tourists

At its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its latest report showing how much the US is losing out on as tourists decide to stay away

Donald Trump has helped shave £10billion off the US economy by keeping holidaymakers away.

There is a whole host of reasons why a lot of people have decided to stop travelling to the US, and the President is at the heart of many of them. Whether it’s newly emboldened border guards that have locked up tourists for little reason; a desire not to spend money in a country that is helping Israel wage a war in Gaza; or the arrival of National Guard troops in US cities.

At its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its latest report showing how much the US is losing out on as tourists decide to stay away.

The WTTC forecasts international visitor spending in the US will fall by $12.5billion (£9.3billion) in 2025, with the tourism organisation urging America’s authorities to provide more traveller-friendly policies and reduce visa costs. The total income from the sector in the US is now $2,575.5billion, down from $2,558.4billion.

Would you consider travelling to China for a holiday? Let us know in the comments below or by emailing [email protected]

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Citizens from some countries, in particular, are avoiding travelling to the US. In February, border crossings from Canada were down by more than 20%, according to Statistics Canada. Among them is Keith Serry, a writer and comedian based in Montreal, Quebec.

He cancelled five April appearances in New York City due to the tense political situation. “This decision will, of course, rob me of the opportunity to share my art with many of you in New York I’ve grown to know and love,” he wrote on his Facebook page. “That said, the honest truth is that I just don’t feel safe travelling to the States right now. In addition, I feel a powerful disinclination to spending my money in any way that might aid the economy of a hostile state.”

On the flipside, China, the world’s second-largest travel and tourism market, is due for a huge tourism boost. The sector already added $1.64trillion (£1.22trillion) to its economy in 2024, and that number is forecast to surge by 22.7% in 2025, adding an extra $260billion (£193billion).

Japan, the world’s fifth largest travel and tourism economy with a $310.5billion (£210billion) contribution in 2024, is forecast to add a further $13.8 (£10.28billion) to its GDP this year.

Despite losing £2.2billion in international visitor spending last year, the sector added £273billion to the economy.

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara chose to focus on the overall growth, rather than the dip seen in the US and UK.

She said: “These results tell a story of strength and opportunity. The US remains the world’s largest Travel & Tourism market, China is surging back, Europe is powering ahead, and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa are delivering record growth. This year, we are forecasting that our sector will contribute an historic $2.1TN in 2025, surpassing the previous high of $1.9TN in 2019, by $164BN. As Italy hosts this year’s Global Summit, its role as a G7 leader showcases the importance of tourism in driving economies, creating jobs, and shaping our shared future.”

Globally, the travel industry is growing at a rapid rate. According to the report, the sector supported 357million jobs in 2024. That figure is set to rise to 371million in 2025, along with an increase in the sector’s share of global employment.

By 2035, one in eight jobs worldwide will be in the industry, with an additional 91 million new jobs compared to today. The majority of those will be in the Asia-Pacific region.

Clovelly is a village in Devon that has been largely untouched by time, and has a very surprising royal connection

There’s a unique charm to some of the British coastal towns and villages that seem as though they’ve been preserved in time.

These are places where cobbled lanes have been trodden for centuries, life moves at a leisurely pace, and you’re not constantly jostled on the tube.

Such spots are rare, and many of these charming villages were discovered long ago, becoming the unwitting targets of busloads of tourists.

Travel writers often wax lyrical about “hidden gems,” but this is something else. Its cliff-side location and winding, narrow streets appear to have shielded it from throngs of holidaymakers who can’t navigate its tight lanes.

With motor vehicles banned from many of its roads, just like in the olden days, donkeys do much of the heavy lifting, helping locals transport their goods and even offering traditional beach rides, reports the Express.

This village is Clovelly, a picture-perfect spot on the north Devon coast. With its whitewashed cottages, flower-adorned balconies, and panoramic sea views, it has long been a favourite among those fortunate enough to know of its existence.

But beyond its unique mode of transport, Clovelly boasts an impressive claim to fame, having once been owned by a Queen – not our current monarch, but England’s first ever crowned Queen, Matilda of Flanders.

Initially, the estate belonged to William the Conqueror, who presented it to his wife, where it remained a private Royal settlement for centuries, until the Giffard family took ownership and it stayed relatively obscure for the following 800 years.

Currently it is owned by the Hon. John Rous, whose mother shared blood ties with the late Queen Elizabeth II, providing the village with a Royal connection that’s both surprising and remarkable.

The scenic Devon location has also sparked some of the finest creative masterpieces of its era. J. M. W. Turner captured the village’s shoreline on canvas, whilst Charles Dickens featured it in his 1860 short tale “A Message from the Sea.”

One delighted visitor sharing feedback on TripAdvisor said: “Clovelly is a beautiful village to visit, and I have been visiting with my family for the last 30 years. Yes, you pay to enter (like most historical landmarks), and yes, it’s steep! Both of which are well-advertised on the website before visiting.

“There really is no other village quite like it in the UK. The beauty of Clovelly is how it remains unchanged and hopefully will remain this way for many years to come.”

Meanwhile another added: “We were very lucky that when we first arrived at the car park it was lunch time and it was raining cats and dogs (mid-July) so we decided to have our packed lunch in the car.”

Boasting historic streets, iconic donkeys, and breathtaking views, Clovelly is a hidden gem in England that’s worth visiting on a trip to Devon – even if it does set you back £9.50.

One village has been named as a ‘perfect quiet alternative’ to a popular seaside resort, which has also been labelled one of the UK’s happiest places

Bamburgh, with its stunning castle and picturesque beach, was recently crowned one of the UK’s happiest places. But there’s another Northumberland gem that’s giving it a run for its money.

Last month, travel gurus at holidaycottages.co.uk revealed Bamburgh had made the top five ‘happy places’ for a staycation, as voted by thousands across the country. Now, they’ve highlighted Warkworth as the “perfect quiet alternative”.

“Just down the coast from Bamburgh, Warkworth offers the same fairytale feel but with fewer visitors and a riverside twist,” the experts said. “Like Bamburgh, it boasts an imposing medieval castle with sweeping views, but instead of a clifftop perch, Warkworth’s fortress rises above a peaceful loop of the River Coquet.

“You’ll still find golden beaches nearby, but here the pace is gentler. Explore craft shops, row to a hidden hermitage carved into the rock, or unwind in a cosy pub where the fire’s always lit.”

Situated a 40-minute drive from Bamburgh and just 30 miles from Newcastle, Warkworth has been receiving well-earned praise this year. It was also recently named by experts at Sykes Holiday Cottages as one of the top “up-and-coming” destinations for UK staycations.

The 12th-century Warkworth Castle, which towers over the village from its elevated position in a curve of the River Coquet, welcomes visitors throughout the year, with tickets available to purchase through English Heritage.

Featuring its distinctive cross-shaped keep and remarkable stone carvings, plus hosting everything from falconry displays to medieval tournaments, the castle represents just one of numerous historical treasures that guests can discover during their visit to Warkworth.

Another essential destination for history enthusiasts exploring the village is Warkworth Hermitage, an impressive 14th-century chapel and priest’s residence hewn into a cliff face that lies concealed along the river and can only be reached by boat journey.

Meanwhile, Castle Street serves as the principal thoroughfare in Warkworth and boasts some of the “most scenic views in Northumberland,” according to the county’s tourism board. Warkworth Castle is positioned at one end, and the village’s 12th-century church is at the opposite end.

There are numerous unique accommodation options in Warkworth, ranging from a 200-year-old stone cottage situated directly on the riverbank to a converted dairy and cow byre transformed into a holiday lodge. Additional highly-rated cottages available for booking for brief stays in the village include:

There are also some top-rated hotels in the village where visitors can rest their heads, with the number one option according to reviews on Booking.com being Bertram’s, a boutique B&B that is also a café during the day and a bistro at night. It is closely followed by Warkworth House Hotel, a dog-friendly hotel with 14 rooms to choose from.

One traveller came back from a Spanish holiday hotspot bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break there. Tasha Penney took took to TikTok to share her advice with people

As Britain battles yet another spell of cold and miserable weather, countless people are fantasising about fleeing to warmer shores. The urge to dash off somewhere tropical feels overwhelming, particularly when confronted with Britain’s never-ending downpours.

One traveller who came back from Lanzarote bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break to the Canary Islands. Tasha Penney, known as @tashapenney_ on TikTok, warned holidaymakers in October last year against trusting weather forecasts too heavily regarding Lanzarote’s conditions. In her eye-opening clip, she explained at the time: “If you’re coming to Lanzarote, and you’ve been worried about the weather, because when you look up online about Lanzarote weather, it always says windy, cloudy, overcast.

“It pretty much says the weather’s like not great most of the time. Don’t be worried, because it’s all a big lie.

“We’ve been here for three days and, every day, it’s said it’s going to be like 24C, cloudy. It actually predicted rain yesterday. None of the times we’ve had any of that. It’s been clear blue skies, the clouds are like that.”

Banishing any remaining concerns, Tasha revealed that the genuine temperatures felt considerably warmer than predicted, offering comfort to prospective tourists that weather worries are unnecessary.

Regarding the climate, she had absolutely zero complaints.

Her footage subsequently become a sensation, amassing hundreds of views and triggering countless responses from watchers, loads of whom are weighing up a Lanzarote getaway this year. Holidaymakers have been raving about Lanzarote, dubbing it the ideal year-round escape destination.

One fan gushed at the time: “Lanzarote is great all year around. My second home.”

Another traveller commented: “I was here for a week. It was roasting, overcast three days, sunny four. Probs it was highest 30.”

Heaping further praise on the destination, a third visitor revealed: “I’m going with my best friend in December to break up the cold. Can’t wait.”

A fourth sun-seeker posted from the island itself at the time, declaring: “Here now and it’s lush. It’s rained a little bit, usually late at night or for less than a minute, but it’s been so hot.”

The appeal of Lanzarote, situated amongst the stunning Canary Islands, comes as no shock given its standing as an excellent winter sunshine retreat.

The destination regularly enjoys a delightful average temperature of 20C during January, seldom falling beneath a mild 16C.

Better still, getaways there won’t break the bank.

For budget-conscious travellers, you can either secure a package holiday or hunt down bargain flights and sort out your own accommodation.

A once tranquil fishing village famed for featuring in the TV series Doc Martin is now said to be inundated with visitors

Port Isaac, the picturesque Cornish village known for its role in the TV series Doc Martin and as the birthplace of sea-shanty band Fisherman’s Friends, is said to struggling under the weight of its own popularity.

The once peaceful fishing village, with its charming whitewashed cottages overlooking a harbour, is now teeming with tourists during the summer months. However, it has been reported that the lower part of Port Isaac has seen a significant drop in its population, with only about 30 residents remaining during the spring and autumn shoulder seasons.

Despite the influx of visitors drawn by its association with Doc Martin, Port Isaac has long been a favourite location for TV and film makers. The village served as the backdrop for the 2000 comedy thriller Saving Grace, as well as the original BBC Poldark series from the 1970s.

Local fisherman, Tom Brown, told the Telegraph that while visitor numbers have increased, they are spending less than previous tourists. He revealed that older locals “hate it” and avoid the bottom of Port Isaac, claiming “it’s ruined”.

However, Mr Brown believes that while the village has “definitely changed”, it isn’t ruined.

The surge in second-home ownership has reportedly priced local families out of the market. According to Rightmove, house prices in the village averaged £425,140 over the last year, reports the Express.

The online property website also noted that most properties sold in Port Isaac over the past year were detached houses, fetching an average price of £490,000.

Terraced houses were sold for an average price of £406,250, while flats went for £333,200. The Halifax House Price Index reported a UK-wide average of £299,331 in August.

Travel and Tour World has reported that a “steep” rise in property prices is driving locals away from Port Isaac, with those who stay facing an “overwhelming” cost of living.

Local businesses have also felt the impact of the surge in visitors over the summer, struggling to meet the demand from the influx of tourists and dealing with challenges during quieter periods.

Cornwall Council’s councillor responsible for homes, Olly Munk, stated that housing in the county is in a state of crisis, with more than 24,000 people on the local authority’s waiting list.

In 2024, the council added 775 “affordable” homes to the county’s total, and there are 600 sites approved for housing. Under a Government scheme, the county is required to build over 4,000 houses annually.

The quaint fishing harbour is located in a very famous part of the UK, but is a lot less popular than its surrounding area.

If you’re looking for the perfect seaside spot to visit this autumn that isn’t flooded with tourists, then there’s one place that ticks every box. Residents of a UK coastal town that’s frequently overshadowed by its more famous neighbours have celebrated its strong community spirit and passion for independent shops and eateries.

Seaton is a charming fishing harbour situated along East Devon’s Jurassic Coast – a World Heritage Site that draws approximately five million visitors annually. Although boasting year-round attractions including the tramway, museum, and beach, visitors often choose nearby Lyme Regis over Seaton.

One standout feature of the coastal community is its dedication to independent businesses, with local shop owners describing it as “the best place” to establish a company.

Amy Bonser helped launch Seaton Chamber Independent Market last year, which has since expanded to feature products from more than 60 traders, reports the Express.

She explained Seaton was the ideal location to create the market owing to its breathtaking local surroundings and established network of flourishing independent enterprises.

Amy told the Express: “Seaton was the best place to start a market. We have an amazing coastline on the Jurassic Coast, amazing gardens, which we use one for our market, and some amazing shops.

“As we mainly have independent businesses, this makes it an amazing place for local small traders to show off their independent business without the threat of the big companies.”

This view was shared by Carly Dean-Tribble, who runs Pebbles Coffee House and the Hideaway – two beloved cafés in the town. While admitting that running two independent cafes is “super hard work” due to people having less disposable income, she feels “very well supported by the local community and tourists alike”.

Carly confessed she hadn’t heard of Seaton before deciding to open her businesses there, but quickly realised it was the ideal location.

She said: “Seaton has a particular charm to it. I made my mind up that Seaton would be our home before we even viewed the business. It’s full of independent traders, which is a unicorn for sure. No big names here.

“Having independent businesses on our high street is a huge plus point. You simply don’t get that level of service and dedication from bigger corporations. People put their heart and soul into everything they do.”

Angela Mendham, another independent cafe owner who has run Passiflora for four years, echoed Carly’s sentiments. Despite facing challenges as more chain coffee shops emerge, she said Seaton locals have continued to show their support.

She expressed: “I do have a lot of locals who are very loyal, and I’m very grateful for their support. My locals have been as supportive as they can, but I’ve noticed that they are not spending as much so it’s hard, but I am very grateful.”

Looking ahead, Angela believes Seaton could benefit from increased funding that would only help its independent shops to flourish further.

She added: “I think Seaton needs more money from councils. Compared to Sidmouth, we really are the poor relative. But as the community goes, we are right on top.”

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.”

The city is a global tourist destination, but locals are growing increasingly frustrated with the influx of visitors, with many saying they only come to the area ‘for work’

Cambridge, a city brimming with more than 800 years of history, draws in admirers from across the globe who are eager to take in its stunning architecture, world-famous universities and quintessential English charm. Yet, locals lament that the city centre is swamped by tourists, with most people “only coming in for work”.

Cambridge’s economy leans heavily on its tourism and hospitality sectors, playing host to an impressive 8.1 million visitors annually.

Despite its historical richness, Cambridge is surprisingly small, leading most tourists to visit for just a day. The sector accounts for nearly a quarter of local jobs and continues to expand, but residents aren’t exactly overjoyed.

Street performer Ray Brenan voiced his annoyance, stating: “Apart from a few old stones and its cobbled streets, I have nothing else nice to say anymore. Take away the universities and there’s really nothing else to it, it’s overrun with people visiting.”

Cambridge is globally acknowledged as the home of one of the world’s top universities. As a collegiate institution, administration is divided among smaller establishments, with over 25,000 students living and studying within their individual colleges, reports the Express.

Among the most esteemed colleges is King’s College, famed for its iconic chapel and prime city centre location. Long queues of people can be spotted outside the entrance gates along the pavements, filled with sightseers snapping photographs.

Local market trader Lorain Cheeseman revealed: “Everyone just comes here to visit people at the university”.

“We get a really huge amount of visitors, everyone is always here on holiday,” Cheeseman added. “There are a lot of students in the city, I don’t live here anymore, I just come in to work.”

Another market vendor expressed similar views: “I don’t live here and I don’t know many people who do nowadays.”

The majority of tourists who descend upon Cambridge are day-trippers. They arrive in crowded coaches, where large groups of sightseers are dropped off.

They spend several hours exploring the city before hopping back onto their transport. Express services from London also enable tourists to reach Cambridge in under an hour.

However, some local workers view the influx of people positively.

“I love selling ice cream to the visitors. Everyone is so nice and really friendly, but it does get very very busy at the stall,” shared Kristof Santha, a local ice cream stand worker.

Masters student at Cambridge, Muhammad Mudassar, echoed this sentiment: “People here are more friendly than other cities, but most people are students here like me.”

A recent list has named the top 16 European city-break destinations that can be easily reached by train and one Belgian spot has been called as a must-visit in the region

Belgium, a country adored by many for its blend of medieval heritage and modern flair, offers more than just the popular city of Bruges.

For those seeking to avoid the crowds while still experiencing the enchantment of Belgium, Ghent could be your next destination. This region is brimming with architectural wonders, historical landmarks, and a vibrant arts scene, all set against the backdrop of cobblestone streets ideal for leisurely strolls and cycling.

Ghent was highlighted in a list by Which? as one of the top 16 European city-break destinations easily accessible by train. This lesser-known Belgian gem outshone Paris and Amsterdam, proving it deserves a spot on your next European travel bucket list.

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Which? members voted for their favourite European locations, rating each out of five stars in categories such as accommodation, food and drink. While Bruges took the top spot, Ghent made an impressive showing, coming in 5th with a city score of 80 per cent.

Located northwest of Belgium, Ghent is a port city renowned for its Gothic architecture. As the fourth largest city in Belgium, it is home to approximately a quarter of a million people.

The region is steeped in culture, boasting a captivating arts scene, thriving culinary cuisine, lively street life, and a historic centre. Furthermore, the city’s picturesque canals offer ample green spaces, boat tours, walking hotspots, and cycling trails for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

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Described as a captivating spot with a relaxed atmosphere and fewer tourists than many other European hotspots, Ghent is a hidden gem. The town is home to numerous museums, medieval streets, three towers and the Ghent Altarpiece, a large 15th-century polyptych altarpiece also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb that’s a must-see.

Ghent holds the title of Europe’s largest car-free zone, boasting vast pedestrianised areas. After a long day of exploring, you can look forward to an unparalleled culinary experience.

The region is renowned for its top-notch mustard, which perfectly complements traditional dishes such as ganda ham, kroakdemandels, Ghent-style stoverij or waterzooi. And for those who enjoy a pint, beer is practically a way of life here, with several breweries offering a taste of their delightful brews.

You can get to Ghent from London St Pancras to Brussels, followed by a transfer to Ghent, all in less than three hours, making it a must-visit European destination.

Officials said people heading to the popular holiday destination could face delays

UK travellers have been issued a warning by the Foreign Office over potential strike action. Updated on September 19 2025, the travel experts note that people may face delays, and it’s best to be prepared.

On the GOV.UK website, under their latest Portugal travel advice, it warns: “Strike action that causes travel disruption, including at airports, can take place.

“Strikes can be announced at short notice. For updates on any disruption that may affect your travel plans, check the local news and follow the advice of your travel provider or tour operator.“

Strikes were planned for this month, however according to Euronews, this is no longer happening. It explains that “workers called off the strike, stating that the imposed conditions make it impossible to exercise their right to strike.”

It was set to take place across 76 days, ending on January 2 of next year. Local news outlet, publico, revealed that “in a statement, SIMA informs that it has canceled the notice because it understands that the conditions for workers to be able to exercise their right to strike with dignity are not met, following the decision of the Arbitration Court that “resulted in a real attack on the right to strike of Portuguese workers in general and of that company in particular”.

Despite this cancellation, it is still crucial that you keep an eye on the Foreign Office website in case there are more strikes planned, especially last-minute.

As well as theses disruptions, it warns people that there’s an increased risk of wildfires. This season usually begins in April and ends around October when the weather is hot and dry.

Wildfires can start anywhere in Portugal and as we have seen, they can be “highly dangerous and unpredictable.” Because of this, the Foreign Office have said that if this occurs, it’s likely that the Portuguese authorities will evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.

If you find yourself abroad when this happens, you should:

It concludes by warning: “Starting a fire, even if it is by accident, is illegal and you could get a fine or a prison sentence. For information about active wildfires and forecasts, visit the Portuguese Met Office website for information on Portugal and Madeira.”

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.

England suffered a 14-run defeat by South Africa in a farcical rain-affected opening T20 at Cardiff.

A delayed start meant the match was reduced to nine overs per side, and the Proteas blitzed 97-5 in 7.5 overs before another rain disruption.

England’s target was revised to 69 in five overs and with little choice but to attack from the outset, they reached 43-5 needing 26 from five balls.

From there, the recalled Sam Curran whacked a six to offer the hosts a glimmer of hope, but the tourists eventually closed out a comfortable win as England finished on 54-5 with two wickets apiece for Corbin Bosch and Marco Jansen.

Jos Buttler had kept England alive with 25 from 11, including three sixes, but they were left to rue top-order wickets as Phil Salt was caught at fine leg from the first ball of the chase, Jacob Bethell chipped to cover for seven and captain Harry Brook made a chaotic four-ball duck.

Earlier, Jofra Archer was replaced by Luke Wood in a late change, and the seamer removed Ryan Rickelton in the first over before captain Aiden Markram led the charge with 28 from 14 balls.

Dewald Brevis, who became the SA20’s most expensive player in Tuesday’s auction, made an entertaining 23 from 10 balls before he fell to the recalled Curran’s first ball while Donovan Ferreira finished unbeaten with 25 from 11.

The three-match series continues at Old Trafford on Friday, where rain is also forecast.

Councillor Jon Wareing has slammed tourists for abusing locals and leaving rubbish in the village he claims is being “exploited” by a certain type of tourist

A councillor from a picturesque village has accused a particular type of visitors of exploiting the stunning location. Bourton-on-the-Water, nestled in the Cotswolds, is home to roughly 4,000 people. The village features golden stone buildings and breathtaking views that attract countless visitors.

It’s also a bustling destination packed with activities and an abundance of shops, eateries, cafés, and tea rooms, creating an ideal location for a day out or brief holiday. Yet locals and councillors argue that the village is being damaged by “TikTok tourists”.

This category of visitor journeys to Bourton-on-the-Water to exploit the charming landscape as a setting for their selfies, Instagram reels, or TikTok content instead of genuinely experiencing what the settlement has to offer.

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Jon Wareing, Cotswold district councillor, said: “This kind of visitor tends to have little real interest in the heritage, culture or natural environment they are exploiting for clicks. They are the ultimate hit-and-run tourist.”

According to Mr Wareing, the settlement, dubbed the Venice of the Cotswolds, has encountered numerous problems in recent times. The councillor revealed he had witnessed accounts of residents suffering verbal and physical harassment, alongside increasing traffic jams.

He also highlighted that litter is accumulating throughout the village “especially on the green”, according to the BBC. However, tourism alone isn’t the sole problem. He continued: “It’s a combination of over-tourism and fast tourism, which refers to people flocking to honeypot locations for the sole purpose of content creation.”

Despite Bourton’s tiny population, the village attracts around 30,000 tourists a year, which is 7.5 times the number of locals, reports the Express.

In May 2024, Mr Wareing put forward a motion to get the council to acknowledge that tourism was creating issues for Bourton, but it was defeated by six votes to four.

He said: “The recent Bank Holiday weekend provided an illustration of a volatile public sentiment on this topic on social media. This is so destructive for our community and is deeply worrying.”

People online have taken to social media to share their complaints, with one user sharing: “Couldn’t pay me to go there in the summer, it’s bad enough the rest of the year but in the summer madness”. Another said: “I will never go back, used to be quiet, but horrible parking issues, expensive, overrated.”

A third urged: “Don’t go there in Summer…tourism has killed it…locals hate it & can’t blame them. Another said how unfortunate it has turned into: “sadly tiktok bloggers have shown these places now England peaceful secrets ruined”.

TikTok said it did not wish to comment.

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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 travel expert has revealed why people should actually avoid using bright or distinctive suitcases – and shared some additional top tips to help keep your luggage safe at the airport

Many holiday makers and frequent flyers rely on simple hacks to take the stress out of travelling – and that includes using bright and distinctive suitcases.

Choosing luggage that’s instantly recognisable makes a big difference when it comes to the chaos of the luggage carousel. But now experts have warned that standout suitcases could actually be setting you up as a target for thieves.

Andrea Platania, a travel expert at Transfeero, said that while people believe using a distinctive case is the smart choice, it’s actually safer to blend in.

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“A bold suitcase might look fashionable, but it catches the eye of the wrong people,” Andrea has explained. “If you really want to travel securely, go for something ordinary, or even a little worn. It doesn’t draw attention and it doesn’t advertise what might be inside.”

Instead, make your luggage recognisable to you by using discreet personal touches. Small ribbons, stickers or markers can help you spot your bag quickly at baggage claim, without turning it into a neon sign for thieves.

“It’s about balance,” Andrea added. “You want to recognise it instantly without making it look like treasure on wheels.”

Travellers could also consider slipping a cheap, plain-coloured cover over their bags to help tone down stand-out designs and also protect against damage.

The most important thing, however, is to make sure your luggage is properly secured – even a simple padlock can make a difference, according to Andrea, who says that opportunistic thieves are less likely to bother with a bag that presents any kind of obstacle.

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Another top tip is to keep count of your bags; whether you’re waiting for your flight, stopping for a drink, or heading through security, mentally tracking how many bags you have means you won’t leave one behind.

Travellers can also consider slipping an affordable tracking device that uses GPS or Bluetooth into their luggage for extra peace of mind. Taking photos of your bags before travelling – including shots of the front, back and any unique details or stickers – can also make life much easier if you need to file a police report or insurance claim.

On the subject of insurance, people are also strongly advised to double-check that their policy covers belongings outside the home – and if not, should consider topping up with travel insurance that includes baggage protection.

“Losing a suitcase is stressful, but the sting is far worse if you’re left footing the bill,” the expert said, adding that theft should be reported straight away to the British Transport Police if you’re at a station, or to the airline if you’re at the airport. Quick action not only improves your chances of recovering belongings but also eases the insurance process.

Ceramicist and Saint Lucia local, Amanda, went viral on TikTok last year when she posed a special quest for UK travellers. This year, she’s upping the stakes in her pursuit of a sausage melt.

For all the beauty and sunshine that Saint Lucia offers, one of its few short falls is its lack of a Greggs. After achieving viral success with her social media call to action last year, one Saint Lucia resident is setting Brits on a quest to help with her sausage melt fix.

On September 1, the TikTok creator and ceramicist Amanda offered up a “side quest” to British travellers planning a visit to Saint Lucia. Posting under her TikTok account, @keramikslu, she asked inbound holidaymakers to bring her some Greggs sausage and bean melts.

In exchange, the generous travellers will get to take their pick of one of her pottery creations. While it may seem like a big ask to some, Amanda was spurred by the success of her same call to action last year, though this time she’s updated her request.

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“Well ladies and gentleman, it’s that time of year again,” Amanda shared in a recent TikTok video. “Are you British? Are you coming to St. Lucia on holiday? Are you going to be staying at Coconut Bay?” she asked her followers.

If you answered yes to all of these questions, then Amanda wants to know if you can do her a “little favour please” and bring her some Greggs. But while last year, she was only asking for a single sausage and bean melt, she’s upped the ante this time round.

“I have upped the difficulty level just a tiny bit because it was so easy apparently last time. The challenge is this: can you bring me a frozen box of Gregg’s sausage and bean melts. Can you? Can you!”

The same rules as last time apply, she clarifies: “As a reward, I’ll bring you here [to the studio] and let you pick your own pottery”. Amanda is the business owner of the pottery site Keramik Saint Lucia Artisan Ceramics.

According to her blog she learned to make pottery in Vietnam and continued taking classes in Manchester, UK before deciding to move to Saint Lucia at the end of 2019. It is here that she began documenting her attempt to process clay dug up on her own land.

Her TikTok video concludes with a simple plea: “So British people coming to Saint Lucia staying at Coconut Bay, are you up for the challenge? Please say you are. Please. I really need some Greggs.”

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In just three days, the video has massed over 400,000 views and users in the comments are already signing on to the challenge. One wrote: “Adding Coconut Bay to my travel list just so I can bring you Greggs”.

Another commenter identifying themselves as a British Airways cabin crew member shared they’re also ready to help if Amanda can meet them at the airport. “I’m genuinely willing to get you your Greggs! I’m BA cabin crew and coming to St Lucia on Monday!” they wrote.

Amanda’s original video shared in May 2024 achieved viral success with over 1.5 million views. The following week, she shared a video of her meeting up with a traveller to exchange her pottery for a Greggs delivery with the caption: “happily ever after”.

Let’s hope there’s another happy reunion for Amanda.

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The town is one of the top travel spots in Europe in autumn

Trevone Bay in Cornwall has been hailed as one of Europe’s top autumn travel destinations. According to CN Traveller, it’s the best spot across the continent for a breath of fresh sea air and is conveniently located near the bustling harbour town of Padstow in the north of the county.

For those seeking a quieter, slower-paced Cornish experience once the peak travel season has passed, this idyllic location is perfect. Despite its small size, like many of Cornwall’s coastal spots, Trevone Bay more than compensates with its stunning beauty.

The bay offers visitors a gently sloping sandy beach nestled between towering cliffs, featuring the iconic Trevone Round Hole and the popular tidal pool, reports the Express.

In fact, it was the proud recipient of a Blue Flag Award and Seaside Award in 2024, recognising its commitment to environmental standards, water quality and beach safety.

And for those seeking self-catered luxury accommodation on the clifftop, Atlanta Trevone is just steps away from the surfer-friendly beach.

Holidaymakers can also opt for The Pig at Harlyn Bay, boasting beds so comfortable you’ll struggle to get up for the picture-perfect coastal sunrise.

Trevone Bay is buzzing with activity, both onshore and off.

With the South West Coast Path traversing the clifftops, walkers can revel in the breathtaking coastal scenery and views stretching to Hawkers Cove, the Camel Estuary and beyond.

Visitors can also marvel at the fascinating 80 ft blow-hole known as Round Hole, a result of a collapsed sea cave, which contributes to the area’s geological significance and its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

For marine wildlife enthusiasts, Rocky Beach is just around the small headland, aptly named for its rocky outcrop, making it an ideal spot for rock-pooling.

Additionally, there’s the Trevone tidal pool, one of the largest on the Cornish coast, fondly referred to by locals as ‘Tinker Bunny’s Bathing Pool’.

A restaurant in Spain has shared a photo of a receipt with a huge €63,000 (£55,000) bill racked up on it – and people are desperate to know who could have paid it

A Spanish restaurant has shared of a receipt showing an eye-watering €63,000 (£55,000) bill, that a group of tourists unbelievably walked away from.

The eatery teased that the party might have featured a well-known American sporting celebrity. Situated in Palmanova, Majorca, the waterfront establishment appealed on social media: “Whose bill is this? Tag them below, please – we’d like to talk..”

Sharp-eyed observers noticed that a massive chunk of the total was splashed on “various fish”. With such an astronomical sum, punters in the replies have been desperately attempting to identify who could possibly fork out this much at a restaurant.

A fierce discussion has erupted in the comments section as people scramble to determine who would blow this kind of cash at the venue.

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The establishment later revealed that 18 guests were accommodated at the table and suggested the party might have featured a well-known American sporting celebrity, according to Majorca Daily Bulletin.

The mystery diners didn’t just splash out on grub but also shelled out a fortune on premium beverages.

Another entry on the receipt shows valet parking, which forms part of the venue’s upmarket offerings.

The Instagram post exploded online with countless users desperate to uncover the identity of the enigmatic customer, reports the Express.

It has now become the hottest topic across Majorca as residents attempt to crack who splashed out on one of the island’s priciest ever dinners.

Majorca stands as one of the biggest islands in the Balearics and serves as a beloved getaway destination. The island boasts crystal clear waters and breathtaking beaches, making it a must-visit destination that draws in two million Brits per year.

The British Embassy in Cairo is currently closed and this will be the case for the ‘foreseeable future’, the UK Foreign Office has warned. Here is all you need to know

Brits planning a trip to Egypt have been given updated travel guidance by the Foreign Office due to alterations at the British Embassy in Cairo.

The Embassy is not currently open, however, consular support remains accessible. Following the removal of security barriers outside the premises on August 31, the Embassy has temporarily shut its doors while the situation is being ‘reviewed’.

Despite the closure, emergency help is still available for travellers who can call 0020 2 2791 6000 if they require assistance. The Foreign Office released a statement on their Egypt travel advice page, stating: “On Sunday 31 August security barriers outside the British Embassy in Cairo were removed by the Egyptian authorities.

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“The main Embassy building will be closed while the impact of these changes is reviewed. Emergency consular assistance remains available by calling 0020 2 2791 6000. If you have a pre-booked appointment at the Embassy please call 0020 2 2791 6000 in advance for advice on how to access the Embassy compound.”

The decision to remove the security barriers came amidst a diplomatic dispute sparked by the detention of an activist, as reported by BBC News. Daily News Egypt has reported that the incident involved an Egyptian activist who was detained after a confrontation with protesters outside the Egyptian embassy in London last week, but he has since been released by British officials.

In response to the recent arrest, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty is said to have contacted the UK’s National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell last week seeking an explanation.

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Abdelatty has previously stated that Egypt reserves the “right to respond and reciprocity” towards nations that do not adequately protect Egyptian embassies as per the Vienna Convention.

The initial detention prompted a “strong diplomatic response from Cairo”, with some calling for the removal of security barriers around the British embassy in Cairo.

The UK government remains in discussions with Egyptian officials regarding the security at the British embassy in Cairo, according to BBC News. Both the British and American embassies in Cairo have been fortified with substantial security barriers for many years.

According to the latest numbers, Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists in 2024, an increase of 800,000 compared to the previous year. The country also aims to welcome 30 million annual visitors by 2030, with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which will welcome visitors from around the world.

Using data from TripAdvisor, Numbeo, LightPollutionMap.info, and official tourist sources, 30 cities was scored across five stress factors: tourist density, hotel density, noise, light pollution, and crime rates

Popularity does not always equal quality.

At least that is according to Icelandair, which has commissioned analysis of 30 popular European destinations to highlight those which might be worth skipping when you come to booking your next holiday.

Using data from TripAdvisor, Numbeo, LightPollutionMap.info, and official tourist sources, each city was scored across five stress factors: tourist density, hotel density, noise, light pollution, and crime rates.

At the top of the pile was Florence in Italy. Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence attracts more than 5.2 million visitors annually, which is the equivalent of around 10 tourists arriving every minute. Given its population of 362,000, each year roughly 15 tourists arrive for every local.

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The majority of visitors are packed into the city centre, where most of Florence’s 2,000 hotels are located. Florence has one of the highest tourist and hotel densities in Europe. Add in heavy noise levels and some of the brightest light pollution recorded in this index, the city can feel less than tranquil.

I’ve visited Florence a number of times and have been taken aback by the intensity of the crowds. If you’re in town, you’ve got to lay your eyes on perhaps the world’s best known sculpture, Michelangelo’s David, who stands in all his marble-clad glory in the Accademia Gallery. If you do fancy a glimpse of that historically toned bod, then make sure you’ve got your elbows sharpened.

The area around David is always packed, and efforts to admire his splendour are often thwarted by an elevated selfie stick. It can be as dissatisfying an experience as viewing the Mona Lisa in the Louvre.

Once you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the Accademia, you’ll have to re-gird your loins for a trip to the Uffizi Gallery, which sits next to the Piazza della Signoria. The gallery is packed full of works from the Italian Renaissance, having been gifted to the Uffizi when the House of Medici died out.

Top of most visitors’ list is a spot of serious swooning in front of two of Botticelli’s most famous paintings – Primavera and The Birth of Venus. They are both huge and both fantastic. However, much like David, getting close enough to have a decent look can be difficult.

Once you’ve decided that you’ve had enough art for one day, you’d be forgiven for heading back to the Piazza della Signoria for a quick rest and recalibration. There you’ll find yourself bombarded with street performers, overheated children and worst of all, mimes.

While Florence should, arguably, be visited once in a lifetime, if you’re open to alternatives, then Lucca is a great choice. The city is about a quarter of the size and situated an hour’s train ride from Florence, closer to the Cinque Terre coastline and Pisa, meaning getting there from the region’s main airport is a breeze.

And if you do visit Lucca, you’ll quickly realise it’s no downgrade. I have spent several afternoons walking through and around the city on its perfectly preserved Renaissance-era defensive walls. They provide a wonderful route through Lucca and are largely free from crowds, beyond the occasional wandering local and cyclist.

In its medieval core, you will find attractions such as the Guinigi Tower, the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro and the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini. Head to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro for a bite to eat when you’re down culture vulturing. It may be central and popular, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t lovely. In fact, it consistently hits a sweet spot of lively but not overwhelming.