Public transport

Travelling by car can make some people feel queasy, but one woman has uncovered a simple trick that might make your sickness vanish – and it involves one simple cold remedy

Travel sickness can make life incredibly difficult for those who struggle with it. It makes using public transport a chore as you have to make sure you’re not going to be sick on an unsuspecting stranger on the train, and even travelling by car can be a nightmare, as many people who suffer can’t drive themselves.

There are many products on the market that claim to tackle travel sickness, such as patches and tablets, but these may not work for everyone, and aren’t always accessible if you suddenly feel motion sick and need effective relief. One woman, however, has claimed that one product most of us have in our medicine cabinets is “life-saving” for travel sickness sufferers.

In a video on Instagram, Kiki Rough explained that she was recently “fighting for her life” while trying not to be sick in the back of a taxi that was taking her to the airport.

She told the taxi driver that if she was sick in the car she would pay for the car to be cleaned and would give the driver a hefty tip for having to deal with the unpleasant situation – but the driver did something unexpected.

Instead of getting angry that Kiki was at risk of vomiting, the driver reached into her pocket and pulled out some Vicks VapoRub, which she handed to Kiki and told her to “put it under her nose”.

Kiki explained: “When I tell you, three decades of my life where I have fought to not throw up on every long-form car trip just disappeared. My nausea? Out the window.”

The kindness of the taxi driver didn’t stop there, as she also pulled out a small, empty container and scooped some of the VapoRub into it, handing it to Kiki for the rest of her journey, along with the sweet message: “Don’t get sick on your flight.”

Commenters on the video were blown away by the trick. Many said it would be “life-saving” for their upcoming trips if the smell of the Vicks product could keep them from feeling sick.

One person said: “I’m actually excited to try a long car ride now. Thank you for sharing this!”

Another added: “This is LIFE SAVING.”

A third wrote: “Did you just change my life with this?”

It’s believed that Vicks VapoRub works because the menthol scent blocks any strong smells that might be exacerbating your illness.

Getting fresh air and breathing in clean smells are proven ways to alleviate motion sickness, and the smell of Vicks could contribute to that.

Advice for dealing with motion sickness

Vicks is not designed to cure motion sickness, and the trick may not work for everyone, but there are other things you can try. According to the NHS, you can try these steps to ease the sickness yourself:

• Reduce motion by sitting in the front seat of a car or the middle of a boat
• Look straight ahead at a fixed point, such as the horizon
• Breathe fresh air if possible – for example, by opening a car window
• Close your eyes and breathe slowly while focusing on your breathing
• Break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk
• Try ginger to settle the stomach, either as a tablet, in a biscuit, or in tea

The NHS also recommends that you do not do the following:

• Do not read, watch films or use electronic devices
• Do not look at moving objects, such as passing cars or rolling waves
• Do not eat heavy meals, spicy foods, or drink alcohol shortly before or during travel
• Do not go on fairground rides if they make you feel unwell

It seems the nation’s favourite beach has been named – and it’s nestled on the eastern coast

Gorleston-on-Sea Beach, a gem on the Norfolk coast just south of Great Yarmouth, has been crowned with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award, placing it amongst Europe’s top holiday destinations. The UK beach, renowned for its stunning views and golden sands, finds itself in good company, rubbing shoulders with popular spots in Greece and Spain.

The coveted ‘Best of the Best’ accolade is bestowed upon beaches that consistently receive glowing reviews on TripAdvisor over a year. With fewer than 1% of the 8 million listings achieving this milestone, Gorleston-on-Sea Beach stands tall on an impressive pedestal.

Visitors to the beach can enjoy views of grassy cliffs, engage in a game of pitch and putt, or try their hand at bowling greens, tennis and basketball. For the little ones, there’s a playground, a model yacht pond and a splashpad.

One of the major attractions is the free parking, coupled with public toilets, including facilities for disabled visitors. Known for its popularity among surfers and body boarders, Gorleston-on-Sea beach is a hit with water sports enthusiasts.

Just a five-minute stroll away is the town centre, brimming with shops, cafes, and amusements for visitors to explore.

Gorleston boasts an Edwardian theatre offering seaside shows throughout the year, reports the Express.

For those who enjoy a good walk, a trim-trail on the cliff top offers breathtaking views of the beach and harbour.

One holidaymaker shared their glowing review on TripAdvisor, stating: “A lovely place to visit. Lots of space and not overcrowded.

“A great play park on the clifftop which we had to ourselves even in school holidays. Few cafes and good toilet facilities. Lovely and clean area.”

Another visitor was charmed by its “old fashioned charm” and “miles of sandy beach”, while a third praised the “beautiful beach and calming atmosphere”.

Another tourist gushed: “Beautiful beach, so clean, so long and so relaxing. Sandy parts, stony parts, lots of lovely views. Amenities nearby and public loos.”

Yet another posted: “Beautiful beach with all that you need for a lovely family day at the beach. Drinks, ice cream and delicious fish and chips. Added bonus of plenty of free parking. Would defo recommend.”

Gorleston is touted as an excellent base for exploring Norfolk and Suffolk, and it’s a breeze to get there from Great Yarmouth, whether by car or public transport.

There are several bus services that run between Great Yarmouth and Gorleston.

The age at which you can get a free bus pass can differ greatly depending on where you are based

People across the nation could be in line for additional assistance with their travel expenses, including a bus pass offering free or discounted journeys on local bus services. No matter where you reside in the UK, there is a plethora of schemes designed to make public transport more wallet-friendly, though not everyone will qualify.

Eligibility can vary greatly depending on your location within the UK. For instance, the age at which you can receive a free bus pass can differ significantly if you are located in England, Scotland, or Wales.

Most of the complimentary bus passes nationwide are primarily reserved for the elderly, especially after the government confirmed it will abandon a proposed trial of free bus passes for anyone under 22 in England. As per a BBC report, the government stated that there were no funds available to support the scheme during the current spending review period, which runs until 2028/29.

Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of all the available assistance.

England

In England, pensioners become eligible for a free bus pass when they hit the state pension age of 66, which applies to both men and women. So, if you were born in 1959, you will be able to get your hands on the free bus pass this year.

You can apply for this scheme through your local council under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, although the actual name of the bus pass may change depending on where you live.

When applying, you might be asked to provide a passport-style photo as well as a document proving your age and address. However, there is one city in England that has slightly different rules.

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London

Free travel on buses, tubes and other transport is available from the age of 60, but this is only within London. This can be accessed via the 60+ London Oyster photocard which also allows you to get free transport on Transport for London services anytime Monday to Friday, except between 4.30am and 9am.

Further details of free bus travel in England can be found here.

Scotland

In Scotland, once you hit 60, you can get your hands on a National Entitlement Card which gives you free bus travel all over Scotland. However, bear in mind that this Scottish concessionary travel only applies to registered local and long-distance bus services.

So, certain premium-fare services, tours, excursions and group hire services aren’t part of the deal. If you are also between the age of five and 21, you may also be eligible for a National Entitlement Card (NEC) which allows you to access the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme.

Further details on free bus travel for older people in Scotland can be found here.. Meanwhile, further details on free bus travel for younger people in Scotland can be found here.

Wales

Within Wales, you may be able to get free travel on buses if you are disabled, aged 60 or over, or an injured service personnel which you can apply for through Transport for Wales. While not free, people aged between 16 and 21 caaan apply for a MyTravelPass which allows them to get up to a third off the cost of bus travel in many circumstances.

Further details of this in Wales can be found here.

It was named the second best coastal town in the UK last year, and it’s easy to see why. With a two-mile long beach, a charming high street and great food, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip.

A coastal suburb just a 15-minute journey from a major UK city should be the next addition to your autumn travel itinerary. Despite the crisp air, a seaside trip is always a fantastic way to shake off any stresses, and you can’t beat the stunning views across the water.

I recently had a day out in Portobello near Edinburgh on a sunny yet chilly day, and I’m kicking myself for not visiting sooner. With a bustling high street filled with independent retailers, delicious food, and excellent public transport connections, it’s an ideal spot if you’re looking to venture off the beaten track.

A mere 15-minute bus ride from the city centre dropped us right in the heart of the town, and it was immediately apparent that this place was something special.

Of course, our first port of call was a brisk walk along the seafront. The weather was very nice and bright bright, but cold, however it was quite invigorating after the hour-long train journey from Glasgow.

Portobello’s beach stretches two miles, boasting a Victorian-style promenade and views over the Firth of Forth. As it was a sunny Sunday morning, it was quite busy, with numerous families out for walks and dogs joyfully darting across the sand, reports the Express.

The first thing that struck me about the beach was its cleanliness. It’s evident that the locals of Portobello, or ‘Porty’ as it’s fondly referred to, take immense pride in their environment.

I regret not visiting during the summer months, as I can see this being a fantastic spot for sunbathing and maybe even taking a dip in the sea.

Last year, Portobello was named the UK’s second-best coastal town by JoJo Maman Bebe, and its beach bagged a Keep Scotland Beautiful award, which really proves its charm.

After a stroll along the beach, we worked up quite an appetite. The seafront at Portobello beach is lined with a variety of eateries and pubs, from massive pizza slices at Civerino’s to brunch and coffee at The Beach House.

Many of these places offer outdoor seating, allowing you to dine practically on the beach, which was lovely to see.

We decided to try Shrimp Wreck, a seafood joint with a small yet appetising menu. This street food stall gained fame after featuring on BBC’s My Million Pound Menu and is renowned for its fish finger sandwiches – it even made it to the finals of the Birds Eye Fish Finger Sandwich Awards in 2017.

Naturally, I opted for the dish that was all the rage. The battered flaky fish fillets, mushy peas and the best chips I’ve ever tasted, all in a soft roll, was probably the messiest thing I could have eaten, but I have no regrets.

Next, it was time to properly explore the high street where the bus had dropped us off. It’s tucked just behind the promenade, and while it wasn’t as bustling as the beach itself, there were still plenty of people milling about – and crucially, plenty of shops open too.

One of the highlights for me was The Portobello Bookshop, a delightful independent bookshop brimming with novels, cookbooks and so much more. The space was bright, cosy and inviting, and the kind of place that you could spend hours browsing and not get bored.

They also host events, such as Q+A’s with authors, so it’s worth checking out what’s on if you’re planning a visit there.

Cove is another must-visit if you’re a fan of a gift shop. This one was overflowing with all the trinkets you could ever want, from Jellycat toys to candles and shampoo bars, as well as lovely cards and mouth-watering chocolate bars too.

The high street of Portobello might not be the largest but it’s definitely one of the most charming I’ve seen. There are more food and drink places here, as well as pubs and even an Aldi, so you’re not going to run out of options quickly.

One spot we missed, which I’m eager to return for, is the swim centre. Nestled in Portobello, you’ll discover a genuine Victorian Turkish bath, one of only 11 in the UK, along with a gym and fitness studio, so this is definitely on my list for the next visit.

If you’ve never ventured to Portobello, it truly is the ideal location for a weekend getaway – even as the weather turns chillier. Its proximity to the lively city of Edinburgh makes it perfect if you’re seeking a break from urban life and fancy some time indulging in food, drink and relaxation by the water.

The winners moved celebrities, politicians and stars to tears with their stories of courage, bravery and brilliance at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards

It has been celebrating the very best of everything British for more than quarter of a century. And once again it was the children of courage and incredible stories of bravery in adversity which moved a host of celebrities, actors and sport stars to tears at the 26th Daily Mirror Pride of Britain awards, with P&O Cruises.

The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was there with his wife Victoria to pay tribute to the long line of unsung heroes as they received the recognition they so richly deserve. At just 12 years old, Luke Mortimer typified what the night is all about when he received his Child of Courage trophy.

Luke had all his limbs amputated after contracting meningococcal meningitis septicaemia in 2019. Yet still he thought of others. The audience at the Grosvenor House Hotel gave him a huge round of applause as they heard how he had donated thousands for children with disabilities, through his extraordinary fundraising activities.

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In 2024, he climbed Pen-y-ghent with his mum Christine and brother Harry, 15, meeting his dad Adam and a team of 19 who were climbing the National Three Peaks and Yorkshire Three Peaks. They raised almost £20,000 to help fund prosthetics for Luke and help other child amputees. He told his loved ones that we should all “concentrate on the future” as he set about helping others.

His favourite TV stars Ant and Dec sent a special message to Luke, who told host Carol Vorderman of his motto when life was tough: “Hope for a good time and try and make it happen.”

His dad Adam added: “We are massively proud of him, he takes everything in his slightly smaller stride.”

Marcus Skeet, 17, became the first person in the UK to run from Land’s End to John O’Groats as he fought back from a suicide attempt at the age of 15. He had obsessive compulsive disorder, and became a carer for his dad, who was diagnosed with early onset dementia.

Marcus admitted: “It shattered my heart.” After his suicide attempt, it was a ‘miracle’ that he had survived. Known as ‘the Hull Man’, with 350,000 followers on social media, he watched cars go by as he got caught in a rainstorm, with 790 miles to go in his epic run.

Marooned in a layby, soaked through, he still became a record breaker, raising £164,560 for mental health charity Mind, with his dad there to see him at the end. “I will remember that for the rest of my life,” said Marcus.

His incredible feat took a combination of supreme dedication and endurance and he joked: “I hate running.” Dr. Sarah Hughes, CEO at Mind paid tribute, saying: “His story reads like a film script, courage, loss, hope, and relentless determination.

“But Marcus isn’t a character; he’s a real-life hero.” Pub landlord comedian Al Murray revealed he had been inspired by Marcus to raise money for Mind. Looking for donors in the audience, he said: “Whether you are an actor or a rock star, you cannot fail to be moved by this night.”

Personal trainer Javeno McLean, 40, met his heroes as his work for the disabled, ill and elderly was recognised with the P&O Cruises Inspiration award.

Former world champion heavyweight David Haye joined legends of the ring Frank Bruno and Barry McGuigan to hand over the coveted trophy. They heard how Javeno has been offering free fitness sessions to the needy at his J7 Gym in Manchester.

At 16, he offered to train a boy in a wheelchair who was struggling in the gym. Since then, Javeno has been devoted to creating a friendly and inclusive gym space for all. He told the judges: “When you include people you empower them.”

Haye said it was an ‘honour’ to be chosen to give him the award. On a night of awe-inspiring stories, PCs Yasmin Whitfield, Cameron King and Inspector Moloy Campbell were recognised for their extraordinary bravery.

They answered an emergency call on an ‘ordinary’ working day which almost turned out to be their last. By the time they confronted sword attacker Marcus Arduini Monzo in Hainault, East London on April 20,2024, he had already killed Daniel Anjorin, 14.

Despite having no Taser or pepper spray, Pc King drew his baton and stood between the killer and Yasmin, who suffered horrific slash injuries.

Insp Campbell also suffered a slash wound to his hand after he confronted Monzo in a car park and ran at him, baton drawn. Other officers were able to deploy their Tasers and subdue the killer. PC King ‘stood between Yas and Monzo’, who ran off, before being cornered by cops. He said: “I remember just thinking, I can’t let him finish her off’. I put myself between Yas and him. I thought ‘we’re going to die in this alleyway.'” Insp Campbell admitted: “When I challenged Mr Monzo, I knew it may be the last decision I would ever make.” Monzo was later jailed for life with a minimum term of 40 years. In 2016, footy coach Asha Ali Rage 46, set up her community club, determined to use sport to protect youngsters from gangs. The aptly named Dream Chasers FC in Small Heath, Birmingham has since become a vital hub for her local community.

Asha received her award from England’s ‘Golden Gloves’ World Cup keeper Mary Earps who has done so much to raise the profile of sport for women; Asha’s Special Recognition Award was for “changing the lives” of the young stars of the future. Leanne Pero MBE, 30, won another recognition award for The Movement Factory community dance company which she founded when she was just 15. Londoner Leanne, who survived breast cancer, also started Black Women Rising, a cancer support group that has raised more than £1m to fund support and advice. She said of surviving cancer: “The worst part was finishing treatment.” Teenager of Courage winner Eagling Zach, 14, who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, also donated to the Epilepsy Society by walking laps of his garden in the 2020 lockdown. After trolls bombarded him with flashing images to try to trigger a seizure, he campaigned for legislation to protect people with epilepsy online. Zach’s Law was introduced across England, Wales and Northern Ireland in Sept., 2023, making it a criminal offence, with a maximum five-year jail term, to troll anyone with epilepsy to deliberately cause a seizure. Zach has now launched a petition to ‘make a difference’ and try to ensure public transport is more accessible for disabled people. For Sally Becker, 63, helping those most in need in society has been her life’s work.

She first went to Bosnia in 1993 to help the victims of war. Tasked with taking aid to a hospital, she found herself evacuating sick and injured children in an old Bedford van.

She has now spent more than three decades helping children in besieged areas, such as Gaza, Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine.

In 2016, she founded Save a Child, providing medical treatment for kids in conflict areas. And she launched a mobile tele-medicine programme connecting local doctors with paediatric specialists. She said: “We have saved thousands of children.”

Georgie Hyslop, 15, was thrilled to be made the Good Morning Britain Fundraiser of the year. In 2023, when Georgie, then 15, was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare cancer in the bones, she donated her tissue to Cancer Research. She raised more than £55,000 for hospitals and charities.

Through 14 rounds of chemo and 33 of radiation, Georgie gave cards with encouraging messages, known as “pocket hugs”, to fellow patients, and dressed up as Spider-Man to cheer up a four-year-old patient having radiotherapy.

Georgie, 17, from Ardrossan, Ayrshire, went into remission in July 2024, but the cancer returned earlier this year. She said: “I have lots of fundraising planned and lots to look forward to.”

Set up by three music teachers at an additional needs school in 1995, the Ups & Downs theatre group in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, is for young people with Down’s syndrome as well as their families.

Now led by Lorna Leggatt, whose son Ellis, 26, has been a member since he was five, Ups & Downs offers inclusive activities, including music, dance and drama, to around 70 members, who have Down’s syndrome or a sibling with the condition. Audiences leave their shows ‘deeply moved’.

Fellow PoB winner Harry Byrne lost his mother on Christmas Day; her death caused Harry, then 11, to descend into mental health problems, addiction and homelessness. Harry, 24, was helped by local homelessness charity St Basil’s and discovered The King’s Trust Get Started in Outdoor Leadership programme, landing a job in Coventry.

Now supporting young people facing difficulties, through outdoor activities, he hopes to run his own therapy-based coaching service. Harry said: “I didn’t have many role models or access to the support I needed when I was younger. I’m passionate about getting up every morning and providing just that for the next generation.”

RAF hero John Nichol, 61, the navigator from North Shields, North Tyneside who was shot down and captured in Iraq during the first gulf war of 1990, has attended every single one of the Pride of Britain’s 26 award nights. A good friend of the late awards founder Peter Willis, he said: “I was next to Gary Barlow on that first night and had to give him my hankie. I think there is only me and Carol Vorderman who have been to every one.

“Nobody knew what to expect, but it has become the best of the lot.”

Pictures: Rowan Griffiths, Adam Gerrard, Andy Stenning.

* Watch the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises on Thursday October 23 at 8pm on ITV1.

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Geneva is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but it’s also one of the most walkable – and the city centre is just a six minute journey from the airport

Geneva is a stunning destination, not just for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures but also for its pedestrian-friendly layout.

Despite being one of the priciest places to visit in Europe, footloose tourists are spoilt for choice in this Swiss city. The city centre is a mere six-minute journey from the airport, making it an ideal spot for those on brief trips who don’t fancy a lengthy transfer.

According to geneva.info, Geneva airport is situated four kilometres from the city. A train ride between the Geneva Airport and the central railway station in the city (Gare Cornavin) takes six minutes, while a bus journey lasts about 20 minutes.

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Visitors can utilise public transport around the city without shelling out a single penny and can freely hop on and off its comprehensive transport network. Anyone lodging in approved accommodation, be that a hotel, youth hostel, or campsite, is entitled to the city’s Transport Card for free travel throughout their stay, reports the Express.

Walkable city

The city centre of Geneva is relatively compact, meaning most of its top attractions are located within a short distance of each other. Whether you’re staying near the lake or in the Old Town, many of the city’s highlights are reachable on foot.

You can stroll from the famous Jet d’Eau, the large fountain, to the charming Parc des Bastions, a renowned park, without needing to catch a bus or tram. Geneva’s streets, particularly around the Old Town, are pedestrian-friendly with wide pavements, abundant green spaces and clearly marked crossings.

One of Europe’s largest lakes, Lake Geneva, is a major attraction in the city. The lakefront paths are perfect for leisurely strolls or brisk walks, offering stunning views of the water, distant Alps and the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain.

The city boasts numerous parks that offer tranquil walking routes. Parc La Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives, both situated along the lake, are perfect for an afternoon amble. Another favourite is Jardin Anglais, conveniently located near the city centre and offering picturesque lakeside vistas.

For those seeking more adventurous treks, Geneva’s position at the foot of the Alps provides easy access to hiking trails just outside the city.

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Public transport

While Geneva is easily navigable on foot, its public transport system offers a welcome respite for weary feet. The city has trams, buses, and even water taxis (known as Mouettes) that can swiftly transport you to any part of the city.

Moreover, if you’re staying at a hotel in Geneva, you’ll typically receive a Geneva Transport Card for complimentary public transport during your stay. In line with its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, Geneva encourages walking and aims to reduce car traffic. Several areas in the city have limited or no car access.

We have been holidaying in the UK for the past few years, and recently returned for a break in Norfolk – which is a brilliant spot for family holidays, especially when you go to the free kids play park

“My kids are running with glee into a huge woodland playpark, with castle-like forts, giant sand pit, zip lines and water tower offering a dizzying choice of things to play on, as far as the eye can see,” shared Lifestyle editor Dianne Bourne, who visited a “magical spot” with her family this summer – and the best part of all, it’s completely FREE.

This isn’t your average playground either; it boasts a Royal endorsement. Nestled within King Charles III’s Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, this Woodland Playground is part of the rural retreat that the Royal Family have used as their holiday home for the past 150 years, reports the Manchester Evening News.

You’d typically expect to pay an entrance fee for a playground of this size, but here, you only need to cover the cost of parking. Additionally, there’s access to lovely woodland walks and bike rides across the estate’s 20,000 acres, which are open and free to the public all year round.

Dianne wrote, “It makes it one of the special things about this part of the world which makes it a brilliant spot for family holidays, as I have found with my two young boys over the past few years. We returned to Norfolk for our holidays this year, and struck gold with the weather in the ongoing heatwave.

“The base for our stay was a lovely holiday cottage booked with Norfolk Hideaways close to the Sandringham Estate, in the village of Tattersett. It made for the perfect location for exploring brilliant family attractions both inland and by the sea in North Norfolk.

“Sandringham made for a great day out during our stay, with the kids running off lots of energy in the Woodland Playground, and then a lovely stop off at the Sandringham coffee shop for snacks and ice cream.”

The free play area is open for as long as you wish. It features main equipment like wooden play forts, slides, and obstacle courses, suitable for five—to 12-year-olds. There’s also a dedicated woodland play spot suitable for younger children, along with a sandpit that toddlers particularly adore.

For those intrigued by the site’s Royal history, you can also pay to explore the Royal house and gardens on selected dates throughout the year.

Other activities for kids

What’s brilliant about this part of the world is the sheer number of things you can do with young children, many of which are free. Not least the fact that there is just one stunning beach after another along the North Norfolk coast, and here are some of our favourites.

Dianne went on to say, “We love Hunstanton as the more traditional seaside resort with funfair, chippies and ice cream, while neighbouring Old Hunstanton has a stunning stretch of sand and lots of starfish and crabs to find in the sea.

“Brancaster is another beautiful stretch of sand, owned by the National Trust, with a car park right next to the beach, which is handy for those not keen or able to walk all that far. Holkham is the most spectacular and epic beach you’re ever likely to see, but be prepared for the half an hour walk down to it, which in itself I personally find to be a really special experience.”

This is the beach adored by the Royal Family, likely due to its vast expanse and abundant sand dunes, giving you the feeling of having your own private beach even in the peak of summer. Cromer is another quintessential seaside resort, this one boasting a pier made famous in the Alan Partridge film.

She added, “We loved wandering along there where many people are crabbing. The beach is impressive, although does get very busy, and there’s also some pretty fabulous ice creams to be had, with a Mr Whippy shop right by the pier selling multi-coloured and even chocolate-dipped creations.

“Away from beach activities, we also discovered close to where we stayed an absolutely brilliant garden attraction called Pensthorpe at Fakenham. You have to pay for entry, but once inside, there’s a huge outdoor play area for kids, as well as an indoor playbarn that you can book a timeslot for on arrival.

“The gardens themselves were utterly stunning, with a rather comical ‘poo trail’ during the school holidays for kids to find, which, as you can imagine, the youngsters found hilarious.”

Where we stayed

Having previously lodged in a self-catering cottage in Norfolk, Dianne found this option more favourable when travelling with young children – it provides ample space for play and everyday living during a week-long getaway, complete with your own kitchen and washing machine.

Her family were guests of Norfolk Hideaways, which boasts over 550 properties scattered across Norfolk, ranging from cosy cottages for couples to larger accommodations suitable for big groups and multi-generational families.

For Dianne’s holiday this year, her family chose Mallard Cottage in the quaint village of Tattersett. It was an ideal location, featuring bunk beds that the kids adored upstairs, as well as a comfortable living area downstairs equipped with a lounge and dining area, plus a kitchen.

Short breaks can be booked from £453, or seven nights from £551, although our four-night stay in August, during peak school holiday time, cost us £772.

For those requiring more room and who favour being closer to the beach, last year they also stayed with Norfolk Hideaways at The Little House in Brancaster. This property can accommodate six or eight guests, with prices starting from £1,672 for a short stay, or £2,075 for seven nights based on eight people staying.

Getting there

“The only bad thing I have to say about Norfolk is the fact the journey there is not the easiet, as it is one of the only counties in England with no motorway,” said Dianne.

She went onto explain: “The fastest route from the north west in terms of miles (and usually time) is via the A50 through Stoke, Derby and then Nottingham, and then across Lincolnshire towards Kings Lynn in Norfolk and then on to the coast.

“You’re looking at a drive of around three and half to four hours from Manchester to North Norfolk depending on the day and time you go, and depending on what sort of vehicle you get stuck behind on the single lane roads.

“In terms of public transport, there’s a mainline train station in Kings Lynn, although from Manchester you’re looking at a four-hour trip with a change at Ely. But there is a decent Coastliner bus (the 36) that stops in all of the villages mentioned during our stay above.”

Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, but many people make a mistake when it comes to exchanging their money that can make their trip more expensive

Turkey is fast becoming a favourite holiday spot for Brits, with its sun-soaked resort towns and bustling cities like Istanbul drawing in millions of us each year. In fact, a whopping 4.4 million UK tourists jetted off to Turkey in 2024 alone, making it the eighth most popular destination for British holidaymakers. While it’s still playing catch-up with hotspots like Spain, France, and Greece, the number of visitors is on the rise each year, and it could soon break into the top five.

But there’s one common blunder many Brits make when heading to Turkey that can make their holiday pricier than they bargained for. With just one simple change, you could save a pretty penny on your trip.

A Turkey travel guru named Katherine has shared some insider tips for those planning a trip to Istanbul in a TikTok video, but her top piece of advice applies no matter where in the country you’re headed.

She warns against exchanging your local currency for Turkish Lira before you set off, as you could end up getting a poor exchange rate and spending more dosh than you planned.

Instead, she suggests swapping your cash for Euros or Dollars first, then taking that to Turkey and changing it into Turkish Lira once you’re there.

She explained: “Never change Lira in your home country or the airport in Turkey. Instead, bring Euros or Dollars and exchange small amounts [while you’re here], because Turkish Lira is pretty unstable.

“The best exchange spots [in Istanbul] are the Grand Bazaar or Istiklal Street. I always go to the one right across from the Swarovski store at Istiklal.”

Whilst that money-saving tip works throughout the nation, Katherine’s additional guidance focuses specifically on getting around Istanbul.

She advised that you should never pay for public transport using your credit card or contactless payment, as you’ll face a staggering 40% surcharge. Instead, you should purchase a travel card known as an Istanbulkart, which is available at any metro station.

Lastly, Katherine cautioned against hopping into “random airport taxis,” as you could end up paying five to ten times more than the journey should actually cost.

Taxi applications such as Uber, Bitaski, and InDrive offer far superior alternatives for travelling around the city, as you can opt to pay through the app.

Turkey travel guidance

When travelling to Turkey with a full British citizen passport, the passport must expire at least 150 days after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page inside.

You can visit Turkey for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, whether you’re visiting for business or tourism. Longer stays require a short-term residence permit. If you’re considering taking money to Turkey for exchange, it’s crucial to understand the currency rules.

While there’s no cap on the amount of foreign currency or Turkish Lira you can bring into Turkey, you’re restricted from taking Turkish Lira equivalent to more than $5,000 USD out of the country.

Bridport, located on the Jurassic Coast, boasts a number of attractions, including a beach-side bar and beautiful coastal walks to a Michelin-listed restaurant and thatched brewery

As the cost of living continues to rise, more Brits are choosing staycations over foreign holidays. With this in mind, why not swap your usual holiday destinations like Spain, France or Portugal for the delightful town of Bridport on the Jurassic Coast this year?

Bridport, self-styled as ‘Dorset’s eventful town’, is a vibrant and bustling destination with plenty to offer. One of its highlights is The Watch House Cafe, a beach bar that recently made it onto Conde Nast Traveller’s list of the best beach bars in the UK. Google reviews describe it as a ‘fantastic find’ with a ‘lovely setting right on the beach’ and ‘excellent fish tacos’.

With cocktails priced at £9 and a ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’ mocktail for £5, it’s a great spot to enjoy a summer evening with family.

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The town also boasts a variety of shopping opportunities, with two main streets filled with unique boutiques. In terms of entertainment, the Art Deco Electric Palace screens films, and live performances are held at the Bridport Arts Centre, The Lyric. And don’t forget to check out the prestigious Bridport Literary Festival, reports MyLondon.

West Bay and Burton Bradstock offer stunning coastal walks with their pebbly beaches and dramatic sandstone cliffs. After a day of exploration, there are a variety of dining options. Dorshi, a Michelin-listed East Asian diner, and the Red Brick Cafe, known for its vegetarian dishes, are among the local favourites.

For a truly unique dining experience, why not try The Station Kitchen, which offers a quirky setting inside railway carriages?

Tucked away in Bridport is Palmers, the UK’s only thatched brewery and arguably the town’s best-kept secret.

When it’s time to hit the hay, Haddon House hotel is a top choice. Just 300 yards from the harbour and boasting a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, it’s a real gem. Guests have described the hotel as ‘excellent’, ‘faultless’, and ‘beautiful’, and some suites even feature spa baths.

Bridport has been dubbed ‘Notting Hill-on-sea’. However, this comparison isn’t entirely accurate. While both places have revamped their Electric Palace Cinemas, the property prices tell a different story.

Notting Hill, one of London’s most expensive areas, boasts an average house price of £1.6 million, according to Rightmove. In contrast, homes in Bridport average at £371K, making them over a million cheaper than their Notting Hill counterparts.

The journey from London to Bridport by car is fairly straightforward, taking around three and a quarter hours, mostly along the M3.

If you’re opting for public transport, catch a train from Waterloo to Axminster. From there, hop on an X51 Jurassic Coaster bus – a treat for all you transport enthusiasts – which will get you to Bridport in just over an hour. All in all, expect the journey to take just under four hours.

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The Mam Tor circular in the Hope Valley has been named one of the UK’s best walks that can be easily reached by public transport, and it’s less than an hour from Manchester

A stunning walk in the Peak District, boasting breathtaking views, has been hailed as one of the UK’s best accessible by train — and it’s just a stone’s throw from Manchester.

The Mam Tor circular in Hope Valley clinched second place in a ranking of the country’s top walks reachable via public transport, according to research by outdoor specialists at Blacks. In fact, this Peak District trek was only pipped to the post by the Seven Sisters and Seaford trail in East Sussex.

To compile the list, researchers scrutinised Google search data, All Trails reviews and the proximity of each walk to the nearest railway station.

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With an impressive All Trails rating of 4.8 and a UK search volume of 1,127,000 from July 2024 to June 2025, Mam Tor scored a commendable 9.17 out of 10, narrowly missing out on the top spot to the Seven Sisters’ score of 9.38, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The circular walk kicks off in the beautiful village of Hope, which is a mere 48-minute train ride from Manchester Piccadilly train station. Taking roughly one and a half hours to complete, this moderate route leads you to one of England’s most iconic hills, Mam Tor, offering spectacular views across the Hope Valley.

After their hike, walkers can unwind with a well-deserved visit to one of historic Hope’s numerous picturesque pubs and cafes, including the dog-friendly Cheshire Cheese Inn or the Old Hall Hotel. Other notable nearby villages include Castleton and Edale.

One of the top ten walks easily accessible by train from Manchester is the Kent Estuary and Arnside Knott Circular in Cumbria. Starting in Arnside, just an hour and 20 minutes away from Manchester Piccadilly by train, this walk offers stunning views of Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells.

UK’s best walks that you can reach by train, as recommended and ranked by Blacks:

1. Seven Sisters and Seaford, East Sussex
2. Mam Tor Circular, Hope, Derbyshire
3. Box Hill Circular, Box Hill & Westhumble, Surrey
4. Arthurs Seat, Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh
5. Whernside and Ribblehead Circular, Ribblehead, North Yorkshire
6. Kent Estuary and Arnside Knott Circular, Arnside, Cumbria
7. Dover White Cliffs Walk, Dover Priory, Kent
8. East Strand, Portrush, County Antrim
9. Cleveland Way: Scarborough to Filey, Scarborough, North Yorkshire
10. Ilkley Moor and Cow & Calf Rocks, Ilkley, West Yorkshire

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Have you ever been in a situation where you needed the toilet but could not go?

We’ve all been at work when all of a sudden you need the toilet. And whilst you often don’t need to panic, the situation is different if you can’t go straight away.

When nature calls, and forces us to make a speedy retreat, most of us can easily break off, unless you’re mid-presentation. But it’s a whole other story for bus drivers – at least if they want to pop to one common place to head to the loo.

For drivers of London’s public transport services, loo breaks have to be taken seriously, because opportunities for relieving oneself are few and far between. In a Reddit forum, a London bus driver happily answered questions from the public about the dos and the don’ts of the job, and one question touched upon this very subject, reports MyLondon.

A reader asked them what we’ve all often thought: “How do you handle bathroom breaks?” The answer? Go to the toilet anywhere – but not in a pub.

The driver said: “We have toilets at either end of the route usually, but if you’re caught short, you can call the controller over the radio and they know of spots across the routes for you to hop out and use – usually a bookies or McDonald’s.

“Interestingly, drivers years ago could use a boozer. However, understandably, people were getting worried when their drivers were hoping out mid route and popping in the pub for 5 minutes, so now we’re forbidden to enter a pub in any uniform.”

The driver also shared pearls of wisdom when responding to other queries from the public. One person asked, “What do you do when a stinky rider gets on?”

The driver responded: “Open the windows and carry on.” Another person asked: “Has anyone ever defecated on your buses?”

“No, however it’s usually a daily occurrence for people to chuck up their kebabs on a night shift after a heavy one,” answered the driver.

And his biggest pet peeve? Motorists attempting to undertake buses before they pull into stops.

The bus driver explained: “Seriously, it’s so dangerous to undertake any vehicle but even more so a vehicle that’s 35-40 foot long and weighs 11 tonnes. My first accident was because some boy racer tried to undertake me and got crunched against the curb whilst I was pulling into a bus stop, we have mirrors but they don’t solve the huge blind spots.

“For cyclists, I’d rather they didn’t go round me at a bus stop because it’s an absolute mission to go round them, and you just end up leapfrogging each other. However, we must share the road so do what you want I suppose.”

Transport for London has been approached for comment.

A study of 2,000 adults found the vast majority try and ‘live like a local’ when abroad, with priorities now more focused on creating unique experiences rather than seeing the main sights

UK holidaymakers are searching for better ways to have a more ‘authentic’ experience while on holiday, rather than relying on visits to popular tourist hotspots. Research shows more than three quarters of holidaymakers attempt to ‘live like a local’ when they go abroad as priorities shift towards creating more unique experiences.

To do this, travellers are turning to locals for advice on dining recommendations to make sure they find the best options. They study shows travellers are also switching up their shopping habits, choosing to visit local grocery stores instead of familiar chains. Others are also choosing to cycle or walk rather than use public transport to better explore the area.

Nearly half of British holidaymakers on the search for a more local experience enjoy exploring smaller towns and villages, or browsing neighbourhood markets to escape the usual tourist traps. It comes after sunbed wars see Brits forced to queue for ‘over an hour’ just to get to the pool.

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The study was commissioned by Skyscanner, which has developed a Road Trip Planner to assist travellers in uncovering local hidden treasures.

Laura Lindsay, travel trends and destination expert for the brand, said: “There’s something truly special about stepping off the tourist trail and embracing the pace, traditions, and tastes of local life.

“Living like a local adds depth and colour to your holiday and creates a genuine connection with the destination. It’s not just more rewarding – it’s often more fun, too.”

The research suggests that holidaymakers strive to ‘live like a local’ not only for a more authentic experience – 35 per cent said it helps them find the best spots for food and drink – but also because they believe it’s more respectful, with a third stating they enjoy supporting the local economy.

Over four in 10 travellers are more inclined to try and ‘live like a local’ on holiday now than they were five years ago, possibly due to the influence of social media. Half of the holidaymakers surveyed said that social media has made it easier to discover hidden gems off the beaten path while on holiday.

When venturing beyond typical tourist areas, two thirds said they were taken aback by how different a country or place felt. Levelling up their ‘local experience’ a quarter of holidaymakers have specifically chosen accommodation because it resembled somewhere a local resident would live.

However, there are still certain obstacles prevent tourists from experiencing a true local lifestyle on their holidays. As expected, language barriers were a significant issue, followed by a lack of confidence or uncertainty about where to begin.

Meanwhile, the survey revealed that discovering new foods and flavours is the top priority for travellers, although 36 per cent simply yearn for a few moments of tranquillity.

To achieve this, 27 per cent prefer to hire a car for a more authentic local holiday experience, as it provides them with greater freedom to explore, be more independent and make spontaneous discoveries.

Laura Lindsay, from Skyscanner, added: “Living like a local doesn’t have to mean going completely off-grid – it’s about making small, intentional choices that enrich your travel.

“And best of all, it helps support the communities you visit, from independent businesses to artisans and family-run restaurants. It’s a win for travellers and locals alike.”

The Isles of Scilly are just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall and have some of the warmest weather in the UK. There are five main islands and hundreds of beaches to explore

If you’re yearning for a Caribbean-style getaway with pristine seas, white sandy beaches and tropical weather, you might not have to travel as far as you think. You don’t need to splash out on long-haul flights to soak up the Caribbean vibes; there’s an archipelago just off the English coast that offers all this and more.

The Isles of Scilly, situated a mere 28 miles from the Cornish coast, boast some of the UK’s most temperate climates.

With five main islands and countless beaches to discover, visitors can indulge in a plethora of water sports including kayaking, diving, sailing, swimming and windsurfing.

On dry land, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to behold, from ancient ruins and stunning gardens to an intriguing maze.

St Mary’s, the largest island in the group, covers just over six square miles and is home to approximately 1,800 inhabitants.

This particular island holds a special place in the hearts of the Royal Family.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have been known to whisk their children away here for their summer holidays, reports the Express.

They’ve also been spotted on Tresco, the second largest island, which houses the renowned Tresco Abby Gardens.

This breathtaking location is home to 20,000 species of sub-tropical plants and flowers, creating a tranquil paradise perfect for a day of exploration.

Tresco is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, and to maintain its unspoilt charm, it is completely car-free; electric buggies or bicycles are the preferred modes of transport around the island.

Alternatively, public transport is available, or, if you prefer, you could simply stroll around and enjoy the best the island has to offer.

If you’re keen to explore this heavenly spot, Discover Ferries suggests journeying to Tresco via St Mary’s by sea from Penzance between March and November with Isle of Scilly Travel.

Tbilisi in Georgia has been named the cheapest city in Europe to visit – and it’s a top spot for a summer city break with affordable hotels, food and drinks

For a summer getaway that won’t leave you skint, one European city stands out from the crowd. Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, is an emerging hotspot with plenty to discover – and the best part is, it’s still reasonably priced.

Research conducted by luggage storage firm Bounce reveals that Tbilisi is actually Europe’s most affordable destination. The study examined average costs for accommodation, meals, beverages, and transport, as well as the number of free attractions in 70 of Europe’s top cities to determine the most budget-friendly this year.

A weekend stay at a hotel in Tbilisi will only set you back £136, and a pint of local beer is a mere £1.64.

In addition to the inexpensive drinks and lodging, Tbilisi boasts numerous free attractions, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Bridge of Peace.

This stunningly overlooked city has a lot to offer.

The Cathedral’s architecture is breathtaking, and there are also lovely gardens to wander around, perfect for a day of exploration.

The Bridge of Peace, another architectural marvel that spans the Mtkvari River, is lit up by thousands of LED lights at night, reports the Express.

After a day of sightseeing, you can enjoy a reasonably priced meal. Dining in Tbilisi is also quite affordable, with a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing less than £33.

You can also get two lunchtime meals at a budget-friendly restaurant for approximately £16.50.

If you find yourself in Georgia, you simply must sample Khachapuri – a traditional Georgian dish that’s akin to pizza and absolutely scrumptious.

Another local favourite is Khinkali – these steamed dumplings, filled with rich Georgian spices, meat and broth, bear a resemblance to Chinese soup dumplings and are an absolute must-try when in Tbilisi.

Getting around the city won’t break the bank either, with taxis charging the same for a 1km journey as the cost of a pint.

Public transport is even more affordable, with tickets averaging at a mere 27p.

In the past year, seven of the UK’s 10 busiest airports have increased the cost of dropping off a loved one before travel – to the point that London Luton is now more expensive than a stay at the Ritz

Drop-off charges at one major UK airport have risen so much it’s more expensive – minute by minute – seeing a loved one off than staying at the Ritz hotel in London.

Most of the UK’s busiest airports have upped the prices of their drop-off zones, commonly known as “kiss and fly” areas, where travellers can say a quick farewell to their loved ones before jetting off. In the past year, seven of the aviation hubs have either increased prices or reduced how long drivers can stay before higher fees are applicable.

Luton Airport currently has the highest per-minute cost the UK’s busiest airports – charging £5 for five minutes before the £1 a minute fare rolls in for a maximum of 20. These prices rose steeply following the renovation of Luton’s drop-off zone after it was torched in a fire in October 2023. Before the fire, it was £5 for 10 minutes followed by the £1-a-minute charge.

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For a deluxe king room at Mayfair’s Ritz hotel, you’d pay £1,149 per night, which works out at around 91p a minute. The airport said the charge helps maintain the flow of passengers and traffic, claiming that the majority of visits are within five minutes. They signposted customers to the mid-stay car park, which is a ten-minute walk to the airport terminal.

It tells The Times: “With a £5 fee, the barrierless system keeps passengers and the traffic flowing, with the average time spent in the area well within five minutes. For those with more time, drivers have a range of free and paid-for drop off, pick up and parking options to choose from.”

According to the RAC, these kiss and fly charges are “bordering on the ridiculous”. Rod Dennis from the RAC said: “Drivers will be understandably aghast at the prospect of paying as much as £7 for what amounts to nothing more than opening the boot so a friend or relative can collect their luggage and catch their flight.

“The problem is a lack of practical — and affordable — alternatives for getting to many airports. Faced with the choice of a double-decker bus with lots of luggage, or forking out for a taxi, it’s easy to see why people feel they have no option other than to drive.”

Many of the major airports ask drivers to pay before or after they arrive and late payment charges are issued if a payment isn’t made within 24 hours or by midnight the following day.

Graham Conway from Select Car Leasing, based in Reading, said: “Failingto pay for drop-off parking or exceeding your time limit can really hit you in the wallet. It’s all too easy to forget to log on and to then remember with a sense of dread when it’s too late.”

Some breakdown policies have limits on the amount they will pay out if a car cannot be fixed at the roadside, meaning drivers could be left out of pocket if it needs to be recovered to a garage

Motorists planning a continental jaunt are being cautioned that they might end up dipping into their own pockets if they don’t review any restrictions on their breakdown assurance.

Upon examining 291 policies, financial guru Defaqto has found that almost a third (31%) of them set a ceiling for individual claims at less than £3,500.

Should the cost of getting a car back on the road or mended surpass this figure, policyholders may need to shell out the excess themselves. Defaqto highlights the importance of checking whether there’s also an aggregate cap for all claims under the policy.

In instances where a vehicle fails before leaving and can’t be fixed promptly, hiring a substitute motor is essential.

Alas, Defaqto’s findings report that merely over a third (34%) of plans actually accommodate for the costs of hiring a car prior to departure, potentially leaving some travellers with hefty bills even before they hit the road.

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This analysis, which was conducted in early June, included various European breakdown cover options such as separately sold “standalone” policies, those bundled with comprehensive car insurance, “short-term” covers specific to particular journeys, and perks offered with certain bank accounts.

Travellers caught unawares overseas might encounter local law enforcement or authorities calling upon an approved vehicle retrieval service.

Defaqto’s research reveals that a notable 16% of these breakdown covers do not compensate for such recoveries, cornering drivers into unforeseen expenses.

If your motor conks out while you’re on holiday and can’t be fixed within a day, many policies will offer “journey continuation” cover to help with the cost of alternative transport like public transport or hiring a car.

Defaqto’s research found that just over a third (35%) of policies cap these costs between £500 and £999.

Close to two-fifths (38%) of policies put a limit on the number of breakdowns you can claim for during the policy term.

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Motor insurance guru at Defaqto, Mike Powell, commented: “If you are going on holiday in Europe this summer, buying motor breakdown insurance may not be the first thing you think about. But if you are taking your own car, it is essential to understand what the policy covers so you are not hit with a large bill if things go wrong.”

He added, “While price is often a major factor in choosing a policy, it is even more important to look closely at the cover provided and the limits that apply. The cheapest policy may end up costing you more in the long run.”

Mike Powell also offers some savvy advice for those planning to drive around Europe:.

• Double-check your breakdown cover before setting off. Ensure your policy includes European cover and pore over the fine print to grasp what’s covered and what’s not.
• Get clued up on local driving regulations. Each country has its own set of driving laws and requirements. Jot down essential contact numbers, including your insurer and local emergency services, and know the drill for motorway mishaps.
• Factor in additional costs. If your cover limit is insufficient, you may find yourself footing the bill for services like towing, car hire or onward travel.
• Keep your documents at the ready. This might encompass your driving licence, insurance certificate, logbook, passport and any pertinent health cards or visas.
• Ponder having the car serviced prior to the holiday. A pre-holiday check-up could help prevent motor breakdowns from occurring in the first place.

FlixBus has rolled out its biggest-ever expansion, which will see significantly more cities and towns connected up by the green goliaths – including tourist hotspot Brighton

Forget the idea that coaches are just for seniors and students – travelling across the UK by coach is about to get a significant boost this summer with the introduction of more affordable fares.

FlixBus, with its distinctive green buses, is expanding its UK network, which already spans over 80 destinations, including Brighton. As of June 13, new coach services will connect Cambridge, London, Gatwick Airport, and Brighton, operating twice daily.

Prices are extremely competitive, with tickets between London and Brighton starting at £4.49 and those between Gatwick and Brighton available from £3.49. The journey from London to Brighton takes approximately two and a half hours – an hour longer than the train – but at a fraction of the cost.

FlixBus is also introducing a direct service between Cambridge and London, running four times a day, to cater to the growing demand for tourism.

Andreas Schorling, Senior Managing Director of FlixBus UK, expressed his enthusiasm for the new services: “Brighton is such a vibrant, inclusive city, especially during the summer, and we can’t wait to offer passengers the chance to visit for the first time on our network.”

“The people of Brighton will now have a fantastic service to central London, Cambridge and Gatwick. Known for its dedication to sustainability, it’s a perfect match for FlixBus.

“Londoners now have even more affordable, sustainable, and reliable travel options for weekend getaways, airport connections, and visiting friends and family this summer.”

Brighton has been named as one of Time Out’s top 50 cities in the world to visit in 2025, boasting attractions such as the iconic pier, the Royal Pavilion and its beach.

FlixBus has been busy throughout spring 2025, rolling out its largest expansion yet, adding new destinations including popular holiday spots like Bournemouth, Newquay and Truro.

The company now operates over 200 coaches across England, Scotland and Wales, providing nationwide travel that is sustainable, reliable and affordable. Tickets can be purchased at www.flixbus.co.uk or via the FlixBus app.

With a fleet of 200 coaches, FlixBus’ business is thriving, generating a turnover of £1.7 billion from 81 million passengers worldwide each year.

“This feels like a new golden age for coach travel”, says Schorling. “Over five million UK passengers have travelled with us since we launched three years ago and they keep coming back. By next summer, we’ll have over 200 vehicles on the road, more than twice the size of the Megabus network at their peak.”

According to TimeOut, FlixBus has managed to achieve something that Megabus couldn’t. It writes: “It’s made getting a coach – dare we say it – chic?”.

“It would seem unlikely that a bus could build and sustain a place in pop-culture” says Eglantina Becheru, Director of Brand & Creative at FlixBus. “But against the odds, Flix has created one.”

The town, which has been dubbed the Pearl of Dorset, is a popular holiday destination throughout the year – but some locals say it has become too busy and expensive

Lyme Regis, often described as the ‘Pearl of Dorset‘, is grappling with the issue of overtourism, leaving a sour taste for some local residents at peak holiday times. While Spanish coastal towns are facing heated protests over the mass influx of sun-seeking Brits, discontent is simmering in this picturesque UK town.

As a prime spot with stunning views over the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyme Regis attracts throngs of visitors to its quaint streets lined with thriving independent shops and tasty little cafes and eateries. Yet, despite the obvious charms and a clear love for the town, locals can’t help but feel the pressure from the surge of visitors.

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Union Jacks flutter above Broad Street’s decline, screen-printing the sky with vibrant bursts of colour as people enjoyed their time outside the local haunts. But beneath this idyllic surface, there’s a brewing frustration among residents.

Local Chris Irving, 72, whose home lies just a stone’s throw from the town centre, reflected on his weekly visits: “It’s a lovely place but there should be some more ordinary shops – butchers, greengrocers and things like that. I feel sorry for the locals a bit really.”

Without skipping a beat, when asked whether overtourism is taking a toll on Lyme Regis, Chris said: “Yeah there’s too many people. We pick our days. We don’t come in on bank holidays, as a rule, and some weekends we avoid it as it’s too crowded.”

During the peak season, Lyme Regis sees its population soar from 4,000 to an estimated 20,000, with day-trippers flocking in on bank holidays and weekends, leading to severe traffic jams and parking woes, reports the Express.

The closest railway station is Axminster, situated about six miles away, after Lyme Regis lost its own station on November 29, 1965, following the Beeching Report which led to the axing of many miles of railway deemed unprofitable.

Chris refers to car parking as a “delicate issue” while Matthew Blueberry, who runs the Blueberry shop on Broad Street, laments that parking turns into a “nightmare” when summer crowds descend upon the town.

“It’s a small town and people like the independent shops,” he says. “It can get too busy in the summer. The parking is a nightmare – it’s too expensive.”

Lyme Regis boasts a combination of town council-run and privately owned car parks, with hourly rates ranging from £1.50 to £1.90, alongside options for longer stays.

Yet, according to Matthew, these car parks simply can’t cope with the tourist influx during the high season. The 25 year old points out: “Most people drive in but they can’t find parking. They then go ‘oh I’m going to go somewhere else’. We then lose potential business.

“The main car park is expensive and getting a spot on the road only lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. People also caravan or camp down here, which brings a lot of people in. But overall the town needs to do a lot more to help us out.”

John Smith, who manages Primary Colours in the town centre, says the summer holidays are “chokka” in Lyme Regis. He also agrees parking is a big issue in the town and said local bus services could be more efficient.

The 60 year old says: “There are buses but, like everything else, they’re not as good as they could be. Most people just drive in.

“It would be lovely if people came without their cars as parking is a big issue in town. There is a park and ride though which operates in the summer. But in the summer holidays the town is just chokka. It can get too busy at times.”

Lyme Regis Town Council says it has invested in public transport and parking facilities in a bid to relieve the stress of overtourism. According to its website, this includes bus services, a park and ride service and the creation of electric vehicle charging points.

Residents and visitors of the charming coastal town of Lyme Regis are voicing their sentiments about living in and visiting what’s often described as a quaint, old-fashioned British seaside resort.

Mr Smith, a local, described his home with fondness: “It’s a quaint, old-fashioned and traditional British seaside resort,” he noted.

“It’s also a great place to visit out of season for the grandparents and older people. We’re so lucky to live here.”

Margaret Quinlan, a frequent visitor from Bedfordshire, expressed her feelings about the bustling nature of Lyme Regis: “It’s a lovely place but it does get very busy. It’s not that busy today luckily so we can just walk around. We try and come down when it’s a bit quieter.”

She went on to add concerns about accessibility: “As we’re getting older, it’s not easy to access now. Luckily our flat is the other end of the town so we don’t have to use the main car park which always gets full.”

When discussing the transport links, she mentioned: “Yeah being able to get a train would make it easier.” Reflecting on past visits she said: “We’ve been coming for 20 years and have never been able to get a train in.

“If there was a train station we’d definitely consider getting one. We’re thinking about getting the bus up the hill which would save us a big walk.”

Chris Ford, who runs The Old Forge Fossil Shop on Broad Street, touched on the economic benefits of the town’s popularity: “I’m not going to complain about how busy it gets. It makes the town a great place all year round. It’s a very friendly place to visit for families,” he asserted.

Chris, a local resident, has expressed his scepticism about the feasibility of adding a train station to attract more visitors to the town. He said: “People don’t use the trains to come this far down. We’re three hours from London and people can’t get across the country or even from Bath. So a lot of people are driving or come to caravan parks.”

He further added: “I’m sure (a train station) would bring more people down but it’s getting the trains down into the valley from Axminster.

“I know there’s a track but there’s a big viaduct they’ve got to get across. And, it hasn’t been well maintained over the years.”

Lyme Regis Town Council has acknowledged the town’s heavy reliance on tourism. They stated that “it must strike a reasonable balance between responsible tourism and protecting the environment”.

The council also highlighted the various sustainable travel options available to and around the town. They said: “There are many ways to travel sustainably to and around the town, helping to limit the impact on our local environment.

“Lyme Regis is accessible by rail, coach, road, air and sea and we would encourage, where possible, use of public transport to help reduce carbon emissions, air pollution and congestion on roads.”

They further added: “Lyme Regis is a small town and most places are easy to get to on foot or by bike. Many of the streets in the town are narrow and were not originally built for modern vehicles so congestion is an issue and parking can be a challenge.

“A park and ride operates on the outskirts of the town during the peak season and is an ideal way to take the hassle out of your visit, while also reducing the amount of vehicles and congestion in the town centre.

“The 71 town bus is a convenient way to get around town, stopping off in residential areas, in the town centre and near the medical centre.

“Operated by Damory, the service runs from just after 9am until just after 2pm, Mondays to Fridays, except bank holidays.”

Travel experts have named the places you could find yourself at risk – including in Spain, France, Italy, Turkey and Thailand

Holiday season is almost in full swing with just weeks until we hit the peak summer travel window, and millions of people will head from the UK to familiar locations in the sun. Each year we make more than 55million holiday trips abroad, with places like Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Portugal topping the list of destinations.

People from the UK usually travel to familiar locations, believing they will be safe from crime and disease, while shunning places they think may be more ‘trouble’. But travel experts have warned some of the most familiar spots are actually the most dangerous – where you are most likely to experience things like becoming a victim of crime.

Those destinations include familiar favourites such as Spain, France, Italy and Turkey.

Diana Peng from Just Wanderlust said: “Places that are regarded as safe but aren’t include popular places such as Paris and Barcelona. I’ve heard so many horror stories from travelers to those cities and I’ve also been the target of crime in those cities – it is rampant and yet, it’s barely discussed.

“Groups of pickpockets and scammers frequently work the tourist crowds in these popular cities. They are also easy targets: preoccupied, lost, or trying to get photos more so than paying attention to their surroundings.”

Patrick Farrell of Viceroy Bali added: “Regions like Cancun and Acapulco in Mexico make me think they are safe, when in fact, they are not. I have received clients who booked luxury wellness retreats there, only for them to experience unforeseen safety concerns outside the resort areas.

“Furthermore, cities like Paris and Barcelona are pretty in their own right, but they do pose some level of safety concern. The two cities have a high risk of pickpocketing and scamming tourists. My advice always is to look at government-issued travel advisories, and talking to someone who knows the city is very useful.”

Ross Thompson at Covac Global said: “Places like Naples, Italy and Tokyo, Japan sit on massive seismic and geologic risks. Naples sits near Mt Vesuvius which is an active volcano that last erupted in 1944. While it’s closely monitored it sits near a highly dense population and is closely monitored for a reason.

“Tokyo sits on a major seismic zone where an earthquake or tsunami can strike not only Tokyo but many other highly visited Japanese cities without warning causing massive destruction.”

He added: “Hidden risks can manifest politically, even if they say it is welcoming to Western tourists, they may have less noted political or civil strife either internally or externally. Think about the attempted coup in Turkey in 2016 where the opposition actually seized airports, bridges and media entities and both tanks and fighter jets filled the cities and skies.”

Ross also warned about ‘kidnapping in Mexico’s most popular cities’ and the risk of illness in Western Africa, Thailand and Brazil.

He highlighted Bali in Indonesia as a particular risk – surrounded by active volcanoes, at threat of political upheaval and home to ‘a host of exotic diseases including Dengue Fever, Malaria and Typhoid’

He said: “And when disaster does strike – you’re on an island and you and everyone else wants out.”

Christian Petzold, travel expert at BCN Travel, said: “Mexico is the proverbial example. Cities like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are tourist havens: splendour and creation in concert. Yet, in the past few years, intermittent conflicts of criminal gangs have touched even these sanctuaries of tourism, some directly in the proximity of tourist zones.”

He added: “Paris, on the other hand, although arguably one of the most visited cities, is known for petty crimes around Gare du Nord, Montmartre, and near the Eiffel Tower. Pickpocketing is almost a fine art there, whereas protests and strikes disrupt transport and city services with unpredictability. I always recommend guests carry crossbody bags, beware of strangers who get too friendly too fast, and keep eyes and ears open for local news updates.

“Rome has a similar ambience. Whereas it is rich in history and culture, Termini Station and some venues near the Vatican attract scams and thefts: from fake helpful locals to those touting friendship bracelets or petitions, the usual distraction-and-robbery routine.

“Thailand poses a curious case. Generally safe and world-renowned for hospitality, guests should be wary of certain transportation modes, especially tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis, which are often unregulated. Some islands like Koh Tao have been in the spotlight due to a string of deaths of tourists that went unsolved amidst rumblings of local corruption. When it comes to political differences in Bangkok, protests tend to escalate relatively quickly, thereby promptly throwing an alienated tourist into the midst of demonstrations.”

How to stay safe on a foreign holiday

Staying safe on a foreign holiday involves a mix of preparation, awareness, and common sense. Here’s the best advice broken down into key areas:

Before You Go

1. Research the Destination Check travel advice from the UK Foreign Office: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. Understand local laws, customs, and any safety concerns (crime, weather, political instability, etc.).
2. Get Travel Insurance Make sure it covers health emergencies, cancellations, theft, and adventure activities if applicable.
3. Copies of Important Documents Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, travel insurance, visa, and emergency contacts.

While You’re There

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places (tourist hotspots, public transport).
2. Protect Your Valuables Use a money belt or hidden pouch. Leave expensive jewellery and unnecessary tech at home or in a safe.
3. Use Reliable Transport Use official taxis, ride apps (e.g., Uber), or public transport where safe. Don’t hitchhike.
4. Be Cautious with Alcohol Drink in moderation and never leave drinks unattended. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
5. Local Laws and Etiquette Respect dress codes, especially in religious or conservative areas. Know what’s illegal – e.g., vaping in Thailand, chewing gum in Singapore.

Health & Emergency

1. Know Emergency Numbers Not all countries use 112 or 999. Look up the local emergency number.
2. Medications Bring enough prescribed medication with a copy of your prescription. Check if your medication is legal in your destination country.
3. Vaccinations & Health Risks Visit a travel clinic for any necessary jabs or malaria tablets.
4. Avoid Unsafe Food/Water In higher-risk areas, stick to bottled water and avoid street food that isn’t freshly cooked.

Tech & Communication

1. Stay Connected Get a local SIM or roaming plan. Share your itinerary and daily check-ins with someone back home.
2. Download Essential Apps Maps, translation, local transport, embassy locator, travel insurance app.

This German city has been named the most walkable in the world, with many of its main attractions including a jewel-filled palace, a unique surf spot and Gothic church easily accessible on foot

A study has named the world’s most walkable city and it’s only a short flight from the UK. The top-rated destination packed with bike and walking paths even managed to beat out beloved holiday hotspots like Paris and Milan.

Less than a two-hour plane ride from London is the most walkable city in the world: Munich. The study from Compare the Market ranked 53 locations on how good they are for being car-free and listed the Bavarian city as number one.

There were many factors used to assess each of the 53 cities, including the total distance of all bike trails and walking trails and the cost and efficiency of public transport. Each city was also given an overall safety score and public transportation score. Additionally, average monthly rainfall factored into the final walkability assessment.

According to the researchers, 86% of Munich’s population live within 1km of a car-free space. The city has 1,468,623 kilometres (912,560 miles) worth of bike trails – the second highest of anywhere in the world, according to Compare the Market.

The findings also reveal that despite Munich’s public transport being the third most expensive, it scores the fourth highest for safety. The city also tied for second highest destination for people living within a kilometre of healthcare and education facilities.

The Bavarian city is a great destination for tourists to get around on foot with many of its main attractions located within walking distance. Munich’s historic main square, Marienplatz, is one of many must-visit attractions, overlooked by a clocktower.

If you time your visit for one of the two performances a day, you will be able to see the mechanical characters in the Rathaus-Glockenspiel clock enacting scenes from the city’s history.

Marienplatz is just a five-minute walk to Frauenkirche, a restored Gothic Catholic church. The church is known for its ominous ‘Devil’s Footprint’, a large hollowed footprint set within one of the church’s floor tiles.

Less than a ten-minute walk from Frauenkirche is the Residenz Munch – a historic palace which houses the Bavarian Crown Jewels. The Residenz also served as Munich’s seat of government until 1918.

Those wishing to enjoy the natural beauty of the city – still on foot – can head to the city’s largest park: the English Garden. The park spans 375 hectares and one of its most notable features is the Eisbach wave, where visitors can see locals attempting to surf the river.

Of course, no mention of the Oktoberfest capital would be complete without mention of its incredible beer gardens and halls. After a long day of strolling, travellers can head to the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus München – one of the most well-known beer halls in the world – to enjoy a drink and traditional Bavarian fare.

Nine out of the top ten most walkable cities in the Compare the Market study are in Europe. The only non-European city that cracked the top ten list was Tokyo, which made it into sixth place. On the other end of the scale, Manila, the capital of the Philippines, was ranked as the least walkable city in the world.

Top 5 most walkable cities worldwide

• Munich, Germany
• Milan, Italy
• Warsaw, Poland
• Helsinki, Finland
• Paris, France