Travel advice

NOTHING says Christmas quite like streets filled with twinkling lights – especially the spectacular displays put up in London.

This year you can score 20% off the magical Christmas Lights London Bus tour AND even get a free Thames cruise.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

The tour usually costs £36 for adults and £22 for kids, but you’ll get tickets for £28.80 and £17.60, respectively, using our discount code.

The tour starts on Coventry Street, where you’ll climb aboard one of London’s famous double-decker buses and get cosy on your guaranteed upper deck seat.

The Christmas-themed bus will then take you through London‘s best-decorated spots, alongside festive facts and jokes from a live tour guide.

Along the route you’ll tick off famous spots such as Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus and more.

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Make sure to snap some pictures of the world-famous, glittering Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, gifted to the UK all the way from Norway.

And in a brand new route for 2026, you’ll now also cruise down Regent Street, known for its giant glimmering angels with golden wings spread high overhead.

Oxford Street sees a canopy of sparkling hanging stars, while posh Bond Street goes all out with fancy displays illuminating the high-end shops and hotels.

Picadilly Circus acts like the grand junction of all these fantastic displays, with its giant screens running festive takeovers and the glowing spillover of surrounding streets in the distance.

Whether you’re visiting London with the kids, ticking off the sights with friends or wanting a romantic date beneath the stars, the tour is suitable for all ages and occasions.

The best way to make the most of the tour? Grab a hot chocolate before boarding, wrap up in your cosiest hat and scarf, and make sure to pose for pictures as you cruise right under the impressive displays.

The tour lasts up to 90 minutes, running from November 14 and January 3,.

You have lots of options too with the first bus departing at 4:30pm and the last at 9pm.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

Tots under two travel free, and there’s space on every bus to pop your pram and buggy.

That’s not all, however. If you purchase the Christmas Lights London Bus Tour, you also get a daytime Thames River cruise thrown in completely for free.

That means you can experience a full-on sightseeing day in London, taking in the sights from the water in the daylight on the river cruise, before taking in the city by night on your bus tour.

On the Thames River cruise you’ll tick off top landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye and more, so by the end of your big day in London you’ll have taken in the very best the city has to offer.

Cruises start from Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier, or the London Eye Pier, giving you flexibility in how you plan your day.

As well as a free river cruise, you’ll also get SIX free self-guided walking tours thrown in.

So when you’re not aboard the boat or open-top bus, you’ll have plenty of guidance on which sights are best to see by foot.

The audio tours include the Wizard’s Walk (a Harry Potter-themed tour) as well as a spooky Jack the Ripper tour, and you can listen to them on The Original Tour’s partner app.

With three ways to explore the city bundled into one, it’s hard to find a better value way to experience London at Christmas.

Save 20% on The Original Tour’s Christmas Lights London Bus Tour + claim a FREE Thames sightseeing cruise. Use code: FESTIVELONDON

Terms and Conditions:
Code FESTIVELONDON expires on January 3, 2027 at 11:59pm BST. The offer is available from 12 October 2026 until 3 January 2027, with tours running daily from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The discount applies to adult and child tickets only, excludes family tickets and cannot be combined with other offers. Blackout dates apply and are from 21 December 2026 to 30 December 2026. Blackout dates are dates in which promotional offers cannot be used. Full T&Cs can be found on The Original Tour’s website at  theoriginaltour.com

Prices correct at the time of publication.

HAVE you been dreaming of that bucket-list Orlando holiday? Well, it’s about to get a whole lot cheaper.

AttractionTickets.com are launching a massive Black Friday sale, where you can save up to hundreds of pounds on visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and more.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

The sale will include theme park and attraction tickets, as well as combo tickets and holiday packages with hotel or villa stays.

And you’ll want in on these Black Friday deals, as this is the website’s biggest sale of the year.

If you pre-register for the sale ahead of time, you’ll score yourself an EXTRA discount, which will land in your inbox on November 5.

This means that those pre-registered for Black Friday will have access to the absolute cheapest holidays and attraction tickets available on the website all year long.

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Click here to sign up to the Black Friday sale so you’ll be among the first to know as soon as these deals drop.

Last year’s mega Black Friday sale saw 20% off all Orlando tickets, so theme park fans are already expecting big discounts again this year.

The deals will be for 2027 holidays, with major savings to be had during the school summer holidays.

While the exact offers are tightly under wraps until the big day, Attraction Tickets have revealed that the average customer will save hundreds of pounds on their holiday, based on the website’s typical orders.

So where could you go and what could you do with a holiday booked through AttractionTickets.com?

If you’re looking for a Florida holiday, you will be able to bag discounts on Disney, Universal, the Kennedy Space Centre and more, plus hotels and villas if you want to extend the magic by staying on-site.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

The site also offers handy combo ticket deals – which are great if you want to tick off Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort in one trip, for example.

2027 is the ideal time to visit Disney World, with new upgrades including a Muppet takeover of the former Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster as well as the brand new Magic of Disney Animation zone in the Hollywood Studios park.

At Universal Orlando Resort, new coaster Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to launch in 2027, and the previews of this coaster have excited theme park fanatics around the world.

And if you’re wanting to visit California, now’s the time to get planning. You’ll also be able to save on tickets for Disneyland Resort California and Universal Studios Hollywood in this sale.

Disneyland Resort California is home to Cars Land, which you won’t find in Orlando, plus you can tick off the world-famous studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

If you prefer a Spain or Tenerife holiday, you’ll be able to bag discounts at PortAventura World, Siam Park and Loro Parque.

Just make sure to pre-register ahead of the Black Friday deal to bag an extra discount to make your trip even cheaper.

Sign up to the AttractionTickets.com Black Friday sale and receive an EXTRA discount

DEMONSTRATONS across France turned violent over the weekend with shops being looted and cars being set on fire – so is it still safe to travel to?

Here’s everything you need to know right now about travelling to Paris.

Where are the riots?

The riots in France began on Saturday with demonstrations against rising living costs and declining public services being held across the last two days.

Some spiralled out of control resulting in fires and looting – it’s been called ‘some of the worst violence the country has ​witnessed for decades’.

Local authorities said that around 550,000 people took part in protests across France on Saturday, however it’s predicted there were as many as 800,000.

Over the weekend, 2,400 people were arrested for violence and looting.

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In Paris, there was widespread damage to shops and businesses – protesters clashed with riot police, who turned tear gas and water cannon on the crowds.

Some groups lit fires in the street and torched vehicles.

On Sunday morning in Paris, the aftermath included smashed glass fronts of designer shops and clearing up rubbish and glass in the streets.

Other cities faced violence too like Marseille, Lille and Lyon, as well as Limoges where a 19th century town hall that survived the two World Wars was set alight and collapsed.

The French Prime Minister, Emmanuel Macron, is holding a crisis meeting today.

He said: “Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable.”

Is it safe to travel to Paris right now?

The travel advice for France remains unchanged.

The FCDO does warn however that “demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. 

“Whilst most demonstrations are peaceful, if you’re near areas where they are taking place, you should remain aware of what is happening around you and follow the advice of the police and local authorities.”

Brits can continue to travel to and from Paris, but visitors should keep an eye on updates about the demonstrations and avoid large crowds.

Also allow extra time for possible road closures within the city.

Over the weekend, attractions like museums, and the Metro were limited, so check everything is open before planning visits.

Are flights and trains still going to Paris?

Yes, flights and train travel including the Eurostar remain scheduled as usual.

If you are due to travel and have concerns, it may be worth contacting the operator to check if services are running normally.

What if I have a holiday to Paris booked?

As the Foreign Office has not warned against travel to France, there are no special circumstances in place for holidaymakers to cancel their trip and receive a full refund.

Can I cancel my trip?

If you do choose to cancel your trip, it is best to contact your airline, train operator or holiday provider.

There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings unless government advice changes.

FORGET Santa in Lapland or skiing in France – when winter rolls around you’ll find me sunning myself abroad, trying to find some last-minute warmth to break up the UK’s long, grey months.

Having visited 58 countries as the Deputy Travel Editor, I’ve found some fantastic places that tick all the boxes of a winter sun break, without costing a fortune.

By that, I mean warm weather, direct flights (keeping them under seven hours, for any long-haul flight haters) and some very big bargains when it comes to hotels and beers.

So here are my favourite winter sun spots, some of which aren’t that far – and with hotels from £35 a night.

Marrakech

One of my favourite spots for winter sun that doesn’t break the bank is Morocco.

I’ve explored the Hassan II Mosque of Casablanca, and visited the beaches of Agadir.

But I think the best bargain is found in Marrakech.

Not only is it perfect for some pre-Christmas shopping – I found fantastic dupes of expensive branded candles and curtains in the souks – but you can still get temperatures just above 20C in winter.

Food is cheap too, as you’ll pay just a few pounds for a freshly-made tagine meal.

For an affordable hotel stay, skip the big name chains and go for a local riad – small traditional Moroccan hotels – which you can find for as little as £35 on websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb.

These are usually fantastic locations, and usually with some free mint tea or breakfast thrown in.

Flights are cheap too – Ryanair fly there from £14.99.

We found a deal for a seven-night stay at Aqua Mirage Club from November 26, with return flights from Manchester, for £379pp on Loveholidays.com.

Cape Verde

African island, no jet lag and flights under seven hours – enter Cape Verde.

Where else can you get all-inclusive holidays from £586pp, where you’ll be basking in 27C heat?

While lots of people head to the island of Sal, I much prefer Boa Vista.

Most of the TUI hotels are right on the beach, with swim-up bars and waterparks.

But leaving the resort is worth it too.

I found white sand beaches like Santa Monica with barely anyone on them, making me feel like I was on a Maldives private island instead.

My favourite was Praia Carlota, where you can lose the days in the hippy Morabeza beach hut with fried fish and local Strela beer.

Sand-boarding, kite-surfing, boat trips; visit in February and you can go whale-watching during humpback mating season too.

We found a deal for a seven-night stay at Hotel Pontao from November 30, with return flights from London Gatwick, for £430pp at On The Beach.

El Gouna

When it comes to Egypt, one of my favourite destinations for winter sun is El Gouna.

Flights there are around 5hr30 which go to Hurghada, with a short transfer.

The gated community means it is extremely safe as only people staying at the hotels can enter, and its still around 25C in December.

Hop on a boat to explore the man-made lagoons, or go on Sunset Desert Safaris, with hiking and stargazing with El Gouna Mountain Goats.

If you don’t mind going further afield, you can even book day trips to Luxor (just expect a very early start).

When it comes to choosing a place to stay, I highly recommend Cook’s Club.

The four-star resort has it all – fantastic restaurant, lagoon-front pool, live DJs, and rooms are super chic.

And seven night stays are as little as £509 each with your flights and breakfast with loveholidays.

We found a deal for a seven-night stay at Doubletree By Hilton Mangroovy El Gouna Resort from December 9, with return flights from London Gatwick, for £379pp at Loveholidays.

Tenerife

If you’re keen not to go much further than Spain for your winter holiday, your best bet is to head to Tenerife which is often considered the warmest of the island (due to its location off the African coastline).

Temperatures are around 22C – not hot but warmer than the UK highs of 9C.

Holidays are a bargain – loveholidays has December seven-night stays for under £200 – but I highly recommend The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife.

The dusty pink building looks like something from a fairytale, complete with beautiful suites and a hidden beach you can get to by funicular.

Seven night holidays here can be found for £797pp with flights and breakfast thrown in.

If you can drag yourself away from the hotel, there are some fantastic outdoor adventures on the island such as whale watching and hiking.

Otherwise get ready for a night out on the town of Playa de las Américas, where you will find the best bars and restaurants.

Try Spain’s cheap chain 100 Montaditos, called the Wetherspoons of Spain where sandwiches are €1 (80p) and beers are €1.50 (£1.29).

We found a deal for a six-night stay at BLUESEA Interpalace from November 15, with return flights from London Stansted, from £349pp at Lastminute.com.

Dubai

Forget the idea Dubai has to be expensive – I have the best tips on how to do it affordably (while still having fun and soaking up sun).

The United Arab Emirates is currently on the safe to travel list, with Emirates still offering daily flights from the UK.

First, the hotels – I was blown away by the Premier Inns here, which are just as cheap as the UK at around £30, but some come with rooftop swimming pools. Yes, really.

Beach clubs can also be done on a budget.

Some, like DRIFT, can cost a little as £30 midweek, which can be used against your food and drink (with Ladies Days costing just £20 instead) while others like Lucky Fish are currently free to visit Monday to Thursday.

And lunch deals let you visit some of the famous restaurants without the price, like Ce La Vie offering a three-course meal for £28 rather than their dinner menu which has £30 dishes alone.

But my favourite place to go was the Grand Souk, where you’ll find breads stuffed with cheese or Nutella for £1.22, or Iranian falooda — a sorbet-like dessert made of thin rice noodles and syrup — for £1.

Return flights from the UK can currently be found for around £500.

We found a deal for a six-night stay at Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira from November 11, with return flights from London Gatwick, from £867pp with TUI.

Doha

Similar to Dubai yet often overlooked, Doha makes for a great winter sun destination without too long of a flight.

Flights from the UK are with Qatar Airways – often being named one of the world’s best airlines – and take around 6hr40 (and around £530 return).

It is a great ‘luxury on a budget’ for some royalty without the riyal.

My favourite hotel to go for is The Ned; while not ‘cheap’ it is much cheaper than the one in the UK and feels much fancier than it costs.

As little as £102 a night (compared to London’s £330), it’s retro glamour with gorgeous interiors and an outdoor swimming pool.

If you just want a base, there are also Premier Inn hotels for around £28 a night.

Taxies are cheap, it feels very safe as a woman travelling around and one of the best attractions is affordable – go to the National Museum of Qatar (currently around £5 entry).

Otherwise head straight to the beach clubs – for example, Doha Beach Club is around £12 each (or ladies visit on Tuesday for free). What more could you want?

We found a deal for a seven-night stay at Steigenberger Hotel Doha from January 17, with return flights from London Stansted, from £705pp with On The Beach.

AS the plane circled in to land in the city of Murcia in south-eastern Spain, we caught our first glimpse of La Manga.

The 13-mile-long strip separates Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, Mar Menor, and the Mediterranean Sea.

It was as impressive to see from the air as it was to explore on foot, but it was what lay beneath the warm waters on either side of the sandbank that really made our trip.

The beach of Cabo de Palos on the southern cape of La Manga is widely regarded as one of Europe’s best snorkelling hotspots, with protected marine beds and crystal-clear visibility in the shallow bays.

With nothing but an old pair of goggles, my partner Owain and I saw starfish, octopus and an array of colourful reef fish in a small cove under the lighthouse.

The seagrass beds are renowned as one of the biggest breeding grounds for seahorses, and with dive shops and excursions taking off every hour from the harbour, snorkel enthusiasts will be in their element.

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The beach was a ten-minute drive from our hotel, the Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa. And while we could have easily spent every day snorkelling around the reef beds, there was too much else to explore at the 5H resort.

With 11 restaurants on site, we struggled to decide which we enjoyed more out of the red Thai prawn curry and hand-made gyoza dumplings at Asia Restaurant or the Aberdeen Angus steak with truffle mash on The Terrace Grill Steak House.

The latter did come with sunset views over the golf course, though.

But our favourite meal of all came at the hotel’s private beach restaurant, La Cala, which you get to via an on-demand mini-bus service down to the coast via the Calblanque National Park.

Sharing a huge pan of squid ink paella, home-made bread and a bottle of rosé on the terrace overlooking the bay was a highlight of the trip.

Luckily, there were many activities on offer to burn off all our overindulgences.

While the hotel has the biggest and best hotel gym I’ve ever seen, as well as tennis courts, two swimming pools, a football pitch, a cricket centre, bike hire and a spa, the jewel in La Manga Club’s crown is the three 18-hole golf courses that surround it.

Before teeing off, we had a lesson with resort pro Iain Hanna, who helped us work on our swing using analytic equipment before letting us loose on the pristine fairways.

With 325 days of sunshine a year, the resort — which hosted the Spanish Open for five years from 1973 — is a firm favourite for golfers looking for a sunny winter escape.

But even if golf isn’t your thing, the hotel is a good base to explore the Murcia region.

The historic city of Cartagena — known as the “Port of Cultures” — is 30 minutes away.

Its Roman theatre, which was built between 5 and 1 BC and would have seated 6,000 to 7,000 people, was only discovered by accident in 1988 during construction of a new crafts centre.

Entry is via the museum opposite the town hall and costs seven euros per person, and it is a must for the breathtaking views of the city alone.

At the Molinete Archaeological Park, we wandered around the ruins of an old Roman bathhouse and perused the reconstructed painted murals and some of the 300 artefacts found there.

Then it was time for cañas and tapas. We loved La Uva Jumillana, where beers and tapas cost from around 3.20 euros each.

Bodega La Fuente does good pinchos, Las Termas del Pincho is a lively stop for a drink and El Vinagrillo serves more substantial tapas to finish.

Our last stop was the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is free on Sundays.

It covers the city’s maritime history — the port city of Cartagena was once the Carthaginians’ capital in Spain — and displays treasures recovered from Spanish shipwrecks around the world.

Driving back along the palm-tree-lined promenade as the sun set, I decided that with cheap flights, sunny climes and more Roman ruins and artefacts to see than most cities in Europe, this corner of Murcia should be top of any autumn sun list.

THE Cotswolds is one of the few places in the UK that looks even more beautiful at this time of year than during the summer months.

Gorgeous thatched-roofed cottages offer a snug escape, old pubs light up roaring fireplaces and woodlands are carpeted with fiery leaves.

I was visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, which offered all of this and more. In fact, the picture-perfect village has been dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds” thanks to its gorgeous scenery.

Weaving its way through the heart of the village, the River Windrush has a series of low stone bridges spanning its clear, shallow waters.

Honey-coloured homes line the grassy banks, creating a stunning backdrop that looks like the set of an English murder-mystery drama.

Its charm is magical and it comes as no surprise to learn that Kourtney Kardashian pipped me to the post, visiting the village and snapping the cottages I was lucky to call home for the weekend in her Instagram story.

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And Instagram-worthy this home certainly is.

Kestrel Cottage is the perfect bolthole for a weekend away. With one beautifully-decorated bedroom and a comfy sofabed, there is more than enough room for a couple, family or group of friends.

It’s one of four cottages set within an old mill and it’s bursting with character. It looked like it was straight out of an interior design magazine with fluffy carpets, a chic olive-coloured kitchen and bare-brick walls.

I loved how well equipped and homely the kitchen was, with enough facilities to whip up dinner for a cosy night in, along with all the decor you’d want to jazz up your own home.

My fairytale visit does come with a cautionary tale, though.

Where the Kardashians go, wannabe influencers will follow.

And Bourton-on-the-Water serves up the perfect picture spots, with a steady stream of visitors — although slightly less so now that summer is over (another good reason to visit in autumn).

Plus, staying in the heart of the village comes with the luxury of slipping out before the crowds for a peaceful wander in the sunshine to grab a morning coffee.

Bakery On The Water is the enemy of your waistline, but well worth it. Two cappuccinos and a side of pastry and sausage roll was the fuel we needed to explore.

We bounced from gift shop to restaurant, perusing all the lovely-looking menus, past the sweet store and ice cream parlour (making a note to return in summer), before turning the corner to find the beautiful Victorian Christmas Shop — a treasure trove for the festive-obsessed among us, myself included.

Coffees long gone, we treated ourselves to a pint or two by the fire at The Old New Inn, and wiled away the afternoon playing cards and debating where to eat that evening.

Bourton-on-the-Water leaves you completely spoilt for choice when it comes to food. With Smiths, the award-winning burger joint, two Italians, a Chinese, chippie and pizza spot, it’s almost impossible to agree.

After much debate, we opted for one of the lovely village pubs, The Willow, which has a huge garden overlooking the river.

This hostelry does pub classics properly, including a top-notch fish served with suitably crunchy chips (£19.95) and a traditional steak and mushroom pie loaded with moreish gravy (£19.50). The roast dinners looked good, too. Although those are best saved for Sundays.

Ahead of filling your belly, a Sunday in the Cotswolds is best spent strolling the scenic landscapes — and this time we decided to venture beyond the confines of the village.

A gentle, winding footpath guided us through the countryside towards the twin villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter.

The peaceful, 1.5-mile route takes you along the banks of the River Eye, past wildflower meadows and yet more honey-coloured cottages.

The tranquillity of Lower Slaughter (despite its name) is what struck us most, especially when compared to its tourist hotspot neighbour. Crowds were minimal and all that could be heard was the chirp of birds and a gentle stream.

If you’d like to fuel here ahead of your walk back, Slaughters Country Inn is known for its excellent roasts.

Cosying up inside by the fire, we enjoyed another well-earned drink before ducking low ceilings to get to the restaurant, where we were met by giant Yorkshires, roast beef and all the trimmings.

Skip dessert, though, and end your meal at the Hawkstone Brewery instead — another gem we can thank Jeremy Clarkson for.

It’s less Aperol spritz and more traditional English pints — mine with an elderflower twist. The perfect way to toast an autumn escape.

It may even top Venice . . . 

EVERY parent knows that taking a toddler on holiday often feels less relaxing getaway and more like a parenting shift in a different location.

Don’t worry – we’ve found the ultimate cheap holiday for parents with under 5’s where everything’s taken care of for you – plus the kids even eat for free.

Book a four-night Tots Break from £6.19pp per night (save £70)

Parkdean Resorts are running Tots Breaks packages, four-night stays starting from £99.

If you’re visiting as a family of four, that works out to a tiny £6.19pp per night.

These action-packed breaks are bursting with free activities and entertainment that’s sure to keep the little ones smiling.

However, the best part may just be the food. On a Tots Break, kids eat completely free for the entire duration of your stay.

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That means hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are totally sorted, saving a family up to £70 on their holiday dining.

Fussy eaters are well-catered for with the Starland Krew Menu, with kid-friendly classics like tomato pasta, beef burgers, and chicken strips with chips.

You won’t need to constantly dip into your wallet to keep them entertained, either. These breaks are packed with free activities tailored specifically to young children.

Kids can burn off energy at the Tots Adventure Playground, get stuck into messy play, or enjoy the musical Tots & Tunes sessions.

Plus there’s even adorable ‘Mini Olympics’, mini archery, and mini fencing classes.

And if your kids are completely obsessed with their favourite TV characters, you’re in luck.

Book a four-night Tots Break from £6.19pp per night (save £70)

Parkdean Resorts host Milkshake! Mornings packed with stories and singing, plus the chance to meet PAW Patrol legends like Chase and Marshall in the flesh (well, in the fur).

The fun is perfectly timed for early bedtimes, too. Early evening entertainment includes toddler discos, ‘kideoke’ sing-alongs, and even a fun ‘Sparkle Like a Princess’ event.

When it’s finally time to crash, the accommodation is set up for families.

The standard Bronze caravans are spacious, featuring stylish cream-coloured interiors, fully equipped modern kitchens, and TVs for a chilled movie once the kids are asleep.

Tots Breaks are available across dozens of Parkdean Resorts locations nationwide throughout the year.

Participating parks include Sandford in Dorset, a peaceful woodland park close to Poole and Bournemouth, and Trecco Bay in Wales, which is one of Europe’s largest holiday parks.

If you have older children, they may enjoy a Parkdean Resorts’ Nickelodeon Weekender instead.

These breaks start at £163 for three nights, working out to £13.58pp per night for a family of four.

Nickelodeon-themed entertainment includes ‘Mighty Missions’ set by PAW Patrol’s Ryder, learning the Pup Pup Boogie dance, and meeting the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Families can even enjoy a ‘Movie with the Stars’, where you’ll sit down to a movie night alongside the actual characters from the film.

Book a four-night Tots Break from £6.19pp per night (save £70)

Prices correct at the time of publication.

IF you’re desperate for a getaway but don’t want to spend loads, it might be time to look beyond the usual high street holiday agents.

We’ve found a lesser-known booking site where you can bag entire package holidays from just £118, hotel rooms from £16 a night, and flights for as little as £9.

Browse cheap holidays, flights and hotels on Opodo

Opodo acts as a massive travel search engine, scouring hundreds of airlines and millions of hotels to pull together some of the absolute cheapest deals on the internet.

As a travel writer who scours the internet each week for the cheapest holidays for Sun readers, these are some of the lowest travel fares I’ve ever seen.

So whether you’re after a quick weekend city break, a week-long beach escape, or even a solo travel retreat – here’s our guide to the very best travel bargains on Opodo right now.

Package holidays

Package hols are where you get the most bang for your buck on Opodo, as you can save up to 40% extra by booking your flights and hotel together through the website.

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We’ve rounded up a selection of some of the most affordable package holidays on the site.

Or you can click here to browse all cheap package holidays.

Mallorca – from £121pp

With flight times around two and a half hours, Mallorca is an easy hop away for some autumn sun, with pleasant October temperatures of around 24C.

Spend your days exploring the winding, cobbled streets of Alcudia’s Old Town, hiking the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana mountains, or soaking up the sun on the pristine white sands of Es Trenc.

Browse Mallorca holidays from £121pp

Tenerife – from £147pp

The flight to Tenerife is only four hours from the UK, yet it still reaches highs of 26C in October.

Once you’re there, stroll the volcanic beaches of Costa Adeje, enjoy €3 tapas in traditional tavernas, hit up award-winning waterpark Siam Park or even go whale watching.

Browse Tenerife holidays from £147pp

The Algarve – from £118pp

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Portugal‘s stunning southern coast, offering warm highs of 25C without the overwhelming summer crowds.

Wander around the bustling Olhao fish market, hike along dramatic coastal cliffs to see the spectacular rock formations, or simply relax on the golden sands of Praia dos Pescadores right by Albufeira’s old town.

Browse Algarve holidays from £118pp

Rome – from £119pp

You don’t need a huge budget to experience Rome, especially with Opodo offering package holidays from £119pp.

In the Italian capital the streets themselves are their own attraction. Soak up the atmosphere at the Spanish Steps, or toss a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain.

Browse Rome holidays from £119pp

Flights

Opodo offers super cheap flights to destinations in Europe and beyond, but they get even cheaper if you join Opodo Prime.

For example, you can bag a one-way flight to Barcelona for £24 each way, but if you’re signed up to Opodo Prime this sinks down to £9.

It costs £8.99 a month and also gets you discounts on hotels, so if you like to go on holiday regularly, it could save you some serious cash.

We’ve rounded up the cheapest flight deals we could find on Opodo.

Or you can click here to browse all flights.

• Barcelona – from £24 each way (Prime price: £9)
• Faro – from £37 each way (Prime price: £12)
• Milan – from £39 each way (Prime price: £22)
• Edinburgh – from £25 each way (Prime price: £9)
• Dublin – from £25 each way (Prime price: £12)
• Amsterdam – from £111 each way (Prime price: £56)

Browse cheap flights from £9 each way

Hotels

If you prefer planning your own holidays by booking flights and hotels separately, there’s some bargains to be had on the hotels page, too.

This is a good option if you like to regularly book flights directly with the same airline in order to collect points.

Here’s our selection of bargain hotels we found on Opodo (prices per night).

Or you can click here to browse all cheap hotels.

• Amsterdam – from £37
• London – from £50
• Barcelona – from £45
• Lisbon – from £43
• Paris – from £48
• Rome – from £30
• Milan – from £24
• Prague – from £22
• Marrakech – from £16

Browse cheap hotels from £16 per night

Prices correct at the time of publication.

OCTOBER half-term is fast approaching, and keeping the kids entertained without spending loads can feel scarier than Halloween itself.

Luckily, you don’t need to spend a small fortune to keep the half term action-packed, with brilliant cheap and free events popping up across the UK.

From giant inflatable monster takeovers, to ‘Wizard Schools’ and Hey Duggee-themed trails, there are options for families of all ages.

Here’s our pick of the best free and cheap family days out for October half-term.

Free

Spooky Season at the National Railway Museum, York

Visit the National Railway Museum between 24 October – 1 November follow a spooky storytelling trail through spectacular vintage trains.

Drop into free daily storytelling sessions, creepy craft workshops and more, while getting to see everything from steam locomotives to the Japanese shinkansen.

For even more hands-on action, grab tickets to the Wonderlab gallery, where the interactive science exhibits have been given a thrilling seasonal twist.

Tickets are free, just make sure to book online in advance.

The Playful Park of Peculiar & Halloween Trail, London

Head to High Street Kensington for a family-friendly Halloween trail that will lead you in and out of shops along one of London’s prettiest streets.

The free trail takes place from October 23 – 31, but if you visit on Halloween, you’ll also get to visit Big Kensington Vintage Flea market which will be specially stocked with Gothic furniture and florals.

Plus, from 4:30pm – 7.30pm that night, Holland Park transform into the Playful Park of Peculiar.

This is a free trail complete with decorations, illuminations and even live characters and performances to meet along the way.

Pendle Hill, Lancashire

For a proper scare this Halloween, head to Lancashire’s Pendle Hill, which is widely known as one of the UK’s most haunted spots.

The area is famous for hosting witch trials in 1612, and there are plenty of ghostly and historical walking tours that delve deep into its past.

Brave a guided ghost walk for £10pp and explore the very villages where the accused witches once lived.

After working up a fright in the dark, you can calm your nerves and warm up with a well-earned pint by a roaring fire in one of the area’s cosy local pubs.

Halloween trails, murder mystery and more on the English Riviera

Brave the hair-raising ‘Abbey After Dark’ scare trail at Torre Abbey, hunt for mini monsters at the illuminated Babbacombe Model Village, or explore ancient underground caves on a creepy ghost walk at Kents Cavern.

If you need a break from the scares, take a brisk walk along the stunning South West Coast path before warming up with a cosy pub lunch.

Derry Halloween Festival

Visit the home of Halloween this October half-term, as Derry celebrates the 40th anniversary of Europe’s largest Halloween festival.

Families can tackle the ‘Awakening the Walled City’ trail, where the streets come alive with giant illuminated statues, creepy roaming characters, and thrilling fire shows.

Down in the city centre, the streets are packed with free entertainment and live shows to keep the kids entertained, with acrobatics, circus performers and spooky street theatre.

The fun wraps up on Halloween night with a costume carnival parade through the city and a dazzling fireworks finale over the River Foyle.

Halloween in the City, Manchester

From October 24 – 31, Manchester city centre will be taken over by giant inflatable ghosts and aliens as the popular MCR Monsters return to the city to celebrate their 10th birthday.

Families can join in the completely free monster birthday bash, featuring a Rave Yard disco, live storytelling and a brilliantly bizarre Monster Bake-Off.

Kids are also encouraged to don their best fancy dress alongside creepy creatures in the Walk the Plank monster procession.

To top it all off, little trick-or-treaters can tackle the Kids’ Halloween Hunt on New Cathedral Street to bag themselves a party bag stuffed with free sweets.

Lightpool Festival, Blackpool

Blackpool‘s Lightpool Festival is back with a bang this October half-term, celebrating its 10th anniversary with another completely free program of illuminated entertainment.

Running from October 21 – 31, the seaside town‘s landmarks will be transformed by mesmerising 3D projection shows and interactive artworks including neon jellyfish and giant glowing sculptures.

Make sure to visit the famous Tower Ballroom to catch the ‘Carnival Magic’ show, an explosive performance packed with puppets, fire-breathers, and dancers.

With zero cost to explore all the indoor and outdoor displays, it’s the perfect family evening out to brighten up the dark autumn nights.

£5 and under

The Creepy Circus, Zombie Apocalypse party & more, Weymouth – £2.75pp

Head on a haunted trail through Weymouth this October, and meet the cast of the Creepy Circus (made up of live actors) along the way…

Beginning in the city centre, you will explore the seaside town as a team, stopping to collect clues from witches and mystery circus characters.

The trail takes place from October 25 – November 1, from 10am – 6pm daily and costs £2.75pp.

Plus if you’re in Weymouth on Halloween night, there’s a Zombie Apocalypse party at The Donkey Social with totally free entry. Fancy dress is encouraged, and there’s prizes up for grabs, too.

Wizard School & more in Southampton – from £4

There’s plenty of spooky happenings in Southampton this October, with options for families of all ages.

Tudor House will offer free admission on October 30 on a Halloween-themed open day. The site is Southampton’s oldest museum, and was built in the late 15th century.

There will also be additional themed crafts, face painting and more from £4.

Families visiting on October 26 or 27 can take part in ‘Wizard School’ sessions, and even create their own wand to take home (£8 per child).

Scarecastle, Staffordshire- £5

Brave the dark depths of a two-mile long underground canal tunnel on a spooky ‘Scarecastle’ boat trip this October.

The tunnel opened in 1777, and helped to connect the Midlands canal network to Stoke-on-Trent and beyond.

Running daily from October 25 to 31, this historic tunnel is transformed into a floating Halloween tour packed with surprises.

Tickets cost £5 each. Pre-book your spot in advance online.

£10 and under

Southampton Ghost Tour – £10pp

The Southampton Ghost tour winds through underground medieval vaults and includes visits to haunted historic buildings such as the Merchants Hall, Tudor House and The Red Lion pub (which boasts an impressive 21 ghosts)

It starts at 6pm on Halloween night, but if you can’t make this one there are more options with various dates hosted by the likes of Dark Encounters and Get Your Guide.

Halloween at Stockeld Park, Yorkshire – from £9pp

At Yorkshire’s Stockeld Park, families can explore an Enchanted Forest on a Woodland Witches trail, tackle interactive challenges and even take on a giant Mummy Maze.

Beyond the witchy fun, there are tractor rides to pumpkin patches and even a Zombie Laser Tag arena.

For a special after-dark treat, you can grab tickets to the brand new Pumpkin Nights to watch spectacular fire-eating shows under the stars.

The events run every weekend throughout October, with event tickets priced individually. The cheapest event costs £9pp.

£15 and under

Illuminated Halloween trail, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Dorset – £14 per adult, £8 per child

As darkness falls, Moors Valley begins to glow with a spectacular illuminated Halloween trail packed with eerie encounters.

Wander beneath towering giant skeletons, dodge creepy characters like manic barbers, and tip-toe through a creepy carnivorous garden.

The route also features a brilliant food village where you can stop to sip a hot chocolate or toast some marshmallows.

The event takes place from October 23 – November 1. Pre-book timed entry tickets online, costing £15.75 for adults and £13 for children.

Hey Duggee Kew Gardens trail, London – £2 (+ £10 entry)

Kew Gardens is teaming up with Hey Duggee for an autumnal outdoor adventure trail for little ones this October half-term.

Kids can grab a map and explore the famous gardens while taking on interactive challenges, stopping to collect Squirrel Club badge stamps along the way.

After earning their final badge and grabbing a quick photo with a Duggee sculpture, there’s plenty more to explore such as the Children’s Garden.

Running daily from October 17 – November 1, the trail is completely free with standard garden entry. You can bag £10 entry tickets if you visit on a Tuesday throughout autumn.

Castle Howard Arboretum, North Yorkshire – from £12.75 per adult, £8.50 per child

Visit Castle Howard Arboretum this October half-term for a spectacular display of autumn colours across 120 acres of beautiful woodland.

After exploring hidden glades and tranquil lakes, you can sit down for a family meal in the cosy on-site cafe.

Make sure to look out for the resident red squirrels, named David Attenborough and Cinnamon.

Enjoy getting out in the fresh air this half term, with adult tickets from £12.75 and kids from £8.50.

Welsh School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Carmarthenshire – £10pp

Pack your broomsticks, as the British Bird of Prey Centre is transforming into the Welsh School of Witchcraft and Wizardry this October half term.

Trainee wizards can get stuck into a timetable of spooky activities, including crafting their own wands and brewing potions.

You can also upgrade for £10 to a masterclass where you’ll learn how to fly an owl and more.

The event runs from October 26 – November 1, with all standard classes and bird shows included in your regular centre admission ticket (£14 per adult, £8.50 per child).

IF you’re after an insanely affordable holiday, then there is a fantastic travel website you need to know about.

Opodo offers flights, hotels, car hire and package holiday deals for prices that will make you do a double take.

We’ve found hotels in Marrakech from £16, return flights to Barcelona from £21 and even entire Tenerife holidays from £147pp, to name but a few.

So whether you’re looking to book a family holiday, a couples getaway or even a solo travel retreat, here’s our round-up of the best Opodo deals right now.

Browse affordable deals on Opodo – package hols from £92pp

Alicante – £117pp

Hop on a two-and-a-half-hour flight over to Alicante to soak up some rays on a stunning stretch of Spanish coast, with sizzling highs of 25°C in October.

Postiguet is the main beach here, sitting at the foot of Mount Benacantil and watched over by Santa Barbara Castle.

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Once you’re done topping up your tan, you can hike up to the spectacular castle to soak up panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline for free.

With package deals from £117pp, a quick sunny Spanish getaway might be closer than you’d think.

Browse Alicante package holidays from £117pp

Rome – £119pp

You do not need to spend a fortune to visit Rome, with Opodo’s package holiday deals starting from £119pp.

Rome is a giant, open-air museum where simply wandering the cobbled streets to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain or marvel at the Pantheon costs absolutely nothing.

Plus if you time your trip to include the first Sunday of the month, visits to state museums, attractions and even the Colosseum offer free entry.

Head across the river to the buzzing Trastevere neighbourhood for authentic €3 pizza by the slice and €5 Aperol Spritzes.

Browse Rome package holidays from £119pp

Tenerife – £147pp

Tenerife is a classic, affordable winter sun destination, with highs of 26°C in October and still sitting at toasty highs of 24°C in November.

The flight is only four hours from the UK for these sunny temperatures, and once you’re there, there are loads of ways to enjoy all that sunshine.

Stroll the sweeping volcanic beaches of Costa Adeje, enjoy €3 tapas in traditional tavernas or go whale watching on an unforgettable boat tour.

Make sure to check out Siam Park, a paradise for waterpark fans which has been crowned the world’s No.1 waterpark for 10 consecutive years by Tripadvisor.

Browse Tenerife package holidays from £147pp

Athens – £162pp

Ancient historical sites, snazzy rooftop bars, amazing Greek food – Athens is an underrated choice when it comes to city breaks.

The famous Acropolis of Athens is a must-visit. To stretch your cash, buy a €30 combo ticket which gets you into seven major archaeological sites.

When it comes to cheap eats, you can grab some delicious pork or chicken gyros stuffed with chips and tzatziki for around €3, before hitting the bars for a €2 Mythos beer.

This deal includes a stay at the Sparta Team Hotel, which is only a 12-minute taxi ride or 20-minute walk away from the Acropolis.

Browse Athens package holidays from £162pp

Paris – £92pp

Enjoy a chic getaway to the French Capital with friends or your partner for under £100 each.

Take in the city with strolls along the Seine, or venture to the cobbled hills of Montmartre to take in sweeping views of the city from the Sacre-Coeur basilica.

For a budget-friendly feast, skip the expensive restaurants and hit up a local boulangerie. Grab a fresh baguette, a wedge of creamy brie, and a cheap bottle of supermarket wine for a delicious Parisian picnic.

Book yourself a £92 package getaway or a £46 return flight with Opodo, and you can say Bonjour to your next bargain escape.

Browse Paris package holidays from £92pp

Prices correct at the time of publication.

SEVERE storms have caused flooding on a popular Greek holiday island.

Crete in Greece is currently suffering from mass flooding causing widespread disruption across the island including some tourists being evacuated from coastal accommodation.

Some cars and trees have even been washed into the sea.

Here is the current advice for travel to or from Crete right now:

Where is the flooding?

Flooding in Greece right now is mainly impacting the island of Crete.

Massive storms have been battering the island since October 1 and resulted in torrential rainfall with bad flooding and mudslides.

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Worst hit areas include the Milopotamos district and the village of Zoniana, as well as Kato Gouves, Finikia, and Heraklion city.

In Chania, there have been big waves as well which have damaged seafront restaurants.

Is it safe to travel to Crete right now?

There is currently a Red Alert warning in Crete, which has been issued by the local authorities and the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY).

Emergency services are still currently clearing mudslides and damage caused by the flooding.

The advice from GOV.UK reads:

“Greece can experience extreme natural phenomena such as earthquakes, wildfires, extreme heat and flash floods.

“To be alerted to events near where you are located in Greece, make sure your mobile phone is set to allow emergency alerts.

“For instructions on how to do this see:

• for iPhones go to Settings > Notifications and enable the ‘Emergency Alerts’ option at the bottom
• for Android 11 and higher go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings > Wireless Emergency Alerts
• for Samsung devices go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Notifications > Emergency Notifications and enable the ‘Emergency Alerts’ option

“This will allow the Greek government’s Emergency Communication Service alerts to reach you. Always keep your phone with you as you will receive alerts according to the location of your phone.

“Adverse weather conditions, including floods, can happen quickly. Register for Emergency alerts and follow ‘112 Greece’ on X for official updates.”

Are flights still going to Crete?

Currently, flights are not impacted to or from Crete.

However, if you are already in Crete and need to get to the airport you may want to allow for more extra time.

If you are due to fly in and have concerns, it may be worth contacting your airline to check if they are operating normally.

What if I have a holiday to Crete booked?

As the Foreign Office has not warned against travel to Greece, there are no special circumstances in place for holidaymakers to cancel their trip and receive a full refund.

Depending on what travel insurance you have, your policy might include natural disaster cover.

If so, your insurance policy should cover you for when you are unable to reach your holiday destination due to natural disasters, like wildfires.

So it is worth checking your travel insurance policy.

Can I cancel my trip?

If you do choose to cancel your trip, it is best to contact your airline or holiday provider.

There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings unless government advice changes.

AUTUMN is a fantastic season for a cheap UK staycation – you just have to know where to look.

Luckily, our team of travel experts have banded together to reveal their favourite UK holiday spots for the season… and each is paired with an amazingly cheap holiday deal.

From coastal holiday parks with plenty of Halloween action for kids, to underrated charming Cotswolds towns, we’ve selected breaks that are even better in autumn.

Here’s our pick of affordable autumn UK holidays starting from less than a tenner per person.

Heacham, Norfolk

Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

North-west Norfolk might just be my favourite place to visit in autumn.

The royal estate of Sandringham is home to a 600-acre country park, where you’ll stroll down paths shaded by emerald evergreen trees and fiery red cypresses.

The blue and yellow walking trails are marked by giant sculptures of woodland animals. Make sure to also stop by the giant wooden playground with the kids, all for free.

In nearby Snettisham you can hand-feed deer on a Deer Safari at Snettisham Park (£13.50 per adult, £11.50 per kid) or settle down for a local pint by the fire in 14th century pub The Rose and Crown.

In the village of Heacham you’ll find Church Farm, where you can pick your own pumpkins to take back and carve (or simply pose for some family photos with their amazing hay bale displays). Drive a bit further to Brookhill Farm in Thursford and you’ll find a giant pumpkin house.

Base yourself at Parkdean Resorts Heacham Beach for a Halloween-themed October break with loads to do for kids, including rain-proof activities like indoor fancy dress contests, slime-making and a huge ‘Monster Ball’ party.

Plus here you’re only 15 minutes’ drive from Sandringham and Snettisham, and a short walk from Norfolk’s typical golden sands for a breezy beach walk.

You can book a three night weekend break from October 15 in a Bronze caravan sleeping six for £139 total. That works out to £7.72pp per night – plus the Halloween activities will already be up and running.

Witney, Oxfordshire

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

A hot chocolate, comfy walking boots and a stroll through the countryside to the pub is my idea of heaven in autumn.

And where is more beautiful that the Cotswolds? But skip the busier towns and head to Witney, often overlooked in favour of the nearby Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water.

The best coffees are found at Coffeesmiths, while a slice of cake from Hunter’s Cake Cafe is a must.

While it has a crazy amount of pubs (the Hollybush is my favourite), there is one that is worth the walk.

Then follow the river for an easy 2hr30 walk through the fields, ending at The Rose Revived Pub where you can warm up with a fantastic roast dinner.

Then hop in a taxi back to Witney and stay at The Blue Boar, a converted 16th century former coaching inn which recently underwent a huge makeover with rooms from around £64.

Salisbury, Wiltshire

Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Autumn is, in my opinion, the most magical season for glamping. Nature is at its finest: woodlands are carpeted in crunchy golden leaves and there’s a brisk chill in the air that makes golden hour feel even more cherishable.

And there’s no better place to take advantage of all this than Liba Vineyard in Salisbury, home to just three cosy wooden cabins, sleeping up to four.

Buried in rugged countryside on a working vineyard, each bolthole comes with floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views of the scenery, while bedrooms come with sky lights for night time observing.

You’ll actually feel grateful for the brisk weather here as that means you can take advantage of the wood-fired hot tubs and roaring outdoor fire pits (don’t forget to pick up some marshmallows for toasting)

While you can’t yet drink the wine from the vines grown outside your door, it’s still the perfect spot for hunkering down with a glass of red and a board game.

Cabins cost from £34.75pp (or £139 in total) per night.

North York Moors

Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

The North York Moors National Park is best explored in the autumn, with waterfall walking trails, miles of heather moorland and quaint coastal towns that are far quieter than in the summer.

The Falling Foss walk takes you on a peaceful loop through ancient forests to reach a 30-foot waterfall, while the Mallyan Spout in Goathland is a more challenging route, but this waterfall is the tallest (70 feet).

Whitby is also a must-visit, with the spooky Whitby Abbey ruins to explore as well as plenty of Dracula history. Dip into the UK’s best fish and chip shop Trenchers for an award-winning lunch.

One of the best ways to take in the views is aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which covers 24 miles of scenery, stopping at pretty villages such as Goathland and Pickering and ending in Whitby. Day Rover tickets start from £42.70pp with one child going free per adult.

There’s even a theatrical ghost train with a complimentary local G&T on select dates for Halloween (£40pp).

Book a cosy three-night cottage stay in Whitby for £17.94pp per night with this deal from cottages.com.

Peak District

Head of Travel, Lisa Minot

Discover the dark side to the Peak District’s stunning countryside on a new guided walk launching this autumn that brings stories of plague, murder and highwaymen to life.

Dark Tales of the Peaks is a new experience that brings to life the tragic history of the village of Eyam – where the entire village isolated itself during a devastating plague in 1665.

Hear tales of the doomed lovers separated by the outbreak and learn about notorious highwayman Black Harry at Carlswark Cavern.

You’ll also follow ancient roads to Stoney Middleton and discover its historic Roman Bath House before enjoying a hearty meal inspired by food of the period at The Cupola Kitchen including pottage with flatbreads and Bakewell pudding.

The four-hour experience is from £85pp.

And for a stunning stay nearby, Glenhurst in Holmesfield, Derbyshire is a five-bedroom modern country home sleeping up to ten.

The star of the show is the stunning view over the huge garden – and open countryside beyond – from the terrace that sits just outside the vast open-plan kitchen, living room and dining room.

Three nights’ self-catering this autumn is from £115pp, based on ten sharing.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Not many cities in the UK are prettier than Edinburgh in autumn and for families, it is full of exciting spots to explore.

Wannabe wizards should visit Greyfriars Kirkyard – while yes, it is a graveyard, you’ll find headstones with lots of the most famous characters’ names including Potter, McGonagall and even Tom Riddell.

Much-loved Victoria Street has Harry Potter-themed shops too, as well as colourful architecture.

For history buffs, Edinburgh Castle is definitely worth exploring and if you want a bit of exercise, head up Arthur’s Seat and take in the spectacular view.

For a gentler walk, gander long the river to Dean Village – a neighbourhood full of stone house that look as if they have been ripped from the pages of a fairytale.

It’s also worth getting lost in the National Museum of Scotland for an entire day, exploring thousands of objects across several grand galleries – for free.

Meninger Hotel Haymarket has funky family rooms with a double bed and a bunk bed, ensuite bathroom and free WiFi from £125 per night.

Anglesey, Wales

Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

For crowd-free breaks filled with nature-watching and windy beach walks, I don’t think you can do better than Wales.

This year Anglesey has been named ‘unfashionable’ but ‘lovely’ by The Telegraph for the summer holidays, however I happen to think it’s pretty perfect for autumn.

My favourite beach on Anglesey is Traeth Lligwy which I discovered on a hike around the coast which is glorious in the summertime.

If you visit on the weekend, pop into the Lligwy Beach Cafe to pick up a hot chocolate to keep warm on the beach stroll and tuck into a pasty.

If you fancy a quaint village-stay, I’d suggest staying in Moelfre which is a short 20-minute drive to Beaumaris.

Don’t expect lots of entertainment or activities, but there’s a pub to to hunker down in called the Kinmel Arms, and my favourite spot is the cute little coffee shop called Ann’s Pantry.

I loved the cottage we stayed in called Bryn Awel and it sleeps up to six people.

With seven nights costing £567 (or £13.50ppn each), it’s snug with a cosy woodburner to fire up during the chillier months and views across the beach.

Being in Wales, take a rain mac and an umbrella to have on standby, because you never know when the weather will turn.

London city break

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

I love a trip to London in autumn, as the summer crowds have gone, but it is still warm enough that you don’t need a huge coat when walking around, that becomes a pain to carry each time you step inside.

And there are so many ways to do it on a budget.

After all, it is one of the world’s best museum capitals when it comes to them being free, meaning you could visit the British Museum, the V&A and the Natural History Museum without paying a penny.

And while there are loads of good restaurant deals, my hack to trying all those viral bakeries is getting a Too Good To Go bag which, if you’re quick, means you can try some of the capital’s top snacks while spending a fraction of the price.

When it comes to how to stay cheaply, I have stayed in my fair share of absolute bargain hotels. 

The ultimate budget stay is Zedwell Tottenham Court Road, where the underground rooms start from £71 (so around £35 each). But if you fancy a window, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Drey, which has rooms under £100.

DITCH the rock-hard plastic airport seats and those wildly overpriced soggy meal deals – you don’t need to spend thousands on a first class plane ticket to kick off your next holiday in style.

Instead of stressing over departure boards and trying to find a seat in a packed terminal, you could be stretching out on a plush sofa in a private lounge before your next flight.

Save 20% on Priority Pass across 1,900+ airport lounges

Here you can tuck into a complimentary buffet, sip on free alcoholic beverages or even have a quick nap in a private sleep pod.

The secret to this pre-flight luxury is bagging a Priority Pass. Right now, Sun readers can slash 20% off the annual membership fee by clicking here.

Priority Pass members get access to over 1,900 airport lounges across the globe, including those in popular UK airports like London Heathrow, Gatwick, East Midlands, Manchester and Birmingham.

Lounges available depend on which airport you are flying from, but they include the luxurious Aspire Lounge with complimentary food and alcoholic drinks, as well as No. 1 Lounges, Skylife Lounge, Escape Lounges and more.

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A standard membership normally costs £69 a year, but our discount for Sun readers drops the price to just £55.

Once you have your pass, you simply pay £24 each time you want to visit a lounge.

And with all the complimentary food and free-flowing drink inside, you can easily make your money back with all your savings from skipping pricey terminal restaurants and bars.

Beyond the free food, the lounges offer high-speed Wi-Fi, plenty of charging points, comfy sofas and quiet zones.

Depending on the airport, you can even find dedicated workspaces, hot showers, and sleep pods to refresh yourself.

The VIP perks also extend beyond the lounge doors. Priority Pass members get access to Be Relax spa treatments, meaning you can treat yourself to a pre-flight massage or manicure at participating airports.

Save 20% on Priority Pass across 1,900+ airport lounges

You also get a brilliant freebie to use at home: complimentary access to the WithU Fitness app, which is normally worth £79.99.

The app creates you a personalised exercise program for the gym or home, complete with guided audio workouts coached by professionals.

So not only are you travelling well-fed and well-rested, but you’ve now got a fresh manicure to show off on holiday and a free workout program to take home and on your travels.

Does travelling in style get any better than this?

Save 20% on Priority Pass across 1,900+ airport lounges

Prices correct at the time of publication.

FORGET the faff of going abroad – you can bag yourself an action-packed all inclusive holiday here in the UK.

Across the UK are 45 Parkdean Resorts sites that offer an all inclusive package, bundling in three sit-down hot meals a day, unlimited soft and hot drinks and more.

The offer is available across some of Parkdean’s most popular sites, such as Camber Sands, Highfield Grange (which has recently had a multi-million pound investment) and Trecco Bay, one of Europe’s largest holiday parks.

And with food and drink taken care of, there’s no need to do a big food shop for the caravan, or worry about how much you’ll spend on food and drink on-site.

Instead, you can sit down in a warm restaurant to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner delivered straight to your table – no fuss, no washing up.

For breakfast, kids and grown-ups alike can enjoy a proper cooked breakfast with eggs, toast, bacon, sausage and beans.

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UK holiday parks where it’s cheaper and better WITHOUT kids from £16pp a night

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As for lunch and dinner, adult mains include classics like spaghetti bolognese, fish and chips, chicken tikka masala and a bacon and cheese burger.

The kids menu also offers crowd-pleasers like chicken burgers, margherita pizzas and macaroni cheese. Plus you can wash it all down with some soft drinks, which are included too.

Alcohol isn’t included in the all-inclusive packages, but the all inclusive breaks do include unlimited Costa Coffee, so you can grab yourself a warming cappuccino or a cosy hot chocolate on your autumn or winter family break.

All inclusive add-ons start from £80 per adult and £30 per child under 12 which, for a four night break, works out to £20 a night for adults and £7.50 for kids.

When you’re not enjoying all the free food and drink, there’s plenty of activities for the family to get stuck into.

The Newquay holiday park has a high ropes course, hoverboards, and even a Bear Grylls Survival Academy where kids can learn to survive in the wild.

Over at Naze Marine holiday park, kids can bounce around on bungee trampolines or practice their aim at archery.

The holiday parks are also well-known for their amazing entertainment, with a huge variety of evening shows.

The Holiday Happy Gameshow is a hilarious showdown packed with challenges and prizes, while Talent Nation is an incredible talent show with a showstopper final at the end of the year judged by celebrities.

As for kids shows, Milkshake! Mornings are a hit with little ones for their singing, dancing and storytelling, while the Get Up & Glow has a classic ‘school disco’ type feel plus glow in the dark decorations.

The all inclusive offering is valid for four night breaks with Monday arrivals, excluding the school holidays.

However 14 of the parks are offering three-night weekend options, too. Click here to browse which ones.

There are plenty of deals on for family breaks across the resorts, with a current offer where you can save up to £120 off autumn breaks.

There are last-minute, midweek and dog-friendly break options all from £99.

You can bag a four-night stay in a Bronze caravan at Crantock Beach, Lizard Point, Holywell Bay and Sea Acres all from £99.

If you fill up a caravan sleeping six, that works out to £4.13pp per night!

And if you add on the all inclusive package, that works out to £24.13 per night for adults and £11.63 per night for kids for an all-inclusive UK holiday.

There are plenty of other holiday deals for families too, such as the Tots Break packages.

You can bag a four night Tots Break across a range of parks for £99, working out to £6.19pp per night if you’re a family of four.

And on a Tots Break, kids eat completely free as part of the package, saving you up to £70 extra.

Under-fives are completely spoiled for choice on these breaks with free soft play, messy play, and lively music sessions.

They can also tackle the Tots Adventure Playground, or test out new skills together with mini fencing, archery, and even ‘Mini Olympics‘.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

FERRY travel from the United Kingdom to the Republic of Ireland and vice-versa has long been a popular route for many passengers.

While travelling by ferry may not be the primary option for many passengers, routes still operate on a regular basis.

So, do you still need a passport to travel between the UK and the Republic of Ireland by ferry?

Read on below for the latest rules on travel regulations when it comes to using ferry crossings.

Do I need a passport to travel to Ireland via ferry from the UK?

Prior to Monday, 28 September, passengers were able to use routes including Dublin to Holyhead and Rosslare to Pembroke without needing to bring their passport.

However, that has now changed, and you must bring your passport, after identification rules were altered by ferry operators.

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Previously, anyone travelling on the above routes could use alternative forms of identification, such as driving licences and national identity cards.

Popular operators Irish Ferries and Stena Line have notified customers of the changes following their introduction.

For Irish Ferries routes, the necessity of travelling with a passport applies to its Dublin to Holyhead and Rosslare to Pembroke routes, in both directions.

Meanwhile, Stena Line has stated that all passengers travelling on routes from Dublin, Holyhead, Fishguard or Rosslare would be required to present a valid passport when checking in.

Almost 1.5 million people use the Holyhead to Dublin route each year, meaning it sees around 210,000 lorries and 383,000 cars pass through its port annually.

With more than 210,000 lorries and around 383,000 cars using it every year, Holyhead is the second busiest passenger ferry port to Dover.

Both operators will also accept passport cards, while Irish Ferries has added that anyone travelling who is not a British or Irish citizen and is visiting the UK for up to six months may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

I SPEND most of my days scouring the web to track down the cheapest possible holiday deals – to share them all with Sun Club members.

Spending so much time filtering and flicking through holiday websites means I’ve gotten pretty good at seeking out a bargain.

In fact, I’m often finding UK breaks for under £5pp, city breaks for £99 and under, and even family holidays abroad for £150pp or less.

So I’ve decided to reveal exactly how I find these cheap holidays: the very best websites to use, and how to use them to bag the best deals.

Holidays abroad

Loveholidays and On the Beach are two incredible companies when it comes to bagging the cheapest deals.

Both offer package holidays which bundle in your return flights, accommodation and board of your choice – so there’s no need to worry about having to book it all separately.

Loveholidays

With Loveholidays, it’s really easy to filter breaks by all inclusive, family friendly, short haul, long haul and more.

Their cheap holidays page lets you pick between cheap all-inclusives, beach holidays, city breaks and even family holidays with free child stays.

You can also filter by breaks under £500pp or even under £300pp. Drag the slider bar all the way down to the bottom, and you may even find hols for £120pp or under.

For example, under the ‘Cheap Beach Holidays’ tab, I found a week-long holiday to a four-star resort in Magaluf in October for £119pp.

On The Beach

On The Beach works in a similar fashion, and their cheap holidays page is regularly updated with ‘our cheapest deals of the week’, which often start from a super low £100pp to destinations like Portugal and Malta.

This page also currently has a ‘cheap holidays for autumn under £500′ section.

Some of the cheapest holidays they’re offering this autumn are week-long breaks to Turkey (from £135pp) and the Canary Islands (from £180pp).

One of the best deals I found for autumn using the cheap holidays page to navigate the offers is for a four night break in The Algarve for £95pp.

Wowcher

As well as UK breaks, Wowcher is also great for booking holidays abroad.

Yes they have the classic £99 mystery holiday, but they also offer beach holidays, European city breaks, cruises and even long haul escapes.

These include a glamorous Lake Como getaway from £79pp, an all-inclusive Egypt holiday from £299, and even an incredible Las Vegas holiday with flights for £399.

I recommend browsing their cheap holiday packages page or all-inclusive holidays page.

Lastminute.com

Lastminute.com is another great site that does what it says on the tin – and more.

While the homepage often showcases some of the site’s best value deals, they also have specific pages rounding up cheap family holiday destinations as well as cheap adults-only resorts.

Plus the site is still king when it comes to bagging a last-minute break. This webpage rounds up the week’s best exclusive deal, plus an offer of the week and last chance bargains.

Offers of the week are certainly one to keep an eye open for – their most recent was for a trip to a 5* resort in Tenerife for four nights with flights for £484pp.

The site also has a loyalty programme which is completely free to join, and can bag you up to an extra 15 per cent off holidays and experiences.

The offers get better the more holidays you take, and as you climb the ranks you can unlock more and more perks.

These include free travel audioguides, 10 per cent off car hire and free lounge access if your flight is delayed.

Sundeals

Sundeals is the new kid on the block when it comes to cheap holiday deals, and is a new branch of familiar favourite holiday company TUI.

Here you can explore deals by budget (under £350, under £500, under £1,000) or by destination and more.

On their cheap holidays page, I’ve found all inclusive holidays from £234pp, beach holidays from £115pp and city breaks from £147pp.

Plus, the holiday company offers holidays with super low deposits from £30pp, so you can get your next break locked in for cheap.

Travelzoo

This is the only site you’ll have to pay for on this list, but my goodness is your membership worth it.

A Travelzoo membership costs £30 a year, but you can also try out 30 days of membership for £1.

Signing up means you’ll get Travelzoo’s ‘Top 20 deals’ dropped into your inbox each week, so you can easily have a quick browse to see if anything takes your fancy.

Or you can head to the site to browse cheap holiday deals broken down into loads of specific categories, from Asia Pacific holiday deals to island holidays and safari deals.

The best value to be found for foreign holidays here is for long haul breaks. The first time I came across their long haul holiday deals, I couldn’t quite believe my eyes.

You can visit gorgeous hotels in New York for £653pp, the Dominican Republic for £690pp and Mexico for £860pp – all for a week-long break including flights.

I even found an 11-night Egypt holiday which packs in your flights, four nights at a 5* all inclusive resort – followed by a Nile cruise which stops at major historical sights – for an unbelievable £549pp.

To be able to view and book these deals, you have to be signed up as a member.

Where to look

Where you’re looking for your holidays is equally as important as how you’re looking.

You might be tempted to hop online and look for the same familiar favourites you’ve been to before, such as cheap Spain or Greece holidays.

But if you’re open to trying somewhere new, I’d recommend not ticking the ‘destination’ box. Instead, go for ‘beach holidays’ and see what pops up.

That way, you’re opening up hundreds or even thousands of new holiday options – which massively increases your chances of finding something cheaper.

And if you know there’s somewhere you really don’t want to go to, you can just untick it from the left-hand column of the page. Easy peasy.

I’d recommend keeping an eye out for Bulgaria, Albania and Montenegro holidays specifically.

These three destinations are absolute powerhouses when it comes to an affordable beach holiday.

Bulgaria has all-inclusive getaways from £279 and flights from the UK under £15. Plus once you’re there, you can grab a meal out for under £9 and a cappuccino for just 88p.

Albania has been named the ‘Maldives of Europe‘ thanks to its beaches with bright white sand and electric blue seas, with holidays from £165pp.

Montenegro offers £255 holidays and even has been referred to as ‘St Tropez with Benidorm prices’ by one travel expert.

UK Holidays

Best Western GEM stays

Forget paying for just a bed for the night. Best Western’s GEM stays are hotel break packages with your room, food, and extra perks completely sorted for you.

The GEM packages stand for ‘Great Escapes, Memorable Stays’ and are centred around a huge variety of fun experiences.

The Somerset Family Escape package (from £123.38 per night) bundles in a family stay for two adults and one child with breakfast plus soft play access for the kids while parents can unwind in the spa.

Whereas the Ultimate Girls Night In package at Brackenborough Lakes & Resort reserves a hot tub lodge for two nights, breakfast each morning, three bottles of Prosecco and £15 takeaway credit per person from £44.50pp per night.

Wowcher

The UK holidays section of Wowcher is hiding some serious bargains, from spa weekends, to city hotel stays, to rural retreats.

Look for any offers with the pink ‘Price Drop’ label to find the cheapest deals.

Some of the top offers for UK breaks on Wowcher right now include a 4* break in Manchester for two with breakfast for £105, shaving 41 per cent off full-price.

Another fantastic offer is for a wellness retreat to Woodford Bridge Country Club, where four people can escape for four nights from £79 (£4.94pp per night).

Travelzoo

Travelzoo’s UK holiday deals are just as impressive as their deals for holidays abroad.

If you head to their UK hotel breaks, deals and stays page, you can find weekends away from as little as £59.

You can stay at one of the world’s oldest inns, The Olde Bell in Hurley, from £75 a night with breakfast. This saves you 48 per cent when compared to booking direct.

Another great deal is this two night break in Northumberland for £89pp, which puts you up in the Riverdale Hall Hotel which overlooks the Northumberland National Park.

And that super cheap £59 deal? It’s for a seafront stay in Eastbourne, with an overnight break for two at the The Lansdowne hotel, working out to only £29.50pp.

Remember, however, that you have to be a Travelzoo member to unlock these deals (£30 per year).

Holiday parks

Whether you enjoy pitching up a tent, cosying up in a caravan or even splashing out on a hot tub lodge, holiday parks have stays to suit all budgets.

Choosing to stay in a holiday park can be a fantastic way to tick off a new UK destination without having to fork out on an expensive hotel.

You can often bag a three or four night family break at a holiday park for £90-£100 if you know where to look, which would typically only get you one night in a hotel!

£9.50 Holidays

If you’re looking for a super cheap getaway, The Sun’s £9.50 holidays offer some of the best rates out there, which are often significantly cheaper than booking with the same park direct.

The bargain holidays are released in stages throughout the year, with the biggest Hols from £9.50 drop taking place in January,

As a Sun Club member you can bag your break earlier than anyone else – so make use of this perk!

Make sure to check the Sun Club Offers Hub and club950.co.uk to keep updated with Hols from £9.50 releases.

Parkdean Resorts & Park Holidays

If the £9.50 holiday booking window is closed, Parkdean Resorts and Park Holidays offer some of the best rates among UK holiday parks.

Look out for Parkdean’s last minute breaks page where you can bag a three night stay in Norfolk from £99 or Cornwall from £109.

Park Holidays have 50+ award-winning parks across the UK – their short breaks page offers stays from £129.

Want to save even more? Go for a cosy wooden glamping pod instead of a caravan with Park Holidays, and you can stay from £50 for a two night break. These pods sleep four, so that’s only £6.25pp per night.

IF you’ve ever struggled with agreeing on where to go on holiday, getting the same time off as your mates or simply wanted to split off and do your own thing – this one’s for you.

Holiday company Opodo has looked into why more and more Brits are choosing to go away on solo holidays, plus they offer package deals that make it cheap and easy to do so.

It’s that freedom to do what you want that makes a solo holiday so appealing, as ‘travellers are no longer waiting for someone else to be available before they book.’

And it turns out travelling alone has loads of benefits too, with 47% of solo-travelling Brits saying it makes them feel more capable, and 32% saying it gives them better mental clarity.

Not only is a solo holiday good for self-confidence, but it can work out to be very cheap, too.

When you’re only visiting the attractions you want to go to, you have complete control over the holiday budget – so you can skip the expensive museums you didn’t really care about, or the fancy sit-down meals when you wanted to try the street food.

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If you’re planning a solo holiday, with Opodo you can save up to 40% off breaks if you book your flights and hotel together as a package.

From Spanish city breaks to red sand beaches and sunny islands, here’s our pick of Opodo’s best value solo holiday deals.

Barcelona – £141pp

Book a break to Barcelona for great beaches, food and architecture that makes walking around the city feel like strolling through a giant, open-air museum.

When you’re not admiring Gaudi’s House of Bones or the world-famous Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum and MACBA (museum of contemporary art) both offer free entry.

Come evening, the bars around El Born and Gracia are made for pulling up a stool at the counter, tucking into some delicious tapas and getting to know some fellow travellers over a cheap beer.

This Opodo offer includes a stay at the clean and comfortable Hotel 170, plus return flights from Manchester.

Istanbul – £123pp

A city made up of maze-like streets, colourful bazaars and gorgeous mosques, Istanbul is perfect for a solo holiday.

Wander through its historic centre at your own pace, stopping to take pictures of the impressively giant Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Then stroll across the Galata Bridge to watch fishermen and tea sellers stroll along the Bosphorus sea strait at sunset.

This deal includes return flights from London plus a stay at Hamzabey Hotel, which is a 10-minute drive from Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower.

Amsterdam – £211pp

Whether you’re after a slow-paced break to chill and stroll alongside pretty canals, or an action-packed weekend ticking off all the amazing museums, Amsterdam is an ideal solo holiday destination.

You can visit the OSCAM art museum, the quirky ‘Mouse Mansion’ and the Amsterdam City Archives all for free. But if you’re wanting to tick off all the big sights, opt for a city card (£58), which gives you access to over 70 of the city’s top museums and attractions.

To soak up the outdoors, Vondelpark and Rijksmuseum gardens are totally free to visit and make for a great spot to sit and watch the world go by.

This deal is for a stay at the Boutique Hotel 43 Zaandam, which sits in a quiet spot shaded by trees that is only 15 minutes’ drive from Vondelpark.

Tenerife – £147pp

With year-round sunshine, dramatic volcanic landscapes and plenty of cheap, laid-back bars and restaurants to grab a sundowner, why would you not book a break to Tenerife?

There’s plenty to explore here, including Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooked by two incredible twin volcanoes.

If you’re less into hiking and more into partying, make sure to visit the strip on Playa de las Americas, which is packed with lively bars.

This deal includes return flights from London plus a stay at the Grand Muthu Golf Plaza Hotel, a sprawling holiday resort with a giant pool and its own spa.

Santorini – £239pp

Once you’ve touched down on the island, Santorini’s postcard-perfect views come free of charge, from the cascading clifftops of Fira to the sunsets behind the blue domes of Oia.

It’s easy to spend all of your time drifting between these dramatic viewpoints, but make sure to spend some time discovering Santorini’s beaches.

At Kamari Beach you’ll find rich black sand, while Red Beach gets its name from sand made from its rust-coloured volcanic cliffs.

This Opodo deal includes a stay at Castro Hotel, a friendly, family-owned spot surrounded by green gardens in the coastal village of Kamari.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

KEEN to get that winter sun break locked in? Holidaymakers on a budget should set their sights on Africa.

A new report released today by the Winter Sun Holidays Costs Barometer from The Post Office Travel Money reveals that Cape Town in South Africa, and Mombasa in Kenya, offer the best value for money for people seeking a sun-drenched winter break.

To calculate which destination gives travellers more bang for their buck, the research considered the average costs of eight essential holiday items in 24 popular long-haul and short-haul destinations.

Items included a cup of filter coffee, a bottle of beer or lager, a can or bottle of cola, a glass of wine, a 1.5l bottle of water, suncream, insect repellent and a three-course evening meal for two with house wine.

The overall cost for all of the above came to just £58.24 in Cape Town, making it the most affordable destination on the list.

According to the Post Office, prices in the South African hotspot have fallen by 9.7 per cent in the last six months, which will have a hugely beneficial impact on tourists.

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A three-course dinner with wine was shown to be cheaper here than anywhere else on the list, totalling £39.26 on average.

Despite its reputation for excellent wineries, Tokyo pipped Cape Town to the post for budget vino with a glass costing just £2.53 in Japan’s capital, on average, compared with £3.24 in Cape Town.

Tokyo came in third place overall on the affordability scale with a total barometer cost of £66.76, beaten by Mombasa, in second place, with an overall price tag of £63.66.

Prices haven’t dropped dramatically in this Kenyan city, but the rise of sterling against the Kenyan shilling does mean that you will now pay slightly less than when the country was last surveyed by the Post Office in March this year.

Coming in fourth place on the winter sun budget chart is Colombo in Sri Lanka, where a basket of all eight holiday essentials added up to £74.79, getting on for £20 more than the cheapest spot of Cape Town.

And be sure to ditch the wine and opt for beer instead, as a glass of red, white or rose will set you back £6.60 on average — over double the cost of a glass of wine in any of the previously named locations.

A bottle of beer, on the other hand, costs just £2.47.

Phuket in Thailand closely followed Colombo in fifth place with an overall barometer cost of £76.39 and cheap beer at £2.09 a bottle.

Of course, for the top five spots, the trade off for spending little while in the destination is shelling out for pricier flights to get there.

But remember that holidaymakers will be rewarded with better odds of sunshine and higher temperatures in these long-haul locations.

Those looking to stay a little closer to home still have budget-friendly options, however, including Portugal’s Algarve which came in sixth place overall.

While the total cost of all holiday items came to a slightly steeper £82.35, coffee-drinkers won’t be complaining as this is the cheapest destination to grab yourself a cuppa (£1.27 on average).

THERE’S a specific point during every peak-summer holiday when even the most committed sun worshipper has to admit it’s all getting a bit much.

The beach is shoulder-to-shoulder, the sand is hot enough to cook an egg and you’ve started timing dinner around whether you can secure a table without joining a queue.

That’s why I’ve become a massive advocate for the October break.

Across the Mediterranean, daytime temperatures comfortably hover in the mid-twenties and, even in October, there are hours and hours of proper sunshine every day.

Meaning you can still pack your swimwear, bring the sun cream and expect to come home a lot more tanned.

And my favourite part is: you enjoy all of that without the intense August heat, peak-season crowds or, most importantly, peak-season prices.

I crunched the booking data across our most popular summer resorts and found that October breaks are up to 49 per cent cheaper than their peak-August counterparts.

So these are the seven classic summer spots where October can genuinely be a better and much cheaper time to travel.

7. Hersonissos, Crete – 40 per cent cheaper

Crete is one of the best places to squeeze a final dose of proper Greek sunshine out of the year.

As one of Greece’s most southern major holiday islands, it holds onto summer far longer than many of its northern neighbours.

October in Hersonissos still serves up highs of 24°C and warm seas, keeping proper beach-and-pool days firmly on the menu.

Hersonissos also stays lively well into autumn, and the gentler heat also means exploring Heraklion or visiting the Palace of Knossos doesn’t turn into a sweaty endurance test.

Matched booking data shows that October packages here are, on average, 40 per cent cheaper than in August.

And I found a four-star, all-inclusive stay at Hotel Heronissos, just 100m from the beach.

It has a huge outdoor pool and puts you within walking distance of the resort centre, while your meals, snacks and local drinks are all included.

The full package works out at £320pp for 7 days – roughly £46pp a day – including the flights. Bargain.

Book a 7-night all-inclusive stay at Hotel Heronissos from 8 October 2026, with direct return flights from Bristol, for £320pp.

6. Cala Millor, Majorca – 40.1 per cent cheaper

Majorca doesn’t just pull down the blinds the second September finishes, you know?

October in Cala Millor can still hit highs of 25°C earlier in the month, with sea temperatures sitting at a very swimmable 23°C.

But the biggest win in October, by far, is the elbow room.

In August, finding a towel-sized patch on Cala Millor’s huge sandy bay feels like bidding for a London flat – but in October, you can just walk down and lay your towel out.

Booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 40.1 per cent cheaper than in August, which is a pretty crazy saving for Majorca.

I found a four-star, half-board stay at Bakour Garbi Cala Millor, which sits just 400m from the beach, has a large outdoor pool, kids’ club and playground, and its heated indoor pool and spa area is ideal for an October break.

It gives your family a built-in back-up plan if an autumn cloud briefly rolls past.

Book a 7-night half-board stay at Bakour Garbi Cala Millor from 14 October 2026, with direct return flights from Bournemouth, for £340pp.

5. Afandou, Rhodes – 43.7 per cent cheaper

Rhodes is arguably the strongest weather bet on the entire list for autumn.

October brings highs of 25°C, around nine hours of sunshine a day and sea temperatures of approximately 24°C.

That is still proper tanning weather, and feels particularly nice when everyone back home has already turned the central heating on.

Afandou is ideal for a quieter escape, with one of the longest beaches on Rhodes and a traditional village centre.

The slightly gentler heat also means you can explore the island properly without spending the entire day desperately seeking shade.

My booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 43.7 per cent cheaper than in August – another massive saving.

I tracked down a room-only stay at Golden Days Aparthotel, a simple, cheap-and-cheerful base with an outdoor pool, a separate children’s pool and a tourist train running down to Afandou Beach.

Getting a full week on one of Greece’s warmest islands for under £190pp is an absolute steal. In fact, I’ve paid more than that for a train ticket to London this year.

Book a 7-night room-only stay at Golden Days Aparthotel from 2 October 2026, with direct return flights from East Midlands, for £185pp.

4. Albir, Costa Blanca – 44 per cent cheaper

Albir delivers Costa Blanca sunshine without putting you in the middle of Benidorm.

That being said, Benidorm is still close enough for waterparks, nightlife and an emergency tribute act, but Albir itself stays super-relaxed.

October brings highs of 24°C and around eight hours of sunshine a day, alongside a palm-lined promenade overlooking the pebble beach.

The cooler autumn breeze also makes it a far better time to tackle the scenic walk up to Albir Lighthouse without desperately searching for shade every five minutes.

Booking data shows that October packages are, on average, 44 per cent cheaper than in August.

And I spotted a four-star, bed-and-breakfast stay at Sun Palace Albir in a quiet part of the resort.

It has an outdoor pool, a big sunbathing terrace and a spa area for when you fancy taking relaxation very seriously.

The stand-out feature here, though, is its restaurant terrace, which has panoramic views across the mountains and out to sea, a far better spot for breakfast than a rainy motorway service station – speaking from experience.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Sun Palace Albir from 20 October 2026, with direct return flights from Manchester, for £305pp.

3. Kusadasi, Turkey – 44.3 per cent cheaper

Kusadasi stays properly hot into October, with daytime temperatures reaching highs of 26°C along the Aegean coast – and I have to say it’s absolutely gorgeous.

You could easily spend seven days flitting between the pool and the buffet, but October’s gentler heat also makes exploring the ancient marble streets of nearby Ephesus infinitely more enjoyable than during the height of summer.

When I took a peek, matched booking data showed that October packages to Kusadasi are, on average, 44.3 per cent cheaper than in August.

And to highlight that value, I found a four-star, all-inclusive stay at Marbel Hotel.

It has a huge outdoor pool, tennis court, gym and Turkish hammam bath house, with your meals and drinks wrapped into the price.

It’s a great choice if you want plenty to do at the hotel while remaining close enough to dip into the centre of Kusadasi.

Book a 7-night all-inclusive stay at Marbel Hotel from 7 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £365pp.

2. Laganas, Zante – 45.7 per cent cheaper

Laganas in August and Laganas in October feel like two completely different worlds.

Peak summer brings wall-to-wall crowds and full-throttle nightlife, but by October, the volume turns right down, but temperatures can still reach highs of 25°C.

You get to enjoy Laganas’ vast golden-sand beach and the clear Ionian Sea without sharing them with thousands of foam-party-obsessives.

Some seasonal bars and clubs begin closing as the month progresses, but for me that’s part of the appeal.

You still get the sunshine, warm sea and beautiful coastline – just with considerably less people around.

And booking data shows that October packages are, on average, a whopping 45.7 per cent cheaper than in August.

I found a bed-and-breakfast stay at Atlantis Hotel Zante, and this place is just 7km from the airport.

That means you can be beside the pool remarkably quickly instead of spending the first afternoon touring every hotel on the island aboard a transfer coach.

The hotel has an outdoor pool, a separate children’s pool and a Jacuzzi, while the rooms include a mini fridge, kettle and toaster to keep the snack admin easy.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Atlantis Hotel Zante from 13 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £255pp.

1. Oropesa del Mar, Costa del Azahar – 48.6 per cent cheaper

Taking the top spot for the biggest seasonal saving is Oropesa del Mar on Spain’s underrated and underdiscovered Costa del Azahar.

October temperatures here can still climb to highs of 25°C, allowing summer to stretch on long after the UK has descended into grey drizzle.

This purpose-built Spanish resort has broad beaches and wide promenades that feel calm and effortless once the July and August rush clears out.

The slightly gentler temperatures also make October a much better time to explore the coastline or head towards Castellon and Valencia.

My booking data shows that October packages are, on average, a staggering 48.6 per cent cheaper than in August – nearly half the price for the same Spanish coastline.

I found a bed-and-breakfast stay at Magic Sports Hotel, part of the Magic World resort and a real gem of a hotel for the easily-bored holidayers among us (guilty).

It has sports simulators, themed rooms, huge swimming pools and an on-site waterpark with slides inspired by everything from Formula 1 to winter sports.

Finding seven nights here with direct return flights for £265pp feels, quite frankly, ridiculous – and it’s my pick of the deals, for sure.

Book a 7-night bed-and-breakfast stay at Magic Sports Hotel from 3 October 2026, with direct return flights from London Stansted, for £265pp.

WHEN the unpredictable British weather strikes, a tropical indoor waterpark is the ideal escape for families.

We’ve hunted down the UK’s absolute best indoor waterparks, packed with terrifying near-vertical drops for adrenaline junkies and giant interactive pirate ships to entertain the little ones.

Parents haven’t been forgotten either, as plenty of these indoor resorts have luxurious adults-only spas, bubbling spa pools, and peaceful lazy rivers to help you escape the chaos.

Best of all, these waterparks won’t break the bank, with tickets from £5.31 for adults and £2.50 for kids.

Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool

As the UK’s largest waterpark, it’s safe to say there’s absolutely loads of indoor fun to be had at Sandcastle Waterpark in Blackpool.

The attraction boasts 18 slides, ranging from the toddler-friendly treetops water chutes to a climbing frame where a giant coconut dumps 600 gallons of water onto unsuspecting swimmers.

Older thrill-seekers can tackle five record-breaking white-knuckle rides, including the Sidewinder, the world-first indoor half-pipe, and the Masterblaster, the UK’s longest indoor water rollercoaster.

While the kids run wild, adults can escape to the Sea Breeze Spa for an extra £7 to unwind in the sauna, steam room, and aromatherapy lounge.

For the ultimate VIP day out, the £60 Tiki Cabana package gets you park entry, lunch and unlimited drinks, spa access, and a private retreat complete with a TV and hot tub.

Standard tickets start at £24.95 for those aged 12 and over, £15.95 for kids aged three to seven, and under-threes get to splash around for free.

Waterworld, Stoke-on-Trent

This waterpark with tropical temperatures packs in over 30 different rides and attractions under one roof.

Test your nerves on the lightning-themed Hurricane ride that descends at 17mph, or brave the Thunderbolt – the UK’s first trap-door flume that plummets you downwards at a terrifying 25mph.

If you want something a bit gentler, toddlers will love the gentle twists of the newly refurbished Python slide, while the whole family can enjoy the swirling rapids and wave pool.

When you need a breather, you can chill in the calming bubble pools and fuel up on pizza, bubble waffles, and milkshakes at the on-site restaurant.

Outside of the waterpark, the wider leisure resort contains the M Club Spa and fitness centre as well as a tiki-themed adventure mini-golf course.

General admission tickets start at £24pp.

Blue Lagoon Water Park, Wales

Beneath its giant, curved glass dome, the Blue Lagoon Water Park hides a massive wave pool, four high-speed flumes, a lazy river, bubbling spa pools and more.

Here the kids can make a splash on mini slides and water cannons at Nippers Cove, or even join in on magical mermaid schools and pirate-themed events.

While the pool complex is normally reserved for holiday park guests, you can still visit without booking an overnight stay by grabbing tickets to a public open day.

The next public open day takes place on October 28 between 6.30pm and 9pm, with entry costing a budget-friendly £11.55 per person.

The complex is completely free however for guests staying on-site at Bluestone National Park Resort, making it the perfect excuse to book in a staycation.

You can bag a three-night break in a stylish wooden lodge sleeping four from £420, working out to £35pp per night.

Alton Towers Waterpark, Staffordshire

You don’t need to brave the theme park’s giant rollercoasters for an action-packed day out at Alton Towers.

The attraction boasts its own massive tropical waterpark with toasty temperatures right in the Staffordshire countryside.

Adrenaline junkies can tackle the epic Master Blaster water rollercoaster, twist down the indoor Rush ‘N’ Rampage slides, or brave the outdoor Flash Floods flume before splashing into the giant pool.

Meanwhile, little ones can run wild in the Wacky Waterworks Treehouse, a sprawling play zone packed with over 70 interactive features including water cannons and tipping buckets.

If you prefer a more relaxing pace, you can drift peacefully along the lazy river or simply kick back on a lounger with a drink while the kids wear themselves out.

When hunger strikes, you can grab burgers and chicken strips at the Calypso Cave, or treat the family to ice cream sundaes and floats from the Ice Cream Shack.

Standard tickets start at £18 when booked online, with kids under 90cm going completely free.

There are also parent-and-toddler passes available from £23.

Coral Reef Waterworld, Bracknell

Bracknell’s Coral Reef Waterworld is one of England’s largest indoor water parks. With 30C temperatures and a giant pirate ship to play in, it makes for the ideal rainy-day family escape.

Little ones can run wild in the pirate ship and battle against each other with water cannons, or even dodge the ‘eruptions’ of the giant water volcano.

Older kids can tackle five high-tech waterslides, including the 67-metre high-speed Cannon chute and Poseidon’s Peril, a neon-lit, colour-changing raft ride built for two.

If you need to catch your breath, the main swimming pool has plenty of calmer spots to float around, featuring a swirling rapid river and relaxing bubble pools.

There’s even an adults-only Coral Spa where you can completely unwind on heated sun loungers, chill in a Japanese steam room, or sweat it out across three saunas.

Tickets from £18.60 for adults and £13.20 for kids.

Alpamare, Scarborough

Scarborough‘s Alpamare is a totally unique waterpark that truly lives up to its claim of being “unlike any waterpark you’ve seen before”.

Here you’ll find four massive, ski-themed waterslides: the Cresta Run, Olympic Run, Black Run, and Snowstorm.

Each will send you flying through high-speed twists, turns, and giant spinning funnel bowls.

There’s also a huge main indoor pool, which ripples with waves every 30 minutes. You can also brave the outdoor chill and take a dip in a heated outdoor infinity pool.

Alpamare also has its own spa, which might just be the most unique of the bunch.

The spa offers a hammam, LED ice showers, foot baths and even a Sauna World complex with plenty of room for sitting down and heating up.

Plus there’s a totally bizarre Hay Bath aromatherapy experience, where you relax on a lounger surrounded by fresh local Yorkshire hay – where the natural scent is designed to soothe the senses.

Tickets start at £10 for adults, £7.50 for kids, and £2.50 for toddlers when you book ahead online.

The Wave, Coventry

The Wave is a giant indoor waterworld containing the UK’s largest wave pool, which churns over 20 million litres of water every single day.

Zip down your choice of six high-octane flumes, including the stomach-churning Riptide – a massive half-pipe slide that blasts rubber ring riders down a terrifying near-90-degree drop.

You can also take on the dizzying Cyclone ride that spins swimmers around a giant open bowl, while younger children can safely splash away from the big drops in The Reef, a vibrant play area packed with mini slides and fountains.

If the parents need some well-deserved peace and quiet, they can escape the chaos and head over to the luxurious on-site Mana Spa.

Here you can swim gentle lengths in a quieter pool, sweat it out in the sauna and steam room, or switch off in the soothing aromatherapy suite.

Adult tickets cost £15, kids aged 11 and under £13, and babies under one go for free.

Time Capsule Water Park, Scotland

Time Capsule Water Park in Coatbridge, Scotland is a brilliant budget-friendly option that even comes attached to an indoor ice rink for the ultimate action-packed day out.

Inside the massive water complex, you’ll find a lazy river, twisting waterslides, and kids splash zones lined with water cannons.

Thrill-seekers will want to make a beeline for Tornado Tantrum, a tall flume packed with twisting drops alongside dramatic thunder and lightning effects.

Younger kids can safely splash around the toddler-friendly Cove Island, or dry off and run wild in the Tiny Tots indoor soft play area.

When it’s time to refuel the family, grab a cold drink and a poolside burger at the on-site Tsunami Cafe.

This waterpark is one of the cheapest on our list, with adult tickets costing £6.50 and kids £4.50, plus the bonus of completely free parking.

LC Swansea Waterpark, Wales

Taking the crown as Wales‘ biggest waterpark, LC Swansea goes way beyond your standard indoor pool and slide.

Here you can learn to surf on the Boardrider simulator, or hop on a rubber ring ride that blasts you uphill before gravity sends you plummeting back into the pool.

The Volcano Bay zone is the perfect place for the kids to burn off energy with interactive fountains, toys and tipping buckets.

But you can always escape the madness by floating down the peaceful lazy river or sinking into the bubbling whirlpool.

The fun doesn’t stop once you dry off, thanks to a massive underwater-themed indoor play area spanning four storeys of obstacles just next door, as well as a 30ft climbing wall.

Plus there’s a Costa Coffee for well-deserved snacks and drinks and a handy shop for forgotten swim gear.

You won’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy it all either, with tickets starting at £5.31 for adults and older kids.

Toddler tickets (ages one to three) cost £2.97, and babies go free.