There is the free-to-visit Winchombe Museum which talks of the town’s historydating back billions of years.
Otherwise you can also visit St Peter’s Church which dates back to the 1400s.
Just outside the town in the parish of Sudeley is Sudeley Castle.
As well as its beautiful 10 gardens set across the 1,200 acre estate, it has been owned by a number of kings over the years including King Edward IV and King Richard II.
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King Henry VIII also visited with his then wife Anne Boleyn – and also made it the resting place of Queen Katherine Parr after her death.
This makes it the world’s only privately owned castle to have a queen buried onsite.
Sadly the town no longer has a functioning train station with scheduled passenger trains.
It did have its own back in 1906 which was on the line of Cheltenham to Birmingham.
Sadly it closed in 1960 and was dismantled in the 1980s.
However, it as since been partially restored for heritage trains such as themed trips and Christmas events.
Katherine Parr is buried at the nearby castleCredit: AlamyThe town has enough pubs to choose from for a weekend breakCredit: Alamy
Kids will love the Royal Mail model railway there too which has a Thomas & Friends train track as well as a small cafe.
You aren’t short of pubs in town either if you want a pint and a burger, from The Royal Oak to The Pheasant Inn.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, options include The Lion Inn and White Hart Inn as well.
For something more fun, on the outskirts is The Lodge at Winchcombe, a beautiful country house with en-suite bedrooms.
When I wheeled my bike off the ferry at Roscoff, northwest France, in the summer of 2024, the furthest I had ever ridden was the 99-mile Devon Coast to Coast route over two days. And yet here I was, about to embark on an epic journey, unsupported, towing a trailer with two wooden surfboards, a tent and wetsuits strapped to it. My wife, Lizzy, 62, and I had rented out our house and lent our campervan to friends, so there was no turning back.
Lizzy was also towing a trailer with two belly boards and the rest of our camping kit. She, the veteran of many long rides in her 20s – one of which took her across the Andes – was full of quiet confidence. I was excited beyond words to be setting off on a new adventure, but also terrified of what the road might reveal about me. I had no idea whether my 57-year-old body or soul could cope with cycling for days on end, climbing mountains or setting up a tent every night for three months. My first attempt at a mountain pass, in the Pyrenees some years before, hadn’t started well. I threw a hissy fit at the first hairpin, demanding of Lizzy: what’s the point?
As our route out of Roscoff took us down a narrow, overgrown track with brambles brushing our legs and panniers, I started to wonder what we had got ourselves into. Would we have to ride on paths like this all the way? What were we thinking?
The plan was to cycle from home in Cornwall to Cape St Vincent in Portugal, Europe’s most south-westerly point, surfing as we went. The journey, I reckoned, would be at least 1,900 miles (over 3,000km). I had travelled to surf in Europe many times before, but only in a campervan and, in my late teens and 20s, a series of clapped-out cars.
My friends and I went to Europe to surf, drink cheap red wine, smoke Gauloises and live out our Californian Beach Boys fantasies. We were following in the footsteps of those who had made the trip in the 1960s and 1970s, leaving the UK to surf in the sun on world-class waves. In time, the journey became a rite of passage for all surfers: get beaten up in the powerful French shore breaks, find new waves in northern Spain and lose yourself on the wild coasts of Portugal.
The prospect of doing it all again, but this time on two wheels, thrilled me. I had become disillusioned with travelling by van and needed time out. I loved the idea of chasing waves without the faff and environmental impact of van life and wondered if living with less would make me happier. Would stripping back to basics – a surfboard, a wetsuit, a tent, a meths cooker and a change of clothes – make for a bigger, more meaningful adventure?
Martin and Lizzy took the ferry to Roscoff, Brittany. Photograph: Eyewave/Getty Images
Travelling by bike, I argued while planning this trip, would allow us to follow the old roads and forgotten paths our surfing forefathers had travelled and give us the kind of access to beaches that is impossible today.
Eventually the bumpy lanes outside Roscoff gave way to smooth, flowing tarmac, following the course of a muddy river, and we cruised along easily, our trailers rumbling happily behind us. Dare I hope it would all be fine?
The truth was, at that point, I doubted I was up to the adventure. In 2023 I had severed my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), an injury that left me in a knee brace and on crutches for weeks. In the early days of recovery, I feared I’d never surf again.
The NHS consultant told me “most people your age manage perfectly well without an ACL”. I felt the sharp sting of ageism. But I wasn’t ready to be written off just yet. I had the ligament repaired privately and, when the surgeon recommended cycling for rehab, I took him at his word.
Riding ebikes made the trip possible. The psychological effect of knowing I had a little in the tank if things got difficult worked wonders, even if we rode in the mode that delivered the least power most of the time.
We followed La Vélodyssée, an 800-mile, mostly off-road cycle route down the west coast of France to Hendaye on the border with Spain, joining the Nantes-Brest canal for the first 190 miles. The riding was mostly flat and we bimbled along happily. I loved the attention we got: I guess there weren’t many middle-aged cyclists pulling surfboards along the towpath.
Seignosse in the far south-west of France was the location for the first proper surfing on the trip. Photograph: Dpa Picture Alliance/Alamy
At about 6pm each day – after about five hours in the saddle – we’d stop at a campsite, cook and collapse on to our blow-up beds. We’d prebooked some sites but mostly took our chances that something would turn up. On the one occasion it didn’t, we checked in to a hotel. Clean white sheets – heaven!
Despite daily drenchings from rain showers, I loved being self-sufficient and outside all day. When we finally found some good waves, at Seignosse, a little north of surfing’s spiritual European home, Biarritz, hitting them was all the more satisfying.
Spain, and her terrible hills, gave us a shock after the level paths through France’s maritime pine forest. Just after crossing the border we climbed Jaizkibel mountain in rain and fog. It was a 5-mile slog from sea level to 450 metres, en route to San Sebastián. I resisted the urge to press the ebike’s power button despite it being a “classic climb” that has been featured in the Tour de France and Spain’s equivalent, La Vuelta.
When I reached the top, I was wet, cold and exhausted – but elated. If it hadn’t been so misty, I could have looked back at France behind me and seen how far we had come. We had ridden 870 miles since leaving home and I had loved it. I had surfed some excellent waves too, at Biarritz and Hendaye, as well as Seignosse, and had got my mojo back after months out of the water. I decided it was just like riding a bike: you never forget how to do it. I was definitely ready for the more serious Iberian waves to come.
Martin celebrates conquering a 600-metre mountain in Galicia. Photograph: Martin Dorey
After Jaizkibel, my legs were tuned up and I was starting to relish this life-affirming trip that would see us follow the coasts of Spain and Portugal for another 1,200 miles over the next two months. We surfed some hallowed spots at Mundaka, Peniche and the World Surfing Reserve at Ericeira; mended multiple punctures; pitched our tent 67 times; climbed another 20,000 metres; and completed two legs of the Camino de Santiago. Arriving in Praza do Obradoiro, the main square in Santiago de Compostela old town, was a highlight. But we still had another 500 miles to go to our final destination of Sagres in the Algarve.
I may not be as fit as I was in my 20s – but the thrill of adventure remains the same.
Martin Dorey’s book about the adventure, The Way of the Waves, is published by Bloomsbury Sport (£20) on 11 September. To support the Guardian order your copy at guardianbookshop.com.Delivery charges may apply
The destination is making waves amongst UK holidaymakers, according to a study, and is offering sandy beaches and warm climes
Cape Verde has several incredible beaches(Image: ICHAUVEL via Getty Images)
If the prospect of another chilly winter in the UK is getting you down, one way to help lift your spirits is by booking a sun-soaked getaway.
And if you’re itching to venture beyond Europe and explore what the wider world has to offer, there’s a breathtaking destination just six hours from the UK among the top spots for Brits to visit.
Comprising 10 islands nestled in the Atlantic, it’s the ideal location for Brits seeking some winter sun – with temperatures still hovering around 28C even in October.
With its expansive sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines and vibrant nightlife, there’s a wealth of attractions and activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages, reports the Express.
One of the region’s most sought-after islands is Sal, which is accessible from the UK via TUI flights. It’s been hailed as a ‘beach lover’s paradise’ by the Cape Verde Experience, making it the perfect choice for those in pursuit of a tranquil holiday.
It offers golden sandy beaches encircled by crystal-clear waters, alongside a rich culture and superb food and drink – ensuring there’s something here for everyone.
Espargos, the capital of Sal, is situated in the heart of the island. However, the primary resort area is in Santa Maria in the south, which boasts a variety of shops, eateries and bars as well as numerous hotels lining the sandy coastline.
A must-visit spot is the mirage at Terra Boa, a phenomenon that creates the illusion of an ocean in the middle of the desert.
Boa Vista is another favourite amongst tourists, with its golden sands and laid-back vibe.
The island boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the archipelago, with 55km of sand to explore. Whether you fancy a lazy day by the sea or want to try your hand at watersports, there’s something for everyone.
Accommodation in Boa Vista offers a similar variety, with options for both relaxation and activity-filled days.
Away from the coast, the island’s interior offers desert-like landscapes and even the occasional abandoned village. The main town, Sal Rei, is located in the north-west and is gradually becoming a hub for dining and nightlife, as well as boasting some interesting architectural landmarks.
Cape Verde’s cuisine is a mix of local Creole and Portuguese dishes, with plenty of seafood, meat and vegetarian options.
Don’t miss out on trying Cachupa Rica, the national dish of Cape Verde. This hearty stew made with fish, meat and vegetables is a must-try during your visit.
Fresh seafood is a staple of the local cuisine, with bafas – a dish featuring fish cooked with tomato, onion and peppers in breadcrumbs – being a crowd favourite, often served as a snack or starter.
And no trip would be complete without savouring a Caipirinha or two, a mouth-watering cocktail inspired by Brazil, crafted with local spirits and sugar cane.
Frinton-on-Sea in Essex is a charming seaside town that has been frozen in time, with a population of just 4,837 and a relaxed pace of life that has seen people move there from the capital and other major cities across the UK
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas News Reporter, Frances Kindon Deputy Head of Features and Jon King
04:00, 19 Oct 2025
Colourful, wooden beach huts are an iconic fixture of Frinton-On-Sea(Image: Getty Images)
A delightful coastal town is being praised by residents as a nostalgic glimpse into 1950s and 60s Britain.
Renowned for its charming, traditional atmosphere, Frinton-on-Sea in Essex provides a peaceful retreat from the heaving masses who descend upon neighbouring seaside resorts Clacton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze.
Home to merely 4,837 residents, it also enjoys a leisurely rhythm of life and close-knit community spirit that has recently attracted newcomers from London and other major urban centres nationwide.
Pet enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that its broad, sweeping sandy shores welcome dogs from September 30 until May.
The heart of the settlement is the Esplanade, housing The Rock, Frinton’s sole remaining operational hotel.
During the stroll towards the shore, visitors encounter a row of colourful beach huts overlooking the North Sea waves, which crash against the sea wall during high tide.
Becky Dance, 44, accompanied by her mother Linda Hartnoll and grandchildren Hugo and Greyson, ventured down for a day trip from Colchester, discovering the location picture-perfect.
She said: “It’s just lovely. It’s nice and quiet. The kids just love playing here.”
Linda also expressed her appreciation for the area’s topography, adding: “It’s safe here because it’s very flat.” Peter Wade, alongside his wife Pat, moved to Frinton following their retirement from local government roles in Enfield, North London.
Looking back on their former life, Mr Wade, 72, explained how he felt threatened after dark due to escalating crime in his previous neighbourhood.
He told the Express: “The area changed the last seven years we were there. There were two murders. The house next door was converted into a drugs den. We came here because this is England as we knew it as children. We can walk down this road and say hello to so many people. The community spirit we have here, in my mind, is second to none. It’s a spirit I grew up with in the 1950s and early 60s.”
Frinton is also home to numerous societies, including the fondly nicknamed Frinton War Memorial Club or “the Mem”, where locals congregate for pleasant conversation over beverages.
On the periphery, the Frinton Golf Club serves as another popular destination amongst residents.
The seaside town was recently branded as the country’s NIMBY capital by a Telegraph investigation, which highlighted the protracted procedure it required for Frinton to embrace the new Lock and Barrel gastropub.
However, Rob Morgan, a councillor on Frinton and Walton Town Council, maintained that the existing clubs adequately serve the social and drinking requirements of the community, clarifying why there aren’t numerous pubs in Frinton. Having resided in Frinton for nearly two decades, he admitted that the town has transformed, with the High Street now teeming with restaurants and cafes rather than the varied shops of old.
The automation of the level crossing gates, a unique feature of the town, sparked controversy as it led to the job loss of the manual operator. However, Mr Morgan is convinced that the town has retained its charm and is an ideal spot for those seeking a community-oriented lifestyle in their twilight years, adding: “It’s a really delightful town. I love living here… When you talk about older people being isolated, it doesn’t happen in Frinton.”
The UK’s best food and drink can be found in a market town that’s been dubbed the ‘loveliest town in England’ – and it’s not where you’d expect but has grown in popularity over the years
The unexpected town with the UK’s best food and drink(Image: Alan Morris via Getty Images)
Long hailed by poet John Betjeman as “the loveliest town in England,” Ludlow is also globally recognised for its food and drink scene.
With over 500 listed buildings and a skyline dominated by a Norman castle, Ludlow combines ancient charm with modern appeal, cobbled streets lead to delis, bakeries, cosy pubs and renowned restaurants.
Often referred to as the ‘food and drink capital of the Marches’, Ludlow’s hospitality industry thrives due to its diverse local produce. In 2024, a Which? Travel survey of more than 9,000 people asked participants to rate the food and drink in their favourite inland towns and villages.
Ludlow triumphed as the nation’s top-rated food and drink destination. It was the only inland town to secure a full five stars for food, reports the Express.
As Which? Travel put it: “Instead of a handful of high-end eateries, there’s a culture of local produce as well as numerous pubs and cafes, served by people who care about the food.”
This ethos is reflected on the plate, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and menus that change with the seasons. TripAdvisor currently ranks Old Downton Lodge as Ludlow’s best restaurant.
Riverside favourite CSONS is another beloved spot for relaxed, quality dining, along with Kin Kitchen and The French Pantry for cafe and bistro-style dining.
Pub lovers are spoilt for choice with establishments including The Queens and The Boot Inn, both receiving rave reviews on TripAdvisor.
Experts from Ludlow Distillery note that the town’s culinary scene thrives thanks to a strong network of food and drink producers, ranging from specialist cheesemakers and bakers to craft brewers and distillers.
They said: “The strength of this offering is best seen (and tasted) by a visit to the Local to Ludlow Market in the Castle Square (where growers and makers based within 30 miles of the town sell a range of high-quality and carefully selected produce), and the award-winning Broad Bean fine food delicatessen on Broad Street.”
The town embraces ‘Slow Food’, a global, grassroots movement with thousands of members worldwide that links gastronomic pleasure with community commitment. Over recent years, the initiative in Ludlow has grown substantially.
Slow Food Ludlow Marches offers year-round events, including visits, talks, demonstrations, meals and Taste Workshops at Ludlow Food Festival in September.
Ludlow Food Festival remains one of the town’s biggest annual events, regularly drawing around 15,000 visitors to Ludlow Castle over three days.
While it has finished for 2025, locals and tourists can look forward to the Winter Festival at Ludlow Castle. Scheduled to take place from 28th to 30th November 2025, the event will showcase local entertainment, mulled wine, and popular favourites from the Ludlow Food Festival.
To make the most of your visit, plan it for the second or fourth Thursday of the month when the Ludlow Local Produce Market is held, featuring food and drink produced within a 30-mile radius.
The stalls emphasise sustainability and seasonality, turning an ordinary shopping trip into a delightful afternoon outing. Beyond Shropshire, Wells was named as the runner-up for inland dining by Which? Travel.
Other places that received accolades include Lavenham in Suffolk, Llangollen in Denbighshire, Stamford in Lincolnshire, and Cartmel in Cumbria. Each offers a unique flavour of a gastronomic getaway.
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Traffic is congested on an interstate in Los Angeles in 2017. A U.S. Marine Corps’ live-fire event at Camp Pendleton as part of its 250th birthday celebration will cause the closure of Interstate 5 for four hours on Saturday. File Photo by Mike Nelson/EPA
Oct. 18 (UPI) — The U.S. Marine Corps‘ live-fire event at Camp Pendleton as part of its 250th birthday celebration will cause the closure of Interstate 5 for four hours on Saturday.
The closure is a precaution due to the firing of explosive artillery rounds over the freeway from gunnery ranges at Camp Pendleton in Southern California, which has drawn the ire of California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Newsom accused President Donald Trump of “putting his ego over responsibility with this disregard for public safety” in a prepared statement released on Saturday morning.
“Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous,” Newsom said.
“Using our military to intimidate people you disagree with isn’t strength,” he added. “It’s reckless. It’s disrespectful, and it’s beneath the office he holds.”
Trump will not attend the celebratory event, but Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are scheduled to attend, with the live-fire scheduled at 1:30 p.m. local time.
Marine Corps officials initially said there would be no need to close the freeway and only asked that signs be posted warning drivers of the live-fire event and to expect to hear explosions.
California Highway Patrol officials instead announced the freeway would be closed while the event is in progress, according to KTLA-TV.
Due to safety concerns, a section of Interstate 5 will be closed Saturday due to a White House-directed military event at Camp Pendleton involving live ammunition being discharged over the freeway,” Caltrans officials said in a statement on Saturday morning.
“Drivers should expect delays on Interstate 5 and other state routes throughout Southern California before, during and after the event.”
The closure starts at 11 a.m. PDT for the 17-mile stretch of freeway running from Basilone Road near San Onofre in the north to Harbor Drive in Oceanside to the south and reopens at 3 p.m.
The event will include a demonstration of Navy and Marine Corps operations on land, sea and in the air.
Camp Pendleton is located about 40 miles north of San Diego and east of I-5, which runs along the Pacific Coast.
Caltrans officials advise motorists in Los Angeles County to use state routes in San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties to bypass the closed section of freeway.
Several local train routes also will be closed during the live-fire event.
From Costa Dorada in Spain to Vendee in France, we have a beautiful beach for everyone.
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The sandy beach at Miami Platja in Costa DoradaHeap praise on Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia
SPAIN – Playa Montroig, Costa Dorada
Editor in Chief Sinead McIntyre, husband Alistair and their teenage twins found a coast with the most, including a day trip to Barcelona.
THE PAD
Set on the stunning Costa Dorada coastline and a quick 25-minute drive from Reus airport, the star of the show here is the sandy beach, with its lively bar and floating dive pontoon.
One morning, my daughter Riley and I woke early to swim out and had it all to ourselves while watching a yoga class – just one of the activities on offer.
Our premium three-bed lodge was also minutes from the three swimming pools, slides and a pool bar.
Get your tapas fix and dig into calamari, £12.60, garlic shrimp, £10.90, and Iberian ham croquettes, £1.75 each, on-site at Terrassa restaurant.
Pair with a refreshing carafe of sangria with cava, £14.70.
The Playa Montroig pool complex in SpainCredit: Supplied by PR
Or try beachside Tucanamar, with its stunning sunset views and divine spaghetti with clams, £10.90.
A walk along the shoreline is Restaurant Friends, serving up specialty spare ribs, £17.25, and grilled sea bream, £15.20 (Friendsplaya.com).
In Barca, hit Catalanian eatery La Nueva Marquesa for delights such as fried eggs with Iberian ham shavings and monkfish skewers with prawn and crab sauce.
Seven-night stays for four people at Playa Montroig during May half-term 2026 cost from £586 (Eurocamp.co.uk).
All hands on deck for a relaxing stayCredit: Supplied by PR
FRANCE – Le Garangeoire, Vendee
Deputy Editor Ellie O’Mahoney, husband Mark and their two young kids fell for crêpes and climbing on the west coast of France.
THE PAD
This five-star, family-run campsite, just 15 minutes’ drive from the beautiful beaches of France’s Atlantic west coast, has 200 hectares of woodland and a stunning 17th-century château, complete with free pedalo and canoe hire on the boating lake.
There are tennis courts, crazy golf, a horse-riding stable and two kids’ clubs.
La Garangeoire has 200 hectares of woodland and a stunning 17th-century châteauCredit: Supplied by PR
Of the four pools, the main one boasts three slides, and is our kids’ favourite.
For some quiet time, head to the natural lagoon surrounded by a sandy beach.
There are tons of activities, including aromatherapy and night walks, and our three-bed lodge was perfectly appointed with a veranda for alfresco feasts.
EXPLORE
Kids will love swinging through the branches at Le Grand Défi, the world’s largest tree-climbing park just down the road, plus there’s a huge aqua park and pony rides.
Treeclimbing costs from £10.70 for kids, £20.90 for adults (Grand-defi.com).
Of the four pools, the main one boasts three slidesCredit: Shot by Cedric Colin – Supplied by PR
Historical theme parkPuy du Fou, an hour’s drive away, puts on eye-popping performances.
Watch gladiators fight in the “Roman” coliseum and experience stormy seas aboard an 18th-century-style explorer’s ship.
Tickets cost £39 for adults, £28 for kids (Puydufou.com).
Or head to the beach town of Brétignolles-sur-Mer – you’ll find pretty Breton T-shirts and wooden toys at its busy market on Thursdays and Sundays.
REFUEL
At nearby lakeside restaurant L’Auberge du Jaunay, we demolished a stack of cheese galettes for a bargain £3.25 with a half-carafe of red wine, £8.90.
A sugar and lemon crêpe, £4.70, completed the kids’ favourite feast of the trip.
Have a knight of adventure
On a beach day, we nabbed a table on the white sand at Crêperie La Normandelière.
We didn’t get the warmest of welcomes, but the food made up for it – I loved the smoked salmon salad, £12.70, and Nutella and banana crêpe, £5.20 (La-normandeliere.eatbu.com).
In the nearest town of Saint-Julien-des-Landes, just minutes’ drive away, you’ll find Rest’O Landes, which does the most delicious honey and goat’s cheese takeaway pizza, £9 (Restolandes.com).
Seven-night stays at La Garangeoire in May half-term 2026 cost from £363 for up to six (Eurocamp.co.uk).
An overnight ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo with Brittany Ferries for four people with a car costs from £351 (Brittany-ferries.co.uk).
ENGLAND – Daleacres, Kent
Deputy Chief Sub-Editor Danielle Woodward, husband David and their two teens sought out safaris and steam trains in the South East.
THE PAD
In the heart of the Kent countryside, near the seaside town of Hythe, you’ll find Daleacres Campsite, complete with a playground for younger kids and a communal firepit for glampers.
Safari tents offer kitchens with a fridge and microwave, and the kids took turns to fill up the water dispenser, a short walk away.
Pitch in at DaleacresCredit: Supplied by PR
With patchy free Wi-Fi, they also “enjoyed” screen-free time!
We woke to cock-a-doodle-dos from a nearby farm, before freshening up in the spotless shower and loo block.
EXPLORE
Feeling beachy? Pick between Hythe’s shingle or nearby Dymchurch’s three miles of sand and amusement park with classic rides and an arcade (Dymchurch-amusements.co.uk).
The kids were also fascinated by the crypt in St Leonard’s Church, home to the largest, best-preserved collection of ancient human skulls and bones in Britain (Slhk.org/theossuary.htm).
REFUEL
In Dymchurch, hit Lamby’s Seafood stall next to the Ocean Inn pub for a pot of brown shrimp, £4 (Oceaninn.co.uk/lambys).
At Port Lympne, scoff tasty wood-fired prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella and rocket pizza, £15, followed by fig and pistachio frangipane tart, £5, in Babydoll’s restaurant.
While the 400-year-old cosy Botolphs Bridge Inn pub, a short walk from Daleacres, offers fab pies of the week with mash, veg and gravy, £13.50 (Botolphsbridgeinn.co.uk).
DON’T MISS
The Battle of Britain Memorial in Folkestone has an interactive Scramble Experience, which brings WW2 to life.
President Biden, in one of his first moves in office, reversed the immigration restriction put in place by the Trump administration covering five Muslim-majority nations — Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen — as well as North Korea and some government officials from Venezuela.
The Trump administration was forced to revise its original order twice to resolve legal problems over due process, implementation and exclusive targeting of Muslim nations.
Jake Sullivan, who will be Biden’s national security advisor, said the ban “was nothing less than a stain on our nation. It was rooted in xenophobia and religious animus.”
Biden also extended to June 2022 temporary legal status for Liberians who fled civil war and the Ebola outbreak.
Biden sent a broader immigration plan to Congress on Wednesday that includes a pathway to U.S. citizenship for an estimated 11 million people.
The bill also proposes an expansion of refugee admissions and increases in per-country visa caps.
WHEN it comes to enjoying Halloween, the team at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens don’t cut corners.
Spiders, cobwebs, witches’ hats, scarecrows, hay bales and thousands of pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colours surrounded the stalls, rides and attractions.
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Halloween is the perfect time to visit Copenhagen’s Tivoli GardensCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.Beverley Fearis visited the Danish theme park with her husband and teenage son Freddie, aboveCredit: supplied
But I could not help thinking that when it’s all over, someone’s got a mammoth clear-up job.
The Danish capital city’s famous amusement park, which is right in the centre, closes for two weeks while a team of more than 50 gardeners, designers, decorators, stagehands, crane operators, electricians and carpenters transform it into a spooky wonderland.
And as you would expect from the Danes, it’s all done very tastefully — and sustainably.
The 22,000 pumpkins are grown in Denmark, on the island of Samso, where the climate is spot on.
The larger ones are entries for the annual Danish Giant Pumpkin Championship, hosted by the park.
Afterwards, the prize pumpkins are given to Copenhagen Zoo, where apparently the elephants are particularly fond of them.
This year is the 20th anniversary of Tivoli’s Halloween festivities and around half a million people are expected to walk through the gates before the season ends on November 2.
To avoid the queues, I would suggest going earlier in the day to do the most popular rides, but make sure you stay until dusk to get the full effects of the flickering jack-o’-lanterns.
Little ones will love the treasure hunt and pumpkin-carving workshops, while older kids will enjoy being scared — but not too much — in Villa Vendetta, where actors jump out from the shadows.
The Haunted House wasn’t quite frightening enough for my teenage son, but the gravity-defying loops of The Demon rollercoaster took his breath away.
‘Getting cosy’
A day at Tivoli was part of the compromise when we told him he’d be missing the usual trick-or-treating with mates to join his parents on an October city break.
Autumn is the perfect time to visit Copenhagen. It’s when the leaves turn, the nights draw in and the “hygge” levels rise.
If you haven’t heard of hygge (pronounced hoo-ga), it is the Danish concept of “getting cosy” — and we’d come to the capital to get a dose of it.
Flights generally cost less after the summer too, and once you are here, getting around is cheap and easy.
The Metro system only has four lines and there are also hop-on, hop-off buses and water buses (small ferries).
We purchased Copenhagen Cards, which give you free public transport plus entry to 87 attractions.
They even cover the metro or train from the airport, which only takes about 15 minutes to the city centre.
As well as getting free entrance into Tivoli (rides and attractions cost extra) we used our Copenhagen Card to take a sightseeing cruise up the river, past the famous Little Mermaid statue (it really is tiny), the royal palace, funky house boats and more.
Cardamom buns
Cruises start from Nyhavn, the city’s pretty harbour with brightly-coloured houses, where we warmed up afterwards with a cup of Glogg, a sweet mulled wine.
We took the water bus to Contemporary Copenhagen to enjoy the art installations and we joined the locals cycling around the three city lakes at Soerne.
The park hosts the annual Danish Giant Pumpkin ChampionshipCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.
The bikes were hired from our hotel, Charlottehaven, which also happens to be a short walk from one of the city’s best bakeries, Juno. The delicious cardamom buns were well worth queuing for.
Eating out in Copenhagen isn’t cheap but there’s a growing number of communal dining venues, a concept known as faellesspisning, which are really good value.
In just a few days we’d packed a lot in and had fallen in love with Copenhagen, a compact and friendly city where everything is within easy access, even a 20-acre theme park
We went to Kanalhuset (the Canal House) in Christianshavn and joined a table full of locals for a simple but very tasty meal for around £16 each.
There’s only one choice each night (you can check what’s on the menu on the website) but they will always do a vegetarian option on request.
Everyone turns up at 6.30pm for drinks in the bar and then joins one of the large tables in the restaurant for dinner at 7pm.
We made friends with a lovely Danish family celebrating their mum’s birthday. Pretty much all the locals here speak excellent English, so it was easy to chat.
In just a few days we’d packed a lot in and had fallen in love with Copenhagen, a compact and friendly city where everything is within easy access, even a 20-acre theme park.
Once the Halloween festivities are over, Tivoli closes again for two weeks so that all the pumpkins can be replaced with fairy lights, an ice-skating rink and hundreds of Christmas trees.
Now we need to go back and experience Christmas hygge-style.
A pair of witches ready for Tivoli magicCredit: � 2024 Brightside Pictures, all rights reserved.
GO: Copenhagen
GETTING THERE: Fly to Copenhagen from Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol with fares from £23.99 one way in December.
We’ve scoured the UK for the best festive holiday park deals on offer, with everything from Christmas entertainment and crafts to Santa’s grottos, for less than the price of a McDonald’s.
The three-night breaks work out as little as £9 per person and most cost under £15pp a night – at award-winning parks with waterparks, fairgrounds, as well as access to the UK’s best parks and beaches.
Christmas at Butlin’s offers loads for families, including a visit from Father ChristmasCredit: ButlinsHoliday camps offer Christmas crafts like bauble-making and stocking workshopsCredit: GettyHelen (pictured with daughter Isobel and Father Christmas) says these deals are fantastic valueCredit: Helen wright
As a travel blogger and influencer, I’m regularly being asked for things to do in the UK over Christmas.
And these cheap UK holiday parks offer some fantastic festive extras at Christmas, such as lights and decorations across the park, children’s craft workshops, visits from Santa and special shows and pantomimes.
Haven Craig Tara, Scotland
Nine of Haven’s holiday parks across the UK will be hosting special festive breaks this year.
These Christmas getaways start from mid-November and include access to entertainment throughout the day and evening, a Christmas tree in your accommodation, and yuletide food and drinks, including a turkey dinner on Christmas Day.
Christmas meals are priced separately, and it’s recommended that you book them in advance.
Caravans have a fully-equipped kitchen, so you also have the option to cook dinner in your caravan to save money.
The best value break we could find over the Christmas week, including Christmas Day, is at the beautiful Craig Tara Holiday Park on the Scottish coast in Ayrshire, with stunning views of Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran.
With chances of a white Christmas here pretty high, this is a magical place to spend the big day.
For a winter break, the resort has a choice of indoor activities, including a water park with slides and an indoor sports complex called Airspace, which has everything from roller discos to crazy golf, a multi-level soft play area and a climbing wall.
Festive offerings include make-a-bear workshops, sand bottle creations, pic ‘n’ paint, bauble-making, stocking workshops, reindeer food, and family activities with a Christmas twist.
Plus, children can meet Santa in his grotto, though there is likely an extra fee for this, and it should be booked in advance.
There is also an on-site pantomime of Jack and the Beanstalk, special festive shows from the Seaside Squad, lots of interactive fun with the elves and plenty of opportunities for a boogie.
If you’re staying for Christmas Day itself, you are able to book your dinner now, subject to availability.
Haven parks that have a J D Wetherspoon pub as their main venue (Primrose Valley, Kent Coast, Devon Cliffs) will also be open for Christmas Day table bookings, and you’ll choose from the menu on the day.
The other Haven parks hosting festive stays are: Seton Sands, Scotland, Blackpool, Devon Cliffs, North Wales, Kent Coast, Primrose Valley, Yorkshire, Dorset and Norfolk.
The price per night for Haven Craig Tara is £54.75 (based on four nights in a three-bed holiday caravan, which sleeps six), which works out at £9.12pp a night.
The holiday parks vary in price, and the next cheapest Haven parks to stay in over Christmas are Primrose Valley, Yorkshire, at £85 per night, and Rockley Park, Dorset, at £83 per night (based on four nights in a three-bed holiday caravan sleeping six).
The view across Loch Ryan is beautiful, especially in winter, on a coastal walk from the Craig Tara holiday parkCredit: AlamyThe Haven kids’ Christmas show is guaranteed to get families into the festive spiritCredit: Haven
Across its three holiday parks in Bognor Regis, Skegness and Minehead, Butlin’s offers festive breaks from November and specially-priced Christmas breaks, which run over Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The huge parks get a magical makeover with fairy lights, decorations and indoor snow.
When you arrive, you’ll be rocking around the Christmas tree at the family welcome party.
Other special additions include a festive show, Christmas movies, a present drop, a firework display, children’s craft workshops and winter character meet-and-greets, all included in the price.
Better still, every family gets a visit to Santa’s Grotto for the Father Christmas’ Express Delivery, and each child gets a gift, fully included in the price.
Dining packages are available at Butlin’s and usually work out as excellent value. During the festive breaks, expect to see roasts with all the trimmings and mince pies, which aren’t available all year round.
Even if you decide to book without a dining package, the family can still sit down for a four-course Christmas dinner with all the trimmings for £58 per adult and £39 for kids. Choose from a set menu and finish up with coffee and mince pies.
The best value deal for Christmas week at Butlin’s is Skegness, which is £224 for four days (based on two adults and two children sharing). At only £14 per day per person, this is a superb seasonal staycation.
Skegness has a huge weather-proof waterpark called Splash, which will also play host to a Christmas pool party during the festive breaks.
There is also the award-winning Skypark, laser tag, bowling, a climbing wall, and go karts all on-site, as well as arcades and performances from the Redcoats.
Christmas Day breaks at Minehead and Bognor Regis come in a little bit more expensive, with Minehead starting at £15 per person and Bognor Regis at £22.50 per person.
Butlin’s has fantastic prices all year round, but at Christmas has extra festive events and activitiesCredit: ButlinsTrecco Bay is close to Porthcawl, South Wales, and is beautiful in both summer and winterCredit: AlamyYou might not fancy a sea swim in December, but a walk on the beach is the perfect way to work off Christmas dinnerCredit: Alamy
Parkdean Resorts at Trecco Park, Wales
Eight Parkdean Resorts are hosting Christmas Getaway breaks, with Trecco Park in Wales being the best value for money over Christmas Day.
Fun, festive activities include feeding Santa’s reindeer, a ‘pawsome’ Christmas party with the characters from Paw Patrol, breakfast with Santa, ice skating, a search for Santa game, a kids’ Christmas party and bauble-making workshops for the whole family.
Plus, children can meet Santa when he comes to visit the on-site grotto.
One of the largest holiday parks in Europe, Trecco Bay – on the stunning Wales Coastal Path, spanning approximately 10 miles from Ogmore to Sker Point – is a beautiful site that overlooks the water.
It’s probably too cold for a dip – unless you’re feeling particularly brave – but perfect for a Boxing Day walk.
Inside the large clubhouse, there is an amusement arcade and bowling, as well as the Aloha cocktail bar for adults and festive movie nights.
On Christmas Day, restaurants are closed for pre-booked Christmas lunch. Priced separately, the four-course dinner and nibbles are £49.99 for adults and £29.99 for kids 12 and under.
Over 21s get a welcome glass of prosecco too. Spaces are limited so booking in advance is essential.
The price for a four-night stay at Trecco Bay is £473, staying in a four-bed Bronze caravan that sleeps six people, which works out at £19.70 per person.
If you don’t want to go over Christmas Day, breaks for a family of four start from £169 (£42.25 per night) and include all the seasonal extras.
Dartmoor National Park in Devon is beautiful in the winter, and Hoseasons is just on the outskirts of the parkCredit: Alamy
Hoseasons Dartmoor View, Devon
Hoseasons holiday parks tend to be quieter and more chilled-out than some of the other major brands.
Over Christmas, there are no extras at the park itself, but they do make for brilliant budget places to stay for families who just want to get away for Christmas week.
You’re very much left to your own devices, meaning a turkey dinner in your cabin.
The best deal is at Hoseasons Dartmoor View in Devon. This pretty park is set close to Dartmoor National Park, with easy access to a wealth of picture-postcard villages bursting with quaint shops and cosy, traditional pubs.
Nearby boozer The Globe Inn in Chagford is a local institution. It’s closed on Christmas Day, but they still have availability on Boxing Day if you fancy some good pub grub and festive atmosphere.
The price for a four-night stay in a standard caravan (sleeping six) is £259 for four nights, which works out at £10.79pp per person, per night.
St Ives Bay Beach Resort looks extra pretty in the snowCredit: Facebook/ St Ives Bay Beach ResortWinterfest at Tattershall Lakes is also open to non-resort guests but adds to the festive atmosphere with themed bars and live entertainmentCredit: Away Resorts
Away Resorts, St Ives Bay, Cornwall
This friendly resort could not be in a more perfect location, surrounded by rolling hills and with its own private beach.
You may not be up for a seaside dip or cold water surf at St Ives Bay, but a Christmas Day walk on the beach is certainly one way to do Christmas a bit differently.
There’s also an indoor pool, a clubhouse with arcades and live entertainment.
For Christmas, kids can become an elf recruit and join the Sleigh Team, do Christmas crafts, experience the Elf Slime Factory, make snow globes and post a letter to Santa at the Christmas Post Office.
A three-night stay in a Comfort Caravan (sleeping six) over Christmas is £213 for three nights, working out only £11.84 per night, per person.
If you opt for Away Resorts’ Tattershall Lakes location in Lincolnshire, it’s slightly more expensive, but there is more on offer.
The price for three nights is £294 for a Comfort Caravan, sleeping eight, which is £98 per night (£12.25pp if there are eight of you!), but you also get access to the evening Christmas show and can book a Christmas Day dinner at the Tattershall Park Pub.
Three-course Christmas dinner is £79.95 for adults and £39.95 for kids (under-5s £4.95).
They also have their seasonal Winterfest event, which is free to enter and includes Christmas workshops, a North Pole-themed food courtyard, Santa’s silent disco and Father Christmas’ grotto. Some activities are priced extra.
THE world is full of amazing places to go for a dip, but one spot really is a ‘hidden’ gem – as you can swim underneath a castle.
The Château d’Urspelt, in the heart of the Éislek region of Luxembourg, is a luxurious hotel within a former castle.
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The Château d’Urspelt is in a former castle and can be found in the Éislek region of LuxembourgCredit: AlamyAnd hidden below the castle are amazing caves that guests can swim through.Credit: chateau-urspelt.luThere are different areas, including places to sit and just enjoy the peaceCredit: chateau-urspelt.lu
But below it is the ultimate surprise – a pool designed in the shape of a sunken grotto.
Guests can step into the pools, with different rock-style formations across the walls and ceilings, as well as plants draping down.
And the indulgent experience doesn’t stop there as the spa also has six treatment rooms, a relaxation room, two hammams, two saunas, a whirlpool and a fitness room.
After enjoying the different spa areas, guests can put their feet up and relax with a cup of tea in the tea room.
Access to the wellness area costs €60 (£52.36) per person, or it is free when you book a massage or treatment.
As for the castle-turned hotel, which opened back in 2008, the rooms are equally as decadent as the spa experience.
There are a variety of different room types to choose from, with 57 rooms and suites.
Continuing with the theme of grandeur, in the castle’s historic cellars – which were dug out by hand from the original basement – is the U Lounge Bar.
When workers were digging out the basement, they also discovered a well, which has since been exposed.
The bar serves a range of drinks including spirits, wines and cocktails.
The rooms are lavish as well, as are the multiple places to grab a bite to eatCredit: chateau-urspelt.lu
Alternatively, guests can head to The Library for a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
In the morning, guests are invited to head behind the reception desk to reach a sprawling buffet breakfast, with homemade jams, freshly baked cakes and honey produced by bees on site.
The outdoor pool, which overlooks the entire estate, even has its own bar, serving up refreshing drinks and light snacks.
In the warmer weather, guests can enjoy the indoor-outdoor Patio or for a more refined experience, The Dining Room.
Otherwise the château is also home to an orchard, three running and walking routes and even electric scooters for hire.
For when the weather is nice, there is a heated outdoor patioCredit: Alamy
Rooms at the hotel cost from around £147 per night and the hotel is located around an hour from Luxembourg Airport.
Travellers looking to explore the surrounding area won’t be short of options either, as the château is close to many charming towns.
For example, 30km away from the château is Vianden Castle, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries.
In fact, it was named as one of the 20 most beautiful castles in the world, by CNN Travel.
And each year the castle hosts a medieval festival in August, with duelling knights and jugglers.
We paid half of what we were going to – and it was a nice way to end the holiday
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We sat outside and watch planes land and take-off(Image: Sophie Buchan)
Screaming kids and a four-hour delay. That’s what my boyfriend and I were faced with when we set foot in the airport last week – and after we decided to escape to the airport lounge no matter the cost, we were shocked that we were entitled to a discount, cutting the price in half.
Flying from Tenerife, we were due to land back home in Scotland at 11pm and instead arrived home at 4am – so it’s safe to say it was a heck of a delay. Thankfully, though, as my partner is a member of Monzo Premium, he got us a discount, and we had no idea it was a perk he was entitled to.
On top of that, airport chairs are not comfy enough for a three-hour wait – and that doesn’t even include waiting to board once we’re called to our gate. So how do you get the discount and how much did we end up paying?
How to get an airport lounge discount worldwide
We ended up paying a total of around £48, which brought it down to £24 each. Saving us half the price, we were delighted. We were given free WI-FI, access to showers (towels provided) as well as all-you-can-eat food and drink – including alcohol.
Explained on the Monzo Help page, the online-based bank revealed they have teamed up with LoungeKey to give anyone with Monzo Premium or Monzo Max discounted access to airport lounges worldwide.
It explained: “You and guests can access 1,100 airport lounges around the world for a flat fee of £24 per person, per visit. This rate includes Max Family, and you will need to pay per person, per visit.
“You are required to complete strong customer authentication (SCA) before visiting a lounge for the first time. You will only need to go through this process once, as subsequent transactions will be processed from your stored card on file.
“If you replace your card you will need to re-register the payment method and complete SCA again, this includes physically presenting your new card at the lounge the first time you intend to use it.”
Do you have to pre-book?
We didn’t book and instead just turned up, as it was never our plan to go to the lounge until we were faced with loud kids and a massive wait. Monzo explained that some lounges will allow you to pre-book before your visit.
Howeve,r if you go for this option, you will be charged at least £6 on top of your discounted price. It states this price is determined by the airport lounge and has nothing to do with Monzo.
It added: “If you visit on the day without pre-booking, you will just pay the discounted price of £24 per person, but this is dependent on whether the lounge has space.”
It is worth noting that Monzo says that customers will need to have their physical Monzo card with them for their first visit. We had ours with us, but were also able to give the staff the number on our card to get the benefit too.
So where are you planning on holidaying next – and will you be getting comfy in an airport lounge? Let us know in the comments.
Making their way through the mythical woods of Trollskogen, they look in wonder.
The only things that stop them begging to return immediately to the top of the run are a log cabin serving hot chocolate near an open fire — and an open-air theatre with a dance show featuring the resort’s mascot, Snowman Valle.
Aside from it being wonderfully child-friendly, one of the best things about Salen is how quickly you can get there.
The resort, in west-central Sweden, near the Norwegian border, is just a two-hour flight from the UK then a ten-minute transfer.
Within an hour of landing at the airport, we had dumped our bags, got completely kitted out — including with ski pass, part of our deal from operator Sunweb — and were gliding down the pistes.
All of this was made even easier by our 4H “ski in and ski out” SkiStar Lodge apartment hotel, which has everything you could wish for within a short walk, from ski school, ski rental and sledging hill, to luxury spa, restaurants, playroom, creche and supermarket.
Salen is generally suited more to beginner and intermediate skiiers. But with 101 runs, including some nice off-piste, back-country routes, and a 45-degree black run called The Wall, there is enough to keep even the most advanced occupied.
If you are looking for an alternative to downhill skiing or boarding, the area also offers dog-sled rides, Ski-Doo snowmobile trails, and superb cross-country skiing.
After a tiring day on the mountain you can simply slide back to the hotel — which has a vast storage room for all your gear — and head to the bar for authentic Swedish apres ski.
Yes, that means Abba songs, as well as lots of sing-along tunes for the kids — while they energise on their slush puppies with marshmallows, and the adults relax with a beer and bowls of hot, salty chips.
Another great way to unwind after all that exertion on the mountain is the on-site Frost Spa, where you can look at the ski slopes from a steaming outdoor pool, relax in two tingling-hot Jacuzzis, melt away in the sauna and steam rooms, and get a Swedish massage — before a drink at the bar.
Salen also comprises the busier Lindvallen ski area — 20 minutes away on the free bus — where you can grab a burger and chips in the world’s one and only ski-thru McDonald’s.
SkiStar Lodge apartment hotel has everything you could wish foCredit: SuppliedThe SkiStar Experium fun pool has a surf simulatorCredit: SuppliedHave fun skiing in the perfect snowCredit: Supplied
Lindvallen also has a ten-pin bowling alley, arcade and the SkiStar Experium fun pool with surf simulator and two exciting waterslides for the kids to go wild in.
At day’s end, back at the hotel, the children can also enjoy free table tennis, pool and shuffleboard until they are ready to drop.
And when they are finally tucked up in bed, adults can settle down in front of the apartments’ giant TVs and watch Frozen or listen to Abba songs.
Just Gimme, gimme, gimme another Swedish ski holiday.
GO: SALEN
GETTING/STAYING THERE: Eight-day ski packages to the 4H SkiStar Lodge Lindvallen start from £918pp including flight from the UK and based on two sharing.
Price includes skipass and is based on 2025/26 season.
AS I look down into the valley below, I spot the unmistakable outline of the Golden Arches gleaming in the snow.
Peeling off my gloves, I unlock my phone screen and hit the McDonald’s app, ordering two Happy Meals, a Big Mac and a McChicken sandwich.
Alex West at the world’s only McSki in Sweden’s LindvallenCredit: Supplied
I’ve never seen my children ski as quickly as they did to the hatch to collect our order.
The world’s only McSki in Sweden’s Lindvallen, is decked out like an Alpine chalet with stone and wood features and can seat up to 170 people.
It offers all the same menu items that can be found in other McDonald’s around the world and the prices are comparable to back home in England – with main meals costing around £7.
NOT all Christmas markets are made the same – and one in the UK that might beat the rest is the on the grounds of a palace.
Hampton Court Palace has revealed what to expect from their festive market this year, which takes over the courtyard.
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One of the UK’s most beautiful Christmas Markets is in a palaceCredit: Riverstreet EventsHampton Court Palace’s Christmas Markets return this DecemberCredit: Hampton Court Fayre FestivalInside will be more than 100 stallsCredit: Hampton Court Fayre Festival
Inside will be more than 100 stalls selling everything festive – think gifts and christmas decorations to food and drink.
Live music will be performed throughout the day in the central bandstand, with many of the Christmas classics.
It only takes place over two weekends – December 5-7 and December 12-14 – so you need to be quick to get in.
You also need to book tickets, but they include access to the palace itself, as well as the gardens and the Hampton Court maze.
Or upgrade to the Exclusive Festive Lounge for a free goody bag, free tea and coffee as well as breakfast pastries and alcohol.
While there, you can also visit the Hampton Court Palace ice rink as well.
Running from November 21 to January 4, you will need to book additional tickets for the 45-minute sessions.
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Hampton Court Palace dates back to 1514, although has has been remodelled over the years (including designs inspired by Versailles).
It eventually became one of the homes of Henry VIII, which he visited with a number of his wives.
Also inside is the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze, commissioned in 1700.
Covering a third of an acre, it takes around 20 minutes to get to the middle.
Kids will also love The Magic Garden, a huge wooden play structure with climbing frames, slides and towers.
And film buffs will recognise the palace from a number of massive films, including Sherlock Holmes, Pirate’s of the Caribbean, Mamma Mia and Bridgerton.
Previous tourists have said the palace is a better attraction than some in London.
One wrote: “Most tourists only end up circling around Buckingham Palace or get to see the Kensington Palace at most which are nothing compared to Hampton Court combined.
There will even be live music throughoutCredit: Hampton Court Fayre Festival
“If you want the less touristy and more authentic royal experience, take a boat down the river from any central London pier that will drop you right outside the Palace gates. Exactly in a same manner how Royals used to travel.”
Another said: “Hampton Court Palace is, quite possibly, one of my most favourite places ever.
“A wonderful place to visit and escape the 21st century for a few hours.”
And Hampton Court isn’t the only place for a Christmas Market trip this year.
For a “picture-perfect” festive season, this market is a must-visit and has been voted the top destination for a Christmas market
An aerial view of visitors in the Christmas Market at Krakow(Image: Getty)
It may only be October, but many of us are already fantasising about a magical Christmas – and perhaps one final quick break before 2025 draws to a close.
And a European Christmas market that’s just over 2 hours from the UK has been declared the number one destination to visit this year for a “picture-perfect” escape.
Europe is celebrated for hosting some of the globe’s most enchanting Christmas markets that have delightful medieval backdrops, snow-covered pavements, sparkling illuminations, and fun festivities.
It’s essential viewing for both wanderlust seekers and anyone who adores the holiday period. Ranking the top 15 across the continent, The Travel Expert declared Krakow, Poland, as the finest to experience, reports Edinburgh Live.
The expert revealed: “Home to Europe’s largest market square, Krakow is an excellent choice for a Christmas market break. The massive main square in the centre of the old town comes alive with hundreds of market stalls selling handmade gifts and souvenirs as well as traditional local food and mulled wine to enjoy.”
What’s even more appealing, direct flights from UK airports cost as little as £36 via easyJet. If a Christmas escape is on your 2025 wish list, here’s what you can expect on a visit to Krakow.
What does Krakow have to offer?
According to Visit Krakow, the festive market has been staged in the Main Square since the early 14th century. Krakow boasts three principal Christmas markets. The biggest can be found on Rynek Główny, the Main Square, while smaller festive gatherings operate at Plac Wolnica in Kazimierz and outside the Galeria Krakowska shopping centre.
Each market showcases a magnificent selection of seasonal presents and handicrafts, alongside substantial food offerings and warming mulled beverages. “In addition to pierogi dumplings and traditional Polish soups, there are kiosks selling skewers of meat and delicious grilled sheep cheese,” the website said. “Vodkas, liqueurs, and spirits really take the edge off a winter’s night. For pudding, there are waffles, gingerbread biscuits, and Eastern European pastries.”
Beyond food and drink, Krakow provides numerous seasonal activities. The Old Town and Kazimierz markets showcase stages hosting holiday performances throughout December, while the Galeria Krakowska market includes a small ice rink.
A standout feature of the city’s festive customs is the szopki krakowskie nativity scenes. Rather than conventional nativity displays, these vibrantly coloured models draw inspiration from the city’s churches and cathedrals.
A representative from Krakow Christmas’ official website also declared: “Krakow Christmas market is one of the most picture-perfect settings for a Christmas market that you can imagine. Krakow’s Main Square is huge.
“It is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, and amongst all the Christmas market stalls is the beautiful twin-towered basilica of St Mary’s. In the centre of the square is the Cloth Hall. In Polish, the Cloth Hall is called Sukiennice (pronounced Sukyenitse). Krakow’s Cloth Hall is THE place to go for souvenirs throughout the whole year, and Christmas-time is no exception.”
The blog page also suggests there may be a chance of a white Christmas for those seeking the perfect winter wonderland. Experts say snow is most likely to fall in southern Poland, and Krakow sits close to the Tatra mountain, offering the city a much stronger prospect of a snowy backdrop – though, as ever, the weather remains unpredictable.
Is Krakow worth a visit?
A travel blogger called The Sunshine Seeker, who lived in Krakow and visited it at least 10 times, shared her view on whether the market is genuinely excellent. She said: “So is Krakow Christmas Market worth visiting? My answer is YES, but… It is worth it because Krakow is worth it.
“Krakow is one of the most beautiful yet affordable weekend getaways in Europe. However, I wouldn’t plan a visit to Krakow just for the Christmas Market, there are better destinations such as Dresden and Strasbourg for that. Or Wroclaw Christmas Market which is the largest in Poland.”
If you’re planning a visit, the 2025 market is set to open on November 28 and will run until December 26, with some stalls remaining open through the New Year. Direct flights from Edinburgh Airport to Krakow cost as little as £35.99 via easyJet. According to the Sunshine Seeker, the Christmas Market is open from around 10:00 until 8:00 pm, and the food stalls are open even later.
The optimal time to experience Krakow Christmas Market is during the week when it’s dark as it will allow you to soak up the atmosphere. Sundays are extremely busy. Krakow is a walkable city, meaning tourists can stroll to the Christmas Market from most hotels.
“I always recommend you stay in Kazmierz, my favourite neighbourhood in Krakow, or somewhere along the park that encircles the Old Town,” said the blogger. She continued: “I find Krakow Christmas Market one of Europe’s most affordable.
“The market has some more expensive items; however, Krakow, and Poland in general, is still quite affordable. You can expect to pay €3 – €10 for food, €4.5 for a draft beer and $5.5 for mulled wine.”
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ON Spain’s Costa del Sol, the city of Malaga is rich in heritage with a buzzing social scene.
It also offers a winning combination of a city and beach break rolled into one, meaning you can blend shopping and sight-seeing with downtime and relaxation.
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Malaga is rich in heritage with a buzzing social sceneCredit: GettyThe stunning cathedral ceilingCredit: Getty
THE weather in Malaga is unlikely to disappoint, at any time of the year.
Right now temperatures are ideal — sunshine in the mid-20s — which is perfect for relaxing with a book by the pool or on the beach, as well as pounding the city streets without getting too hot and bothered.
Even if you’re not one for lying in the sun, a few days can easily be spent exploring the city’s excellent shopping scene or its old town with Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture flanking the streets.
The city centre is also just 15 minutes from the airport by car, which makes it an ideal destination for a short break.
STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?
MALAGA is the sixth largest city in Spain, and fairly sprawling.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t explore it easily on foot.
It does depend on where you’re staying as to whether you’ll want to grab a taxi to the city centre, though.
All of the city’s main landmarks, including the cathedral, Alcazaba fortress-palace and Roman Theatre, are within a few minutes’ stroll of each other.
ANYTHING FOR BUCKET LIST?
HIKE up to the top of Gibralfaro Castle for fantastic views over the port and city.
This fort was built in the 14th century to house troops and protect the Alcazaba.
Standard entry is seven euros, which allows you to walk the perimeter of the fort via its tall walls as well as visit the small on-site museum.
Be sure to wear comfy shoes as the winding path visitors must climb to reach the castle from the town is pretty steep, and smooth paving means it’s easy to lose your footing.
If you do struggle with hills, you can grab a bus to the top.
For equally impressive views, a walk around the adjacent Alcazaba is not to be missed (standard entry is ten euros).
This stunning building is a marvel of medieval architecture.
Malaga is the birthplace of artist Pablo Picasso and it would be remiss not to visit the Picasso Museum, which showcases some of his famous works.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT?
ALMOST all tastes are catered for on the beachfront, but seafood should be the order of the day here.
Make sure you have at least one serving of pil-pil prawns, which features on most menus here.
Enjoy tipples and tapas-style nibblesCredit: Getty
I loved Majumi Beach Club, which has a relaxed vibe and dishes up some excellent local grub.
Try the sardines, which are grilled on an outdoor fire. The tomato salad with anchovies is also a hit with visitors.
For a nice evening meal, Los Marangos in the old town serves top paella, tapas and other authentic dishes from the region.
FANCY A DRINK?
PICASSO Bar Tapas has a really buzzy atmosphere.
As the name suggests, you can enjoy tipples such as fruit-loaded sangria alongside tapas-style nibbles.
The statue of Pablo Picasso in the cityCredit: diegograndi
Or if you’re looking for more of a party vibe, there are plenty of late-night venues in Torremolinos including Irish bars and karaoke venues.
I preferred to take advantage of the Cosmos Sky Bar at my hotel — Hotel Costa Malaga — which poured me freshly shaken cocktails while I soaked up the excellent views from the rooftop.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY?
HOTEL Costa Malaga is very affordable at around £50 a night.
It is best suited to adults rather than families with young children, due to its lack of kids’ facilities.
The pool at the Hotel Costa MalagaCredit: supplied
And that is a big sellling point as it means the hotel attracts a laidback crowd who come for the balmy weather and good food.
Rooms are modern, with the ocean visible from many of the balconies.
As well as a reasonable-sized pool, there’s a gym area and on-site buffet and breakfast restaurant.
The best part is that the beach is just a ten-minute walk away, where you can spend the day flopped on a lounger in one of the many beach clubs — or have a go at one of the watersports on offer.
GO: MALAGA
GETTING THERE:easyJet flies from Birmingham, Manchester, Luton, Gatwick and Southend to Malaga from £14.99 each way.
The island is a Mediterranean paradise that is well worth a visit, with visitors commenting on how authentic and unspoiled it feels, as well as its stunning natural beauty
09:51, 18 Oct 2025Updated 09:51, 18 Oct 2025
Visitors say the island is authentically Greek(Image: Getty)
The picturesque Greek island of Samos, nestled just off the coast of western Turkey in the eastern Aegean Sea, is a haven of stunning seaside resorts and quaint fishing villages. Separated from the Anatolian peninsula by the narrow Mycale Strait, this 185-square-mile island is a blend of mountainous terrain and fertile plains.
A significant part of Samos is carpeted with vineyards, producing the renowned Muscat wine. The landscape is dominated by two towering mountains, Ampelos and Kerkis. Ampelos, the larger of the two, sits at the heart of the island, reaching heights of 1,095 metres. Kerkis, although smaller in area, boasts the island’s highest point.
With a population just shy of 34,000, Samos ranks as the ninth most populous of the Greek islands. It’s also a hotspot for diverse fauna, including golden jackals, stone marten, wild boar, flamingos and monk seals.
Samos is steeped in history, with the Eupalinian aqueduct being one of its many archaeological treasures. In the 6th-century BC, under the rule of the infamous tyrant Polycrates, a 0.6-mile tunnel was carved through Mount Kastro to construct an aqueduct, providing the ancient capital with fresh water, reports the Express.
This engineering marvel, dug from both ends in a methodical manner akin to the Channel Tunnel, stands today as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ancient city of Samos was once fortified by a wall stretching 6,430 metres. Starting from the eastern pier of the ancient port, it extended northwards, ending near the ancient stadium on the city’s western coast.
Today, only fragments of the limestone wall and a tower north of Glyfada Lake remain.
Classical Samos is perhaps best known for its connection to the philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. In 1955, the town of Tigani was renamed Pythagoreion in honour of his birth there.
The historian Herodotus, famed for his Histories – considered the founding work of history in Western literature – also resided in Samos for some time.
Samos enjoys a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service, July is the hottest and driest month, but temperatures remain a pleasant 24C in October.
Whether you prefer remote or commercialised beaches, Samos has something for everyone. Tsamadou, eight miles from Vathy, is a pebbled, partly organised and family-friendly beach.
For those seeking seclusion, Mikto Sitani beach is non-organised and tucked away from the crowds.
Tourists have been full of praise for Samos, with one visitor gushing on Tripadvisor: “What a surprise! We had never heard about Samos but we booked by coincidence because it was one of the only European destinations where they didn’t expect cold and rain. So happy we did it. It’s a wonderful island. It’s still authentic[ly] Greek.
“Samos is not made for mass tourism. The roads are narrow, and there are hairpin bends everywhere. Some destinations are only accessible by 4×4 cars because there are no paved roads in some areas.
“Most of the island still looks untouched and the coastline is rugged and just magnificent.”
In the last year they have rolled out their game-changing Premium Economy cabin, invested billions in retrofitting their fleet and expanded their global network
In its 41st birthday year, new holiday destinations include Cancun, starting next month, and Seoul in 2026.
Coming in behind was TUI, with third place being taken by BA Holidays.
BEST OF BRITISH
The Best of British award celebrating amazing British brands was given to National Trust.
Last year they won for their incredible heritage, and this year they took the spot again, thanks to their amazing work in conservation and the joy and escapism they provide every single weekend.
Budget hotel chain Premier Inn came in second, while Wetherspoons was a close third.
You named National Trust the Best of British brandCredit: Alamy
BEST UK HOLIDAY PROVIDER
Haven is your no.1 when it comes to the best UK holiday provider.
Their affordable family breaks make it the perfect holiday spot for parents on a budget, with new investments across all of their parks.
Second place went to Hoseasons with Park Resorts coming in third.
Haven took the top spot for the best UK Holiday ProviderCredit: Haven
BEST UK ATTRACTION
When it comes to the top UK attraction, you named Alton Towers your favourite.
They’re the only place in the UK where you can meet your favourite CBeebies characters in the morning and the terrifying new Toxicator ride in the afternoon.
Second and third went to the Eden Project and Legoland Windsor, respectively.
For the best UK attraction, Alton Towers came out on topCredit: Alamy
BEST GLOBAL ATTRACTION
Walt Disney World remains your favourite Global Attraction, scooping the top spot.
The park continues its massive investments, with work beginning on the largest expansion in the Magic Kingdom’s history.
In second was Universal Orlando, while Disneyland Paris was in second.
Walt Disney World was your Best Global AttractionCredit: Alamy
BEST CRUISE FOR FAMILIES
Another win for Disney, Disney Cruise Line was named the Best Cruise for Families in our newest award this year.
Earlier this year they announced Disney Dream will be returning to the UK, with a future ship launching in 2026.
Royal Caribbean came in second place, followed by P&O in third.
Disney took the award for the Best Cruise for FamiliesCredit: Refer to source
BEST CRUISE FOR ADULTS
Another new award this year, the Best Cruise for Adults was given to Virgin Voyages.
They ripped up the rule book , replacing buffets with Michelin-star-inspired restaurants, formal nights with pop-up gigs, and bingo with sunrise yoga.
The second spot was given to Ambassador, with third place going to Cunard.
Virgin Voyages was named the Best Cruise for Adults, another new award this yearCredit: Supplied
BEST SHORT HAUL DESTINATION
Spain remains your top short-haul destination, taking the award this year.
With everything from sun-drenched coasts and world-class city breaks, to vibrant gastronomy, it’s no surprise it remains a firm favourite.
Greece took second place, followed by Italy.
K789P8 Plaza de la Virgen in ValenciaCredit: Alamy
BEST LONG HAUL DESTINAION
When it comes to the Best Long Haul Destination, Sun readers named the Caribbean.
With long-haul laid-back bliss, it no surprise the beautiful islands were voted top.
The USA came in second followed by Thailand.
When it comes to your favourite long haul destination, you named the CaribbeanCredit: Alamy
The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot explained: “This is the ultimate seal of approval from our readers. Last year, the title went to a very worthy winner, but the company that took the crown in 2023 was clearly determined to win it back.
“They have spent the last 12 months doubling down on what they do best: delivering on their promises.”
TUI, last years winner, came in second place, followed closely by British Airways Holidays.
Jet2 was named your Most Trusted Travel ProviderCredit: Alamy
Editor’s Choice Award
The Sun’s Head of Travel named Universal her Editor’s Choice Award.
She said: “The opening this year of Epic Universe – Universal’s third park in Orlando – was the culmination of more than a decade of planning and truly positions the theme park pioneers as a fully-formed rival to the House of Mouse.
“In 2010, with the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal changed the entire theme park landscape.
“Their complete immersive approach would set the standards others would follow.
“And Epic takes that to another level. From the technicolour mystical landscapes of How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk to the magnificent Parisien boulevards of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, you are catapulted into the heart of our favourite movie moments.
“But the reason this award is so important tonight is that this story is no longer just about Orlando.
“The announcement of a Universal park right here in Bedford was huge national news, and has been… universally… welcomed.
“As a boost to the UK tourism industry and our economy, its impact cannot be underestimated.
“This will be a seismic boost for British tourism and our economy. This award isn’t just for the incredible year Universal has had; it’s for the incredible future they are building, right here on our doorstep.”
‘You’re mad!” Caroline the greengrocer said cheerfully when I told her I was going skiing. A reasonable reaction since not so long ago I was shopping on crutches following a hip replacement. My sister’s friends were more concerned: “How old are you? 80? I don’t think this is a good idea. You’ll fall and break something.” My brother, Andrew, 86, decided it was better not to tell anyone.
For at least two decades I’d had a half-buried wish to experience one more ski trip. A final fix of blue sky, frosty air and the exhilaration that comes with finding yourself still intact at the bottom of a snow-covered slope. I was never much good, and hadn’t skied for decades, but that wasn’t the point. At 83, I needed to see if I could still do it. And if I could do it, how about inviting my sister, Kate, one-third of our Old Crones group who encourage each other to do parkrun each week? Then I remembered that, as teenagers, Andrew had joined me on my first ski holiday. That was 67 years ago, but Andrew used to be quite good, so I invited him too. My friend Penny, who is so absurdly young (67, so she says) that she doesn’t really count, was also allowed to come and try her luck with the oldies and practise her German. We all made an effort to get as fit as possible, but none of us had skied for at least 40 years.
Seefeld, in Tirol near Innsbruck, was our chosen destination, as it offers a variety of winter activities – assuming we’d survive our two-hour lesson on the first day (which, to be honest, was all the downhill skiing we had planned) – and is wonderfully free of après-ski malarky. It attracts families rather than partying youngsters, and is typically Austrian, with onion-domed churches and chalet-type houses. Our base was the friendly, family-run Hotel Helga and we ate at a different restaurant each evening.
“We call this Kiserwetter,” said Janina, our guide, when I remarked we couldn’t believe our luck at waking each morning to cloudless skies, warm sun and plenty of snow for early March. We were all pretending just to be excited, not worried at all, as we took a bus to the ski area. It was full of young people and families carrying skis and glowing with vitality. I thought I caught the young man helping us with our boot and ski hire rolling his eyes at the challenge.
Our instructor Ulrich, who had been pre-warned of our ages, smiled bravely as we stomped towards him. We were talking a bit too loudly, smiling too broadly, perhaps trying to postpone the moment when we had to clamp our feet on to the skis. Inwardly, I was sure I’d fall over as soon as I moved. But I didn’t. None of us did. Ulrich was very patient, giving us enough time at each stage of the lesson to gain in confidence.
Hilary Bradt (right) with her brother Andrew and sister Kate
Modern skis are much easier to manage, I discovered – shorter, lighter and rounded at the front – than the long, cumbersome things I remember from the 60s that always made me fall off the ski lift. We knew we would not be trusted on a lift of any sort, so assumed we would laboriously herringbone up the hill and slide down, falling over in the process. That’s how it was in 1958. But here there was a wonderful new device, a “travelator”, or moving walkway, that conveyed us effortlessly to the top of the gentle beginners’ slope, which was cluttered with fearless children. We were the only adults.
Two hours later, we hadn’t even fallen, had all managed some decent snowplough turns and even a sort of parallel turn. We were euphoric. “That was just amazing!” said Andrew, who isn’t given to hyperbole.
Could we have managed a whole week of skiing? Possibly, but the variety of activities Seefeld offered was more enticing. There were hikes around various lakes, buses giving us access to ridiculously picturesque villages, and the “winter hike to the Hämmermoosalm, 4.6km (and sled back down)”, as the information pack casually described it.
Having watched the Winter Olympics, Kate and I knew all about sledding. You run behind, pushing the sled, then leap on and hurtle down on your belly at speeds rivalling a Formula One car. Janina was reassuring. Nothing to worry about: we’d sit on the sled and steer with our feet. But we did worry. Andrew decided it wasn’t for him but we three plugged on.
Hilary Bradt hits the slopes
As a 12-year-old it had been tiring hauling my father’s homemade toboggan up Gold Hill common in Buckinghamshire in our snowy childhood, and as an 83-year-old it was tiring hauling an admittedly lighter toboggan uphill in oxygen-depleted air (Hämmermoosalm, a traditional alpine mountain hut and farm with dining rooms, is at 1,410 metres) for nearly 3 miles (5km). I lagged behind, muttering to myself about being too old for this. The glühwein and Gulaschsuppe (goulash) in warm sunshine at the restaurant at the top were restorative, but the descent couldn’t be postponed for ever.
Penny shot off ahead and was soon out of sight. I followed cautiously, getting off to pull the toboggan over bare gravel and mud, but soon realised I was wearing a broad grin: it was exhilarating. Halfway down I thought I’d wait and take an action photo of Kate. A man in a scarlet onesie skidded by, shouting something over his shoulder that seemed to be to do with Kate. No point in waiting, and I certainly wasn’t going to plod uphill again to check on her. If she were actually dead or injured, surely the chap would have told me?
“How did you keep control on those icy bits?” Kate demanded when we finally reassembled at the bottom. “My toboggan hit a bank and I was thrown off. As I lay there swearing, a man stopped, stared at me, and asked: ‘How old are you?’ I walked the rest of the way.”
In contrast, cross-country skiing delighted everyone: no slopes, no feeling of helplessness.
We also did some proper hikes around lakes with views of pines and snowy peaks, and tried the local swimming pool and sauna. Having never had a sauna before, I thought I ought to give it a go. It was all very strange and a bit alarming, with mixed-sex naked saunas the order of the day. I hired a towelling dressing gown and went exploring. In an apparently empty room, opaque with very hot steam, I sat down gingerly in my nakedness and took in my surroundings. It was like peering through a sweltering old-fashioned London fog, but I could just make out alcoves around the walls occupied by ghostly Greek-style statues. Rather impressive. Then one moved.
On our last day, after plenty of adrenaline-fuelled experiences, we finally began behaving like sensible pensioners, opting for a carriage ride, wrapped in rugs behind two enormous grey horses that clip-clopped through the still snow-covered landscape. And sampled the local cuisine and drank plenty of glühwein, of course.
What a wonderful, eye-opening and adventurous four days it had been. On the back of the Old Crones’ T-shirts is the message: “We do because we can”. Unless you try it, you don’t know what you can do.
The trip was provided by Visit Tiroland Seefeld. Double rooms at Hotel Helga in January 2026 start at €952 a weekroom-only. Ski hire at Sailer from €232for six days
Will Hannington plunged 40ft from the balcony at his hotel in Dubrovnik, Croatia, during a holiday with friends – and he “smashed” his femur, fractured his rib and vertebrae
05:38, 18 Oct 2025Updated 05:39, 18 Oct 2025
Will Hannington plummeted 40ft from a hotel balcony(Image: Kennedy News & Media)
A desperate mother has had to take out a £15,000 loan to get her son home after he plummeted 40ft from a hotel balcony – despite having travel insurance.
Sarah Hannington’s son Will, 23, slipped on the “damp” surface as he attempted to pass something to his mate’s balcony next door during a break with friends in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Will, a furniture delivery worker, plummeted from the fourth floor of the hotel, “smashing” his femur, fractured his rib and vertebrae and damaged his kidneys and spinal cord.
Family say Will’s life was saved by “the fortune of falling on a small bush” but he needed a five-hour operation at a Croatian hospital to have a metal road inserted into his femur. Will, from Basildon, Essex, then woke up in intensive care.
After recovering, Sarah helped arrange Will to return home in a private ambulance – travelling around 1,400 miles across eight countries for 30 hours – and he is now at a London hospital. However, Sarah, 52, had to take out the loan to hire the transport because Will’s insurance company – which the family doesn’t want to name – denied his injury claim and classed it as “self-risk behaviour”.
Fortunately, Sarah was able to use her son’s European Health Insurance Card [EHIC] to cover Croatian surgery costs and his stay in intensive care, which cost another 15,000 euros (£13,000).
But the NHS worker remains furious with the insurance provider, insisting the hotel itself ruled out any inappropriate behaviour and supported Will’s case. Sarah, also from Basildon, continued: “It made me angry [that the claim was denied] because I had lost a week to get him home.
“He had his EHIC and insurance and did everything you were meant to do as a sensible person. An accident is an accident and you’d think it would be covered but it wasn’t. It made me wonder what the point of having holiday insurance was.
“When I got in touch with the insurance company, I just thought we’d be able to get Will home but after a week they declined the claim on the basis that they saw it as self-risk behaviour. It had been ruled out by the hotel that he wasn’t being silly and it was an accident and they had sent off their risk report to the insurance company.”
A GoFundMe has been created to help Sarah repay the loan. The mum of two said she had no choice but to take the loan as, since flying was unsafe, there was no alternative for Will to travel home from Croatia last month.
But Sarah, who works for the NHS, is relieved Will survived the horror – describing the situation as “a miracle.” He is set to undergo further surgery and extensive physiotherapy in the UK. He has now movement in his right leg or left foot.
Recalling the ordeal, Sarah said: “Will video called me in the early hours of the morning to tell me what had happened. I didn’t realise the height he had fallen from [at first]. He was in shock, distress and pain and he was putting a brave face on for me.
“It wasn’t just a broken leg. It was an intense fall. I prayed to God that I still had a son. It’s a miracle he’s alive. I’m glad he had his EHIC as this allowed him to be treated as a national in the country. The intensive care and surgery cost ran into 15,000 euros on its own so if we didn’t have the EHIC we would be facing this too.
“We came back to the UK via ambulance across eight countries and it took 30 hours. I went with him and it felt like a never-ending journey and he was in a considerable amount of pain. When we crossed over from the Channel Tunnel I cried as I was so happy to have him back in the UK.”
A family friend set up the GoFundMe page, unbeknown to Sarah. The mum continued: “We are just looking forward now and hoping he’ll be able to walk again and make a full recovery and go back to work. If you’re going to go to a European destination you need to have an EHIC and check the small print in your insurance.”
