Liverpool Street station in London is set to undergo a huge transformationCredit: Network Rail Property and ACMEBut the upgrades could see up to 10 years of disruption for travellersCredit: Unknown
One architect who has opposed the plans said during a recent campaign meeting that the disruption could last for 10 years.
As part of the planning process, Network Rail has revealed the extent of disruption thatcommuterswould face despite the station remaining open during the works.
There would be an impact on some London Overground routes on Greater Anglia services including those from Chingford, Cheshunt and Enfield Town.
Documents reveal that platforms 1 and 2 which are used by London Overground trains would be closed for up to two years.
Proposals also suggest that later on, the area between platforms 9 and 10 would be needed for the building of a new upper concourse.
But Network Rail says these platforms as well as platforms 16 and 17 would remain open throughout the work.
Services could possibly face ‘thinning’ which is likely to result in overcrowding – particularly at rush hour.
The Stansted Express could possibly face disruption too.
Part of why Liverpool Street is so busy is due to the addition of the Elizabeth Line which was added in 2022.
However this would be unaffected by the construction to the main station.
Plans reveal a new office building above the main concourseCredit: Network Rail Property and ACMEOn top of the new building will be rooftop gardens
If the proposals go ahead, work would start at the beginning of 2029 and last seven years, with the new station completed by mid-2036.
Network Rail’s scheme is set to be considered by theCity of London Corporation’s planning committee on February 10, 2026.
Network Rail recently revealed a new fly-over video to show their proposed plans which has a large concourse area set to ease congestion during busy times.
It includes increased step-free access across rail and underground platforms, eight new lifts and more escalators which will increase from four to ten.
To reduce queues, additional ticket barriers would be added along with more toilet and family facilities on all levels.
On the upper concourse will be more cafes and food outlets and outside will be more green spaces.
Renders also show what the new office building that’s set to be built above the station concourse near the Grade II* listed Andaz Hotel will look like – with rooftop gardens.
Talking about the potential disruption, a spokesperson for Network Rail said to The Standard: “The scheme has been carefully designed and phased to ensure that the station remains open and operational during the works.
“There will be changes to entrances and routes and the only platform closure can be accommodated across the remaining platforms for that short period.
“We are engaging with our transport partners and ensuring customers can continue to use Liverpool Street with as little disruption as possible during the works is as important as the transformation for the future.”
A WOMAN was forced to miss her holiday after she was stopped from boarding an easyJet flight when they discovered an issue with her passport.
Donna Fairclough was due to fly out of Manchester Airport and was ‘heartbroken’ to miss out on an £820 holiday to Malta.
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Damage on her passport meant that Donna Fairclough missed out on her holidayCredit: Kennedy Newsand MediaDonna was turned away from her flight at Manchester Airport in early JanuaryCredit: Kennedy Newsand Media
Donna Fairclough and her fiancé Gary Broadley were due to fly to Malta from Manchester Airport on January 3, 2026.
However, Donna was turned away from the flight by easyJet because of a sizeable tear in her passport.
The damage was across the photo page of her travel document and the size of the tear meant that she wasn’t allowed to board the flight.
Talking to Manchester Evening News, Donna said: “The rip was initially about a quarter-of-an-inch. I was excited to go away. It was heartbreaking because we lost out on a holiday because of a rip.
“I said to my partner, you can still see my face and my passport number and it didn’t affect any of that. That’s what I couldn’t understand.”
As well as missing out on their holiday, the pair have claimed that easyJet won’t refund them for their break as the rip is classified as ‘accidental damage’.
Advice on the Gov.UK website reads: “If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it. HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if […] any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing.”
HM Passport Office will also consider your passport damaged if you cannot read any of the details, the cover is coming away, or if there are stains on the page.
Donna has since got a new passport and has urged other holidaymakers to check theirs before travelling.
easyJet responded in a statement that the airline is “sorry” that Ms Fairclough was not able to go on her holiday and “understand how disappointing this must have been”.
The airline added it “works closely with the authorities and complies with their guidance to ensure the safety and security of customers and crew, and this means we can’t allow anyone to travel if their documentation is damaged.”
They then advised Donna on how she could get a new passport and have been in touch with further support.
Donna was stopped at before boarding the flight at Manchester AirportCredit: Alamy
Previous rules allowed British passport holders to roll over 10 months from their previous passports meaning they’d have validity of up to 10 years and 10 months.
But the current rules no longer see those additional 10 months as valid, even if they are on your passport.
So, if your passport was issued in June 2015, but your expiry date says September 2025, that expiry is actually incorrect.
Instead, your passport would have expired 10 years past the start date – making the real expiry is actually June 2025.
There’s also the three month rule – a number of countries require British holidaymakers to have a few additional months left on their passport to travel.
Most places inEuroperequire British travellers to have at least three months left on the passport before it expires.
DARK skies tourism is set to be one of the defining travel trends this summer, as holidaymakers prepare to flock to parts of Spain to catch the solar eclipse.
On August 12, hotspots like Valencia, Palma Mallorca, and Ibiza are expected to see a surge in visitors.
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Travellers are set to combine their love of sun-soaked getaways with a rare celestial spectacleCredit: AFPOn August 12, hotspots like Ibiza are expected to see a surge in visitorsCredit: Getty
Travellers are set to combine their love of sun-soaked getaways with a rare celestial spectacle, according to The Great British Holiday Audit by easyJet and easyJet Holidays.
These parts of Spain are perfectly positioned in the path of the solar eclipse, and benefit from long summer days and typically clear skies.
The trend has been driven by Gen Z, TikTok, and a growing fascination with astronomy and astrophotography.
This is a continuation of 2025’s wave of interest, which saw Brits witness phenomena such as the Northern Lights from the UK for the first time in decades.
The report also highlighted that longer short-haul flights of five to six hours are fast becoming the new norm.
Tunisia, and its lesser-known island of Djerba, continues to grow in popularity, with the airline seeing a 12 per cent increase in flights to the country, while the Georgian capital of Tbilisi is gaining traction as a city break destination.
There has also been a 21 per cent rise in travel to longer-leisure hotspots such as Morocco, Turkey and Cyprus.
A spiritual revival is also taking shape among younger generations, as Gen P travellers – those in their formative educational years during the pandemic – embrace pilgrimage routes across Europe, including Santiago de Compostela and Lourdes.
Holidaymakers are increasingly opting to ‘try before they fly’, using vlogs and VR experiences to explore destinations before booking, according to the report.
Technology is breaking down language barriers and giving travellers the confidence to explore new places.
Tourists are increasingly planning around passions and purpose, says a new reportCredit: GettyHolidaymakers prepare to flock to parts of Spain to catch the solar eclipseCredit: Getty
The report, which also surveyed 2,000 travelling adults, found 22 per cent are now using translation technology while abroad.
Travel writer Nigel Thompson, who co-authored the report, said: “We’re seeing travellers plan around passions and purpose – whether that’s spirituality, culture, sport or nature.
“It looks like 2026 is about meaning as much as mobility, but value remains a key factor.”
Screen-led travel is also set for a resurgence, with the return of The White Lotus to Europe expected to drive fresh interest in destinations across the south of France.
Meanwhile, ‘canon country tourism’ will see travellers flock to locations made famous through classic literature and modern retellings – from Shakespeare’s Verona to Hemingway’s Pamplona.
The findings show 28 per cent of holidaymakers would choose a destination based on TV, books or film.
Sport is also shaping travel habits this year, and despite the World Cup taking place across the Atlantic, many fans are opting to soak up the atmosphere closer to home, saving time and money by travelling to local fan zones across Europe.
At the same time, the padel phenomenon is fuelling a new wave of sports-focused holidays, particularly in Spain, where its popularity has overtaken tennis.
The research found 10 per cent of holidaymakers are now trying padel or pickleball while on holiday.
Kenton Jarvis, easyJet’s CEO, added: “We’re always looking at ways our customers plan, book and holiday.
Around 22 per cent of Brits are now using translation technology while abroadCredit: GettyGen Z, and TikTok are behind a growing trend in astronomy and astrophotographyCredit: AFP
“We can already see some shifts in customer behaviour, like longer short-haul routes growing in popularity and technology playing a greater role both in making unfamiliar destinations feel accessible and helping us operate efficiently to keep fares low and journeys seamless.
“It is great to see more people exploring new destinations, using new technology in innovative ways and seeking out alternative experiences.
“I am proud of the part easyJet continues to play in helping to shape how each generation travels, while always aiming to make travel easy and accessible for all.”
The report also highlights how travel is being shaped by generational differences and life stages.
Parents with pre-school children are making the most of flexibility, travelling more before term-time restrictions begin.
Whereas ‘Home Alone’ parents – whose adult children stay behind to house-sit or pet-sit – are rediscovering the freedom to travel again.
Garry Wilson, CEO at easyJet Holidays, said: “In 2026, there’s a clear desire to make holidays count.
“We’re seeing customers become far more intentional about how and when they travel, whether that’s getting away before everyday routines take over, switching off from screens, or planning trips around meaningful moments you simply can’t recreate at home.
“From community organised trips to experience-led breaks, people are prioritising connection, wellbeing and memories that last, not just time away.”
THE 15 TRENDS THAT WILL DEFINE HOW BRITS TRAVEL IN 2026:
1. Longer short haul – Bringing destinations that blend distance with convenience into easy reach
2. Try before you fly – Utilising immersive technology like VR, or short-form video platforms to experience the destination first through someone else’s eyes
3. Translation Exploration – Embracing adventure and veering off the beaten track with the confidence of strong language translators including AI instant translate
4. Pre-School’s Out – Parents with younger children cram holidays in before term time constraints take their toll
5. Dark sky tourism – European dark sky spots to enjoy their day in the sun as Gen Zer’s travel to pursue newfound interests in astronomy and astrophotography
6. Take your pickle… or padel – Booking holiday destinations based on new sporting activities on offer, including pickleball, padel or paddleboarding
7. Wardrobe wanderlust – selling clothes on sites such as eBay, Vinted or Depop to put towards travel budgets, decluttering at the same time
8. The White Lotus effect – set to return to Europe in 2026, travellers will look to replicate the luxury seen on the silver screen
9. Canon country tourism – Visiting historic towns and landscapes rediscovered through classic literature or their modern retelling, from Shakespeare’s Verona to Hemingway’s Pamplona
10. Sun – without – screen – Exploring inventive or classic ways to reduce screentime whilst on holiday, but prioritising an analogue way of life
11. Community influence – Taking the online travel community off-line by joining on group travel trips organised by travel content creators, experts in their own rights
12. Wealth of experience – Prioritising experiences within travel, culture and personal enrichment over assets
13. Home alone – Taking more holidays as a parent of adult children with a live-in house or pet-sitter (your adult children)
14. Gen-P – Exploring historic religious pilgrimages as a reason to travel, from Santiago de Compostela to Lourdes
15. Putting the world in cup – Using major tournaments like the 2026 World Cup as a reason to travel to teams’ home countries, watching iconic matches surrounded by local fans
FROM playing music out loud to putting your feet on the seats – travelling by train in the UK can be an infuriating experience.
But I’ve found a new frustrating trend – reserved carriages for school groups.
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My latest commuting bugbear – schools reserving whole carriagesCredit: AlamyMore and more I am blocked from sitting in entire carriages
As someone who regularly commutes to London by train, I already have the daily battle of finding a seat, especially one with a table.
But I’ve noticed a recent surge in entire carriages being booked by teachers ahead of taking entire classes into London for the day.
According to Southeastern: “If your group is at least 30 people, we can look into reserving a carriage for you, although it may not always be possible during busier periods.
“Reserved carriages will generally be at the rear of a train, and will be marked with labels in the windows and on the doors stating that the carriage is reserved for your group.
While this may sound grumpy at first – after all, who wants to try and find 30 seats for school kids – my complaint comes with both the timing and space.
My train is regularly a four-carriage train until later in the journey.
Not only that, but as a commuter train, seats cannot be reserved until other train operators, so most seats are find-as-you-get-on.
So with a whole carriage taken up by a school, it ends up making these other busy carriages already a lot more chaotic.
A poor train conductor had the awkward task of kicking everyone already sitting in the carriage before the reserved time out onto the platform as they waited for an attachment
Not only that, but many of them are being booked for the morning commute, often around 9am.
In my opinion, there should be blocked out times to allow weary office-dwellers their last chance of respite before having to be stuck staring at a computer for nine hours.
At least there is one upside – I know which carriage to actively avoid unless I want to be subjected to streams of TikTok videos being played out loud next to me.
However, the Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire backs reserved carriages.
She said: “As a school mum who has been on a lot of class trips in recent years, I think this decision by the train company to reserve an entire carriage for the kids is genius.
“Herding a group of children on and off transport through London – one of the world’s busiest cities – is a nightmare.
“Will you get them all in one carriage? Will one get left behind? Will they all get seats?
“Will the ‘other’ members of the public get annoyed with the exceptionally loud noise that accompanies 30-plus kids on a day out?
“This allows them to make sure all of the children travel safely, while causing minimal issues for other passengers.
“It’s so smart, I’m considering suggesting it to my child’s school next time that I accompany them on a trip.”
A MAJOR airline has confirmed it is axing all long-haul flights from a UK airport – starting next month.
The airline will cancel its long-haul transatlantic routes to the US and the Caribbeans.
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Aer Lingus will cease all of its transatlantic flights from ManchesterCredit: Getty
Aer Lingus will stop flying from Manchester to New York JFK from February 23.
The operator will then cease its flights to Orlando and Barbados from March 31.
In order to re-accommodate impacted passengers who were scheduled to travel to the Caribbean island from Manchester, the airline will run a service from Dublin to Barbados in April and May.
The affected customers have already been contacted and given options for a refund or rebooking.
The airline said that the developments will not affect Aer Lingus or Aer Lingus Regional services betweenIrelandand Manchester.
A spokesperson told The Sun:
An airline spokesperson told The Sun: “Aer Lingus informed staff and their representatives at its Manchester base today that the airline’s Manchester transatlantic operations will fully cease as of and from 31st March 2026.
“Manchester-New York operations will cease from 23rd February 2026 and Aer Lingus plans to operate a service from Dublin to Barbados (subject to receipt of necessary approvals) during the months of April and May to reaccommodate affected customers.
“There is no impact to Aer Lingus or Aer Lingus Regional (Emerald Airlines) flights between Manchester and Ireland. Customers are being informed directly of the cancellation of flights and provided with reaccommodation and refund options.
“Aer Lingus will continue to engage with staff representative groups to discuss the phased reduction in operations, redeployment opportunities and the terms of a severance package at the Manchester Base.
“Aer Lingus acknowledges that this is a very difficult time for colleagues based in Manchester and will seek to ensure that colleagues are kept informed and supported as discussions evolve during the next phase of the consultation.”
In the past, the airline has said that its long-haul routes from Manchester had an operating margin that “significantly lags behind” that of Ireland.
About 200 employees at the base, which Aer Lingus launched in 2021, could be impacted if the closure goes ahead.
DREAMING of a winter sun getaway? You could be relaxing on white sandy beaches and chilling poolside under swaying palms for less than you’d think.
We’ve rounded up some of the top destinations for cheap winter sun – with highs of 33°C and even zero jet lag.
High temperatures in Cape Verde make it one of the best destinations for winter sunCredit: GettyThe archipelago of Cape Verde is home to ten islandsCredit: Getty
Cape Verde
If you want stunning sandy beaches and a subtropical climate, consider jetting off to Cape Verde.
Temperatures here average 23°C in the winter months, reaching highs of 27°C. Plus, Cape Verde is only an hour ahead of the UK, so no jet lag that usually comes with a winter sun break.
Cape Verde is made up of ten volcanic islands, which are split into the northern side, Barlavento, and the southern side, Sotavento.
Down in the southern island of Santiago there are vibrant markets, lush landscapes and hiking trails.
But the northern islands tend to draw more tourists, thanks to their gorgeous beaches.
Some of the top islands to visit on the northern side include Boa Vista and the major holiday spot, Sal.
In Boa Vista, head to the renowned Chaves Beach, where soft sand stretches over three miles.
This island is also home to the miniature Viana Desert, where you can go sand-boarding or roam over the rolling dunes in a 4×4 or quad bike.
Over in Sal, the Buracona Lagoon is well worth a visit with its near-neon blue waters known as the “blue eye“.
You’ve got your pick of sandy beaches and sunset catamaran trips, plus the picturesque towns of Espargos and Palmeira bring a lively buzz to the area.
Cape Verde is easy to reach, with new flights available this year with easyJet.
The airline flies to Sal from London Gatwick and Manchester from £92.49 each way. Plus, starting from May 1, the airline is adding a new route from Bristol, which will operate three times a week.
Santa Maria beach in Sal is a popular choice thanks to its turquoise watersCredit: Alamy
The Sun’s Head Of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, went on a family holiday to the island of Sal in late February.
She said: “Reliable mid-haul sunshine in February is scarce, but Cape Verde gave us seven full days of blue skies.
“The strong breeze kept us cool in the intense sun, but it was also deceptive – there were plenty of tourists with lobster-pink skin who’d clearly been caught out by the super-strength rays, just 1,100 miles from the equator.
“Skin-scorching sun isn’t the only reason to pay a visit to the Portuguese-speaking country, though.
“For those who like a bit of adrenaline, there’s kite-surfing along the aptly named Kite Beach, plus quad-biking on the inner-island desert landscape.
“But for us, our break was all about relaxing — and we did just that on a four-hour catamaran cruise along the coast of Sal, where, away from the shore, the waters were calm enough for a dip.
“These beautiful beaches, as well as adventure activities and watersports, were all within a short drive of our hotel, the Riu Palace Santa Maria, south of the island of Sal and near the idyllic beach town of Santa Maria.
“With six pools, including a waterpark with several impressive slides, five restaurants, two cocktail bars, a sports bar, a cafe, spa, gym and kids’ club — there was enough to keep any fly-and-flop holidaymaker supremely happy.”
Senegal
Senegal is another top pick for winter sun, with temperatures averaging a scorching 33°C in February.
And with no time difference between Senegal and the UK, you won’t lose out on any sleep on your travels.
Dakar is the country’s capital, where you’ll find markets, monuments and marbled mosques.
There is some beautiful nature to be discovered here, too. The Saloum Delta National Park is a nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful mangroves and flamingos.
The Lagune de la Somone is a great spot for soaking up the sights via paddleboard or kayak through unspoilt nature.
Plus, to tick off that bucket list experience, TUI offer safari excursions from just £41.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey took a trip to Senegal and stayed at TUI’S Riu Baobab hotel.
She said: “Senegal is often overlooked as a winter sun destination by Brits, but it’s slowly becoming one of the ‘hot’ new places to go.
“It was put back on the map for UK holidaymakers after TUI launched direct flights back in 2022.
“It makes the perfect affordable fly and flop, with hot winters and a shorter flight time than Dubai or Thailand.
“I stayed at the RIU Baobab, so most of my time was spent on the sun lounger or pool bar.
“But day trips out are a must – I recommend exploring Goree Island. A former slave trading port, it’s harrowing but informative.
“Otherwise, stop at the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa, for a quick Instagram stop”.
TUI offer package holidays to Senegal, with some great all-inclusive options.
The Riu Baobab hotel in Pointe Sarene boasts four pools, a waterpark, and is only steps away from a sandy beach dotted with coconuts and palm trees.
The colourful old town of Las Palmas in Grand Canaria is well worth a visitCredit: Getty
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a classic choice when it comes to a winter sun escape – and it’s clear to see why.
Temperatures average a comfortable 20°C here in winter, letting you enjoy exploring the island with the warmth of the sun on your back.
And with no time difference between Gran Canaria and the UK, you’ll miss out on jet lag completely.
There’s no shortage of things to do on this paradisaical Canary Island.
There are whales and dolphins to spot by boat in the resort town of Puerto Rico, as well as volcanic hiking paths to explore in the Nublo Rural Park.
When it comes to beaches, Playa del Inglés is a top choice with a bustling promenade and various water sports on offer.
And for something different, the dunes of Maspalomas contain their own ecosystems, including pretty lagoons and palm groves.
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski took a trip to Gran Canaria and saw the best of what the island’s landscapes have to offer.
She said: “I visited Gran Canaria for one reason only. It was chucking it down at home, and my beachfront hotel on the volcanic island was speckled with plush cabanas perfectly poised for basking in the sunshine.
“I can’t say I left the resort much on my one and only visit – simply because pina coladas and strolls along the black sand beach were the order of the day every day.
“If you do want to indulge in more than just sunbathing, Gran Canaria is home to some gorgeous hiking trails along craggy orange rocks.
“It’s also got some of the best dark skies in the world, meaning long evenings can be spent soaking up those twinkling stars and the brightest moon I’ve ever seen.
“There’s a rather large banana plantation at the northern side of the island, and visitors can learn all about the fruits’ production and the best time for picking”.
The best part is that Gran Canaria can be super cheap to visit.
A week away at the Servatur Riosol hotel in the resort of Puerto Rico costs as little as £249pp with Loveholidays.
Or go all-in and upgrade to all-inclusive from only £459pp.
Llandudno Beach in Cape Town provides a dramatic backdrop to your day at the beachCredit: Getty
Cape Town
The first few months of the year are some of Cape Town‘s hottest, sitting at a sizzling average of 27°C.
Not only is the South African coastal city a stylish spot, but it can be great value too – and comes with some stunning beaches.
And with the city being only two hours behind UK time, there’s no significant time zone change to adjust to.
This is a great city for the adventurous type who likes to explore unique landscapes by day and sip on world-class wines by night.
Take a cable car up to Table Mountain for rotating 360° views over dramatic rock formations and the Atlantic’s sapphire waters.
Or laze on the white sands of Camps Bay and Llandudno Beach to soak up those Southern Hemisphere summer rays.
Boulders Beach is always a favourite, too. Here you can observe herds of Humboldt penguins waddle between rocks and slip into the bright blue sea.
Food and drink are second-to-none in this culinary capital. Head to Kalk Bay for some budget-friendly seafood, or head to the colourful bar Cape to Cuba for an ice-cold Mojito.
It goes without saying that the wine here is worth sampling – you can sample some local tipples on a hop-on hop-off winery tram tour for £36 on GetYourGuide.
The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, visited Cape Town for a family holiday.
She said: “Cape Town is officially the world’s cheapest long-haul holiday, according to the Post Office Money Report, and it’s perfect for families with just two hours’ time difference, jaw-dropping animals and perfect beaches.
“Everything in Cape Town is so accessible that we landed at 8.30am, got our hire car, checked into the hotel and were on the glorious Camps Bay beach in swimsuits by 11.30am.
“On our two-week trip to the South African capital and the surrounding area, we saw everything from zebras and giraffes to penguins and lions.
“This is a country so packed with wildlife that it is not uncommon to see exotic creatures such as baboons and ostriches feeding at the side of the road, or taking an evening stroll in front of your hotel room.
“Recently, South Africa’s tourism minister touted the region as such great value that ‘British visitors can afford our 5* hotels’, and the price comparisons are stark when looking at the cost of things like food and drink.
“At the 5-star Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town – I drank posh wine at just £4 a glass, while my son played with the other kids in the infinity pool, as dolphins played in the ocean just feet away.
“The trip was a dream from start to finish, with so many memories made that it felt like five holidays wrapped into one. “
Lastminute.com offer a week-long self-catering apartment stay in Cape Town, including flights from £780pp.
Explore bright blue medinas and colourful souks in MoroccoCredit: Getty
Morocco
Morocco is the perfect mix of short-haul flights, warm temperatures and cheap luxury-feel hotels.
And as the country is just one hour ahead of the UK, you won’t feel exhausted after landing.
Hop on a three-hour 40-minute flight from London to Marrakesh, and you’ll be in Morocco’s bustling capital that hovers around 20°C in winter.
This must-visit city has endless souks to browse and unique sights to see in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.
The fishing village of Taghazout, on the other hand, has a beachy boho feel and is popular with surfers and sun-worshippers alike.
There’s plenty of surf shacks to rent boards from, a skate park and a shimmering bay.
Over on the west coast, Agadir is home to some of Morocco’s best beaches.
Plage d’Agadir is the most popular, and its seven miles of golden sands and turquoise water are perfect for both sunbathing and snorkelling.
The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, enjoys visiting Morocco’s capital.
She said: “I’ve been to Marrakech many times – drawn by the treasures to be found in the colourful, chaotic souks and the raw beauty of the desert landscapes that surround it.
“Tourism is booming in the city, and with it has come a host of exciting new hotels, restaurants and rooftop bars.
“My most recent trip included a three-hour food tour of the Medina – our guide gave us a brilliant insight into the local cuisine and encouraged me to try dishes I might never have sampled had I been on my own.
“For total escapism, though, our trip into the Afagay Desert revealed a different side to this fascinating country – silent, stunning desert landscapes.
“Worth splashing out on was our trip to The White Camel, a luxury tented camp where we spent an afternoon on dune buggies before watching the sun set with a drink by their infinity pool, before indulging in a fabulous four-course feast”.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, on the other hand, chose to check out the beaches of Agadir.
She said: “While Marrakech is all about the souks and the dunes, Agadir is a more laid-back affair.
“This is where you’ll find the surfers, with surf schools littering the beach.
“My favourite way to spend a day was walking along the golden sand coastline, with just a few locals and stray dogs along the way.
“Otherwise, Agadir is also home to one of Africa’s biggest souks – Souk El Had – although there are lots of other ones to explore in the city”.
Perhaps the best part about Morocco is just how affordable it is to visit.
Le Morne, on the other hand, has more of a jungle feel, as the beach is backed by thick green leaves and impressive mountains.
For snorkelling in clear waters and spotting colourful fish, head to the Blue Bay Marine Park in the southeast.
And for 66p tasty Creole curries and exotic fresh fruits, head to the markets of the country’s capital, Port Louis.
The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, has explored Mauritius from its beaches to its busy capital.
She said: “This Indian Ocean island paradise was a revelation when I visited. Yes, of course, there are stunning powder white beaches, swaying palms and delightful all-inclusive hotels.
“But the south of the island reveals endlessly changing landscapes, from busy colonial-era towns and centuries-old sugarcane plantations to volcanic mountain ranges and unique geological wonders.
“Go hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park – the views are worth the trek through the indigenous rainforest.
“Or admire the Seven Coloured Earths – waving, solidified sand dunes in a riot of colours that highlight the island’s unique geography.
“In the bustling capital Port Louis, head into the Central Market to browse stalls piled high with fresh fruit and veg, then queue with the locals for a dhal puri at one of the many food stalls – the wafer-thin pastry stuffed with a spicy lentil mix”.
You can fly direct to Mauritius with British Airways from £876 return.
Plus Lastminute.com offer package holiday deals to Mauritius from as little as £755, including flights.
THERE’S nothing worse than seeing the word ‘cancelled’ appear whilst waiting for a flight.
If you live in fear of a flight being cancelled last minute these UK airports saw the highest cancellation rate of 2025 – and Southampton Airport was at the very top.
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Southampton Airport saw the most cancellations in 2025Credit: AlamyA report found that three per cent of its flights were cancelled in 2025Credit: Alamy
The regional airport in the south of England recorded the highest cancellation rate of all major UK airports last year, according to AirAdvisor.
AirAdvisoranalysed Civil Aviation Authrity (AA) data across 20 of the busiest UK airports to figure out whichis the least reliable.
For the second year in a row, Southampton Airport experienced the highest amount of flight cancellations.
The report found that three per cent of its flights were cancelled in 2025.
Although, this is an improvement on 2024 when 3.3 per cent of services were grounded.
Data revealed that Southampton Airport had almost three times as many flight cancellations as the national average – which is 1.09 per cent.
A spokesperson for Southampton Airport told Sun Travel: “An airline’s decision to reluctantly cancel a flight can be due to a number of factors including weather issues, air traffic congestion, delayed arrivals or technical issues with aircraft.
“We will continue to work with our airline partners and their handling agents to support them in their operations.”
From Southampton Airport passengers can fly to Europe and within the UKCredit: Alamy
Just below Southampton Airport was Aberdeen Airport which had 1.6 per cent of its flights cancelled last year.
The UK’s busiest airport, London Heathrow also “exceeded the national average for cancellations” according to AirAdvisor.
Between January and November 2025, 1.4 per cent of flights at Heathrow were cancelled.
At the other end, Bournemouth Airport recorded the lowest cancellation rate of any major UK airport.
Between January and October 2026, it saw just 0.17 per cent of its scheduled services cancelled.
Other airports that performed well last year included Luton, Stansted, East Midlands International, Bristol and Belfast International, where cancellations were less than half the national average.
Anton Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor, said: “Air passengers in the UK can breathe a sigh of relief as we head into 2026, with most trend data suggesting that flight cancellation rates at British airports are decreasing.”
WHETHER you’re wondering which park to pick or you’ve already got yours booked, Tracy Kennedy is helping Sun readers make the most of their £9.50 holiday.
Tracy Kennedy, a Hols from 9.50 expert who has more than a quarter of a million followers online, has long been helping Sun holidaymakers plan their getaways.
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Tracy Kennedy is our £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt, and is answering more Sun reader questionsCredit: Paul Tonge
If you fancy asking Tracy something else about the Sun’s Hols from £9.50, she’ll be answering your questions in her new agony aunt column in Sun Club.
One top question each week will be rewarded with a £100 Amazon voucher – use the form further down to send her your question.
Having stayed in holiday parks across the UK from the Isle of Wight to Bognor Regis, Tracy has experience staying in a range of locations.
Along the way she’s picked up some of the best tips and tricks for making the most of your break – and now she’s here to answer your questions.
From how to plan a romantic getaway for couples, to how to find a quiet site to avoid the crowds, our £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt has got you covered.
This week, Sun reader Paula Cubitt has been awarded best question of the week – which means she’s been selected to win a £100 Amazon voucher. Congratulations, Paula!
If I am unable to go on the holiday after booking, can I alter the date or venue? How do I do it?
Denise Houghton
Once you’ve had your confirmation through, speak to your chosen holiday site.
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The £9.50 holidays website tells you to speak directly to the parks themselves.
They’re the best ones to tell you. Don’t do anything until you’ve spoken to them!
A lot of the parks are happy to change, but sometimes there’ll be a £20 admin fee or so to make amendments.
Some have rules that you can’t change dates, but some parks will change it for you. So it’s always worth asking. But they don’t give refunds.
How can I make sure I get disabled friendly caravans or chalets?
Paula Cubitt
If you need certain accommodation, use the contact form straight after you’ve booked.
You can fill it in to request the right kind of space. Make sure to contact them straight away, because there’s only so many at each resort.
It says more on the £9.50 Holidays website about how to speak to them once you’ve booked your holiday.
Tracy recommends going for a break in Italy, with resorts like Bella Italia available with Hols from £9.50Credit: Bella Italia Lake Garda
Where is ideal for a romantic getaway for couples?
Adam Meacham
For couples, I suggest maybe going somewhere abroad on a European holiday.
Somewhere in Italy, as there’s quite a few Italian sites. Because Italy is such a romantic country!
If you’re wanting to go away in the UK, it depends on how far you’re willing to travel and where you’re based.
But if you can, I’d say to go up to Scotland for one of the beautiful sites up there – plenty of the Scottish sites welcoming to dogs too.
Can an older couple enjoy a £9.50 holiday, or are they for families?
Tracey Wolverson
There’s lots of things to do for couples and older couples.
Check your preferred park on the website to see what they offer. You can always go for a drink, have a meal, play bingo or go swimming.
Walks along the beach are nice too, or going out to explore the little villages nearby.
For couples looking for lots of things to do, I’d recommend Billing Aquadrome in Northampton.
There’s loads of adults and kids stuff. Lakes and streams to walk around, a lovely bar. It’s absolutely amazing.
It’s also only a 10-minute taxi ride from the closest train station.
Go to the Sun Club Offers hub and find the Hols from £9.50 page.
You do not need to collect any codewords or Sun Savers codes.
Booking is already open and closes on February 15.
Grannies Helian Hame is a scenic choice in Scotland available with Sun Hols from £9.50Credit: Grannies Helian
Tips for those who want to travel by train?
Monica Johnstone
Firstly you should look at your preferred sites to work out how to get there from where you live.
Look at how far the train station is from the park and how easy it would be to take a bus or a taxi from there.
Also you should book your train tickets as early as you can to get the best deals.
If you go to somewhere like Caerelwan, you can literally get off the train, walk out the station and you’re there.
You’re practically next to the tracks, but you can’t hear the trains, it’s great!
There you’ve got a pub down the road, arcades, and a little shop.
How to find quieter sites?
Dora White
I’d say all sites can be quiet, if you book to go out of season.
Maybe book a holiday just before the kids break up. But bear in mind that Scotland break up for school before England do.
If you go between the school holidays, the sites won’t be full of children so are usually quieter.
A good park for some peace and quiet is The Lakes Rookley on the Isle of Wight.
The views are amazing around there, and it’s definitely very quiet.
You can go off site and do plenty of walking. Even on the site itself there’s a lovely lake to walk around, it’s very peaceful.
Everywhere is reachable from there, too. You can jump on an island hopper bus and they can literally take you around the whole island.
You just buy a day saver ticket. So then you can leave the car behind if you fancy a drink.
Tracy says sometimes you can bag yourself a last-minute holiday with surprise deals…Credit: Tracy Kennedy
Tracy’s top tips for £9.50 Holiday planning
Before booking, Tracy recommends researching any dates you can and can’t make ahead of time.
This includes making a note of when the school holidays are, and any key events you have coming up in the year.
You should also consider how far you’re willing to travel, and how exactly you’ll reach the holiday park.
This includes planning out the car journey, or researching ahead of time where the nearest train stations are to the holiday parks.
You should also double check that the park you want has the right facilities for you.
Whether this is accessible accommodation or dog-friendly sites, Tracy says you should definitely check ahead of time to see if the park offers what you need.
Entertainment on offer can change depending on which holiday park you choose, and which time of year you go.
Tracy recommends looking up the entertainment schedule ahead of time to know what will be available once you’re there – especially if you’re bringing kids.
And if your top picks have already been fully booked – don’t worry, they might just be back.
Lots of popular parks get snapped up the minute that booking opens, and gradually more and more places become filled.
But sometimes, later in the year, new spots open up at various holiday parks.
Tracy recommends hopping back on the website from time to time to see if any secret deals have been added.
However, there;s no guarantee that more spaces will open up – so make sure to have some backup holiday parks in mind that you wouldn’t mind booking.
Tracy Kennedy has taken her family away on Sun holidays for under £40 a breakCredit: Tracy Kennedy
AFTER 20 years of strict liquid rules, airports are finally starting to scrap them.
The rule, introduced back in 2006 after a foiled liquid explosive bombing at London Heathrow, has long caused problems for unaware travellers heading abroad.
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London Heathrow is the fifth UK airport to scrap all 100ml liquid rules
However, new CT scanners are slowly being rolled out across the UK, which will eventually end the rules that require liquids to be under 100ml, and fit in a small plastic bag.
Earlier this week, London Heathrow became the latest to lift some of the rules.
Despite this, there is some confusion – some airports no longer require liquids to be taken out of the bag, but still be 100ml, while others now allow up to 2l.
So we’ve rounded up all of the airport rules to explain which ones have lifted which rules, as well as which are yet to.
Ever since my first gondola ride — a short jaunt around The Venetian hotel in Las Vegas — I’ve wanted to experience the real thing, in Venice.
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I visited the Italian city that’s better in winter with wine bar tours and Miami-like hotelsCredit: GettySteve, pictured in the middle wearing a cap, riding a gondolaCredit: Supplied
Now I am with a group of fellow journalists, so it’s not as romantic as it could be, but two Italians in stripy shirts and wide-brimmed hats are rowing me across the Floating City. Bucket list: tick.
Venice is a place you need to see at least once in your life.
From the breathtaking Piazza San Marco to the mesmerising mosaics of St Mark’s Basilica, astounding architecture of the Doge’s Palace and view from the 323ft high Campanile di San Marco bell tower, your phone’s battery will pay the price as you snap the spectacular sights.
From this Saturday to February 17 the historic Venice Carnival will burst on to the streets — this year’s theme is Olympus, The Origins Of The Game, in honour of the Winter Olympics being hosted in Milan and Cortina.
Expect masks and dressing up everywhere as locals and visitors embrace the festival, plus parades, performances and themed shows.
Festival aside, winter and spring are brilliant times to explore the city without the crowds.
A tour of the bacari, or wine bars, is a great way to delve into the alleys between the canals and waterways. Over three hours we stop at four wine bars for cicchetti — Italian tapas — washed down with local wines or spritz cocktails.
The latter feature Aperol, Campari or, in Venetian style, Select — a spirit made using juniper berries.
A Bellini in Harry’s bar, though almost £20, is a must — this was Ernest Hemingway’s favourite bar, where the cocktail was invented.
Hawaiian rituals
Then a 25-minute water-taxi ride across the lagoon and a 20-minute cab journey take us to our 5H resort, Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa on the Lido di Jesolo — a purpose-built seaside resort on Italy’s Adriatic coast, with nine-mile sandy beach and vibrant promenade.
I’m staying in one of 50 huge suites, which have one, two and three-bedroom options, with separate bathrooms, living and kitchen areas, TVs and sea-view balconies.
The smell from the ground-floor restaurant is oh, so Italian — pizza, pasta and risotto. With buffet breakfasts and Michelin-starred dinners at the poolside restaurant, luckily I can run along the promenade to work it off.
Or there’s a gym at the hotel, and yoga and fitness classes. But I’m on holiday to relax, so it’s off to the Acqua Pura spa, which has a panoramic sauna with privacy glass, meaning I can take in the sea view.
The astounding architecture of the Doge’s PalaceCredit: GettyFrom this Saturday to February 17 the historic Venice Carnival will burst on to the streets… so expect masksCredit: GettyItalian tapas washed down with local wines or spritz cocktails is a great way to delve into the alleysCredit: Getty
An hour-long massage inspired by Hawaiian rituals, which starts with meditation, is, and I don’t say this lightly, the best I’ve ever had.
There is a babysitting service, plus a play room, kids’ pool area and playground on the beach.
Bicycles are available at the hotel, and cycle lanes throughout the town lead us to Europe’s longest shopping street, the Via Bafile — all eight miles of it.
This is a wonderfully relaxing beachside break in a traditional Italian town — as well as a bucket-list trip to the city of romance.
What’s not to love?
GO: VENICE
GETTING / STAYING THERE: Four nights’ B&B in a superior room at the 5H Falkensteiner Resort & Spa in Jesolo is from £608pp, including flights to Venice in March and 23kg luggage. See britishairways.com.
RYANAIR flights are about to get more expensive – after the airline reported a drop in profits.
The budget airline was fined £222million by Italian regulators for blocking travel agencies from accessing their flights.
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Ryanair fares are set to go up this yearCredit: AFP
This has since resulted in a drop of profits, with pre-tax reports of £21.2million in the three months to December – a drop of 83 per cent in the previous year.
In response fares are likely to now go up by as much as nine per cent, more than their predicted seven per cent.
With the average fare costing around £50, this means it could go up to £54.50.
However, Ryanair has said they will be appealing the Italian case, and were “confident” it would be overturned.
