Travel

A UK airport is set to close next year after operating for nearly 90 years.

Coventry Airport first opened in 1936, then called Baginton Aerodome and was used as an RAF base during WWII.

Today, the airport doesn’t operate scheduled passenger flights, and is mainly used for charter flights or training.

Along with charter flights, the Air Ambulance Service currently operates from the airport.

However, it is closing next year for good, being replaced by a massive new factory development.

What will instead open on the grounds is ‘gigafactory’ Greenpower Park which was given planning permission back in 2022.

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A UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson confirmed: “Coventry Aerodrome has given formal notice to us of its plan to close the airport permanently with effect from 11 June 2026.”

The Midlands Air Museum also at the site won’t be affected.

Opening as an RAF base, Coventry Airport once even welcomed Pope John Paul II in 1982.

Also in the 1980s, Hards Travel operated flights to Spain, France, Italy and Austria as package holidays.

And from 2004 to 2008, Thomsonfly operated scheduled passenger flights to Europe.

Wizz Air also had flights to Poland from Coventry Airport, flying to Gdańsk and Katowice.

These were all scrapped after rejected plans to add permanent passenger terminal facilities.

This led to the airport closing in 2009, before reopening the following year after being bought by the Rigby Group.

A statement from the Rigby Group states: “This procedural submission, first envisaged when local planning approval for Green Power Park was granted in 2022, enables the next phase of infrastructure work for the site to proceed.”

Runway operations will slowly be phased out until the full closure next summer, followed by airspace approvals.

Another closed airport in the UK has revealed plans to reopen by 2027.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed in 2022 despite once having TUI and Wizz Air flights.

New plans will see a £193million reopening project, the City of Doncaster Council confirmed.

It will also be reopening for a one-day event next year, with tickets on sale.

And Manston Airport has plans to also reopen by 2027.

AS 2025 comes to a close, you might be starting to think about where to spend the start of 2026 – and destinations across Europe have some pretty spectacular celebrations.

Whether you enjoy dancing in a club or wrapping up warm and watching the fireworks, there are all sorts of celebrations that take place on December 31.

And if you are fed up of celebrating here in the UK, then Europe has some great events to fly to, to see in the New Year in a new country.

Berlin, Germany

We have all heard about Berlin being rated for its nightlife, so celebrating New Year in the city must be good.

On New Year’s Eve the city turns into one huge celebration.

Head to the Brandenburg Gate and you will find one of Europe‘s largest open-air parties which draws in more than a million people each year.

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And what is even better is that unlike London‘s expensive fireworks, entry is completely free.

Inside, visitors will be able to browse stalls selling traditional bratwursts and currywurst.

There are also stages that host both German and international acts.

Even if you choose to stay in your hotel room on the big night, you can participate in a decades-old tradition.

Every TV and many independent cinemas across the city screen ‘Dinner for One’, which is a black-and-white British sketch from 1963.

Having first broadcast in Germany in 1972, it has run every New Year’s Eve since, becoming a tradition.

Families will even joke about the butler’s catchphrase: “Same procedure as every year”.

For those wanting to head out clubbing, well there are plenty of places to choose from in the city.

If you are lucky enough to get in, Berghain’s New Year’s celebrations start on December 31 and run until January 2.

Return flights to Berlin in December cost from £81 from Manchester, or £83 from Edinburgh or London.

Malaga, Spain

In Malaga in Spain, on New Year’s Eve – or Nochevieja, as they call it – Malaga’s Plaza de la Constitucion fills with people carrying 12 grapes.

Whilst this may seem unusual, it is a tradition that dates back to 1909 when Alicante winemakers promoted the ritual after a good harvest.

When the bell strikes each time at midnight, each person eats a grape.

Supermarkets even sell grapes portioned out in small plastic tubs ready for the celebration.

When the bell chimes for the 12th time, fireworks illuminate the sky and the streets around Calle Larios turn into dance parties, with live bands and DJs.

Temperatures are usually mild with highs of 18C and lows of 8C, making it the ideal destination to enjoy New Year’s in the fresh air.

When the sun eventually comes up, people then head to churrerias – shops or stands that specialise in making and selling churros.

Return flights to Malaga in December cost from £27 from Bristol and Liverpool or £28 from Birmingham or Manchester.

Interlaken, Switzerland

In the town of Interlaken in Switzerland, you will find the country’s longest New Year, with a festival lasting three days.

It starts on December 31 when fireworks are launched from the Hoheweg promenade with the Jungfrau summit in the background.

Then on New Year’s Day, Hohematte park hosts a free concert, known as Touch the Mountains.

The line-up usually features Swiss and international acts.

Finally, on January 2, is Harder-Potschete – an entire event dedicated to Alpine folklore.

The event features a masked procession which dates back centuries, and is led by the Hardermannli – a figure from local legend that is believed to be a ghost of a monk punished and sent to the cliffs above the town.

Locals and visitors then wear wooden carved masks and fur and head through the streets as bells and drums play.

After the parade finishes, people gather in many of the towns restaurants and pubs to have a meal.

Return flights to Zurich in December cost from £71 from London or £76 from Manchester.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon in Portugal is known for having amazing fireworks, especially when you watch them from the Tagus River.

Alternatively, you could head to one of several miradouros (lookouts) which are dotted across the hills around the capital.

In Praça do Comércio – Portugal‘s biggest square – there are then lots of celebrations, with live music, parties and Portuguese sparkling wine.

And for those who want to embrace local traditions, then eat 12 raisins, one by one, at midnight and then drink a glass of espumante.

Return flights to Lisbon in December cost from £43 from London or £49 from Manchester.

Stockholm, Sweden

Over in chilly Stockholm, Nyårsafton (NYE) celebrations begin at home, or if you are visiting, in the hotel, with lots of food and drink.

Just before midnight the party then starts.

Since 1985, locals have headed to Skansen, an outdoor museum in the city, to ring in the new year.

At midnight, a person reads Tennyson’s ‘Ring Out, Wild Bells’ and streamers burst above peoples heads.

There are then plenty of places to head to after to enjoy some dancing, such as Berns and Club Backdoor.

Return flights to Stockholm in December cost from £36 from London.

Reykjavik, Iceland

If you fancy seeing ice and snow, head to Reykjavik for New Year’s.

Celebrations start in the day and take over the entire city.

In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, the city lights around 12 bonfires where people head, to enjoy a warm drink, some singing and food.

Then when it comes to New Year’s Eve itself, people gather on the streets at around 8pm to light different items.

However, this abruptly stops at 10:30pm, when the TV show Aramotaskaupio is broadcast – a comedy about all the year’s events.

Once the show is over, the fireworks then light up the sky.

Return flights to Reykjavik in December cost from £74 from Bristol or £94 from London.

Collioure, France

For perhaps a slightly less crowded New Year’s Eve, head to Collioure in France.

This quaint fishing village is usually quite quiet, but on New Year’s Eve it comes to life.

During the early evening of December 31, locals will set up tables and blankets through the village’s stone walkways and the beachfront.

Then, people enjoy food together.

Some tents also provide food, like fresh oysters and sparkling wine.

The mayor then makes a speech and a live band begins to play in the main square.

At midnight, people then head to the beach to watch the fireworks as they light up the ocean below.

The closest airport to Collouire is Girona, with return flights to Girona in December costing from £28 from London or £29 from Manchester.

ANYONE heading across to France for a ski trip this winter needs to remember one very important rule, as breaking it could result in major fines.

It comes months after a major announcement enforced to help improve public health across the country.

Over the summer, France introduced a new smoking ban in public outdoor places.

France‘s health and family minister announced in May 2025 that “where there are children, tobacco must disappear”.

As the ban was introduced in the summer, it mostly affected beaches, parks and bus stops – but now that it’s winter it also counts for ski resorts.

Any Brits heading on a ski holiday in France this winter won’t be able to light up on the slopes, lifts or in queues for pistes.

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While these rules will be blanketed across all resorts in France, it’s not the first time that a ban on smoking has been put in place.

In 2022 Les Gets (Haute-Savoie) became one of the first ski resorts in France to ban smoking on the slopes.

It was followed by some others including Crest-Voland (Savoie).

There will be no smoking across all resorts now, however some may have designated smoking areas – and the ban doesn’t apply to vapes.

Anyone seen breaking the rule on the slopes could face fines up to €135 (£118) per person.

Not only is it in place to improve public health, but it’s an attempt to clean up France as cigarette butts remain one of the top three littered items in the country.

According to Connexion France, more than 57,000 cigarette butts were cleared from French ski resorts last year.

France’s health and family minister Catherine Vautrin announced the restrictions would come into force on July 1, 2025.

And anyone who fails to follow the new rules could face a fine over over €100.

The minister added that children have the “right to clean air”.

Cigarettes will also be banned in areas close to schools, to prevent students being tempted to smoke in front of their school.

The ban, however, does not apply to cafe terraces or include electronic cigarettes.

The five best ski resorts in Europe from beginner slopes to toddler-friendly resorts…

Trying to choose the right ski resort for the family – here are some of the best…

Hundfjället, Sweden

Just a 15–20 minutes transfer from the airport, Hundfjället is easy to get to and simple to navigate. The resort is designed with families in mind.

Soldeu, Andorra

Soldeu offers calm, family-friendly skiing, with the main gondola taking visitors straight to nursery slopes and the ski school. Wide green and blue runs through the trees make progression easy. Younger kids can build confidence in the playful Baba Boom Circus area, complete with obstacles and fun features. 

Rauris, Austria

A peaceful, compact resort, Rauris is perfect for first-time skiers. Everything is within walking distance – from family-run accommodation to the gondola and ski school. Children can learn on the nursery slopes, progress to gentle blue runs with panoramic views, or have fun on the mini racetrack.

Obergurgl, Austria

High in the Austrian Alps, Obergurgl combines alpine charm with family convenience.

Quiet slopes and excellent ski schools help children gain confidence quickly, while parents enjoy high-quality hotels, hearty Tyrolean cuisine, and stunning mountain views.

Family-friendly facilities like pools and playrooms add extra appeal, and reliable snow cover keeps everyone happy all season. 

Flaine, France

Flaine has both sunny slopes and reliable snow, ideal for beginners and families. Kids can enjoy Crystal Childcare while exploring beginner areas, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained off the slopes – from ice skating and bowling to magical dog sled rides. And with accommodation near the lifts it ensures a smooth and comfortable stay. 

For more, these are the best resorts for early season trips from France to Italy according to ski experts.

Plus, take a look inside Europe’s southernmost ski resort – with 320 days of sunshine each year and views of the Med.

A unique three-night stay on a remote Scottish island is being offered for just £20 in December 2025 – perfect for those wanting a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the festive period

As the Christmas rush approaches, it’s understandable if you’re yearning for a bit of tranquillity. A unique opportunity has arisen to escape to a secluded island for some much-needed relaxation before the Yuletide festivities kick off.

For a mere £20, you can book a three-night stay on this private island nestled off the serene coast of Isleornsay on Scotland’s Isle of Skye. Here, guests are encouraged to embrace a digital detox, disconnecting from the online world and reconnecting with nature amidst breathtaking scenery.

The accommodation?

The Eilean Sionnach Lighthouse Cottage, accessible only by boat, offering the ultimate in off-the-grid retreats.

The Lighthouse Cottage boasts four tastefully decorated bedrooms, a roll-top bath boasting sea views, a cosy wood-burning stove, and awe-inspiring vistas over Loch Hourn and Knoydart. It’s an idyllic backdrop for leisurely mornings away from screens and hectic schedules, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The Silent Night Stay caters for up to four guests, providing a calming itinerary of activities such as birdwatching, seaweed foraging, sound baths, and open swimming.

Upon arrival, guests are treated to a locally sourced food hamper and refreshments, along with a ‘Serenity Kit’. This includes a journal for introspection, a sand timer to promote tech-free moments, a puzzle, and a candle infused with the scent of the Isle of Skye.

The one-of-a-kind retreat comes as fresh data from Booking.com reveals that a quarter of Brits are yearning to escape the festive frenzy and go ‘off grid’ this Christmas. An additional 51% would relish the opportunity to recharge, spend quality time with a select group of loved ones, and take a break from the usual Yuletide chaos.

Ryan Pearson, regional manager for UK and Ireland at Booking.com, observes: “We’re seeing a real shift in what people are looking for from travel – towards quieter, more meaningful experiences that help them switch off, unwind and try something new,”.

“Our 2026 Travel Predictions highlights how ‘Hushed Hobbies’ are on the rise – with a third of travellers looking for a festive break that allows them to slow down, reflect, and rediscover peace in nature. The Silent Night stay captures that spirit perfectly, giving guests a chance to slow down and restore balance during one of the busiest times of year.”

If you fancy experiencing the Silent Night stay, you’ll need to act fast. It will be available to book on a first come first serve basis on 5 December 2025 at 10am via the Booking.com app or website.

Four guests can savour a three-night stay from the 19 to 22 December for a mere £20.25.

A UK museum solely for kids has been named the best in Europe.

The Young V&A located in London is a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum and reopened in July 2023 in East London.

Inside the museum, there are three main galleries which are designed for different age groups: Imagine, Play and Design.

Now the museum has been awarded the 2026 Council of Europe Museum Prize by the Culture Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).

Luz Martínez Seij, committee representative for the Museum Prize, said: “The Young V&A is a clearly outstanding museum in terms of its mission to engage visitors with the themes of human rights, equality, participation and cultural democracy.

“It conveys a strong message of empowerment of young generations, particularly those from deprived areas who may have limited contact with mainstream and institutional cultural offerings, with experiences that can help them embrace the future with confidence and participate fully in democratic societies.”

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Inside the museum, visitors can get creative with programmes that connect design and play with real-world themes such as sustainability.

The museum is also inclusive, with activities available for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Visitors can attend play sessions, such as Festive Play Saturdays where kids can dress up, dance to music and bring stories to life.

There are family design sessions too, to make items such as Christmas decorations or sequin brooches.

And on February 12, 2026, a major new exhibition will open at the museum.

The exhibition will celebrate the producers of Wallace and Gromit – Aardman’s 50th anniversary year, and allow fans to see scenes from the stop-motion animations and find out how Aardman brings clay to life.

Famous characters on display include Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Morph.

The exhibition will cost around £11 per person to visit.

However, the rest of the museum is free to visit, and is open seven days a week.

To get to the museum, it is just a two-minute walk from Bethnal Green underground.

In 2024 – the museum’s first year of opening – the Young V&A also won the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2024, which is the largest museum prize in the world.

Vick Hope, broadcaster and judge for Art Fund Museum of the Year 2024, said: “Young V&A is such a special and unique place, offering an experience for children (and their adults) like no other out there.

“The museum truly places young people centre stage, encouraging them to play, design and get creative through a fascinating collection of objects and artworks.

“I was inspired by the museum’s vision to become a space for the next generation to feel empowered and to imagine their future; a space that will cement museums as places they belong and feel welcome as they grow up, regardless of their background.”

The Council of Europe Museum Prize has been awarded each year since 1977 to a museum that has made a significant contribution to the understanding of European cultural heritage.

Last year, Euskararen Etxea, the House of Basque Language, in Bilbao, Spain won the award.

In other museum news, the UK’s newest national museum is more like an Ikea store – and Kate Middleton is already a fan.

Plus, Britain’s best hidden gems have been named, from free museums to brewery tours.

THE UK’s busiest airport has announced new rules for passengers arriving by car or taxi in 2026.

Anyone heading to the drop-off area at London Heathrow will face an increase in price – and will have to be in and out in 10-minutes.

London Heathrow Airport has changed its Terminal Drop-Off price and reduced the time that cars can wait for passengers.

From January 1, 2026, the Terminal Drop-Off Charge will rise from £6 to £7.

The new charge applies each time a vehicle enters one of the terminal drop-off zones.

To use the drop-off, drivers can either pay for a single visit or pre-pay for multiple visits online or by phone.

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If you forget to pay before using the drop-off area then don’t worry – but payment must be made by midnight the following day.

You cannot make a payment within the drop-off zone at any of the ticket machines.

Drivers can re-enter the drop-off zone – but each time you do this will count as a new visit and will incur another charge.

There will be fines of £80 for those who do not pay the charge which will be reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.

The last payment increase was in December 2024 when the charge increased from £5 to £6.

Along with the payment increase, Heathrow is introducing a maximum stay time of 10 minutes.

This counts for all vehicles using the designated drop-off areas located directly outside each terminal.

Previously there was no time limit in the drop-off areas, but the 10-minute maximum stay is being introduced to ease congestion and improve traffic flow.

On the new drop-off timing rules a Heathrow spokesperson said: “We have introduced a 10-minute maximum stay to smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion.

“95% of passenger visits are under 10 minutes so we expect minimal impact.”

This makes it one of the most expensive airport charges in the UK – London Stansted currently charges £7 for drop off but has a 15 minute time window.

A Heathrow spokesperson said: “This change brings Heathrow’s Terminal Drop-Off Charge (TDOC) in line with other major UK airports and plays a key role in our sustainability strategy.

“It helps reduce congestion, encourages public transport use, and ensures our forecourts are used for their intended purpose. Free drop-off and pick-up options remain available for all terminals at all our Park & Ride car parks.”

In 2025, London Heathrow moved one step closer to opening its third runway under the Government’s £29billion expansion plans.

The major new upgrade is set to be operational in the next 10 years.

This is the same estimation of costs predicted in 2014 of £14billion, when adjusted for inflation.

The new 3,500-metre runway will be in the north-west of the busy UK airport, and when fully operational could welcome up to 276,000 new flights a year.

This takes the annual flights from 480,000 to 756,000, with as many as 30 new flight routes a day.

These could be by budget airlines like easyJet who have expressed desires to launch from London Heathrow with the expansion.

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Plus, these two major UK airports will be much easier to travel to – after thousands caught out with strict £100 fines.

American traveller Walter Meyer visited the UK city and was blown away by the friendly locals, uncrowded cathedrals and unique Victoria Tunnel – saying they beat Barcelona and Prague

An American globetrotter has lavished praise on a UK city, claiming it surpasses renowned destinations like Prague and Barcelona.

“One of the joys of travelling, whether in the US or abroad, is stumbling upon unexpected gems. Everyone anticipates being enchanted by Venice or Prague, to the extent that these popular tourist hotspots can struggle to meet such lofty expectations,” shared Walter Meyer, a writer and explorer, when discussing his favourite city visits.

During a recent trip to see American friends residing in the UK, Walter made a detour to Newcastle. “I am so glad I did. If nothing else, I adored how quintessentially British the town’s name sounded: Newcastle Upon Tyne,” the Youtuber elaborated. He was utterly captivated by the city of 300,000 inhabitants.

“Newcastle, like many European cities, boasts its fair share of historic cathedrals. But unlike Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia, Paris’ Notre Dame or Cologne, these were not swarming with tourists – in fact, St. Nicholas and St. Mary’s were practically deserted. There was no admission fee, and the tour guides seemed genuinely delighted to welcome visitors and discuss their churches,” Walter gushed.

“The old castle in Newcastle was definitely worth visiting as well, but the most interesting thing there, because I had not seen anything like it anywhere else, was the Victoria Tunnel. Originally built to carry coal under the city, the 2.25-mile-long tunnel was reopened during World War II to function as an air raid shelter. There are tours that take visitors down into this dark world to explain the two very different functions this tunnel performed.”

Most importantly, Walter was charmed by the locals. “Everyone I met in Newcastle Upon Tyne was very friendly and talkative,” he remarked, recalling how a laundrette owner kindly gave him 50p to dry his clothes. This proved essential as Newcastle was being hammered by torrential rain. Yet even the weather couldn’t diminish Walter’s excitement.

“The rain was bad even by northern England standards-locals were complaining about it, and even tours to Hadrian’s Wall were cancelled due to flooding. So very few people were out in the downpour. Two nights, I went to the bar in the hotel and talked to the bartender, Michael, who was also the night desk clerk, and a few other patrons. Michael was very friendly and chatty and filled me in on some local things to see and do,” he explained. We asked two of Reach’s own Geordies whether they recognised the Newcastle that Walter painted.

Laura Hill, a news editor at the Mirror, was taken aback by Walter’s enthusiasm for the city’s cathedral. “I am baffled by (him thinking) the cathedrals are so good. We’re very spoiled to have Durham Cathedral half an hour away, which is far more impressive in my opinion. The Newcastle ones are often overlooked.”

Simon Duke, a What’s On journalist for Chronicle Live, picked up on the Barcelona comparison. “You could certainly argue the vibe between the two cities is pretty similar,” he observed.

“For a start, both destinations can always be relied upon to bring the party and keep it going. While Newcastle might not be the seven-day-a-week knees-up hotspot it used to be, you can still go out on dreary Monday night and still have a ball and, at the very least, bump into some brilliant characters, all with a story to tell.”

Beyond the city’s passion for football, Simon waxed lyrical about Newcastle’s flourishing culinary landscape.

“Newcastle can also hold its own against its European counterparts when it comes to food, with several Michelin-starred restaurants, two of which have just made it into the top 1000 in the world ranking for 2026. Whether it’s a stottie from Greggs, a mouthwatering burger or something more refined, you won’t go hungry in Newcastle,” he added. “The spotlight has been shone on Tyneside for two huge events in 2025 – the MOBO Awards and the Mercury Prize, with the city resplendent and vibrant as millions watched. When it comes to throwing a party and doing it in serious style, Newcastle will never let you down.”

TWO years after its closure, a Grade II listed swimming pool finally has a reopening date.

It’s been undergoing renovation and has made improvements to its Victorian structure as well as its pool and gym facilities at the cost of £6.5million.

Swindon’s Health Hydro on Milton Road has announced it will reopen on January 19, 2026.

Improvements to the site include new changing rooms, a redesigned entrance hall and a gym and activity space.

The website reads: “The Health Hydro has been closed while the first phase of major refurbishment was carried out.

“It is now getting ready to welcome back swimmers and gym users to refreshed spaces in the much-loved historic property when it reopens in the new year.”

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The first plans for renovation of the Health Hydro began in 2018.

Work on the 33-metre hydro pool began in 2023 years with renovations that initially were supposed to take 18 months.

The site was set to open in 2025, but had to be pushed back due to unforeseen challenges like the redesigning and preservation of its listed structure and removal of asbestos.

Not all of the site will reopen as the site’s Turkish Baths are still undergoing work, and will remain closed.

SBC councillor Marina Strinkovsky described the Health Hydro as a “unique and historic building” which required thoughtful and safe work.”

She added: “The result is a facility that’s ready to welcome people back, with significant improvements already in place. I’m really looking forward to seeing swimmers and gym users enjoying the Hydro again.

“And while this reopening marks a major milestone, we’re continuing to work hard to secure funding for the next phases of restoration.”

There may be further work carried out to the pool as the Swindon Borough Council website reveals plans for the ‘Main Pool Hall Restoration’.

These were submitted in August 2025 and if successful would be carried out in 2027.

Other aspects of further work would be to the Small Pool, Turkish Baths, Dispensary and dry-side areas of the Health Hydro.

The pool opened more than 130 years ago and its side was built by Great Western Railway workers who gave some of their wages to fund the project.

The washing baths were built in 1891, with the Turkish and Russian baths being added in 1904.

This abandoned Victorian church has been turned into one of the UK’s most beautiful swimming pools…

In the London Borough of Redbridge, the stunning pool is on the site of a former psychiatric hospital, Claybury Hospital, designed by a Victorian architect.
The hospital operated between 1893 and 1997 when it closed due to a dwindling number of patients after the introduction of the NHS.

After that, the estate, called Repton Park, was converted into an estate of luxury flats, parks and of course, a health club.

Virgin Active owns the gym on the red brick estate and inside, you’ll find a huge pool in what used to be the on-site chapel.

Inside is a 24-metre pool as well as showers, hot tub and steam room.

What used to be the old confessional box has even been converted into a sauna.

Apart from the fact it’s been filled with water, the church remains the same with huge archways, stained glass windows and vaulted ceiling.

One visitor wrote on Yelp: “When I first entered the pool I was really taken aback and quite mesmerised – it felt a little sacrilegious, but at the same time I very much enjoyed swimming.”

Another wrote: “The pool area is stunning. It feels so luxurious – with it being in a converted church, the original features make it feel magical to go for a swim or use the spa pool.”

Plus, find out more on the hidden Grecian swimming pool that’s one of the grandest in the UK.

And the art deco swimming pool in the UK with rare Victorian baths named one of the best in the world.

The Cayman Islands are a hidden gem for UK holidaymakers – offering stunning beaches, luxury resorts and delicious food in a serene and peaceful environment

If you’re on the hunt for a fresh hidden treasure that offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear blue seas, and glorious sunshine, this set of untouched islands is the perfect escape.

Many holidaymakers might be growing weary of visiting the same beautiful spots that offer memorable holidays but can become repetitive and often crowded with other tourists seeking the same experiences.

With this in mind, the Cayman Islands, nestled in the gorgeous Caribbean region, could be just what you’re after for your next escape. These self-governing British Overseas Territories are blessed with both white and pink sand beaches, luxurious restaurants, and top-notch diving spots, promising a holiday experience like no other – making it a truly memorable trip.

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Whether you’re a food lover, sun worshipper, or adventurous traveller, this destination has something for everyone, making the 4,650-mile journey well worth it.

There’s a wealth of thrilling activities to try on the islands, meaning you will always have something to do, including swimming with stingrays at the renowned Stingray City and exploring the crystal caves beneath the shores. The Cayman Islands boast over 365 dive sites to discover, including two shipwrecks.

The archipelago’s most popular sandy stretch is Seven Mile Beach on the western end of Grand Cayman Island, adorned with palm trees, white sand, and sparkling blue waters, reports the Express.

A visitor penned on TripAdvisor: “Seven Mile Beach is pure paradise-soft white sand stretching as far as the eye can see and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. The sunsets here paint the sky in gold and pink, making every evening unforgettable. It’s the kind of beach that feels endless, peaceful, and absolutely perfect for a true beach lover.”

Most of the island’s luxury resorts and hotels are also conveniently situated near the beach, making it incredibly handy for holidaymakers.

Moreover, Camana Bay, a community area just a short stroll from the beach, houses several restaurants and cafes, as well as a cinema.

Food, an essential part of any holiday, is something the islands have got spot on. The Cayman Islands cater to all palates, offering everything from home-style traditional meals to fine dining, including Blue by Eric Ripert, the first and only Forbes Five-Star restaurant in the entire Caribbean.

However, what makes this destination even more appealing is its tranquillity. Last year, the islands only welcomed 437,842 visitors, meaning this charming destination offers the perfect opportunity for a peaceful getaway without the crowds.

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Chessington’s Winter Trail offers a magical festive experience with interactive entertainment, patient Santas, and themed attractions that kept the whole family entertained

Waking up at the crack of dawn to icy temperatures and drizzle isn’t exactly the ideal beginning to a festive day out. Regrettably, it’s a gamble you take when attending any alfresco event in the UK, and when you’re en route to a theme park in late-November amidst a downpour, it’s easy for your Christmas cheer to feel somewhat quashed.

En route to Chessington’s Winter Trail, I confess that the combination of gridlocked traffic and biting cold had me feeling rather Scrooge or Grinch-ike. However, upon arrival at the park and catching sight of the (artificial) snow-dusted trees and oversized Christmas baubles, my festive spirit was instantly rekindled.

It’s hard not to be swept up in the Yuletide joy with hordes of the jolliest elves you’ve ever encountered welcoming you at every turn. Despite the rain and a thin crowd, we spotted some elves performing a pantomime on stage, seemingly unfazed by the frosty conditions.

The initial segment of the winter trail involved us penning letters to Father Christmas, with some delightful elves on hand to assist. They even distributed cookies baked by Mrs Claus, much to the delight of the children.

Next, we opted to join the lengthy queue for Santa, but fortunately, there was entertainment to keep us occupied. We were given headphones to partake in a silent disco during our wait, featuring stations playing festive tunes and another broadcasting an audiobook of a Christmas tale, reports the Express.

This proved to be an excellent distraction and made queuing with little ones significantly more manageable.

As a parent of two children, one in primary and the other in secondary school, I’ve encountered numerous Santas over time. Some have been grumpy, some haven’t really interacted with the kids, while others have been overly enthusiastic to the point of being frightening.

However, I must confess, the Santa we met at Chessington was one of the finest we’ve ever seen.

Upon reaching the front of the queue, an elf led us through a snowy forest to a snug log cabin where Santa awaited. I spotted several log cabins tucked away, presumably housing multiple Santas to keep the queues moving, but it was cleverly arranged so that the children wouldn’t notice.

Once inside, the children sat next to Santa in his beautifully adorned grotto, warmed by a crackling fireplace. Our Santa was remarkably patient with the children, and despite the bustle, we never felt hurried.

Even though my two are at an age where they’re not as captivated by Santa, they left feeling thrilled. We then strolled through Santa’s toy workshop, guided by more jovial elves, and the children were gifted a plush toy as a memento of their visit.

During the festive period, a selection of rides are also operational in the park. We had a blast on some child-friendly attractions like the vintage carousel and the Gruffalo River Ride, which surprisingly thrilled my eldest who had outgrown the Gruffalo phase years ago.

The tickets also grant access to the SEA LIFE centre and zoo, so even though we didn’t manage to visit them, one could easily while away an entire day at the park.

For our midday meal, we made a beeline for the barbecue Smokehouse, offering its standard barbecue fare alongside some Christmas specials. Regrettably, this was one part of the park that seemed less efficient, resulting in a 45-minute wait for our food, although the staff were apologetic about the delay.

However, once served, the adult meals were quite satisfying.

I indulged in festive loaded chips topped with turkey, stuffing, and other Christmas dinner trimmings, while my husband savoured tender, melt-in-the-mouth brisket. Unfortunately, the children’s meals didn’t hit the mark.

At £8 for two fish fingers and a small jacket potato, it felt steep, even by theme park standards, and no beverage was included. Nonetheless, I appreciated the chance to rest in a warm spot for a bit.

All in all, Chessington’s Christmas experience provided a delightful family day out, catering well to various age groups. It was refreshing to enjoy a day at a theme park without enduring lengthy queues for every activity, and the event ran smoothly thanks to Santa’s diligent team of elves.

Chessington’s Winter Trail is open on select dates until 31 December, with tickets for the Winter Trail and Christmas Village starting from £34 per person. You can find more information and book your tickets here.

Got a travel tale you’re itching to tell? Drop us an email at webtravel@reachplc. com

EASYJET is launching new flights to a historic European city that is often called the world capital of pizza.

New flights are now available to be booked from Liverpool to Naples in Italy, for next summer.

The inaugural flights to Naples will operate on Mondays and Fridays from August 3, 2026.

Flights will cost from £40.99 per person, per way.

The historic city of Naples is known famously for the nearby ancient ruins of Pompeii.

And of course, it is also famous for creating pizza.

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The city invented pizza back in the 18th century and today the city is home to many amazing spots to grab a slice.

For example, you could head to Pizzeria La Notizia Enzo Coccia 53 which can be found in Naples’ Capodimonte quarter.

The Pizzeria offers classic flavours as well as more inventive ones such as a courgette, tomato and thyme pizza.

In addition to the sites of Pompeii, there are other historical spots such as the National Archeological Museum and Piazza del Plebiscito – a grand square featuring the Royal Palace and San Francesco di Paola church.

Visitors can also head on underground tours at Naples Sotterranea – which takes you through a network of tunnels and ancient aqueducts – and the Bourbon Tunnel – a historic passage built for military purposes.

In the city centre, you should take a wander down Spaccanapoli, which is a historic street.

Then explore Via San Gregorio Armeno, which is a narrow street famous for its artisan workshops.

The hottest months to visit Naples are in July and August, when highs reach around 31C.

January is then the coldest month to visit with highs of around 14C and lows of 5C.

EasyJet is also launching a route between London Southend and Munich, which will commence on September 17, 2026 and operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.

The flights will cost from £80.99 per person, per way.

EasyJet holidays has also launched a number of packages to Munich from London Southend and Naples from Liverpool, with both flights and a hotel included.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK Country Manager, said: “We are really pleased to be launching even more new routes and package holidays to the cities of Naples and Munich.

“By continuing to grow our network, we are providing even greater choice and connectivity from across the UK and offering fantastic value fares.

“That’s why 50 million customers chose to fly with us in the last year, and we look forward to welcoming even more customers on board next summer.”

On December 1, easyJet launched another new flight, from London Southend to Rovaniemi, Finland.

The route will operate twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, during the winter season – making it ideal for families wanting to visit Santa Claus’ hometown in Lapland.

Last week, the airline also revealed new routes from eight UK airports with new connections to Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, the Canary Islands, Egypt and Malta.

In other aviation news, Ryanair launches huge flash sale on flights across Europe for as little as £13.59 – but you’ll need to be quick.

Plus, Jet2 to launch first ever flights from major UK airport with 29 new ‘sunshine’ routes.

The market was once described by poet John Betjeman as “the loveliest town in England” – and it’s the perfect place to pick up some Christmas presents.

Tucked away between Wales to the west and Birmingham roughly an hour’s journey to the east, the pretty market town of Ludlow once earned huge praise from poet John Betjeman, who famously described it as “the loveliest town in England”.

Boasting over 500 listed buildings and the highest number of Michelin-starred eateries anywhere in Britain, it’s clear why this River Teme town continues to captivate visitors.

Located within beautiful countryside, it comes as no surprise that Ludlow secured a spot amongst the UK’s most picturesque towns for Christmas shopping in 2023. This medieval market town in Shropshire stands as one of England’s most enchanting spots, packed with things to see and do.

A market has traded outside Ludlow Castle since at least 1086, with plenty of stalls offering the perfect place to kick off your festive shopping spree.

What’s it like to live in Ludlow?

Perched dramatically on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow Castle buzzes with events year-round, playing host to various festivals including the Medieval Christmas Fayre. Visitors can snap up local and historical crafts, presents, food and drink at the event, reports the Express.

The town’s flourishing food scene and wealth of independent boutiques, eateries, and boozers make it a special place both to call home and to explore. The castle has also welcomed gigs from major names including Anne Marie, Kaiser Chiefs, Bastille, Rag ‘n’ Bone Man, and Nile Rodgers and Chic.

The impressive ruins of the castle, dating back to approximately 1086, are nestled in Ludlow’s oldest quarter. With improvements made over the subsequent centuries, it remains one of the most beautiful castles in the Marches, grandly overlooking the river Teme.

Boasting architectural styles from the Norman, Medieval and Tudor eras, Ludlow Castle welcomes visitors from 10am to 4pm, seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day and weekdays in December and January.

With an average house price of £255,091 over the past year, Ludlow has experienced a surge in popularity. It provides the perfect mix of a lively community with great schools and facilities, nestled within an Area of Natural Beauty that is a haven for cyclists, walkers and nature lovers.

Is Ludlow a safe place to live?

The crime rate in Ludlow for 2022 was noted at 74 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is roughly equivalent to the national average. The crime rate is in line with similar areas and is lower than the average for the West Mercia police force area.

Thanks to the nearby M5 and M42 motorways, the rest of the UK is easily reachable, while a thriving local bus network links the surrounding villages and towns.

According to TripAdvisor, the top 10 things to do in Ludlow are:

1. Stokesay Castle: A fortified manor house that is an English Heritage gem according to visitors.
2. Ludlow Castle: Events running throughout the year and you can also take a historic tour of the castle itself.
3. Ludlow Brewing Company: You can take a tour, or enjoy food and drink and live music.
4. St Laurence’s Church: A beautiful building with stained glass windows and superb sculptures.
5. Clee Hills: A great place to walk and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Mortimer Forest: Take a walk through the beautiful forest with your pooches.
7. Ludlow Museum: A lovely museum full of interesting artefacts.
8. Ludlow Market: Food, drink, plants and crafts sourced within 30 miles of Ludlow.
9. Mahorall Farm Cider: Taste different flavoured ciders and take part in a free nature trail
10. Ludlow Racecourse: Fabulous views from the grandstand and a great place to try your luck.

New search to start on December 30 for Boeing 777 that went missing in 2014 with 227 passengers and 12 crew members.

Efforts to solve one of the world’s greatest aviation mysteries will resume later this month when the search continues for missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, the country’s Ministry of Transport said.

The aircraft, a Boeing 777, was carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew when it vanished from radars shortly after takeoff on March 8, 2014 from Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur en route to Beijing, China.

“The search will focus on targeted areas assessed to have the highest probability of locating the aircraft,” the Transport Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

The ministry said the renewed search effort “underscores the Government of Malaysia’s commitment to providing closure to the families affected by the tragedy”, according to the official Bernama news agency.

Two-thirds of passengers on the ill-fated flight were Chinese, while the others were from Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, and elsewhere.

Flight investigators said in a 495-page report into the disappearance that they did not know why the plane had vanished and refused to rule out the possibility that someone other than the pilots had diverted the jet from its scheduled route.

Satellite data showed the plane diverted from its flight path and headed south, to the far-southern Indian Ocean, where it is believed to have run out of fuel and crashed.

Initially, an Australia-led search operation scoured 120,000sq km (46,300sq miles) of ocean over three years, but only some pieces of possible debris were found along the coastlines in East African and Indian Ocean countries, including Mozambique, Madagascar and Reunion Island.

The most recent search for MH370 wrapped up in early April due to bad weather after several weeks of fruitless underwater reconnaissance by the maritime exploration company Ocean Infinity.

Ocean Infinity, which also led an unsuccessful search in 2018, will restart its hunt for the missing airliner on December 30, Bernama reported.

Malaysia’s government agreed in March to a “no-find, no-fee” contract with the United Kingdom and United States-based Ocean Infinity to resume a seabed search operation at a new 15,000sq km (5,800sq miles) site in the Indian Ocean, The Associated Press news agency reported.

Ocean Infinity will be paid a $70m fee only if substantial amounts of plane wreckage are discovered.

Relatives of the passengers and crew have lobbied for years for the hunt to continue and have demanded compensation from Malaysia Airlines, Boeing, aircraft engine maker Rolls-Royce, and the Allianz insurance group, among others.

The village was custom-built in the 1830s and is home to a range of different architectural styles, all with a wealth of history and attention to detail

Nestled in the Peak District lies a quaint village with a unique history and an array of fascinating architecture.

The village as we see it today was purpose-built in the 1830s and is renowned for its diverse mix of architectural styles, including mock Tudor and Swiss Cottage. Edensor, pronounced ‘Enza’, is situated within the more famous Chatsworth Park, presenting a scenic collection of buildings that exhibit meticulous attention to detail.

It was initially commissioned by the 6th Duke of Devonshire, William Cavendish, who decided to entirely demolish the old estate and reconstruct it in the 19th century. The reason? He believed it marred his view of the magnificent Chatsworth House and its estate.

The responsibility of redesigning the entire village fell to Sir Joseph Paxton, the architect behind the renowned Crystal Palace. It’s said that when he presented the Duke with a variety of architectural styles, the Duke instructed him to select ‘one of each’, giving the area its distinctive character.

This rich diversity of styles is evident in Edensor’s most prominent buildings, such as St Peter’s Church, which commands the area with its elegant spire. Inside, it contains monuments dedicated to the late Cavendish family, whose graves are still located on the site.

A recent guest enthused on TripAdvisor: “If AI was asked to generate the perfect English village, it would be Edensor. It is so lovely it didn’t seem real at times. At one point a pheasant stalked in front of us, and smaller, curious birds landed on a wall close to where we were standing. It brought to mind a scene from Disney’s Snow White!”

Next door sits the charming Edensor Tea Cottage, formerly the village post office, which welcomes visitors daily throughout the year. Nowadays, the enchanting little cottage offers breakfast, coffees, lunch and afternoon tea for intrigued tourists seeking a brief refreshment break.

In a review about the church, one visitor noted: “Edensor is a lovely village with interesting architecture, so lovely to walk round. We enjoyed visiting the graves of the Devonshire family at the top of the churchyard and found peace and time for reflection inside the church.”

Perfectly positioned beside the stunning Chatsworth estate, visitors can enjoy a short stroll from the village to reach one of Britain’s most beloved stately homes. Boasting expansive gardens, an adventure playground, a farmyard, plus numerous shops and eateries, Chatsworth provides plenty of attractions right on the village’s doorstep.

For anyone wishing to explore this picturesque village, straight from a storybook, Chesterfield offers the closest accessible railway station, with several bus services connecting visitors to Chatsworth. On the flip side, Edensor is situated just under an hour’s drive from Derby, with several car parks conveniently located near the village and within a short stroll.

A village in Northumberland is home to a ‘spellbinding’ castle that was used as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films and features the famous gardens with a killer Poison Garden

Stepping into this village is like entering a real-life fairytale, with its enchanting castle attracting visitors and film enthusiasts alike from across the UK and beyond.

Tucked away in Northumberland, further inland from the coastline, lies the delightful village of Alnwick, pronounced ‘Anick’. Within this tranquil town stands a ‘spellbinding’ castle that not only holds a wealth of history but may also look familiar to a famous one seen on your screen.

Alnwick Castle starred in the Harry Potter films as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and its grounds were used as the backdrop for some of its most iconic scenes. Film buffs have plenty to absorb both inside and out, and can even partake in a broomstick lesson in the same spot where the main cast, including Harry, Ron and Hermione, learnt to fly in their first year at Hogwarts.

Another unforgettable moment filmed right on the castle’s grounds is the flying car crash disaster, landing in the Inner Bailey. Not to mention, Harry’s significant Quidditch practice scenes took place in the Outer Bailey area of the castle.

Aside from Hogwarts, the castle is the second largest inhabited one in the UK, which has been home to the Percy family for over 900 years. The Grade I listed building is believed to have been initially built in 1096 to protect the border of Northumberland, starting as a wooden structure and evolving into a stone fortress over time.

Beyond the castle’s captivating allure, Alnwick Garden offers a unique natural spectacle teeming with wildlife not found elsewhere in the UK. The garden’s website boasts that “no two days in the garden are ever the same”, reflecting its seasonal transformations while preserving its historical essence.

The Duchess of Northumberland established this horticultural haven in 2001, which now houses an impressive variety of roses, including over 200 English shrub roses and climbers. In total, visitors can marvel at up to 4000 different plant species, including the world’s largest collection of Japanese Taihaku cherry blossoms.

A notable feature is the poison garden, home to around 100 toxic and narcotic plants. For safety reasons, guests are prohibited from smelling, touching or tasting any of the plants, and the garden is securely enclosed behind black iron gates.

One recent visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, enthusing: “We visited Alnwick Castle Gardens today, and it was absolutely outstanding, a masterclass in vision, creativity, and care. Every corner feels as though it has been designed not just to impress, but to inspire and delight.

“The imagination behind this place is extraordinary – the designers have somehow managed to weave art, nature, and storytelling into a single, living experience. I can only imagine how it will change through the seasons (I’ll be back in April for the blossom).”

The copper pot is filled with a custard so golden it looks like liquid sunshine. Our waiter carefully ladles the sugary, egg-yolk elixir, zabaglione, into two bowls for dunking warm pansarole doughnuts. Our conversation stops, a silent competition to nab the last one. We are literally living la dolce vita.

This dessert is a tradition in Apricale, a fairytale-like village in Liguria, Italy’s crescent-shaped region that hugs the Mediterranean. It’s a far cry from crowded Cinque Terre and posh Portofino to the east. This western edge, on France’s south-eastern border, feels more authentic and calmer in the winter, with more local people than tourists. Unburdened from competing with others for reservations, you are free to live in the present. Let spontaneity be your guide – or, in my family’s case, our appetites.

I came to Liguria with my twin, her husband, and their 11- and 14-year-old kids, inspired by my sister’s studies in Italy and our shared passion for the country’s comforting, kid-friendly cuisine. Our road trip meandered from the coastal Riviera dei Fiori to a constellation of medieval hilltop villages. In just 30 sq miles, we journeyed back in time.

My Sicilian ex had introduced me to Liguria one January. Though it rained, the Maritime and Ligurian Alps block the wind, creating a microclimate with relatively mild temperatures that average 13C. My family’s December trip was bathed in the most sublime winter light, apt for alfresco meals.

Heading east from Nice, the motorway is punctuated by a series of hair-raising turns and tunnels. Our first stop was a 45-minute drive away, just over the French border. Ventimiglia is divided into two parts: the bustling new town and the historical upper town, città alta, suspended between sea and sky. On Ü Funtanin’s sun-soaked terrace, we tucked into fried calamari paired with Mediterranean views. The kids made like pirates in front of a statue of the Black Corsair, the star of Emilio Salgari’s famous swashbuckling novel.

We entered the winding maze of the old town via the medieval Porta Nizza arch. Laundry hung from pastel facades, their beautiful patina born from centuries of wear. Two churches on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi have intriguing features: the hyperrealistic Cristo Morto (dead Christ) statue at Oratorio dei Neri and the baptistery basin at the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta.

Back in the car, we drove 20 minutes north to the riverside village of Dolceacqua. An impromptu search for “hotels with bathtubs” led us to Talking Stones (doubles from €67.50). Set in the 19th-century Borgo district, its cosy stone rooms are juxtaposed by modern whirlpool baths. The medieval Terra quarter sits across the Nervia river via the picturesque Ponte Vecchio that Claude Monet captured in paintings, as witnessed by his wooden cut-out next to the river.

On Via Castello, my niece and nephew felt “hugged by the stone buildings” that leaned towards each other. We climbed the narrow Ligurian caruggi (alleyways) to the Castello dei Doria. Named for the prominent family of the 12th-17th centuries, Dolceacqua’s grand dame is now an open-air vestige of soaring arches, a history lesson that is ideal for hide and seek.

Back in town for aperitivo at Re Maggiore, every drink came with a free plate of bites – “How it should be,” said my brother-in-law. Our waiter at La Pasta di Ü assured us: “Everything is amazing. If you don’t like it, I’ll eat it.” We tucked into local specialties, trofie (short, thin, twisted) pasta with pesto, potatoes and green beans, and barbajuan (chard and ricotta-stuffed fritters). All paired with Rossese di Dolceacqua, an earthy red wine that’s rarely exported due to the steep, terraced vineyard’s small production.

The next day, we motored 15 minutes north-east to one of “the most beautiful villages in Italy”, Apricale. The red-roofed village clings to green hills, seemingly defying gravity. Known as an artists’ town, Apricale’s labyrinthine alleys are lined with murals. We got a private showing, with stray cats the only sign of life on the empty streets.

The central square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, is bordered by two pink churches and the restored 10th-century Castello della Lucertola (Lizard Castle), whose dank dungeon transported us to the middle ages. As did the similarly stone-arched dining room at the nearby da Bacì ristorante, where we half expected the waiter to slice our meat with a sword. The home to the aforementioned egg-yolk dessert serves hearty coniglio (local rabbit) and pork stew with polenta and farinata (crispy chickpea fritters). En route back to the hotel, we popped into Perinaldo, another picture-postcard village, for a digestive passeggiata – the traditional Italian leisurely evening stroll.

Back on the coast, Sanremo felt like a bustling metropolis compared with the hilltop hamlets. The city of 53,000 became a tourism hotspot in the 19th century, when elite Europeans, particularly Britons, decamped to the Mediterranean for its curative winter climate. Ornate belle epoque hotels, casinos and villas (including the must-see Alfred Nobel’s former home) are testaments to this era, their faded splendour like a starlet in her twilight years.

The city’s Mercato Annonario was laden with gargantuan parmesan wheels, cured meats, and Liguria’s renowned Taggiasca olive oil. After a snack stop at Cantine Sanremesi for sardenaira (a tomato, olive and anchovy focaccia) we windowshopped along the main drag, Via Giacomo Matteotti. Later, the Pista Ciclabile, a 15-mile (24km) coastal bike path on former train tracks, was a highlight. Atop rented ebikes from NoloBici, we whizzed through tunnels and past the turquoise sea.

About 5 miles away in Arma di Taggia, at Osteria 1808 we feasted on housemade 30-egg-yolk tagliolini pasta, fresh-caught langoustines and fried anchovies, served with professional gusto by the owner, Francesco. He sold us bottles of Taggiasca olive oil to take home. It was the first time the future had crossed our minds. For Liguria is a place to live firmly in the moment.

In response to a controversial statement made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, more than 500,000 airline tickets purchased by Chinese citizens for travel to Japan have reportedly been forfeited after the Chinese government imposed restrictions on trips to the country. This policy has left travel agencies overwhelmed, airlines facing significant losses, and Japan deprived of one of its largest sources of foreign tourists. Beneath what appears to be a tourism‑related issue, a wider strategic maneuver is unfolding.

Chronology of the Ban: From Visa Restrictions to Mass Cancellations

The travel restrictions did not emerge suddenly. In early 2024, the Chinese government began tightening rules on group travel to Japan, followed by strong advisories from immigration authorities urging citizens to postpone visits on the grounds of “safety concerns.” Several airlines later reported abrupt cancellations on routes such as Beijing–Tokyo and Shanghai–Osaka. Japan’s tourism industry confirmed that more than 500,000 pre‑purchased tickets by Chinese citizens were effectively rendered unusable. On social media platforms like the Chinese social media platform Weibo, many travelers complained that agencies could not process refunds, as the cancellations originated from aviation authorities.

Why Did China Ban Its Citizens from Travelling to Japan?

Officially, China cited “health and safety concerns,” particularly following Japan’s release of treated Fukushima water into the Pacific. However, international relations analysts see the move as part of a deeper political strategy. Three main factors underpin this decision:

1. Historical sensitivities: Relations between the two nations have long been fraught due to unresolved historical grievances and wartime memories.
2. East China Sea tensions: The Senkaku/Diaoyu dispute has intensified in recent years, fuelled by Beijing’s concerns over Japan’s stance on Taiwan and its evolving security doctrines.
3. Japan’s military expansion: Tokyo has approved its largest defense budget since the Second World War and adopted a “counterstrike capability,” which Beijing interprets as a direct threat.

Thus, the mobility restrictions extend far beyond Fukushima, reflecting the complex political dynamics between the two Asian powers.

The Broader Strategy Behind China’s Decision

Although framed as a domestic policy, the travel ban serves as a diplomatic instrument. At least two major strategic calculations can be identified:

1. Economic Pressure through Tourism

China was Japan’s largest source of foreign tourists before the pandemic. In 2019, more than nine million Chinese tourists visited Japan. Mainland China and Hong Kong together accounted for roughly one‑fifth of all inbound travelers. According to the Nomura Research Institute, the travel boycott could cost Japan an estimated ¥2.2 trillion annually (approximately 14.23 billion United States dollars or 221.6 trillion Indonesian rupiah).

Since the issuance of China’s travel advisory on 14 November, tourism‑related stocks in Japan have declined sharply. Several China‑based airlines—including Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, and Spring Airlines—have offered refunds for flights to Japan, signalling a significant drop in travel demand.

This situation has had immediate repercussions for Japan’s tourism sector. Shares in major Japanese companies have fallen: Isetan Mitsukoshi dropped by 10.7%, Tokyo Disneyland operator Oriental Land declined by 5.9%, and Japan Airlines (Japan Airlines) by 4.4%. For Japan, losing Chinese tourists means losing billions of yen—a form of geo‑economic pressure that is impactful yet non‑military.

2. Political Signalling Without Direct Confrontation

In diplomacy, this approach is known as political signalling. China seeks to convey a message to Japan: “If you maintain a hardened stance on security issues and the East China Sea, we have ways to exert pressure without resorting to military confrontation.” It is a subtle yet powerful warning that operates within the bounds of international law.

Japan appears to be the side suffering the greatest consequences. Beyond the economic losses, this policy further strains bilateral relations. Japanese Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara lodged a protest against China’s advisory and urged Beijing to take appropriate measures, acknowledging that both countries hold divergent interpretations of the situation. Japan’s response reflects concern, albeit expressed in a restrained diplomatic manner.

Japan’s Response

The Japanese government has not openly criticized China’s policy but has instead expressed “concern” through diplomatic channels. To mitigate the fallout, Japan’s Tourism Agency has accelerated efforts to attract visitors from Southeast Asia, Europe, and Australia. Airlines have also shifted seat capacity to markets outside China to compensate for the decline.

In addition, Japan’s tourism sector anticipates short‑term benefits for travellers from Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe, who may now enjoy greater ticket availability and improved travel services. However, in the long term, Japan must devise strategies to reduce its dependence on Chinese tourists while managing increasingly fragile bilateral relations.

On the rooftop, the Melrose Alpine Club is turning the outdoor cinema into an ice skating rink for the first time ever, with decorated Christmas trees lining the perimeter and a disco ball spinning in the center. The rink opens for the season on Dec. 5, and is limited to ages 21 and up on Saturdays and Sundays after 6 p.m., with all-ages skating every day from 12 to 3 p.m. Each $25 ticket includes entry, skates and a sweet treat. Après ski cocktails will be available for purchase.

Dec. 2 (UPI) — For the second time in its history, Port Canaveral has become the world’s busiest cruise port, pushing out PortMiami.

The port’s figures show that Port Canaveral recorded 8.6 million multi-day passenger movements in the 2025 fiscal year. This officially surpasses PortMiami’s previous record. PortMiami held the title with 8.23 million travelers in 2024. The port has seen a 13% year-over-year increase in ship calls, according to its latest report.

PortMiami saw a record 8,564,225 cruise passengers get on or off a ship from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025. Port Canaveral had a record 8,602,047 passenger movements.

Canaveral was on top last in 2022.

“We’ve got two great seaports in Florida, and we’re competitive with the number of passengers that are moving through our ports, and we’re very excited to be on par with Miami and Port Everglades isn’t far behind,” Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray said Tuesday, the Orlando Sentinel reported. “It’s a great testament to cruising and what we do in the great state of Florida.”

Canaveral has six cruise terminals, but in 2025 it welcomed more and larger ships that dock there. The world’s largest ship, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, arrived in August, the Sentinel said. It also brought in Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises for the first time last winter.

In November, Murray cited Space Coast Office of Tourism numbers, saying that 27% of cruise passengers spend at least one night in a local hotel, which has led to an annual total of 2.3 million hotel stays.

“All of these things are indirectly fueling our local economy,” he said. “It’s a great thing to have the passengers coming through and spending their money.”

PortMiami’s cargo numbers hit a record high 1,115,058 twenty-foot equivalent units (a standard cargo measure) in 2025.

“PortMiami’s dual achievements highlight its dynamic role as both a cruise and cargo powerhouse, contributing billions to the local economy while advancing a future-ready vision of innovation, resiliency and global connectivity,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said, SeatradeCruiseNews reported. “Through strategic investments in infrastructure and technology, the port is enhancing its operational efficiency and ensuring long-term competitiveness.”

After opening up about his personal opinion on Benidorm, vlogger Just Deano was left astounded by the amount of abuse he received by those who can’t get enough of the Spanish holiday resort, and he’s now spoken out against some of the more hurtful accusations

A man has opened up about being abused over his views on Benidorm, and has declared he’ll never go back.

The British YouTuber, who vlogs under the name Just Deano, apparently infuriated some passionate Benidorm fans after describing the sunny Spanish holiday destination as a “crime-ridden hellhole”. In a video which has since gone viral, Deano warned holidaymakers away from the so-called ‘New York of the Mediterranean’, where he claims he was subjected to “scams, drugs, fights, pickpockets, and more”.

Recounting his holiday from hell, Deano shuddered: “I am on my own, I would never ever recommend anyone to come to Benidorm on their own. You’re too vulnerable. I am a 6ft, 18 stone bald man, and there’s still people…” Going into further detail about one particularly distressing incident, Deano continued: “I got whacked on the back of the head, I don’t know if it was a punch, bottle, a bat, a stick, I don’t know what it was, as soon as I turned around there was just a group of lads laughing.”

Unfortunately, not everybody has been sympathetic to Deano’s plight, and he’s since been “ripped to shreds” over his strong views on the popular package tourism hotspot.

READ MORE: Man spends week in Benidorm and vows never to return after horrifying discovery

In a follow-up vid, Deano revealed: “I’ve been accused of lying. I’ve been called multiple names. Basically, they’re saying everything I said is not true, that’s what the comment section is.” Deano’s travel stories have reportedly proven more divisive than usual. While he’ll normally get around 50 to 60 comments, this time, some 500 people flocked to his comment section, with plenty of strong opinions of their own.

Opening up about some of the “abusive” comments, which he’s decided not to address directly, Deano admitted: “I’ve got a thick skin, but it’s not nice to read sometimes when you’re being abused. According to Deano, there’s around a “75 25 split”, with “75 defending Benidorm, and 25 agreeing with what I’m saying.” Accepting that people can have their own very different experiences of the same place, Deano, who has more than 35,000 subscribers on YouTube, set about defending himself against some of the harsher criticisms and accusations he’s faced.

“So the consensus in the comments is that I’m lying. I’m lying about Benidorm. There’s no crime, there’s no scams, there’s no muggings, there’s no criminal activity. There’s great pints in every bar. Come on, people, why would I lie? What would I gain out of lying? People are saying for clicks and views, I could have done 20 videos in Benidorm and got more views. Listen, I don’t lie. Now, it’s an opinion, my opinion, that I’ve seen with my own eyes. People have different opinions, and that’s fine.”

According to Deano, some of the nasty comments have gotten ” a bit personal”. He shared: “I’ve been called names and been abused and things like that. But I’m definitely not lying.” Thankfully, Deano had plenty of support in the comment section. One follower wrote: “These faceless cowardly trolls. Please don’t let them drag you down. Your content is great. You aren’t a liar, you are only being honest about your experience.” Another agreed: “I quite like Benidorm, but I’m not about to abuse someone for their experience and opinion. If you like Benidorm, sure, defend it. But don’t pretend Benidorm doesn’t have its problems, and don’t get nasty. It is possible to disagree respectfully. Love your content, Deano.”

Earlier this year, the Policia Nacional confirmed perpetrators had been arrested “several times” in Benidorm, stating: “As a preventative measure, continuous patrols are carried out in this area, as well as throughout the rest of the town, to prevent the commission of this crime.” Offering guidance to visitors, it added: “Always keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Do NOT keep cell phones or wallets in back pockets or easily accessible areas.

“Be wary of strangers who approach you with vague excuses or exaggerated gestures. In the event of a robbery, do not confront the offender directly and notify the police immediately. Write down the IMEI (serial) number of your device to facilitate its recovery in case of theft.”

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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RYANAIR has launched a flash sale offering discounted tickets for midweek flights to parts of Europe.

The lowest prices available through the deal start from £13.59 to £15, with trips available to many popular locations including Ireland, Spain, Italy and Poland.

The cheapest on the market is currently a flight from London Stansted to Riga in Latvia, priced at £13.59 with an January 8 departure.

Other bargain trips available include a £14 flight to Milan and a £15 trip to Alicante.

But if Italy and Spain aren’t your destinations of choice, then for £14.99 you can bag tickets to Edinburgh, Dublin or Wroclaw.

If you’re planning on booking a getaway you’re going to have to act fast though as the deal ends at midnight tonight.

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There’s also another small caveat: the offer is only applicable on travel specifically between December 2 and January 31.

Speaking about the deal, a Ryanair spokesperson said: “Ryanair today announced its unmissable Travel Tuesday sale, offering 20% off midweek flights across its network for travel.

“Whether you’re looking to escape the winter blues, plan a midweek city break, or simply enjoy a quieter travel experience, Ryanair’s Travel Tuesday sale is the perfect opportunity to book your next adventure at an incredible price.”

The bargain comes after Ryanair recently announced its decision to axe its loyalty scheme, as customers were bagging too many cheap flights using their Prime subscriptions.

The subscription launched back in March and was hailed a game-changer for cheap air travel.

Members could receive travel insurance and access to 12 annual exclusive seat sales (one booking per month), all for just £79 a year.

Upon launching, the forecasted potential savings were £420 per member if they flew 12 times yearly.

But it seemed to work a little too well, with Ryanair making a loss.