resort

CAMPSITES are getting cooler – letting you have a family holiday with all the frills but without the expensive costs.

One of the most fun ones on the block is Alannia Costa Blanca Resort in Spain, one of the largest of it’s kind in the country.

The five-star camping resort isn’t one where you’ll be pitching tents, but instead with holiday lodges instead.

But the main attraction is its huge tropical waterpark, with Indonesian Island stone heads overlooking it.

It has loads of pools (one of which is heated) as well as slides and splash zones.

Adults can head over to the spa centre or gyms, if they want a break, or take the kids to the many sports facilities including tennis and padel.

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You won’t have to leave the resort for anything – even with a hair salon and supermarket on-site.

Otherwise the main restaurant has both local and international dishes, or grab drinks and ice creams from the poolside bar.

When the sun goes down, there is lots to do as well with a vast programme of activities including discos, shows and bingo.

While the resort isn’t on the beach, the nearby Costa Blanca coastline is around 20 minutes away by car.

If you’re visiting in the peak summer season, expect prices to be around £1,719 for a week’s stay.

Visit outside of the peak summer season and you’ll pay just £554 for a week’s stay – and with lodges sleeping five, this works out to just £16 each a night.

Rooms range from premium two and three-bedroom holiday homes to larger lodges and chalets.

Families have raved about the campsite online, with one saying it was the “best camping site they had been to”.

Another said the pools “make you think you’re in Thailand“.

A third added: “The Tahiti pool is out of this world. Felt like we were in the Maldives.”

THIS may sound strange, but as we finished our first circuit around Yorkshire Wildlife Park, I was pleased we hadn’t seen all the animals who call this place home.

We hadn’t spotted them all because the amazing beasts — including giraffes, rhinos, zebras, lions, tigers, polar bears and wallabies — live in huge, free-roaming enclosures.

They have areas to play, relax, eat and sleep instead of being squashed in small cages just so humans can instantly peer at them.

The humans on my trip included my son Alex and his friends Jack and Finn, together with their mum Laura. They travelled from London and we went from Manchester, meeting at the park in Auckley, Doncaster.

Even though our visit to the 175- acre adventure park was in February we were lucky with the weather and by the end of our day we were lucky with the animals we saw, too.

It takes about 90 minutes to walk the 3km circular route, and once you’ve done it the first time, you can do it all over again.

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As we passed by the 30 life-size dinosaur models and then watched sea lions, the boys used the park’s app to decide which animals they wanted to see.

For Alex, it was the six polar bears. They live in ten acres, with grassy plains, rocky beaches, water pools and shaded caves, but thankfully seemed to love being near visitors.

One gigantic bear dipped in the pool and had a kickabout with a football right in front of us.

Finn chose the red pandas. Visitors can book 30-minute experiences with several of the animals, including the red panda, and feed them.

But Finn was thrilled just to see the “real-life Kung Fu Panda”.
Jack’s wish was to see the tigers.

As we headed there, we first saw monkeys swinging through trees and playing, which the boys loved. Then we stopped at Leopard Heights, which has a large elevated viewing platform plus ground-level glass wall to see the big cats play on their huge wooden climbing frames.

But as big cats go, they weren’t as majestic as the lions who sprawled out on rocks, seemingly oblivious to everyone gazing at their splendour.

Throughout the park, signs explain each animal’s back story. There is a big focus on environmental projects and it was lovely to read how the lions had been rescued from dangerous situations, including from Ukraine.

The Amur tigers were a highlight. One wandered right past us making moaning noises, which apparently indicated contentment. But as one man behind me rightly commented: “You wouldn’t want to hear that on a dark night, would you?”

There are several picnic spots here, too. One is sensibly inside and next time I visit I’ll shove a sandwich or two in a backpack.

But we weren’t that organised so had lunch at the Safari Cafe. Two very decent coffees for the adults, plus sandwiches and quiche with salad, and three portions of nuggets, chips, beans and apple juices for the kids came to £45 which, for a tourist spot, didn’t seem like bad value.

There are also many play areas and the boys loved the Jungle lookout, climbing through wooden tree forts, over obstacle courses and down slides as us adults had a catch-up.

Finally we returned to the Yorkshire Hive — a hub at the centre of the park with a beauty salon, shops, cafes and fitness centre plus hotel the Hex, where we were staying.

After dumping our bags, we went to Evolution Experience Restaurant where there were more roaring dinosaurs, illuminated dragons, smoke effects, crayons and colouring sheets for the boys.

They each had home-made pizza, apple juice and organic fruit lollies for £10 while we had ribs for £12 with a decent sauvignon blanc and prosecco.

The hotel ticked a lot of boxes — bunk beds and giant bean bags for the boys to sit on and watch Netflix plus black-out blinds, Temple Spa bathroom products, fresh coffee sachets and the cutest packets of mini Jammie Dodgers I’ve ever seen.

But without doubt the best bit of that room was two oblong windows in the walls — one at kids’ level and one at adult height — giving a bird’s eye view over the park.

We watched the wolves prowling and then eating their breakfast. It was the highlight of our trip.

After we had our own breakfast — a full English buffet at the Wilds Cafe Bistro — the boys had a final run around at the large soft play centre, while we relaxed and chatted.

That’s what is so perfect about this place — they catered for the needs of the animals, the kids and us. And for me, that was the real winner.

June 20 (UPI) — An Italian woman was killed, nine injured and more than 1,700 evacuated from a massive fire at a beachfront resort in the Dominican Republic Friday.

Francesca Valentino, 46, of Italy, died in the fire that broke out around 11 a.m. AST at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach, a four-star resort in Bayahibe in the La Altagracia province, officials said. Three people were taken to medical facilities and six others were treated on site, Juan Manuel Mendez, head of the Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center, said in a press conference.

No cause of the fire has been reported, but the Emergency Operations Center said a preliminary investigation found that portions of the resort’s buildings were made of cane roofs, which are combustible, and windy conditions contributed to the fire’s spread.

The Italian ambassador to the Dominican Republic met the dead woman’s husband at the hospital, the Italian news agency Ansa reported. There were about 285 Italian tourists staying at the resort or nearby, and the embassy in Santo Domingo was working to help them get new passports and arrange flights home.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts franchises some 8,400 hotels worldwide.

“At this time, we are actively gathering the facts regarding the incident and coordinating with the appropriate authorities and on-site teams,” a spokesperson for Viva Resorts by Wyndham told CBS News. “As this process is ongoing, we will not be providing comment at this time.”

The Emergency Operations Center said in a statement that the about 1,690 guests at the resort were evacuated to other hotels and nearby housing facilities, CBS News reported. It also said that Viva Wyndham’s Dominicus Palace, which is nearby, was not damaged and was operating as normal.

All-inclusive holidays are common across the Mediterranean, Mexico and the Caribbean, but the concept has evolved over the decades — and, as I found, is still changing…

For the past 15 years, if anyone ever even hinted at holidaying at an all-inclusive resort across the Mediterranean, I would shudder. Just the thought would evoke visions of a package holiday, full of Brits seeking the same cheap thrills for which they crave over here.

Don’t get me wrong – I’m not a snob. I’m the son of a travel agent, whose most popular getaways were these trips to the likes of Spain, Portugal and Greece. Brits love them.

But I’ve just come back from Greece. And from an all-inclusive resort. And, yes, I’ll eat humble pie – my view was misjudged. My trip to Ella Rocrita Resort Crete was glorious. It was a slice of luxury in a little-known corner of Crete, where tourists can enjoy the fascinating traditions, culture and nature the island has quietly boasted for decades.

Many Brits were there too. But this holiday, an all-inclusive, offered that bit of sun we here fondly miss, as well as a glimpse of Cretan life. Our boat trip to the ancient island of Spinalonga and excursion to Toplou Monastery will remain happy memories for many years.

Ella Rocrita Resort Crete is the fourth Ella Resort, having opened in April in the wake of successes on the likes of Corfu. These luxury all-inclusive complexes are essentially sprawling villages, and the newest is complete with five restaurants, several other bars with live entertainment and two large outdoor pools. Many of the 350-odd rooms and suites have quaint plunge pools, shared by only around half a dozen.

The brand, founded in 2021 but properly bursting onto the scene in 2023, has created these eco‑chic resorts in a bid to transform the identity of the all-inclusive, presumably from the image I had in my mind.

Rocrita, near the little fishing village of Mochlos, caters to families just as much as it does to couples. There’s an on-site crèche, kids club, babysitting service and a ninja pool — the latter just as appealing for youngsters as it is for big kids at heart, like myself.

I like to immerse myself in the culture of a new place, so I was a little reticent about staying at an all-inclusive. Excursions are available, though, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much culture I could absorb in the area. The stunning, lesser-known coastal spot in the northeast of the Greek island is tempting for travellers who want a true holiday experience without the hustle and bustle of tourist towns.

Every morning at Mochlos, I found myself instinctively looking up at the majestic peaks that surrounded us. Whether I was walking to breakfast, relaxing by the pool, or gazing back at the resort from the boat, the mountains were always there, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop to every moment of my stay at Ella Rocrita Resort. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can still picture them rising above me, as striking and unforgettable as ever.

Culture

On one particularly memorable day I visited Toplou Monastery. Founded in the 14th century, it is still functioning. The monks there make wine and were happy to treat us to a splendid wine-tasting session.

Travel west along the coast, hop on a little boat and spend a short while on Spinalonga. This island, maintained as a fortress for centuries under Venetian rule, became a leper colony in the early 20th century. It has been uninhabited since 1962 and is now the second-most-visited tourist site in Crete.

But those who enjoy activities closer to home can hit the private beach and make a splash with the wide variety of watersports. Yoga and pilates sessions are held most mornings on the lawn, play padel – the new racquet sport taking Europe by storm – and even enjoy a massage or facial in the wellness centre.

Food

This resort was ridiculous in the very best way possible. The days seemed to blur into one. I rarely knew what day it was, my screen time plummeted, and the food was so good it left me in a constant state of bliss. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Greek culture, Ella Rocrita Resort’s culinary offering is a fantastic place to start, with five exceptional restaurants showcasing a variety of flavours and experiences.

I like to try the local cuisine and one of the eateries, Smigo, offers just that. Diners are encouraged to have meze, a selection of small dishes served as appetisers. These include grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini flowers, delicious fresh salads, oysters and wholesome bread boards.

At the Viola restaurant, dedicated chefs prepare Italian dishes, including a gorgeous prawn pasta creation. Carūma Fusion Restaurant offers South American and Cretan fusion cuisine, exotic cocktails, and an intimate setting for a dinner of tropical tastes. My crispy salmon with a fried rice dish was a gorgeous meal, but other diners enjoyed vegetarian delights at all the restaurants. The salads are light but wholesome and feature beautiful tomatoes and cucumbers.

Entertainment

The brand’s approach to entertainment has a way of drawing everyone in. It is understated, and not the happy-clappy fanfare I had feared as I prepared for the all-inclusive venture. Smooth jazz-inspired singers set the tone in the late bars, but the poolside watering hole boasts a DJ desperate to lure guests up to dance.

But it wasn’t an in-your-face theatre of performers, begging families up to stages to dance to unpalatable cheesy tunes. Instead, there are quiet spots across the whole of the resort where couples can relax and simply enjoy cocktails. The choice of which, by the way, is impressive; from a strong and oaky Manhattan to the resort specials, like the smooth Amber Spark (rum-based but with ginger tones).

There’s plenty for the children too, including sweet performances at the little amphitheatre and entertainment provided at the kids’ club. The arcade, complete with pool tables, is popular with youngsters and competitive adults alike.

Newly opened resort

At the end of the day — whether that means an early night or finally calling it quits after dancing until the bar closes at 1am — you retreat to one of the resort’s newly renovated rooms. Fresh, contemporary and infused with a relaxed Mediterranean aesthetic, the accommodation provides a comfortable sanctuary, with many rooms offering beautiful views across the pool or out towards the sea.

That sense of ease extends throughout the resort. From the soft, sun-washed colour palette and calming interiors to the intuitive layout that seamlessly connects rooms, restaurants and communal spaces, everything has been designed with relaxation in mind. It’s the kind of place where you quickly settle in, never feel lost, and can focus entirely on enjoying your holiday.

Book it

Rooms at Ella Rocrita start from approx. £184 per night, depending on season.

A MASSIVE indoor water resort the size of nine football pitches is set to open – and a similar one is coming to the UK.

Therme Singapore has confirmed that it will be opening in 2030, with works set to start.

The 720,000sqft attraction will be set across seven levels, with a range of activities based around water and wellness.

Set to cost S$1billion (£584million), inside will be 20 swmming pools, 18 waterslides and 70 treatment rooms for health and wellness.

There will be three zones – Play, Relax and Restore.

Play will be home to the water slides, as well as kids pools and a wave pool while Relax will have mineral and hydrotherapy pools.

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Restore will be the wellness area, with everything from steam rooms and saunas to cold punges and massage rooms.

Not only will there be hundreds of thousands of plants inside, but it will remain at around 30C all year round.

Inside will also be a huge dining area with restaurants and food spaces.

When it opens, it hopes to eventually welcome up to two million visitors.

But if Singapore is a bit too far for you, you can get excited by these images as a similar one is opening in the UK.

Therme Manchester is also opening in 2030, and claims it will be the biggest paid for attraction in the UK with three million tourists a year.

The £500million indoor water resort will be across 28 aces, with similar Play, Restore and Relax zones like the one in Singapore.

This will include a indoor beach, year-round 33C temperatures as well as pools and slides.

David Russell, CEO of Therme UK said: “There won’t be anywhere in this country that has the facilities we have.”

Other sides include Therme Bucharest in Romania and Therme Erdin in Germany.

OUR Spotlight On column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on some lesser-known spots.

This week we’re highlighting the best of the Sicilian coastal resort of Cefalu.

The Sun’s Head Of Travel, Lisa Minot said: “The seaside town of Cefalu is perfect for a weekend break.

“You can spend several happy hours wandering along the promenade by the wide, sandy beach and into the old town, passing the many shops and restaurants in the tiny alleyways.

“We couldn’t resist taking our obligatory Instagram shots at medieval sea gate Porta Pescara, before wandering past the quirky Lavatoio Medievale — an ancient wash house fed by a river that falls into the sea.

“The 12th-century cathedral with its soaring twin towers and elaborate Byzantine mosaics is well worth a visit, with a reviving drink in the square below it just as delightful.

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“The Porta Ossuna restaurant and pizzeria is perfect for a lunch on the seafront, we had a table right above the beach for us to enjoy the freshest of salads with burrata and prawns.”

MUST SEE/DO

While its broad, sandy beaches are an obvious draw, the winding cobbled streets of this medieval gem are a major part of its charm.

And all roads lead to the cathedral, the Duomo di Cefalu – a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture.

Don’t miss the 12th century Byzantine mosaics inside but for a real behind-the-scenes look, pre-book the Red Itinerary (£11.30) that includes the chance to climb the Norman towers for a fantastic view over the Piazza del Duomo.

Just off the Via Vittorio Emanuele is a quirky piece of history – a medieval laundry where local women washed clothes for centuries on stepped stones, fed by a natural spring.

HIDDEN GEM

The main beach can get crowded in summer but a little effort – and a 20minute walk east – and the Spiaggia di Kalura is a quieter pebble cove with crystal-clear water and dramatic rock formations, perfect for snorkelling.

For fabulous sunset views of Cefalu itself and its dramatic cliff-face backdrop head to the village of Sant’ Ambrogio which offers a snapshot of Sicilian village life without the crowds.

BEST VIEW

It takes a little effort and is best completed early in the day or later in the afternoon in the summer.

But it’s so worth the climb to the top of La Rocca – a huge limestone cliff that looms 268 metres over the town.

It’s a 45minute hike to the top where you’ll find the Temple of Diana, a megalithic structure from the 9th century BC as well as the ruins of a Norman castle.

It also offers fabulous views over the city and the sparkling Mediterranean beyond.

RATED RESTAURANT

It’s hard to get a bad meal in Cefalu with hundreds to choose from in the winding alleys.

On the seafront, the Porta Ossuna restaurant serves up pizzas, pasta and delicious salads with a terrace directly on the beach.

Also ideal for dining by the sea, Lo Scoglio Ubriaco is perched over the sea and is a must for seafood pastas.

And for stand-out pasta dishes, try Pasta e Pasti, legendary for its handmade offerings – go for the Pasta alla Norma or anything made with local pistachios.

BEST BAR

For sunset sips, head to the Jureka Wine Bar on Via Giudecca. There’s a wide choice of tipples with cocktails starting from £9.50.

And for fabulous views over La Rocca and the whole the town, head to the rooftop bar Dokeio at the Hotel La Giara with its multiple roof terraces and late night music.

For day drinking by the Med waves, head to the Bordomari Sea Lounge Bar with great views and cocktails from £9.

HOTEL PICK

Beach babes will love the 4* Astro Suite Hotel, right on Cefalu’s sands and with panoramic sea views.

It’s just a short walk from the historic centre and features an elevated terrace with pool and loungers as well as rooms with balconies, sea views and kitchenettes.

Six nights’ B&B is from £934 including flights from Stansted. See tui.co.uk.

You don’t need to take a 12-hour flight to enjoy a luxury Maldives-style resort. This adults-only hotel in Greece is just a four-hour flight from the UK and offers similarly Instagrammable overwater bungalows and floating breakfasts

If you’ve dreamed of soaking up the sun in an overwater bungalow or swim-up room, then the good news is that you no longer need a long-haul flight to enjoy an island paradise.

Just a four-hour flight from the UK, Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa could easily be found on a tiny island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. But it’s actually set in the north of Crete, sitting on a long stretch of beach on the sparkling Med. This vast, adults-only resort has a lagoon that meanders through the mega-resort, which is so large that there’s a fleet of golf carts to zip guests around.

But the lagoon is just the start of the watery fun. There are eight pools in total, most of them outdoors, and you’ll find plenty of spots with wooden decking and sunbeds set up for those relaxing days by the water enjoying the Greek sunshine.

Opt for a swim-up room and your accommodation will be set directly on the edge of the lagoon pool, meaning you can swim your way around the resort. There’s no need to find a sunbed in the morning; you can simply relax on your private deck from the moment you get up until bedtime if you want to.

If you don’t feel like walking to the vast breakfast buffet, you can get it delivered right to your door by a mermaid. Nothing quite beats having your morning coffee and a selection of fresh pastries and fruit delivered on a vast floating tray by a mythical creature.

Prices at the hotel tend to compare favourably with luxury Maldives resorts. Outside of peak season, standard rooms with a pool view start at £257 a night based on two sharing on a half-board basis. Overwater nests start at £434 per night for half-board, or £547 for all-inclusive, if you book directly with the hotel.

You can also book the Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa as a package with TUI or other holiday operators. Deals with TUI include a 7-night break for two, departing October 29 from London Gatwick including easyJet flights and a sharing a double luxury room on a half-board basis. This is currently priced at £1235.97 per person, and if you’d like to upgrade to all-inclusive this is an extra £342 per person for the week.

Stella Island is set in the Analipsi area of Crete, a traditional seaside village with cosy tavernas, mountain scenery and Cretan archaeological sites. If you prefer more lively vibes, Hersonissos is just a short drive away, where you’ll find sandy coves, waterparks, museums, and lots of fun days out.

There are also other accommodation options in the area, such as the NEMA Design Hotel & Spa, a modern, adult-only resort that has rooms with private jacuzzis or pools and a restaurant serving elevated Crete cuisine. Those bringing older kids could also consider Lyttos Mare, a premium all-inclusive that caters to guests over 12 years old, and has room options with private pools.

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THE birthplace of the British seaside resort is celebrating 400 years
this summer – and it’s not where you might expect.

Scarborough is England‘s oldest coastal resort and it’s starting a summer of celebrations marking four centuries since its spa waters were found – so it was only right that I took a trip up to the North Yorkshire Coast.

It’s easy to see why tourists have been flocking to Scarborough for centuries and why it’s been nicknamed Scarbados, in a nod to the Caribbean island known for its lovely beaches and chilled-out vibe.

While the weather might not be quite as tropical as Barbados, there
are two beaches to choose from, a historic castle on the headland
between, popular parks offering lots of attractions and even one
Britain’s best waterparks, all within walking distance.

There’s something for everyone here, no matter what you enjoy about a day at the seaside, and it feels like you can have about five different days
out rolled into one.

I took on a spa-to-spa walk of about an hour, setting off near the
site of the original spring and spa in South Bay.

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This is where it all started for the town as a coastal resort, when Thomasin Farrer spotted a natural spring in 1626 and discovered the waters were packed with minerals.

Soon, people were travelling from across the country to take
the waters and enjoy the sea air.

The spa building is now an entertainment venue where you can enjoy comedy, music and kids’ shows throughout the year.

It’s here that you’ll find the historic cliff lift, which celebrated its 150th anniversary last year.

And there’s also a striking glazed veranda with a black and white floor overlooking the North Sea.

Walking along the front, South Bay is home to many of the chippies
that won Scarborough the title of the fish and chip capital last year,
with almost 100 takeaways to choose from.

With wide golden sands, a big wheel, arcades aplenty and rides at Luna Park, you’ll want to head here if you love a bit of seaside hustle and bustle.

My favourite find was heading up to Scarborough Castle, which is
looked after by English Heritage and offers lovely views out over both
beaches and beyond.

It’s got a very special vibe, somehow managing to be at the heart of the town and feeling like a secluded secret spot at the same time.

Walking down to North Bay, which has a quieter vibe than its sister
sands to the south, and then around to Peasholm Park, this part of
Scarborough feels more like the beaches of my childhood.

If you love an aquarium, Scarborough North Bay Railway runs up to the pyramids that house the town’s Sea Life centre.

There’s lots to do in this green space, with the wooden pagodas at its entrance mirroring the oriental-inspired grounds within.

During the summer months, you can catch model boats recreating a naval battle on the lake at 3pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Or take a ride on the park’s historic water chute that’s coming up to its centenary and catch a show at the open air theatre, with the likes of Alanis Morissette and Michael Buble performing this year.

I finished my scuttle around Scarbados with a trip to the spa at
Alpamare, the town’s waterpark that opened a decade ago and has
recently gone up for sale after being run by Yorkshire theme park
Flamingo Land for a couple of years.

I loved the sea view from the upstairs sauna and the warm outdoor pool
was a treat in the sunshine.

But a firm favourite was definitely chilling out in the hay bath, a unique stable-inspired sensory room lined with troughs of freshly cut hay and swinging beds hanging from the ceiling.

It’s the perfect place to while away a few hours – kids can take on
the flumes, wave pool and splash pad downstairs, while adults can head
up to the spa to enjoy steam rooms, relaxation spaces and a terrace
with open air showers and sunbeds.

This year is a great time to visit Scarborough as there’s free
festivals, a trail of 10 huge deckchairs at tourist spots across the
town and even some fabulous illuminations when the nights draw in to
mark the end of the year of celebrations.

So scoot over to Scarborough if you’re after a seaside treat of a town
that started the traditional trip to the coast beloved of Brits all
those years ago.

Protesters chant ‘Albania is not for sale’ as demonstrations swell against Kushner-backed luxury resort plan.

Thousands of Albanians have taken to the streets of the country’s capital, Tirana, in the ⁠largest protest yet against a luxury resort development backed by United States President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Protesters on Wednesday held signs that said “Albania is not for sale” and chanted “New Albania” outside Prime Minister Edi Rama’s office as the crowd stretched half a mile down one of the city’s main boulevards.

The project, expected to cost about 5 ⁠billion euros ($5.8bn), has provoked outrage in the Balkan country because of its location near a protected wetland home to flamingos, seals and sea turtle nesting sites.

Critics have also raised concerns about a lack of transparency surrounding the plans designed by foreign investors.

“This is the prime example of what has been happening in Albania for the last 35 years,” protester Leand Lakrori told the Reuters news agency. “So today, enough is enough.”

The protests, which erupted in the village of Zvernec on the southern coastline where the resort is planned, have been dubbed the Flamingo Revolution, in reference to the protected wetland at the development site that serves as a migratory stop for the birds.

Rama has sought to play down the ecological concerns, saying an environmental impact assessment would be completed and that the project would proceed responsibly.

“We are very proud of what we have done for the wildlife in Albania,” he said. “The ‌European Commission has no reason to doubt our firm will to protect whatever has to be protected when it comes to wildlife and nature.”

EU warning

The European Union, which has said it could admit Albania and other Balkan countries by 2030, warned that alignment with European environmental law would be a condition of accession.

“Albania should refrain from action that could undermine the fulfilment of the closing benchmark,” said EU spokesman Guillaume Mercier. “We expect the Albanian authorities to act without delay.”

The protests are the latest test for Rama, who has been in power since 2013 and who many now blame for not eradicating widespread corruption or doing enough to improve basic services like healthcare.

Rama said he has made strides to deal with corruption by creating a special prosecution office, which has opened a series of ⁠high-profile investigations.

Still, clashes also broke out earlier this year as protesters demanded the resignation of Rama’s deputy, ⁠Belinda Balluku, over alleged corruption. Rama fired Balluku, but ⁠the mistrust remains.

“I’m here to protest, to finish this saga of the Albanian government. It’s always the same two parties,” protester Fabio Bracaj told Reuters. “We want a new era. We want a better country.”

The resort development is the ‌brainchild of Kushner and his wife, Ivanka Trump, who described falling in love with Albania a few years ago while visiting on a yacht.

Opposition ignited last month when developers erected a fence around part of the Zvernec site. The fence was later removed following an outcry.

Rama has said the project will go ahead regardless.

Rafaela Kuzenc was staying at TUI’s new Holiday Village resort in Tunisia, and from the moment she arrived, everything seemed geared towards making family holidays as easy as possible

Travelling alone with a five-year-old sounds simple on paper. In reality, it’s usually a mix of logistics, snack management, emotional negotiation and carrying more things than you thought physically possible.

So when I booked a sizzling half-term trip to Tunisia with my daughter, I had two possible outcomes in mind: either it would be smooth and surprisingly easy or completely exhausting from start to finish. It didn’t feel like a third option existed.

The holiday began with a 3am alarm and an early morning flight. By the time we’d landed, navigated the airport and reached the resort, I already felt like I needed a holiday from the holiday.

As any parent travelling solo will know, there is nobody to hand responsibility over to. Every suitcase, every snack request falls entirely on you. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I started to relax.

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We were staying at TUI’s new Holiday Village resort in Tunisia, and from the moment we arrived, everything seemed geared towards making family holidays as easy as possible. Constant sunshine and 30C all week also didn’t hurt.

Check-in was smooth, staff were welcoming, and within minutes we were being shown to our suite. It had separate sleeping areas, and my daughter was thrilled to discover she had her own room. She barely stopped talking about it for the rest of the day.

Then came the pool. And honestly, seeing it was the moment I stopped worrying about entertainment schedules. Before arriving, I had imagined we’d spend our days trying lots of different activities and making the most of the organised entertainment. Instead, my daughter became completely obsessed with the pool. If it had been entirely up to her, she would have spent the entire week pretending to be a mermaid.

The water slides quickly became the highlight. On one afternoon, she went down the same slide so many times I lost count. I just sat there watching, occasionally wondering if I was meant to be doing something else, and then deciding I wasn’t.

For once, I wasn’t responsible for inventing fun every 10 minutes. The kids’ club took that even further. I went to check on her after about half an hour, expecting hesitation, clinginess, or at least a “stay with me”. Instead, she barely looked up.

She was too busy drawing, playing games and joining in with activities. In fact, she enjoyed it so much that she stayed for the full three-hour session.

As a parent travelling alone, that kind of independence is priceless. The staff were warm, friendly and engaging, and the children’s programme was well organised. Knowing there were trained staff, lifeguards and structured activities around gave me confidence to actually relax.

I even booked a massage for myself and later one for my daughter. It was her first professional massage and she absolutely loved it. Would I normally book a spa treatment for myself when travelling alone with a child? Probably not.

But that’s exactly what surprised me about this holiday. For brief moments, it didn’t feel like I was travelling solo at all. Meanwhile, my daughter was happily entertained elsewhere, which felt almost surreal.

Meal times were another area where the resort made life easier. There was no planning, no shopping and no cooking. Whenever my daughter announced she was hungry, there was always something available, whether that was pasta, sandwiches, fruit, snacks or desserts. The toasted sandwich station became particularly useful.

Of course, travelling solo with a child is never completely stress-free. Early mornings were still early mornings. Bags were still heavy and there were moments when I felt like a walking luggage depot. Some activities were also better suited to older children, although my daughter didn’t seem particularly bothered because all roads eventually led back to the pool.

One of our favourite moments came during a boat trip when we spotted dolphins swimming nearby. Seeing her face light up reminded me why travelling with children can be so rewarding despite the challenges.

By the end of the week, my daughter didn’t want to leave. Normally, after a few days away, she starts talking about seeing her dad again and returning home. This time she was trying to negotiate staying in Tunisia indefinitely.

That, more than anything, felt like a successful holiday. I arrived expecting to spend the week entertaining my daughter. Instead, I found myself enjoying the holiday too.

Book it

TUI offers a seven-night holiday to Skanes, Tunisia, staying at the 4T+ Holiday Village AQI Skanes Resort on an all-inclusive basis from £830 per person. Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a 1 Bedroom Family Room with Balcony or Terrace. Includes TUI Airways flights departing from Newcastle on

5th July 2026 with 25kg hold luggage per person and transfers included. Package includes one free child place.

THE premise was sound, I still insist. Whisking sociable teens Reggie and Stanley away from distractions in the run-up to their A-levels and GCSEs for a week of intense relaxation and revision.

And so we headed to Tui’s Magic Life Jacaranda beach-front complex in Antalya, the jewel of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

I realised my “no distractions” argument was a mistake as soon as the boys’ jaws dropped when we rolled up outside the stunning, marble-floored hotel and glimpsed our new home for the week.

We might as well have checked into Alton Towers, or Chessington World of Adventures.

Only those popular family theme parks don’t boast 5H opulence, eight swimming pools, a thrilling aqua park, sandy beach, huge buffet diner and six à la carte restaurants.

And for sports-mad youngsters, the complex — the size of 18 football pitches — boasts a gobsmacking array of facilities which makes it feel like you’re living in an Olympic Village.

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From tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, badminton and table tennis, to football, archery, darts and cycling, there’s something for everyone.

The hotel puts on daily group sessions and courses, with expert coaches on hand if guests want to pay for extra tuition.

There’s also canoeing or windsurfing, catamaran sailing, water-skiing or wakeboarding off the “Turquoise Coast”, aptly named for its stunning blue waters.

A well-equipped gym is open for more than 12 hours a day — a dream for an 18-year-old and 15-year-old needing to let off steam between hitting the books.

There’s a big indoor pool and spa offering treatments, while classes can also be booked for zumba, Pilates, yoga, aqua aerobics, spin cycling, shuffleboard and trampolining.

And dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs leave parents free to soak up the sun.

With the boys finding a window between the fun activities to do some revision, I tried out the “abs-blast workout”.

Despite the language barrier between the different nationalities, we were united in grunting and groaning as we were put through our paces in an outdoor fitness hut overlooking the sea.

Meanwhile, the Nordic walking class had a dozen intrepid guests gripping poles and striding off down the beach for a 45-minute cardio-busting thrashing.

Teenagers love their food — and with so many activities going on it’s easy to work up an appetite.

The main buffet was a dream for Reggie and Stan, with chefs rotating special cuisine nights including Turkish, Italian or Tex-Mex.

The fresh salads were incredible and cooks prepared pasta, grilled meats and flatbreads while we waited, mouths salivating.

With breakfast from 7am till 11am, lunch from 12.30 till 4pm, and dinner stretching from 6.30pm till 9pm, it’s hard to imagine ever feeling hungry.

But a coffee house, beach and pool bars offer snacks all day, and the dedicated Wunderbar opens 24 hours, providing drinks and food to insomniac guests.

It’s tempting not to leave the complex. But for guests choosing a break from the idyllic swimming pools, there are day trips offering a chance to learn some of Turkey’s incredible history.

I chose a half-day trip to the nearby ancient port city of Side and its 1,400-year-old ruins.

There’s a huge Roman amphitheatre which used to seat 20,000 locals cheering on gladiators, while the 2nd-century seafront shrines, the Temples of Apollo and Athena, were simply awesome.

Strolling through the modern-day Side, stopping to browse the bazaars selling sizzling kebabs and chunks of delicious Turkish Delight, we stepped on glass walkways, revealing the ancient Roman streets below.

Back at the hotel, the rooms are airy, bright and comfortable.

The vast, five-floor main building offers beds close to the buffet and gym, and glorious views across the sprawling complex.

Smaller, quieter rooms are available, spread throughout the gardens and closer to the gorgeous beach.

Some lucky guests can even opt for “swim-up” apartments, with a balcony stepping into one of the many shared pools.

The staff are friendly and happy to help.

A huge amphitheatre hosts professional shows at night, as well as movie nights and live music.

There are also themed parties and discos on site, and an indoor nightclub for guests wanting to boogie into the early hours.

Magic Life Jacaranda offers a classic “something for everyone” heavenly holiday — even for youngsters preparing for exams.

What the boys missed out on study hours, they more than made up for in memories that will last a lifetime.

Like most guests who have been lucky enough to experience this perfect holiday destination in southern Turkey — boasting blazing sun for more than 300 days a year — we’ll be returning as soon as possible.

For the sixth-straight day, thousands of protesters have rallied in the Albanian capital against a proposed luxury beach development linked to Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. Environmental groups accuse authorities of lacking transparency and allowing for the destruction of protected biodiversity on the country’s Adriatic Coast.

June 4 (UPI) — Thousands of Albanians marched in the capital Tirana for a third day straight to protest against a $1.6 billion luxury resort backed by Donald Trump‘s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in a national marine park off the country’s Adriatic Sea coast.

Some demonstrators in Wednesday’s protest held inflatable flamingos aloft to highlight the impact they fear the project will have in and around Sazan Island, where work recently got underway in the midst of one of the Mediterranean’s most environmentally-vulnerable areas.

Scuffles broke out with police who fired water canon at protesters.

An offer to meet with opponents from Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has staked his premiership on what he has billed as a developmental coup for the former communist state, was rejected as calls for the project to be halted grew, with protests also set to spread to the south of the country.

“From start to finish there has been a total lack of transparency. We have seen no public consultation or public documentation regarding permits, and so now what we are saying is, if they remove the bulldozers, remove the fence and restore the habitats to what they were, then we can start talking,” said Aleksandr Trajce, executive director of Protection and Preservation of the Natural Environment in Albania.

Kushner stumbled upon the site by chance while vacationing in Albania with his wife, Ivanka Trump.

“We were on a friend’s boat, and we stopped for a swim. Effectively, that’s how we found it. We swam to the island. We went on a hike, barefoot all the way up to the top, and we were just captivated,” Ivanka Trump said.

Environmentalists are worried about the effect the resort will have on an area that includes the currently uninhabited Sazan Island and the nearby wetlands and coastal habitats of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park.

BirdLife International said the park’s waters around Sazan and the Karaburun peninsulta were among the last places where Mediterranean monk seals survive and support populations of flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans as well as 200 other species of birds, many of which are endangered.

Sazan Real Estate Development, which is developing the plans in partnership with Kushner’s Miami-based investment firm, Affinity Partners, insisted it was committed to sustainable development.

“Our focus remains on responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation, and creating long-term value for local communities. We respect the ongoing public and institutional processes,” said Sazan Real Estate Development chair Asher Abehsera.

A European hotel has been described as a ‘ghost town’ because there are no sunbed wars in the morning – all because of a genius solution they’ve come up with

Sunbed wars have become an almost unavoidable part of a holiday at a sunny resort, but guests at one hotel in Europe never have to worry about bagging a prime spot by the pool.

If you’ve ever stayed at a resort with a pool and rows of sun loungers, you’ll know all too well about the early morning scramble to secure a sunbed before heading off for breakfast. This frantic rush typically sees guests charging across the courtyard to toss their towel over a lounger, effectively claiming it for the entire day.

The trouble with sunbed wars, however, is that they not only encourage deeply selfish behaviour that denies fellow guests a fair chance at using the facilities, but they also pose a genuine safety risk, with people running poolside and potentially coming to blows over the best spots.

At one hotel in Cyprus, though, that early morning battle simply doesn’t exist – the resort appears positively “deserted” compared to other venues where daily poolside races are commonplace.

It’s not that the hotel is short of guests, however. The real explanation behind the refreshingly towel-free poolside scene each morning is that the resort has introduced a clever system designed to guarantee every guest a spot by the pool without any of the usual squabbling.

Mark Brown, also known as Right Guys Reviews, recently posted a TikTok video filmed at a hotel during his stay in Paphos, Cyprus. He panned his camera across the sunbeds surrounding a large pool, revealing that not a single one had a towel draped over it – despite it being morning and the majority of guests already seated at breakfast.

He was keen to point out that the pool wasn’t empty simply because the hotel was quiet, claiming it was actually fully booked. Rather, guests at this particular hotel simply have no need to scrap over a sunbed spot.

Mark said: “Honestly, you’d think this was a ghost hotel, and it was actually empty. But if you take a trip over to pool services, you’ll find out now why there’s no towels on the sun loungers.”

He went on to explain that upon checking in, guests are handed plastic “pool towel” exchange cards. Each morning, these are taken down to the pool services kiosk and swapped for towels to use on the sunbeds.

But there’s no mad dash once you’ve got your towel. At the pool services kiosk, guests are also assigned their sunbeds for the day, guaranteed to be theirs regardless, meaning there’s absolutely no need to squabble over the best spot.

Viewers who commented on Mark’s video were thoroughly impressed by the sunbed management system at the unnamed hotel. Many recalled their own battles over sunbeds in the early hours, with the vast majority saying they’d gladly swap the stress for a more relaxed, hotel-managed approach.

One holidaymaker said: “Just been to a five-star resort in Kos with no sunbed management. I had to get up at 6am every day just to secure two sunbeds for me and the wife.”

Another chimed in: “That’s the best way to do it. Booking policy is a brilliant idea.”

A third shared their own experience: “We went to Tenerife a couple of years ago and they allocated beds. It’s brilliant. So much better. You could book for am/pm or all day. Hate it when people put towels on at 7.30 and don’t turn up until 1pm.”

ONE of the world’s most iconic mountain resorts is set to close its airport for months.

Attracting millions of ski enthusiasts and keen hikers every year, it’s a place loved by A-listers, with the likes of Goldie Hawn and Mariah Carey boasting luxury homes in the stunning area.

But those wanting to jet off to Aspen, Colorado, next year are set to have their plans hindered.

Located in the Rocky Mountains, the outdoor haven, frequented by the Kardashians, can ordinarily be reached via flights to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE).

However, the travel hub has now confirmed that flights will stop and the airport will close its doors for seven months from next spring.

As of April 4, 2027, the airport will grind to a halt for a staggering 229 days.

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The closure will allow for a major airport regeneration to take place, with runway reconstructions planned.

Neither commercial nor private aircrafts will be permitted to use the airport while the project is going on.

Flights will not resume until November 19, 2027, but the works are not expected to be completed fully until 2029.

The airport usually connects major US cities like LA, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta and Denver to the ski hotspot.

The renovation project, which is predicted to cost a hefty $575million, will allow the airport’s decades-old terminal building to be modernised.

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport director Diane Jackson said: “Our team is committed to coordinating with federal partners, airlines, general aviation partners, and the broader community as we prepare for this important project and the future of the airport.

“This project is a long-term investment in the safety, reliability, and future of Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, and we will continue to engage with our community every step of the way,” her statement continued.

Hundreds have rallied in Albania against plans by a Jared Kushner-linked investment firm to develop Albania’s Sazan Island and parts of a protected national park into a luxury seaside resort. Anger was fuelled by comments by Kushner’s wife, Ivanka Trump, describing Sazan as a ‘private island’ they ‘discovered’.

A FAMILY attraction said to be “one of the best attractions in Scotland” is getting a major upgrade.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Carrbridge, Scotland is to open a new toboggan-style ride in time for summer.

The ride will be in the Forest Adventure Zone at the amusement park and feature six lanes ideal for family races.

The first of its kind experience will weave through the ancient pinewood forest, with both open-air and undercover sections.

And it won’t be the only new arrival at the ‘all inclusive’ amusement park, where all attractions both indoors and outdoors are included in the ticket price.

Kids eager to let off steam will be able to jump on new bouncing pillows and tackle an obstacle course.

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There will also be a new hexagonal swing, climbing frame and an accessibility roundabout.

For little kids, there will be musical instruments and a sand pit too.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park opened back in 1970 and has over 22 indoor and outdoor attractions including Wild Water Coasters, a Butterfly House and Dinosaur Kingdom.

There have been several new additions over the past five years as well, including an aerial net adventure and treetop trail.

One recent visitor said: “An absolute must for anyone visiting anywhere around Carrbridge.

“There is something for all ages to enjoy and everything is the very best quality.

“Landmark is easily one of the best attractions in Scotland and it never ever disappoints.

“Rain or shine, this is the place to be for wholesome family fun.”

Tickets cost from £34 per adult and £32 per child over three-years-old.

I WAS born in Southend-on-Sea with candy floss and chip grease running through my veins, so I have a real soft spot for an English seaside resort.

And with its blonde sandy beaches, vintage ice-cream parlours and shellfish stalls, the Kent coastal town of Ramsgate does not disappoint.

Cockles aside, my partner and I have come for the weekend to check out one of its quirkiest attractions, This Museum Is (Not) Obsolete, which is part studio, part science lab and part techno time capsule.

It’s owned and run by Sam Battle, AKA Look Mum No Computer, who represented Britain in the Eurovision Song Contest this month.

Now back in Ramsgate proudly brandishing his ONE point, Sam’s museum houses his vast collection of eccentric inventions, retro computers, analogue synthesisers and other audio oddities that hum, squeak and beep.

It’s brilliant and bonkers in equal measure.

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Staring up at the flashing 1,000 Oscillator Megadrone, I’m assured the museum is very hands-on and you can touch and play with almost everything.

Fans travel from across the country to see Sam’s creations, including a Raleigh Chopper/synthesiser, a flame-throwing Henry Hoover and my favourite, the Furby organ — a fully functioning instrument ­power­ed by rows of the singing fluffy toys.

After an hour happily geeking out, we wander down to the harbour — the only one in the UK still officially granted royal status.

There, primary-coloured fishing boats bob alongside shiny yachts, while cafe-bars and vintage bike shops hide under the arches nearby.

Ramsgate can be a little gritty in parts — there’s no shortage of vape and betting shops — but that’s part of its charm.

And like its coastal neighbours, Broadstairs, Deal and Margate, it’s attracting more and more artists, musicians and independent businesses each year.

A short stroll from the harbour is Addington Street, the town’s indie quarter. It has a hip artsy vibe with renovated Victorian villas, vintage blue street signs and shops such as Vinyl Head Records and No.36 by SP, which sells fancy homewares.

We stop for a pint at the Queen Charlotte, a cute little pub filled with retro curios; think fringed lamps, a ship-shaped cocktail bar and a ­vintage record player from where music by The Carpenters flows.

But Ramsgate isn’t just about kitsch pubs and fantastical Furby organs.

Beneath the town is a network of tunnels that stretch for two and a half miles.

Originally a tunnel railway that connected the town to neighbouring Broadstairs, it was expanded in 1939 to serve as an air-raid shelter for Ramsgate residents.

On the 90-minute guided tour through the dimly lit tunnels, I learn of Ramsgate’s remarkable resilience and community during the war.

We’re staying at The House at Ramsgate, a chichi boutique hotel (formerly Albion House) on the seafront.

From our sea-view room, we can see the world’s largest Wetherspoons, The Royal Victoria Pavilion, which spans 11,000 sq ft in a prime spot on the beach.

Instead we relax with a cocktail in the quieter lounge at the hotel followed by a dinner of locally caught crab cakes and ribeye steak.

After breakfast, Sunday is spent blowing out the cobwebs walking the coastal path to Broadstairs.

The scenic two-mile route links the sandy beaches along the coast.

A few years ahead of Ramsgate in its gentrification, Broadstairs feels like its more polished sister.

We find a farmers’ market in the gardens of Bleak House, where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield, and stop for a drink at the Royal Albion, his old watering hole, before wandering back to Ramsgate.

One thing’s for sure, whether you are into funky retro tech or sunny seaside strolls — or even a bit of both — Ramsgate is well worth a visit this summer.

SITTING on the beach pier with a chippy tea, washed down by a pint of something cold, is what I believe to be the best-of-a-British-day-out.

If that’s what you’re after, there’s a seaside spot that boasts the world’s biggest chippy and smallest boozer within a half-hour walk.

I headed to Cleethorpes on the Lincolnshire coast to check out the UK’s biggest fish and chip shop, which takes up the whole of the pier.

The 150-year-old boardwalk itself -won Pier of the Year after its refurb a decade ago and Papa’s Fish and Chips opened in its historic pavilion the same year.

It’s so big the restaurant can feed 500 at a time and now attracts two million diners annually – but was still heaving in the hot weather .

It’s definitely not your average chippy, with mood lighting, plush fixtures and fittings and a bank of windows looking out over the sand and sea.

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We decided to use the takeaway and eat alfresco, but even that took an hour before we were tucking into our tasty treats – a testament to Papa’s popularity.

The staff were wonderful, serving everyone with good grace despite the fact that it must have been sweltering behind the counter.

My top tip would be to sign up online for a loyalty card, which not only saves you cash, but also gives you the option to order online to pick up at your chosen timeslot to beat the queues. 

I got a £5 off birthday voucher, so feeding my family of four only came to £18.50 – we split an £8.50 Papa’s Combo (a small haddock, sausage, portion of chips and a side of peas, beans, curry or gravy), a £10.50 Papa’s Classic (medium haddock, chips and a side).

That also included a £4.10 portion of cheesy chips and a couple of 20p sauce sachets.

It was well worth the wait, but next time I’ll order in advance or book a table to eat in if it’s cooler weather.

Outside of the chippy, there’s a seal sanctuary down the coast at Donna Nook so if the sands aren’t full of holidaymakers and daytrippers, you might even spot a bit of local wildlife bobbing past or basking on the beach.

And just around the corner from the pier is the Coliseum Picture Theatre, now a Wetherspoons, boasting a gorgeous 1920s frontage, chandeliers inside and even a rooftop terrace.

Downstairs is very much a typical Spoons, but upstairs feels light and airy with a Roman-style fresco as a nod to the building’s past, so if you like a bit of whimsy with your Wetherspoons, I would take a seat up there if you can.

We opted to visit the smallest pub on the planet to wash down our takeaway, with space for just three punters inside the Signal Box Inn at the town’s heritage railway.

Luckily there’s a big beer garden to make up for the small inside space.

We ordered two pints and two soft drinks for less than £15, so it’s not too pricey, and it’s a lovely spot to enjoy the comings and goings at Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway.

Trains run down to Humberston, where you’ll find England‘s biggest Haven holiday park Cleethorpes Beach.

Home to 1827 caravans and lodges, it is also home to one of the first Wetherspoons on a Haven site, The Humber Stone, which opened last year. 

If you ask me, Cleethorpes’ secret weapon is the location of its mainline railway station, a few steps away from the pier and right by the beach.

I can’t think of many other towns where you hop off the train and straight onto the sand.

At only two hours’ train ride from Nottingham, this could be a brilliant bet if you want a day at the beach but don’t drive.

I loved the look of the original railway waiting room, now the Mermaid fish and chip shop – it’s had extensive work done recently to its ironmongery, roof, wood and stonework, with a striking paint job in heritage colours ahead of its centenary next year.

It feels like the whole town is undergoing a bit of a makeover, with the Pier Gardens currently closed while they are dug over and new planting put in.

The market place is also being pedestrianised so I look forward to returning to see what these redesigns bring to the town. 

Near the smallest pub is the historic boating lake, which celebrates 100 years in 2028, with a project to clean up the waters on the cards.

Hopefully the 2020s will end up being as successful for attracting visitors as the 1920s obviously were.

As a Midlander who grew up visiting Skegness and Mablethorpe just down the coast, I’m not sure why a trip to Cleethorpes hasn’t been on my radar before.

But one thing that I think has made a huge difference is the two holiday parks in Humberston being reinvented in recent years.

Away Resorts, where we stayed, took over the Beachcomber caravan park and renamed it Cleethorpes Pearl, while Haven’s site was previously called Thorpe Park, which caused some confusion with the theme park of the same name down near London.

Families of up to six can stay in a Luxury Caravan for as little as £6pppn for a five-night stay in September.

I’m a little bit in love with this Lincolnshire location – it’s the Costa del Clee for me if you love a chippy tea and a pint by the sea.

THE world’s largest upside-down house is set to open in a major UK seaside resort.

This marks the 11th site of its kind and the biggest one yet.

Upside Down House UK will open its largest attraction yet on Blackpool‘s Promenade, opening to visitors from today (May 29).

The 23ft tall site features 13 themed rooms, including a circus-themed playroom, an interactive games room and a reading nook.

Each room is flipped entirely upside-down, allowing visitors to experience the ultimate “topsy-turvy adventure” as they travel from room to room.

Families are able to spend time taking photos and making the most of the inverted atmosphere, although those with motion sickness might need to watch out due to the attraction’s slant.

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This marks the 11th site in the UK since the first house opened in Bournemouth in 2018.

Other locations include Cardiff, Bristol, Westfield London and Liverpool as well as international sites in France and Australia.

The associate director at Upside Down House UK, Alex Barbary, said: “We’re going bigger and better than ever. This is our largest Upside Down House to date, and the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Blackpool Promenade is the perfect stage, a place built on entertainment, culture and experiences.”

Councillor Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for built environment and economy, added: “We’ve worked with The Upside Down House to repurpose the land in order to bring more jobs, tourists and visitors to South Shore.”

Tickets are just £35 for a family of four, and those with little ones under the age of three can enter at no charge.

The attraction will be open from 10am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday.

A HOLIDAY park with glamping pods and lodges could be built on an old torpedo site in Scotland.

The former testing area for missiles has been derelict for 40 years, but could soon be completely transformed and become a go-to staycation spot.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

On the shores of Loch Long in Argyll & Bute is an old Ministry of Defence site that was used been 1912 and 1986.

It was predominantly used during World War Two, and as many as 12,000 torpedoes were fired down Loch Long.

Since its closure 40 years ago, the site in Arrochar has been abandoned and left derelict.

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A planning application to redevelop the area was first submitted in 2023.

Three years on, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority has approved a mixed-use tourism development by Ardnagal Estates.

Former proposals for the site included 14 holiday homes, 34 holiday lodges, and a 34-bedroom budget hotel.

Also included in the initial plans was a cafe, shop, a 40-bed bunkhouse, six motorhome pitches and 20 glamping pods as well as parking, composting toilets and shower block.

Another proposed feature was to revitalise the pier so that the public and community could access the loch.

Leisure on the site would include a play park that will add “family-friendly amenity for residents and visitors”.

Previous plans were to build a 130-bedroom hotel although it isn’t clear if this is part of the current plans.

Claire Chapman, the park authority’s planning and access committee chairwoman, said: “The approval of this long-standing derelict site’s redevelopment is a significant step forward in addressing what has been a blight on both the local community and the environment.

“The site has been identified in both the existing local development plan, which guides new development in the National Park, and in the community’s local place plan.”

A family’s long-awaited Easter getaway turned into a nightmare after travelling hundreds of miles only to find their booked resort shut and fenced off

After months of planning a relaxing family break abroad, one couple thought they had everything organised down to the last detail. But what awaited them at the end of a nine-hour journey across Europe was something they never could have prepared for.

The couple, who asked not to be identified due to the man’s occupation, had booked a stay at the Waterside Elegance Sky Pad at the Your Nature Resort in Belgium through Booking.com last October. Having previously visited the resort, they were eagerly anticipating their return with their two young sons in April, only to arrive and discover the site appeared to be closed.

Instead of checking into their accommodation and settling in for a long-awaited family holiday, the couple claim they were met by locked entrance gates, construction fencing and an eerily empty car park. Signs displayed outside the resort also appeared to indicate the site was no longer operating.

The Waterside Elegance Sky Pad is a luxury duplex cabin located within the 280-hectare Your Nature Eco Forest Resort in Antoing, Belgium. The £105 million resort has reportedly been fenced off and forced into bankruptcy, leaving holidaymakers stranded after it allegedly exceeded €15 million in losses, according to Forbes.

In a lengthy Reddit post, the man explained how the family’s entire trip had been carefully planned around the needs of their children, including their eldest son who is autistic and non-verbal. But after arriving at the resort entrance and, by chance, speaking with a site manager, the couple claim they were informed the resort had gone into administration months earlier in October.

This is despite Booking.com allegedly repeatedly reassuring the family their holiday would go ahead as planned, with emails recognising the reservation remained valid. The Reddit post also claims the company accepted tourism tax payments and issued a check-in voucher just weeks before the family travelled to Belgium.

“If you think your holiday is secure because you have a confirmed booking voucher, think again,” he warned.

Speaking to The Mirror, the man detailed how the family were left scrambling after the revelation, with hundreds of pounds spent on Le Shuttle crossings, fuel, food and overnight accommodation in France. He also claimed Booking.com later suggested alternative accommodation options, though the family considered them unsuitable.

Booking.com is understood to have refunded the original accommodation costs, though disputes between the two parties are said to remain ongoing.

The family are seeking compensation for more than £400 in additional travel expenses incurred during the ordeal. They claim the online travel agency is refusing to accept liability, despite allegedly issuing a separate payment of 150 EUR which they say they have refused to accept.

In the Reddit post, the man referenced provisions within the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, arguing the family relied on written assurances when booking non-refundable travel arrangements. However, no court has ruled on the claims and Booking.com disputes wrongdoing.

A Booking.com spokesperson told The Mirror: “We’re sorry to hear about this customer’s experience. When a property chooses to list on Booking.com they must agree to our terms and conditions, which includes keeping their room availability up to date.

“If an accommodation partner wants to end their agreement or remove their listing, we have simple processes and clear guidance to help them do this. We can confirm this property is currently closed on our platform, and that we’re also in touch with the customer to offer support.”

Consumer experts regularly advise travellers to retain booking confirmations, receipts and written correspondence when arranging holidays online. According to Citizens Advice, customers may have rights if services are not provided as described, although compensation outcomes can vary depending on individual circumstances and booking terms.