Travel advice

AN INTERACTIVE tool can show you the best budget festival near you this summer.

This handy tool shows how you can max out your festival experiences – on a budget.

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Input your postcode and your favourite partying partner’s, and it will show all the summer shindigs you could be going to.

From comedy to music fests of all genres – the tool has it all.

It comes after research of 2,000 adults found Gen Z’s ideal summer would consist of five festivals and four trips abroad – but they have less than £1,000 to spend.

They would like to have a day at the beach seven times and go on four staycations during the three hottest months of the year.

And visiting a theme park is a summer must for 23 per cent.

But 79 per cent aren’t sure they’ll be able to afford everything they’d like to do – so, nearly four in 10 are planning to find cost-effective ways to travel to make the most of their budget.

Despite this, 23 per cent insist on tickets to at least one music festival this summer and a holiday abroad with pals is a ‘non-negotiable’.

But 24 per cent won’t compromise on comfortable and reliable travel to any events they go to.

As three quarters believe quality transport between events is important, because they want to be comfortable on long journeys (46 per cent) and want to get their trip off to the best start (44 per cent).

John Boughton, commercial director for National Express, which commissioned the research, said: “While the appetite for adventure is sky-high, the reality of rising costs means many young people are having to balance their dreams with what’s actually doable.

“As our tool shows, we are lucky enough to have hundreds of festivals and events around the UK at our fingertips, but a big blocker is the cost of an entertainment-filled weekend in a field – the prices can be well into the hundreds.

“That’s why we’re seeing Gen Z getting smart with their spending—being selective, savvy and seeking out ways to make the most of their money, with the travel there and back being key.”

The research also found Gen Z would like to attend six BBQs this summer and have fish and chips by the beach six times, while 29 per cent would love to spend more cash on dining out or takeaways, to save the strain of cooking.

And one in five have made plans to splash out on one or two key things this summer, but 17 per cent admit they’ve barely thought about it.

However, 72 per cent now feel as though having fun in the summer is a ‘luxury’, according to the OnePoll.com figures.

Although 43 per cent still say it’s more important to have fun in the sun – compared to the 15 per cent who reckon being sensible is a better option.

John Boughton, commercial director for National Express, added: “Ultimately, Gen Z aren’t prepared to sit the summer out.

“They’re finding clever ways to stay in the moment, prioritise what matters most, and still have an unforgettable time and it is encouraging that they are looking for affordable, reliable and comfortable travel to get the most out of their summer.

“This is a generation that thrives on fun, freedom and flexibility—and they’re making it work, one plan at a time.”

A BEAUTY enthusiast has revealed “the best hot girl holiday hack” that will ensure you never feel floated in a bikini again.

So if you’re lucky enough to be jetting aboard any time soon and want to feel confident in your swimwear this summer, you’ve come to the right place and will need to take notes.

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And don’t worry if your purse is feeling tighter than ever and you’ve already splashed the cash on a new beach bag and a posh pair of sandals, as this trick is incredibly purse-friendly.

In fact, it will work out at just 44p a time – yes, you heard that correctly. 

Posting on social media, Julia, who is on a mission to “glow up” her life, revealed the key to staying slender whilst abroad. 

The trainee nutritionist said: “Let me give you the best holiday bloating hot girl tip – I used to be that girl who’d go on holiday and be scared to eat all the food that I want, enjoy my time, because I’d constantly feel bloated.

“I just wouldn’t want to be in my bikini – the bloating would get so bad and uncomfortable because I was eating foods my body wasn’t used to.

“And I discovered the best hot girl holiday hack ever that means I can go away, feel comfortable in my bikini, not bloat, enjoy all the food and just have a great time.”

Julia explained that in order to put bloating at bay, she swears by the Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes – supplements containing enzymes involved in the digestion of protein, carbohydrate, fat, fibre, and lactose.

Julia’s favourite Digestive Enzymes contain a high-strength, broad-spectrum mixture of vegetarian digestive enzymes that facilitate the normal breakdown of proteins and tripeptides. 

According to the product description, these supplements contain alpha-galactosidase that promotes the breakdown of certain complex carbohydrates, such as raffinose and stachyose, found in some legumes, vegetables, and grains.

In turn, this helps “to relieve occasional bloating or gas.”

A pack of 30 capsules will cost you £13.49, working out at just 44p per tablet. 

Clearly a huge fan of the supplements, the content creator continued: “I cannot tell you how much I love Digestive Enzymes – magic pill, take them 15 minutes before you eat any meal and these help you break down food your body’s not used to eating.

Omg been looking for a solution for this for years

TikTok user

“I can have a pizza and not bloat when I take Digestive Enzymes – trust me, this is worth your investment.” 

The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @juliaglowguide, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as in just three days, it has quickly racked up 235,700 views. 

One person said: “I’ve never heard of these! Thank you.” 

Another added: “Omg been looking for a solution for this for years.” 

Meanwhile, one woman beamed: “They’re amazing, only thing that’s worked for me.” 

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club

BRITS chasing the sun this summer could face fresh holiday hell as bar staff prepare to strike during peak season.

It comes after 80,000 employees took to the streets in Tenerife earlier in the year demanding better pay and working conditions.

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In a move that could spark chaos for Brits travelling to Tenerife this summer, union bosses said industrial action could start as early as July.

The unions, Sindicalistas de Base and UGT, have issued bosses with an ultimatum, warning of a major walk out if they are not granted a 6.5 per cent salary bump.

They have made it clear that no further negotiations will happen if these conditions are not met.

This isn’t the first time Tenerife has been at the centre of sweeping industrial action.

Last month, cleaners and restaurant workers in the sunny hotspot took to the streets after deeming an offer from their employer not acceptable.

The tourism employers’ association, formed by Ashotel and AERO, had offered a four per cent increase in pay for workers, hoping it would prevent them from protesting during the Easter holidays.

But unions wanted 6.25 per cent.

They said their decision was unanimous and would not change plans to strike against tourists.

With over 170,000 tourism workers in the Canary Islands set to protest, business owners about to welcome thousands of tourists were despairing.

They planned to demonstrate in all the tourist hotspots, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

By law, strikers have to provide a “minimum service” but the unions said hotel cleaning, food and entertainment don’t fall into this category.

They said they must try and preserve the health of hotel workers and provide them with the very best of working conditions.

Elsewhere, locals flooded the streets to protest against mass tourism in the area.

Activists vowed to storm popular tourist attractions, disrupt public events and “confront political leaders” in a fiery new phase of protests kicking off May 18 — right as peak holiday season begins.

“From now on, we will take our fight to the very spaces where their predatory model is perpetuated,” declared pressure group Canarias tiene un límite (The Canaries Have a Limit).

“We will boycott public events, confront political leaders during their appearances and occupy symbolic tourist spaces to make it clear that we will not stop until real change is achieved.”

“The Canary Islands can no longer be a postcard backdrop for the enjoyment of a privileged few,” the statement read.

In a separate warning, the group said: “This cry, which reflects the feelings of a people tired of being ignored and mistreated, will be the beginning of a new stage of struggle: firmer, more direct, more uncomfortable for those who refuse to listen to us and take real measures.”

The backlash follows a 170,000-strong hotel and restaurant workers’ strike across the islands just days ago, with locals slamming low wages and poor working conditions in the booming holiday industry.

In June last year, beach workers also walked off the job over what unions called “precarious” conditions.

As tensions boil over, the Canary Islands Government has now announced plans to completely overhaul its outdated 30-year-old tourism laws in a landmark reform effort.

Alfonso Cabello, spokesperson for the regional government, said: “We’re doing this the Canary Islands way — extending a hand and listening to everyone.”

The sweeping reforms aim to tackle everything from sky-high housing costs in tourist areas to crumbling infrastructure and overworked public services.

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IT doesn’t get more exciting than sailing in style to a paradise Caribbean private island.

And even more cruise lines are now going all out to host passengers on their own islands.

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Royal Caribbean last week announced its second Perfect Day destination off Mexico, opening in 2027, which will include a waterpark with 30 slides, the longest lazy river in the world, adults-only beach clubs and a host of bars and restaurants.

Lisa Minot looks at existing private islands you can cruise to.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

IT was Royal who upped the ante with the launch of its revamped Perfect Day at Coco Cay in 2019.

The £185million transformation of its Bahamas island included a new pier, thrill rides and chill zones.

There are seven beaches to laze beside the warm waters and six pools, including Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean with swim-up bar and in-water loungers.

The Thrill Waterpark has 14 slides including the tallest in North America while Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon are perfect places for the kids to play.

There’s complimentary food at four restaurants as well as a host of bars and shops.

The adult-only Hideaway Beach opened in January last year and, for an extra charge, over-18s can enjoy a private beach, two pools, seven bars and two restaurants.

Also available to book for an extra charge are overwater cabanas, a zipline and tethered hot air balloon as well as kayak tours and snorkelling excursions.

GO: A week full-board on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is from £1,064pp, sailing from Miami on November 8 and calling at St Maarten, St Thomas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

See royalcaribbean.com.

MSC CRUISES

WITH its signature stripey lighthouse and two miles of white sand beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is a regular port of call for MSC cruise ships.

They sail from their new private terminal in Miami as well as Port Canaveral in Florida and New York, including MSC World America, which made its debut in April.

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The Italian cruise line has transformed a former sand excavation site in the last ten years, planting more than 75,000 trees and bringing back marine life and birds.

A newly-opened conservation centre on the island allows guests to discover their achievements and includes a land-based coral nursery and fully-equipped bio-lab.

But cruise guests will also appreciate the island’s laid-back vibe with food trucks and restaurants offering Bahamian specialities, barbecue classics, snacks and oodles of ice cream and beach bars serving tropical cocktails.

There’s a chance to explore the underwater wonders with snorkelling, kayak, paddle board and windsurfing excursions.

For a bit of luxury, you can relax in a cabana or take a sunset champagne cruise.

GO: Seven nights’ full-board on MSC World America is from £649pp.

Sailing from Miami on September 13, the cruise calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

See msccruises.com.

HOLLAND AMERICA/CARNIVAL

ONE of the original private island pioneers, the Holland America line first started calling at RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas in 1997 and it has been expanding its presence there ever since.

In summer next year, a major upgrade will see a new beach club and lunch venue on its original facilities on the south of the island’s stunning two-mile crescent of powder-soft white sand as well as a new pier at the north end of the beach that will be used by both Holland America and its sister cruise line Carnival.

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Thrill-seekers can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, snorkelling, jet skiing, and stingray encounters.

Families will love the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park, while nature enthusiasts can explore eco-tours and birdwatching.

Unique experiences include glass-bottom boat tours and a pirate ship-themed bar.

With beach sports, shopping and complimentary barbecue lunches, this is a high-end island escape for cruisers.

GO: A 14-night full-board Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America’s Zuiderdam is from £1,379pp, departs Miami on November 8 and calls at Half Moon Cay, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, Miami, Bahamas, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos.

See hollandamerica.com.

DISNEY

MICKEY Mouse and pals now have two private islands to enjoy in the Bahamas.

Their original, Castaway Cay, opened in 1998 as part of the launch of the new cruise line.

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And last year, they opened Lookout Cay.

As you would expect, there is a huge amount of fun activities for kids including kids’ clubs for three to 17-year-olds.

The family beach features plenty of umbrellas, chairs and hammocks plus tube and float rentals and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet.

Water babies will love Pelican Plunge, a huge floating platform featuring water slides and cannons.

Spring-a-Leak is a water play area with freshwater jets.

Adults get their own Serenity Bay stretch of pristine sands as well as a restaurant and bar.

The island features a 12-acre snorkel trail dotted with sunken treasures including the submarine from the classic Disney attraction 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and there are miles of paths to explore on foot or bicycle.

Over at Lookout Cay, there’s more of a focus on nature and celebrating the island’s Bahamian location with a cultural centre where you can learn about traditions and crafts.

GO: A four-night full-board cruise on Disney Wish to the Bahamas, including calls at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay is from £920pp, based on two adults and two children sharing.

The cruise departs August 17.

See iglucruise.com.

WE all function better after a decent night’s sleep, but sometimes life gets in the way and we simply can’t bank the hours of shut-eye we need to feel energised, upbeat and alert. 

Getting up at the crack of dawn for an early morning flight, long train journeys on uncomfortable seats, and staying in unfamiliar hotel beds can make it difficult to get the slumber we want. 

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We may even find it hard to squeeze in a daytime nap on the sofa or in the car when our bodies are crying out for some more rest. 

Joshua Piper, sleep clinician at Resmed UK, tells Sun Health: “Whether you’re on a plane, in a hotel or trying to sneak a power nap in the car, falling asleep away from home can be tricky.

“Thankfully, there are some sneaky little tips that can help you to sleep, no matter your location.”

In a hotel bed…

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YOU’VE splashed out for a trip overseas, staying in a nice hotel with a bed that’s far more luxurious than the one you have at home. 

Yet for some reason, your sleep couldn’t be worse. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. 

Research by the Sleep Foundation found that the majority of people get less sleep in hotels than at home. 

When asked where they slept best, a measly 13 per cent of people chose hotels compared with 65 per cent who chose their own bed. 

Plus, only 54 per cent of people questioned said they got seven hours of sleep a night in a hotel.

“Hotel rooms can throw sleep patterns off with bright lighting, unfamiliar beds, and that ‘not-quite-home’ vibe,” says Joshua.

“Even if the bed is great, your brain is subconsciously on alert. It’s called the ‘first night effect’.”

“One half of your brain stays more vigilant in a new setting as a survival mechanism, especially during deep sleep stages,” adds Jules Goldberg, an expert in sleep health and technology and founder of sleep tech brands, Sleepwave and Snorelab.

Jet lag can play a role, but your production of the sleepy hormone melatonin can take a hit regardless of timezone. 

Routine is key here, according to Joshua. 

“Keeping your bedtime routine the same, even on the road, is one of the simplest ways to ease into sleep,” he says.

“Brush your teeth, do your skincare routine, read your usual two pages of a book. Do whatever tells your brain ‘it’s time for bed’.”

Jules adds: “Keep the room cool and dark. Try setting the temperature to around 18C, which is ideal for sleeping. 

“And if the curtains don’t quite cut it, a sleep mask can help you block out the light.”

She also suggests bringing something familiar to the hotel. 

“Whether it’s your pillowcase or a small item from home, that sense of familiarity can help signal to your brain that it’s time to switch off,” she says. 

On a plane…

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A LONG journey means a long snooze, right? Well, it’s not quite so easy. 

Joshua says that sensory overload can make sleep very difficult. 

Think loud noises, people talking and unless you’ve splashed out for business class, you’ll likely be in an upright, uncomfortable seat too.

Where possible, select your seat in advance – and choose wisely. 

“A window seat away from foot traffic helps, and sitting over the engine can provide that steady white noise effect,” says Joshua. 

Aim to keep your sleep short too – around 20 minutes maximum. You want to feel refreshed, not groggy

Jules GoldbergSleep expert

The exact location of over-engine seats varies, but they’re typically in the middle, near the wings of the plane, or to the rear of the plane.

“Eye masks, neck pillows, warm socks and a blanket go a long way too,” says Joshua.

“And a proper travel pillow can stop your head from nodding and waking you up repeatedly,” adds Jules.

Wear loose clothing when you fly so that your movement isn’t restricted. 

And if you have time before a flight, try to squeeze in some exercise, such as a brisk walk, jog or gym session. 

Research published in the journal Advances in Preventive Medicine found that exercise improves sleep quality and duration.

In the car…

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MUCH like in a plane, if you have a long car journey ahead, you might be planning a little sleep, if the driver doesn’t mind you dozing off!

For a decent rest, recline your seat slightly.

“Being fully upright makes it harder for your body to enter proper rest,” says Jules. “Even 15 to 20 degrees helps.”

As for background noise, go for calm, instrumental music.

“Ambient playlists work best,” says Jules. “But if you prefer, choose a chatty radio station as this may help you to drift off.

“Aim to keep your sleep short too – around 20 minutes maximum. You want to feel refreshed, not groggy.”

Whatever you do, make sure you’re safe and stay belted if you’re in a moving vehicle.

On the sofa…

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BIG night ahead and want to bank some sleep so you can stay awake into the early hours?

“If you’re going for a tactical 3pm sofa snooze, aim for it to be around 20 minutes,” says Joshua. 

“This is typically enough to recharge without dipping into deep sleep. 

“Most of us take eight to 10 minutes to drift off, so set an alarm accordingly.”

While you can’t force sleep, you can create a peaceful, sleep-promoting environment. 

“Even if you don’t fall fully asleep, a period of restful stillness can recharge you enough to feel sharper and more energised,” Jules says.

“Dim the lights as bright light confuses your internal clock, and do a short breathing exercise or body scan to calm your system.”

We tested 10 sleep aids to see which ones really work

By Alice Fuller, Health Features Editor

FROM magnesium to meditation, there are hundreds of alleged tricks to help you get a good night’s sleep.

But which ones really work, and which ones are a waste of time and money? 

As a team, we put 10 of the most popular to the test.

Some had us nodding off within minutes of hitting the hay. Others, not so much. 

If you’re one of the 16million Brits with insomnia or other sleep troubles, here are some products and lifestyle tweaks you might want to try – and the ones you’re better off without…

• ASHWAGANDHA – 5/5
• LACTIUM AND LACTOFERRIN – 0/5
• BLACKOUT SLEEP MASK – 4/5
• INFRARED SAUNA – 3/5
• NO BOOZE – 3/5
• MEDITATION APPS – 3/5
• SLEEPY GIRL MOCKTAIL – 3/5
• DIGITAL DETOX – 2/5
• WARM FEET – 5/5
• SLEEP GOGGLES – 4/5

You can read our full verdict here.

In the journal Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, mindfulness activities like body scans were shown to help improve sleep quality and even reduce some sleep issues. 

A body scan involves focusing on a spot on your body, such as your right foot, and noticing how it feels or if there is any pain or tension. 

Then, you move on to another area until you’ve covered your entire body. 

By this point, you’re hopefully drifting off – or already asleep! 

On a boat…

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WHETHER it’s a cruise ship, ferry or commuter boat, trying to catch some Zzzs on the water isn’t always smooth sailing. 

“With long-term motion comes some detriment,” says Joshua.

“Motion sickness has been shown to have negative effects on sleep duration and quality. 

“This often creates a vicious cycle, as sleepiness increases the risk of motion-related illness.”

The best thing you can do is maintain a consistent sleep schedule, sticking to your wind-down activities like normal to prepare your body for sleep. 

For me, the bedroom is for sleep and, if the stars align, sex! That’s it. No TV, no laptop, no doom-scrolling. Otherwise, your brain won’t associate that space with winding down

Joshua PiperSleep clinician

Avoid using screens before hitting the hay as this can exacerbate the symptoms of motion sickness as your brain is receiving conflicting signals from your eyes and inner ear about movement. 

But, boat sleeping isn’t all bad. Joshua says that the gentle rocking can actually help support sleep. 

“Plus, quite often, being at sea means you are governed by natural light, which can have positive effects on sleep as you align more closely to your natural circadian rhythm, aka your body clock,” he adds. 

“We also tend to have reduced noise pollution and other environmental disturbances. 

“Just make sure everything is tied down!”

In your own bed…

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WE all want to get good sleep at home. 

While the NHS recommends we get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, half of Brits don’t get nearly enough, according to research by YouGov.

More than a third (34 per cent) struggled to drift off three or more times a week, and almost half (44 per cent) have called in sick to work because of extreme tiredness, research by Resmed shows. 

Making your bedroom a sleep sanctuary goes a long way in improving your shut-eye. 

“It’s about giving your brain the right signals,” Joshua says.

“For me, the bedroom is for sleep and, if the stars align, sex! That’s it. No TV, no laptop, no doom-scrolling. 

“Otherwise, your brain won’t associate that space with winding down.”

You also don’t need to spend thousands of pounds on blackout blinds or fancy gadgets.

“Start with small steps, like an eye mask, a bit of down time before bed, even dimming the lights,” he adds.

“Stick to the same wake-up time (on weekends too) and get some morning sunlight. 

“It’s the best natural reset for your body clock.”

The 8 sleep-destroying habits that are waking you up in the night

By Lucy Gornall, health writer

IT can be frustrating when you get into bed early, ready for a solid night’s rest, only to wake up several times. 

Bad sleep can leave you grouchy, unproductive and of course, very tired.

Young children, loud noises and a restless sleeping partner can all cause you to wake up in the night.

But if none of these are affecting you, then why are you still unable to sleep through, undisturbed? Experts say it could be one of eight things:

1. Your sleep posture is wrong
2. You’re not getting enough sunlight in the day
3. You have sleep apnoea
4. You’re having coffee in the afternoon
5. You’re stressed
6. You’re eating chocolate after dinner
7. You’re having wine with dinner
8. Your joints are aching

You can read the full article, which includes how to combat these issues and top feeling tired all the time, here.

YOU have probably heard of Sutton Hoo, the Suffolk site where a huge Anglo-Saxon ship was discovered under ancient grassy mounds.

Excitement around the medieval treasure trove grew in 2021 when Carey Mulligan starred in a Netflix movie about the discovery, The Dig.

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But it’s not just ancient artefacts, old textiles and traditional silverware that make this area so special.

The site sits close to Woodbridge, an off-grid market town on the banks of the River Deben that was recently crowned the UK’s happiest place to live by Rightmove.

Having spent a weekend soaking up its moreish cocktail of history, gorgeous views and cracking food — including one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had — I’m inclined to agree.

It was a short trip for me and my partner across the Essex/Suffolk ­border, where we checked into one of Woodbridge’s best-known hotels, The Crown.

The charming inn features ten comfortable boutique rooms, with enormous beds and grand panelled bathtubs.

The property’s position, smack bang on the thoroughfare of the town, is perfect for soaking up the best Woodbridge has to offer, within walking distance of a high street scattered with independent shops.

Swing by The W Gallery if you get a chance.

We were captivated by a huge canvas of an avenue of neon orange trees by artist Samuel Thomas.

A few doors down, at Bois Jolie, the owner explained how he went from market researcher to owning his own woodcraft business.

Now, rather than staring at spreadsheets and pie charts, he spends his time creating interesting coffee tables and beautifully grained yew lamp stands, topped by his wife’s colourful handmade shades.

If we weren’t convinced before, we certainly were after that: Woodbridge really is a town of happy people — and they love to chat.

We had made sure we were well fuelled for our first day of adventure with a huge brekkie of juicy local sausages and perfectly poached eggs at the hotel.

Make sure you book in here for dinner one night, too.

The Crown’s restaurant and bar are buzzing with locals on a Saturday night.

If you ever tire of the hotel’s jam-packed burgers, fish and chips and flavoursome salads, you won’t need to venture far for a decent meal in Woodbridge.

I recommend The Woodyard Ltd, where the air was thick with the lip-smacking scent of smoke and garlic.

Its wood-fired pizzas are something special and we were grateful for our cold beers after devouring a Vesuvio — all charred dough, spicy nduja sausage and fiery salami.

The queue for tables stretched out of the door and, after eating, it was easy to see why.

The Anchor proved the perfect spot for a relaxed Sunday roast.

My plate came piled high with pork, doused in a stock-rich gravy that was so good I would have happily drunk it from a mug.

Once we were finished feasting, we walked it off along Woodbridge’s River Deben and the marina, where hundreds of colourful boats are moored.

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Take a peek at the tide mill on your wander.

The Grade I listed mill is one of the few remaining in the country and has a history stretching back 800 years.

We then made our way towards Kyson Hill, where the sun-drenched river is framed by salt marshes and ancient woodland.

This National Trust area is full of wildlife and we spotted a heron motionless at the water’s edge while, in the distance, deer darted between the trees.

While we didn’t get the chance to visit the mounds of Sutton Hoo itself on the other side of the river, its connection to the town is deepening.

It’s thought the ship and its treasure were hauled three miles up to the burial site from Woodbridge in the 7th Century, and now a community-led project is rebuilding the ancient craft in all its 90ft glory.

The locals are brilliantly enthusiastic about the mission, and you can take a look at the impressive work in progress in The Longshed.

After a weekend of eating, walking and soaking up the charm of this riverside town and all its history, I reckon Woodbridge is quite possibly the happiest place to live in the UK.

And it’s just as great to visit.

It may even feature frequently on my property searches . . . 

CHILLING travel warnings have been issued for tourists visiting Turkey amid Brit mum Beth Martin’s mysterious death in Istanbul’s public hospital.

Ms Martin, 28, tragically died after suddenly falling ill during her dream holiday in the country.

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She was rushed to a two-star-rated public hospital, where she is said to have taken her last breath and had her heart allegedly removed without any permission.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) warns that coroners in Turkey can take small tissue samples and organs for testing “without the family’s permission” under Turkish laws.

The advisory says that these orphans are usually returned before the person’s body is released.

However, Turkish authorities “might keep he body parts without permission in exceptional circumstances”, the foreign office warned.

The travel warning was placed before Ms Martin’s death and has nothing to do with her tragic case.

That’s because hospitals in Turkey have faced accusations of stealing organs and facilitating illegal transplants.

Meanwhile, the British government in its travel advisory warned tourists to be aware of medical treatments in the country.

The Foreign Office suggested that people visiting the country for medical tourism should exercise caution and discuss plans with a UK doctor beforehand.

The travel advisory reads: “We are aware of six British nationals having died in Turkey in 2024 following medical procedures.

“Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure.”

Ms Martin was wheeled to Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital – a low-rated public hospital built on the outskirts of the Turkish capital.

After scrambling for an ambulance, she was finally admitted to the hospital, which offers Istanbul‘s International Patient Service serving foreign patients.

The doctors are understood to have checked her heart by performing an angiogram – a form of X-ray that shows blood vessels.

After doing the checks, the doctors told husband Luke they did not find anything suspicious.

However, Ms Martin was dead by the very next day – leaving Luke to explain the tragedy to their two young children, aged 8 and 5.

Her family claims they were left completely in the dark by Turkish authorities throughout the whole ordeal.

And sickeningly, once they finally got back to the UK with her body, a UK autopsy revealed her heart had been removed – without any prior consent or authorisation.

Marmara Pendik Hospital is now facing a negligence investigation over Ms Martin’s sudden death, according to Ms Martin’s family.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) is also making its own enquiries with local authorities, the Daily Mail reports.

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The public hospital has a low rating on Google, averaging just two stars.

A website operated by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Health states that the hospital’s principles are “transparency and accountability [with] people at the focal point of the fairness of the health service that is excellent”.

The Sun has reached out to the hospital for comment.

Meanwhile, Luke told how he was then shocked when Turkish police initially accused him of poisoning and killing his wife after her shocking death.

She was being treated in intensive care, he said, before adding he was banned from seeing her.

Beth and Luke’s parents flew out the following day and were again kept in the dark.

They were then shocked to discover Beth had been transferred to another hospital overnight, due to “concerns with her heart”, with none of the family members informed.

Close friend Ellie, who travelled to Turkey to try and help, detailed her experience of what happened after Beth’s death.

She revealed that Beth was supposed to be transferred to a private clinic.

But the public hospital was slow to act and “stopped her” from doing so.

She told how the doctors were acting strangely.

Ellie explained: “All they went on about is ‘are you going to sue the hospital? Sign this bit of paper’.

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“I said: ‘Is there something we should be suing for? Do you know something we don’t? Because that’s really suspicious.'”

The family, who have not been told her cause of death, claim they were also forced to carry Beth in a body bag through the hospital.

She blasted the hospitals, saying: “The insurance company wanted to move her to a private hospital but the public hospital in Istanbul were not cooperating, they were being slow and delaying reports and not sending information over.

“They stopped her.”

She noted how suspicious it was that Beth’s hair was in “perfect” shape despite the mum undergoing “45 minutes of CPR”.

She speculated: “They said they did 45 minutes of CPR but anyone who has ever had CPR or has seen CPR knows how brutal it is.

“When I saw Beth in the morgue after she had her hair in two French plaits and they were perfect.

“There is no way they did CPR for 45 minutes, I know that,” she defiantly stated.”

She added that medical reports rule out food poisoning as a cause of death, but they still do not confirm how exactly the mum died.

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AN EASYJET passenger was left petrified after a group of rowdy “drunk” Brits turned her Ibiza flight into a “nightclub”.

Furious Spaniard Erika Barrachina claimed she suffered a “panic attack” after the mid-air raucous where she had to cope with “scum” passengers.

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The Ibiza resident blasted that these type of tourists should never have been allowed to board the plane in the first place.

Shocking footage showed a packed plane with passengers appearing to bang on luggage compartments and yell: “Come on Ibiza!”

Multiple travellers appeared to be waving their arms and legs around while sat during the loud journey.

And some who seemingly found the whole situation hilarious decided to record the noisy chanting.

The Spanish local said that her “flight from London to Ibiza was absolutely horrible“.

The passenger said she was “scared” while travelling on the jet “full of real English animals”.

“Everyone standing, screaming, guys hitting each other, drinking bottles of alcohol one after the other and stopping the flight attendants from doing their job,” she added.

The appalled passenger called her experience: “Real hell.”

She said of the footage which she managed to record: “This video is the just the end because I couldn’t film what happened during the journey.”

Barrachina also claimed that Brit passengers were drunk and high before boarding.

She continued: “Taking pills and drinking alcohol at the same time, which I saw with my own eyes.

“It was a really wild 2.5 hour flight.”

The Spanish passenger raged: “This shouldn’t be allowed. They shouldn’t let scum like this get on a plane or sell alcohol on board.

“We don’t want this type of tourism in Ibiza, they should stay at home.”

She branded the uncontrollable Brits “wild animals”.

The Ibiza resident also told a local Ibizan newspaper: “I’m not afraid of flying because I’ve flown around the world but I had a panic attack because it was like being in a pub, in a nightclub, but in the air.”

She claimed that multiple air stewards asked some of the passengers for their documentation, only to be told: “F**k off.”

The “wild” passengers were let off the plane after reaching Ibiza airport and identifying themselves.

EasyJet told The Sun: “We can confirm that flight EZY2307 from Luton to Ibiza on May 16 was met by police on arrival due to a group of passengers behaving in a disruptive manner.

“The safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew is always easyJet’s priority.

“Whilst such incidents are rare we take them very seriously and do not tolerate disruptive behaviour onboard.”

Barrachina posted the footage on Saturday – one day before thousands of people marched in Canary Islands capitals as part of a new anti-mass tourism protest.

Locals in the Balearic Islands, which include Ibiza, are due to stage their protest on June 15.

BRITS heading to Europe could soon find it much easier thanks to new plans allowing holidaymakers to use airport e-gates.

Since the UK left the EU, British tourists have faced huge queues at the airport across Europe after being forced to use the standard passport gates.

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However, the UK government has revealed plans of a deal that would allow UK holidaymakers to use the much faster e-gates when visiting Europe.

The talks, part of the UK-EU summit taking place today, suggest Brits would join other EU tourists in the shorter queues, The Guardian reports.

EU relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds said he backed the potential rule change.

He told Sky News: “I would love to see you being able to go through the border more quickly in that way.

“That’s certainly something we’ve been pushing with the EU and I think that will be something that will be very helpful to British people.

“I think we can all agree that not being stuck in queues and having more time to spend, whether it’s on holiday or work trips, having more time to do what you want, would be a very sensible objective.”

Plans to allow Brits to use e-gates in European countries were put forward back in 2023 by then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak although never came into fruition.

Last summer, some Brits even missed their flights when travelling through Spain due to long passport queues while waiting to get them stamped.

Another Brit wrote on Tripadvisor: “My lunchtime arrival at Oslo left me with an hour and a half wait to get through manual passport control.”

Another agreed: “The queue was horrendous, people couldn’t even get into the passport hall. Took just over 90 minutes to get through.”

However, the new rules could cause problems with passport stamping, which is still required from Brits entering and exiting Europe.

This is because of the new rules which only allow Brits to visit for 90 days in an 180 day period.

Anyone without an outgoing stamp could be mistakenly seen to have overstayed in Europe and even be banned from entering – which happened to a British tourist in Majorca back in 2022.

But it comes ahead of the constantly-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) which will scrap the need for passport stamping entirely.

First announced in 2016, it finally hopes to be rolled out from October this year.

Instead of manual passport stamping, new biometric checks will take place instead.

And next year will see the roll out of the ETIAS – a visa waiver that Brits will need to visit Europe.

Costing around €7 and lasting three years, it will be similar to the current ESTA Brits need when visiting the US.

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MCDONALD’S has opened its biggest site in Europe in a major Brit holiday hotspot – and it’s come just in time for the summer holidays.

The fast-food giant has launched a huge location in the airport of sun-drenched Majorca – and it measures up at over 10,000 square feet.

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The big Maccies includes eight digital kiosks, eight production lines as well as table service and McCafé products.

The launch of the massive site marks the company’s largest on the entire continent.

Around 750,000 Brits travel to Majorca every summer, so the chain will be sure to endure its fair share of hungry Brit holidaymakers.

The enormous branch is located at Level P30, Module A Airside of Palma de Mallorca Airport in the Spanish island.

It measures up at a whopping 10,765 square feet.

The terminal has also recently undergone refurbishment work to improve passenger comfort and security, and retail space.

The new site is part of this extraordinary renovation in Module A.

And it is seemingly very exclusive to Brits – as the McDonald’s will only be available to non-Schengen countries, according to What’s The Jam.

This means most European countries won’t be able to access it – paving the way for Brits and other international visitors to raid the kiosks.

The incredible new branch has reportedly created 200 new jobs, on top of the 1,000 workers already employed in the Balearic Islands.

Chief Restaurant Officer of McDonald’s Spain Ángel Castillo said: “This opening represents a new milestone and another example of our commitment to the Balearic Islands.”

He called the region “an area of strategic interest for the company where we already have over 20 restaurants“.

The spokesperson continued: “We are thereby contributing to the Spanish economy and the creation of quality employment, fulfilling our mission of supporting the communities where we operate.”

There are already 43,500 McDonald’s locations in over 100 countries worldwide.

And the biggest McDonald’s on the entire planet is located in Orlando, Florida.

Known as the Epic McD, this behemoth fast-food chain measures in at a whopping 19,000 square feet.

Meanwhile, the UK’s biggest McDonald’s is a “Disneyland for fast food fans” with nearly 300 seats and unique features.

The giant restaurant, in Formby on Merseyside, showcases “the latest innovations from McDonald’s”.

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