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A EUROPEAN island often compared to the Caribbean is getting a massive multi-million pound makeover.

When it comes to pretty islands, not many beat Sardinia in Italy.

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

And now, 15 villages across the island will be getting upgraded.

The villages include Bosa, Castelsardo, Aggius, Atzara, Carloforte, Galtelli, Gavoi, Laconi, La Maddalena, Lollove, Oliena, Posada, Sadali, Sardara and Tempio Pausania.

Each village will get a €2.5million (£2.2million) makeover to promote tourism and slower living, with experiences including hiking and trying local cuisine.

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The money will be used to restore historic buildings in each village, as well as improve transport links and support local businesses and ease the pressure on coastal areas.

Here are some of the most beautiful villages which will be getting an upgrade.

Bosa

Bosa is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Italy and sits on Sardinia’s western coast.

One spot worth visiting is Malaspina Castle, which was built in 1112, as well as a number of pretty churches including the Cathedral of Bosa, which was built in the 19th century over the remains of a Romanesque church.

Castelsardo

The pretty coastal town of Castelsardo sits on a rock rising from the water, with a 13th-century castle on top.

It is open to the public and in addition to a few rooms, visitors will find the Museum of Mediterranean Interweaving inside. One of the top beaches to visit in the town is Spiaggia La Marina di Castelsardo, which is ideal for snorkelling.

Aggius

The landlocked town of Aggius boasts not one, but three museums to explore. There’s one about criminals from the area, another about Gallura traditions and a third that has contemporary art.

And the landscape is ideal for hikers and rock climbing enthusiasts.

Gavoi

The mountainous village of Gavoi overlooks Lake Gusana and boasts amazing landscapes.

In the centre of the village you can also wander through narrow cobblestone streets. Make sure to visit the main church as well, which features a Gothic style.

Posada

The small village of Posada can be found on top of a limestone hill and is one of the most ancient villages on the island.

On top of the hill in the village is also a castle, which was where aristocracy used to spend their holidays – today most of the castle is in ruins, but the tower still stands and provides the perfect spot to see panoramic views of the village.

La Maddalena

La Maddalena is located off the north of Sardinia on its own island that can be reached by a 15-minute ferry ride.

Visitors can explore the 18th-century town as well as try out local seafood in the many restaurants.

From the island, visitors can also go on a number of boat trips and cross a bridge onto Caprera Island, where there are a number of hiking trails, pretty beaches and even the tomb of the Italian hero, Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Make sure to also stop by Spiaggia di Budelli while on a boat tour – the beach features pink sand but is a protected National Marine Park, so you can only see it from the water.

Recently, Sardinia was named as a Destination of the Year by Expedia Group’s Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report, which gathered data from millions of visitors and revealed that searches for Sardinia holidays have risen by 63 per cent.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding visited the island last year and said: “Sardinia is full of dreamy beaches and a historic, crowd-free city.

“Whilst it is part of Italy, the island is actually located closer to Africa than mainland Italy and as a result, it boasts warm temperatures and exotic fauna and flora.

“Most travellers head to Olbia in the north of the island, but Cagliari in the south – the capital of the island – is also a great destination to explore.

“The south of the island and around Cagliari is full of quaint villages, rocky hills and breathtaking beaches.”

This airport has been closed since 2014, but new £750m plans could see it reopen as a major cargo hub by 2029

The disused Manston Airport in Kent could be back in operation by 2029 if fresh proposals get the green light. The airport, which shut its doors in 2014, is earmarked to reopen as a cargo hub before the decade is out.

Briefly utilised as a lorry park during the coronavirus lockdown, the site has otherwise lain dormant for the past 12 years. Since 2019, an investment firm has been working to get the facility up and running again.

RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP) bought the airport for £16.5 million back in 2019, with an initial target to reopen by 2025, though this was delayed owing to escalating costs.

As RSP presses ahead with business development talks with airlines and freight operators, the planning process has now reached its third phase.

From Monday, March 16, to Monday, June 22, the public are being consulted on the proposed airspace modifications.

The suggested changes are being put before residents, local communities, and broader stakeholders.

Tony Freudmann, Director at RiverOak Strategic Partners, stated: “This consultation is an important step in our ambitions to reopen Manston Airport.

“[It’s] representing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver new runway capacity to support the UK air cargo market and to transform the economic landscape in east Kent.

“We know Manston holds a special place in the area’s history, we would encourage people to find out more about our proposal and provide any feedback they might have to help shape our plans.”

When the initial proposals for Manston were drafted, the projected cost stood at £400 million; however, this has since soared to £750 million.

It’s believed that once the redevelopment is finished, Manston will be capable of handling more than a million tonnes of freight annually.

WITH the soaring cost of living, £500 doesn’t get you far as it once did. It’ll just about cover the average bills for a UK household or a shiny new iPad or games console.

But if you trade in the British high steet for a boarding pass, that same budget can work absolute miracles on a holiday abroad.

As the resident Holiday Expert at On the Beach, I’ve been digging through our latest booking tech to find out exactly where British couples are flying for £500 per person.

While some destinations force you to compromise on your stargazing (hotel stars, that is), others are letting you live like royalty for less.

Here is everything you need to know about what a £500 holiday looks like right now, from destination to star-rating.

Where does £500 take you right now?

Most Brits with £500 to spend on a holiday end up on a Spanish beach.

Our data shows the Canary Islands and mainland Spain are the most popular destinations, especially for couples within this price band.

But popularity doesn’t always equal the biggest value haul. While the masses fight over towel space in Spain, a savvy minority are flying past the western Med to Turkey and Egypt.

They might not pull the same volume of bookings as Spain, but they offer a much bigger bargain.

For example, you can currently fly to Side in Antalya, Turkey, for a 7-night getaway at the ultra-plush, 5-star La Benata Hotel for exactly £500 per person.

It sits right on its own private beach, along with waterslides on a sprawling pool layout.

Getting a full week at a bona-fide 5-star property on an All-Inclusive basis, with direct flights from East Midlands? An absolute steal.

What kind of hotel does £500 get you right now?

You might think a £500 budget means settling for a basic, creaky two-star hotel with a brick-wall view. Happily, you’d be dead wrong.

Our data shows that 4-star hotels are the sweet spot.

If you head to mainland Spain, the Balearics, Greece, Portugal, Italy, or Tunisia, the vast majority of £500 packages land you a very respectable 4-star property.

But if you want to find the poshest hotel for £500, Turkey and Egypt are the ultimate luxury outliers.

In Egypt, a staggering 60 per cent or more of bookings at this price point are for 5-star luxury.

You can lock in a 7-night, completely All-Inclusive stay at the 5-star Il Mercato Splash Aqua Park in Sharm El Sheikh for just £475 per person, including direct flights from East Midlands.

It is positioned right on the bustling Il Mercato Promenade, which means you have endless shopping and entertainment right on your doorstep.

There’s also a free shuttle service to zip you down to the private beach club whenever you fancy.

How many nights does £500 get you right now?

If £500 is your budget for the holiday, you can either have a full week away or a higher-quality but shorter break.

Our data shows that a full seven nights is still the most popular duration overall, and you can find holidays for this much in the Canaries, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, and Tunisia for under £500.

But if you look at mainland Spain, the Balearics, Portugal, Italy, and Malta, the most popular duration pivots to a sharp four-night break.

For example, you can secure a four-night escape to the 4-star Gran Garbi Hotel in the lively heart of Lloret de Mar for a mere £305 per person, flying directly from Bournemouth.

What makes this an absolute game-changer is that while the average short-stay break in Spain only includes a simple Bed and Breakfast, this deal upgrades you to an all-inclusive package.

Even better, it grants you free entry to the nearby Aqua-Splash waterpark, meaning you are effectively getting a week’s worth of food, drink, and waterpark entertainment packed into a high-octane 4-night luxury budget window.

And that leaves you with nearly £200 change from your £500 budget to play with.

What’s included for £500 right now?

How do you like your breakfast?

If you want to book a holiday in mainland Spain, Portugal, Italy, or Malta for £500, you’ll likely get it included in your stay.

But if you opt for the Canaries, for £500, you’ll most likely need to opt for self-catering.

If your idea of a holiday involves completely locking your wallet in the hotel safe the second you arrive, all-inclusive is king.

It’s the most popular option in the Balearics and Greece as well as Egypt and Tunisia.

An astonishing 98 per cent of British holidaymakers going to Egypt and more than 95 per cent of those going to Tunisia book all-inclusive trips for under £500-a-week.

Turkey isn’t far behind either, with All-Inclusive capturing around 77 per cent of the market. 

Choosing a “no wallet, no worries” deal is the ultimate way to beat inflation.

This is because when your flights, hotel, meals, and drinks are completely covered for under £500, the cost-of-living crisis officially pauses at the departure gate.

One example is you can head out on a massive 10-night holiday to the 4-star Nesrine in Hammamet Yasmine, Tunisia, for just £410 per person, flying direct from London Southend.

From the beautiful, authentic Moorish architecture and the outdoor pool to a private, white sand beach paradise and an energetic entertainment team.

And you know it is all covered, meaning you can max out your relaxation.

The lesser-known beach destinations Brits are opting for right now for under £500

If you want to truly travel better for less, you need to look where the crowds aren’t looking. Because once a resort gets flooded with British tourists, the prices rocket.

To get a bargain that leaves you feeling incredibly smug, these five lesser-known, off-the-radar beach gems are where savvy holidaymakers are booking right now for maximum bang for their buck.

Mijas, Costa del Sol, Spain

Think the Costa del Sol is all crowded strips and overpriced tourist menus? Think again – as Mijas gives you the best of both worlds.

You have a gorgeous, traditional white-washed Andalusian village in the hillside with cobbled streets and sweeping Mediterranean views, while Mijas Costa serves up a stunning, pristine seven-mile stretch of golden sand just below.

It’s a pure beach haven right near Marbella but without the eye-watering premium price tag. 

You can snap up a four-night stay at the 4-star Gran Hotel Costa Del Sol right in La Cala De Mijas for £305 per person, flying directly from Bournemouth on an all-inclusive package.

Mahdia, Tunisia

Mahdia is Tunisia’s calmer, historic fishing town where the streets are quiet, the sea is a deep blue, and the white-sand beaches look almost like they’ve been photoshopped.

You can easily nab a full week of luxury here for under £500. For instance, a seven-night getaway to the magnificent 5-star Nour Palace Resort costs just £405 per person, flying directly from Newcastle.

It boasts a massive, free-form outdoor lagoon pool that is just steps away from a private beach, giving you five-star all-inclusive indulgence with just under £100 to spare. 

Ovacik, Turkey

If you want a Turkish mountain escape that feels exclusive but keeps costs low, Ovacik is the place to go.

Tucked away in the picturesque hills near Fethiye and the famous Blue Lagoon of Oludeniz, it offers a calmer atmosphere surrounded by pine forests and fresh mountain air. 

You can lock in a seven-night escape here at the 4-star Sahra Su Holiday Village & Spa for just £315 per person, with direct flights from London Gatwick.

The hotel is styled like a luxury holiday village with swim-up rooms, thatched-roof bungalows, and a series of crystal-clear pools tucked between manicured lawns and palm trees on a fully all-inclusive basis.

Nabq Bay, Egypt

Sharm El Sheikh has plenty of famous bays, but Nabq Bay is the rising star for sheer value.

Sitting just up the coast, it looks right out over Tiran Island and boasts incredible coral reefs for world-class snorkelling.

Because it’s a newer resort development, Nabq Bay feels ultra-polished, where a £500 budget makes you feel like an absolute VIP.

You can secure a full week at the five-star Parrotel Lagoon Resort for just £455 per person, flying directly from East Midlands.

This resort is brilliant because it features its own multi-slide aqua park right onsite, alongside a sprawling pool and five-star dining options that will forever ruin you for a budget buffet.

Guardamar del Segura, Costa Blanca, Spain

Benidorm can keep its neon lights; Guardamar is the Costa Blanca’s best-kept secret.

Famous for its stretch of fine, powdery dunes backed by a lush pine and eucalyptus forest, this town is loved by Spanish locals, so you know you’re in the right place.

That means the tapas bars are authentic and the hotel prices haven’t been inflated by an influx of Brits just yet.

You can book a full seven-night stay at the 5-star Alannia Guardamar for just £450 per person, flying directly from Glasgow Prestwick.

While on a self-catering basis, the hotel itself makes up for it with everything from a tropical pool area complete with waterfalls, bridges, and a line-up of waterslides to luxury villas and a hidden-gem beach.

A travel expert has shared five vital passport checks Brits should make before jetting off on holiday this summer – and failing to do so could mean being denied boarding at the airport

Many people will be counting down the days until their next holiday. With children set to wrap up for the school year, many families are gearing up for a summer of fun. Now a travel business owner has called on all British passport holders to carry out five crucial checks before jetting off abroad this summer.

Kate Donnelly, who posts travel advice on TikTok, urged her followers to take action now to prevent being turned away at the departure gate. While some of her guidance might appear straightforward to experienced travellers, she insists certain issues continue to trip up numerous Brits and wreck their holiday plans at the eleventh hour.

Passport validity

Her initial recommendation is to verify the expiry date – as the majority of European destinations require at least three months’ validity remaining from the date you depart the country.

“This is slightly different if you are travelling to Turkey where you have to have a validity of 150 days on the day you actually arrived,” Kate explained. “So it’s really important you check the country you are travelling to and see what their rule is.”

10-year rule

Following this, Kate alerted her followers to the 10-year rule, which she states is applicable to most of Europe. “On the day that you enter [the country] your passport has to be less than 10-years-old – so it’s important you check the issue date as well as the expiry, especially if your passport was renewed before 2018 because unused months from your old passport will have likely been added on to your new on meaning that your passport is probably 10-years plus,” she said. “This is catching so many people out.”

Blank pages

Third on Kate’s list is the matter of blank pages in your passport. “This isn’t as important as due to the new Entry-Exit System (EES) in Europe we are slowly phasing out passport stamping,” she admitted. “But the reality is lots of countries are bringing in measures, which means the EES is paused.”

Regrettably, when travelling to such destinations, you won’t discover whether the EES is operational or not until you get there. “Therefore if the airline checks your passport and you have no empty pages left, they are well within their right to refuse boarding,” Kate warned.

Condition

Kate proceeded to emphasise the physical state of your passport is something that is frequently neglected and could present a genuine obstacle to your travel arrangements. “If it has water damage, if it has fake tan on it, if it is torn or you can’t read any of the writing for whatever reason, this is also enough grounds for the airline to deny you boarding,” she elaborated.

Dual-nationals

Kate directed her final piece of advice at dual-nationals, who are impacted by a rule modification that came into effect in the UK in February. “UK citizens have to ensure they have a UK passport or a certificate of entitlement when they are entering or exiting the UK,” she continued. “This means that you can no longer use your non-UK passport – even if you are recognised as a British citizen.

She closed by advising the certificate of entitlement is £589 and therefore it is more “cost-effective” for dual-nationals to apply for their UK passport to keep alongside their non-UK one at all times. “This means you have the two to use freely depending on which country you are travelling to,” Kate said.

A British couple have shared a video showcasing lesser-known paradise islands dubbed the ‘Hawaii of Europe’ – and it’s just a four-hour direct flight from the UK

With summer firmly on the horizon, it’s natural to start hunting for attractive holiday bargains to capitalise on the scorching temperatures and glorious sunshine the season brings. But while Britons typically gravitate towards France, Spain or Turkey for their holidays, there are numerous other destinations many may not even know are merely a just a short flight from the UK.

While Hawaii frequently tops the list of dream getaways, there are several comparable alternatives within Europe — and it’s not Lanzarote or Madeira that are typically likened to the American state. Instead, there’s an archipelago situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that features similar natural beauty and stunning coastlines.

Taking to Instagram, British duo Ellen and Tom have revealed their insider recommendation for travellers seeking an exotic escape without opting for the usual Spanish or Turkish resorts.

“Nobody told us Europe had it’s own Hawaii,” the text overlay announced at the beginning of the clip, which proceeded to showcase footage of the breathtaking island destination in question.

“And no, it’s not Madeira. This is São Miguel in the Azores and we genuinely think it’s Europe’s most underrated island,” they explained in the post’s caption. “Volcanic, lush, and warm year-round. We were there in July and barely saw another tourist.”

The Azores is a Portuguese archipelago comprising nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, situated roughly 1,500km west of Lisbon, or around four hours by air from the UK. While each island boasts its own distinct personality, the largest and most frequented is São Miguel, commonly known as “The Green Island”.

Both British Airways and Ryanair run direct services from the UK to Ponta Delgada, São Miguel’s capital. With a journey time of just four hours, it’s a remarkably accessible option for a quick weekend getaway or an extended break.

The islands also offer an abundance of activities, catering to all tastes regardless of what you’re seeking from your getaway.

Ellen and Tom documented a range of experiences from their July trip, which featured visits to the volcanic landscapes at the vivid green crater lakes, discovering the black sand shores, and relaxing in hot springs. Visitors can also embark on treks through the verdant mountains, or venture out to spot whales and dolphins at sea.

Regarding the climate, there’s genuinely no poor season to travel, as the summer months deliver mild, agreeable, and predominantly settled conditions, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 21C and 25C. It’s the driest and most tranquil period of the year, making it ideal for rambling, bathing, and whale observation.

That said, a summer visit isn’t essential to enjoy warm, tropical-like conditions. The region is known for a weather phenomenon called St Martin’s Summer, which typically falls between 11 and 20 November, bringing prolonged sunshine and daytime highs of between 20C and 22C, according to Living Azores. Temperatures seldom become uncomfortably warm, thanks to the moderating influence of the Atlantic Ocean on the local climate.

The video quickly drew a flood of comments from viewers left astounded by the Portuguese island region, with one person writing: “Omg, I think we need to go here!!

“I was there in 2024 and it was unbelievable beautiful!” another enthused, while a third added: “This is absolutely stunning.”

YouTuber Just Deano was travelling home from Benidorm when he tried the new Wetherspoons in Alicante Airport — but he was ‘not convinced’ by his pint of Guinness

The first ever Wetherspoons outside of the UK and Ireland opened back in February — but one travel influencer was recently floored by the cost of his Guinness.

The Spanish spoons is located down the coast from Benidorm at the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport — and it has proved popular with Brits travelling home after their holidays.

However, keen to test it out after a trip to Benidorm, content creator Just Deano shared his thoughts after getting a seat by the bar.

And speaking to his 41,100 subscribers, he observed: “This is the smallest Wetherspoons I have ever been in. And I don’t normally get this in Spain — but I got myself a Guinness that was €7.50… €7.50!”

Visibly shocked by the price, he went on: “I thought this was Wetherspoons? And it’s absolutely dreadful. This is not a good start.”

Despite wincing at his first sip, he ordered an all-day brunch, bringing the total cost of his meal and pint to €20.45 (approx £17.73).

After his food arrived at the spoons which is named Castell de Santa Bàrbera, he said the eggs looked “terrible”, but things dramatically improved after trying the Lincolnshire sausages.

He said: “That might be the best sausage I’ve had in Spain. It is basically a spoons sausage. Now, at home, this wouldn’t be the best sausage ever, but compared to the standard of catering of sausages of usual places, this is decent.”

Deano, who hails from Huddersfield, said the chips were just like home but noted that the eggs were “one of the worst” he has had. However, he said the bacon and beans were solid.

He again repeated that it was “the tiniest premises ever” and questioned why it was so small.

And reflecting on his order, he said: “The best part about it? The sausages. The worst part about it is probably the Guinness. Normally the Wetherspoons Guinness is a solid eight out of 10. It’s not the best Guinness in the world but it’s 100% consistent. Unfortunately in Spain, they lost that consistency.”

He said his meal was acceptable but his problem was the price, and he claimed it was double the cost of what he paid for breakfast on his initial journey to Spain.

“So, although they are calling themselves spoons, they are definitely airport prices because that’s an extortionate amount of money,” he said. “€20.45 for a pint, a bad pint, and an all-day breakfast? Yeah, I’m not convinced about that.”

Deano said he was a “huge” fan of Wetherspoons but said his experience overall was five out of 10 — and he said he would have been better off paying to eat and drink at the airport lounge.

After posting the video, which you can watch in full here, one person defended the prices, saying: “Yeah & spoons are more expensive at the airports in the UK, like double so… No difference really.”

Another said: “Wetherspoons always up the prices in airports. I paid £16.50 at Gatwick spoons for brunch and a pint so not far off what you paid.”

After the successful launch of the famous pub chain in Alicante Airport, Wetherspoons has since announced two more will open in mainland Europe.

Both will be in Barcelona-El Prat Airport — with the first opening in Terminal 1 by September 2026 with the other to be welcomed in Terminal 2 by January 2027.

WITH two beaches, a canal and a castle, the town of Bude has a lot going on.

And as a one-time local, I’ve got the lowdown on all the best things to see and do in this seaside gem on Cornwall’s north coast.

The Summerleaze and Crooklets beaches have lifeguards between May and late September.

Both are ideal for surfing and bodyboarding and, if the sea is having a rare flat day, the swimmers and paddleboarders get their turn.

Book a lesson with the patient and knowledgeable instructors at Big Blue Surf School and you’ll be on your feet riding those waves before you know it.

When the tide is low, you can wander along the shore from Crooklets to Sandymouth.

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

It’s two miles of gloriousness, taking about an hour. Just check the tide times first.

Bude Sea Pool is a large, semi-natural tidal pool between the two beaches. It’s free and an ideal place to swim safely.

Go early morning or later in the evening for the quietest times.

If you want to upgrade your trip, hire a beach hut from the local council.

My favourite place in Bude is the wood-fired Ocean Soul Sauna overlooking Crooklets Beach.

During the summer months, you can book a sauna/yoga combo.

Bude has dramatic, fiery sunsets and watching the sun go down while enjoying a barbecue on the beach makes for a memorable evening.

If hiking is your thing, the South West Coast Path has incredible scenery.

Unlike many High Streets up and down the country, Bude’s is thriving.

It’s the perfect mix of independent shops and eateries, combined with the larger chains we know and love.

Buffy’s is my go-to for breakfast, which is under a tenner for quality food and a coffee.

Newly-opened Coffee Bay is a favourite stop for an afternoon pick-me-up, with the most decadent cakes and cookies in town.

When it comes to dinner, Elements is my favourite for a family meal.

The menu of pizza, pasta, salads and specials is simple but perfectly cooked and presented.

Even on busy evenings, the service is fast and the delicious cocktails are guaranteed to go down well.

My favourite summer tipple is Cornish Country Garden — Bude gin, vodka and elderflower cordial — enjoyed on their seafront terrace.

Fans of local ale should visit The Barrel At Bude.

The award-winning micropub doesn’t have wifi, fruit machines or a jukebox, meaning, shock horror, you have to talk to each other.

My favourite shop in Bude is Spencer Thorn, which has a lovely combo of books and gifts.

When the weather is good, it’s easy to have a great day without shelling out a fortune, too.

Bude Castle, built on shifting sand dunes in 1830, is free to enter, with an exhibition covering prehistory to the present day.

Here, you can learn about the unique geology of the coastline, which is so unusual it is known as Bude formation.

There’s also information on the town’s maritime links and the history behind the Bude Canal.

The circus comes to the outskirts of town each August, and during the summer holidays there are weekly, free circus-skills workshops on the castle’s green, where you can try juggling and riding a unicycle.

For the energetic, the 360ft inflatable Monster Slip And Slide water slide on the outskirts of Bude should feature on your holiday to-do list.

For somewhere to stay, you can’t beat the Premier Inn, with its central location and free parking.

Whether you fancy an active holiday of surfing, walking and swimming or prefer to relax with great food and drink, Bude hits the spot.

This beautiful woodland has been named among the best in Europe

One of Britain’s last remaining ancient temperate rainforests has been recognised amongst Europe’s most enchanting forest trails this summer. Wistman’s Wood, nestled within Dartmoor, secured third place on the list thanks to its remote location, centuries-old dwarf oak trees and captivating woodland scenery.

Travel specialists at Avis examined lesser-known European forests with Perućica Rainforest, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, claiming the top position and Spain’s Otzarreta Forest taking second place.

Though Wistman’s Wood was the sole British entry, it’s easy to see why this breathtaking location earned its spot.

Located just 31 miles from Exeter Airport, Wistman’s Wood offers convenient access for those exploring Devon.

The forest’s remarkable 500-year-old dwarf oaks have been twisted into gnarled, moss-draped shapes through centuries of Atlantic weather, emerging from a carpet of lichen-clad granite rocks.

The area feels more like a concealed treasure than a typical woodland, offering rewards to those who value ambience, legend and untamed scenery over picture-perfect vantage points.

Writing on Tripadvisor, one recent guest to the woodland commented: “Stunning ancient woodland that will make you feel like you are in a fairytale. A must-visit place. A lovely and easy walk from a small car park opposite the Two Bridges Hotel.

“The woodland is hidden in the fields, you cannot see it from the main road. It roughly takes one hour to reach it from the car park. We visited in autumn on a rainy day, and still, it was magical. This is one of the most unique woodlands you can find in the UK.”

A further visitor enthused: “The wood was fun, the lichen hung like Hagrid’s beard. The sights were astonishing and we saw loads of cows and sheep. I would recommend it to everybody.”

Europe’s most magical forests:

1. Perućica Rainforest, Bosnia and Herzegovina

2. Otzarreta Forest, Spain

3. Wistman’s Wood, England

4. Garajonay National Park, Spain (La Gomera)

5. Trollskogen, Sweden

6. Fanal Forest, Portugal

7. Białowieża Forest, Poland and Belarus

8. Brocéliande Forest, France

9. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

10. Hallerbos, Belgium

I’ve been on a number of cruises with various companies, but always get surprised with one dress code gets ignored

Having discovered my passion for cruising last year, I’ve now embarked on quite a few voyages with a range of different companies. There’s something truly special about drifting off to sleep and waking up in an entirely new destination, all without the stress of airports and flying. The onboard entertainment and activities are second to none, and formal nights are without doubt my personal highlight.

Formal night is a prestigious occasion, typically held on the second-to-last evening of shorter sailings, where passengers are invited to don their finest, elegant or formal attire. Gentlemen generally opt for suits, while ladies tend to choose cocktail dresses, evening gowns or other sophisticated ensembles.

The evening usually features an enhanced dining experience, the chance to have professional photographs taken, and specially curated entertainment.

While dress codes vary among cruise lines, the occasion is designed to deliver a truly unforgettable, glamorous atmosphere, giving guests the opportunity to revel in the timeless seafaring tradition of dressing up.

On a week-long cruise, you may even be treated to two formal evenings.

Naturally, those who’d rather not participate are perfectly welcome to dine at other restaurants or visit the buffet in their everyday casual attire.

However, during my most recent cruise, I was taken aback to spot guests turning up to the main formal restaurant dressed entirely casually.

While the vast majority of passengers respected the dress code and arrived smartly dressed, a handful turned up in shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops.

Some even in short dresses that were not appropriate for this evening.

I found this rather surprising, given that the dress code had been clearly communicated in advance and was designed to create a special atmosphere for everybody on board.

I personally relish formal evenings as dressing up isn’t something that features heavily in my day-to-day life, so it was disappointing that not all guests adhered to the rules.

While other cruise lines may enforce their policies more rigorously, I feel the one I sailed with could have done considerably more to uphold the dress code.

It was a similar story on my cruise the previous year, when a number of guests turned up at the main dining room on formal night without the appropriate attire.

AS THE UK heats up, the idea of wild swimming becomes more and more appealing.

And one expert claims to have found the best places in the UK to head wild swimming.

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

Emma MacDonald runs wild swimming experiences through Wild Hebridean Swimming from the Isle of Mull in Scotland.

And the experienced wild swimmer claims to have found the best spots to do this in the UK, with “spiritual” waters, landscapes shaped by volcanoes and white sand beaches just like those in the Caribbean.

Emma said: “The Isle of Mull is volcanic, so it was shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago, so it actually creates a really lovely swimming playground for open water swimmers because you’ve got these rocky areas that spring up in the sea.”

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Despite Scottish waters being relatively cool around the Hebrides, Emma claims there are a tonne of unique swimming experiences that really make you “feel like you’re swimming on the edge of the world”.

Emma explained: “Even though it is the inner seas off the west coast of Scotland, it is wild in so far as it can actually accommodate swimmers from real beginners through to advanced.

“The waters are easy to get to, yet you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.”

To get to the Isle of Mull and Iona, you can fly to Glasgow then get the train from Glasgow to Oban – which takes around three hours.

Emma said: “It’s a beautiful scenic journey by train and feels a bit like a Harry Potter train.”

Once in Oban, you then can catch the CalMac ferry across to the islands from there.

“It’s a very romantic thing to do to get a ferry from the mainland to an island where you’re going to spend the next few days or whatever,” Emma shared.

Mull is around a 90-mile round trip, so when you get off of the ferry there is plenty to explore including numerous swimming spots.

Iona, on the other hand, is just three miles long and one mile wide, but feels entirely different according to Emma.

A third island is Ulva, which has a tiny little ferry you can hop on to get to the island.

As for the best swimming spots, Emma confessed these are in the peninsula, the Ross of Mull.

“That’s the south of Mull, so turning left at the ferry and heading all the way down so that you’re almost at the ferry to Iona.

“The beaches on the south west of Mull, have the most amazing Caribbean white sand and turquoise water beaches.

“The north of the peninsula also has lovely beaches, despite being a bit more exposed.

But there are a number of other amazing beaches as well.

One spot is Kilby Kewen (Kilvickeon) Beach, which Emma describes as a “real showstopper beach” with “really lovely sort of sheltered bits for people”.

“It just feels like you’ve got your own little cove,” she added.

Alternatively you could head to Dalanish Beach, which Emma describes as “gorgeous” and it’s “a long, white, sprawling beach and it’s quite exposed – but you can get a really nice swim along the shore”.

At Notvolergan Beach, there are some small horseshoe bays with sheltered pockets and Ushkin (Uisken) Beach is ideal for more experienced swimmers with little channels to venture through.

As for a more popular spot, Calgary Beach is a great choice.

Emma added: “Lots of people want to come to Tobermory because of the multicoloured houses.

“While you can swim off of Tobermory Beach, there are nice spots to see in the town too such the beautiful harbour.”

The more sheltered the spot, the more comfortable the swim is, Emma also revealed.

Swimmers even might get the chance to spot seals, minke whale, orca, otters, puffins and sea eagles.

Iona has nice beaches too, including the North End Beaches which have great views and the West Side Beaches which are a little more rugged.

If basing yourself in Tobermory when visiting the Hebrides, you won’t be short of great spots to grab a bite to eat, with Emma recommending The Gallery, which serves freshly made pizzas.

“Hebridean Lodge is another one that does really nice food.

“And Creole Seafood Shack, where you can sit outside – they do things like langoustine and scallops and stuff like that.

“There is also a, there’s a fine dining place down there called the 9th Wave.”

Also in Tobermory is a fisherman’s pier seafood shack.

“In Pennyghael, head to Pennyghael, which has a really lovely campsite with glamping pods and lots of space.

“Just outside Tobermory in Salen, there’s a beautiful knitwear-coffee shop, which do fancy coffees.

“On Iona, there is Ailidh’s Pizza, which is right on the pier – it just looks gorgeous.

“And then there’s the Rookery Cafe, with sandwiches and scones.”

As for places to stay, one option is the Isle of Mull cottages, which often share information about the best places to swim nearby.

Another option is Ackermann House, which can sleep up to 14 people.

“In Tobermory, there are Airbnb’s, guest houses, hotels.

“If you’re staying on the west side, there’s a really lovely place, hotel called the Bellachroy – based in Dervaig – which gives you easy access to the west side of the island.

“There’s also Croig and Langamull as well.

When wild swimming, Emma says you should always take a tow float and write your name and number on it.

You can also use things like tide times to ensure you are swimming at the safest time.

Travel experts have listed what you should wear to the airport

UK holidaymakers are being warned that planning and wearing a special ‘airport outfit’ is probably not the best move if they want to make sure they avoid any additional charges.

With many airlines charging extra for checked bags, being caught out at the airport can add significant costs to your trip abroad. Thankfully, experts at Good Business Travel are sharing the insider packing habits frequent flyers use to avoid unnecessary fees, travel lighter, and beat the dreaded airport bag weigh-in.

Natasha Inglis, Client Operations and Success Director at Good Business Travel, said: “Airlines are under pressure to offset rising costs, and baggage fees are one of the easiest ways for them to increase revenue. The good news is that smarter packing genuinely can save people a significant amount of money.”

One tip Natasha suggests is ditching the airport outfit – an ensemble people plan in advance to look good during the journey itself. The trend, which is now becoming more common, actually works against passengers packing efficiently, Natasha added.

She said: “Your airport outfit is one of the most underused packing tools you have. Instead of choosing lighter, aesthetic layers for photos or comfort, you should use travel days strategically, wearing the bulkiest items, heaviest trainers, and thickest layers to free up valuable suitcase space.”

As well as this, Natasha suggests a ‘bed test’. This is where you lay everything out on your bed, or the floor, before packing. You then immediately remove at least a third to expose any unnecessary extras or duplicate items that rarely get used of worn.

Natasha explained: “It’s a visual shock tactic. Once you see everything together, you realise how much of it you don’t actually need. The key rule is if it’s a ‘maybe’, then it doesn’t make it into the case.”

She also suggests using packing cubes to compress clothes, and a 3-2-1 carry-on rule. The formula includes packing three tops, two bottoms and one outer layer, all chosen so that everything works interchangeably.

As travellers continue looking for ways to reduce holiday costs, Natasha says smarter packing is becoming one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary spending. She added: “Packing light isn’t about sacrificing comfort. It’s about travelling smarter, avoiding stress, and refusing to pay extra for things you never actually use.”

A picturesque seaside town in Essex is embroiled in controversy after plans were submitted to convert a shopfront into a Greggs outlet — with a petition now launched to block it

A picturesque seaside town hailed as one of Essex’s finest places to live could soon see the arrival of Greggs — but the prospect has divided opinion.

Leigh-on-Sea occupies one of Essex’s most stunning locations and is renowned for its independent shops and businesses.

The beautiful coastal town, known simply as ‘Leigh’ amongst residents, comprises the old town where dining and drinking venues abound, and the Broadway, home to boutique retailers and restaurants.

The delightful town, which features spectacular waterfront vistas, cobbled streets and vibrant beach huts, is celebrated for its independent character. Yet proposals to transform a Broadway shop into a Greggs branch have sparked debate.

Papers lodged with Southend-on-Sea City Council outlined plans for a shopfront displaying Greggs signage on the Factory Shop — with a verdict expected by July 10.

Nevertheless, a petition has been started urging the council to reject the Greggs proposals, attracting more than 1,700 signatures so far.

Behind the campaign is resident Enzo Harrison. He explained to this reporter: “It’s important to keep the Broadway independent. When people spend money in locally-owned businesses, the money stays in the area, it enriches us all.

“We risk losing not only our wealth but the unique feel of the area.”

Elaborating on why he started the petition, he explained on the website: “For as long as I remember, Leigh has had a host of high quality, independently owned bakeries and restaurants. Grout’s, The Homemade Bakery, The Flour and Spoon etc.

“The money we spent stayed in our community, the food we ate was wholesome and used proper ingredients, the faces behind the counter were familiar and friendly. This may soon come to an end.”

He continued: “To put it simply — Leigh’s too good for a Greggs. And we all know it.”

Responding below, one resident remarked: “I live on the Broadway and this would have a huge impact in my daily life, as their operations unit would sit right on my backyard. Keep Leigh independent, we love our artisan bakeries and coffee shops.”

Another chimed in: “Leigh doesn’t need any more chains or food outlets . To keep Leigh special we need independent shops selling things we actually need.”

Greggs was established in 1939 and has become one of Britain’s best-loved bakeries with thousands of branches. It also runs its own charity, The Greggs Foundation, which provides eight million free breakfasts for primary school children each year.

Leigh-on-Sea, meanwhile, is home to over 20,000 residents who enjoy scenic walks and delicious fish and chips.

Situated on the Thames Estuary, London is accessible by train in roughly 45 minutes, making the town attractive to commuters who prefer to avoid living in the heart of the capital. Edward White, the owner of fashion boutique Local Merchants, told express.co.uk last year: “We’re lucky to be surrounded by locals and visitors who actually care about supporting independent shops. They want something you can’t get everywhere.”

Councillor Carole Mulroney also weighed in on the flourishing high street, saying: “We’re lucky, we don’t often see empty shops in Leigh. There’s a healthy turnover, but people are invested. Shop owners, residents, they want this place to do well.”

She went on to note that cafes were “always full” whether by the old town waterfront or along the lively hilltop high street.

The town once had a Costa Coffee, which has since shut its doors, and a Subway had to be redesigned to blend in with its surroundings. Leigh continues to resist the cookie-cutter uniformity that plagues so many British high streets, with its embrace of independent businesses proving to be its greatest strength.

The seaside town sits just a 15-minute drive from Southend-on-Sea, and according to Rightmove, the average property price in Leigh-on-Sea stands at £448,840.

Local resident Russell Campbell, who previously lived in Basildon, shared his thoughts on Leigh with this publication.

He said: “I like the people here. I like the art here, the music, and I like that it’s by the sea. I just like the whole feel about it. It’s quite arty. The people here are creative.”

A visitor also chimed in: “Leigh has a cultural life which other towns like Southend don’t. It’s a wonderful place. Some talented people have emerged from here.”

This includes Oscar-winner Dame Helen Mirren, who grew up there, and Jamie Oliver, who once posted on social media: ” Aaaaahhhh back in my home town of Leigh on Sea ESSEX down at the cockle sheds just a quick visit but 15 mins for a pint of Adams and a little Cockles white pepper and vinegar and a roll before my next job then back to London Town happy days and memories.”

One local resident, Simon Green, also championed Leigh-on-Sea last year when Which? placed Southend-on-Sea as the fourth-worst seaside resort in the country in its yearly survey of top coastal destinations.

He outlined three reasons why this assessment was “total nonsense”, arguing that Leigh-on-Sea had been unfairly dismissed as one of Southend’s finest assets.

Simon described it as “undoubtedly one of the most desirable areas in the city”, highlighting how residents descended there every weekend to soak up the atmosphere at the Broadway cafes.

He also praised the independent retailers and a Michelin restaurant named Food.

And painting a picture of what Broadway – which may soon welcome a Greggs – is truly like, he wrote: “Situated right on the seafront, the former fishing village has a beautiful cobbled street running through it lined with clapboard houses from the 18th Century. Shacks are always open selling countless varieties of fresh fish — including prawns, oysters and mussels caught that day.

“And the meal can be washed down with a pint at the ever-popular Peterboat or the Boatyard, which overlook the fishing trawlers bobbing in the estuary. Ye Olde Smack is always a popular pub for locals too.”

Greggs and Leigh Town Council have been approached for comment.

The low-cost airline is reducing the number of flights at 19 airports across Europe, including in the UK, and passengers have been warned to check their itineraries and alternative routes

Ryanair has slashed flights at 19 airports across Europe, including in the UK, ahead of its summer timetable.

Due to the changes, passengers have been urged to verify their itineraries and explore alternative routes.

Destinations affected by the reductions include Berlin, Manchester, Krakow and Malaga.

The decision comes as the budget carrier attempts to streamline its operations and tackle seasonal overcapacity, according to Travel and Tour World.

Travellers departing from or arriving at the airports facing reductions must verify their schedules to confirm their booking remains valid.

Full list of airports facing cuts:

United Kingdom

• London Stansted
• Manchester

Ireland

Germany

• Berlin Brandenburg
• Cologne Bonn
• Hamburg

Italy

Portugal

Belgium

France

Poland

Hungary

Romania

Bulgaria

Spain

The budget carrier has implemented the reductions to optimise its strategic network, ease economic pressures and manage rising costs.

The widespread cancellations form part of the airline’s efforts to safeguard profitability as the fuel crisis continues to fuel inflation worries.

The cuts come after Brits heading to Europe were caught in hours-long airport queues, with some passengers reportedly missing flights as new border checks continue to cause disruption across the EU.

The delays come following the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which officially launched on October 12, 2025. Under the new system, non-EU travellers including Brits are required to register fingerprints and have their photograph taken when entering or leaving the Schengen area.

HOLIDAYMAKERS are to get twice as many trains to one of Britain’s busiest airports after the country’s largest rail operator was taken into public ownership.

The Government has pledged to double the frequency of Gatwick Express services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport from December, as Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) became the latest train company to be nationalised today.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander hailed it as “a defining moment in our reform of the railway”, with GTR’s four brands – Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express – carrying one in six of all train journeys made across Britain.

As well as the boost for Gatwick passengers, more early morning services on Saturdays and Mondays will be introduced from this summer.

The Government also pledged to crack down on graffiti in Thameslink train toilets, upgrade signalling between Farringdon and Blackfriars to cut delays, and deploy 110 new travel safe officers to tackle anti-social behaviour across the network.

Ms Alexander said millions of passengers across the South East and East of England would now be “travelling on rail services back in public hands — run for the public good, not private profit.”

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She added the nationalisation gave the Government “an opportunity to tackle the bread and butter issues people want, like driving down cancellations and improving the frequency of services to Gatwick Airport.”

GTR chief operating officer John Whitehurst said the railway “carries millions of people to work, to school, and to see friends and family every single day,” adding that public ownership “gives us the chance to go further to deliver the railway that millions of people across the South East deserve.”

GTR is the fifth operator to be nationalised under the current Government, joining c2c, Greater Anglia, South Western Railway and West Midlands Trains. LNER, Northern, Southeastern and TransPennine Express had already been brought into public hands before Labour came to power.

The nationalisation is part of a sweeping overhaul of Britain’s railways, with a new body called Great British Railways (GBR) set to bring responsibility for both tracks and trains under a single roof for the first time since privatisation in the mid-1990s.

Legislation to create GBR was included in the recent King’s Speech, and the first train carrying its branding — a Southern service — was unveiled in Brighton earlier this month.

Chiltern Railways is next in line to be nationalised on September 20, followed by Great Western Railways on December 13, with the full programme expected to be completed by the end of next year.

GTR’s takeover into public hands comes years after Southern became notorious for chronic delays and cancellations.

At its worst, the 7.29am Brighton to London Victoria service failed to arrive on time during any of its 240 runs throughout 2014.

The operator blamed high demand and congestion, though it was also hit by a bitter industrial dispute with drivers and conductors over staffing, including a row over who should operate train doors.

TAKE this as your sign to grab your faves and book a brilliant spa break.

From Champneys, Tring to The Greenway Hotel & Spa, Cheltenham and a Fab find in Faversham – we’ve got you covered for rest and recuperation.

THE FRIENDS’ GET-TOGETHER – Champneys, Tring

Editor in chief Sinead McIntyre and pals found R&R in Hertfordshire.

THE PAD

Set in 170 acres of beautiful countryside, this stately home, once owned by the Rothschild family, gives immediate Downton Abbey vibes, thanks to the sweeping staircases, huge chandeliers and grand fireplaces that are home to roaring fires on cooler days.

As do the rooms, with their opulent floral curtains and plush carpets.

Much to our delight, on arrival we are upgraded to two deluxe suites – mine has a super-king-size bed, adjoining lounge and two bathrooms, as well as stunning views of the grounds.

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There is no scrimping on the toiletries here either, with both Champneys and Elemis products, as well as soft white robes and slippers.

The standalone bath is the centrepiece of one bathroom, while the second has an invigorating rainforest shower.

The lounge is the perfect spot for a much-needed gossip, washed down with complimentary bubbles. Champneys, which celebrated its 100th birthday last year, also has more exercise classes than you can shake a stick at, from reformer Pilates to pickleball and HIIT, so we sign up for a legs, bums and tums class, followed by stretch and relax by candlelight.

There are also maps for walks in the extensive grounds and we enjoy a wholesome 45-minute stroll before dinner.

THE SPA

With its 25m pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and alfresco Jacuzzi, this is relaxation at its best – and that’s before you even book a treatment.

However, definitely do!

My 50-minute Upper Body Bliss massage, £105, using Elemis oils, was absolutely gorgeous and got rid of the tension I was holding in my shoulders after a stressful few months at work.

THE GRUB

There are so many delicious food options – stays are full-board, and breakfast and lunch are both buffets with tasty cereals, yoghurt, fresh fruit and bagels each morning and delicious meats, salads and pasta dishes come lunchtime.

But the evening menu is the star of the show.

We loved the pulled oyster mushroom taco and the crab and prawn summer rolls to start, while the sirloin steak with peppercorn sauce and the monkfish curry were both melt–in-the-mouth.

Make sure you leave room for the deconstructed honeycomb cheesecake for pudding, while the cheeseboard is also a winner.

OUT AND ABOUT

Forget it, you’re here to chill and chat.

BOOK IT

Full-board stays at Champneys, Tring, cost from £210 per person, per night (Champneys.com).

THE COUPLE’S ESCAPE – The Greenway Hotel & Spa, Cheltenham

Senior Assistant Editor Sarah Barns and husband Patrick cosied up in the Cotswolds.

THE PAD

Throw open the velvet drapes, take in the stunning views and relaaaax. Winner of four AA Red Stars, this gem, just 13 minutes’ drive from Gloucester train station, offers the perfect rural recharge.

The Elizabethan manor house blends historical charm with modern luxury, and although there are 21 newly refurbished bedrooms to choose from, our pick is the Manor Suite, where the bed is so large you can both starfish, the marble bathroom comes with a bath and walk-in rainfall shower, plus there’s a cosy living area.

THE SPA

Take a dip in the hydrotherapy pool and outdoor vitality pool, sweat it out in the sauna and steam room, and indulge in a TempleSpa treatment at the Elan spa, awarded five bubbles by the Good Spa Guide.

Hot stone massages, which use warm basalt stones (essentially giant black rocks) to harmonise energy points throughout the body, fixed our tense muscles and helped us instantly de-stress.

The Rocks Of The Mediterranean 75-minute treatment costs from £119 per person.

THE GRUB

The Garden Room restaurant, run by talented head chef Abhijit Dasalkar, offers a brilliant value à la carte dinner.

Think treats like Cornish crab with lemon, yuzu gel and edible flowers – one of the prettiest plates I’ve ever seen – and beef wellington served perfectly pink.

Three courses cost £67.50 per person.

Opt for the veggie Full English come morning – it’s a winner.

OUT AND ABOUT

Hit Cheltenham, 15 minutes’ drive away, for indie shops, as well as faves like Jo Malone, Toast and Reiss, plus Regency architecture.

Hatchards bookshop gives Hogwarts library feels, and Society Coffee serves up excellent flat whites, £4, and scrumptious chocolate cruffins, £3.95 (Society-cafe.com).

A short walk from the hotel is the Leckhampton Loop, a four-and- a-half-mile amble in gorgeous Cotswolds scenery.

Some parts are hilly, so you’ll have earned your lamb roast, £25.95, and sticky toffee pudding, £8.95, at The Frogmill (Thefrogmill.co.uk).

BOOK IT

B&B for two costs from £97 per person, including 90 minutes of spa use (Thegreenwayhotelandspa.com).

A fab find in Faversham

You don’t need a swish spa hotel in this Kent town, says Contributing Picture Editor Ruth Greatrex.

Embracing the therapeutic heat of the Finnish barrel sauna, my friend Katie and I gaze out at the vivid green fields, our skin slathered with sea-salt scrub, fragrant with rose petals and uplifting orange oil.

Staff are poised to bring juices, kombucha, or even a cocktail at the ding of a bell, too.

Once suitably baked, we brave the chilly overhead water bucket, then plunge into the ice-cold barrel.

A restorative soak in the wood-fired hot tub later, we both emerge with baby-soft skin and feel thoroughly revived.

A 90-minute session costs from £18 per person (Seascrubsauna.co.uk).

This Sea Scrub Sauna sits on the site of Macknade, one of England’s best farm shops and a family-run spot where apples and hops have grown since 1847.

We grab lunch at the new street-food village, digging into miso cream mushrooms, £11, at Hop Shed Bar & Kitchen, washed down with zingy Faversham bacchus, £9 a glass, and finishing with brown butter popcorn ice cream, £4.15, from Bears Ice Cream, before checking out the amazing food hall (Macknade.com).

Family-owned country estate Mount Ephraim Gardens is 10 minutes’ drive away and offers rooms.

We play ladies of the manor, strolling through the pretty rose gardens and even spy the sea from the Sir Edwyn Suite, which has a freestanding bath.

Double rooms cost from £150 per night (Mountephraimgardens.co.uk).

Come morning, we’re tempted back to Macknade for pancakes with blood orange and rhubarb compote, £12.

Although there are HIIT and spin classes on offer, I go for a soothing hot-stone aromatherapy massage, from £35 for 30 minutes (@Serene_ massage_therapies).

You don’t need long here to rediscover your zen. . .

May 30 (UPI) — A United Airlines flight traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis had to be diverted after an unruly passenger attempted to breach the cockpit.

The Minnesota-bound flight instead safely landed at Dane County Regional Airport near Madison, Wisc., “to address a security concern with an unruly passenger,” the airline told The Guardian and NBC News.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and local police responded to reports about the passenger, who was detained at the airport after the flight landed.

“I do not believe they ever cuffed him, but they were able to finally get control of him after multiple attempts to try to breach the cockpit,” a crew member told air traffic controllers.

“I believe at this point he is seated in a seat and flanked with law enforcement officers on either side,” the crew member said.

The Dane County sheriff’s office told USA Today that the 75-year-old passenger who attempted to breach the cockpit several times appeared to be having a mental health crisis and seemed to be confused.

None of the 147 passengers and six crew members aboard the Boeing 747 was hurt in the incident.

Police said that the man’s family was traveling to Madison from Minneapolis to meet him and that no criminal charges are expected to be filed against him.

WE’VE all gone a little K-razy – with Brits obsessed with K-pop, K-drama and K-beauty.

So it’s no wonder Virgin Atlantic chose to launch new direct flights to South Korea’s cool capital Seoul.

From the music legends BTS and Netflix hits KPop Demon Hunters and Squid Game to the latest in advanced skin treatments, would my first trip live up to the hype?

After a whistlestop three days, I can ­definitely say yes — it was all I thought it would be and so much more.

The journey from Incheon International Airport to the city centre was eye-opening as we rattled along a highway next to the great expanse of the Han River that splits the city into its historic northern half and glitzy southern districts.

In the shadows of the countless skyscraper apartment blocks, locals gather on the riverfront’s parks, walking trails and cycling paths.

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And this high-tech capital of endless high rises and neon-lit streets is also home to ancient palaces and surprisingly tranquil green spaces.

Locals and tourists alike flock to the five grand Joseon-era palaces and if you wear a Hanbok — the traditional Korean clothing — admission to them all is free.

While it may seem a little odd to us, embracing the traditional garb is actively encouraged and there are plenty of boutique rental shops surrounding the palace district that will, for a small fee, dress you head to toe in the brightly coloured garments and even braid your hair.

With little time to waste, we went straight from the plane to the palaces.

Top tip: plan your days carefully.

The ­magnificent main palace, Gyeongbokgung, is closed on Tuesdays, while the nearby ­Changdeokgung shuts its gates on Mondays.

We spent time wandering Changdeokgung’s ancient courtyards — just make sure to book ahead if you want to see its famous, tranquil Secret Garden.

Next morning, it was time to shake off the jetlag and embrace modern Seoul with a K-Pop dance class in the city’s university ­district.

Our incredibly patient instructor walked us through a routine to the Saja Boys’ hit Soda Pop, from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters.

The 90-minute session was an absolute blast, and even someone with two left feet like me could just about pick up the moves — albeit I was a few beats behind the music!

More modern-day Korean fun came next with a visit to one of the flagship Olive Young K-beauty stores in the Myeong-dong shopping district.

You’ll find smaller stores on almost every street corner here, packed with Korean beauty products from floor to ceiling.

The trick is to do your research before you go — it can be overwhelming looking at the overflowing aisles but you can score amazing bargains, with some products just a third of the price you’d pay in the UK.

Next up was another Korean trend that has taken social media by storm — colour analysis.

Stepping into a deliberately all-white room, your personal stylist will assess the colours that suit your skin tone best.

While I am sure the colours picked for me suited the Korean aesthetic — you’ll rarely see very bright tones on locals strolling streets by day or night — I felt they missed the mark.

After my colour analysis, we stumbled across the Roof Cat Me cafe which, as a feline fan, was a must.

The £10 entry fee included unlimited drinks for the humans — and the chance to chill next to some of the most beautiful pedigrees, all of whom appeared extremely happy with their spotlessly clean, custom-built hangout.

What surprised me the most was the great value — and warm welcome — we got everywhere we went.

While the efficient metro system costs just 80p per journey, it was also very easy to grab an Uber — and journeys were a fraction of the price we’d pay in the UK.

Download the Naver app to get around though, as Google and Apple maps are limited to public transport routes.

Food and drink was also very reasonable.

Local beers cost just £2.50 and you can even enjoy unlimited beef Korean barbecue for around £15.

And what’s more important, even at night I felt completely safe on the buzzing streets of bars, clubs and restaurants.

There is none of the edgier atmosphere you can get in big cities.

We ticked one last thing off the bucket list with a trip to the Gangnam southern district — known for its upscale shopping and nightlife made famous by the original smash-hit song from Psy.

There was just time to pose under the giant Psy hands statue outside the COEX mall before it was back to the airport and I was boarding my Virgin Atlantic flight home to London.

My feet were tired but my skin was glowing.

Seoul is a dizzying, delightful mix of old and new — and it more than lives up to the hype.

WITH over 6,000 islands, travellers are simply spoiled for choice when it comes to booking a holiday in Greece – but one quieter island offers a serene retreat.

Often dubbed the ‘Goldilocks’ of the Greek Cyclades, Sifnos “is quite possibly the perfect Greek island: not too big and not too small” according to Conde Nast Traveller.

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

Its ‘perfect’ appearance is helped by the lack of crowds on the island compared to other Greek islands.

So much so, Swedish news website News55 has said the island is one of the top travel destinations this year as it avoids mass tourism.

Apollonia is the main village on the island and when visiting, make sure to have a wander down Steno, which is the main pedestrian street lined with traditional shops and cosy cafes.

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On the coast of the island, you can visit the former capital Kastro.

Dating back around 3,000 years, Kastro is completely pedestrianised and is full of quaint, whitewashed buildings with paths leading down to the sea where you can spot Church of the Seven Martyrs, perched on a rock islet just below the village.

There are a number of other villages on the island too, including Artemonas, which is just a short walk from Apollonia.

In Artemonas, visitors can see a number of 19th century neoclassical mansions along the main stone path.

The village is also known for its churches, such as the Church of Panagia Kohi, which is built over an ancient temple to Artemis.

If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, you won’t be short of hiking routes including a well-marked trail between Artemonas and the sea.

Wherever you go on the island, make sure to look out for amigdalota – a type of almond sweet that the island is famous for.

Scattered across the island you’ll see lots of quaint tavernas too, serving traditional Sifniote food such as chickpea balls and slow roasted lamb.

One Sun reporter who previously visited the island said: “Everything is delicious on Sifnos.

“There’s the food bursting with zingy, sunny flavour, a landscape of steep hillsides carved with agricultural terraces, azure-domed churches perched by the sea and whitewashed villages.

“For a beach day, head to Platis Gialos – a stretch of sand backed by chic bars and eateries, such as Omega3 which serves seafood dishes such as sea urchin ceviche, paired with regional wines.

“The coastline is laced with smaller beaches and secluded rocky coves, with my favourite being below the blue-domed church of Panagia Poulati –reached via a short, but steep, hike down from Verina Astra.

“Floating in the clear water, and having the place all to ourselves, was the most delicious feeling of all.”

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If you are keen to explore more beach spots, Cherronisos is another good choice and can be found in a small fishing village on the far north of the island.

One recent visitor said: “Amazing beach, amazing walking trail to the church on the top of the hill and AMAZING tavern.”

Dotted around the beach you will find a number of holiday homes too, costing as little as £63 per night and boasting panoramic views of the sea.

Sifnos doesn’t have an airport, so you’ll have to catch a ferry to reach the island which takes between two-and-a-half and three-and-a-half hours from Athens.

The main and only port on Sifnos is Kamares, where you will also find a number of places to stay including AirBnBs costing as little as £209 for a five night stay.

A single ticket from Athens to Sifnos on the ferry costs from €40.50 (£35.01) and the return leg costs from €35 (£30.26).

WE ALL know holidays are expensive, and costs can rack up faster than a flight from Southend to Newquay.

So, as a seasoned travel journalist, it really pains me to see holidaymakers shelling out over the odds, and unnecessarily so, on their once-a-year summer break.

By all means, this holiday is your time to celebrate. Have a 6am pint in the airport ‘Spoons (sorry to Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary, but I disagree with banning pre-flight beers) and sure, treat yourself to that pair of sandals you’ve been eyeing up in Duty Free.

But why are you still wasting your hard-earned cash on an aeroplane lunch?

I just can’t fathom it. And it’s not because I’m a food snob. 

The other week on an easyJet flight back from Greece, the young lad next to me was practically jumping out of his seat in anticipation of the trolley to edge our way.

I thought he was gagging for a drink, but it turns out he was after the cheeseburger (who knew easyJet even sold cheeseburgers?).

But sadly, this lad never got his gnashers on that beef patty as they’d sold out already.

“Ugh, I’d been looking forward to that all day,” he muttered to his partner.

I raised an eyebrow. What had the breakfast buffet been like at his hotel if he’d been craving this floppy-looking easyJet cheeseburger “ALL day”? 

He wasn’t the only one in an ordering frenzy during this flight, either.

Looking around me, I’d say at least half – if not more – of the passengers had ordered their lunch on board, along with drinks and snacks.

This wasn’t entirely a shock to me. On another short-haul flight I took earlier this year, the plane food had proved equally popular.

And although there aren’t any hard stats to back this up, colleagues have said they’ve experienced the same; it seems Brits really love their on-board grub.

Selfishly, I was a little relieved that my neighbour didn’t get his burger, as I’m not sure I fancied inhaling the stench of microwaved meat for the final few moments of my journey.

I mean no disrespect to easyJet, either.

Other airlines I’ve travelled on can’t rustle up a better lunch, even the pricier and fancier carriers.

That’s simply because they don’t have the equipment on board, nor the space to carry fresh ingredients.

There isn’t a chef up in the galley scorching tender steak on an open flame, because, well… health and safety.

It’s not necessarily the poor quality that I can’t stomach, though. It’s the extortionate price tag.

It would have cost the fella next to me £7.50 for the burger alone. No chips. No side salad. No drink.

And judging by the menu picture, it looked smaller than a bacon bap from Greggs.

I’m not saying you have to pre-make the entire family a set of sad sandwiches at home, but you can pick up some pretty decent bites at the airport these days.

Plus, these airport meals won’t cost you as much as the food on board the plane.

While matey next to me disappointedly tucked into his ham and cheddar toastie (a more reasonable £5.75) and his partner, the lasagne (£7.95), I was ripping open the paper to my huge spinach and feta-stuffed filo pastry. 

I’d picked up this local bite from a cafe in the airport, just after security, for under £4.50.

Said cafe had sandwiches, too, as well as crisps and snacks – all of which were cheaper and more generously sized than the on-board grub. 

And that was just at a teeny airport in Greece – at larger airports, you’re spoiled for choice.

If you’ve left a sensible amount of time to bag drop and get through security, then you’ll also have time to kill on the other side. Grabbing a meal is the perfect way to do that. 

To those who insist on eating while sitting on the plane, I say: just get a takeaway.

Sack off your aeroplane sarnie and pick up a Boots meal deal, which includes a sandwich or main meal, snack and a drink for less than the price of one sandwich on board.

At Heathrow airport, a Boots meal deal comes in at an inflated (but still more affordable than food on board) price of £5.50 – and the quality of what you’re getting really doesn’t differ that much.

Or if you really fancy a slap-up meal, a lot of airport Wetherspoons offer takeaway versions of their dishes, meaning you can order a sit-down meal just before boarding your flight.

You don’t need to leave things to chance, either.

Generally speaking, you can look up what restaurants and takeaway options there are in the airport before you arrive. 

It’s also well worth taking advantage of the Too Good To Go app that lets you collect a “surprise bag” of goodies from an airport cafe or restaurant. 

You’ll have to log in and buy the bag in advance, but it can save you a fair whack of cash.

For example, if I were flying from Heathrow this evening, I could pick up a mixed bag of pastries for just £2.69, a fraction of what they would normally cost.

Or if I were travelling from Gatwick tomorrow morning, I could pick up a brekkie bag from Pure cafe for a fiver, containing two to three items such as toasties, porridge and egg muffins.

That’s almost enough for the whole family.

I’ve visited the city every year for as long as I can remember

There are destinations you visit and recall with affection, and then there are those that leave you desperate to go back. For me, Amsterdam belongs firmly in the latter camp — I’ve now returned every year for the past eight years. Nestled in the Netherlands, Amsterdam boasts a fascinating past, having started life as a modest fishing village along the River Amstel.

Across the centuries, it evolved into one of Europe’s foremost trading hubs. During the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century, it emerged as among the world’s most prosperous cities, drawing merchants and artists from far and wide. The city’s iconic canal system was constructed during this era, shaping the distinctive layout that captivates visitors to this day.

What captivates me most about Amsterdam is its architectural splendour.

The slender canal houses, adorned with elaborate gables and steeped in centuries of heritage, lend the city a charm unmatched anywhere else across Europe.

Strolling beside the canals feels like entering a living piece of history, yet the city never seems trapped in yesteryear.

Age-old structures nestle seamlessly alongside contemporary cafés, art galleries, eateries, and numerous boutiques.

I’m particularly fond of the Moco Museum in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum, and dining at Pancakes Amsterdam and Sandwichshop Amsterdam.

The canals themselves rank among Amsterdam’s finest draws.

Whether admired from a bridge, discovered by boat, or simply encountered while exploring the streets, they offer a tranquillity I’ve never experienced elsewhere.

Another factor that keeps me coming back is the weather. Despite what many assume, I’ve frequently been blessed with remarkably mild temperatures during my stays.

During my latest visit earlier this month, the mercury hit 28C, creating ideal conditions for lounging by the waterways, relaxing on outdoor terraces and wandering through the streets.

It’s also barely an hour’s flight from London, though I’m equally fond of taking a cruise to the country for a more leisurely journey.

After eight years in a row of visiting the city, my enthusiasm hasn’t waned.

Its convenient location near other destinations, such as Edam, also makes it an excellent starting point for wider exploration.

The blend of fascinating heritage, breathtaking buildings and charming canals keeps pulling me back time and again.

You might need to act to make sure your passport is valid

People across the UK could be unknowingly carrying an invalid passport. Every Brit needs a valid passport for travelling abroad, and the document generally remains active for 10 years – or five years for children.

At present, a UK passport costs £102 via an online application, or £115.50 using a paper form, while a child’s passport is £66.50 when applying online, or £80 with the paper form. Once your passport arrives, there’s one important step you must take to make it valid – otherwise, it simply won’t be accepted.

In an alert posted on X, formerly Twitter, the Passport Office said: “Don’t forget to sign your passport! Most people over the age of 11 will need to sign their passport, and can’t use it until it’s signed. Unless your passport states ‘The holder is not required to sign’, you must use a black ballpoint pen [and] sign on the holder’s signature line.”

Additional guidance on Gov.uk reads: “A sign after receipt passport is not a valid travel document until the holder has signed it. HM Passport Office advises customers to sign their new passport as soon as they receive it.

“A passport may not be valid for travel if a customer has made a mistake when signing (for example, they have signed the wrong name). Passports that were issued with a digitally printed signature remain valid until their expiry date.”

Passport holders should avoid signing in pencil or coloured ink, using a signature that differs from their normal one, or including any additional details not ordinarily part of their signature, as doing so could make the passport invalid. It’s equally important never to rub out a pencil signature as this could cause damage to the page, and under no circumstances should you cross out, amend, or apply correction fluid to the signature.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, don’t just go to the big cities, instead head to another island which has golden sands and an unbeatable experience you’ll never forget

A stunning island just three hours away from Tokyo must be added to your Japan bucket list, because it was one of my favourite days of our five-week trip.

The little-known island is about 15 minutes by boat from Ishigaki, off Okinawa, and we actually flew from Osaka and were meant to fly direct to Ishigaki. However, our flight was cancelled without our knowing, so we ended up having to fly to Okinawa, and then catching a (very tight) connection to Ishigaki. However, flight drama aside, when we decided to go to Taketomi, we didn’t think there would be much to do or that we’d want to spend very long there. But we were so wrong…

Taketomi is within the Yaeyama District of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Taketomi is one of the Yaeyama Islands, which are a tropical archipelago in southwestern Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, known as the nation’s southernmost and westernmost inhabited islands.

They feature coral reefs, lush jungles, and a laid-back, rural atmosphere, serving as a popular destination for snorkelling, diving, and experiencing traditional Ryukyu culture.

When we went, we immediately got a minibus to where we could catch a ride on water buffalo carts. It is an iconic 30-minute guided tour through the traditional Ryukyu village, featuring red-tile roofs and sandy streets.

It was absolutely amazing, an experience we’ll never forget, and our tour guide even played traditional Okinawan music on a sanshin, which is a stringed instrument. I felt like I was in a movie! It was certainly an experience that I won’t forget in a hurry.

Then, once we bought the professional photo (we had to), we headed to get some lunch. It’s worth remembering that an estimated 300 to 360 people live on Taketomi, so don’t expect any chain restaurants or anything you’re probably used to if you’re from the UK.

But the total change of pace to even big Japanese cities was amazing, and it was nice to spend time doing a variety of things while we were in Japan.

After, we went to the beach, where I was gobsmacked by the golden sands and the clear sea. Ishigaki was the first proper tropical island I’d ever been to, and Taketomi had all the same fantastic features. I’m now enamoured.

We had a little paddle in the sea, and I was gobsmacked to find that it was actually so warm, and while you’d have to go quite far out into the sea to actually be able to swim, it was definitely worth paddling.

If you’re going to Japan, make sure you add Okinawa or Ishigaki to your list of places to visit. I’d highly recommend Ishigaki, but I’m definitely biased. I think that Okinawa is a lot more touristy now, so Ishigaki suited us perfectly, especially as my partner is a scuba diver.

We loved it so much that we hope to go back to another of the Yaeyama Islands in the future. It is worth noting, however, that Ishigaki is located in an earthquake-prone area; tsunami awareness is essential year-round. Typhoon season runs from June to November, with the highest risk occurring from July to October.