Travel

TWO of the UK’s major airports are rolling out new travel rules and it is great news for passengers.

Both London Stansted and London Southend will allow much easier travel to and from the airport.

The new rules will mean holidaymakers can tap in and out, using contactless tickets.

This means passengers travelling from London will no longer have to pay for a physical ticket, and can instead use their bank card or Apple Pay.

The new tap-in and tap-out rules are being introduced from December 14, for the first time.

This will affect millions of passenger travelling to Stansted Airport by train, which saw around nine million use the station last year.

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For Southend, it will affect around 118,000 passengers who travel there by train.

It also means passengers can avoid the strict £100 fines if they tap in at the start of their journey and forget to tap out before.

This is welcome news for thousands of travellers, with as many as 16,000 a year caught out.

Gareth Powell, London Stansted’s Managing Director, said: “The introduction of contactless travel on the Stansted Express is great news for passengers and will make rail travel between Stansted and London even more simple and convenient.

“More seamless rail travel between the airport and London Liverpool Street will significantly improve our passengers’ experience and make choosing the train even more attractive.”

This was backed by Alex Williams, Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at Transport for London (TfL), who said: “We are delighted to be extending pay-as-you-go with contactless to a further 50 stations from 14 December, including Stansted Airport, making it easier for those arriving at the airport to travel to London and experience all the city has to offer.”

It is also a boost ahead of London Stansted’s major expansion plans.

Currently welcoming nearly 30million passengers a year, this could increase to 51million by the 2040s.

While there are no plans for a new runway, the airport is set to welcome more flights launched by airlines.

The rollout of the new contactless travel rules is part of a major £18.7million investment plan.

The upgraded contactless rules is also being rolled out at another 50 train station around the UK, including in cities such as Leeds, Derby and Nottingham.

Both London Heathrow and London Gatwick already allow passengers to use contactless payment to travel to and from the airport.

Along with London City and London Luton, this means that all of the ‘London’ airports will be contactless.

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Another new change coming to UK airports is contactless passport travel.

Border Force successfully trialed new technology at Manchester Airport which replaces passport checks with facial recognition.

A BRIT has become the first person to fly around the world in economy class.

Dale Charman, 44, spent £1,300 to set off from London Heathrow to return just 67 hours later, having stopped at Kuala Lumpur, Sydney and Los Angeles.

The tube driver, who posts videos on YouTube on his channel ‘Dale Charman Travels’, said he had seen videos of people online doing the same challenge, but for business and first class – not economy.

So the flight enthusiast decided to be the first to fly around the globe in economy.

Dale set off from London Heathrow at 9:35pm on August 25 and then returned to the capital – after 24,000 miles of flying – on August 28 just after 5pm.

According to Dale, he was “absolutely knackered” after his journey, which included four flight.

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He said: “I knew I’d be tired, because that’s obvious.

“What I didn’t think about was I wouldn’t be laying down for the best part of three days.

“It’s amazing how much pain you get in your knees and your hips, just being in a sitting position for so long.

“My friends and family all think I’m crazy – some people think it’s cool, my mum thinks I’m absolutely crazy.”

Over the course of nearly three days flying, Dale explained how he tried to sleep as much as possible and when he wasn’t asleep he would watch films via the in-flight entertainment screens.

After spending 12 hours on a Malaysia Airlines flight from London to Kuala Lumpur, Dale had just a five-hour layover before boarding another Malaysia Airlines flight, lasting eight hours, to Sydney in Australia.

Once in Sydney, Dale had a seven-hour layover, so had enough time to make a quick visit to the Sydney Opera House.

He then returned to the airport and boarded a 13-hour Qantas flight to Los Angeles in America.

Dale added that the flight has the best “comfort food” out of all the flights, consisting of beef and mash.

Even though Dale had another seven-hour layover in Los Angeles, this time he decided to stay in the airport as it took over an hour to get through immigration.

Then, all that was left was a 12-hour Virgin Atlantic flight back to London Heathrow, landing just after 5pm on August 28.

Dale then had a couple of days of rest, before heading back to work on August 31.

Dale said: “I just think it’s a cool thing to do. Obviously the environment doesn’t particularly like it.

“I’d never flown across the Pacific.

“I’ve been to Australia and I’ve been to the US many, many times, but I’ve never done that other bit.

“I thought it was cool to cover that, and it’s just an adventure.

“You never know when you’ll wake up tomorrow, and I thought it was just a cool thing to say I’d done.

“It’s a shame I didn’t have more time to actually visit these places properly, but I always use it as an excuse – I’ll have to do it again when I’ve got more time and more money.”

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In other aviation news, a budget airline has slashed flights from a major UK airport in a scramble to cut costs.

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

Relations between Tokyo and Beijing have plummeted over Japanese leader’s recent remarks on Taiwan.

Japanese shares linked to the tourism industry have nosedived following China’s warning to its citizens against travelling to Japan.

Relations between Tokyo and Beijing have plummeted since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested earlier this month that Japan’s military could intervene to stop China from taking control of Taiwan.

In a sharp escalation of the dispute on Friday, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised citizens to avoid travel to the East Asian country, claiming that Takaichi’s comments had increased risks to their “personal safety and lives”.

The issue continued to reverberate as Japan’s stock market reopened on Monday after the weekend break, with shares of airlines and retail outlets taking sharp falls.

Department store group Isetan Mitsukoshi fell more than 11 percent in afternoon trading, while its rival Takashimaya tumbled about 5 percent.

Japan Airlines fell about 4 percent, while Uniqlo owner Fast Retailing dipped about 5 percent. Cosmetics company Shiseido plunged about 9.5 percent.

China is Japan’s biggest source of foreign tourists, accounting for almost one-quarter of the 31.65 million arrivals in the first nine months of this year, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.

Ryota Abe, an economist at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, said Japan’s gross domestic product (GDP) could shrink by about 0.5 percent in the event of a total collapse in Chinese arrivals and by about 0.1-0.2 percent if arrivals decreased by about one-third.

“Even if the number of visitors decreases 30 percent because of the heightened tensions, the negative impact will be around 0.1-0.2 percent,” Abe told Al Jazeera.

Japan’s economy shrank by 0.4 percent in the three months to September, official data released on Monday showed, the first contraction in six quarters.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular news briefing on Monday that Beijing’s travel warning was inconsistent with mutually beneficial ties and that Tokyo had requested “appropriate steps” from the Chinese side.

Japan’s top official for Asia Pacific affairs, Masaaki Kanai, departed for China on Monday for talks aimed at lowering tensions between the sides, Japanese media reported.

Masaaki Kanai will meet his Chinese counterpart, Liu Jinsong, in Beijing, where he is expected to clarify that Tokyo has made no change to its security policy despite Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan, the reports said.

Japan has long viewed China’s threats to take control of Taiwan with concern due to the self-ruled island’s close proximity to Japanese territory and its location in waters that carry large volumes of trade.

China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has pledged to “reunify” the island with the Chinese mainland, by force if necessary.

Taiwan is not officially recognised by most countries but has many characteristics of a de facto independent state, including its own military and passport, and a democratically elected president and legislature.

This forest in Wales has become a popular spot for walkers, with a number of trails to follow and beautiful waterfalls to see – and it’s even free to park

Nestled in the heart of Wales, a picturesque walking route awaits that offers breathtaking views without the strenuous hike.

Halfren Forest is creating quite a stir among avid walkers who are flocking to the area to experience its beauty firsthand. Located near Llanidloes and named after the River Severn as Afon Hafren, this spot boasts scenic trails complete with an accessible boardwalk.

The river meanders peacefully through the forest, showcasing beautiful waterfalls and cascades. Freshwater fish can be seen swimming along its clear waterways, and a variety of wildlife, including rare birds, inhabit the surrounding trees.

While Natural Resources Wales manages and maintains the forest, it also serves as a commercial timber production site and event venue. It’s a popular location for motorsport events, hosting numerous 4×4 rallies, and even serving as a stage for the Wales Rally GB.

For those keen on walking, there are several routes to choose from, with two particularly popular trails. The Cascades Walk is one such trail, featuring a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that winds through the trees and leads to a viewing platform overlooking the waterfalls.

Another option for adventurous explorers is the Source of the Severn Trail, a longer route that takes you through the woodland’s beauty right down to the river’s source. As you follow the stream trickling through the trees, you’ll be treated to stunning views along the way.

One recent visitor to the site raved on TripAdvisor: “Absolutely stunning. Fantastic walks – the perfect day out if you enjoy fresh air and stunning scenery. Would definitely recommend.”

Another enthused: “This whole area has been designed and developed into a variety of walks and walkways with an excellent colour-coded display of each walk with distance, estimated time for each walk and highlights that you will experience on each walk.”

It’s worth noting that this forest walk offers free parking – a rare treat at such destinations. However, it does fill up quickly, so car sharing and avoiding peak times is advised.

One visitor dubbed the forest as “an absolute gem”. They penned: “Hafren Forest provides beautiful trails and scenic views…we took the red Cascades Walk, which takes you along the boardwalk to the cascades. This meets up with the dark blue trail up to Blaen Hafren Falls. This took around an hour and a half.”

However, many reviews highlight issues with the portable toilets in the forest. Many visitors reported them being blocked or unsanitary, with one person claiming they’re “unusable”.

The door creaks as I push it back and move forward into the gloom. The ceiling is vaulted and dark, but light falls in shafts of gold from the upper windows, revealing ancient stone carvings and tombs. It’s the right atmosphere for a ghost-hunt. I take a few steps and the door clicks, making me jump. Must be the wind.

Exploring old English churches is always a pleasure. There is no one to disturb you, and in the dim quiet will be a historical jaw-dropper: a centuries-old face carved in oak, a grisly tomb, an inscription to the dead hero of a forgotten battle. Each site is a mini detective puzzle, waiting to be unravelled, often with a helpful booklet available near the door. The spirits of those who have shuffled off this mortal coil hang in the dust motes, but here, in Weobley, Herefordshire, I am looking for someone specific.

Two tourists have spoken about a “beautiful” city in Europe that is also one of the most affordable places to visit in the continent. The best part is it’s just a short flight from the UK

Budget-conscious travellers reckon they’ve discovered one of Europe’s most affordable cities, combining stunning beauty with wallet-friendly prices.

Two Italian tourists are convinced this destination is ideal for those seeking a holiday that won’t empty their pockets. The historic city whisks visitors back through time with its Old Town, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features cream-coloured architecture, Gothic churches and cobblestone streets perfect for leisurely exploration. But where is this hidden gem?

In a popular TikTok clip, the travel fans enthused: “This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and it is also affordable. Its Market Square alone is worth the trip.

“Its castle is fascinating, It seems that it once hid a dragon. Within its walls, you’ll find the beautiful cathedral. The medieval historical centre is beautiful.

“It has an important Jewish quarter with historic synagogues. And the street food is irresistible.

“A few kilometres away, there is a cathedral made completely of salt in a mine 100m below the ground. And in the evening you can drink delicious beer in peculiar places.

“We are in Krakow, Poland.”

Things to do in Krakow

1. Explore the Main Market Square – Rynek Gowny is the largest medieval town square in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and the Cloth Hall.

2. Visit Wael Castle and Cathedral – It’s a symbol of Polish royalty and national identity that shouldn’t be missed.

3. Make a pit stop at St. Mary’s Basilica – Renowned for its breathtaking altarpiece and the hourly trumpet call from its tower.

4. Explore the Kazimierz District – Home to synagogues, Jewish museums, vibrant street art and a plethora of hip bars and eateries.

5. Pay a visit to Schindler’s Factory Museum – Here you can delve into Krakow’s WWII history and the tale of Oskar Schindler.

6. Take a stroll along the Vistula River – Soak up the picturesque views and pause at a riverside café to take it all in.

How affordable is Krakow?

Accommodation:

Krakow offers a range of hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as more luxurious options if that’s your preference.

You can bag accommodation from as little as £20 per night.

Transport:

Flights from London to Krakow can be bagged for as low as £40. It’s a straightforward journey that only takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.

The city is highly walkable, allowing you to save on transport costs. Alternatively, public transport is efficient and won’t break the bank.

Food and drink:

Eating and drinking is reasonably priced, particularly if you choose local restaurants known as “milk bars”.

There are also numerous affordable food truck options if you’re looking to keep costs down. Try Plac Nowy for Polish sausage zapiekanka and other local delicacies, or the food truck parks in Judah Square for a more international selection.

Narberth in Pembrokeshire is home to some of Wales’ best independent stores – and they can all be found on one high street.

This special little town and its charms are both well-known enough for it to thrive but still well enough off the beaten path to feel like a hidden gem that’s not overwhelmed with tourism.

Not on a main road and often overlooked in favour of nearby seaside resorts, this Pembrokeshire town is packed with independent shops and boutiques, cosy pubs and outstanding restaurants. And there are no chain shops or empty lots to be seen.

While heading west for a short break, I called in to eat at a place called Hwb for the first time and found so much more, including some of Wales’ finest restaurants to pubs, local butchers, antique shops, clothing boutiques, bridal stores and hair salons.

In addition to these, there’s the “Quirky Garage,” which sells an array of knick-knacks, with a particular focus on oversized animal models; there’s an arts centre; a community-run library situated in a quaint old school; a social club where pints are a steal at £3.10; another arts centre; and “The Shop at No47”, self-described as “quite possibly Pembrokeshire’s most perfectly pleasant place to peruse”.

On the high street, I saw a sign on a lamppost announcing an upcoming “hymns and Pimms” night at the local church. The former town hall of Narberth, crowned with a clock tower and a petite steeple, stands solitary on a traffic island at one end of the high street, with stone steps leading up to its entrance.

Today, it houses The Golden Sheaf, a shop selling chic clothes, books, home furnishings and jewellery, but the building itself harks back to the 1830s. It was built on the site of an old tap where townsfolk would gather for their water supply.

Its original clock, until very recently, was wound weekly by a town council member, following the same meticulous instructions from over a century ago.

The area, however, is not all quaint and quirky boutiques. Just beyond the town centre lies the opulent Grove, a breathtakingly exclusive hotel and restaurant offering food, rooms and surroundings that rival anything Wales has to offer.

It’s a bit pricey, with rooms starting at around £250 a night, suites exceeding £500, and a seven-course tasting menu in its flagship restaurant setting you back £145 per person. Even amongst all of Wales’ most picturesque and intriguing towns, Narberth holds its own.

Locals describe it as “an effervescent little place with a robust sense of community” and say those who reside here “live for the lifestyle”. This becomes immediately apparent upon reaching the bustling high street at its core, which teems with people perusing shop windows and popping in and out of stores even during a Tuesday lunchtime.

The sheer amount of activity in the town centre contradicts its modest 3,000 population. Calling it a hidden gem might be stretching things within Wales, where it frequently earns recognition as the finest place to reside, yet it remains relatively unknown throughout the UK.

I cannot state precisely how many independent retailers and enterprises it boasts, but approximately 50 appears a reasonable estimate from wandering about. However, the high street isn’t all that Narberth offers.

The moment you venture beyond the town’s boundaries, you discover yourself within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, amongst the UK’s most spectacular locations and home to breathtaking coastlines, the Preseli hills and other magnificent towns such as Tenby and Saundersfoot, both within easy reach of Narberth (and both considerably more renowned, possibly due to their seaside attractions).

‘It’s not like this by accident’

“When I was growing up here in the 90s, there were a few basic shops on the high street and around 20 grizzled old pubs,” says Beth Alexander, who grew up in the town. Writing on the Visit Wales website, she adds: “But the town had an arts scene bursting forth that brought all sorts of live music and performance to this small Welsh town.

“They say that the arts are a great regenerator, and you can see this played out in Narberth. Today it is an effervescent little place with a robust sense of community, a thriving high street packed with independent shops and cafes, and a full calendar of events.”

Chris Lees-Price, who founded Hwb, has previously told WalesOnline: “The community here likes to protect local businesses by using them, and there’s a real pride in the town because you see how hard people have had to work to make things happen and to make Narberth this way. It’s not by accident.”

It’s a sentiment echoed time and again by residents and business owners throughout the area. Tragically, there aren’t many towns like Narberth remaining, with countless others across Britain having fallen victim to mounting pressures, including the collapse of high street retail and the dominance of chain stores (the sole chain visible in Narberth was a Spar).

The national vacancy rate for high street premises throughout Britain stands at approximately 13.8%. I didn’t spot a single vacant shop in Narberth. The closure of the nearby Oakwood theme park this year, after decades of thrilling schoolchildren with its rides, might have cast a shadow over the town, but it doesn’t seem to have had much of an impact.

It would be a different story if the nearby Bluestone Wales holiday park were to close, but thankfully, there’s no sign of that. Many visitors to Bluestone visit Narberth for a day of shopping and eating.

Where to eat in Narberth

Let’s start with Hwb, which was a delightful surprise. I loved it so much that within days of my first visit, I took two one-hour-long detours to eat there on subsequent family days out.

The independent food and drinks hall is housed in an old Victorian school at one end of the high street. There are four food vendors – selling burgers, Thai food, tacos and Indian street food respectively – and three of the four I’ve tried so far are fantastic.

I sampled an onion bhaji naan wrap that was bigger than my head but still managed to feel light and vibrant instead of heavy and greasy, and a halloumi and pineapple taco that was packed full of flavour. The fries from Top Beef burgers are among the best I’ve had, and my kids raved about them.

There’s also a bar featuring 18 draft beers and cider taps, in scenes more akin to Shoreditch than rural west Wales. Equally impressive is Plum Vanilla Cafe, another cafe-deli hybrid dishing up flavour-packed vegetarian grub like falafel flatbreads, Korean rice bowls featuring battered cauliflower, plus heaps of cakes.

There’s also Top Joe’s delivering “absolutely incredible” pizzas, calzones and antipasti alongside cocktails, plus Stopio, a cycling cafe.

For fine dining, there’s Annwn, which secured a spot among the Good Food Guide’s 20 finest restaurants in the UK in 2022 after just 12 months of trading.

It’s also earned recognition from the Michelin guide, with a 10-course tasting menu priced at £150. Then there’s Fernery at The Grove hotel, offering a seven-course tasting menu for £145.

As you can see, it’s a remarkably impressive array of dining spots for a small town housing just a few thousand residents. You’ll discover far fewer choices in much larger towns.

Activities around Narberth

It’s not just within Narberth itself that you’ll discover plenty to occupy your time. The town sits amid the stunning Pembrokeshire countryside and coastline. World-class beaches lie nearby at Pendine, Tenby and Saundersfoot. The brilliant family destination Folly Farm offers enough entertainment for an entire day, combining multiple play zones with wildlife including lions, giraffes and rhinos. The dramatic and striking castles of Carew and Manorbier are also just a brief drive away.

Nov. 16 (UPI) — Emergency flight reductions ordered at 40 major U.S. airports by the Federal Aviation Administration earlier this month will be lifted Monday morning, federal officials announced Sunday.

The flight reduction emergency order will be terminated at 6 a.m. Monday, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a joint statement.

Since Nov. 7, the FAA has been enforcing an ordered 10% reduction in flights at 40 U.S. airports due to staffing shortages at air-traffic control facilities that were being exacerbated by the government shutdown, which began Oct. 1.

Amid the shutdown, millions of passengers were affected by the thousands of canceled and delayed flights, and officials warned the disruption could get worse heading into the upcoming holiday season if Congress failed to act on passing a government funding bill in time.

That bill was passed last week, and the government shutdown — the longest in U.S. history — ended Nov. 12.

According to the FAA, since the resumption of normal government operations, staffing levels at air-traffic controller facilities have continued to “snap back,” with this weekend seeing five staffing triggers Friday, eight on Saturday and only one on Sunday compared to a high of 81 on Nov. 8.

“Now we can refocus our efforts on surging controller hiring and building the brand-new, state-of-the-art air traffic control system the American people deserve,” Duffy said.

Budget airline Wizz Air plans to reduce the number of flights from Gatwick Airport, instead shifting its fleet to Luton, due to operating costs and ‘inferior slots’

Budget airline Wizz Air is set to cut the number of flights it operates from Gatwick Airport.

József Váradi, chief executive of Hungarian firm Wizz Air, said his airline is losing money in its operations at the UK’s second busiest airport. The carrier is instead set to shift towards operating more flights out of Luton due to lower costs.

This process will start with Wizz Air moving a single plane from Gatwick to Luton, Mr Váradi said. This will kickstart an “ongoing process” to slowly shift the fleet.

This follows the closure of an Abu Dhabi-based offshoot of Wizz Air, announced in July, as well as the scrapping of its base in Vienna due to “airport costs and taxes”.

Mr Váradi told The Telegraph: “Gatwick is expensive and we have been operating an inferior set of slots there. We think that we can enhance financial performance by operating that capacity from Luton.”

“Circumstances change and you have to take action. Whichever bases give you the most profitability, you should be biased toward them. That includes moving aircraft over from Gatwick to Luton.”

Mr Váradi added that the airline doesn’t plan on leaving Gatwick entirely, but instead aims to “optimise” its base there. He added: “You have to churn your network for profit. We are simply more efficient financially in Luton.”

This comes after Wizz Air revealed ‘Wizz Class’, which will allow passengers to pay extra to sit on a row with an unoccupied middle seat – giving them a little extra room in the process.

Other perks include priority boarding, a carry-on bag allowance and guaranteed space in overhead bins. The airline said Wizz Class is “designed to meet the demand of travellers seeking more space, comfort and a quicker exit from the aircraft”.

Commercial officer Silvia Mosquera said: “The roll-out of Wizz Class follows feedback from our growing number of business travellers who value low-cost travel options and prefer additional space during the flight.”

The new seating option will appear on selected flights departing from London, Rome, Warsaw, Bucharest and Budapest in December.

WIZZ Air is pulling back at Britain’s second-busiest airport as it races to stem rising costs in a Europe-wide shake-up.

The Budapest-based budget carrier will slash flights from Gatwick after deciding it is losing money there, boss József Váradi said.

High operating fees and badly timed departure slots have made Gatwick a drag on performance.

Mr Váradi said: “Gatwick is expensive and we have been operating an inferior set of slots there.

“We think that we can enhance financial performance by operating that capacity from Luton.”

As part of the overhaul, Wizz will start by moving one aircraft from Gatwick to Luton, giving Luton 13 jets and cutting Gatwick’s fleet to seven.

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He added: “Circumstances change and you have to take action.

“Whichever bases give you the most profitability, you should be biased toward them.

“That includes moving aircraft over from Gatwick to Luton.”

Gatwick has been near capacity for years, keeping prices high and limiting space for rivals.

A £2.2billion plan to convert an emergency strip into a second runway is expected to double passenger numbers, but not until the 2030s.

Wizz insists it isn’t quitting Gatwick entirely.

Mr Váradi said the base will be “optimised”, adding: “You have to churn your network for profit. We are simply more efficient financially in Luton.”

He dismissed any link to Jet2’s plan to position seven aircraft at Gatwick from next year.

“Gatwick is stuck. It is so set with regard to slots that no newcomer can make any significant difference. Jet2 will be very sub-scale versus the established players,” he said.

The retreat comes as Wizz battles a series of financial shocks.

The airline has been hit hard by the Ukraine war, which has disrupted some of its biggest routes, and a global recall of faulty Pratt & Whitney engines that has grounded up to 45 planes at a time.

Mr Váradi has responded with aggressive cost-cutting.

The carrier shut its Abu Dhabi offshoot in July and is axing its Vienna base because of “airport costs and taxes”.

The shake-up in Austria has already triggered fresh disruption for UK passengers.

Earlier this month Wizz said it would cease operations to Vienna next year after a “strategic review”.

The decision will end two daily Gatwick–Vienna flights, which drop to one over winter, with all services stopping by March 2026.

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“We are ceasing operations in Vienna. After a strategic review, we are gradually closing our base in Vienna,” the airline said on X.

Routes to Bilbao and London Gatwick will be pulled on 26 October 2025, with all remaining Vienna flights stopping on 15 March 2026.

Officials launch probe days after breach emerged amid widespread concern and speculation over leaked data.

Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency has confirmed that hackers breached its electronic visa platform, exposing sensitive personal data of travellers who used the system.

The admission on Sunday marks the first official acknowledgement by Somali authorities after the United States and United Kingdom issued warnings earlier in the week.

At least 35,000 people, including thousands of American citizens, may have had their data compromised when “unidentified hackers” penetrated the system, according to a US Embassy statement issued on November 13.

Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi had praised the electronic visa system this week, claiming it had successfully prevented ISIL (ISIS) fighters from entering the country, as a months-long battle continued in the northern regions against a local affiliate of the group.

The leak came to wider attention last week after clusters of accounts on the social media platform X began circulating what they claimed was personal information from affected individuals.

The breach has cast a spotlight on the vulnerabilities of a digital system that Somalia’s government had promoted as essential for improving national security.

The immigration agency said it was treating the issue with “special importance” and announced it has launched an investigation into the issue.

The agency said it was investigating “the extent of the attempted breach, its origin, and any potential impact”, adding that a report would be published and those affected would be informed directly.

However, the statement did not indicate how many people were affected, nor did it give any sense of how long the process might take.

The government has since quietly moved its e-visa system to a new website.

The UK embassy warned travellers on November 14 that “this data breach is ongoing and could expose any personal data you enter into the system,” advising people to “consider the risks before applying for an e-visa”.

Mohamed Ibrahim, a former Somali telecommunications minister and tech expert, told Al Jazeera that while hacking is a significant challenge, the authorities’ lack of transparency is troubling.

“Somalia isn’t high-tech, and hacking, in itself, is neither here nor there. But they should have been upfront with the public,” Ibrahim said.

“Why was the website’s URL changed, for example? That hasn’t even been explained,” he added, referring to the domain name change for the e-visa application site.

On Saturday, the Somali immigration agency’s director-general dismissed media reports about the breach as “coordinated misinformation campaigns” intended to undermine state institutions.

“A Somali individual cannot undermine the dignity, authority, honour or unity of the state,” Mustafa Sheikh Ali Duhulow told an audience in Mogadishu on Saturday night, without directly addressing the hacking allegations.

The breach has sparked fury among officials in Somaliland, the breakaway region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991, who have generally resisted attempts by Mogadishu to impose control over the territory.

Mohamed Hagi, an adviser to Somaliland’s president, called Mogadishu’s administration “institutionally irresponsible” for keeping the visa portal active despite the breach.

The incident came amid escalating tensions between Somalia and Somaliland over airspace control.

Somalia’s government has been working to tighten control of its national airspace and centralise visa procedures, despite authority in the country being fragmented among autonomous regional states.

Just one day before the breach emerged, Somaliland declared that “entry visas issued by the Federal Government of Somalia bear no legal validity” within its territory.

MANCHESTER has a well- deserved reputation as one of the UK’s sportiest cities.

It has enjoyed decades of football dominance thanks to Manchester United and Manchester City, as well as giving us the boxing talents of Tyson Fury, Amir Khan and Ricky Hatton.

Then there is the huge Team GB Olympics success from the likes of cyclist Jason Kenny.

Golf hasn’t really featured on the long list of successes yet – but that could be about to change thanks to a new venue in the city centre.

Pitch, an indoor golf venue and sports bar, is the chain’s first venue in the north of England and the fifth in the UK.

Fresh from Europe’s latest Ryder Cup victory in New York against America, I teed up a couple of mates and we spent an enjoyable afternoon whacking a ball around a virtual golf course.

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Buoyed by the success of Rory McIlroy and some premium lager, we took on the New York Bethpage Black course.

Our performance over the next two hours suggested we are unlikely to make the Europe team for 2027.

But we had a great time, and it’s a lot more enjoyable tucking into food and drinks while the computer locates our ball instead of walking around the rough for hours.

Each of the bays start at £30 per hour during off-peak times, can seat up to ten guests and features cutting-edge Trackman technology, which allows golf fans to play pretty much any course in the world.

Each bay has a set of clubs to allow anyone to pitch up and play.

The vibe of the place is relaxing, with a quality Asian-inspired menu along with a good selection of drinks.

Anyone bored of golf can play shuffleboard or watch sports on the big screens.

The body did begin to ache from all the swinging, so afterwards we headed ten minutes down the road to the Good Sauna just off Manchester’s Deansgate, which boasts two cold plunge baths (£15 for a 50-minute session).

I successfully tackled the 8C bath for about 30 seconds before fleeing into the wood sauna to warm up.

But weirdly, I fancied another go – and apparently that is the best way to do it.

So back and forth I went four times, reaching a dizzy one minute and 12 seconds in the 8C bath.

Stripped off

I was proud of myself, until another guy casually wandered in, stripped off and submerged himself up to his ears in the the 4C bath for a couple of minutes.

Despite being freezing, we felt energised and quickly warmed up in Freight Island – a food and drink venue close to our Marriott hotel, a stone’s throw from Manchester’s Piccadilly station.

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We headed into its sports bar to watch a Premier League game and enjoyed a couple of pints.

It was either the effects of the cold plunge or the cold pints, but my bed was calling by 10pm and I had a brilliant night’s sleep after a full day of sporting experiences.

Living in London for eleven years made me realise the differences between the Spanish and British lifestyle, and this one thing still hits me the hardest – and it’s not the weather.

When I was a teenager, my parents uprooted our lives, trading the sun-drenched streets of Barcelona for the grey drizzle of London —a thousand-mile pivot that changed everything.

The adjustment was brutally challenging. I spent the first few months paralyzed by homesickness, feeling completely out of place. Eleven years later, I’ve grown to love this city, but the learning curve never really ends. Certain London quirks still baffle me, and no, I’m not just talking about the famously bipolar weather.

The one thing I still can’t wrap my head around is the “after-work lifestyle.” Why do Britons — and even us immigrants — accept a schedule that seems to steal our day, leaving no time to enjoy the city we work so hard in? There’s a systemic reason for this, and I think everyone who commutes here will agree it’s the ultimate London tax.

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OPINION

Niamh Kirk

‘After work social? Commuting is long’

The one thing that has shocked me the most over the years has been how long it takes to get from one place to another. For example, commuting to work in central London can take up to an hour, depending on the area you live in. Even worse, the journey back home. During rush hour, it can take up to two hours.

It doesn’t apply to work, but also to making plans with friends or doing errands. A total of three hours of journey, “meet me in the middle”… and can we talk about how expensive public transport has become? It’s a £100 day spent, no joke.

Unless you live in central London or ten minutes away from your workplace, it’s impossible – and those with a Monday to Friday and a 9-5 schedule can relate to this. Getting home, shower, dinner, a little scroll on social media and being in bed by 10 pm is a sport.

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In the times I’ve had the opportunity to work remotely, I’ve noticed the difference. After work, I’ve been able to meet up with friends, go to a bar for a coffee or a drink, have dinner, and be back home before 9pm. In London, that’s impossible.

Nonetheless, I think it’s still crucial to make some time for yourself and breathe some fresh air, hang out with your work colleagues or friends, instead of getting into the habit of ‘work-home’. I think the trick is finding a balance between socialising with friends, prioritising your mental health and getting enough hours of sleep for your next working day.

Although it might feel draining at times, a laugh with your loved ones whilst catching up can brighten up your hard day at work!

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THERE are some pretty unusual tourist attractions in the UK, most of which have ended up popular spots by pure accident – including a door in the Cotswolds.

Often thought to be the most photographed door in the UK, it can be found at the north porch of St. Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold.

The wooden door looks like it has been ripped directly from the pages of a fairytale and many believe that it inspired J.R.R Tolkein’s Doors of Durin, west gate of Moria.

It is made from a dark wood and has studded panels, with an old oil lamp hanging above.

The door is relatively small as well, and is bookended by two tree trunks.

Tolkien often visited the area during his time at Oxford University, but the claims that the door inspired him have never been verified.

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The porch where the door is found was built around 300 years ago, and thanks to the rumour it inspired Tolkien and its two yew trees that have essentially become part of the porch, it is one of the most photographed doors in the UK.

But the rest of Stow-on-the-Wold is definitely worth exploring as well, having been named one of the prettiest towns in the country by travel experts SnapTrip.

As you wander around the village, you will see many honey-coloured stone houses and shops that the Cotswolds is famous for.

In the heart of the village is Market Square, which has been hosting markets since 1107.

In fact, when Stow was popular for its wool trade, over 20,000 sheep changed hands here.

If you happen to visit on the second Thursday of the month, you will find the Stow Farmers’ Market here, with fresh produce including breads, meats and cheeses.

The Market Square is then surrounded by a number of independent shops.

For example, you could pick up some new paintbrushes and sketchpads in Cotswold Art Supplies or pick up something to read from Borzoi Bookshop, which has been in Stow for over 40 years.

From the village, visitors can head off on a number of walks into the Cotswolds countryside or to other villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water.

Another option is to head off on the Heart of England Way Stow Circular, which is a 3.7 mile circular walking route that takes around 90 minutes to walk.

Once you’re peckish, head to Lucy’s Tearoom for a Stow afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, cream and jam, cake, and either tea or coffee, costing £18.50 per person.

Or for a pint, head to The Queen‘s Head, which sits in the village square and serves a good range of ales.

There’s also The Porch House, which claims to be England‘s oldest inn and has been authenticated by the Guinness Book of Records.

It dates back to 947 AD and features stones with ‘witch marks’ to protect against evil.

Mains at the inn include mushroom and chestnut pie for £18.95 or wagyu burger for £19.95.

You can also stay in one of 13 bedrooms at The Porch House, costing from £110 per night.

Alternatively, you could head to The Old Stocks Inn, which is located inside a 17th century coaching inn next to the village green.

The inn is formed of three terraced houses which have been combined, and inside the interiors feature a Scandinavian style.

It costs from £150 per night to stay at.

It’s no surprise that this pretty village is also popular with celebrities.

In 2015, the Beckhams planned to buy a house in the area; however, they chose a different property in Great Tew, which is about a 20-minute drive away.

Actress Kate Winslet is also believed to own a cottage near Stow-on-the-Wold.

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For more Cotswolds travel inspiration, there is a stunning Cotswolds village with its own sandy beach and lagoon – miles from the English seaside.

Plus, the pretty English town called the ‘capital of the Cotswolds’ has 918-year-old castle and historic lido.

WE watched from our balcony as the sunset bled into the sky, transforming its blue hues into a vibrant shade of pink.

We weren’t expecting a visitor, but a sudden arrival only made this serene moment more magical.

From the trees above, a fuzzy owl had swooped down, perching on the edge of our balcony just feet away from where we lay. He seemed to be enjoying the views as much as we were.

We weren’t shocked by his arrival — after all, this was just one of many incredible wildlife interactions my partner and I had here on Portugal’s south coast.

As well as spotting dragonflies and lizards roaming between the hotel’s ten swimming pools, we stumbled upon dozens of turtles sheltering in the shady streams while walking down to the beach one day.

The wildlife is certainly a highlight of a visit to the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, in Portugal’s Algarve.

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But it’s not the main reason holidaymakers head here. The sprawling resort is famous for its 18-hole golf course, one of the most challenging in the country as well as one of the most scenic, sandwiched between a beach and a nature reserve.

We were not here to practise our putting, though. Instead, R&R was at the top of our agenda.

With a state-of-the-art gym, huge spa hub and a health foods cafe which specialises in zero waste food, we couldn’t have picked a more appropriate place for our weekend of wellness.

Better still, at this time of year, flights start at just £42 and the journey only takes two-and-a-half hours.

We’d opted for a garden view room which overlooked the pool and an abundance of tropical greenery.

The suites here, which start at a bargain £116 per night, come decked out with a proper kitchen, including fridge and a washing machine.

There’s also a modern living area and large balcony complete with padded armchairs for soaking up the last of the afternoon rays with a glass of fizz.

With such extensive cooking facilities, you needn’t spend a penny on meals out if you don’t want to. But, with our focus on relaxation, the hotel’s buffet restaurant, In Season, became our go-to.

Ripe goodies

Daily breakfasts here were an exciting affair, with a fresh omelette station stealing the show. The fruit bar piled high with ripe goodies, freshly-pressed juices and a vast bread and pastry selection kept us more than satisfied until lunch.

The dinner options at In Season are limited to a small but excellent spread of buffet foods including a delicious freshly cooked tuna served in a salsa verde sauce and scorched BBQ chicken skewers.

While the options for vegetarians were more limited, the salad bar and cheese plates more than made up for it with every salad topping you could think of plus a variety of dressings.

If you get the chance, make sure to visit the Italian joint in the neighbouring hotel, too — but don’t forget to book in advance.

Elsewhere, within the resort, there’s an Indian restaurant, pizzeria and, my personal favourite, Green Artisan cafe.

Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.

This wellness restaurant was our favourite of the bunch, serving made-to-order tropical fruit smoothies, healthy snacks and home-baked cakes, all made with natural and nutritious ingredients.

This isn’t where the wellness ends, though. Complete with hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and ice cold bucket shower, the hotel’s spa is an ideal spot for whiling away the hours in blissful peace.

Entry isn’t automatically included for guests but it is well worth the additional 20 euros, with access from 9am until 7pm.

Treat yourself to a body scrub, foot bath or facial if you have cash to splash, although the calming atmosphere of the place is enough to soothe away troubles.

If you’re travelling with little ones, there’s a small splash pool and outdoor play area, as well as a kids’ club for children aged between four to 12, which costs an extra 45 euros a day.

And for those who are keen to venture further afield, you’ll find plenty to do in the neighbouring town of Albufeira which is just a 15-minute taxi ride away.

While it’s known for its wild party scenes, the old town is a pleasant place to take a stroll with colourful cobbled streets flanked by teeny shops and markets.

We booked a sunset boat cruise via GetYourGuide (£40pp, getyourguide.co.uk) which took us along the coast on a small yacht, watching the sun dip slowly behind the horizon while we bobbed peacefully on the water.

For those with a more adventurous streak, the local tour site has everything from Jeep tours and horse riding to parasailing and day trips to Seville for really decent prices.

We preferred to spend most of our days at the beach by the hotel, though.

During peak season the hotel offers a shuttle service to the sea, but why risk missing out on the wildlife?

The walk only takes about 20 minutes through the hotel’s gardens, following various streams down to the sea.

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The yellow beaches of the Algarve rarely disappoint, but this one was particularly beautiful.

And with the chance to spot baby turtles, it couldn’t get better.

Dan Bowes had no known allergies when he boarded his outbound flight to Turkey. But he suddenly experienced a “severe” allergic reaction – and it meant he was prevented from boarding the aircraft at the end of his holiday

A holiday-maker has claimed he was left stranded after he was refused boarding on his return flight because of an allergic reaction.

Dan Bowes had no known allergies when boarding the outbound flight to Dalaman, Turkey. But he says he suddenly experienced a “severe” allergic reaction, with his throat swelling, breathing difficulties and itchy, puffy eyes. The cabin crew were “fantastic” and acted swiftly to get the 32-year-old the care he needed. But, on the way home, he claims he was “refused” boarding by the same airline, Jet2, over a missing piece of paperwork.

“I instantly panicked,” the business owner, from Consett, County Durham, told NeedToKnow . “I made over 18 calls to Jet2’s emergency line, following different and conflicting advice each time. “I rushed to the local hospital, had the form completed and it was sent to the airline that afternoon.

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“At the airport, staff accepted the paperwork, checked me in and took photos of the form. But just five minutes before boarding, I received a call saying the form had been rejected.”

Dan claims the paperwork, a medical information form (MEDIF), was refused since the doctor had missed his name on the second page and wrote ‘N/A’ in medical history. As a result, Dan was escorted out of Dalaman Airport on 17 July 2025 and his luggage was removed. He said: “I was dumped outside the airport main entrance at midnight with no help, no hotel and no guidance.

“I was later told I could’ve flown with another airline without the form, despite being told all day it was mandatory across all carriers. By that point, though, every flight to the UK had gone.”

Dan, and his friend Clair Maskery, 33, were left having to fork out £400 for emergency accommodation, food, and transport back to Marmaris. Thankfully, the next day, they were allowed home on the last Jet2 flight that night after resending a new MEDIF form through.

But Dan said it was the conflicting information from the airline that turned his enjoyable holiday into a “nightmare”. He explained: “After we arrived, a letter was left under my hotel room door asking me to meet a Jet2 rep. She handed me a MEDIF form and said I needed to see the hotel doctor, as well as obtain a Fit to Fly certificate.

“I immediately went to the doctor, though he said I had a throat infection. I was issued the Fit to Fly, though I was told the MEDIF form wasn’t required.

“I returned to the rep, handed her my certificate and she reassured me that would be enough. So, naturally, I assumed I was cleared to travel. But when checking out of the hotel, she told me I couldn’t fly.”

Dan filed a formal complaint and later obtained their internal records. He claims there were multiple errors, including different medications administered and false information, such as him “refusing” to fill in a MEDIF.

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He also alleges that the airline hasn’t yet provided a full list of onboard meals and ingredients – despite repeated requests -since his doctors need this information to determine his allergy, which could be life-threatening.

Dan added: “I did everything Jet2’s own rep and doctor advised. I followed every instruction I was given, double-checked twice and was told everything was fine.

“Their failure to communicate properly and process information correctly led to me being stranded abroad, financially out of pocket and mentally exhausted.

“This isn’t about me refusing paperwork, it’s about a company failing in its duty of care, giving contradictory information and abandoning paying customers in a foreign country.”

A spokesperson for Jet2 said: “Due to Mr Bowes falling ill on his outbound flight, our team followed standard procedure and advised him that he would need a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) to be completed by a doctor for his return flight home.

“As the form was not completed, Mr Bowes was regrettably informed that he would not be able to travel on his inbound flight. The health and safety of our customers will always be our number one priority. Following receipt of Mr Bowes’ completed form, we are pleased to confirm he was able to travel with us the following day.”

WHAT do you get if you cross Dragons’ Den with ice swimming? Frozen assets? It was time to find out . . . 

I was in Oulu, on the north-west coast of Finland, which last year welcomed the return of televised event, Polar Bear Pitching.

Visitors pay to watch up-and-coming entrepreneurs pitch ideas to a row of cash-fuelled investors, just like the BBC show.

Except these hopefuls must do it from a frozen lake, their pitch lasting as long as they can withstand the freezing waters.

It gave me goosebumps, and not just because of the -20°C chill.

I may not have had any start-up ideas to pitch but that didn’t stop me plunging into the chilling waters while I was here.

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The Icebreaker experience is one I’ll never forget.

Dressed in a warm, waterproof bodysuit, I boarded a large boat which slowly made its way across the chilling sea, its hull carving a pathway as it broke through the ice.

We came to a halt and then it was time.

Hurling myself in, I bobbed between huge ice blocks in my floating suit, in awe of my surroundings.

This is an experience that will set you back a fair whack, but it’s absolutely something for the bucket list.

And with so many free things to do in the city, you can save your cash elsewhere.

Oulu is filled with wonderful traditions – so much so it’s been named the European Capital of Culture for 2026.

It’s calmer than Helsinki, with just 215,000 people, but no less fun.

The Frozen People Festival, a drum and bass-filled evening in the Pikisaari district, doesn’t cost a penny.

The event, traditionally held on a frozen lake, will take place on February 28 next year, with DJs, art installations and movies.

Due to climate change, we had to party on firm ground this year, but that didn’t stop me dancing the night away with a local cider in hand as snow fell.

Reindeer stew

Unfortunately, I missed out on the World Air Guitar Championships, a phenomenal spectacle that attracts contestants from all over the globe.

But this free event, held every August in the town’s square, is a fun must-see if you can make it.

With snow on the ground, it seemed only right to celebrate Christmas a little early with a trip to the Arkadia Reindeer Farm where Rudolph and his mates pulled me on a sleigh.

Later, I regressed into a giggling child when feeding them dinner.

Awkwardly, my dinner was a yummy reindeer stew served at the farm’s cosy cabin.

If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can head to the Arctic Foodlab, home to a collection of cafes, bakeries and breweries.

I sampled salmon soup and rossypottu, a potato, smoked pork and blood sausage stew.

Both are local delicacies and great for warming you through.

If you’re still not warm enough, pay a visit to the sauna — you’ll find one in most hotels in the city.

The Finnish proudly enter naked, but my English propriety won out, and I wore a swimsuit. I was willing to try one tradition, though – running out into the snow afterwards.

As I pelted into the powdery white, wearing just my cossie and Doc Martens, something stopped me in my tracks.

A flash of green flickered in the sky and several colours danced between the trees above.

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The final item on my bucket list had just been ticked off — seeing the Northern Lights.

Even the air’s bitter bite couldn’t distract me from that magical sight.

AFTER 26 years heading up The Sun’s travel team – while bringing up three children – there’s not a lot I don’t know about family holidays.

After hundreds of trips together, I’m sharing my guaranteed winners – from our favourite campsites to the best foreign cruises.

With three kids, I’ve had the same problems as anyone who doesn’t fit the ‘two adults, two kids’ rule that most traditional travel companies work within.

Finding ways around booking two separate rooms – or being in group rooms where us parents have to go to bed at 7pm with the babies – became a mission.

So here are my top tips for the best family holiday destinations where everyone gets to have a good time.

PORT AVENTURA

This fabulous theme park resort on Spain’s Costa Dorada offers up the best of all worlds for families.

You get the fun and excitement of thrill rides across six distinct worlds, plus great themed hotels and, of course, all that sizzling Mediterranean sunshine to enjoy.

There’s also a separate Ferrari World and a water park with 50,000sq metres of pools, lazy rivers, slides and rides, including King Khajuna, one of Europe’s tallest free-fall body slides.

The six on-site hotels are also themed and have a huge variety of rooms that sleep up to eight, ideal for big families.

And with a host of very well-priced restaurants in the park and at the hotels, it really is possible to have a traditional family summer holiday with the added benefit of all that theme park excitement.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the Mexican-themed Hotel El Paso, including unlimited access to PortAventura park and a day pass for Ferrari Land, is from £429pp, based on two adults and two children sharing.

Price includes flights from Southend Airport on April 21, 2026. See easyJet.com/en/holidays.

EUROPEAN CAMPING

WITH three kids and a limited budget when they were young, camping specialists like Eurocamp and Siblu were the answer to our prayers. 

With mobile homes, tents and even treehouses sleeping up to eight at campsites across Europe, we loaded the kids and as much luggage as we could squeeze into the car and drove south for guaranteed sunshine.

You can even break up the long journey with overnight camping stays en route.

A roof-box meant I could pack all the essentials from food and drinks, bedding and towels, to inflatables and toys, so we weren’t shelling out on holiday.

When we were young, having our own space was just perfect. We could wear the kids out by day in the park’s pools and on nearby beaches, and when they were tucked up in bed, we could relax with a glass of wine or beer on the verandah.

Favourites included Eurocamp’s La Baume on the French Riviera near Frejus with a huge pool complex and easy access to the glitzy towns of St Tropez and Cannes.

Also, a winner was Siblu’s Le Lac des Reves near Montpellier.

We always preferred heading south for the warmer weather, but other favourites for half-term holidays include Duinrell in South Holland, which comes with its own theme park and water park and La Croix de Vieux Pont, Berny Riviere, just an hour from Disneyland Paris and Park Asterix.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering for up to six at Eurocamp’s La Baume is from £464 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See eurocamp.co.uk. Seven nights’ self-catering at Siblu’s Lac des Reves is from £294 in total, arriving May 23, 2026. See siblu.co.uk

ALTON TOWERS

Of course, no list of fabulous family holidays would be complete without the UK’s number one theme park. I love the fact that Alton Towers has something for every age.

The little ones will adore CBeebies land – watch out for the UK’s first Bluey ride coming in 2026. 

All ages will love the fantastic water park between the Alton Towers and Splash Landings hotels, while tweens and teens will go straight for the thrill rides. 

And mum? Well, I just love a stroll through the stunning grounds with quiet, landscaped gardens and tranquil lakes – they make you forget you’re even in a theme park!

For families like mine, the huge variety of accommodation makes stays a breeze.

Rooms at the hotels – including CBeebies Land Hotel – can sleep up to five with a double bed, bunk beds and a pull-out truckle bed. All have great theming that will keep the kids entertained.

The Woodland lodges are also great for larger families or those who want to bring the grandparents or team up with friends. To really push the boat out, the whimsical Treehouses sleep up to eight and come with their own hot tub.

But my favourite probably remains the original Alton Towers Hotel, with its epic Explorers theme that sees a magical balloon ship anchor the bar and restaurant space, giving parents the chance to relax with a drink while the kids are entertained.

GO: Overnight breaks at Alton Towers start from £42pp and include room, breakfast, parking and evening entertainment. See altontowers.com.

DISNEY CRUISE LINES

IT’S fair to say no one does family cruises quite like Disney  – and Sun readers agree, voting them their favourite cruise line in our Sun Travel Awards.

I’ve sailed with my kids on Disney Wonder, one of the line’s original ships, and this was definitely a treat for both adults and children.

I loved the Art Deco vibes and the fact that the ship was first and foremost a beautiful, luxury ship with plenty of places to enjoy adult-only time.

The kids could not get enough of the fabulous kids’ facilities – it was hard to drag them away from the clubs – and endless opportunities to meet their favourite characters.

While cruising with Disney could never be seen as a cheap option, for those who want to experience the magic without the theme park slog, it is definitely worth every penny.

The latest Disney ship to set sail will be the Disney Destiny. As the cruise line has grown ever more popular, it has grown more confident in making its incredible entertainment legacy a bigger part of the ship. 

With Destiny, there’s a fabulous Heroes and Villains theme alongside the chance to enjoy some West End-style entertainment and even a water coaster across the top deck that pays tribute to some of its most feared baddies. 

Combining a three or four-night sailing on any of Disney’s ships with a stay in Orlando must surely be the ultimate family bucket list holiday.

And with the Disney Dream returning for multiple sailings from Southampton next year, there’s the chance to get on board for all the magic without the pricey flights.

GO: Three-night full-board sailings from Southampton from £881pp with iglucruise.com. Or sail from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas with three nights from £1,044pp. See https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/en-gb/

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

ROYAL Caribbean was the first cruise we did as a family when my youngest was just 18 months old, and from then on, we were hooked on life on the open sea.

As my kids have grown, so has Royal’s incredible roster of family-friendly ships. And with the launch of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, last year, they reached peak family fun. 

The new Surfside neighbourhood is a game-changer for parents with small children, a stay-all-day area with Splashaway Bay aqua park, and Water’s Edge, a kid-friendly infinity pool.

And parents can relax while their kids play with casual family-friendly dining and places to grab a drink.

The area features a beach-themed carousel, arcade and playground and it’s close to the ship’s superb Adventure Ocean kids clubs.

Older kids will love Thrill Island, the largest water park at sea, with a host of slides as well as Crown’s Edge, the hybrid ropes course and thrill ride that dangles you 154ft above the ocean.

And Royal have spent just as much time designing cabins that work for families, including the Surfside Family Suites, with balconies overlooking the neighbourhood and a ‘kids’ nook’ with bunk beds and a split bathroom to make getting ready easier.

Topping it off with multiple family-friendly shows and activities as well as their family-friendly private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Royal is the perfect starting point for family cruises.

GO: Seven nights’ full-board on Icon of the Seas is from £534pp, based on two adults and two children sharing. Departs Miami on September 19, 2026 and calls at St Maarten, St Thomas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

BUTLIN’S MINEHEAD & BOGNOR

I don’t believe there’s a kid in the country who wouldn’t love the heady mix of family fun on offer at Butlin’s.

With live shows, perfect pools and even a traditional fairground, youngsters will find a host of great activities for all ages from tots to teens.

 We loved our stay at the West Lakes chalets at Butlin’s Minehead. Great for multi-gen holidays or for families sharing, the light, bright chalets sleep up to eight.

Working with online parenting forum Mumsnet, they have a nod to the traditional Butlin’s chalet, but with all the modern touches for today’s families.

There’s an open-plan lounge and diner with a high-spec kitchen as well as an outdoor veranda or Juliet balcony.

Also, fantastic value are the term-time midweeks for tots.

Perfect for the pre-schoolers, breaks start from just £39, which works out to £2.50pp a night, and include live shows with Peppa Pig and her new baby sister, Mister Maker and Fireman Sam, splash zones and soft play areas as well as unlimited rides in the Little Stars Fairground.

There’s also another reason to visit in term time, the chance to enjoy all-inclusive breaks that include alcoholic drinks, coffee and three meals a day.

GO: Four-night all-inclusive midweek breaks are from £399 for two adults and two children. See bultins.com

DUBAI

It may be known as a mecca for reality TV stars and influencers, but Dubai is actually a brilliant destination to take the kids.

With theme parks, desert adventures and even a snow slope to keep them busy, you’re guaranteed to find something to delight every age.

 A great option for families is the Centara Mirage Beach Resort with its five restaurants, beachfront pool, water park and kids clubs.

But little ones are also spoiled with their own sweet-themed spa with edible treatments, gaming zone and an outdoor playground.

My kids adored the chance to visit the original Kidzania attraction where kids can role-play 40 different jobs from firefighters and pilots to doctors and dentists.

But most magical was the trip into the desert, where after a thrilling 4×4 dune ride, we watched an amazing falconry display and enjoyed dinner after dark. 

GO: Four nights’ B&B at the Centara Mirage Beach Resort is from £717pp including flights from Heathrow in June 2026. See onthebeach.co.uk

TUI VILLAGE TURKEY

A holiday where you don’t have to set foot outside the hotel – heaven or hell? In the case of  TUI’s flagship Holiday Village AQI hotel in Sarigerme, Turkey – pure bliss.

The huge resort on the country’s west coast has everything from  Stage Academy drama classes, Football Academies and a Go Ape-style high-ropes course, to overwater, inflatable obstacle courses, chocolate parties and archery. 

Then there’s the massive amphitheatre with a packed nighttime itinerary, video arcade, bowling alley and seven pools  – including a mini waterpark. 

Little wonder the hotel’s own sandy beach, with bath-warm sea water was empty most days. 

Breakfast was enormous, with every taste catered for and lunch by the pool was equally impressive, with a huge 40-dish mezze selection.

But the best meal was dinner, with themed nights, when the entire menu was changed — our favourites being the Turkish and Asian evenings. Plus a separate kitchen for kid-friendly (and often healthy) food. 

And finally, the almost guaranteed sun.

With prices from £673pp next May, including all-inclusive board, a family room and flights from London Gatwick. 

BILLUND, DENMARK

An action-packed weekend break just over an hour from the UK, with creativity, wildlife and thrill-seeking all wrapped in sounds like a unicorn of a holiday – but Billund in Denmark truly is the perfect family short break. 

The town Lego built, carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen invented the famous building bricks in the 1940s from his workshop in the town, and many of the global company’s offices are still there.

Yes, the two million annual visitors usually go there for the awesome Legoland and Lego House – easily two full days of building and rollercoaster fun. 

But there’s also Aquadome, Scandinavia’s biggest waterpark, and Wow Park (tickets from £26.50), a huge treetop adventure in woodland spanning the size of 40 football pitches.

The town is so small that almost everything is walkable, it’s super clean and practically designed with families in mind. 

Plus the flights take just 1 hour and 35 minutes currently from London Gatwick, and 1hour and 41minutes from Edinburgh to Billund on the newest flight route launching next year. 

HUNTERS LODGES, CELTIC MANOR

IF it’s good enough for American presidents, it’s good enough for the kids!

My lot thought they had hit the big time when we stayed at the gorgeous Hunters Lodges at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales.

This is top-tier self-catering accommodation with each lodge sleeping up to eight in four stylish en-suite bedrooms.

There’s a vast open-plan kitchen, living, and dining room with vaulted ceilings and a wall of glass looking out onto open countryside. The outdoor hot tub was used constantly by both adults and kids.

A great option for kids as they get a bit older, the resort itself has some fantastic outdoor adventure activities, including adventure golf, laser combat, ropes courses and archery as well as a large adventure playground.

Explore the 2,000-acre estate’s family-friendly woodland trails on a free, self-guided treasure hunt.

When rain stops play, there’s swimming in the resort’s two health clubs as well as a games room and indoor play area.

The resort can offer babysitting services and a day nursery as well as kids’ clubs in the peak summer holidays, allowing parents time to enjoy the championship golf courses or spas.

GO: Two-night stays in a Hunters Lodge start from £636per lodge, for up to eight adults plus two additional children, including a round of Adventure Golf and 25per cent off all indoor and outdoor activities. See hunter-lodges.com.

IF you fancy some celeb spotting in the UK, there is one peninsula you need to head to.

Sandbanks in Dorset is known for being home to lots of celebrities and having very impressive beachside homes especially along Panorama Road.

The average price of a property on Sandbanks is just under £1million – the most expensive home is around £15 million.

Luckily, you don’t have to live in Sandbanks to visit as the nearest neighbourhood is in Poole, Dorset.

Sandbanks Beach is highly regarded having been dubbed by some as “Britain’s Best Beach” and “The jewel in the crown of the English Coastline”.

Sandbanks has won the Blue Flag award 38 times, which is every year since the scheme began in 1987.

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Not only that, but according to Tripadvisor, Sandbanks was the ‘world’s most sustainable beach’ for 2024.

The beaches were measured by a sustainable data partner along with Tripadvisor traveller reviews – winners stand out for their commitments to sustainability including transport options, waste disposal and water quality.

The area is home to former England manager Harry Redknapp and his wife, Sandra.

You might have seen their home on TV when the pair made an appearance on Celebrity Gogglebox.

Their son, Jamie Redknapp even named his clothing brand ‘Sandbanks’ after the area.

Other famous residents who have lived, or live, in Sandbanks include Celia Sawyer, J.R.R Tolkien, John Lennon and Liam Gallagher.

Chef Rick Stein is the name behind one of Sandbanks’ most famous restaurants on the Peninsula – Rick Stein, Sandbanks Restaurant and Bar.

The restaurant has celebrated 50 years and here you can enjoy fresh fish dishes from caviar to tuna sashimi, lobster thermidor and crab linguine.

Along the coast from Rick Stein is Lazy Jacks Restaurant and Bar which is known as being a relaxed eatery with waterside views.

Here you can enjoy sea bass, ribeye steaks, fish and chips, pizzas with various toppings, burgers along with Sunday roast choices.

Another popular spot is CAFF, which is a café along the front which serves homemade cakes, huge milkshakes, Full English breakfasts and hot dogs.

For staying in Sandbanks, there are various options from Haven Hotel, to Sandbanks Hotel, to holiday rental apartments.

To get to Sandbanks, you can walk across from the mainland.

The nearest coastal towns are Poole, which is 17 minutes away, or a 15-minute drive from Bournemouth.

From the neighbourhood, visitors can hop aboard the Sandbanks Ferry goes between Sandbanks and Shell Bay beach on Studland.

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For more in Dorset, check out the English village that is Britain’s prettiest with quiet beaches and huge castles.

Plus, how to enjoy a south coast staycation in Poole without having to hit the beach.

EUROPE

Robert Browning’s Florence apartment

The Casa Guidi in central Florence dates from the 15th century and was divided into graceful, high-ceilinged apartments in the early 1800s. In July 1847, it was rented, initially for three months, by Elizabeth and Robert Browning – but the couple carried on living there until Elizabeth’s death in 1861. The apartment has been restored as closely as possible to the Brownings’ family home, based on a painting Robert commissioned, family letters and an inventory of their son Pen’s belongings. The furnishings include the works of art the couple collected around Europe, the original drawing room mirror and a copy of the brocade curtains described by Elizabeth.
Three nights from £870, sleeps five, landmarktrust.org.uk

An interwar hotel in Kraków

Puro, a small Polish group of hotels, reopened its branch in Kraków’s old town in 2021 after a renovation by a local design office. The revamp was intended to capture the spirit of bygone Kraków, especially the cafes and restaurants that proliferated between the first and second world wars. The aesthetic is also inspired by two legendary midcentury hotels, Cracovia and Forum, and Kino Kijów, a cinema that is still open today. There is lots of pale oak panelling, natural stone, handmade glass and ceramics, and local art. Rooms have retro radios and Bauhaus-inspired furniture. Trams rattling past and chatter from cafes in the nearby square complete the illusion.
Doubles from €95 B&B, purohotel.pl

A 1970s hotel in Sweden

Billengehus opened in 1970 on the top of a hill in Skövde, western Sweden. The entrepreneur Arne Sandberg and his wife Maja wanted to build a hotel that combined relaxation and exercise: as well as a swimming pool and tennis courts, it had football pitches, trails for running, cycling and cross-country skiing, and a ski slope and lift. The hotel was recently refurbished and now has a new spa; it still offers hiking, biking and skiing packages. The 70s style has been preserved (lots of brown velvet!), and some rooms have record players and disco balls for a private boogie – to Abba, of course.
Doubles from £110 B&B, billingehus.com

A medieval palazzo in Sicily

Palazzo Previtera, in Linguaglossa on the slopes of Mount Etna, tells the story of 500 years of Sicilian history. It was built in 1649 and has been restored by descendants of the original owners. There is a 12-room museum, a library of rare books, including limited editions by Thomas Aquinas and John Milton, and a restaurant under the old arches. Four rooms and two cottages cater to overnight guests – three of the rooms are in the oldest part of the palazzo. They combine ornate painted ceilings, original floor tiles and antique furniture with designs inspired by different people and periods: the composer Vincenzo Bellini, 1930s Italian art deco, contemporary cinema. Members of the Previtera family are on hand to give guests guided tours.
Doubles from about €130 room-only, palazzoprevitera.com

A swinging 60s hotel in Prague

The four-star Vintage Design Sax in central Prague is full of retro furniture classics by designers including Verner Panton, Luigi Colani, Eero Saarinen, and Charles and Ray Eames. It has 25 rooms (some have a view of Prague Castle) with original pieces and accessories, psychedelic wallpaper and orange, 60s-style bedding. The hotel’s central atrium is something of an art gallery, showcasing statement pendant lights, chairs and mirrors. It is part of LH Hotels, a small Czech group of seven stylish but affordable hotels.
Doubles from €78 B&B, hotelsax.cz

UK

Georgian cottages in County Durham