tourist

A woman has shared a video of the things she found in a Spanish supermarket, and she was left gobsmacked by one thing in particular – and it’s something that’s very rare in the UK

Sitting in the sun all day and then quenching your thirst with a chilled Fanta Lemon or sharing a packet of Lays is an elite feeling. However, if you’re landing in the early hours after a late-night flight, the panic might set in about whether you’ll be able to grab snacks and water before morning arrives. The last thing you want is a morning headache.

Fear not if Spain is your destination, as one lady has highlighted that certain supermarkets there keep their doors open until the early morning, which is quite rare back in the UK. Florence Grace highlighted her surprise in her video caption, “Still open at one am?! Spanish supermarkets are the best,” and showcased some tempting items she encountered during her visit.

She enthused over the “colour of this Sunny D,” and playfully remarked, “you’re not in Spain unless you get this,” while showing off a jar of Chovi Allioli.

Delving into further exclusive finds, Florence revealed some “biscuit chocolates” reminiscent of Maltesers and described an Oreo milkshake she tasted as “very sickly”.

She also exposed the bargain finds, such as a “mini paella” for under three euros and even a full bottle of sangria for less than two euros.

Florence couldn’t help but giggle as she pointed out the possibility of buying a carton of wine for merely 99 cents, revealing that it contained a whole litre of booze.

Florence was all praises as she stood by the fresh orange juice machine in a Spanish shop, exclaiming, “This is the best thing about Spanish shops,” where customers can freshly squeeze their juice on the spot to ensure its freshness.

As she explored further, Florence marvelled at the frozen lemonades and gestured to a dessert, saying: “You can get a whole cake.”

She pointed out that there’s no need for an all-inclusive resort when you can easily grab these treats from local supermarkets.

“You can get a whole big bag of muffins,” she effused, while perusing the Milka chocolate and chorizo, which were on offer for a mere two euros.

“In Spain, you can get a tub of carrots and a tub of guacamole,” she clarified, showcasing the range of salad options ideal for a barbecue with loved ones.

She then scoped out the crisps aisle, drawing attention to “ketchup flavour” varieties before moving on to an ample bag of churros.

Highlighting the affordability of beverages, Florence noted, “I forget how cheap the alcohol is here,” as she compared the cost of a single can of San Miguel at 73 cents to bubble tea priced at four euros and 50 cents, a striking contrast for Brits.

“This protein coffee is 20g of protein and zero sugar. What is it made of then?” she pondered aloud. Wrapping up her video, she concluded with enthusiasm “they do the best sweets in Spain”.

Moreover, the convenience of late-night shopping means no cravings have to go unaddressed during your holiday.

Sean Miller, a comedian from New York, is one of the participants of the new Travel Virgin Show, which takes people abroad for the first time. He touched down in London this week

A ‘travel virgin’ who had never been out of his country before has been shocked and delighted in equal measure by the UK.

Sean Millea is a 28-year-old living in New York City who had never been out of the US until earlier this week. He is in good company. By some estimates, around 23% of Americans have not traveled internationally, while a quarter of Britons have never boarded a plane or ferry to go on holiday abroad.

Whether it’s the cost and hassle of sorting out a passport (close to 50% of Americans don’t have one currently, according to the Apollo Academy) that is putting people off, or the fact that they’re quite happy at home, clearly travel is not for everyone.

Stand-up comedian Sean had been content exploring the US, until he was given the chance to hop across an international border for the first time by Jetpac. The travel eSim brand has chosen several ‘travel virgins’ to star in its docu-series, hosted by Love is Blind’s Benaiah. When it airs, it will see newbie travelers swept away on an all-expenses-paid journey to an exotic destination.

The Mirror spoke to Sean the day after his arrival in the UK. He was standing amidst the hustle and bustle of Borough Market, digesting a laden pudding from the viral Humble Crumble and reflecting on a deeply disappointing first brush with British pastry.

“The pork pie. My friend Marshall told me to get it. I didn’t love that. It was sort of tasteless and hard to eat, you really need to put in muscle to get it open. It looked like a little castle. I did, however, like the Humble Crumble,” Sean explained. “I also don’t like the candy here. American candy is full of chemicals, which is why it tastes delicious.”

Sean was not opposed to the idea of travelling abroad, but given the demanding nature of his comedy career, he had never found the right time to do so. “I don’t ever have money like that. I have been to Florida, California and Chicago, but I’m uncultured to anywhere outside of the US,” Sean said.

While he may have found the pork pies a little underwhelming, the American in London was excited to throw himself into the culture, having grown up on a string of British classics such as the Beatles, David Bowie and Shakespeare. Visits to the Globe and Abbey Road were ticked off on his first evening.

In terms of vibe, “London feels like New York if you’re not paying attention.”

When it comes to the actual travelling process, Sean found it to be a mixed bag. “I got a passport, a few months ago on a whim, and there was some visa thing I had to get. I ended up just tapping myself out of the airport, no questions asked. It was pretty smooth,” he explained. “I did get scammed at a currency exchange. I got half my money back.”

The first episode of The Travel Virgin Show will go live on June 30. The company argues now is the right time for it, given the steady rise in travel since the coronavirus lockdowns, when people were pent up, unable to get away and desperate to get back out on the road.

According to one recent poll, 76% of Gen Z and 72% of Millennials say they’re more interested in travel than they used to be. And passport applications have surged by up to 38% in key markets like the UK, suggesting the appetite for exploration is stronger than ever.

Aditya Goyal, CEO at Jetpac. “There’s a huge group of people who are only now taking their first step abroad—and we think they deserve the same tools as anyone else. Jetpac is here to make that first time seamless, empowering, and unforgettable.”

The Alcudia and Can Picafort hoteliers association has sounded the alarm that bookings on the island are down on last year, particularly among holidaymakers from Germany

Germans are abandoning a beautiful holiday island beloved by Brits.

Brits and Germans have long been among the biggest forces in European travel, both sharing similar tastes in sunshine resorts on the coast. It seems that our neighbours on the Continent are now growing a little tired of a well-worn holiday classic – Majorca.

The Alcudia and Can Picafort hoteliers association has sounded the alarm that bookings on the island are down on last year, especially among travellers from Germany, their principal markets. Bar and restaurant takings were down by between 15 and 20 percent compared to last year, which is a significant blow for an industry already struggling.

The president of the Association, Pablo Riera-Marsa, said: “We are seeing how the German market, traditionally our number one market, is the one that has slowed down the most. In addition, we are detecting that this season, last-minute bookings are once again becoming more popular, with tourists waiting for special offers and promotions before making their purchase decisions.”

READ MORE: Tourists warning as popular holiday bar ‘charges 100 Euro for a beer’

The travel chief warned that the “Champagne effect” which followed the coronavirus pandemic, when many tourist destinations enjoyed long periods of high demand as pent-up travellers sought holidays following the lockdowns, is now over.

“It is essential to continue to focus on quality, sustainability and differentiation, especially in a context in which the market is once again stabilising and last-minute bookings are becoming increasingly important,” Mr Riera-Marsa added, the Majorca Daily Bulletin reported.

Dwindling demand from some markets is not the only issue facing holidaymakers at the moment. Workers in a popular Spanish holiday destination are threatening to strike during the peak season.

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Hotel bosses in Tenerife are facing a stark threat from union leaders: agree to a pay rise within the next fortnight or brace for strike action in the peak of summer. Hospitality chiefs were hit with an ultimatum last week by the General Union of Workers, the UGT, announcing to employers: “You have 15 days to raise wages or there will be a strike in the summer.”

Sindicalistas de Base, the leading union on the bargaining committee, has warned that failure to reach a deal by June 13 will result in a call to action with strikes during July and August. The unions demanded an unconditional salary hike retroactive to January 2025 as a precondition to discussing the rest of the items.

The impending strikes could be an echo of the walkouts experienced during Easter Thursday and Friday, after protracted negotiations failed to lead to a deal. The rallying cry of the workers is for a 6.5% wage hike – an additional 4.5% atop the 2% already sanctioned by the collective agreement.

The Canary Island of Fuerteventura will start charging British holidaymakers a tourist tax if they want to visit its most beautiful locations, officials on the Spanish holiday hotspot have announced

British holidaymakers heading to the Canary Island of Fuerteventura will soon have to fork out a tourist tax if they fancy visiting its most stunning spots.

The island’s government has confirmed it will introduce the charge for the wild beach of Cofete, the awe-inspiring sand dunes of Correlejo and the vast sea caves of Ajuy.

The move will follow the example of Tenerife, which has already started charging visitors to the mountain-top village of Masca and intends to do the same with Mount Teide.

Jessica de León, Minister of Tourism and Employment of the Government of the Canary Islands, has insisted that Fuerteventura “must now be incorporated into the regional debate on the ecotax in protected natural spaces.”

Fuerteventura’s president, Lola Garcia, said the collection of a tourist tax was necessary to raise money for the maintenance of the natural spaces visited by hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers each year.

READ MORE: ‘I’m a Brit living in Benidorm and tourists should avoid these three areas’

In this same framework, the city council of La Oliva is looking at implementing a tourist tax of its own. La Oliva is in the north of the island and is again a hotspot for tourists due to its wealth of history. Ms Garcia has argued that a tourist tax in these specific locations was justified, given the significant impacts of mass tourism.

She added: “The landscape and natural spaces must be protected, in addition to the fact that public institutions must listen to the citizens who, recently, expressed it in the street” through protests across the Canary Islands.

“Now is the time to take measures and decisively, and one of them is the tourist tax.”

The island’s president announced that the tax may be introduced for the beaches of Cofete, within the Jandía Natural Park, the Corralejo Dunes, the Ajuy Caves and the Betancuria Rural Park. A deadline on when they might be introduced has not been set.

Area councillor, David Fajardo, has proposed a minimal fee for visitors to La Oliva. “It would not involve a significant cost for the visitor, but it would allow reinforcing services such as cleaning, environmental conservation or maintenance of public spaces,” he explained. “It is not a collection measure but a tool that aims that each tourist who stays overnight in La Oliva contributes to the improvement and maintenance of our territory.”

READ MORE: Major UK airport unveils upgrade set to transform queue times for BritsREAD MORE: ‘Chaos’ at another Spanish island airport as bins overflow and major queues form

The Canary Islands have arguably been most impacted by the negative effects of too many tourists of anywhere in Spain. In the first quarter of 2025, 4.36 million international visitors made their way to the islands. As a result, angry locals have hit the streets brandishing banners.

Officials in Tenerife are taking action to dampen the impact of overtourism. One such action is a new online booking system for some of the trails in Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to Spain’s highest peak. As of this summer, tourists visiting the peak will be charged an ‘eco-tax,’ and security cameras are reportedly being installed to control the park’s visitor numbers.

The Palace of Versailles is one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions – but it seems to be a victim of its own success, with visitors claiming they felt like ‘sheep’

Over tourism is rapidly becoming an issue in top European countries like France and Spain. A recent study by the experts at Holidu scoured Tripadvisor comments, scouting for frequent references to “overcrowded” or “too crowded”. The majestic Versailles Palace, renowned and flocked by tourists in France, emerged as the prime example, with over five per cent of reviews mentioning one of the words.

This former seat of royalty, nestled just outside Paris, is maybe best-known as Marie Antoinette’s home. Boasting the illustrious Hall of Mirrors and lush gardens, this historical gem draws close to 15 million visitors each year, sparking a debate on whether it’s reached its visitor saturation point.

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One exasperated Tripadvisor user, ‘Wanderer35996’, lamented: “The building was stifling. With the overcrowding (literally could not move, much less see anything), it was miserable.”

Another, ‘ATLpch’, recalled the experience, sharing: “We were all herded like cattle through the same palace rooms and single passage doorways for about an hour.”

Yet another compared their visit to an unwieldy procession, commenting: “Once inside, there was a conga line of people who moved through the palace like sheep. It was a circus!”

A different tourist remarked on the irony of the situation, observing: “The amount of people kills all the pleasure. Even though the place is beautiful, it’s hard to enjoy and admire it.”

However, amidst the critiques, the Palace did enchant some of its guests, , reports the Express. A charmed visitor confessed they “fell in love with the Palace”.

And yet another delighted guest heaped praise, describing it as a “must visit” while saying: “it was amazing to see the Palace in all its glory. It was outstanding”.

Europe’s most congested tourist spots:

Batu Caves, located just outside of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, are sacred for Hindus across the world, but also have issues with cheeky monkeys and piles of rubbish

A sacred tourist spot has become overrun by monkeys and plagued by litter.

Batu Caves, located just outside of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, took first place in a recent study of the world’s most littered tourist attraction, with 1.67% of reviews mentioning rubbish out of a total 13,950 reviews.

The huge cave complex is one of Malaysia’s most iconic tourist destinations and has particular religious significance due to its Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of war. The limestone caves themselves are more than 400 million years old, while the temple at their heart was built in 1920.

Hindus from all over have come together during festivals to celebrate and pray as a community in the Batu Caves, where magnificently built shrines and statues are strikingly set against a captivating background of limestone hills.

READ MORE: Girl, 2, left fighting for life as family’s ‘dream holiday becomes worst nightmare’

Unfortunately, several factors have chipped away at the beauty of the unique attraction.

The site’s litter issue has often been attributed to its popularity with milions of annual visitors, many of whom discard rubbish and often feed the resident monkeys. The large size and complex nature of the site also make it difficult to maintain.

Following a recent visit to the Caves, a man from Burnley wrote: “The whole area surrounding the shrine was filthy and covered with litter, discarded food, refuse bins overflowing with plastics etc, used face masks and litter in general.

“If this is a sacred shrine, I find it difficult to understand why those responsible for its upkeep allow it to be abused in this way. Entry to the sacred shrines requires visitors to remove shoes, but having seen the filthy state the floors were surrounding these areas, there was no way my wife nor I would risk doing so.

“I appreciate that the matter was exacerbated by the presence of monkeys at the caves that scavenge for food, but surely those responsible for health and safety should introduce a programme of cleaning throughout the day to ensure all litter etc is removed.”

A holidaymaker from Essex added: “The area is strewn with rubbish and very stinky. It needs a good clean-up.”

Mark Hall, general waste expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk which conducted the study, said: “It is concerning to see so many reviews mentioning litter at iconic tourist attractions around the world. Many of these sites have religious, spiritual, or historic importance, so it’s vital that travellers treat them with respect. Sadly, overtourism is now a huge issue in many countries and this often brings the issue of litter.

“When tourists visit in such vast numbers, it can be difficult for the operators of tourist attractions to manage waste. Therefore, it’s vital that travellers are mindful of the impact of their own waste. You should never litter, and if a bin isn’t available or is full, always take litter home with you to dispose of properly. That way, we can ensure that these sites remain preserved and enjoyable for years to come.”

Tourists have been warned to avoid the city of Dubrovnik in Croatia during the summer months, after holidaymakers have said the area has been ‘killed’ by huge crowds

Brits jetting off to Croatia for their summer holidays have been warned about immense crowds that have dampened the spirits of some travellers. The travel advisory concerns Dubrovnik – renowned as a key filming hotspot for blockbuster hits like ‘Star Wars‘ and ‘Game of Thrones’.

However, it seems that Dubrovnik’s allure extends beyond cinephiles and TV buffs, with early birds who’ve visited the city during peak season warning of overwhelming throngs that are tarnishing the charm of the locale. A Reddit user lamented the swarms of tourists, labelling them “insane” and indicating that Dubrovnik might only appeal to those who can “handle the crowds”.

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The commenter said: “We did a lot of Croatia some summers ago, it was REALLY crowded! Not even the cities, but places like the Plitvice Lakes were insane; also very hot! But there is a reason they are all there, it is worth it if you can handle the crowds!”

Despite its picturesque scenery and coveted coastline, Croatia is often knocked for being overpopulated, especially during tourist season.

The experts at Responsible Travel offer advice on how to avoid the crowds of tourists in Dubrovnik, stating: “Anyone who’s timed their holiday to Dubrovnik just wrong will know that sinking feeling of standing on the city walls, watching as a sixth cruise ship rocks up to the horizon.

“Like Venice and Barcelona before it, Dubrovnik has become synonymous with over tourism.” It’s worth noting that the city now imposes restrictions on the number of cruise ships that can dock within a certain timeframe.

The travel firm further clarified that the notion “tourism has ruined the city – or that you shouldn’t visit at all – isn’t quite right” as “Dubrovnik is still one of the prettiest cities in the world, spun with impossibly picturesque streets.”

However, they advised against visiting the city during the peak summer months. Responsible Travel continued: “Thanks to its location in the deep south of Croatia, Dubrovnik boasts some of the sunniest, warmest days in the country.

“Summer sees six ships a day docking in Gruz port, families taking advantage of school and work holidays, crowded beaches and city streets rivaling Venice in terms of crowds.

“Putting crowds aside, it’s not always the best time to visit the Dalmatian Coast anyway. July and August see temperatures soaring to 28°C, which turns the city and beach crowds into a different kind of ordeal.

“Activity holidays often take a break during this period; hiking in heatstroke conditions is no fun.”

Brits looking for a city break with gorgeous beaches, amazing food and budget-friendly accommodation may want to check out one underrated gem that travel experts love

Greece is a firm favourite with Brits looking for sun-soaked holidays including gorgeous beaches, swim-friendly waters and amazing food; but its popularity can mean that getaways can be crowded and expensive.

However, there’s one lesser-known spot on the mainland that travel insiders have praised for offering all the above, “without tourist price hikes” that you’d find at hotspots like Athens, or islands like Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos.

The experts at Ski Vertigo have named Nafplio as one of their go-to underrated spots, adding that while most tourists will miss it, it remains a firm favourite with locals thanks to its beautiful coastal views and lack of larger crowds.

“Often overshadowed by island resorts, Nafplio on the mainland is a favourite among Greeks themselves,” they explained. “Expect great food, romantic alleyways, and sea views – without tourist price hikes”.

READ MORE: Beautiful abandoned village in Greece where something feels ‘not quite right’

Nafplio has everything you could want for a mix of city break and beach holiday. The city’s cobbled streets are home to heaps of shops, hotels and of course restaurants where you can tuck into some of that world-famous Greek cuisine. (In fact, you can also find some brilliant bakeries serving up some classic Greek pastries that are sure to appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth!).

It’s also worth a stroll to the marina and harbour from which you can take in some gorgeous coastal views, or you can go exploring thanks to the plethora of historic castles, churches and neoclassical architecture, as well as a range of museums where you can learn more about Greece’s fascinating history.

Meanwhile, sun-seekers who’d like to spend a day on the beach won’t be disappointed. For a start there’s Nafplio’s city beach, a small pebbled bay right on the edge of the city, and by the crystalline waters. However if it’s sand you’re after, then you may want to head over to Karathona beach which is always a hit with visitors thanks to its eucalyptus tree-lined sandy shores and amenities including watersports facilities.

It’s also worth leaving space on the itinerary to visit the nearby fishing village of Tolo, which boasts a postcard-worthy golden sandy beach that’s ideal for families thanks to the swim-friendly waters, and a few eateries where you can pick up a snack or use the loos. Tolo also has plenty of hotels and campsites right by the beach for those wanting to spend a bit more time exploring the area.

Although there are no direct flights to Nafplio from the UK, it’s still fairly easy for Brits to visit. One of the easiest routes is to fly to Athens – for which there are plenty of direct flights with the likes of Jet2, easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair – and then to get the ferry across, which takes just over two hours. The ferry between the two cities runs multiple times a day, so there’s plenty of opportunity to either explore Athens and travel on a later day, or grab an early flight and be at Nafplio in time for some sunset cocktails overlooking the harbour!

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

A BRITISH tourist has been arrested and extradited to Portugal after a teenager was brutally stabbed to death with a broken bottle in Lisbon.

The 27-year-old fugitive was bundled on a flight back to the Portuguese capital and remanded in custody after losing a battle against his forced return.

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He is expected to stand trial over the killing of Daniel Galhanas, 19, who was stabbed in the neck in the city’s party hotspot Bairro Alto in the early hours of October 14, 2023.

Daniel was reportedly attacked while trying to defend a friend during a violent bust-up between rival groups – one of which included British holidaymakers.

Initial reports claimed the teen’s pal had tried to rob the tourist and his friends as part of a gang of thieves targeting foreigners in the area.

But Daniel’s family strongly deny he had any involvement in criminal activity – insisting he was simply trying to help a friend in trouble when he was fatally attacked.

Footage of the incident shows a man hurling a bottle at Daniel’s friend before picking up the broken glass and stabbing Daniel, who stumbles before collapsing in a pool of blood.

He went into cardiac arrest at the scene and was rushed to São José Hospital by volunteer firefighters – but died shortly after from his injuries.

Video from the night shows chaos erupting on the street near Largo do Calhariz, with a dozen people brawling as cars drive past the carnage.

Confirming the dramatic arrest and extradition, Portugal’s Policia Judiciaria said they had worked with UK police and judicial authorities to track down the 27-year-old suspect.

He is believed to have committed first-degree murder in 2023 in Largo do Calhariz, in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto district.

They said the crime took place between 4am and 5am on October 14, following a violent altercation between two rival groups.

“The victim ended up being hit in the neck with a broken glass bottle, which caused serious injuries and led to his death on the spot,” a spokesman said.

Officers said the suspect and his group fled the scene immediately after the attack.

They explained that a probe led by the PJ’s Lisbon and Tagus Valley Directorate resulted in the suspect being identified and an international arrest warrant being issued.

“The suspect, a foreign national, was eventually located and arrested in the United Kingdom, where he travelled to the day after the murder,” they added.

He has since appeared before judicial authorities in Portugal and been remanded in pre-trial custody.

At the time of the horror attack, local reports named Daniel as the young man seen in a disturbing viral video being stabbed with a glass shard before collapsing.

Police told his devastated family they were hunting an “English tourist” in connection with the killing.

A relative said: “An Englishman throws a glass bottle at his friend, who breaks it. The same individual picks up the pieces of glass and hits Daniel, who stood in front of his friend to defend him.

“The group of Englishmen flee and are chased by Daniel’s friends. He was left behind to faint with a friend, as the video shows.”

The family have repeatedly rejected claims Daniel was linked to a gang, saying he was a local boy from Odivelas who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

A volunteer fire team who found Daniel bleeding on the street tried to save him – but later had their own vehicle attacked in a separate incident.

Commander Débora Alves said: “I don’t connect one thing to the other, but, shortly after the murder, a man was arrested for having stoned the window of one of our cars.

“The vehicle was inoperable after the attack.”

SAUDI Arabia will lift its long-standing booze ban at 600 tourist sites by 2026 — in a boozy bid to attract visitors ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup and 2030 Expo.

In a shock U-turn, the ultra-conservative Kingdom will allow the sale of wine, beer, and cider at licensed locations including five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and expat-friendly compounds.

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Booze will still be banned in public, homes, shops, and fan zones — with spirits off the menu altogether under strict new rules.

The dramatic policy shift is part of Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman’s Vision 2030 drive to boost international tourism, lure foreign cash and shake off its teetotal image.

Officials hope controlled alcohol sales in glitzy areas like Neom, Sindalah Island and the Red Sea Project will help the country compete with Gulf rivals like the UAE and Bahrain — where boozing is already legal in tourist zones.

Licensed venues will operate under a tightly regulated system, with trained staff and strict rules to prevent abuse and uphold the Kingdom’s Islamic values.

The goal, authorities said, “is to welcome the world without losing cultural identity — positioning Saudi Arabia as a progressive, yet respectful player on the global tourism map.”

The plan is set to roll out in 2026 — eight years before the World Cup kicks off — and comes amid growing pressure to modernise the Kingdom’s image.

Several global hotel chains are already rejigging their blueprints to accommodate booze zones, with tourism bosses eyeing a flood of new jobs and international investment.

It follows a dry storm earlier this year when Saudi’s ambassador to the UK announced alcohol will be banned entirely at the 2034 World Cup, sparking fury among England fans.

Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud told LBC radio in February: “There is no alcohol at all, rather like our weather, it’s a dry country.

“Everyone has their own culture. We’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else.

“It is not a Saudi event, it is a world event and, to a large extent, we will welcome everyone who wants to come.”

Fan Tim Bailey fumed on X: “Their country, their rules. But why the f*** would anyone want to go there anyway?”

One supporter added: “Weird . . . they always want everyone else to change their culture for them.”

But now, Saudi insiders hope the new booze policy will silence critics and show the country is ready to party — with limits.

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Sources say the model is inspired by successful alcohol rollouts in Dubai and Manama, where tight control has boosted tourism and business without trashing tradition.

The Kingdom insists this will not be a free-for-all — and anyone caught misusing the system will face swift consequences.

“Sales will only happen under controlled environments, with licensed service staff and clear operational rules in place to make sure alcohol is handled responsibly and respectfully,” a government statement read.

Spirits and hard liquor above 20% ABV will remain banned, with no sign of shops, takeaways or home brewing being permitted.

As concern around over-tourism continues to spread across Spain, local authorities in the Balearics deployed a rather unusual strategy – which it now admits massively backfired

The Spanish government has suddenly u-turned on a pro-tourism policy following major backlash. Local authorities in the Balearics (which include the postcard-worthy islands of Majorca, Menorca, and Ibiza) had recently revealed plans to alleviate the strain on popular hotspots by making use of selfie-addicted influencers.

The rather unusual strategy pushed those with a huge social media following to start plugging attractions in the Balearics that have failed to enter the tourist limelight. However, it seems the power these Instagram and TikTok pros have should not be undermined, as the plan worked. In fact, it worked too well…

Take Caló des Moro, for example, an incredible bay tucked away in the southeast corner of Majorca. This idyllic slice of paradise feels worlds away from the bustling streets of Magaluf – boasting 40 metres of sugar-like sand, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs. For years, it remained a true hidden gem, with travellers often being able to enjoy the spot to themselves if they were willing to get there early.

READ MORE: Brits urged to act now as Spain Airbnb crackdown to have ‘severe’ effect

The cove can accommodate around 100 people, before it would start to feel like you’re being sardined next to a stranger on the beach. But, after a slew of influencers started raving about the destination – an insufferable amount of tourists were flocking their en masse.

The Guardian reports that last June, María Pons, the local mayor, held a press conference saying that a whopping 4,000 people and 1,200 vehicles were visiting Caló des Moro every single day. She reportedly begged travel tour operators to not mention the cove again, or offer Brits excursions to the hotspot.

“It’s had the completely opposite effect to what was intended and runs contrary to government policy on containing tourism,” a government spokesperson added. Local authorities have since scrubbed all images of Caló des Moro from their official website, hoping the hype will eventually die down.

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The influencer-driven boom won’t have been well received by fed-up locals, who blame tourists for the country’s worsening housing crisis. In fact, just last weekend – thousands of frustrated residents flocked to the streets to call for major reform, armed with banners ordering Brits to ‘go home’.

As anti-tourist sentiment gets louder and louder – Spain’s crackdowns become harsher, even if it puts Brits out of pocket. Earlier this week, the government sensationally ordered Airbnb to remove more than 65,000 holiday listings from its website – a move that could spike hotel prices and reduce accommodation availability during the upcoming summer.

An estimated 65,935 Airbnb properties will be delisted for breaking strict regulation rules. This could be because owners failed to include their licence number, didn’t specify whether they were running as an individual or a company, or because their listed numbers did not match official records.

Already booked an Airbnb in Spain? You can follow one travel expert’s advice here.

Has rising anti-tourist sentiment put you off from visiting Spain? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story

White unspoilt sand, almost deserted coastlines and gripping flora and fauna gives this cove a ‘secluded’ feel in the Canary Islands, away from the maddening throngs of tourists

Thousands of Brits will be heading to the crystal waters of the Canaries this summer to admire the area’s stunning coastline and temperate climate.

The best part? Apart from the popular hotspots that everyone and their mother knows, the archipelago also has several secret spots that are situated away from the maddening throngs of tourists, just waiting to be explored. One such hidden gem with unspoilt sands, almost deserted coastlines, and a ‘secluded’ feel is Lanzarote’s Playa de Papagayo.

READ MORE: Europe’s sunniest city is underrated gem – and Brits can get there with £16 flights

Due to its location deep inside a nature reserve — which makes it even more exciting to discover — this ‘secret cove’ of white sand with its unique flora and fauna will make travellers feel like they’re in their own personal paradise.

Away from the noise of large resorts and crowded beaches, Playa de Papagayo offers the perfect respite. However, before heading out in search of this cove, it’s important to make sure you’re carrying the necessary equipment: comfortable walking shoes to traverse the rocky patches, water, food, and sunscreen, as well as any essential beach accessories you may require. Since hidden locations are usually not well equipped with sun loungers and too many cafés or restaurants, it’s vital to ensure your own comfort.

In the south of Lanzarote lie the Papagayo beaches, widely recognised as the most beautiful in Lanzarote. There are a set of six beaches in total at Papagayo, and Playa de Papagayo belongs to that set. Together, they make up the Los Ajaches Natural Monument.

Playa de Papagayo is situated in a secluded gully, so one has to go down some steps (offering spectacular views of the beach) to get there. And while Playa de Papagayo is the most well-known in the region, it is surrounded by several uncrowded coves and caves on either side.

Located in a wild area on the southern tip, Playa de Papagayo is nature’s paradise. Access to the beach is either via a bumpy track (cars can be parked at one of the nearby parking lots for £2.5), on foot, or by boat.

Shaped like a shell and situated in a hollow, Playa de Papagayo is extremely well sheltered from Lanzarote’s prevailing winds and will win you over with its pristine, soft sand and crystal clear, emerald green water — perfect for snorkelling and laid-back marine adventures. Ensure that you’re carrying snorkeling goggles or any other necessary equipment in order to enjoy your time to the hilt.

Due to its local popularity, Playa de Papagayo has a couple of beach bar restaurants perched on the hillside overlooking it, giving travellers the opportunity to grab something to eat, drink, and get some respite from the sun.

Leaving the beach without seeing the gorgeous sunset would be a travesty, so make sure to stick around and catch the magical moment.

Tripadvisor reviews warns Playa de Papagayo can get quite packed during the peak summer months of June, July, and August, however it’s still recommended for its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for snorkelling and swimming. But there’s more to Papagayo than just lounging on the beach. The surrounding area boasts hiking trails that offer awe-inspiring views of Lanzarote’s unique volcanic landscapes.

Just a short drive away, the charming town of Playa Blanca beckons visitors to browse its quaint shops and indulge in tasty cuisine at local restaurants.

Lanzarote is conveniently accessible from the UK, with nonstop flights available from numerous airports. It takes roughly four hours to reach this sun-drenched destination, so you know where to head next.

A BRITISH tourist has been arrested in Namibia over an alleged series of sex attacks on San tribal children at a cultural “living museum” in the remote north-east of the country.

Douglas Robert Brooks, 65, was detained on Sunday at the Ju’/Hoansi Living Museum near Grashoek after allegedly offering sweets to local children in exchange for naked photos and inappropriate touching.

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He now faces 38 charges, including rape, indecent assault, human trafficking and child exploitation, under
Namibia’s Child Care & Protection Act of 2015 and international protocols.

Brooks also faces charges of crimen injuria, which means a deliberate attack on a person’s dignity through the use of vulgar or racially offensive words or gestures.

The pensioner allegedly persuaded 33 minors to strip and allow him to touch their private parts, with the promise of sweets he had brought to the camp.

He appeared at Grootfontein Magistrates Court on Monday afternoon, where prosecutor Erastus Christian laid out the charges. No plea was taken.

Namibian police Inspector Maureen Mbeha said Brooks is accused of groping the breasts and backsides of 16 teenage girls, 14 teenage boys and three younger children.

Police say the alarm was raised by concerned parents, leading to his arrest just a day after arriving at the remote museum for his third annual visit.

It’s believed that his detention has since prompted further allegations.

Brooks entered Namibia on May 15 and drove six hours from the capital Windhoek to the camp, which is part of a network of seven
“living museums” set up by the Living Culture Foundation Namibia (LCFN), a German-Namibian organisation.

The museums are designed to preserve San traditions and culture by allowing visitors to observe and take part in daily activities such as bow-and-arrow hunting, fire dances, and traditional craft-making.

While some adult women remain topless in keeping with cultural norms, management said teenage girls are always fully clothed in leather antelope-skin dresses.

Tourists are explicitly warned not to give sweets to children due to the lack of dental care, and instead encouraged to donate to local groups who distribute gifts fairly.

The Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism has condemned his alleged actions stating they were “deeply disrespectful” to the people of the San.

A spokesman said: “The allegations are a serious violation of our law regarding the protection of minors and it is unacceptable for tourists to exploit them.

“We applaud the Namibia police for their swift actions in attending to this matter and are confident that the law and justice will take place in due course”.

Brooks has been remanded in custody by Magistrate Abraham Abraham and is due to reappear in court on June 19.

It is not yet clear if he will be transferred to a main prison.

The San – or bushmen as they were known in colonial times and a description some find outdated – are the oldest surviving civilisations in Southern Africa.

Their small stature and semi-nomadic lifestyle saw them persecuted and hunted and forced into poverty when their traditional hunting grounds were taken.

Some 2000 of the 30,000 San in Namibia remain faithful to their traditional roots, hunting and farming for survival, and do not entertain the modern way of living.

The San are thought to have diverged from other nomadic hunting groups some 200,000 years ago and spread out across Southern Africa surviving in the wild.

They are known for their “click language” and supreme hunting and tracking skills and knowledge of nature and do not believe in possessions but sharing.

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The surge in tourism has been primarily driven by holidaymakers from the UK, with Great Britain overtaking Germany as the island’s leading market in the first quarter of 2025

The Canary Islands have been a firm favourite destination for sun-seeking sightseers from the shores for decades, but one isle in particular is witnessing a significant increase in tourism this year.

While Lanzarote has been lauded for its measured and sustainable approach to managing visitor growth, Fuerteventura has experienced the highest surge in tourist arrivals among the Canary Islands during the first quarter of 2025, sparking concerns about the island’s capacity to cope with the rapid influx.

According to official figures, Fuerteventura welcomed a staggering 758,195 tourists between January and March, marking a 7.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. This translates to an additional 55,120 visitors in just three months — a substantial jump that far outpaces the growth seen on neighbouring islands.

In contrast, Lanzarote recorded a rise of 1.9 per cent, while Gran Canaria and Tenerife experienced increases of 2.8 per cent and 2.1 per cent, respectively.

READ MORE: Canary Islands declares ‘pre-emergency’ as warning issued to British tourists

Fuerteventura’s growing tourist numbers have been primarily driven by British holidaymakers, with the UK overtaking Germany as the island’s leading market, with 243,181 British tourists arriving in the first quarter — a 13.2 per cent increase from the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, German visitor numbers declined slightly by 1.3 per cent, from 239,500 early last year, to 236,398 in 2025.

Fuerteventura’s tourism boom is somewhat of a double-edged sword. The increase in visitors boosts the local economy, supporting jobs in hospitality, retail and transport, but the rapid influx raises serious questions about the island’s infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Unlike Lanzarote, which has been praised for its strategic tourism management, including controlled development and investment in sustainable infrastructure, Fuerteventura seems to be struggling to keep pace with demand. The island’s roads, water supply, waste management systems and accommodation capacity are all under mounting pressure.

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Local authorities and residents have voiced concerns about overcrowding, environmental degradation and the strain on natural resources, particularly in popular beach areas and protected natural parks — there have even been anti-tourism protests.

On Sunday, May 18, residents from all over the Canary Islands took to the streets in coordinated mass demonstrations in 15 locations — including in Fuerteventura — to demand an end to what organisers called an “unsustainable and exploitative economic model”.

The Canary Islands have long been a model for balancing tourism with environmental preservation, but Fuerteventura’s current trajectory could threaten this stability. The island’s unique landscapes, including its dunes and marine ecosystems, are vulnerable to overcrowding. Without careful planning and investment, the very attractions that draw visitors to the isle could be harmed, undermining long-term tourism prospects.

Experts suggest that Fuerteventura needs to adopt a more sustainable tourism strategy, similar to Lanzarote’s approach. This could include measures such as limiting the number of new hotel developments, enhancing public transport options to reduce traffic congestion, promoting eco-friendly tourism activities, and investing in renewable energy and water conservation technologies.

In November 2024, Jessia de Leon, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Tourism, announced that the archipelago intends to improve on the previous concept of ‘sustainable tourism’ after unveiling a groundbreaking new approach, which focuses on three main areas: new regulatory framework, transforming tourist spaces and climate action. She said: “It’s about erasing or at least compensating for the footprint left by those who visit the Canary Islands.”

Fuerteventura remains a vibrant destination beloved by Brits, but one that stands at a crossroads. It must urgently address the pressures of its newfound popularity to ensure a sustainable future.

Has rising anti-tourist sentiment put you off from visiting the Canary Islands? Let us know in the comments section below

Spain has launched a fresh crackdown on a specific group of pedestrians known as ‘phone zombies’ as it looks to cut down on road accidents in the country

Holidaymakers caught wandering dangerously with their phones in Spain could be slapped with a hefty fine.

Spain has initiated a tough new campaign against careless pedestrian conduct to tackle the surge in street mishaps – and it spells trouble for holidaymakers addicted to their smartphones. The Spanish traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), has delivered a stern caution to those who wander the pavements engrossed in their devices.

Under fresh rules, pedestrians caught using their mobile phones while walking, particularly close to or on streets, could face an €80 (£67) penalty, while graver infractions like jaywalking may incur fines up to €200 (£170).

Officials have identified the growing problem of “phone zombies” – individuals who meander into traffic while engrossed in texting or browsing – as a significant danger not only to themselves but also to other road users.

READ MORE: Five major new railways that will transform European train travel

In a direct message posted on its social media platforms, the DGT stated: “Use the zebra crossings properly, they’re there for a reason. Don’t use your phone while crossing, no, not even for a selfie. Eyes up, feet down, and only step out if it’s safe for you and the drivers.”

The statement continued with clear instructions: “Obey traffic signals. Stay off motorways and dual carriageways, they’re for wheels, not heels,” emphasising that the clampdown is vital for “safe mobility for all.”

Particularly, tourists planning trips to popular destinations like Majorca are being cautioned, reports the Express.

Authorities on the island, which has long been subject to complaints about both local and tourist driving standards, are facing increasing pressure to address traffic chaos and pedestrian risks. The problem is only anticipated to escalate as a proposal is being considered to permit learner drivers to practice with experienced drivers, not just instructors, at the helm.

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As Spanish roads become increasingly challenging for both drivers and pedestrians, both tourists and locals are being encouraged to pay more attention and look up from their phones, or they could face a substantial fine whilst on holiday.

There are plenty of other laws in place across Spain designed to control behaviour. In Alicante for example there are heavy fines for noisy tourists. Recently the city tightened versions of their 2019 rules placed by the city council. These simple rules against tourist noise pollution, however, could cost Brits over £25,000 if breached.

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The country as a whole has declared that tourists will now be fined as high as £8,000 for not having legal proof of their accommodation whilst travelling. This translates into a booking confirmation letter or email – which is easy enough for hotel stayers, but for those visiting friends and family that reside there, proof becomes a lot more complicated.

Cities like Benidorm have announced a new change to their tourist law: a beach fine for any who steps onto its sandy coasts between midnight and 7 AM. In an effort to preserve its beaches and prevent potential crime, Benidorm’s fines are a significant sum that can land between £640 and £1,030 and will also target romantics opting for a night-time swim or sleeping under the stars.

There are some places that some say should never be visited regardless of the time of year or how safe the country they’re in is. Here’s a list of the ’15 most dangerous places on Earth’

Journeying across the globe is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering the chance to immerse oneself in diverse cultures and marvel at the world’s natural splendours. However, like any endeavour, travel comes with its own set of risks, and not all destinations are safe for tourists. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as political instability, ongoing conflict, or recent natural disasters.

Yet, there are certain locations that some argue should be avoided altogether, regardless of the season or the overall safety of the country they’re situated in. The YouTube channel Top Fives has curated a list of what they believe to be the 15 most perilous places on Earth.

READ MORE: Mum-of-two loses more than 11 stone doing ‘wall pilates’ at home

In 15th place is Snake Island, Brazil. Also known as Ilha da Queimada Grande, Top Fives said the last known inhabitants were last on the island in the early part of the 20th century. Atlas Obscura reported that the island is responsible for 90 percent of fatalities related to snakebites in Brazil.

Sinabung Volcano in Indonesia is a highly dangerous active volcano that sits on the Karo plateau. It’s around 25 miles from super volcano Lake Toba and last erupted in July 2021; it’s 14th on the list.

The Bermuda Triangle is one of the most famous and supernatural places on the planet. Over the years hundreds of boats and aircraft have disappeared without a trace. The three points of the triangle are often considered to be Miami, Puerto Rico and Bermuda.

Lake Natron in Tanzania is famous for having the ability to reportedly turn animals into stone because of the toxicity of the lake. Despite the danger, the lake is a popular mating ground for flamingos.

Death Valley California, USA, is famous for being where some of the highest temperatures in human history have been recorded. Often considered the hottest place on earth, last year the temperature in the area skyrocketed to over 55C; it’s 11th on the list, reports the Express.

Cracking into the top ten is Danakil Depression in Eritrea. According to Brilliant Ethiopia is “one of the hottest, lowest, and driest places on the planet”. Within the scorching environment are a series of salt lakes, acidic springs, and lava lakes.

Although it covers a very small area, the Valley of Death, Russia, is infamous for the number of dead animals littered around. Situated on the Kamchatka Peninsula tourists are banned from visiting because a nearby volcano emits a deadly combination of carbon disulphide, hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide, and sulphur dioxide.

Madidi National Park, Bolivia, is another jungle paradise on the surface, but it is also filled with deadly plants and animals that can cause serious harm to the unwary. Originally established in the 1990s, visitors must exercise extreme caution if they visit.

Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands is most famous for the nuclear tests that took place in the region in the middle of the 20th century during the nuclear arms race. It is impossible for people to live there because the groundwater is contaminated from those tests.

Naica Crystal Cave, Mexico, is also known as the Cave of Crystals. Located in Naica, Chihuahua, no tourists are permitted inside the cave at any time because of the high heat and humidity.

The top five is a closely fought contest starting with the Kawah Ijen volcano in Indonesia on the island of Java. As with other volcanoes, extreme caution is advised before going near or venturing up to the crater.

Mount Washington is a challenging mountain to climb. It is also one filled with dangers. One of the tallest mountains in the USA, the weather, difficulty of the climb, and poor preparation are all factors that can lead to deaths on the mountain.

Lake Nyos, Cameroon, is set in the crater of a volcano. It is best known for what happened on August 21, 1986. On that day, it released a massive cloud of carbon dioxide that swept through the local area, killing over 1,000 people.

K’gari, Australia, is considered dangerous for several reasons including riptides in the sea alongside the presence of large numbers of sharks and jellyfish. Formerly known as Fraser Island it was renamed basic to its traditional name a few years ago.

Despite being named after a land animal, the Elephant Kingdom in Thailand was not full of elephants. Instead, tourists were given the opportunity to feed crocodiles from a raft. In 2016, it was closed because of how dangerous it was.

This lesser-known village is northwest Wiltshire has everything you’d expect from the Cotswolds, including mellow stone cottages, a charming 17th-century estate and a beloved local eatery

Even regular visitors to the Cotswolds may have missed the memo on this picturesque village. While buzzier destinations like Bibury and Bourton often get the most attention from tourists, heading to a new part of Wiltshire will help you enjoy the area in peace and relative quiet.

Biddestone has a reputation for being one of the best-kept secrets of the Cotswolds – which, of course, means that it is not as big a secret as it once was. Still, the village has retained a quiet charm that travellers would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

Biddestone is a small, rural village in north west Wiltshire, England, with an incredibly modest population of only a few hundred residents. You may have even passed the village unknowingly, as it is in close proximity to many other beloved destinations; just four miles from Castle Combe and about 5 miles from Lacock, Corsham, Giddeahall and Chippenham.

READ MORE: Insanely beautiful UK village is so magical you won’t ever want to leave

The heart of Biddestone is the village green, where many community events and celebrations are hosted every year. The main open space is surrounded by grand Cotswold mellow stone homes and cottages, decreasing in size as you move away from the village centre.

The architecture of the area certainly adds to the character of the squared village, with the majority of buildings boasting picturesque Georgian facades and tiled roofs. Travellers planning an extended trip in the area can stay at one of the architectural marvels situated by the village’s large duck pond.

The Anvil Cottage and the Billiard Room are both award-winning holiday properties set on the grounds of a 17th-century estate, known as The Close. Once a working forge, Anvil Cottage has been restored beautifully and is now a five-star gold-rated luxury property.

The Billiard Room has also been masterfully restored, though it has lived many lives. Originally a blanket factory and then the village school, the property was also converted into a billiard room by the owner of the estate in the 1920s. Today, it is a luxe hideaway with all the modern conveniences of any top hotel.

The duck pond on the property also has a unique history, originally serving as a watering place for cattle from the local farms. The Close also continues to celebrate the village’s wool trading history, which is what allowed it to prosper.

Another architectural landmark of the area is the church of St. Nicholas, which dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. The church was reportedly never enlarged during the seven centuries between its Norman foundation and the late Victorian era, and visitors are welcome to explore the historical landmark daily.

The Grade II* listed Manor House is another stop worth adding to your list. When it is open to the public – dogs included – travellers can explore the five acres of beautifully manicured gardens, streams and orchards. Once you’re done strolling for the day, a trip to the local favourite pub – The White Horse – is a must. It’s easy enough to spot with it’s bright white facade.

While Biddestone has just enough to keep you entertained for a day and plenty of gorgeous accommodation options, it may be better suited for a day trip from a neighbouring base. In fact, you’re likely to meet other Cotswolds residents from Chippenham spending a day on The Green or at The White Horse.

It’s also a great starting off point for a countryside walk, another reason its so popular with Cotswolds natives.. The Wiltshire Walks website recommends a scenic four-mile walk west into the rural landscape and the deep valley of Colerne Park.

At the Mount Hagen Festival in Papua New Guinea, Janet met a community of people with a living connection to one of the darkest aspects of Papua New Guinea’s recent history – cannibalism

A dark tourist who has travelled to the furthest corners of the Earth met a tribe with a cannibal past at one of the “craziest, weirdest” events she has ever been to.

In recent years, Janet Newenham has really been clocking up the miles. The 38-year-old from Cork leads groups of women to strange and largely inaccessible places, including the alien-treed Socotra Island off the coast of Yemen and the ultra-advanced Chinese city of Chongqing.

However, few places could prepare her for the Mount Hagen Festival in Papua New Guinea, where hundreds of tribes from all over the island come together to showcase their traditional clothing, dances and games. It is a riot of colour and movement, unlike anything else in the world.

There, Janet met a community of people with a living connection to one of the darkest aspects of Papua New Guinea’s recent history – cannibalism.

By all accounts, the practice no longer occurs in the country, with the last well-documented incidents taking place in the 1960s. One of the last reported cases unfolded in the malaria-infested swampland of Sepik, a 45-minute plane ride from the city of Mount Hagen.

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It “was in 1964 when a group of men raided a neighbouring village for meat – as their ancestors had for thousands of years. All seven offenders were hanged by ‘kiaps’ – Australian patrol officers who were the law of the land until PNG’s independence in 1975,” wrote Ian Neubauer in 2018 following a visit to the region.

One tribe that also partook in cannibalism in the same decade is the Asaro people, who are known as the Asaro Mud Tribe.

“If people did them wrong or tried to steal their animals, often they would kill a member of the opposite tribe as punishment,” Janet told the Mirror following her visit. “They stopped more than 50 years ago. They said all tribes stopped in the 1960s.

“We did also meet other tribes that touched on it. And explained it was only ever to honour their family or to exact revenge on another tribe if they had killed someone.”

The timeline means that there are a handful of older members of the Asaro living today who were involved. “It wasn’t scary (to meet them), but the more you think about it, it is crazy to think that they have eaten people,” Janet added.

The reputation of the Asaro stretches far beyond the borders of Papua New Guinea, and not just because of their unusual past. Their cultural dress has also caught the eye and inspired many copycats. “They are covered in mud and they wear these really heavy masks designed to scare away their enemies,” Janet explained.

The history of the look is mired in confusion, but it is unlikely to be as ancient as one might suspect. In fact, some historians believe it had its origins in the 1950s.

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“According to one theory, some time ago, Asaro people were hiding from their enemies from another tribe near a riverbank of white clay. The Asaro got covered in clay and mud, and their appearance frightened the opponents, as in the traditions of the tribes, only the ghost can be white. But the legends of the Asaro people still do not explain why this tradition became so important for them, or how they got bamboo claws on their fingers,” writes the Journal News.

“Another version says that once, during a wedding of one Asaro, one man came in a strange costume with a terrible mask and clay on his body. Everyone thought he was a ghost, so they fled.”

According to research conducted in September 1996 by Danish anthropologist Ton Otto from Aarhus University, the Mudmen tradition is an invention of the Asaro people. Its current elaborate form evolved from a 1957 cultural fair, when the Asaro debuted the look, Otto claims.

Over the years, the tribe has used events such as Mount Hagen to show off and perfect their costumes and dances. However, this has given others the chance to copy the striking get-up.

Recently 29-year-old subsistence farmer Kori from Komunive village told the BBC of his concerns over plagiarism.

“The government does not recognise or protect our ownership rights and everyone in the highlands is now claiming to be a mud man,” he says. “But it’s our story and the others have copied it from us. It is a big worry for us because we don’t have any copyright protection.”

James Dorsey visited the Asaro five years ago and heard how an older member of the tribe relocated to a different part of the highlands in the late 20th century, which brought him into contact with other groups. From them, he learned the practice of bakime: using a disguise to take revenge on an enemy.

The returning elder introduced the method of covering one’s face with white tree sap as a disguise. This then morphed into girituwai, whereby a light wooden frame with a mud-soaked bag covering it engulfs the entire head. These were a part of the inter-tribe “spearing raids to capture pigs and women” that were common until the mid-20th century, Geographic Expeditions reports.

“In an effort to curb this cultural violence, in 1957 local organizers put on what was called the “First Eastern Highlands Agricultural Show,” and they invited the Asaro to participate. The tribal chairman at that time, Ruipo Okoroho, saw an opportunity to put the Mud Men on the tourist map. Organizing all of the local headmen, he had them wear, for the first time, the prototypes of today’s Papua New Guinea masks, large, surreal, and weighty,” the publication continues.

“The story goes that the day of the first Sing-Sing, as the show is popularly called, over 200 masked Mud Men stalked slowly onto the grounds, driving a screaming and terrified audience before them. No one had seen anything like them, especially not in such numbers. The Mud Men took first prize for tribal representation that year and the following two years, prompting an end to all such competitions in the future.”

Following a record-breaking 38 million overnight stays, one EU country – renowned for its beautiful scenery – is consulting on a bill that could add three per cent to tourists’ accommodation costs

Yet another EU country is mulling over a tourist tax, in what could be a huge blow to Brits. Once a lowkey destination, reserved only for series globetrotters and hiking enthusiasts – Norway has slowly slipped under the tourist spotlight.

Luring British holidaymakers with its ‘stunning’ mountains, glassy lakes, and chocolate box cabins – Norway’s popularity has surged astronomically in the last few years. In fact, last year it garnered a record-breaking 38 million overnight stays – a four per cent spike from 2023.

Direct flights to Norway from major UK airports such as London Stansted, Gatwick, and Manchester have made the country even more accessible – and affordable, with return flights in June priced as low as £28*. It means trekking up to the majestic fjords for a weekend of walks, saunas, and wildlife spotting no longer guarantees you’ll be on your own.

READ MORE: Canary Island tourism chaos as hotel bookings ‘slump’ ahead of ‘bleak’ summer

While the country’s government says the tourism boost is ‘great’, it also acknowledges the strain holidaymakers can put on popular regions. As a result, it has proposed a ‘visitor contribution’ that municipalities can ‘voluntarily introduce’.

Following a round of consultation, the new bill has given municipalities the power to charge tourists three per cent on all forms of paid accommodation, including hotels, campsites, and rentals through platforms like Airbnb. For example, if you spend £100 on a hotel – you may be asked to pay £3 in tourist tax.

This is a two per cent reduction from the five per cent levy that was first proposed – to ‘reduce the burden on the accommodation industry’. The voluntary tax can also be adjusted based on the season. So, municipalities may choose to implement the levy during peak travelling times, and remove it during off-peak months.

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In a government press release, that has been translated into English, Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth warned: “If the tourism industry is to continue to grow, this must happen within sustainable frameworks. We must address the challenges. Visitor contributions have been introduced in many countries in Europe. Payment in connection with accommodation is the most common form of visitor contribution in those countries that have chosen to introduce this.”

Profits from the tourist tax cannot be used to ‘balance municipal budgets’ and should be strictly for financing tourism-related public goods. This include the installation of toilets, waste disposal, and information activities.

“In the long term, a moderate visitor contribution can help make travel destinations more attractive to tourists and reduce the inconvenience to local residents,” the government added. “This contributes to better trust between the industry, visitors and local residents.”

*Prices based on Skyscanner listings at the time of writing.

Would a tourist tax put you off from visiting Norway? Have your say in the comments section below