Travel advice

NEW rules being rolled out this summer will make it much easier for families with young kids to get through the airport.

Airport eGates will be lowering the age of passengers who can use them from 12 to eight.

Confirmed by the Home Office, kids will need to be at least 120cm (3ft11) to be able to use them, as they require them to be able to see the biometric screens.

Currently, only families with kids aged 10 and over can use them – any younger and they have to go in the standard (usually much longer) queue.

It is expected to help as many as an extra 1.5million children use the eGates.

This will affect 13 airports across the UK that currently use eGates. These are:

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• London Heathrow
• London Gatwick
• London City
• London Luton
• London Stansted
• Manchester
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• East Midlands
• Newcastle
• Cardiff
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow

The new rules will also affect a number of non-British residents including those from the US, Australia and Japan, along with non-Schengen countries in Europe.

Chief executive of AirportsUK Karen Dee said she welcomed the change, saying: “It will give more families the ability to take advantage of this technology, speeding up the border process and reducing waiting times for many.”

“Airports work very hard with border authorities to ensure the UK’s front door is both secure and welcoming, with those coming home and visiting enjoying a smooth experience.”

Brits are currently facing problems travelling via Europe, however, as new EES rules are resulting in massive queues, some even missing their flights.

Requiring biometric checks, only Greece has currently paused the new rules for Brits.

IF you’re an over-packer who constantly battles to zip your suitcase shut, this Amazon find is a game-changer.

Shoppers are rushing to buy these compression packing cubes that do far more than just organise your holiday outfits – they actively squeeze your clothes down into compact bundles, too.

While regular packing cubes can save you around 15% luggage space, compression cubes can save you up to 50% – effectively giving you another half a suitcase to fill.

Travel Compression Packing Cubes, £19.99 (was £29.99)

The cubes are slashed to nearly half-price on Amazon, where you can snap them up for just £19.99 – 33% down from the usual £29.99.

These compression cubes come in handy for all sorts of holidays, whether you’re heading off backpacking or want to pack as many Ibiza party outfits as possible.

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They even have a waterproof compartment to separate any dry and damp clothes from after your travels.

One pleased shopper said “These travel compression packing cubes were a game changer when I was travelling around Thailand with just a backpack.

“The sizes are really well thought out, making it easy to separate clothes, keep everything organised, and maximise space”.

Another shopper said “Really good packing cubes for the price I paid.

“Makes packing much easier and more organised. I wish I had bought them years ago!”

Travel Compression Packing Cubes, £19.99 (was £29.99)

These packing cubes have rip-resistant double stitching and zip smoothly, even when you’ve stuffed them full.

Plus you’re even doing your bit for the environment by picking these cubes, as they’re made from recycled plastic bottles.

The compression packing cubes come in six different colours: grey, beige, blue, black, green and red.

As well as condensing down your clothing into tightly-packed bundles, packing cubes can be a great organising tool.

You can pick an item to bundle into each section – t-shirts, trousers, dresses, socks, toiletries – then pick a cube to pop each of them into.

That way when you need to grab something on holiday, you won’t be rummaging around in your suitcase – you’ll know exactly where to find it.

Travel Compression Packing Cubes, £19.99 (was £29.99)

Prices correct at time of publication.

BRITISH Airways’ multi-million pound superjumbo refit faces certification delays over fears crew cannot safely restrain drunk passengers in its new business class seats.

The airline is in the process of upgrading its Airbus A380 fleet with its latest Club Suite, which comes with a sliding privacy door.

But the makeover could hit delays because of concerns over how staff would deal with an air rage passenger on the upper deck.

BA plans to move a small section economy seats off the top floor and replace them with a larger Club World cabin.

Its passenger restraint kit is understood to be approved for economy and premium economy seats – not the new suite-style business seats.

That could leave crew with a major problem if a passenger became violent or disruptive upstairs.

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Sources said hauling a violent passenger down the A380’s narrow staircases could put crew and other passengers at risk.

The first aircraft are currently being worked on in Manila, Philippines, as part of the refurbishment programme.

Industry sources have also suggested there may be certification concerns over the weight of the new business seats, which include motors and sliding doors.

Extra weight on the upper deck could affect the plane’s payload limits.

However, any delay may also be linked to wider supply chain issues affecting premium aircraft seats across the industry.

British Airways said the A380 refit programme remains on schedule for 2026.

I’M dancing in the midday sun, frozen margarita in hand, while the DJ plays top tunes to complement the incredibly beautiful Bahamian backdrop.

I’m at the new Royal Beach Club, on Paradise Island, a private party pad in the Bahamas owned by cruise company Royal Caribbean.

This 17-acre stretch includes three differently-themed areas and the world’s largest swim-up bar.

And the beach club is exclusively for passengers travelling on board Royal Caribbean ships.

It’s booked similarly to a cruise excursion, and the £126 fee buys you food, and drink all day, as well as access to three temperature- controlled pools and two huge white-sand beaches.

For those who don’t want alcoholic drinks, it’s £96.

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Transfer to the club from ships docked at Bahamian capital Nassau are by bright-pink water taxi — ours was dubbed Flirty Flamingo.

After a few daiquiris by lunchtime, we were loving the upbeat atmosphere, with a real Las Vegas pool-party vibe.

As well as the Party Cove — by far the liveliest zone on the island — there is the Family Beach, designed with kids in mind.

The pool is perfect for younger children who want to play in shallow water and there is live music, and games, so parents can have fun, too.

For those who would rather kick back with a book and a beer, the Chill Beach is more relaxed.

But most come here to party and, with ten bars dotted around the island, it’s very easy to do that.

The food didn’t disappoint either.

Each area has an island grill, serving Bahamian favourites like coconut shrimp and jerk chicken.

After a day dancing in the sun, we were grateful to be able to amble on to one of the multi- coloured ferries back to the ship.

We were sailing on the 18-deck Wonder of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise vessels — and there was plenty on board to keep us busy, including 20 restaurants, five live shows, a surf simulator, zipline and ten-storey slide.

The ship is capable of hosting almost 7,000 passengers, in its 2,600 cabins.

Our balcony stateroom was bright and breezy, with the benefit of some outside space.

While there are plenty of venues for you to enjoy the tasty included dining, we splashed out on one of my favourite venues that come at an extra cost.

Seafood restaurant Hooked is around £36 extra per person if booked in advance, but is definitely worth it.

Delicious menu options included Alaskan salmon, Maine lobster and freshly shucked oysters, as well as a fantastic surf-and-turf.

After dinner, we managed to get a seat at the popular inTENse show, whose all-female performers include synchronised swimmers, acrobats and martial-arts specialists.

With a larger ship, the challenge can sometimes be getting your bearings, but on Wonder of the Seas the eight “neighbourhoods” mean you quickly get into the swing of things.

My favourites included Central Park, a serene open-air courtyard, adorned with trees and plants; The Boardwalk, a fun, fairground-themed zone; and the Royal Promenade, a social space with shops, bars and restaurants.

It’s easy to see why a Royal Caribbean cruise appeals to a wide range of holidaymakers.

Whether you are cruising as a family, a couple or with friends, there is a lot of fun to be had.

The karaoke lounge is a must — even if you don’t want to roll out your inner Jane McDonald.

The entertainment value for the audience here is high — with some very interesting performances from guests that have been sipping rum punch all afternoon.

There is more fun to be had off the ship, too.

All Royal Caribbean cruises to the Bahamas also stop at the cruise line’s own private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is included in the cost.

The perks included with your cruise continue on the island, too.

If you want a break from sunning yourself by the turquoise sea, you can also embrace your inner kid at the Thrill Waterpark, which does come at an extra cost.

Here, you can take on the third-highest waterslide on the planet.

This tube-slide is shockingly fast, with riders hurtling down at more than 30mph — taking just seconds to splash-land.

Which is a lot faster than it takes to climb the 255 steps to get to the top.

Back on the Wonder of the Seas, guests can take advantage of their last night at sea with the bars, pools and decks full of life.

With lots of fun things to see and do on board — and now with the Royal Beach Club giving you even more fun on land — a Royal cruise definitely offers the best of all worlds.

A WOMAN was left £900 out of pocket and missed her own 50th birthday abroad because of a passport mistake STILL being made by thousands.

Ali Burridge, from Suffolk, was due to fly to Benidorm with 15 of her friends during the May bank holiday weekend for celebrate her big birthday.

Having spent £900 on flights and accommodation, she ran into problems after arriving at the airport

Staff behind the counter at London Stansted gave her the “heartbreaking” news that she couldn’t board the plane due to a passport rule she had “no idea about”.

The rules, which have been in place since the UK left the EU, no longer allows passports to be older than 10 years – unlike previous rules which let you roll up to nine months over.

Thousands of Brits have been caught out by the confusing rule, which is when your expiry date is actually incorrect.

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This also caught Ali out, who bought her passport before the new rules and meant she didn’t realise the extra time on her passport was no longer valid.

She said: “It was awful when I was told the news, to be honest, I’m still in shock.

“I had been looking forward to this since my 40th birthday – we had spent the previous year organising it all. In reality, the rule has cost me money and memories.”

Her sister Tracey said the girls were “in tears” after they landed and heard the news, with them travelling out on an earlier flight.

Ali also said that no issues were raised on the website when she checked in two weeks before, despite it asking for her expiry date.

She continued: “If it had flagged the issues, I would have been able to get a new one, which is annoying.”

Despite driving to Peterborough with an attempt to get a new one at the Passport Office, she was unable to in time for her trip.

Instead, she was forced to stay home whilst some of her friends that had already made it out there enjoyed the sun – who managed to FaceTime her while out there.

She added: “I still know and see a lot of people travelling on the old passport, so I want to raise awareness so this doesn’t happen to others.

“You could be easily caught out like me if you don’t travel often. I’m seeing this situation as a valuable life lesson.”

A UNUSUAL temporary ban is being rolled out in days at a popular vacation hotspot.

The law will impact all residents, tourists, and even cruise lines.

Alcohol sales will be completely banned across all islands in the Bahamas due to the general election, officials have confirmed.

Polls open on May 12 and between the hours of 8am and 6pm, no alcohol will be available for purchase, per a government notice.

This includes even on private islands that are owned by cruise lines.

Royal Caribbean said it will be abiding by the local laws at Coco Cay, it’s private island in the Bahamas.

“Royal Caribbean is respecting and complying with all local laws and regulations, as we do with every destination we visit,” a Royal Caribbean spokesperson told PEOPLE.

Both the Wonder of the Seas and the Oasis of the Seas ships will be visiting the island on that day.

It’s beach bars Perfect Day and Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will still be open, the cruise line confirmed, and noted that passengers will still be able to get alcohol on board the ships.

Despite this, passengers are fuming about the sudden announcement.

“We scheduled a trip with stops in the Bahamas for our 40th anniversary,” one customer wrote on X.

“We are going with 26 of our friends. Planned activities at CocoCay and Nassau.

“The general election has banned all alcohol for the two days we are there. And we find out only two days before we leave? Not a way to treat customers who cruise four times a year.”

WE’VE searched high and low to find holiday parks across the UK where you can stay this summer for the price of a cinema ticket.

And we’ve found a range of deals that ALL work out to £10 per person, per night or less.

In 2026, £10 barely buys you lunch – but at these holiday parks, it gets you four nights of sea air and sunshine.

And given the uncertainty over the fuel crisis caused by the Iran War, plenty of Brits are looking to stay closer to home this summer.

By making the most of current sales and saving events at holiday park companies like Haven and Parkdean Resorts, you can still lock in a staycation this summer for ridiculously cheap.

From action-packed family mega resorts to quiet coastal retreats, here’s a range of UK seaside holidays you can book in for this summer for bargain prices.

Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire – £2.88pp a night

This Haven holiday park is in the seaside town of Cleethorpes, often considered a quieter and prettier alternative to nearby Skegness, with clean beaches and traditional attractions.

The holiday park has all the typical top-quality Haven goodies, like a children’s Adventure Village, a glamorous bar and stage for live entertainment, a nine-hole golf course and a fishing lake.

Plus, this park even has its own Wetherspoons on site, so you can enjoy an affordable pint or share a cocktail pitcher among friends.

Out in the town, Cleethorpes has a large promenade lined with family-friendly activities like crazy golf, arcades, bowling and more.

One of the town’s highlights is the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway, where you can enjoy a two-mile-long scenic journey with sea views in a diesel or steam train.

The train also makes a stop at the Signal Box Inn, the smallest pub on the planet! A return journey costs £5.75 per adult and £5.25 per child.

Sunnydale Holiday Park, Saltfleet – £8.06pp a night

This small and peaceful holiday park is one of Parkdean’s real hidden gems. On site you’ll find a heated indoor pool, a huge fishing lake, and plenty for kids, including soft play, a kids club and an adventure playground.

The resort sits on Lincolnshire‘s coast in the seaside town of Saltfleet, where you’ll find coastal walks beside quiet marshlands and calm seas.

Once you’ve had your fill of relaxing sea air, you’ll find lots of excitement in nearby Mablethorpe, just a 15 minutes’ drive. There you will find a huge, award-winning sandy beach, plus a sand train which drops you off by a seal sanctuary, and traditional donkey rides.

The train costs £2pp each way, with under 3’s going free.

Craig Tara, Scotland – £2.29pp a night

This massive, action-packed holiday park in Ayr is perfect if you want a full-on family holiday with plenty of activities.

For starters, Splashaway Bay may be the most exciting water park of them all.

The on-site park is one of the largest in Scotland, with a water complex that spans multiple floors. There’s a multi-lane water slide, lazy river, illuminated flume slide, a giant tipping bucket, toddler pool and lots more.

When it comes to other activities, there’s plenty you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. There’s a NERF Training Camp, Crazy Pool (pool’s answer to crazy golf) and a brand new Tiger Club Show for evening entertainment.

There’s also batting cages, a climbing wall, karting, segways and archery, whilst adrenaline junkies of the family will love ‘The Jump’ and ‘The Extreme Drop’.

For food and drink, enjoy everything from Chopstix noodles to Burger King meals or Papa John’s pizza. You can even end your meals with a sweet treat from Millie’s Cookies.

If you can tear yourself away from this action-packed park, there’s a friendly farm park Heads of Ayr just 5 minutes’ drive away.

Plus, the impressive National Trust Culzean Castle which looks out to sea atop a dramatic cliff is 20 minutes away.

Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park, Wales – £8.94pp a night

Set on the sunny coast of Kidwelly in South Wales, Carmarthen Bay is a holiday park that comes with some seriously stunning scenery. Here you’re just steps from the vast St Ishmael beach, plus the spectacular Kidwelly Castle is only eight minutes away.

And if you take a trip into the nearby Pembrey Country Park, you can take part in activities from toboggan racing through the trees (£3.50pp) to hopping on board a miniature railway (£1.50pp).

On site, there’s a large indoor pool with a flume slide, as well as soft play, crazy golf, amusements and a multi-sports court. When it comes to food and drink, you can enjoy everything from a Costa Coffee, to late-night takeaway options like pizza and burgers.

This affordable holiday park is even cheaper if you visit as a group of adults or with children not of school age, as we’ve found a bargain deal that’ll have you catching the last of the August heat as it turns to September.

Orchards Holiday Village, Essex – £2.88pp a night

This exciting holiday village in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex is perfect for sporty and outdoors-y groups – or those that just want to be close to one of the UK’s most exciting seaside piers.

This AA four-star award-winning site offers both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a golf course, archery coaching and Footgolf to name just a few of the activities.

Plus this summer is set to be even more sporty at Haven parks such as this one, with live screenings of England and Scotland football games. There’s also a Football Fun Factory event popping up across the parks, too.

Visitors can expect new Haven entertainment shows, such as the Seaside Squad adventures for older children and the Electric Nights 80’s show for grown-ups.

Drive just 17 minutes to Clacton Pier and you’ll have even more activities to dive into, with everything from classics like the Helter Skelter and Dodgems to a Jurassic Pier experience that dinosaur fans will love.

Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Shanklin, Isle of Wight – £8.06pp a night

A favourite of our holiday park expert, Lower Hyde in the Isle of Wight is an all-singing, all-dancing resort.

This lively site has top-quality entertainment, including classic kids discos and costume character meets, as well as dance shows and comedy acts.

Whizz down the water flume into the outdoor pool on hot days, or warm up in the indoor pool when it gets chilly out in the evenings.

One of the top perks about this park is that it is paired with a nearby sister park, Parkdean Landguard, meaning that guests can access the facilities of both sites during their stay.

Both parks are located in Shanklin, a quaint town in the Isle of Wight with traditional thatched roof houses and a fairytale feel.

Plus, you’re not far from the sea here, either. Shanklin beach is just 4 minutes away, decorated with colourful deck chairs and beach huts, plus there’s even a Pirate-themed adventure park.

Kessingland Beach, Lowestoft – £10pp a night

Head to East Anglia for a traditional bucket-and-spade summer holiday at Parkdean’s Kessingland Beach Holiday Park.

Directly on the beach, this resort is surrounded by unspoilt nature, calm waves and soft golden sands, perfect for letting little ones roam and get used to the water.

This site makes for a great base to explore top family attractions like Pleasurewood Hills theme park, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens and the fascinating Merrivale Model Village.

Meanwhile, on site there are sports courts, an adventure playground, and a dazzling Showbar with entertainment like Starland Krazy for kids and all-ages bingo. Tuck into food like loaded fries and hot dogs at the takeaway stand, or enjoy juicy ribs and steak at the park’s new restaurant, Joe’s American Grill.

MOST people don’t sit down and properly work out what it costs to live in the UK.

They know rent is high, energy bills are painful, and the weekly food shop keeps creeping up, but it’s only when you add everything together that the number starts to land properly.

For a couple, a fairly typical month now comes in at around £2,180 – rent sits at roughly £1,350, energy at £150, food at £400, water at £50, council tax close to £190, and broadband at around £40.

That’s before you factor in transport, meals out, or anything unexpected, which is how most people end up comfortably over £2,200 a month just to live at home.

At the same time, I spend most of my time analysing holiday pricing and staying in hotels – more than 200 at this point – and recently one trend has become difficult to ignore.

There are now multiple four-week, all-inclusive holidays for two people, including flights, coming in at the same price or less than that monthly cost.

And when you look at what is actually included, the comparison becomes even more interesting.

Your accommodation is covered, all meals are included, drinks are available and there are no household bills to think about, plus most hotels also include fast WiFi, so working remotely is entirely possible.

So I tested it properly, and here are ten examples where the numbers genuinely stack up.

Skanes Serail, Tunisia – £795pp

I found a 28-night deal at Skanes Serail, all inclusive, for £1,590 which works out at £795 per person.

October here is exactly what most people want from a long stay – mid-20s, dry, and consistently sunny without feeling relentless. What stands out with this hotel is how easy it is to settle into.

You’ve got big pool space, direct beach access, and food and drink available throughout the day. Wi-Fi is included, and it is the kind of setup where days naturally fall into a routine.

At £1,590 for two people, you are comfortably under what most couples are paying just to live in the UK, but with everything already covered.

Riadh Palms, Tunisia – £860pp

I found a 28-night deal at Riadh Palms, all inclusive, for £1,720, which works out at £860 per person.

Sousse holds its warmth in October, sitting around 24 degrees, so you still get that proper beach holiday feel.

This is a classic, lively beachfront hotel where everything happens on-site. There are multiple places to eat and drink, a big central pool, and entertainment running throughout the day.

It is built for people who want atmosphere as well as sunshine, and you could easily spend weeks here without getting bored. At £1,720 for two people, you are still below UK living costs, with none of the usual monthly bills to think about.

Hotel Riviera Sousse, Tunisia – £875pp

I found a 28-night deal at Hotel Riviera Sousse, all inclusive, for just £1,750, which works out at just £875 per person.

You are looking at around 24 degrees in October, which is ideal for a longer, more comfortable stay. This one feels slightly more activity-led, with pools, slides, and more going on during the day.

It is a good example of a hotel that gives you options, whether you want to switch off completely or keep busy.

Food, drinks, and WiFi are all included, so you are not dipping into your pocket constantly. At £1,750 for two people, it still comes in under what many couples are spending at home each month.

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Side, Turkey – £970pp

I found a 28-night deal at Ramada Resort by Wyndham Side, all inclusive, for just £1,940 which works out at just £970 per person.

Antalya in October is still pushing 25 degrees, so it feels like you are extending summer rather than chasing it. This is a more modern, polished setup, and you can feel that in how everything runs.

The all-inclusive offering is strong, with multiple restaurants, bars and well-kept pool areas, plus reliable WiFi throughout.

It is the sort of hotel where everything just works, which matters over
a longer stay. At £1,940 for two people, you are still coming in below typical UK monthly costs.

Oludeniz Beach Resort by Z Hotels, Turkey – £1,035pp

I found a 28-night deal at Oludeniz Beach Resort, all inclusive, for just £2,070, which works out at just £1,035 per person.

October in Oludeniz sits around 24 degrees, and the setting does a lot of the work for you — mountains, coastline, and one of the best beaches in Turkey. This is less about staying in one place and more about having everything on your doorstep.

The hotel covers all the essentials with food, drinks, and facilities, but you have a lot to explore locally as well, which makes it well-suited to a longer stay. At £2,070 for two people, it’s still under the average UK living costs, but you are getting far more back for it.

Laico Hammamet, Tunisia – £1,045pp

I found a 28-night deal at Laico Hammamet, all inclusive, for just £2,090, which works out at just £1,045 per person.

Hammamet stays around 24 degrees in October, so it is warm without being overwhelming. This is where you start to notice the step up into five-star.

The spaces are bigger, the finish is cleaner, and the overall feel is more relaxed and considered. You still get the full all-inclusive setup, but with a bit more comfort built in.

At £2,090 for two people, it is effectively matching UK living costs, but with a very different standard of day-to-day life.

Sun Star Beach Hotel, Turkey – £1,050pp

I found a 28-night deal at Sun Star Beach Hotel, all inclusive, for £2,100, which works out at £1,050 per person.

Alanya sits around 25 degrees in October, so you are still getting reliably warm days throughout your stay.

This is a simpler, more no-fuss hotel that does exactly what it needs to -food and drinks are included, there is a pool and beach access, and WiFi is available.

At £2,100 for two people, it still stacks up against what most couples are paying to stay at home.

Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour, Tunisia – £1,080pp

I found a 28-night deal at Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour, all inclusive, for just £2,160 which works out at just £1,080 per person.

Mahdia sits at around 24 degrees in October, and tends to feel a bit quieter than some of the bigger resorts. Iberostar is one of those brands I trust from experience.

The food is consistently good, the service is well organised, and the overall standard is reliable.

That becomes more important the longer you stay, because small things add up. At £2,160 for two people, you are right in line with UK costs, but with everything taken care of.

Tiana Beach Resort, Turkey – £1,090pp

I found a 28-night deal at Tiana Beach Resort, all inclusive, for just £2,180, which works out at just £1,090 per person.

Bodrum sits around 24 degrees in October, which makes it one of the more comfortable climates for a longer stay. This hotel leans more towards a slower pace.

It is compact, easy to get around, and everything you need is included without it feeling over-complicated.

Food, drinks, Wi-Fi and facilities are all covered, which makes it easy to switch off properly. At £2,180 for two people, it is effectively on par with UK living costs.

Dosi Hotel, Turkey – £1,105pp

I found a 28-night deal at Dosi Hotel, all inclusive, for just £2,210, which works out at just £1,105 per person.

Side stays warm at around 25 degrees in October, so you are still very much in summer territory.

This is a classic all-inclusive setup that leans into simplicity.

Everything is in one place, food and drinks are always available, and there is enough going on to keep things interesting without needing to plan anything.

At £2,210 for two people, it sits just above the bare minimum UK monthly costs.

But when you consider not having to cook and no surprise takeaway costs, this becomes a total no-brainer.

A HEADY scent of garlic butter and grilled seafood is the perfect pairing to my view.

From beyond my mountainous crab platter, I can see dinky, weathered rowing boats bobbing on the winding creek, while the sun beams down on to a rickety jetty where seagulls are poised.

Spain may boast significantly warmer summer days than the UK, but when the sunshine makes an appearance on the south-west coast of England, there is truly no better place in the world to be.

Salcombe has always been on my bucket list.

Before my recent visit, I had heard of the Devon town’s beauty through travel magazines and friends — some of whom were so captivated by its scenery, they chose it as the place where they popped the question.

And I get their thinking.

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Charmingly wonky pubs overlook vibrant blue waters dotted with sailing boats, while narrow streets a little way back from the seafront are lined with candle shops, small boutiques and delicatessens serving fresh cockles.

I was visiting with my family as part of my mum’s 60th birthday celebrations and we were really pushing the boat out — pun intended.

Our ultra-luxurious holiday home, carved into a tall cliff, had views that somehow surpassed those from the main harbour and was kitted out with everything you could ever need for a celebratory getaway — and more.

It may come with a luxurious price tag, but if you do have plans to propose or are celebrating a milestone birthday, this house is the perfect place.

Set a little stroll away from Salcombe’s main hub, just above South Sands Beach, Lilleby is split across several floors, with five immaculately decorated bedrooms, a huge living room complete with pool table, and various levels of outdoor terraces affording sea-view al-fresco dining, a barbecue, hot tub and sunloungers.

The highlight of the Finest Stays property, however, is undoubtedly the open-plan kitchen, dining and living room, where floor-to-ceiling windows allow for prime views of the sea waves colliding into rocks and the pretty pastel houses that line the sandy shore.

The property’s interior design and furnishing only makes things more dreamy — marshmallow-like sofas, glossy bathrooms kitted out with giant reed diffusers and a sleek kitchen that comes with all the mod-cons and enough utensils for hosting a fancy dinner party or proposal meal.

Mornings were spent wandering to the quiet beach below — a gate at the bottom of the property’s garden offers direct access to the footpath which leads to the sands.

At this time of year, the undisturbed pathway is carpeted in fragrant wild garlic that can be foraged for feasts back at Lilleby.

If you’re not one for cooking, South Sands Beach is home to a glorious cafe, Bo’s Beach, with a wide decking area located right above the sands and furnished with wooden picnic benches facing the ocean.

We gobbled egg and bacon baps with coffee while watching the sea tractor ferry passengers from boats to dry land.

For a proper Devon lunch or dinner, head to Crab Shed, a stunning 45-minute stroll north of here.

This teeny restaurant has won awards for its high-quality and excellently cooked seafood, plucked fresh from local waters.

Try the whole cracked crab, its star dish, served with baguette, crispy fries and a crab cracker so you can scoop the meat from the legs and claws.

Opt for it cold, served with mayonnaise, or hot and doused in garlic butter.

Don’t forget to visit Salcombe Dairy for a scrumptious scoop of ice cream afterwards, and the Salcombe Distilling Company for a gin-tasting experience.

For a proper pint, The Ferry Inn has a great beer garden jutting out over the water.

Keep your eyes peeled for one of the many festivals throughout the year, too.

These include the Town Regatta, taking place from late July to early August.

We’re an energetic family, so much of our time was taken up exploring some of the breathtaking hiking trails nearby.

More serious hikers may even want to make their way to Dartmoor National Park, around a 30-minute drive away, to tread moss-covered hills where wild ponies and deer graze.

Even if you have packed your best camera, this scenery has to be seen to be believed — especially the views from the kitchen of Lilleby.

Just be prepared, you may feel more than a little crabby when you have to leave.

AFTER my sixth glass of wine, the boat began to rock – the first time in three days I felt like I was on the water.

Cruising down France’s majestic River Loire on board CroisiEurope’s Loire Princesse, I had to put it down to my slightly tipsy state, as until then, the unique long, low vessel had drifted along peacefully for the entire voyage.

The ship has side-mounted paddle wheels and is designed to sail on France’s last wild river, known for its shallowness.

There’s a relaxed atmosphere on board, and unlike its ocean-going cousins, the Loire Princesse has a vibe that’s all about enjoying the slower pace   —   eating, drinking and snoozing as you pass through stunning scenery.

I joined the four-night Croisi-Europe sailing just a day after my 30th birthday and the gentle pace of the cruise was exactly what I needed after big celebrations back in London.

If you thought river cruises were for older folks you’d largely be right — I was the youngest person on board by about 20 years.

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But that is not to say it was sedate — there was an open bar and at dinner my glass was constantly topped up.

Servers eventually just left entire bottles of red on our table.

The Loire Princesse took us from Nantes to Saint-Nazaire on the west coast and back again.

And Nantes, the sixth largest French city, was a highlight of the trip.

Just an hour’s flight from London, it is the perfect weekend getaway destination, with all the charm of a French city without the bustle of Paris or the remoteness of Provence.

With clean, cobbled streets, Nantes is home to plenty of exiles from Paris looking for a cheaper, quieter life, and the city feels like a mini version of it.

From July to September, follow the Green Line, or Le Voyage à Nantes — literally painted on to the pavement, it leads you through the city to discover hidden street art, pop-up installations and all the best viewing points, without needing a map.

Another arty must-do is Les Machines de I’île — unique steampunk-like artistic projects inspired by the fantasy worlds of 19th-century writer Jules Verne, who was born in Nantes.

The Grand Elephant is a 40ft mechanical jumbo made of wood and steel that walks across the quay at the city’s former shipyards, trumpeting and spraying water at unsuspecting onlookers.

You can even ride inside it.

And you can admire Le Carrousel des Mondes Marins — a giant, three-storey carousel filled with mechanical sea monsters which you can operate yourself.

And I am sure you’ll be inspired to create something beautiful yourself after a tipple or two in the Loire Valley.

The region is home to its own variety of vino — Muscadet — grown at the western end of the valley.

Muscadet is a dry, crisp white and is currently going through a bit of a renaissance, so an opportunity to visit one of the world-class wineries in the region is an absolute must.

On my trip, there were three day-trip excursions from the cruise, one of which was included in the price of the voyage, the others costing around £68 each.

In one day-long excursion from the cruise we travelled south of Nantes to the beautiful vineyard of Cassemichere.

Rather dramatically, our guide told us how the vintner’s brother had died just three weeks earlier, after opening a tank and being poisoned by the carbon dioxide flowing out.

Like the bizarre plot of some twisted nursery rhyme, the poor man had then fallen into the wine.

But I didn’t let that put me off the tasting, and I can confirm that the white made at Cassemichere pairs well with seafood.

We also visited nearby Clisson, a medieval village known for its unique Italian-inspired architecture, with a charming river flowing through the middle of it.

Clisson is the kind of place they stick on the front of the tourist brochure — large trees hanging over the flowing water with an old bridge to cross it.

It was full of history as well, and with typical French frankness, our guide told us how, in the 18th century, women had been boiled at the castle during the Revolution.

On another day trip from the boat we visited two gorgeous chateaus in the centre of the Loire Valley.

The beautiful homes are now museums, with manicured gardens which were lovely to walk around on a blue-sky day.

Each day trip came with a three-course lunch and again, plenty of wine.

At the Chateau de Villandry — a world heritage site — we ate a beautiful chicken lunch in a spot where weddings are hosted.

After all that wine and food I was in desperate need of a nap when we got back to the boat.

Luckily for us, the rooms were cleaned every day, had a sizeable bathroom and were quiet.

Cabins on the upper deck have balconies, while those on the main deck have picture windows to watch the scenery glide by.

When it came to the evening’s festivities, an intercom in our room would call us to the lounge, where we would enjoy several pre-dinner drinks.

Then, in a nice touch by staff, we would have our dinner menu announced to us.

As with the included breakfast and lunch, dinner was an à-la-carte affair.

Think refined French comfort food — plenty taking inspiration from the surrounding Loire region, including fresh seafood and local cheeses.

And, of course, the wine flowed freely — particularly the Muscadet, which was available every night with whatever dish.

In summer months, the ship’s sun deck with its deck chairs and sun loungers is the perfect place to enjoy another cheeky glass while soaking up the sun.

With its access to stunning cities and chateaus, fine food and wine, river cruises don’t only appeal to the older lot on board.

From now on I am a convert too — and got the boat rocking!

YOU can still bag a bargain break for the whole family this May half term without breaking the bank.

Travel companies like TUI, On the Beach, and Loveholidays still have some seriously affordable sunny escapes you can book for the upcoming school break.

These last-minute deals to Spain, Turkey, Portugal and beyond start from a tiny £163pp.

From colourful waterpark hotels in Turkey, to chic beachside apartments in Croatia, here are the cheapest last-minute deals you can book right now for a May getaway.

TUI – top picks for cheapest destinations

Holiday company TUI have hand-picked for Sun Travel some of their cheapest last-minute package holidays you can still book for May half term.

Neil Swanson, TUI UK Managing Director, says: “As holiday experts with decades of experience, we know how important it is for customers to secure great value holidays.

“May is a great time to travel, thanks to gorgeous weather and shoulder season prices.

“Destinations that offer year-round sun, such as Lanzarote and Turkey, also offer plenty of great value deals over the half term – and of course, booking a package gives holidaymakers extra value with flights, transfers, and 24/7 support all included as standard.”

Here are some of the most affordable holidays you can still book with TUI for the May half-term.

Marmaris, Turkey

The Club Candan in Marmaris is hard to miss with its bright yellow exterior backed by lush green mountains.

The star of the show is the massive outdoor pool, which is complete with a giant striped waterslide that keeps the kids (and adults) having fun.

Accommodation comes as spacious self-catering apartments that are perfect for families, plus there’s a poolside restaurant if you don’t fancy cooking, which hosts a weekly Turkish night with barbecues and dance shows.

TUI offer a 5-night self-catering stay from 23 May, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £539pp.

Pula, Croatia

The Park Plaza Verudela Apartments in Croatia‘s Pula are a stylish self-catering option overlooking a beautiful Blue Flag beach.

Apartments and dining areas are chic and modern, plus there’s a bar and two restaurants on the resort.

There’s plenty here for families, with a kids club that takes care of little ones and a dedicated teens club, too. As a guest here, you also get access to the spa and dining at Park Plaza Histria Pula, which is just a short walk away.

TUI offer a 7-night self-catering stay from 23 May, including return flights from Birmingham, for £698pp.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach is an ideal pick for a family holiday to Lanzarote.

This hotel has plenty of family-friendly activities on offer.

There are sports like tennis and volleyball.

Plus a daily activities programme including pool games, character parades, and unique “family togetherness” activities for all ages.

There’s also a splash pool with slides, and dedicated kids clubs for ages 0 – 17.

With so many exciting things to do, don’t forget to relax, too.

There’s a sunlounger-lined pool where you can lay back and watch the kids play in the splash pool, plus you’re just steps away from Playa Flamingo Beach.

TUI offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay, including return flights from Newcastle, for £874.05pp.

On the Beach – top picks for cheapest destinations

Holiday company On the Beach have found some very affordable last-minute breaks for the May half term for Sun Travel.

Caspar Nelson, holiday expert at On the Beach says: “There are still some incredible value holidays available for May half term, with deals from just £135pp still available”.

His top picks for last-minute, affordable holidays this May half term include Spain, Portugal and Tenerife.

“For families and couples looking to get away without overspending, Spain and Portugal continue to offer some of the best-value options thanks to their reliable sunshine, short flight times and wide choice of resorts.

“Benidorm remains a go-to for families wanting lively beaches and plenty to do, while Costa Brava is ideal for classic seaside breaks with pretty coves and charming towns”.

“Lloret de Mar is a popular pick for groups and younger travellers looking for a fun atmosphere, and the Algarve offers a more relaxed escape with golden beaches and scenic coastal spots.

“For travellers wanting to make their budget go further, all-inclusive breaks are also proving especially popular for May half term.”

Benidorm, Spain

This Benidorm break from On the Beach is an absolute bargain at just £180pp.

Stay at the Apartments Las Torres, a modern complex just a few minutes’ walk from the lively strip, and just a stone’s throw away from the golden Levante beach.

Each apartment comes fully kitted out with a living room and TV, a well-equipped kitchen, a double bedroom and balcony.

There’s also a spacious outdoor pool with a kids zone, plus a golf course nearby to practice your swing. On the Beach offers a 5-night self-catering stay from May 24, including return flights from Belfast, for £180pp.

Costa Brava, Spain

This four-star Costa Brava stay is in the prime location for a sunny Spanish holiday.

It’s just a short walk from the Pierre & Vacances Estartit Playa to the local beach, which is a quiet spot with soft sands and calm, shallow waters. There’s even water sports, kayaking and boat hire available on the beach.

This complex offers apartments that sleep up to six, perfect for a big group holiday. Plus there’s a play area and games like table tennis on site to entertain all ages.

On the Beach offer a 5-night self-catering stay from May 24, including return flights from Glasgow, for just £163pp.

The Algarve, Portugal

This luxurious resort in the Algarve has a stunning sun terrace with a sparkling outdoor pool.

The terracota-coloured Colina da Lapa complex has 70 stylish apartments, plus a swimming pool and free shuttle to the nearest beach.

The charming fishing town of Carvoeiro is under 10 minutes’ drive away, and has beautiful beaches, caves and hiking trails to explore.

On the Beach offer a 5-night self-catering stay from May 24, including return flights from Edinburgh, for just £470pp.

Callao Salvaje, Tenerife

“Tenerife is another strong choice, offering dependable sunshine, family-friendly resorts and plenty to do for all ages” says Caspar Nelson.

“With demand high during school holidays, the best-value destinations are likely to be snapped up quickly by late bookers.

“So holidaymakers are urged to act fast to lock in deals now available.”

Bag this Tenerife deal from On the Beach for an affordable all-inclusive stay at the family-friendly BLUESEA Callao Garden.

This holiday complex has three large outdoor pools to choose from, as well as a pool bar to grab a delicious chilled drink to enjoy in the sun.

It’s only 20 minutes from Tenerife Sur Reina Sofia airport, so you can avoid the dreaded overly-long coach transfer.

Plus there’s a beautiful beach just a 10-minute stroll away.

On the Beach offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay at the BLUESEA Callao Garden from May 24, including return flights from Edinburgh, for just £308pp.

Travel Supermarket – top picks for the cheapest destinations

Travel Supermarket has crunched the numbers to find us some of the cheapest destinations where you can still book a holiday this May half-term.

Gathering data based on a seven-night family holiday with two adults and two children, departing 23 or 24 May, the company found the following destinations came out on top.

Spain’s Costa Brava ranked number one, followed by the Costa Dorada and the Bourgas Area of Bulgaria.

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, analysed the top 10 cheapest destinations for May half-term.

He says: “For those with a little more flexibility on budget, the rest of the top 10 cheapest destinations for May half term are: Lanzarote (£726.88pp), Malta (£730.76pp), Larnaca (£738.93pp), Fuerteventura (£744.40pp), Agadir (£767.55pp), Dalaman (£771.53pp) and Paphos (£778.52pp).”

Costa Dorada, Spain

Spain’s Costa Dorada is the ideal family beach holiday destination.

And it turns out that it’s one of the most affordable options for booking a last-minute break, too.

Chris Webber says: “Costa Dorada is a solid value option for families, with good flight connections and a wide range of resorts keeping competition – and prices – keen.”

Travel Supermarket found the average cost of a week-long holiday during the May half-term to the Costa Dorada to be £638.78pp, making it one of their most affordable last-minute holiday destinations.

The Medplaya Hotel Vistamar sits on the beach, and is a family-friendly choice with a children’s playground, large family-sized rooms and entertainment including a games room and pétanque court.

Travel Supermarket offers a 7-night half-board stay from 23 May, including return flights from London Luton, for £499pp.

Bourgas Area, Bulgaria

Bulgaria, specifically the Bourgas Area, also ranked highly as one of the cheaper destinations to visit this May half-term.

Chris Webber says: “Bulgaria always tends to be decent value, and the Bourgas area in particular is great for all-inclusive deals.

“Families can keep their overall costs right down once they’re there.”

Travel Supermarket found the average cost of a week-long holiday during the May half term to the Bourgas Area to be £662.10pp – but we found an even cheaper deal.

Hotel Tiara Beach is a four-star resort with an excellent kids club and activity program, plus an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna and more.

Plus, with this all-inclusive deal, you don’t have to worry about the additional costs of food and drink.

Travel Supermarket offers a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 25 May, including return flights from Birmingham, for £579pp.

Loveholidays – top picks for the cheapest destinations

Holiday website Loveholidays has rounded up some of its cheapest destinations for last-minute holidays this May.

Al Murray, Chief Marketing and Supply Officer at loveholidays, says: “With May half-term just around the corner, we’re still seeing fantastic value in sunny short-haul destinations.

“There are deals to be had in Spanish hotspots like Costa Brava, Gandia, Tenerife and Majorca in particular, offering families short flight times, reliable weather and plenty to do.”

Here are Loveholidays’ pick of last-minute holiday deals this May half term.

Majorca, Balearic Islands

The four-star Portodrach Aparthotel & Suites is a glamorous, modern resort with spacious self-catering apartments and all the amenities you’d need for a sunny Spain holiday.

The complex has a large swimming pool dotted with parasols and loungers, a poolside snack bar and even a swim-up bar.

Activities available range from a games room, to water sports like surfing and banana boat hire, to golfing at the nearby golf course.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night self-catering stay from 24 May, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £359pp.

Gandia, Spain

Hotel RH Arena By Hoteles RH in Gandia, Spain is a stunning place to stay just steps from a stretch of golden sand.

Whether you’re cooling off in the crystal-clear freshwater pool or hitting the sauna for a detox, this Spanish gem has everything you need for a recharge.

Watch the chefs in action with show-cooking in the restaurant, or grab a quick snack from the cafe. The hotel bar is the main hub for a chilled drink, providing plenty of space to relax and socialise out of the sun.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay with breakfast from 24 May, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £379pp.

Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

Situated in lively Puerto de la Cruz, the family-friendly Casablanca resort is a top tier pick for Tenerife.

You’re just a 10-minute stroll from the sand, but there is plenty to do on-site, with a heated outdoor pool and kids club to keep little ones entertained.

After a day of lounging by the pool or exploring the nearby old town, you can settle in for a night of live music and shows.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night self-catering stay from 24 May, including return flights from London Stansted, for £319pp.

A UK airport will cease all flights from today as it winds down for good after operating for 90 years.

The site is earmarked for a multi-billion-pound green energy plant.

Flights from Coventry Airport will officially end today, May 9, and the site is set to permanently close on June 11, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The airport first started life as Baginton Aerodrome in 1936.

It then operated as RAF Baginton during the Second World War and going on to run commercial passenger flights, general aviation and air ambulance services.

Since 2008 though, there have been no scheduled passenger flights, leading to the decision to close the site.

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Plans are now in place to turn the site into a £2.5billion battery factory designed for electric vehicle production, following planning permission approval for Greenpower Park in 2022.

GreenPower Park is expected to create up to 6,000 jobs.

Former regeneration councillor at Coventry City Council Jim O’Boyle previously said: “What we want to see are thousands of jobs created here, giving the area an economic lift.”

Mr O’Boyle, who has served on the council since 2007, lost his seat in the recent local elections to the Green Party.

Passenger flights largely began from Coventry Airport in the 1950s, ferrying passengers to the Channel Islands.

Hards Travel began operating package holiday flights to Spain, France and Italy in the 1980s, and Thomsonfly began operating jet passenger flights in 2004.

In the same year, Wizz Air flew passengers to Gdańsk and Katowice, although these stopped after just four years of operation.

Most recently, the airport had been used for charter flights and training.

This comes after Coventry announced it would close its airport in early December 2025.

BRITISH Airways passengers face higher fares after its parent company warned rising oil prices will add about £1.72billion to its fuel bill this year.

International Airlines Group (IAG), which also owns Iberia and Aer Lingus, said it expects to pass on part of the extra cost through ticket prices, with business class and other premium long-haul passengers among those most likely to be affected.

Chief executive Luis Gallego said airlines need to increase fares to help offset fuel costs, which make up about a quarter of their spending.

The rise follows disruption linked to the Middle East conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments.

IAG warned the crisis could deepen if the strait remains blocked, with global jet fuel supplies potentially restricted.

However, the group said it does not expect any disruption to summer fuel supplies.

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Mr Gallego said there is less jet fuel coming from the Middle East, but there are “other places with record supply” such as the US.

He said IAG has been “planning for situations like this for many years”, and has invested in its own jet fuel supply at its “main hubs”.

The company recorded a pre-tax profit of £365million during the three months to the end of March.

That was a 76.6% increase from £207million a year earlier.

The group now expects its annual fuel bill to reach £7.78billion.

Mr Gallego attributed the firm’s “strong first quarter” to “continued strong demand for our networks and airline brands”.

He added: “IAG is uniquely positioned to navigate the current headwinds created by the Middle East conflict thanks to our leading positions across diverse markets, strong brands, structurally high margins and strong balance sheet, as well as a strong track record of execution.”

IAG said about 3% of its capacity was “exposed to the Gulf region” at the start of the war on February 28, mostly with British Airways flights.

A large part of this has been redeployed, including boosting capacity at destinations where there are now fewer flights by Middle East carriers such as Bangkok, Singapore and the Maldives.

British Airways has also announced additional flights this summer on routes with higher demand for direct flights, such as India and Nairobi.

IF you’re dreaming of plunging into hot tubs, wrapping up in fluffy robes and sipping glasses of bubbly by the pool – we’ve found some deals for you.

We’ve scoured the internet for UK getaways to luxurious spa hotels for ridiculously affordable prices.

From countryside estates with four-poster beds and manicured gardens, to swanky city-centre hidden sanctuaries, we’ve found a wide range of dreamy escapes.

Here are the best budget-friendly spa staycations you can book right now – with prices from a budget-friendly £42pp.

Woodland spa retreat for two at the 4* Abbey Hotel in Worcestershire

Enjoy a break at the four-star Abbey Hotel Golf & Country Club in Redditch, Worcestershire – a countryside escape just 15 miles south of Birmingham.

This charming hotel sits on a sprawling 175-acre estate, plus you have an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub to enjoy.

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This Wowcher deal lets you pick from a one or two-night stay, with breakfast and use of the spa facilities included.

Wowcher offer a one-night stay with breakfast and use of the spa facilities starts at £89 for two, and a two-night stay from £185.

Coastal Spa break at the 4* Beaches Hotel & Spa in North Wales

Treat yourself to a spa break in Prestatyn, North Wales, at the colourful coastal retreat The Beaches Hotel & Spa.

On this spa break you can chill out by the indoor pool and enjoy the seaside scenery, plus you can upgrade to include a treatment package such as a hot stone massage or cooling foot treatment.

You also get £25 dining credit per person, so you can enjoy an evening meal in the hotel’s cosy restaurant, or a traditional afternoon tea.

Nearby you can wander coastal paths and dip into souvenir shops in the picturesque seaside town.

Wowcher offer a night’s stay for two with spa access for £99, or you can add on a treatment for each person for a break that will cost £199 total.

Luxurious 4* spa escape to Cadbury Hill near Bristol

Enjoy an escape to DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House, a beautiful restored 18th century building overlooking a large shimmering pond.

The four-star hotel is surrounded by beautiful landscaped grounds, which are perfect to explore on a sunny afternoon walk after relaxing in the spa.

The award-winning spa has a swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, thermal suite and gym to make use of during your stay.

Wowcher offer a one-night stay for two with a welcome drink of bubbly, breakfast, and full access to the spa facilities from £84, working out at £42 per person.

Or you can upgrade to a two-night stay from £214 total.

4* Countryside retreat at Greenwoods Hotel & Spa in Essex

Enjoy a stay in the peaceful village of Stock in Essex at the countryside Greenwoods Hotel & Spa.

Here you can unwind in the indoor pool, relax in the hot tub, and enjoy a soothing sit-down in the steam room or sauna after making the most of the hotel’s fitness suite.

Afterwards you can return to a cosy bedroom with a large comfy bed and glamorous decor.

Wowcher offer one night’s stay for two including breakfast and access to the spa facilities from £169, or you can upgrade to two nights from £319 total.

City centre spa retreat at the 4* Leonardo Royal Hotel Tower Bridge, London

You can’t get much more central than a stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in London’s picturesque Tower Bridge.

This swanky city hotel has its own gym, swimming pool, spa and sauna – plus you can add-on treatments like body wraps, massages and anti-aging facials.

Groupon offer a one-night stay in a superior king room for two including access to the spa from £128 total.

Countryside spa break at the Hogs Back Hotel & Spa Farnham, Surrey

This grand countryside retreat in Surrey has traditional rooms with four-poster beds, a stylish restaurant and a luxurious spa.

This spa has everything you need, including a large indoor pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub and fitness centre.

Nearby you can visit the impressive Hampton Court Palace, or spot rare species at the British Wildlife Centre.

Groupon offer one night’s stay for two, including breakfast and access to the spa facilities, from £89 total.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

THERE’S nothing worse than getting caught out by dreaded overweight baggage fees at the airport.

Thankfully this nifty gadget can help you avoid forking out up to hundreds in extra luggage charges.

MYCarbon Portable Luggage Scale, £6.98 (was £10.99)

The luggage scale is currently on sale at 36% off. It originally sold at £10.99 and it costs only £6.98 today.

Even if you’ve made sure your bag or suitcase fits within your airline’s sizing limits, that doesn’t mean it won’t become too heavy.

Airlines can charge extortionate fees for overweight luggage.

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British Airways, for example, charges you a heavy bag charge of £65 even if your luggage is just 1kg over the 23kg weight limit.

This applies to both the way there and the way home, so this expensive mistake could cost you £130.

Jet2 and easyJet charge a fee of £12 per kilo you are over the weight limit.

This means that if you overpack to the 32kg limit for a standard 15kg bag, you would be charged a stinging £204.

That’s twice the cost of some city breaks just to bring your suitcase with you.

MYCarbon Portable Luggage Scale, £6.98 (was £10.99)

Avoid getting caught out and having to fork out a fee by using this nifty at-home luggage scale.

The gadget has nearly 27,000 reviews, the large majority of which are 5-star and praise how easy it is to use.

One happy shopper shared: “I can confidently say it is a must-have for anyone looking to avoid those dreaded “overweight” fees at the airport.

“It’s rare to find a gadget that is both simple and incredibly effective, but this hits the mark.”

He continued to write: “​If you want a scale that is sturdy, comfortable to hold, and accurate, look no further. It does exactly what it promises with zero hassle”.

Another delighted reviewer said: “Before discovering this scale, I often faced the stress and uncertainty of whether my luggage would meet airline weight restrictions.”

“With the MYCARBON scale, those worries are a thing of the past”.

While there are luggage scales at some airports, it’s much easier to weigh your bags at home then take out what you don’t need, rather than find out at the airport that it’s already too late.

Plus nobody wants to be stuck buying a new suitcase at the airport, where prices are often hiked for passengers in a pinch left with no choice.

And who wants to essentially pay for their holiday twice just because you forgot to weigh your luggage at home?

It’s even been reported that some airline staff are rewarded with ‘bonuses‘ for catching out passengers with oversized baggage.

Avoid those pesky fees by using this scale – you can even pack it and bring it with you on holiday to make sure that your bags aren’t over the weight limit from any shopping you do abroad.

MYCarbon Portable Luggage Scale, £6.98 (was £10.99)

Prices correct at time of publication.

TWO holiday destinations are losing their Virgin flights until next year.

The major airline has confirmed that flights to both Dubai and Seattle will no longer go ahead this year.

Flights to Dubai are off the cards for most airlines right now, with the Iran war putting the winter sun destination on the no-travel list.

Virgin Atlantic had already suspended flights from London Heathrow to Dubai, but has now confirmed they would not go ahead until winter 2027.

It comes as its London Heathrow flights to Riyadh were cancelled entirely after just a year.

The airline is also suspending flights to Seattle until March 27, 2027.

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A Virgin spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, we have taken the difficult decision to temporarily suspend our seasonal service to Dubai for the winter 2026 season, while services to Seattle will also be temporarily suspended for the winter 2026 season only, before resuming in March 2027.

“Customers can continue to travel to Seattle with our partner Delta Air Lines who will offer daily services from London Heathrow.”

“We’d like to apologise to any affected customers and will be contacting them with their options which include rebooking or a refund.”

The airline is instead adding more flights to two of its destination in Africa.

From October 25, there will be 11 weekly flights to Cape Town, as well as 10 a week to Johannesburg.

They added: “The updated flight schedule enhances convenience for travellers, with earlier morning arrivals into South Africa allowing passengers to maximise their time on the ground, and later evening departures offering a more seamless overnight journey to London.”

A UK seaside town is set to receive a new direct train service to London.

The “underrated” seafront spot is often overlooked by tourists for more popular Welsh beaches.

Welsh Labour has pledged to create a direct rail service that will link Milford Haven, in Pembrokeshire, to London.

Passengers will be able to travel straight from the seaside town to the capital with the new route, which promises to bolster economic and tourism growth in the surrounding area.

Alongside the speedy service to London, the upgrade would also include an hourly service and safety improvements to the station’s level crossing.

The new route will build upon the current £50 million investment into Milford Haven’s transport links.

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I love the often-slated English seaside resort with Europe’s biggest pleasure pier

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Refurbishments on the town’s railway service are already underway, aiming to develop Milford Haven into a modern transport hub.

Plans for the renovation include new modern facilities, a relocated train platform, improved walking and cycling routes, a new taxi rank and better parking.

The investment is being delivered in partnership by the Welsh Labour Government and Pembrokeshire County Council.

The First Minister of Wales and leader of Welsh Labour, Eluned Morgan, said: “This pledge sits alongside a record commitment to rail in Wales – up to £14 billion of investment, new stations and a transformed Metro.”

“But this is about more than just a rail line.

“It’s about opening Pembrokeshire up – bringing more people to one of the most beautiful parts of Wales, strengthening our tourism sector, and creating new opportunities for local businesses to grow.

“This is how we build a stronger future for west Wales – with better connections, more opportunity and an economy that works with our environment, not against it.”

Milford Haven, located on the Pembrokeshire coast, is an “underrated” seafront town, according to Wales Online, often overlooked for the more popular seaside spot of Tenby.

Less crowded than its competitor, visitors to Milford Haven will find charming shops, restaurants and sandy beaches.

The harbour town is also home to Wales’s largest fishing port.

The proposed direct rail service will aim to develop tourism in the town and surrounding Pembrokeshire area, and support the local economy.

Marc Tierney, Welsh Labour candidate for Ceredigion Penfro, said: “A direct train to London from Milford would be a game changer for our communities – boosting tourism, supporting local businesses and making it easier for people to live and work here.

“The work underway to transform Milford Haven station into a modern transport hub, alongside plans for an hourly service, shows what Welsh Labour can deliver when we work in partnership with local authorities – investing in the infrastructure our communities deserve.

“With new funding from the UK Labour Government and a strong partnership in place, we can now go further.”

THE BOSS of Wetherspoons has hit back at Ryanair after the airline proposed to scrap the beloved airport breakfast pint.

Sir Tim Martin, 71, boss slammed the idea to ban the sale of alcohol before early morning flights as a “Big Brother” approach.

Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary, recently called for a ban after saying the rise in badly behaved passengers is causing huge problems for the airline.

He said it had become a “real challenge for all airlines” and questioned why punters needed a pint in the early hours of the morning.

O’Leary has also previously suggested a two-drink cap, something he says the airline tends to follow onboard, in an effort to clamp down on bad behaviour by passengers.

But JD Wetherspoon chief Martin said it could lead to passengers being breathalysed and added that any drinks limit would be hard to manage, The Times reports.

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He told the outlet: “It is in everyone’s interests to have good behaviour at airports and on flights.

“A two-drink limit would be extraordinarily difficult to implement, short of breathalysing passengers, and would, in our opinion, be an overreaction — especially since many of the problems stem from incoming flights.”

Wetherspoon also claimed that the majority of its airport sales were not alcohol and any ban would result in passengers buying alcohol elsewhere prior to arriving at the airport.

But O’Leary said the problem with passengers is getting worse – previously the airline would have around one flight diversion a week, which has since increased to “one diversion a day”.

Current rules allow pubs and restaurants in airports to serve alcohol at any time as they do not have to follow the same licensing rules elsewhere in the country.

Passengers drunk on a plane can face being jailed for up to two years, and huge fines if they force a plane to divert of up to £80,000.

IF you’re dreaming of a week away somewhere hot and sunny for a price that won’t break the bank – we’ve got you covered.

We’ve rounded up some of the most affordable holiday deals to Turkey online, so you can book yourself a break to look forward to without worrying about your wallet.

The Sun’s Head Of Travel, Lisa Minot said: “There’s never been a better time to grab a bargain break to Turkey.

“With uncertainty over the Middle East conflict, holidaymakers have been looking at the Western Med over the Eastern Mediterranean destinations like Turkey, Cyprus and Egypt.

“But everything is operating normally in all three countries – Foreign Office travel advice has not changed and it is perfectly safe to visit.

“But the reticence of some has led to a fall in demand and with that, prices have started tumbling too.

Read more on Turkey holidays

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“On the ground, everything remains the same – only the prices you’ll pay are very attractive as hoteliers and tour operators tempt us to travel.

“With beautiful Mediterranean coastal resorts offering great value, now is the time to grab yourself a sunshine bargain.”

Piccolo Dream Hotel, Marmaris

This adults-only hotel in Marmaris has two large freshwater pools, a gym, spa offering massage treatments, sauna and Turkish bath to enjoy.

When you get peckish, there’s a buffet restaurant with a range of international foods, plus a pool bar to grab a snack – all part of your all-inclusive package.

There’s a golden beach right on your doorstep, plus out in Marmaris you can hop on day boat trips, hike through caves and stroll along the picturesque Marina overlooked by Marmaris Castle.

Jet2 offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from June 28, including return flights from London Luton, from £547pp.

Villa Sonata Hotel, Alanya

This colourful hotel in sunny Alanya is decorated with blooming pink flowers, lush greenery and a bright blue pool surrounded by pretty yellow sun loungers.

Here you’re only a short walk from the beach, but there’s plenty to enjoy on the resort too – such as a sauna and Turkish bath, as well as a rooftop restaurant with sweeping views.

In popular seasons, the hotel also offer live music and folklore nights once a week.

On the Beach offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from June 11, including return flights from London Gatwick, from £455pp.

Vikingen Infinity Hotel, Antalya

Bag a last-minute May half term holiday at this five-star mega resort in sunny Antalya, Turkey.

This massive family-friendly hotel has its own private beach, plus a massive outdoor pool and water park with plenty of thrilling waterslides.

For the grown-ups, there’s a large spa with a sauna, hammam and treatments such as massages on offer.

While prices per person can peak to £1,100+ during the summer holidays, you can bag a last-minute bargain for £689pp during the May half term.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 24 May, including return flights from East Midlands, from £689pp.

Serenis Hotel, Side

A week at a five-star all-inclusive resort in sunny Side for less than £480pp? Yes please.

The Serenis Hotel is a sight to behold with a large building holding 358 rooms, a huge outdoor pool, and rainbow-coloured waterslides.

There’s a kids club and daily children’s entertainment program to keep little ones entertained, and when you fancy a family outing, there’s loads of historical sites on your doorstep including Roman ruins.

You can book a last-minute, all-inclusive stay during the May half term for a very affordable rate.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 25 May, including return flights from Glasgow, from £479pp.

Amon Hotel Belek, Antalya

This four-star, adults-only slice of paradise is set in sunny Belek and backed by beautiful pine forests.

Take your pick between the two outdoor pools or the indoor option, and make the most of the spa, sauna, steam room and 24-hour gym.

The spacious rooms come with balconies, flatscreen TVs and large comfy beds.

You’re well-located here, too, with bars, restaurants and even golf courses within 5 minutes’ driving distance.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 8 June, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £359pp.

Smart Voxx Resort Marmaris

The Smart Voxx Resort Marmaris offers everything you’d need for a classic all-inclusive break.

Plunge into the pool or zip down the waterslides, or simply kick back on the striped loungers to soak up the rays on the sun terrace.

There’s a large buffet restaurant serving up all your meals and snacks throughout the day, as well as a lobby and poolside bar where you can unwind with an ice-cold drink.

And if you fancy an afternoon coffee and pastry, head to the on-site Patisserie for a pick-me-up treat.

On the Beach offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 9 June, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £480pp.

Belpoint Beach Hotel, Beldibi

The Belpoint Beach Hotel sits at the base of the scenic Toros Mountains, meaning at this resort you’re surrounded by vibrant plants and dramatic views.

The outdoor swimming pool has its own aqua park, and plenty of loungers to laze on surrounding it – there’s also a kids pool for the little ones here, too.

When the sun goes down, make sure to head to the evening disco to show off some moves – all-inclusive cocktail in hand, of course.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night all-inclusive stay from 1 July, including return flights from London Gatwick, for £329pp.

RYANAIR is considering cancelling all flights to another airport in Europe over a dispute in airport fees.

The airline is reportedly set to close its base at Makedonia Airport later this year.

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Ryanair currently operates three aircraft from its base in Thessaloniki, but is considering shutting it down from October 2026.

Reports have been linked to issues related to a 15 per cent increase in airport charges.

However, no official announcement has been made by the airline.

With the airline considering leaving the city, there are growing concerns about tourism within Thessaloniki – a place where tourists visit to see Mount Olympus and the beautiful beaches of Halkidiki.

The news has prompted Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis to call an emergency meeting with regional tourism officials to assess the situation.

A tourism representative told local media that the “priority for everyone is and must be the interest of the city.

“If the reason for the possible closure is the high increases, then Fraport should reconsider its pricing policy.”

Sun Travel has approached Ryanair for comment.

This isn’t the first time Ryanair has closed a base due to the rising cost of airport fees.

The budget airline confirmed last year they would be cutting 1.2million seats across Spain and closing bases in the likes of Valladolid and Santiago de Compostela.

The airline also recently announced that it would be reducing its flight schedule to and from Berlin by 50 per cent.

When it comes to flights being affected, this means Ryanair passenger numbers will fall from 4.5million to 2.2million by next year.

This will affect flights from the UK which includes routes from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh.

MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.

There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.

Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.

COMILLAS, SPAIN

DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.

It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.

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Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.

The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.

Find out more at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER, FRANCE

ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.

Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.

Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.

And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.

GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.

See evancy.com.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

BILBAO, SPAIN

IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.

The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.

Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.

This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.

Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.

Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.

There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.

GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.

Yiou can book at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TOUQUET-PARIS-PLAGE, FRANCE

THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.

Don’t take my word for it, though.

Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.

You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.

It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.

On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.

GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.

See legrandhotel-letouquet.com/en.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

COURSEULLES-SUR-MER, FRANCE

A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.

Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.

Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.

Juno beach is a great spot to try it.

For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.

It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.

For details, see brittany-ferries.co.uk.