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Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is set to ‘level with’ the public as jet fuel shortages continue to affect airlines

British holidaymakers are set to be warned by ministers to prepare for potential flight cancellations. The anticipated warning follows concerns from airline bosses about possible jet fuel supply shortages affecting the UK from as early as next month.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reportedly preparing to “level with” the public this weekend about the likelihood of disruption and cancellations this summer. She is also expected to outline contingency measures designed to minimise the fallout – as six tourist hotspots have reportedly been identified as being at risk of cancellations.

Government officials are drawing up plans to advise against long-haul travel to specific destinations should tensions in Iran escalate dramatically. Countries including Vietnam, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Myanmar and Ethiopia could be affected, sources told the Times.

Ministers are also set to highlight the “positives” of staycations as anxiety mounts over overseas bookings. A number of major European carriers have recently sounded the alarm about looming jet fuel shortages in the coming weeks, citing disruption to their primary supply route through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to UKOilWatch, Britain currently holds just 34 days’ worth of jet fuel reserves. Roughly three-quarters of Europe’s jet fuel originates from the Middle East and passes through the Strait of Hormuz off Iran. Heathrow Airport confirmed on Wednesday that it anticipates passenger figures for the remainder of the year will be impacted by Middle Eastern tensions.

Lufthansa Group plans to axe 20,000 flights over the next six months in a bid to conserve fuel. Meanwhile, other carriers including Virgin Atlantic have introduced a fuel surcharge, and British Airways has cautioned passengers about potential “pricing adjustments” to their tickets.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, also suggested this week that Brits might need to reconsider “where they go on holiday”. Government ministers insist the UK isn’t currently facing jet fuel shortages, as alternative supply sources remain available.

Michael O’Leary, chief executive of Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline, revealed to The Times that competitors are “desperately” hunting for flights to axe, with cancellations expected to begin within weeks. According to the newspaper, leading fuel suppliers are informing airlines that the UK has the “most limited visibility” across Europe regarding jet fuel availability, largely due to its heavy dependence on Middle Eastern imports.

These suppliers reportedly anticipate May will be manageable. Yet they warn that “mid to late June as the potential start of disruptions” if the Strait of Hormuz near Iran remains closed.

Ryanair and Jet2 reassure passengers

O’Leary explained: “There is a modest improvement in the supply situation through to the end of May, early June, but then nobody would give us any undertakings what happens in mid-June or thereafter.”

He confirmed Ryanair wouldn’t be slashing flights. However, he predicted that other prominent European carriers more “exposed” to soaring costs would likely begin scrapping routes, saying: “They are all desperately trying to take out marginal flights or any growth because they don’t have the fuel for it.

“We were worried there would be disruption to around 10 per cent of our flights but some of those worries have eased because other European airlines have taken out lots of capacity.” It comes as Jet2 has revealed that holidaymakers are increasingly making last-minute bookings following the outbreak of the Iran war, with growing concerns about the conflict’s impact and potential disruptions to jet fuel supplies.

The company reported that summer passenger bookings are currently up 6.2%, driven by growth in both its airline and package holiday operations. However, highlighting rising unease amongst travellers, it noted that the “booking profile has become increasingly close to departure” as a result of the Middle East conflict.

Jet2 confirmed it has strong protection against fuel cost increases triggered by the Iran war for the crucial summer period. It said it is “maintaining frequent dialogue with our fuel suppliers and airport partners on fuel supply”.

British refineries have meanwhile been instructed to maximise jet fuel production as part of government contingency measures amid concerns that the Iran war could lead to aircraft being grounded. Energy minister Michael Shanks said the government is closely monitoring UK jet fuel stocks and liaising with airlines, airports, fuel suppliers and international partners.

“UK airlines typically buy fuel months in advance, and aviation fuel suppliers hold bunkered stocks. The UK imports jet fuel supplies from a range of countries not reliant on the strait, including the United States,” Shanks stated in a ministerial announcement. “Airlines UK have stated that ‘UK airlines continue to operate normally and are not experiencing issues with jet fuel supply.’ The government continues to work with partners to monitor and mitigate potential disruptions,” Shanks added.

EUROPE’S biggest airline is calling for new European travel rules to be suspended.

Ryanair has written to the 29 countries where Europe‘s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is being enforced, to suspend the system until September following lengthy airport delays.

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The budget airline’s COO Neal McMahon said: “Governments across Europe are attempting to roll out a half-baked IT system in the middle of the busiest travel season of the year, and passengers are paying the price, being forced to endure hours-long passport control queues and in some cases, missing flights.

“The solution is simple and already provided for under EU law (EU Reg. 2025/1534) – Governments should suspend EES until September when the peak summer travel season has subsided, just as Greece has done.

“This would allow passengers – many of whom are travelling with young families – a smoother airport experience for their summer holidays.”

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It comes as the airline has called on the French government to suspend the rollout of EES to ensure passengers do not suffer long queues at airports during the summer period.

According to the airline, despite French authorities knowing that EES was going to be introduced on April 10 this year for the past three years, they have “failed to ensure adequate staffing, system readiness or kiosks are in place”.

This has meant that there are long queues at passport control and in some cases, passengers are even missing their flights.

For example at Beauvais, Marseille and Nantes airports, queues are taking around one to two hours for passengers to get through.

Other European countries are also suffering, with Sun Travel Reporter Alice Penwill recently getting stuck at Lanzarote Airport in Spain for three hours.

Other reports have seen two-hour queues at Lisbon Airport in Portugal and in Malta, one flight was forced to wait on the tarmac for 40 minutes before passengers could get off, as passport control queues in the airport were so long.

Greece, on the other hand, has suspended EES until September, to manage peak summer travel.

Back on April 18, a statement from the Greek Embassy announced that Brits are “exempt” from biometrics at all “Greek border crossing points”.

Eleni Skarveli, the director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, added: “The exemption of British passport holders from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points, effective from 10 April 2026, is expected to significantly reduce waiting times and ease congestion at airports.

“UK travellers will no longer need to undergo additional EES biometric procedures, ensuring a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece.

“The Greek National Tourism Organisation remains committed to ensuring a seamless and welcoming journey for all visitors from the UK.”

One airline is reducing its service that day by 60 per cent

UK holidaymakers are preparing for fresh travel disruption after the announcement of strike action. Media reports today confirm that Brussels Airlines is reducing its service by 60% on May 12. A spokesperson for the carrier confirmed the news on Tuesday.

Disruption that day is a possibility for Brits and others heading there, given that the airline flies regularly to and from London Heathrow, although details of flight cancellations have not yet been disclosed. It also has services to and from Manchester Airport and Edinburgh Airport.

The move follows Brussels Airport’s warning of expected disruption on that date due to nationwide industrial action. Numerous security workers and service providers will be downing tools.

Airlines have been requested to cap the number of departing passenger flights on the day in order to maintain safety and prevent excessive waiting times. The news site 7sur7 reports that the FGTB, CSC, and CGSLB unions are organising another major mobilisation in the streets of Brussels.

It marks the latest wave of strike action to hit the country. No passenger flights took off from Brussels Airport during the previous national demonstration, although commentators say disruptions are expected to be less severe on May 12, according to local media reports. “Just under half of the scheduled departures will be able to operate,” Zaventem Airport estimated.

In addition, strike action is also planned separately in the aviation sector. The Mirror reported on Tuesday that notice was lodged this week that could see strikes involving pilots.

The joint union front (CNE/ACV Puls, CSC Transcom, CGSLB/ACLVB, and Setca/BBTK) has filed a national strike notice for the entire Belgian aviation sector. Approximately 1.3 million Brits visit Belgium annually – suggesting hundreds if not thousands of UK travellers could be impacted on that single day alone. Brussels Airlines is cancelling roughly 60% of its flights that day, Le Soir reported.

Bosses say the long-haul network will bear the brunt, as these flights carry many connecting passengers. For shorter routes, the airline is giving priority to flights with the greatest number of direct passengers. “Further cancellations cannot be ruled out. Passengers whose flights are cancelled can either rebook or request a refund. We continue to monitor the situation closely; further cancellations cannot be ruled out,” says Brussels Airlines.

“Brussels Airlines is not involved in the labour dispute between the unions and the Belgian federal Government. Yet, the consequences always fall on our passengers, our colleagues, and our company. In the current geopolitical context (particularly with high fuel prices, editor’s note), such actions are irresponsible.”

“In collaboration with all relevant partners, Brussels Airport is working to ensure that as many flights as possible can depart that day,” the national airport said in a statement.

The airport, however, anticipates only minimal disruption to incoming flights. Passengers due to land at Brussels Airport that day are still urged to check the latest status of their flight directly with their airline.

The unions announced the fresh mass action at the start of the month. The demonstration forms part of a series of union actions they have been carrying out for over a year in opposition to the federal government’s reforms to policies including pensions.

The most recent national demonstration took place on 12 March. Between 80,000 people (according to the police) and more than 100,000 (according to the unions) took to the streets of Brussels. Not a single passenger flight departed from Zaventem Airport on that occasion.

Your rights as an airline passenger

According to the government’s gov.uk website, your airline, travel agent or tour operator is obliged to give you “clear and easy-to-understand information on the conditions of your travel at the point of booking.” Travellers are urged to check these carefully.

The website says: “Airlines and travel agents selling flight tickets must make clear the full price for all mandatory charges, such as taxes, at the time of booking. They should make clear any additional costs for optional extras. For example, for luggage allowance or seat selection.

“If you have booked a package that includes a flight (such as flight and accommodation or flight and car hire) you may also have both package and ATOL protection. Take your ATOL Certificate with you.”

Tourists in Tenerife were recently taken aback when they looked up from their sunbeds to be met with an unexpected sight. Many couldn’t believe their eyes due to what they saw

Tourists in Tenerife recently witnessed an unexpected sight after looking up from their sunbeds, and it comes after people have encountered unlikely experiences at the destination. Many tourists jet off to the Canary Islands hotspot in hope of catching a tan and having a much-needed rest but some admitted they were faced with a rather different holiday lately.

It was brought to people’s attention by a man known as Sam T, who claimed the weather in Tenerife is very “deceiving”. After he posted footage from his sunbed, looking up at the sky, it got many people talking about how their holidays have been impacted by the same surprising factor.

This isn’t the first time the topic has been brought to people’s attention either. Just weeks ago, holidaymakers made another similar complaint.

Lying on his sunbed, Sam was hoping to get some sun on his skin, but it looks as though mother nature had other ideas. As he filmed up towards the sky, you could see the blue sky was gradually clouding over and turning grey.

It also sounds like there may have been a bit of thunder and lightning too. The footage quickly got people talking, as they were keen to share what their own experiences at the destination have been like.

One said: “I just don’t get the hype with the Canaries. Beaches ain’t pretty and there’s always so much cloud.”

Another wrote: “Been here since the 19th and it’s been so inconsistent. It’s cloudy then a bit of sun. Rubbish really.”

A third replied: “The weather sucks. No sunshine, clouds always around the mountains. Five more days then I go home.

“Never ever coming back. I’ll try to leave earlier. Biggest disappointment of this year.”

Even though Sam admitted it’s been hot during his stay, he noted it’s been “overcast a lot of the time”. He also admitted he’s visited a few times in the past, but this was the first time he’s experienced so much cloud.

Someone else wrote: “I was here 15th to 22nd and had lush weather!” Another responded: “Still absolutely boiling though.”

One more also noted: “Been here since 18th April. It’s been mid 20s every day – been scorching.”

What people need to know

Generally, Tenerife is not considered a cloudy island overall, but it has distinct microclimates. The north is greener and often cloudier, while the south is consistently sunny and warm.

Clouds commonly form over the central mountains, and occasionally spill over to coastal areas, particularly from September to May. However, it’s also been noted the weather in parts of the Canary Islands has been worse than usual this year.

During early 2026, Tenerife experienced significant, unseasonably bad weather, which has been described as some of the worst in over a decade. March was particularly impacted by Storm Therese, which brought heavy rain, high winds, flash flooding and rare snowfall at high altitudes.

It also led to travel disruption and flight cancellations. This is why people have been talking so much about the weather there recently.

Far less well-known or visited than many other cities in the UK, but a real gem.

It’s the 12th most-visited city in Britain for overnight stays, according to official tourism data — below Brighton, Oxford, Bristol and Bath. To me, this means a lot of people are missing out on what is one of the finest places in the UK to live and spend time.

This has my home city for nearly 30 years and I can’t think of another I’d rather live in. London has its eye-popping palaces, Manchester has its world-famous football stadiums, Oxford and Cambridge have their iconic universities. But what Cardiff lacks in headline-grabbing tourist sites it makes up for in culture and pretty, atmospheric suburbs where you can live like a local regardless of where you’re from. It is also one of the greenest cities in the UK – and one of the most walkable. This is why I think Cardiff is a match for any city in the UK and a totally unique experience.

One of Europe’s greenest cities

Cardiff is consistently ranked among the greenest cities in the UK and Europe and has also topped a Europe-wide poll on the best cities for families with young children to live.

The jewel in the crown of Cardiff’s green spaces is the vast green space that starts in the heart of the city centre and takes you all the way to the outskirts of the city and beyond. You can walk from Cardiff Castle in the city centre for six miles, sticking close to the River Taff most of the way, to Castell Coch outside the city without leaving a park or nature reserve (you can even explore a secret overgrown graveyard on the way). That’s well over twice the length of New York City’s Central Park. The city’s Bute Park and the adjoining Llandaff Fields alone make up for 2.3 miles of this, around the same length as the world famous feature in Manhattan.

In spring, the blossom trees here are alive with whites and pinks, while in autumn they’ll pop with rusty reds and oranges. In summer, you can sit down and watch a game of cricket taking place, or even have a game of padel or tennis yourself in excellently-maintained courts.

Other gems are Cefn Onn Park, a grade 2-listed historic park on the city’s northern fringes which is an oasis of calm full of native and exotic trees set within an intimate valley. Or there’s Forest Farm on the banks of the Taff, where habitats include woodland, scrub, hay meadow, ponds and marshland and you can still see sections of the historic former Glamorganshire Canal and the restored Melingriffith waterpump, both relics of the city’s industrial past.

On the city’s western edge is one of the world’s most unique museums: St Fagans National Museum of History is like a walk through a rural village in which one or two buildings from recent centuries have survived. The buildings here have all been dismantled from their original locations across Wales and painstakingly rebuilt here. You can have a pint in the rebuilt Vulcan pub.

There’s a 17th century farmhouse from mid Wales, an 18th century chapel from rural west Wales and a terrace of six workers’ homes, each dated to a different year between 1805 and 1985. It’s a stunning place, free to enter and easily reachable by bus.

Walkable

Given its abundance of green space, it’s no surprise that Cardiff is also a very walkable city. But it’s not just the parks and nature reserves that are a joy to walk in and around. From the city centre, it will take you about half an hour along a very simple route to walk to the seafront Cardiff Bay and you could easily spend a day exploring that area on foot. What is today known as Cardiff Bay was previously known as the Docks or Tiger Bay and is the reason the city exists in its current form. Cardiff was a small town before the industrial revolution, when it exploded in size and population to become not just the biggest town in Wales but the biggest coal port in the world.

But by the 1980s it had become a neglected wasteland of derelict docks, mudflats and poor housing. A decade on and Europe’s largest waterfront development in the 1990s created a barrage, a huge freshwater lake and complex of restaurants, shops and bars which now make it a major draw.

Historic buildings from Cardiff’s industrial era like the pilotage office, pierhead building, coal exchange and Norwegian church still exist amid the more modern developments and walking the entire length of the barrage, with the city skyline on one side and the Bristol Channel on the other is a lovely way to spend time in the open air.

Half an hour on foot in the other direction from the city centre is the sought-after suburb of Pontcanna, where you’ll find a concentration of welcoming pubs and restaurants, including a handful of the best you’ll find in Wales all within a 10-minute walk of each other. The well-heeled Cathedral Road is a lovely street to stroll down, where the large three-storey houses remind you of the city’s historic wealth.

Food and drink

Speaking of food and drink, Cardiff has seen a revolution in this area in recent years. Lamented as recently as 10 years ago by a leading food critic as a city with a desolate food scene (he even said the best place to go for food was Cardiff Central so you could catch a train to Bristol), that is a hot take not even the most cynical of critics could claim today. There are superb places to eat in the city centre and every suburb, ranging from Michelin-starred to street food.

It’s impossible to mention them all here but here are a few stand-outs (go here for a full list of the 40 best places to eat in the city). In Pontcanna, Gorse won a Michelin star within a few months of opening, becoming the city’s first restaurant to ever get a star. Practically next door is Thomas, also comfortably one of the best restaurants in the city. And a few doors down you’ll get a great and affordable lunch at Milkwood. A stone’s throw from here is Heaney’s, another extremely accomplished restaurant serving impeccable food, and Sonder, a friendly, neighbourhood restaurant with a fine lunch and dinner menu.

In the Rhiwbina area of Cardiff (like Pontcanna, also a place with a small town within a city vibe) you’ll find Mesen, a small plates restaurant specialising in sharing dishes cooked over charcoal where I was served the best-tasting dish I’d eaten in years.

Or head to the Victoria Park area, where you’ll find unbelievable cakes at Let Them See Cake, delicious small plates at Hiraeth, cheese platters at The Welsh Cheese Company, tremendous burgers at Burger Boyz, Pakistani breakfasts and lunches at Maasi’s and exquisite breads and pastries at Pettigrew, all next door to one another.

Cardiff’s got a strong Italian restaurant culture. Casanova, Cafe Citta and Bacareto in the city centre are all excellent choices, as is the more informal Calabrisella in Canton. Its Indian restaurants are great too, with Purple Poppadom and Cinnamon Tree among the pick of the bunch.

In the city centre, Pasture serves the best steak in the city, while sister venue Parallel is also brilliant. Asador 44 and its sister restaurant Bar 44, both Spanish-influenced restaurants, are also among the best in the centre. The best food pub is The Heathcock in Llandaff. Speaking of pubs, the best in the city centre are The City Arms and The Old Arcade. You’re also spoilt for choice for trendier bars, like The Dead Canary and secret underground bar Nightshade.

Lastly, Cardiff Market is a brilliant place to try a wide variety of delicious street food, from deep fried gnocchi at Dirty Gnocchi to Keralan fried chicken at Tukka Tuk, pizza at Ffwrnes and Greek wraps at Ya Souvlaki. But don’t miss the Welshcakes, a Welsh classic, at Cardiff Bakestones.

Things to see

While it may not have tourist attractions at the level of London’s Buckingham Palace, Edinburgh’s Castle or Bath’s Roman baths, there are still plenty of attractions well worth a look. Top of the list is Cardiff Castle in the heart of the city. This site has been in use for 2,000 years from Roman soldiers to Norman conquerors and Victorian visionaries – and today you’ll see rock and pop stars performing there. Today it’s a fascinating mix of the Norman keep at its heart (with great views over the city from the top) and the lavishly decorated Gothic revival residence. Its huge, walled outdoor space hosts concerts and festivals.

Across the road from the castle, you’ll find the Principality Stadium, often hailed the best sporting stadium in the world despite being well over 20 years old. The 74,500-seater stadium is where the Wales men’s national rugby team play their home games and there are few experiences on Earth like hearing that crowd sing the Welsh national anthem.

Its position right in the heart of the city makes it a favourite among visiting fans too, who don’t have to find their way to the outskirts of cities as is the case with so many major stadiums. It also hosts concerts from megastars like Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen and Oasis.

Cardiff has its fair share of chain stores but its Victorian arcades are a shopping experience not to be missed. Ditch the chains and head into these six beautiful arcades packed with independent shops and places to eat.

On the outskirts of the city, but accessible by bike along the riverside path, the Taff Trail, is Castell Coch (Red Castle) perched among forest on a hill. It’s often called a “fairy tale castle” for its looks, having been built by the third Marquess of Bute, then the world’s richest man. And you shouldn’t miss St Fagans National Museum of History, mentioned above. Just outside the museum, now a field, was the site of the Battle of St Fagans, the last big battle of the long-running English Civil War. Between 300 and 700 people died in the battle.

If you’re willing to travel around 45 minutes out of the city, you’ll find some of the most beautiful scenery Wales has to offer, from the country’s second highest mountain at Pen-y-Fan in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park to the Jurassic coast at beaches like Southerndown and Monknash.

Culture and history

First things first: Cardiff is the capital of Wales so you are in a country with a culture and language that is distinct from the rest of the UK. You’ll hear plenty of Welsh being spoken and lots of signs are bilingual. It’s also a very friendly city – in 2023, Cardiff was ranked the UK’s friendliest city in a reader survey by popular travel magazine Condé Nast.

The city’s history is fascinating. If you arrive by train into the city’s central train station, you won’t see the sea at all. But, incredibly, this is where the sea used to reach at high tide and buildings here were once swept away by a storm (and possibly even a tsunami) in the 17th century. If you find yourself walking along the city centre Westgate Street, you might be staggered to learn that this street was once the River Taff before its direction was forcibly changed by the engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Large ships would dock here and there is a mid-19th century record of a fisherman catching a salmon near where the Royal Hotel is today.

If you do happen to call into Cardiff Market for a bite to eat, bear in mind that where you’re enjoying your slice of pizza is where people were hanged and burned at the stake. And if you walk the path that runs from the back entrance of Cardiff Market to Working Street, look down and you’ll see numbers on the paving slabs. The numbers refer to burial vaults underneath the ground. The path was built right through the church graveyard so people could access the market easily, gaining the nickname ‘Dead Man’s Alley’. For more on Cardiff’s history, go here.

Places to stay

As a large city, you’re not short of places to stay in Cardiff so this is just a short selection of hotels. Voco St David’s Cardiff is a luxury hotel and spa located right on the waterfront of Cardiff Bay and within walking distance of the Wales Millennium Centre.

The city’s newest luxury hotel is the Parkgate Hotel, right in the city centre, has a range of opulent rooms and suites and a sophisticated restaurant and bar. The Angel Hotel is a classic Victorian building in the city centre. And there are plenty of popular and reliable chains like Marriott, Leonardo and Hilton.

From popular beach resorts to bustling European cities, language experts reveal the holiday destinations that British tourists commonly mispronounce — plus how to say them correctly

Brits are passionate about their overseas holidays. One advantage of living in the UK is having Europe right on our doorstep – yet many people may be completely unaware of how to pronounce their chosen destination correctly.

Linguistic specialists at the learning app Preply have compiled a list of locations Brits most frequently mispronounce. If you’re arranging a trip to any of these spots, verify your pronunciation using Preply’s handy guide (below). Mastering the correct pronunciation of your dream destination could help you avoid embarrassment while you’re there, reports the Express.

Cannes, France

The pronunciation of this glamorous French resort continues to catch people out. Many Brits naturally pronounce the final “s” or insert an additional syllable, but it’s actually a quick single syllable “kan”.

Phuket, Thailand

This stunning island getaway is incredibly popular among British holidaymakers but remains consistently mispronounced. The spelling can be deceptive, but the proper pronunciation is much simpler, beginning with a soft “p” to create “poo-ket”.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Renowned for its pastel-coloured buildings and picturesque harbours, this beautiful Italian coastal stretch welcomes millions of visitors annually, and countless people are getting it wrong.

Don’t rely on English pronunciation rules; instead, follow Italian conventions, starting with “cheen-kweh” and finishing with a rolled “teh-rreh”.

Kraków, Poland

This Polish city is regularly mispronounced. The main error is overemphasising the “ow” ending, when it ought to be a gentler “kov”.

Ibiza, Spain

It may be among the UK’s most beloved party destinations, but that hasn’t protected it from mispronunciation. Numerous people continue to overpronounce the “z” when it should actually be a gentle “th” sound.

Lagos, Portugal

This Algarve holiday favourite is frequently mispronounced by visitors. English speakers tend to pronounce it phonetically, whereas in Portuguese, the ending features a gentler “sh” sound, creating “lah-gosh”.

Budapest, Hungary

Common mispronunciation: “Buda-pest”

Hungary’s capital presents difficulties due to its misleading spelling. The proper pronunciation replaces the hard “pest” with a gentler “pesht”.

Barcelona, Spain

Despite Barcelona being an exceptionally popular tourist destination, many continue to anglicise the name. In Spanish, the “c” is pronounced “th”.

Marylebone, London

Despite being on British home turf, many people still struggle to pronounce certain locations. Marylebone is among these places. Instead of pronouncing it phonetically, it’s shortened to “Mar-li-bone”.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital represents a classic stumbling block for tourists, who frequently over-enunciate every letter while attempting to get it correct. In practice, locals adopt a considerably more casual approach, dropping the ending completely and keeping it brief and low-key: “Edin-bruh.”

A pilot who has flown more than 750 times has revealed there’s one European city which is a ‘tremendous destination’ that’s well worth visiting – and flights start from £26.99

A pilot who has flown more than 750 times and visited more than 50 countries in just four years has revealed the European city that holidaymakers miss.

When it comes to booking a sun-soaked getaway, many of us are on the lookout for those destinations that go a little under the radar. Whether it’s to escape the onslaught of tourist crowds, packed attractions and lengthy queues, or to simply wander around a quieter location and explore somewhere new.

There’s a catalogue of beautiful European cities, brimming with charm and character, that are well worth venturing beyond the typical holiday hotspots. Yet, it’s not always easy to know where to go. But luckily for us, Wizz Air pilot Tom Copestake knows exactly what destination he’d recommend to holidaymakers.

READ MORE: EasyJet unveils nine new routes to beautiful destinations from UK airports with £24 faresREAD MORE: Spanish airports move flights and take action to tackle queue chaos for Brits

Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Tom said: “I flew into Bilbao about two weeks ago – it’s a tremendous destination on the north coast. It was surrounded by what looked like amazing mountains or hills for hiking. I think there’s a lot of good walking in northern Spain.”

He continued: “I spoke to the ground handling agent in Bilbao, and he said how beautiful the area was and how we needed to stay and go exploring. There’s a place called San Sebastiá just down the road from Bilbao, which is apparently an amazing place to go and have a look at.”

Bilbao is a vibrant and colourful port city in northern Spain, with towering green mountains and a winding river valley running through its core. It’s known for its Basque heritage, innovative architecture, and world-class art.

Its most famous landmark is the curved Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, known for its contemporary art exhibitions and the ‘Puppy’ statue that towers over the city. Yet, against its ultramodern architecture, there’s the historic old town of Casco Viejo, which is made up of ancient medieval streets, the grand Santiago Cathedral, and Mercado de la Ribera – one of Europe’s largest covered food markets.

The city has a renowned food scene, with its local tapas, known as pintxos, being a notable highlight, alongside its selection of fresh seafood. Bilbao is also packed with lively bars, buzzing restaurants and cafés, so visitors can savour the flavours of its incredible cuisine, and soak up its vibrant atmosphere.

Aside from visiting the Guggenheim Museum, notable attractions include the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao, Zubizuri Bridge, also known as the ‘White Bridge’, and Artxanda Funicular, a mountain cable car offering breathtaking views. Nearby is also the Bizkaia Bridge, the world’s first to carry people and traffic on a high suspended gondola, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

And it might just be the perfect time to visit, as Wizz Air launched new routes from London Luton to Bilbao this year, with flights starting from £26.99. They also welcomed a flurry of new Spanish routes, including to Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Alicante and Seville.

Sharing a closer insight into his job as a pilot, after recommending Bilbao, Tom acknowledged: “This is a customer service job that happens to be in the aviation industry, and I love the fact that each of the thousands of passengers I’ve flown has a story and a reason to travel.

“It might be for fun, to see family, or we have people who might be working in different countries. It’s really cool, and I love that so much.” He humbly added: “This job is a privilege”.

For more information on Wizz Air flights, or to book your next getaway, visit their website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

The city is a popular cruise ship destination, is famous for its huge Christmas lights displays – and is within easy reach of ‘the world’s best beach’

British holidaymakers are bracing themselves for a new tourist tax at a Spanish beauty spot. Vigo, located in the north-west of Spain, has 45 beaches according to one report – and is within easy reach of one of the best beaches in the world.

The city is equally renowned for its spectacular Christmas light displays, considered among the best on the planet. Respected travel expert Simon Calder is a firm admirer of the destination, describing it as ‘cultured’ and ‘highly affordable’. The Aviothic website calls it ‘Spain’s best kept secret’.

But now local officials are putting the finishing touches to plans for a new tourist tax, according to reports in the Spanish media. The move follows in the footsteps of Santiago and La Coruña, both of which introduced similar levies in late 2025, drawing criticism from various quarters.

Reports indicate that Vigo City Council is pressing ahead with proposals to introduce its own tourist tax, with the aim of ‘redistributing’ profits generated by the tourism industry. The levy is also intended to help reduce the environmental strain caused by mass tourism on the local area.

Vigo is perhaps best known for its dazzling Christmas lights, with more than 11 million LED lights illuminated across the city last year. The city, home to around 295,000 residents, is also celebrated for a nearby breathtaking beach within reach of Vigo – although visitors staying near the beach will not pay the tax.

The Guardian once hailed its Rodas Beach, situated on the Cíes Islands, as the “best beach in the world”. The bustling port city is equally popular as a cruise ship destination.

In fact, this week Vigo takes centre stage in international tourism as the season’s first triple cruise ship call gets under way, with the city set to welcome more than 7,500 visitors within just a few hours. The port is simultaneously hosting three large ships, the Britannia, the Ventura and the Le Bellot.

However, it now seems tourists will shortly face a levy for the privilege of visiting the destination. No form of accommodation will escape the charge, according to El Debate. The amount will vary depending on the hotel’s star rating.

The publication reports the tax could reach as much as €2 per person daily for 4-star superior and 5-star establishments. A €1.60 daily charge is proposed for tourist accommodation and 2-star superior, 3-star and 4-star hotels.

It’s understood that under the proposals, holiday apartments and rural tourism properties – alongside hostels and campsites – will incur a €0.80 per person daily fee, while guesthouses and 1- and 2-star hotels will pay €1.20. Cruise passengers won’t escape either. Abel Caballero, mayor of Vigo, confirmed those disembarking at Vigo’s docks will be charged €1.20.

He said: “From when it comes into force until July 1, 2027, the tax will apply to the first two nights of a stay. Therefore, someone visiting Vigo for 4 nights will pay the tourist tax for only the first 2 nights. From July 1, 2027, the tax will apply to a maximum of five nights per stay.”

He said the tourist tax would be rolled out “gradually” from October, shortly before the Christmas lights are illuminated. Exemptions for health reasons are being considered. Children and certain disabled individuals are also expected to be exempt.

The tax must still secure approval from the Governing Board ahead of one final vote – however, the mayor’s comments suggest it could well be on the cards. In Barcelona, the combination of a regional tax and a municipal charge has hiked up the cost to between 5 and 12 euros a night. In La Coruna, the local hotel association has launched a legal battle to block the levy.

Travel journalist Simon Calder has previously highlighted Vigo’s appeal to British visitors. Writing in the Independent, he said: “Vigo claims to be the largest fishing port in the world, and plentiful fresh seafood is a strong attraction. The city is also an excellent starting point for wider exploration of the rias (inlets) that carve the shoulder of Spain so dramatically.”

How can I get to Vigo from the UK?

Ryanair offers a direct service from the UK to Vigo–Peinador airport, operating out of London Stansted. Journey times are approximately 2 hours 10 minutes.

Many visitors heading to Vigo opt to fly into nearby Santiago de Compostela instead, which is just 50–60 minutes away by car. Both Ryanair (Stansted) and Vueling (Gatwick and Heathrow) operate direct flights to Santiago several times weekly, offering a greater choice of services and often cheaper fares.

Bear in mind, however, that Santiago airport is closed from April 23 to May 27, 2026 for runway resurfacing works. At the heart of Vigo’s social scene lies the Casco Vello (Old Town), a beautifully restored maze of narrow granite streets and bustling plazas.

Visitors may also wish to explore Castro de Vigo, an archaeological site that reveals how the region’s original inhabitants lived in stone huts more than 2,000 years ago. The Guardian says the city has 45 beaches, and notes that an attraction for UK tourists in visiting Vigo is that it brings “the Caribbean-like beaches of the Cíes islands within easy reach.”

“The islands are an easy day trip from Vigo, adding a relaxing beach element to your Spanish city break,” the paper said in a positive review of the city.

This little-known European country gets a fraction of the visitors of some of its neighbours, but if you’re in the mood to visit somewhere a little different, it’s easily accessed from the UK

Nowadays, travel isn’t exactly cheap. From jet fuel prices to everyday spends, it soon adds up, and many popular beach and city break destinations are getting more costly to visit.

But there are still less expensive destinations to discover, even in Europe, and one of the continent’s cheapest destinations also happens to be one of the least visited. While it’s not on many travellers’ bucket lists, it’s a charming break and something a little different if you’re feeling adventurous.

Many people can’t point Moldova out on a map, and this small Eastern European country is often overlooked. It sits between Romania and Ukraine, with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advising against travel near the border with the latter, and travellers should pay attention to travel advice for Moldova in case the situation changes.

Just over 67,000 tourists visit Moldova each year, and most of them arrive in the capital of Chișinău, which has routes from the UK serviced by Wizz Air and FlyOne. The city is a mixture of historic and Soviet-era architecture, and the compact, walkable centre is broken up with large green spaces.

As a cultural hub, Chișinău has plenty for tourists to do. Visit the ornate Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ’s Nativity and see the grand frescos, or tour the National History Museum of Moldova for a fascinating look at this little-known nation’s past.

Moldova’s rolling green countryside is covered in vineyards, and just outside the city you’ll find the world’s largest wine cellar at Milestii Mici. Over 30 miles of its limestone tunnels are in use, storing an estimated 1.5 million bottles of wine, enough to throw quite a party.

You can take a tour of the tunnels, which have ‘streets’ named after different wine varieties, and of course, you get your own bottle to take home.

Many local restaurants also serve Moldovan wines, and you can often enjoy a bottle in a restaurant for £4-5, while a pint in a bar can easily be found for less than £2, making it a cheap place for a night out compared to many European destinations.

Just south of the capital you can visit the 13th-century cave monastery at Orheiul Vechi. Dug into the cliffs, it has a series of solid stone stairs and tunnels and amazing views across this traditional Moldovan town. You may even spot a few of the monks who still live within its walls. There’s also the archaeological remains of Old Orhei, dating back as far as the 6th-century BC.

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If you’re looking for time away from the city, the Bicaz Gorge near the border with Romania showcases some of the area’s natural beauty and includes the unique Red Lake. This lake is famous for its reddish hue and the remains of tree stumps that poke defiantly from the water, making it a popular place for hiking.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Lanzarote tourists claim they are “done” with the popular holiday destination due to an unlikely aspect. It seems something in particular is putting them off visiting

Holidaymakers in the Canary Islands have been raising issues lately as a certain aspect seems to be catching them off guard. For weeks, people have been saying they’ve faced problems in Tenerife, but now attention has been placed on Lanzarote too.

Videos have gone viral online showing people opening up about how they think the popular holiday destination is “done” due to an unlikely issue. One video, shared on TikTok by Biggie Bills, got a lot of people talking, as many were in agreement that an unexpected aspect is “putting them off” visiting again as they made some pretty big travel confessions about the Canary Islands.

It comes after some tourists highlighted a different issue earlier this month. Just weeks ago, holidaymakers in Tenerife also raised another problem.

Biggie said: “This is why people are done with Lanzarote. The wind is constant. Face full of sand with your drink, but not everyone agrees.

“Some areas are calm. Dealbreaker or not?”

The video got a lot of people talking, with hundreds commenting. It seems as though they have very specific thoughts on the holiday destination, as some say they “won’t go back”.

One person said: “It’s like being stranded on the moon, but with a very small town on there, with hardly anything to do.” Another added: “Gone too expensive.”

A third replied: “Too expensive now, the airport is a joke, the wind was insane in Costa Teguise when I was last there, and I feel the place is feeling run down.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “Weather unpredictable. After years of coming, we won’t be returning after three holidays of s*** weather.” One more also noted: “Went last week.

“Between the new system at the airport, terrible weather [and] prices are so high. Puts me off going back.”

Not everyone agreed though, as other holidaymakers admitted they love visiting the destination. Someone wrote: “I was there last year. The best Canary Island. Will be going back.”

Another noted: “Done? We’re getting busier by the year, as is all of our businesses.” A third said: “Best place ever. Clean, friendly and stunning. Going back in July. Can’t wait.”

One more also stated: “If you don’t like it, don’t go. Lanzarote is our favourite holiday destination. The wind does not put us off.”

What people need to know

Lanzarote is generally considered a very popular year-round tourist destination, especially for Europeans seeking warm weather. It’s considered one of top Canary Islands, known for its unique volcanic landscapes, beaches and artistic, stylish vibe.

However, the weather there is also quite windy, and this has been widely documented. Lanzarote is generally a very windy island, with a near-constant breeze.

Trade winds are common, making it popular for water sports. Usually, the wind is strongest from late May to early September, and this seems to be putting some people off visiting lately.

When it comes to cost, the destination is generally considered affordable compared to the UK and Northern Europe; however, costs have risen recently. Even though it still offers good value, tourists should expect higher prices for eating out and accommodation than pre-2020. Areas like Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen in particular have claimed to become more expensive.

Airlines could face ‘an existential crisis’ in just a few weeks’ time if the Strait of Hormuz crisis continues, an aviation expert has said, amid warnings that more flights could be cancelled

British tourists could face up to eight weeks of cancelled flights and airport chaos this summer as major airlines grapple with imminent fuel shortages, experts have warned.

European giants KLM and Lufthansa announced yesterday that they would be axing hundreds of flights due to the soaring cost of jet fuel – while Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), warned that European airports have only “six weeks or so” of supply left due to shortages caused by the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

The warnings have new sparked fears of disruption just before the busy summer holiday season, with airlines set to slash more routes and cut back on schedules if the crisis goes on.

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One aviation expert said that the period between now and mid-June could prove crucial, as airlines could face an “existential crisis” if the global oil shock has not by subsided by then.

Sally Gethin told the Daily Mail: “The worst case scenario is if this carries on for six to eight weeks and the shortages start really biting. This could pose an existential crisis to airlines – even if they slap on fuel surcharges they still won’t recoup the cost.

“You could be looking at tens of thousands, potentially hundreds of thousands, of flights being cancelled globally. It could affect holiday companies as well, although consumers will be protected if their trips are covered by ATOL.”

The Mirror has approached all of Britain’s largest airlines and airport operators to ask whether they are preparing contingency plans for jet fuel shortages. Simon Calder, a travel journalist, reassured holidaymakers today that Mr Birol’s warning was “a mile off” but accepted prices of foreign holidays are likely to rocket this summer. He told Channel 5’s Matt Allwright Show families should look at holidaying in the UK, such as at Bournemouth, instead.

On Thursday, easyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis said all the airports it serves are “operating as normal”.

He went on: “We only ever in this industry have three to four weeks visibility (of jet fuel supplies), and that is the same as it was pre-crisis.

“We have visibility to the middle of May, and we have no concerns.

“What we’re seeing is airports and fuel suppliers working well to bring jet fuel to the airports.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves told the BBC yesterday that Britain has “no issues with supply at the moment” in jet fuel, diesel or petrol as she left a meeting of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington DC.

The IMF this week urged countries to manage energy demand by adopting measures such as subsidising public transport and promoting remote work to combat a surge in energy costs caused by the conflict.

SPAIN has long been the most popular destination for British holidaymakers – but this year is set to see a record high.

Experts have said tourism numbers could hit 100million this year.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The ongoing war in the Middle East has seen nervous holidaymakers ditch some of the nearby popular destinations, such as Turkey, Egypt and Dubai.

This has instead seen them instead wanting to stay closer to home, with holidays to Spain booming.

Last year, the country welcomed 97milllion foreign tourists (up 3.5 per cent from 2024), so experts have now said it could go over 100million.

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But where to start? Do you opt for a vibey city break, or a family-friendly beach resort?

The Sun’s team of travel experts have revealed their favourite places, as well as some of the little-known spots – and how to find a mega cheap pint of beer.

Ibiza

Everyone knows Ibiza’s nightlife is a vibe – but if you want a quieter side to the island, then head to Cala Llonga.

It’s on the east coast is a family-friendly resort that shows the island’s calmer side, with rugged nature to explore and smaller, quieter hotels.

For families, the beach has flat golden sands and shallow waters overlooked by lifeguards.

Or for more adventurous travellers, there’s plenty of hikes through pinewoods that lead to rocky coves with small blue bays.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Valencia

You know a city is amazing when you visit during a rare 45C ‘heatbomb’ where you can barely step outside – but you still love it.

Valencia was the city that restored my love of Spain (after a mugging incident in that famous city put me off for years) for a number of reasons.

The massive City of Arts and Science was one of the most stunning buildings I’d seen, and felt like I’d stepped into another world (and fantasy fans will spot it from both Doctor Who and Westworld).

But I also loved wandering the El Cabanyal neighbourhood, named one of Europe‘s coolest and where we walked past pretty tiled houses and converted warehouses playing live jazz.

My bargain tip – head to La Finestra for £2 mini pizzas. Just be ready to perch on the kerb as its a ‘eat where you find a space’ kind of vibe.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Gran Canaria

I’m a sucker for a fly and flop getaway – give me glorious sunshine and a continual stream of margaritas delivered to my sunlounger and I’m happy as Larry.

I’d booked a half-board stay at one of the many swish Gran Canaria resorts overlooking the beach, with temperatures are still in the low 20Cs even during winter.

But perhaps naively, I had no idea how much MORE the island had to offer – including how much of a hotspot the island was for stargazing.

Its dark and clear skies remain relatively free of light pollution, making it much easier to spot glittering stars with the naked eye.

There are plenty of professional astronomy tours you can book to get a better look through a professional telescope too.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Cadiz

In Spain’s quieter Costa de la Luz, sunny Cadiz is where the locals like to holiday – and has even been compared to the likes of Cuba.

The southern Spanish city has the best of Andalusian culture, with charming narrow streets overlooked by the impressive 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.

The cathedral itself is well worth a visit, with an £7 ticket granting you access inside, as well as the top of the tower, the crypts and exhibitions.

Plus this area comes alive in the evenings, with a vintage carousel in the same plaza and buskers playing the guitar.

When you’re not strolling the narrow streets lined with tapas bars and cafes, you must make sure to tick off the beaches in Cadiz.

Playa la Caleta is a small stretch of sand that sits between two castles (and was used to film that Halle Berry moment in James Bond) whilst Playa Victoria has white sand and a lengthy promenade to stroll.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Seville

Deep in the south of Spain, Seville really has it all, and feels much more Spanish than some of the other cities across the country.

One of my favourite neighbourhoods is Alfalfa which has pretty little cafes and restaurants to explore – Casa Toni is a must for tasty paella, as well as the tiny Bar Alfafa where you can squeeze in with the locals for some delicious tapas plates.

Most main dishes start from around a tenner, while wine tends to sit between £2.50 and £3 depending on where you go.

Salvador Square is beautiful in the morning time.

I’d recommend taking a morning stroll there and picking up some brunch from Sagasta to enjoy on the outdoor seating.

For pictures, head to Plaza de Espana, which is one of the most well-known landmarks in Seville.

It’s a huge semi-circular plaza stretching over 50,000 square metres with four bridges sitting over a canal decorated with brightly coloured mosaic.

You’ll no doubt pass by Seville Cathedral too – which is the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world and while you can pay to go inside, equally, you can experience its grandeur from outside.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

If you want a fancy hotel on a budget, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey also added: “I spent just a few days in Seville but one of the highlights was the hotel I stayed at.

“Only U felt like a fancy members club – think Soho House vibes – but without the price tag.

“An onsite florist, bakery and heated pool as well as a stunning bar area – and the chic rooms were some of the most glam I’ve stayed in – all for under £100 a night.”

Barcelona

Nothing is more spectacular than flying into Barcelona, as the plane heads flies straight over the golden coastline and into the sprawling city behind it.

I often avoid the most-visited spots, but seeing the Sagrada Familia is a must when in the city—nothing quite like this arty Gaudi-designed cathedral exists anywhere else in the world.

And away from the hustle and bustle, venture into the intricate network of lanes in the Gothic Quarter.

There are many independent shops to explore as well as places to grab some wine and tapas.

The bars here tend to be cheaper than those in the city centre – you’ll be able to grab a glass of wine and a couple tapas dishes for around a tenner. 

Don’t miss Patisserie Hofmann in the Gothic Quarter – it serves desserts that are essentially edible art (think a giant chocolate truffle that looks like the moon).

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Lanzarote

It’s cheap, it’s cheerful, it’s sunny and it’s just four hours away – Lanzarote has fast become one of my favourite spots for a holiday.

I went to the island just last month where there were highs of 18C (much warmer than the UK’s chillier 10C).

I really recommend staying in Hotel THB Tropicale – it is lovely and quiet and without enough to do even if the weather turns on you.

The accommodation is in self-contained apartments with little kitchenettes if you want to whip up your own meals.

There’s an on-site shop selling the basics, as well as a pizzeria, bar and buffet area for meals, entertainment area, lots of swimming pools and a tennis court.

I’d recommend not booking all-inclusive and heading down to the Playa Blanca strip which had plenty of restaurants and bars – and weren’t too expensive either.

Safe to say I drank a lot of the local beer, Dorada – usually costing as little as €3 (£2.61).  

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Majorca

You know that annual family holiday abroad – the spot you return to year after year, to the very same hotel that you love? For me and my family, that was a trip to Hotel BQ Delfin Azul in Alcudia.

I loved holidaying there as a kid – getting up on stage at the kids disco, taking an inflatable unicorn into the pool, loading up on desserts at the all-inclusive buffet.

And when it comes to Spanish resorts, Alcudia is a near-perfect pick for families.

Exploring the Old Town and Roman Ruins of Pollentia keeps parents and history buffs happy, whilst Hidropark Alcudia has waterslides and trampolines adored by kids.

It’s also a super affordable part of Majorca, with a meal from the menu del dia at restaurants along the Bellevue Strip costing around €10 (£8.70).

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

While many Brits associate Majorca with its sun-drenched beaches and laidback hotels lining the coast, its capital city is where I like to head.

Old world charm seeps from its gothic architecture and the cobblestone streets are littered with tiny cafes that look as if they’ve been serving coffee for centuries.

It’s also a great place to shop with high street stores like Zara, H&M and (my personal favourite) Massimo Dutti, flogging gear for a much cheaper price than in the UK. Plus, shopping abroad always feels a little fancier.

Swing by the mighty cathedral which is so much more than just a beautiful Gothic structure – you can climb the 215 steps to its roof terrace for epic views over the city.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Marbella

Forget the summer season of Marbella, and let me persuade you to visit out of the peak season.

First of all, you can pretty much walk into any bar or restaurant without having to book – we were the only non-locals in Taberna La Niña del Pisto and somehow only spent £20 each despite piles of tapas and even a bottle of wine.

Sure, you’ll have to miss the beach clubs – most of them are only just starting to open, with others not until May – but instead you get quiet streets to take in the heart of the Spanish resort.

I spent my trip at the Hard Rock Hotel, enjoying music-themed massages as well as breakfast doughnuts aptly hanging from a guitar

If you can wait until Christmas, Marbella really comes alive – the insane amount of lights throughout the town, as well as the live concerts of Felix Navidad and one of Spain’s ‘most Christmassy streets’ aren’t to be missed.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor