The warning comes as the country has faced hazardous conditions this week
The alert includes a warning for cigarette smokers (stock image)(Image: Getty)
Spain’s Ministerio del Interior has issued a warning to anyone in the country, including visiting tourists, as hot weather bakes the country. This week, the European nation faced unprecedented, record-setting heat.
The country was caught in a severe and hazardous heatwave caused by hot air travelling north from the Sahara Desert. These extreme temperatures broke long-standing weather records and led to widespread red alerts, especially in the northern and central parts of the country. Temperatures soared past 45C in some areas of northern Spain at the beginning of the week.
The northern region of Cantabria broke its previous heat record, hitting an incredible 43.7C in Tama. Bilbao Airport recorded temperatures over 40C on three different days (Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday). This is a historic first for the region: reaching this level three times in one year.
On Thursday, June 25, temperatures began to drop, and there was some rain and thunderstorms in parts of the northern and central plains, including Madrid. However, high temperatures are still sticking around.
Places like Andalusia and cities such as Seville and Córdoba are experiencing usual summer highs. Temperatures are rising back up to 37C to 38C as the weekend comes to a close.
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The Ministerio del Interior translates as the Ministry of the Interior (also known as the Home Office or the Ministry of Internal Affairs). This government cabinet department handles domestic policy, public safety, law enforcement, immigration, and civil protection.
Taking to X on Sunday, June 28, the ministry urged people to avoid doing three things for safety reasons. It said: “In the forest, every gesture counts.
“Don’t throw away cigarette butts or matches. Don’t make fire outside of authorised areas. Don’t abandon flammable waste.” It added: “With heat and wind, the risk increases. A small oversight can turn into a big fire.”
Has Spain experienced wildfires this week?
This week, Spain has been hit hard by a serious wave of wildfires after experiencing its first big summer heatwave. The temperatures soared above 45C in the south and reached up to 43C in the north.
These extreme heat levels, along with dry weather and lightning strikes, have led to several devastating fires. One major wildfire erupted between Tamarite de Litera and Alcampell, consuming more than 4,000 hectares of land. It is thought that a harvesting machine started the fire, which resulted in the evacuation of around 240 people from three nearby villages.
Is Spain prone to wildfires?
Spain faces a significant risk of severe wildfires during hot weather, ranking it among the most fire-prone countries in Europe. The mix of intense summer heatwaves, extended periods of drought, and powerful winds results in “tinderbox” conditions that enable fires to start and spread rapidly.
Data from the Ministry for Ecological Transition in Spain reveals that human activity is responsible for the majority of wildfires. More than half of the annual fires in Spain are deliberately set, and a significant portion is due to accidents or negligence, such as mismanaged agricultural burning, cigarette butts that are carelessly thrown away, or barbecues.
Had enough of the heat? Grab your bags and enjoy utter luxury with Club Med prices in July
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Escape the heat with a dip in the pool on a luxury stay, for less(Image: Getty Images)
Club Med has officially unveiled an enticing selection of last-minute summer holiday offers, giving spontaneous travellers the chance to save up to 15% on last-minute breaks. Tailored for those prepared to jet off at a moment’s notice, this time-limited promotion delivers sunshine, sandy shores and luxury at a fraction of the usual cost.
Holiday seekers will need to move quickly, however, as spaces are restricted across selected dates and properties. To maintain the excitement, Club Med will be introducing fresh departure offers every Friday, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Renowned for its upmarket all-inclusive holidays, Club Med provides idyllic getaways to stunning locations across the globe. Each package bundles together high-end accommodation with fine dining, unlimited activities and childcare into one transparent price, allowing guests to unwind and savour a much-needed escape.
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From the sun-kissed coastal havens of Europe to the palm-lined shores of the Caribbean, we’ve compiled some of the finest resorts for a last-minute holiday you’ll treasure forever.
Club Med Magna, Marbella
The 12-acre Club Med Magna Marbella is a sun-soaked resort ideally situated for reaching central Marbella. Visitors can unwind beside the family lagoon pool and the adults-only Zen Zone or get involved in numerous activities such as padel tennis.
The resort also features outstanding dining experiences at the sophisticated Suenos restaurant and the Tierra Gourmet Lounge, which offers regional specialities such as jamón ibérico. Additionally, there are four distinct bars where guests can savour a holiday drink.
Travel dates are available until July, with new deals added every Friday
As the sun-kissed shores of Marbella continue to be a favourite amongst British tourists, holidaymakers can also discover reduced Spanish getaways with savings of up to £600 through TUI. Budget-conscious last-minute escapes are also on offer for under £500 with Love Holidays.
TripAdvisor users have given the resort glowing reviews, with one describing it as ‘THE family destination’. One visitor said: “Our stay was simply amazing, everything is thoughtfully designed with families in mind. Our 4-year-old absolutely loved the kids’ club… the food was exceptional. There were so many spaces to explore with our children, and a great range of sports and activities to enjoy – paddle, tennis, Pilates and more.”
Another guest did observe that the location was an “Isolated village, without much personality, but a hotel of good quality, made for sport and sun.”
On the whole, though, the prevailing view mirrored this assessment, stating: “Very good experience at Club Med Magna Marbella. Everything was perfect, buffet, kids club and entertainment.”
Club Med Da Balaia, Algarve
Perched atop the famous red cliffs of the Algarve, Club Med Da Balaia is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Visitors can also unwind beside the unique natural eco-pool or try their hand at numerous activities, including flying trapeze and archery.
The resort also features excellent dining at the Balaïa Restaurant and the relaxed lounge, offering authentic Portuguese fare alongside stunning ocean vistas. There’s also a spa on-site providing bespoke treatments and ample indulgence.
The Algarve remains a firm favourite holiday destination for Brits seeking a getaway. Currently, Love Holidays has last-minute, room-only Portugal breaks from £119 per person, while Golf Breaks provides specially designed escapes for devotees of the sport.
At Club Med, TripAdvisor reviewers are full of praise for the resort, with one declaring: “Our stay at Club Med La Balaia was simply fantastic from start to finish. Set in a stunning location overlooking a beautiful, family-friendly beach, the resort offers the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.”
While one visitor mentioned the pool was “ok, maybe a bit warmer may have been ideal,” the overall sentiment mirrored this review: “We had an absolutely wonderful week at Club Med de Da Balaia…three young children, parents and grandmother. Everything was there for a successful holiday: sunny weather and beautiful surroundings.”
Cefalù, Sicily
The flagship Exclusive Collection Cefalù is a luxury resort superbly located on the iconic Italian island of Sicily. Guests can unwind in the restored 18th-century palazzo lounge or participate in numerous activities, including sunset yoga and Europe’s first stand-up paddleboarding school.
After an action-packed day, the resort features impressive dining options to satisfy every appetite. Visitors are then treated to a delectable Sicilian-inspired menu that perfectly captures the authentic flavours of the region.
Travellers unlucky enough to miss out on a Club Med stay could try booking a break to Italy with British Airways Holidays instead. Alternatively, Citalia offers a range of specially selected tours and holidays in the region.
Guest reviewers overwhelmingly praise the resort, with one hailing it as a ‘magical place’ where “the food is to die for’. They also praise the stunning views and say that just being 10-15 minutes away from Cefalu town in Sicily ‘is something very special.”
While one guest noted that, unlike some other Club Med locations, there was “no show at happy hour, no barbecue, no themed evening.”
Most, however, enjoyed their stay with another adding: “We had an absolutely exceptional time at Club Med de Céfalù! The setting is simply magical: breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, elegant architecture perfectly integrated with nature, and a serene atmosphere that immediately invites relaxation.”
Club Med Palmiye, Turkey
Positioned south of Antalya close to the Taurus mountains, Club Med Palmiye is a beachfront resort nestled along a Mediterranean shoreline. Holidaymakers can opt to unwind beside the family pool or the adults-only Zen pool, or take part in numerous activities including flying trapeze and wakeboarding..
When it comes to dining, the resort provides multiple choices to cater for varying preferences. Guests can sample Turkish cuisine in a restaurant boasting a duck pond moat. There’s also a vibrant beach bar to enjoy as evening approaches.
Turkey’s southern coastline delivers budget-friendly entertainment and warm weather. Some other excellent bargains to the area include all-inclusive getaways with On The Beach, and Mr and Mrs Smith provide thoughtfully selected stays in upscale accommodations.
As you’d anticipate from Club Med, the Palmiye resort has also garnered numerous positive reviews on TripAdvisor. One said: “A great place for early birds and those who like to do a lot of different activities, to learn tennis and padel, circus trapeze, sailing basics and waterski.”
While one visitor mentioned slight annoyances with “long lines” for waterskiing, the overall verdict reflected the sentiment of an ideal family retreat. Another repeat guest proclaimed: “We came here after 2 years again, it was a good experience, so we come again, and we will come every year.”
For those contemplating a long-haul escape, the Punta Cana Resort in the Dominican Republic offers particular appeal to families.
A perfect choice for summer holidays, it features Club Med’s biggest water park, boasting more than 20 slides and splash zones, alongside a luxurious spa..
With a 4.4-star rating on TripAdvisor, guests commend the beautiful beach and the expert instructors who help families master new pursuits, including golf and tennis. Meanwhile, the Club Med resort in Marrakech has been described as a ‘magical destination’ where visitors can swap unpredictable weather for golden sunsets, colourful souks and the enchanting scent of spices wafting through the streets.
A short trip from Benidorm will take you to a picturesque Costa Blanca town that is often compared to the Greek island of Mykonos – and it’s a must-see hidden gem for anyone visiting the area
08:57, 27 Jun 2026Updated 08:58, 27 Jun 2026
The Spanish town near Benidorm is often compared to Mykonos (stock image)(Image: MiniMoon Photo via Getty Images)
Benidorm, a firm favourite among British holidaymakers, is renowned for its sun-drenched beaches, budget-friendly breaks, and the vibrant Calle Gerona, lovingly known as ‘the strip’. However, beneath the surface of stag and hen parties, Benidorm conceals beautiful spots that countless visitors have yet to discover.
For those seeking an escape from the party scene, a brief trip unveils a peaceful town. Located just moments from Benidorm, it provides a calm alternative to the raucous nightlife, with comparisons drawn to the allure of Mykonos. A quick 18-minute drive or a short 12-minute bus journey from Benidorm Intermodal brings you to the picturesque Altea, Alicante.
Hailed as one of Spain’s “most iconic” towns, Altea whisks visitors back in time with its captivating old quarter, complete with winding cobbled streets and sparkling white houses. Wandering through Altea’s alleyways, the tempting aromas of freshly made coffee and mouth-watering food drift from intimate cafés and delightful restaurants.
The town’s jewel in the crown is the parish church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo or Iglesia de Arriba, which mesmerises tourists with its splendour. From this elevated spot, the sweeping views stretch across the brilliant blue sea to the vast beach beneath.
Alice, an influencer who highlights Benidorm’s best features and reveals her favourite recommendations online, recently visited Altea and proclaimed it a must-see destination for any travel bucket list.
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Boasting more than 37,000 TikTok followers, Alice gushed: “Hidden gem only 15 mins from Benidorm! Maybe Altea isn’t a hidden gem for those in the know, but the way you could lowkey be just 15 mins away from this gorgeous slice of history and culture while on your holibobs in Benidorm!”
She went on to say: “It’s an absolute MUST see if you’re looking to escape for an afternoon to see some of the best views on the entire Costa Blanca. It’s giving cheeky Altea day trip, don’t you think?”.
The response was overwhelmingly positive — the short clip has racked up more than 17,900 likes alongside a flood of glowing comments.
One visitor shared: “I went there in December. Very nice.”
Another remarked: “There are stunning restaurants and bars. It’s not Benidorm. They may be close but they are worlds apart. Altea is beautiful.”
A third chimed in: “It’s simply a stunning old and new town.”
One commenter went as far as calling it their “favourite place of all time”, while another declared it had firmly earned a spot on their bucket list, writing: “Definitely heading here.. never knew it was so close.”
Flights from the UK to Alicante can be snapped up from as little as £40.
From there, you can hop on a bus, grab a cab or take the tram to Benidorm, which should take roughly 40 minutes by road.
There are several Jet2 rules to note when planning your trip
Jet2 has clarified its luggage rules(Image: Getty)
Jet2 has clarified its baggage allowances after an enquiry from a holidaymaker. The customer asked for help as they got ready for their summer getaway.
The person contacted the provider over social media on June 23. The traveller had booked their journey through Jet2holidays, and was due to jet off the following week.
They posed a question about their luggage entitlement. The customer wrote: “We have 3 x 22kg baggage allowance. Assume we are good to check in just two bags provided weight doesn’t exceed allowance?”
They went on to ask if they could check in one suitcase weighing 23kg and another at 25kg while remaining within their total allocation. Jet2 replied to set out the options available to the customer.
Combining your baggage allowance
The airline confirmed: “You can pool your luggage into two suitcases as opposed to three, as long as this doesn’t exceed your combined allowance of 66kg, and that no single article of luggage exceeds 32kg. I hope this helps.”
State Pensioners to face major tax change
According to Jet2’s official guidance: “Any baggage that exceeds your total weight allowance will be carried subject to availability and at our discretion. You’ll also need to pay an excess baggage fee, which is £12 per kg. Please note that no single item of baggage can weigh more than 32kg.”
You can add extra luggage when you book or through the Manage My Booking facility. Simply enter your booking reference, surname and departure date, then navigate to ‘Add Holiday Essentials’.
Query over 10kg allowance
Jet2 was also recently asked another question about its baggage weight rules after a passenger reported receiving contradictory information. The person had a booking for two adults and a six-month-old infant.
They explained: “Told we get two extra carry ons such as a buggy and travel cot that will be checked into the hold at the gate.”
They said they had two 22kg checked bags and that on a prior Jet2 holiday they had been told they qualified for “an extra 10kg for the baby”. According to Jet2’s official website guidance for bookings with children, passengers receive “an extra 10kg allowance for infants” plus “up to two items per child or infant free of charge”.
The passenger asked whether the additional 10kg could be combined with one of the 22kg cases, creating a 32kg allowance. They described receiving mixed messages on their last Jet2 journey. The customer recalled: “On the way out with you we were told it’s fine to have a 32kg case (22kg + the 10kg).
“On the way back we were told the 10kg should be a separate small checked case. Please can you clarify which it is and what the rules are because on our last holiday with you we were told different things.”
Setting the record straight, Jet2 responded to the passenger: “The additional 10kg is applied to one adult’s baggage, allowing for a total of one bag at 32kg and one bag at 22kg.”
A “heat-dome” settling over western Europe could bring temperatures of up to 40C by Wednesday, with this latest UK heatwave expected to surpass the June record set in Hampshire in 1976
Milo Boyd Deputy Travel Editor & Commercial Writer and Sam Hall, Press Association
15:30, 23 Jun 2026
A heatdome has settled over much of Western Europe(Image: ARNAUD FINISTRE, AFP via Getty Images)
The UK Government has issued an ‘extreme’ travel warning for Brits heading to France, Spain and Portugal as a heatdome settles over western Europe.
The weather front is predicted to deliver temperatures approaching 40C by Wednesday, with this latest heatwave anticipated to eclipse the June record established in Hampshire in 1976.
Red heat alerts have been issued in France, Spain, and other nations across western and central Europe as heatwave conditions are forecast to intensify in the coming days.
More than half of France’s regions are currently under the harshest weather warning. Tragically, two children aged two and four were found dead in their family car in the town of Carpentras in the south of France, in an incident believed to be linked to the weather.
In a section on the Foreign Office’s website titled ‘extreme weather’, an update for France issued today reads: “Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. In summer months, there is a risk of higher than normal temperatures in France. Check current weather forecasts and read about how to protect yourself on the Meteo France website.”
And the Portugal advice reads: “In Summer months, there is a risk of higher than normal temperatures in Portugal. Check current weather forecasts and read about how to protect yourself on the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere website.”
Back in the UK, record high temperatures are forecast over the coming days.
Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said: “The Met Office is flagging 39C as a headline maximum temperature on Thursday, most likely for somewhere in London or the South East. Forecast temperature values are indicative and are subject to a slight range either side.
“It is possible we could see temperatures higher than the 39C if the final values are at the upper end of our narrow range. It is important to remember that the temperature value is only one element of this extreme heatwave story. The other major factor is the high humidity which for many will make the intense heat even harder to endure.”
Throughout the night, temperatures remained above 20C at nine sites across England, registering what the Met Office classifies as a tropical night. Scorching temperatures gave way to thunderstorms and lightning strikes across England in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Commuters also faced significant disruption across London’s transport network on Tuesday morning. The Elizabeth Line was hit by flooding caused by heavy rainfall, resulting in no service running between Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3 and Heathrow Terminal 4, Transport for London confirmed.
Passengers on the Mildmay Line also faced severe delays, with the line operating a reduced service due to the sweltering conditions. On the national rail network, soaring temperatures are also forecast to cause sagging overhead electric wires, buckled rails and lineside fires, with passengers urged to avoid non-essential travel and, if a journey is unavoidable, to ensure they have a bottle of water with them.
Avanti West Coast announced it intends to operate fewer services than normal between Tuesday and Thursday, warning that “there’s a risk of further disruption”.
Chiltern Railways has scrapped more than half its services across those three days “to ensure the safe operation of the railway”. The operator said: “We strongly advise you to avoid travelling if possible.”
The RAC revealed it is handling 10% more breakdowns than usual at this time of year and expects demand to “increase significantly as temperatures peak”.
The scorching weather is also set to cause considerable disruption for parents as schools shut or close early to shield children from the heat. Pupils have been told they may wear PE kit rather than full school uniform, which typically includes long trousers and blazers. A number of after-school clubs have also been called off.
Cruise passengers who dock for the day in Barcelona now face having to pay a hefty fee per passenger per day, as the mayor looks to slash the number of short-stay cruise visitors to zero
Visitors to Barcelona could soon end up paying nearly £26 just to wander its streets(Image: Aylin Mercan/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Barcelona’s city council has approved plans to triple the amount that cruise passengers pay when they take a day trip to the popular city break hotspot.
The levy for cruise ship passengers will be hiked from €8 to €24 per passenger. In addition, a €6 regional tourist tax is already payable to visitors who spend less than 12 hours in Barcelona, which means the cost of setting foot in the capital for cruise passengers will rise to €30 per person, just under £26.
The hike is part of Barcelona mayor Jaume Collboni’s plans to slash cruise tourism to the Catalan city according to cruise news outlet Deep Arrival.
Barcelona welcomed around 16 million visitors in 2025, 3.99 million of which were cruise passengers, with campaigners claiming that the influx puts a strain on public services and leads to overcrowding during the peak summer months. The tax increase is aimed at discouraging cruises from visiting the city completely, rather than just reducing overall numbers.
In July 2025, the city’s council approved plans to gradually increase the levy paid by cruise passengers gradually over four years, but reports within cruise trade publications indicate that this timeline could be sped up, and higher charges could be implemented as soon as 2027.
Cruises that begin or end in Barcelona would not be charged this increased fee, as these sailings are seen to have a postive impact on the city compared to day trips. A report on the sustainability of cruises on the city showed that day trippers from cruises spent an average of 5.7 hours in the city, and mostly visited popular attractions as as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Last year, Barcelona cut the number of cruise terminals from seven to five, and began to reroute larger cruise ships away from the most central ports, which now prioritise smaller boats and local marine traffic.
It’s not just cruise passengers who’ll pay higher fees in Barcelona. As of April 1, general accommodation tourist taxes have also increased, making them among the highest in Europe. Visitors pay both a regional and a municipal surcharge, meaning the total tourist tax ranges from €7 to €12 per person per night (approximately £6 to £10.38).
Barcelona has been at the heart of the overtourism protests sweeping Spain, and in June 2025 the city hit the headlines as protestors marched through the streets holding signs with slogans such as “Your Airbnb used to be my home”, and people sitting on outside terraces were squirted with water pistols.
Further protests are expected this summer from groups such as Menys Turisme Més Vida (Less Tourism More Life), including protests in Palma, Majorca set for July 26 to coincide with the start of school holiday season.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
A New Zealand expat and his Spanish wife, who share travel guides about Spain on YouTube, have named one city as their top destination
The Spanish city is more than 3,000-years-old(Image: F.J. Jimenez via Getty Images)
Perched on a narrow strip of land encircled by the Atlantic Ocean lies Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, which one expat living in Spain is urging visitors to make time for. The capital of the Province of Cádiz, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, the city is over 3,000-years-old and dotted with remarkable ancient buildings gazing out over the breathtaking blue waters that surround it.
New Zealand expat James and his Spanish wife Yoly, who both reside in Spain, have made it their mission to help others experience Spain on a deeper level through the travel guides they share on their YouTube channel @spainrevealed. They spotlighted the magnificent city of Cádiz as their “number one place to visit” on any trip to Spain, reports the Express.
“You see this city deep in the southwest of Spain on this impossibly small spit of land is the most magical city in Spain according to me,” said James.
Indeed, the expat fell so deeply in love with the region that he has long dreamed of living there for a period. He even goes as far as suggesting it would be a “crime to visit Spain without seeing Cádiz”, a sentiment his wife Yoly wholeheartedly echoes, describing such an omission as “unforgivable”.
James places the city’s rich history at the very top of his list of favourite things about Cádiz, with traces of its remarkable past visible at virtually every corner.
“There’s almost a sense that Cádiz has so much history that it can’t keep up it can’t keep it in check and all of these historic buildings are being beaten by the weather that comes off the Atlantic so it’s a challenge to keep these buildings in a state of good repair,” he said.
“And for better or worse what that does mean is that these historic parts of Cádiz have this gritty authenticity to them.”
Centuries-old buildings and cobbled streets are dotted throughout the city’s various districts, known in Spain as barrios, including El Pópulo, La Viña, and Santa María. El Pópulo is the city’s most ancient quarter, situated at the gateway to the historical centre, nestled between the Town Hall and the Cathedral.
It is widely regarded as the true medieval heart of the city, with roots stretching back to the 13th century.
The promenade is another unmissable attraction, where visitors can stroll along and take in the city’s breathtaking scenery, including the shimmering golden dome of the cathedral.
The Cathedral itself ranks amongst the most iconic landmarks in Cádiz, blending baroque and neoclassical architectural styles. Visitors can even embark on tours to oft-overlooked sections of the cathedral, including its crypts.
Plaza de las Flores is a charming square flanked by an array of cafés serving up local delicacies such as churros and fried fish, while Mercado Central buzzes with stalls brimming with locally-sourced produce.
While the millennia-old heritage forms a significant part of the fabric of Cádiz, the city has also welcomed modernity, as evidenced by the contemporary Parador de Cádiz.
The hotel first opened its doors in 2013 and boasts a stunning outdoor swimming pool with Atlantic views as its backdrop.
Flights from London to Cádiz take around two hours and 45 minutes with the nearest airport to the city is Jerez. From there it takes 45 minutes to drive with flights starting from £67.
If you’re planning to go on holiday this summer, you may need a new passport
Here’s how long your new passport should take to arrive(Image: Alvarog1970 via Getty Images)
With the summer holidays now in full swing, many travellers need a new passport. Anyone intending to go abroad will need the document, and there are specific criteria it must meet.
For instance, following Brexit, anyone travelling to the EU using a UK passport must ensure their passport’s “date of issue” falls within 10 years from their arrival date. The “expiry date” must also extend at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area, which encompasses 29 countries, including Spain, Greece, France, and Italy.
According to His Majesty’s (HM) Passport Office, when you submit an application for a new or replacement document, “you’ll usually get your passport within three weeks”. In an effort to inform travellers precisely when they can anticipate receiving theirs, independent website “UK Passport Waiting Time” is monitoring how long people are presently waiting for a new or replacement passport to be delivered.
The team, which operates independently from HM Passport Office, collects data from members of the public, including the dates they submitted applications for and received their new documents recently. Based on the most recent figures, people are waiting 19 days on average for a first adult passport, and 14 days for a replacement or renewed passport.
According to the website, the average processing time for a first child passport stands at 16 days, while a replacement takes 15 days. One traveller, using the Corby passport office to apply for a replacement passport, shared on the site that they submitted their application on May 19.
They said: “My passport was initially water damaged (to the point where the signature and previous immigration information had smudged) so required a replacement. No issues with digital photo submission from myself, just making sure to have a lot of light and a white background, and setting a timer to take the headshot (as I had no one else available) seemed to be sufficient.”
They subsequently received their new passport 23 days later, on June 11. A second applicant revealed they had applied for a first adult passport through the Hemel Hempstead passport office.
They submitted their application on May 1 and received their travel document on June 6, 36 days later. Naturally, timescales can differ between applicants, and HM Passport Office notes that: “It may take longer than three weeks if we need more information, or we need to interview you.
“We’ll tell you this within three weeks. There are different turnaround times if you’re applying from another country.”
Should you require a replacement passport as a matter of urgency, the one-day Premium Service is available to you. Bear in mind, however, that this comes at an additional cost, with an adult passport setting you back £239.50.
There’s also a one week Fast Track service available for renewing or replacing an adult or child passport – or for applying for a first child passport. The price is £192 for an adult passport, or £156.50 for a child’s.
A couple who booked a trip to Barcelona shared their ‘expectations’ of the city, but soon discovered the ‘reality’ was vastly different from what they’d imagined
The couple was left by the disappointing ‘reality’ of Barcelona (stock image)(Image: JohnnyGreig via Getty Images)
Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia in northeastern parts of Spain, is a popular for Brits looking for a weekend break or a summer escape, thanks to its mix of buzzing city life, Mediterranean coastline, and world-famous architecture. And it’s not only Brits who are drawn to the Spanish city, as it welcomed around 16 million tourists last year alone, a 2.9 per cent rise from 2024.
But officials in the city have warned that tourism levels have resulted in residents being priced out due to the number of homes being converted into holiday lets. In a bid to tackle the problem, the city ramped up its tourism tax in April 2026, with a charge of up to £10.91 (€12.50) per night for holiday rentals, up from £5.45 (€6.25) previously.
Yet this doesn’t appear to have deterred visitors, as countless holidaymakers regularly flock to social media platforms like TikTok to share their experiences in Barcelona.
In a recent clip, they revealed how their dream vision of Barcelona had been ‘ruined’ because of the sheer amount of roadworks under way during their stay.
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The pair kicked off by outlining their ‘expectations’ for the trip. This included soaking up the stunning architecture across the city, enjoying sangrias, and people-watching while strolling along the lively streets.
And Lara went on to reveal the ‘reality’ of a trip to Barcelona, which featured an abundance of roadworks, building sites, and makeshift pedestrian routes flanked by wire fencing, all making way for construction projects taking place on the pavements and roads.
“Would you still visit Barcelona right now?” Lara and Laurens asked viewers in the caption of the video.
Lara wasn’t alone in her observations either, as viewers quickly descended on the comments section to share their own experiences of visiting the beloved Spanish city. “This! And every single water fountain was turned off when we went,” one person shared.
A second viewer chimed in: “Yep! I was there recently and tons of construction going on!” Another added: “Pffff no nice. I hope you can enjoy your travel.”
Not everyone agreed, however, with one person pointing out: “That’s ONE street.” Another echoed the sentiment, writing: “It’s just one street by the market! Everything else is great!”
“I’m here right now. It’s a beautiful city. All cities have construction here and there,” one further commenter remarked.
“How dare cities upgrade their infrastructure while you’re on vacation!” someone else wrote.
Lara was quick to respond, saying: “Haha no it’s great that they’re doing it. It was just a lot on the same time. Still love Barcelona.”
Ahead of a two-week holiday to the Canary Islands, one Brit arrived at the airport only to be told that his passport was invalid due to a travel rule – even though it was in date
A British holidaymaker was caught out by a passport rule at the airport(Image: Handout)
A Brit was caught out by a common passport mistake and turned away at the airport, leaving their holiday plans in tatters.
Terry Winter, 56, from Oxford, had booked a two-week holiday to Tenerife with his wife, Molly Winter, 62, months in advance and was eager to ensure everything was set in place as it was his first time going abroad since 2018. Their passports were in date, they had a pre-booked airport hotel the night before their early morning flight, and had even found somewhere to go for dinner – everything seemed to be in order. Or so they thought.
On the morning of Friday, 12 June, they arrived at Birmingham Airport and went to check in their bags with easyJet, having already secured their boarding passes online. Yet, when Terry scanned his passport, an error message popped up.
“I put my suitcase on the check-in to get my tag, and that’s when the warning sign came up through easyJet”, Terry exclusively told the Mirror. He waited for assistance from a member of staff and was informed, ‘Your passport is not valid.’
While Terry’s passport had not expired, it had been issued more than 10 years earlier, meaning it did not meet EU entry requirements. “I didn’t know about this rule. I was shocked.”
Under post-Brexit travel regulations, all UK passports must have been issued less than 10 years prior to the date of arrival when visiting most European countries. Terry added: “There was nothing in my knowledge about this rule.
“There were two other people at the airport, and this was happening exactly at the same time. So this isn’t just a one-off thing.”
Just last week, a mum of three was left unable to board her easyJet flight to Greece with her family, due to the same passport mistake. She also only found out at the airport that her passport was not valid and had to fork out almost £700 in additional fees, while claiming that another holidaymaker was also turned away for the same reason.
Terry said he was surprised he hadn’t been warned about the passport rule before getting to the airport, having booked the holiday in January this year and entered his passport details on the easyJet website.
“They accepted the booking, didn’t tell me there wasn’t anything wrong at the time, and then three weeks before the flight, I had to put all my passport details in again to check in. It didn’t flag anything again, and my boarding passes were downloaded,” Terry remarked.
Terry said he asked an easyJet staff member at the airport, “How often does this happen?”, to which they reportedly replied: “It happens daily with a lot of people.” Terry added: “He said it will be happening all throughout the country.”
Having been left “frazzled”at the airport, Terry had no option but to urgently book an appointment through His Majesty’s Passport Office to obtain a new passport using the one-day premium service. His wife, whose passport was valid, chose to stay in the UK with him for extra support.
While there were no suitable appointments available in London, due to it being the weekend, Terry managed to secure a 9.10am slot for Monday (15 June) in Peterborough.
He and his wife travelled up to Peterborough from Oxford the night before, booked a hotel, and on Monday morning went to the passport appointment. Thankfully, after a few hours, Terry was issued a new passport, and he swiftly rebooked flights to Tenerife, departing on Tuesday, 16 June.
While he commented, “I’m just laughing the whole thing off”, Terry said he has lost out on “almost £1,000” in additional costs for his first trip abroad in eight years. He explained that this included around £40 in extra fuel, £50 for the Peterborough hotel, just under £100 for another night at the airport hotel, around £400 for two people flying to Tenerife one-way, and £239.50 for his new passport.
He added that he’s lost around “£400 on the flights” he wasn’t able to board originally, and said: “It’s getting close to nearly £1,000, I’ve been inconvenienced by.”
Terry also claimed that the day after his initial flight, on Saturday 13 June, he was sent a generic email reminder from easyJet that warned passengers: “Please check your travel documents before you fly.” In response, he said, “Well, that’s pointless. The day after, you’ve already lost your flight.”
A spokesperson for easyJet told the Mirror: “Unfortunately, Mr Winter was unable to fly as his passport did not meet passport validity rules. We remind customers during booking, check-in and by email before they travel to ensure they are aware of the travel documentation requirements for their trip, and it is customers’ responsibility to ensure they have valid documentation for travel.”
EasyJet has a dedicated page on its website that warns passengers about passport rules and requirements, including for travel to the EU. As part of these warnings, it explains: “Please check your passport’s expiry and issue date before you travel. If you’re a UK passport holder travelling to the EU (except Ireland), or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican City or Switzerland, your passport will need to meet the following criteria:
It must be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to depart from the EU or above countries*
It must be no more than 10 years’ old on the date of travel to the EU or above countries.
“Visit the UK government’s advice page for more information.
“Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland may travel within Europe using a valid EU/EEA/Swiss National Identity Card or Passport Card.”
To renew or replace your passport, online or at the HM Passport Office, visit the government website.
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Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, but if you want to avoid the crowds, one holidaymaker has shared a ‘hidden gem’ with stunning views and rich history
14:42, 12 Jun 2026Updated 14:42, 12 Jun 2026
A holidaymaker claims to have found a ‘hidden gem’ in historic city near Malaga (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
When it comes to summer getaways, Spain consistently ranks as one of the most beloved destinations for British holidaymakers, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled in Southern Europe, it enjoys pleasant weather all year round, with summer temperatures frequently soaring to 30 degrees on a daily basis.
Even during quieter months, visitors can expect comfortable temperatures of around 20 to 25 degrees. With the mainland just a short two-hour flight from the UK – although the Canary Islands can take up to four hours to reach – many Brits consider it the ideal distance for a break.
That said, Spanish authorities have previously voiced frustration with the sheer volume of tourists flocking to the country, leaving hotspots such as Mallorca and Palma absolutely packed to the rafters during the summer months.
Now, however, one traveller named Andrew McDonnell claims to have uncovered one of Spain’s best-kept secrets – a destination that delivers scorching summers and stunning scenery, without the overwhelming crowds. He took to TikTok, where he has amassed more than 12,100 followers, to share highlights from his trip to the historic southern Spanish city.
“One of Spain’s hidden gems left me truly speechless,” read the caption accompanying his post.
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Ronda is a stunning mountaintop city situated in the Málaga province of Andalusia in Southern Spain. It is renowned for its dramatic position perched atop the sweeping El Tajo gorge, which divides the city’s 15th-century new town from its ancient old town, which dates back to the era of Moorish rule.
The iconic Puente Nuevo, a striking stone bridge that spans the dramatic gorge, features a viewpoint offering breathtaking views. The new town’s Plaza de Toros, a legendary 18th-century bullring, remains one of the city’s most instantly recognisable landmarks.
Ronda is also widely regarded as the birthplace of modern bullfighting, with a bullring dating back to 1784. Although the bullring remains open to visitors, actual bullfights are an increasingly rare sight, with just one symbolic event staged there annually during the Corrida Goyesca, as part of the Feria de Pedro Romero, which traditionally takes place in the last week of August.
Beyond its rich and fascinating history, the city also possesses a romantic charm that has captivated poets and writers for centuries, bolstered further by its spectacular mountaintop setting, widely considered one of the most stunning locations in the entire country.
Being a compact town, everything is easily reachable on foot. And while it stands as one of the most celebrated of Andalusia’s ‘pueblos blancos’ (white villages), it has managed to avoid the mass tourism that has overwhelmed its coastal neighbours, such as Malaga.
Andrew went on to say: “Ronda is one of those places that simply doesn’t need any words to be described, because being there and seeing it for yourself is enough. The content really doesn’t do this place any justice for how spectacular it is.”
And situated in Southern Spain, you can anticipate the typical Mediterranean climate, featuring hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Thanks to its elevated position (roughly 739 metres), it does see chillier winters and occasionally hotter summers than neighbouring coastal resorts.
As it’s just 100km from Malaga, roughly an hour and a half’s drive away, Ronda serves as an ideal day trip during your holiday, or a peaceful and relaxing base for your next Spanish getaway.
Brits heading to popular Spanish islands this summer may find themselves at the heart of anti-tourism protests, with a pressure group insisting that there will be a “historic turnout”
14:57, 09 Jun 2026Updated 16:48, 09 Jun 2026
Antitourism protests – such as those seen in 2024 and 2025 – could be bigger this summer(Image: Europa Press Canarias via Getty Images)
The news comes as sites in the Canary Islands have been daubed with anti-tourist graffiti, including reports from local news outlet Canarian Weekly of a ‘kill a tourist’ slogan being spotted in Tenerife. The graffiti was spotted by two expats hiking in Punta del Hidalgo, who then claimed they saw further disturbing graffiti during a walk to Bollullo Beach on the island’s north coast.
In a separate incident last week, five estate agents in Majorca with international names were daubed with graffiti including ‘guilty’ and ‘Guiris out!’ in an overnight attack. Guiri is a derogatory Spanish term used for tourists from Northern Europe.
Menys Turisme Més Vida announced a protest in Palma, a popular destination for Brits on the island of Majorca on July 26, which coincides with the start of the busiest school holiday season. Meanwhile there are protests planned in Menorca on June 13 with a similar anti-tourism sentiment.
In a statement on its website, the group said: “️We consider that the demands expressed during previous mobilisations have been ignored while problems such as the housing access crisis, tourist saturation, the destruction of the territory, the precariousness of living conditions and the pressure on public resources and services continue to worsen.
“Under the slogan ‘Majorca at the limit’, the call aims to once again demonstrate the strength of existing social unrest in the face of an economic model that continues to break tourism records while the living conditions of a growing part of the resident population worsen.”, it added.
The group claims that the protest has the support of 53 social , environmental, trade union, neighbourhood and cultural groups on the island, which sees nearly 13 million tourists annually, with Brits the second-largest percentage after Germany.
Majorca saw protests last June that organisers claim were attended by 30,000 people, although varying reports claim numbers from 5,000 to 8,000. This included reports of some people sitting on terraces being harassed by protestors. Another notable protest took place in Barcelona on June 15, 2025, in which smoke devices were used and tourists soaked with water pistols.
While there have been reports of a tourist slowdown in the Balearics and Canaries, anti-tourism protests do not seem to have a massive impact on visitor numbers. In April, the Canaries saw a drop in visitors of 8.3% compared to the year before, but this meant 1.2 million foreign tourists still visited the islands. It was also the first drop seen on the volcanic archipelago since the pandemic.
Over Easter, the Balearics reported a fall of nearly 20% in in-person tourist spending by card, despite an overall increase in spending across Spain as a whole, suggesting visitors were choosing to spend their money elsewhere.
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Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index has identified the top 10 destinations where you can enjoy a five-star stay on a budget – with some high-end options available from as little as £70 a night
12:00, 09 Jun 2026Updated 14:11, 09 Jun 2026
These are the top destinations for luxury stays on a budget(Image: Getty Images)
The top 10 destinations offering five-star stays on a budget have been revealed. Despite unpredictable travel costs, securing a luxury holiday without breaking the bank is entirely achievable – with high-end range accommodation available for as low as £70.
The findings from Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index drew on internal booking information and a worldwide survey of 11,000 travellers from the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, France, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and South Korea.
Travel expert and spokesperson Melanie Fish said: “Travellers may be feeling the squeeze, but they’re also getting smarter. “With increasing volatility in travel prices this summer, fuel costs may be dominating the conversation, but hotel prices are where travellers are making real trade-offs.”
The research revealed that luxury breaks in Croatia, Estonia, Zaragoza, Spain and Bulgaria can also be enjoyed for less than £150 a night.
The Index also uncovered other affordable yet indulgent alternatives destinations, including stays in Wrocław, Poland (£120), Tirana, Albania (£130) and Riga, Latvia (£130). Five-star accommodation can be found in the UK as well – with options in Brighton (£115), Cornwall (£135) and Liverpool (£170).
Alongside identifying 10 of the most budget-friendly destinations, the research highlighted 10 notable locations that have experienced significant price reductions over the past year – including Loire, France (down 32%) and Edmonton, Canada (down 31%).
Additional destinations include St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (down 30%), Dortmund, Germany (down 21%) and Turin, Italy (also down 21%).
Surprisingly, the findings showed that booking last minute can actually save money, with hotel rates up to 26% cheaper when reserving closer to your departure date. For those seeking to reduce expenses even further, the data revealed prices are 14% lower for Sunday stays – with Saturdays proving the most costly.
Escaping in January delivers the best value, while the second week of July commands the highest rates – domestically at least.
Hotels.com’s global study, conducted through OnePoll, also disclosed what tops everyone’s luxury dream wish list – a hot tub with a view (44%) followed by a penthouse suite (41%).
When questioned about what defines a genuinely luxurious hotel experience, exceptional food at the hotel (31%), a room with a view (30%) and premium in-room amenities (28%) emerged as the top priorities.
TEN OF THE CHEAPEST FIVE-STAR STAYS ABROAD:
Nha Trang, Vietnam (£70)
Zaragoza, Spain (£120)
Wrocław, Poland (£120)
Tirana, Albania (£130)
Riga, Latvia (£130)
Zagreb, Croatia (£130)
Sofia, Bulgaria (£135)
Heraklion (Crete), Greece (£135)
Tallinn, Estonia (£140)
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (£140)
TEN OF THE BIGGEST INTERNATIONAL PRICE DROPS YEAR-ON-YEAR:
Important message for anyone with a package holiday booked
09:50, 08 Jun 2026Updated 09:53, 08 Jun 2026
Simon Calder reminded people to give ‘immediate notice’ and to not wait if they encounter issues(Image: ITV)
Travel expert Simon Calder has shared important advice for anyone with a package holiday booked, as people are being urged to act ‘as soon as possible’. His message comes ahead of the peak travel season, and as new research by Citizens Advice has revealed that four million people have faced issues with their package holiday over the last year.
On today’s (June 8) episode of ITV’s Good Morning Britain, TV host Kate Garraway spoke to correspondent Nick Dixon about the findings. He said: “The complaints that we’ve been hearing about were involving all-inclusive holidays, with many saying they just didn’t ultimately match up to the glossy brochures we see online, or indeed at the travel agents.
“Citizens Advice say that they found 33% of holiday-related complaints ultimately were about things like poor quality hotels, bad food, facilities being unavailable as well – 19% down to customer service.” He added: “Things like long waits on the phone, complaints ignored and administration errors, and 25% of complaints ultimately led to stress, anxiety or upset.
“And if your dream holiday does turn into a wee bit of a nightmare, there are steps you can take… Many of us with these kinds of complaints about our holidays end up trying to fight for compensation, which is why it is so important to keep a record of everything just in case to have any chance of getting money back.”
British travel journalist and broadcaster Simon Calder then spoke to viewers, sharing a crucial message for those with a package holiday, especially if they encounter problems during their trip. He urged holidaymakers to act ‘immediately’.
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He said: “If you get to your destination and things aren’t right, maybe there’s a problem with your room, maybe the facilities are simply not as described, then you have to give the travel company immediate notice and allow them the opportunity to sort things out.”
How can I claim compensation for a holiday?
Reporting a problem right away is a legal concept called “mitigating your losses”. If you don’t allow the travel provider to address the room or facilities issue while you’re there, you could really hurt your chances of receiving a full refund or compensation.
Citizens Advice says: “If you’re still on holiday, tell the company or travel agent about the problem as soon as possible. You might be able to get it sorted quicker – like if there’s a problem with the room. If you don’t say anything until you get home, you might get less compensation or none at all.”
The person you need to contact depends on how you arranged your holiday. If you went for a package holiday, reach out to the customer service team of the tour operator you chose.
However, if you organised it yourself or set up a linked travel arrangement, you should contact the accommodation or service provider directly, such as the hotel or the company offering excursions. Make sure you include:
your booking reference
clear details of what went wrong
copies any evidence you have – like photos
copies of receipts
how much compensation you want
Citizens Advice adds: “It’s a good idea to send the letter by registered post and keep a copy, so you have proof that the holiday company received it. You can also email them – some of them have online forms. Keep a copy of what you send. If the company makes you an offer that you think is too low, you can ask for more. They might come back to you with a higher offer.”
A British man living in Benidorm has issued a stark message to those jetting out to the popular Spanish resort this summer – saying there’s certain places you want to avoid at night
10:14, 07 Jun 2026Updated 11:06, 07 Jun 2026
Stay safe while in Benidorm (stock)(Image: JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images)
A British expat living in Benidorm has issued a warning to holidaymakers heading to the popular Spanish resort this summer – revealing the three places he would avoid after dark. Benidorm remains one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations, attracting millions of tourists every year with its beaches, bars and nightlife.
But according to one resident, there are a handful of spots visitors should think twice about walking through late at night. Sharing his advice on social media, the expat said: “This is a warning for anyone coming out to Benidorm. “This is the top three areas I would definitely avoid if coming to Benidorm in 2025 and the reasons why.”
Coming in at number three was a public pathway known locally as the “Yellow Brick Road”, which runs behind several hotels and leads towards the Rio Park area.
He explained: “Now it has been known for a few things, mainly small thefts like pickpocketing, that sort of thing.
“Now generally during the day it’s absolutely fine. I’d recommend avoiding it at night.”
Next on his list was Pueblo Alley, which he claimed can attract unwanted attention after dark.
He said: “And in at number two has got to be Pueblo Alley.
“And this is one I definitely recommend avoiding, especially late at night, as you do get the pickpockets hanging around this area and you also get the odd lady of the night.
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“So I definitely consider avoiding it. There’s plenty of other ways around.”
Topping his list was a location known as “Mugger’s Alley”, which has long gained a reputation among some tourists and locals.
He said: “Straight in at number one, it’s Mugger’s Alley.
“It is the most notorious. It is the one we all know, known for pickpocketing, ladies of the night.
“It’s just an area that I would avoid.”
The expat also warned visitors to be cautious of scams, claiming he had recently seen reports of people being targeted.
He added: “Cross the road, it’s not necessary. I mean, they’re even doing these new taxi scams. I’ve seen videos online about it.
“It’s crazy. So save yourself the hassle and cross the road.”
Commenting on his post, one travel fan said: “Don’t agree with you, stayed in Rio Pak about 20 times and never had a problem.”
Another user added: “Anywhere people are shouting.”
It comes after the UK Government issues a warning about a police officer scam in Spain, saying: “Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification.
“Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.”
The Visit Benidorm Tourist Board has been contacted for comment.
However, some holidaymakers could face an unwelcome surprise at check-in even if their document have months to years left before it expires.
This relates to the number of blank pages remaining in a passport. While many people focus on expiry dates, some countries require visitors to have one, two or even more completely blank pages available for entry stamps or visa stickers.
Travel experts warn that passengers who fail to meet these requirements could be denied boarding by airlines or refused entry on arrival.
Airlines are often responsible for ensuring passengers meet a destination’s entry requirements and can face penalties for transporting travellers who do not qualify for entry.
According to travel guidance published by Schengen, some destinations require at least two blank passport pages for visas and border stamps. The guidance warns that airlines may refuse boarding if passengers do not have sufficient space remaining in their passport.
The requirement can catch out frequent travellers whose passports are filled with entry and exit stamps from previous trips. Experts say many people mistakenly assume a passport is suitable for travel provided it remains in date.
For travel to the Schengen Area, for instance, passport rules already require Brits to ensure their passport was issued within the previous 10 years and remains valid for at least three months after their planned departure date. Some guidance also notes that travellers may need at least two blank pages available for visas and stamps where applicable.
A recent travel warning highlighted that a lack of blank pages can become a particular issue for frequent flyers and those taking multi-country trips. Countries may require empty pages for visa stickers, while immigration officials also need room for entry and exit stamps.
Travel experts recommend checking passport validity, issue dates and the number of remaining blank pages well in advance of departure. Unlike an expired passport, extra pages cannot simply be added to a modern British passport, meaning travellers who are running out of space may need to renew the document before travelling.
According to guidance cited by travel experts, some countries require between two and four blank pages depending on the destination and visa requirements. Travellers planning complex itineraries involving multiple countries are therefore advised to check entry rules carefully before travelling.
If you’re dreaming of sitting on a Spanish terrace with a beer in your hand, then you might want to check the weather, as new laws could see outdoor terraces closed to holidaymakers
11:21, 05 Jun 2026Updated 11:23, 05 Jun 2026
The new laws could mean Brits need to take their drinks inside(Image: JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images)
For many British holidaymakers jetting off to sunnier destinations like Spain, few pleasures compare to dining outdoors for lunch or dinner, basking in the sunshine while enjoying a chilled beer and tapas.
But for Brits heading off to Spain in the next couple of months, new restrictions could put a dampener on plans for al fresco dining, and mean you have to enjoy your paella indoors.
A weather phenomenon known as El Niño, which delivers prolonged warm temperatures across the Pacific Ocean every two to seven years, is predicted to drive up temperatures and could lead to red weather warnings throughout Spain. Currently, forecasts are still being reviewed, but the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated it could be a ‘strong event’ this year, meaning particularly scorching temperatures in the next couple of months.
This weather news comes shortly after an amendment was made to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH), which safeguards workers including waiting staff, meaning that during periods of extreme weather bars and restaurants will be required to shut their terrace areas on health and safety grounds.
According to Majorca Daily News, when Spain issues orange or red weather warnings due to soaring temperatures, establishments with outdoor terraces will be compelled to either scale back or stop outdoor service altogether. They can, however, continue serving customers indoors. Businesses must also ensure adequate cooling systems are installed inside, or adjust staff shifts to lessen the impact of the heat.
Businesses that fail to comply with the new regulations – for instance by compelling waiting staff to work outdoors during a red alert – could face fines exceeding €50,000 (around £43,000) imposed by the country’s Labour and Social Security Inspectorate.
Parts of Northern Spain are currently under an orange weather alert after a 40C heatwave was followed by rain and thunderstorms. Earlier this week, a yellow warning was issued in parts of Andalucía as afternoon temperatures hit the 40s, and the weather is likely to become more intense as the busy summer season reaches its peak, which could force diners indoors.
A reduction in al fresco dining isn’t the only change Brits will encounter this summer. Holidaymakers touching down at Spanish and other EU airports will now be required to use the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), which has reportedly triggered lengthy queues at some of the busiest airports.
More Spanish cities, including the port of Vigo, are also introducing tourist taxes in an effort to manage the effects of overtourism, while Barcelona is redirecting cruise ships to a port further from the city centre to tackle overcrowding.
Spain also has a number of existing rules that Brits must abide by, including a crackdown on vaping and smoking in public spaces, restrictions on the type of footwear permitted while driving, and even a ban on going shirtless in certain well-known beach resorts.
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Holidaymakers are urged to ditch Ibiza and Marbella for Spain’s ‘real paradise’ – a stunning Mediterranean beach escape with crystal clear water, hidden coves and charming medieval villages
The area boasts gorgeous beaches comparable to that of the Caribbean (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
With summer now officially upon us, many people will be looking to escape the UK and soak up some sun abroad, even as temperatures across the country are forecast to reach as high as 30C over the coming weeks. Yet it appears that British holiday habits are shifting.
Research suggests that many Brits are turning their backs on Southern Europe, with popular hotspots in Spain, Turkey and Greece attracting fewer UK visitors than before. And while plenty of travellers may have concerns about overcrowding at well-trodden holiday destinations, there are a number of hidden gems just waiting to be uncovered.
One TikTok account has been singing the praises of what they’ve dubbed ‘Spain’s real paradise‘, urging holidaymakers to swap the likes of Ibiza and Marbella for this lesser-known treasure instead.
“Forget Ibiza. This is Spain’s real paradise,” read the on-screen text in the video, which offered a tantalising glimpse of a stunning coastal town with a beach as its backdrop.
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The clip went on to showcase a breathtaking sandy beach with crystal-clear waters that ‘looks straight out of the Caribbean’, along with secluded water coves just waiting to be explored.
For those fancying a break from the beach, there are also Medieval towns and castles to discover, as well as coastal walking trails that offer truly spectacular scenery.
They wrote in the caption: “Costa Brava is one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain, with crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, charming medieval villages, scenic coastal walks, and stunning Mediterranean views.”
The Costa Brava, which translates as “Wild Coast,” is a rugged, striking stretch of shoreline in Catalonia, north-eastern Spain. Running from Blanes all the way to the French border, it’s celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, medieval villages, and its connection to surrealist artist Salvador Dalí.
“If you’re planning a Spain vacation, add Costa Brava to your travel bucket list,” the caption continued.
Given its size, you’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to picking a base that suits your holiday plans. If you fancy a quaint village with rocky coves and pristine waters, then Calella de Palafrugell might be just the ticket.
Celebrated for its beauty, Tossa de Mar features a remarkably preserved medieval walled old town perched above a golden beach. Meanwhile, Cadaqués offers a more bohemian vibe, having once been a retreat for artist Salvador Dalí. For those after a livelier break, Lloret de Mar serves as a buzzing hotspot for nightlife, water parks, and package getaways.
If Costa Brava is on the cards for your next escape, the shoulder months of May, June, and September are generally regarded as the ideal time to go. You’ll benefit from warm, swimmable conditions, pleasant sea temperatures, and fewer crowds, according to EasyJet.
The summer months of July and August represent the busiest period, drawing enormous crowds and heavy traffic, whereas the winter season from November through to March brings cold weather and sees many coastal eateries and hotels shut their doors until spring.
The Spanish destination has banned all new holiday rental properties — including houses and villas — as local authorities move to protect struggling residents from being pushed out of their own neighbourhoods
Local politicians are moving ahead with plans to limit Airbnb supply (Image: Jam Press/Helen Dalling)
A beloved holiday destination popular with British tourists is cracking down on new holiday rental properties, after they were found to be forcing local residents out of their own communities.
Local politicians in Palma de Majorca are poised to bring in the measure to boost housing availability for hard-pressed residents. New licensed apartment holiday lets have already been prohibited there for several years, and now local politicians are moving forward with a ban on houses and villas.
Local councillor Óscar Fidalgo insisted the move was one that simply had to be made. He described it as proportionate and fair, adding that it should have been implemented sooner in order to protect those living on the island from spiking property prices.
He was openly critical of holiday rentals growing ‘like never before’, and warned that they were causing integration issues between tourists and locals.
According to Majorca Daily Bulletin, Fidalgo said: “The expansion of tourist accommodation reduces the available residential supply and makes it harder to access housing. The current model presents problems of legal certainty and complicates inspections, which allows for fraud. More inspection capacity is needed.
“There are also urban sustainability reasons. It affects neighbourhood coexistence. We must protect neighbourhoods and prevent the displacement of residents.”
A town hall technical report concluded that the Spanish holiday hotspot is unsuitable for the opening of new holiday rental properties.
In April this year, more than 8,000 illegal Airbnb listings in Majorca were removed from the website, totaling a withdrawal of more than 40,000 illegal tourist beds.
The move was part of a coordinated effort between Airbnb and the Spanish authorities to reduce the number of active rental properties.
The fines for running an unlicensed holiday let in Palma de Majorca are steep. Landlords face fines of up to €40,000 (£34,700) and the government has employed a group of inspectors to ensure compliance. There is also an online reporting system for the public to report suspected rule-breakers to the authorities.
Nearly a third of tourists visiting Spain opt to stay in short-term rentals. The number of homes listed for holiday rentals in May dropped 6% from the previous summer to 1.43 million, after regulations were tightened to ease the housing crisis, data from the National Statistics Institute showed.
According to campaign group Affordable Majorca, since 2013, rents in Palma have increased by a whopping 40%.
Approximately 2.3 to 3.6 million British tourists visit Mallorca each year. The UK consistently ranks as the second-largest source of international visitors to the island, making up about 20% to 26% of all tourist traffic, trailing just behind Germany, according to Road Genius.
The decision in Palma de Majorca comes as another holiday island has also cracked down on beach regulations, banning nearly 700 loungers. Authorities imposed the ban on Formentera in the Balearics, effective immediately until 2029. A further 339 parasols have also been ordered to be removed from beaches.
Holidaymakers could snap up bargain return flights from as low as £30 to the most popular holiday hotspots thanks to a little-known TUI Airways booking trick. The ‘insider trick’, revealed by TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, reveals how travellers can snap up last-minute flights weeks before departure which include bargain breaks across Europe and even long-haul escapes for a fraction of the usual price.
On TUI’s dedicated ‘ Cheap Flights ’ page Brits can find seats on return routes which are regularly released at heavily reduced prices in the weeks and months leading up to departure. “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats,” said Chris Logan.
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
The best deals tend to be snapped up by those who can be flexible on dates and airports, with flights leaving from more than 22 UK airports. And it’s not just quick getaways. The deals can stretch from short breaks to two-week holidays or even longer.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Right now, Brits can find deals such as:
Seven nights in Palma de Mallorca with return flights from London Gatwick from £30 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Ibiza with return flights from London Stansted from £63 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Agadir, Morocco with return flights from Newcastle from £66 per person (8 June to 15 June)
Seven nights in Tenerife with return flights from London Gatwick from £82 per person (6 June July to 13 July)
14 nights in Cancun, Mexico with return flights from Manchester from £350 per person (7 June to 21 June)
14 nights in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with return flights Manchester from £350 per person (6 June to 20 June)
Travellers looking to lock in value a little further ahead can also take advantage of TUI’s additional current flight offer. On TUI Airways bookings departing between July 2026 and April 2027, customers can receive £40 off per person which will be already applied to the flight price, offering even more ways to bring down the cost of a getaway.
Health experts have warned of two diseases spreading in Spain and other parts of Europe and urged UK holidaymakers to take precautions this summer. According to new data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), gonorrhoea cases across Europe reached 106,331 in 2024 – a 303% increase since 2015.
At the same time, syphilis cases more than doubled to 45,577. Spain recorded some of the highest numbers of infections reported in Europe, with 37,169 gonorrhoea cases and 11,556 syphilis cases in 2024.
Gemma Nice, sex and relationships coach at condoms.uk, said: “People often behave differently on holiday because routines disappear and inhibitions lower. Alcohol, spontaneity, and the ‘holiday mindset’ can all lead to riskier sexual behaviour than people might normally engage in at home.
“We’re not saying people shouldn’t enjoy holiday romances, but many people wrongly assume that pregnancy prevention and STI protection are the same thing. Condoms remain the only form of contraception that helps protect against both pregnancy and STIs.”
Experts also warn that many travellers underestimate how common symptomless STIs can be, meaning infections can unknowingly spread between partners. Gemma said: “One of the biggest misconceptions is that you would immediately know if someone had an STI – or if you had one yourself. In reality, many infections can remain symptomless for weeks or even months while still being transmissible.
“We’re also seeing growing complacency around condoms, particularly where people rely on other forms of contraception or assume someone is ‘low risk’ without having open conversations around testing.”
The ECDC has warned that widening gaps in testing and prevention are contributing to rising infection rates across Europe, with officials urging people to use condoms with new or multiple partners and seek testing if symptoms appear.
According to experts at condoms.uk, several common holiday behaviours can increase STI risk while travelling – particularly when combined with alcohol, spontaneity, heat, and lower inhibitions.
Common mistakes include:
Storing condoms in hot beach bags or cars Excess heat can damage latex and increase the risk of breakage without people realising.
Using suncream before handling condoms Oil-based products can weaken latex and increase the likelihood of condom failure.
Having sex in pools, hot tubs or the sea Water reduces natural lubrication, increasing friction and the chance of irritation or condom breakage.
Relying on local shops or vending machines for protection Travellers may struggle to find familiar brands, sizing, or products that meet UK standards.
Assuming oral sex carries little STI risk Infections including gonorrhoea and syphilis can still be passed on through oral sex.
Skipping sexual health checks before or after travelling Many STIs can remain symptomless, making regular testing important after new sexual encounters.
Gemma added: “Many holiday-related STI risks come down to small, avoidable mistakes. Packing protection, checking condoms are stored properly, and having open conversations around sexual health can make a huge difference. It’s also important to always check the expiry dates on all condoms and lubricant products.
“Holiday sex should still be safe sex. Planning ahead and carrying protection is one of the easiest ways to protect both yourself and your partner.”
Brits should take note of strict dress code rules in a number of holiday hotspots across Spain, Portugal, Italy and Croatia with hefty fines for rule-breakers
(Image: Getty Images)
Brits planning to hit the beach or pool in the likes of Spain, Portugal, Italy and Croatia this summer may want to take note of some strict rules, or risk potentially hefty fines.
In recent years, a number of holiday hotspots have clamped down on dress codes for both locals and tourists, particularly when it comes to the likes of bikinis, pool cover-ups and swim shorts.
The issue isn’t that people are wearing these on the beaches, but rather when they wander into local towns. In fact, since 2022 Italian hotspot Sorrento has banned wearing swimwear away from beaches and pools. Anyone caught flouting the restrictions could face fines of up to €500 (approximately £433).
You’re not going to get a fine if you’re walking around your hotel or a beach club in your swimwear, or if you’re at a pool or beach. However, if you stay in your swimwear to walk into the town and try to enter shops or restaurants, that’s where you could potentially face some trouble.
We take a look at some of the holiday hotspots with these strict rules below…
Spain dress code rules
A number of Spanish hotspots have been introducing beachwear dresscodes in recent years. In Barcelona you could face fines of up to £260 for wandering around the town, while in Majorca you could face fines of up to £500 if you’re wearing beachwear away from the main beaches and pools. The rule also applies to anyone wandering around shirtless. Plenty of restaurants also have firm signs and rules banning visitors from wearing beachwear in their establishments.
Meanwhile in Malaga, wandering into the city centre in your beachwear could land you a fine of up to €300 (approximately £259).
Italy dress code rules
In Sorrento, locals have argued that they’re trying to protect the area’s decency with the rules, and swerve people rocking up to lunch spots in just swim shorts or bikinis. The ban doesn’t just apply to swimwear; it also applies to visitors who walk around the town topless.
Portofino, Positano and Capri all enforce similar rules with with fines of up to €500 (approximately £433) if you’re spotted walking around the main town in beachwear.
Other Italian hotspots with similar restrictions include Venice where walking around the historic city centre in swimwear or bare-chested is strictly prohibited, and could land you an on-the-spot fine of up to €250 (approximately £216).
Portugal dress code rules
In Albufeira, new dress codes were brought into force last year. That includes fines from €300 to €1,500 (approximately £259-£1298) for those who are found wearing swimwear outside of beach or pool zones, for example when wandering down the town streets. The dress codes came as part of a wider crackdown on unruly tourist behaviour.
Croatia dress code rules
In Dubrovnik, tourists are banned from entering the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town in swimwear or shirtless, with fines of up to €700 for rule-breakers (approximately £606). It’s not the only Croatian city to enforce rules of this nature; in Split, you could face fees from €150 (approximately £129).
Meanwhile over on the party island of Hvar, new rules include fines for wandering around in swimwear or being shirtless out and about in town.
Have you been caught out by a holiday hotspot’s dress code? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
