterpark will be.

Plans also include a 500-room hotel.

More accommodation and business hotels will be at the Lake Zone, as well as an entertainment complex ans convention centre.

Then both the West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone will be where guests arrive by train and car, with restaurants and hotels.

This is also like to be where the Entry Plaza area will be, as well as the parking and a 500-room hotel.

The park is expected to stay open all year round, unlike other UK theme parks like Alton Towers and Thorpe Park which only open on select dates like Christmas and New Year.

Not only that but it would have much longer opening hours, suggested to be 7am to 11pm.

It will also have a free-to-visit area where guests won’t need a ticket to enter.

Also included in the theme park plans are a new train station to cope with demand.

The new station would be part of the East West Rail (EWR) line, with train links to Oxford to Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford.

In the mean time The Sun’s  Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski visited Universal’s huge new £7bn theme park this summer.

Courtney Bardell, 25, said the family-of-five faced two-hour waits for rides as well as pushing and shoving in crowds after forking out over £270 to visit London’s Winter Wonderland

A young girl was left in tears after an exhausted Santa “refused her entry” to his Grotto during a “disappointing” visit to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, her mum has claimed.

Mother-of-three Courtney Bardell, 25, claims her children were “upset” following a disastrous outing to the popular London market last Saturday (12). She said the family-of-five endured two-hour queues for rides alongside aggressive jostling in crowds after spending over £270 on travel, attraction passes, and food.

However, the event’s organisers have said that admission to see Father Christmas is paused at ‘peak times’, and that the grotto’s workers also have scheduled breaks.

The stay-at-home mum, who attended with partner Connor, 26, and daughters Harlie-Mae, six, Lucia, four, and Essie, one, insists she won’t be returning to the festive event. Courtney, from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, said: “I expected it to be busy but I didn’t expect it to be as busy as it was.”

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“I expected them (the kids) to see Santa and get a gift from Santa. It was advertised that Santa’s Grotto would be open until 6pm but we got there at about 3pm and the staff said ‘Santa’s had enough’. Harlie-Mae started crying because she wanted to see Santa. You could see through the glass that other children were getting to see him.”

Courtney said that her family arrived at 2pm and were instantly taken aback by the sheer volume of visitors.

She added: “The kids couldn’t even walk without getting pushed over. My six-year-old was asking me after half an hour ‘when are we going home?’. You also get advertised a meal which we assumed would be in a sit-down restaurant but there weren’t enough tables at all, so you’re getting pushed while you’re trying to eat.”

Courtney has since shelled out £35 to take the children to a local grotto after Harlie-Mae labelled her day at Winter Wonderland as “rubbish”.

“We’ll probably just go somewhere local next time”, she added. “It’ll save the disappointment.”

In a statement from Winter Wonderland, a spokesperson said: “Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s priority is the safety of all our visitors. To manage visitor flow, we operate specific entry times and a ticketing system to help guests enjoy the event comfortably.

“We understand there can be queues during particularly busy periods and work to clear these as quickly as possible. Santa’s Grotto operates with scheduled breaks, and admissions may be paused at peak times.”

Courtney isn’t the only one to be left disappointed by her Winter Wonderland experience this year. A woman who ordered a hot chocolate at the Hyde Park attraction was left floored by the price, and took to TikTok to show how she managed to spend £70 on food and drink during her trip.

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However, there are cheaper alternatives such as Christmas markets in Europe. The cheapest Christmas market in Europe was recently revealed as Poznan in Poland, which is just a two hour flight from the UK. Visitors can book hotel rooms for as little as £30 a night, and pints are about £2 in this underrated city.

Another option closer to home is Newcastle Christmas Market, recently named one of the best in the UK by readers of Which? It was recently praised for having a large number of independent traders, the majority of them being local to Newcastle, and groups can pre-book igloos in the city centre and enjoy food and drink service with somewhere to shelter.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

If you’re bored of theme parks with long queues and greasy food, a new ‘luxury’ theme park will be opening in 2026 that promises a much more upmarket experience including “five-star hospitality”

A day out at a theme park is hardly what you’d call a luxury experience. While it’s nice to enjoy a day of family-fun, having to queue for 30-second rides and fight the crowds isn’t exactly relaxing.

However, an upmarket resort chain now aims to elevate the average theme park experience. Billed as “the world’s first-ever luxury theme park”, BON (beauty of nature) is set to open in autumn of 2026 for guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta in Mexico.

There are ambitious plans for this new theme park, which will eventually have multiple lands including 23 attractions, 25 restaurants, lounges, and shops across the site. It’ll feature both thrill rides and family-friendly options, as well as immersive experiences and playgrounds.

Guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta, a resort featuring a 5-star hotel, golf course, and direct beach access, already have access to select attractions within the theme park. The park recently opened Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ, a spectacular water-based show that takes place in a custom-built theater costing $ 200 million (£ 148 million) for an immersive dinner experience. The theatre is surrounded by a wrap-around aquarium for a 360-degree undersea experience.

Two of the theme park’s seven planned lands are also open for guests to preview. There’s Wonder Bay, which includes a lake show and seasonal celebrations. Until January 11, a Christmas theme is in effect, featuring decorations, live performances, and festive meet-and-greets.

Adventure Valley is also open, featuring the serene Carousel of Colors and the family-friendly Time Quest. There’s also Tempest Towers, a ride that takes you to new heights before plunging you down, and Kids Cove playground with plenty for them to explore. Some of the park’s shops and restaurants are also open, offering visitors a glimpse of what the park will be like.

Once fully open, visitors will be able to enjoy rides such as the Tecuani Beast, set to be Latin America’s only double-launch coaster. This will have top speeds of 65mph and more airtime than any other rollercoaster in the region. Another attraction will be the floral-themed Floresta Drop, which will be a family-friendly ride.

There will also be a variety of eateries offering an elevated experience compared to the typical theme park fare. This includes authentic Mexican cuisine offerings, sushi restaurants, and American-style grills.

The park will also feature numerous surprises around every corner, including costumed entertainers, light shows, fireworks, and much more. The company VidantaWorld, who already have two beach resorts in Mexico and a mega yacht, want to create a “multi-generational” experience, with something for all ages.

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The news comes as a popular European theme park is set to get a new world based on the Harry Potter series. LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany confirmed the creation of a new Wizarding World based on J.K. Rowling’s popular franchise. Details will be released in the next 12 months and are set to include Harry Potter themed accommodation.

Disneyland Paris is also set to get a brand new attraction, and has confirmed that the World of Frozen, based on the Frozen movies, will open on March 29, 2026. The area is set to include a brand new ride, character meet and greets, new shows, and exclusive food and drink.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

A WORLD famous destination, often referred to as the unofficial eighth Wonder of the World, could be getting a new theme park.

The Ontario government has launched a new Destination Niagara Strategy which is a multi-billion dollar plan to transform Canada‘s top tourist spots into even better destinations.

As part of the strategy, Niagara Falls could become the ‘Las Vegas of the North’ with the possible creation of a new theme park.

Other plans include redeveloping the Ontario Power Generating Station into a new tourist destination.

A huge wheel ride that visitors can see the falls from is also part of the project – and could be similar to the London Eye with views of the River Thames.

The Niagara Parks Marina will be updated, with plans of opening a restaurant, shop and outdoor patio area.

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Work is already being carried out to convert the historic Toronto Power Generating Station in a five-star hotel – a first in the area.

The hotel is on the banks of the upper Niagara River and will have a craft brewery, museum, a spa, art gallery and a theatre.

In addition to this, there could be “multiple world-class casinos”, as well as “entertainment and top-tier dining options”.

Niagara’s casinos already attract over five million people and generate around €500million (£373million) every year.

The report states that it would “create new, world-class attractions, boost local arts and culture and improve the region’s transportation network.”

It hopes to welcome as many as 25million visitors a year, and double the region’s tourism.

It could even create $3billion (£2.3billion) for Ontario’s GDP.

Premier Doug Ford said: “Niagara is home to the world-famous Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic tourism destinations on earth, along with a host of world-class restaurants, wineries, hotels, cultural events and so much more.

“Our Destination Niagara Strategy will unlock the region’s full potential, supporting workers and creating new opportunities for tourists and families from Ontario and around the world to come and experience the best that the region has to offer.”

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West said: “This transformative investment in Niagara as a world-class, four-season tourism destination is another example of how our government is protecting Ontario.

“This critical support for our regional tourism strategy will not only attract more visitors from coast to coast across North America, but from around the globe.”

In the future, the destination could see even more new attractions and visitor experiences – though details are limited.

More money will be invested in cultural events too and improving transport options in the region.

Also in the years ahead, there could be a new Niagara River Line attraction, which would be an electric tram through Queen Victoria Park.

Visitors would board capsules that would be suspended, allowing them to see Niagara Falls from a new angle.

Back in August, a new Niagara Takes Flight experience opened.

The $25million (£18.7million) flying theatre experience allows visitors to go on a journey along the Niagara River corridor, soaring across 34.8 miles of parkland including Lake Ontario and the edge of Lake Erie.

A recent visitor said: “This was the most fun we had at Niagara Falls!

“This simulation makes you feel as if you are really experiencing this adventure!”

In other theme park news, these are all the UK rides and attractions that we lost in 2025 and the exciting ones coming in 2026.

Plus, a new £875million theme park dubbed ‘Transylvanian Disneyland’ is set to open in Europe.

Sometimes it can be difficult when a high school coach also has his son on the team, but then there are those unforgettable moments that make every second spent together magical. Such a moment happened on Friday night for Oak Park basketball coach Aaron Shaw and his son, sophomore guard Grant Shaw.

Grant made a three-pointer from beyond the top of the key as the buzzer sounded to give host Oak Park a 54-51 win over rival Agoura.

Then, for some unknown reason at the time, Grant ran in the opposite direction, followed by his teammates and delirious Oak Park fans. There were so many people celebrating he ended up pushed into the gym foyer.

Watching from the bench was his father, who didn’t understand why his son was headed out of the gym. “The coaches were asking, ‘Where is he going?’” he said.

It turns out the surge of people celebrating forced Grant into the foyer. His father reminded him afterward to perhaps next time stay in the gym.

But make no mistake about, Aaron has won two Southern Section titles as a coach, and this moment ranks up among the best.

“Proud dad moment,” he said.

This is a daily look at the positive happenings in high school sports. To submit any news, please email eric.sondheimer@latimes.com.

I’VE found the best holiday park to spend the Christmas holidays at – and we’re returning as a family again this year.

My family of five has visited Haven, Butlin’s, Center Parcs and Away Resorts for a seasonal staycay in recent times, but we always end up back at our favourite.

Park Holidays‘ Broadland Sands near Great Yarmouth, is our fail-safe every year, even when none of the park facilities like the pool or the climbing wall are open in December.

But for a cosy Christmas getaway, it’s all about the accommodation for us.

With a big open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, there’s enough space (and crockery) to host a sit-down meal for a dozen people, so its ideal for hosting larger families.

It’s so much easier than trying to gather everyone together at home, hunting for extra chairs, working out how we can all fit around the table and cleaning the house before guests arrive.

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Instead it feels like a real treat to be staying in a spotless space where everyone can chip in with the cooking without treading on anyone’s toes.

My top tip would be to bring a slow cooker or an air fryer so you’ve got a back-up plan if you can’t fit everything in the oven, especially if you’ve got a lot of mouths to feed. 

The lodges at Broadland Sands are tucked away at one end of the park and it really does feel like you’re a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of normal life, waking up to the sun glistening through frosty trees outside.

Next door is St Bartholomew’s, a semi-ruined church that still hosts some Sunday services.

And just up the lane is the Lodge at Woburn Farm, which offers music nights and food, so you can enjoy a party atmosphere if the mood takes you.

I like to bring a stash of cosy treats, like fluffy socks, matching PJs and hot chocolate with marshmallows so we can really make the most of our comfortable accommodation and take a bit of time to get some R&R during the festivities.

While we love our quiet Christmas away, there’s also something to be said for heading to Haven or Butlin’s for full-on family fun.

Last year we spent Twixmas at Haven’s Seashore park and had a great time, splashing in the pool and watching the panto in the entertainment venue.

But the best bit of the break was wandering along a deserted beach in the late December sunshine and cosying up in our caravan for a family film night.

The festive season is already so busy with nights out, children’s parties and end-of-term activities that we all just want a bit of peace and quiet by the time we go on our Yuletide getaway. 

That’s why going to a luxury lodge on a closed park proves perfect most years.

Happily it also tends to be the most cost-effective option.

We spent around £250 for the weekend, compared to the steep £1,400 at Center Parcs Elveden Forest or £1,060 for a seaview lodge at Haven Seashore.

Having said that, we do also enjoy an occasional seasonal staycay elsewhere, especially now so many more UK parks have opened up until the New Year.

We quite often make a cheeky midweek visit to Butlin’s, which is usually a bargain £50 for four nights.

One year, there was even a free ice-skating rink at Skegness, so it really did give my family that festive feel for next to nothing.

Now’s the perfect time to bag a bargain break to end 2025 with a bang, so get booking!

The saga of a Los Angeles Army veteran who legally immigrated to the United States, was wounded in combat and self-deported to South Korea earlier this year, became a flashpoint during a testy congressional hearing about the Trump administration’s immigration policy.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was grilled Thursday on Capitol Hill about military veterans deported during the immigration crackdown launched earlier this year, including in Los Angeles.

“Sir, we have not deported U.S. citizens or military veterans,” Noem responded when questioned by Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.).

Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.) speaks during a hearing of the House Committee on Homeland Security on Thursday. He was joined on a video call by Sae Joon Park, a U.S. military veteran who self-deported to South Korea.

(Mark Schiefelbein / Associated Press)

An aide then held up a tablet showing a Zoom connection with Purple Heart recipient Sae Joon Park in South Korea. The congressman argued that Park had “sacrificed more for this country than most people ever have” and asked Noem if she would investigate Park’s case, given her discretion as a Cabinet member. Noem pledged to “absolutely look at his case.”

Park, reached in Seoul on Thursday night, said he was skeptical that Noem would follow through on her promise, but said that he had “goosebumps” watching the congressional hearing.

“It was amazing. And then I’m getting tons of phone calls from all my friends back home and everywhere else. I’m so very grateful for everything that happened today,” Park, 56, said, noting that friends told him that a clip of his story appeared on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show Thursday night.

The late-night host featured footage of Park’s moment in the congressional hearing in his opening monologue.

“Is anyone OK with this? Seriously, all kidding aside, we deported a veteran with a Purple Heart?” Kimmel said, adding that Republicans “claim to care so much about veterans, but they don’t at all.”

Park legally immigrated to the United States when he was 7, grew up in Koreatown and the San Fernando Valley, and joined the Army after graduating from Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks in 1988.

Sae Joon Park received a Purple Heart while serving in the Army.

(From Sae Joon Park)

The green card holder was deployed to Panama in 1989 as the U.S. tried to depose the nation’s de facto leader, Gen. Manuel Noriega. Park was shot twice and honorably discharged. Suffering post-traumatic stress disorder, he self-medicated with illicit drugs, went to prison after jumping bail on drug possession charges, became sober and raised two children in Hawaii.

Earlier this year, when Park checked in for his annual meeting with federal officials to verify his sobriety and employment, he was given the option of being immediately detained and deported, or wearing an ankle monitor for three weeks as he got his affairs in order before leaving the country for a decade.

At the time, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said Park had an “extensive criminal history” and had been given a final removal order, with the option to self-deport.

Park chose to leave the country voluntarily. He initially struggled to acclimate in a nation he hasn’t lived in since he was a child, but said Thursday night that his mental state — and his Korean-language skills — have improved.

“It hasn’t been easy. Of course, I miss home like crazy,” he said. “I’m doing the best I can. I’m usually a very positive person, so I feel like everything happens for a reason, and I’m just trying to hang in there until hopefully I make it back home.”

Among Park’s top concerns when he left the United States in June was that his mother, who is 86 and struggling with dementia, would die while he couldn’t return to the county. But her lack of awareness about his situation has been somewhat of a strange blessing, Park said.

“She really doesn’t know I’m even here. So every time I talk to her, she’s like, ‘Oh, where are you?’ And I tell her, and she’s like, ‘Oh, when are you coming home? Oh, why are you there?’” Park said. “In a weird way, it’s kind of good because she doesn’t have to worry about me all the time. But at the same time, I would love to be next to her while she’s going through this.”

JET2 has teamed up with Eurocamp to launch holiday park packages for the first time.

The new holiday park deals with Jet2holidays will launch from summer 2026.

Eurocamp – the UK’s leading European outdoor family holiday specialist – has parks across France, Italy and Croatia.

Each package includes return flights with Jet2 as well as 22kg baggage, 10kg carry-on baggage, car hire and accommodation.

In total, 32 parks have been chosen with locations ranging from pretty beaches to beautiful mountains and lakes.

The destinations can be found in the Paris area, South of France, Dordogne, Provence, Roussillon and Languedoc in France, Sardinia and Lake Garda in Italy and the Istrian Coast and Dalmatia Coast in Croatia.

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You can leave the towels and bed linen at home too, as they are also included.

There will be a range of two and three bed mobile homes to book and each site will also have entertainment and activities.

Whilst the sites do differ, a lot of them do have pools and outdoor activities to choose from.

There are also different levels of accommodation to choose depending on your budget.

The most affordable is the Classic option, which are self-catered homes on the lower end of the price scale.

However the most popular option is Comfort, one level up from this.

Or you can splash out on Premium, Premium Exclusive, Ultimate or Ultimate Plus.

These all have extras such as free WiFi, larger living areas and outdoor spaces, or private hot tubs.

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy the launch was to offer “unforgettable outdoor holidays across Europe with Jet2holidays”.

He added: “We know just how popular Eurocamp is, and we are very confident that its appeal, together with the perks of a Jet2holidays package, will mean that this new proposition is a huge success.”

Ross Matthews, chief marketing officer at Eurocamp: “For this launch, we have curated a selection of 32 standout locations from our wider European network, chosen for their quality, location and strong alignment with Jet2holidays’ routes, pairing our premium outdoor accommodation with Jet2holidays’ award-winning service and flight network.

“Together, we are introducing an exciting new way for UK holidaymakers to discover Europe’s most beautiful regions.”

Eurocamp has 400 parks in total across a number of European destinations including France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

It’s latest expansion included 16 new sites across France.

Most of the parks tend to be self-catering and families can participate in a number of activities such as swimming, sports and games.

In other holiday park news, there’s a UK holiday park that’s a ‘better value Center Parcs’ with Christmassy Blue Lagoon and kid elf uniforms.

Plus, Center Parcs confirms opening date for newest UK holiday resort – its first in nearly 15 years.

THERE’S a theme park in Europe named the word’s best – but it isn’t Disneyland Paris.

The huge Europa-Park in Germany was named Best Theme Park in the World at the Golden Ticket Awards.

It is the 10th time it has won the award – and with 100 attractions, I wasn’t surprised.

I visited the mega theme park last year, and was left seriously impressed by the scale of it.

Stretching across 230 acres, across the park are 15 country-themed lands placed on different destination around the world.

The area of Greece feels like you are in Mykonos, while the Switzerland area is like being in the heart of the Alps.

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There is a St Marks Square in Italy, as well as a pizzieria, while there are lands based on Norway, the Netherlands and Spain as well.

There is an England themed land too, which yes, has a British pub.

The extravagance of the park reminds me of a family-friendly Las Vegas, without the casinos and neon lights or course.

Among the 100 attractions are 13 rollercoasters, my favourite being new Voltron Nevera in the Croatia section.

Created by Mack Rides – behing Thorpe Park’s Hyperia – it has a record-breaking 105-degree beyond-vertical launch, the steepest in the world.

It is easily one of the most innovative roller­coasters I’ve experienced, not to mention the most terrifying.

The park also has Rulantica, a huge waterpark with 50 slides and attractions.

Heated to 32C, it even opened a new outdoor pool this year, which has a massive swim up bar with 150 seats.

And if that wasn’t enough, there are a whopping 50 restaurants and bars at Europa-Park – my favourite being the mad Eatrenalin.

Sat at a “floating chair” I was transported to different rooms for different dishes while surrounded by immersive displays.

It combines gourmet cuisine with modern technology – and I was sold.

Europa-Park is constantly expanding too – back in June, the new Wild West themed land Silver Lake City opened.

Along with four themed diners, there is even a 630-bed Tipi Town accommodation village.

Next year will see the opening of the Riverside Western Lodge, with another 120 rooms.

It might not have the recognition of Disneyland, but with so much for all ages, Europa Park should top any theme park-lover’s list.

It’s not just me who was impressed, with one money-saving mum saying it was perfect even in half term holidays.

Content creator TheTravelMum said: “The theming is incredible, and the queue times are absolutely amazing.

“A lot of the smaller rides only have one minute queues.

“The park is fantastic for thrillseekers but at the same time it caters to the little ones,

“This place is fantastic value.”

Entry to the park costs £52 for adults and £44 for children (4–11) and seniors.

Despite being in Germany, the park is near the border of France and Switzerland, so the nearest airport for Brits is Basel.

Return fares in November start from £39pp.