AS the UK descended into the depths of winter, a warmer holiday could be on the cards.
But trying to find the best deal while still catching some sun can be hard, especially if flying from your local airport.
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Here are some of the best holiday package deals for seven of the UK’s most popular airportsCredit: Alamy
However, TravelSupermarket has revealed the holiday destinations with the cheapest average package deals from seven of the UK’s most popular airports.
With deals for as little as £225 each – and that includes seven nights and return flights – here are some of the best spots to go from your nearest airport.
Newcastle Airport
When it comes to Brits travelling from Newcastle Airport, you’ll want to head to Fuerteventura.
With deals on average being around £339pp, the Spanish island is often seen as one of the more affordable in the Canaries.
Other cheap destinations include Malta, with deals from £388pp.
Leeds Airport
One of the most affordable winter sun breaks if flying from Leeds Airport is Agadir.
Morocco is often one of the best destinations for a winter holiday, being one of the warmest destinations without a long flight.
The average package deal price comes in at around £413pp, when flying to the Moroccan city from Leeds.
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited last winter, saying: “It’s affordableluxuryat its finest, and the perfect place for a last-minute holiday with my closest gal pal.
Manchester Airport
Spain comes out on top if you are travelling from Manchester Airport.
The Costa del Sol’s Benalmadena has the cheapest average holiday prices, with seven night breaks around £481.
Other cheap average deals include Lara in Turkey for £513pp, or Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife for £537pp.
Birmingham Airport
Fuerteventura comes out on top as the biggest bargain destination, this time when travelling from Birmingham Airport.
You can spend just £350pp on average for a seven night holiday there.
Other cheap destinations also include Malta for £356pp.
Costa del Sol’s Benalmadena has the cheapest package holidays for Brits travelling from Manchester AirportCredit: AlamyFuerteventura is often named one of the most affordable Canary Islands.Credit: Alamy
London Airport
If you can get to some of the airports in London, you will normally find the cheapest deals here due to then having more airlines in operation.
The biggest bargain on the list, you can fly to Olu Deniz in Turkey with seven nights just £225pp.
With highs of 16C, and beautiful sandy beaches, it is even nicknamed the Turquoise Coast for its bright blue seas.
Other cheap packages include Alayna, also in Turkey, for £281pp, or Hammamet in Tunisia for £315pp.
Liverpool Airport
Sousse in Tunisia is the cheapest winter sun spot if travelling from Liverpool, with average holiday packages for around £290pp.
SPAIN’S Costas have long been British holidaymakers’ top choice for a summer getaway.
But that’s by no means all this captivating country has to boast about.
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A chef goes large and makes a huge paellaCredit: Getty
Its rich culinary scene comes alive in winter, with the northern regions revelling in truffle season while the Asturias readies its cider houses for an influx of visitors.
Anna Viladot, of Vueling, says: “Social media has influenced how people choose where to travel. For many, the food comes first and the destination follows.”
Whether it’s hearty stews in Santiago de Compostela or seafood in Seville that takes your fancy, Sophie Swietochowski has a winter escape guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.
STEWS IN SEVILLE
TRADITIONALLY a peasant dish, Andalusian stews are some of the heartiest out there, served with hunks of meat and beans that have spent hours bubbling away in spices. Seville is a great city to sample it in and the traditional, family-run restaurants do it best.
Book a well-located base, like the 4* Porcel Torneo – which puts you within easy reach of all the best spots – and go for a basic, room-only package so you can sample grub from all the best places.
A week room-only at the 4* Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17Credit: Unknown
The modern, practical hotel is just a short walk from the Guadalquivir river and a 15-minute drive from the Royal Alcazar, a former royal palace that’s a must-see.
For a true flavour of the city, book on to a 2.5-hour Flavours of Andalusia food tour, which costs just £31 with tastings (for details see getyourguide.co.uk)
GO: A week room-only at the 4H Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Seville, are from €38.99 one way at vueling.com.
BODEGAS IN BARCELONA
IN summer, Barcelona has a glorious sandy beach flanked by laid-back bars, but in winter when the crowds disperse, you can enjoy the city’s magic in relative solitude, sipping wine in charming bodegas.
Bodega J Cala, in the Sant Marti district to the east of the centre, is one of the best.
The Moxy is a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobbyCredit: marriott.com
The vermouth really packs a punch and you can chase it down with tapas. Make sure to try the anchovies.
Calcots are another famous food in Barcelona and the Catalonia region in general. The long onions, which are sweet in flavour, are generally griddled on an open fire.
Roll yourself back to The Moxy, a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobby.
GO: Four nights’ room-only at Moxy Barcelona, right, is from £328pp, flying from Birmingham on February 22.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Barcelona, from €35.22 one way at vueling.com.
APPLES IN ASTURIAS
FANCY a cider? The mountainous region of Asturias will have you guzzling it back like juice.
The apples are harvested in autumn and the cider houses open for winter, serving small glasses that are meant to be knocked back in one hit.
The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourselfCredit: hoteles-silken.com
Holidaymakers can follow the official cider trail, which visits some famous houses to explain how the apple-flavoured booze is produced to create one of three kinds: Natural, newly-pressed or sparkling.
Oviedo, a city that sits between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay, is one of the more popular areas to stay in thanks to its many hotels.
The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourself, and has a restaurant serving hearty local dishes (perfect for after a day of cider-drinking).
GO: Seven nights’ room-only is from £265pp including flights from Stansted on January 26.
IF you like a side of architecture and culture with your dinner, look no further than Malaga.
The southern coastal resort is loved for its vibrant beaches where travellers can soak up 30C sunshine during the summer.
Casual del Mar Málaga is modest, but cosy and well-located and just a short walk from the portCredit: casualhoteles.com
The winters are just as decent, rarely dropping below 17C during the day.
Mackerel, especially horse mackerel (jurel), is a popular and affordable fish here, prepared in various ways such as fried or grilled.
Grilled sardines are popular, too, traditionally skewered into a sardine kebab, scattered with salt and then scorched on wooden embers that gives them a deep smokey flavour.
El Espigón de Pepe, set back from the beach front, is an excellent place to try them.
Stay at the modest, but cosy and well-located, Casual del Mar Málaga, right, a 3H hotel a short walk from the port.
GO: Seven nights’ room only costs from £349pp including flights from Luton on February 4.
Flights-only, Gatwick to Malaga, from €30.23 one way at vueling.com.
ARROZ IN ALICANTE
THE southern region of Alicante has so much more to it than action-packed beaches.
If you’re a fan of classic Spanish rice dishes (arroz) then the ones here, piled high with seafood and charred at the edges, won’t disappoint.
The modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante is a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back wintersCredit: Sercotel
Book a stay in the modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante, a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back winters thanks to the wellness centre with a whirlpool, Turkish bath and sauna.
It’s home to one of the best golf courses in the region, where holes boast epic views.
The resort has some excellent restaurants, whose menus are littered with classic local dishes.
But if you fancy venturing out for the evening, Taberna del Mar, 15 minutes away by cab, dishes up some of the best home-cooked rice dishes in the area.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Hotel Bonalba Alicante, right, is from £259pp including flights from Manchester on January 30.
THERE are some pretty unusual tourist attractions in the UK, most of which have ended up popular spots by pure accident – including a door in the Cotswolds.
Often thought to be the most photographed door in the UK, it can be found at the north porch of St. Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold.
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Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds is home to, what is believed to be, the most photographed door in the UKCredit: GettyThe door can be found at the north porch of St. Edward’s ChurchCredit: Getty
The wooden door looks like it has been ripped directly from the pages of a fairytale and many believe that it inspired J.R.R Tolkein’s Doors of Durin, west gate of Moria.
It is made from a dark wood and has studded panels, with an old oil lamp hanging above.
The door is relatively small as well, and is bookended by two tree trunks.
Tolkien often visited the area during his time at Oxford University, but the claims that the door inspired him have never been verified.
The porch where the door is found was built around 300 years ago, and thanks to the rumour it inspired Tolkien and its two yew trees that have essentially become part of the porch, it is one of the most photographed doors in the UK.
But the rest of Stow-on-the-Wold is definitely worth exploring as well, having been named one of the prettiest towns in the country by travel experts SnapTrip.
As you wander around the village, you will see many honey-coloured stone houses and shops that the Cotswolds is famous for.
In the heart of the village is Market Square, which has been hosting markets since 1107.
In fact, when Stow was popular for its wool trade, over 20,000 sheep changed hands here.
If you happen to visit on the second Thursday of the month, you will find the Stow Farmers’ Market here, with fresh produce including breads, meats and cheeses.
The Market Square is then surrounded by a number of independent shops.
For example, you could pick up some new paintbrushes and sketchpads in Cotswold Art Supplies or pick up something to read from Borzoi Bookshop, which has been in Stow for over 40 years.
From the village, visitors can head off on a number of walks into the Cotswolds countryside or to other villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water.
Another option is to head off on the Heart of England Way Stow Circular, which is a 3.7 mile circular walking route that takes around 90 minutes to walk.
Once you’re peckish, head to Lucy’s Tearoom for a Stow afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, cream and jam, cake, and either tea or coffee, costing £18.50 per person.
Or for a pint, head to The Queen‘s Head, which sits in the village square and serves a good range of ales.
The village is also home to a couple of cosy pubsCredit: Getty
There’s also The Porch House, which claims to be England‘s oldest inn and has been authenticated by the Guinness Book of Records.
It dates back to 947 AD and features stones with ‘witch marks’ to protect against evil.
Mains at the inn include mushroom and chestnut pie for £18.95 or wagyu burger for £19.95.
You can also stay in one of 13 bedrooms at The Porch House, costing from £110 per night.
Alternatively, you could head to The Old Stocks Inn, which is located inside a 17th century coaching inn next to the village green.
The inn is formed of three terraced houses which have been combined, and inside the interiors feature a Scandinavian style.
It costs from £150 per night to stay at.
Celebrities are also known to love the area, such as the Beckhams who live nearbyCredit: Instagram
It’s no surprise that this pretty village is also popular with celebrities.
In 2015, the Beckhams planned to buy a house in the area; however, they chose a different property in Great Tew, which is about a 20-minute drive away.
Actress Kate Winslet is also believed to own a cottage near Stow-on-the-Wold.
WE watched from our balcony as the sunset bled into the sky, transforming its blue hues into a vibrant shade of pink.
We weren’t expecting a visitor, but a sudden arrival only made this serene moment more magical.
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A seagull flies over the stunning Algarvian coastlineCredit: GettyFlights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two and a half hoursCredit: GettyFor those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride awayCredit: Getty
From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we lay. He seemed to be enjoying the views as much as we were.
We weren’t shocked by his arrival — after all, this was just one of many incredible wildlife interactions my partner and I had here on Portugal’s south coast.
As well as spotting dragonflies and lizards roaming between the hotel’s ten swimming pools, we stumbled upon dozens of turtles sheltering in the shady streams while walking down to the beach one day.
The wildlife is certainly a highlight of a visit to the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, in Portugal’s Algarve.
But it’s not the main reason holidaymakers head here. The sprawling resort is famous for its 18-hole golf course, one of the most challenging in the country as well as one of the most scenic, sandwiched between a beach and a nature reserve.
We were not here to practise our putting, though. Instead, R&R was at the top of our agenda.
With a state-of-the-art gym, huge spa hub and a health foods cafe which specialises in zero waste food, we couldn’t have picked a more appropriate place for our weekend of wellness.
Better still, at this time of year, flights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two-and-a-half hours.
We’d opted for a garden view room which overlooked the pool and an abundance of tropical greenery.
The suites here, which start at a bargain £116 per night, come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and a washing machine.
There’s also a modern living area and large balcony complete with padded armchairs for soaking up the last of the afternoon rays with a glass of fizz.
With such extensive cooking facilities, you needn’t spend a penny on meals out if you don’t want to. But, with our focus on relaxation, the hotel’s buffet restaurant, In Season, became our go-to.
Ripe goodies
Daily breakfasts here were an exciting affair, with a fresh omelette station stealing the show. The fruit bar piled high with ripe goodies, freshly-pressed juices and a vast bread and pastry selection kept us more than satisfied until lunch.
The dinner options at In Season are limited to a small but excellent spread of buffet foods including a delicious freshly cooked tuna served in a salsa verde sauce and scorched BBQ chicken skewers.
The pool area at Residences SalgadosCredit: UnknownThe suites start at a bargain £116 per night and come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and washing machineCredit: Vasco Celio
While the options for vegetarians were more limited, the salad bar and cheese plates more than made up for it with every salad topping you could think of plus a variety of dressings.
If you get the chance, make sure to visit the Italian joint in the neighbouring hotel, too — but don’t forget to book in advance.
Elsewhere, within the resort, there’s an Indian restaurant, pizzeria and, my personal favourite, Green Artisan cafe.
Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.
This wellness restaurant was our favourite of the bunch, serving made-to-order tropical fruit smoothies, healthy snacks and home-baked cakes, all made with natural and nutritious ingredients.
This isn’t where the wellness ends, though. Complete with hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and ice cold bucket shower, the hotel’s spa is an ideal spot for whiling away the hours in blissful peace.
Entry isn’t automatically included for guests but it is well worth the additional 20 euros, with access from 9am until 7pm.
Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.
If you’re travelling with little ones, there’s a small splash pool and outdoor play area, as well as a kids’ club for children aged between four to 12, which costs an extra 45 euros a day.
And for those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride away.
While it’s known for its wild party scenes, the old town is a pleasant place to take a stroll with colourful cobbled streets flanked by teeny shops and markets.
We booked a sunset boat cruise via GetYourGuide (£40pp, getyourguide.co.uk) which took us along the coast on a small yacht, watching the sun dip slowly behind the horizon while we bobbed peacefully on the water.
For those with a more adventurous streak, the local tour site has everything from Jeep tours and horse riding to parasailing and day trips to Seville for really decent prices.
We preferred to spend most of our days at the beach by the hotel, though.
During peak season the hotel offers a shuttle service to the sea, but why risk missing out on the wildlife?
From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we layCredit: Supplied
The walk only takes about 20 minutes through the hotel’s gardens, following various streams down to the sea.
WHAT do you get if you cross Dragons’ Den with ice swimming? Frozen assets? It was time to find out . . .
I was in Oulu, on the north-west coast of Finland, which last year welcomed the return of televised event, Polar Bear Pitching.
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View of the mesmerizing celestial dance of the Northern Lights in Oulu, FinlandCredit: AlamyWinter Wonderland in OuluCredit: GettyEnjoy floating in icy waterCredit: Supplied
Visitors pay to watch up-and-coming entrepreneurs pitch ideas to a row of cash-fuelled investors, just like the BBC show.
Except these hopefuls must do it from a frozen lake, their pitch lasting as long as they can withstand the freezing waters.
It gave me goosebumps, and not just because of the -20°C chill.
I may not have had any start-up ideas to pitch but that didn’t stop me plunging into the chilling waters while I was here.
The Icebreaker experience is one I’ll never forget.
Dressed in a warm, waterproof bodysuit, I boarded a large boat which slowly made its way across the chilling sea, its hull carving a pathway as it broke through the ice.
We came to a halt and then it was time.
Hurling myself in, I bobbed between huge ice blocks in my floating suit, in awe of my surroundings.
This is an experience that will set you back a fair whack, but it’s absolutely something for the bucket list.
And with so many free things to do in the city, you can save your cash elsewhere.
Oulu is filled with wonderful traditions – so much so it’s been named the European Capital of Culture for 2026.
It’s calmer than Helsinki, with just 215,000 people, but no less fun.
The Frozen People Festival, a drum and bass-filled evening in the Pikisaari district, doesn’t cost a penny.
The event, traditionally held on a frozen lake, will take place on February 28 next year, with DJs, art installations and movies.
Due to climate change, we had to party on firm ground this year, but that didn’t stop me dancing the night away with a local cider in hand as snow fell.
Reindeer stew
Unfortunately, I missed out on the World Air Guitar Championships, a phenomenal spectacle that attracts contestants from all over the globe.
But this free event, held every August in the town’s square, is a fun must-see if you can make it.
With snow on the ground, it seemed only right to celebrate Christmas a little early with a trip to the Arkadia Reindeer Farm where Rudolph and his mates pulled me on a sleigh.
Later, I regressed into a giggling child when feeding them dinner.
Awkwardly, my dinner was a yummy reindeer stew served at the farm’s cosy cabin.
If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can head to the Arctic Foodlab, home to a collection of cafes, bakeries and breweries.
I sampled salmon soup and rossypottu, a potato, smoked pork and blood sausage stew.
If you’re still not warm enough, pay a visit to the sauna — you’ll find one in most hotels in the city.
The Finnish proudly enter naked, but my English propriety won out, and I wore a swimsuit. I was willing to try one tradition, though – running out into the snow afterwards.
As I pelted into the powdery white, wearing just my cossie and Doc Martens, something stopped me in my tracks.
A flash of green flickered in the sky and several colours danced between the trees above.
AFTER 26 years heading up The Sun’s travel team – while bringing up three children – there’s not a lot I don’t know about family holidays.
After hundreds of trips together, I’m sharing my guaranteed winners – from our favourite campsites to the best foreign cruises.
Lisa Minot has been The Sun’s Travel Editor for 26 years, during which time she’s taken her kids on hundreds of holidays across the worldCredit: SuppliedLisa says Port Aventura theme park resort on Spain’s Costa Dorada offers up the best of all worlds for familiesCredit: SUPPLIED
With three kids, I’ve had the same problems as anyone who doesn’t fit the ‘two adults, two kids’ rule that most traditional travel companies work within.
Finding ways around booking two separate rooms – or being in group rooms where us parents have to go to bed at 7pm with the babies – became a mission.
This fabulous theme park resort on Spain’s Costa Dorada offers up the best of all worlds for families.
You get the fun and excitement of thrill rides across six distinct worlds, plus great themed hotels and, of course, all that sizzling Mediterranean sunshine to enjoy.
There’s also a separate Ferrari World and a water park with 50,000sq metres of pools, lazy rivers, slides and rides, including King Khajuna, one of Europe’s tallest free-fall body slides.
The six on-site hotels are also themed and have a huge variety of rooms that sleep up to eight, ideal for big families.
And with a host of very well-priced restaurants in the park and at the hotels, it really is possible to have a traditional family summer holiday with the added benefit of all that theme park excitement.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the Mexican-themed Hotel El Paso, including unlimited access to PortAventura park and a day pass for Ferrari Land, is from £429pp, based on two adults and two children sharing.
Lisa’s son soaks up the rays on a beach in the south of FranceCredit: SuppliedEurocamp’s La Baume on the French Riviera near Frejus has a huge pool complex and easy access to the glitzy towns of St Tropez and CannesCredit: Eurocamp
EUROPEAN CAMPING
WITH three kids and a limited budget when they were young, camping specialists like Eurocamp and Siblu were the answer to our prayers.
With mobile homes, tents and even treehouses sleeping up to eight at campsites across Europe, we loaded the kids and as much luggage as we could squeeze into the car and drove south for guaranteed sunshine.
You can even break up the long journey with overnight camping stays en route.
A roof-box meant I could pack all the essentials from food and drinks, bedding and towels, to inflatables and toys, so we weren’t shelling out on holiday.
When we were young, having our own space was just perfect. We could wear the kids out by day in the park’s pools and on nearby beaches, and when they were tucked up in bed, we could relax with a glass of wine or beer on the verandah.
Favourites included Eurocamp’s La Baume on the French Riviera near Frejus with a huge pool complex and easy access to the glitzy towns of St Tropez and Cannes.
We always preferred heading south for the warmer weather, but other favourites for half-term holidays include Duinrell in South Holland, which comes with its own theme park and water park and La Croix de Vieux Pont, Berny Riviere, just an hour from Disneyland Paris and Park Asterix.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering for up to six at Eurocamp’s La Baume is from £464 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See eurocamp.co.uk. Seven nights’ self-catering at Siblu’s Lac des Reves is from £294 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See siblu.co.uk
ALTON TOWERS
Lisa loves the fact that Alton Towers has something for every age, including its weatherproof waterparkCredit: Alamy
Of course, no list of fabulous family holidays would be complete without the UK’s number one theme park. I love the fact that Alton Towers has something for every age.
The little ones will adore CBeebies land – watch out for the UK’s first Bluey ride coming in 2026.
All ages will love the fantastic water park between the Alton Towers and Splash Landings hotels, while tweens and teens will go straight for the thrill rides.
And mum? Well, I just love a stroll through the stunning grounds with quiet, landscaped gardens and tranquil lakes – they make you forget you’re even in a theme park!
For families like mine, the huge variety of accommodation makes stays a breeze.
Rooms at the hotels – including CBeebies Land Hotel – can sleep up to five with a double bed, bunk beds and a pull-out truckle bed. All have great theming that will keep the kids entertained.
The Woodland lodges are also great for larger families or those who want to bring the grandparents or team up with friends. To really push the boat out, the whimsical Treehouses sleep up to eight and come with their own hot tub.
But my favourite probably remains the original Alton Towers Hotel, with its epic Explorers theme that sees a magical balloon ship anchor the bar and restaurant space, giving parents the chance to relax with a drink while the kids are entertained.
GO: Overnight breaks at Alton Towers start from £42pp and include room, breakfast, parking and evening entertainment. See altontowers.com.
Lisa sailed with her kids on Disney Wonder, one of the line’s original ships and it was a treat for both adults and childrenCredit: Supplied
DISNEY CRUISE LINES
IT’S fair to say no one does family cruises quite like Disney – and Sun readers agree, voting them their favourite cruise line in our Sun Travel Awards.
I’ve sailed with my kids on Disney Wonder, one of the line’s original ships, and this was definitely a treat for both adults and children.
I loved the Art Deco vibes and the fact that the ship was first and foremost a beautiful, luxury ship with plenty of places to enjoy adult-only time.
The kids could not get enough of the fabulous kids’ facilities – it was hard to drag them away from the clubs – and endless opportunities to meet their favourite characters.
While cruising with Disney could never be seen as a cheap option, for those who want to experience the magic without the theme park slog, it is definitely worth every penny.
The latest Disney ship to set sail will be the Disney Destiny. As the cruise line has grown ever more popular, it has grown more confident in making its incredible entertainment legacy a bigger part of the ship.
With Destiny, there’s a fabulous Heroes and Villains theme alongside the chance to enjoy some West End-style entertainment and even a water coaster across the top deck that pays tribute to some of its most feared baddies.
Combining a three or four-night sailing on any of Disney’s ships with a stay in Orlando must surely be the ultimate family bucket list holiday.
And with the Disney Dream returning for multiple sailings from Southampton next year, there’s the chance to get on board for all the magic without the pricey flights.
Royal Caribbean was the first cruise Lisa took her whole family on, when her youngest was just 18 months oldCredit: sbw-photo
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
ROYAL Caribbean was the first cruise we did as a family when my youngest was just 18 months old, and from then on, we were hooked on life on the open sea.
As my kids have grown, so has Royal’s incredible roster of family-friendly ships. And with the launch of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, last year, they reached peak family fun.
The new Surfside neighbourhood is a game-changer for parents with small children, a stay-all-day area with Splashaway Bay aqua park, and Water’s Edge, a kid-friendly infinity pool.
And parents can relax while their kids play with casual family-friendly dining and places to grab a drink.
The area features a beach-themed carousel, arcade and playground and it’s close to the ship’s superb Adventure Ocean kids clubs.
Older kids will love Thrill Island, the largest water park at sea, with a host of slides as well as Crown’s Edge, the hybrid ropes course and thrill ride that dangles you 154ft above the ocean.
And Royal have spent just as much time designing cabins that work for families, including the Surfside Family Suites, with balconies overlooking the neighbourhood and a ‘kids’ nook’ with bunk beds and a split bathroom to make getting ready easier.
Topping it off with multiple family-friendly shows and activities as well as their family-friendly private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Royal is the perfect starting point for family cruises.
GO: Seven nights’ full-board on Icon of the Seas is from £534pp, based on two adults and two children sharing. Departs Miami on September 19, 2026 and calls at St Maarten, St Thomas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Lisa’s children play on the beach during a trip to Butlin’sCredit: SuppliedLisa doesn’t believe there’s a kid in the country who wouldn’t love the heady mix of family fun on offer at Butlin’sCredit: BUTLIN’S
BUTLIN’S MINEHEAD & BOGNOR
I don’t believe there’s a kid in the country who wouldn’t love the heady mix of family fun on offer at Butlin’s.
With live shows, perfect pools and even a traditional fairground, youngsters will find a host of great activities for all ages from tots to teens.
We loved our stay at the West Lakes chalets at Butlin’s Minehead. Great for multi-gen holidays or for families sharing, the light, bright chalets sleep up to eight.
Working with online parenting forum Mumsnet, they have a nod to the traditional Butlin’s chalet, but with all the modern touches for today’s families.
There’s an open-plan lounge and diner with a high-spec kitchen as well as an outdoor veranda or Juliet balcony.
Perfect for the pre-schoolers, breaks start from just £39, which works out to £2.50pp a night, and include live shows with Peppa Pig and her new baby sister, Mister Maker and Fireman Sam, splash zones and soft play areas as well as unlimited rides in the Little Stars Fairground.
There’s also another reason to visit in term time, the chance to enjoy all-inclusive breaks that include alcoholic drinks, coffee and three meals a day.
GO: Four-night all-inclusive midweek breaks are from £399 for two adults and two children. See bultins.com
With theme parks, desert adventures and even a snow slope to keep them busy, you’re guaranteed to find something in Dubai to delight every ageCredit: Alamy
DUBAI
It may be known as a mecca for reality TV stars and influencers, but Dubai is actually a brilliant destination to take the kids.
With theme parks, desert adventures and even a snow slope to keep them busy, you’re guaranteed to find something to delight every age.
A great option for families is the Centara Mirage Beach Resort with its five restaurants, beachfront pool, water park and kids clubs.
But little ones are also spoiled with their own sweet-themed spa with edible treatments, gaming zone and an outdoor playground.
My kids adored the chance to visit the original Kidzania attraction where kids can role-play 40 different jobs from firefighters and pilots to doctors and dentists.
But most magical was the trip into the desert, where after a thrilling 4×4 dune ride, we watched an amazing falconry display and enjoyed dinner after dark.
GO: Four nights’ B&B at the Centara Mirage Beach Resort is from £717pp including flights from Heathrow in June 2026. See onthebeach.co.uk
TUI’s flagship Holiday Village AQI hotel in Sarigerme, TurkeyCredit: TUI
The huge resort on the country’s west coast has everything from Stage Academy drama classes, Football Academies and a Go Ape-style high-ropes course, to overwater, inflatable obstacle courses, chocolate parties and archery.
Then there’s the massive amphitheatre with a packed nighttime itinerary, video arcade, bowling alley and seven pools – including a mini waterpark.
Little wonder the hotel’s own sandy beach, with bath-warm sea water was empty most days.
Breakfast was enormous, with every taste catered for and lunch by the pool was equally impressive, with a huge 40-dish mezze selection.
But the best meal was dinner, with themed nights, when the entire menu was changed — our favourites being the Turkish and Asian evenings. Plus a separate kitchen for kid-friendly (and often healthy) food.
And finally, the almost guaranteed sun.
With prices from £673pp next May, including all-inclusive board, a family room and flights from London Gatwick.
Billund in Denmark, home to Lego House, truly is the perfect family short breakCredit: Alamy
BILLUND, DENMARK
An action-packed weekend break just over an hour from the UK, with creativity, wildlife and thrill-seeking all wrapped in sounds like a unicorn of a holiday – but Billund in Denmark truly is the perfect family short break.
The town Lego built, carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen invented the famous building bricks in the 1940s from his workshop in the town, and many of the global company’s offices are still there.
Yes, the two million annual visitors usually go there for the awesome Legoland and Lego House – easily two full days of building and rollercoaster fun.
But there’s also Aquadome, Scandinavia’s biggest waterpark, and Wow Park (tickets from £26.50), a huge treetop adventure in woodland spanning the size of 40 football pitches.
The town is so small that almost everything is walkable, it’s super clean and practically designed with families in mind.
Plus the flights take just 1 hour and 35 minutes currently from London Gatwick, and 1hour and 41minutes from Edinburgh to Billund on the newest flight route launching next year.
Lisa’s lot thought they had hit the big time when we stayed at the gorgeous Hunters Lodges at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales
HUNTERS LODGES, CELTIC MANOR
IF it’s good enough for American presidents, it’s good enough for the kids!
My lot thought they had hit the big time when we stayed at the gorgeous Hunters Lodges at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales.
This is top-tier self-catering accommodation with each lodge sleeping up to eight in four stylish en-suite bedrooms.
There’s a vast open-plan kitchen, living, and dining room with vaulted ceilings and a wall of glass looking out onto open countryside. The outdoor hot tub was used constantly by both adults and kids.
A great option for kids as they get a bit older, the resort itself has some fantastic outdoor adventure activities, including adventure golf, laser combat, ropes courses and archery as well as a large adventure playground.
Explore the 2,000-acre estate’s family-friendly woodland trails on a free, self-guided treasure hunt.
When rain stops play, there’s swimming in the resort’s two health clubs as well as a games room and indoor play area.
The resort can offer babysitting services and a day nursery as well as kids’ clubs in the peak summer holidays, allowing parents time to enjoy the championship golf courses or spas.
GO: Two-night stays in a Hunters Lodge start from £636per lodge, for up to eight adults plus two additional children, including a round of Adventure Golf and 25per cent off all indoor and outdoor activities. See hunter-lodges.com.
MY fearless six-year-old son, Alex, giggled as a large Asian brown owl landed on his gloved arm, just inches away from his face.
Neeka is so used to mingling with guests who visit the birds of prey aviary that she happily sat there for a few seconds, slowly twisting her neck, taking in the view.
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Swinton Estate has an incredible 20,000 acres of sprawling landCredit: SuppliedJane’s son Alex with a large Asian brown owlCredit: suppliedAlex and Layla roaming the hallsCredit: supplied
And who can blame her, when the view is as stunning as this?
We were staying on the stunning Swinton Estate, set in the Yorkshire Dales within an incredible 20,000 acres of sprawling land made up of villages, farms and moorland.
At the centre of this is the Downton Abbey-style, ivy-clad ancestral stately home of Lord and Lady Masham which has been turned into a luxury hotel with 42 suites and bedrooms.
Despite its grandeur, I discovered it to be one of the most down to earth — and definitely the most child-friendly — places I’ve ever stayed in the UK.
What’s more, visitors are on the doorstep of explorable market towns, as well as just a 10-minute drive from historic Jervaulx Abbey (one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful historic sites) and 20 minutes from Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park, home to mini rollercoasters, giant swings and a crazy golf course.
That’s if you can find the time to leave the estate.
Swinton has even more activities than overcrowded tourist traps such as Center Parcs — with comparable prices.
During our short stay, we enjoyed treasure hunts, children’s cookery courses, fishing, archery, escape rooms and cycling.
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There are complimentary meditation classes, tea tasting, clay pigeon shooting, history tours, movie nights and a birds of prey show.
Falconer Mandy explained that most of the owls, hawks and falcons on site were hand reared.
They even go on “walks” through the estate, high above your head.
And what a great place for a stroll, it is. Our dog Layla certainly agreed.
Unlike many hotels, Layla wasn’t just tolerated here, she was adored.
She walked alongside us as we explored some of the 63 miles of footpaths as well as the play area, wild swimming lake, shop and the Country Club.
She even plodded into the reception with me while I booked an amazing £50 back, neck and shoulder massage.
Although, I did leave her with the others when it came to enjoying my treatment.
This meant I could take full advantage of the amenities, which include thermal suites, a heavenly relaxation room and two pools, both of which have select adults-only times so the grown-ups can properly de-stress.
OLD-WORLD CHARM
Even those with kids can get their downtime thanks to the on-site babysitting service, available from £15 an hour.
The Estate itself is a charming mix of contemporary design blended with grand antiques and historical paintings of the family that once owned it.
This old-world charm continues into the bedrooms and suites too.
Our room featured high ceilings and large low windows where Alex and Layla sat together watching the deer roam freely in the fields.
Every tiny detail has been considered here.
There were coats and umbrellas to borrow, dog biscuits, a teddy bear on the bed and soft, squishy towels and dressing gowns.
While Alex was grateful for the bowl of apples and pile of shortbread biscuits left on the side, I was more appreciative of the smart coffee machine and the Estate’s home-made sloe whisky.
Enjoy rest and relaxation in the spaCredit: Supplied
Whisky is just one of many things that comes from the grounds.
Pretty much everything from vegetables and meat to herbs and fruit does, too.
I am a sucker for a good brekkie and thanks to the outstanding estate sausages, this was undoubtedly my favourite meal of the stay.
A freshly-cooked plate of breakfast goodies also helped to ease my slightly sore head after the excellent mixologists rustled me up one too many spicy margaritas the night before.
You don’t need to be an overnight guest to visit the Estate.
Those popping in during the winter months can experience a new winter light trail which will lead them through a sparkling woodland and around the pretty lakes — tickets are from £7.50 per child, while those under five go free.
If you do fancy checking in for the evening, however, now is the time to book.
On selected dates this winter, you can bag a suite with breakfast and a bottle of house wine for £275 in total.
I am from Yorkshire originally, but I don’t think I’ve ever actually received such a Yorkshire welcome as I did here.
Even Neeka the owl was happy to see us.
The hotel’s grand interiorCredit: Supplied
GO: SWINTON ESTATE
STAYING THERE: The Red Hot Autumn package costs from £275 per night, including breakfast, a bottle of house wine in the room, spa access from 3pm on day of arrival until 11am on day of check out.
Dogs cost an additional £30 per dog, per night and a child’s bed costs an additional £50 per child, per night.
A ROLLING mist was hugging the Somerset Levels beneath a crisp autumn sun as I opened the curtains and stepped out on to my balcony.
We had arrived in the dark the night before, to a welcome reception of hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows by a roaring fire pit at the Windmill Retreat Spa & Estate in Bridgwater.
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Enjoy a dip at the Elements suiteCredit: SuppliedYou can enjoy breakfast on your balconyCredit: Supplied
We had been impressed by the state-of-the-art outdoor hot tub, cold plunge and private barrel sauna in the newly-built Avanto Spa Garden, for the exclusive use of six new Elements suites.
But waking up to these views – and catching a glimpse of the larger spa below – we knew we were somewhere extra special.
Rested from a good night’s sleep in the Thyme suite – with its king-size bed, and lounge with complimentary handcrafted gin infused with herbs from the garden – we headed down to the Levels Country Kitchen.
Guests can choose from a continental breakfast on their balcony, or a hot breakfast and coffee in the Kitchen.
It was followed by a morning of yoga and meditation in the Wellness Dome, which has been built at the top of the site, with views over the local villages.
Suitably relaxed, we went for a stroll around the estate, picking up a hand-made necklace from the shop before returning to the cafe – where guests get ten per cent off.
There we had lunch of French onion soup and hot honey goat’s cheese and walnut salad.
The extensive seasonal menu includes a selection of sandwiches, salads and quiches as well as an all-day brunch and burgers.
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As the afternoon rolled in, it was time to experience the main Windmill spa, where sessions start from £35 per person.
It is open to just 12 people at a time, so it never feels overcrowded.
We started in the main hydrotherapy infinity pool overlooking another beautiful garden, before venturing outside to the hot tub with a glass of ice-cold prosecco.
A steam and sauna followed, then we reclined on the warm stone beds with an iced towel to cool off, before treating ourselves to an express facial (from £43) in one of the five treatment rooms.
Back in our suite we helped ourselves to pick ’n’ mix from the pantry, alongside a herbal tea and a slice of home-made Victoria sponge cake – baked freshly each day – before heading back out to the Avanto Spa Garden for sunset by the fire pit with another round of marshmallows and lashings of hot chocolate.
Hearty breakfast
After washing off the day under the rainforest shower and using the spa’s home-made toiletries, it only felt right to get into our robes to enjoy a delicious charcuterie board – delivered to our suite – and a bottle of red wine in bed with Strictly on the TV.
For those wanting something more substantial, the highly-recommended George Inn is just a 15-minute walk away, or you can order in a pizza from the local takeaway.
Lights out by 10pm, we opened the skylight above our bed to look at the stars before drifting off for another sensational night’s sleep.
The next morning, after another hearty breakfast – this time a sausage sandwich – we handed back our suite keys with heavy (but relaxed) hearts, before making use of the spa garden for one final time and packing up a lump of cake for the road.
ON the hunt for a bargain festive getaway? Forget the traditional European spots — as this year Vilnius is the place to head.
New research has revealed the capital of Lithuania is the most wallet-friendly destination for a Christmas market break, with low-cost accommodation plus ginger bread and mulled wine galore.
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A getaway in Lithuania sets holidaymakers back significantly less than a short break in any other European destinationCredit: GettyVilnius in Lithuania came out on top in the Post Office’s annual Christmas Markets Barometer reportCredit: GettyVilnius in Lithuania is the cheapest city in Europe for accommodation and travel
According to the Post Office’s annual Christmas Markets Barometer report, a two-night getaway in the historic city will set holidaymakers back significantly less than a short break in any other European destination.
The study looked at the cost of six basic holiday items in 15 countries that are popular for a festive break — to calculate where travellers would get the most bang for their buck in 2025.
These holiday items included B&B accommodation, return flights or Eurostar travel, coffees, and three-course dinners for two with wine.
It found the total cost of all of these essentials in Vilnius came to £508.94, with travel and accommodation being the leading cause for its affordability.
The costing is dramatically less here than it would be in other destinations.
The study found that the city has not been affected by inflation in terms of holiday costs, with prices 0.4 per cent lower than they were in last year’s Christmas Markets Barometer.
In second place on the barometer is Riga in Latvia, which has been shown to be eight per cent more expensive than Vilnius overall, although comparatively general items, such as ginger bread or stollen at the market and a three-course meal for two, cost less.
Laura Plunkett, Head of Travel Money at Post Office, said: “Sterling’s drop in value is an important factor for travellers to consider before booking a trip because this varies between currencies.
“The pound’s fall against the euro is smaller than against other European currencies — five per cent compared with 10.6 per cent against the Hungarian forint and 10.9 per cent against the krona in Sweden.”
If it is mulled wine you have got your eyes on, this year’s research suggests that Bratislava in Slovakia is the best place to get enjoy it without splashing the cash.
This destination came in third place overall but had the most affordable tipples, with four glasses of mulled wine priced at £10.77, more than £7 less than it would cost in Vilnius.
Prices for all the holiday items had risen in Bratislava, in comparison to the previous year, with flights and accommodation soaring by 12.9 per cent, while meals, drinks and airport transfers have increased 8.5 per cent from 2024.
Poland has been revealed as one of the most affordable countries overall for a festive mini-break, with three cities making it into the top ten on the budget barometer.
Bratislava in Slovakia topped the survey for the most affordable mulled wine in European citiesCredit: GettyFour glasses of mulled wine would set you back just £10.77 in Bratislava
Gdansk, Warsaw and Krakow came in fourth, fifth and seventh place respectively with total holiday costs of £585.85, £588.97 and £674.17.
Despite being the most expensive of the Polish cities in general, Krakow is definitely the best place to head if you plan to load up on cake, stollen or gingerbread at the markets.
Here, it costs £10.56 on average for four portions of these sweet treats, which is less than half of what it would cost you in Warsaw (£22).
This still doesn’t compare to Stockholm, however, where visitors heading to the Christmas markets can get samples of these goodies for free.
At the other end of the scale, Copenhagen in Denmark was the priciest of all 15 destinations in the charts, with the total cost of all holiday items coming to a staggering £1,055.92 — more than double that of the cheapest spot, Vilnius.
Austrian capital Vienna was the second most expensive spot overall. However, the barometer shows that costs have fallen by 2.4 per cent since last year.
Laura Plunkett added: “Away from the Advent markets, there are tempting opportunities to shop for Christmas gift items.
But we advise holidaymakers to think carefully before using a credit or debit card to make payments as they are likely to end up paying some extra non-sterling transaction charges.
“Instead, consider loading spending money on to a pre-paid card such as the Post Office Travel Money Card, which is widely accepted and does not incur these transaction charges.”
Warsaw in Poland is one of three Polish cities inside the top seven in the Post Office surveyCredit: Getty
DUBAI has finally cracked open its £10billion mystery islands to sun-seeking holidaymakers after they lay deserted for more than two decades.
The city has long been recognised for its architectural wonders including the 828m tall Burj Khalifa.
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Dubai has opened its ‘worlds islands’ after twenty two yearsCredit: Alamy Stock PhotoThe development includes luxurious holiday villas and beach staysCredit: Instagram
But the glamourous city has revealed its latest gem, known as ‘the world’s islands’, which is now officially open to tourists after years of development.
Rocky beginnings
The £10.6bn fantasy archipelago was supposed to reshape the coastline into a giant world map made from 300 man-made islands.
The mad dream began as a sketch on a cocktail napkin and back then, ambitious tycoons queued up to claim their slice of the fantasy.
There were even plans for a Giant’s Causeway on the ‘Ireland’ island and a fashion paradise overseen by Karl Lagerfeld himself.
But in true Dubai fashion, the city has refused to give up and the forgotten islands are back, open for business, and dripping in luxury.
Open for business
The islands are now open to tourists, offering a game-changing new experience.
Travellers can enjoy the World islands, which consist of 300 islands, situated just off the cost of the mainland.
Each island has been designed to mimic different countries or continents, including luxury resorts, fine dining spots and high-end beach villas.
While many are still under construction, a select few are fully accessible to tourists.
‘Heart of Europe’
Austrian developer Josef Kleindienst, snapped up half a dozen islands and nearly two decades later, his sprawling resort, ‘The Heart of Europe‘, is now open.
The islands resemble popular European destinations, including ‘Sweden,’ ‘Switzerland,’ ‘Germany,’ ‘Monaco,’ and ‘St Petersburg’.
Guests can take a trip to the glitzy Voco Monaco hotel, blasting out endless techno, offering visitors a luxury, high end party experience.
The star attraction is the bonkers “raining street,” where sprinklers blast out a fake downpour every 15 minutes.
In 35°C heat, it creates a misty, Paris-in-August atmosphere.
Further along the map, the mood shifts from rave to relaxation.
The Anantara World Islands resort offers a Maldives-on-Sea escape full of private pools, beachfront villas and pampering sessions.
Guests can even have breakfast served in their own pool.
There are also 133 floating seahorse villas, making up a £5billion floating city in the middle of the sea.
Even a former “dead” island, ‘Chile’, is now hosting parties, while another has been reborn as ‘Zuhha Island’ with luxury villas on sale.
The World Islands were once written off as an embarrassing folly, but the new development is bound to be a game changer for the cities’ already bustling tourist scene.
It offers a high-end experience to holiday-makersCredit: InstagramThere are 133 floating seahorse villas, making up a floating cityCredit: Instagram
The World’s 50 Best Beaches
The World’s Best Beaches consulted more than 750 judges including travel journalists, influencers, and beach ambassadors to rank the beaches.
WANT to snap up a holiday next year for less? TUI Black Friday sale has something for every budget.
Whether you’re looking to book some New Year winter sun or next summer’s break, there are great deals to be had.
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Las Teresitas beach is walking distance from Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife
With TUI, you can bag Black Friday discount codes for offers that cover departure dates from January 1, 2026 to October 31, 2027.
Simply bookmark the Black Friday sales page at tui.co.uk, browse the discount codes, apply them to the trip of your choice and save big.
The world is your oyster – but where to go?
Long haul or short?
It’s not too late to treat yourself to a winter holiday in the New Year – TUI’s Black Friday discount vouchers can be used for last-minute trips.
Tempted by the thought of some some sunshine? While we shiver at home, Florida is enjoying average temperatures of 25C – so hit the beach, tour Miami or visit Orlando’s theme parks.
Or soak up the sun in Mexico, explore Mayan ruins, laze on powder-sand beaches and stay in an incredible seafront hotel.
The Canaries are always a hit, winter or summer, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria ever-reliable choices.
Agaete – in the north of Gran Canaria – has some great beaches and natural pools, plus a quaint old town with a walled botanical garden.
Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, known for its turquoise waters
Greece is the word
How about one of the Greek islands? Corfu is a lush picture of cypress trees, olive groves and sun-bleached towns.
Make sure to fit in a trip to Paradise Beach, reachable only by boat.
Elsewhere, Rhodes has a breathtaking mix of dazzling beaches and ancient ruins.
Take the ferry to tiny island of Symi, which has a beautiful harbour and a striking 15th-century monastery on the waterfront.
Spain’s Balearics always deliver. Cala Galdana – a small, colourful resort set in a lovely cove in southern Menorca – has lots to keep the family entertained.
And of course Ibiza’s party scene, bohemian vibes and gorgeous sand are rightly legendary.
The Caribbean shores of Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
How to shop the deals
Book your next break now with the TUI Black Friday discount code BLKFRI, available to use when you open a myTUI account online.
With a myTUI account you can save up to £300* per booking on a package – including thousands of family-friendly getaways – from January 2026 to October 2027.
Once you’re set up, having your details stored online allows you to book that break swiftly before the deal is snapped up and disappears.
And if you already have dates and destinations in mind, that helps to narrow your search for the best deals.
Sign up for weekly emails and you’ll receive discounts direct to your inbox.
When you shop the TUI Black Friday sale, you’ll find unbeatable bargains… so what are you waiting for?
*Save £300 per booking when you spend £3,500 with code BLKFRI; save £300per booking including children aged 2 and over on TUI package holidays. Offer excludes city destinations operated on third-party flights. Discount is valid on holidays departing between January 1, 2026 and October 31, 2027. Minimum spend is £3,500. Room upgrades and flight extras on TUI flying will count towards your minimum spend. However, other extras such as insurance andTUI Care Foundation donations do not count towards your minimum spend.Saving is based on a minimum of 2 adults sharing. Offer is valid until midnight on December 2, 2025 when logged into a myTUI account. Offer does not apply to accommodation only, flight only, cruise and ski bookings. Offer is valid for new bookings only when logged into a myTUI account and can only be redeemed once. Enter code BLKFRI in upper case when on the holiday payment page of the TUI website. See tui.co.uk or the relevant brochure for booking terms and conditions. Offer is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. This promotional code is non-transferable and not valid in conjunction with any other discount code.
WITH hotel prices soaring and all-inclusives costing a small fortune you probably think luxury holidays are a pipe dream – but some savvy Brits have found a way to jet off several times a year totally for FREE.
These women are bagging stunning holidays to pricey destinations like Las Vegas, Spain and Lapland for their families for absolutely nothing – and we’ve got their easy secrets so you can, too.
Natasha Douglas has scored two free trips to Las Vegas, among other free holidaysCredit: SuppliedOthers have bagged themselves a free trip to Lapland, Spain and CornwallCredit: Alamy
So how are they doing it? Run-of-the-mill competitions that give away everything from staycations to long-haul breaks.
These women are self-confessed ‘compers’ who have turned prize draws and social media giveaways into their tickets to dream holidays.
And while there is an element of luck, the trick is knowing where to look.
They maximise their chances through specialist groups on Facebook like Travel Competitions UK.
Free to join, this is a private group for holiday competition hunters throughout the UK to share tips and advice.
The page is also an opportunity for members to share travel competitions they’ve spotted and there are usually between 5-10 posted per day – anything from magazine comps and Instagram and Facebook shares, to comps directly from cruise companies, airlines and hotels.
Lucky Learners is another popular Facebook group for more general competitions, with 24,000 members,
It’s run by professional comper and author, Di Coke, who has also set up another paid-for members group called Lucky Legends, which provides access to a private chat forum and exclusive resources such as the compers shopping list.
A numbers game
Mum-of-two Natasha Douglas, 46, from Kent, is a member of Travel Competitions UK and has scooped several trips including not one but TWO holidays to Las Vegas – the first she won in 2019.
She says it’s primarily a numbers game.
Natasha told The Sun: “There’s no real skill involved. I just enter a lot of competitions all the time. The more you enter, the more chance you have of winning.”
Lucy Davis started entering competitions to win holidays during lockdownCredit: SuppliedLucy’s latest visit was to Mojacar in SpainCredit: AlamyMum-of-two Rachael Jones joined the Travel Competitions UK Facebook page over a year ago and has already won a family holiday to MaltaCredit: Rachael Jones
Natasha and her friend used her latest holiday win to travel to Las Vegas last month – a win she secured through a newsletter sign-up with gambling.com – and the prize included a helicopter ride, show tickets and even £2,000 in spending money.
She’s also bagged a Lapland day trip on Christmas Eve, a Cornwall surf break, and a stack of UK hotel stays.
Natasha added: “Comping’s my hobby, any spare time I get, I’m entering something, but I never pay to enter.
“I’ll subscribe, share or answer a question, but it’s all free. The only downside are the spam emails! I get loads of them but it’s worth it.”
You gotta be in it to win it
Meanwhile, Lucy Davis, from Manchester is currently sunning herself in Mojácar, Spain, on her latest win.
The 47-year-old, who has one son, two stepchildren and two grandchildren, started entering competitions during lockdown.
She said: “A friend told me about the Lucky Learners site on Facebook, it’s amazing. There’s a £5 subscription for the full version, but there’s a free page too, with loads of competitions and advice.”
Since then, Lucy’s racked up an impressive list of wins.
She won a glamping break in Wales, a school-bus stay in Cornwall, a ferry trip to Amsterdam, and a city break in Liverpool, not to mention dozens of smaller prizes including shopping vouchers and restaurant meals.
Lucy told us: “I probably enter about 600 competitions a month, I usually do it late at night once the kids are in bed. I’m on Facebook, Instagram, magazines, anywhere that’s running a giveaway. You’ve got to be in it to win it!”
Lucy’s even made it onto ITV’s This Morning three years ago on a segment called ‘It’s behind You,’ where she pocketed £300 on the spot, and another £1,000 from an online prize draw.
She added: “Local Facebook pages are brilliant too. I’ve won panto tickets, Winter Wonderland entry, and even an Alton Towers trip for five.”
Mum-of-two Rachael Jones, 44, from Basingstoke, joined the Travel Competitions UK Facebook page over a year ago and now enters competitions almost every day.
Rachael said: “When I have spare time to relax, it’s something that I like to do. Fortunately my hobby paid off when I won a holiday.
“I found out in July 2024 that I had won a trip with Global and Booking.com and I had a year in to book it, so I arranged to go on my birthday in May this year.
“The prize was return flights to Malta, for four people including transfers, and two nights in a luxury apartment in Valletta.
“I also received £500 cash, which was transferred into my bank account just after I accepted the prize. My family and I had a wonderful time.”
All three women swear by Facebook groups like Lucky Learners, Late Deals Competitions, and Travel Competitions UK – and admit that while it takes time and a lot of entries, the rewards can be huge.
If you want to give ‘comping’ a go – here’s how to do it…
Here’s how to start racking up prizes like a pro, all without spending a penny…
Enter little and often The pros say it’s all about consistency. A few entries a day soon adds up to hundreds a month and the odds stack in your favour.
Join the right groups Facebook pages like Lucky Learners, Travel Competitions UK, and Late Deals & Freebies share verified competitions daily.
Think small Big brands get thousands of entries but it’s always worth following local pages and checking out niche magazines than will often have fewer entries, giving you a better shot.
Set up a comping email Keep your main inbox clear and your entries organised and you won’t get bombarded with spam.
Follow travel brands on Instagram and Facebook Most of their giveaways are a quick like, tag or share away – don’t skip that “like and share” post – it could be your ticket to Vegas.
It’s not all going abroad – some wins are tickets to Winter Wonderland in the UKCredit: AlamySurfing holidays to Cornwall are up for grabs, alongside stays in unique Cornish holiday homesCredit: AlamyTravel compers like Lucy give away their secrets to win free holidays in Facebook groups like Travel Competitions UKCredit: Supplied
A PRETTY town on a island in Greece has opened a new €3.5million (£3million) marina to visitors.
The brand new marina in Nydri, which is located on the Ionian island of Lefkada, is set to attract more tourists, visitors and yacht owners to the area.
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A town on the island of Lefkada in Greece has a new £3million marinaCredit: AlamyIt is hoped that the new marina will bring more tourists to the islandCredit: Alamy
Having opened back in April, the marina has 73 berths for yachts up to 15 metres.
The marina was developed to make access to the Ionian islands better.
While there is a small bridge from the mainland which makes the island accessible via car, the new marina should help to improve nautical tourism.
Deputy Maritime Minister Stefanos Gkikas, stated: “This project marks a vital development that will foster prosperity not only in Nydri but across the entire island of Lefkada.”
He added that the upgrades make the destination competitive with the likes of Croatia, Montenegro and Albania.
He said: “It is crucial for the Ionian Islands to experience such significant growth in maritime tourism.”
The project was also part of a wider development plan to expand marine tourism in the islands.
Other projects include adding a 100-berth marina in Vassiliki.
Nydri itself is a pretty resort town to explore, just under 10 miles from the main town.
The town curves around the bay and has a few quaint taverns and restaurants to explore.
Head to the harbour to see boats bobbing up and down on the water.
Or venture to Dimosari Waterfalls – a popular hiking spot that leads to Dimosari Gorge and its waterfalls, which you can even swim in in the warmer months.
As a whole, this island of Lefkada is known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece‘ thanks to its exotic, Caribbean-like natural landscape.
On the island, visitors will find sprawling beaches, such as Porto Katsiki which is bookended by dramatic cliffs and has soft, golden sands.
One recent visitor said: “Great beautiful beach with beautiful blue water! The road after is already an experience and beautiful views!”
The island’s main town is also worth exploring – it features lots of little alleys, a long promenade and several restaurants and bars.
Throughout the town there are a number of landmarks worth exploring too, such as the Church of Pantokrator and the Church of Agioi Anargyroi.
Or head to a museum, such as the Phonograph Museum, the Folklore Museum or the Archaeological Museum.
The island is littered with different accommodation spots, meaning there is something for every type of holidaymaker.
For example, you could stay at Armeno Beach Hotel from £72 per night.
The hotel has a restaurant, with free breakfast included and beach access.
In the island’s main town, there are a number of narrow alleys to explore with restaurants, bars and shopsCredit: Alamy
Alternatively, head to Lefkas Hotel, which has a pool and is a two minute walk from the sea – it costs from £43 per night.
The best way to get to Lefkada is by flying into Aktion National Airport, which is about an hour away from Lefkada.
Some airlines fly seasonally to the airport – for example, you could fly with easyJet from London Gatwick to Aktion Airport in April 2026 for £171 return.
Alternatively, you can fly into Athens and drive, which takes around five hours.
Flights from the UK to Athens in December cost as little as £28 return from London, £61 return from Bristol and £71 return from Manchester.
MOVE over, New York! Chicago will win your heart (and stomach), says writer Qin Xie.
“Is this place famous or something?” I overhear someone ask as our camera-wielding tour group files into Mr Beef.
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Move over New York… Chicago will win over your heartCredit: Alamy Stock PhotoMural mania in Wicker ParkCredit: Shutterstock / WhiteBlush
The low-key Chicago sandwich shop is a cult favourite, serving wafer-thin slices of roast beef in gravy-dipped bread since 1979.
But thanks to TV show The Bear, which is inspired by the eatery, its popularity has sky-rocketed and now fans are flocking here on food tours.
At £96 plus tips, the half-day bus tour is a pricey day out – but as I bite into my flavour bomb of a sandwich, there’s nowhere I’d rather be (Chicagofoodtours.com).
Pizza the action
I’ve visited Chicago a few times and I always book a food tour, because the city is home to some of the best restaurants in the US.
First-timers should try the gut-busting Original Chicago Pizza Tour, £66 for a half-day, where the classic deep dish is the star (Chicagopizzatours.com), though the fabulous half-day tacos and tequila tour in Pilsen, the city’s Mexican neighbourhood, is better for making friends.
Twinning is winning at chic L7 Chicago By LotteCredit: Supplied by PR
I met a local improv comedian on mine and ended up going to his show.
Fantastic food aside, I love checking out the artworks scattered around Millennium Park, free fireworks displays at Navy Pier every Wednesday and Saturday night, plus quirky attractions like the Museum of Ice Cream, where you can try the hot-dog flavour!
It’s certainly an experience, but the strawberry cheesecake flavour is so much better.
On gloriously sunny days, it’s utter bliss to cycle along the Lakefront Trail next to Lake Michigan, stopping to flop out at the sandy beaches beside the city skyline.
I use bike-share scheme Divvy – there are bikes everywhere and they cost just £13 a day (Divvybikes.com).
The Museum of Ice Cream’s ‘hot dog’Credit: Supplied by Qin Xie
The best place to refuel is Whispers at Oak Street Beach, right on the sand, although an iced coffee here will set you back close to £7 (Whispersgroup.com).
I’m staying at L7 Chicago By Lotte, a hotel in the heart of the city with rooms that come with yoga mats and free weights (Lottehotel.com).
It’s steps away from Chicago Riverwalk, the waterside footpath where the locals hang out, and it’s here that I join Urban Kayaks for a paddle past towering skyscrapers as a guide shares stories about the architecture.
Exploring the neighbourhoods, like leafy Lincoln Park with its free zoo, or trendy Wicker Park and Bucktown, which are packed with cool street art and edgy boutiques.
It’s why I can’t get enough of this city – each of its 77 neighbourhoods feels like somewhere new.
Qin joined Urban Kayaks for a paddle past towering skyscrapersCredit: Supplied by Qin Xie
FYI
A five-night trip with return flights, a room at L7 Chicago By Lotte and selected tours costs from £1,575 per person (Audley travel.com).
I’M standing open-mouthed on the edge of the desert, south-west of Cairo, the magnificent Great Pyramid of Giza directly in front of me.
For 4,000 years it was the tallest structure on the planet, and it is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing.
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Camel riders pass pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and MenkaureCredit: GettyThe Grand Egyptian MuseumCredit: GettyVisitors to GEM looking at a cracking exhibitCredit: Getty
Here in Egypt at its base, with the heat of the afternoon sun radiating around me, I’m struck by its awesome scale and the astonishing human endeavour that constructed it in the desert 4,500 years ago.
Experts believe it took around 100,000 men 20 years to build this tomb for the ruling pharaoh Khufu, and mystery still surrounds the methods of its construction.
“Could they build this without belief? Could they build it without science? Could they build it without art?” says my tour guide, Dr Tarek Sarhan.
“Three things: Belief, science, art. This is the triangle of civilisation.”
A short distance away on the Giza Plateau is the Great Sphinx — a colossal limestone statue of a mythical creature, part lion, part human.
Even with its nose missing, this enormous creature still cuts an imposing figure.
History courses through the foundations of this captivating site.
But my four-day trip to the Egyptian capital is characterised not just by the old, but by the new.
Just over a mile from the pyramids, the $1.2billion new Grand Egyptian Museum has finally opened more than two decades after work first started.
The enormous building, covering an area of 470,000 square metres, houses more than 50,000 artefacts — and the centrepiece of its collection will bring all 5,000-plus treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb together for the first time.
Stepping through its pyramid-shaped entrance, the 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II sits in GEM’s soaring central atrium.
Another striking set piece here is the museum’s Grand Staircase, punctuated by fascinating relics of some of ancient Egypt’s most important kings and queens.
I walk up, passing statues, columns, granite doorways and sarcophagi.
At the top, a vast window frames the three main pyramids of the Giza Plateau.
Here is where visitors will also find GEM’s 12 main galleries, but the main draw will always be the entire contents of the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun, displayed together since it was first found by British Egyptologist Howard Carter.
The collection, of course, includes Tutankhamun’s spectacular gold mask, throne and chariots.
The collection, of course, includes Tutankhamun’s spectacular gold mask, throne and chariots
Standing in front of statues of kings and queens is only part of the picture.
At the city’s National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, I get to stand in front of their mummified bodies.
Located in the Old Cairo district of the city, this modern museum has a large and open exhibition space with artefacts spanning prehistoric times to the modern day.
But for its biggest draw, I have to descend to the underground Royal Mummies’ Hall.
This dark-walled, low-lit space is now the resting place of 20 royal mummies — 18 kings, including Ramses II, and two queens — displayed in glass cases.
Some of them are showcased with the coffins they were found in.
A huge statue draws in gawping visitorsCredit: GettyThe pharaohs’ tombs on displayCredit: GettyThe mosque of Muhammad Ali in Salah El DinCredit: Getty
Sweet perfume fills the air
Shadows shift as visitors move through this superbly presented exhibition and there’s a sense that one of these mummified bodies might suddenly be reanimated.
There is certainly life to be found in Cairo’s vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
The intricate, linking alleyways of this open-air marketplace are lined with stalls selling everything from lanterns and candles to jewellery and figurines.
Colourful textiles and printed designs hang from walls and stands, and a sweet perfume fills the air.
Away from the buzz of the bazaar, the five-star Waldorf Astoria is an oasis of calm.
Located in the upmarket Heliopolis district, its high-ceiling, glass-walled curved atrium is part botanical garden, part chic Art Deco lounge.
There is certainly life to be found in Cairo’s vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar
My room here is spacious and quiet and the breakfast offering a lavish buffet selection with additional a la carte options and a pancake and French toast station.
EasyJet now offers year-round flights direct to Cairo’s Sphinx airport from Luton as well as a huge choice of packages with easyJet holidays.
If your visit here is brief, you won’t want to miss the sweeping and unforgettable views of this fascinating city from the citadel of Salah El Din.
This ancient fortification served as the seat of power in Egypt for 700 years and it remains one of Cairo’s major attractions.
Inside is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali with its stunning domes, towering minarets, ornate interior and huge central chandelier.
The vistas from this elevated position are wonderfully panoramic.
As I take my transfer back to Sphinx along one of the city’s upgraded highways, I remember the words of my guide, Dr Tarek, in front of the Great Pyramid: “Egypt is a story with no end.”
Perhaps nowhere is this truer than in Cairo, which is building on its past as it looks to the future.
GO: CAIRO
GETTING THERE: Flights from London Luton to Sphinx Airport up to three days a week.
WITH its harbour, picturesque beaches and rugged countryside, the island of Guernsey could be any ordinary holiday destination at first glance.
But scratch below the surface and you’ll uncover the fascinating story of its five-year occupation by the Nazis — and about an an unlikely survivor of the invasion, Timmy the Tortoise.
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The stunning Petit Port BayCredit: SuppliedThe colourful harbour and of Saint Peter Port, GuernseyCredit: GettyA crowd watches a military vehicle paradeCredit: Supplied
I was keen to learn about it during my adventure on the second largest of the Channel Islands.
So I booked several short guided day trips with Tours Of Guernsey.
Guide Amanda Johns and I ticked off all the key sites, from museums to former bunkers and even a German underground hospital.
This medical centre — which incredibly doubled up as an ammunition store — had to be the highlight, and the extensive dark passages are a must-see for any history buff.
Its underground bunker can only be viewed by private tour.
Restored by Festung Guernsey, with many original features being reproduced using a 3D printer, the walls within are still dotted with German inscriptions, including the Nazi Eagle.
Potato peel pie
It was an honour to pay it a visit the day after Princess Anne was shown around while on the island for the Liberation Day celebrations.
The day marks when Allied troops freed the locals from Nazi rule on May 9, 1945.
One local making headlines during the celebrations was Timmy, 87 — actually a female — who survived Nazi occupation.
Maggie Cull and Timmy the TortoiseCredit: States of GuernseyThe radio room in the Occupation MuseumCredit: AlamyNazis march through Guernsey in 1940Credit: Getty
She was given to Maggie Cull as a christening present in 1941, not long after she and her parents were turfed out of their home by the Nazis.
After all that history I’d certainly worked up an appetite.
Luckily my base, St Pierre Park Hotel, was just a 25-minute walk into St Peter Port, where there are pubs and restaurants aplenty.
Fifty Seven restaurant is set over two floors and has stunning views of Castle Cornet and the coastline.
The menu features steaks cooked fresh on the grill as well as some excellent fish dishes including oven-baked monkfish on chilli linguine.
As you’re by the sea, grab yourself some fish and chips — the restaurant at Les Douvres Hotel dishes up one of the largest portions I’ve ever seen.
On my last night I dined on a special Liberation Day menu at the Old Government House Hotel, close to the harbour.
This 5H property was turned into the German General Staff Headquarters during the war and it still has an old-world feel about it today.
MONDAY night is DJ night at Hotel Ibiza and the bar/lounge area is filled with ambient house tunes as pink neon lights flash in time with the beat.
But despite the name of the place, we’re nowhere near the Balearic Island.
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Les Deux Alpes in France is one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in EuropeCredit: AlamyEnjoy snowboarding on the resort’s perfect slopesCredit: Getty – Contributor
We’re in Les Deux Alpes in France, one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in Europe, and the terrace outside looks across to the glistening peaks of the Parc National des Ecrins.
It’s the week before Christmas and a group of us have brought our teenagers for some festive fun on the slopes.
They’re not yet old enough to venture out alone into the resort’s bars and clubs, but they’re still keen to do their own thing so the entertainment here is ticking all the teen boxes.
While we sit at the bar, chatting with barman Costas as he expertly mixes our pre-dinner drinks, the kids have gone downstairs again for another game of air hockey.
The huge basement games room, which also has ping-pong, table football, arcade games and a dozen or so sofas to laze on, is proving to be a big hit.
But it’s dinner time and I know the restaurant buffet will easily tempt away Freddie, our 15-year-old, because it is serving lasagne — his favourite dish — among a host of other options.
Like most teenage boys, Freddie is a big eater and as I watch him tuck into his third portion I feel relieved that we went for the all-inclusive option.
Feeding a growing lad is expensive at the best of times but particularly so in a ski resort.
Luckily, the Hotel Ibiza offers a super deal throughout the winter season, with kids under 18 staying free when sharing a room with their parents at the same board.
You can go for B&B or half- board, but families usually make the most of the kids-go-free offer and splash out on all-inclusive.
It makes sense, especially when you factor in the drinks.
Soft drinks, wine and beer with meals, and a selection of spirits for pre- and post-dinner drinks are part of the deal, and Costas keeps them coming, along with bowls of peanuts and tortilla chips, until 10pm.
After that, you can carry on drinking at your own expense, but you’ll probably want to be tucked up in bed by then, exhausted by a day’s activity in the mountain air.
Fun for all the family at the Hotel IbizaCredit: SuppliedThe kids enjoying a game of poolCredit: Supplied
It was early in the season but already the snow conditions were good.
The sun was shining (Les Deux Alpes boasts above-average sunshine too) and with heavy snow and white-outs forecast for later in the week, we were making the most of the blue skies.
We loved the Jandri Express, the resort’s sparkling new state-of-the-art cable car that whizzes you up to 3,200m in just 17 minutes, half the time the old gondola took.
It takes up to 32 people at a time — 24 seated and eight standing — and gives you plenty of time to adjust boots or have a snack.
One morning we joined First Tracks, where you accompany the Ski Patrollers, who prepare the slopes daily, spending two hours learning about what is involved.
It costs €22 (£19.40) per person, including breakfast at La Toura Restaurant, and can be booked through the tourist office.
Best of all, it means you get to go up before the lifts open to the public and can be the first to ski down.
With freshly-groomed slopes to ourselves, it’s when we got our best photos.
We also tried yoonering — a bit like sledging but on a seat 20cm above the ground, with your legs stretched out in front to act as brakes, gliding down and leaning left or right to turn. It was easy to get the hang of it and went surprisingly fast.
We all loved it.
‘QUIRKY AND FUN’
On a few evenings we stopped off for a beer or a vin chaud at one of the bars near the bottom of the Jandri, but most nights we got straight on the free shuttle bus for the five-minute hop home and did our après ski back at the hotel bar/lounge, enticed by the all- inclusive drinks and the chilled out, family-friendly vibe.
The hotel’s decor somehow manages to make it cosy and cool at the same time.
There’s a retro, musical theme, with prints of rock and pop legends along the corridors and coffee tables in the lounge, which double up as Monopoly boards or glass-topped exhibits of Barbies and Action Men.
It’s quirky and fun.
Our room, one of 60, was a two-bed family one, with balcony and bath.
Each room comes with bath robes and slippers for the walk down to the basement spa, with its sauna, steam room and indoor heated pool all free for guests.
The food was excellent for a three-star hotel, particularly the evening meals, when you could take a bowl and help yourself from the salad or soup bar, followed by an array of hot meat, fish and veggie dishes, plus a surprising amount of veggie sides, which is often lacking in ski hotels.
The desserts were so generous that even Freddie agreed to share.
After dinner we’d sink into the comfy lounge sofas en famille and play cards or games.
One night after dinner, two of the younger children played Christmas songs on the grand piano and we all joined in — even the teens!
With only a few more years before they’ll probably be off skiing with their mates, it was a moment to be cherished.
View of the alpine village and mountain rangeCredit: Getty
GO: LES DEUX ALPES
GETTING THERE: Fly to Lyon with easyJet from Gatwick, with fares from £87 return this December. See easyjet.com.
Shared transfer from Lyon to Les Deux Alpes costs from £214 in total. See skifrance.co.uk.
STAYING THERE: The 3* Hotel Ibiza’s kids-go-free offer means a three-night stay for four people sharing a duplex suite is from £684 in total for B&B or £1,064 in total for all-inclusive. Call 0203 475 4756 or visit skifrance.co.uk.
CHELTENHAM is famed for its racecourse and its annual “Greatest Show On Turf”.
But there’s so much more to do in this pretty Regency spa town than have a flutter on the horses.
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Cheltenham’s gorgeous Regency buildings are a highlight of the townCredit: Getty
Emma Glanfield takes you on a tour of the best of the rest.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Sitting at the foot of the Cotswolds hills, Cheltenham is vibrant and buzzy, with a backdrop of well-preserved Regency architecture and rolling countryside.
And its abundance of quirky hotels, lively bars and boutique shops make it perfect for a weekend away.
There always seems to be something exciting going on, too, with the town hosting more than 30 festivals and events a year.
Among these are the 80-year-old music festival and the world’s longest running literature festival.
And, of course, it is the home of National Hunt racing, with the Cheltenham Festival boasting pinnacle event the Gold Cup.
STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? The spa town is sprawling but walkable, and there’s plenty of gorgeous architecture to enjoy on the way.
Wander the elegant, tree-lined Montpellier district — one of the town’s most historic areas — and take in the surroundings while popping into boutique shops and cosy cafes.
The Grade I-listed Rotunda, inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, was once a spa pump room but is now a branch of The Ivy hotel. You can dine there amid the Art Deco-style interior.
It’s also worth a stroll around The Suffolks, a sought-after district with mid-19th century buildings, independent shops and cafes, plus a friendly pub called The Suffolk Arms.
ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? It really is worth attending a Cheltenham race meet. There’s a reason the town is known for its horseracing, and you don’t have to be massively into the sport to enjoy it.
With food, drink and glam all on offer, it’s a great, fun-packed day out. Alternatively, take a walk up Cleeve Hill — the highest point in the Cotswolds — for breathtaking panoramic views across the town and towards The Malverns.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT? With burgers as big as your head, The Beefy Boys is not to be missed. It was buzzing on the Saturday night we visited.
The atmosphere was jolly but not so loud you couldn’t chat.
The award-winning Dirty Boy and Oklahoma Onion Boy are absolute beasts, but delicious. Go hungry!
For those wanting a more formal affair, or for a special occasion, Settebello, in Belgrave House, serves authentic Italian cuisine. We feasted on giant bowls of rigatoni with an ox cheek ragu, £18, and Spigola Puttanesca (sea bass with a punchy tomato sauce), £25. The two-course lunch menu at £19 is well worth the money.
With burgers as big as your head, The Beefy Boys is not to be missedCredit: instagram.com/thebeefyboysThe Gin & Juice Bar has more than 400 gins on offer and regular live musicCredit: instagram/ginandjuice_official
FANCY A DRINK? There are stylish bars all over, but a visit to Mr Cambray’s Curiosity won’t leave you disappointed.
Cafe by day, cocktail room by night, it has five themed rooms to explore.
There’s also the recently opened Parler on Clarence Street, in the heart of town. This Georgian building has been reimagined into a Parisian-style cafe by day, and a Japanese listening bar come sundown, with a cosy retro vibe.
The Retreat Wine Bar in Suffolk Parade is a bit of an institution, having been serving drinks since 1982. For late-night entertainment, the Gin & Juice Bar has more than 400 gins on offer and regular live music.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY? For those wanting to be in the town centre, Hotel du Vin is a great choice. The 4H boutique hotel is set in the Montpellier district just a five-minute walk from The Promenade, a local shopping district.
Breakfast is a continental spread with hot plate options, taken next to the impressive underground wine cellars.
At night, guests can enjoy a glass of wine in The Laroche tasting room before diving into soft Egyptian cotton sheets in one of the hotel’s 49 bedrooms. Our room had a huge double bed and walk-in “monsoon” shower.
For those seeking pure relaxation away from the hustle and bustle, you won’t go wrong with The Greenway Hotel & Spa.
The 16th-century manor house — an eight-minute taxi ride from the town centre — was once a grand family home before being taken over by The Eden Hotel Collection. A £1.2million makeover included 21 beautifully revamped bedrooms.
The in-house Elan Spa is not to be missed.
For those seeking pure relaxation away, you won’t go wrong with The Greenway Hotel & SpaCredit: SuppliedA £1.2million makeover of the Greenway Hotel & Spa included 21 beautifully revamped bedroomsCredit: Kieran BrimsonSettebello, Cheltenham Press HandoutCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
GO: CHELTENHAM
GETTING THERE: Cheltenham Spa station serves routes up and down the country, from Aberdeen to Penzance, while GWR runs direct trains to London in two hours. By car, Cheltenham is just off the M5.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at Hotel du Vin start from £90 per night B&B for two people. See hotelduvin.com. The Greenway is £203 per night. See thegreenwayhotelandspa.com.
It can carry 1,100 guests who will fly/cruise from Barbados on 14-night itineraries, which include visits to St Kitts, Martinique, Antigua, St Maarten and Curacao.
The cruise line has chartered Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow or Manchester to fly you in style to join Renaissance for the winter season, with four choices of seating class.
Renaissance will then head to Blighty for the summer to join sister ships Ambience and Ambition with exciting new itineraries.
A peek at the choice of cabins impressed me. Even the inside one is spacious, light and airy, with serious amounts of storage – and enough hangers!
This is not a super- luxurious expensive cruise line, but it offers a great-value opportunity to escape the British winter.
The inside cabins were the best I have ever seen. The suites? Well, with a super-spacious private balcony, I would have had to drag myself away to enjoy the onboard entertainment. They were very good value.
There are of course porthole and window cabins, some balcony, and even cabins with sliding doors onto the outside deck.
The theatre was gorgeous – elegant and comfortable, West End glamour – without the queue for the Ladies!
A large gym, and free access to the spa suite promised opportunities to keep fit. Lots of lounge and library space too.
And there are plenty of top-notch dining options.
Renaissance can carry 1,100 guests who will fly/cruise from Barbados on 14-night itineraries that include calls at ports including AntiguaCredit: Shutterstock
The impressive Valet main dining restaurant covers two decks and offers great sea views.
The Belle Vue buffet restaurant is great for casual dining and there are three speciality venues at a small extra cost plus a signature Chef’s Table seven-course dining experience.
Kreole will serve up a vibrant menu reflecting Caribbean culinary traditions, Lotus has Pan-Asian options and Terre et Mer will feature a six-course extravaganza.
I was sad Renaissance sailed without me this time but you don’t have to miss the boat, there are Christmas and New Year cruises as well as lots more dates to discover the delights of Ambassadors’ Renaissance in the Caribbean in 2026.
GO: CRUISE CARIBBEAN
GETTING/SAILING THERE: Ambassador Cruise Lines’ Renaissance 14-night full-board sailings are from £1,099pp including flights from Heathrow.
ARRIVING in India, I feel like Dorothy entering Oz. This country is an assault on the senses in every way.
One minute I’m practising sunrise yoga to the peaceful sound of birds chirping; the next, I’m surrounded by loud honking cars and bikes on a bumpy bus ride through the city.
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India has not always been a great destination for solo women – but Kara Godfrey’s bucket list trip shows that has changedCredit: SuppliedThe historic red sandstone Agra FortCredit: Getty
My serene morning walk at the green Lodi Gardens sits in complete contrast to the brightly coloured markets, selling vibrant yellow flower garlands under the smell of rich incense, that I’m exploring just hours later.
It was my first visit to India and naturally, as a solo female tourist, safety was at the forefront of my mind. But the tide is changing with regard to how women are accepted across the country, and this has been incorporated into Intrepid’s unique Women’s Expedition tours.
It supports locals on the ground, and I met some during my stay in Chandelao.
A tiny village an hour from Jodphur and off the tourist trail, it is home to just 3,500 people.
There, I explored the local arts centre Sunder Rang, which employs women to work — uncommon especially in more rural areas.
The shop is full of multicoloured items made from scrap fabrics, with everything from clothing and bags to decorations on sale.
One of the young jewellery makers let me try my hand at threading beads as we huddled together in the shade.
Due to my novice skills, I resorted to buying her handmade necklaces (guided by her on which to choose, as they even earn commission).
My art skills were tested further at Chandelao Garh, a stunning 17th century former fort now a hotel with 20 rooms and a swimming pool.
Locals taught me the art of Rangoli — circular patterns drawn on the ground in celebration.
I was only slightly offended when the cheeky hotel dog Pluto walked all over my wonky chalk designs.
Chandelao is the kind of village where slowness is encouraged — be it a sunset walk through the streets or a leisurely candlelit dinner chased by a Kingfisher beer.
But just a few hours east is the crowd-heavy Jaipur, nicknamed the Pink City for its terracotta walls.
Keen to escape the market chaos, I opted for a tour with Renu, a rare female tuk-tuk driver and now chair of tour company Pink City Rickshaw.
Lodhi Gardens in New DelhiCredit: GettyThe famous pink Hawa MahalCredit: Getty
While the women face adversity from both family and other male drivers, the job gives them economic independence.
I was whirled around in the electric tuk-tuks, exploring the Old City with street food stops to keep me going in the 33C heat. I recommend trying Sabudana tikki, an Indian hash brown with tapioca, followed by a cooling kheer rice pudding.
The female rickshaw drivers were patient enough to let me take my selfies at the famous pink Hawa Mahal palace, too.
Built to allow the female royal household to watch the city without being seen by others, the towering palace wall was too beautiful to skip.
It was as I was gazing up at the intricately carved windows (of which there are 953) that my driver explained some of the stares we noticed from locals while in the tuk-tuk.
“We’ve seen male drivers crash into walls, they are so shocked to see a woman behind the wheel,” Renu told me with a laugh.
My experience of the Fast & Furious-esque rickshaws that squeeze through impossible gaps in the traffic means this doesn’t exactly surprise me. Thankfully, the women drive at a slower, safer pace for any nervous travellers.
Travelling further east, we head to Agra, home to the historic red sandstone Agra Fort and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal.
Haggled for scarves
It’s worth the 4.30am wake-up to see the sky lighting up behind the domed mausoleum, built over two decades by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
It’s almost impossible to comprehend the details that remain after 400 years, with the bright white marble towering 240ft high, ornamented with jewels and intricate patterns.
The early start also allows you to avoid the huge crowds and the midday heat.
I managed to skip the lunchtime crush by visiting Sheroes, a cafe run by acid-attack survivors.
It’s a hard visit, where staff share their stories about being injured.
Over homecooked chickpea curries and roti, I chatted to 25-year-old Dolly, who was attacked as a child by a man 22 years her senior. The cafe gave her confidence to re-enter society.
Keen to escape the chaos, Kara opted for a tour with Renu, a rare female tuk-tuk driverCredit: GettyKara in Indian dressCredit: Supplied
Being a female traveller, the Intrepid tour helped me explore the country safely as a woman.
I stopped in Jodhpur, the Blue City, and learned about the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort which was used to film Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises, and the live-action movie The Jungle Book.
And in chaotic Delhi, I haggled for handwoven scarfs from eager market vendors, before being dragged into dance by a man wearing a bejewelled elephant outfit.
India might have a way to go still when it comes to equality. But it’s certainly on the right trajectory.
And with Virgin Atlantic now celebrating 25 years of flying to this awe-inspiring country, it shows this a destination that will always be top of British holidaymakers’ bucket lists.
After a click of my new ruby red Indian slippers, of course.
GO: INDIA
GETTING THERE: Return flights from London Heathrow to Delhi with Virgin Atlantic are from £457. See virginatlantic.com.
STAYING THERE: Intrepid’s India Women’s Expedition starts at £885, including 13 days’ accommodation, internal transport, some activities (Pink City Rickshaw tours) and some meals. See intrepidtravel.com.
