Travel advice

Ryanair threatens to axe ALL flights to European country due to ‘massive passport queues’

A POPULAR holiday destination could soon lose all of its Ryanair flights – due to huge queues at the airport.

Malta is just one of the destinations in Europe that recently implemented the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) at its airport, which requires new biometric checks.

Ryanair is threatening to axe flights to Malta due to border control queues Credit: Getty

However, recent reports found that passengers were left stranded on the tarmac for 20 minutes because the queues were so long at security inside the airport building.

David O’Brien, one of Ryanair’s executive officers and the CEO of Malta Air, said: “If we find ourselves with significant congestion and delay, we’d have to redirect capacity away from Malta to other destinations and that’s not something we’d like to do.”

He has since written to Malta’s Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri to ensure border controls are fully staffed for this summer, according to The Times of Malta.

O’Brien added that “Europe is utterly unprepared in a general sense” and that while the airline has not yet experienced significant delays at Malta Airport, it is concerned about the upcoming summertime period.

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Last year, Ryanair carried more than half of total passengers to Malta and of those travelling to the country – with the UK being the biggest market.

To try and reduce the delays, Malta Airport has introduced new measures such as a specific Schengen corridor, as well as increasing the amount of immigration desks.

The airport has also transferred more airport staff to be working on the new system.

Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport told The Times of Malta: “We are working hand in hand with the Malta Police Force to make sure we can do everything possible to support them in this important initiative.

“It is what it is. We need to find ways to improve the processing time over the summer period.”

EES is a new system used across 29 European countries to register non-EU nationals, which includes Brits, for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

And Malta isn’t the only airport suffering delays due to the newly implemented EES.

Last month, Travel Reporter Alice Penwill experienced three-hour queues at Lanzarote Airport.

She said: “The queues stretched along the corridor and zigzagged all the way through the arrivals hall that took passengers to EES registration.”

“I’d already signed up to EES, having visited Lithuania a few months ago – but that was no use at all.

The airport is experiencing queues of around 40 minutes for people arriving and leaving Malta Credit: Alamy

“There was no separate queue for – or any staff for that matter – advising those who have registered to head straight to the passport e-gates.

“While this was frustrating, what was even more so was that only half of the EES machines were actually working.

“When I finally made it to my bus transfer, even the Jet2Holidays rep said she’d ‘never seen delays this bad’.”

Delays have also been reported at Brussels, Lisbon and Prague airports.

Greece has even decided to halt the system completely.

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

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

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

Sun Travel has contacted Malta Airport and Ryanair for comment.

In other travel news, here is the full list of 29 European countries being hit by new travel rules.

Plus, here are nine of the European airports where Brits are facing massive queues and missed flights due to new travel rules.

It comes after the introduction of Europe’s new Entry/Exit System Credit: Alamy
The new system applies to all non-EU nationals including Brits Credit: Alamy

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Inside the new £23million hotel on the English Riviera with sea views

THE £23million Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG is newest hotel on the English Riviera in Devon.

Here’s everything you need to know.

There’s a new £23million hotel on the English Riviera with sea views Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding

Where is the Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG?

Standing on the site of the old and once thriving Corbyn Head Hotel, Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG is the newest kid on the block.

What is the hotel like?

The hotel looks like a sleek cruise liner docked on the English Riviera, offering front-row seats to the paddleboarding and jet skiing action of Torbay.

The hotel features a stylish interior throughout, with cool blues, silvers and golds.

The theme mimics the sea, with a touch of Art Deco luxury as well.

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From the rooftop bar, you have the added benefit of sprawling sea views.

The hotel is a touch of luxury for less, on what has long been a rundown coastal stretch.

With £300million currently being pumped into the English Riviera (formed of Paignton, Torquay and Brixham), Hotel Indigo is leading the charge.

What are the rooms like?

The hotel boasts 153 luxury rooms.

This includes sea view suites, where you will find a stylish throw back to the 1930s – the height of Agatha Christie’s fame – with coastal blues and glimmers of Art Deco silver.

There’s lots of space too with a king size bed, a marble clad en-suite and a separate lounge area with a sofa bed that looks over the waves crashing on the shore.

Fancy a tipple?

The mini-bar in the room is a ‘best of Devonshowcase, with fresh orange juice, local milk and a Nespresso machine with hand-crafted mugs for morning brews by the sea.

A standard king-size room in April for two people including breakfast starts from £83 per night.

The hotel looks like a cruise liber that has docked Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding

What is there to eat and drink there?

The hotel has an all-day bistro called Root and Reef with dishes full of locally sourced ingredients.

I opted for a French onion soup, followed by steak and chips and then creme brulee – all cooked to perfection.

Breakfast is a feast as well, with fresh hot and cold dishes, made to order dishes and an array of continental items.

It is a no brainer – eat at the hotel.

The hotel has an all-day bistro called Root and Reef with dishes full of locally sourced ingredients Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
Breakfast is a feast as well, with fresh hot and cold dishes, made to order dishes and an array of continental items Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding

What else can you do there?

The hotel is just metres from the beach and moments from a variety of activities that the nearby towns of Paignton, Brixham and Torquay have to offer.

One top spot, around a 15-minute drive away is Kent’s Cavern – also known as ‘Britain’s oldest home’.

Inside, visitors can explore limestone rock caves that are nearly 400million-years-old and hold evidence of Neanderthals and early humans… as well as discarded teeth of Ice Age beasts like the woolly mammoth.

Around a 15-minute drive away is Kent’s Cavern which is also known as ‘Britain’s oldest home’ Credit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding

Is it family friendly?

Out of the 153 rooms, there are three designated family rooms.

The hotel doesn’t have kids play facilities, so I would say that these rooms are mostly suitable for families with older children.

The hotel also has pet-friendly rooms where you beloved pooch will be more than spoilt with treats and their own bed.

Is the hotel accessible?

Eight of the rooms across the hotel are accessible, featuring lower dressing areas, adapted wardrobes and wider doors to allow for wheelchairs.

Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.

A standard king-size room in April for two people including breakfast starts from £83 per night Credit: Supplied

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World’s largest island opens new airport with weekly flights to ‘Arctic Riviera of the North’

A NEW airport has opened on the world’s largest island giving travellers direct access to an area dubbed the “Riviera of the North”.

The new hub is expected to boost tourism in one of the Arctic’s most remote regions.

Small red airplane being refueled by a yellow tanker truck on an airport tarmac with snow-covered mountains in the background.
Qaqortoq in Greenland is popular with visitors looking to try kayaking and whale-watching Credit: carstenbrandt

Visitors can now travel by air to Qaqortoq in Greenland to visit an area famous for kayaking and whale-watching.

Anne Nivika Grødem, director of Visit Greenland, said: “South Greenland offers a rare combination of powerful nature and a living culture shaped over generations.

“Improved access allows us to welcome visitors with greater intention – encouraging travel with curiosity [and offering] more meaningful experiences for our guests.”

Greenland’s prime minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen travelled on the new airport’s first flight.

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While more than 30,000 passengers disembark from cruise ships at Qaqortoq every year, less than 2,000 tourists on average stay overnight each year.

Before the opening of the airport, travellers looking to visit Qaqortoq would have to travel two days on a ferry or arrive by helicopter.

The town is 300 miles from the capital, Nuuk.

Air Greenland is to operate two daily 75-minute direct flights between Nuuk and Qaqortoq year-round.

This is expected to rise 17 weekly services in summer, while Icelandair plans to run four weekly summer flights to and from Keflavík, starting from June 2.

In recent years, Greenland has been working to boost visitor numbers.

Earlier this year US President Donald Trump’s threats to invade Greenland resulted in a 46% increase in foreign guests – most of them Americans.

Aerial view of Qaqortoq, Greenland, with colorful houses, apartment buildings, a sports field, and a fjord.
The town is 300 miles from the capital, Nuuk Credit: Posnov

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Priced out of a summer holiday? Travel companies reveal the CHEAPEST places to book

THERE’S no need to give up on booking a summer getaway just yet.

If you’ve noticed holiday prices getting steeper, we’ve got some good news, as it turns out there are plenty of affordable holiday deals you can book for this summer.

Agadir in Morocco is the cheapest place to book a summer holiday this year with Loveholidays Credit: Getty

Top UK travel companies have crunched the numbers to find the short-haul holiday spots ranking the cheapest for this summer.

From Travel Supermarket to TUI and Loveholidays, insiders have shared their tips on where to look for cheap breaks.

From white sand beaches that rival the Caribbean, to volcanic black sand islands that offer a natural spa setup – here’s the cheapest places to holiday abroad this summer.

Agadir, Morocco

Agadir has been named the most affordable destination for a seven-night summer holiday in 2026, according to research by Loveholidays.

The travel company analysed data for package holidays departing between 1st June and 31st August 2026, with Agadir coming out on top.

Summer holidays in Agadir averaged at just £230pp for a week away – but we found deals even cheaper.

Sun-drenched Agadir offers a six-mile-long sweep of golden sand, attracting everyone from surfers to sun-worshippers.

Choose to spend your days soaking up the 30°C heat on a lounger, strolling along the palm-lined promenade, or sipping a chilled mint tea at the glitzy marina.

For those who want a break from the beach, the Souk El Had market offers a maze of stalls selling everything from vibrant spices to handmade jewellery.

Book a break

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Loveholidays offer a seven-night room-only stay at the Anezi Apartments from just £189pp.

Agadir Beach in Morocco boasts a six-mile stretch of golden sands Credit: Getty

Neapolitan Riviera, Italy

If you’ve had an escape to the scenic coast of Italy on your bucket list, there’s never been a better time to book.

According to Travel Supermarket, holidays in the Neapolitan Riviera have seen the biggest price drop since the start of the conflict in the Middle East.

Holidays in this region have seen an average price drop of a whopping £231.53, when compared to what travellers were paying for the same trips last summer.

The Neapolitan Riviera stretches along the sun-drenched coast of Campania in Italy, from foodie-heaven Naples to sunny Sorrento.

This shimmering stretch of coastline also includes some of the country’s trendiest resorts, such as the dramatic Amalfi Coast and the pretty town of Positano.

For an underrated coastal city break, take a trip to Naples, where you can sample world-class handmade pizza in the colourful Spanish Quarter.

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Travel Supermarket offers a seven-night room-only stay at the four-star Hotel Casablanca in Naples from £289pp.

Italy’s Neopolitan Riviera has seen the biggest price drop, according to Travel Supermarket Credit: Alamy

Gran Canaria

Holidays to the Canary Islands are one of the most affordable options for a summer holiday abroad this year.

Holiday company TUI have revealed to The Sun that “Gran Canaria comes up trumps for families due to plenty of free kids’ places still available at family resorts” this year.

Gran Canaria is a total sun-soaked paradise, famous for its endless golden sands and sparkling Atlantic waters.

The star of the show is Maspalomas, where dramatic rolling dunes meet the sea, offering beach days with spectacular surroundings.

Along the coast in Meloneras, it’s all about shopping, dining and trendy beach clubs. As the sun sets, the beachfront boardwalks come alive with the buzz of outdoor bars.

The TUI BLUE Tres Vidas lines up family-sized apartments in a prime position for beach days on the sandy shores of Bahia Feliz.

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TUI offer a  seven-night stay at the 4T TUI BLUE Tres Vidas on a self-catering basisfrom £393pp.

Gran Canaria tops the list for cheap family holidays in the Canary Islands Credit: Getty

Bodrum, Turkey

If you want to book a trip to the hotspot dubbed the St Tropez of Turkey, now’s the time.

According to Travel Supermarket, holidays to the stylish resort of Bodrum in Turkey are also much cheaper than usual, with average prices for a summer holiday dropping by £118.30 compared to the same period last year.

This upscale seaside spot balances ancient historical sites with plenty of glam beach clubs, fancy restaurants and rooftop cocktail bars.

Explore the glittering marina by strolling its palm-lined waterfront, dipping into a seafood restaurant for lunch or jetting out on a boat trip to a nearby bay.

Plus, history buffs will love a trip to the 15th-century Bodrum Castle perched upon a rocky peninsula, or the preserved Bodrum Amphitheatre that is free to explore.

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Travel Supermarket offer a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the Kriss Hotel from £465pp.

Bodrum has seen an average price drop of £118.30 since the start of the conflict Credit: Getty

Tenerife

Tenerife is a classic summer holiday favourite, but did you know that the island offers some of the cheapest trips for adults this summer?

Holiday company TUI told us that while “Great deals can be found across all of the islands…Tenerife comes out top for adults-only trips”.

When it comes to a classic fly and flop beach holiday, Tenerife is a top contender. The crescent of Playa de las Teresitas is straight out of a holiday magazine, with golden sands dotted with palm trees and calm, shallow waters.

Playa de la Arena, on the other hand, has a natural spa-like feel with mineral-rich, volcanic black sand.

And with the temperature hovering at 28°C in the summer months, this reliable and affordable hotspot continues to shine.

The adults-only TUI BLUE Los Gigantes sits at the ocean edge, so visitors get sea views from almost every vantage point. Glass-wrapped terraces give it a contemporary look, and with wine-tasting sessions, cocktail masterclasses and cooking courses all on offer.

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TUI offer a seven-night stay at the 4T+ TUI BLUE Los Gigantes on a half-board basisfrom £550pp.

Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife is an idyllic golden sand beach, perfect for a fly and flop break Credit: Getty

Cape Verde 

For those craving a white-sand beach and turquoise waters without the long-haul flight or the Caribbean price tag, Cape Verde is your answer.

Holidays to this stunning archipelago have seen a significant price drop in price, with average costs falling by £98.82 compared to the same period last year, according to Travel Supermarket.

The country’s ten islands offer miles upon miles of pristine beaches and unspoilt volcanic landscapes.

On the popular island of Sal, you can laze on the golden sands of Santa Maria Beach, or explore the colourful town behind it, packed with lively surf bars and restaurants.

And with temperatures reaching 30°C in the summer months, it’s the perfect place to escape the unpredictable British weather and soak up some sun.

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Travel Supermarket offers a seven-night stay with breakfast at the four-star Dunas de Sal from £701pp.

Tarrafal Beach is just one of many to visit across Cape Verde’s ten islands Credit: Getty

Costa Dorada, Spain

Spain‘s Costa Dorada ranks as the second cheapest place to book a summer holiday this year with Loveholidays.

The travel company’s research found that a seven-night summer break this year averaged just £381pp.

This Spanish resort is ideal for anyone who wants to mix lazy beach days with action-packed family adventure.

You can spend your morning conquering the world-class rollercoasters and waterslides at PortAventura World, before retreating to the palm-lined promenade of Salou for a chilled drink.

For a dose of history, the ancient city of Tarragona is right on your doorstep. Here you can wander through a Roman amphitheatre that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.

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Loveholidays offer a seven-night room-only stay at the Vistamar hotel from £259pp.

Visit PortAventura World on a trip to Salou in Spain’s Costa Dorada Credit: PortAventura World

Antalya, Turkey

Antalya remains an affordable spot on the Turkish Riviera, offering a high-end feel for a fraction of the usual cost this year.

Summer holidays in the region are now costing £90.29 less than they did before the Iran conflict, according to Travel Supermarket.

To the east, the soft sands of Lara Beach are lined with luxury resorts, while the pebbled shores of Konyaalti on the west have clear waters backed by the impressive Bey Mountains.

With summer temperatures regularly hitting 34C, it is a paradise for those who want to tan with a view and warm waters to dive into.

Make sure to tick off Kaleiçi, where you can wander past Ottoman-era architecture and narrow cobblestone streets that lead down to the Roman harbour.

Book a break

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Travel Supermarket offer seven-night stay with breakfast at the Atalia hotel from £289pp.

Holidays to Antalya are now costing £90.29 less on average, according to Travel Supermarket Credit: Alamy

Majorca, Spain

Majorca is a firm British holiday favourite, and this year the Balearic gem is more affordable than usual.

According to Travel Supermarket, average holiday prices for the island have taken a dip of £86.28 compared to the same period last year.

This sunny Spanish island is full of variety. Lose yourself in the winding, cobblestone streets of Palma’s Old Town, overlooked by its massive Gothic cathedral, or head north to Puerto Pollensa for a more relaxed pace along its pine-lined promenade.

For nature lovers, the Drach Caves offer an otherworldly underground experience, with one of the largest subterranean lakes in the world.

Of course, the real draw is the sun-soaked coastline. With summer temperatures averaging a perfect 30C, the island’s Blue Flag beaches are calling this summer.

Es Trenc is a particularly beautiful beach, with shallow waters that are almost a luminous blue.

Book a break

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Travel Supermarket offers a five-night room-only stay at the Alcina hotel from £199pp.

Visit the Old Town of Palma de Mallorca for amazing architecture, like the Gothic Cathedral Credit: Getty

Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes continues to reign as one of TUI’s most affordable Greek destinations, and the holiday company have told us that there’s “an abundance of brilliant deals still to be found” there this summer.

The UNESO-listed medieval Old Town is home to historic sites and Gothic palaces, whilst the seaside tavernas that line the coast offer a scenic spot to enjoy a cold beer or a fresh Greek salad.

When it comes to beaches, Faliraki Beach boasts three miles of soft sands and shallow, bath-warm water that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon.

The resort of Ixia offers a cooling breeze that makes the 30C summer heat all the more comfortable.

In Ixia, the Lito Hotel has outdoor pools facing scenic coastal views, all just a 5-minute drive from the main town centre.

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TUI offer a seven-night stay with breakfast at the 3T Lito Hotel from £417pp.

Rhodes in Greece is one of the cheapest summer holiday destinations to book with TUI Credit: Getty

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My family holiday to the massive resort celebrating its 10th birthday

SWEET stations in the lobby, statues of famous cartoon characters and a rip-roaring theme park right outside your bedroom window.  

This might just be the best family resort out there. 

A giant playground for children and adults alike Credit: Supplied
Huge decorative horses feature in kids’ show
Club Nick runs kids’ art classes

The new Nickelodeon Hotel, which opened last year at the Land of Legends complex in Antalya, is bursting with fun. 

On top of character meet-and-greets at all times of day, there’s free gaming stations and an energetic kids’ club.  

And that’s before you even get to the splash park and heated pool, available for hotel guests only. 

My kids had watched Land of Legends being built on other family trips to Antalya over the years, and the excitement had grown on each visit. 

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But with Joshua and Jessica now 12 and nine, my partner Jo and I wondered if we’d missed the boat, or rollercoaster. 

We needn’t have worried, though.  

Land of Legends, which turns ten this summer, caters for all ages, tastes and daredevil levels. Designed to be a giant entertainment resort, visitors have access to hotels, shopping avenue, waterparks and, of course, a theme park in one place. 

Best of all, anyone staying in the onsite Nickelodeon Hotel can use a private entrance to access the theme park — meaning they can ride when they want, pop back for meals and drinks and then go again.  

Spongebob’s Bikini Bottom became a solid family favourite. The new indoor addition to the park features rides for all ages, including an interactive coaster where you shoot targets as you go. 

Young kids will also love the Star Trek simulator, Family Coaster and the crazy Typhoon Coaster where you go up in a lift before splashing down log flume-style. 

And once me and Josh got our big-boy pants on, we were ready for Hyper Coaster — a ride that rollercoaster enthusiasts travel across Europe to try. 

Trust me, it’s not for the faint-hearted, but I had to at least pretend I was being brave by laughing when Josh was next to me on the ascent, saying: “Dad, I think I’m going to pass out.” 

I couldn’t really hear him over my screams after that, as we plummeted, looped, corkscrewed and flew our way across the park. 

I’m not ashamed to say it took me a good 15 to 20 minutes to be able to feel my knees again. 

For a little less speed, there’s a neat Paw Patrol section of the park and Masha and the Bear area — a favourite of our children when they were toddlers so the boat ride was a lovely trip down memory lane for us all. 

On days when the Turkish heat gets too much, holidaymakers can get more thrills at the waterpark (open April to October). 

Family time outside Disney-like castle Credit: Supplied

Dozens of flumes and the quite incredible Turtle Coaster, where you are propelled uphill in a boat by water jets at amazing speeds, were big hits. Although the group favourite was a rubber-ring ride — especially for Jess, as she found it hilarious that I seemed to go backwards the entire way down the steep slopes. 

As we went early in the season, it didn’t really matter what water attraction we went for first as there were no queues. 

You won’t need to splash out on food at the parks when you stay onsite, either. 

The Nickelodeon Hotel operates a “Full-Board+” concept, which means breakfast, lunch and dinner in La Spatula restaurant and all soft drinks are included.  

Alcohol is served at lunch and dinner times with meals, too. 

The food was tasty, fresh and plentiful — from the omelette station at breakfast to the grilled lamb kebabs in the evenings. 

Magic shows performed over breakfast added another element of fun and Jess was still trying to figure out just how the magician had done it by lunch. 

Most evenings, we were so tired that not even the multi-coloured, themed character rooms could have kept us awake.  

Rooms are spacious and our Dora the Explorer suite had a balcony overlooking the park, meaning the kids went to sleep dreaming of the next ride. You can request room types on different floors subject to availability, themed around Spongebob, Star Trek and Turtles. 

In-room fridges filled with glass bottles of pop, plus a pod-coffee machine and snacks in the drawer were a real bonus for the post-park chill before dinner. 

The “Club Nick” kids’ club was excellent, too, with art classes (we painted SpongeBob, obviously) and nightly dance and character shows. 

Included in longer stays is an afternoon trip to sister hotel Rixos Premium Belek, with a minibus laid on. 

Lunch out was good and it meant we could get a drink by the sea.  

This was our fifth visit to Turkey in three years and the destination never fails to impress. The locals delight at welcoming tourists and showing off their country. 

Not everything is still “cheap” here, but this part of the world definitely knows how to do value for money. 

Splash out with a post-shopping dip in the pool

And if you did want to spend a few more lira, the front of the hotel opens out on to the Land of Legends shopping avenue — a Las Vegas-style strip with a canal, high-end stores and evening shows all centred around a Disney-like castle. 

For a slightly more chilled vibe, there are dancing fountains scattered around the shopping district, which Jo and I enjoyed while Josh and Jess played on the PS5s and arcade games. 

I tended to avoid those because, you know, it’s hard to keep letting them win every game . . .  

GO: TURKEY

GETTING THERE: Jet2 flies to Antalya from Stansted, Bristol, Liverpool and other UK destinations from £60 each way. See jet2.com.

STAYING THERE: TO COME

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I’m a middle class snob

WHEN Billy Butlin opened his first holiday camp on the Lincolnshire coast in 1936, he wanted to provide fun and affordable breaks for the working class. 

Nearly a century on, that aim has not changed — although the park itself certainly has. 

Your ticket to ride at park’s £2.5million outdoor playpark Credit: Unknown
Butlin’s Skeggy has West End-calibre shows Credit: Butlins

I wonder what Billy would think if he visited the “Skeggy” branch now, with its West End-calibre shows, huge indoor waterpark and £2.5million outdoor playpark. 

During the Easter holidays, a school mum friend and I took our three kids for a three-night break at Butlin’s Skegness. 

With the resort celebrating its 90th birthday this month, I drew up an hour-by-hour spreadsheet to make sure we made the most of every opportunity. 

In just three days, we saw six shows, swam in the pool, played mini golf and laser quest, explored the soft play, spent far too many pound coins in the arcade, enjoyed arts and crafts and went to the fun fair.

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We didn’t have time for the bowling, go-karting, pottery, climbing and aerial adventure courses.  

What’s particularly incredible is that so many of these activities are included in the price of your stay. 

On our long weekend, self-catering “comfort apartments” were available from £387 for a family of four, working out at £32pp a night. 

For a decent seat at a West End production of a similar standard to the Butlin’s Masked Singer Live show, you’d already have blown the entire budget for the whole weekend break. The performances are top quality, too. 

The year-round pantomime is so hilarious it had me slapping my thigh, and the Animals and Mythical Beasts production brought tears to my son’s eyes. 

The star of the shows for us, however, was the Maximum Pro Wrestling, which included a star turn from one of the celebrity hosts, Jeff Brazier

Butlin’s has been investing heavily in its accommodation at Skegness. 

The fun never stops for younger visitors Credit: Supplied

We stayed at one of the Maple Walk lodges that first opened in 2024. The high-end, three-bedroom properties feature sleek kitchens, outdoor decking and a wood- panelled master bedroom. 

Maple Walk has its own entrance and even housekeeping, signalling a big departure from Butlin’s main, affordable offering.

One guest even drove past me in a Porsche

But there are still options for everyone.

When it came to food and drink, we opted for the all-inclusive dining and drinks packages. 

The Premium Dining package costs £33.95 an adult and £19.50 a child (six to 14) per day and covers a buffet breakfast and a buffet dinner. 

The drinks package starts from an extra £25.95 an adult per day and £10.50 a child, which includes unlimited booze, soft drinks and Costa coffee.

If you think you’ll get through more than four pints of Madri beer at £6.10 each, or five glasses of house wine at £5.60 each, over the course of the afternoon and evening then it’s well worth shelling out for.  

Some lodges have wood-panelled bedrooms Credit: Butlins

If you don’t want to gorge at the buffet like we did every night, the DineAround package includes a buffet breakfast and then you can pick from the other on-site dining options for a two-course lunch or dinner. 

This could be pub grub at The Beachcomber Inn or classic American diner-style food. Or you can simply pay as you go. 

These days, Butlin’s really does offer something for everyone.  

GO: BUTLINS

STAYING THERE: A three-night May half-term break featuring The Masked Singer Live and Maximum Pro Wrestling is from £229 staying in a two-bedroom Comfort Room in Skegness, arriving on May 29.

Price based on a family of four sharing and includes all live shows and activities with free flow access to the pool, fairground rides and playgrounds including the Skypark.

See butlins.com

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From minimalist to floating art deco

FORGET boring beige hotels and predictable pillows.

Whether you’re lounging on a luxe boutique ship, sipping cocktails in a quirky hub, or waking up in a treehouse — these unique escapes are redefining city stays.

Picture-perfect Edinburgh Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

These super-cool stays in two of the UK’s capital cities are perfect weekenders, says Sub-Editor Milcah Fajardo.

Fingal, Edinburgh

THE PAD

Anchor down for the night on luxe Fingal Credit: Jeremy Rata
Luxury cabins feature super-king beds, tartan textiles and a balcony with dock views Credit: Supplied by Hotel

Roll your suitcase along the Port of Leith, and you’ll soon find yourself at the red carpet to this five-star floating hotel.

From the art deco finishings to the grand ballroom, it exudes glamour.

But even after a £5million glow-up, the former Northern Lighthouse Board ship retains its history, preserved in the Engine Room and nautical details.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Luxury cabins feature super-king beds, tartan textiles and a balcony with dock views.

Plus, the jade-green bathroom with brass taps and rain shower is like something from my Pinterest board.

Meanwhile, The Lighthouse restaurant is award-winning for good reason.

Beneath the hammered gold ceiling, we dine on truffle scrambled eggs on toast, £15, and porridge brûlée, £9.50, for breakfast.

Dinner is superb, too, as we tuck into delicate duck ravioli with wild mushrooms, sage and parmesan foam, £15, beef cheek in a périgourdine sauce, £38, and creamy Basque cheesecake with honey ice cream, £11.

EXPLORE

The jade-green bathroom with brass taps and rain shower is like something from my Pinterest board Credit: Supplied by Hotel

Visit The Royal Yacht Britannia, a stone’s throw from Fingal.

The self-guided tour will take you from the Royals’ quarters and grand state dining room to life below deck for crew.

Entry is free for Fingal guests (Royalyachtbritannia.co.uk).

And you have to visit Edinburgh Castle, even if you skip gaping at the sparkling crown jewels and just hike up for the views.

Entry costs £21.50 (Edinburghcastle.scot).

For handmade souvenirs and local eats, Stockbridge Market is open every Sunday.

We defy you to resist the hog-roast buns with apple sauce, £10, or the haggis sausage rolls, £4 (Stockbridgemarket.com).

REFUEL

Sea food and eat it at Badger & Co Credit: Badger & Co/Instagram

Leith eatery Barry Fish does seafood so well that it landed them a spot in the Michelin Guide.

The addictive fish pastrami, £14, and flaky sea trout in a buttery shrimp sauce, £25, won’t disappoint (Barryfish.co.uk).

Also nearby is Alby’s, where hot focaccia sarnies filled with gooey ‘nduja cauliflower cheese, £12.50, and succulent chicken pakora, spiced onions and lettuce, £13.50, are to die for (Albysleith.co.uk).

Tucked away in the centre is games bar Mortal Kocktail – sink a pint with a few rounds on the vintage pinball machines (@Mortalkocktail).

Or experience Scottish cuisine like no other at Badger & Co – sample exquisite Scotsman scallops topped with haggis, neeps and samphire, £14, juicy Highland wagyu burger, £22, and rich blackberry jam teacake, £9.50 (Badgerandco.com).

DON’T MISS

The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience, from £30, is as fascinating as it is boozy.

Learn about the founder and your own whisky palate, then head to the rooftop for a wee dram while gazing at the gorgeous skyline (Johnniewalker.com).

BOOK IT

Double cabins at Fingal cost from £317 B&B (Fingal.co.uk).


Moxy Belfast City, Belfast

THE PAD

Water view of Belfast over the river Lagan Credit: Getty Images

Written across the mirror in pink are the words: “Welcome, Milcah. A good story starts here!”

And they’re not wrong.

Rooms at this central spot are minimalist, but come with huge waterfall showers, Lily O’Brien’s chocs and very handy rain macs.

Refreshing welcome cocktails of gin, elderflower and cranberry set the tone, as does the vibrant lobby, where industrial chic meets playful pop art.

Later, the Wake-Up Call, £11 – a poitín-spiked espresso martini – pairs well with loaded nachos, £10.50, and saucy barbecue wings, £9, in the bar.

Come morning, we find a buzzing breakfast service with a handful of fry-up options and a continental spread.

EXPLORE

Rooms at Moxy Belfast City are minimalist, but come with huge waterfall showers, Lily O’Brien’s chocs and very handy rain macs Credit: Supplied by Moxy Belfast City

Nearby, St George’s Market is home to stalls selling everything from vinyl and vintage wares to Cuban street food – make a beeline for Belfast Bap Co’s humongous bacon rolls, £9.

Next, ride the hop-on-hop-off bus, £19, to stop by the peaceful Botanic Gardens, learn all about the Troubles at Ulster Museum (Ulstermuseum.org), spot incredible street murals and take in the poignant Peace Walls (City-sightseeing.com).

Finally, at Thompson Dock you’ll find Titanic Distillers – the city’s first whisky distillery since Prohibition. Discover the craft and sample it on a one-hour tour, £25 (Titanicdistillers.com).

REFUEL

The Morning Star does treats including stout-and-treacle-braised beef Credit: Morning Star /Instagram

Hit the bustling Cathedral Quarter for excellent pubs.

Don’t miss Kelly’s Cellars – built in 1720, it is Belfast’s oldest pub, and you can expect lively traditional performances alongside your Guinness, £5.80 (Kellyscellars.co.uk).

Head upstairs at The Morning Star, a short stroll away, for treats including stout-and-treacle-braised beef with hispi cabbage, champ and bordelaise sauce, £24, in the classy dining room (Themorningstarbar.co.uk/the-lounge).

Finish your night in opulent townhouse bar Margot, sipping an indulgent Four Storeys cocktail – a mix of bourbon, amaro, cola syrup and chocolate bitters, £13 – in the snazzy leopard-print snug (Margotbelfast.com).

DON’T MISS

Finish your night in opulent townhouse bar Margot, sipping an indulgent Four Storeys cocktail Credit: Margot Belfast/Instagram

At Titanic Belfast, travel back in time to the ship’s construction and even listen to the last SOS messages from its crew – it’s both immersive and compelling.

Entry costs £24.95 (Titanicbelfast.com).

BOOK IT

Double rooms at Moxy Belfast City cost from £109 B&B (Marriott.com).

Meanwhile, Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley found a tree-mendous family break in the capital of the north.


Treehouse Hotel, Manchester

THE PAD

Climb into bed at Treehouse Manchester Credit: Simon Brown
Treehouse is all stained-glass features, cascading foliage and cute birdhouses in the heart of the city Credit: Simon Brown

After a stay with The Magic Faraway Tree vibes? Found!

This place is all stained-glass features, cascading foliage and cute birdhouses in the heart of the city.

Kids are given wooden tiles to illustrate, then add to the decor, while screening room Flix plays family films in the school hols.

At eatery Pip, Old Winchester gougères, £5, and Lancashire hotpot, £26, steal the show, as do the sherry-based cobblers, £11, while children will be suitably chuffed with home-made fish and chips, £9.

Come morning, roll out of bed for Derbyshire oatcakes with ham and eggs, before hitting shopping heaven on Market Street.

EXPLORE

Have a ball at Bubble Planet Credit: Supplied
Dive into a giant ballpit, crack the dazzling light maze and stand inside an actual bubble Credit: Supplied

From Squid Game to Paw Patrol, Immersive Gamebox in the Arndale Centre offers challenges to conquer as a team, and it’s quite a workout!

One-hour games cost from £28 per adult and £18 per child (Immersivegamebox.com).

Equally close is the Museum of Illusions, with its mind-bending displays and photo opps aplenty.

Entry costs £25.50 for adults, £21.50 for over-fives (Moimanchester.com).

Elsewhere, dive into a giant ballpit, crack the dazzling light maze and stand inside an actual bubble at Bubble Planet.

Tickets cost £16.90 per adult, £12.90 for over-threes (Bubble-planet.com).

REFUEL

Buzzy foodhall Mackie Mayor will please the whole crew – the barbecue burger at Mumma’s Fried Chicken, £12.50, and Pico’s Tacos’ frozen margaritas, £17 for two, are standouts (Mackie-mayor.co.uk).

Need a post-shop sugar hit?

Head to Haute Dolci Deansgate for pistachio-cream-smothered pancakes with raspberries and gelato, £12.50 (Hautedolci.co.uk).

Or scoff top-notch paccheri Genovese – large pasta tubes tossed in beef ragu – £16.90, and pizzas at Vincenzo Trattoria (Vincenzomanchester.co.uk).

DON’T MISS

Feel a piece of the moon, program an interplanetary rover and discover what the planets smell like at the Science And Industry Museum’s new Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos exhibition, £10 for over-fours (Scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk).

BOOK IT

Family stays at Treehouse Manchester cost from £190 B&B (Treehousehotels.com/manchester).

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All the trendy UK seaside towns with huge makeovers and enough to do for a WEEK

2026 is looking like the year of the staycation – and luckily, you’ve got plenty of revamped resorts along the coast to choose from.

Many of the UK’s favourite seaside towns are unveiling major, multi-million-pound makeovers. Luckily, while the upgrades are first-class, the holiday prices remain refreshingly retro.

Blackpool is one of many UK seaside resorts seeing multi-million-pound upgrades this year Credit: Alamy

We’ve scoured the coast to find the biggest transformations alongside the best-value places to stay, with budget-friendly deals starting from just £35 a night.

From record-breaking theme park rides to Victorian promenades polished back to their former glory, here are the hottest UK seaside spots that have been revamped for 2026.

Blackpool

The huge new gyro swing ride, Aviktas, will be a new addition to Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Credit: Supplied

If you thought you knew Blackpool, think again. This family entertainment hotspot is undergoing a glow-up.

The popular theme park Blackpool Pleasure Beach is unveiling a massive new ride to keep thrill-seekers on their toes: Aviktas.

The giant gyro swing ride is set to be the tallest of its kind at 138 feet, changing the skyline of Blackpool pier. The ride is set to open on May 21.

As well as this, the seaside town is unveiling a brand-new £3million indoor attraction.

Set to open this summer, Tenpin Blackpool will host 24 bowling lanes as well as a laser tag arena, soft play, escape rooms and even karaoke rooms.

Plus, there’s a cocktail bar and live sports lounge for the grown-ups, too. The attraction is set to open on June 5.

There’s plenty more to look forward to in time for summer as well.

The Southbeach Streetfood dining venue will serve a selection of food from 19 revamped shipping containers, and is set to open by the end of spring.

There’s also the 100th Anniversary of the Blackpool Dance Festival, with ballroom and Latin dance events held at the Winter Gardens from May 16-29.

To enjoy all the new thrills coming to the seaside resort this summer, we’ve scoured the internet for the cheapest staycation deals.

Book Your Stay In Blackpool

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Haven Marton Mere holiday village is just a 12-minute drive from Blackpool, where you can book a holiday from just £49.

The Haven Hideaway deal includes a four-night stay for two in a saver caravan.

Brighton

Brighton’s Victorian Promenade is getting a new lift for step-free access to the beach Credit: Getty
A Travelodge is just a two-minute walk from Brighton Beach, with prices starting from £34.99 a night Credit: Alamy

If you fancy a seaside escape with a touch of Victorian glamour, Brighton is currently polishing its crown.

The city’s famous Victorian promenade has been undergoing a massive £750,000 revamp, with the historic terraces set to fully reopen to the public this year.

It’s the perfect excuse to book a staycation, stroll the seafront and soak up the bohemian atmosphere that makes this city famous.

For a totally free afternoon, head to the Rampion Visitor Centre on the seafront to try out their virtual reality experience, or go street art spotting through the North Laine, where the walls are a giant open-air gallery.

The Brighton Fishing Museum is a great free stop-in to see traditional Sussex boats, while the world-famous Brighton Palace Pier costs just £1 entry for adults (kids go free) and is a must-do when visiting.

Book Your Stay In Brighton

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Despite its “London-by-the-sea” reputation, you can still find a bargain stay right in the thick of the action.

A night at the Travelodge Brighton Seafront is just a two-minute walk from the beach, and can be bagged from just £34.99 a night – leaving you with plenty of spare change for a bag of doughnuts on the pier.

Folkestone

Folkestone’s upgrades just keep coming, with the restoration of the Leas Lift and new dining spots Credit: Alamy
Folkestone has even opened up a sauna on the beach, which is the UK’s largest Credit: Sea Scrub Sauna

Folkestone is all the rage as the artsy seaside town continues to benefit from a massive £20 million makeover.

The town has been transformed into an open-air art gallery, with the Creative Quarter’s neon-lit streets leading down to a revamped Harbour Arm.

The Harbour Arm has now become a trendy dining destination, with nearly 70 food and drink outlets available.

Some of the top-rated include the champagne bar The Lighthouse and its sister restaurant Tasting Rooms – visit on Fridays for three courses, complimentary fizz and Jazz music for £29.

Plus, spring 2026 brings the long-awaited return of the historic Leas Lift, a Victorian water-balanced funicular that’s been restored to its former glory.

When visiting, you can spend a totally free afternoon wandering the Folkestone Artworks trail to see sculptures by famous artists, or head to the Lower Leas Coastal Park to make use of the largest free adventure play area in the South East.

For some unique self-care, visit the brand new Sea Scrub Sauna right on the beach for a sweat with a sea view.

Book Your Stay In Folkestone

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You can bag a stay at the Burstin Hotel overlooking the harbour from just £49 a night.

Southampton

The Town Quay in Southampton is soon to receive a £200million upgrade Credit: Alamy
Hythe Pier stretches 700 yards and is accessible via the world’s oldest pier railway Credit: Alamy

Southampton is one year into the major makeover of its waterfront and city centre, in a grand revamp described by the council as “The Renaissance Vision”.

Plus, the newly-approved £200million upgrade to Town Quay will soon see the addition of a new hotel complex, bringing a spa and even a helipad to the waterfront.

While the planning for the big builds is underway, one heritage seafront attraction has reopened to the public.

If you visit this summer, you’ll be able to walk the newly reopened Hythe Pier – a 145-year-old seaside pier that is sparkling new again after six months of extensive restoration.

To get there, board the world’s oldest pier train at Hythe Pier Railway. The pier stretches a whopping 700 yards from the centre of Hythe to Southampton Water, and costs £1 to enter.

To explore Southampton’s history, you can spend a totally free afternoon walking the Titanic Trail, which leads you through the city centre to historic memorials.

Or see the exciting new displays at Southampton City Art Gallery, which has just reopened its doors in March 2026 following a year of upgrades.

Book Your Stay In Southampton

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For a budget-friendly base right in the heart of the action, you can bag a room at the Ibis Budget Southampton from just £40 a night.

Margate

Trendy Cliftonville will be receiving a beachfront skate park as part of Margate’s major upgrades Credit: Alamy
Head for a swim in Walpole Bay, a giant tidal pool spanning four acres in size Credit: Getty

Margate is undergoing continued transformations set to further transform the seaside town into one of the UK’s trendiest coastal hubs.

Local neighbourhood Cliftonville was named the coolest street in the UK by Time Out last year, and the area’s only getting more stylish with the addition of a brand new attraction.

Abandoned gardens overlooking the sea will be transformed into a beachfront skatepark in Cliftonville, a trendy area known as “Shoreditch-on-sea”.

The skatepark is predicted to open in the late summer of 2026, and set to cost £1.1million to build.

As well as this, Margate’s Winter Gardens are set to reopen after an £8million upgrade. The historic seaside venue has seen bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones take the stage, first opening in 1910.

Now the charming venue will see the addition of a snazzy rooftop bar and restaurant, as well as a nursery and drama school. The Main Hall of the Winter Gardens is set to reopen to the public in late 2026, with other new additions opening in stages throughout 2027.

Plus, the upgrades aren’t slowing down anytime soon, with proposed plans to build a new £95,000 accessible boardwalk on Margate Sands.

To see the best of this trendy resort on your trip, stroll along the beachfront to soak up sea views, before stopping in at the free-to-enter Turner Contemporary gallery to see the latest exhibition.

Elsewhere, take a dip in what’s believed to be the UK’s largest tidal pool, Walpole Bay, or take the family along to the free Crab Museum in the Old Town for a quirky, hands-on experience of science and marine life.

Book Your Stay In Margate

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For a budget-friendly stay, Premier Inn Margate offers sea views and is close to Dreamland amusement park, with rooms from £78 per night.

Hull

Hull was named one of National Geographic’s best places to travel in the world in 2026 Credit: Getty
The Spurn Lightship opened up on Hull Marina in March 2026, for the first time since 2018 Credit: Alamy

Named one of National Geographic’s best places in the world to travel to in 2026, Hull has plenty to offer holidaymakers.

A massive £27.5m makeover has seen the area invest in its maritime history, with the money poured into the city’s historic museum and ships.

The Maritime Museum, which received an £11million makeover beginning in 2020, is finally set to reopen in summer 2026.

New additions to the museum include a 40-foot whale skeleton, miniature ship models and maritime artwork.

As well as this, the new and improved Spurn Lightship opened in early March of 2026, having been closed to the public since 2018.

The floating museum is free to visit, with slots reserved online. You can also book a place for a free maritime guided tour, running on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Hull also boasts plenty of totally free attractions, such as the Streetlife Museum, where you can hop aboard a vintage tram and stroll down a 1940s high street.

Alternatively, head to Hull‘s revamped Queen’s Gardens. Set to reopen in April 2026, the gardens’ three ponds have been refreshed, plus there are redesigned Peace Gardens and plenty of new maritime-themed activities.

Book Your Stay In Hull

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Bag a stay in this coastal hotspot at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull, where rooms start from £69 a night.

Littlehampton

Littlehampton received a £7.2million investment to build family attractions on the West Green Credit: Alamy
The West Green in Littlehampton now has a waterfront splash park with shade spots to rest in Credit: Experience Sussex

Littlehampton is quickly becoming a firm family favourite for 2026, thanks to the massive £7.2million transformation of the West Green seafront.

With the revamp reaching completion late last year, the seaside resort is ready to welcome visitors for the 2026 spring and summer season.

The West Green seafront now has a water play area, with jets, splash pads and shaded areas to make use of in the hotter months.

As well as this, families can make use of the barbecue zones, mini basketball court and beach volleyball court. Plus, there’s also a climbing wall and petanque setup for even more fun and games.

And when you get hungry, there’s your pick of food and drink kiosks, from the Soul Kitchen and Bar to delicious Jim’s Ice Cream.

To extend your free family day out in Littlehampton, stroll the promenade past the colourful and quirky longest bench in Britain, which winds along the coast.

Or for an indoor option, pop into the Littlehampton Museum, which offers free entry and a look at the town’s history, from the Anglo-Saxon era to WWII.

There’s so much to do in the surrounding area, too. Just a few miles west is the town of Bognor Regis, where you could get day passes to Butlin’s.

There’s also the Bognor Pier, Hotham Park Miniature Railway and Blake’s Cottage, the former home of the poet William Blake, which is now a museum.

There’s also the South Downs National Park, the Goodwood Estate and Racecourse, Petworth House and Amberley Museum.

Book Your Stay In Littlehampton

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You can stay just a mile from the new seafront action at the Travelodge Littlehampton Rustington from just £39.99 a night.

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I went on a tropical island cruise with rainforest hikes, white sand beaches… and Yorkshire tea on tap

SUNDAY may be a day of rest in Europe, but that’s not the case for Puerto Rico. 

The shops were shut, but the city of Ponce was very much awake.  

St Thomas, one of the US Virgin Islands, where you can snorkel in the crystal-clear water of Magens Bay Credit: Getty
In the city of Ponce men play a leisurely game of dominoes in the main square Credit: Jenny Green
Ponce is an Art Deco delight Credit: Getty

As I wandered the streets, locals cruised past in their vintage cars, music blasted from lively bars and groups of youngsters burst into spontaneous dance on the streets. 

In the main square, families strolled past colourful murals and beautiful yet crumbling Art Deco buildings, while old men put the world to rights over a leisurely game of dominoes in the main square. 

Ponce (pronounced Pon-say) was the last stop on my Tropical Isles cruise onboard the recently refurbished Marella Discovery. 

It’s a new port for Marella so, like ­Christopher Columbus — who discovered the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico back in 1493 — I was excited to be one of the first people to explore. 

BEST BAR NONE

Enjoy the full F1 Grand Prix plus cruise experience for under £2,000


TAKE THE MEDS

Spanish GP and cruise to Ibiza on 11-night adventure from just £2,149pp

Week-long sailings start and finish in La Romana, in the Dominican Republic, calling at the nearby nature reserve of Isla Catalina, the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan and the US Virgin Islands of St Thomas and St Croix. 

Now I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Caribbean a few times before, but I was still surprised by how green these islands were.  

The Marella Discovery Credit: Supplied
Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest Credit: Getty
Dominican Republic’s Isla Catalina Credit: Supplied

And while this itinerary gave me plenty of opportunity to sunbathe on white-sand beaches and sample local rum (I recommend Ron del Barrilito), I was still able to go hiking in the rainforest and kayak through beautiful coves. 

Staying active is something I would definitely recommend on a Marella cruise — not just because you’ll miss out on amazing experiences if you don’t, but because you’ll need to burn off all the extra calories you’re bound to consume on board. 

With nine restaurants and seven bars spread over 11 decks, you certainly won’t go hungry or thirsty — especially as Marella cruises are all-inclusive as standard.  

This means your flights, cabin, transfers to and from the ship, drinks, food and entertainment are all included in the price. 

Even your bags go straight from your home airport to your cabin door so you don’t have to worry about collecting them from a carousel or lugging them around. 

Compared to other cruise ships, Marella Discovery is quite small, accommodating up to 1,800 passengers.  

It’s really set up for British tourists, though, with Yorkshire Tea on tap and dishes such as steak and ale pie readily available in the excellent Islands buffet. 

Passengers can find their way out of an escape room on the ship Credit: Supplied
Jenny pictured at Magens Bay Credit: Jenny Green
Catch a West End style-show at the Broadway Show Lounge Credit: Unknown

Entertainment-wise, passengers can find their way out of an escape room, play a round of mini-golf or enjoy a musical afternoon tea. Plus there are West End-style shows, quizzes and gameshows galore. 

For better-quality booze and speciality ­coffees, you can upgrade to a Premium All Inclusive package, while speciality restaurants, including the Surf & Turf Steakhouse and Sushi Bar, come at an extra charge. 

But be sure to leave room for some traditional Caribbean delicacies when you leave the ship. At Café Manolin, in San Juan, I joined locals queuing to tuck into giant plates of mofongo, a much-loved Puerto Rican dish of fried green plantain stuffed with meat or veggies. 

Coffee is also big business here — and almost as popular as rapper Bad Bunny, who hails from the island.  

Many coffee plantations welcome visitors to sample their wares but I got my caffeine fix at Hacienda Jacana, in the mountainous region of Adjuntas, where owner Jonathan and his ex-cop father proudly showed off their farm while explaining details of the coffee-making process. 

I was buzzing after a few cups of their delicious Latitude 18° coffee — but it couldn’t possibly compare to the buzz I got in St Thomas after snorkelling with a group of green turtles in the crystal-clear water of Magens Bay. 

Granted, I had to keep reminding myself that I wouldn’t die if I tried to breathe ­normally underwater, but I forgot all about breathing when a metre-long turtle paddled right past my face. Just wow. 

As an animal lover, and a keen traveller missing my two dogs back home, I was also thrilled to stumble across the Ruff Night — Hair Of The Dog Bar in St Croix (pronounced Croy), just steps from where Marella Discovery docked in Frederiksted.

The lively bar, in the courtyard of the Victoria House Inn, is run by volunteers from the Ruff Start STX animal charity who love nothing more than mixing super-strong cocktails and bringing in puppies for punters to cuddle.  

And if that’s not reason enough to visit, all money raised from the bar goes directly to local dogs in need, so go armed with plenty of cash in your pocket! 

I’d certainly worked up a thirst after a morning kayaking in the nearby Salt River Bay, and I enjoyed getting back to nature there almost as much as I did at El Yunque National Forest — the jewel in the crown of Puerto Rico. 

The 28,000-acre site is the only tropical rainforest in the US and it has more than 100 miles of walking trails just waiting to be explored. With enormous trees providing canopies of greenery and exotic birds and frogs creating a cacophony of noise, it was just how I imagined a rainforest to be. 

While mosquitoes are rife here after dark, I managed to avoid being savaged by the pesky wee beasties during the daytime. 

One thing was for sure, though — I had definitely been bitten by the Caribbean cruise bug.

GO: TROPICAL ISLES CRUISE

SAILING THERE: A seven-night Tropical Isles round-trip on board Marella Discovery is from £1,573pp, departing from La Romana, Dominican Republic.

Price is based on two adults sharing a Deck 2/3 inside cabin on an all-inclusive basis and includes flights from Gatwick on November 24, 20kg of luggage per person, transfers, tips and service charges.

See tui.co.uk/cruise or call 0203 451 2688.

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I visited new theme park hotel that lets you stay in the grounds for the first time ever

I KNEW Efteling theme park had a fairytale garden, but I didn’t realise a stay there would give me such a royal welcome, too.

The lobby of the newly opened Efteling Grand Hotel at this Netherlands attraction feels like its straight out of the classic storybooks my nan used to read me when I was a child.

The lobby of the newly opened Efteling Grand Hotel at Efteling theme park feels like it’s straight out of the classic storybooks Credit: Supplied

A sweeping staircase circles an intricate, ­cascading chandelier made from tiny gold keys, candles flicker in the alcove and a 1920s bellhop — a mime-artist in full character — performs a slapstick routine pretending to dust off everyone’s suitcases.

It’s a welcome distraction for the kids, who were itching to bust through the back door and on to the rides. And even as a grown adult, I’m mesmerised.

Efteling first opened in 1952 and its mix of traditional fairground attractions, modern thrill rides and whimsical storytelling now attracts more than five million visitors every year.

Perched dominantly on the edge of the theme park, the Grand Hotel is a a castle-esque chateau that began welcoming guests last summer.

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It’s the first time in Efteling’s ­history that visitors have been able to stay the night within the park gates.

Unlike its other accommodation options — Efteling Wonder Hotel and the holiday villages Bosrijk and Loonsche Land — the Grand Hotel is slightly more premium for those who want some proper R&R — that’s rest and rollercoasters.

It doesn’t feel like a twee theme- park hotel, though.

The arty design was inspired by the park’s history and leans in to the visual style of film director Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel.

The 140 plush, modern, yet cosy rooms and suites look more like they belong in a stylish boutique hotel, although there are subtle nods to a princess theme.

Delicate vintage-style decor has been paired with ice-blue walls and brushed gold fittings. Elsewhere, there’s a great swimming pool, spa facilities and two fantastic restaurants.

The quirky and family-friendly Symbolica makes for a fun ride Credit: efteling.com

Guests are also given unlimited, free access to the theme park throughout their stay, including on arrival and departure days and free private parking.

For those who don’t fancy driving, it’s incredibly easy to travel by train.
Eurostar operates direct services from London to Amsterdam, then it’s an easy change on to a local train that will have you at Efteling in less than an hour.

After a very early start, the fluffy linens in my room could have easily tempted me to have a duvet day, but the views of the park from my window were too much to resist.

Within minutes, I was out of the door and approaching my first ride of the day — the quirky and family- friendly Symbolica.

Revered as one of the best attractions at the park, it’s an absolute must-do.

The immersive experience sees visitors sit in floating cars on a modern, magnetic track, journeying through a Gothic palace that features some curious inhabitants.

It’s packed with optical illusions and special effects, perfectly pairing Efteling’s reputation for storytelling with enough excitement to appease the TikTok generation.

There’s plenty for adrenaline junkies too, and for children of all ages.

If you’re travelling with kids, keep your eyes peeled for Hooghmoed.

The Sun’s Helen at The Grand Hotel at Efteling Credit: Supplied

Set to open on May 1, it features three drop towers and is aimed at younger guests who don’t yet want to take on the white-knuckle rides.

And if you’re not a fan of rides full stop, there’s plenty more to enjoy at Efteling.

The theme park is set around stunning gardens and enchanting woodland, which is used to full effect to play out the fairytale theme.

Granted, parents don’t tend to leave a theme park feeling well rested, but somehow the Efteling Grand Hotel changes that.

The atmosphere feels serene, despite being literally next-door to six roaring rollercoasters and a donkey that poops gold coins (one of the park’s quirkier attractions).

At the end of each tiring day, I was made to feel like a sleeping beauty snuggled in that ridiculously comfy bed.

Although having endured upside-down loops, sudden drops and water rides, I’m not convinced I looked like one.

Elsewhere there are two fantastic restaurants Credit: Supplied
Inside the stylish hotel, where premium deluxe rooms cost from £127pp Credit: Supplied

GO: Efteling

GETTING THERE: The Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Amsterdam Centraal is from £35pp. See eurostar.com.

Tickets for local trains to Efteling, from around £12, can be bought at the station.

STAYING THERE: Premium deluxe rooms at the Efteling Grand Hotel cost from £127pp, based on a family of four (two adults and two kids, aged 4-12, sharing) including parking and theme park entry. See efteling.com/en/grand-hotel.

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EasyJet to launch new flights to two affordable holiday destinations and they’re 36C this week

BRITS will soon be able to bag a bargain as easyJet is launching new flights to a sunny African destination for less than £37.

The budget airline will launch new flights to Morocco from the UK this winter.

EasyJet will be launching two new routes to Morocco Credit: AFP
One route will be from Newcastle to Marrakech and the other will be from Birmingham to Agadir Credit: Getty

The routes will include one from Newcastle to Marrakech starting November 3 and operating two times a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The flights for this route are already on sale and cost from £36.99.

And then there will also be a new route between Birmingham and Agadir, with flights coming on sale this spring.

In the meantime though, the two destinations will reach temperatures of up to 36C this week.

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Flights to Marrakech cost as little as £19 per way for the remainder of April, and for Agadir, flights cost as little as £15 per way for the remainder of April.

What to do there

Marrakech is known as the ‘Red City’ thanks to its iron-rich coloured buildings and is home to bustling souks and palaces.

For example, you could head to Bahia Palace, which is a 19th-century building with 160 rooms and beautiful mosaics.

Make sure to see the courtyard which spans across 1,500-square-metres and is paved with Italian Carrara marble.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is then the main square in the city and during the day boasts a market.

From the square, you can also venture to Souk Cherratine known for leather goods and Souk Haddadine, home to a number of blacksmiths.

If you fancy a bit of an adventure, head to Agafay Desert which is about 45 minutes away.

It is a top spot for seeing an orange-glowing sunset and going on quad-biking adventures.

When visiting the city, make sure to stay in a riad, which is a traditional courtyard house that has been converted into a boutique hotel in Morocco.

Lisa Minot, The Sun’s Head of Travel, has visited the city and said: “Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”

And this week weather in both destinations will reach up to 36C Credit: Getty

Marrakech will reach temperatures of up to 35C next week.

On the other hand, if you fancy visiting Agadir, you can explore a six-mile beach.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “At Taghazout Beach, hordes of eager surfers took to the sea before I’d even finished my morning coffee.

“As a novice surfer, I opted to watch those riding the waves, while my companion made friends with the stray dogs and hawkers selling Moroccan breads.”

After a stroll along the beach, make sure to visit Souk El Had, which is one of North Africa’s largest markets with over 6,000 stalls.

And over at the Medina, you will find a number of artisan workshops selling traditional Moroccan items including colourful carpets and pottery.

Last month the destination was named the most affordable break for this summer.

In Marrakech, you can explore souks selling leather and other traditional Moroccan items Credit: Alamy

Our favourite Morocco hotels

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Riu Palace Tikida Taghazout

This hotel in laid-back surf capital Taghazout has seven giant pools to pick from, as well as six bars and four restaurants. The on-site spa offers massage treatments, facials and even a hair salon, should you fancy a pampering. Take a stroll outdoors to find colourful souks and a five and a half mile-long beach.

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El Pueblo Tamlelt, Agadir

El Pueblo Tamelt in Agadir sees year-round sunshine and is just steps away from the beach. The huge resort has 363 rooms, each with a balcony or terrace overlooking the sea or gardens. Food here includes three daily meals in the main buffet restaurant, as well as snacks like pizza, hot dogs and burgers at the snack bar.

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Diwane Marrakech

Smack-bang in the centre of Marrakech, this hotel is a private paradise with its own giant pool and sun deck hidden within. Kids will love dancing and singing along to the live entertainment, whilst parents can unwind in the sauna and spa. Here, you’re only 10 minutes’ drive from both Jemaa El-Fnaa square and the medina.

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Riad Meski
Enjoy a stay in a traditional riad in Fes, know as Morocco’s capital of culture. Soak up the sun from the rooftop terrace, enjoy the artistic interiors, and wander through the famous blue gates into the oldest medina in the world, just a 15-minute walk away.

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According to loveholidays, a week in Agadir would cost as little as £33 per person per night between June and August.

Agadir will reach temperatures of up to 36C next week.

Easyjet will also offer package holidays to both destinations from both UK airports too.

News of the new routes comes as the airline officially launched a new permanent three-aircraft base in Marrakech this week.

It marks the airline’s first-ever base in Africa and has created 100 new jobs.

The city is also home to a grand 19th-century palace Credit: Getty

Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet, commented: “We couldn’t be happier to launch our base in Morocco for our 20th year of operations in the country and to mark the milestone of 20 million passengers flown over that time.

“This is a milestone for our development in the region, providing more travel opportunities than ever before for our airline and holidays customers, while contributing to the local economy through tourism and the jobs we are creating.”

In other destination news, these are the most family-friendly destinations for 2026 – including affordable hotels with rooftop pools and kids’ clubs.

Plus, here are the seven holiday destinations Brits are booking instead of other spots due to ongoing Iran conflict.

As for Agadir you can explore the medina and wander along the six-mile beach Credit: Love holidays

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Will my flight be cancelled? What to expect this summer as jet fuel shortage threatens cancellations

MANY families looking to go on holiday this summer are worried that their plans may be spoiled by the ongoing fuel crisis caused by the war in Iran.

Those concerns were powered by the Head of the International Energy Agency Fatih Birol warning that Europe has just six weeks of jet fuel left.

The Head of the International Energy Agency Fatih Birol has warned that Europe has just six weeks of jet fuel remaining Credit: Alamy
Flights to Middle East locations like Dubai have been put on hold or permanently cancelled Credit: Alamy

Here’s everything you need to know.

Will my flight be cancelled due to the fuel shortage?

In response to US and Israeli attacks, Iran has closed off the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, a key route for jet fuel out of the Gulf.

This has caused a massive increase in oil prices and resulted in fears of jet fuel shortages.

For example, the price of jet fuel has rapidly surged from £67 ($90) per barrel to a whopping £150 ($200).

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With Birol stating there is enough for just six weeks, airports will possibly be dealing with critical fuel shortages by as early as next month.

That would cause travel chaos for Brits heading abroad during the school May half-term holidays and potentially continue into the summer.

An almost certain consequence will be the effect on journeys to long-haul destinations, as airlines may not have enough fuel for the return journey.

The price of jet fuel has rapidly surged from $90 (£67) per barrel to a whopping $200 (£150) Credit: Getty

Which airlines have cancelled flights already?

British Airways is amongst the airlines that have begun cancelling flights as they have suspended services to the Middle East.

Journeys to the likes of Dubai and Doha have been put on pause for now and are set to resume in July.

However, the airline has announced it will permanently close its service from London Heathrow to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia from April 24, 2026.

Virgin Atlantic announced earlier this month that it has permanently scraped its London flight to Riyadh.

Other airways that have cancelled flights include:

Lufthansa‘s airline CityLine is set to close due to both the Iran crisis and ongoing strike action Credit: EPA

How long will the fuel shortage last?

Sally Gethin, an aviation specialist, spoke on the matter and said the consequences could get severe if the Strait remains closed. 

She told the Daily Mail: “The best case scenario would be fares going up and some routes being cancelled. 

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

“You could be looking at tens of thousands, potentially hundreds of thousands, of flights being cancelled globally.”

How will this affect my upcoming holiday?

Holidays should not be too seriously impacted as our main tour operators and airlines have hedged their fuel essentially meaning they have purchased their fuel far in advance at a fixed rate.

What could happen, however, is if the jet fuel crisis continues into June, tour operators could potentially start to add a surcharge to the price of holidays.

A limited number of flights may be cancelled but airlines and tour operators will attempt to minimise disruptions by focusing on routes where they have multiple daily flights.

Holidays would only be cancelled if the fco advises against travel to the destination.

This is highly unlikely to happen with any Med destination because there are no safety concerns right now in popular holiday resorts.

However if fuel supplies fall into short supply in Europe this could possibly impact flights and therefore your holiday.

Am I entitled to a refund?

If some or all parts of your getaway are cancelled by the provider, your rights to a refund depend entirely on whether you booked your trip as a package holiday (purchasing accommodation and flights, or car hire, together) or individually.

Your money tends to be much better protected with a package getaway and in this circumstance you will be offered either an alternative holiday or a refund.

So, is now a bad time to book?

There are some great deals to be had right now, just approach with caution.

It is vital that you take out travel insurance as if your flight is cancelled you may well have protection against the cost of other elements of your holiday such as accommodation or transfers.

If you’re looking at booking now, Europe is a very safe option.

Although the likes of Turkey and Cyprus in the eastern med have seen bookings drop, there is currently no reason for you not to visit them.

They’re on the safe list and currently have some great deals.

Always book travel insurance the minute you book your holiday and check the policy carefully.

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Five new waterparks set to open across the UK from £500million indoor resorts to theme park lazy rivers

FOR those waterpark fans amongst you, there are some exciting plans in the works with five more potentially coming to the UK.

From massive indoor resorts with beaches, to surfing lagoons, here’s everything you need to know.

Therme Manchester could become the largest water-based wellbeing destination in Europe Credit: supplied
The Chessington World of Adventures will be outside the Safari Hotel Credit: Chessington World of Adventures

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

Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington is known for its rides, zoo and aquarium, but is hoping to add waterpark fun to its offerings.

Back in 2024, the theme park submitted plans to build an African-themed waterpark with six water slides, two lazy rivers and rapids.

If given the go-ahead, it will have a kids wave pool, splash pad, spa pool, a safari beach, cafe and outdoor restaurants.

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The plans are for it to be built opposite the Safari Hotel.

First-look images reveal a huge indoor waterpark with outdoor waterfalls and greenery surrounding the pool areas.

Little else is known about it right now, with the last update back in 2024.

Therme Manchester

When Therme Manchester opens, it will be the “largest water-based wellbeing destination in Europe“.

It’s set to cost £500million, and could welcome three million people a year to its indoor resort.

It will be every waterpark’s fan dream with spa and wellness facilities that will be split into three distinct zones – Play, Relax and Restore.

The Play zone will focus on ‘next-generation’ water slides, along with a wave pool, warm water pool, steam rooms, saunas and lounging and family dining experiences.

This zone will have an outdoor beach too.

The Relax zone will be adults-only and there will be a “focus on premium wellbeing experiences”, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, waterfall showers, mineral baths, steam rooms, saunas and dining.

The last area is the Restore Zone and is also adults-only.

Here will be “industry leading health, nutrition and wellbeing therapies”, “sauna rituals”, experience showers, wellbeing consultations and dining.

Therme is due to open next to the Trafford Centre in late 2028.

Check out our favourite holidays to Greece – two have waterparks…

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Blue Bay Beach Resort, Rhodes

The four-star Blue Bay Beach Resort sits a stone’s throw away from this beach, and has its own pools, splash park and water slides. Here you’re only a 15-minute drive away from Rhodes Old Town, where UNESCO-listed medieval streets wind through castle-like architecture. Make sure to check out the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.

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Gouves Bay Hotel, Crete

Gouves Bay Hotel keeps things simple on a sunny Greek island location right by the sea. This hotel has a relaxed, family-friendly feel with two pools, a kids’ club and easy all-inclusive dining. And if you fancy a change of atmosphere, Gouves’ bars and tavernas are just a short walk away for your choice of evening drinks with a view.

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Aegean View Aqua Resort, Kos

The picturesque hotel is perched up high and surrounded by lush greenery in the historic harbour town of Kos. Here you’ll find a huge swimming pool and a waterpark, as well as activities like darts, tennis, football and more. There’s evening entertainment six days a week, and an on-site spa with a hot tub and sauna to unwind.

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TUI Blue Lagoon Queen, Halkidiki

This mega resort with six pools and its own waterpark is rated five stars by TUI. In the main restaurant, you’ll see show cooking displays as you take your pick from an extensive international buffet. Plus, Kalives beach is on the doorstep of this hotel, with its strikingly blue water and soft golden sands.

BOOK HERE

Great Wolf Lodge is hoping to open its first resort in the UK Credit: GreatWolfuk.co.uk

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge might not mean much to Brits, but it has 23 resorts across North America and Canada, and wants to to open its very first UK site.

The company has submitted plans to built on the current site of Basingstoke Golf Centre on Worting Road in Hampshire.

The plans are for it to be transformed into a 50,000m² complex.

It will consist of three interconnected buildings – one will be a hotel, another an adventure park and the last, an indoor waterpark.

It will be lots of family-friendly pools, slides, rides and splash pads.

Planned activities inside the adventure park will be a children’s haven with a rope course, mini bowling, mini golf and a games arcade.

Seahive is a new proposed water attraction in Kent Credit: Fabrick Agency / SWNS

Seahive

While not a waterpark per se, Seahive is set to be a huge new water attraction near Deal in Kent.

If it gets the go-ahead, Seahive would be the world’s first surfing wellness resort with a dedicated surf lagoon for every skill level with waves ranging in size from 50cm to 2m.

The site will also have a relaxing wellness area, spa and gym.

There’s room for on-land activities too like a skate park for skateboards, bikes and scooters.

Also proposed for the site are 15 holiday lodges and a clubhouse with restaurants.

The Cove Resort is set to be a £75million new attraction in Southport Credit: Sefton Council

The Cove Resort

Similar to Seahive, in Southport there will soon be Cove Resort which is a £75million new attraction with incredible views across the Irish Sea.

Visitors will be able to experience leisure activities like an outdoor lagoon with opportunities for surfing.

Other proposed facilities include a thermal spa – the resort will focus primarily on health and wellbeing.

The plans include the building of large 4-star hotel on site too.

For more on waterparks, here are all the ones in the UK mapped – with lazy rivers and wave pools.

And here’s where you will find the waterpark capital of the UK.

Therme Manchester is a £500million water attraction set to open in 2028 Credit: supplied



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Is this the weirdest business class seat ever? New designs with wraparound TVs that look more like a private cinema

FORGET battling for the armrest or squinting your eyes at the tiny screen – the future of flying has been revealed.

We all love to try and make a flight as comfortable as possible, whether that be upgrading to premium economy or taking a cosy jumper onboard, but a new business class plane seat has been revealed and it is more like a private cinema.

A new plane suite has been revealed and it looks like a cinema Credit: Safran
The Origin plane suite features a wraparound screen that can be used for in-flight entertainment Credit: Safran

In a collaboration between plane seating provider Safran and in-flight entertainment system provider RAVE Aerospace, a new plane suite with U-shaped TV screen and seat headrest speakers has been revealed.

Known as Origin, the suite’s will bring greater comfort to passengers with a giant screen that travels across the front and sides of the pod, essentially looking like a wraparound cinema screen.

The screen can be used for in-flight entertainment such as films, but can also be used as a wallpaper.

As such, the screen can show all sorts from the inside of a cafe to a cosy library, reports Flight Global.

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In addition to the screen, Origin has a number of other cool technologies.

For example, the suite has a temperature management system which allows passengers to create their own microclimate.

The seat also has Euphony, which is Safran’s headset-free audio system, meaning that there are speakers built in the headrest so passengers don’t have to plug in headphones.

The entire suite also has lighting that changes to match the screen’s visuals.

And the seat has cushions that have been made to improve comfort on long-haul flights.

The new concept was revealed at the annual Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg and while the concept isn’t in any planes yet, the show often allows airlines to essentially ‘shop’ for future features of their service offering.

Ben Asmar, Vice President, Products and Strategy at RAVE Aerospace said: “Future display technologies are about more than just consuming content.

“They enable curated experiences, whether that’s deep immersion or the ability to escape into environments beyond the physical.”

Asmar added that the suite could be the future of premium travel and that it could be flying within the next five to 10 years.

The seating also boasts comfortable cushioning and speakers in the headrest Credit: Safran

Our favourite Caribbean holidays

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Hotel Capriccio Mare, Dominican Republic

Facing the calm, crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea, Hotel Capriccio Mare looks like a bright white island villa. The hotel’s position on Bavaro’s coastline is perfect for exploring the popular resort town of Punta Cana. Whether it’s strolling the sands to grab a fresh coconut with a straw, or venturing out on a catamaran trip to Saona Island, this dreamy Caribbean resort is not one to miss.

BOOK HERE

Coconut Court Beach Hotel, Barbados

This friendly, family-run hotel is a slice of Caribbean paradise. This hotel sits smak-bang on a sugar-white beach with warm turquoise waters. Enjoy both the beaches of Barbados and its plethora of rum bars – there are about 1,500 of them on the island.

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Sugar Bay Club, St Kitts

Set on the quiet side of St Kitts’ Frigate Bay, the boutique Sugar Bay Club offers superb value and wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Staff are on hand to assist with island tours, from catamaran cruises to scenic railway excursions.

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Antigua Yacht Club Marina Resort, Antigua

Amazing Antigua has 365 beaches – one for every day of the year – as well as a fascinating history. This resort in Falmouth Harbour is perfect for exploring the beautiful local area, including Pigeon Point, Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour.

BOOK HERE

Jean-Christophe Gaudeau, VP Marketing at Safran Seats said: “Our ambition is to redefine the future of premium travel.

“With Origin, we bring together seating innovation and future display technologies to create an immersive, adaptive environment that puts comfort, well‑being and passenger control at the forefront.”

Safran already has other seat designs on a number of airlines including Emirates, Japan Airlines, Air France, United Airlines and Air New Zealand.

Its designs usually include privacy doors, wireless charging and premium comfort.

In other flight news, there’s a new unusual double decker plane seat that could make economy travel much better.

Plus, a budget airline has axed all London flights to long-haul holiday destination despite only launching three years ago.

While the suite is not currently on any plane, it could be within the next five to 10 years Credit: Safran

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Brand new £5m train station in the UK has NO passengers

A STANDOFF between unions and operators means a town’s brand new train station is still closed – two years after being built.

A transformative railway line aiming to link Oxford and Cambridge is continuing to see setbacks, leading to delayed openings of stations.

The station has been closed since 2024 and currently only has empty trains running through it Credit: Emma Trimble / SWNS

The £7 billion project by East-West Rail (EWR) aims to improve transport links for millions of residents in the region and boost economic growth.

Finished in 2024, the line between Bicester Village and Bletchley, a 36-mile journey, was due to open last year.

Currently, passengers trains are running on the tracks – except they have no passengers on board.

A series of disputes between trade unions and the operator, Chiltern Railways, have meant that the stations remain closed and only empty trains are travelling along the tracks.

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The ghost-trains currently running through the station are a combination of freight trains and those used for driver training.

Currently, the only EWR trains on the new line in use are those between Oxford and Bicester Village.

The £5 million station has been closed since 2024 Credit: Emma Trimble / SWNS

Winslow is one of the towns located on the Bicester Village to Bletchley line that has been affected by the closures.

The £5 million station was completed back in 2024, but has remained closed amid the rows.

It’s opening has also been delayed by concerns raised over the platform length at the station which are going to have to be extended to accommodate the number of travelers.

Both setbacks have frustrated local residents.

A local told the The Telegraph, that the exasperating delays have caused “difficult and annoying delays” for her daughter who has to travel to Oxford to work.

They said that the delays indicate that Britain “doesn’t work like it used to”, and believe a situation like this would “never” have occurred when they were a youngster.

The cause of the row boils down to who operates the doors.

Chiltern Railways, the operator, beleive that the train line should run as a driver-only operation (DOO) meaning that only the train driver is in charge of opening and closing the doors and no guards are required.

They are in a standoff with the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, who represent train guards.

The back-and-forth between the two parties means that plans to continue with the lines opening have be brought to a standstill.

An action group has been set up on Facebook by upset locals to discuss ongoing updates.

It has also become a place for residents to vent their frustration with the continued delays, with one local calling the lack of passenger trains running “an absolute farce”.

A local action group has been set up to track the ongoing delays Credit: Emma Trimble / SWNS

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Budget airline axes all London flights to long-haul holiday destination- despite only launching three years ago

BRITS wishing to travel to a major American city have been dealt a blow as a budget airline announced it is grounding all flights to the destination.

Norse Atlantic is axing its flights from London Gatwick to Los Angeles.

Norse Atlantic has cancelled its flights between London Gatwick and Los Angeles Credit: Alamy

The decision comes as the Iran War continues to impact fuel prices.

Norse only introduced the route between the UK and American city back in June 2023 and at that time operated seven flights per week from London Gatwick to Los Angeles.

The airline had planned to operate six flights per week for the peak summer months.

However, the flight route – due to start next month – will be cancelled for the entire season until October.

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And it isn’t just Brits that will impacted as the airline is also stopping its routes to Los Angeles from Rome in Italy and Paris Charles de Gaulle in France.

The announcement means that Norse will only have four long-haul routes this summer, including London Gatwick to New York and London Gatwick to Orlando.

According to Travel Gossip, a spokesperson said: “Due to the continued increase in fuel constraint risks, fuel prices, and the resulting impact on our operating costs, we have had to make the difficult decision to suspend our LAX operations this summer, May to October.

“All affected customers will be proactively notified by Norse Atlantic Airways today where contact details are available.

“We sincerely apologise, but as a consequence of this fuel crisis, it is our responsibility to ensure we make this decision to maintain a sustainable airline for our passengers and colleagues.”

The news follows a number of other airlines making decisions to axe flights and increase fare prices as a result of the ongoing fuel crisis caused by the Iran war.

Yesterday, KLM announced that they were axing 160 flights across Europe over the next month due to the fuel crisis.

These include services to and from London.

The cancellations will impact flights travelling to and from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands.

However, the airline has said that they currently do not have a shortage of jet fuel.

A KLM spokesperson said: “Passengers affected by these changes will be rebooked onto the next available flight.

The news follows a number of airlines axing flights due to the ongoing fuel crisis caused by the Iran War Credit: Alamy

“As these are destinations KLM serves multiple times a day, such as London and Düsseldorf, travellers can usually be accommodated quickly.

“KLM expects a busy May holiday period and is making sure passengers can travel to their holiday destinations as planned.”

This week, Lufthansa also announced that its subsidiary airline CityLine is to cease operations due to both the Iran war and ongoing strike action.

The airline – which operates some flights to and from the UK including Frankfurt and Munich – will be grounding 27 aircraft from April 18.

Lufthansa’s main airline will be grounding four Airbus jets and two Boeing jets for good, by the end of the summer as well.

These planes are usually used for longer haul destinations.

The airline will reduce short and medium-haul flights by five aircraft from this winter too.

British Airways announced that it will be permanently cutting its route between London Heathrow and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia from April 24.

And earlier this month, UK airline Skybus scrapped all future flights between London Gatwick and Newquay.

In other flight news, a closed UK airport has revealed the latest details about being able to reopen as part of huge £193million project.

Plus, a UK travel company has gone bust with all holidays cancelled – but Brits won’t get any refunds.

Airlines including KLM have also axed flights Credit: Alamy

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UK travel company goes bust with all holidays cancelled

A TRAVEL company in the UK has gone into administration after nearly 20 years.

Regen Central Ltd, a travel company that specialises in package holidays to the likes of Europe, South East Asia and the Middle East has entered liquidation with all holidays cancelled.

Two plastic travel suitcases in an airport hall.
A UK-based travel company has cancelled all bookings Credit: Alamy

The specific number of Brits impacted by the announcement is currently unclear.

However, some Brits might not get refunds if they had a holiday booked.

Records show that the company’s ATOL protection was withdrawn on January 13.

ATOL is the UK government-backed financial protection scheme that comes into place when travellers book a package trip that includes a flight.

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The licensing is required for all tour companies in the UK and guarantees that customers get a refund if the company collapses.

The UK-based travel agency launched back in 2009 and is Hertfordshire based and was known for selling holidays to the likes of Italy, Bali, Thailand and Dubai.

A spokesman for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said: “We understand the company had no outstanding ATOL-protected bookings.

“Bookings sold as accommodation only, non- flight packages, and flight only bookings for which tickets were issued are not protected by the ATOL scheme.

“As there are no outstanding ATOL-protected bookings, no refunds will be issued.”

The CAA also confirmed that any travellers seeking a refund for ATOL-protected bookings must do this through its claims process.

However, many bookings such as accommodation-only, non-flight packages and ticketed flight only deals, might not be covered by the ATOL protection scheme.

In simpler terms, this could mean for holidaymakers that have booked with Regen Central Ltd, they might not get a refund.

The spokesperson for the CAA added: “If you believe you are owed a refund for an ATOL-protected booking, under Regen Central Ltd’s ATOL, please contact us via email at claims@caa.co.uk.”

The company was officially ordered to wind-up – a court ruling that forces a company into compulsory liquidation – in May last year, with the process commencing in August.

In other travel news, a major airline has cut flights to and from UK as fuel crisis bites ahead of busy summer period.

Plus, a closed UK airport reveals more details about being able to reopen as part of a huge £193million project.

Young Asian woman in a trench coat pulling a suitcase and looking at her smartphone in an airport terminal.
But Brits might not get a refund Credit: Getty

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Major airline cuts flights to and from UK as fuel crisis bites ahead of busy summer period

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RISING fuel costs linked to the war in Iran have forced a major airline to slash more than 100 flights – including services to and from London.

Dutch company KLM is axing 160 flights across Europe over the next month as soaring fuel prices pile pressure on the industry ahead of the busy summer period.

KLM is set to cancel more than 100 flights due to the fuel crisis sparked by the war in Iran Credit: Alamy
Flight cancellations are coming if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed Credit: Reuters

The cuts will hit routes in and out of Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, with departures and arrivals split evenly .

Despite the disruption, the airline insists there is no shortage of jet fuel, saying the move is purely down to spiralling costs.

A KLM spokesperson said: “Passengers affected by these changes will be rebooked onto the next available flight.

“As these are destinations KLM serves multiple times a day, such as London and Düsseldorf, travellers can usually be accommodated quickly.

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“KLM expects a busy May holiday period and is making sure passengers can travel to their holiday destinations as planned.”

KLM’s flight cancellations comes after the head of the International Energy Agency Fatih Birol said mass flight cancellations will begin “soon” if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

“In the past there was a group called ‘Dire Straits.’ It’s a dire strait now, and it is going to have major implications for the global economy”, Birol told AP.

Adding: “And the longer it goes, the worse it will be for the economic growth and inflation around the world.”

Birol’s deadline means airports could face critical fuel shortages by May, causing travel chaos for Brits heading abroad during the school May half-term holidays.

Oil prices have soared since the start of March after Iran closed off the Strait in response to US-Israeli forces bombing.

The Persian Gulf chokehold sees around 40 per cent of the world’s jet fuel supply pass through.

It comes after ACI Europe, which represents European airports, said the key trade route must open within three weeks or fuel reserves will run drastically low on Friday.

A number of airports in Italy have already warned that they were running out of fuel.

According to local reports earlier this week, Brindisi-Casale Airport confirmed that Jet A1 fuel was not available for a short period of time.

And British Airways has announced it will permanently axe its service from London Heathrow to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia from April 24.

The airline had been operating a four flights a week service since November 2024.

But a shift in demand, due to the conflict in the Middle East, has led to the airline terminating the service.

KLM stressed the cancellations make up just one per cent of its European schedule.

But the move will still spark concern for Brits planning trips abroad as airlines battle rising operating costs.

It comes as carriers across Europe scramble to balance the books amid the fuel crisis.

Earlier this month, UK airline Skybus pulled the plug on all future flights between London Gatwick and Newquay.

The route, which launched in November 2025, had been backed by Cornwall Council and the Department for Transport under a public service scheme due to run until the end of May.

However, a slump in passenger numbers combined with higher fuel costs forced the airline to ground the service early, with its final flights taking off on April 2.

The latest cuts raise fresh fears of further disruption for holidaymakers as the peak summer season approaches.

Meanwhile other vital UK services could also face shortages if a deal to end the Middle East war is not struck soon.

Medicines UK, which represents companies making 85 per cent of NHS prescriptions, said NHS patients could face prescription shortages within weeks.

This could place “significant pressure for the NHS as early as June”, the organisation warned.

And Brits could even face shortages of supermarket staples such as beer and meat as officials fear the blockade of the Strait could cut vital carbon dioxide supplies.

CO2 is used in food packaging to improve the shelf life of salad, packaged meats and baked goods – and also slaughtering nearly all pigs and most chickens.

Tim Lang, professor of food policy at the University of London, who has been a member of several government bodies including the UK Council of Food Policy Advisors, told The Sun that the UK has “next to no food storage”.

The cuts will hit routes in and out of Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport Credit: Alamy
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is holding up major supply chains Credit: AFP

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European city to offer free attraction tickets and restaurant meals

A POPULAR European city destination is adopting a green voucher scheme that will see tourists rewarded for litter picking this summer.

The city is hoping to attract tourists who don’t mind getting their hands a bit dirty on their holiday.

The Berliner Dom and Spree River in Berlin, Germany, with people enjoying an outdoor cafe and strolling along the riverbank.
The scheme has proven successful in other European cities Credit: Getty

Germany‘s capital, Berlin, is set to introduce the ‘BerlinPay’ scheme that will see tourists rewarded for engaging in sustainable behaviour, like supporting social projects and collecting rubbish.

Those getting involved are set to receive benefits at museums, restaurants, and Berlin experiences when the scheme gets underway this summer.

This year, the scheme is going to be centred around water tourism and, partnered with the Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises, the model hopes to make responsible engagement around the waters visible and appreciated.

The tourism agency, Visit Berlin, has described the scheme as “an initiative that raises awareness and encourages responsible behaviour on and around Berlin’s waterways among visitors and Berliners”.

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The agency has continued: “Those who behave responsibly on and around the water, for example by collecting trash, beautifying the neighbourhood, or supporting social projects – receive recognition from participating partners: small benefits or special Berlin experiences.”

The scheme is hoping to create a virtuous circle, where people get engaged, appreciate the city, and in turn are rewarded with a positive experience that will then drive engagement up further.

Berlin is currently looking for companies and initiatives to get involved with the reward scheme this summer and is keen on partners related to “Berlin’s water world”.

The tourism agency emphasized companies involved in water sports, leisure and tourism, gastronomy, hotel industry, culture and education, mobility, and environmental and urban initiatives should apply.

This new project appears to be following in the footsteps of Denmark, which launched ‘CopenPay’ for the country’s capital back in 2024.

So far, the scheme has proved to be effective and has had positive effects in the city, as tourists are given rewards such as boat trips and free bike rentals for their sustainable behaviour.

The head of communications and behavioural research at Wonderful Copenhagen, Rikke Holm Petersen, has reiterated the benefits to both the tourists and the city.

“When people are on holiday, they are more open to new ideas, and with CopenPay we have shown that tourists are not only happy to take part but are also inspired to…take new habits home with them,” Peterson said.

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Popular European city brings back ‘tourist tax’ this week

A POPULAR European city is set to bring back its ‘tourist tax’ for visitors this summer.

The city became the first metropolitan area globally to charge day-trippers an admission fee, which was introduced on April 25, 2024.

Panoramic view of the Grand Canal in Venice at sunset with a gondolier in the foreground.
A popular European city is set to bring back its “tourist tax” for some visitors this summer Credit: Getty

Day-trippers who book last-minute trips to Venice this summer will feel the biggest sting, with reservations that are made less than four days in advance costing €10 per person.

Holidaymakers who are a bit more organised, and book their trips more than four days ahead of their planned visit, will only have to pay €5.

Entering the city before 8.30am or after 4pm exempts you from paying, as does being a current resident or a Venetian-born visitor, a student, worker, or someone in the city on an overnight stay.

When you’ve secured your QR code via the booking platform, it will be checked at one of seven entry points across Venice, which includes Santa Lucia railway station.

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However, if you do not pay the fee and are not registered for exemption, or if you fail to produce the QR code, you could be fined anywhere between €50-300.

That’s equivalent to up to £260.

The number of pay-to-enter days is increasing from 54 to 60 this year.

However, last year’s stats show visitor numbers dropped only slightly over the summer, from an average of 16,676 in 2024 to 13,046 in 2025.

The new tax is to help incentivise tourists to visit the small Italian city on weekdays, rather than during the weekend.

But it faces opposition as critics argue that it would not teach visitors ‘respect’.

Giovanni Martini, the city council member, said: “Wanting to raise this to 10 euros is absolutely useless. It makes Venice a museum.”

There are now more tourist beds in Venice than official residents, whose numbers stand at an all-time low of 50,000.

The dates the fee will be in place this year

  • April: 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
  • May: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31
  • June: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
  • July: 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Crowds of tourists on the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Veneto, Italy
There are now more tourist beds in Venice than official residents, whose numbers stand at an all-time low of 50,000

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European airline to close for GOOD due to Iran war and ongoing strikes

A EUROPEAN airline is axing all flights with immediate effect.

Lufthansa‘s subsidiary airline CityLine is to cease operations due to both the Iran war and ongoing strike action.

European airline Lufthansa has announced that it is cutting capacity across its network due to rising fuel costs and strikes Credit: Getty

The airline – which operates some flights to and from the UK – will be grounding 27 aircraft from April 18.

Flight routes typically connect London to both Frankfurt and Munich.

It isn’t clear how this will affect passengers just yet, as to whether they will offer alternative routes or refunds.

They said in a statement, according to local media: “As a first, immediately effective step, the 27 operational aircraft of Lufthansa CityLine will be permanently removed from the flight programme starting the day after tomorrow, in order to reduce further losses at the loss-making airline.”

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CityLine was due to cease operations by 2028, but has since decided to close this month instead.

Sun Travel has contacted Lufthansa for comment.

Lufthansa’s main airline has also announced that it will be grounding four Airbus jets and two Boeing jets for good, by the end of the summer, which are mainly used for longer flights.

Lufthansa will reduce short and medium-haul flights by five aircraft from this winter as well, while long-haul capacity will be reduced by six.

Till Streichert, chief financial officer of Lufthansa Group, also said: “The goal is to focus our short- and medium-haul platforms more clearly and make them more competitive.”

The announcement follows hundreds of flight cancellations this week following pilot strike action.

Union Vereinigung Cockpit called the strike action over pension disputes and yesterday announced that the strike action would be extended by two days.

Pilots first walked out on Monday leading to hundreds of flights being cancelled, including many from the UK.

Cabin crew also walked out yesterday and today.

Around 34 flights were cancelled to and from the UK yesterday and with an average flight usually carrying around 150 passengers each, more than 5,000 Brits could have been impacted.

When further strike action was announced, VC president Andreas Pinheiro said: “The situation remains unchanged; there is absolutely no movement on the employers’ side.

“For us, this is not about political power struggles or egos, but about sustainable solutions.”

In a statement, the airline told passengers earlier this week: “Lufthansa and Eurowings are working intensively to keep the impact on passengers as low as possible.

“We are trying to have as many flights as possible operated by other airlines within the Lufthansa Group and by partner airlines.

“However, despite these efforts, flight cancellations are unavoidable.

Hundreds of flights have been cancelled over the past few days Credit: EPA

“Travelers who are affected by an irregularity will be informed accordingly, provided their contact details are stored in the booking.

“We ask passengers to check the status of their flight before setting out on their journey.

“We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the disproportionate and very short-notice strike announcement.”

The airline has told passengers that if their flight is cancelled, they will be able to rebook once free of charge or have their ticket refunded.

In other flight news, here’s the first look at one airline’s new onboard bunk beds which even economy passengers can book.

Plus, a major UK airline is set to hike flights by up to £360 as they warn jet fuel prices have ‘never been this high’.

It comes as fuel prices continue to rise amid the ongoing Iran war Credit: EPA

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