Tourism

Video shows part of Rome’s medieval Torre dei Conti collapse for a second time during a restoration near the Colosseum. One seriously injured worker remained trapped Monday evening with firefighters continuing a high-risk rescue as the tower’s stability is assessed.

Explore amazing Cornish landscapes where you can walk in the footsteps of Poldark’s Ross and Demelza this autumn — and stay at a huge historic country house where the drama was filmed

The period drama Poldark, which aired on the BBC from 2015 to 2019, captivated us with its stunning locations and compelling storyline, and the series, which starred Aidan Turner as Ross Poldark, was watched by eight million viewers per episode.

One of the highlights of the show was the breath-taking filming locations, and now, the National Trust is inviting fans to explore these sites this autumn and winter, as Cornwall celebrates a special Poldark anniversary.

Next year (2026) will mark 80 years since the publication of the first original Poldark novel, Demelza, which continues to enchant readers to this day.

The first TV adaptation of Winston Graham’s novels aired 50 years ago, running from 1975 until 1977, and it’s been 10 years since the acclaimed remake graced our screens in 2015, reports Cornwall Live.

One review of the 2015 series sums up the enthusiasm people had for Poldark: “This is the most artistic, photogenic, captivating series ever made. Besides an outstanding, lovely cast, the excellent performance by the lighting men, cameramen, director, scenery experts, colour specialists, costume creators, music score, and quality scriptwriters is beyond all expectations.

“Their outstanding teamwork often makes me freeze the image in order to better appreciate the beauty and magic of the shots: outside and inside. Breathtaking scenery and, extremely cosy, authentic cottages, and overwhelming, rich mansions—even the flower bouquets—are mind-blowing.

“So grateful to the whole crew, they made a genuine masterpiece. A treasure to cherish forever!”

The show’s spectacular filming locations span from the wild Tin Coast and vast sandy shores to the “ancient and atmospheric” Godolphin estate, which served as Trenwith in the 1975 Poldark series.

These breathtaking spots have attracted devoted fans from across the globe. The medieval gardens and historic house at Godolphin represent just one of the numerous National Trust sites that played a crucial role in bringing the Poldark tale to life.

The enduring phenomenon of “Poldark tourism” continues to fund essential conservation efforts throughout Cornwall, and visitor numbers have played a vital role in safeguarding threatened wildlife and habitats across the county.

Autumn presents an ideal opportunity to explore the striking landscapes that sparked the beloved saga. The cooler months offer a wonderful opportunity to explore Poldark country, as visitor numbers remain lower than during the summer peak, allowing you to truly savour the tranquillity that Cornwall provides.

Since its first appearance in 1946, Winston Graham’s “love letter to Cornwall”, the Poldark saga, has won hearts across the globe, whisking readers and viewers away to 18th-century Cornwall.

The dramatic vistas of mining heritage locations and rugged coastal cliffs took centre stage in the narrative when the original television adaptation was broadcast in 1975, and once more in 2015 when the reimagined series introduced an entirely new generation to Ross and Demelza’s Cornwall.

Poldark transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, motivating thousands to journey to Cornwall and discover the scenery they had witnessed on their screens.

By 2019, approximately 14% of Cornwall’s visitors were believed to have made the trip in some capacity due to Poldark, and this enthusiasm delivered a tourism windfall to the county whilst raising crucial funds for the conservation and maintenance of Cornwall’s natural and historic locations.

A significant portion of this support has been reinvested into preserving these remarkable landscapes for generations to come, with efforts along the Tin Coast concentrating on protecting natural areas and wildlife habitats. At West Wheal Owles, better known to Poldark fans as Wheal Leisure, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the endangered Cornish choughs.

This area is now off-limits to the public, creating a safe haven for this iconic bird species.

For those who are fans of the 1975 TV series of Poldark, Godolphin will be familiar as it was the home of Francis Poldark and the fictional grand house, Trenwith.

Back when Godolphin was still a private residence, it served as a filming location. The National Trust bought the estate in 2007 and began extensive and careful conservation work to preserve the house for future generations.

In 2006, Godolphin was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since then, the estate has become renowned for its historic gardens and 500 acres of protected parkland — and the house is available as a holiday let for most of the year.

Autumn is the ideal time to explore Poldark country with its quieter paths, sweeping sea views, and a feeling of stepping back into history.

From rugged clifftop walks and mining heritage trails to exploring historic houses and gardens, Cornwall’s National Trust sites offer visitors a chance to experience the landscape that inspired a legend.

This city is considered a ‘hidden gem’ as it gets fewer tourists than hotspots such as Barcelona or Malaga, but it could be the perfect combination city and beach break for autumn

Ryanair have launched a new direct flight from London Stansted to a Spanish city that has been dubbed ‘underrated’ and a ‘hidden gem’.

The budget airline will now operate a London to Murcia flight four times a week, with the journey taking just under three hours. Murcia, which is set in Spain’s southeast, just over an hour from Alicante, is a lesser-known region, but once you step off the plane you can choose to explore the city or head to the nearby coast.

The timing of the new route is perfect for those who are already a little sick of the autumn weather. This week, Murcia has seen highs of 31C, while in November it can hit up to 21C. While it’s not the hottest destination in December and January, with highs of 18C and 17C respectively during the day, it tends to be mild and have low rainfall. However, it’s worth packing cosy pyjamas, as it can get cold at night.

The city of Murcia is packed with things to do, and it’s a must for history buffs, having been settled by the Romans and the Moors. Visit Murcia Cathedral, an ornate, Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline, or the Santa Clara Museum which was once a Muslim palace, that became a Monastery in the 14th-century.

You’ll also find a wide variety of museums, such as the Museo Arqueológico de Murcia, which is full of treasures, and the Salzillo Museum, dedicated to the locally born sculptor Francisco Salzillo, who made dramatic religious artworks.

Murcia also has amazing shopping. The huge Centro Comercial Nueva Condomina has lots of big Spanish and European brands from Bershka to Zara, while Centro De Artesania De Murcia is full of handcrafted and artisanal items that make great gifts. It’s no wonder Murcia was dubbed ‘underrated’ by National Geographic.

Just over 20 minutes from the airport is the port city of Cartagena, famed for its Roman Amphitheatre. It’s also packed with historic sights such as the Roman Forum Museum and the Punic wall dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Cartagena is also perfect for a beach break. Visit Cala Cortina, an unspoilt beach surrounded by rugged cliffs. It has soft sands, and because it’s set in a bay, the waters are calm for swimming.

Another beach destination close to Murcia is La Manga, just over half an hour from the airport. This unique spot sits on a strip that’s 13 miles long, but only 100 metres wide, with a lagoon on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. This means you’ll never struggle for a place on the long sandy beach, and pretty much all hotel rooms have either a sea or lagoon view. There’s also a large marina with lots of restaurants and boat hire if you want to take to the water.

Whether you’re planning a city break, or want to hit the beach, it’s worth considering Murcia instead of one of the bigger, more touristy Spanish cities. Despite its numerous historic attractions and close proximity to amazing beaches, Murcia only received 1.16 million visitors last year, compared to 26 million who chose Barcelona. But tourist numbers are on the rise, so plan your visit before it gets discovered by the crowds.

Book it

There are direct flights to Murcia from several UK airports available this October from £15.

A union secretary said they wanted to send the message that “there’s no room for more people here during the high season” and that the tax was intended as a deterrent for potential visitors

Brits planning a break in the Balearic Islands next summer have been warned they could face a tourist tax hike.

The CCOO, a major trade union on the Spanish islands, have proposed hiking the current tourist tax to €15 a day (approximately £13.08). This would affect Brits visiting holiday hotspots such as Majorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. The proposed tax would apply for stays during July and August, the busiest months on the Mediterranean islands.

The Balearic Islands already have a tourist tax in place, which is between €0.5 and €4 a day (approximately £0.44 and £3.49). The amount of tax paid depends on whether tourists visit during the peak or low season, and the type of accommodation they stay in.

Children under 16 are exempt from paying the current tourist tax, and there’s a 50% discount for longer stays, which is applied after the eighth night. According to the government of the islands, this tax is used for purposes such as sustainable tourism initiatives and preserving cultural heritage.

The proposed increase would mean a seven night break in peak season would see each adult charged approximately £91.52 in tourist taxes.

READ MORE: UK village ‘frozen in time’ with car-free roads where people return year after yearREAD MORE: UK city ‘everyone laughs at’ named one of the best places in the world

The CCOO made clear that the higher tax being proposed wasn’t for the benefit of the islands, but rather to keep people away. According to Majorca Daily News, General Secretary José Luis García said: “This is not an increase aimed at raising revenue, but rather a deterrent, so that the Balearic Islands send a clear message to the world that there’s no room for more people here during the high season.”

He added: “To reduce summer overcrowding, it’s not enough to curb demand; we must also act on supply.”

The news outlet also reported that the CCOO is asking the government to put a hold on new tourist accommodation places, aiming to cut visitor numbers but attract higher-value tourists. Due to the housing crisis in the Balearics, they also want the island declared a “stressed area” and for 40,000 public housing properties to be created.

The move is the latest in a long line of proposals aimed at reducing the pressure of tourism on the popular Balearic Islands. Over the summer, Majorca was named the most unwelcoming spot for British tourists in Europe, with anti-tourism protests cited among the reasons for the dubious honour.

Summer 2024 and 2025 were marked with protests across the islands, but especially in Majorca, where protestors occupied beaches while waving anti-tourist banners. A number of Mirror readers revealed they’d be ditching Spain due to the protests and what they dubbed “anti-British sentiment”.

Speaking to the Mirror over the summer, Kevin Durkin who visited various Spanish destinations over 30 years said: “Over the last few years, the anti-British sentiment has just grown. Some bar owners have put up signs telling the British to keep away and some hotel owners don’t want us either.

“I do not need Spain, they can keep their latest charges and hatred of the British. I will not be back, neither will my friends or family. Adios.”

While Linda Munro revealed that overcrowding at border control at the airport had made her summer trip to Majorca stressful: “My husband and I got through the scanners, no problem. However, the rest of the family had to queue for an hour and a half.

“On the way back, it was worse, as people were worried they might miss their flights home. Our family just made it on time. They all said they wouldn’t be back abroad anytime soon.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at [email protected].

I love pretty market towns, historic buildings, boutique shops and cosy pubs — so do lots of other people

I’m a market town girl at heart. I adore cute villages with historic buildings, meandering rivers, boutique shops, and cosy pubs. The Cotswolds are stunning – but almost year-round their honey-coloured villages, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Lower Slaughter, are packed with coachloads of snap-happy tourists.

According to Gloucestershire Live it’s “free-for-all chaos” complete with noise, litter, and traffic jams. Even TikTokkers can’t resist. A councillor recently lamented that visitors were “exploiting the destination’s heritage for clicks”. Bourton-on-the-Water, aka the Venice of the Cotswolds, has apparently become the ultimate backdrop for selfies and reels.

“This kind of visitor has little interest in heritage, culture, or nature,” councillor Jon Wareing told the BBC. “They’re the ultimate hit-and-run tourist.”

So, while the Cotswolds may be Instagram-famous, I found a quieter, prettier escape. And it didn’t require elbowing my way past twirling huns living their best life in selfies. Instead, I went to The Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, which offer a tranquil and picturesque alternative to the Cotswolds.

Bordering England and Wales this area of outstanding natural beauty features similar rolling countryside, attractive market towns, and hiking trails but with fewer crowds. It’s especially beautiful in the autumn for ‘leaf-peeping’ when the trees show off a dazzling array of colour.

The market towns and villages of the Wye Valley also offer a less crowded alternative to the busy Cotswolds blending historical buildings, local culture, and proper pubs. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here.

Market towns

One of my favourites is Chepstow. Known as the “gateway to Wales” it gets its name from the Old English ‘chepe stowe’ or ‘market place’. The name still fits. Chepstow keeps its historic feel with cobbled streets and a strong line-up of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and pubs.

One of the big draws here is the surprising range of walking trails with four long-distance walks converging on Chepstow. The Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke head north on either side of the River Wye offering hikers a circular loop between Chepstow and Monmouth.

Dreamy views of romantic ruins

Strolls around Tintern offer dreamy views of the romantic ruins of Tintern Abbey, especially from the Devil’s Pulpit viewpoint. Walks along the Angidy Valley reward history lovers with the valley’s industrial heritage.

A gentle riverside path from St Michael’s Church to Tintern Old Station and the old railway line to Brockweir offers an easy, family-friendly amble.

If you fancy a flutter Chepstow’s got you covered. The town’s racecourse is a huge deal in the horseracing world and home to the Coral Welsh Grand National. It’s been hosting race days since the late 1800s and still draws a lively crowd whether you’re a seasoned punter or just there for the buzz and fancy hats.

And if horses aren’t your thing you can swap the saddle for a nine-iron. Just outside town the St Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club boasts one of the most scenic golf courses in the country.

Independent shops

Over the border Ross-on-Wye is another charming town. Its 17th-century Market House now houses Made in Ross, an artisan cooperative that showcases local crafts. The town’s streets feature a mix of independent shops, antique stores, cosy coffee houses, and pubs such as The Man of Ross Inn.

At the confluence of the Rivers Wye and Monnow, Monmouth has a rich history with landmarks like the 18th-century Shire Hall, which is now a museum. The town’s vibrant streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic pubs.

Over in England the market towns in the Cotswolds, such as Cirencester, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden, are equally charming but suffer from significant overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.

Cirencester, known as the “Capital of the Cotswolds,” features a lively market, Roman history, and a variety of shops and cafés. Stow-on-the-Wold, with its historic market square and antique shops, often experiences heavy tourist traffic making it less serene.

Chipping Campden, famous for its beautiful High Street lined with historic buildings, also faces similar issues with overcrowding and limited parking.

Historical sites

Symonds Yat can be less crowded and is known for its hand-pulled ferries and impressive views from Symonds Yat Rock. It is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing. The Wye Valley is rich in historical sites that rival those in the Cotswolds. Goodrich Castle and Tintern Abbey are standout landmarks.

Exploring on foot can help you discover the industrial and historical heritage in the Wye Valley ranging from the Iron Age construction of hillforts to the Romans who came, saw, and conquered the Wye and the building of Offa’s Dyke – the longest archaeological ‘Keep Out’ sign in Britain.

For history lovers the tiny town of Tintern is also worth a visit. It is home to one of Wales’ greatest monastic ruins, Tintern Abbey, which is found on the banks of the River Wye and was only the second Cistercian foundation to be built in Britain.

It was founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks and has had a long history including the dissolution of the monasteries, which led to the abbey slowly turning into a majestic ruin. Today you can visit this important heritage site in Wales and marvel at the scale of the roofless abbey and the British Gothic architecture. Tickets can be bought on arrival at the visitor centre and there is also a selection of guidebooks that can help you learn more about this beautiful abbey.

Chepstow Castle is another must-visit. It is Wales’ oldest surviving post-Roman castle dating back to 1067. This beautifully-preserved Welsh castle proudly stands atop a limestone cliff above the River Wye. For more than six centuries Chepstow was home to some of the wealthiest and most powerful men of the medieval and Tudor ages.

Earl William Fitz Osbern, a close friend of William the Conqueror, started the building in 1067, making it one of the first Norman strongholds in Wales. In turn William Marshal (Earl of Pembroke), Roger Bigod (Earl of Norfolk), and Charles Somerset (Earl of Worcester) all made their mark before the castle declined after the Civil War.

The oldest building is the Norman great tower but construction continued well into the 17th century as stronger, musket-friendly parapets replaced medieval battlements.

Today visitors can learn more about this historic site that Cadw now manages by visiting this impressive castle on a day trip or booking one of their special events. The site has a range of facilities including a gift shop, bike access, and parking.

Meandering river

Along with pretty towns and history one of the area’s biggest draws is the flowing River Wye. This meandering river begins in Plynlimon in mid-Wales and flows south, becoming part of Wales and England’s border and eventually meeting the Severn.

The River Wye is a long and very accessible river with plenty of paddle spots and waterside pubs. Canoeing through the Wye Valley offers a unique way to explore its scenic villages and countryside – an experience you can’t replicate in the Cotswolds.

Several outdoor companies in the area offer guided canoe and paddleboard trips down the River Wye. Many trips include camping or visiting riverside villages.

You can also hire a canoe and captain your own vessel on a river pub crawl or camping expedition. Waterside pubs along the River Wye are welcome rest spots if you’re paddling up the river on an epic canoe or kayak trip. The Boat Inn and the Anchor Inn offer local ales and river views.

Eating, drinking and sleeping

One of the best spots for a pint by the water is the Saracens Head Inn. This historic riverside inn has stood for centuries in its spectacular position on the east bank of the River Wye where the river flows into a steep wooded gorge.

Here you’ll find rooms as well as award-winning food and local ales. Their flagstone-floored bar and rustic pine tables provide a traditional pub feel as you sip on a pint of local real ale.

If you prefer dry land there are many ambitious hiking routes for a scenic stomp and shorter walking trails can help you discover the beauty of the Wye Valley on foot.

If you want a longer walk in this area opt for the Wye Valley Walk – a long-distance national trail that follows the course of the River Wye.

You can choose various sections of the trail for day hikes and weekend hikes or opt for a full walking holiday and do the lot. One of the best day hikes on the Wye Valley Walk is the Chepstow to Tintern Abbey section.

It’s a scenic five-mile walk that takes you up ancient stone steps and through ethereal forest paths. There are plenty of photo and picnic spots along the way and you’ll also find some viewing points where you can gaze at the winding River Wye.

Autumn is the best time to attempt this trail: when the leaves change their colours it becomes one of the prettiest hiking trails in the UK. Pack a picnic to round out the countryside experience.

Food-wise you’ll be spoiled for choice in the Wye Valley with plenty of cafés and restaurants to rival the swanky Cotswolds. The area is a surprising gastro hotspot and there is a thriving dining and foodie scene to be discovered.

You can criss-cross seamlessly from Wales into England and easily explore the well-heeled area and its many restaurants, cafés, and producers.

Take a gastro journey through the valley and you’ll find locally-raised lamb, smoked eel, craft ales, and honey-infused mead. Local breweries include the small microbrewery Lydbrook Valley Brewing Company, which produces a 4.2% IPA, and the Wye Valley Brewery, which makes a decent range of craft ales.

The Wye Valley even has its own vineyard, White Castle, where visitors can buy high-quality Welsh wines and take a tour.

Over in Chepstow the Beaufort Hotel’s award-winning restaurant offers guests a fabulous à la carte menu featuring traditional British and international dishes using Wye Valley and Welsh produce where possible.

Tell me Wine is a wine merchant and French bistro lounge that offers delicious French dishes, wine tastings, and live music events. Family-owned Stone Rock Lodge serves Wales’ best pizza and you can get a banging Sunday lunch at St Pierre.

With one Michelin green star and four AA rosettes dining at the Whitebrook is a must for serious foodies. Fresh local ingredients and foraged findings from the valley are at the heart of the food at this highly-acclaimed restaurant with rooms.

Set in five acres of landscaped surroundings chef Chris Harrod draws culinary inspiration from his bountiful surroundings.

You can expect hand-foraged garlic, bittercress, wild onion, and hogweed from the valley, which connect diners to the immediate locale and enrich the carefully crafted menu.

Harrod has a knack for turning locally-foraged ingredients into extraordinary creations. His dedication to using the best of the region’s offerings earned The Whitebrook a Michelin star, a Michelin green star, and four AA Rosettes. It’s regularly included in the Top 50 list of restaurants in the UK and deservedly so.

The seasonal tasting menu is a culinary journey showcasing the best of the season with expertly chosen wine pairings of local Welsh and English wines including several from Monmouthshire-based White Castle Vineyard. Each small but perfectly-executed course explores the region’s rich flavours presented with precision and artistry.

Typical plates include Orkney scallops, Huntsham Farm Ryeland hogget with young leek, turnip, and ramsons, and day boat hake with hen of the wood, parsley root, pickled pine, mushrooms, sauce, and wild chervil.

If you’re looking to stay longer in the area the Wye Valley has an impressive range of swish properties, guest houses, and hotels to suit your travel style and budget.

Airbnb and Booking.com offer unique stays in the Wye Valley with everything from bougie guest houses and cosy holiday cabins to luxury glamping and yurts.

One of my favourite places to stay is the charming Tudor Farmhouse. This boutique hotel is a former working farm that has been stylishly converted into a country getaway with rooms, cottages, and suites. Prices depend on the type of room booked.

I’d come for the sunrise but I quickly discovered three things that can ruin even the most beautiful moment

It was just gone 5am when I arrived very tired and ready to tackle a scenic sunrise hike at one of the UK’s most popular peaks. But looking around, it appeared I wasn’t the only one who had this marvellous idea — despite the time, the car park was starting to fill up.

I could make out the faint glow of iPhones as early risers emerged from cars, clutching coffee and camera tripods, shivering in the dark. From here, the route to the summit of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales, is one of the most straightforward ways to the summit and is often described by locals as a “motorway”, so it shouldn’t have been a huge surprise to find myself surrounded by other keen walkers.

Pen y Fan rises 886 metres (2,907 ft) above a landscape of rolling high hills. It’s one of several flat-topped summits in the area, and the dramatic peak was once a mountain for the committed: avid hikers, the British Army on training exercises and reluctant school kids dragged up for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. These days, it attracts anyone with a phone and a sunrise, with viral social media clips turning the picturesque summit into a must-visit backdrop for selfies.

Interest in the UK’s beauty spots has surged since Covid-19 restrictions began in 2020, when an hour’s exercise was a brief escape from lockdown life. In recent years, reports of national parks, beaches, and hiking trails being overrun with crowds, litter, and queues have become almost routine as more people head for the hills, clutching their smartphones.

We set off from the car park in the dark, joining the steady stream of hikers snaking up the trail. The ‘motorway’ path was well-trodden and wide enough in parts to accommodate the crowd without too much jostling. My companions, seasoned hikers with well-worn gear, moved with practised efficiency, while I kept pace, observing the scene unfolding around us.

The trail was a mix of gravel and uneven stone, occasionally slick with dew, and the dawn light had not yet hit the high, rolling green hills, verdant valleys, and grassy mountain plateaus.

Headlamps and iPhone lights dotted the landscape like fireflies, and it was hard not to slow down and take in the absurdity of what felt like hundreds of us all crawling up the same path, multiple dogs running loose, phones flickering, and me, trying not to become part of someone’s Instagram Live.

As we crested the final rise, the line of hikers slowed to a crawl, everyone funnelling toward the summit marker. The Pen y Fan cairn, a large pile of stones that has stood since the Bronze Age, marked with a National Trust plaque and topped by a trig point, was already commanding attention. People had formed an orderly queue, patiently waiting for their turn to stand beside it for a photo.

Even in the soft pre-dawn light, it looked like a scene from a theme park: polite shuffling, polite muttering, everyone clutching phones and cameras, some even doing little TikTok dances.

Watching the strange scene, it was hard not to think about the meteoric rise of ‘TikTok travel’, the phenomenon of visiting somewhere not to discover it, but to make the place a backdrop for your own carefully choreographed content.

Don’t get me wrong: I love a good selfie. But queuing for a picture, or orchestrating an hour-long photoshoot solely for social media, is not something I have patience for.

And yet, despite the absurdity of it all, the sunrise we had come to see was spectacular. The first golden rays of light struck the ridges, catching the Llyn Cwm Llwch lake in a soft, golden glow and providing expansive 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, including the Black Mountains, Carmarthenshire Fans, and the Cambrian Mountains to the north and west.

A thin mist lingered in the valleys below, and a “dragon’s breath” cloud inversion spread across the landscape, curling around the peaks like smoke and catching the sun’s pink-and-gold light. Even the most devoted TikTokkers paused for a moment just long enough to gape at the extraordinary panorama.

The way the glacier-carved peaks glowed, the soft light spilling over the valleys, and the atmospheric ‘Dragon’s breath’ are why Pen y Fan draws so many, why we brave the crowds, and why, inevitably, you find yourself taking a quick selfie, trying to preserve the moment without letting it slip away.

I’d come for the sunrise, but I quickly discovered three things that can ruin even the most epic mountain moment: crowds, dogs running wild off lead, and litter. None of them is enough to spoil Pen y Fan entirely, but together, they’re a reminder that our growing love for the outdoors can have unintended consequences.

I’m also self-aware enough to know I’m part of the problem. I came for the same thing as everyone else, a photogenic sunrise shared with my hiking pals.

I could have chosen one of the many quieter peaks or valleys scattered across Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) — there’s no shortage of them. But here I am, trudging up the most popular route with everyone else. The lure of dawn light is hard to resist, even when you know exactly how crowded it’s going to be.

As I sipped my coffee and surveyed the summit, it was impossible to ignore the consequences of Pen y Fan’s popularity. The cairn, once a quiet marker of the highest point in south Wales, had become a pivot point for human activity.

Every so often, discarded rubbish or a stray dog poo bag would catch your eye, small but persistent reminders of the mountain’s rising footfall.

Even the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team has had to intervene, “downing tools” during training sessions in the National Park to clear up litter, including disposable barbecues, something they described on social media as increasingly common and, heartbreakingly, unnecessary.

Another complication was dogs off-lead. Bounding freely, they sometimes disappeared from view entirely, prompting panicked calls from their owners and, presumably, even more posts in local hiking Facebook groups about missing pets.

On a slope like Pen y Fan, it’s a worry: not just for the dogs (which I love to be clear) but also for wildlife and the growing problem of erosion and mess along the most popular paths.

For all the talk of crowds and chaos and poor pet management, though, I know most people who come here care deeply about the mountains.

I’m a member of enough hiking groups to see how much affection there is for these astonishing landscapes. Most walkers are respectful; they don’t drop litter, keep dogs close, and tread carefully. A small minority spoil it with blaring music, buzzing drones, or abandoned dog poo bags. Perhaps that’s why this behaviour feels so jarring; it isn’t the norm.

What’s needed isn’t less enthusiasm, but more awareness. Simple, consistent reminders of how to “leave no trace,” and a bit of encouragement to explore beyond the same three or four photogenic peaks, might go further than any warning sign ever could.

Of course, awareness is easier to preach than practise when the sunrise forecast looks promising, and so, here I am. It turns out that it’s easy to grumble about the crowds until you realise that you’re one of them. And maybe that’s the paradox of places like Pen y Fan, they’re loved to the point of being over-loved.

The measure comes after the US added Mali to its list of African countries required to post bonds of $5,000 and $10,000.

Mali has imposed visa bond requirements on United States citizens identical to those Washington placed on Malian travellers, in a tit-for-tat response to moves that its government has condemned as a violation of bilateral agreements.

The Foreign Ministry in Bamako announced the reciprocal measures on Sunday after the US began requiring Malian nationals seeking business or tourist visas to post hefty bonds of between $5,000 and $10,000 starting on October 23.

Mali said the US programme breaches a 2005 accord guaranteeing long-term visa access between the two nations, and vowed to apply the same financial barriers to US passport holders under the principle of reciprocity.

In a statement released by its Foreign Ministry, Mali said it “has always collaborated with the United States of America in the fight against irregular immigration, with respect for law and human dignity”.

The dispute highlights escalating tensions as the administration of US President Donald Trump deploys visa restrictions as diplomatic leverage to pressure African governments on immigration enforcement and deportation cooperation.

Mali is among seven African countries facing the bond requirements under a year-long pilot scheme that the US State Department says targets nations with high visa overstay rates.

Mauritania, Sao Tome and Principe, and Tanzania were also added to the programme alongside Mali in late October, while Gambia, Malawi and Zambia were added earlier.

Trump immigration moves

Travellers subject to the bonds must pay up front through a US Treasury Department portal, and can only enter and exit the US through three designated airports.

The money is refunded if visitors depart on time, but forfeited for overstays or asylum applications. Consular officers determine individual bond amounts based on applicants’ circumstances.

The US justified the pilot by citing national security concerns and US Department of Homeland Security data showing more than 300,000 business and tourist visa holders overstayed their authorised periods in 2023.

Critics warn the fees – imposed atop standard $185 visa costs – could deter legitimate travel and harm the US tourism economy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mali said it was interested in “fruitful cooperative relations”, but was introducing the measure against US citizens attempting to travel there in the spirit of reciprocity.

The visa bonds are the latest immigration measure following months of efforts by the Trump administration to pressure African nations into accepting deportees, including those not from their own countries.

Several governments have received expelled migrants in exchange for payments or political favours, while others faced swift punishment for refusal.

Burkina Faso had all visa services suspended at its US Embassy after rejecting demands to accept third-country deportees, forcing residents to travel to neighbouring Togo for applications.

South Sudan initially had visas for all passport holders revoked following a deportation dispute, though it later accepted eight people from Asian and Latin American countries.

Eswatini agreed to receive up to 160 deportees for $5.1m in US funding, while Ghana, Rwanda and Uganda have also accepted expelled migrants under bilateral arrangements, according to diplomatic sources.

Tourist taxes are being massively hiked up in a new bid to combat the effects of overtourism as locals have had it with the crowds of visitors coming for photos

Visitors heading to a beautiful city renowned for its gorgeous views and rich culture are about to face a 900% increase in tourist taxes.

Kyoto in Japan has long been a firm favourite with tourists from all over the world, thanks to its beautiful cobbled streets, traditional tea houses and countryside views. However, the city’s popularity means that it’s been fighting against overtourism for years, in a bid to manage the crowds.

Now, the city is taking new steps in a bid to help mitigate the effects of overtourism; last year alone the iconic destination saw over 10 million tourists visiting, marking a 53% increase on the previous year.

Kyoto has already had a tourist tax in place costing approximately £5 a night per tourist, but it’s set to increase this up to nearly £50 (£48.92) per person, per night. This will apply to visitors staying at the city’s more luxurious hotels, and is expected to come into force from early 2026. It marks a jump of approximately 900% cost for tourists.

READ MORE: World’s top 10 most beautiful cruise ports – and the cruise lines that sail thereREAD MORE: Europe’s most ‘overlooked city’ is ‘best in October’ and just 2 hours from the UK

It’s not the first steps that Kyoto has taken when facing the crowds of holidaymakers that flock to its picturesque districts.

Since 2019, the city has had a ban on tourists taking photos in its historic Gion district. Although some popular areas such as Hanamikoji Main Street are deemed acceptable, locals complained that tourists were heading to private streets and properties in the area, and taking photos without the owner’s permission. As a result, local authorities introduced a ban on photos, with fines for rule-breakers of 10,000 Japanese Yen (approximately £49).

The ban on entering private alleyways and taking photos was reinforced last year. Isokazu Ota, Gion Southside District councillor, said at the time that livelihoods were being “threatened”, not to mention the narrow alleys were becoming overcrowded and therefore posing a danger to both residents and tourists.

Signs have also been placed around private areas to warn off visitors, with requests for tourists not to sit down on people’s properties to eat and drink.

Visitors have also been warned not to take photos of the city’s geishas without requesting their permission first. Nicknamed the ‘maiko paparazzi’, tourists follow local maiko and geisha and wait outside teahouses where they work. Maiko and geisha live and work on these roads and apprentice geisha are often 16 to 17 years of age, with concerns for their safety amplifying after incidents which included them being hounded by strangers for a photo.

Sora News, a Japanese publication, stated last year: “One area struggling more than most is Gion, which, despite being a place of work and residence for many locals, has been treated like something of a theme park by tourists, who have been known to chase and photograph geisha and maiko (trainee geisha) in the area.”

A few years ago the city’s authorities also temporarily released an ‘etiquette guide’ for visitors to help them navigate the local customs and behave in a way that would be deemed appropriate.

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

In a crackdown against unregulated tourist accomidation, the Spanish government have removed over 50,000 flats on booking platforms, and are turning them into residental properties instead

According to the Spanish government, 53,000 tourist flats have breached the national Single Register of Tourist and Seasonal Accommodations and will now turned into permanent housing instead.

The illegal tourist flats failed to comply with regulations that have been in place since July 1, and crackdowns on accomodation platforms such as Booking.com and Airbnb have been asked to remove adverts for rule-breaking properties by the Spanish housing ministry.

For Brits who own holiday homes in Spain, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez shared a post on X on Sunday that read: “We will demand that platforms remove 53,000 tourist flats for failing to comply with regulations. So that they can become permanent rentals for young people and families in this country.”

READ MORE: Stunning UK train journey named the best in the whole of EuropeREAD MORE: ‘Prettiest village in Wales’ is one of the UK’s best seaside towns

As of July 2025, the Spanish government introduced the nationwide system for regulating temporary rentals and The Single Rental Register requires all properties rented for short-term stays to be officially listed, ensuring compliance with local regulations. If a property is not on the register, it is not permitted to be advertised for temporary rental.

According to Travel and Tour World, this regulation aims to curb the growing number of unlicensed properties being offered through online platforms, which have become a source of tension in cities where housing shortages are particularly acute. The new law is seen as an effort to restore balance between the tourism industry and the need for affordable housing.

It means if a property is not on the register, it cannot legally be advertised online and Airbnb and the Spanish Ministry of Housing identified that less than 10 per cent of the listings that were turned down by the registry were on Airbnb. The crackdown comes as an aim to boost the housing sector by reclaiming properties previously used as temporary rentals.

The decision comes after months of scrutiny over the booming short-term rental market, which has seen platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com become a staple of Spanish tourism.

With this new move, Spain is effectively reclaiming valuable residential properties, thereby addressing the housing shortage in several cities, including Seville, Barcelona, and Marbella.

An Airbnb spokesperson said: “The vast majority of non-compliant listings are not on Airbnb. So we are calling on other platforms to join Airbnb’s ongoing enforcement effort with local authorities,” according to The Independent. The rental platform added that 70,000 more Airbnb listings have shown a registration number since January and will no longer be allowed to function as short-term rentals.

Airbnb said: “Those listings (that show a registration number) are the ones that our customers love, leaving us with no significant business impact. We are setting the ground for a new and resilient business model in Spain.”

The Independent further reported that from the withdrawn tourist flats, 16,740 were discovered in Andalusia, 8,698 in the Canary Islands and 7,499 in the Valencian Community and for Spanish cities, Seville saw 2,289 cancelled registrations, Marbella 1,802, Barcelona 1,564 and 1,471 in Malaga.

Do you have a story to share? Email [email protected]

From ancient cities to beaches, Spain has something for everyone. Millions of tourists flock to its coastal towns and islands every year to enjoy the sand, sea, and culture. But what about the locals?

In the past decade, rents have almost doubled, but wages have stayed the same. Hundreds of thousands of properties have become holiday lets, and developers are snapping up real estate to cash in on the tourism boom. A housing crisis is in full swing, and homelessness is rising fast. Now, residents are fighting back. Armed with water pistols and lawyers, they are calling on governments to protect their interests. But will it be enough?

People & Power meets some of the people suffering the consequences of Spain’s tourism industry, and those fighting to stay in their homes.

Globally, the world is still reeling under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and as we look towards the future, people rethink the need to travel and unwind from their hectic lives, and these developments will boost the global tourism industry.

Post the pandemic, the tourism industry is playing catch-up, and as per the UNWTO estimates, it is believed to have a major recovery towards global tourism in 2023, where the international arrivals reached 1,300 million, which was a 33.3 percent increase from 2022. The reason for this upward development has been because of the economic development, which inevitably helps in the creation of jobs, helping stabilize the post-pandemic economies. The Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 highlighted the sectors of travel and tourism to continuously grow in the post-pandemic scenario. It has been observed that 71 out of the 119 countries’ scores increased as per the 2024 index, and the reason for this increase in its ranking has been due to the focus on areas of safety and security and aims at greater emphasis on health and hygiene domains. Furthermore, the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 mentioned that India ranked at the 39th position in the category of Asia-Pacific economies but has the largest travel and tourism industry in the region of South Asia. Furthermore, it tops the lower-middle-income economy category. For the United States of America, it has ranked first in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index, and the reasons for the first position, as per the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024, have been due to several factors, such as the highly conducive business environment, highly skilled and qualified labor force, and readiness towards information and communication technology (ICT). Apart from these characteristics, the 2024 Index also observed that the reason for countries like the United States of America and others to have gained the top positions has been due to the brilliant provisions of transport and infrastructure associated with tourism and its services.

 India-US Contours of the Tourism Industry

Joseph Nye, the pioneer of soft power, opined that “a country which has a strong global influence is more successful in attracting tourism, and that would increase the economic development, investment, and abundant skilled labor force, which would do proper justice towards the use of soft power.” Tourism is one of the tools of soft power, and in the present global situation, the countries are collaborating and cooperating with one another.

One of the fastest growing domains of exchanges that can be witnessed has been the sector covering the people-to-people connections and exchanges. The relationship between India and the US has been evolving constantly, and both countries have many people-to-people interactions and a tourism industry, which has led this partnership to be stronger and more robust. In fact, the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 observed 9.24 million foreign tourist arrivals, and this depicted a 43.5 percent increase as compared to 2022, as it brought in foreign exchange earnings of Rs 2.3 lakh crores from countries like the United States of America, Bangladesh, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, to name a few. This data clearly explained the opportunities in the domain of tourism and related sectors for growth.

Given India’s growth story and becoming globally influential, India can lead another growth story in the domain of tourism in the coming times. According to the Ministry of Tourism’s report titled “India Tourism Data Compendium 2024,” the tourism industry in India has great potential, as there are 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. India’s rich culture and heritage experiences not only open up the world to visiting a beautiful cultural experience, but they also open up the opportunity to learn and invest in the handicraft and textile industry in India. Apart from handicrafts and the textile industry, there are several other products that India is abundant in, and so, as of 31st March 2025, there are 658 geographical indicator tag applications registered, which clearly shows the richness and diversity of Indian products. Furthermore, given India’s rich flora and fauna, India offers diverse nations locations like the various national parks open for safaris, which also helps in gaining safari tourism like the Rhino Safari in Kaziranga in Assam and the Tiger Safari in Pench and Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh. There are other locations like Ladakh, Spiti Valley, and Rishikesh known for adventure tourism, and this domain is popular among the younger generation. For a couple of years, the wellness and medical tourism industry has made India the global destination for Ayurveda, yoga, and healthcare facilities, which provided provisions for affordable and reliable services. It was observed that in 2023, 6.9 percent of foreign visitors visited India for medical tourism. Another sector of tourism that is emerging is the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, which caters to the business sector, and in 2023, it brought in 10.3 percent of foreign visitors to India to Indian infrastructural marvels like Yashobhoomi and Bharat Mandapam.

In the Union Budget 2025-2026, Rs. 2541.06 crore has been allocated for employment-led development, which would cater to different aspects like infrastructure building, skill development, and travel facilities, paving the way to promote the tourism industry of India globally. The budget also includes the need to develop 50 top tourist destinations, which would help offer MUDRA loans for homestays, enhance connectivity, and introduce e-visa facilities. Furthermore, the budget also aims to support areas of sustainable tourism through Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, Heal in India, and Gyan Bharatam Mission, and these schemes will not only incentivize employment opportunities but also create a possible growth model. The famous tagline ‘Incredible India’ has gained a strong fan following and has been gaining immense traction in the last couple of years. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), it has been observed that the Indian sector of tourism and hospitality is expected to exceed Rs. 5,12,356 crore by 2028, and it is suggested that travel and tourism are the largest industries in India, with states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal working to develop the tourism circuits and enhance infrastructure for pilgrims.

 As per the industry of tourism in the United States of America, it has been observed that according to the 2018 US Travel Association’s report titled “International Visitations to the US from International Inbound Travel Market Profile,” travel is the largest industry export to India, as Indian students spend up to 52 percent of travel exports and 36 percent is by the Indian tourists. The tourism industry in the US caters to students who study there and make their family visit, and this helps in the domain of leisure tourism in cities like Orlando and Las Vegas, as they provide world-class luxury and entertainment experiences.

Another sector that the US works on is the business and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, which helps attract many business travelers. Globally, the US has always been the most sought-after choice for tourism, as it offers a combination of landscapes, cultural attractions, and luxurious experiences, and many also visit America to live the ‘American dream through a short holiday.’ From the perspective of the US economy, the tourism industry not only helps in supporting people through employment but also helps equip them with the opportunity to have purchasing power. Furthermore, the domain of infrastructure and hospitality services also experiences a boom in growth.

Since both the countries are looking to expand their relationship with one another. The tourism industry seems to be the most viable sector for greater opportunities of cooperation and exchange.

Challenges

One of the key challenges has been the issuing of visas for Indian citizens to go to America. Though the tourist visas are available, the high costs and the wait time for attaining a visa for many Indians make them rethink their need to visit the great American dream through a short holiday, and so they end up choosing places in Southeast Asia like Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore, where the attainment of a visa is not just convenient but visas are available on arrival. Furthermore, the cost of travelling, hotels, and food is far cheaper, which makes it more lucrative for budget-friendly travellers. A challenge that the US faces with regard to travelling in India is the safety issue, especially for the female solo travellers, which has been a major cause of concern. Another issue that has been a concern

RN for American travellers to India, the cleanliness issue is a big one, and so most of the foreign travellers prefer staying in five-star hotels, which cater to them with their luxurious hospitality and services. This is a problem for budget-friendly travelers, as not everyone can afford a five-star hotel and pay for luxury travel in India, which also economically deters many from coming to India.

Possibilities

It has also been observed that about 92 percent of Americans will be travelling in 2025. With this growth data, there is a major possibility of attracting American international travelers to visit India. If American tourists visit India, they normally visit India for its cultural extravaganza and spirituality retreats, but there is a need to develop other sectors like visits to natural habitats and safaris, which would also attract a lot of tourism in this domain. In fact, India can also learn from the US about its culture of amusement parks and fairs, which would also help boost tourism and employment opportunities. Another aspect is that India and the US venture into student-led tourist groups, and in these groups, students connected to universities can not only interact with one another in their respective academic fields but also show them their understanding of their country, and this way there will be greater interactions among the youth of the two countries and help cement future relations. Business meetings can also be held in cultural hubs, which would give the businesses a chance at working along with travelling and enjoying their leisure time in exploring cultural hubs, and so the governments need to also promote and provide business convention centers in cultural hubs.

All in all, one aspect that India and the US can work on is the people-to-people connections, as they are guiding lights for the future.

A major American hotspot is thought to be ‘dying’ as tourist numbers have significantly decreased since last year. Experts have had their say on the reason for this downfall.

A beloved hotspot in the US is experiencing a dramatic drop in visitor numbers. Las Vegas stands as an internationally renowned major resort city, celebrated for its casinos, shows, exquisite cuisine and buzzing nightlife.

The most populated city in Nevada has served as the backdrop for a number of Hollywood blockbusters, including Ocean’s Eleven, The Hangover and What Happens in Vegas. Yet, tourism to this iconic American location is plummeting, with specialists revealing the reasons behind the decline. This concern was spotlighted by Race Across The World champion, Alfie Watts, who travelled to Las Vegas to investigate what’s causing the drop in holidaymakers.

He documented his latest journey to the metropolis and posted it on TikTok. The BBC TV personality said: “Vegas tourism is falling off a cliff and I went to find out why.

“This city is a neon soaked fever dream of excess. You can have dinner in Paris, cocktails in Venice and you’ll lose all of your money in New York all before midnight.”

Las Vegas boasts hotels modelled on Paris, Venice and New York that have been crafted to resemble these destinations.

Watts continued: “It’s outrageous and it’s unique but it is still incredible but back in the day the whole point of Vegas was that you didn’t have to be rich to live like it for a weekend.”

During the first half of this year, Las Vegas saw a 7.3 per cent drop in visitor numbers compared to the same period last year, with June alone witnessing an 11 per cent decrease, as reported by Investopedia.

Watts attributes this decline to the rising costs of hotels and food and drink. He elaborated: “It used to be the ultimate weekend blow-out, the wild stag do’s, the girls’ trips, the spontaneous getaway where you came back sunburnt, broke but buzzing.

“Now, it’s priced itself into special occasion only territory and when the magic costs that much, people start asking if they can get it cheaper somewhere else.”

The TV star and renowned travel content creator argued that hotel rooms which “once cost next to nothing” are now comparable to the price of a city break in Paris.

He added: “Thirty years ago Vegas was the spot for outrageous fun but now you can get a similar weekend in Dubai, Ibiza and Cancun, and very often for half the price.”

However, he admitted that Las Vegas still holds its unique charm with its dazzling lights, vibrant energy, mind-blowing events, world-class cuisine, and the opportunity to dance at 4am in a hotel lobby “shaped like ancient Rome.”

Watts concluded: “Vegas is still a glitter cannon in the desert. It’s just that these days the glitter’s a little bit more unappealing because it’s a lot more expensive.”

Investopedia highlighted additional factors driving tourists away from Las Vegas, including fewer flights arriving in the US from Canada and other nations, partly due to escalating tensions from trade rows between the Trump administration and foreign governments.

Technology could also be playing a role, as sports betting apps and online gaming mean punters no longer need to travel to Las Vegas to gamble.

In his TikTok post’s caption, Watts argued that Las Vegas is “dying” and international arrivals are “tanking.”

The video has attracted a number of comments with viewers expressing their opinions.

One commented: “The millennials don’t gamble and if they do, it’s online and they also are smart with their money, they’re not going to go somewhere where they have to pay this, that and [the] other.”

Another remarked: “Ridiculous ‘resort fees’ and the outrageous tipping culture isn’t very attractive when everything else is getting more expensive.”

A third declared: “No one under 40 cares about Vegas.” A different viewer proposed: “Downtown Vegas is the place to be. Cheaper rooms, food and drink.”

Stay with a herding family in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert

Eternal Landscapes offers individual and small-group trips to Mongolia, with a focus on supporting local communities. On the five-day Erdenedalai Explorer trip, guests stay with a herding family in the vast steppes of the “Middle Gobi”, an area often bypassed by travellers heading to the better-known sights of the desert’s southern region.

The trip offers a glimpse into local life in a wild landscape. A tour of the capital Ulaanbaatar is also included, during which you can visit projects working to improve life in the community. Eternal Landscapes (a member of The Conscious Travel Foundation) also visits other towns overlooked by mainstream tourism and provides employment for local women by using only female trip assistants.
From $1,045pp (£773) in a group of six ($1,800 for a solo traveller or $1,265pp in a group of two), including meals and transfers outside the capital, eternal-landscapes.co.uk

Book into a hotel run by women in Sri Lanka

Opened in January, Amba Yaalu, on a mango plantation on the banks of the Kandalama Reservoir, is Sri Lanka’s first hotel fully managed and staffed by women. In a country where less than 10% of the country’s workforce is female, the aim is to promote equality and provide employment for women – many of whom leave the island in search of opportunities in the Gulf states.

Part of the eco-friendly hotel chain the Thema Collection, the idea for Amba Yaalu came from its founder, Chandra Wickramasinghe, who was inspired by his mother raising eight children while working as a nurse. A selection of immersive experiences are on offer, from cooking classes to village visits, allowing guests to delve into local life and culture.
Rooms from $120 (£89) B&B, themacollection.com

Take the road less travelled in Morocco

Intrepid Travel’s 11-day South Morocco Discovery adventure heads to the Atlas Mountains and deep into the Sahara, and includes plenty of community-led experiences. Guests stay in a family-run mountain gite, and head to Tafraoute to visit an Amazigh home and learn about traditional life and how it’s changing.

There’s the chance to visit a women’s cooperative outside Essaouira, which specialises in argan oil production. Camping under the stars, a camel safari at sunset and discovering ancient sites with a local guide are also part of the package.
From £662, including accommodation, breakfast, two lunches and dinners and activities, intrepidtravel.com

Serengeti safari with a clean cooking initiative in Tanzania

Small-group adventure specialist G Adventures puts community tourism at the heart of many of its itineraries, with more than 130 projects built into its trips, working with nonprofit partner Planeterra. Local nurseries also grow a tree for every day a traveller is on a trip, providing revenue for communities too.

Among its initiatives in Tanzania is the Masai Clean Cookstoves project that helps people to replace their traditional stoves, which cause deadly household air pollution, with modern models. An all-female team of engineers has so far installed 4,000 stoves across 60 Masai villages in the Serengeti.
The 12-day Serengeti Safari and Zanzibar trip includes a visit to the Clean Cookstove project, from £2,649pp, including hotels, camping, breakfast and some meals, gadventures.com

Preserving traditional customs in Georgia

Adventure specialist Wild Frontiers offers a range of tailored community-led trips, including Adventures with Purpose: Georgia, a 13-day itinerary with a focus on social enterprise projects that are preserving traditions and empowering locals, combined with classic sights such as Tbilisi old town and the Gergeti Trinity church.

Highlights include staying in the Tusheti region, a protected landscape managed by the Tushetian people, contributing to the preservation of the area and village life. In the Kakheti wine region, guests visit the Nukriani Workshops, a scheme that supports local communities and encourages the preservation of traditional crafts.
From £3,090, including accommodation, some meals and transport, wildfrontierstravel.com

Village life in Peru

The Rukha Ayllu project helps families in the traditional weaving village of Huilloc, in the Peruvian Andes, to benefit from responsible tourism. Despite being on a popular trekking route, the village was marginalised, with poor living conditions, until tour operator Valencia Travel Cusco launched the initiative to improve infrastructure and develop community-based experiences.

Now, the 25 families there welcome travellers into their homes and share their cultural heritage, food and crafts, with tourism bringing a welcome new revenue stream. Valencia Travel Cusco is a finalist in this year’s ICRT Global responsible tourism awards, the winners of which will be announced in November.
The 14-day Colours of Peru trip costs from $2,607 (£1,929), including a visit to the project, accommodation, breakfast and some other meals, valenciatravelcusco.com

Safaris and storytelling in rural India

One of the newest trips from operator Village Ways takes visitors to the central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to stay with forest-dwelling communities and learn about traditional life and crafts, and ancient beliefs. From staying in a community-owned guesthouse to discovering the Baiga and Gond people’s connection to the land, rivers and forests – and their medicinal use of local plants – the nine-night itinerary delves into village life.

Hikes through forests, fireside dances and storytelling, and a safari in Kanha national park are among many highlights. Village Ways is a pioneer in sustainable tourism, providing rural communities with additional income streams and job opportunities and helping to reduce urban migration.
Forests and Fables: A Discovery of Ancient India, from £889pp, including transfers, accommodation and meals, villageways.com

Volunteering with children in Ghana

For travellers aged between 18 and 30, Gap360 offers a choice of trips of two to 12 weeks that support local communities. One option is the Ghana Teaching and Childcare Project, where volunteers work alongside locals in a school or childcare centre. This involves spending between four and six hours a days supporting children.

Staff and volunteers live together, and there’s plenty of free time to get immersed in Ghanaian culture and explore the country’s national parks and beaches. Volunteers can get involved in a youth development programme too. Alternatively, those with the skills can opt to work as a sports coach in anything from athletics to swimming or tennis.
From £599 for two weeks, including accommodation and meals, gap360.com

Hiking through farms and paddy fields in Bali

Astungkara Way is an 85-mile (137km) hiking route across Bali, designed to boost community tourism and regenerative farming. Walkers can choose sections or take on the entire 10-day route, either self-guided or with a group, meandering through paddies and forests, staying with local farming families, joining various daily activities, and tucking into farm-to-table dinners.

The project brings income to the villages and profits support regenerative rice farming along the trail. Besides benefiting from employment, many of the young Indonesians involved have become national spokespeople for ecotourism and sustainable agriculture.
The four-day Tree to Waterfall hike covers 29 miles and costs 6,100,000 rupiah (around £276) all inclusive, astungkaraway.com

Dinner in a South African township

Township and Village (a finalist in the 2025 ICRT Global responsible tourism awards) welcomes visitors into communities in the town of Stellenbosch and its surrounding vineyards to experience day-to-day life in the Western Cape province.

Launched in 2023, the social enterprise offers a host of activities, from dining on traditional Xhosa cuisine at a family home in the Kayamandi township, to djembe drumming sessions and guided walks to learn more about the area’s cultures and turbulent history. Community-based guides ensure authentic encounters, and visitors contribute directly to the local economy.
A three-course home dining experience is 550 rand (around £23), townshipandvillage.co.za

Barcelona is a popular city in Spain that attracts millions of tourists year-on-year and it is famous for its art and grand architecture, but a visitor shared one thing not everyone knows about it

There are several countries in Europe that attract large amounts of tourists, including Spain, France and Italy. Many people from the UK enjoy going to Spain in particular as it is not far from Britain but offers beautiful beaches, warmer and sunnier weather, has a vibrant culture and is seen as relatively affordable to explore.

Spain consistently ranks as the top holiday destination for Brits who often visit coastal and island sites, like Majorca, Ibiza and Benidorm. A popular city in Spain for holidaymakers is Barcelona, the capital of the country’s Catalonia region. According to Statista, Barcelona’s hotels welcomed nearly 7.9 million overnight tourists in 2024.

The tourist hotspot is known for its art and architecture but locals have been protesting against the issue of overtourism in the city, which saw some tourists being sprayed by water guns.

One visitor who recently travelled to Barcelona shared one thing international visitors might not expect.

He posted a video on TikTok at the end of August showing the wet weather with puddles on the ground of a largely empty street and a small group of people shielding themselves from the rain with umbrellas.

Overlaying the clip, he sarcastically wrote: “Okay Barcelona we get it, you don’t want tourists. Message received loud and clear.”

Barcelona experiences short-lived rain showers in August and September but average temperatures this month reach 26°C during the day so it’s still warm with plenty of sunshine, as per TUI.

The caption of the tourist’s TikTok post caption reads: “The teabags I packed turned into tea in my bag.”

The clip has garnered 247,300 views, 23,800 likes and almost 150 comments, at the time of writing.

A Spain local commented: “As a Catalan we really wanted the rain so sorry but we really needed it, the heat was HORRENDOUS.”

Another agreed: “In fact, the locals were waiting for this good weather after 15 days of boiling air. Enjoy it with us.”

A third TikTok user said: “Barcelona better behave in September.” A tourist who visited Barcelona shared: “I was there, had to hide in the Burger King until it stopped raining.”

A second chimed in: “It passed very quickly and honestly makes the air much more bearable! Don’t think I could handle 40C, 30 is hot enough!”

The TikTok user who posted the clip revealed in the comments section that the rain “only lasted 30 ish minutes and it’s been sunny ever since.”

A different user, unbothered by wet weather, remarked: “A great place to visit. I love it . What’s the rain got to do with it?”

Someone else highlighted: “Better that than the heat that comes later.” A number of commenters were surprised to see rain in the Spanish city at this time of year, while others knew it is normal for there to be some rainfall.

The village is known as ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ and it is extraordinarily beautiful, with its waterways and stone buildings making it so special.

It’s known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its beautiful waterways spanned by pretty stone bridges. And on a hot and sunny day, there can be few more charming and picturesque places to be.

Even in a place as beautiful as the Cotswolds, the village of Bourton-on-the-Water stands out. The River Windrush runs through its heart, lined on both sides by trees providing shade and a rainbow’s worth of different colours, and crossed at regular intervals by several pretty stone bridges. Ducks and swans float lazily on the slow-flowing water, which is overlooked by 16th and 17th century Cotswold stone cottages.

In short, with apologies for the cliché, it could not look more like it is straight from a postcard or the pages of a fairytale.

I visited on a sunny Saturday in June and strolled lazily along the water, crossing back and forth over the bridges as and when I felt like it and listening to an ice cream seller shouting the praises of the homemade ice cream he was selling from his little trailer.

I stopped at the shops, restaurants, pubs and tearooms made from the Cotswold stone that make this area famous to take in the atmosphere of each one, and people-watched the visitors sitting outside enjoying coffees, cakes, cups of tea and ice cream.

I tried not to linger outside people’s homes too long but I did have to resist the temptation to tell one elderly gentleman enjoying a cup of tea in his front garden overlooking the water how much I loved his home – someone clearly spent a lot of time looking after it.

One of the most standout features of Bourton-on-the-Water – in fact, one of the most remarkable things I’ve seen anywhere – is the Model Village, a one-ninth scale replica of the village as it was in 1930.

It’s a stunning piece of work, created from local stone by highly-skilled craftsmen. I loved walking around it, marvelling at the care and skill that has gone into creating each and every building. It costs £4.75 for adults and £3.75 for children and is well worth it.

You’ll find it around the back of the beautiful Old New Inn, a historic hotel and restaurant that’s one of the village’s largest and most impressive buildings, run by a husband and wife who took over in 2018 with a view to restoring it.

There are several other options for food and drink along the water. There’s the Box Bush, serving everything from home-smoked trout and homemade sausage rolls to luxurious profiteroles and gelato with flavours like Sicilian pistachio.

There’s the Rose Tree Restaurant, set in a listed cottage with a river-facing garden serving traditional pub meals like Gloucestershire Old Spot sausage and mash and, of course, fish and chips.

Or there’s Smiths and Bourtons, a burger restaurant run by two brothers.

So what’s the problem?

“So what’s the problem?” I hear you ask. “This place sounds amazing.”

Well, Bourton-on-the-Water is so beautiful, so picturesque, so quintessentially British, that it has become a victim of itself. The place is packed with tourists from all over the world and people who live there are dealing with the problems that over-tourism brings, much like the stunning village of Bibury a few miles away.

During my visit, the first hint that this is not your average British village came almost immediately after entering by car, when a large sign directed visitors to an all-day car park with £5 parking.

In the car park, set on a school playing field a short walk from the village centre, stewards took payment and directed us to our space, all done with a smile and without any hint of dismay that we were yet more tourists coming in to choke up their village (the parking fees go at least partly to charity too).

Villagers say over-tourism is causing “huge problems” for them, with the size of the village out of proportion to the number of visitors it receives.

They are currently waiting for plans to tackle coach traffic to be implemented, which would see coaches largely kept out of the village centre.

In particular, “the inconsiderate behaviour of coach drivers” and “free-for-all chaos” were flagged as particular problems, according to a BBC report, though a motion to get the council to accept that tourism is a problem in the village was rejected by elected officials.

However that has not stopped officials from pledging to tackle the “overtourism nightmare” and Cotswold District Council actively avoids promoting the village, according to local reports.

Asked whether he agreed that Bourton was dealing with over-tourism, council leader Joe Harris said: “While we lack specific survey data on perceptions of over-tourism, we acknowledge the strong sentiments of residents regarding the negative impacts on their quality of life due to excessive visitor numbers.

“Balancing the needs of local businesses benefiting from tourism with the quality of life of residents is crucial.”

Many people would assume that such high numbers of visitors would bring significant economic benefits.

But people living in nearby Bibury have said they don’t believe that is the case, saying visitors are only there “for a selfie”. It was very clear to see the scale of the tourism on my visit, to which I was of course contributing.

The stone bridges were closer to photoshoot locations and props than walkways, though I did not see anything akin to what one recent visitor claimed was an embarrassing scene in which he watched tourists “eating from saucepans”.

I’m glad I got to see Bourton-on-the-Water in person. It’s as beautiful in real life as it is in pictures.

I just hope it can find a way to balance the benefits that tourism brings with the quality of life of the people who live there.

Disney World, in Florida, is reported to be “dead”, as rides are quiet and there are few queues. Americans have expressed worry about the state of tourism in the US

There’s been plenty of upheaval at Disney World lately, with a beloved attraction shutting its doors for good after 54 years. However, holidaymakers are now spotting another major shift at the popular destination, as the resort has apparently become “dead.”

Claims are emerging that the famous theme park has grown remarkably quiet this summer, with visitors sharing different theories about what might be behind it. The issue was recently highlighted by a man called thenobleways on TikTok, who filmed his latest trip to Disney World to share his thoughts on what was happening in Florida.

During his weekend visit, he insisted Disney World was “empty.” This comes months after several rides at the theme park shut down permanently.

He said: “I’m at Magic Kingdom right now, and this place is a tomb. There is literally nobody here. There is no wait time for anything.

“Space Mountain – walk on. Haunted Mansion – walk on. Pirates of the Caribbean – walk on. The longest I have even seen a wait time for Seven Dwarfs today [is] 30 minutes.

“Peter Pan’s Flight – up to 30 minutes, but everything is walk on all day long. I don’t know what’s going on. It’s Labor Day weekend – should be crowded, should be packed normally – this place is empty.

“I am absolutely loving it, but what do you think? What’s going on? Why is there nobody here? I have never seen it like this.

“It’s been years since I’ve seen it this empty, especially on a holiday weekend. I don’t know, I’m going to enjoy it while I can.”

The clip has racked up more than 7,000 views since being posted, with viewers rushing to share their theories about the quiet scenes.

One person commented: “People don’t want to go to Florida.” Another chimed in with: “Too expensive, politics, Trump.”

A third weighed in: “Florida is imploding financially and nobody wants to go there. Miami and the other beaches are struggling as well.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “Nobody can afford Disney anymore. Think [it’s] the tariffs.”

Someone else also pitched in with: “That’s because it’s Florida. Disney in California is packed. Let’s face it, Florida is in major decline.”

Last month, CBS reported that tourism is actually on the rise in Florida, despite a drop in Canadian visitors. Visit Florida previously estimated 34.435 million people travelled to Florida from April 1 to June 30, which increased from 34.279 million people during the same period last year.

However, Disney is reported to have experienced a decline in tourism. The drop in travel to Orlando, particularly linked to the Walt Disney World theme parks, is said to partly stem from Disney Experiences’ major renovation projects taking place across the resort.

There could be a multitude of reasons for the dwindling crowds in Orlando, including steep ticket prices that some find hard to justify, a decrease in international visitors, particularly from Canada, stiff competition from Universal’s upcoming Epic Universe park and the ongoing effects of the pandemic.

Brittney Dzialo and her friend were travelling around Europe and looking to fly from Rome to Nice, France, when they made a huge mistake that left them miles away from where they thought they were

Throughout the history of travel, there have been countless instances where individuals have taken a wrong turn, boarded the wrong boat, wandered down the wrong street, or ended up on the wrong plane.

In the era before social media, such mix-ups were commonplace, but only those directly involved, their immediate circle, and their loved ones would be privy to these blunders.

Nowadays, a travel mishap can quickly become global news. This is precisely what happened to two American tourists who found themselves in Tunis, Tunisia, when they believed they were en route to Nice, France, reports the Manchester Evening News.

While Hamlet never said ‘Tunis or To Nice, that is the question’, it’s a query many are now posing to American TikToker Brittney Dzialo, who took to the social media platform to share her travel predicament.

The issue arose when she and a friend, while on a European tour, intended to fly from Rome, Italy to Nice on the French Riviera. However, due to a misunderstanding at the airport, they found themselves on a flight to Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia in Africa, according to Le Parisien.

As per their social media posts, the penny didn’t drop until they were seated on a Tunisair aircraft, ready for take-off.

Upon realising their error, they decided to go with the flow and enjoy the unexpected journey. Brittney later stated: “The airline employee misheard us and booked us a flight to TUNISIA, AFRICA instead of Nice, France.”

Upon landing in Tunis, a whopping 400 miles from their intended destination of Nice, the duo tried to rebook another flight and rectify the situation.

According to The Tab, the travellers made allegations about the airport staff after discovering they had to fork out for another plane despite having already paid for the original, mistakenly boarded flight.

They shared: “They are making us pay for a new flight, saying we can’t get on the next one tonight, everyone is rude, two men who are the supervisors yelled in my face, in tears.

“So as a last resort I had to bring out my bestie chat and found out about EU regulation and now they are taking us a bit more seriously so we can get to NICE asap.

“After the last supervisors said it was impossible to leave, I had a feeling to go try one more time and there was a new supervisor in there instead of the man that yelled at me.

“I cried to her and she saw how stressed, tired, and defeated I was and got us on a flight (that we had to pay for) and had the captain hold the entire plane for us.”

After publicly sharing their blunder and incorrectly referring to Africa as a country rather than a continent, the pair were inundated with both sympathetic and unsympathetic comments.

One person offered some comfort, stating: “Honestly of alllllll the places in Africa you could have ended up, Tunis is actually very close to Nice.”

Another retorted: “Did no one read the sign AT THE GATE? ? ?”.

A popular Spanish city that was once bustling with tourists is now “dead” as Brits have allegedly ditched the destination to holiday elsewhere, and it’s not the first time Spain is said to have been quiet this year

A once bustling Spanish city is now “dead” as Brits have reportedly abandoned the destination for other holiday spots, marking another quiet period for Spain this year. Footage has surfaced online showing the area’s completely deserted streets.

Laura, who goes by lauratravelvlogs on TikTok, has been chronicling the stark changes in Barcelona this year, having resided there herself for over two years. She noted a significant drop in visitor numbers and, for months, she’s been posting videos of Spain‘s vacant streets, silent roads and empty beaches – all to illustrate the drastic shift in the country’s tourism landscape.

In a recent video featuring eerily quiet roads, Laura questioned: “Sorry, no one can argue that these roads leading up to the beach were not packed in 2023?” It appears others also concur with her observations about Spain’s dwindling crowds in recent years.

Laura mentioned that there are still some tourists “for now” at popular spots, but claimed spending is at an “all time low”. She has noticed a substantial change over the past two years, and is astounded by how tranquil the city has become.

In an earlier video, Laura highlighted how deserted the city centre was during the summer because “tourists don’t feel welcome”. She suspects the protests that have occurred in Spain have deterred people from visiting altogether.

Hundreds of people have responded to the footage since it emerged online, with many eager to voice their opinions. Their reactions were quite split.

One viewer commented: “One by one businesses from all sectors will start to close – that’s the sad thing.” Another chimed in with: “There’s already a lot of smaller towns that have fallen into despair.

“So many people have lost their jobs due to the drop in tourism. It’s madness – they’ll be begging people to go back in a few years.”

A third responded: “Tourism is Spain is 40% down. The south coast of Spain was eerily quiet last week.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “Spain is old news – there are far nicer countries to spend your money in.”

Some viewers questioned what time of day the footage was captured though, with others suggesting it’s not entirely doom and gloom. One individual said they visited in March and there were “hundreds more” people about, even though some Brits believe the resort is “finished” when it comes to tourism.

Overall, it’s been documented that Spain has been deserted by numerous holidaymakers, with eateries and coastlines appearing virtually deserted. Areas of the nation have been witnessing a drop in visitor figures for the first time since the pandemic, alongside years of anti-tourist demonstrations by residents.

In August, images from Benidorm showed a multitude of vacant seats outside various establishments and rather deserted beaches. This is particularly unusual for major holiday hotspots during the summer period.

Miguel Pérez-Marsá, the head of the nightlife association, previously told Majorca Daily Bulletin: “The tourists we’re interested in are being driven away; they don’t feel welcome and are going to other destinations.” The impact is also being felt by tour guides.

Pedro Oliver, president of the College of Tour Guides, disclosed that excursion sales have plummeted by 20% this summer. “If you generate negative news, which has repercussions in other countries, tourists opt for other destinations when choosing their holidays,” he stated.

“We are sending the message that we don’t want tourists and that everything is too crowded.”