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Want to see the most beautiful scenes in one trip? A must-do country European road trip will take you to six countries, where you will see the sea, mountains, castles and breath-taking views

Hopping on a plane and getting to your holiday destination in hours is a luxury, but one thing that everyone should do at least once in their lives is a road trip.

TikTok account Living Our Memories shared the perfect itinerary, where the key stops included France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium. The total route is 23 hours and 49 minutes, non-stop.

Gathering over a million views, the couple, who shared their travels with their 5K followers, captioned the video: “An epic road trip across 6 countries you must have to do at least once in your life.”

Champagne, France

First stop, the French region of Champagne, known for its scenic vineyards. Located in the northeast of France, their sparkling white wine is what makes them so well-known. Visitors can see the cities of Reims and Épernay, as well as the villages like Hautvillers and Méry-sur-Ay.

Wine lovers can make a pit stop and tour the famous Champagne houses such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. Those who prefer adrenaline can do some outdoor activities such as biking through the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.

Stausee Steg, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein’s turquoise waters in the middle of the most gorgeous greenery scenes, facing the mountains. It’s the perfect place for a swim in the lake or a picnic with your loved ones.

If you’re feeling sporty or want to capture the perfect shot, you can hike the mountains and get the perfect scene. According to AllTrails, it’s best to bring water shoes for those who plan to swim or walk near the rocky edges.

Lake Eibsee, Germany

Nature lovers will love Lake Eibsee in Germany. The waters are crystal clear with views of the Zugspitze mountains.

Some of the activities for visitors are hiking the 7.5 km (4.6 miles) walk around the lake, as it provides stunning views. You can also rent a boat or a canoe to explore the lake and the surrounding islands. If you’re brave enough, you can also swim in the waters – but it’s super cold.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Located in Bavaria, Germany, in the foothills of the Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is just the exact layout as the ones in the Disney movies. In fact, it’s best known for the inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

The 19th-century historic castle overlooks the narrow Pollat gorge, and it’s close to the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes. Therefore, it makes it an ideal place to visit on the way to the upcoming location of the road trip.

Tickets cost 20 euros (£17.36), but children under the age of 18 can access the castle completely free of charge.

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Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg’s tourism has increased over the years, making it the perfect place for a city break or a day trip. The city has a unique blend of history and culture, with a lot to offer to visitors and locals alike.

Its historical sites include UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous landmarks such as the Grand Ducal Palace and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The best thing about Luxembourg is that you can enjoy it all year round, and the public transportation is free.

Dinant, Belgium

To conclude the road trip, what better way to do it than in Belgium? A more tranquil side of the country, with beautiful scenery and history. Its most popular tourist attraction is the Maison Leffe. The town’s location is also ideal along the River Meuse, as it overlooks the water and the pastel-coloured houses.

Visitors can walk through the cobbled streets, take a boat tour and even participate in water activities such as kayaking on the nearby Lesse River.

Bruges, Belgium

Perfect for a city break, a small yet fulfilling town with a lot to offer. If you’re a fan of medieval settings, this is the place for you. However, its popularity comes with big crowds and higher costs.

Bruges is also famous for its Belgian waffles, fries, chocolate and beer – so, come with an empty stomach to indulge the best sweet and savoury flavours.

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Under a two-hour flight from the UK is a ‘magical’ and ‘beautiful’ theme park, boasting 30 rides and attractions that offers a great alternative to Disneyland – and it’s much cheaper

Disneyland has long been dubbed ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’, but with that comes a hefty price tag, particularly if you’re taking the whole family. Thankfully, there’s a cheaper alternative for a fraction of the price, and it’s even been said to have been inspired by Walt Disney itself.

Less than a two-hour flight from the UK is Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, known for its “cosy, wholesome and magical atmosphere.” It claims to be the second-oldest amusement park in the world, having opened in 1843, and boasts around 30 fun-packed rides and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Located in the heart of the city and set within the stunning backdrop of the Danish capital, it has been labelled “the most beautiful park” by one avid traveller and content creator called Emily. And one of the most appealing qualities about this theme park is that tickets start from as little as £11.10 per person.

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Sharing details of the beloved and overlooked Disneyland alternative, Emily posted a TikTok video on her page, @upfoldadventures, during a family day out. At the start of the video, she told her 10.9K followers, “If Disneyland Paris is out of your budget this year, I have the next best thing, and no, it’s not Efteling.

“If you love Disney but you hate the crowds and you want the magic but at half the price, well this park has those Disney magical storybook vibes but without the chaos and when it gets dark and all the lights come on, you will understand why this is called ‘Europe’s hidden Disney.'”

She added: “It is one of the world’s oldest theme parks and it is truly magical – it is honestly like stepping foot into a storybook.

“The rides are classic and stunning, the park is spotless, there’s live music, there’s shows and the food is phenomenal – don’t just think this is gonna be theme park junk, no, it is genuinely some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life.”

One of the main attractions at Tivoli Gardens is the giant Ferris Wheel that was built in 1943. It also offers views 63m above the ground on the Golden Tower, and a thrilling ride on its wooden Roller Coaster, which was erected all the way back in 1914.

In addition, visitors can whiz around on their bumper cars and carousel rides, or admire the picturesque surroundings in the Hanging Gardens. And that’s not all, as the theme park is also packed with shops, stages, theatre spaces and a food hall to keep the family happy.

While the savvy saving mum is a huge fan of Disneyland Paris, she was left delighted after a day out at Tivoli Gardens. In the video she added: “So if you love the Disney vibe, well then you’re gonna fall in love with it, because it is such a cosy, wholesome, magical atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of Disneyland Paris – and before Disney even existed, this park was creating all the magic.”

Standard weekday tickets for Tivoli Gardens start from just £11.10 for children aged 3-7, while a standard adult ticket costs just £22.21. A weekday ticket and ride pass, offering full access to all the attractions, will set you back £25.01 for children aged 3-7 and £50.14 for an adult ticket.

Children under 3 are free at Tivoli Gardens. Prices can vary, so it’s best to check their website for more details.

US Vice President JD Vance has announced the identity of the ‘new ABC late night host’ after Jimmy Kimmel was pulled from the air indefinitely following his Charlie Kirk comments in Monday’s opening monologue

US Vice President JD Vance has made a surprising announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter. He revealed that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be stepping in to fill the shoes of Jimmy Kimmel on ABC.

The network has yet to officially confirm this news, but Vance dropped the bombshell on Thursday morning. This comes just a day after the sudden cancellation of the comedian’s long-standing late-night programme, Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Jimmy’s show was abruptly axed by the broadcaster following his opening monologue earlier this week, where he mentioned Charlie Kirk.

In an unexpected turn of events, the VP announced, “Everyone please congratulate @marcorubio, the new host of ABC’s late-night show!”.

ABC, which is owned by Disney, pulled the plug on Jimmy Kimmel Live! after his comments about the death of right-wing podcaster Charlie Kirk. Specifically, his remarks about the suspected killer and his mockery of Trump’s icy response to questions about his associate’s death, according to the Irish Star.

Charlie Kirk, the host of the podcast Turning Point, was attending the first event of The American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University when he was shot in the neck. Officials believe the weapon used was a high-powered rifle.

Kirk did not survive his injuries and has since become a martyr for the Republican Party.

Jimmy declared, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA Gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

He continued, “In between the finger-pointing, there was grieving.

“On Friday, the White House flew the flags at half staff, which drew some criticism, but on a human level, you can see how hard the president is taking this,” he continued, cutting to a clip of Trump being interviewed by the press on the White House lawn talking about the new ballroom when asked about how he was holding up after his friend’s death.

“Yes, he’s at the fourth stage of grief: construction. This is not how an adult grieves the murder of someone he called a friend. This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish, okay? And it didn’t just happen once,” Jimmy said, before showing another clip of the president on Fox News talking about the ballroom when asked about how he heard the news of Charlie’s death.

The host went on to ask, “Why are we building a $200 million ballroom in the White House? Is it possible that he’s doing it intentionally so we can be mad about that instead of the Epstein list?” His sudden dismissal has left the country rattled amid fears over freedom of expression.

Marco Rubio, despite having no previous experience as a television host apart from guest appearances on Fox News and other networks, is rumoured to be taking up the Vice President’s post.

However, it remains unconfirmed whether the politician will be hosting his own show on ABC.

In a surprising move, some affiliate stations are planning to broadcast a Charlie Kirk memorial instead of the usual Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Friday during its regular time slot.

Melissa Higgins took her family on a three-day trip to Disneyland Paris on funded by Make A Wish Foundation with her 14-year-old son Anthony Higgins on August 27

A schoolboy was left in tears after easyJet staff allegedly forced him to abandon his wheelchair battery or risk not being flown home from Disneyland.

Melissa Higgins took her family on a three-day trip to Disneyland Paris, a journey funded by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with her 14-year-old son, Anthony (AJ) Higgins, on 27 August.

Anthony suffers from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness and leaves him unable to walk. Melissa says his £10,000 power-assisted wheelchair is his ‘life’ as it provides him with independence.

The mother-of-four claims a pilot refused to allow the wheelchair battery onto the return flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Manchester airport on 29 August because the wattage wasn’t visible.

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The full-time carer insists she’s never encountered problems before, including on their outbound flight with easyJet, and maintains she had paperwork stating it was safe to fly – but was compelled to leave it in Paris.

Without his wheelchair, the teenager is now ‘stuck’ inside his house and unable to go to school, the family has claimed.

Melissa, 37, is still hopeful that the £1,000 battery will be returned to them and she has since received an apology over the phone from the airline.

The mum, from Speke, Liverpool, said: “I was in shock on the plane and thinking, ‘What’s going on?’. We’ve not had this problem before. I don’t get why all the commotion’s gone on for nothing. It was a lifelong dream of AJ’s to go to Disneyland. He was able to fly to Disneyland with no problems.”

Melissa explained how, on the way home, a pilot spotted the battery and told the family they couldn’t travel with it.

“It went through customs perfectly fine. If there was something wrong with it they would’ve known. He was like, ‘It hasn’t got a wattage on it’ but these batteries don’t have a wattage on them because they’re dry and not liquid,” Melissa said of the pilot.

“We were there for about an hour and a half and he was trying to get this wattage for the battery, but I explained ‘it doesn’t have a wattage, we have all the paperwork from the manufacturers’. He said it puts the other travellers at risk.”

She added: “Doing this in front of everyone was humiliating and everyone on the plane was moaning. We were all crying. In the end we just wanted to get the kids home so we had to leave the battery behind and had to come home without it. Obviously we wanted to bring the chair back with us because it’s his life.”

The mum says her son has lost all of his independence without his wheelchair and is hoping to be reunited with the battery to avoid having to fork out £1,000 for a new one.

An easyJet spokesman said: “Safety is easyJet’s highest priority and airlines must follow the safety regulations for the carriage of batteries, which are allowed to travel on the aircraft as long as the required information for safe carriage can be provided, and we advise customers of these requirements ahead of travel.

“Unfortunately, as the necessary information could not be provided for this battery, in line with safety procedures, it was unable to travel. However we fully understand the frustration this will have caused and are in contact with the family to offer further assistance and have arranged to return the battery to them today.”

This huge playground is said to be ‘better than Disneyland’ and is easy for Brits to get to in a day – and it has over 350 different attractions for all ages to enjoy

With more than 350 attractions, this mega playground is bigger than Disneyland – and it takes under an hour to get there. Located in Linnaeushof, in the Netherlands, it’s the biggest in Europe and you can visit it in a day.

Brits can travel to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, and it’s then just a 20 minute drive to the park, making it an epic day trip for adventure seekers.

With three main sections – an indoor playground, an outdoor playground and a water playground, there is so much to do. The outdoor area is the main attraction including the Pirate Island in the middle of the pedalo lake, which can only be reached by rope bridge which also has paddle boats for both kids and adults.

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There are views from the Cool Tower, where you lift yourself to 30ft in the air via pull rope, as well as an obstacle course, cable car, driving traffic garden and mini golf too.

The Playground Express runs every day throughout the park amd there is also the Oasis water playground, which has fountains, climbing structures and splash pools.

There is also a separate toddler playground with a sandpit, bouncy castle and Toddlerland playpark and the indoor playground has everything from bumper cars and air karts, as well as a play castle. The park is open from March to October with tickets ranging from €15 to €18, although the go karts cost an extra €7.

It comes as one of Europe’s top-rated theme parks, which happens to have no rides, is planning a UK site. Puy du Fou is the creator of award-winning history-themed destinations in France and Spain of the same name. It welcomes in 2.8 million visitors a year and shows them a good time not via the medium of rides, but through its historical attractions.

At its Toledo and Les Epesses bases, Puy du Fou puts on dozens of action-packed shows in which gladiators, Vikings, warriors from the Middle Ages, and many others besides clash swords, ride horses, and set off pyrotechnics. The two sites are often rated as among the best theme parks in the world, delivering as they do a history-spanning live-action role-player’s dream.

Now, Puy du Fou has unveiled plans to move to the UK. It has submitted an outline planning application to Cherwell District Council for a £600 million park near Bicester, which is best known for housing a discount fashion retail park beloved by Chinese tourists.

If approved, the new park will open in phases beginning in 2029. By the time the park is fully developed it will directly employ around 2,000 people, support a further 6,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, suppliers and other local businesses, and deliver a £500m a year boost to the local and regional economy, Puy du Fou has claimed in a press release.

Disneyland and Disney World will deny entry to visitors who don’t follow these simple rules, but don’t worry, a TikToker has listed them for you ahead of your visit.

The magic of Disney World and Disneyland is what many dream of experiencing. Known for its beloved characters and xx rides, it’s the place where dreams can come true.

Despite being a space where all visitors are welcomed to be themselves, there are a few rules to follow. If you break any of these rules, you could see yourself walking out towards the exit.

Sophie, a travel influencer with nearly 300,000 TikTok followers, warned those planning a visit to Disneyland Paris that not following the rules could result in you being “shown the exit.”.

“We all know that planning your Disney outfit is an essential part of your trip,” she explained. “They want children to believe in real Disney-trained characters… Not Susan, who’s wearing a full Elsa costume, chain-smoking outside Hyperspace Mountain.”

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The joy about visiting Disney World and Disneyland isn’t only seeing your favourite characters, but also dressing up as them. However, it seems that this is no longer allowed – unless you’re 12 or under.

Disneyland Paris states that they have “the right, at our own discretion and at any given time, to refuse a visitor to wear any type of costume.”

Secondly, Sophie said that “any clothing that drags on the ground” isn’t allowed in the park. It includes “anything with excessive fabric, like capes or long trains”. She then further explained that the reason was a safety risk on rides and impractical for walking in a crowded space.

“You have to wear proper clothing at all times – so no, you can’t walk around in a bikini top even when it’s hot. And shoes are required at all times, so please, keep your dogs under wraps.”

Looking out for the safety and positive experience of their guests, the park has also outlined that clothing is not allowed to “offend, shock or scare children and a family-oriented public.”

Last but not least, the park prohibits the entry of taboo tattoos. The official park rules from the Walt Disney World Official Rules say: “Visible tattoos that could be considered inappropriate, such as those containing objectionable language or designs, are not permitted.”

By following these five simple rules, all guests will have an unforgettable best time. But don’t worry, nothing can stop you from wearing the Mickey Mouse or Mini Mouse iconic ears.

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If your summer holiday saw screen time soar, you’re not alone. New research shows kids spend up to 67 per cent of their time on them while off school. Mum-of-two Hannah Britt reveals how cutting back made her feel like a better parent – and you can do it too

Our summer was full of sea, sand, sun… and screen time. K-Pop Demon Hunters, anyone? But with September now in full swing, it’s time to crack down – and fast. And I am by no means alone. In fact, the latest statistics show that, for primary-aged children, 29 per cent spend two or more hours per day on screens during the school week, but that number jumps to an eye watering 67 per cent during the holidays.

Parenting expert Kirsty Ketley explains. “School provides children with structure and built-in limits on screen use, and of course, once home, there are less hours in the day for screens, but once the holidays arrive, that structure disappears,” she says. “Parents are often juggling work, childcare, and the cost of keeping kids entertained, so screens naturally become a convenient option. On top of that, digital entertainment is designed to be engaging and hard to switch off from, so it’s no surprise children gravitate towards it when they have long stretches of free time.”

So what’s the issue? “It’s not that screens are inherently ‘bad’,” says Kirsty. “In fact, they can be educational, social, and even calming at times. However, when screen time dominates, it can crowd out other important activities like active play, real-world socialising, outdoor time, and rest. High levels of screen use are also linked to disrupted sleep, reduced concentration, and higher stress levels in both children and adults. The key issue isn’t the screen itself, but what’s being displaced when usage creeps up too high. It’s why having consistent boundaries around screen time is important, so that kids strike a healthy balance.”

Having done some serious Netflix parenting over the summer holidays, I decided to pull the plug – and go cold turkey when it came to screens. Indeed, experts agree the benefits of reducing screen time are huge. “Reducing screen time means more space for connection. Families who put healthy limits in place often find they talk more, laugh more, and feel less stressed,” advises Kirsty. “Sleep improves, behaviour often does too, and there’s more opportunity for shared activities – from board games to walks, to simply sitting around the table together.”

Looking around our home, my eyes glanced upon the TV, the iPad, various laptops, a Nintendo, the Kindle and two phones. So I booked an Airbnb, and we hopped in the car to the Lake District. And there the screen time stopped.

For our digital detox I chose Dodd’s Lee, a 17th Century farmhouse, located in the village of Dockray, near Ullswater. It was a Guest Favourite (easy to recognise as they have a special logo on the properties, and a collection of the most-loved homes on Airbnb, according to guests), and around £400 per night, with four bedrooms. It looked ideal – there was a pub at the end of the road, walks to Aira Force waterfall, Ulswater and more from the door and plenty of board games to enjoy while we were there. It was so well located, I wouldn’t even need Google maps to explore.

Once there, my partner John and I put our phones, along with Molly’s Kindle, and the TV remote in a little bag and hid them in an upstairs wardrobe. “What now”, I thought. “Can I watch Mr Bean?” asked my five-year-old, Molly. When the answer was no, she huffed. Getting out the board games, we started our digital detox by playing dominos. Then Monopoly. Molly’s grump gave way to laughter as she beat both me and her dad.

Then, it was time for a walk, for which we headed down the hill from Dockray to a little beach on the banks of Ullswater. I found myself reaching for my phone several times out of habit. Whatever I would have done on it, check Instagram, reply to a text, it could wait. Holding hands with Molly, we chatted all the way instead, and she told me stories, clearly happy her mummy was fully engaged. That evening came stories and songs, and when the children were in bed John and I set about talking away before we too hit the hay.

The next morning, Molly didn’t ask for her Kindle but to play snap. She beat us again. Lunch came in the form of a trip to the pub, where John tried in vain to teach us the rules to giant chess. We fell about laughing, getting our rooks mixed up with our pawns.

After three days, when checking out of our wonderfully cosy Airbnb, I almost didn’t want to get my phone out of its bag. And in fact, after just a few minutes of a Disney film in the car on the way home, Molly set her Kindle aside and asked for a family sing song. A complete digital wipeout might not be possible in the modern age in which we live. But a detox every now and again might be just what we need.

How to reduce your family’s screen time

Kirsty shares her advice:

OFFER ALTERNATIVES

For me, the most effective way isn’t to ban screens altogether, but to add in alternatives, and have rules and boundaries in place – they need to be fair and realistic, too. Children need things to do instead, whether that’s setting up playdates, encouraging outdoor activities, or giving them creative projects at home.

SCREEN-FREE ZONES

Having screen-free zones or times of day (like during meals or the hour before bed) also helps build natural boundaries. Start small and be realistic: shaving an hour off daily use by swapping it for something else is far more sustainable than trying to go cold turkey. Also, when creating boundaries for the kids, incorporate some as whole family rules – no screens at the table, after a certain time, in bedrooms, for instance.

SET AN EXAMPLE

Children copy what they see, so if we’re always scrolling, they’ll think that’s normal. Modelling balanced screen use is powerful. That might mean putting your phone away at dinner, not checking emails late into the evening, or choosing to read, cook, or go for a walk instead of defaulting to a device. Being honest with kids about your own screen habits can also help. If you explain, “I’m putting my phone down because I want to spend time with you,” it sends a strong message.

Despite claims that they wouldn’t be having a 23rd child, the Radfords have shocked viewers after a clip from the show appears to show Sue experiencing a pregnancy scare

Sue Radford has shocked viewers and sparked rumours of a pregnancy scare after a clip from an upcoming episode of 22 Kids and Counting showed her panic over a late period and “crazy” hormones.

Sue, who shares 22 children with husband Noel, turned 50 in March, and in the next episode of the reality show documenting the family’s life, we get to follow the lead-up to the milestone. In the promotional clip ahead of the air date, Sue can be seen saying: “My 50th is coming up, I feel like my hormones are crazy.”

In the 30-second video, we then hear a woman telling her: “I think it’s really risky for you to stop the pill.” The clip dramatically cuts to Sue approaching Noel and telling him she needs to talk because her period is “late”. The video ends on a cliff hanger, with both Noel and Sue stating: “Oh my God.”

The couple already have 22 children, who are: Chris, Sophie, Chloe, Jack, Daniel, Luke, Millie, Katie, James, Ellie, Aimee, Josh, Max, Tillie, Oscar, Casper, Hallie, Phoebe, Archie, Bonnie, and Heidie. Their 17th child, Alfie, was sadly still born in 2014.

Despite the show hinting at a possible pregnancy scare, Sue and Noel, 54, have previously insisted that Heidie was their last child. The five-year-old went to school for the first time last September, and Sue told the Mirror that she was finally enjoying having some free time with all the kids now out the house.

She said: “But I have to confess I did cry when she went to school. It’s such a big moment – your last baby going to school and you don’t have any more at home. I do also love having the house full and bustling.”

Ahead of her 50th this year, Sue explained that this birthday was a “big deal”, saying: “I said: ‘You know what, because I am turning 50, I am definitely having a whole year of celebrations!’”

The whole family, including the grandkids, headed to Disney World in Florida, US, to celebrate Sue in the Easter holidays. On her birthday, Noel wrote a heart-warming Instagram caption for his wife, in which he said: “Myself and all of our children want to wish this beautiful, loving, caring lady who we all call Sue and Mum a Happy big 50th Birthday today or as Sue says I’m 49 plus 1.”

Another milestone was celebrated in the Radford house this week, as Max received his GSCE results. The family announced the news of his success online, writing: “We are so incredibly proud of Max he passed his GCSE with mainly 7 and 8’s.”

They added: “He is so incredibly happy, well done Max we knew you would do it, very proud mum and dad moment.”

22 Kids and Counting is available to watch on My5

Marvel fans say this blockbuster was their best movie of 2025 and you’ll soon be able to stream it at no extra cost

Disney+ will soon be streaming one of the best comic book movies of the year at no extra charge.

The film is currently available to rent or buy at home, though you’ll still have to pay up to £13.99 on platforms such as Apple TV, Prime Video and Sky Store.

Thankfully, there’s not long to wait until Disney+ users will be able to stream the film whenever they want without paying anything on top of their monthly subscription.

Comic book fans have called it one of Marvel Studios’ best blockbusters in years – and, no, it’s not the recently released The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Instead, we’re talking about Thunderbolts*, which is set to debut exclusively on Disney+ on Wednesday, 27th August.

Starring Florence Pugh, David Harbour and Sebastian Stan, the film follows an unlikely team of heroes and villains from across the Marvel universe who reluctantly team up to protect the Earth from a dangerous and unpredictable new threat.

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Pugh returns as Yelena Belova, the new Black Widow, an elite mercenary who is struggling to find her place in the world when the enigmatic Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus) entrusts her with an important but suspicious new mission.

Following a period of disappointment for the superhero franchise, both box office and critical, Marvel fans were pleasantly surprised when Thunderbolts* burst onto the big screen back in April.

One five-star Google review described the film as an “absolute gem of the superhero genre”.

“If you’re looking for a fresh, high-octane adventure with a unique twist, Thunderbolts is exactly what you’ve been waiting for,” they went on to promise.

“This story is a masterclass in reimagining the traditional superhero team-up, featuring a lineup of antiheroes, former villains, and morally ambiguous characters who are forced to work together for a common cause.”

Someone else gushed: “Thunderbolts* was an incredible surprise. This movie fixes so many of the problems that recent MCU projects have suffered from.

“It actually feels like one director was in charge of this, not a committee of executives. The humor also feels natural, not forced.

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“Which makes everything better. It doesn’t feel like this movie was reworked and reshot a thousand times. The characters are also great. Every actor is doing their absolute best and their chemistry is great.”

Another die-hard fan raved on X: “Had the time of my life with #thunderbolts! One of the best mcu projects in recent years.

“The movie does an outstanding job of exploring its themes surrounding mental health. I absolutely love [the] team and their dynamic, I cared so much about all of them. Easy 10/10.”

And a final viewer admitted: “Shocked how good THUNDERBOLTS* is. Putting emphasis on the character work and practical action makes this feel like the old Marvel that had us for a decade plus.

“Wish we’d gotten this sooner. Helps that this dysfunctional team has chemistry too.”

Will you be checking out Thunderbolts* for the first time or giving the film a much-deserved rewatch next week?

Thunderbolts* will be available to stream on Disney+ from Wednesday, 27th August.

Walt Disney World Resort, Florida is a family favourite, but social influencer Alex Dobson has dropped a video expressing his thoughts on the park – and it’s gone viral in just a day

With the summer holidays in full swing, many families will be embarking on vacations, whether that’s abroad or as part of a staycation. Some of those seasonal revellers will be lucky enough to be visiting ‘Mickey’s House’, AKA, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida.

It’s estimated that just under 1 million UK visitors travel to Orlando annually, with 80% of those visiting ‘the most magical place of earth’. However, while Disney World and Disney Land are widely loved by children and held with a fierce nostalgia by many parents (and non-parents), the reality can sometimes prove to be less than dreamy.

What’s more, one viral video recently popped the Mickey-ears shaped bubble with one deft swipe. Alex Dodman is a social influencer with roughly 450,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram.

The father-of-three is famous for his ‘real reviews’ of family days out, attractions and holidays, as well as viral trends and cultural events – and now his spotlight is firmly on the Disney resort.

Opening the review with a wry, “It’s almost like we’ve been programmed to think that this is the most magical place on earth”, while filming a motorway gantry leading into the theme park that proclaims the very same, Alex boldly claims that “it’s probably the most overpriced tourist p**stakes in history”.

As many a parent who’s been through the Disney World machine will attest to, the resort is not cheap. A Disney World holiday for a family of four from the UK, including flights, can range from around £6,500 to £15,000 or more, depending on the various packages.

And the repeated financial roundhouse kicks are not entirely conducive to a happy holiday between married people, either, with Alex saying it’s likely they’re going to “pretend they’re having a good time posting about it online, when in reality they’ve probably argued about 1,000 times, been on the brink of divorce, and each child has had an overstimulated meltdown every half an hour”.

According to the influencer: “A ticket to get in here for the day for two adults, two kids and a baby was $709 and because I actually wanted the kids to go on a ride this time, I got some lightning Lane tickets for three rides for an extra $136… How is this even allowed?”

‘Main Street’, the thoroughfare with full view of the Disney Castle, is one to swerve, says Alex.

Not impressed with people that “pretended to cry when they first saw the castle”, he cracked on to the rides – saying that “having some lightning Lane tickets did work well”.

He was less than impressed with the rides themselves, saying the ‘Barnstormer’ “lasted for 25 seconds”, ‘Peter Pan’s Flight’ was “basically pitch black” and ‘It’s a Small World’ was “everyone’s favourite nightmare”.

Conceding that he did understand why “this place is some people’s happy place”, Alex reflected that the ‘trap’ may lie in the fact that Brits have travelled all the way to Orlando.

For that reason, it’s tempting to give in to the cost to embrace a “once in a lifetime” trip. However, he went on to say that: “There’s no way you can enjoy this without having in the back of the mind how utterly screwed you’re being done by Disney”.

Summing up, Alex considered the pay off of such a pricey trip, saying: “Did the kids enjoy it? Yeah. But we also went to Clearwater Beach for the weekend, and they said they had a better time jumping in the sea there, which was free”.

He added: “However you chop it up, it’s way too expensive.”

Comments to the video were mixed, with some wholeheartedly agreeing and others fiercely defending the place that they deeply love.

Many pointed out that Alex’s big mistake was not booking park hopper tickets that make the experience a whole lot more affordable. Doing more research could have helped him to avoid the busiest queues, too.

One follower helpfully supplied: “Yeah, feels like you need so much insider knowledge to not be stung so much with Disney. Park hopper tickets are a better and cheaper option. Staying at Disney property helps for costs with parking for free and dining plans.”

Another person was keen to help too, saying: “Disney World takes a lot of research to do it well and paying for lightning lanes on these type of rides shows you didn’t complete basic training in Disney world trip planning. I think it’s to do with having really little kids too it’s so much fun in the bigger better rides with older kids”.

One poster was relived that they weren’t missing out, saying: “Thank you for blessing us poor who can’t get there that we aren’t depriving our kids and ourselves of the most magical experience on earth”.

And one full-blown fan was clear where her loyalty lay, expressing: “I’m in the Disney cult. Please don’t save me if I blink. They can take my hard earned cash from me so I can walk down that busy street, get tears in my eyes and reminisce of days gone by. “

It might be a two hour flight away, and a five and a half hour drive, but a growing number of Brits believe Efteling is well worth the journey.

Most Brits have a love-hate relationship with theme parks, often finding themselves grumbling about the long queues, exorbitant prices, and less-than-stellar food. We’ve all been there, shelling out a small fortune for a day of standing in line, only to enjoy a few fleeting moments of rollercoaster excitement, while simultaneously trying to keep pesky wasps away from our overpriced fast food.

But fear not, there’s an alternative. If you’re up for a bit of a journey, you can find yourself at Efteling, located near Tilburg in the Netherlands, in just three and a half hours from Calais.

You might be thinking, is it really worth the extra effort and cost?

Well, an increasing number of Brits certainly think so – including Nottinghamshire Live executive editor Sam Dimmer.

Sam recently embarked on a trip to the park to see if it lived up to its growing reputation, reports the Express.

He shared: “My family and I spent three nights at Efteling, travelling from the East Midlands. Our hotel room included park passes for four days. It cost £1,200 in total, but considering park tickets cost around £180 a day for a family of four, I think that represents good value.”

Sam had previously visited the park but only stayed one night, which he felt wasn’t enough. Plus, the park had recently unveiled a new ride he was eager to try.

He added: “We felt that three nights was just about enough this time around, but still very nearly missed an entire section of the park because it wasn’t where all of the main rides were.”

Initially, Sam planned to keep track of how many rides we went on, but that idea was quickly abandoned.

He said: “The theme park is open from 10am until 10pm and the queues rarely go above 30 minutes, so you’re going to be quite busy, particularly late in the evening.

“Also the virtual queuing on two rides, and the app advising you how long queues are, mean you can plan your day to spend as little time as possible queueing.

“When you’ve got younger kids, or kids with additional needs, that’s a lifesaver.”

Efteling is a family-friendly theme park and last year Sam’s eight year old was able to go on all the rides, including the Baron, a vertical drop coaster similar to Oblivion at Alton Towers but with superior theming.

This means that around 7pm, many visitors start heading for the exit and the queues for the bigger thrill rides and the darker new ride, Danse Macabre, only take 10 to 15 minutes.

Those rides? They’re absolutely brilliant.

Sam said: “Yes, it’s a family park, with brilliant playgrounds, a fantasy forest, incredible theming and based around fantastic stories. But my oh my, the rides are good. The aforementioned Baron, wooden race coasters Joris and the Dragon and water coaster the Flying Dutchman are tremendous fun, but the best ride is the newest – Danse Macabre.”

Danse Macabre was Sam’s favourite – in fact, he and his family rode it seven times. He said: “Yes, it broke down on the last day and the queues were long, but this is a special ride. Guests sit in rows of church pews, before the whole room goes dark. Then you’re spun around the room, like you’re dancing, watching an orchestra of ghosts and ghouls perform.We went on it seven times and each time we saw something new. Every time people applauded when the ride ended. It’s that good. It’s beautifully put together, exceptionally clever, and so fun.”

The food is delicious

Typically during Sam’s theme park adventures he packs his own lunch to dodge the pricey and often disappointing food – but at Efteling there were no complaints about the cuisine.

He said: “The park is famous for many things, and the food is definitely one of them. The chimney cakes, pastry cones filled with an assortment of fruit, cream, chocolate, candy floss etc etc are a delight, although I wouldn’t recommend eating one before hitting a big ride, and you can also sample Dutch treats like poffertjes (little pancakes) and kibbeling (deep fried spiced fish with a delicious dip).

“If anything the food is better than last year. Pinnokio’s pizza and pasta restaurant was a hit with my family, as was the meal at Het Eethuys, a hotel on site.

“My favourite though was Polles Keuken, a pancake restaurant that served huge sweet or savoury pancakes against a brilliant backdrop.”

Nevertheless, it’s crucial to reserve these restaurants beforehand as they can become extremely packed.

Allow yourself plenty of time to wander Efteling isn’t a massive park but you’ll definitely miss something if you’re not paying attention.

Sam said: “We only spotted the huge playground because I saw a post on the incredibly helpful Efteling Fans UK Group and decided to go on the monorail at 9.30pm.

“We also spotted the Efteling museum and a great self-serve restaurant in the area that we returned to the next day. This was on day three of four in the park, and we weren’t planning on doing as much on our final day, but decided to stick around because we kept spotting new things to do.”

For visitors who fancy a gentler experience or youngsters not quite prepared for breakneck thrills, the Fairytale Forest provides a charming escape.

This magical zone boasts a collection of breathtaking exhibits, some motionless and others moving, presenting guests with an array of peculiar personalities, including Long Neck, a chap with an remarkably stretched neck.

Efteling is enchanting

Sam was thoroughly taken with the attraction, explaining: “The thing about Efteling is it doesn’t feel like a place designed to suck money out of you. It feels like they genuinely care about you having a great time. The staff, for example, are unbelievable. I clumsily asked one in Dutch if he spoke English and he looked at me and told me he spoke five languages and was learning a sixth.

“It’s clean, the music is wonderful and it smells so good they actually sell Efteling scents in the gift shop. My wife’s salon now smells very much like Efteling. I love Alton Towers, but I don’t think I’d particularly want to bottle the smell of a day out in Staffordshire.”

Anton Pieck, an artist and illustrator, was one of the founders of Efteling and his work continues to inspire the park today. His influence is still felt, making visitors feel as though they are truly walking through a fairytale.

It’s worth considering an overnight stay.

Not many theme parks necessitate an overnight stay, as usually a day is sufficient. Alton Towers in the UK might be an exception, but at Efteling, three nights didn’t seem excessive.

Sam’s hotel was a picturesque ten-minute stroll from the park entrance, passing lakes, playgrounds and a fairytale castle. He said the rooms were “ideal”, offering ample space for a family of four, with comfortable beds, a large bath and a powerful shower.

There’s even a swimming pool, perfect for younger kids.

Be prepared for a good deal of walking

This won’t come as a surprise to seasoned theme-park visitors, but you will certainly clock up the steps.

Sam said: “There’s a beautiful little steam train that takes you around the park, but we didn’t use it as the park itself isn’t huge.

“It’s a decision I regretted at the end of day four as we prepared to drive to Calais, although a decent pair of trainers helped me just about get through. We were averaging between 25,000-30,000 steps a day, which is a good old shift, but we were going from 10am to 10pm.

“We’re a family who enjoys being active, but for those who find walking challenging, this might not be as enjoyable. However, there are measures you can take to make it easier, and we do enjoy a good walk.”

Disney Cruise Line marked another milestone for their new cruise ship Disney Destiny set to sail in November with tributes to Hercules, the Lion King and Marvel

Disney Cruise Line marked another milestone its the expansion of its fleet as the latest of its cruise ships, Disney Destiny, was floated out earlier this week.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the Meyer Weft shipyard in Germany for the highly-anticipated event, which gave fans a first look at the 1,122ft-long ship, which is estimated to have cost up to $1.1billion (approx £743million) to build.

While a float out is a big deal for cruise lines, I wasn’t prepared for how much of an event it would turn out to be. My first clue was when we turned up to find that hundreds of locals had already been camping in the parking lot for days beforehand, and were already lining up near the shipyard’s riverbanks to get some of the best views of the ship.

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Meyer Weft and Disney Cruise Line pulled out all the stops too; there were food and drink stalls, iconic Disney songs playing in the background, and of course those all-important fireworks when the ship made its grand appearance. Minnie Mouse herself made an appearance, dressed in a new superhero outfit in a nod to the artwork that features on the bow of the Destiny.

There was a general buzz of anticipation, and considering a float out takes a couple of hours, the atmosphere was impressive.

Although it was all a very smooth process, it was nail-biting to watch all the same. For a start, although the ship’s engines have been built and are powerful enough for the ship to move forward, these don’t actually get used because there’s such a small margin of error in terms of navigating the riverbank and space.

Instead, a tiny (well, tiny compared to the cruise ship) tug boat sailed out and was hooked up to the ship with ropes; and that turned out to be the way they would be dragging out the huge ship which boasts a 144,000 gross tonnage. The smaller boat slowly zig zagged as it pulled the Disney Destiny out of the construction hall. There were only a few metres either side with room for error, so precision was key, and I felt nervous for the captain whose responsibility it was to ensure that the ship stayed well away from the sides!

There were around four or five shipyard workers who also walked along the edge of the riverbank, reportedly to keep an eye out in case the ship got too close, and to help assist the smaller boat with ropes.

Luckily, they knew what they were doing and the ship was floated out seamlessly, with fireworks and pyrotechnics going off once it had officially left the hall, as well as a new upbeat song being unveiled that will be the ship’s anthem.

As for the Disney Destiny itself, there’s going to be plenty for Mickey Mouse fans to get excited about. A sister ship to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, this new addition to the fleet boasts a ‘heroes and villains’ them complete with a Cruella De Vil themed bar, a Marvel lounge inspired by the Sanctum from Doctor Strange, and a Pirates of the Caribbean themed pub.

Disney Destiny will sail on her maiden voyage on November 20, 2025 from Fort Lauderdale, with itineraries to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean. You can get more details about the ship and book sailings at disneycruise.disney.go.com. You can also find out more about the shipyard at meyerwerft.de.

The cast of the terrifying new Alien series have admitted they weren’t particularly scared of the iconic space menace on set for one simple reason

Alien: Earth’s cast have revealed the man inside the iconic Xenomorph suit was anything but frightening behind the scenes.

Created by award-winning Fargo showrunner Noah Hawley, the new FX series, premiering this week on Disney+ in the UK, serves as a prequel to Ridley Scott’s sci-fi nightmare from 1979.

The series’ ensemble cast includes newcomers and familiar faces, including Timothy Olyphant, Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther and Babou Ceesay.

Of course, no entry in the Alien franchise is complete without the terrifying titular extraterrestrials and Hawley has emphasised a return to visceral practical effects to bring the horror to life.

Previewing the series at Alien: Earth’s London premiere, the cast revealed performer Cameron Brown was primarily inside the classic black suit that’s been horrifying fans for over 40 years.

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“It was Cameron Brown, who’s a vegan,” Ceesay shared. “Dressed in an eight-foot suit.

“Snarling in your face, K-Y jelly dripping out of his mouth. Yeah, scary.”

However, Ceesay and the rest of the cast couldn’t help giggling as they fondly remembered their time with Brown on set.

Lawther added: “It’s really easy to run away scared from a Xenomorph when it’s really a man who’s a Xenomorph chasing you.”

The cast also revealed their alien-suited co-star would frequently take breaks to munch on carrot sticks and hummus, in stark contrast to his flesh-eating screen persona.

During a panel discussion at Comic-Con’s Hall H, lead actress Chandler previously admitted she was “giddy” to be chased by a Xenomorph, calling Brown “the sweetest person in the world“, per GoldDerby.

And Lawther agreed at the time: “There’s something hysterical about the fearsomeness of the Xenomorph, but then he takes off his head, and he’s from New Zealand, and he doesn’t eat meat.

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“If you think me and Sydney are soft-spoken, just wait till you meet the Xenomorph.”

Die-hard fans of the original film by director Ridley Scott, as well as its subsequent sequels, will be thrilled to discover that Hawley relied on practical effects and sets as often as possible.

Elaborating on the advantages of practical techniques versus CGI, he explained: “I think it’s meaningful, both to the cast and, I think audiences know when something’s real or not real.

“We’ve gotten very good at tricking them, but, usually, what you need is some realistic element in the shot.

“The thing with horror is your imagination does most of the work for you, so you don’t want to see the monster for too long. You want to see the shadows, you want to see the open door.

“The shot is half a second and you’ve got a tail on a fishing line and that’s probably gonna work, you know what I mean?”

Critics are saying the Alien franchise is better than ever with the new TV prequel, but will it win fans over who think the Xenomorphs should have stayed in space? Find out soon.

Alien: Earth premieres Wednesday, 13th August on Disney+.

For a limited time only, witness the first stage of the life cycle of the Xenomorph up close with a thrilling new display at London’s Natural History Museum.

Visitors can touch real pieces of the solar system at the Museum’s blockbuster exhibition, Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth?, and discover more about one of pop culture’s most iconic and frightening creatures just by the entrance until Friday, 22nd August.

A surprising number of iconic and underrated 80s movies are currently available to stream – here’s the best of the best

Several incredible movies from the 1980s are available to stream, but what’s the cream of the crop?

Many film buffs will agree that the 80s was one of, if not the best decade for cinema in history, with many of the most iconic films of all time releasing in the space of just 10 years.

From rip-roaring blockbusters to spine-tingling horror movies, the decade launched franchises, produced acclaimed filmmakers and broke box office records left, right and centre.

Let’s run down 10 of the best undeniable classics and a handful of underrated gems, from sci-fi epics to stunning animation and guaranteed tearjerkers.

And, even better, they’re all available to stream right now in the UK, including a handful you can watch completely free.

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The Blues Brothers

This musical masterpiece starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd is undoubtedly one of the funniest movies produced during this decade.

Based on their iconic Saturday Night Live characters, Jake and Elwood Blues race against time to assemble their R&B band for one last show to save the orphanage where they were raised.

Featuring appearances from beloved blues musicians such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and James Brown, this love letter to music and the city of Chicago is guaranteed to leave you tapping your toes.

The Blues Brothers is available to stream on NOW.

ET

If there’s one name who dominated film culture in the 80s, it’s almost certainly Steven Spielberg.

From acclaimed historical dramas such as The Colour Purple and Empire of the Sun, to rollicking adventures with Indiana Jones, the blockbuster filmmaker released what many consider to be his best films during the decade.

One of his most daring and personal projects at that time, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, was a risky venture thanks to its small-scale drama and bold premise. Thankfully, the gamble paid off, knocking Star Wars off its podium and remaining the highest-grossing film of all time, until Spielberg beat his own record a decade later with Jurassic Park.

ET is available to stream on Netflix.

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Die Hard

For our money the best action film ever made, Die Hard is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re watching at Christmas or during a heatwave.

Launching the big screen career of Hollywood powerhouse Bruce Willis, John McTiernan’s sublime thriller remains so influential to this day that ‘Die Hard on a [insert location/vehicle here]’ is still a bankable pitch for an action film.

With so many imitators out there, make sure you find time for the triumphant genuine article soon.

Die Hard is available to stream on Disney+.

A Dry White Season

This underrated historical drama shines a light on the devastating realities of apartheid in South Africa during the 1970s.

Featuring Donald Sutherland as a teacher at a school for white students, he’s forced to question his morals when the son of his Black gardener is viciously murdered by the white police.

One of the first major Hollywood films directed by a Black woman, Euzhan Palcy, and also featuring an oft-forgotten Oscar-nominated performance from Marlon Brando, A Dry White Season is an essential and gripping part of cinema history that often gets overlooked.

A Dry White Season is available to stream on Prime Video.

The Thing

Body horror became a defining sub-genre of the 1980s thanks to the advancement of special effects and film fans’ growing appetite for boundary-pushing scares.

Widely considered the best example, with masterful practical effects and tension in every frame, John Carpenter’s The Thing is a creature feature like no one had ever seen before – or since.

Starring Kurt Russell, this eerie, paranoid thriller about an Antarctica research team who get infiltrated by a shape-shifting extra-terrestrial was a box office flop at the time but has since become a beloved horror classic.

The Thing is available to stream for free on ITVX.

The Fly

With so many excellent gory masterpieces to choose from, why just settle for one example?

Arguably even more horrifying than The Thing is David Cronenberg’s masterpiece The Fly, a morbid reimagining of a classic sci-fi horror from 1958.

Jeff Goldblum portrays an ambitious scientist who begins to transform after perfecting the art of teleportation, only for his machine to malfunction with grotesque results.

The Fly is available to stream on Disney+.

Do the Right Thing

From body horror to social satire, the 80s were also renowned for a wide variety of thought-provoking dramas.

Influential director Spike Lee was just 32 when he made Do the Right Thing, cementing himself as one of the most prominent Black artists in history by tackling race relations in America like never before.

Combining laugh-out-loud humour with high-stakes drama and career-best performances from much of its cast, which includes Lee himself alongside Danny Aiello, John Turturro and Rosie Perez, there’s a reason why many cinephiles still consider it among the filmmaker’s best work.

Do the Right Thing is available to stream on NOW.

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My Neighbour Totoro

We’d be remiss not to include any animated films on a list of the best of any decade and, while Disney had its fair share of hits, from The Fox and the Hound to The Little Mermaid, in our opinion this masterpiece from Studio Ghibli wipes the floor with all of them.

My Neighbour Totoro is a timeless tale of childhood seen through the whimsical lens of Japanese animation genius Hayao Miyazaki, who injects every heartfelt moment with fantasy and wonder.

If you’ve already seen this animated gem, or fall in love with the furry forest spirit on your first watch, all of Studio Ghibli’s incredible films are available on the same service.

My Neighbour Totoro is available to stream on Netflix.

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Blade Runner

Yes, it’s yet another science fiction classic, but you can’t ignore perfection. While it may have spawned a generation of moody film bros, it’s easy to see why this atmospheric, neon-drenched cyberpunk thriller caught the imagination of so many.

From cinematic mastermind Ridley Scott, who already reinvented the genre with his seminal space horror Alien in 1979, comes a gripping existential head-trip starring Harrison Ford as a futuristic detective tasked with hunting down synthetic humans known as replicants.

Blending classic noir with one of the bleakest visions of the future ever put to film, Blade Runner is worth watching for the visual splendour alone, but will also keep you thinking long after the credits roll.

Blade Runner is available to stream on Prime Video.

Raiders of the Lost Ark

What’s left to say about Raiders of the Lost Ark that hasn’t been said a million times before?

Somehow, Spielberg delivered two masterpieces back-to-back, with the introduction of yet another iconic Harrison Ford hero arriving in 1981, a year before the acclaimed filmmaker made millions of moviegoers sob uncontrollably with ET.

The most iconic movie star of all time in his prime, an enthralling, globetrotting adventure, booby traps and ancient puzzles galore, and Nazis getting punched in the face. What’s not to love?

Raiders of the Lost Ark is available to stream on Netflix and for free on Channel 4.

These two picturesque villages in France could be straight out of a Disney animation. But, despite their distinct charm and proximity to a popular tourist spot, they remain relatively under the radar.

Two picture-perfect cities rumoured to be inspiration for Disney settings have been revealed – but they won’t stay under-the-radar for long. If you’re keen to avoid overcrowded tourist hotspots, a trip to one of these picturesque destinations should be the next stop on your travel itinerary.

French River cruise operator European Waterways has revealed two lesser-known destinations that supposedly inspired Disney animation. Located 20 minutes from the tourist hotspot Colmar, both Eguisheim and Riquewihr are worth exploring.

Located in the wine-making region of Alsace, both destinations are members of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France – or The Most Beautiful Villages in France. Formed in 1982, Les Plus Beaux Villages de France is an independent body that promotes must-visit rural locations. As of 2024, it numbers 176 member villages. This comes after a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

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Maryanne Sparkes, French Rivercruise expert at European Waterways, explains their distinct charm. “Eguisheim’s secret lies in its unique layout — concentric circles of narrow lanes surround a central château, each lined with meticulously preserved half-timbered houses.

“This design, dating back to the 13th century, is rare in Europe and creates a magical village atmosphere, amplified by vibrant window boxes bursting with blooms in spring and summer,” she explains.

The village also institutes regulations to ensure the preservation of its distinct layout. According to Maryanne: “Local laws strictly protect the village’s architectural heritage, meaning no building facade can be changed without official permission.

“This careful preservation maintains Eguisheim’s medieval character, which helped it win the title of “France’s favourite village” in 2013.” Similar to Eguisheim, Riquewihr is “frozen in time” to preserve its atmosphere and architecture.

Maryanne explains: “A slightly different, but equally beautiful Riquewihr is a medieval fortress frozen in time by local experts. Only five kilometres from Eguisheim, Riquewihr charms visitors with its intact defensive walls, cobbled alleys, and medieval watchtowers.”

She says that Riquewihr’s houses — some dating as far back as the 16th century — are notable for their traditional painted wooden facades decorated with geometric patterns and floral motifs. Walking through its narrow streets feels like “entering a living museum” and is particularly magical during Christmas time when fairy lights adorn the walls.

Maryanne says that despite Riquewihr and Eguisheim’s proximity to the popular destination of Colmar, both towns remain “delightfully undervisited”.

“They provide the perfect alternative for travellers wanting fairytale charm without the crowds, plus easy access to world-class Alsace wines and local gastronomy,” she says.

Colmar has achieved notoriety on social media for its pastel-hued traditional homes and picture-perfect canals. With its relatively small population of 67,000, Colmar maintains a “country town” vibe, drawing visitors into its quaint atmosphere amplified by centuries of dedicated preservation.

Disney fans might even mistake Colmar for Belle’s hometown from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The area’s distinctive architecture, including timber-clad homes, supposedly served as the direct inspiration for the movie’s fictional setting in Alsace.

here are 6 blunders that an expert encourages visitors to avoid when going to Disneyland.

A travel agent who specialises in Disneyland has shared the ultimate no-nos for Brits jetting off to meet Mickey at the happiest place on Earth.

A Disney getaway represents a significant financial commitment, and for many families, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Therefore the important thing to do is pre-prepare so that all of the wonderful opportunities available are not missed.

Hannah Westphal from byHannah Vacations is a travel agent to specialises in Disneyland and Disney World. She says on her website: “The Most Magical Place on Earth will be the most stressful vacation planning you’ve ever done.”

So to that end, here are 6 blunders that the expert encourages visitors to avoid . . .

1. Dressing inappropriately

Hannah warns against impractical clothing choices, stating: “It’s easy to forget, but comfortable shoes are essential for a fantastic Disneyland trip. High heels, flip-flops, and brand-new shoes might not be the best choice after a day of exploring rides and soaking up the magic.”

2. Lingering too long over meals

Additionally, don’t spend ages dining when you could be enjoying attractions. Whilst Disney offers an incredible array of dining options, Hannah advises striking a balance between eating and entertainment

She explained: “If you’re tight for time exploring the parks, a long, leisurely meal might not be the best way to spend your day.

“It’s a shame to see visitors feeling deflated after a lovely meal, only to find they’ve squeezed themselves out of time for their top ride.”

The specialist recommends that guests should either set aside sufficient time for dining or choose swift bite-sized options to maximise their park experience. For those curious about food budgeting, Disneyland has published comprehensive details of all its dining establishments online, including pricing brackets and full menus.

3. Failing to utilise the Disneyland app

To elevate your enchanting adventure, visitors can download the Disneyland app, which the specialist describes as a “fantastic tool” for your trip. Yet countless guests fail to harness its full potential.

“The app provides everything you need to know, from current ride wait times to character meet-and-greets and show schedules,” Hannah explained.

Visitors can also browse their PhotoPass snaps and attraction photos, store their park tickets conveniently on the app, and pre-order meals to avoid lengthy queues.

The specialist recommends downloading the app and establishing your profile well in advance. This approach allows you to familiarise yourself with its capabilities before arrival, preserving valuable park hours for what truly matters – soaking up the enchantment.

4. Standing in line for treats

Few things prove more frustrating than developing an appetite whilst trapped in an endless queue for refreshments at Disneyland (or whilst awaiting an attraction). Thankfully for visitors, there’s a clever strategy to sidestep those interminable waits – pre-ordering your snacks.

Disneyland has come a long way from the days of our childhood, now offering a host of conveniences to its visitors. One such convenience is the ability to pre-order food and drinks via the Disneyland app, allowing guests to bypass queues and spend more time enjoying the attractions.

Hannah explained: “Simply place your order and pay through the app. Once you get a notification that your food’s ready to collect, you can swing by and grab it.”

5. Watching fireworks inside the park

When it comes to the nightly fireworks display, a favourite among park-goers, Hannah cautioned about the typically large crowds that gather to watch.

“While the fireworks are stunning from within the park, you might find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed by the crowds,” she revealed. “For a more relaxed experience, you might want to consider alternative viewing spots outside the park.

6. Not exploring beyond the rides

Hannah also highlighted that there’s more to Disney parks than just the rides; they’re brimming with amazing performances by talented cast members.

She encourages visitors not to overlook these experiences simply because the thrill rides seem like the main attraction.

Hannah advised: “The way I see it, it wouldn’t be a good idea to miss out on a fantastic show just for the sake of a short ride with a lengthy wait.”.

She recommends guests make the most of the parades, spectacular evening shows, and captivating daily events that only Disney parks can provide.

Social News Assistant Editor Samantha Bartlett took her toddler to Disneyland, Paris, and didn’t expect that she’d have to fork out so much cash for some bubbles

11:00, 15 Jul 2025Updated 11:12, 15 Jul 2025

Samantha Bartlett is an Assistant Editor of Social News across all Reach Plc titles. She frequently covers viral and lifestyle topics such as driving, money, cleaning, gardening, parenting, shopping and travel. Previously she has written for Daily Star.

Taking your child to Disneyland, Paris, is something most parent dreams of when they have kids. However, if you’re planning to take your little one to Disney anytime soon, then I suggest you start saving up for the trip now.

Of course, we all know the accessories on sale at Disneyland aren’t going to be cheap, but I was left a little startled by just how expensive a few things were when I went there with my toddler last week. Getting prepared, I ordered us some mouse ears online before we went there as I knew my three-year-old would want some and they would be expensive in the theme park. However, when I went to pack, I had completely misplaced his ears – something I knew would be a costly mistake.

Of course, as soon as we started walking up to the park and he saw everyone wearing mouse ears, he had to have some. I offered him mine but then when he saw the other sparkly versions on sale, he decided he wanted to pick his own. These will set you back €25 (£22) each, so they don’t come cheap – especially if you have more than one child.

He was happy with his ears, however once he saw some other kids with the Disney bubbles he just had to have those too. He is madly into Spider-Man at the moment and had his heart set on those bubbles, which were again another €25, plus another €2 (£1.70) for a bubble refill.

As he chomped his way through an €8 (£7) popcorn and a €4.50 (£4) ice cream, things were starting to add up.

It was then onto lunch and my little one and his dad had hotdogs, which were €10 (£9) each and then €3.59 (£3) for fries and a €3.49 50cl drink. Meanwhile, I opted for a vegan chilli, which was €8 (£7), but was very tasty.

We also treated ourselves to some chocolate-covered waffles later in the day, which I think were around €5 (£4.30) each.

The only other thing we spent out on were some fast passes for one of the rides. You can pay €90 (£80) to get you on all of the rides quicker, however we didn’t bother with that, considering our toddler couldn’t go on everything and that’s nearly the same price our ticket cost. Instead, you can also buy individual fast track passes for a ride of your choice, which we did for Orbitron, which cost us €5 (£4.30) for both adults.

So all in all, we did spend quite a lot, however, having only one child, it did make things a bit cheaper. I didn’t actually know that Disneyland also allows you to bring in your own food into the park, so if you’re prepared, you might want to pack lunch and snacks if you want to save a bit of cash there.

Those who are planning to take a toddler may want to do what we did and take them just before their third birthday as they get in for free up until they’re three. My little man managed to stay awake the whole time we were there from 10:30am to 6:30pm at night and enjoy himself on the rides, but if he was any younger I do think he would have struggled a bit with the long day and would have had to have a nap.

As well as Disneyland, he also travelled on the Eurostar free, which they can do up until they’re four.

So am I a bit sore about paying £22 for bubbles? Well yes, it wasn’t ideal. But to be fair, they made his day and brought him joy, and as parents, we know that’s priceless!

Disneyland Paris has iconic rides, attractions and plenty of fun for the whole family – but there’s one little-known pass that could help you skip the queue

Disneyland Paris is on most families’ bucket lists thanks to its iconic rides (Peter Pan or It’s A Small World, anyone?), incredible fireworks shows and of course those all-important character meet and greets.

Like most theme parks, during the peak school holidays there can be busy queues at Mickey Mouse‘s Parisian home. There are ways you can cut down wait times for example by buying fast passes – dubbed Premier Access – but if you’re on a tight budget these aren’t always the way to go.

However, there’s one little-known Disneyland Pass that not only lets you skip the queues for rides and characters, but also gets you easier access to some of the best spots for seeing the fireworks shows and parades. Dubbed the ‘Bambi pass’ by those in the know, it’s completely FREE of charge. Another perk? Those who hold it can bring up to FOUR people along to the front of the queue too.

The only catch? You’ll need to be pregnant if you want to use it. The ‘Pregnant Woman bracelet’ (we prefer the name Bambi Pass) is a band that you can collect at the information desks, and they’ll give you Priority Access to the majority of what the parks have to offer.

READ MORE: ‘I took my baby to Disneyland Paris and was surprised at the rides he could do’

The pass isn’t actually a secret – in fact, if you know where to look you can find all the details on the Disneyland Paris website. However, it’s one that often gets overlooked by expectant mums who just assume they can’t join in on the fun.

Not only can they join in the fun, but they can bring their family with them – four people on rides, and two for shows or parade viewing spots.

Of course it’s worth noting that there are some rides which you won’t be able to go on if you’re pregnant, so if you are thinking of going, it’s worth checking the theme park website to check exactly which rides and attractions you’d want to do, to avoid disappointment. Still, it could prove useful if you’re thinking of taking your toddlers or older kids to Disneyland before their new sibling arrives – and means you can all still enjoy the bulk of the magic together.

READ MORE: ‘I went to Disneyland Paris and found the hidden attraction most people miss’

A guide to the pass on the Disneyland Paris website explains: “Collect this bracelet on presentation of a medical certificate dated less than 3 months (French or English) at the dedicated counters at the entrance to Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios, at hotel concierge services or at City Hall and Studio Services.

“The Pregnant Woman bracelet allows priority but not immediate access to attractions, shows and meetings with Disney Characters, as well as to the cash desks of our restaurants and shops. Contact our Cast Members.

“You can be accompanied by 4 attendants for the attractions and indoors shows, and 2 attendants for the parades and outdoors shows.

“Please consult the Accessibility Maps for details of how to access our attractions.”

You can find out more on the Disneyland Paris website.

Do you have a story to tell us? Email us at [email protected].

Disney+ is offering a fantastic deal for streaming fans, with households able to get four months for £1.99 a month

Disney+ is presenting a cracking deal for streaming enthusiasts in the UK, offering four months of access for £1.99 a month instead. However, time is running out to grab it with the offer set to expire on June 30.

For less than the cost of a Starbucks brew or a meal deal, Disney+ streamers can indulge in Marvel Cinematic Universe shows, including WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Loki, Hawkeye, Moon Knight, and Ms. Marvel for much less than the usual price – and the rate will last until the end of October.

The platform also boasts a variety of Star Wars series, such as Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, Ahsoka, The Mandalorian, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and The Clone Wars, ensuring there’s a wealth of content to keep viewers hooked for months. Classic Walt Disney animated films like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and The Lion King are also ready for your viewing enjoyment.

READ MORE: World-renowned dentists give teeth whitener ‘5-star seal of approval’ in tests

READ MORE: ‘I’m a TV Editor and these are the 5 Disney+ shows I’m bingeing’

There’s also new content including the new season 4 of FX’s The Bear (that premiered on June 26) and the riveting new sci-fi drama, Alien: Earth, which is set for release later this summer (August 13). These join the newly-released Snow White and Ironheart.

The Stolen Girl is another smash hit that has garnered critical praise. The Disney+ £1.99 offer lasts for four months, providing streamers plenty of time to explore the extensive library of content on offer.

Get Disney+ for £1.99 a month

£4.99

£1.99

Disney+

Get the deal here

Disney+ has brought back its popular deal that lets new and returning customers join its Standard with Ads plan for £1.99 per month for four months.

This means members can stream hit shows like Andor, The Bear and Alien: Earth, plus countless titles from Star Wars and Marvel, for a fraction of the usual price.

However, it’s crucial to remember that the £1.99 offer pertains only to the Standard with Ads version, so subscribers will have to tolerate commercials while watching their beloved shows, which may cause irritation.

Disney+ has been met with praise on Trustpilot, where one happy user commented: “Very good selection, friendly support and easy to cancel if you need to. Very easy to navigate their site, and the openness and transparency they show should be a model for others.”

Nevertheless, one disgruntled customer criticised the ad frequency, remarking: “Way too many adverts. Luckily I got it free for three months, but would not pay to extend it.”

For families seeking additional streaming services, numerous offers are available. Sky has its own streaming deals, such as the £15 per month Sky Stream package.

Furthermore, DAZN is giving sports enthusiasts an opportunity to sample its service through a limited-time trial offer. The Disney+ £1.99 deal can be snagged by households here.

Turkey has always been a holiday spot I consciously avoided – I’d heard a number of negative things and I suppose those just stuck with me.

Turkey was always a holiday destination BelfastLivereporter Sheena McStravick deliberately steered clear of — she had heard a fair share of negative reviews that seemed to have stuck. As such, she has always chosen the familiar territories of Spain and France for family getaways.

However, she said around the block enough times now to realise that she should visit places firsthand before forming an opinion, so that’s precisely what my family and Sheena did. They set off from Belfast International to fly to Dalaman, a region of Turkey she admitted that she had never come across.

As it turns out, it’s a rather popular tourist hotspot, and two flights were departing from Belfast on the same afternoon they took off. The newly revamped Belfast International Airport was a brilliant kick-off, with the fresh new look and impressive duty-free zone finally fitting for an international airport.

“It was a bustling Monday afternoon with hundreds of others also jetting out of the airport, so it was an absolute blessing to be booked into the Causeway Lounge, avoiding the extremely lengthy queues for the food outlets,” Sheena wrote.

The lounge was “ideal relaxed beginning” to the holiday, with reserved seating, plenty of room for the kids to watch the planes, a nice selection of soups, wraps, and sweet treats, hot beverages, and a fully stocked bar.

“I’d certainly recommend booking this in advance, as the airport was packed that day. Many folks were unable to gain entry because it had reached capacity with bookings.”

Sheena’s entire holiday was booked via TUI, so everything was sorted, from her flights to transfers to the hotel. They stayed at the TUI Blue Sensatori Akra in Feithye, which was about a 45-minute transfer from the airport and situated in a “really tranquil and serene spot, nestled among a forest and a beach.”

Upon arrival in Dalaman, everything from TUI was very quick and straightforward, the App pinging with their bus number as they exited the plane and collected luggage.

“The TUI Blue hotel had everything we desired and so much more. With two children aged seven and three with us, it was perfect,” she wrote.

“Upon check-in we were presented with a checklist of items for ‘Little Travellers’ that the hotel could provide if needed, it had everything from pushchairs to nappies, wipes, baby baths, baby monitors, potties, and so much more, I’ve never seen a hotel so well equipped for families with young children.

“Situated right next to the beach, our room on the second floor had absolutely stunning views across the hotel. The hotel also features some incredible swim-up rooms on the ground floor, which looked incredibly relaxing.”

With five swimming pools, including a superb children’s splash pool, water slides, and an adults-only area, there was genuinely something for everyone. Unsurprisingly, Sheena’s two children were glued to the water slides, which were open for two hours each morning and afternoon, perfect for dodging the day’s peak heat.

The hotel also prides itself on a fantastic kids’ club suitable for youngsters aged 3 to 12, as well as a dedicated baby club with a fully equipped nursery.

When it comes to entertainment, this hotel was never short. The evening entertainment provided by the TUI Blue cast team was particularly outstanding, with the nightly appearance of the TUIBots being a major highlight for the kids.

“From Disney-inspired performances to dazzling shows filled with incredible music and dancing, this team ranks among the best I’ve ever seen on holiday. Their patience and kindness towards all the children were truly remarkable.”

No matter your preference, there was entertainment for everyone, whether you preferred a more chilled live music setting in the Piano Bar or cool beach vibes with a nightly DJ at the Caretta Cocktail Bar. Conveniently located next to the brilliant outdoor children’s play park, the latter an “absolutely genius idea”.

She added: “Another standout feature was the food. I don’t reckon I’ve ever seen such a variety at an all-inclusive resort! The separate children’s buffet was a massive hit, allowing the little ones to pick their own food and serve themselves.

“The Restaurant offered a vast array of top-notch fresh produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with special themed menus each evening. And if that wasn’t enough, there are an additional five restaurants on site, including Chinese, Turkish and Italian – you certainly won’t be short of options!”

There was “genuinely no need to leave this fantastic resort”, as it included shops, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, a football pitch, and so much more.

However, if you fancied a bit of exploration, the market town of Feithye was just a 15-minute shuttle boat ride away, where you could browse the shops and grab a bite in the cafes and restaurants. You can also get there via a public bus, which picks up right outside the hotel.

The Sensatori Akra, while perfectly suited for families, is also a brilliant spot for a couples getaway or if you have older teenage children.

There are specially designated rooms, a large pool area, restaurant and bar that are adult only and suitable for those aged 16 plus, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxing child-free zone.

“Despite my initial reservations about holidaying in Turkey, this trip has completely dispelled any fears or concerns I had,” Sheena said.

“The numerous individuals I chatted with during my stay echoed the same sentiment: once you’ve experienced Turkey, you won’t want to holiday anywhere else, and I can certainly understand why.

“While other tourist hotspots in Spain seem to actively discourage tourists, Turkey embraces them with open arms and a warm disposition. I’ll definitely be returning!”

TUI holiday deals

Use code EARLYBIRD when logged into your myTUI account, at your local TUI store or agent. Plus, combine with a Free Child Place for even better value.

Valid on summer 2026 holidays departing from Belfast between 1st May 2026 and 31st October 2026. *T&Cs apply.