Travel Deals

I tried Dyson’s new Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows A hand holding a Dyson travel hair dryer on a balcony overlooking a city beach with tall buildings and mountains in the background, Image 2 shows A woman in a white bathrobe stands in a bathroom

DYSON has brought out the latest new hairdryer to revolutionise the market – and it’s perfect for travellers.

But what is it really like to use? I tested it out on a recent holiday abroad to see if it’s really worth the hype.

Dyson has launched its newest Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer
The voltage adapts to wherever you are in the world

Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer, £249 (with free £45 travel bag)

The new Dyson hairdryer is 25 per cent lighter, weighing just 0.33 kg (331 grams) compared to as much as 0.82 kg of the larger hairdryers.

As someone with very thick and very long hair, drying my own can be extremely laborious and time consuming.

So where better to try out the new travel version of Dyson’s much-loved hairdryer on a recent trip abroad?

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First up I was impressed how small it was to fit in my suitcase, being not much bigger than a water bottle.

It is 32 per cent smaller than its standard hairdryer, being just 22cm compared to 28cm in length.

It’s also light, with a shorter 2m cord – meaning it kept my luggage weight low, as well as the added benefit of less arm ache when drying my hair.

Another tick in its favour is that it’s voltage automatically adapts to whichever country you are in, so it works in full no matter where you are.

Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer: Quickfire Q&A

How much is it? The Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer is currently £249.99.

Who’s it best for? Anyone wanting a faster hairdryer that they can still take on holiday in hand luggage.

What we loved: It was extremely fast compared to other high street hairdryers.

What we didn’t love: The price is still slightly steep.

But I was insanely impressed with how fast it dried my hair.

There are three different heats – low, medium and high – and two speed settings.

I tested it out on my just-out-the-shower hair meaning it was soaking wet.

Usually I have to let this dry for at least 20 minutes before even attempting to dry it.

I tried it on my soaking wet hair, which can easily take 20 minutes to dry
It comes with a magnetic styling concentrator too

And the Dyson on its hottest setting dried my hair almost completely in about three minutes.

Another two and it would definitely have been fully dry.

it also comes with a detachable styling concentrator which – very satisfyingly – clips on by magnet.

It made my hair feel much softer than I’d expected (often feeling pretty ratty and dry using the budget hotel hairdryers).

I wasn’t expecting to be as impressed as I was with it but it really is a gamechanger

I didn’t believe a hair dryer could actually dry hair that quickly, and while it might be a bit crazy to call it life changing, it’s something I’ve been raving about my friends to for weeks since.

It is also cheaper than the current full size Dyson hairdryer at £399, or the original at £279.

Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer, £249

It currently comes in “ceramic pink” colour, with a complimentary £45 travel bag if you buy directly with Dyson.

Here are some of our other travel deals, including cheap holidays you can still book for May half term.

We’ve also rounded up some seaside holiday parks with deals from £2.29pp.

The verdict: Is the Dyson Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer worth it?

I wasn’t expecting to love a hairdryer as much as I did this one, and genuinely has changed my haircare routine.

With thick, long hair, I would normally let it airdry as I couldn’t face the long, arduous hairy drying ordeal.

I never do this anymore, as the new Dyson travel size is so insanely fast.

Another bonus thanks to both the speed and weight of it – no arm aches!

It’s definitely a splurge but worth saving for – and get it now for a free £45 travel bag.

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The UK seaside holiday parks that still have VERY cheap summer deals

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

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

Cleethorpes Beach resort in Lincolnshire has a space bowl flume and a lazy river to enjoy Credit: TripAdvisor
Sunnydale Holiday Park in Saltfleet is a relaxing site with a fishing lake and coastal walks Credit: Parkdean Resorts

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

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

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

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

Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire – £2.88pp a night

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

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

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

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

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

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

The deal

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You can bag a four-night stay from 15 June in a bronze caravan for six people for just £69 total as a Haven Hideaway package.

That works out to just £2.88 per person, per night when you split the cost between everybody.

Book your holiday

Sunnydale Holiday Park, Saltfleet – £8.06pp a night

Craig Tara in Scotland has a massive, multi-level splash park that kids will love Credit: Caravan Lodge Holidays

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

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

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

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

The deal

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You can book a three-night stay in a caravan for six people from 26 June for just £145 total.

That works out to just £6.04 per person, per night if six of you go.

Book your holiday

Craig Tara, Scotland – £2.29pp a night

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The deal

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To top it all off, you can book a holiday there for just £55 total. This deal is for a four-night stay from 1 June, for six people in an apartment.

Split between six of you, that’s just £2.29 per person, per night – the cheapest deal on this list for one of the UK’s most exciting parks!

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

Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park in Wales has attractions like a miniature railway and Kidwelly Castle Credit: Getty

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

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

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

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

The deal

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Score a four-night deal for the price of three with a stay for four people from 31 August in an Amroth Chalet for £143 total.

That works out to just £8.94 per person, per night.

Book your holiday

Orchards Holiday Village, Essex – £2.88pp a night

Orchards Holiday Village in Clacton-on-Sea is an ideal spot for a traditional seaside staycation Credit: Haven

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

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

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

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

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

The deal

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Bag a four-night stay in a caravan that sleeps six from 15 June for just £69 total.

That works out to just £2.88 per person, per night!

Book your holiday

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

Lower Hyde Holiday Park in Shanklin has excellent entertainment and kids activities Credit: Pitch up

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

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

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

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

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

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

The deal

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Snap up a deal for a four-night stay in a Clam Chalet for four from 8 June for just £129.

That works out at just £8.06 per person, per night.

Book your holiday

Kessingland Beach, Lowestoft – £10pp a night

Kessingland Beach Holiday Park is a resort in East Anglia located directly on the beach Credit: Pitch up

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

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

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

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

The deal

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We found a deal for a four-night stay for four people staying in a Goose Chalet from 6 July for just £160 total.

That works out to just £10 per person, per night.

Book your holiday

You could stay at Cleethorpes Beach Holiday Park from £2.88pp per night Credit: Haven
Stay at Orchards Holiday Village in Clacton-on-Sea Essex, for £2.88pp per night this summer Credit: Breakfree Holidays

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It’s CHEAPER to live in a 5-star all-inclusive hotel abroad than in the UK, here are 10 deals that prove it

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

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

Holiday Expert Rob Brooks has crunched the numbers to find all-inclusives cheaper than the average monthly UK living costs Credit: Rob Brooks
Stay 28 nights at Skanes Serail in Tunisia for just £795pp – that’s the cost of a week’s holiday elsewhere! Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Skanes Serail, Tunisia – £795pp

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

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

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

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

Riadh Palms, Tunisia – £860pp

Hotel Riadh Palms in Sousse, Tunisia is a lively beachfront hotel with plenty of activities Credit: Alamy

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

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

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

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

Hotel Riviera Sousse, Tunisia – £875pp

Bag a month’s stay at the Riviera Sousse Hotel for just £875pp in October Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

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

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Side, Turkey – £970pp

It could be cheaper to spend a month in Side on the Turkish Riviera than stay at home Credit: Alamy

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

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

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

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

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

Oludeniz Resort by Z-Hotels in Turkey is an all-inclusive with plenty of beaches and watersports on offer nearby Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

Laico Hammamet, Tunisia – £1,045pp

Stay at Laico Hammamet in Tunisia for 28 nights for just £1,045pp Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

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

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

Alanya is a picturesque resort town in Antalya, Turkey Credit: Getty

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

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

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

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

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

The Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour in Tunisia offers great-value long-term stays Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

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

Tiana Beach Resort, Turkey – £1,090pp

Spend your mornings by the pool at Tiana Beach Resort in Bodrum, Turkey Credit: Google maps

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

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

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

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

You could spend a month living at the Dosi Hotel in Turkey for just £1,105pp Credit: Google maps

Dosi Hotel, Turkey – £1,105pp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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I visited the English seaside town that feels as beautiful as Spain in the sunshine

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

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

Salcombe’s vibrant blue water Credit: Getty
Lilleby holiday home Credit: Supplied

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

Salcombe has always been on my bucket list.

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

And I get their thinking.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sea-view dining from Lilleby terrace Credit: Supplied
I tucked into this delicious crab and baguette Credit: Supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Sun’s Sophie with her family Credit: Supplied
Crab is certainly the catch of the day in Devon Credit: Getty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GO: Salcombe

STAYING THERE: One week’s self-catering at the five-bedroom and five-bathroom Lilleby costs from £352.80pp based on 10 people sharing.

See fineststays.co.uk.

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I tried the European river cruise where your wine glass is never empty

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

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

The cruise ship Loire Princess will take you from Nantes to Saint-Nazaire on the west coast and back again Credit: Getty
Le Grand Elephant in Nantes Credit: Getty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Chateau de Villandry Credit: Supplied
The region’s wine is superb Credit: Supplied

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

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

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

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

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

You can even ride inside it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jules Verne was born in Nantes Credit: Alamy
Inside the ship’s dining area Credit: Supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cabins on the main deck have picture windows to admire the scenery as it glides by Credit: Supplied
The Loire Princesse has a vibe that’s all about enjoying the slower pace   —   eating, drinking and snoozing Credit: Supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GO: RIVER LOIRE

GETTING / SAILING THERE: A five-night cruise on board CroisiEurope’s Loire Princesse is from £1,355pp including return flights from Gatwick,

French transfers, all meals and drinks on board, full day excursion to the chateaus of the Loire Valley and wifi.

Call 01756 691 269 or visit croisieurope.co.uk.

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All the CHEAPEST holidays you can still book for May half term

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

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

Spain’s Costa Brava is one of the cheapest destinations with last-minute holidays available Credit: Getty
Two travel giants have named Tenerife destinations in their cheapest deals this May Credit: Getty

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

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

TUI – top picks for cheapest destinations

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

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

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

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

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

Marmaris, Turkey

Spend five nights in sunny Marmaris, Turkey for just £539pp – with flights included Credit: TUI

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

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

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

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

Pula, Croatia

A stay at the Park Plaza Verudela Apartments gives you access to facilities at the nearby Park Plaza Histria Pula, too. Credit: TUI

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

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

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

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

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach in Lanzarote is a resort built for families, with an action-packed activity program Credit: TUI

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

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

There are sports like tennis and volleyball.

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

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

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

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

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

On the Beach – top picks for cheapest destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benidorm, Spain

Stay just steps away from Levante Beach at the Apartments Las Torres in Benidorm Credit: On the Beach

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

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

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

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

Costa Brava, Spain

The cheapest deal we found for May half-term was a Costa Brava break for £163pp Credit: Getty

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

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

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

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

The Algarve, Portugal

The Instagram-worthy Colina da Lapa complex in the Algarve has beautiful beaches nearby Credit: On the Beach

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

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

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

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

Callao Salvaje, Tenerife

You can bag a 5-night all-inclusive break to Tenerife this May half term for £308pp Credit: On the Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Supermarket – top picks for the cheapest destinations

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

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

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

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

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

Costa Dorada, Spain

The Medplaya Hotel Vistamar in Spain’s Costa Dorada has a swimming pool with sea views Credit: Tripadvisor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bourgas Area, Bulgaria

Sunny Beach in the Bourgas area of Bulgaria is an affordable destination for May half-term Credit: Alamy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Loveholidays – top picks for the cheapest destinations

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

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

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

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

Majorca, Balearic Islands

You can book a week’s stay at the Portodrach Aparthotel & Suites for just £359pp Credit: Loveholidays

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

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

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

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

Gandia, Spain

Hotel RH Arena is a stylish hotel choice in Gandia, Spain Credit: Loveholidays

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

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

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

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

Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

The Casablanca resort in Tenerife’s Puerto de la Cruz is a short stroll away from the lively old town. Credit: Loveholidays

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

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

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

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

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