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.
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Norse Atlantic has cancelled its flights between London Gatwick and Los AngelesCredit: 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.
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 WarCredit: 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.
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.
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A UK-based travel company has cancelled all bookingsCredit: 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.
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.
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.
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KLM is set to cancel more than 100 flights due to the fuel crisis sparked by the war in IranCredit: AlamyFlight cancellations are coming if the Strait of Hormuz remains closedCredit: 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.
“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 AirportCredit: AlamyThe blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is holding up major supply chainsCredit: AFP
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.
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The scheme has proven successful in other European citiesCredit: 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.
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”.
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.
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.
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A popular European city is set to bring back its “tourist tax” for some visitors this summerCredit: 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.
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 smallItalian cityon weekdays, rather than during the weekend.
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.
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European airline Lufthansa has announced that it is cutting capacity across its network due to rising fuel costs and strikesCredit: 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.”
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.
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.
WE’VE scoured the internet for the very cheapest Spain deals we could find.
These holidays offer everything from sunny fly and flop spots with golden beaches, to family-friendly resorts close to mega water parks and top attractions.
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Grab a holiday to Tenerife from £175pp or Salou for £139pp, with flights and hotel includedCredit: Alamy
Here’s 10 last-minute Spain hols to pick from, so you can get something in the diary to look forward to – without breaking the bank.
Hotel Casa del Sol, Tenerife
Puerto de la Cruz is the cool alternative to Tenerife’s busy southern resorts, offering a mix of volcanic black-sand beaches and an artsy Old Town to wander.
The Hotel Casa del Sol has a lovely large pool, and is within walking distance from the beach and the famous the famous Lago Martiánez saltwater pools.
Lastminute.com offer a 7-night room-only stay, with return flights from London Stansted, for £175pp.
S’illot in Majorca is home to a tranquil coastline with crystal clear waters to swim in, plus prehistoric ruins and caves to explore.
The Playamar Hotel & Apartments offer two outdoor swimming pools, kids tropical island-themed splash park with fun coconut tipping buckets, live entertainment, a terrace restaurant and poolside snack bar.
Loveholidays offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay with multiple date options in May, including return flights from London Stansted, for £229pp.
We found a deal for a holiday to S’Illot in Majorca for £229ppCredit: Alamy
Salou, Costa Dorada
Sunny Salou is the ideal family destination, with plenty of beaches and world-class theme and water park PortAventura World.
Beyond the thrill rides, you can wander the palm-lined promenade for an ice cream, or stroll the Camí de Ronda path for hidden coves to swim in.
The Salou Pacific Apartments are 10 minutes walk from the beach, and make for a great base for families to explore all of the nearby attractions.
Loveholidays offer a 5-night self-catering stay at the Salou Pacific Apartments for multiple dates this May, including return flights from Birmingham, from £139pp.
BLUESEA Copacabana, Lloret de Mar
Sat on Spain’s brilliant Costa Brava, Lloret de Mar offers plenty to do from exciting watersports, to a seafront promenade lined with buzzy bars and nightclubs.
This modern hotel by the beach has extensive all-inclusive food and drink options, plus live music and entertainment in the evenings.
We found an all-inclusive package deal for 5 nights’ self-catering stay for multiple dates in May, including return flights from London Stansted, from £199pp!
Lloret de Mar in Spain has fantastic nightlife, but also lots of beautiful nature and rocky covesCredit: Alamy
BLUESEA Faro Cullera, Valencia
Valencia offers the ultimate city-meets-beach break, where you can visit a world-class science museum and planetarium in the morning, and tuck into authentic paella by the beach in the afternoon.
This recently-renovated, family-friendly hotel has an unbeatable location – just steps from the beach and 15 minutes’ walk from attractions like Cullera Castle and Iglesia Santos Juanes.
This deal from On the Beach offers a 7-night stay for multiple dates in May, including return flights from London Stansted, for £180pp.
Casa Turistica La Torre, Cordoba
Cordoba is a dream city break for history lovers, where you can lose yourself in the candy-cane arches of the Mezquita, or walk the 2,000 year-old Roman Bridge.
The historic Casa Turistica La Torre sits in the beautiful Old City, and has a sun-drenched rooftop to enjoy.
On the Beach offer a 7-night room-only stay from 23 – 30 June, including return flights from Birmingham, for £190pp.
You can book a week’s holiday to Coma-ruga in Spain from £228ppCredit: AlamyYou could bag a last minute trip and soon be sat on the golden sands of Tossa de MarCredit: Alamy
GHT Aparthotel Tossa Park, Costa Brava
Tossa de Mar is a stunning medieval gem where you can wander through ancient castle walls, or simply cool off in the sparkling waters of its beaches.
This aparthotel is close to the clear waters of Tossa de Mar Beach, as well as the sprawling Gran Casino Costa Brava.
We found a bargain deal for a 7-night room-only stay, including return flights from London Luton, for just £206pp with Lastminute.com.
Ibersol Playa Dorada, Coma-ruga
Coma-ruga is a hidden wellness gem where you can soak in natural thermal springs right on the beach, or go out snorkelling in the vibrant Masía Blanca marine reserve.
The Ibersol Playa Dorada is a family-friendly hotel with a spacious outdoor pool with plenty of loungers to laze on.
Lastminute.com offer a 7-night stay, including return flights from London Stansted, for £228pp.
Bungalows Castillo Club Lake, Fuerteventura
Bag a super-affordable, all-inclusive trip to Fuerteventura with a stay at Bungalows Castillo Club Lake.
The hotel sits in the lively town of Caleta de Fuste, and is close to both the golden sands of Playa del Castillo beach and watersports spots offering jet-skiing and windsurfing.
This hotel has all the facilities you’ll need, including a big swimming pool, sun terrace, cafeteria, plus games like billiards and bicycle rental, too.
Loveholidays offer a 5-night, all-inclusive stay, including return flights from Leeds Bradford, for just £249pp.
Calpe in Costa Blanca offers plenty of beautiful beaches and scenic coastal hikesCredit: Alamy
Sunsea Village, Costa Blanca
Calpe in Costa Blanca is a pretty coastal town overlooked by a dramatic rock cliff, offering loads of scenic hikes or calm sandy spots to set up for the day and soak up some rays.
The Sunsea Village hotel is a relaxing property in Calpe with a pool plus a dedicated kids pool, and plenty of sporty activities like tennis courts and a gym.
On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 3 – 10 June, including return flights from London Luton, for just £210pp.
STAYCATIONS are on the rise once again, as nervous Brits look for a holiday closer to home.
Yet a trip exploring the beauty of the UK doesn’t have to be expensive – if you know where to look.
A UK staycation can still be done on a budget, with lots of hotels under £100 a nightCredit: Alamy
According to Hotels.com, searches for stays across Britain that are under £100 are up 21 per cent compared to last year.
Expedia Group expert Melanie Fish shared some of her top tips on how to find the cheapest hotel room stays, such as booking business hotels on weekends for lower rates.
She also said: “One of the simplest ways to save is checking in on a Sunday night, which is often the cheapest day of the week, helping travellers stretch their budgets further while racking up rewards.”
Here are ten of the best hotels across the country where all the stays are under £100 (so less than £50 each a night), ranging from city centre stays to rural vineyard retreats.
Malmaison Manchester – £94 a night (£47 each)
One of the fanciest on the list, the four-star Malmaison in Manchester, is still an affordable option.
Right in front of the city’s main train station, the hotel is built in a converted Victorian warehouse.
It makes you want to never leave, from the fancy Brasserie serving a British-French menu, to the stylish Mal Bar.
Of course, it’s right by all of the city’s top attractions too, from the Arndale Centre to Old Trafford.
Book your stay
One night at Malmaison Manchester via Hotels.com from £94 see here.
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Maldron Hotel, Liverpool – £83 a night (£41.50 each)
Despite also being a four-star hotel, the Maldron Hotel is the cheapest on the list.
The Liverpool hotel is no frills, but central – rooms have everything you need from hairdryers to coffee machines.
There’s an on-site barista-coffee cafe, as well as an all-day dining restaurant.
It’s in a great location too – you can easily get to attractions such as the M&S Bank Arena or Royal Albert Docks.
Book your stay
One night stay at Maldron Hotel via Hotels.com from £83 a night see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Maldron Hotel in Liverpool is simple but central, so perfect for affordable weekend breaksCredit: Maldron Hotel
Lumley Castle, Durham – £92 a night (£46 each)
The 14th-century Lumley Castle is now a hotel and venue space, and is a bargain to stay at.
The hotel has 72 rooms, many of which will transport you back to Ye Olde times with spiral staircases and grand four-poster beds
Settle in for a spot of brunch at the Library Bar, or experience a full classic menu at the Knight’s Restaurant.
One night stay at Lumley Castle via Hotels.com from £92 a night see here.
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Why not stay in a castle for less than £50 a night?Credit: Supplied
Aldwick Estate, Bristol – £95 a night (£47.50 each)
Still a working farm and vineyard, Aldwick Estate is set across 300 acres.
Guests can not only stay on-site at a number of apartment options, but they can also book some wine tastings.
The 90-minute tours include the history of the estate, as well, of course, some tastings of the award-winning sparkling wines.
It’s less than 10 minutes from Bristol Airport, too.
Book your stay
One night stay at Aldiwick Estate via Hotels.com from £95 a night, see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Aldwick Estate is one for the wine loversCredit: Aldwick Estate
Rodway Hill Eco Pod, Gloucester – £96 a night (£48 each)
If you want to get back to basics, you can go glamping at the end of a golf course for under £50 each.
Rodway Hill Eco Pod is ideal for keen golfers as you step out right onto the grass from the front of the room.
They’re no frills – you need to take your own towels, and there are shared ensuite facilities.
But with breakfast also included (expect all the classic hot and cold options) – you can be first to put on the day.
Book your stay
One night stay at Rodway Hill Eco Pod via Hotels.com from £96 a night see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Golf lovers can stay in lodges right by the putting greenCredit: Supplied
Ty Milford Waterfront, Pembrokeshire – £96 a night (£48 each)
Right by Milford beach is Ty Milford Waterfront, with all the hotel rooms kitted out with everything you need
Try Dulse, the on-site restaurant for some of the freshest seafood (and a unique rhubarb and custard profiterole), or work it off at the hotel gym overlooking the water too.
Kids even stay free this half term, and there is often both live music and pub quizzes on.
Want to splash out? Try the ‘floatels’ – four cabins that float on the water to be rocked to sleep by the tide.
Book your stay
One night stay at Ty Milford Waterfront via Hotels.com from £96 a night, see here.
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Ty Milford Waterfront Hotel even has floating marina lodgesCredit: Booking.com
The Grosvenor Arms, Salisbury – £94 a night (£47 each)
The Grosvenor Arms, built in a 17th-century former coaching inn, has all the best parts of a British pub, but a little bit fancier.
There’s just nine cosy rooms for both couples and families, which they say has more of the “charm of an inn than a hotel room”.
Eating at the pub itself is a must, if you love a menu of British food with a flair – or pop in on a Friday for freshly cooked pizzas.
Nearby attractions include the unusual hexagonal Wardour Castle, which was used to film the 1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves film.
Book your stay
One night stay at Grosvenor Arms via Hotels.com from £94 a night, see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
The Grosvenor Arms is an affordable pub, but with beautiful rooms and foodCredit: The Grosvenor Arms
The Westbridge, London – £97 a night (£48.50)
The chic Westbridge hotel says it is a “home from home,” being in the London district of Stratford.
Dating back to 1740, many of the rooms are named after themed royal family members.
The lounge bar is limited – serving just pizza, some snacks and desserts – so you might want to head out for dinner.
Thankfully is right by all of the popular London attractions too, including the Olympic Park and ABBA Voyage.
Book your stay
One night stay at The Westbridge via Hotels.com from £97 a night, see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
The Westbridge Hotel is an affordable London stay option right by some big attractionsCredit: The Westbridge Hotel
The all-inclusive hotel in the middle of London – that’s £55 each a night
The Sun’s Travel Reporter recently tried out London’s ‘all-inclusive’ hotel which comes in at just over £100 a night.
This sounded too good to be true, so, of course, I had to put it to the test.
I arrived to check in at 3pm – this is when they were offering an afternoon tea selection, which included ham and cheese croissants and a cake stand featuring macaroons, brownies, flapjacks, and pots of tiramisu.
I picked up a handful of sweet treats, including one of the croissants and helped myself to my second can of Fanta.
There was also a made-to-order selection on a dinner menu, which featured a wide choice of sandwiches and salads.
I ordered the salmon and sauerkraut ciabatta – it was simple but tasty and reminded me of the sandwiches and cakes I usually pick up in one of London’s many hipster coffee shops.
However, this would usually set me back £18 for a coffee, pastry or cake and sandwich.
Just an hour later, a selection of cheeses and crackers, with grapes, chutney, houmous and olives appeared.
I helped myself to the black bomber cheddar, with a dollop of caramelised onion chutney and some crackers.
For second helping I went for some olives, camembert and crackers.
Over the course of another hour, I went back and forth, helping myself to the selection.
As I enjoyed my plates of food, I also sipped on a glass of sauvignon blanc – one of three white wines on offer.
If I wanted to, I could have also opted for red wine, cider or beer as well.
When morning arrived, a breakfast spread included toast, flatbreads with omelette and bacon, fresh fruit, Greek yoghurt, and pastries.
I opted for some cold apple juice and helped myself to a coffee, plus a tomato and cheese flatbread, some fruit compote and yoghurt.
Before leaving, I even grabbed a banana and coffee in a takeaway cup for the road.
My verdict? This hotel is a genuine find.
Totting up all the food I had, using the average prices usually found for each item in London, I spent way more than my £55-a-head price tag.
In comparison to other budget hotels, I would say the room itself is on par with Travelodge and Premier Inn, yet a fraction of the price.
Nunsmere Hall, Northwich – £95 a night (£47.50 each)
Inside the Edwardian country house in Northwich is Nunsmere Hall, surrounded by a 60-acre lake.
Usually used as a wedding venue, there are 36 hotel rooms, which are simple but affordable.
But you want to come here for dinner – voted ‘County Restaurant of the Year’ by The Good Food Guide, the ever-changing menu includes dishes such as steak and pasta.
Otherwise, grab a drink at The Captain’s Bar, some afternoon tea or have a wander around Northwich itself, a beautiful riverside town.
Book your stay
One night stay at Nunsmere Hall via Hotels.com from £97 a night see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Nunsmere Hall is nearly completely surrounded by waterCredit: Nunsmere Hall
The Met Hotel, Leeds – £97 a night (£48.50 each)
One of Leeds‘ most beautiful buildings, The Met Hotel is built into the Victorian listed landmark dating back to the 1890s yet underwent a huge renovation last year.
There are 120 rooms, which have recently been refurbished, with classy interiors that make it feel much more expensive than it is.
Gott’s Bar & Kitchen feels like stepping back in time, with a mix of small plates, mains and grills.
Pop your head into the Met Ballroom too – it’s a beauty.
Book your stay
One night stay at The Met Hotel via Hotels.com from £97 a night, see here.
*If you click on a link in this boxout, we will earn affiliate revenue.
The grand Victorian building is right by the train station tooCredit: The Met Hotel
BRITS have been warned to book their summer getaways now or face a massive spike in prices as the Middle East conflict sends fuel costs soaring.
The boss of easyJet today sounded the alarm after revealing the war has already cost the budget airline £25million in fuel hikes.
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EasyJet reported that the conflict has created “near-term uncertainty around fuel costs and customer demand” as families hesitate to bookCredit: AFP
The Luton-based carrier has been hit hard by rising oil prices after Iran tightened its grip on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Holidaymakers are being told that if these high costs persist, the extra bill will be passed directly onto passengers through higher fares across the entire industry.
EasyJet reported that the conflict has created “near-term uncertainty around fuel costs and customer demand” as families hesitate to book.
Official figures show that bookings for the peak summer months of June through to September have already dipped compared to last year.
The airline is braced for a massive headline loss of between £540million and £560million for the six months leading up to the end of March.
Investors reacted with panic to the news as shares in the company tumbled by as much as 9% in early trading on Thursday.
EasyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis admitted the firm has struggled.
He said: “Our H1 financial performance worsened year on year, impacted by the conflict in the Middle East and the competitive environment in some markets.”
Despite the gloom, the airline boss insisted that planes are still taking off as normal following the busiest Easter period on record.
He added: “Following our busiest Easter holiday period ever, the operational ramp up into peak summer continues as planned.”
Mr Jarvis claimed the company has the cash reserves to survive the crisis.
He said: “EasyJet’s financial strength from our investment grade balance sheet and £4.7billion of liquidity mean we are well placed to navigate current geopolitical challenges while remaining focused on our medium term targets.”
Experts are worried that the war could eventually lead to fuel shortages and forced cancellations, but the airline insists airports are currently “operating as normal” with supplies secured until mid-May.
Everything now rests on whether the crisis in the Middle East escalates or cools down in the coming weeks.
A quick resolution could see prices drop, but a long-term war could see holiday demand dry up as fuel is rationed around the world.
IF HOGWARTS was a real place, it would be rammed with selfie-stick-wielding tourists – but one quiet spot in a Devonshire city is the ultimate hidden gem for Potterheads.
It’s no secret that J.K. Rowling studied at Exeter University, but for years Harry Potter fans have been convinced that part of the city actually inspired a major feature of the movies (though she did debunk this herself).
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In the city of Exeter there is a hidden gem for PotterheadsCredit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingGandy Street is just off of Exeter high streetCredit: The Sun – Cyann FieldingAnd many people believe it is the inspiration for Diagon Alley as J.K. Rowling attended Exeter UniversityCredit: Alamy
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Tucked away at a right angle off the bustling high street, you’ll find Gandy Street – a crooked, cobbled lane that looks remarkably like Diagon Alley.
To find it, you’ll have to venture down an opening between Urban Outfitters and Costa – and many visiting the city actually miss this.
The lane then opens up into a magical world of bunting, twinkling lights and higgidy-piggidy shops.
While the film‘s Diagon Alley is actually a film set, the resemblance is clear.
According to Warner Brothers Studio Tour, the design of Diagon Alley was inspired by Charles Dickens’ descriptions of London.
However, director Chris Columbus realised that not many places look like 19th century London anymore, so a set for Diagon Alley was built specifically for filming.
Misshapen buildings tower over the lane and there is a flea market vibe similar to that of the bird cages and antique-style signs hanging from Diagon Alley’s shopfronts.
The entire street has dark-stone architecture, just like the gloominess of Diagon Alley.
Though the colourful shopfronts brighten the street in the same way Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes does for Diagon Alley.
While Diagon Alley boasts Flourish and Blotts, Mr Mulpepper’s Apothecary, Gringotts Wizard Bank and OIlivanders wand shop, Gandy Street has its own destinations worth visiting.
You might not be able to gobble a Chocolate Frog, but you can dive into Chococo for a hot chocolate.
At the Makers Market, you will find magical trinkets created by local sellers such as handmade handbags and quirky prints.
For pretty and unique jewellery head to Silver Lion and for gifts drop by Moko.
The Vaults nightclub is even compared to Gringotts BankCredit: Alamy
Even The Vaults nightclub looks a bit like Gringotts Bank, though don’t expect to find a dragon – just good cocktails.
If you are hungry there are a couple of spots on the street to grab a bite to eat including Red Panda, where you can grab a bao bun and salad for under a tenner.
For another interesting spot nearby, venture to Parliament Street which is thought to be the narrowest street in the UK and one of the narrowest in Europe.
It dates back to the 14th century and at its narrowest point measures only 63.5cm.
And your adventure around the city doesn’t have to end there…
Make sure to head to the Cathedral Quarter, where – in my opinion – you’ll find one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in the UK.
The 12th century Gothic cathedral has the “longest unbroken stretch of Gothic vaulting” remaining in the world, according to Visit Exeter, measuring 91metres – about the same as the height of Big Ben.
Whilst in the city, make sure to also head to the CathedralCredit: The Sun – Cyann Fielding
Our favourite UK hotels
*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Margate House, Kent
This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
One of my favourite things to do here is enjoy the cathedral green and look at the 50-plus statues carved into the Salcombe and volcanic stone the cathedral is built out of.
Make sure to explore the lower part of the high street as well, just a short walk from the cathedral.
Here you’ll find most of the independent businesses in the city including cosy cafes and McCoys Arcade, which is home to a number of shops including a book store and record store.
If you do want to head to some of the bigger brand names, walk to the very top of the high street where you will find the likes of Lush, John Lewis, Next and Waterstones.
The best part to visiting the city? Unlike Harry, you won’t need to tap your wand on the wall to get in… You just need a train ticket to Devon.
A NUMBER of popular holiday destinations in Spain are losing their Ryanair flights this year.
The budget airline confirmed last year they would be cutting 1.2million seats across the country,
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Ryanair is scrapping a number of flights to Spanish destinations including one airport in TenerifeCredit: Getty
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The cancellations are due to the increase in airport fees, which would mean airlines paying an extra 21 per cent from 2027 to 2031.
An initial increase of 6.44 per cent has already been introduced back in March.
At the time of the announcement, the CEO of Ryanair, Eddie Wilson said: “Nextwinter we will make further cuts to regional airport services and I remind you that our total traffic in Spain for this summer will only grow by 0.5 per cent compared to 9 per cent in Italy, 11 per cent in Morocco or 20 per cent in Poland.
“Aena’s proposal to increase fares by 21 per cent is regrettable, but not surprising, as this airport monopoly has a history of applying the highest fares at the expense of traffic development, especially at Spain’s regional airports, which are 70 per cent empty.”
He also commented that if the fees were increased it would “make even the most popular airports in Spain uncompetitive” and that Ryanair would turn to “other places in Europe where rates are more competitive”.
Here are some of the destinations being affected.
Asturias
All Ryanair flights to the coastal region of Asturias in north Spain have been stopped.
If you do want to head to Asturias though, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling all fly to the airport from the UK.
Vigo
All flights to the port city of Vigo in northwest Spain were suspended on January 1.
There are currently no direct flights from the UK with other airlines to Vigo – instead, you would have to book a flight to Madrid then to Vigo.
Alternatively, Porto Airport is less than two hours away.
Instead of Tenerife North, Brits will have to head to Tenerife SouthCredit: Alamy
Tenerife North
All Ryanair flights to Tenerife North were stopped over the winter.
This included a route from London Stansted Airport.
If travellers want to head to Tenerife now, their best bet is to fly to Tenerife South, which Ryanair flies to from a number of UK airports including London Stansted, Bristol and Birmingham.
Valladolid
All flights to Valladolid in northwest Spain have been scrapped with the airline’s base closed at the airport since winter 2024.
If you wish to travel to Valladolid, the best way would be to fly to Madrid which is under two hours away.
Jerez
Ryanair has cancelled all of its direct flights to Jerez in the Andalusia region.
However, if you still want to fly to the destination, you can do so from the UK with Jet2.
Jet2 offers flights to Jerez from Birmingham, Leeds Bradford, London Stansted and Manchester.
Alternatively, you could fly to Seville and then hop on a train that takes less than an hour to Jerez.
Other destinations where flights will be impacted include Santiago de CompostelaCredit: Getty
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela Airport in the Galicia region will no longer have a Ryanair base, which will mean fewer flights to the destination.
While the budget airline does still operate flights to and from the airport, Sun Travel found that these are mainly to destinations within Spain.
There are a number of other airlines that fly to the airport though, including British Airways, Vueling and Iberia.
Santander
Ryanair is set to reduce its capacity from Santander, known for its stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, by 38 per cent.
But the airline is still operating UK flights to the airport, including from Manchester, Birmingham and London Stansted – just a reduced number.
Zaragoza
The airline is also reducing flights from Zaragoza – the capital of Aragon in northeastern Spain – by 45 per cent.
While the airline does still fly to the airport, it is mainly from destinations outside the UK such as Milan in Italy.
Sun Travel found one route from the UK to the airport, which is from London Stansted.
Despite some routes being scrapped completely, there will also be reduced flights to and from a number of other aitportsCredit: Getty
Vitoria
There will be a slight reduction in Ryanair capacity to Vitoria (two per cent), which is the capital of the Basque region.
Despite this, Sun Travel found no routes from the UK to the Spanish airport with that airline.
If you want to head to Vitoria, your best bet is to fly to Bilbao Airport which is about an hour-and-a-half away.
Girona
Routes from Girona in Catalonia are also set to be reduced by 11 per cent over this summer season, according to Euro News.
Sun Travel found that there are currently still flights from UK airports including London Stansted, Bournemouth and Birmingham to the airport.
A MAJOR European airline has announced even more strikes this week, set to impact thousands more Brits.
Lufthansa pilots have been on strike since Monday in a dispute over pensions, and now the Union Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) has announced a further two days of strikes.
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More Lufthansa flights have been cancelled across EuropeCredit: EPA
Pilots began striking on Monday, with hundreds of flights cancelled including many from the UK.
And now the union has announced that pilots will also be carrying out strikes this Thursday and Friday.
Over 200 flights departing Frankfurt Airport have been cancelled today, including the following flights to the UK:
9:50am to Manchester
2pm to London Heathrow
3:45pm to Glasgow
4pm to London Heathrow
4:10pm to Edinburgh
4:20pm to Newcastle
4:45pm to Manchester
5pm to Birmingham
6pm to London Heathrow
9:10pm to Birmingham
9:30pm to London Heathrow
9:50pm to Edinburgh
10pm to Manchester
As for flights with Lufthansa departing from the UK, the following have been cancelled:
9:30am from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
9:50am from Glasgow to Frankfurt
10:25am from Birmingham to Frankfurt
10:35am from Manchester to Munich
11:25am from Manchester to Frankfurt
12:50pm from Edinburgh to Frankfurt
1:35pm from London Heathrow to Munich
3:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
4:25pm from London Heathrow to Munich
5:10pm from Edinburgh to Munich
5:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
5:30pm from Glasgow to Frankfurt
5:40pm from Newcastle to Frankfurt
5:50pm from Edinburgh to Frankfurt
5:50pm from London Heathrow to Munich
5:55pm from Birmingham to Munich
6:15pm from Birmingham to Frankfurt
6:20pm from Manchester to Frankfurt
7:10pm from London Heathrow to Munich
7:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
8:25pm from London Heathrow to Munich
With 34 flights – often operating around 150 passengers each – this works out to more than 5,000 passengers to and from the UK affected.
Disruption to flights tomorrow currently remains unclear.
Regarding the further strike action, 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.
It means thousands of Brits will be impactedCredit: Reuters
“However, despite these efforts, flight cancellations are unavoidable.
“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 their ticket refunded.
Though, all flights to the Middle East have been excluded from the strike action due to the ongoing Iran conflict.
