places

A recent list has named the top 16 European city-break destinations that can be easily reached by train and one Belgian spot has been called as a must-visit in the region

Belgium, a country adored by many for its blend of medieval heritage and modern flair, offers more than just the popular city of Bruges.

For those seeking to avoid the crowds while still experiencing the enchantment of Belgium, Ghent could be your next destination. This region is brimming with architectural wonders, historical landmarks, and a vibrant arts scene, all set against the backdrop of cobblestone streets ideal for leisurely strolls and cycling.

Ghent was highlighted in a list by Which? as one of the top 16 European city-break destinations easily accessible by train. This lesser-known Belgian gem outshone Paris and Amsterdam, proving it deserves a spot on your next European travel bucket list.

READ MORE: Countries that could require your photo and fingerprints from next month – full listREAD MORE: ‘World’s most beautiful city’ has ‘peaceful’ Christmas market without the crowds

Which? members voted for their favourite European locations, rating each out of five stars in categories such as accommodation, food and drink. While Bruges took the top spot, Ghent made an impressive showing, coming in 5th with a city score of 80 per cent.

Located northwest of Belgium, Ghent is a port city renowned for its Gothic architecture. As the fourth largest city in Belgium, it is home to approximately a quarter of a million people.

The region is steeped in culture, boasting a captivating arts scene, thriving culinary cuisine, lively street life, and a historic centre. Furthermore, the city’s picturesque canals offer ample green spaces, boat tours, walking hotspots, and cycling trails for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

READ MORE: ‘Prettiest’ capital city in the world is less than three hours from UK with £25 flights

Described as a captivating spot with a relaxed atmosphere and fewer tourists than many other European hotspots, Ghent is a hidden gem. The town is home to numerous museums, medieval streets, three towers and the Ghent Altarpiece, a large 15th-century polyptych altarpiece also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb that’s a must-see.

Ghent holds the title of Europe’s largest car-free zone, boasting vast pedestrianised areas. After a long day of exploring, you can look forward to an unparalleled culinary experience.

The region is renowned for its top-notch mustard, which perfectly complements traditional dishes such as ganda ham, kroakdemandels, Ghent-style stoverij or waterzooi. And for those who enjoy a pint, beer is practically a way of life here, with several breweries offering a taste of their delightful brews.

You can get to Ghent from London St Pancras to Brussels, followed by a transfer to Ghent, all in less than three hours, making it a must-visit European destination.

WASHINGTON — Use of solitary confinement in immigration detention is soaring under the Trump administration, according to a report published Wednesday by Physicians for Human Rights using federal data and records obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed at least 10,588 people in solitary confinement from April 2024 to May 2025, the report found. Contributors also included experts from Harvard University’s Peeler Immigration Lab and Harvard Law School.

The use of solitary confinement during the first four months of the current Trump administration increased each month, on average, at twice the rate found between 2018 and 2023, researchers found, and more than six times the rate during the last several months of 2024.

“Every month from February through May, which are the full calendar months of the new administration, the number of people placed in solitary in ICE [custody] increased by 6.5%,” said Dr. Katherine Peeler, medical advisor for Physicians for Human Rights, and assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. “That was really dismaying.”

Solitary confinement, in which detainees are held alone for at least 22 hours a day, is used in ICE detention facilities as a form of punishment or to protect certain at-risk immigrants.

In a statement Thursday, assistant Homeland Security secretary Tricia McLaughlin said ICE prioritizes the safety and security of people in its custody.

Detainees are placed into disciplinary segregation “only after they are found guilty by a disciplinary hearing panel,” she said.

Any detainee scheduled for removal, release, or transfer is also placed into administrative segregation for 24 hours, she added. According to ICE’s National Detention Standards, “such segregation may be ordered for security reasons or for the orderly operation of the facility.”

The United Nations has called solitary confinement longer than 15 consecutive days a form of torture.

ICE defines vulnerable detainees as those with serious medical or mental health conditions, disabilities, and those who are elderly, pregnant or nursing, at risk of harm due to sexual orientation or gender identity, or victims of abuse.

Among those categorized as vulnerable, the report states that solitary confinement lasted twice as long, on average, during the first three months of 2025 compared with the first fiscal quarter of 2022, when the agency started reporting those statistics.

This year, vulnerable detainees spent an average of 38 consecutive days in isolation, compared with 14 days in late 2021, according to the report.

The report notes that use of solitary confinement in immigration detention has risen “at an alarming rate” over the last decade, and that billions of dollars authorized earlier this year by Congress to expand detention will likely exacerbate the issue. It calls on the federal government to end the practice against immigrants who are detained for civil deportation proceedings, and for states and members of Congress to exercise oversight.

Nearly 59,000 immigrants were held in ICE custody as of Sept. 7, according to TRAC, a nonpartisan data research organization.

The researchers at Physicians for Human Rights analyzed individual cases in New England and found “systemic use of solitary confinement for arbitrary and retaliatory purposes,” such as requesting showers, sharing food or reporting sexual assault.

In California, detainees were placed in solitary confinement 2,546 times from September 2018 to September 2023, said Arevik Avedian, a lecturer and director of empirical research services at Harvard Law School.

Last year, ICE changed the way it reports that data. Instead of placements, in which the same person could be counted multiple times for different stints in solitary confinement, ICE now reports the number of individuals.

In California, ICE reported that 596 people were placed in solitary confinement from April 2024 to May 2025, she said.

During the period of 2018-2023, two California facilities ranked in the top five with the highest number of solitary confinement placements, she said — the Adelanto ICE Processing Center in San Bernardino County, and the Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego.

This year, the data reflect ICE’s investment in Republican-led states. According to the report, facilities with the most solitary confinement stints included Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Pennsylvania, Montgomery Processing Center in Texas, Buffalo Service Processing Center in New York, South Texas ICE Processing Center, and Eloy Detention Center in Arizona tied with Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center.

A previous report by the same authors found that ICE had used solitary confinement more than 14,000 times between 2018 and 2023, including one Otay Mesa detainee who was held for 759 days.

Debit cards are convenient — but they’re not always the safest choice. Swiped in the wrong place, a debit card can expose your bank account to fraud, delays, or lost protection.

While they’re fine for grabbing cash at a trusted ATM or some transactions, there are certain situations where using a debit card just isn’t worth the risk.

Here are five places where you should think twice before swiping — and what to use instead.

1. At gas stations and convenience stores

According to the FBI, card skimming costs consumers and banks over $1 billion a year. And gas stations are one of the most common places for card skimming.

Skimmers are tiny devices attached to card readers you don’t even notice. When you swipe your card, they copy your info. If it’s your debit card, that’s real money from your checking account that can be tapped into.

Convenience stores and smaller shops can also be risky if the machines aren’t closely monitored.

It’s better to use a credit card instead. Better yet, tap to pay using your phone or contactless card — it’s harder to skim and adds another layer of protection.

2. When booking travel

Any time I book travel, I’m using a rewards credit card. Debit cards don’t get anywhere near the same perks or protections.

Most travel credit cards offer amazing reward rates — sometimes 3x, 5x, or even 10x points when booking through the issuer’s portal. I like to think of those points like a built-in discount. A $1,000 trip could earn $50 to $100 worth of points toward my next vacation.

Another big reason is that travel credit cards typically include built-in protections that debit cards don’t offer, like:

• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
• Rental car coverage
• Lost luggage reimbursement

These perks can save you hundreds (and a ton of hassle) if something goes wrong.

Don’t have a travel rewards credit card? Compare the top travel credit cards and find one that fits your trip style.

Even legit-looking sites can have poor security. And once your debit card info is compromised, the hacker isn’t stealing borrowed credit — they’re going after the real money sitting in your checking account.

While banks usually reimburse you, your account can be frozen in the meantime. And if you need your money for rent, groceries, or other bills, this can become a real hassle.

Credit cards offer fraud protection, zero-liability policies, and some even let you use virtual card numbers for added security.

4. Buying expensive electronics or gear

Just bought a new MacBook? DSLR camera? Fancy espresso machine? Don’t swipe your debit card.

Many credit cards offer purchase protection and extended warranties on eligible big-ticket items. That’s added insurance in case something breaks, gets stolen, or shows up defective.

Purchase protection can also cover theft or damage — which is especially useful when your toddler decides your new MacBook is a launchpad for their action figures.

5. Bars, restaurants, and anywhere your card disappears

The reality is, every time you hand your debit card to someone, you’re trusting a stranger with a direct line to your bank account. That’s a big risk for a plate of nachos.

Bars and restaurants are super busy places, so it’s easier for your card to get misplaced or fall into the wrong hands.

Whenever I’m out and about, I use my credit card for anything where my physical card leaves my hand. If anything seems fishy, I can lock my card in seconds. And it takes just a few clicks in my mobile app to dispute any fraud charges, without touching any of my real money.

The bottom line

There’s nothing wrong with using a debit card for the basics. Like pulling cash from an ATM or paying that pesky parking ticket online through your county’s secure site.

But credit cards offer stronger fraud protection, better perks, and even rewards on everyday purchases. Just pay your balance in full each month, and you’ll avoid interest while stacking up points or cash back.

Need to upgrade your wallet? Compare the best credit cards for security, rewards, and peace of mind.

When the thought of truly delicious pancakes bubbles up, various trips and experiences flood my mind and activate my hunger receptors.

I’m transported back aboard the Amtrak booze train heading to San Diego for a Chargers game, where I have to make time for Richard Walker’s Pancake House. Their famed, often still sizzling and flaky, gigantic baked apple pancake is the embodiment of flapjack largesse.

There’s the homespun goodness of a sweet cream pancake volcano at the Black Bear Diner, a common haunt when I visit family in the Inland Empire. And can you visit The Grove for breakfast without trying Du-Par’s heavenly and buttery pancakes?

Pancakes own a special place in many of our hearts, partly because they are comforting, filling and customizable.

Food writer Khushbu Shah created a list of 11 pancake spots throughout Los Angeles that includes classics and some new spots.

We’ll dip into that grouping and pull out some favorites where new memories can be created.

Breakfast by Salt’s Cure (Santa Monica)

The oatmeal griddle cakes from Breakfast by Salt’s Cure.

(Andrea D’Agosto)

I almost hesitate to call these pancakes, and in fact, the official name on the menu is “Oatmeal Griddle Cakes.”

Made from a base of oat flour and cinnamon sugar, these thin-yet-hearty griddle cakes taste like a deeply gooey, slightly underbaked oatmeal cookie. There is absolutely no maple syrup or syrup of any kind available, but you won’t need any if you are careful to get the scoops of cinnamon molasses butter into every nook and cranny.

Café Telegrama (Hollywood)

(Stephanie Breijo / Los Angeles Times)

What sets the pancakes at Café Telegrama apart from the rest of the pancakes in Los Angeles are their iconic crispy edges.

Perfectly caramelized, they are the result of cooking the pancakes for at least seven minutes in a generous pool of nutty brown butter. The edges are in sharp contrast to the rest of the pancake, which is quite tender thanks to the ricotta in the batter.

They arrive stacked two to a plate, swimming in maple syrup, and topped with a generous amount of house-made blueberry compote.

The Griddle Cafe (Hollywood Hills West)

Bigger isn’t always better, but it’s impossible not to be delighted by the truly massive, dinner plate-sized pancakes that show up either two or three to a stack at this legendary Sunset Boulevard breakfast spot.

While the classic buttermilk pancakes are solid, this is not the place to hold back — you might as well really go for it with one of the diner’s over-the-top novelty options.

The best?

Either the Golden Ticket, pancakes stuffed with brown sugar-baked bananas, caramel, walnuts and streusel; or the Black Magic, a stack of pancakes brimming with crispy yet soft crushed Oreo cookies and a mountain of whipped cream. Just be ready to nap afterward.

Yang’s Kitchen (Alhambra)

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

It’s worth braving the weekend brunch lines at this beloved Alhambra institution for the giant cornmeal pancakes.

The team at Yang’s whips together cornmeal from Grist & Toll with mochiko rice flour from Koda Farms to create a pancake that is gently chewy with deep savory notes from the cornmeal.

There is no maple syrup: Instead, they come topped with fresh whipped cream, seasonal fruit and condensed milk for drizzling. They might not be traditional by any means, but it’s always worth ordering a stack for the table.

For more, check out the full story.

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The UK offers plentiful options for people looking to relocate, with the possibility to embrace a new lease of life for soon-to-be-retiree

Whilst numerous Britons reach retirement contentedly settled in their ‘forever home’, others may discover they fancy relocating somewhere fresh – whether that’s seizing the chance to downsize, relocate nearer to relatives, or experience a different rhythm of life, reports the Express.

The UK provides abundant choices for those considering a move, with the prospect of different surroundings, the opportunity to release some equity when downsizing, and the capacity to embrace a fresh start all thrilling possibilities for the approaching retiree.

“Identity is a big issue in retirement, and when you move house, you can reinvent yourself,” wrote Celia Dodd, author of Not Fade Away: How to Thrive in Retirement. “People don’t know you as the person who used to go off to work on their bike every day, they don’t have preconceptions of you. Your new surroundings will encourage you to think differently about things.”

So where might the over -60s consider relocating to ‘shake things up’? Have a look at our compiled selection below.

Amersham and Chesham

Legal and General this year named verdant Amersham and Chesham as the premier destination for retirement, drawing on information concerning six ‘pillars’ of contented living, encompassing accommodation, wellbeing, social connections and community, financial circumstances, countryside and facilities. The Buckinghamshire area topped the list in a study by a financial services group, scoring an impressive 93 out of 100 for health.

This reflects the high number of over-65s in good physical and mental health, as well as excellent access to GPs. All other ‘pillars’ scored over 60, making this constituency a well-rounded environment for later life.

Tucked away in the picturesque Chiltern Hills, these towns offer a mix of rural charm and city convenience. The market town of Beaconsfield and Surrey Hills towns Dorking and Horley took 2nd and 3rd place in the rankings, respectively.

Llandudno

For those seeking a peaceful seaside retirement, the Welsh coastal town of Llandudno came out on top in a study conducted by personal alarm supplier Taking Care this year.

The research considered various factors, from life expectancy and property prices to the average cost of care homes if needed. In addition to these key statistics, the study also looked at the amount of green spaces, bingo halls, English Heritage properties and other leisure facilities.

This Victorian resort features a delightful promenade overlooking a breath-taking peninsula between the Great and Little Orme headlands. Other locations that made the cut were Glossop, Tynemouth and Ilfracombe.

Exeter

The Telegraph – alongside estate agents Savills – compiled a ranking this year of the top 10 retirement destinations, taking into account various crucial elements such as ‘the number of hospitals, GPs and dentists per 10,000 people and the availability of shops and green spaces nearby’.

Leading their rankings was the south coast gem Exeter. ‘Compact and convenient’, yet brimming with natural splendour, the historic city offers heritage at its doorstep, boutique retailers and independent coffee houses, plus a lively social atmosphere.

Regularly hailed as amongst the finest places to reside, work, and learn in the UK, there’s abundant choice for pensioners seeking to embrace a fresh chapter in life. Runner-up in the survey was Merton, South West London, whilst nearby Richmond-upon-Thames claimed third spot.

Wimborne

Analysis by retirement community developer McCarthy Stone reveals growing appetite for developments in more obscure towns, with Wimborne, Dorset leading their rankings.

Chrissy Fice, Marketing Director at McCarthy Stone, commented: “With access to local amenities being named as the top ‘must-have’ by three quarters of over 65s, other things people are looking for include good transport links, handy supermarkets, a central location within a 15-minute walk, and either a coast or country backdrop.”

Market town Wimborne fulfils those criteria – and beyond – offering waterside serenity, cultural attractions, independent retailers and dining establishments, plus a thriving retired population. Other hidden treasures that made the list by McCarthy Stone include the verdant Sutton Coldfield, the historic Stratford-upon-Avon and the medieval Waltham Abbey.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re moving for retirement, like healthcare access, chances to make new friends, being close to nature, local facilities and financial stability.

For those considering a move, Rangeford Villages, a retirement village firm, offers the following advice:

• Research and visit prospective areas – chat to locals already living there to get a well-balanced picture of a place
• Review your budget – if necessary, consult a financial advisor to ensure fiscal planning is thorough
• Assess your desired lifestyle – does the area you’re looking at provide the opportunities you need?
• Location evaluation – consider proximity to family and friends, healthcare, shopping and nature.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

Chadden Hunter has spent the last 25 years travelling the world with the likes of Sir David Attenborough and has visited some of the most remote and beautiful places on the planet

A BBC film producer has revealed one of his favourite destinations is in the UK after travelling the globe alongside the legendary Sir David Attenborough.

Chadden Hunter has said that a country right on our doorstep ranks at the top of his favourite countries list.

Speaking to the Daily Express, the producer described Scotland as an underrated “gem” that consistently amazes him.

He elaborated: “On our doorstep in the UK, I think Scotland is under-appreciated. I mean, it blows my mind when you look at a population map of the British Isles, it always blows my mind how dense England is, and especially southern England, and how unbelievably empty Scotland is.

“And yet, up there, there’s stunning wildlife, you can go on boat tours, and see orcas and basking sharks. On some of the beaches, the water is as crystal clear as anything you get in the tropics.”

“And yet, up there, there’s stunning wildlife, you can go on boat tours, and see orcas and basking sharks. On some of the beaches, the water is as crystal clear as anything you get in the tropics.”

Explaining precisely what sets Scotland apart from the countless other locations he’s explored, he added: “It’s chilly to get in (the water), but it is beautiful, and then you’ve got in some areas, you’ve got nesting puffins, you’ve got otters, seal colonies.

“So I think it’s just one of those places that I think we often overlook to go further afield, but unless you’re going to get down to the plains of Southern Africa, of Eastern Africa, then Scotland’s a bit of gem on our doorstep.”

Originally undertaking his PhD on monkeys in Ethiopia, he encountered a BBC film crew during his time in the African nation.

Unknown to him at the time, the chance meeting would kickstart a lengthy relationship with the broadcasters.

In the more than 25 years since, he has collaborated with Sir David Attenborough as a producer on some of the channel’s most beloved nature programmes, including Planet Earth One and Two, Seven Worlds One Planet, and Frozen Planet.

Chadden isn’t the only avid traveller to reveal their top destination recently. A seasoned globetrotter who’s visited 90 countries claims the only one she’d revisit is a mere three hours from the UK.

That place is Iceland, and is somewhere that left such an impression on Jamie Davis Smith that she has made the trip back to the icy country time and again down years.

Into a Finnish labyrinth

One of the most magical places I’ve been is Lake Saimaa in eastern Finland – a huge labyrinth of islands and tranquil forests where you don’t come across many people. We rented a lakeside cabin (typically they cost from about €100 a night, sleeping two) and watched the midnight sun shimmer across peaceful waters. Days were spent kayaking between uninhabited islets or hiking pine-scented trails, with only the call of black-throated divers (or loons) for company. We visited the Linnansaari national park on an archipelago in the middle of the vast lake (the largest in Finland and fourth largest freshwater lake in Europe), where encounters with rare Saimaa ringed seals await. It’s nature’s embrace at its purest – remote, quiet and utterly rejuvenating.
Anthony

Canyons and forests in Montenegro

Last autumn, I visited Durmitor national park in northern Montenegro, a quiet and beautiful place in the Dinaric Alps. The road there passed through thick pine forests and opened on to wide valleys surrounded by tall, rocky mountains. I walked to the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), where the water was so still it perfectly reflected the autumn colours of the trees. In the hills, shepherds looked after their sheep, and small villages sold fresh cheese and honey. I also gazed down into Tara River Canyon, which is among Europe’s deepest gorges; right at the bottom, several thousand feet below me, I could see the bright turquoise ribbon of the river.
Lorna Walkden

Cycling through the Bosnian countryside

My partner and I cycled the Ćiro trail in Bosnia Herzegovina. We picked up the trail in Ivanica and followed it for more than 80 miles to Mostar. It follows the route of the Dubrovnik to Mostar railway line, which closed in the 1970s, and has a lot of spooky, bat-filled tunnels. We barely met another person on the route. One night we camped overnight in a pub beer garden because we were worried about mines. Stunning scenery, spooky history, and we saw tortoises on the trail.
Anna Fenton

Pyrenean hideaway, Spain

If there was ever a jaw-dropping way to enter Spain it has to be over the peaks of the Pyrenees to the village of Ochagavía in Navarre. Nestled in the valley of Salazar, its cobbled streets and whitewashed homes are surrounded by rivers, forests and peaks where walkers mingle with birds of prey, chamois, marmots and an occasional hermit. When civilisation and replenishment are needed, Sidrería Kixkia, a restaurant in Ochagavía, will fill your very grateful tank with local cider and a very meaty menu.
Liz Owen Hernandez

Remote islands off northern Germany

We stayed at the charming seaside resort of Cuxhaven in Germany and took the horse-drawn carriage over mud flats to visit the tidal island Neuwerk with its extraordinary 700-year-old lighthouse. I’d also recommend a ferry trip beyond Neuwerk to incredible Heligoland island to see the 47-metre-high Lange Anna sea stack and the large gannet colony. You can see the craters left by the British in 1947 when the occupying authorities decided to blow up the remaining German military installations on the island in one giant explosion, having already bombed the island severely in 1945. Yet the tiny island with its red cliffs and grassy plateau survived somehow, and is now home to more than 1,000 people.
Sue Kyson

Kayaking between icebergs, Iceland

Starting in Reykjavík, with my 15-year-old, I took a rental car for a road trip, staying in small hotels and hostels on the way. We went kayaking between icebergs in the Jökulsárlón lagoon, snowmobiling and ice-climbing on the Sólheimajökull glacier and whale-watching near Húsavík. We were amazed to see the molten lava on the Reykjanes peninsula, as well as the interactive volcano museum near Vik. Highlights for my teen included taking a ferry to the island of Grímsey to snorkel with puffins while they were diving for fish.
Karen Guenzl

Brittany’s quiet side

Tucked away in western Morbihan, an hour from Vannes and the Breton coast, Inguiniel is a quiet corner of Brittany, where rolling hills and forests invite you to slow down. We stayed at picture-perfect Camping Pont Calleck, which was ideal as a walking and cycling base. From there we cycled to Le Faouët, a town with a pretty square, a 16th-century market hall, and striking gothic chapels. As evening fell, our ride took us along the River Scorff past weirs and watermills and eventually to a quiet auberge for a traditional Breton meal.
Kevin Atkins

Winning tip: bathed in constant daylight, Norway’s Svalbard

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard (which used to be called Spitzbergen) in summer is bathed in constant daylight because it is entirely within the Arctic Circle. Dog sledding on wheels is a great way to experience this remote landscape, guiding your teams of eager huskies over the tundra, past mountains necklaced with puffy Arctic cottongrass flowers. Boat trips, passing near the town of Barentsburg, the inhabitants of which are mostly Russian, allow closeup views of slumbering walruses, minke whales and dozens of seals. Nearby, huge cliffs at Alkhornet are the breeding ground for thousands of birds, and below the nests, arctic foxes wait patiently for their next meal. Afterwards, rent a floating sauna cabin, leaping into the sea to cool off.
Caroline

Europe can become incredibly busy during the peak holiday season and according to a travel expert, one of Italy’s top attractions is among those that have become too overcrowded

Europe’s top holiday spots are becoming unbearably crowded during peak season, warns a travel expert, with Italy’s most popular attractions among the worst offenders. World-renowned destinations like Barcelona have even hiked up their tourist taxes in an attempt to curb visitor numbers.

Research by Holidu reveals that Dubrovnik takes the crown as the world’s most overcrowded tourist hotspot, boasting 30 visitors for every local resident. But which other locations are bursting at the seams come summertime?

Speaking previously to Express.co.uk, Sara Rodriguez, a seasoned traveller and blogger at Madrid Travelling, revealed four places she found overwhelmingly busy.

Positano, Italy

Considered a gem of southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the picturesque landscape in Positano is nothing short of iconic. Colourful buildings are perched on cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean, giving Positano its name as the “vertical village”.

Despite its reputation as one of the most picturesque seaside villages on the coastline, Sara described the atmosphere as far too “hectic”. She elaborated: “While undeniably beautiful with its colourful buildings and seaside views, the narrow streets were packed shoulder to shoulder with other sightseers.”

She added: “The atmosphere felt more hectic than idyllic, and prices were inflated for tourists. I left feeling like I never got to experience the real Positano beyond the chaotic surface.”

Paris, France

The ‘City of Love’ is one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, but Sara is just one of many visitors who are left less than impressed by the iconic French city.

She detailed: “The congested boulevards of Paris and the never-ending lineups at attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre strained my patience. I didn’t really enjoy the atmosphere as much as I was waiting to take shots.”

TripAdvisor reviewers are in agreement, with one Louvre Museum visitor stating: “The art is crazy, but the queues are insane. Two hours to access the museum and then you can barely walk due to the quantity of tourists. They should regulate this.”

Excessive tourism has been widespread this year, with the Olympics and Paralympics taking place in the city. This occurs despite Paris City Hall’s decision to triple the tourist tax by 200 per cent for 2024.

The move was implemented to assist Île-de-France Mobilités, which oversees public transport, including the metro and bus services, in managing the increased passenger numbers anticipated for the international sporting spectacle.

Mykonos, Greece

The busy tourist period in Mykonos is generally from Greek Easter (April) to the end of October, with peak season from mid-July to late August. During this time, the island attracts visitors of all ages.

Holidaymakers fork out top prices for accommodation on the picturesque Greek isle, which costs considerably more than neighbouring spots such as Syros. However, the masses prove disappointing, according to Sara.

She explained: “When I finally went to the Greek island, I thought it would be a tranquil haven. Even while it was breathtakingly gorgeous, I felt that partygoers and inebriated vacationers overshadowed it. The restaurants were expensive and the beaches were noisy.”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is renowned for its lively culture, fascinating heritage and stunning waterways, with the 17th-century canal network having developed into one of the most distinctive cityscapes globally. That said, its hordes of visitors make it incredibly busy considering the city is only an eighth of the size of London.

In addition to overnight stays, Amsterdam welcomed 15.1 million day visitors last year, with approximately 60 percent of them coming from within the Netherlands, according to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

Sara’s own experience was marred by congested streets, claiming: “The city centre was overrun with rowdy bachelor parties riding bikes through crowded streets. The museums were packed, and reservations at restaurants were impossible to get.”

NEED a holiday this summer but outrageous prices putting you off? We’ve crunched the numbers to find the cheapest locations for family holidays across Europe.

All-inclusive family package holidays from the UK have jumped in price for some of the most popular destinations among Brits, including Spain, Cyprus and Greece.

5

However, some holiday hotspots in these countries still have some great deals, if you know where to look.

TUI, Jet2, Travel Supermarket and Love Holidays all gave us the inside knowledge on their most affordable destinations still on sale for summer 2025.

Because where you go in Europe can make a big difference to how much you spend.

These are the cheapest destinations in Europe for a holiday this summer 2025 (All package prices are for two adults and two children and include return flights from the UK).

Sozopol, Bulgaria

Sozopol is a top pick for budget-conscious Brits who want a break in the sun without a big price tag. 

As well as a beautiful old town dotted with cute and cheap cafes and shops, Sozopol has one of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria. 

Our Bulgaria expert, Pavlena Todorova, recommends Central Beach in Sozopol over the more famous Sunny Beach in Bulgaria.

This sweeping bay is rich in golden sand and has beautiful, calm blue water that is perfect for swimming. 

Central Beach, as well as Sozopol itself, is also less busy than the capital Sofia and its popular beaches.

Plus, the beach bars and cafes along the sand are slightly cheaper and you’ll find it easier to get a table overlooking the sea. 

Beach Bar, Sparrow, has a shady terrace on the sand and you can get a beer for £2.50 and chicken and chips for £6.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com for seven nights bed and breakfast, staying at the 3-star Flagman Hotel, with flights on Jet2 from Birmingham, £399 per person.

Kos, Greece

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Kos has always had a quiet reputation for being one of the lesser crowded, more affordable of the Greek islands. 

You are spoiled for choice here with brilliant blue waters, sandy beaches and quiet coves, where if you go at the right time of day, you could be the only person on the beach.

Rent a small speedboat for £50 a day and explore the harder to reach beaches, or just take it a mile off the shore and spend the day sunbathing or and jumping off the boat into the crystal clear sea to get cool.

For dinner, one of the many local restaurants in Kos Town will have you filling your boots with gyros wraps, hummus and chips for only £5.

A cold glass of wine to wash it all down is around £4 at most places. 

Sunsets are free and stunning, especially when viewed from a table on the beach.

Book with: jet2holidays.com for seven nights at Anastasia Apartments self catering, with return flights from East Midlands Airport, including 22kg checked luggage per passenger, for £438pp.

Paphos, Cyprus

5

Paphos is a top budget destination if you want a mix of sunbathing and sightseeing. 

The coastline is packed with stunning Blue Flag beaches, and spacious sandy stretches all along the coast.

There is a range of hotels in every price range, from 2* self-catering apartments where you can get terrific deals, to luxury villas and 5* star hotels. 

If you want to spend time exploring, many of Paphos’ main attractions are within walking distance of the harbour.

Ask if your hotel has a shuttle to get you there, the rest can be explored on foot.

This includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, which has some of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved mosaics and Paphos Old Town, which mixes ancient buildings and streets with modern additions better than most classic cities. 

You have to go to Pinguino on the harbour for breakfast. A full English or a huge pile of pancakes is only £5 and we guarantee you won’t need lunch that day.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com seven nights at the Hilltop Gardens Hotel Apartments self catering, with return flights from London Stansted on Jet2, including 22kg checked baggage per passenger, for £282pp. This deal lands back in the UK on the 4th September, so if you have a few extra inset days at the end of the school holidays, take full advantage!

For a similar, mid-holiday package, departing on 25th July and staying at the Marion Apartments, in Paphos, it’s £339 with loveholidays.com.

Heraklion, Greece

5

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands. In the Heraklion area, you have a choice of different resorts, including Malia, Rethymnon and upmarket Elounda. 

Heraklion is the largest city in Crete and has an interesting history, including the 16th century Koules fortress on the old Venetian port and the striking fortification walls. 

The best deals for beach holidays in this area are just outside the city on the north coast.

There are a lot of resorts along the coastline, most look out onto the brilliant blue Aegean Sea.

The beaches close to Analipsi are the longest and sandiest. The rocky coastline here also makes this a great area for snorkelling. 

You will find there are lots of boat trips and guides offering tours at affordable prices.

Book with: loveholidays.com for seven nights self catering at the 3-star Kasapakis Hotel & Apartments and return flights from London Stansted, £339 per person.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

5

Lanzarote is one the best islands in the Canaries for families.

You are spoiled for choice with more than 100 beaches, many of which are Blue Flag standard with crystal clear water. 

Everything is on offer here, from paddleboarding to boat hire, paragliding and of course, paddling and swimming in the calm waters, which are ideal for younger children.

Plus, the weather here is almost guaranteed to be sunny and hot almost all year, so those who can travel outside of term time can get an even better deal.  

The beaches are framed by green hillsides that have hotels and residential homes nestled in cliffs. 

Deals on hotels from all the major holiday companies are very competitive with packages for as little as £200 per person for a week if you can travel outside of the school holidays. 

 And there are so many beachfront bars and restaurants, if you don’t get food with your hotel package, there is no end of offers to get you in.

Bottles of beer are £4 on the seafront but only £2 if you pick up a pack in the supermarket.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com for seven nights in the 4-star Sands Beach Resort and flights on Thomas Cook from Bournemouth, for £339pp.

Tips for booking bargain breaks in summer 2025

Budget-conscious ways to save money booking a holiday this summer

Go somewhere different.

You may have set your sights on the Costa del Sol but you may find much better deals for lesser-known beach places like Bulgaria and Poland. These destinations have beautiful beaches and low lifestyle costs, with beer as low as £2 a pint. 

Money talks.

To be really clever, choose destinations where the value of the pound is strong. This means more bang for your buck whether you are buying a beer and a sandwich or indulging in a serious shopping spree. This year, the weakest currencies against the GBP include Turkey, Bulgaria and Portugal. 

Staycation in the UK 

Staying on British soil means you don’t have to navigate the airport or pay extra for baggage, transfers or currency exchange. There are still some excellent deals going on UK holiday parks that have water slides, kids clubs and beaches on the doorstep. These can often work out less than overseas flights alone. See our round up of what holiday parks to book this summer here. 

Is all-inclusive always best?

If you are not a big drinker or eater or have fussy kids in the family, booking an all-inclusive might not be the best option for your group. So many resorts have self-catering packages too. You will get all the perks of the resort facilities, like kids clubs, evening entertainment and pools, but with a small kitchenette to make your own lunch and dinner and save big. 

Book very early… 

Some packages, such as with Jet2hoidays and TUI can be booked a year in advance and those willing to commit early can sometimes get some unbelievable discounts.

If you know when you want to travel, keep an eye out for prices on the destinations and resorts you want to book. They may go up and down in price throughout the year, depending on whether airlines and companies have a sale on. 

…or, last minute.

Alternatively, booking last minute can mean some fantastic final dash prices. See our list below for the cheapest places to holiday in Europe this summer. 

The charming village is officially one of the most colourful places in the world – making it the perfect spot for your next holiday.

A delightful coastal town in Scotland has been scientifically ranked as one of the most vibrant places on the planet, making it an ideal destination for your next getaway. Tobermory, tucked away on Scotland’s west coast, has outshone renowned European competitors to secure a place in the top 25 most colourful locations worldwide – a testament to the quality of British holidays.

Ranked at number 11, this seaside hamlet on the Isle of Mull is awash with vivid reds, oranges, radiant yellows and sharp blues, courtesy of its lively waterfront residences.

The brightly coloured houses lining the harbour were designed to help fishermen identify their homes and local businesses from the harbour or while at sea, particularly in foggy or cloudy conditions.

These buildings are a signature sight along the harbourfront and even served as the backdrop for the television series Balamory.

In addition to its stunning homes, one of Tobermory’s main draws is its wildlife.

Boat tours around the bay provide visitors with picturesque cruises.

The more daring tourists can join Sea Life Mull for a chance to spot minke whales, basking sharks, and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, reports the Express.

There’s also plenty to keep you occupied back on dry land.

One of the most popular attractions is the two-hour walking trail that leads tourists from the village to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse.

The path meanders along the coastline, offering breathtaking views over the ocean.

If you’re more inclined towards a laid-back experience, the renowned Tobermory Distillery might be just your cup of tea, offering some of the finest whisky on offer.

This iconic Scottish distillery, founded in 1798, is conveniently nestled in the town centre.

Guests can delve into the fascinating 200 year old history of whisky production and naturally, savour some of the top-notch spirits.

A new study has uncovered that one particular UK coastal city is a burgeoning hot spot for summer staycations, with Aqua’s analysis finding that it’s among the cheapest destinations for a weekend away

Brits eager to soak up the summer sun are eyeing weekend staycations, with many on the hunt for the most budget-friendly spots within the UK.

Aqua, a credit card company, has divulged its top picks for the most economical UK destinations. Portsmouth emerges as a standout choice, boasting a blend of rich history, stunning scenery, and affordability.

Aqua highlights: “From the historic charm of the Spinnaker Tower to the vibrant waterfront at Gunwharf Quays, this coastal city offers plenty to see and do without breaking the bank.”

This south coast haven is celebrated for its naval heritage and picturesque docks, ranking high among the UK’s top three cost-effective staycation locations.

According to the research by Aqua, holidaymakers can snag a night in Portsmouth for a mere £108, narrowly undercutting Eastbourne’s £112 lodgings, and trailing just behind Blackpool’s even more modest £82 rate, reports the Express.

But it’s not all about the savings; Portsmouth’s enchanting historical quarters, especially the charming Old Town with its traditional cobblestone lanes, are drawing more and more Brits to discover its unique allure.

One Tripadvisor reviewer highlighted the area’s charm, mentioning the opportunity for a “nice walk to do and view the old town” and commending it for being “very well maintained,” which “gives an idea of what it was like.”

This view was shared by fellow travellers, with one visitor describing it as “a lovely place for a chilled walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A great selection of pubs, shops and places to eat.”

For holidaymakers wanting a blend of heritage experiences and seaside relaxation, Portsmouth proves an excellent destination. The city offers walkable streets and numerous budget-friendly or complimentary attractions, alongside the obvious coastal pleasures.

The Millennium Promenade connects major waterfront spots via a spectacular seaside route packed with family attractions including the Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and nearby Southsea Castle.

The Historic Dockyard features engaging exhibitions and legendary vessels such as HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, creating an excellent full-day experience for youngsters and grown-ups alike.

Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate that several on-site museums offer joint admission deals, enabling guests to discover various exhibitions.

A brief walk leads to the Spinnaker Tower, which provides spectacular panoramas across Portsmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight. Thrill-seekers can experience the glass-floor skywalk.

Entry fees remain affordable, with reductions frequently offered for advance online purchases. Southsea Castle, built for Henry VIII, is nestled within stunning grounds and houses a modest museum that delves into its tumultuous past, including the accidental explosion that caused significant damage to the castle.

If you’re happy to stay in the UK and show your loved ones the beauty of the Isles, hostelling is a great way to do so on a budget. Here are our pick of the bunch from across the UK

Parents looking for cheap places to take their kids this summer holiday need to search no further.

As the school holidays begin, the big questions are where to go and how much it’ll cost. If you’re happy to stay in the UK and show your loved ones the beauty of the Isles, hostelling is a great way to do so on a budget.

As I wrote earlier this year, there are many misconceptions about hostelling – chiefly that it’s for youth only, but also that you have to sleep in a dorm. There are loads of beautiful hostels that are really family friendly and provide cheap private rooms.

The Mirror has worked with Independent Hostels to find some of the prettiest and cheapest hostels that have free beds over the coming summer holidays.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

Snowdonia

Perched above Cardigan Bay with stunning views of Cader Idris, Bunkorama offers self-catering accommodation ideal for walkers, cyclists, climbers, and families. This converted stone stable sleeps up to 10 and is perfectly located near top routes like the Wales Coast Path, Cambrian Way, and Cycle Route 8.

Barmouth’s beach, shops, and pubs are just a mile away, and outdoor adventures like climbing, mountain biking, and paddleboarding are right on your doorstep. From solo travellers to group getaways, Bunkorama offers great value – just £92 per night for a family room or £184 for exclusive use. A separate camping pod adds extra flexibility. Dogs welcome with group bookings.

Best price: £92 per dorm

Lake District

Elterwater Hostel is located in the peaceful village of Elterwater, in the Langdale valley, 15 minutes drive from Ambleside. The area has many walks for people of all abilities, from gentle riverside meanders to the challenge presented by the Langdale Pikes, Bowfell and Scafell.

Pubs, shops and other amenities are available nearby. The area is also a favourite for both on and off-road cycling, rock climbing and many other outdoor activities. An established overnight stop on the Cumbria way. The hostel is also ideal for individuals, families, outdoor groups, schools and college trips.

Best price: £25 per person

Scotland

Located in the heart of the coastal village of Findhorn in northeast Scotland, this self-catering hostel sits near the Moray Firth, offering easy access to the beach, Findhorn Bay, and Culbin Forest, all rich in wildlife like ospreys, seals, and dolphins.

Just a short drive from the Speyside whisky region and the Cairngorm Mountains, it’s an ideal base for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Housed in a converted village school, the hostel welcomes both groups and individuals, featuring a well-equipped kitchen, lounge with Netflix, Freeview TV, WiFi, central heating, and optional conference rooms.

Accommodation includes two 10-bed dormitories, a private double room (“The Mates Cabin”), a four-person family room with en suite (“The Captains Suite”), and a modern studio flat sleeping up to six.

Best prices: Dorms from £25pp, mates’ cabin £50. Discount for groups.

West Wales

Escape to the wild and beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park with a stay at the Old School Hostel in Trefin, a charming village just quarter of a mile from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The area offers circular walks to beaches and harbour villages, and it’s just a 20-minute drive to St Davids and Whitesands Bay.

This 4-star hostel is full of character and offers private double, twin, and rare single rooms and family/friends rooms with en suite showers. A light breakfast is also included, and it’s dog-friendly.

Best price: Single occupancy from £45.

Yorkshire

Wharfeside House is a self-catering group hostel in the heart of the unspoilt village of Kettlewell, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ideal for youth groups, families, and adult groups, it sleeps 10 to 32 people and is popular with walkers, cyclists, bird watchers, climbers, artists, and team-building retreats.

Opened in 1969 by the Huddersfield Wharfeside Youth Trust, it offers warm, comfortable accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen, communal lounge with open fire, dining/conference room, conservatory, and a drying/boot room. Outdoors, there’s a large garden with stunning views and parking for four vehicles. The village shop is nearby, and several pubs serve home-cooked food.

Best price: The whole hostel can be rented out for £220, with a 300% reduction for midweek bookings.

Cornwall

Located in the centre of St Ives, Cohort is stylish and comfortable. Specialising in educational trips, Cohort offers catering for groups and support with all aspects of trip planning, including assistance with developing enriching itineraries. It is open to the general public at Easter and during the Summer holidays.

Fantastic facilities include a hot, outdoor shower, laundry and dry room, big guest kitchen, super fast WiFi, a TV room & pod beds – all with USB ports, lights, curtains & under-bed storage. afés, bars, galleries, Tate St Ives, and four spectacular beaches are within a 10-minute walk.

Best price: From £26 per person

Norfolk

Deepdale Rooms offers comfortable private self-catering accommodation in the scenic village of Burnham Deepdale on the North Norfolk Coast, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guests can choose from a variety of room types—double, twin, triple, quad, family, and group rooms—most with en suite bathrooms, underfloor heating, and access to shared facilities including a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, lounge with TV, and free WiFi.

Bedding is provided; guests just need to bring towels. The Deepdale Visitor Information Centre serves as reception and offers local guidance. Passionate staff celebrate the area’s seasonal beauty—coastal walks, birdwatching, and starry skies—and invite visitors to discover it for themselves. Large groups are welcome by arrangement, and there’s an adjoining campsite for those who prefer to stay outdoors.

Best price: From £42 for a private room

Lochness

A multi-award-winning hostel with a range of rooms to meet all needs and budgets in the bustling village of Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness. The perfect base to explore the Loch Ness area and an ideal stop off on the Great Glen Way.

Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and set in wooded grounds, this is the perfect budget accommodation option in the Hub of the Highlands! A variety of room types include dorms, doubles, twins and family rooms; 24 hour self-catering facilitates, excellent home-made meal options, a rustic bar stocked with a great selection of local beers and malts, a beer garden, free WiFi, activity booking service, ample car parking, an awesome team to look after you, plus a whole lot more. 4 Star VisitScotland. GOLD Green Tourism Award.

Best prices: From £27pp in dorm beds, doubles/twins from £33pp and family rooms from £86.

The Travel Twins have visited many European cities and have named six of their favourites that are not as popular as others – but are still well worth visiting

Many Brits are no strangers to a European jaunt, whether they’re chasing the sun or immersing themselves in rich history, stunning architecture and diverse cultures. While Paris, Madrid and Barcelona are often on the itinerary, there are plenty of lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered.

Two globetrotting TikTokers have unveiled their top picks for Europe’s best kept secrets, having explored 70 cities across the continent. After immersing themselves in plenty of different locations, they listed six gems they’d recommend to others.

These destinations may not draw the same crowds as their more famous counterparts, but they promise an equally enriching experience without the tourist throngs.

In a video, which has amassed nearly half a million views, they said that Stavanger in Norway was their ultimate recommendation.

Situated on the southwestern coast of Norway, a roughly seven-hour drive from the capital, Oslo, is the city of Stavanger.

This gem may not be familiar to many Brits, but it boasts an array of attractions including its picturesque old town and stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Norwegian landscape.

Historical sites abound in the city, with highlights including Stavanger Cathedral, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, and numerous Bronze Age Rock Carvings.

The TikTok users also spotlight Hameln, Germany as an under-appreciated European destination. Nestled near the larger city of Hanover, Hameln is famed as the mythical home of the Pied Piper.

The duo’s recommendations continue with Bern, Switzerland’s capital. This destination is ideal as a city break for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, boasting landmarks such as the Cathedral of Bern, Marktgasse, and Barenplatz.

Alternatively, they recommend Riga in Latvia or Poznan in Poland. Both are great for anyone with a passion for history and culture.

Seville in Spain was the final location to make the list. It offers a wealth of cultural experiences and is also a fantastic choice for a sun-soaked getaway.

While it may not be beachside, the city is dotted with hotels and resorts featuring pools, alongside a plethora of restaurants serving up traditional local cuisine.

“You can steer yourself in any direction you choose,” Dr. Seuss wrote in his beloved 1990 picture book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

It seems pop star Ariana Grande has taken the advice to heart, landing yet another movie role and her second collaboration with “Wicked” director Jon M. Chu.

Grande is set to star alongside Josh Gad in the animated adaptation of “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!,” Warner Bros. announced Tuesday. Expected in March 2028, the movie will be directed by Chu and include original music from EGOT-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land” and “The Greatest Showman.”

Grande and Gad confirmed the news on their Instagram pages this morning with a picture of them in a recording studio holding up their scripts, which feature the same design as the book cover.

“I love this book, I love this script, I love the beautiful world of @drseuss, I love this incredible group of creative human beings (@joshgad what a brilliant joy you are),” Grande wrote on her story. “I am so thrilled to be a part of this one.”

“Never been more excited to go places,” Gad said. “We are dreaming up something very very special for you.”

Grande, who released the deluxe edition of her album “Eternal Sunshine” earlier this year, will appear in the second installment of “Wicked,” in theaters Nov. 21. Additionally, the Grammy winner will join Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller for the fourth “Meet the Parents” movie, expected November 2026.

Gad, known for “Frozen” and “The Book of Mormon,” just joined the cast of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Hollywood Bowl, where he’ll appear alongside Grande’s “Wicked” co-star Cynthia Erivo Aug. 1 to 3. The Broadway star has several other films lined up as well, including the “Spaceballs” sequel, “Adulthood” and “Frozen 3.”

England’s magnificent win came six years to the day since Eoin Morgan’s white-ball side memorably lifted the World Cup at the same venue, with Jofra Archer bowling the hosts to victory against New Zealand in the super over.

Stokes said he felt Archer – in his first Test match since 2021 – would produce another special performance on day five against India.

“He cracked the game open with those two wickets,” said Stokes of Archer’s dismissals of Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar in the morning session.

“I just had this gut feeling something was going to happen, with it being Jofra’s first time back.

“It’s been awesome to have him back out there, every time he gets announced you hear the whole ground erupt. When he turns it on, the speeds come up on the screen, and the feeling in the game just changes.”

With two Tests remaining, the on-field tensions during the Lord’s encounter have added a little extra heat to the series, which will motivate both sets of players.

India seamer Mohammed Siraj was fined 15% of his match fee and given one demerit point by the match referee for his celebration after dismissing Ben Duckett on day four, which followed an altercation between Zak Crawley and Shubman Gill the preceding evening.

On the final day, there was a collision between Ravindra Jadeja and Brydon Carse in the middle of the pitch as the batter set off for a run, with Stokes eventually separating the pair.

“It’s a massive series, emotions are going,” added Stokes. “All 22 players are playing for their country and I don’t think anyone in the either dressing room is going to be complaining about what was said.

“A bit of niggle out in the middle gets over-egged from people watching.

“I’m all for it. I don’t think it went over the line whatsoever. It adds to the theatre.”

Sunrise with ancient gods in Anatolia

Rising from the rugged heart of Anatolia, Mount Nemrut offers one of the world’s most surreal sunrise experiences. Here, colossal stone heads of ancient gods and kings gaze silently across the highlands, remnants of a long-lost kingdom. As the first rays of dawn paint the statues gold, visitors are transported into an almost mythic realm. Begin your journey in Gaziantep, often called Turkey’s culinary capital. Savour rich baklava and spicy kebabs before setting out through the hills toward Nemrut. After experiencing the mountain’s majesty, continue to Göbekli Tepe – considered the world’s oldest temple complex, predating Stonehenge by millennia.
Ickin Vural

Join the locals and eat at a büfe

It’s become a little more expensive in Turkey recently, so my tip is: eat at the büfeler, where the taxi drivers eat. You find them at every bus station in every town and village. A light lunch of rice with kuru fasulye (beans) on top, perhaps a side of vegetable stew (despite all those kebab shops, Turkish people don’t eat as much meat as we like to think), and an ayran (yoghurt drink) on the side would be my idea of a perfect lunch. Afiyet olsun! (enjoy your meal), as they say in Turkey.
Anna

Exploring the vibrant city of Eskişehir

Eskişehir is a vibrant, studenty city less than an hour and a half’s train ride from Ankara. Its name (“old city”) is a clue to the age of the place – it was founded around 1,000BC – but unlike some of the much more visited ruins and ancient cities in Turkey, it is very much a forward-looking, 21st-century place. The Odunpazarı houses in the oldest part of the city are beautifully multicoloured – it is a perfect area to enjoy an obligatory Turkish coffee and piece of lokum (Turkish delight).
Michael Kuipers

Authentic Turkish charmers near Ephesus

Discover two gems near exquisite Ephesus: Alaçatı, on the coast near İzmir, is a picturesque, sleepy village complete with fresh fish restaurants and sandy beaches; a bit further south is Şirince, a beautiful flower village that stays fresh even through July heatwaves. You can explore the coast, visit thermal baths in spectacular Pamukkale, and Ilıca, or head to the Greek island of Samos for the day, while still savouring the joy of a simpler and more authentic Turkey.
Thomas

Lesser visited Lycian ruins around Kaş

Just above the popular seaside town of Kaş, tucked high in the hills, lie the ancient ruins of Phellos. The steep hike can be tough – especially in the heat – but the reward is worth it. Massive Lycian tombs and weathered stone ruins appear unexpectedly, like a scene from Indiana Jones. With no crowds or noise, it’s an off-the-beaten-track adventure into ancient history. If you’re seeking something beyond beaches and tourist spots, Phellos offers solitude, mystery and a stunning glimpse into a forgotten world.
Pinar Greenwood

Mardin’s heady mix and sweeping views

My top secret Turkey tip would be Mardin, in the south-east. Honey-coloured houses on a hilltop cascade down to the Mesopotamian plateau, and just about every hotel has a terrace with sweeping views across to Syria. The history is a mix of Assyrian, Armenian, Chaldean and, of course Turkish, with museums, medreses and narrow streets. It’s a taste of the Middle East but with the safety of travel in Turkey. And the food …
Ann Ozsivadjian

Chilled dining in Antalya’s waterside retreat

The Dim River lies on the outskirts of Alanya, in the Antalya region. A short taxi or bus ride will transport you from the bustling seaside town to a cascading waterfall which flows from the Taurus mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. Trees and natural vegetation provide shelter from the searing summer sun, while the waterside restaurants offer traditional Turkish food and drinks. Relax at tables nestled in the trees, perch at the water’s edge, or take a dip in a pool filled with icy mountain water – if you dare!
Natalie

Paddling off the Lycian coast from Fethiye

Sea kayaking along Turkey’s wild south-west coast from Fethiye is an unforgettable experience. Paddle past hidden coves, ancient ruins and dramatic cliffs, before friendly local guides prepare delicious traditional Turkish meals, and the sunsets glow deep red over crystal waters. Fethiye is a culturally rich town nestled between mountains and the sea, and the perfect launch point for a trip. If you’re after beauty, solitude and authentic connection, this is paradise.
Mikey

Hike to stunning ancient Termessos

We visited Antalya in February, and viewing some of the ancient sites on a crisp, sunny day with snow on the mountains in the background was brilliant. But the highlight of our trip was taking a hike in the Mount Güllük-Termessos national park to see the ancient Solymi city of Termessos, and particularly the stunning theatre, set atop the mountain with panoramic views. You pass many interesting ruins on the way up, but this is the jewel in the crown. We went on our own, but if you want to make a day of it I’d suggest joining a hiking group for an in-depth exploration.
Alison

Winning tip: timeless charm at Akyaka

On a spontaneous road trip through Turkey’s south-west, I stumbled upon Akyaka – a peaceful, pine-fringed village untouched by mass tourism. The Azmak River, so clear it seemed unreal, flowed past riverside cafes where I watched turtles drift by. Locals welcomed me like family, and evenings meant fresh seafood and golden sunsets. The architecture – wooden houses with carved balconies – gave the town a timeless charm. Paddleboarding on the calm sea at sunrise was a moment I’ll never forget. Debbie Skudra

Italy’s lessser known peaks

The Julian Alps are mostly in Slovenia, but I have gone on many trips to the little known Italian portion of this mountain range to visit old friends in the ski town Sella Nevea. The scenery is awesome: pointed white, limestone peaks above deep and mysterious pine-forested valleys. The books of mountaineer Julius Kugy romantically describe this large wilderness, the obscurity of which amazes me. Nature is abundant with various large mammals, bird life and flora. If you love alpine adventure but don’t like tourists then seek it out, there’s nobody there!
Paul

Alone with orchids and sea birds, Sweden

Stora Karlsö, off the west coast of Gotland, is one of the oldest nature reserves in the world and is a few hours’ journey by train and ferry from Stockholm. It’s a tiny, rugged limestone island, mostly just a high cliff with an alvar (grassy heath) plateau. There were lots of orchids and plenty of sea birds. Once sheltered from the wind, I found the fragrant air was incredible. I spent the night in a simple cabin and enjoyed a decent meal, but civilisation in the regular fashion was far away, and there was hardly any cell reception.
Linda

Pink marsh, pink flamingos, France

Between Toulon and the Mediterranean, Hyères spreads across a series of headlands, salt flats and offshore islands. We based ourselves near the Giens peninsula, where the ancient pink salt marshes stretch out towards the sea, dotted with flamingos, herons and egrets. The coastal paths wind over rugged cliffs, with pine woods and scattered islands combining to create a setting of seabirds, wildflowers and open sea.
Steph

Camino de Santiago with detours

In the spring of 2023, my wife and I walked the 500-mile (805km) Camino de Santiago across northern Spain. The beaten track was busy, so we took every opportunity to deviate off it along alternative sections. Walking across the Meseta, the expansive, high central plateau famed for its isolation, we took the detour from Calzada del Coto to Mansilla de las Mulas along the Via Trajana, the old, cobbled Roman road. We were surrounded by birdsong, wildflowers and the ghosts of legionaries. Apart from when we stopped for a comfortable night and an immense breakfast at the Via Trajana hostel in Calzadilla de los Hermanillos, we only saw two other people in two days and 20 miles of walking.
Richard

Bears and wolves in the Romanian forest

The Carpathian forests of Romania, flanked by brooding mountains, are a brilliant place to lose yourself for a couple of weeks. On my hiking trip there last summer I spotted brown bears, wolves and lynx as I marched through valleys and woods. I came across medieval towns and villages that are rich in traditional folklore. One highlight was sampling local cheese and singing songs with villagers in the Barza valley. I was rewarded – or punished – for my musical efforts with a bumpy ride on a horse-drawn cart to the next village. Don’t miss a walk up to Postăvarul peak (1,800 metres) for great views over the area.
Joe

A hike through Iceland’s myriad landscapes

Thirty-five miles and three nights in mountain huts in the southern highlands of Iceland: the Laugavegur trail is a microcosm of the landscapes of that incredible country. Geothermal springs, high-altitude snowfields, multicoloured rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts and otherworldly moonscapes. Finally, the magical valley of Thórsmörk – Thor’s Valley – amid birch woods enclosed by three glaciers. Staying in mountain huts means you’ll feel part of a multicultural, international community of travellers, with the warmth and camaraderie this entails, with tales exchanged and memories made.
Bill Duncan

Sardinia’s wild west

Between the popular north coast of Sardinia, where the super-rich anchor their yachts, and the populated south with the capital Cagliari, lie several quiet areas where nature flourishes. Much of the west coast is relatively undeveloped. We joined bareback riders on horses along tracks, watched flamingos wade in salt marshes, visited ancient Nuragic ruins and sunbathed on the white-sand beaches of the peaceful Sinis peninsula.
Chris Allen

A Croatian island paradise

On the remote Croatian island of Lastovo, part of the Lastovo Islands nature park, we watched honey buzzards soar overhead and heard shearwater chicks calling to be fed at dusk. Lastovo is a dark skies island and we loved seeing the Milky Way sparkle so brightly. Most of the island is forested and the place remains very undeveloped, as a result of being reserved for the Yugoslav army until 1988. It’s a natural paradise of pine-scented trails leading to quiet beaches and interesting flora and fauna. It can be reached by frequent ferries from Dubrovnik and Korčula.
David Innes-Wilkin

Winning tip: The big beasts of Bieszczady in Poland

I went on a hiking tour to see large mammals in Bieszczady national park in south-east Poland in 2022 and it was amazing – gorgeous landscapes, wild bison, red deer, wolves, brown bears, lynx and wild boar. We walked through haunting overgrown orchards as the landscape was abandoned after the second world war. I went as a solo traveller with a company called Wild Poland (I did a three-day tour that started and ended in Kraków – but there are lots of different options and prices on their website).
Josie

In a brutal new crackdown, Spanish authorities are said to be imposing hefty fines for tourists found to be buying souvenirs and other items from certain types of street vendors

A popular Spanish city has unveiled a brutal clampdown that could see Brits slapped with a hefty fine.

Police in Palma, the capital of Majorca, are reportedly imposing the first penalties against people found to have purchased products such as sunglasses, bags, and souvenirs from illegal street sellers. It comes as the town hall launched a new ordinance on May 26 – which strictly prohibits both residents and holidaymakers in the Litoral district (which spans from Can Pere Antoni to Arenal) from buying items from unauthorised vendors.

Often referred to as ‘looky looky’ men, tourist-riddled hotspots like Spain are rife with dodgy merchants that often sell counterfeit products such as fake designer handbags and scarves. Of course, selling knock-off goods has never been legal in Spain, and provisions to fine counterfeit sellers and their customers have been in place since 2018. However, Spain is cracking down on this with a set of bylaws updating existing regulations, arguing the black-market train ‘harms legal establishments’.

READ MORE: Spanish island set to make huge change to beaches in 2026 affecting Brits

According to Majorca Daily Bulletin, sellers themselves are subject to sky-high fines of between €750 and €1,500 (approximately £640 and £1,281 respectively). For tourists, fines start at €100 (£85) but can climb up to €750 (£640). Presumably, this will depend on the number of illegal goods being purchased.

“In one case, eleven sunglasses were seized from the seller as evidence of illegal vending, while the purchaser was fined for ‘making a purchase from an unlicensed street vendor on the public way’,” the publication states – citing a recent police report. “This doesn’t say if the person fined was a tourist or a resident.”

It is believed the Official Bulletin of the Balearic Islands regularly publishes pages with a list of offenders. However, many street vendors have no known address, which has cast the effectiveness of the steep fines into doubt.

The announcement comes just days after Palma has also unveiled ambitious plans to cut down the number of sunbeds on its beaches by a whopping 1,700 by next year. As previously reported, the city’s council has allegedly green-lighted plans to reduce sun loungers by 20 per cent by 2026, citing both over-tourism and rising levels.

“There has been a loss of sand on the beaches, and we couldn’t maintain the same number of sunbeds and umbrellas – and this has coincided with complaints from residents who feel they have less space,” a spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs of the Balearic Islands reportedly said. “The mayor [Jaime Martínez] is aware that the majority of residents don’t use the sun bed service, so we decided to implement this redistribution.”

The Local Es, a Spanish news site, claims this will impact several popular stretches of coastline, and will see Platja de Palma go from 6,000 sunbeds down to 4,436. The publication says Cala Major beach will go from 300 to 250 sunbeds, while Cala Estància will also have 18 fewer sunbeds by next year.

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The coastal town is known for its historic connections to the sea and has been hailed as one of the best places to live in the UK, according to Zoopla.

As the summer season arrives, many are planning trips and outdoor adventures to make the most of the sunny weather. While travelling abroad can be exciting, it can also be a strain on the purse strings. Luckily, Britain is teeming with fantastic staycation spots that offer unique experiences and days out without breaking the bank.

One such picturesque location can be found in Kent. With its pebbled beaches, vibrant houses and charming streets, Deal has been dubbed a “dreamy” destination for a tranquil retreat. This coastal town is renowned for its historical ties to the sea and has been named one of the best places to live in the UK, according to Zoopla.

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It features a lively high street filled with delightful independent shops, two stunning castles – Deal Castle and Walmer Castle, and breathtaking views of the seafront. The locale also gained recognition after being used as a filming location for the popular ITV drama, Liar.

A video showcasing what Deal has to offer went viral, captivating viewers, reports the Express. The post, shared by @keeperscottages, read: “Welcome to Deal. A hidden gem of Kent, perfect for a short break or family holiday. We have a range of beautiful houses, cottages and apartments to rent right here in Deal.”

Keepers Cottages further added: “Just one hour and 23 minutes from London St Pancras, it’s full of picturesque buildings and pastel-coloured houses with dozens of amazing food places, plenty of dog-friendly beaches, restaurants, cafes, and shops.”

Besides, every Saturday, a market brimming with local produce takes place. And for the golf enthusiasts, there are three championship courses perfect for a game of putt.

After watching the TikTok clip, people took to the comments section to share their hopes of visiting the staycation spot. One individual said: “On my list. When I visit England.” Another wrote: “We have friends in Deal and it is exactly this lovely.”

A third added: “So lovely.” And a fourth remarked that the scenery looks absolutely “dreamy”.

Getting there

For those who aren’t driving, reaching Deal is a breeze with a train journey. From London, trains whisk you away to your coastal retreat in around an hour and half.

If you’re coming from the north or Birmingham, you’ll need to zip down to London before hopping on a connecting service to Deal.