sun

W Dubai Mina Seyahi offers the perfect January escape with guaranteed sunshine, private beach access, and diverse dining

By mid-January, I’d reached that all-too-familiar stage where British winter feels endless and I desperately craved some sunshine. Not the kind that requires a marathon flight and days of jet lag, but somewhere warm, bright and straightforward to reach. Dubai seemed like the obvious answer. It’s among the nearest destinations you can fly to where sunshine is virtually guaranteed, even during the bleakest January days, and after several dreary weeks at home, that alone was enough to convince me.

W Dubai Mina Seyahi, just a 6hr45 direct flight from London followed by a swift 20-minute taxi ride from Dubai airport, turned out to be precisely what I needed. Featuring 318 rooms, it sits right on the beach, offers a vibrant atmosphere without feeling overcrowded and provides plenty of choices depending on your energy levels that day (minimal, in my case).

Some days were spent lounging by the pool with an iced coffee, while others involved venturing out in the evening and embracing the chance to be somewhere that actually feels warm and lively in January.

The rooms

Upon entering my Deluxe Guest Room, I was immediately captivated by how spacious and bright it felt. The modern design is quintessentially W, featuring striking decor and an atmosphere of contemporary luxury, reports OK!. Check-in was effortless, whilst the team members were wonderfully welcoming and attentive. The bed offered exceptional comfort and there’s a well-appointed minibar available if you fancy a tipple.

The bathroom swiftly became my sanctuary, boasting a wet room with an enormous bathtub. The hotel had thoughtfully provided some pampering products for me to enjoy during a relaxing soak. My only recommendation would be to ask for accommodation overlooking the adjacent Westin hotel, as mine directly faced an active building site. Whilst it didn’t spoil my experience, and development work is to be anticipated in Dubai, it did mean the balcony went largely unused.

For those with flexibility in their spending, the Premier Room with ocean views is certainly worth considering, as these are typically situated on higher floors offering spectacular vistas. However, if a Deluxe represents the property’s entry-level option, it still delivered an extraordinarily indulgent experience.

Dining options

A genuine standout of my full board stay was the remarkable range of culinary options available. I was thrilled to discover I could reserve tables at any restaurant as frequently as desired – the property doesn’t push guests towards buffet dining. This thoughtful touch elevated the sense of exclusivity throughout my visit. The W boasts an impressive array of dining venues, ranging from laid-back poolside spots to sophisticated lounges serving creative cocktails and global cuisine.

Guests can explore restaurants across the entire complex, including two adjacent sister properties, ensuring each meal offers a fresh experience. Whether enjoying a leisurely Mediterranean lunch at the Greek restaurant, Fish, sampling sushi-focused fare, or sipping sunset drinks at Ginger Moon, there’s always a vibrant and elegant destination within the resort grounds.

A particular highlight was the Italian restaurant, Bussola, where an unforgettable aubergine-stuffed ravioli with burrata foam left a lasting impression. However, one area for improvement is the limited selection of dishes included without additional charges on restaurant menus. Whilst choice remains decent, some venues require a supplementary fee of around 50AED (approximately £10) for many options.

Regarding drinks, prices are steep. Even soft drinks cost around a tenner each, and bottled water comes at a premium – though complimentary bottles are provided in rooms and two free ones daily at the beach clubs.

An all-inclusive package is available for those who prefer it, but for non-drinkers, paying individually for desired refreshments proves perfectly manageable. The hidden gem I discovered, which has become something of a celebrity haunt, is the W’s rooftop Attiko bar. While it’s not part of meal packages, popping up for an evening cocktail rewards you with sweeping views across Dubai’s marina. What’s more, hotel guests can always secure a table, despite the venue operating a waiting list for external visitors.

Pools and beaches

Days at W Mina Seyahi revolve largely around poolside and beachfront relaxation. The pool spaces felt like their own self-contained paradise, from the striking infinity pool overlooking the water to the calmer sunbed areas perfect for unwinding with a chilled beverage.

The hotel’s private beach is genuinely special – soft golden sand, comfortable loungers and parasols positioned right beside the sea made transitioning between sunshine and shade effortless. Even better, having entry to extra pools at adjacent hotels ensured there was consistently a more peaceful location if one zone became too lively.

Something that added to the hotel’s sense of exclusivity is the sunbed reservation approach. Staff diligently ensure sunbeds remain occupied, preventing guests from dashing down at dawn to claim their preferred location. It’s an excellent arrangement guaranteeing availability whenever you fancy lounging. My top choice was Mare beach club, where the team were wonderful and children aren’t permitted.

Activities

My stay was a delightful blend of lazy poolside days and more active pursuits exploring the hotel’s extensive amenities. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the communal gym facilities (it’s definitely worth a visit– it has everything!) and spa options, while those seeking a slower pace can savour sunset drinks on the rooftop or leisurely strolls along the beachfront.

I indulged in the spa located on the upper floors, which proved to be an absolute sanctuary. I enjoyed a 60-minute aromatherapy massage that was so soothing, I drifted off to sleep.

The spa therapists don’t hustle you out post-treatment either. You’re welcome to linger with a herbal tea in a relaxation room adorned with pink quartz, whilst trying out an LED mask.

What to do nearby

Should you wish to venture beyond the hotel, Dubai’s iconic attractions such as The Walk, Ain Dubai and the marina are all conveniently close, making this an ideal base for exploring more of the city. A brief journey takes you to the promenade of Dubai Marina, offering endless dining, shopping and people-watching opportunities, while the Palm Jumeirah and city highlights like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are just a quick taxi ride away. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, you’ve got the best of both worlds right at your doorstep.

Book It

Now is the ideal time to visit, with temperatures ranging in the low to mid twenties; however, the hotel operates all year round. You can reserve a room-only stay from £187 during off-peak times, with prices escalating for bed and breakfast, half board, full board and all-inclusive rates. For exclusive deals and offers, check Marriott’s official website.

MEL B has put on a sizzling display as she soaked up the sun in a thong bikini as her husband helped her apply sun cream.

The former Spice Girl, 50, and her husband Rory, 37, are enjoying their honeymoon at the luxury five-star Shangri-La Le Touessrok resort in Mauritius.

Mel B took to Instagram with a series of hot snaps from her honeymoon and captioned them: “FINALLY!!!! We Disappeared for January and got lost In each other at a Mauritian magical heaven for our long LONG awaited honeymoon.”

In a cheeky video clip, Rory was seen smiling to the cameras as he rubbed his wife’s bottom with sun cream.

She also shared a cute selfie with her husband as they went out for dinner and dancing.

Another saw the loved up pair share a romantic kiss over dinner as they shared bubbly together.

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Mel B used to babysit former England star and Match of the Day pundit

Mel also looked stunning as she flaunted her toned figure in blue thong bikini bottoms while sunbathing on the beach. 

The couple also shared snaps of them taking part in paddleboarding and diving into the sea.

In another sizzling snap, the singer showed off her incredible figure when in a tiny leopard-print bikini as she posed on a boat. 

Mel also looked beautiful last summer as she kissed her new husband Rory at St Paul’s Cathedral after their wedding ceremony.

The Spice Girl, stunned in a gown adorned with dazzling pearl detail around the collar and sleeves and a long flowing veil as she stepped out of the iconic venue in the capital.

Meanwhile Rory looked dapper in a tradition Scottish kilt as he kissed his new wife on the steps of the Cathedral.

The newlyweds then beamed as they headed down the steps and off to their reception in a horse-drawn white carriage, while their guests were transported in tradition red Route master double decker buses.

The couple shared a sweet kiss in the back of the carriage as they enjoyed their first moments as man and wife.

Ahead of the ceremony, fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton led the star-studded arrivals, and was the only Spice Girl spotted in attendance, bar the bride herself.

Meanwhile, Mel has dropped a huge hint that the famed noughties girl group could reunite.

Mel B was spotted liking a clip about the Spice Girls getting back together after they officially split in 2001.

Speaking on the Shouldn’t Laugh But… podcast Laura Smyth suggested the only way Victoria Beckham, 51, could escape the PR “disaster” which ensued after her son Brooklyn’s explosive statement, is to get the group back together.

The Beckham’s estranged son accused his mum and dad of 12 blistering allegations on Monday – which seems to have put an end to any rumours of reconciliation.

But now Pop singer Mel B seems to agree with the podcast hosts as she dropped a cheeky like on the post.

Fans couldn’t help but see it as a sign – they went wild begging for a new album and a tour.

Jasmine Harman, who has been presenting Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun since 2004, has shared a top tip for holidaymakers who are looking to save money on their next trip

While it’s barely late January and summer appears distant, numerous Brits are seizing the chance to organise their getaways, as rates tend to be more affordable during this period.

With that in mind, travel guru and Channel 4‘s A Place in the Sun presenter Jasmine Harman has revealed a savvy money-saving tip for holidaymakers to consider.

Chatting to The Sun’s TV Mag, the telly favourite disclosed that selecting a particular device for booking could massively enhance the bargains available.

She revealed: “The device you book flights on also has an effect on the prices you can get. If you’re using a laptop compared to a phone, you’ll get a different price.

“It’s so much easier to do it on your laptop, but you’ll get a better price on your phone! I think a lot of people will be impressed by the destination dupes too – where if you want one type of holiday but don’t have the budget, there are alternative places to try.”

Jasmine’s guidance might catch some off guard, however, last year, a Which? travel specialist also clarified why opting for the compact gadget in your pocket beats the larger one sat on your desk.

Speaking on Which?‘s official TikTok page, the expert said: “I would never book a hotel on a computer without checking the price on my mobile phone first.

“We slashed £270 off the price of an apartment in Amsterdam on Booking.com, and we saved almost £100 on a weekend in Florence with Expedia, just by booking a mobile exclusive.”

Additionally, the travel expert advised against booking flights through online travel agents without first comparing prices directly with the airline.

She stated: “Although online travel agents appear to be cheaper, they tend to whack up the prices of extras, such as bags and seats. If you need those, it might be cheaper just to go with the airline directly.”

However, whilst booking holidays via mobile phone might seem convenient, Which? has warned this approach could catch people out.

On Which?’s website, senior researcher and writer Trevor Baker cautioned: “However, beware when trying to book other kinds of travel by phone, such as flights and some cottage stays – as you could be hit with an unexpected fee of up to £50. It’s a charge that’s likely to particularly affect people who are less able to book online, such as blind or older travellers.

“If there is a fee for booking by phone, then always ask the call handler if that can be removed. In the case of a disabled person who’s not able to book online, we think removing the fee should be a legal obligation.”

DREAMING of a winter sun getaway? You could be relaxing on white sandy beaches and chilling poolside under swaying palms for less than you’d think.

We’ve rounded up some of the top destinations for cheap winter sun – with highs of 33°C and even zero jet lag.

Cape Verde

If you want stunning sandy beaches and a subtropical climate, consider jetting off to Cape Verde.

Temperatures here average 23°C in the winter months, reaching highs of 27°C. Plus, Cape Verde is only an hour ahead of the UK, so no jet lag that usually comes with a winter sun break.

Cape Verde is made up of ten volcanic islands, which are split into the northern side, Barlavento, and the southern side, Sotavento.

Down in the southern island of Santiago there are vibrant markets, lush landscapes and hiking trails.

But the northern islands tend to draw more tourists, thanks to their gorgeous beaches.

Some of the top islands to visit on the northern side include Boa Vista and the major holiday spot, Sal.

In Boa Vista, head to the renowned Chaves Beach, where soft sand stretches over three miles.

This island is also home to the miniature Viana Desert, where you can go sand-boarding or roam over the rolling dunes in a 4×4 or quad bike.

Over in Sal, the Buracona Lagoon is well worth a visit with its near-neon blue waters known as the “blue eye“.

You’ve got your pick of sandy beaches and sunset catamaran trips, plus the picturesque towns of Espargos and Palmeira bring a lively buzz to the area.

Cape Verde is easy to reach, with new flights available this year with easyJet.

The airline flies to Sal from London Gatwick and Manchester from £92.49 each way. Plus, starting from May 1, the airline is adding a new route from Bristol, which will operate three times a week.

The Sun’s Head Of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, went on a family holiday to the island of Sal in late February.

She said: “Reliable mid-haul sunshine in February is scarce, but Cape Verde gave us seven full days of blue skies.

“The strong breeze kept us cool in the intense sun, but it was also deceptive – there were plenty of tourists with lobster-pink skin who’d clearly been caught out by the super-strength rays, just 1,100 miles from the equator.

“Skin-scorching sun isn’t the only reason to pay a visit to the ­Portuguese-speaking country, though.

“For those who like a bit of adrenaline, there’s kite-surfing along the aptly named Kite Beach, plus quad-biking on the inner-island desert landscape.

“But for us, our break was all about relaxing — and we did just that on a four-hour catamaran cruise along the coast of Sal, where, away from the shore, the waters were calm enough for a dip.

“These beautiful beaches, as well as adventure activities and watersports, were all within a short drive of our hotel, the Riu Palace Santa Maria, south of the island of Sal and near the idyllic beach town of Santa Maria.

“With six pools, including a waterpark with several impressive slides, five restaurants, two cocktail bars, a sports bar, a cafe, spa, gym and kids’ club — there was enough to keep any fly-and-flop holidaymaker supremely happy.”

Senegal

Senegal is another top pick for winter sun, with temperatures averaging a scorching 33°C in February.

And with no time difference between Senegal and the UK, you won’t lose out on any sleep on your travels.

Dakar is the country’s capital, where you’ll find markets, monuments and marbled mosques.

There is some beautiful nature to be discovered here, too. The Saloum Delta National Park is a nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful mangroves and flamingos.

The Lagune de la Somone is a great spot for soaking up the sights via paddleboard or kayak through unspoilt nature.

Plus, to tick off that bucket list experience, TUI offer safari excursions from just £41.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey took a trip to Senegal and stayed at TUI’S Riu Baobab hotel.

She said: “Senegal is often overlooked as a winter sun destination by Brits, but it’s slowly becoming one of the ‘hot’ new places to go.

“It was put back on the map for UK holidaymakers after TUI launched direct flights back in 2022.

“It makes the perfect affordable fly and flop, with hot winters and a shorter flight time than Dubai or Thailand. 

“I stayed at the RIU Baobab, so most of my time was spent on the sun lounger or pool bar.

“But day trips out are a must – I recommend exploring Goree Island. A former slave trading port, it’s harrowing but informative. 

“Otherwise, stop at the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa, for a quick Instagram stop”.

TUI offer package holidays to Senegal, with some great all-inclusive options.

The Riu Baobab hotel in Pointe Sarene boasts four pools, a waterpark, and is only steps away from a sandy beach dotted with coconuts and palm trees.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive stay for two adults at the Riu Baobab hotel, including flights, costs just £958pp.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a classic choice when it comes to a winter sun escape – and it’s clear to see why.

Temperatures average a comfortable 20°C here in winter, letting you enjoy exploring the island with the warmth of the sun on your back.

And with no time difference between Gran Canaria and the UK, you’ll miss out on jet lag completely.

There’s no shortage of things to do on this paradisaical Canary Island.

There are whales and dolphins to spot by boat in the resort town of Puerto Rico, as well as volcanic hiking paths to explore in the Nublo Rural Park.

When it comes to beaches, Playa del Inglés is a top choice with a bustling promenade and various water sports on offer.

And for something different, the dunes of Maspalomas contain their own ecosystems, including pretty lagoons and palm groves.

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski took a trip to Gran Canaria and saw the best of what the island’s landscapes have to offer.

She said: “I visited Gran Canaria for one reason only. It was chucking it down at home, and my beachfront hotel on the volcanic island was speckled with plush cabanas perfectly poised for basking in the sunshine.

“I can’t say I left the resort much on my one and only visit – simply because pina coladas and strolls along the black sand beach were the order of the day every day.

“If you do want to indulge in more than just sunbathing, Gran Canaria is home to some gorgeous hiking trails along craggy orange rocks.

“It’s also got some of the best dark skies in the world, meaning long evenings can be spent soaking up those twinkling stars and the brightest moon I’ve ever seen.

“There’s a rather large banana plantation at the northern side of the island, and visitors can learn all about the fruits’ production and the best time for picking”.

The best part is that Gran Canaria can be super cheap to visit.

A week away at the Servatur Riosol hotel in the resort of Puerto Rico costs as little as £249pp with Loveholidays.

Or go all-in and upgrade to all-inclusive from only £459pp.

Cape Town

The first few months of the year are some of Cape Town‘s hottest, sitting at a sizzling average of 27°C.

Not only is the South African coastal city a stylish spot, but it can be great value too – and comes with some stunning beaches.

And with the city being only two hours behind UK time, there’s no significant time zone change to adjust to.

This is a great city for the adventurous type who likes to explore unique landscapes by day and sip on world-class wines by night.

Take a cable car up to Table Mountain for rotating 360° views over dramatic rock formations and the Atlantic’s sapphire waters.

Or laze on the white sands of Camps Bay and Llandudno Beach to soak up those Southern Hemisphere summer rays.

Boulders Beach is always a favourite, too. Here you can observe herds of Humboldt penguins waddle between rocks and slip into the bright blue sea.

Food and drink are second-to-none in this culinary capital. Head to Kalk Bay for some budget-friendly seafood, or head to the colourful bar Cape to Cuba for an ice-cold Mojito.

It goes without saying that the wine here is worth sampling – you can sample some local tipples on a hop-on hop-off winery tram tour for £36 on GetYourGuide.

The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, visited Cape Town for a family holiday.

She said: “Cape Town is officially the world’s cheapest long-haul holiday, according to the Post Office Money Report, and it’s perfect for families with just two hours’ time difference, jaw-dropping animals and perfect beaches.

“Everything in Cape Town is so accessible that we landed at 8.30am, got our hire car, checked into the hotel and were on the glorious Camps Bay beach in swimsuits by 11.30am. 

“On our two-week trip to the South African capital and the surrounding area, we saw everything from zebras and giraffes to penguins and lions.

“This is a country so packed with wildlife that it is not uncommon to see exotic creatures such as baboons and ostriches feeding at the side of the road, or taking an evening stroll in front of your hotel room. 

“Recently, South Africa’s tourism minister touted the region as such great value that ‘British visitors can afford our 5* hotels’, and the price comparisons are stark when looking at the cost of things like food and drink.

“At the 5-star Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town – I drank posh wine at just £4 a glass, while my son played with the other kids in the infinity pool, as dolphins played in the ocean just feet away. 

“The trip was a dream from start to finish, with so many memories made that it felt like five holidays wrapped into one. “

Lastminute.com offer a week-long self-catering apartment stay in Cape Town, including flights from £780pp.

Morocco

Morocco is the perfect mix of short-haul flights, warm temperatures and cheap luxury-feel hotels.

And as the country is just one hour ahead of the UK, you won’t feel exhausted after landing.

Hop on a three-hour 40-minute flight from London to Marrakesh, and you’ll be in Morocco’s bustling capital that hovers around 20°C in winter.

This must-visit city has endless souks to browse and unique sights to see in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.

The fishing village of Taghazout, on the other hand, has a beachy boho feel and is popular with surfers and sun-worshippers alike.

There’s plenty of surf shacks to rent boards from, a skate park and a shimmering bay.

Over on the west coast, Agadir is home to some of Morocco’s best beaches.

Plage d’Agadir is the most popular, and its seven miles of golden sands and turquoise water are perfect for both sunbathing and snorkelling.

The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, enjoys visiting Morocco’s capital.

She said: “I’ve been to Marrakech many times – drawn by the treasures to be found in the colourful, chaotic souks and the raw beauty of the desert landscapes that surround it.

“Tourism is booming in the city, and with it has come a host of exciting new hotels, restaurants and rooftop bars.

“My most recent trip included a three-hour food tour of the Medina – our guide gave us a brilliant insight into the local cuisine and encouraged me to try dishes I might never have sampled had I been on my own.

“For total escapism, though, our trip into the Afagay Desert revealed a different side to this fascinating country – silent, stunning desert landscapes.

“Worth splashing out on was our trip to The White Camel, a luxury tented camp where we spent an afternoon on dune buggies before watching the sun set with a drink by their infinity pool, before indulging in a fabulous four-course feast”.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, on the other hand, chose to check out the beaches of Agadir.

She said: “While Marrakech is all about the souks and the dunes, Agadir is a more laid-back affair.

“This is where you’ll find the surfers, with surf schools littering the beach.

“My favourite way to spend a day was walking along the golden sand coastline, with just a few locals and stray dogs along the way.

“Otherwise, Agadir is also home to one of Africa’s biggest souks – Souk El Had – although there are lots of other ones to explore in the city”.

Perhaps the best part about Morocco is just how affordable it is to visit.

Five nights at a beachfront all-inclusive in Agadir with flights costs just £239pp with Loveholidays.

Mauritius

Mauritius was recently deemed the safest African country to visit, and it’s one of the most beautiful destinations for winter sun, too.

Not only is it popular for its low crime rate, but our winter is actually their summer season.

Temperatures reach a scorching 30°C, and even the sea temperatures can reach 27°C.

Plus, the country is only four hours ahead of UK time, which is easier to adjust to than countries further abroad.

For the best of beaches, check out Flic en Flac for sugar-white sands facing a glittering lagoon.

Le Morne, on the other hand, has more of a jungle feel, as the beach is backed by thick green leaves and impressive mountains.

For snorkelling in clear waters and spotting colourful fish, head to the Blue Bay Marine Park in the southeast.

And for 66p tasty Creole curries and exotic fresh fruits, head to the markets of the country’s capital, Port Louis.

The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, has explored Mauritius from its beaches to its busy capital.

She said: “This Indian Ocean island paradise was a revelation when I visited. Yes, of course, there are stunning powder white beaches, swaying palms and delightful all-inclusive hotels.

“But the south of the island reveals endlessly changing landscapes, from busy colonial-era towns and centuries-old sugarcane plantations to volcanic mountain ranges and unique geological wonders.

“Go hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park – the views are worth the trek through the indigenous rainforest.

“Or admire the Seven Coloured Earths – waving, solidified sand dunes in a riot of colours that highlight the island’s unique geography.

“In the bustling capital Port Louis, head into the Central Market to browse stalls piled high with fresh fruit and veg, then queue with the locals for a dhal puri at one of the many food stalls – the wafer-thin pastry stuffed with a spicy lentil mix”.

You can fly direct to Mauritius with British Airways from £876 return.

Plus Lastminute.com offer package holiday deals to Mauritius from as little as £755, including flights.

The perfect winter escape awaits just 4.5 hours from London, with temperatures reaching 22 °C and 300 days of sunshine annually. As well as charming mountain villages, visitors to Cyprus can also explore the world’s only divided capital, Nicosia.

Brits looking for a sun-drenched getaway might want to consider this English-speaking island, just a short flight from the UK, with pleasant winter temperatures of 22 °C. Only a four-and-a-half-hour journey from London, this Mediterranean gem offers a welcome break from the UK’s current cold, wet weather.

With year-round sunshine and flowers beginning to bloom in March, Cyprus is a fantastic choice for families, offering numerous family-friendly hotels. The island also features a range of activities, from walking trails to discovering a variety of cultural and historical sites.

Winter sees fewer visitors, making it the perfect time to explore popular attractions without the lengthy queues. Whilst partygoers will be drawn to Ayia Napa, one of Europe’s top party destinations, those seeking blissful tranquillity can bask in the island’s 300 days of sunshine each year.

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A trip into the Troodos Mountains unveils stunning scenery and a delightful village nestled in the valley below. In a surprising twist, there’s even a ski resort located within the breathtaking Troodos Mountain Range. Operating from January to March, it’s positioned on Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, and an iconic destination bound to intrigue lovers of ancient mythology.

Visitors can drive up to the slopes, which feature several scenic viewpoints en route. Hidden in the valley is the picturesque village of Omodos, filled with restaurants serving traditional food such as fresh halloumi and lamb Kleftiko – the ideal conclusion to a day of mountain exploration. The village also boasts the Monastery of Timios Stavros, one of the most historically significant monasteries on the island, which offers tours.

A local fortified sweet wine, commandaria, is popular in the area and can be purchased from locals’ doorsteps for €2-€5 (£1.61-£4.23). Another must-visit is Nicosia, the divided capital of Cyprus. Following the 1974 civil war, the island was bifurcated into two states: the Greek Republic of Southern Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and this fascinating city remains a stark reminder of these troubled times.

The border, known as the ‘green line’, cuts through lively Nicosia, making it the only divided capital city in the world, with a rich history stretching back more than 5,000 years. Tourists may cross the border in a fairly straightforward process, at The Ledra Street Border Crossing and The Ledra Palace Border Crossing, the second of which allows for both vehicles and pedestrians.

Other attractions include underwater waterfall hikes, a turtle conservation station, Aphrodite’s Rock, the Tombs of the Kings, snorkelling adventures, Akamas Peninsula National Park, castles and even a wellness retreat.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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NEW city break packages have been launched by TUI – to a destination set to be even bigger this year.

The new packages, on sale now, will connect Brits to the city of Cairo in Egypt.

The latest in its city break packages, flights will operate from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.

Passengers will travel on British Airways, easyJet or Egyptair flights.

Five night holidays start from £696pp, which includes return flights, transfers, luggage and stays at Nile Sky Suites Hotel with breakfast.

TUI’s Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “With winter sun, world-famous sights and great value all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who are after sunshine but want more than a beach holiday.

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“Egypt is one of the best-value winter sun destinations. You get brilliant hotels, unforgettable experiences and fantastic value for money, especially during the winter months” added Logan.”

The city of Cairo’s nickname, especially by locals, is ‘mother of the world’ for many believing it is the centre of civilisation.

Its main attraction is the Pyramids of Giza – the only remaining ancient wonder of the world – as well as the Great Sphinx.

There is also the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest of its kind in the world.

The Sun’s Dean Agius visited soon after it opened.

He explained: “The enormous building, covering an area of 470,000 square metres, houses more than 50,000 artefacts — and the centre­piece of its collection will bring all 5,000-plus treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb together for the first time.

“Stepping through its pyramid-shaped entrance, the 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II sits in GEM’s soaring central atrium.”

TUI also said there are “lesser-known hidden gems” in Cairo too, including the green oasis Al-Azhar Park, which has amazing city views.

Cairo remains around 20C in winter, although is hitting highs of 26c this week – making it an ideal winter sun holiday destination around five hours from the UK.

Summer temperatures can hit around 36C.

Brits can also explore the rest of Egypt, with other popular experiences including Nile River cruises.

There is the city of Luxor, home to Luxor Temple and the famous Valley of the Kings.

Otherwise popular beach resorts include Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, including the nearby El Gouna.

TUI has restarted flights to Sharm el Sheikh from East Midlands, taking off later this year.

Egypt has long been a popular, affordable holiday destination for Brits.

However, its affordability is seeing it boom even more this year, according to experts.

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy said earlier this week: “North Africa is performing well, with […] Egypt standing out.”

The airline will restart flights to two destinations in Egypt in 2027.

After scrapping routes back in 2011, the new flights will connect to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.