summer

WHEN it comes to Spanish islands, trying to avoid the crowds can be near impossible.

But Menorca in the Balearics has far fewer tourists than some of it’s neighbours, and is a great alternative according to a TUI travel agent who has been in the biz for over 25 years.

Each year, Menorca welcomes around 1.5million tourists – a fraction of Ibiza that sees up to 4million visitors, or Majorca‘s 13million.

TUI Travel agent Claire Moye, who has worked in travel for 26 years, has booked over 1,000 trips to Menorca and has even dubbed it a great alternative to the lively Ibiza.

So why visit what Claire called ‘Ibiza’s chilled-out sister’?

In the summertime, Menorca can see highs of 30C, and thanks to the island’s smaller size, airport transfers are short.

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Not to mention it can be less expensive too. Claire revealed: “In peak summer, Menorca can work out cheaper than some of the more established hotspots. 

“A casual meal out for a family of four typically costs less in Menorca, with families often spending around €60 – €90 compared with €90 – €120 in busier hotspots. And a pint of beer can be a few euros less too.”

If that hasn’t sold you on a trip yet, check out Claire’s top beaches, restaurants and her favourite hidden gems…

Best beaches

“If you love those picture-perfect Ibiza beaches like Cala Comte or Cala d’Hort, then Cala Macarella is Menorca’s answer.

“It’s got those similar limestone cliffs and the most incredible turquoise water – honestly, it’s just as stunning but without lots of people fighting for a spot.

“The smaller sister cove, Macarelleta, is even more secluded and feels really special. I always tell couples to head there if they want that romantic, intimate vibe – although it is a nudist-friendly beach, so just be aware of that before you go.

“Cala Turqueta is another absolute stunner – the water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom, and there are pine trees for shade which is a godsend in the midday heat. 

“And if you want something a bit different, Cala Pregonda has this gorgeous reddish-golden sand that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but that’s what makes it feel like a proper hidden gem.”

Bars and nightlife

Claire says if you’re after the party life of Ibiza with all its superclubs like the newly reopened UNVRS, then Menorca might not be for you.

But there is one very unique bar that is worth checking out – and it has plenty of room for dancing.

“Cova d’en Xoroi, is just magical. It’s a bar built into caves on the cliffsides, and watching the sunset there with a cocktail in hand is just so beautiful.

“They do have DJ nights too, so be prepared to bring out your Ibiza-style moves once the dance floor opens at 11pm.

“The port of Mahon also has a lovely string of bars along the waterfront where you can have drinks with beautiful harbour views. 

“It’s not about clubbing until dawn, but there’s definitely a buzz in the evenings and it has a lot in common with Ibiza old town – both are working natural harbours packed with history perfect for evening promenades. 

“I tell all of my customers to try a pomada while they’re there – it’s the local cocktail made with Menorcan gin and lemonade.

“The island actually produces its own gin called Xoriguer, and the gin and tonics there are massive.”

Restaurants

“For restaurants, Café Balear in Ciutadella port is legendary – it’s right on the harbour and the seafood is incredible. You’ll see locals queuing up alongside tourists, which is always a good sign.

“It actually started out as a tavern in the harbour back in the 70s, mainly for seafarers who would drop by in the early hours before they went to work. Nowadays I’d recommend booking ahead because it gets packed!

“Also in Ciutadella, for those who want Michelin standard fine dining like Ibiza’s famous La Gaia or Amante, you should book well ahead for Smoix; set inside a former shoe factory it’s called out as one of  the island’s best eateries.

“Or for Ibiza countryside-luxury vibes head for Cala en Porter and the Torralbenc Restaurant, set in a restored finca with vineyard and sea views, for organic farm to table food.”

Shopping

Make sure to take time away from the hotels and the beaches to explore the shops.

Claire said: “The markets in Menorca are brilliant. Mercat des Claustre in Mahón is a traditional covered market where you can get local cheeses, fresh fruits and sobrassada (which is a type of sausage that’s spreadable, a bit like pate). 

“Like Ibiza’s best markets, it’s less about shopping and more about soaking up everyday island life. It’s my personal favourite, and ideal for putting together a picnic or picking up gifts to take home.”

Hidden Gems

“One of my favourite hidden gems is Lithica Pedreres de s’Hostal – it’s an abandoned quarry that’s been transformed into gardens with a bit of a maze carved into the stone walls.

“It has the same slightly surreal, unexpected feel as some of Ibiza’s ‘alternative’ cultural spaces. It honestly looks a bit dystopian, but they often host concerts and events there.

“It’s the kind of place that surprises people because they don’t expect to find something so unique on a small island.”

For more on Spanish islands, here are the ‘best of the Balearics’ with Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot’s pick of unspoilt beaches and whitewashed fishing villages.

And here’s the Spanish destination that’s the ‘hottest’ place to travel with £15 flights and over 200 beaches.

A HISTORIC lido that has been closed since 2022 will reopen in time for summer.

Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth has undergone a major facelift, costing around £7.75million.

And now the lido has announced that it will reopen on May 2, in time for the summer season.

Last year, Sea Lanes Brighton announced that they would be taking on the site and working with South Downs Leisure.

The upgraded lido now includes a refurbished pool, new changing rooms, benches, tables and a fountain.

There will also be a food and drink pop-up on site.

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The pool will be the Olympic standard 2.6metres deep and remain 67metres in length and 13metres wide.

Ahead of the launch, visitors can purchase a ‘Founder’ membership for £40 per month, which allows locals to swim and use the sauna as much as they like.

This membership is only available to the first 500 people though.

Normal membership fees are then £52 a month on a rolling contract for swim and sauna or £48 a month on a 12 month contract.

If you just want to swim, this will be £34 a month on a rolling contract or £32 a month on a 12 month contract.

Swim and sauna sessions are each £8, but if you fancy both you can pay to do both for £12.

The lido will be open between 6am and 9pm Mondays to Thursdays, 6am to 8pm on Fridays and 7am to 7pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

According to Portsmouth News, Judit Kollat, general manager at Hilsea Lido, said: “It is more than a pool, it’s a place with history and heart.

“We aim to create a vibrant hub for the local community, a centre for both mental and physical wellbeing.”

Councillor Steve Pitt at Portsmouth City Council added: “The reopening of Hilsea Lido will transform the north of the city, following the successful launch of the KGV Football Complex and ahead of the North Portsea Coastal Scheme finishing this year.”

The announcement about Hilsea Lido comes as the lido celebrates its 90th birthday.

Many people have taken to social media to express their excitement for the reopening.

One person said: “Can’t wait so many memories and I was a life guard there.”

Another added: “We’ll be over as soon as possible, we’ve watched the project from the beginning.”

The lido first opened in 1935 and at the time was known as the deepest lido in the UK, with a depth of 4.6 metres.

And over the years the lido has welcomed many celebrities including former James Bond, Sean Connery.

In other lido news, a new ‘floating park’ with sauna and lido to open in popular London district – in huge £5billion upgrade.

Plus, an English lido forced to close after 50 years set to finally reopen next year.

THE washout weather that has plagued the country this year has many of us desperate for some sunshine.

As yet another rain-soaked week awaits, it makes sense to search out some blue skies and warm weather.

With the Easter break a way off, now is the perfect time to head abroad for some vitamin D at decent prices.

Here Head of Travel Lisa Minot picks some great deals on guaranteed sunshine destinations . . . 

THE Canary Island favourite is always a good bet for sun as March arrives, with temperatures averaging in the low 20s.

The family-friendly 4-star Alexandre Gala near Playa de las Americas on the sun-drenched south-west coast has two outdoor pools, one of which is heated year-round.

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As well as a buffet restaurant and two bars, there is a spa and sports facilities.

Its central location means it is close to the beach, bars and restaurants and just 1km from the Siam Park water park.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Alexandre Gala is from £677pp including flights from Birmingham on March 4. See thomascook.com.

WARMING up nicely in March, Cyprus offers average highs of 20C.

Set on the beachfront of Kato Paphos, the 5-star Ivi Mare hotel is designed exclusively for adults.

There are three restaurants — buffet, Mediterranean and Japanese — as well as two bars, two outdoor freshwater pools and an indoor one.

There also a spa with sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi plus treatments for a pamper between sunbathing sessions.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Ivi Mare is from £969pp including flights from Gatwick on March 2 and transfers. See easyjet.com/en/holidays and ivimarepaphos.com.

YOU are guaranteed tropical sunshine on the Caribbean coast of Mexico — and the all-inclusive 5-star AVA Resort Cancun makes the most of it, with all rooms and suites featuring panoramic ocean views.

The 2.8-acre beachfront lagoon is perfect for sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding, while another six pools offer more water fun.

There are nine fine-dining restaurants and eight casual options, including street food and ice cream salons.

There are also bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive is from £2,175pp, including flights from Gatwick on March 11 and transfers. See ba.com and avaresortcancun.com.

AGADIR’S beaches are a hit with surfers thanks to the year-round swells.

And with temperatures sizzling in the high 20s around now, there is no better place to kick back on a sunlounger with a beer.

At this time of year, stays at the 5-star Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay are a steal, with luxurious rooms overlooking the ocean, two outdoor pools and a sandy beach just a 1.4km stroll away.

While golf enthusiasts are getting in the swing at the on-site 18-hole course, those seeking relaxation can book in at the Moroccan-themed spa.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay is from £449pp with Luton flights on March 10. See loveholidays.co.uk.

ALL you will see from your room is blue at the 4-star Fuerteventura Princess, where four sprawling outdoor pools look on to the ocean.

Lush palm trees, volcanic mountains and hot weather make the island seem like a far-flung tropical escape, yet it is just a four-ish hour flight.

Sample local delights as well as familiar favourites at the buffet restaurant.

There is an outdoor tennis court, table tennis, billiards, volleyball and archery.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Fuerteventura Princess is from £660pp including flights from Luton on March 4. See onthebeach.co.uk.

WITH GORGEOUS beaches and incredible swimming in coral reefs, Marsa Alam is ideal for a last-minute winter sun break.

TUI has new direct flights from Gatwick to the Red Sea resort, making it an easy flight with short transfers.

The 4-star Jaz Grand Marsa has its own private beach with a coral reef, as well as five pools, three of which have sea views.

The spacious grounds feature gardens and water fountains, plus tennis courts.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the Jaz Grand Marsa is from £666pp including flights from Gatwick on March 15. See tui.co.uk.

MAYA Jama has signed up for another series of Love Island — putting an end to speculation.

The host, 31, last night wrapped on the All Stars’ spin-off and will officially be back this summer.

A source said: “Love Island wouldn’t be the same without Maya so bosses are thrilled to confirm she’ll be in Majorca this summer.

“She remains one of the most-loved things about the show.”

Maya has been hosting Love Island UK since January 2023, beginning with the show’s ninth series.

She replaced former host Laura Whitmore and has since continued to host All Stars and Love Island games.

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Last month Maya cleared up confusion with fans over where she currently lives.

Penned over a screenshotted DM of a fan saying, “Have I missed a chapter?? You’ve moved from London?” in response to one of her past Instagram stories, Maya explained how she’s bought multiple houses.

“To answer my dms right now lol I also bought a house in the Cotswolds last year so I’ll be there sometimes, maybe I need to do a lil catch up life update vid or something soon.”

Maya followed up the post with a quick video where she’s utterly beaming about the news.

Switching out her usual glam for a maroon hoodie with a yellow graphic, she addressed the camera candidly saying: “Writing it like that just makes you sound like a braggy f**k but I’m very proud of myself.

“Council house Queen to multiple property owner.

“Honey, thank you!!!” 

Maya was born and raised in Brisol and has Somali descent as well as Swedish.

She moved to London at the age of 16 to pursue a career as an actress, even auditioning for Skins.

MAJORCA is no secret to Brits – it’s a great place for a holiday with its beautiful city, sandy beaches, nightlife and tasty food.

Now, the island has been named one of the ‘hottest destinations to visit in 2026’, and it’s not hard to see why it continues to be firmly on our radar.

The Independent named Majorca one of the ‘hottest’ places to visit this year – and travel company ASmallWorld named Majorca as Spain’s newest ‘It’ island

CEO Zain Richardson said: “What makes Mallorca stand out from other Spanish islands is its sheer diversity.

“You get the bohemian charm of stone-built villages, the buzz of Palma’s restaurants and galleries, and an ever-changing coastline of quiet calas and long sandy beaches, without having to compromise on comfort or style.”

I visited the island’s capital, Palma, myself almost a decade ago now.

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But I’m not surprised that it’s still up there with the most popular holiday destinations for Brits – almost 3.5million of us jet off there each year.

Palma has the perfect blend of city and beach with a busy Old Town full of winding streets with classic high street names and plenty of designer shops.

Passeig del Born, a street that’s also called the ‘Golden Mile’, has lots of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Bvlgari and Hugo Boss.

I could only window shop, but there are still plenty of other inexpensive shops to be explored.

For sunglasses, check out Óptica Santa Maria Boutique which has some lovely, and reasonably priced frames – along with designer ones of course.

Giovanni L. Gelato Deluxe is another must – it’s Palma’s oldest ice cream parlour with around 80 flavours on offer.

You can easily spot it thanks to its bright red awning and gem embellished ice cream mural outside.

Choosing a flavour was a no-brainer as the brand has award-winning ice cream and was awarded the title for the “World’s Best Pistachio Ice Cream” twice.

I opted for a simple blend of pistachio and vanilla – and it was delicious.

The city is of course framed by its huge 14th-century cathedral on the seafront, and tourists can go inside for around €11 (£9.61).

I find though that you can still appreciate it enough by wandering around the outside.

Next door, the Gardens of S’Hort del Rei (The King’s Orchard) at the foot of Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a lovely spot where you can find some shade – and it wasn’t busy either.

As for where to stay, I set up base at the Hipotels Gran Playa de Palma which is tucked behind the promenade at Playa de Palma – around 20-minutes outside of the city centre.

The hotel has two outdoor pools, three bars, two buffet restaurants and entertainment during the evening.

As much as I enjoy a fly and flop holiday, I do love some activity outside of the hotel, and here was a great spot.

The hotel was a short walk to the beach, and the promenade filled with cafes, restaurants and plenty of places to pick up a bucket and spade.

The beach has soft golden sand and while there are sun loungers which you can hire out for a fee, there’s plenty of space if you want to simply sit on a towel too.

One of my favourite spots was Levita Café where I ended up stopping in most days for a rosé sangria which set me back €6.50 (£5).

If you’re so inclined, it’s also near one of Majorca’s biggest clubs, MegaPark.

I didn’t venture inside, but it’s known for having a huge open-air disco, a large beer garden, and a show stage.

Even though our hotel was just a five-minute walk-away, I never heard any noise from the club.

While there are party opportunities dotted around the island, it’s becoming more welcoming for those who aren’t there to seek out the party lifestyle.

It’s been reported that local authorities are tightening rules on party boats and noisy beach activities.

When it comes to money, Majorca isn’t the cheapest place, it’s not hugely expensive either.

According to Numbeo, you can pick up a local beer for £3.49 and coffee for £2.51.

If you want to see more of the island outside of Palma, then some other top-rated spots include the Tramuntana region with huge mountain ranges.

Some of the best beaches in the country include Cala Mondragó which is within the Mondragó Natural Park – but there are plenty to choose from as the island has over 200 of them.

As for when’s best to head to the island, it can vary as this week there are highs of 21C and plenty of sunshine, but there is a risk of rain.

Personally, I’d head there in springtime – May, April and June are generally dry with lots of sun without being too hot.

In peak months like July and August, temperatures can reach the mid-30s.

Flights won’t set you back too much either, in April, you can fly from Birmingham and London Stansted from £15 with Ryanair.

And you’ll be setting down in two and a half hours from the UK.

Here are top eats in Majorca from experts…

Tour guides Georgiana Paun, Michelle van der Werff, Emily Himmer, 30, and travel agent Tomas Nanak, share their top Majorca tips…

Georgiana said: “Las Olas is a family restaurant located on the beachfront in Santa Ponsa on the west of the island, with incredible views.

“You can enjoy all kinds of Mediterranean food while watching the sun go down over the bay of Santa Ponsa.

“Choose between their fish, seafood, paellas and meat dishes, as well as a variety of delicious tapas made with local market products.”

Michelle and Emily said: “One of our local favourites is Toque de Queda in central Palma, because of its fresh, healthy cuisine served in a cosy ‘living room’ atmosphere.

“The laid-back vibe and delicious local dishes make it a perfect place for an easy evening out, with Balearic charcuterie boards from 14 euros, and fish tapas from 9 euros.”

Tomas said: “Bar Esperanza in Ses Covetes has great Mediterranean food, with tapas from 4 euros, while Organic on Cala Marsal beach offers the best brunch on the island, with hearty Spanish breakfasts from 12.50 euros.

“If you’re looking for delicious tapas, head to Babbo Portocolom with views of the harbour on the southeast side of the island, with dishes from 7.50 euros, or S’Arrosería in Colonia de San Jordi has the best paella – from 18 euros.”

For more of the top places to visit this year this European city with 3,000 hours of sunshine a year has been named the best destination to visit in 2026.

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THE capital could soon get its biggest ‘floating park’, along with a new lido, spa and sauna.

It’s all part of a £5billion regeneration plan at London’s Royal Docks.

The major new attraction would be built across 12-hectares of water.

Designs for the floating park reveal lots of greenery, some seating areas, and it would also be home to art installations and hold cultural events.

Right next to it, and also floating, are plans for a new wellness centre.

Sitting on top of the water, the centre would have a sauna, spa, and a lido for public swimming.

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Alongside the two attractions could be a floating residential community with moorings and homes on the water.

The new area is part of the Mayor of London‘s Royal Docks regeneration plan.

Over 20 years it has had a £5billion investment to create an accessible waterfront for locals and visitors.

Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz said: “The development of Royal Victoria Dock West is reshaping the space as a leisure and wellness destination, making the most of the waterway and giving residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a new community right on the water.”

These proposals will go out for public engagement later this month.

Early phases of construction are expected to begin in 2030 – if funding is put in place and plans are approved.

There’s already lots to do at London’s Royal Docks, like hopping on the IFS cable car.

The attraction is suspended 90 metres above the Thames where it connects the Royal Docks to Greenwich.

Every summer, Dock Beach opens to the public – tonnes of sand is placed on the bank to transform it into London’s biggest beach.

The dock also has a wakeboarding centre and it’s a great spot for rowing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding.

And while this proposed floating park will be London’s biggest, it’s not the only one.

Over in Merchant Square, Paddington is ‘The Floating Pocket Park’ which has benches, deckchairs and beanbags on top of the water.

It also has free Wi-Fi and during the summer is shaded by a canopy.

In better weather there are also free film screenings, music performances and exercise classes.

For more on new lidos, one could be built on the site of a car park 50 years after it was destroyed.

And here are all the new lidos set to open across the UK from seafront pools to city swimming spots.

VERONA, Italy — In fair Verona, L.A., unofficially, takes the torch.

While the Olympic flag passed from Italy to France at Sunday’s closing ceremony, handing off the Winter Games from Milan-Cortina to the French Alps, the flame will burn next in L.A.

In just over two years, the United States will host the country’s first Summer Games since 1996, welcoming an Olympic movement that is surging in popularity but unsteady in a changing world, as the Games return to Los Angeles for the third time.

The Milan-Cortina Olympics are expected to rake in record TV numbers for NBC. They already produced the most-watched women’s hockey game on record when an average of 5.3 million viewers took in the United States’ thrilling overtime win over Canada. The rivalry game contributed to the largest weekday audience for a Winter Games since 2014 with an average of 26.7 million viewers who also watched U.S. star Alysa Liu win the country’s first Olympic gold medal for women’s singles figure skating in 24 years.

The smiling 20-year-old with horizontal stripes in her hair became a sensation in Milan just as 41-year-old mother of two Elana Meyers Taylor did in Cortina d’Ampezzo after the five-time Olympian won her first gold medal in bobsled, jumping into the arms of her nanny and, through tears, signing to her deaf children, “Mommy won.”

No matter protests, politics or planning hurdles, the Olympics sought to remain a stage for those athletes to shine.

“You showed us what excellence, respect and friendship look like in a world that sometimes forgets these values,” International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry said to the Olympians in her speech while standing on a platform in the stands placed in front of the Italian delegation. “You showed us that the Olympic Games are a place for everyone. A place where sport brings us together.”

After record numbers from the 2024 Paris Summer Games, the Milan-Cortina Games sold 1.3 million tickets, which, accounting for 80% of the expected tickets, was “beyond our expectations,” Milano Cortina 2026 chief executive officer Andrea Varnier said at a news conference. Of the 63% of international fans who attended the Games, the United States, at 14%, bought the second-most tickets.

Fans filled arenas that were finished just in time in Milan. They withstood snowstorms in Livigno, cheered the debut of ski mountaineering in Bormio and held their breath while multiple skiers got airlifted off the downhill course in Cortina.

The most widespread Games in history created distinct pockets of Olympic spirit separated by hours on trains and miles of winding mountain roads. The Olympics that preached harmony finally united in a single city known for love, beauty and grudges. The Milan-Cortina Games represented seemingly every Shakespearean theme.

Athletes got engaged. Sponsors organized hair and makeup sessions in the Olympic villages, which went through an average of 365 kilograms of pasta and 10,000 eggs a day. A cheating scandal rocked curling.

The closing ceremony set at the Roman amphitheater at the heart of the city that inspired “Romeo and Juliet” celebrated the Games as “beauty in action.” But beneath the glittering gold medals, there was pain.

Alpine skier Lindsey Vonn suffered a horrific crash and has already undergone four surgeries on her broken leg. Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified when he refused to compete without his helmet honoring Ukrainian athletes who’ve been killed in the war with Russia.

Artists perform during the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Verona, Italy.

(Bernat Armangue / Associated Press)

Already holding the weight of their personal dreams, U.S. athletes faced additional pressure answering questions about the country’s political landscape. After freestyle skier Hunter Hess he said he had “mixed emotions” representing the United States at the Olympics, President Trump called the 27-year-old “a real loser” on social media.

Two weeks later, Hess held his thumb and forefinger in the shape of an “L” to his forehead after his first qualifying run.

Athletes pleaded for assistance navigating an onslaught of social media threats as the Olympic spotlight grows with every Games. Coventry said at a news conference last week that the IOC has a safeguarding unit that monitors the organization’s social media platforms for hateful messages. More than 10,000 such comments were taken down during the Paris Games, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams said. The number for the Milan-Cortina Games hadn’t been finalized.

With the largest delegation of any country at the Games, the United States won the second-most medals with 33, including 12 golds, the most Olympic titles for the country at any single Winter Games. The total gold medals surpassed the 10 won in Salt Lake City in 2002, the last time the United States hosted an Olympic Games.

After more than two decades away, the Games will return to the United States twice in the next eight years. L.A. will host the 2028 Games and Utah will have the 2034 Winter Games.

Approaching the final stretch of an 11-year planning period, the L.A. Games confronted another challenge this month when a growing number of local politicians called for LA28 chairman Casey Wasserman’s resignation after racy emails he exchanged with Ghislaine Maxwell were revealed in the Epstein files. After initial hesitation, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and other leaders joined the chorus calling for Wasserman’s dismissal.

But LA28 doubled down on his role. The executive committee of the LA28 board stood by Wasserman after a review from an outside legal firm found that the Hollywood mogul’s relationship with Maxwell “did not go beyond what has already been publicly documented.”

As with his 2026 organizing committee counterpart Giovanni Malago, Wasserman would be expected to deliver speeches in 2028.

“TONY ‘the Slugger’ Rizzo, boss of New York’s Castelli crime family, wiped the blood off the baseball bat with the dead guy’s toupee…”

“Grandad!” 

“ . . . He jabbed a finger at his late accountant and shouted: ‘See what happens when you double-cross me, you muthaf . . . ’ ”

“Grandad!!”

“ ‘. . . and you gone and got your blood all over my freakin’ money. So now I gotta waste my day laundering it!’ . . . ”

“GRANDAD!!!”

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I am lying on a beautiful Greek beach, a good book in my hand and a cold Mythos beer on the table beside me.

It’s holiday perfection, but someone keeps interrupting.

Two-year-olds . . . it’s all about them, isn’t it?

My wife and I are in Skiathos with our daughter and her husband and our granddaughter Flo.

We’re on one of those multi-generational breaks — or as we grandparents call it, a working holiday.

(“Just off to the spa. Can you look after Flo?” “Can Flo stay with you while we go into town?” “We thought we might have dinner on our own tonight. Just the two of us . . . ”)

Luckily, we are at the Princess Resort, a wonderful hotel just 20 minutes from the island’s airport that knows how to help families relax — especially grandparents who have forgotten what holidaying with a toddler entails.

We first came here about 15 years ago, when my daughter and her brother and sister were young, and had one of our best ever family holidays. I didn’t get much reading done then either . . . 

The hotel may be the most famous on the island thanks to Mamma Mia!.

The cast stayed here during filming and Colin Firth loved it so much, he came back the next year.

You can see why. It is located in beautiful, manicured gardens in the sheltered bay of Agia Paraskevi.

Rooms are in a two-storey building in a semi-circle which means everyone gets a view of the beach.

And what a beach! A long stretch of immaculate golden sand with shallow, warm water gently lapping up against it. It’s the perfect setting for one of the big ambitions of our holiday: Operation Get Flo Swimming.

Flo loves going to the pool at home in Brighton and is just learning, but what would she make of the sea?

After some initial reluctance caused by the feel of the sand between her toes and several swallows of salty water, she soon takes to it.

And, naturally, it’s grandad she wants to keep going in with her for a splash about.

The beach’s sun loungers and tiki umbrellas are all reserved for guests and free but you can shell out on a cabana.

OK, this isn’t cheap at €90 a day but it is definitely worth it, especially with a baby or toddler. We were in Skiathos in June and, God, it was hot.

With a cabana you have a proper base on the beach in the shade where you can snooze, eat and read (yeah, right).

It’s vital when you are trying to keep a little one from getting sunburned.

The Princess Resort is great for children. There’s a complimentary kids’ club, the Little Seals Club, a superb outdoor play area and a €15-a-night babysitting service. (Now they tell me.)

Plus, a lot of the equipment you need — from high chairs and potties to car seats and even prams — is available from reception.

(Don’t even bother asking about the fuss we had packing for a holiday with a toddler.)

But, adults need a break, too, you know, and the hotel offers scuba diving, horse riding, water sports and fishing and sailing trips. Or you can just kick back and take advantage of the massages and beauty treatments in the spa.

The Princess Resort is B&B, which means you are not tied to the hotel for dinner.

But make sure you eat at Ammos, the hotel’s taverna on the beach, which specialises in fresh seafood.

It’s not cheap but the location and grub is definitely worth it. And they love kids.

As do the staff at the superb Platanias Taverna & Bar over the road from the hotel.

It’s a good value family-run restaurant serving traditional food, where children can run free while indulgent staff manoeuvre around them without complaint.

It would be Jan Leeming’s restaurant nightmare.

For an upmarket, foodie experience head to the waterfront Baracoa about ten minutes away from the hotel by taxi.

It’s expensive, but the setting and menu have made it one of the must-visit places to eat on Skiathos.

Oh, and for a meal WITHOUT nippers, try the Princess Resort’s sister hotel, the boutique adults-only Aegean Suites Hotel, just outside town. Amazing food and terrific views over the old marina.

One of the great things about Skiathos is that you don’t need a car.

There’s a bus stop right outside the Princess Resort and the fare into town is just €2.

Or splash out €40 and get a boat ride from the jetty along from the hotel and arrive in town in style.

A word of warning, though — taxis can be thin on the ground in Skiathos Town in the evening. So if you are planning a late return, get a cab into town and arrange a return pick-up with the driver.

There are plenty of upmarket boutiques, bars and restaurants to discover in this beautiful whitewashed island capital.

It’s great to sit on the waterfront with a beer and watch the boats come and go.

And not much beats wandering around the narrow alleyways and coming across some enticing looking bar or a cafe serving delicious Greek treats.

Watch out for the scooters, though.

Since Mamma Mia! was filmed in the Sporades islands, Skiathos Town has definitely moved upmarket and it is a lot busier — even though most of the movie locations are on Skopelos and Alonissos.

But it retains a friendly, down-to-earth vibe you simply don’t get in the A-list hangouts of Santorini and Mykonos.

Anyway, after a long, tiring day of exploring in Skiathos Town, Flo’s finally in bed — so at last I can get some serious reading done.

Here we go: “It was Peppa Pig’s birthday and Daddy Pig had a great idea . . . ”

THERE are hundreds of cities across Europe – but this one in Spain has been named the best place to visit this year.

European Best Destinations has announced the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’.

This ranking was made from the votes of travellers from 154 countries, highlighting the most “captivating places”.

Madrid claimed top spot with the publications said it’s “one of Europe’s most compelling capitals — where culture, lifestyle, gastronomy and quality of life converge with rare intensity”.

Madrid is a hit with Sun Travel too. Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey even called it her “new favourite Spanish destination“.

She praises it for its liveability along with its food and drink scene.

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Kara revealed some of her favourite spots too, she said: “At Pez, the only thing on the menu is huge sloppy pieces of tortilla chased with a cana (small beer) or tinto de verano for €2.50.

“My favourite rooftop bar is El Cielo de Montera, which felt more like a swanky rooftop members club.

“The pool is reserved for hotel guests, but its the best place for an Aperol Spritz and views of the city (costs €10 but it gets taken off bill).”

One highly-rated drinking spot is the Sky Bar terrace at the top of the Hotel Riu Plaza Espana.

It has 360-degree views of the city which visitors can enjoy with classy cocktails.

Or check out Calle 365 Discoteca, a stylish nightspot with dancing, delicious food trucks, cocktails and beers from just £2.50.

For live music head to Sala Equi which is a former adult-movie theatre turned bar and music venue.

Madrid is the birthplace of tablao flamenco and there are often high-quality performances with tablaos (flamenco venues) in the city centre.

In the summertime Madrid has lively plazas, and long, grand, tree-lined boulevards full of shops.

Madrid’s largest public park is El Retiro Park it has over 15,000 trees and is described as a ‘green oasis in the heart of the city’.

If you fancy getting on the water, visitors can hire a €4 rowing boat to take in King Alfonso XII’s monument from the lake.

Other top spots include the Prado Museum which contains some of Europe’s finest art collections.

There’s free entry between 6pm and 8pm Monday to Saturday.

Madrid is also one of Europe‘s most walkable cities so it’s easy for exploring, but it’s also very easy to use the Metro.

The city has over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year – mild temperatures start in spring at around 18C.

In the height of summer, the city can reach highs of 32C.

In March, Brits can fly from London Stansted to Madrid with Ryanair from £15.

Here are the ‘best places to travel in Europe 2026’…

1. Madrid, Spain
2. Nicosia, Cyprus
3. Stajerska Region, Slovenia
4. Verona, Italy
5. Paris, France
6. Camara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal
7. Alaçati, Turkey
8. Burano, Italy
9. Lisbon, Portugal
10. Almeria, Andalusia

Plus, here’s the Spanish city closest to the UK that’s quieter than Barcelona is getting new TUI holidays.

And this Spanish city that’s rarely visited by Brits has been named top destination this year with new train routes and world-famous cider.

FANS of Spain will be happy to hear that TUI has launched new holidays to the Spanish city closest to the UK.

Taking less than two hours to fly to, Bilbao is the largest city in Spain‘s Basque Country.

And now it will be getting new TUI holidays this spring.

The city used to be an industrial port before it was later transformed into a modern city with unique architecture.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one example of the interesting architecture in the city.

It was designed by Frank Gehry and inside visitors can expect 20 galleries full of art.

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Make sure when visiting to see Jeff Koons’ Puppy, which is the world’s biggest flower statue with more than 38,000 flowers that are even changed twice a year.

The museum costs £13.10 per person to visit.

Whilst visiting, you should also head to Casco Viejo, which is the city’s medieval old town and is filled with shops, cafes and the Santiago Cathedral.

It is a great spot for food lovers as there are lots of restaurants and bars offering pintxos (small snack dish) along with txikitos (small glasses of wine).

Pintxos usually cost from £1.80.

Of course, whilst you are in the city, take a stroll along the Nervion River to see views of Zubizuri Bridge, Iberdrola Tower and the San Mames Stadium.

Spain‘s famous Rioja region is also nearby, so wine lovers can head off on a day trip to tour one of the historic wineries and have a taste of the local wine.

If you want to see the city from a different angle, then head on the Funicular de Artxanda and you will travel to the top of Mount Artxanda, which has amazing panoramic views of the city.

For dinner, check out Mercado de la Ribera, which is Europe’s largest covered market serving fresh food.

Temperatures in the summer hit around 26C with lots of sunshine.

What’s even better is that Bilbao is only a short flight from the UK, taking just two hours.

With TUI, travellers can fly to Bilbao from Bristol, London Gatwick, London Heathrow and Manchester Airports.

Two night breaks with return UK flights can be found for just £127pp when travelling next month.

TUI’s commercial director Chris Logan said: ”Bilbao offers a truly special city break.

“With incredible art, fantastic food and beautiful scenery all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who want the authentic taste of Spain.

“Outside peak summer, it’s fantastic value too with great hotels, unforgettable experiences and some of the best food in the country, all in a walkable city.”

For more inspiration on Spanish holidays, here are the best Spanish resorts you’ve never heard of.

Plus, the Spanish holiday resort that has the cheapest all-inclusive holidays this summer for families on a budget.

Ryanair has lowered the price of a number of its basic fares

With the winter now feeling like it’s rumbled on for almost an eternity, many people will be looking ahead to the warmer seasons and dreaming of a holiday abroad. But if you have school-aged children, you’ll probably be painstakingly aware of how much the cost can rise when the kids break up.

Amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, it can be hard to pay for an overseas family trip. With this in mind, we’ve taken a look at some of the cheapest Ryanair flights to Spain for this year’s summer holidays.

And if you’re not picky about where you go, you may be able to save some money. For instance, travellers flying from London Luton can travel to Palma de Mallorca from £26 one-way.

The cheapest return fare for is £109, departing on August 26 and returning on September 3. From Manchester, we found a one-way flight to Castellon (Valencia) for £23, departing on August 27.

A return fare on September 3 is available for £27, meaning you could travel both there and back for £50 each. And from Birmingham, holidaymakers can book a return trip to Santander for £85 each.

The outgoing flight departs on August 17 and returns on September 3. Travellers flying from Aberdeen to Alicante can get a return journey for £86 when leaving on August 19 and returning on August 25.

If you do book with Ryanair it’s important to remember that baggage and other add-ons come at an additional fee. Only one ‘personal’ bag is permitted with each basic fare.

As of last summer, following an EU rule change, the dimensions for this bag are 40cm x 30cm x 20cm and the bag must weigh less than 10kg. All flight prices were correct at the time of publication.

The island has seen a number of anti-tourism protests in recent years, with locals demanding caps on visitor numbers, and summer 2026 could potentially see more people taking to the streets

Visitors to a Spanish island that welcomes millions of British tourists each year could be facing disruption over the summer with fresh waves of protests planned.

Menys Turisme Més Vida (Less Tourism, More Life), a group behind protests across the popular island of Majorca, are set to hold an assembly on Friday (February 20) to potentially plan further actions such as protests.

The meeting is planned due to the perceived failure of the Balearic Government’s sustainability pact, and inability to control overcrowding on the islands. A press release stated: “the constant increase in overtourism in Mallorca can only be confronted through grassroots organisation”.

Speaking to Majorca Daily News , Margalida Ramis of environmental group GOB (Grup Balear d’Ornitologia i Defensa de la Naturalesa), claimed that the government “has not done anything and will not do anything” to tackle overtourism.

Visitor numbers to the Balearic Islands have been steadily rising, and are expected to follow the same pattern in 2026. 2024 saw the number of visitors hit 18.7 million, then rising to over 19 million in 2025. In total, the Balearic Islands has a population of just 1.2 million, which includes around 18,000 British expats.

Opposition party PSOE recently took to the Balearic parliament to present a motion arguing that tourist numbers should be capped at 17.8 million a year. However, in a relief for UK travellers, the motion was rejected this week.

Groups such as Menys Turisme Més Vida have been involved in a number of protests in Majorca in recent years, alongside protests against overtourism across Spain. In May 2024, around 10,000 protestors took to the streets of Palma, while in July 2025, numbers reported as high as 50,000 people joined the protests. The 2025 protest was timed to coincide with the start of the school holidays in England and Wales, when many families would be arriving on the island.

Menys Turisme Més Vida’s Instagram account sets out a manifesto with their demands including a ban on tourist rentals across Majorca, a 50% reduction in rental prices for locals, and more stable jobs in what has become a precarious labour market.

However, in recent weeks there has been concern across the hospitality industry over a reduction in customer numbers, with a discount voucher scheme being considered to get more people to eat at local restaurants.

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In 2025, Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy warned that “anti-tourism protests and derogatory comments from local administrations make tourists feel unwelcome” amidst rising tensions in the Canary Islands, which included a number of protests, and signs appearing in some hotspots asking tourists to stay away.

At the time he added: “People don’t come to the Canaries to be mistreated or to witness protests. Such incidents tarnish the region’s image, pushing tourists toward destinations like Turkey and Morocco, where they feel valued.”

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

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ONE country in Asia with incredible mountain scenery, Alpine lakes and a vibrant capital city is now so much cheaper for Brits to explore.

To encourage more holidaymakers to visit, Armenia has dropped visa fees, ahead of a budget airline beginning direct flights in just a few months.

Armenia isn’t a popular holiday destination for Brits yet, but this could soon change as it has scrapped visa entry requirements for the first half of 2026.

Travellers can stay in Armenia for up to 180 days within a one year period.

The rules are less strict to encourage tourism, particularly longer holidays as well as short city breaks.

Previously, the visa system meant travellers had to apply and pay a fee to enter the country – which at its most expensive cost around £30 and for a stay of up to 120 days.

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Lusine Gevorgyan, chairman of the tourism committee of Armenia, said: “This decision is a clear invitation to travellers around the world. Armenia is open and welcoming, and we look forward to sharing our culture, landscapes and hospitality with more visitors throughout 2026.

“With its ancient monasteries, dramatic mountain scenery, vibrant food scene and rich traditions, Armenia offers travellers a unique blend of history and modern life.

“From exploring Yerevan’s cafe culture and museums to discovering hiking trails and Unesco World Heritage sites, the country provides diverse experiences year-round.”

In a few months, Brits will be able to visit Armenia very easily as one budget airline will begin direct routes.

Wizz Air has gained new slot at London Luton Airport and will fly to  Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.

The flights will start on June 8, 2026 – these will be the only direct flight routes from the UK.

In August, one-way flights are as little as £38 and will take just over five hours.

The direct flights from Wizz Air will stop on October 23, 2026.

Armenia is incredibly affordable too.

Last year, travel insurance company HelloSafe studied the average daily budget required by travellers in 131 countries.

Taking into account expenses like accommodation, food, and transport, Armenia came out as being the sixth cheapest destination.

According to Wise, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is on average £8.85 with a local beer costing as little as £1.57 and a coffee is under £3.

The country shares borders with Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Iran.

In the capital of Yerevan there’s lots to see like Yerevan Cascade which is a giant, art-filled stairway which has incredible views of the Mount Ararat mountain which sits across the border in Turkey.

Also in Yerevan is Republic Square, the central town square in the city which is a symbol of Armenia.

The buildings in the square include the Government House, the History Museum, the National Gallery and Armenia Marriott Hotel.

It also has huge fountains that are lit up and in the summer there’s even an evening show.

For those wanting to pick up a souvenir, head to Vernissage Market which sells handmade crafts, artwork, and jewellery.

An hour outside of is the popular spot of Lake Sevan which is one of the world’s highest freshwater alpine lakes.

It’s popular in the summertime with swimmers and those wanting to bask on its sandy banks.

The best time to visit Armenia is between May and June as well as autumn between September and October due to the mild temperatures up to 25C.

The 15 cheapest countries in the world to travel…

For more on cheap holiday destinations, one in Asia is getting a new £168million airport.

And one man who left the UK to travel on £35 a day loved this unheard of destination with fairytale canyons.

A HUGE new family campsite is opening at a historic UK holiday park this summer.

Billing Aquadrome in Northampton is one of the oldest holiday parks in the UK dating back to 1945 when it opened shortly after World War II.

Sitting on 235 acres the resort has everything from a caravan site and funfair to a marina.

And now it is reintroducing its family camping offering for the 2026 season, after undergoing a massive revamp.

In the refreshed family camping area, guests will find 150 electric pitches as well as an amenities block and a play area.

Nikki Rathie, holidays director at Billing Aquadrome, said: “The return of camping for 2026 is something we know many families have been eagerly awaiting.

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“By reintroducing a premium family camping experience, we’re able to offer a much-loved family holiday experience at Billing Aquadrome which complements the other holiday styles on offer.

“This launch marks an exciting new chapter for the park following a year of major investment and regeneration.”

The park is also undergoing a massive £17million regeneration.

This includes new restaurants, the waterside Lake Club, Willow Lakes Aquapark, a BMX pump track, a Himalayan Adventure Golf Course and Adventure Island.

There is a newly opened Zen Den too, for families needing to escape the noise.

By the end of this year, a new indoor entertainment venue will also open.

Campers will also get access to all of Billing Aquadrome’s attractions such as the indoor swimming pool, which has a toddlers’ splash zone and a flume slide.

And guests can also enjoy a programme of activities and live performances including drive-in movie nights, Tough Mudder, an aqua assault course and paddleboard hire.

Guests won’t be charged extra for bringing a dog, having a gazebo or pup tent or any extra equipment.

There is a premium camping experience available as well with 150 electric pitches measuring eight metres by 10 metres.

Bookings for the new family campsite launch on March 26.

However, from February 17, families can sign up to be the first to know when bookings go live.

As part of the launch, 26 families from this sign-up list will each win a three-night break.

When it comes to the cost per night, prices will vary but current pitches available to book on Billing Aquadrome’s website cost from £25 a night during the summer holidays.

If you don’t fancy camping, Billing Aquadrome also has an array of other accommodation types including glamping.

For example, you could stay in one of their static caravans for two nights (midweek) for £129.

And for convenience when staying, there is an on-site shop, hair and beauty salon and a laundrette.

In other holiday park news, UK holiday park with its own shopping village, theatre and golf course plunges into administration.

Plus, the nine most popular Hols From £9.50 holiday parks of last year – as bookings open for 2026.

BRITS will have to carry a little more cash with them on holiday if they want to lounge about on this resort’s beautiful beaches.

The popular Spanish resort of Palma in Majorca has hiked the price of its sunbeds and parasols this summer.

Majorca has always been a popular destination with Brits – it sees between 2.3 to 3.6million tourists each year.

Holidaymakers flock to the island for sunshine in the peak months with daytime highs ranging from 25C up to highs of 40C.

The capital of the Spanish resort, Palma, is known for its huge cathedral, pretty streets filled with ice cream shops and boutiques as well as its beautiful beaches.

Now, local media has revealed that the price of sunloungers on some of Palma’s most popular beach spots has been upped to as much as £60 per day.

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Sunbed and umbrella prices will rise substantially from 2026 – the daily rate for both items will increase to €10 (£8.66), up from €6 (£5.20) in 2019.

Meanwhile, premium loungers will climb from €30 to €45 (almost £40) per day.

However, a picture on the sands of Cala Major reveals prices of premium loungers are as high as €70 (£60.87).

One of the few items to avoid a rise is the foldable canvas parasol, which remains at €30 (£26.12).

Along with the rise in cost of sunloungers, the number of them has actually been reduced.

In mid-2025, the Palma de Mallorca council announced it was planning to remove nearly 1,700 sun loungers from its beaches by 2026.

This is to increase free space for locals and address complaints about overtourism.

The reduction of sunbeds will be on Palma’s four main beaches; Playa de Palma, Cala Major, Ciutat Jardi and Cala Stancia.

The one with the largest reduction will be on Playa de Palma – the number of sunbeds will decrease from 6,000 to 4,436.

Another of its beaches, Can Pere Antoni, which isn’t managed by Palma council, will also have its sunbeds reduced from 200 to 94.

According to Mallorca Zeitung, the council also plans to let beachgoers reserve loungers and umbrellas via an online app by 2027.

Plus, one writer said they found the best kept secret in Majorca which was right by my hotel.

And this Balearic resort town is billing itself as a great winter sun destination – with £15 flights & 25C highs.

Brits are being urged to check their travel documents especially passports after it’s been revealed that over one million UK adults may not have valid documents when the summer holidays come around

Brits are being warned to check their passports after data revealed that over 1.4million UK adults could see their documents expire before the summer holidays.

The team at budget airline Wizz Air revealed that they studied data obtained from the HM Passport Office and found that over 1.4million documents are due to expire by the end of June 2026. For those who haven’t checked their passports, it could mean their holiday is over before it’s even started, with extra headaches along the way.

That’s because an invalid passport not only means you’ll be denied boarding at the airport, but your travel insurance is unlikely to cover any claims because you’ve travelled with an invalid document, therefore voiding your policy for that trip.

With the summer holidays just a few months away, Wizz Air is urging travellers to check their passport validity now before the peak season to avoid any potential last minute stress or cancelled trips.

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For Brits heading to Europe, there’s a post-Brexit rule that continues to catch holidaymakers out. That’s because you need to check not one but two dates on your document. The first is the issue date; UK travellers must have passports issued less than 10 years before the date they enter a country. If you’re using an older passport, it may still be valid for your travel dates, but could push you past the 10-year rule.

However, you also need to check the expiry date. Passports need to be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to return from EU countries, while some non-EU destinations require six months remaining. It’s crucial to check your passport’s validity based on your intended return date to the UK, not the date you’re due to fly out.

If you’re unsure about the entry requirements for a destination, one of the best resources for UK passport holders is the Foreign Office’s travel advice for that destination, as they will advise of any updates or changes that you need to be aware of.

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Yvonne Moynihan, Managing Director at Wizz Air UK said: “Don’t let an expiring passport ruin your summer plans. Summer holidays should be about excitement, not last-minute stress. With peak booking season underway, now is the time to check if your passport is valid. A quick two-minute check today could save weeks of disruption later and ensure travellers can book with confidence and enjoy the full range of destinations across our network.”

If you do realise that your passport won’t be valid for the summer and want to book a holiday, then renewing your document is simple. You can either renew it online for £94.50, or through a paper application which costs £107. To renew your passport you’ll need both your old passport and any valid passports you have from a different country – send either a colour photocopy of every page (including blank ones) or the physical passport. You can also find out more on gov.uk/renew-adult-passport.

A word of caution – if you’ve already booked a trip and had to enter your passport details, make sure you update those on your booking if needed!

Have you had a holiday ruined because of a passport issue? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com.

A travel enthusiast and On the Beach worker shared the cheapest time to book flights and hotels

People hoping to get the best deal on their summer holiday might need to set an early alarm. A travel influencer claims he knows the ‘cheapest time’ for booking flights and hotels – and it’s bad news if you like to sleep in.

The tip was shared on social media by Rob Brooks, a travel enthusiast and influencer with the travel company On The Beach. He is well-known online for providing budget-friendly travel advice, hotel reviews, and holiday tips, which has helped him amass a significant following on social media, especially on TikTok where he goes by the username @Robonthebeach.

In a recent video, Rob shared ‘three bad holiday booking habits that could be costing you £100s’ and explained how the timing of your holiday booking can affect the price. Introducing the three tips, Rob said: “I look through holiday bookings every single day, and I see these mistakes all the time.”

For his first point, Rob suggested that people shouldn’t book their holidays in the morning unless they get up early. “Your first bad booking habit is booking holidays in the morning,” he claimed.

“We see so many people book holidays between 7am and 10am in the morning. Often, that’s people booking just before work, on the commute, or even at the desk with their first coffee. And I get it, it feels like you’re being really productive and taking off something big right at the beginning of the day.

“But not many people know it’s actually one of the most expensive windows to book, because you’ve got loads of people searching at the same time. Everyone’s had the same idea, which means demand spikes, flight prices spike too, and then package prices follow.”

Rob continued: “The best times to book are statistically in the evening, between 8pm and 10pm. And actually the very cheapest time to book is first thing in the morning, between 4am and 5am. But no one’s setting their alarm for that habit.”

Continuing his video, Rob shared two more mistakes that he said holidaymakers should be wary of. In his second tip, he suggested people shouldn’t wait when they find the right deal for them.

“Don’t forget, when you find a really good deal, it’s very likely that someone else has found the same deal too. So waiting doesn’t protect you; it usually just means that the best price then disappears. So I would say this: when you find a holiday that you think is a really good price and you’ve checked it against other people, don’t wait, just get it booked,” he advised.

Finally, the travel influencer warned people against being ‘super rigid’ with their holiday dates. Rob pointed out that switching your holiday from seven days to six days, for example, could make a big difference to the price.

THERE’S a small town along the Essex coastline that’s one of the driest places in the country.

Shoeburyness has a lower annual rainfall average than the rest of the UK – not to mention it has two Blue Flag beaches and is just one hour away from London.

Thirteen minutes from Southend-on-Sea is the lesser-known coastal spot of Shoeburyness.

The town is home to around 22,000 people and is one of the driest places in the country.

Its position on the southeast coast means it gets less rainfall than other spots around the UK.

Shoeburyness records an average of between 526.78mm and 527mm of rain per year.

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In comparison, the average annual rainfall for the entire UK is 1,163mm – Shoeburyness receives less than half of that.

So, it’s no wonder that lots of people flock to the town to visit its two Blue Flag beaches; Shoebury Common and Shoebury East Beach.

Shoebury Common is a sand and shingle beach that’s popular with families during the summer.

But it’s not just bucket and spade friendly, or for paddling, though. It’s also a popular place to launch boats and jet-skis, and is good for kitesurfing too.

Up on the promenade are colourful beach huts, as well as Uncle Tom’s Cabin where visitors can grab an ice cream, soft drink or cup of tea.

Shoebury East Beach is further along the coast, and is set to undergo a £600,000 makeover this spring.

The new inclusive playground at Shoebury’s East Beach in Southend will have themed zones inspired by the sea.

There will be a sandpit, climbing areas and a submarine structure in the middle of the playground.

The playground will be open to all age groups and abilities and include wheelchair-accessible swings, roundabouts and sensory features.

The area surrounding East Beach had a new addition last summer with the Beach House Cafe opening next door to the East Beach Cafe and marking the completion of a £2million regeneration project.

One visitor to the Beach House said: “Love it here! Come for brunch every weekend, drive up from London. Lovely beach setting, food is fresh, tasty & lush!”

Last year, The Telegraph also named Shoeburyness as one of the top 20 destinations in Britain for the best secret and remote beaches.

The Telegraph stated: “Just three miles from the mayhem that is Southend in summer, Shoeburyness has two Blue Flag beaches that are far less well known.

“Its East Beach is the nicest and is popular with local paddleboarders and kitesurfers, thanks to its long strand of sand.”

The town was once even accessible on the London Underground – although it was never officially part of the network.

The District line ran seasonal, direct services to Shoeburyness via Southend between 1910 and 1939 – and was known as the ‘Southend Service’.

Those who want to visit Shoeburyness can still do so very easily from London by getting on a direct train from London Fenchurch Street.

The journey takes just one hour and one-way tickets are as little as £11.30.

If you head further into the town of Shoeburyness, you’ll find a Wetherspoon called Parson’s Barn.

There’s also a popular restaurant called The Angel Inn which earned itself a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award last year.

Here you can dig into sizzling fajitas from £15, burgers, mains like steak with chips and salmon with broccoli and paprika cous cous.

Speaking of which, on Tuesdays, The Angel Inn does Pie and Pint Night where you can get any pie and any drink from its menu from £17.

Shoebury Park is another popular spot, it stretches across 20 acres and is filled with green areas and ponds.

It also has a tennis court, basketball court, cricket pitch, bowling green, BMX trail track, skateboarding facilities, fishing lake, and a children’s playground.

For more on Southend – here’s how the coastal city has become cool with celeb visitors…

Southend-on-Sea has become an unlikely hot spot for some of the UK’s best-known TV personalities.

The Essex town has seen a surge in popularity, thanks to its colourful beach huts, award-winning hotels and stunning coastline.

Dubbed the British Miami by fans because of its long golden beaches, the town often welcomes celebrity visitors.

Fool Me Once actress Michelle Keegan spent her first Mother’s Day as a mum, at the Roslin Beach Hotel on Thorpe Bay.

On Sunday 30 March, Michelle was spotted there with her husband, Mark Wright and their new baby, Palma, as well as other family members including Jess Wright.

They aren’t the only ones; the Roslin Beach Hotel has also opened its doors to Gary Barlow, Tyson Fury, Denise van Outen, and TOWIE stars including Frankie Essex, who have all visited.

It was reported earlier last year that the hotel would undergo a £10million makeover. Currently, the Roslin Beach Hotel has 37 bedrooms, but with the extension, it will have an extra seven rooms.

They also want to add a spa, a new wedding venue, and add outdoor restaurant facilities.

For more on Essex, this is Britain’s smallest town that was named one of the coolest spots in the country with cosy pubs and coastal walks.

And here you can swap the Cotswolds for a less-crowded but equally quaint weekend in Essex’s most perfect market town.

One airline has launched an incredible family deal that will see children aged up to 11 fly free to a European hotspot this summer. Make sure you don’t miss out on the offer

Plenty of us are daydreaming about a family summer holiday after the miserable conditions we’ve been battling lately, and if you’re itching to whisk the kids off for a European coastal adventure, you’ll want to listen up as one airline has launched an absolutely brilliant offer on flights.

Aegean Airlines is currently running a superb travel promotion for families, allowing youngsters to jet off to a European destination without paying a penny. The news was shared on Instagram by baby travel guru Diana, who posts under the handle @babylifewithdiana. She shared a reel with her 79,800 followers, showcasing clips from a gloriously sunny family holiday.

Text across the screen read: “Every parent needs to know this!

“Kids fly for free in Greece in 2026.”

Expanding on this in the caption, she wrote: “Forget everything what you’re doing! Aegean Airlines has launched an amazing offer for families.

“Kids will travel free to Greece this summer.”

However, there are a few strings attached if you’re hoping to snap up this bargain.

Bookings need to be made by February 19th, 2026 and you’ll need to jet off between March 1st, 2026, and November 30th, 2026.

The offer is valid for youngsters up to 11-years-old.

Through this promotion, children and babies fly at no cost, whilst other family members bag up to 30% off their tickets.

The Aegean Airlines offer is valid across all direct and connecting flights to and from any international or Greek destination. The announcement sparked excitement amongst users, racking up more than 3,000 likes.

One person enthused: “What a deal,” whilst another added: “On our bucket list.”

Which Greek destination works best for families with kids?

Greece makes for a brilliant family getaway suitable for youngsters of every age – offering gorgeous beaches, safe bathing spots, engaging pursuits, cultural experiences, and delicious food all wrapped up in glorious sunshine. Here are some top picks for a family-friendly Greek escape:.

Crete

• Greece’s biggest island boasting golden sandy shores and tranquil shallow waters ideal for youngsters.
• Plenty of family-oriented activities: boat excursions, water parks, gentle walks, and historic attractions like Knossos.
• Accommodation and hotels frequently feature kids’ clubs, splash pools, and family suites.
• Perfect if you’re after diversity and an extended break with abundant exploration opportunities.

Corfu

• Renowned for gentle, secure beaches with shallow waters, Corfu is perfect for tiny tots.
• Family highlights include Aqualand Waterpark offering slides suitable for all age groups.
• Picturesque towns, seafood tavernas, and convenient transport links make getting about straightforward.
• Ideal for families seeking both seaside entertainment and cultural landmarks.

Rhodes

• Blends medieval settlements and kid-friendly beaches like Faliraki with ample room for play.
• Pursuits in Rhodes include wildlife farm visits, aquariums, and straightforward day-trips across the island.
• Excellent if your children enjoy combining history with coastal adventures.
• Naxos Long sandy beaches with shallow water near towns like Naxos Town (very walkable).
• Less crowded than some islands but still plenty of tavernas and activities.
• Perfect for a relaxed holiday, especially with younger children.

Zante

• Beautiful sandy shores in places like Tsilivi and Alykanas with shallow water.
• Chance to see loggerhead sea turtles in the National Marine Park – exciting for kids.
• Great if your family enjoys nature and wildlife.

ONE popular city in Croatia is preparing to ban the sale of alcohol after 8PM this summer.

The reason for the ban is to stop rowdy tourists from disturbing locals after exhibiting bad, drunken behaviour.

The mayor of Split, Tomislav Šuta, announced this week that a strict ban of the sale of alcohol at shops in the city centre could be put in place as soon as this summer.

A proposal has been submitted to the Trade and Hospitality Act, to regulate the working hours for the sale of alcohol at shops and liquor stores within the city.

The mayor said: “We are moving towards limiting nighttime work in accordance with the new law, with the aim of introducing order.

“The City of Split will participate in the discussion and public consultation so that we can reach a decision that is important for our residents by consensus.”

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There’s a high concentration of clubs, bars, and shops that are open all night in the city centre.

According to the mayor, the late night openings result in “situations” that “impair the safety and quality of life of tenants”.

He continued to say that the that scenes of drunken tourists in the heart of the city are unacceptable.

The mayor then added that extending the rules to other parts of Split has not been “ruled out” either.

The restrictions will apply to grocery and liquor shops between the hours of 8PM and 6AM, but not to clubs and restaurants.

So visitors can still enjoy drinks in licensed venues after 8PM.

Split is popular with Brits and is known for its high concentration of bars and clubs – it’s even been said to have some of the most diverse nightlife in Croatia.

Some of the most popular spots for drinking are around the Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva seafront promenade.

There are already bans on tourists drinking in public spaces within 100 metres of schools, kindergartens, and in the historic city centre – which can result in a fine of up to €300 (£261).

Other bans in Split that affect tourists include the ban on walking shirtless or in swimwear in places other than the beach.

If found sleeping in public places like parks and squares, there’s an on-the-spot fine between €150–€300 (£130 – £261).

There are other bans in Croatia in place. On Hvar, which is one of the country’s most famous “party islands”, there is a noise restriction.

During the summer, noise must be limited to 85 decibels – which is the equivalent of a food blender, a noisy restaurant or the cinema.

The hope is to make Hvar less of a party island and more attractive as a tourist destination for families.

Similarly, one of Europe’s prettiest cities is set to ban restaurants and bars from having outdoor tables.

For travelling this summer, here’s everything you need to know before you travel in 2026.

ONE beautiful Italian island known for incredible views and designer shops is cracking down on tourists.

It has implemented new rules in the hope of stopping large crowds from disturbing locals and other holidaymakers.

The pretty island of Capri, found in the Bay of Naples, is a beautiful spot that tourists flock to every year.

In the peak summer months of July and August there can be as many as 50,000 visitors each day.

In comparison, around 13,000 to 15,000 live on the island year round.

In an attempt to control and limit numbers, there are new tourism rules that will come into force this summer.

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The first is to limit groups to 40 people in an attempt to control overcrowding.

Talking to The Times, Paolo Falco, the island’s mayor said: “They look like herds of sheep and it’s not nice to see. We need to save beauty; we don’t have any other choice.”

The rules also request that tour guides leading more than 20 tourists at a time use wireless earpieces rather than loudspeakers.

The guides have been asked to avoid using umbrellas to identify themselves and opt for identifiable clothing instead.

In an effort to not block the narrow streets, etiquette similar to travelling on the tube has been requested for large groups.

Paolo Falco added: “We’re saying to stay on the right on the way up, stand on the left on the way down and don’t loiter in the square.

“Sometimes they completely prevent locals from passing through.”

Other factors being considered to limit the number of tourists include controlling the boat traffic at Marina Grande port.

One long-standing rule for tourists and locals that was introduced in 2019 stopped people using single-use plastics.

The former Mayor of Capri, Gianni De Martino, approved the ban seven years ago – and anyone breaking the law could receive a €500 (£435) fine.

Capri is a short ferry ride away from Naples, usually taking around one hour making it a popular day trip destination.

The island draws tourists in thanks to its pretty natural surroundings like the Blue Grotto.

It’s a natural sea cave that glows a deep turquoise, often visited via small wooden boats.

During busy periods, sightseers can wait for up to two hours to get inside.

Other popular spots are the Faraglioni rock formations which visitors can see on the southern coast of Capri.

The central point of the island is the Piazzetta which is easily recognised thanks to its huge clock tower.

Surrounding it are lively cafés with outdoor seating and luxury boutiques.

Other highlights include the Gardens of Augustus, the Monte Solaro chairlift, and the ruins of Villa Jovis.

For more on Italy, here’s another Mediterranean island that Brits don’t know about with spectacular beaches – and it’s loved by Italians.

And check out this beautiful island which has 200 beaches.