Travel Deals

I WORK in travel and look at holiday pricing data every single day – and there are a few patterns that I see constantly.

Small booking habits that feel completely normal, but quietly push prices up. We’re not talking about a few quid either. Get these wrong, and you can end up paying 20–30 per cent more for the same holiday.

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

Here are the three biggest mistakes – and exactly how to fix them.

Bad Habit No.1: Booking in the morning rush

This one surprises people the most.

Booking your holiday first thing – on your commute, before work, or when you sit down at your desk – feels productive.

But it’s actually one of the worst times you can choose.

According to the data, the most expensive time to book a holiday is between 9am and 10am.

In fact, booking in that window came in at around 30 per cent more expensive than the cheapest time of day, which is actually 2:47am.

And it makes sense when you think about it – because that’s a peak demand window when everyone is searching at once.

Flight prices react to this demand first, then package holiday prices follow.

So while you think you’re being organised… you’re actually booking at the busiest, and often most expensive, moment of the day.

In one example, I found a 5-night all-inclusive stay at the Catty Cats Garden Hotel in Turkey was priced at £133pp in the early hours – but just a few hours later, that had jumped to £165pp for the exact same holiday.

That’s a 24% increase (£64 more for two people) simply from booking later in the day.

Bad Habit No.2: Waiting after finding a good deal

This is the classic “I’ll just check again later” mistake: you find a good price, but instead of booking it, you leave it.

You come back later. Maybe the next day. Maybe after asking a few people.

It feels like you’re being careful or thrifty, but the data shows the opposite.

Every search feeds demand into the system, demand pushes flight prices up, and flight prices push package prices up.

But the reality is: if you’ve found a good deal, it’s very likely other people have found it too.

So while you’re waiting, those seats and rooms are disappearing, filling up and pushing up the package cost pretty quickly.

In one real example, a luxury all-inclusive stay at the Titanic Deluxe Lara in Antalya,Turkey was priced at £558 per person.

But after waiting just 24 hours, that same holiday increased to £606 per person.

That’s an extra £48pp – or £192 more for a family of four – just for not booking when the price was lower.

Prices change, availability drops, and that deal you liked is gone forever.

Bad Habit No.3: Being too rigid with dates and nights

This is where people leave the biggest savings on the table.

I see it every day: most searches are locked into the same dates, same duration, no flexibility.

But pricing doesn’t work like that – it fluctuates constantly based on demand.

Flight and hotel combinations are constantly shifting, and the price you see is based on very specific availability – not a fixed “cost” for that trip.

That means sticking rigidly to one duration can actually stop you from seeing better-value options.

Sometimes, adding or removing just one night can completely change the price – because it opens up different flight combinations or cheaper room availability.

In one search I did for a Corfu holiday, a 7-night stay was coming in at £874 per person.

But by simply increasing the stay to 8 nights, the price dropped to £720 per person for the same package.

That’s a saving of £154pp – or £308 for two people – just by adding one extra night.

It goes against what most people expect, but it shows how pricing really works.

You’re not just paying for nights – you’re paying for the combination of flights and hotel availability behind them.

Yet most people never check – they search once, see one price, and assume that’s what the holiday costs.

Good Habit No.1: Use price alerts instead of repeatedly searching

One of the easiest ways to save money is to stop manually checking prices over and over again.

Every time you search, you’re adding to demand signals – and you’re far more likely to miss the moment a price drops.

Instead, set up price alerts or track a holiday and let the price come to you.

That way, you’re not feeding the surge – and you’re ready to act when the price is right.

I sometimes see short-term dips of up to £50 per person on the same holiday when demand softens briefly – but these windows can last hours, not days.

The people who catch them aren’t constantly searching – they’re notified. But how do you actually do it?

At On the Beach, if you save a holiday, you’re automatically tracking it, and they’ll email you to let you know when the price changes.

On Google Flights, you can search your route, then just toggle “Track prices” – then you’ll get email alerts whenever fares move up or down.

On Skyscanner, hit the heart or bell icon on a flight, and it’ll notify you when the price changes.

It takes about 10 seconds – and it means you’re not guessing when to book.

Good Habit No.2: The 33-day booking rule

There’s no perfect moment to book – but there is a bit of a sweet spot.

According to the data, booking around 33 days before departure can unlock savings of up to 10%.

That’s because it sits between two high-demand groups: early planners who book far in advance and last-minute bookers chasing limited availability.

In this middle window, demand is lower, and prices often reflect that.

Which means on a £700 holiday, that 10% saving means paying around £630 instead – a £140 saving for a couple without changing anything else.

It’s not about waiting as long as possible. It’s about timing it right.

Good Habit No.3: Switch airports, not just dates

Most people have a “default airport” – the one they always fly from without really thinking about it.

But sticking to the same airport can quietly cost you more than you realise.

Flights to the same destination can vary massively in price depending on where you depart from – even on the exact same day, for the exact same hotel.

And often, the cheaper option is only a short drive or train journey away.

In one search I did this week for a family holiday to Majorca, the same 5-night stay at the Sea Club Mediterranean Resort was priced at £260pp flying from Manchester.

But switching to Liverpool Airport for the exact same trip brought the price down to £235pp.

That’s a saving of £25 per person – or £100 for a family of four – just by changing the departure airport.

It’s a simple check most people skip, but it can make a real difference to the total cost.

A Holiday Expert’s bottom line:

These aren’t big sacrifices, and you’re not downgrading your hotel or cutting your trip short. You’re just booking smarter.

But these small tweaks of timing, confidence and flexibility can easily save you hundreds over time.

And once you see how the pricing actually works, you won’t book the same way again…

EASYJET is adding a host of new routes from six airports to beautiful cities and sun-filled islands.

Holiday goers can travel via nine new stops from autumn time from Luton, Belfast, Birmingham, Southampton and Easyjet’s new base in Newcastle.

Package holidays will be introduced on the services include:

• Birmingham to Agadir
• Belfast International to Rome
• Belfast International to Sharm El Sheikh
• Luton to Ljubljana
• Southend to Budapest
• Newcastle to Fuerteventura
• Newcastle to Reykjavik
• Newcastle to Krakow
• Southampton to Paris.

Flights going from Newcastle to Fuerteventura will start on October 25, and operate twice a week – on Thursdays and Sundays.

On the same day, new routes from Southampton to Paris Charles de Gaulle start twice a week.

TOTAL MAY-HEM

Major UK airport set for May bank holiday weekend travel chaos

BARGAIN HOL

Travel companies reveal their CHEAPEST spots this summer, with hols from £189pp

The following day, services to Krakow will begin with departures on Mondays and Fridays every week.

On October 25 and 26, travellers can go from Belfast International Airport to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, on Wednesdays and Sundays, as well as to Rome on Mondays and Fridays.

Anyone wanting to visit Reykjavik, Iceland, can travel from Newcastle from October 27 twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Easyjet’s Luton-Ljubljana flights start on October 26 three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The same day, the Southend-Budapest route also starts twice a week on Mondays and Fridays.

In an exciting update for Birmingham, the route to coastal city Agadir, in Morocco, will start on October 27. They will depart twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The new flights, which include fares of £23.99, have significantly expanded the airline’s network from the north of England, and enabled more direct services to popular leisure and city destinations.

The airline’s UK country manager, Kevin Doyle, said: “Whether they’re looking for winter sun, or a weekend away in some of Europe’s most iconic capitals, this new batch of routes further expands the range of exciting destinations available for our customers to choose from at affordable prices.”

THERE’S still time to bag a bargain break for a long weekend away this May bank holiday

We found a selection of staycation deals across the UK that still have availability for both the early May bank holiday and the late bank holiday weekend.

From lodges in the woods, to farm stays with roaming cows, to resorts with outdoor pools overlooking the sea – here’s the best cheap UK holiday deals you can still book for a long weekend in May.

Relaxing Lodge stay in North York Moors National Park

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £284

Snap up this last-minute deal for the early May bank holiday and stay three nights in the cosy Thirley Beck Lodge, right in the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Moors.

This lodge is perfect for a couple’s retreat to the countryside, with a double bed and open plan kitchen, dining and seating area – plus a balcony and chairs to enjoy a sunset drink or morning coffee.

HOME STAY

Sun Travel’s staycation wish list as UK holidays set for a record high

STAY CLOSE

Brits say why staycations are better than holidays abroad – pubs make the list

The lodge sits on a working farm, so it’s not a rare sight for cattle, sheep or horses to roam the surrounding fields.

And for a change of scenery, the beautiful seaside village of Robin Hood’s Bay is only 20 minutes’ drive away.

Ty Hafan, Flintshire, Wales

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £292

Bag a stay at this pretty countryside cottage in North Wales for a last-minute romantic staycation for two.

Step into an adorable pastel blue cottage decorated with blooming flowers and mini white picket fence into a blue and cream-themed interior.

Make use of the afternoon tea table set, or enjoy a bottle of fizz out in your own private garden under the sun.

Nearby, you can visit Talacre Beach to watch the sun set behind its Grade II-listed lighthouse.

Last-minute getaway to Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £292

This Parkdean resort in Scratby sits on a golden sand beach with plenty of relaxing coastal path walks nearby – plus it’s close to mega seaside resort Great Yarmouth.

Stay in a comfortable chalet and make use of the pool, crazy golf, on-site arcade and live evening entertainment at the Showbar every night.

Drive or take the bus just 15 minutes into Great Yarmouth to stroll its famous seaside pier – plus a go on the snail rides at the Joyland amusements is a must!

Safari Tent stay at Thorness Bay, Isle of Wight

3-night stay for up to four from 1 – 4 May: £169

Stay in a luxurious safari tent this bank holiday weekend on the sandy sweep of Thorness Bay on the Isle of Wight.

With two bedrooms, a unique safari-style look and wooden decking, the safari tents make your staycation feel like you’re holidaying somewhere more far-flung.

On the resort there’s a heated indoor pool with a waterslide, sports courts, arcades and more. Plus there’s a family-friendly restaurant and takeaway options like fish and chips and Costa Coffee.

And if you want to venture out, there’s a beautiful beach on your doorstep, plus the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is nearby, too.

Stay on Cornwall’s stunning Lizard Peninsula

3-night stay for up to three from 1 – 4 May: £184

Bag a bargain stay this early May bank holiday at Sea Acres Holiday Park in Helston, Cornwall.

The Sea Acres Holiday Park is close to top attractions like the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, as well as the pretty fishing town of Porthleven.

The resort has sweeping views over Kennack Sands, where you can take a dip in the water or catch a spectacular sunset.

Stay in a bronze caravan with a modern interior, kitchen, seating area with a flatscreen TV, plus a large comfy bed and sofabed.

Wooden Glamping Pod in Forrester Park Golf & Country Club, Essex

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £351

These cosy pods nestled in Forrester Park in the Essex countryside make for a very Instagrammable staycation.

Each wooden dome comes with a cosy seating area, kitchenette, a double bed under a window looking out to the forest, decking to soak up the sun, and access to a hot tub.

Within Forrester Park there’s Padel courts, a driving range and several restaurants offering everything from fry-ups to a Sunday roast – turning your woodland retreat into an action-packed weekend away.

Enjoy a classic seaside stay at Cleethorpes Pearl, Lincolnshire

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £298

This holiday resort in the traditional seaside town of Cleethorpes has plenty to see and do on-site, including live entertainment and lots of child-friendly activities.

The heated outdoor pool area has a sun terrace with plenty of loungers, and looks more like a posh resort abroad than it does a UK holiday park.

The food at this resort is fantastic, too, as restaurants and shacks serve up everything from Filthy Fries to Magical Milkshakes.

Nearby you can laze out on the sands of Cleethorpes Beach, or hop on the historic Cleethorpes Light Railway – which makes a stop at the tiniest pub in the world.

Whitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £298

Whitecliff Bay on the eastern tip of the Isle of Wight is a gorgeous coastal destination with golden beaches overlooked by dramatic cliffs.

The Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park is a scenic spot to stay, with a giant outdoor pool looking out to sea.

On-site there’s activities like a crazy golf course, and stylish places to eat and drink like The Nab Bar and The Culver Club.

Nearby head to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary to spot rare species, or Dinosaur Isle for family-friendly fossil walks.

WHAT’S the story in Balamory, wouldn’t you like to know?

The much-loved BBC children’s TV series Balamory has returned to our screens after more than 20 years – and you can visit the real like town in the UK.

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

The multicoloured houses from the town actually exist in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.

While the row of colourful houses are privately owned, many reports mention how the locals are happy for visitors to take pictures of their kids in front of the houses.

For example, in the BBC TV series, Suzie Sweets lives in the pink house and Edie McCredie lives in the yellow house.

Read more on travel inspo

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

DEEP DIVE

All the lidos in the UK mapped – with FREE entry, water slides and cocktail bars

But there’s so much more to do in Tobermory, if you are visiting.

Around the harbour you can explore a number of shops including a locally-made soap shop and The Isle of Mull museum which is free to enter and explores the history of the island.

Near to the harbour you can also head to the Tobermory Distillery for a tour, costing £19.50 per person.

It lasts around an hour and during that time you’ll learn about the whisky that has been made on site since 1798 as well as trying two whiskies.

Children can attend too, but need to be over 12 years old and accompanied by an adult.

Perhaps a more family-friendly option though is to head to the chocolate shop Tobermory Chocolate, which has been run by the same family since 1991.

Inside, visitors can peruse milk, white and dark chocolates that are all handmade on site.

There’s also a cafe and children’s chocolate workshops that you can take part in.

According to the chocolate shop , you can often see otters, porpoises and dolphins in the harbour too.

From the harbour, walk along the pier, where about 270metres from the end, there is a Spanish Armada ship that sank after an explosion in 1588 and now sits under about 10 metres of mud.

The ship is even rumoured to still have a loaf of golden treasure on it…

Make sure to also pick up a locally-made ice cream from the shop on the pier too.

If you want to spot more of the local wildlife, then you can hop on a boat trip with Sea Life Mull, where you could see minke whales, basking sharks, dolphins and seals.

The tour costs £80 per person and lasts up to four hours, during which time you’ll see Mull, Ardnamurch and the Isle of Coll.

Though, if you prefer to stay on dry land then head off on an Otter Watching walk with Magic Mull, which is a three mile walk, where you’ll learn about the island’s otter population.

The activity costs £90 per person but it does include lunch, as well as afternoon tea at the end of the walk.

There are a number of places to stay in and around the town as well such as Carnaburg Guest House or The Tobermory Hotel, which both sit at the edge of the harbour.

Or you could opt to stay at Tobermory Campsite, which costs just £14 per night to pitch a tent at or you could opt for a Shepherds Hut, costing from £50 per night.

Outside of the town, there are several places worth exploring across the island.

For example, Aros Park is ideal for families as it has play trail, waterfalls and a nine-hole Disc Golf course that is free to use.

To get your dose of pretty beaches there are plenty to choose from including Calgary Beach, which boasts white sand.

One recent visitor said: “Reminiscent of a tropical paradise with its sweeping white shell sands and clear, turquoise water, the beach offers a vast expanse for dogs to run, play, and explore.

“The bay is wonderfully isolated, backed by beautiful sand dunes and coastal grassland, which means plenty of variety for walks.”

And if you fancy staying near the beach, you can stay at the small campsite at the edge of the beach.

It is completely free to camp there, though donations are welcome and there are basic toilet facilities as well.

If you are a keen hiker, the island is full of walks too, where you can see local wildlife, historic stone rows and lochs such as Loch Frisa.

To get to the Isle of Mull, you can get the ferry from Oban, which takes between 45 minutes and an hour.

The ferry costs £4.90 per adult and £2.45 per child, per way.

For more places to go where TV shows have been filmed, here are six holiday homes from TV shows and films that you can stay at in the UK.

Plus, there’s an English coastal town that tourists are flocking to after popular UK TV show is filmed there.

IT’S fair to say that there is a sense of nervousness when it comes to a holiday abroad this year.

What with warnings of summer holiday cancellations and airlines cancelling thousands of flights – it’s no wonder Brits are booking more staycations than ever.

But there is still a way to have a foreign holiday without hopping on a flight, thanks to a number of cruises, ferries, trains and car tunnels going from the UK.

Brittany Ferries, who operate a number of sailings across the UK, said that maritime fuels are not being affected, and prices won’t be going up either.

Brittany Ferries boss Christophe Mathieu said: “If you have booked with us, or are considering doing so, we will get you to a beautiful and safe holiday destination this year. Period.

“We will play no part in profiteering or seeking to recover losses from a gamble gone wrong, as some appear to be doing.

HOLI-YAY

I’ve booked hundreds of holidays to the Spanish islands – here are the very best

HOL-D OFF

Brits warned summer holidays ARE at risk of being cancelled as jet fuel runs low

“The cost of our holidays rose by inflation earlier this year, and by inflation alone. There will be no further rises in the weeks or months ahead.”

So we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up some of the best places to go from the UK where you can avoid the having to go to the airport entirely.

Seven nights around Spain and Portugal by cruise

You don’t have to hop on a plane to explore Spain and Lisbon.

Royal Caribbean have week-long sailings from Southampton which stop at Bilbao, Lisbon and Vigo, before returning to Southampton.

Prices start from £743pp.

Eurostar train to Lille and Paris

Why not have a two city break with Eurostar, stopping at both of their French cities.

The closest city to the UK by train is Lille, taking less than two hours to get to.

You could then hope on a train the next day to explore Paris, just one stop over.

Prices from £39pp.

Eurostar train to Amsterdam and Rotterdam

In a similar vein of Paris and Lille, Eurostar also have direct trains to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

They take slightly longer – Rotterdam is around 3hr15 while Amsterdam is just over four hours – but can easily make for a long weekend break.

Prices from £39pp.

Eurotunnel to French seaside towns

The Eurotunnel in Folkestone opens up all of Europe as long as you’re happy to travel by car.

Entering via Calais, why not explore some of France‘s best seaside towns such as Boulogne-sur-Mer and picturesque Wimereux?

Prices from £59pp.

35 days around Caribbean by cruise

If you have the time, you could explore the Caribbean for a month without having to get on a flight.

P&O will take you to St Kitts, Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, while sailing from Southampton – it even includes all your food and tips.

Prices from £2,999pp.

Seven nights around Norwegian Fjords by cruise

Also sailing from Southampton, the Celebrity Cruises trip lets you go around some of the beautiful fjords.

Stops include Haugesund, Ålesund, Nordfjordeid and Zeebrugge.

Prices start from £1,156pp – book here.

Eurostar train to Brussels

You can even get to the the city of Brussels in Belgium by train as well, thanks to direct Eurostar routes.

It makes for a great summer holiday destination – or you can book in your Christmas Market trip now.

Prices from £39pp.

17 nights around Italian Riviera

Sail from Southampton with Fred Olsen and you could explore the Riviera in Italy, with stops in Portofino and La Spezia.

It even includes a stop in Monterosso for the annual Lemon Festival.

From £4,199pp – book here.

BRITS have a habit of booking the same Spanish holidays on repeat.
Benidorm. Marbella. Palma. Salou.

And fair enough – they are popular for a reason. But after years of working in travel and digging through the data, I’ve found something interesting.

The best-value holidays in Spain are often sitting right next door to the famous places.

So you can book and get the same sunshine, the same beaches and often the same flights – but you pay a fraction of the price, even in summer.

So here are 10 under-the-radar Spanish resorts that could save you hundreds this year.

Manilva, Costa del Sol

Manilva feels like Marbella…but without the price tag.

If Marbella feels a bit too “Champagne prices”, Manilva is what you book instead.

It sits right on the edge of the Costa del Sol, near Gibraltar, so you’re still getting that same guaranteed sunshine and polished coastline – just without the mass tourism or inflated prices.

The beaches are long, clean and far less packed, and the whole place feels calmer and more local.

With an historic old town, quaint fishing village and peaceful surrounding vineyards, there is something for everyone.

It’s the kind of spot where you can actually get a table by the sea without booking a week in advance.

And crucially: everything is cheaper. Drinks, meals, and especially accommodation.

Guardamar del Segura, Costa Blanca

This is Benidorm’s quieter, cheaper neighbour.

Just down the coast from Benidorm, Guardamar feels like a completely different holiday.

You’ve got huge, natural beaches backed by sand dunes, proper Spanish restaurants, and far fewer crowds.

But you’re still within easy reach of Alicante and all the infrastructure that makes this coastline so easy.

It’s massively underrated, and that’s exactly why it stays cheap.

Food is a standout here too – you can easily eat well for under €15, and a pint will rarely set you back more than €3.

El Arenal, Majorca

El Arenal is somewhere I’ve been banging on about for a while, because it’s one of the cheapest ways to stay near Palma.

You’re just 10 minutes from the airport, right on a long sandy beach, and a short taxi from Palma Old Town – arguably one of the most underrated city-style breaks in Europe.

So instead of paying premium prices to stay in Palma itself, you base yourself here and dip in and out, with the beach right on your doorstep.

It’s lively, yes – but it’s also incredible value if you use it right.

Cabo Blanco, Majorca

This is the quieter side of Majorca for half the price.

If you want the opposite of Magaluf or Palma, Cabo Blanco is about as chilled as it gets.

It’s set on the south coast with sea views, open space, and a slower pace that feels a world away from the busier parts of the island.

You won’t get big nightlife here – but you will get peace, sunshine, and significantly cheaper hotels.

Perfect if your idea of a holiday is pool, a good book and repeat.

Mijas, Costa del Sol

Mijas is postcard Spain at a pinch of the price.

Mijas gives you that classic white-village-on-a-hill look, but without the premium price tag you’d get in nearby hotspots.

You’ve got incredible views, a more traditional Spanish feel, and easy access down to the coast when you want beaches.

It’s a great middle ground for holidaymakers – scenic, relaxed, but still well connected.

And again, because it’s not as heavily searched, prices stay lower.

Can Pastilla, Majorca

This Majorca destination offers Palma vibes without the Palma prices.

Can Pastilla is one of the smartest bookings on the island.

You’re right next to Palma Airport, directly on the beach, and just a short cycle or taxi into Palma itself – which means you get the best of both worlds.

City break and beach holiday in one – it’s simple, easy, and consistently good value.

Sitges, Costa Dorada

Barcelona’s beachy, cheaper cousin, Sitges, is one of those places people feel like they’ve heard of but rarely think to actually book.

It’s just down the coast from Barcelona, with beaches, nightlife, and loads of character – but without the same price pressure as the city itself.

You can even dip into Barcelona for the day, then come back to somewhere more relaxed (and cheaper) in the evening. Best of both worlds.

La Pineda, Costa Dorada

La Pineda – basically Salou, but better value.

La Pineda sits right next to Salou but tends to be cheaper, quieter, and a bit more family-friendly.

You’ve still got easy access to PortAventura, beaches, and everything that makes this area popular, just without the same level of mainstream popularity.

Hotels here often offer better value for money too, especially for families.

Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona

Perfect for a Spanish city break without the Barcelona price tag.

Barcelona hotels can get expensive quickly. But if you stay just outside the centre in Hospitalet, you can cut that cost massively while still being a short metro ride from everything.

You’re still doing the Sagrada Familia, the beach, the food – you’re just not paying tourist-centre hotel prices.

It’s one of the easiest ways to do Barcelona on a budget and is proving surprisingly popular with families looking for a little more than a fly-and-flop holiday.

Cantabria (Northern Spain)

This northern region is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.

If you think Spain is all dry heat and packed beaches, Cantabria will completely throw you.

This is Spain’s green north – rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and wild coastline that feels closer to northern Italy than the Costa del Sol.

It’s cooler, quieter, and far less built up, which is exactly why it stays so affordable in peak summer.

You’ve got proper Spanish towns, incredible seafood (this is one of the best regions in the country for it), and beaches that feel untouched compared to the south.

And because Brits still massively overlook it, prices haven’t been pushed up in the same way.

EVERY few months you can grab free tickets to the races at racecourses like Doncaster and Ayr – but only if you’re a Sun Club member.

Once you sign up to Sun Club, you can benefit from a range of exclusive, members-only offers.

These include free darts tickets, 50% off West End shows, money off of London attraction tickets, plus early access to £9.50 holidays and more.

It’s really easy to sign up – simply click the button below to sign up to the £1.99 monthly membership, or bag a year for just £12.

Right now there’s a range of free race days for Sun Club members to make the most of, where you can bag four tickets for races every few months.

We’ve put together all of the race days coming up in the calendar for Sun Club members to pick from – plus the best things to do nearby, so you can make the most of your travels there.

HOLIDAY HACK

Little-known trick to get FREE days out including London Zoo and GoApe

BIG HERTS

My favourite English village is under an hour from London and a perfect day out

April Racedays

Gents Evening 2026 at Fontwell Park Racecourse, West Sussex
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 at 3:15pm

Fontwell Park describe this raceday as “The Ultimate Lads Day Out”, and ask guests to think Peaky Blinders and dress up dapper for a charmingly fun day.

Fontwell Park in West Sussex is also the only racecourse in the UK with a figure of eight-shaped steeplechase, which requires some amazing skill from the jockeys and is a joy to watch.

Make the most of dressing up posh and explore the Arundel Castle and Gardens, an 11th-century castle surrounded by 38 acres of gardens.

Saturday Evening – April Flat Racing 2026 at Doncaster Racecourse
Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 2:35pm

This April Flat Turf Racing offers an exciting way to watch a straight mile sprint live, plus there’s even 50% off draught drinks and £10 off bottles of fizz for the first hour after the gates open.

Doncaster Racecourse offers fun for all the family, with live entertainment and food and drinks stalls to explore.

Doncaster Racecourse is one of the oldest in Britain, putting on world-class races since the 1500’s – and you could bag a historic day of fun there for free if you’re signed up to Sun Club.

Nearby top attractions include Yorkshire Wildlife Park and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, should you wish to make a day of it.

Country & Western Racenight 2026 at Southwell Racecourse
Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 4:00pm

Yeehaw! Don your cowboy hat and boots for a country-themed night at the races with this last-minute racing night offer.

Expect live renditions of Dolly Parton classics by a tribute act, followed by a night of dancing to DJ tunes.

There’s plenty to do nearby too, like wandering The Workhouse, a popular National Trust site.

Four-Legged Friends Raceday at Nottingham Racecourse
Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 12:15pm

No need to leave your furry friend at home with this dog-friendly race day at the esteemed Nottingham Racecourse.

You can even enter your pet in a range of competitions, which include Loveliest Lady and Best Rescue.

If you’re staying for the weekend, take your furry friend on a walk through the beautiful grounds of Wollaton Hall.

May Racedays

RSA Syndicate Evening Racing at Huntingdon Racecourse
Tue, 19 May 2026 at 4:30pm

Race days at Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire make for a spectacular day out.

The home of the Peterborough Chase offers other fun events throughout the year, such as their RSA Syndicate Evening Racing, where you can bag a free ticket this May as a Sun Club member.

Spend the day beforehand having a nosy in Cambs Lock Antiques or the Cromwell Museum.

Tennent’s Raceday at Ayr Racecourse
Wed, 20 May 2026 at 12:10pm

Ayr is Scotland’s premier racecourse, home to massive events like the Scottish Grand National and Ayr Gold Cup.

The Tennent’s Raceday is one of the venue’s biggest midweek racing events, with plenty of friendly competition and top-tier hospitality.

There’s plenty to do nearby too, like strolling the historic Auld Brig or visiting the town centre to pop in some traditional pubs.

Feel Good Friday Racing at Carlisle Racecourse
Fri, 29 May 2026 at 1:10pm

Thoroughbred horse racing venue Carlisle Racecourse are running a Feel Good Friday race day, where you can expect an afternoon packed with plenty of races and also music from a live DJ.

This is the only Friday in the racecourse’s racing calendar, so make sure to bag it whilst you can by signing up to Sun Club.

Stay the weekend and explore two mega historical sites: Carslisle Castle and the epic Hadrian’s Wall.

June Racedays

Virtus Property Race Night at Warwick Racecourse
Wed, 3 Jun 2026 at 4:30pm

The Virtus Property Race Night offers evening races under the lights, plus access to bars and the food market.

This evening also includes access to the Grandstand, winner’s enclosure, pre-parade and parade ring, too.

Spend the day beforehand at Warwick Castle, where you can see exciting shows from falconry to live jousting.

Fiver Friday Evening Racing at Market Rasen Racecourse
Fri, 12 Jun 2026 at 12:05pm

Head to Market Rasen Racecourse for a family-friendly evening packed with exciting races – plus under 18’s get to go for free.

Market Rasen Racecourse is a beautiful site in the Lincolnshire Wolds, which held its first race in 1924.

The Lincolnshire Wolds are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offer plenty of scenic hiking and walking trails.

July Racedays

Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr Racecourse
Sun, 5 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm

The Family Sunday Raceday makes for a brilliant summer’s day out with the kids.

The day will include seven races, family-friendly entertainment, and even a mascot race where colourful characters will compete.

Turn the weekend into a family staycation and meet the animals at Ayr Farm Park or visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.

Glasgow Fair Family Raceday at Ayr Racecourse
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm

The Glasgow Fair Family Raceday sees various owners and trainers put their horses to the test on the grounds.

There will be seven races, as well as free entertainment – plus kids go free.

Other things to do nearby include seeing the ruins of Greenan Castle or takig a stroll along Ayr Beach.

How to bag your free racing tickets

How to sign up to the Sun Club Membership Programme:

Step 1: To book your racing tickets join Sun Club now for just £1.99 a month.

Step 2: Then head to the Offers Hub Racing Page, select the ‘Four Free Racing Tickets’ tile, choose the racecourse you want to go to then click the ‘Book’ button.

Step 3: Confirm your details and then you will receive an email with your tickets.

Once tickets are all claimed, we will open up a limited waiting list for cancellations before showing it as ‘Fully booked’.

18+ Terms & Conditions apply, thesun.co.uk/club.

18+ UK only. Online access required. Four tickets every three month of active subscription. Racecourses and racedays vary subject to availability. Sun Club: 18+ UK only. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per per year unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For full T&Cs, visit thesun.co.uk/club   

CORNWALL might be an ‘it’ destination – but it can move over as a pretty alternative is cheaper to visit and is even getting a new RAINFOREST.

Totnes in south Devon is a pretty market town known for its independent shops and huge castle.

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

And now it is home to a new multi-million-pound rainforest.

Devon Wildlife Trust has created an ‘Atlantic rainforest’ – also called a temperate rainforest that has damp and humid conditions – near the town.

Located at Bowden Pillars Farm, the rainforest sprawls across 75 acres and sits at the edge of the River Dart.

Read more on travel inspo

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

BARGAIN HOL

Travel companies reveal their CHEAPEST spots this summer, with hols from £189pp

In total, over 17,000 trees have been planted including birch, willow and hazel – though don’t expect them to be quite as towering as other rainforests yet as they need time to grow.

And once they are fully grown, they are set to create a mosaic pattern with open meadows nestled among the trees.

Over time the area will become abundant with wildlife as well, including threatened bird species and creepy crawlies.

Just like the rainforests of the tropics, visitors can expect to see moss, lichen and ferns thriving, as well as species of fungi.

Visitors wanting to explore the rainforest can do so via public footpaths but as the rainforest grows over the years, the paths will gradually be removed to allow people to explore the entire forest.

The project is part of a £38million effort to restore 4,336 acres of lost temperate rainforest across the UK.

These ancient jungles once covered a fifth of the country, but now, only a tiny one per cent of them remain.

The rainforest is less than a 15-minute walk from Totnes town.

Though Devon can often be used as a stopping point for those on longer journeys to Cornwall, Totnes is quaint town not too far from the sea that beats a lot of its Cornish counterparts.

In the town centre, the main attraction is the steep high street, with medieval merchant houses on each side.

Around half-way up the high street you’ll come across East Gate, which splits the town into the lower and higher half.

All along the high street you will find independent shops that rival the main towns of Cornwall – there’s no tourist tat here.

Make sure to dip into Penelope Tom for unique gifts, drop by Palmer By Design for stationary and homeware, visit Stag and Seer for witchy incense or head into Butterwalk to explore local makers before grabbing a cuppa.

The high street is also home to Totnes Cinema, which dates back to the 1880s – though, inside it is not your regular cinema.

Instead you can expect rustic, exposed brick walls, tasty cocktails and cosy vibes.

There’s a small museum on the high street as well, which is free to visit.

Don’t miss the market on a Friday and Saturday either – it brings the town to life with antiques stalls, rug makers, food vendors and more.

I always make a beeline for the Lebanese food stall which sells wraps big enough to feed three, stuffed to the brim with fresh veg and chicken or falafel for a tenner.

Before you head off the high street, make sure to stop by Cranch’s Sweets.

Many weekends of my childhood were spent visiting this sweet shop for their traditional treats that they have been selling since 1869.

Off the high street, you can visit the Norman motte-and-bailey castle with views over the town as well.

At the bottom of the high street, I always enjoy wandering along the River Dart for a picturesque walk and picnic.

Or if you prefer an activity, there’s paddleboarding and kayaking on the river as well.

There are tonnes to do in the surrounding area too, with some of Devon’s golden sandy beaches just 15 minutes away.

Unlike Cornwall, where the average stay will set you back between £100 and £120 per night in May, you can stay at the Royal Seven Stars Hotel at the bottom of the high street from just £74 per night in May.

Countryside surrounds the town as well, making it the ideal camping holiday.

A pitch at Gatcombe Park Farm Glamping costs from £34 a night, though if you want to stay in a bell tent or tipi you can do from £97.50 per night.

You can also reach Totnes on the train from London Paddington, taking under three hours and costing from around £24.50 per way.

For more holiday ideas, UK staycations are set for a record high in 2026 – so, here’s our top holiday wish list from trendy beach resorts to historic cities.

Plus, a holiday park expert reveals all her favourite resorts in the UK – plus how to get cheap stays and save money on your break.

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

Here’s everything you need to know.

Where is the Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG?

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

What is the hotel like?

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

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

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

Read more on travel inspo

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

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

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

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

What are the rooms like?

The hotel boasts 153 luxury rooms.

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

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

Fancy a tipple?

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

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

What is there to eat and drink there?

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

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

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

It is a no brainer – eat at the hotel.

What else can you do there?

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

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

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

Is it family friendly?

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

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

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

Is the hotel accessible?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SKI TRAGEDY

Four feared dead after horror avalanche traps skiers as rescue op launched

GREEN MACHINE

US begins secret talks for new bases in Greenland after Trump invasion threat

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

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

The town is 300 miles from the capital, Nuuk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Agadir, Morocco

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neapolitan Riviera, Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gran Canaria

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bodrum, Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

Tenerife

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cape Verde 

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

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

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

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

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

Costa Dorada, Spain

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

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

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

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

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

Antalya, Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

Majorca, Spain

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rhodes, Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

This might just be the best family resort out there. 

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

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

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

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

READ MORE ON FAMILY HOLIDAYS

SUMMER SAVINGS

Swim with dolphins for up to 15% less thanks to Florida package sale

PLAY TIME

I took my kids to the huge slime ‘playground’ at UK’s most famous toy store

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

We needn’t have worried, though.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SANDY BAY

UK’s warmest beach is home to two ‘most idyllic holiday homes’ with £30pp stays

GOLDEN YEARS

Britain’s prettiest town with hilltop castle where people ‘live the longest’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One guest even drove past me in a Porsche! 

But there are still options for everyone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FORGET boring beige hotels and predictable pillows.

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

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

Fingal, Edinburgh

THE PAD

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

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

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

WAIL OF A TIME

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

TEMPTED?

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

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

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

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

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

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

EXPLORE

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

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

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

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

Entry costs £21.50 (Edinburghcastle.scot).

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

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

REFUEL

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

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

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

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

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

DON’T MISS

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

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

BOOK IT

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

Moxy Belfast City, Belfast

THE PAD

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

And they’re not wrong.

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

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

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

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

EXPLORE

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

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

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

REFUEL

Hit the bustling Cathedral Quarter for excellent pubs.

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

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

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

DON’T MISS

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

Entry costs £24.95 (Titanicbelfast.com).

BOOK IT

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

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

Treehouse Hotel, Manchester

THE PAD

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

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

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

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

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

EXPLORE

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

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

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

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

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

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

REFUEL

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

Need a post-shop sugar hit?

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

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

DON’T MISS

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

BOOK IT

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

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

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

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

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

Blackpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

Folkestone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Southampton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Margate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hull

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Littlehampton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST BAR NONE

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

TAKE THE MEDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RIDE OFF

Abandoned UK theme park left rotting for 14 years with graffiti-covered walls

PAW-SOME

The UK’s first PAW Patrol land to open in just weeks with four new rides

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more on travel inspo

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

SI MORE

Ditch Paris and Mykonos… experts reveal most overrated hols and where to go instead

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

What to do there

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more on travel inspo

HOL YES

I’m a travel editor & mum-of-3… my favourite family holidays from just £3pp a night

SUN SWAP

I’ve visited Florida 50 times… my holiday costs less than a European all-inclusive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WE’VE scoured the internet for the very cheapest Spain deals we could find.

These holidays offer everything from sunny fly and flop spots with golden beaches, to family-friendly resorts close to mega water parks and top attractions.

Here’s 10 last-minute Spain hols to pick from, so you can get something in the diary to look forward to – without breaking the bank.

Hotel Casa del Sol, Tenerife

Puerto de la Cruz is the cool alternative to Tenerife’s busy southern resorts, offering a mix of volcanic black-sand beaches and an artsy Old Town to wander.

The Hotel Casa del Sol has a lovely large pool, and is within walking distance from the beach and the famous the famous Lago Martiánez saltwater pools.

Lastminute.com offer a 7-night room-only stay, with return flights from London Stansted, for £175pp.

Read more on Spain holidays

HAPPY HOLA-DAYS

Spain to hit record 100million tourists – Sun Travel’s fave holiday spots

ISLE GO

I’ve booked trips to a Spanish island for a decade – here’s the best hidden spots

Playamar Hotel & Apartments, Majorca

S’illot in Majorca is home to a tranquil coastline with crystal clear waters to swim in, plus prehistoric ruins and caves to explore.

The Playamar Hotel & Apartments offer two outdoor swimming pools, kids tropical island-themed splash park with fun coconut tipping buckets, live entertainment, a terrace restaurant and poolside snack bar.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay with multiple date options in May, including return flights from London Stansted, for £229pp.

Salou, Costa Dorada

Sunny Salou is the ideal family destination, with plenty of beaches and world-class theme and water park PortAventura World.

Beyond the thrill rides, you can wander the palm-lined promenade for an ice cream, or stroll the Camí de Ronda path for hidden coves to swim in.

The Salou Pacific Apartments are 10 minutes walk from the beach, and make for a great base for families to explore all of the nearby attractions.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night self-catering stay at the Salou Pacific Apartments for multiple dates this May, including return flights from Birmingham, from £139pp.

BLUESEA Copacabana, Lloret de Mar

Sat on Spain’s brilliant Costa Brava, Lloret de Mar offers plenty to do from exciting watersports, to a seafront promenade lined with buzzy bars and nightclubs.

This modern hotel by the beach has extensive all-inclusive food and drink options, plus live music and entertainment in the evenings.

We found an all-inclusive package deal for 5 nights’ self-catering stay for multiple dates in May, including return flights from London Stansted, from £199pp!

BLUESEA Faro Cullera, Valencia

Valencia offers the ultimate city-meets-beach break, where you can visit a world-class science museum and planetarium in the morning, and tuck into authentic paella by the beach in the afternoon.

This recently-renovated, family-friendly hotel has an unbeatable location – just steps from the beach and 15 minutes’ walk from attractions like Cullera Castle and Iglesia Santos Juanes.

This deal from On the Beach offers a 7-night stay for multiple dates in May, including return flights from London Stansted, for £180pp.

Casa Turistica La Torre, Cordoba

Cordoba is a dream city break for history lovers, where you can lose yourself in the candy-cane arches of the Mezquita, or walk the 2,000 year-old Roman Bridge.

The historic Casa Turistica La Torre sits in the beautiful Old City, and has a sun-drenched rooftop to enjoy.

On the Beach offer a 7-night room-only stay from 23 – 30 June, including return flights from Birmingham, for £190pp.

GHT Aparthotel Tossa Park, Costa Brava

Tossa de Mar is a stunning medieval gem where you can wander through ancient castle walls, or simply cool off in the sparkling waters of its beaches.

This aparthotel is close to the clear waters of Tossa de Mar Beach, as well as the sprawling Gran Casino Costa Brava.

We found a bargain deal for a 7-night room-only stay, including return flights from London Luton, for just £206pp with Lastminute.com.

Ibersol Playa Dorada, Coma-ruga

Coma-ruga is a hidden wellness gem where you can soak in natural thermal springs right on the beach, or go out snorkelling in the vibrant Masía Blanca marine reserve.

The Ibersol Playa Dorada is a family-friendly hotel with a spacious outdoor pool with plenty of loungers to laze on.

Lastminute.com offer a 7-night stay, including return flights from London Stansted, for £228pp.

Bungalows Castillo Club Lake, Fuerteventura

Bag a super-affordable, all-inclusive trip to Fuerteventura with a stay at Bungalows Castillo Club Lake.

The hotel sits in the lively town of Caleta de Fuste, and is close to both the golden sands of Playa del Castillo beach and watersports spots offering jet-skiing and windsurfing.

This hotel has all the facilities you’ll need, including a big swimming pool, sun terrace, cafeteria, plus games like billiards and bicycle rental, too.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night, all-inclusive stay, including return flights from Leeds Bradford, for just £249pp.

Sunsea Village, Costa Blanca

Calpe in Costa Blanca is a pretty coastal town overlooked by a dramatic rock cliff, offering loads of scenic hikes or calm sandy spots to set up for the day and soak up some rays.

The Sunsea Village hotel is a relaxing property in Calpe with a pool plus a dedicated kids pool, and plenty of sporty activities like tennis courts and a gym.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 3 – 10 June, including return flights from London Luton, for just £210pp.

STAYCATIONS are on the rise once again, as nervous Brits look for a holiday closer to home.

Yet a trip exploring the beauty of the UK doesn’t have to be expensive – if you know where to look.

According to Hotels.com, searches for stays across Britain that are under £100 are up 21 per cent compared to last year.

Expedia Group expert Melanie Fish shared some of her top tips on how to find the cheapest hotel room stays, such as booking business hotels on weekends for lower rates.

She also said: “One of the simplest ways to save is checking in on a Sunday night, which is often the cheapest day of the week, helping travellers stretch their budgets further while racking up rewards.”

Here are ten of the best hotels across the country where all the stays are under £100 (so less than £50 each a night), ranging from city centre stays to rural vineyard retreats.

Malmaison Manchester – £94 a night (£47 each)

One of the fanciest on the list, the four-star Malmaison in Manchester, is still an affordable option.

Right in front of the city’s main train station, the hotel is built in a converted Victorian warehouse.

It makes you want to never leave, from the fancy Brasserie serving a British-French menu, to the stylish Mal Bar.

Of course, it’s right by all of the city’s top attractions too, from the Arndale Centre to Old Trafford.

Maldron Hotel, Liverpool – £83 a night (£41.50 each)

Despite also being a four-star hotel, the Maldron Hotel is the cheapest on the list.

The Liverpool hotel is no frills, but central – rooms have everything you need from hairdryers to coffee machines.

There’s an on-site barista-coffee cafe, as well as an all-day dining restaurant.

It’s in a great location too – you can easily get to attractions such as the M&S Bank Arena or Royal Albert Docks.

Lumley Castle, Durham – £92 a night (£46 each)

The 14th-century Lumley Castle is now a hotel and venue space, and is a bargain to stay at.

The hotel has 72 rooms, many of which will transport you back to Ye Olde times with spiral staircases and grand four-poster beds

Settle in for a spot of brunch at the Library Bar, or experience a full classic menu at the Knight’s Restaurant.

You can even try out themed murder mystery nights or medieval knight dinners.

Aldwick Estate, Bristol – £95 a night (£47.50 each)

Still a working farm and vineyard, Aldwick Estate is set across 300 acres.

Guests can not only stay on-site at a number of apartment options, but they can also book some wine tastings.

The 90-minute tours include the history of the estate, as well, of course, some tastings of the award-winning sparkling wines.

It’s less than 10 minutes from Bristol Airport, too.

Rodway Hill Eco Pod, Gloucester – £96 a night (£48 each)

If you want to get back to basics, you can go glamping at the end of a golf course for under £50 each.

Rodway Hill Eco Pod is ideal for keen golfers as you step out right onto the grass from the front of the room.

They’re no frills – you need to take your own towels, and there are shared ensuite facilities.

But with breakfast also included (expect all the classic hot and cold options) – you can be first to put on the day.

Ty Milford Waterfront, Pembrokeshire – £96 a night (£48 each)

Right by Milford beach is Ty Milford Waterfront, with all the hotel rooms kitted out with everything you need

Try Dulse, the on-site restaurant for some of the freshest seafood (and a unique rhubarb and custard profiterole), or work it off at the hotel gym overlooking the water too.

Kids even stay free this half term, and there is often both live music and pub quizzes on.

Want to splash out? Try the ‘floatels’ – four cabins that float on the water to be rocked to sleep by the tide.

The Grosvenor Arms, Salisbury – £94 a night (£47 each)

The Grosvenor Arms, built in a 17th-century former coaching inn, has all the best parts of a British pub, but a little bit fancier.

There’s just nine cosy rooms for both couples and families, which they say has more of the “charm of an inn than a hotel room”.

Eating at the pub itself is a must, if you love a menu of British food with a flair – or pop in on a Friday for freshly cooked pizzas.

Nearby attractions include the unusual hexagonal Wardour Castle, which was used to film the 1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves film.

The Westbridge, London – £97 a night (£48.50)

The chic Westbridge hotel says it is a “home from home,” being in the London district of Stratford.

Dating back to 1740, many of the rooms are named after themed royal family members.

The lounge bar is limited – serving just pizza, some snacks and desserts – so you might want to head out for dinner.

Thankfully is right by all of the popular London attractions too, including the Olympic Park and ABBA Voyage.

The all-inclusive hotel in the middle of London – that’s £55 each a night

The Sun’s Travel Reporter recently tried out London’s ‘all-inclusive’ hotel which comes in at just over £100 a night.

Z Hotels, Gloucester Place, offers a room package that is all-inclusive – soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks, lunch, dinner… You name it.

This sounded too good to be true, so, of course, I had to put it to the test.

I arrived to check in at 3pm – this is when they were offering an afternoon tea selection, which included ham and cheese croissants and a cake stand featuring macaroons, brownies, flapjacks, and pots of tiramisu.

I picked up a handful of sweet treats, including one of the croissants and helped myself to my second can of Fanta.

There was also a made-to-order selection on a dinner menu, which featured a wide choice of sandwiches and salads.

I ordered the salmon and sauerkraut ciabatta – it was simple but tasty and reminded me of the sandwiches and cakes I usually pick up in one of London’s many hipster coffee shops.

However, this would usually set me back £18 for a coffee, pastry or cake and sandwich.

Just an hour later, a selection of cheeses and crackers, with grapes, chutney, houmous and olives appeared.

I helped myself to the black bomber cheddar, with a dollop of caramelised onion chutney and some crackers.

For second helping I went for some olives, camembert and crackers.

Over the course of another hour, I went back and forth, helping myself to the selection.

As I enjoyed my plates of food, I also sipped on a glass of sauvignon blanc – one of three white wines on offer.

If I wanted to, I could have also opted for red wine, cider or beer as well.

When morning arrived, a breakfast spread included toast, flatbreads with omelette and bacon, fresh fruit, Greek yoghurt, and pastries.

I opted for some cold apple juice and helped myself to a coffee, plus a tomato and cheese flatbread, some fruit compote and yoghurt.

Before leaving, I even grabbed a banana and coffee in a takeaway cup for the road.

My verdict? This hotel is a genuine find.

Totting up all the food I had, using the average prices usually found for each item in London, I spent way more than my £55-a-head price tag.

In comparison to other budget hotels, I would say the room itself is on par with Travelodge and Premier Inn, yet a fraction of the price.

Nunsmere Hall, Northwich – £95 a night (£47.50 each)

Inside the Edwardian country house in Northwich is Nunsmere Hall, surrounded by a 60-acre lake.

Usually used as a wedding venue, there are 36 hotel rooms, which are simple but affordable.

But you want to come here for dinner – voted ‘County Restaurant of the Year’ by The Good Food Guide, the ever-changing menu includes dishes such as steak and pasta.

Otherwise, grab a drink at The Captain’s Bar, some afternoon tea or have a wander around Northwich itself, a beautiful riverside town.

The Met Hotel, Leeds – £97 a night (£48.50 each)

One of Leeds‘ most beautiful buildings, The Met Hotel is built into the Victorian listed landmark dating back to the 1890s yet underwent a huge renovation last year.

There are 120 rooms, which have recently been refurbished, with classy interiors that make it feel much more expensive than it is.

Gott’s Bar & Kitchen feels like stepping back in time, with a mix of small plates, mains and grills.

Pop your head into the Met Ballroom too – it’s a beauty.

SPAIN has long been the most popular destination for British holidaymakers – but this year is set to see a record high.

Experts have said tourism numbers could hit 100million this year.

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

The ongoing war in the Middle East has seen nervous holidaymakers ditch some of the nearby popular destinations, such as Turkey, Egypt and Dubai.

This has instead seen them instead wanting to stay closer to home, with holidays to Spain booming.

Last year, the country welcomed 97milllion foreign tourists (up 3.5 per cent from 2024), so experts have now said it could go over 100million.

Read more on Spain holidays

COSTA LESS

Beautiful Spanish island that feels like Costa Rica… without the long flight

SAY HOLA

I experienced Spain’s biggest Easter celebration in a tiny local town

But where to start? Do you opt for a vibey city break, or a family-friendly beach resort?

The Sun’s team of travel experts have revealed their favourite places, as well as some of the little-known spots – and how to find a mega cheap pint of beer.

Ibiza

Everyone knows Ibiza’s nightlife is a vibe – but if you want a quieter side to the island, then head to Cala Llonga.

It’s on the east coast is a family-friendly resort that shows the island’s calmer side, with rugged nature to explore and smaller, quieter hotels.

For families, the beach has flat golden sands and shallow waters overlooked by lifeguards.

Or for more adventurous travellers, there’s plenty of hikes through pinewoods that lead to rocky coves with small blue bays.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Valencia

You know a city is amazing when you visit during a rare 45C ‘heatbomb’ where you can barely step outside – but you still love it.

Valencia was the city that restored my love of Spain (after a mugging incident in that famous city put me off for years) for a number of reasons.

The massive City of Arts and Science was one of the most stunning buildings I’d seen, and felt like I’d stepped into another world (and fantasy fans will spot it from both Doctor Who and Westworld).

But I also loved wandering the El Cabanyal neighbourhood, named one of Europe‘s coolest and where we walked past pretty tiled houses and converted warehouses playing live jazz.

My bargain tip – head to La Finestra for £2 mini pizzas. Just be ready to perch on the kerb as its a ‘eat where you find a space’ kind of vibe.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Gran Canaria

I’m a sucker for a fly and flop getaway – give me glorious sunshine and a continual stream of margaritas delivered to my sunlounger and I’m happy as Larry.

I’d booked a half-board stay at one of the many swish Gran Canaria resorts overlooking the beach, with temperatures are still in the low 20Cs even during winter.

But perhaps naively, I had no idea how much MORE the island had to offer – including how much of a hotspot the island was for stargazing.

Its dark and clear skies remain relatively free of light pollution, making it much easier to spot glittering stars with the naked eye.

There are plenty of professional astronomy tours you can book to get a better look through a professional telescope too.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Cadiz

In Spain’s quieter Costa de la Luz, sunny Cadiz is where the locals like to holiday – and has even been compared to the likes of Cuba.

The southern Spanish city has the best of Andalusian culture, with charming narrow streets overlooked by the impressive 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.

The cathedral itself is well worth a visit, with an £7 ticket granting you access inside, as well as the top of the tower, the crypts and exhibitions.

Plus this area comes alive in the evenings, with a vintage carousel in the same plaza and buskers playing the guitar.

When you’re not strolling the narrow streets lined with tapas bars and cafes, you must make sure to tick off the beaches in Cadiz.

Playa la Caleta is a small stretch of sand that sits between two castles (and was used to film that Halle Berry moment in James Bond) whilst Playa Victoria has white sand and a lengthy promenade to stroll.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Seville

Deep in the south of Spain, Seville really has it all, and feels much more Spanish than some of the other cities across the country.

One of my favourite neighbourhoods is Alfalfa which has pretty little cafes and restaurants to explore – Casa Toni is a must for tasty paella, as well as the tiny Bar Alfafa where you can squeeze in with the locals for some delicious tapas plates.

Most main dishes start from around a tenner, while wine tends to sit between £2.50 and £3 depending on where you go.

Salvador Square is beautiful in the morning time.

I’d recommend taking a morning stroll there and picking up some brunch from Sagasta to enjoy on the outdoor seating.

For pictures, head to Plaza de Espana, which is one of the most well-known landmarks in Seville.

It’s a huge semi-circular plaza stretching over 50,000 square metres with four bridges sitting over a canal decorated with brightly coloured mosaic.

You’ll no doubt pass by Seville Cathedral too – which is the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world and while you can pay to go inside, equally, you can experience its grandeur from outside.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

If you want a fancy hotel on a budget, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey also added: “I spent just a few days in Seville but one of the highlights was the hotel I stayed at.

“Only U felt like a fancy members club – think Soho House vibes – but without the price tag.

“An onsite florist, bakery and heated pool as well as a stunning bar area – and the chic rooms were some of the most glam I’ve stayed in – all for under £100 a night.”

Barcelona

Nothing is more spectacular than flying into Barcelona, as the plane heads flies straight over the golden coastline and into the sprawling city behind it.

I often avoid the most-visited spots, but seeing the Sagrada Familia is a must when in the city—nothing quite like this arty Gaudi-designed cathedral exists anywhere else in the world.

And away from the hustle and bustle, venture into the intricate network of lanes in the Gothic Quarter.

There are many independent shops to explore as well as places to grab some wine and tapas.

The bars here tend to be cheaper than those in the city centre – you’ll be able to grab a glass of wine and a couple tapas dishes for around a tenner. 

Don’t miss Patisserie Hofmann in the Gothic Quarter – it serves desserts that are essentially edible art (think a giant chocolate truffle that looks like the moon).

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Lanzarote

It’s cheap, it’s cheerful, it’s sunny and it’s just four hours away – Lanzarote has fast become one of my favourite spots for a holiday.

I went to the island just last month where there were highs of 18C (much warmer than the UK’s chillier 10C).

I really recommend staying in Hotel THB Tropicale – it is lovely and quiet and without enough to do even if the weather turns on you.

The accommodation is in self-contained apartments with little kitchenettes if you want to whip up your own meals.

There’s an on-site shop selling the basics, as well as a pizzeria, bar and buffet area for meals, entertainment area, lots of swimming pools and a tennis court.

I’d recommend not booking all-inclusive and heading down to the Playa Blanca strip which had plenty of restaurants and bars – and weren’t too expensive either.

Safe to say I drank a lot of the local beer, Dorada – usually costing as little as €3 (£2.61).  

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Majorca

You know that annual family holiday abroad – the spot you return to year after year, to the very same hotel that you love? For me and my family, that was a trip to Hotel BQ Delfin Azul in Alcudia.

I loved holidaying there as a kid – getting up on stage at the kids disco, taking an inflatable unicorn into the pool, loading up on desserts at the all-inclusive buffet.

And when it comes to Spanish resorts, Alcudia is a near-perfect pick for families.

Exploring the Old Town and Roman Ruins of Pollentia keeps parents and history buffs happy, whilst Hidropark Alcudia has waterslides and trampolines adored by kids.

It’s also a super affordable part of Majorca, with a meal from the menu del dia at restaurants along the Bellevue Strip costing around €10 (£8.70).

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

While many Brits associate Majorca with its sun-drenched beaches and laidback hotels lining the coast, its capital city is where I like to head.

Old world charm seeps from its gothic architecture and the cobblestone streets are littered with tiny cafes that look as if they’ve been serving coffee for centuries.

It’s also a great place to shop with high street stores like Zara, H&M and (my personal favourite) Massimo Dutti, flogging gear for a much cheaper price than in the UK. Plus, shopping abroad always feels a little fancier.

Swing by the mighty cathedral which is so much more than just a beautiful Gothic structure – you can climb the 215 steps to its roof terrace for epic views over the city.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Marbella

Forget the summer season of Marbella, and let me persuade you to visit out of the peak season.

First of all, you can pretty much walk into any bar or restaurant without having to book – we were the only non-locals in Taberna La Niña del Pisto and somehow only spent £20 each despite piles of tapas and even a bottle of wine.

Sure, you’ll have to miss the beach clubs – most of them are only just starting to open, with others not until May – but instead you get quiet streets to take in the heart of the Spanish resort.

I spent my trip at the Hard Rock Hotel, enjoying music-themed massages as well as breakfast doughnuts aptly hanging from a guitar

If you can wait until Christmas, Marbella really comes alive – the insane amount of lights throughout the town, as well as the live concerts of Felix Navidad and one of Spain’s ‘most Christmassy streets’ aren’t to be missed.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor