Key details as UK travellers going to Europe ‘have to pay new £17 fee’ in 2026 – The Mirror
Need to know
New research has uncovered widespread confusion over passport rules and travel requirements for visiting Europe
12:00, 03 Jul 2026Updated 15:32, 03 Jul 2026
Rules have changed quite a bit since Brexit(Image: JUSTIN TALLIS, AFP via Getty Images)
Brits face new travel fees and passport confusion post-brexit – need to know
British travellers are being urged to double-check their passport details before heading to Europe as new research reveals widespread confusion over post-Brexit travel rules.
Saga Travel Insurance’s survey of 500 UK residents found that 16% were unaware of their passport expiry date, while 8% were carrying already-expired documents. One in 14 travellers had been refused entry to a country due to insufficient passport validity remaining.
Michelle Cooper, director of Travel Insurance at Saga, warned: “Nobody should have their holidays ruined because of a simple passport error. A few quick checks can help people avoid unnecessary stress, unexpected costs and disruption at the airport.”
Half of holidaymakers still lack confidence understanding visa requirements for Europe following Brexit. The complex 90-day rule within any rolling 180-day period in the Schengen area is catching many Brits out, with frequent short breaks potentially pushing travellers over the limit.
The ’10-year passport rule’ is causing particular confusion online, with EU countries requiring passports to be less than 10 years old on entry. Passports issued before 2018 remain valid for 10 years and nine months, creating additional complexity.
From late 2026, British tourists will need approval through the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling to most European countries. The system will cost approximately £17 and requires advance application to avoid boarding denials.
Cooper emphasised that travellers are responsible for ensuring correct authorisation, warning that travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs from denied boarding due to invalid ETIAS approval.
Jet2 has reminded passengers to bring their physical card on board to help keep its cashless onboard service running smoothly and efficiently
Jet 2 is a popular UK airline(Image: Photofex-AT via Getty Images)
Jet2 has encouraged passengers to bring a simple everyday item on board to help minimise certain in-flight delays. The airline says having this item helps keep its onboard service running smoothly and efficiently.
In the “onboard service and conduct” section under payments, it states: “To make our service as efficient as possible, we only accept card payments.”
Urging travellers to bring a card with them, which may help any delays with orders, it adds: ” We’ve also introduced a few updates to contactless, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. So, please bring your physical card to use chip and PIN when needed.”
Can I smoke or drink alcohol on a Jet2 flight?
Passengers should also be aware that only alcohol purchased on board is permitted to be consumed during the flight. Smoking is strictly prohibited.
It warns: “In accordance with safety laws, smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited on all flights. Please note that only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks at our absolute discretion.”
Passengers could be kicked off Jet2 flight
Passengers are also reminded that disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated. The aircraft’s Captain has the authority to refuse boarding or take appropriate action against anyone considered disruptive, disorderly, or likely to pose a risk or cause unnecessary inconvenience to fellow passengers or crew.
It adds: “Anyone falling foul of this provision shall be liable to indemnify us in full against any liability or loss we may suffer as a result. In addition, they may be prevented from flying with us in the future.”
The travel company was founded back in 2011 and operated three separate websites offering chalets, skiing breaks, and spa holidays. ATOL has now offered advice for any consumers who had breaks booked
The firm has gone bust after trading for 15 years(Image: Giuseppe CACACE / AFP via Getty Images)
A UK travel firm that offered a range of ski and spa holidays has ceased trading, with customers who have booked a package holiday being urged to take action.
Travel Bespoke Ltd was launched in 2011, and traded under three names: Chalet Bespoke, Ski Bespoke, and Spa Bespoke. The firm’s websites are now unavailable. The company was based in an office in Midhurst, West Sussex.
Ski Bespoke’s X page, which is currently still active, described the firm’s operations as offering bespoke ski trips to resorts in Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada and USA.
Financial protection scheme ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing), confirmed in a statement that the company had ceased trading as an ATOL holder as of May 29. It said: “We have contacted the affected ATOL protected consumers directly. If you have not been contacted and believe you are entitled to a claim against an ATOL protected booking, please supply your booking details with supporting documentation by email to claims@caa.co.uk.”
The time limit for making a claim to ATOL is May 28, 2027. Its statement went on to explain: “Bookings sold as accommodation only, non-flight Packages & Cruise Only bookings which do not include a flight element are not covered by the ATOL scheme. Please contact your travel insurance or card issuer for further assistance.”
ATOL also has a claims information page where customers can check whether the holiday they’ve booked would come under ATOL protection, or whether they’ll need to look for alternative ways to claim their money back.
Travel Bespoke is not the only travel firm to go bust in recent weeks. Long-running firm Groupia Ltd recently went into administration after 24 years in operation. The company who operated brands including Groupia Golf, GoHen, StagWeb, Groupia School Trips, and Company Away Day, served over 750,000 holidaymakers before going bust.
By law, any UK travel company that sells holidays or flights is required to have an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number, so always check your holiday is booked with a reputable firm.
This means that if the holiday firm you’ve booked with goes bust before you travel, you can apply to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for a full refund. If you’re already on holiday, the CAA has a responsibility to get you home.
However, you should also make sure you have travel insurance that covers a travel firm going into administration, as this can also cover additional expenses from having your holiday cancelled or being stuck abroad. Credit card protection can also be helpful in this situation. If you’ve paid for your holiday or flights on a credit card directly with the holiday company or airline, and spent over £100, you may be able to claim the money back through your credit card company.
Mastercard and Visa debit cards also have a chargeback scheme which is available for most UK high street banks. You can request your card provider reverses the transaction, giving you your money back.
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Martin Lewis has shared his top holiday money saving tip, explaining whether you should pay in local currency or pounds on your card abroad – and how it could save you money on extra charges
09:31, 01 Jul 2026Updated 09:31, 01 Jul 2026
Martin Lewis has shared his holiday advice (file image)(Image: ITV)
Martin Lewis has finally settled the age-old holiday debate, revealing whether it’s better to pay in pounds or local currency when using your bank card overseas. Sharing his expert insight with BBC viewers, he cut through the confusion, offering clear guidance on the smartest way to spend abroad without losing out.
Martin advised: “When you go abroad and you pay on plastic [card] and the overseas cash machine or shop asks you: ‘Do you want to pay in Pounds or Euros?’ What do you do?
“Well, the correct answer is you should always pay in euros or whatever the local currency is. That means it’s your plastic that’s doing the exchange rate conversion, not the overseas shop or ATM.”
He stressed that this rule applies no matter where in the world you are. Social media users were quick to chip in with their own tips and experiences. One user suggested: “Just get Revolut or Monzo.”
Another declared: “I use Starling Bank it has no fees abroad and recommends paying in the local currency instead of Pounds. Something I saw online about dynamic exchange rate and it can cost you more otherwise.”
A third added: “Revolut has always been the best on doing this, can exchange right in the app as well, and when withdrawing it’ll just take it straight from that, half the time the only fee is the cash fee by the machine you use.”
Meanwhile, a recent holidaymaker shared their own experience: “Just back from Spain and not a single ATM did free cash withdrawals either, thankfully that’s all I was charged with my Chase account.”
One shrewd traveller commented: “I just get Euros before I go anywhere save all the hassle, and if I’m really stuck for cash go into an actual bank on holiday and withdraw money on my card.”
This handy tip comes on the heels of advice from a money-saving guru who stressed the importance of securing travel insurance ‘ASAB’.
During an appearance on This Morning, the financial whizz revealed: “My travel insurance rule is get it ASAB (as soon as you book). People do get a little confused about this, so let’s break it down.”
He continued to explain: “If you’re getting a single trip policy, so that is a policy to cover just one holiday, then what you do is as soon as you book, you go on one of the travel insurer’s website, you tell it your holiday dates and you buy the policy then.”
Martin Lewis made clear that if your holiday falls in August but you booked back in January, getting your insurance sorted in January is equally crucial.
“That means you have the travel insurance in place to covers that holiday,” he said, adding: “You don’t need to [cover yourself] for extra dates [in case there’s a delay at the airport] because you have your return date.
“If something delays you, so you weren’t back, that would still be covered because that delay is all part of the travel insurance.”
Jakob Davies, 25, suffered severe injuries after falling from a three-storey balcony during a stag do in Albufeira, Portugal, as his family launches a fundraiser to help him
Jakob Davies remains in hospital after falling from a balcony in Portugal(Image: Kennedy News and Media)
The devastated family of a Brit who plunged from a three-storey balcony during a stag do in Portugal fear his travel insurance may not cover his mounting medical bills because he had been drinking.
Jakob Davies, 25, remains in hospital in Faro after suffering catastrophic injuries in a fall at a hotel in Albufeira earlier this month. His loved ones say they are still waiting to hear whether his insurer will pay out after tests showed alcohol in his system.
The factory worker, who is from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, had travelled to the Portuguese party hotspot with around 30 work colleagues for a stag weekend on June 4.
His mum, Claire Gerrard, fears the family could be left facing huge costs after doctors warned Jakob he may never walk again without urgent surgery.
The 51-year-old woman said: “He’s totally on his own. I need to know what’s going to happen to him. He was told if you don’t have this operation immediately then you won’t walk again.
“He does have travel insurance but because of the alcohol that he’s drunk it’s not looking like they will pay. We’ve contacted the insurance company and they wanted all the reports so I sent the reports.
“The doctor gave Jakob his alcohol levels with his bloods done and it did show alcohol in his system, which unfortunately they will not pay out.
“25 [years old] on a stag party he’s not going to have none is he? They’ve not said no yet, we’re still waiting on information. I think it should be made more clear to people, especially to youngsters. You’re going on holiday to a stag party and you can’t drink, they don’t listen, they just go and have a drink.”
Jakob had chosen to stay behind at the accommodation on June 5 to play football while the rest of the stag group headed out.
But when his friends returned later that day, they were alarmed to see fire engines, police cars and ambulances rushing towards their hotel.
Claire expained: “I think there were about 30 of them and it was somebody from work’s stag party. It’s all really, really vague, Jakob has no recollection of it whatsoever.
“He had been playing football with some other guys, his party were leaving and Jakob had said ‘I’m going to continue to play football’.
“I don’t even think he remembers playing football but that’s what he was doing. When the party was returning back to the hotel there were fire engines flying past and then the police came past and then the ambulances came past and had turned into their hotel so they thought ‘oh gosh something is going on’.
“When they got there Jacob was unconscious on the floor with severe head injuries and broken bones, it looked pretty horrific initially. When they got him in the ambulance, he had regained consciousness and he was speaking but he wasn’t aware of what had happened.”
Believed to have fallen from a three-storey balcony, Jakob was initially taken to a local hospital before being transferred to a larger hospital in Faro.
Doctors later discovered he had suffered a serious head injury, broken feet and ankles, as well as fractures to both his L1 and L4 vertebrae.
Recalling the moment she learned about the horror fall, the worried mum said: “I got a phone call at around 11am on Saturday morning [June 6] to say Jakob’s fallen from a three-storey balcony. My initial feelings from then on were absolute dread.”
As Jakob continues his recovery overseas, family and friends have launched a GoFundMe appeal to help cover medical expenses and the cost of bringing him back to the UK.
Travel insurance experts warn that some policies contain exclusions relating to alcohol or drug use, although terms and conditions vary between providers. Holidaymakers are urged to check the small print of their policies before travelling, particularly if they are planning to drink while abroad.
The flights are booked, your passport is valid, the bags are packed, and excitement is building, but there’s one crucial check you must do at the time of booking your holiday
A travel expert has issued important advice if you’re booking a holiday(Image: Getty Images/Stock Image)
An aviation expert has outlined how to best prepare for your next getaway abroad, and there’s one vital task you must do.
Going on holiday is always an exciting time, and even the booking process can spark a buzz. What hotel will you stay at? What activities will you do? And what will the weather be like? But amongst the planning, there’s a checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for any trip abroad.
Checking that your passport is valid before booking flights is vital, along with any documents or visas you might need when entering your chosen country. However, there’s one check that Brits could miss, and failing to obtain it could completely impact your holiday.
In crucial advice to Brits ahead of the summer holidays, travel expert and head of aviation at loveholidays, Gavin Brewer, said that booking travel insurance at the same time as your holiday “is one of the smartest moves you can make”.
While it’s vital to have in case anything happens while you are away, it also means you’re protected from the moment you hit confirm on your desired getaway.
Gavin explained: “That means if you need to cancel your holiday for unforeseen reasons, such as sickness or other medical circumstances, or even redundancy, you should get your money back from your insurer. Understanding your cover is just as important as picking your destination, because when the unexpected happens, the right policy can be the difference between jetting off with confidence and being left out of pocket.”
In further support for holidaymakers jetting abroad this summer, the travel expert advised booking a package holiday as it offers “more protection than booking flights and hotel separately”.
He commented: “Package holidays give built-in protection that you won’t get if you book your flights and hotels separately.
“In the rare event of disruption before you travel, such as a cancelled flight with no suitable alternative, you are fully protected under a set of consumer laws called the Package Travel Regulations. This entitles you to a full refund on your package holiday.”
Gavin added: “At Loveholidays, our holiday packages are also protected by the ‘gold standard’ ATOL scheme, so you can relax knowing your holiday is in safe hands from start to finish.”
And while it might be edging nearer to summer, it’s never too late to book that well-deserved break. If anything, it might just be the best time, as three European hotspots are cheaper than usual during the busy travel period.
Gavin revealed that Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Turkey have all seen substantial price cuts on seven-night packages during the summer. Bulgaria, with its golden beaches along the Black Sea and majestic mountain terrain, has dropped by an average of 60pp.
Montenegro, dubbed a ‘Balkan gem’ with dramatic mountain landscapes that meet the sea, has dropped in price by around £53pp. While Turkey, known for its striking architecture, culture, and colourful markets, has also seen a price cut of around £35pp.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Simple mistakes could not only invalidate travel insurance but also leave the medication ineffective or even ‘unsafe’
It is important to notify travel insurers(Image: GettyImages)
A warning has been issued to thousands of people who will be travelling abroad on weight loss treatments this summer as mistakes could mean they are not only ineffective but could be “unsafe” to use. Millions of people currently use the jabs to help weight loss but there are strict rules around their use.
A survey by ZAVAfound an estimated 337,000 people will holiday on Mounjaro or Wegovy this summer however if it is not carried and stored correctly it can be left “ineffective”. Experts at the firm have now provided three tips for travelling with Mounjaro and Wegovy, alongside the most important things to know before heading off.
You could be invalidating your travel insurance
When taking out travel insurance, you often need to declare any pre-existing conditions during an online application or by calling your insurer directly. Failing to declare the use of weight loss treatment could render your policy invalid, leaving you unable to make a claim should something go wrong, which could result in a bill worth thousands of pounds.
You should also check import restrictions to any country you are travelling to and verify if the medication can be brought into the country and how much you’re allowed to carry for personal use. Make sure to also take evidence of your prescription with you, whether it be in paper or digital form, and that your treatment is in its original packaging.
Insurers like Admiral don’t typically cover GLP-1 injections bought from an unofficial programme, if a medical professional isn’t monitoring them or hasn’t been declared. It is strongly advisable to follow up with a direct call to your insurer to confirm everything is properly documented. When in doubt, contact your insurer and your GP before travelling.
Storing jabs in hold luggage could freeze your medication
Putting injection weight loss treatments in with checked luggage can be a huge risk. The compartments where checked baggage is stored undergo huge changes in temperature and pressure that may alter the effectiveness of, or even damage, your medication. It can get very cold and may freeze and unfreeze the liquid in the pen, making the injections unsafe to take. Make sure to take a carry-on bag with you to store your medication in.
Essential liquid medicines are allowed through security, even if they are over 100ml; security often advises keeping medicines separate in your bag where possible, informing the Security Officer and bringing supporting documentation if possible. After this step, make sure that your medication stays in its original packaging. If you have any specific queries about carry-on luggage and medication, contact your airline provider.
Not having access to a fridge could damage your medication
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy must be stored by following the guidelines outlined in the patient information leaflets. The medication may be kept in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C or stored at room temperature, provided it does not exceed 30°C, for a maximum of 28-30 days.
Any pens exposed to temperatures above 30°C, or left unrefrigerated for more than 28 days for Wegovy and 30 days for Mounjaro, should be discarded immediately, as it could be unsafe to take. Patients travelling with weight loss injections are advised to contact their accommodation in advance to confirm refrigerator access and to verify that the appliance maintains an appropriate temperature, as this can vary between units. As the jabs are administered once weekly, most patients will use each pen within the 30-day unrefrigerated window, unless travel is extended or a dose is missed.
According to the Skyscanner comparison site holidaymakers can jet off on a summer break for less than £80 – and they shared the cheapest day to travel
A beautiful beach on Comino island, Malta(Image: Getty)
Millions of people across the UK have already booked their summer holidays, but there are still plenty of options for those yet to make plans. While travel can be costly, a trip abroad can cost less than £80 for the flights.
According to Skyscanner, UK travellers could find return flights for under £80 next month. Skyscanner is a travel comparison website that lets users search and compare flights from hundreds of airlines and travel providers. It also offers tools such as price alerts, flexible date searches, and its “Everywhere” feature, which helps travellers find the cheapest destinations.
The company says Dublin, Milan and Prague are among the cheapest places to visit in June. And for those holding out for a summer getaway in July and wanting a little extra time to save, these are the 10 destinations worth considering for a last-minute holiday.
Top 10 cheapest destinations in July 2026
Dublin, Ireland: Average return is £76 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Milan, Italy: Average return is £103 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Palma, Spain: Average return is £111 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Ibiza, Spain: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Rome, Italy: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Alicante, Spain: Average return is £150 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Budapest, Hungary: Average return is £162 and the cheapest day to fly out is Sunday
Faro, Portugal: Average return is £171 and the cheapest day to fly out is Monday
Marrakech, Morocco: Average return is £177 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Valletta, Malta: Average return is £183 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
The comparison experts say the prices are based on the median cost of economy return flights booked through Skyscanner for travel in 2025 on the selected route and month, including taxes and fees.
Experts say many people assume their travel insurance automatically covers phones, tablets and other gadgets. But policies vary, so it’s worth checking the small print before you travel to avoid unexpected costs.
It notes: “Not all travel insurance policies include gadget cover. And travel insurance payouts for valuables are often low – as little as £200 for one item or £500 in total.”
The Foreign Office has lifted its no-go travel warning after Iran and the US signed a deal
Simon Calder says airlines will be desperate for people to ‘take summer holidays’ after the easing of travel advice
A travel expert has provided an update on journeys to and from the Gulf region following the US and Iran reaching an agreement to cease hostilities between the two nations. Speaking outside the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Simon Calder confirmed that travel insurance was ‘once again valid’ after both the Iranian and American presidents put pen to paper on a deal to end the conflict.
Mr Calder stated that those wishing to visit the region could now do so ‘with some confidence’. He said: “I’m at the Foreign Office which has just changed its advice for travellers going to the Gulf region, in particular Dubai, which last year was visited by 1.4 million British travellers.
“As from now, the no-go warning which prevailed for the whole of the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as to the countries of Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, has been lifted. The Foreign Office still warns that you need to be ready for trouble to resume at any time, but it means that travel insurance is once again valid and anybody planning a trip to the UAE or Qatar or elsewhere in the region can do so with some confidence.
“The immediate effect, I think, is going to be a big marketing campaign by the giant airlines: Emirates of Dubai, Etihad of Abu Dhabi, and Qatar Airways based in Doha. They will be wanting to get people to both connect through their hubs, but also to take summer holidays. Be warned, it is extremely hot with average daily highs around 40°C.”
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Not only do millions of holidaymakers head to the Gulf states, but countless others use them as a stopover for journeys to Asia and Australia. That meant the tourism industry took a particularly severe blow when the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran in late February.
The FCDO decision means tourists can now return without putting their travel insurance at risk. But that doesn’t mean flights will restart straight away.
Virgin Atlantic halted flights until winter 2027 after the conflict began, and a spokesperson confirmed on Thursday that this ‘remains the case’.
British Airways announced earlier in June that it wouldn’t restart flights to the UAE until October 2026. Emirates has maintained flights to and from the region throughout the hostilities.
Mr Calder continued: “The immediate effect, I think, is going to be a big marketing campaign by the giant airlines: Emirates of Dubai, Etihad of Abu Dhabi, and Qatar Airways based in Doha. They will be wanting to get people to both connect through their hubs, but also to take summer holidays. Be warned, it is extremely hot with average daily highs around 40°C.”
“But it means that anybody who’s planning to travel perhaps to Asia or to Australia now will be able to travel with confidence through one of the Gulf hubs. In addition, I imagine that airfares will fall because the Asian carriers will not be able to command such a premium.
“Stand by for some really good holiday offers, but I personally won’t be seeing you on the beach in Dubai until about November.”
Online reviews have become one of the most powerful tools people use when booking holidays, but experts warn that not every review tells the full story
13:00, 16 Jun 2026Updated 13:01, 16 Jun 2026
Online reviews can be a minefield(Image: Tartezy via Getty Images)
Millions of Britons are gearing up for their summer getaways, but experts are urging travellers not to place too much trust in a sea of glowing five-star reviews.
Online reviews have emerged as one of the most powerful influences when selecting hotels, resorts and holiday rentals, with many holidaymakers depending on them to determine where to invest thousands of pounds. However, according to review verification specialist TruthEngine, not all reviews paint the complete picture. Daniel Mohacek, CEO of TruthEngine, said holidaymakers should view reviews as one element of their research rather than concrete evidence that a property will live up to expectations.
He said: “Reviews have become one of the most powerful tools people use when booking holidays. A string of five-star ratings can persuade someone to spend thousands of pounds on a hotel, resort or rental they have never seen in person.
“The problem is that not every review tells the full story. Some may be exaggerated, outdated, incentivised or, in some cases, not actually genuine.”
TruthEngine cautions that fake, manipulated and misleading reviews can leave holidaymakers arriving at destinations that bear little resemblance to what was advertised online. In some instances, guests uncover dated rooms, substandard facilities, hygiene problems, deceptive photographs or loud locations that were never flagged in the reviews.
One of the most common errors travellers commit, according to Mr Mohacek, is believing that a near-flawless review score automatically indicates a property is outstanding.
He said: “Holidaymakers should not assume that a high rating automatically means a property is perfect.”
TruthEngine recommends reading two, three and four-star reviews first, suggesting that these typically offer the most balanced and valuable insight.
He added: “Our advice is simple, to slow down before booking. Read the two, three and four-star reviews as these are the least faked, check recent feedback, compare different platforms and look at real guest photos.”
He also urged travellers to watch out for repetitive phrases, reviews that resembled marketing material rather than authentic experiences, and sudden spikes of glowing feedback appearing within a brief timeframe.
He said: “If the same complaints keep appearing, or if the reviews all sound too polished and too similar, that should ring alarm bells.”
Another frequent error is depending entirely on a single booking platform. TruthEngine advises cross-referencing reviews across multiple sites including Google, Tripadvisor, Booking.com, Airbnb and Expedia, while also examining social media and photographs uploaded by travellers.
Mr Mohacek added: “A holiday is one of the biggest purchases many families make each year. Taking 10 extra minutes to check whether reviews feel authentic could be the difference between a dream break and an expensive disappointment.”
For holidaymakers seeking a swift reality check, TruthEngine suggests a straightforward 30-second review assessment: examine the middle-range reviews, filter by the latest comments, cross-check several platforms, remain cautious of excessive references to particular staff members and take note of recurring grievances. According to Mr Mohacek, those additional few checks can uncover considerably more than a five-star rating ever could.
Kevin and daughter Natalie (Kennedy News and Media)
A dad faces a £30,000 medical bill after falling ill on holiday because he didn’t declare a common ailment on his travel insurance. Kevin Turner flew to Alicante with his partner Joy Peck in May after feeling poorly the week before with a chest infection.
After taking antibiotics and steroids, the 63-year-old said he felt assured by his GP that he was ‘good to go’ and was prescribed more medication to account for being away. The retired painter and decorator felt ‘off’ when he landed but put it down to the journey. It was when his chest pains worsened the following day that Joy called an ambulance.
After being rushed to a hospital in Alicante, doctors discovered Kevin had a pierced lung and pneumonia and he was put in intensive care. Despite having holiday insurance, Kevin’s family says his medical bills aren’t covered as he didn’t declare his chest infection before travelling – meaning he faces bills of at least £30,000.
Kevin’s daughters Sam Turner, 44, and Natalie Fowell, 40, have set up a GoFundMe to help pay his medical bills and get him home to the UK. Sam, from Winsford, Cheshire, said: “It was really, really scary because obviously you’re helpless. You’re over here and you don’t know what’s going on.
“He did have an existing chest infection that he had visited the doctor for that week and had been given antibiotics and steroids. He did also say that he was due to go on holiday and there were no warnings or concerns around that [from the GP] so he thought he was good to go.
“They just gave him enough medication for the fact that he was going away and that was it. He’d arrived at midnight, had something to eat and drink and gone to bed, feeling a bit off but just put it down to travel. It got progressively worse from there.
“By the next day the pains were just so much that in hindsight he probably already had pneumonia when he got on the flight, but he wasn’t aware. Joy rang me from the hotel and said ‘I’ve had to call him an ambulance, he’s not good’ and we were like ‘right, ok get him to the hospital’, trying to get updates all the time.
“They [doctors] said he had a pierced lung and chest and stomach pain where it’s believed air and gases had built up and had to be drained.”
Wedding co-ordinator Sam flew out to be with her dad on May 30 to be by his bedside. After contacting the insurance company, Sam says she was told that Kevin’s medical bills wouldn’t be covered as he didn’t declare the ongoing chest infection on his travel insurance before flying.
Sam said: “It very much looks like it’s a case of, the small print says if there are any significant health changes up to the date of travel then you must notify them. He’s still in intensive care and we’re trying to find out what the prognosis is.
“He hasn’t been out of bed, he hasn’t used his legs or feet and he’s just really worried because he’s lost all feeling in them. The insurance took about two weeks for them to decide that they weren’t going to pay out. It involved a lot of chasing from us.
“I would always say read the small print of the insurance document, make sure you go with a reputable company and look at their reviews.”
Passengers wanting to fly with easyJet could get some pretty cheap deals
11:24, 12 Jun 2026Updated 11:27, 12 Jun 2026
Passengers flying with easyJet can use their helpful tool to secure the best deals(Image: Getty)
Booking flights can be expensive, with many people clicking on random days of the week to find the best deal. But did you know two days of the week are likely to be better than the rest?
Travel experts at easyJet say that while the ‘cheapest day to fly’ often depends on factors like destination and flight availability, there are two days of the week you really want to look out for. The airline says: “The cheapest day of the week to fly can vary depending on the destination, flights available, and time of year.
“However, we’d recommend being flexible with your dates and considering flying outside of peak weekend flight times. By booking to fly on Wednesday or Thursday rather than Friday, you can find bargain flights (and get more time at your destination!).”
What is the cheapest month to fly in?
The low-cost airline also noted that the start and end of the year are key periods to look for if you want a trip that won’t break the bank. It adds: “The cheapest month to fly often depends on the destination and the type of trip you’re planning.
“For traditional warm-weather destinations in Spain or Italy, you can often find the cheapest plane tickets in the winter months of January and February. If you’re booking a trip to the mountains or traditional winter destinations like Finland, you’ll often find cheaper flights in November or March.”
As one of the world’s largest airlines, it operates a fleet of 355 aircraft, connecting 164 airports in 38 countries through 1,207 routes. While booking flights during these specific days and months is not a guarantee of the best deal, it urges people to use its Low Fare Finder when searching for the cheapest flight dates to secure the best deals.
Mum blocked from easyJet flight and left £700 out of pocket
In other easyJet news, a mother was prevented from boarding an easyJet flight with her family and lost £700 after being caught out by a crucial passport rule.
Bolaji Omisade was looking forward to a family trip to Greece and arrived at London Gatwick Airport with her husband and three sons. However, after checking in at the airport, easyJet staff informed her that she was not permitted to board the flight.
Confused by the situation, she was informed at check-in that, although her passport had not yet expired, it was no longer valid for travel due to passport regulations. You can read the full story here to make sure that you don’t fall foul of the same rule.
Four out of five Brits surveyed didn’t know this passport rule, and even more surprisingly, a huge number don’t know the expiry date of their passport, which could leave them facing a last-minute panic
A shocking 80% of Brits did not know this passport rule(Image: Getty Images)
Holidaymakers are being urged by travel insurance specialists to check their passport details ahead of the busy summer season, as a survey showed a huge percentage of Brits were unaware of a basic passport rule.
The research, carried out by Saga Travel Insurance showed that many Brits didn’t know basic rules around passport validity, entry requirements, and travel regulations post-Brexit. Worryingly, 7% of the people surveyed had previously been denied entry to a country because they didn’t have enough time on their passport to cover the trip.
Saga surveyed 500 people, and found that four out of five (80%) were not aware that different countries have different passport validity requirements, while 50% mistakenly thought that every country requires a passport to have six months remaining before travel.
The travel insurance provider also highlighted that half of the Brits surveyed “are still not confident they understand the visa and travel requirements for visiting Europe after Brexit.” 16% didn’t know when their passport is due to expire, while 8% currently had expired passports gathering dust in a drawer.
One mum recently was left £700 out of pocket after getting caught out by passport rules for a holiday to Greece, meaning she couldn’t board her flight with her husband and children.
Michelle Cooper, Director of Travel Insurance at Saga, said: “Nobody should have their holidays ruined because of a simple passport error. A few quick checks can help people avoid unnecessary stress, unexpected costs and disruption at the airport.”
She added: “It’s important to check the specific rules of the country you’re travelling to so that you know how long you need remaining on your passport. Some destinations require three months remaining on your passport, while others require six months.”
For example, Brits heading to EU destinations such as Spain, Italy or Greece will need a passport that’s valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area, and it must also be less than 10 years old on the day you enter. While Turkey’s validity requirements are at least 150 days after the date you arrive, countries such Australia simply ask that your passport is valid for the duration of your visit.
Michelle also reminded holidaymakers of the 10-year rule which continues to catch Brits out: “EU and Schengen countries require passports to be less than 10 years old on the day of entry. While all new passports last exactly ten years, passports issued before 2018 remain valid for 10 years and nine months. If you have an older passport, make sure you check both the issue date and expiry date before travelling to avoid problems at the border.”
Michelle also urged frequent flyers to check they have enough blank passport pages when they travel, saying: “People can sometimes focus entirely on expiry dates and forget to check how many blank pages they have left, but some destinations can refuse entry if there isn’t enough room for official stamps or visa documentation.
“If you’re a frequent traveller, you should regularly check how many blank pages you have remaining in your passport before booking a trip. You might also benefit from purchasing a passport with additional blank pages.”, she suggested.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
MoneySavingExpert has shared important safety advice for holidaymakers
Millions of holidaymakers could be affected (stock photo)(Image: ITV)
MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has issued a travel warning to millions of people. Founded by journalist and broadcaster Martin Lewis, MSE regularly posts consumer advice for Brits. In the latest Money Tips Email, the experts offered advice for anyone booking holidays.
In the email, the team told readers: “Summer is coming, and if you’re booked to go away and haven’t got your insurance yet, you need to do it NOW, today, straight away!” As the experts pointed out, booking travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday offers the maximum protection, including cover if something happens that prevents you from travelling.
Before setting off, it’s also advised to get a Global Health Insurance Card if you’re travelling to Europe. In the alert, MSE revealed that over two million cards are expected to expire this year. As a result, millions could miss out on the benefits if they don’t renew ahead of upcoming holidays.
The UK Global Health Insurance Card enables holidaymakers to access healthcare without paying more than a local resident would while travelling in the European Economic Area.
The NHS explains: “The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA), and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay.
“The UK GHIC has replaced the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you have an existing EHIC you can continue to use it until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you’ll need to apply for a UK GHIC to replace it.”
While people are advised they should also take out travel insurance, it could help you avoid paying the excess if you need medical treatment during your trip. MSE said: “Going to the EU? Ensure you’ve a valid (free) GHIC/EHIC – over 2m expire this year.
“The ‘Global Health Insurance Card’ (GHIC) and its predecessor, the EHIC, give access to state-run hospitals or GPs, mainly in European countries, for the same price as a local. So if they don’t pay, you don’t either. Over two million expire this year, check yours.”
A UK GHIC is free, and you can apply through the NHS website. The NHS advises avoiding unofficial websites, which may charge an application fee. People can apply for a new card up to nine months before their current card expires.
The NHS says: “You can apply for a UK GHIC if you’re a resident in the UK. You can also add your family members to your application when you apply.”
Travel insurance for Turkey has jumped almost 50 per cent in just a year, according to new data
Izmir, Turkiye. UK tourists are facing higher insurance premiums, one travel expert said(Image: Getty Images)
Five European and Mediterranean destinations including some hotspots much loved by British tourists have been named as having seen big rises in insurance costs, directly caused by the Middle East crisis. Travel insurance for Turkey has jumped 46% in just a year, according to new data analysing 5,000 policies across popular destinations near conflict zones.
There is no sign of the Middle East conflict calming down – today Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones towards Bahrain and Kuwait, Bahrain’s government said, adding that they were intercepted.
Bahrain’s government called on Tehran to immediately cease attacks on Gulf neighbours that it deemed a “serious escalation”. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the US early Saturday attacked surveillance facilities on Qeshm Island and near Sirik that it said were used to protect borders and “ensure the security of navigation in international waters”.
The latest exchange of fire came as the Trump administration pressed Iran to make a deal to end the war that has strained the global economy and threatened a hunger crisis in some of the world’s most vulnerable countries.
The US military earlier said it shot down several Iranian missiles and drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf Arab allies, and struck some of the Islamic Republic’s coastal surveillance radar sites in response.
It has had a big impact on the region with some popular destinations seeing big rises in premiums. Quotezone travel insurance expert Helen Rolph warned travellers not to assume last year’s prices still apply and urges holidaymakers to compare policies carefully, buy cover as soon as they book, and check Foreign Office advice before travelling.
Industry experts compared 5,000 travel insurance premiums across five popular tourist destinations close to conflict zones, revealing which countries have seen the biggest price increases over the past year.
Prices in Turkey have been affected the most despite it traditionally being considered one of the most popular and cost-effective destinations for UK holidaymakers over recent years.
Standard travel insurance premiums to the country have jumped from £40.56 in early 2025 to £59.19 just a year later – a rise of 46% or almost £20 per trip – which may be due to the fact it shares a border with Iran.
Holidaymakers travelling to Bulgaria are also seeing a sharp rise with prices up 19%, possibly down to its proximity to Ukraine.
Premiums for Cyprus have increased by 6%, Egypt by 4% and Poland by 8%. To gather the data, popular holiday destinations for British tourists were cross-referenced with countries geographically close to conflict zones, namely Ukraine and Iran, creating a dataset of major holiday hotspots in relative proximity to areas of geopolitical tension.
Insurers regularly reassess risk when global tensions rise, particularly in destinations close to areas where travel complications might become more likely.
Destinations situated close to areas experiencing heightened tensions – such as Iran and Ukraine – could see premiums shift as insurers reassess the likelihood of travel disruption, delays or emergency evacuation should issues escalate.
Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Travel insurance prices change constantly as insurers respond to global events, the number of claims made and healthcare costs.
“Even if a destination remains popular despite its proximity to ongoing conflict, premiums can rise when the wider region becomes more uncertain.
“Travellers and holidaymakers shouldn’t assume last year’s prices will still apply and make sure they’re comparing policies carefully rather than opting for the cheapest option, as cover can vary significantly.
“It’s also sensible to arrange insurance as soon as a trip is booked, check government travel advice before departure, and ensure any medical conditions are fully declared.
“Travel disruption insurance can also be useful as it covers a wider range of issues while travelling but it’s important to remember that travel insurance won’t provide cover if the foreign office advises against travel to that region and most travel insurance policies won’t cover war related incidents. It’s crucial for holidaymakers to check what is and isn’t covered on their policy and add any extras or specialised cover they might need.”
Travel Insurance Premiums
Country // Average 2025 // Average 2026 // Average Price Change // % Change
A YouGov survey has ranked budget airlines by food quality, with results likely to surprise some UK travellers
Airline with the worst food named — and it’s ‘awful’
A recent YouGov survey has revealed the worst airline food on offer, with budget carrier Ryanair topping the list for all the wrong reasons. Travel expert Mr Plane Guy weighed in on the findings, saying: “Unfortunately, not every airline hits the mark when it comes to in-flight dining.
“At the bottom of the list is Ryanair, where only 21% of passengers had good things to say about their snacks and drinks. Worse yet, just 17% found the meals satisfactory, and a staggering 50% labelled them as ‘poor’. Not far behind is Wizz Air, with just a quarter of passengers giving their snacks and drinks a thumbs-up, and 40% rating the meals as bad. easyJet also struggled, with only 35% of travellers enjoying their snacks and 29% happy with the meals.”
He went on to say: “If food is an important part of your flying experience, choosing the right airline can make all the difference! Emirates and Qatar Airways seem to be the safest bet for delicious meals, while budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air might leave your stomach rumbling.”
One Ryanair passenger took to Tripadvisor to share their experience, writing: “Why is the food so bad!? We usually pack a lunch for our flight. In this case, we didn’t, and I ordered the fresh sandwich, which in this case was Turkey and Stuffing. It was truly awful and cost me 5€. I couldn’t finish it. This is not only an issue with Ryanair, but with other low-cost airlines. It must be as easy to source good food as bad. I really don’t understand it.”
Not everyone agrees, however, with some passengers saying Ryanair’s food is acceptable. One traveller recommended the vegan lasagna: “As a vegan, I massively appreciate the vegan lasagna; it’s not bad at all.” Another chimed in with: “The cheese toasties are actually ok, I’ve had it a few times.”
Spain is the most popular destination for UK holidaymakers
09:01, 06 Jun 2026Updated 09:01, 06 Jun 2026
Millions of Brits head to Spain each year(Image: fcafotodigital via Getty Images)
Anyone planning a trip to Spain should act eight weeks before travelling, according to the latest Foreign Office advice.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides advice for travel to more than 220 countries and territories across the globe, covering everything from entry requirements and safety risks to health precautions and regulations. The FCDO recommends that those heading to Spain check the most up-to-date vaccination advice at least eight weeks before they set off, and find out where to get their vaccines and whether any fees apply.
Holidaymakers are directed to the Spain page on the TravelHealthPro website, which states: “Travellers [to Spain] should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK. These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.”
It’s worth noting, however, that there are no certificate requirements for entry into Spain. Those visiting Spain are also urged to ensure their tetanus jabs are up-to-date.
TravelHealthPro guidance adds: “Travellers should thoroughly clean all wounds and seek medical attention for injuries such as animal bites/scratches, burns or wounds contaminated with soil.” TravelHealthPro also recommends that all holidaymakers make sure they have sufficient travel insurance.
It adds: “If visiting European Union (EU) countries, carry an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) as this will allow access to state-provided healthcare in some countries at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free.
“The EHIC or GHIC, however, is not an alternative to travel insurance.”
Millions of people face the prospect of having to pay an extra £1,000 if they want to take a holiday abroad in 2026.
One in five people on NHS waiting lists plan to holiday abroad without travel insurance, according to a recent survey, risking falling ill overseas and incurring hefty healthcare fees. There are currently more than 7.1million adults waiting for consultant-led treatment – and a further 1.7million waiting for a diagnosis – with many unable to take out insurance policies due to the high cost.
Of the 95% who are on, or have been on, a waiting list in the last three years and refuse to miss their holiday, 15% have paid up to £1,000 extra to ensure they’re protected. Many insurers keep their premiums low by not covering existing medical conditions, meaning patients on waiting lists with potentially serious conditions will need to take out specialist cover.
Those waiting for a condition to be diagnosed will find it particularly difficult to find appropriate travel insurance – and one in four plan to holiday without the correct cover. One in 20 currently waiting to be seen by the NHS have found accessing specialist travel insurance so difficult, or so expensive, they haven’t holidayed abroad because of it.
The poll of 2,034 adults commissioned by Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group found adults with hernias are the most likely to holiday without the correct cover, followed by those with cancer. The hardest conditions to find insurance for are heart or blood pressure issues followed by musculoskeletal issues including arthritis, hip or knee pain, back pain, neck or shoulder pain.
A spokesperson for Practice Plus Group said: “It’s a story we hear regularly from people who have a health issue they want to be addressed before they go on holiday, but they’re on a waiting list. They’re worried about going away when they’re in limbo, potentially needing to seek medical help a long way from home and not knowing how much it might cost.
In April 2021, the Financial Conduct Authority introduced new requirements to help consumers with more serious pre-existing medical conditions (PEMCs) better navigate the travel insurance market. Firms that sell travel insurance are required to signpost consumers to one of two directories of specialist firms that provide this type of insurance – one of which is the MoneyHelper directory, provided by the Money and Pensions Service.
A spokesperson from the Money and Pensions Service, which provides a directory of specialist firms that offer travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, said: “If you have a pre-existing health condition you must disclose this to your insurer. Otherwise, when you come to make a claim, it could be rejected.
“Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to complete a medical exam. This will allow insurance providers to tailor your travel insurance policy to cover your needs. Taking specialist medical travel insurance will give you peace of mind that your medical condition is covered in the event of a claim.
“Our MoneyHelper service provides contact details of companies which specialise in this.”
The Electronic Travel Authorisation fee for British holidaymakers travelling to this holiday hotspot has been scrapped, saving Brits around £40 and making the tropical destination even more accessible this summer
Sri Lanka is a stunning country with stretches of golden beaches and turquoise waters(Image: Getty Images)
Travelling to a tropical holiday destination has just become even more appealing, as Brits no longer need to fork out a tourist fee.
British holidaymakers planning to discover the stunning country of Sri Lanka won’t have to worry about shelling out an extra tourist fee, as it was abolished from Monday, 25 May. The Sri Lankan government confirmed it had made its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) free for UK visitors, scrapping the $50 fee (around £37) in an effort to draw more tourists to the South Asian nation.
The change has come into force for the UK, along with 39 other countries. Brits planning a trip to Sri Lanka will need to apply for a free ETA, which is a type of visa, prior to departure, and will be valid for 30 days.
Those wishing to extend their time in Sri Lanka can apply online via the country’s official Immigration portal. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed: “You do not need a visa if you are transiting through Sri Lanka by air, if the connecting flight is within 24 hours of your arrival. Check with your airlines about transit times.”
However, the FCDO also cautioned: “If you overstay the period of your ETA (30 days), you risk being subject to immigration procedures that may include temporary detention, a fine, deportation at your own expense, a travel ban or refusal of entry to Sri Lanka in the future.”
To enter Sri Lanka, British travellers must also confirm their passport has an expiry date of at least six months beyond their arrival date. Should the passport fail to meet this requirement, holidaymakers risk being turned away at the border, reports the Liverpool Echo.
While travel to Sri Lanka faced restrictions earlier this year owing to the Middle East conflict, there is presently no Foreign Office guidance advising against travel to the nation for Brits. That said, they do caution that there have been “global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East.”
The FCDO outlined: “Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights. Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East.
“Some flights from Colombo to the UK via Middle Eastern hubs may be delayed, postponed, or rerouted. British nationals in Sri Lanka should check the latest updates from their airlines and consider alternative carriers or routes where necessary.”
The FCDO advises that tourists should do the following things before they travel:
Check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through
Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator
Review your travel insurance policy for coverage
Monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts
For further details, visit the Foreign Office travel advice page.
Here’s everything UK holidaymakers need to know before heading there this summer, from entry requirements to taxi use and dress code
Sonia Sharma Multi-Media Journalist and Rachel Vickers-Price UK and World News Reporter
01:15, 25 May 2026
Anyone planning to go to Turkey is being urged to brush up on passport rules(Image: Ferdi Uzun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Turkey remains a firm favourite amongst British holidaymakers, with thousands of people flying out to the country each year. Anyone planning a trip there this year is strongly advised to familiarise themselves with all current travel guidance and any warnings in place.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides a wealth of information on its website, covering countries across the globe. It’s an invaluable resource for anyone with holidays booked or considering travelling abroad, reports Chronicle Live..
The Foreign Office states: “If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.” It also cautions: “Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).”
Warning over Turkey- Syria border
The FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to ongoing fighting and an increased risk of terrorism. The FCDO states: “Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there is a heightened risk of terrorism in the region. Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be closed at short notice.”
Entry requirements
To enter Turkey, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 150 days beyond the date you arrive and at least one blank page. If you’re entering at a land border, ensure officials stamp and date your passport at the border crossing.
The FCDO says: “Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.” You can visit Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, for business or tourism purposes.
Political situation
The Foreign Office states: “Regular demonstrations and protests are currently taking place in Istanbul and other cities across Turkey. Demonstrations may become violent. The police response has included use of tear gas and water cannons.
“Events in Israel and Palestine have led to heightened tensions in the region and in locations across Turkey. Demonstrations continue to occur outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul. Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.”
Drink and food spiking
The FCDO warns: “Be wary of strangers approaching you to change money, or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub. If strangers offer you food and drink these could be spiked. Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them.”
Holidaymakers are being cautioned that there have previously been instances of severe illness caused by alcoholic beverages containing methanol in popular tourist destinations across the globe. The FCDO says: “In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol.
“Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.”
Taxis The website says: “Accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is highly risky. Find a registered taxi, note the registration number before entering and ensure the fare is metered. App-based taxis and pre-booked taxis are also widely available.”
Carry your ID
It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.
Dress code
Holidaymakers are also given guidance on appropriate attire. The FCDO advises people to “dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence”.
Stray dogs
The Foreign Office says: “Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.”
Rules over sale of antiquities
Purchasing or exporting antiquities is prohibited. You could face a fine and a prison sentence of 5 to 12 years. Certain historical items found at local markets and in antique shops may be sold within Turkey but are forbidden from being exported. Always verify the status of antique items before making a purchase.
Millions of Brits head to Greece each year(Image: EdwardShtern via Getty Images)
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) continues to caution travellers heading to Greece about the risk of “serious injury or death”.
The FCDO is tasked with issuing regular travel guidance for roughly 226 countries and territories worldwide. Updates from the FCDO cover information on safety and security, regional threats, health concerns, and more. The guidance highlights a popular holiday pursuit that has resulted in fatalities and severe injuries, with the Foreign Office warning: “Quad biking carries the risk of serious injury or death.
“You need specific travel insurance to cover quad biking, it is defined as an extreme sport and excluded on many policies. Always read the details of your insurance cover.”
Greece remains a favoured destination among British holidaymakers, with millions visiting annually. FCDO guidance adds: “Make sure you get full instructions and training before your activity.
“Insurance sold by the hire company usually only provides third-party insurance. It’s likely the company will charge you for any damage to the rental vehicle, and you may face arrest if you do not pay.”
Both drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets when using quad bikes and mopeds. Failure to comply could invalidate your insurance, and if police stop you, you risk being fined – with officers potentially confiscating your licence.
Earlier this week, a 42-year-old dad from the UK was killed while riding a quad bike in Greece. The man had been travelling with his 15-year-old son in Corfu when the vehicle veered off the road for reasons that remain unclear, according to local reports.
The collision reportedly occurred at around 2pm local time on Tuesday on the central rural road of Roda-Acharavi near Almyros. The teenager sustained serious injuries in the crash.
P&O Cruises says bring ‘mandatory’ item or risk being denied boarding – The Mirror
Need to know
P&O Cruises tells all passengers they must bring proof or they will be ‘denied boarding’ at their own expense
The cruise line has a reminder for passengers on its website (Image: Getty )
P&O Cruises has a crucial requirement: all passengers must be aware that they could be denied boarding without it – what you need to know.
P&O Cruises says all passengers must bring crucial item with them or face being denied boarding. The cruise line has everything people need to know about the key document on its website.
The UK cruise operator states it is “mandatory for all guests to have suitable cruise travel insurance cover in order to sail with us.” Passengers who cannot provide proof of insurance will be turned away “at your own expense,” the company warns.
The policy applies across P&O’s entire fleet of seven ships, including family-friendly vessels like Arvia, Iona and Britannia, as well as adult-only ships Arcadia and Aurora. All vessels depart year-round from Southampton.
P&O emphasises that standard travel insurance may not be sufficient for cruise holidays. The company states: “A cruise holiday requires more specialist cover, for example if there was a need to be medically evacuated at sea.”
Passengers must bring either printed or digital copies of their insurance documentation. The cruise line warns that failing to declare pre-existing medical conditions could result in “extremely costly” medical bills or even refused treatment.
The insurance requirement comes as peak travel season approaches, with many Brits having already booked their cruise holidays.
