travel

ANOTHER UK holiday company has gone into liquidation after nearly 30 years.

Global Vision International (GVI), an Exeter-based company, has cancelled all holidays.

Offering programmes abroad, including nature and conservation ones, they have been forced to close after 28 years.

GVI CEO Andrew Valentine said in a statement: “It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I write to share that GVI is today closing its doors.

“Over the last 28 years, we successfully supported critical wildlife and marine conservation projects to safeguard endangered ecosystems, partnered with local communities through collaborative education and sustainable livelihood initiatives, and welcomed an incredible network of alumni who continue to advocate for our planet.

“I deeply regret the effect that GVI’s closure will have on staff, projects and customers, and we are committed to providing clear information to those affected as GVI goes through a formal liquidation process.”

HOL N0

UK travel company goes bust with all holidays cancelled

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Anyone with holidays booked will be contacted regarding how to claim back, according to the website.

It stated: “GVI staff on the ground are supporting participants as they make plans to depart GVI bases.

“All impacted participants will receive formal correspondence detailing the liquidation process and instructions on how to lodge a claim.”

It comes as Bath-based travel firm Groupia Ltd closed after 24 years.

It used to offer group-based travel experiences including weekends away as well as hen and stag dos to destinations such as Prague and Barcelona.

Here’s all the travel companies that have recently gone bust.

THE UK is home to over 160 lidos and soon there will be more with a number of new pools set to open.

Following other new openings this year – including Canary Wharf Sea Lanes – here are the latest new spots to keep your eye on.

Valentines Park Lido, London

Years in the making, Valentines Park Lido will be in Valentines Park in Ilford, East London with a pool that stretches 25 metres and boast six lanes.

There will also be a spa pool, steam room, plunge pool and treatment rooms.

And kids won’t be left out either, as there will be a splash pad too.

After having fun in the pool, you can head to the onsite cafe for a bite to eat.

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The site will also be home to a gym, dance and exercise studio, meeting room and an outdoor picnic area ideal for soaking up the sunshine.

The lido was meant to open this summer, but this has been pushed back with no new opening date announced yet.

Holt Town, Manchester

As part of a project to transform Holt Town into a ‘woodland neighbourhood’, there will be a new lido.

It will be the first open-air pool in the city for 40 years and would be on Cyrus Street, which is currently an overgrown backroad.

The wider project will include rejuvenating 15 acres of green space and launching a new cultural hub.

No opening date has been announced yet.

Porthcawl, Wales

Porthcawl in Wales could be getting a new outdoor lido.

The lido would be at Salt Lake, opposite to the marina and would also feature a gym, a restaurant, a cafe and other facilities.

The lido would also be part of a wider project to add fairground rides to the area, as well as new shops, cafes and bars.

And if that wasn’t enough there will also be a site for motorhomes and touring caravans as well.

Other plans suggest that a splash pad could also eventually be built at the site, as well as mini golf and a skate park.

The site is set to start being built in 2027.

Swansea saltwater lido, Wales

Also in Wales, a saltwater lido is set for Swansea, at the redeveloped Civic Centre.

In fact, the entire waterfront area could be getting upgraded with a pier as well as the lido as part of a £20million project.

The saltwater lido will be a first for the city too, with other parts of the project include opening an aquarium, rooftop terrace and apartments.

No opening date has been announced yet.

As parts of the UK are set to get warmer again this weekend, Brits should be aware of little-known beach rules

England’s south-west coastline is famed for boasting an abundance of beautiful beaches to discover. From breathtaking coves that can hold their own against Greece’s white sand shores, to Blue Flag-awarded stretches, the UK’s magnificent coast is difficult to surpass.

Blue Flag beaches are acknowledged for their exceptional levels of cleanliness and dedication to safeguarding the natural environment, but this is no simple achievement. Keeping the coastline in immaculate condition can prove quite demanding, particularly during the busy summer months when parts of the UK welcome a great number of visitors to its shores.

While some regulations are relatively straightforward to observe, and anticipated of those visiting the beach, particularly regarding staying safe on the shore, other regulations are enforced more rigorously.

Standard beach etiquette involves noting which flags are flying and refraining from entering the water in hazardous conditions, as well as not disturbing local wildlife during your visit.

It can also involve being considerate of fellow beachgoers by keeping music at a reasonable volume and remembering to collect your litter, but some regulations are, in reality, legally enforceable and could get you into trouble if breached, reports Devon Live.

For those with dogs, the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) enables numerous local councils to implement seasonal limitations on dogs on beaches during peak periods, but other laws may take you by surprise.

Understanding the laws can prevent a relaxing day at the seaside from becoming a stressful, and expensive, outing. One seemingly innocent activity is in fact prohibited on British beaches and could result in a penalty of up to £1,000.

With the warmer weather this weekend and holiday season rapidly approaching, ecology specialists at Arbtech are urging beachgoers to bear in mind that taking pebbles, seashells or sand from British beaches is actually against the law.

Many visitors to the seaside might be tempted to slip a pebble into their pocket as a keepsake after a glorious day by the sea, yet what most people don’t realise is that this is illegal under the Coast Protection Act 1949.

Stones, shells and even items such as driftwood all play a vital role in maintaining coastal ecosystems, and removing them risks causing serious damage to these environments.

Arbtech’s Andrew Ward commented: “One person taking a pebble or shell may not seem like much, but when thousands of visitors are doing the same, it can have drastic impacts on the coastal environment. Over time, we could start to see increased erosion, the loss of natural sea defences, and disruption to habitats that many species rely on.”

Local councils are responsible for enforcing this rule, particularly at popular tourist destinations where the problem has previously occurred.

Andrew added: “The law is clear and it’s not just there to spoil any fun. It’s a reminder that beaches are protected for a reason. We all have a role to play in preserving the environment so that it can continue to thrive for generations to come.”

While gathering seashells may bring back fond childhood memories and look charming on a windowsill, these natural treasures are essential for providing microhabitats to a wealth of local wildlife. Capturing a photo of the beach on your phone or camera is a far safer, and most likely more affordable, way to preserve the memory of the UK’s stunning coastline.

A mum who flew her two children to Barcelona on holiday has claimed her family were made to endure the flight from hell – but people have sided with other passengers

We all hope we win the lottery when it comes to scoring a peaceful plane journey, but some of us aren’t that lucky.

Travelling by plane in the early hours of the morning is never anyone’s idea of fun, especially when you know you have several hours of travel ahead of you in a cramped seat. That’s before you’ve even considered the possibility of external factors making your flight even more miserable – such as being lumped with a middle seat, having babies on board that won’t stop crying, or sitting next to someone who insists on not using headphones while scrolling social media videos.

But one mum who recently took her two children to Barcelona on holiday has claimed that her flight from hell wasn’t caused by one inconsiderate passenger, as multiple passengers did something she could have never anticipated.

Megan Fitzpatrick shared a video on TikTok which showed her sitting on a Ryanair flight to Barcelona, where the passengers behind her, who were not on camera, could be heard blasting loud music and singing along.

In her caption, she claimed that this took place at 5:40 am, had been going on for three hours already, and was happening while her children were trying to sleep. Megan did not indicate whether the flight attendants had tried to get the passengers to stop their disruptive antics, as the 11-second clip featured only the singing.

But commenters on the post were largely on the side of the other passengers. Some pointed out that it was “Off Week” in Barcelona when Megan was travelling, which is an annual celebration of electronic music that attracts ravers and music fans from across the globe, and blamed the mum for not doing her research before flying.

One person said: “You’ve travelled to Barcelona during Off Week, what did you expect?” Another added: “Can’t believe people book family holidays to Barca when Off Week is on.”

A third wrote: “Well, maybe if you do research before your holibobs, you would’ve known that it’s Off Week in Barca.”

Others also tried to insinuate that it was “karma” for the mum and her kids, saying her frustration is how other people feel when children “scream” during flights.

Someone commented: “This is how we feel when your kids are screaming the whole flight.”

But many people responded to that commenter, claiming their words were unfair, saying one child being disregulated on a flight is “often a lot less annoying than this behaviour”.

Megan later uploaded a response video in which she said she wasn’t actually as upset about the party-goers as commenters seemed to assume. She was just tired, and while she did find the singing and the music “a bit inconsiderate”, she was mostly just shocked to learn that you’re allowed to make so much noise on a plane.

She explained: “It’s not that deep. It was a wee daft video of me saying that was where I was at with the travel. Like, a f*** my life moment. Noisy plane, five in the morning, kids tired, that’s all I was doing. I wasn’t at all saying ‘How f****** dare they be so noisy?’, that’s not what I was saying at all.

“I didn’t realise that you were allowed to blare speakers on a plane. I didn’t realise that. I’ve seen people be told to turn music off on a train, so that’s what I meant by I was surprised.”

The mum also said that she believes that if she went on a plane and started blaring metal music, people likely wouldn’t be so quick to defend her, so she does believe that no matter what genre of music it is, it is “inconsiderate” to blare it out of speakers on a plane when not everyone on the flight is going to the festival.

Can you play music through a speaker on a plane?

While it is generally considered polite to use headphones to listen to music while on any form of public transport, there is no law or rule that says you have to.

According to Muzen Audio, speakers can be used on planes except during takeoff and landing, when all electronic devices must be turned off or switched to airplane mode. The website does state you should always consider the feelings of others around you by asking for permission before you start playing your music out loud.

For Megan’s specific flight, the Ryanair terms and conditions do not state that headphones or earphones must be used to listen to music or videos, but they do state that if you behave in a way that could “anger, upset, offend, intimidate, frighten or injure any passenger or crew member”, then they can take measures to deal with the situation, including removing you from the flight.

Ryanair has been contacted for comment.

Just 35 minutes from London’s Victoria station lies a charming neighbourhood bursting with independent shops.

When Brits picture stunning and historic spots across the UK, places like the Cotswolds, Edinburgh, Somerset, and York typically spring to mind, renowned for their enduring appeal, charming streets, and centuries-old buildings.

Yet despite boasting a wealth of heritage, London’s neighbourhoods rarely feature in discussions about the nation’s most enchanting locations. Our capital is enormous and brimming with hidden treasures.

As a native South Londoner, I hardly venture up North, but just 35 minutes from Victoria station sits a charming neighbourhood nestled between Finsbury Park and Wood Green that feels like travelling back through the decades, complete with cobbled lanes, vintage and independent retailers, and an impressive 19th-century clock tower.

Here’s why Crouch End deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

What sets Crouch End apart?

My favourite part of exploring this neighbourhood was discovering all the independent retailers, which have remained bustling thanks to the local community. From organic health shops that have traded since 1986 to a florist, garden centre, and pet emporium open seven days a week, there’s a varied selection of outlets on every street.

According to Hornsey Town Hall, “Crouch End is a captivating neighbourhood that exudes a bohemian charm unlike any other in London. With its quirky character, artistic flair, and vibrant community, living in Crouch End offers a unique and enriching experience.”

They added: “Crouch End is often affectionately referred to as ‘a village within the city,’ and for good reason. Despite being only a few miles away from the bustling heart of London, this neighbourhood feels worlds apart.”

I particularly enjoyed browsing fashion boutiques such as Rhoda, which displays original creations from local and international designers and stocks trinkets, mugs, jewellery, ceramics, and more. The shop has been trading since 1998 and was established by three sisters.

A statement on its website read: “Our store is a labour of love and a testament to the power of meaningful connections. Our passion for curating unique fashion and heartfelt gifts led to the establishment of our shop, and we’ve been spreading the joy ever since.”

The neighbourhood is also renowned for its dining and leisure scene. Just a brief stroll through the suburb reveals bakeries, pubs, restaurants, and cafés – you’re truly spoilt for choice in Crouch End.

I’d suggest popping into Sourdough Sophia for a delectable sweet indulgence in a stunningly decorated setting. I sampled a scrumptious Baileys-filled croissant and a decadent hot chocolate.

Crouch End boasts a vibrant creative energy, drawing artists, writers, musicians, and actors for generations. The ArtHouse Crouch End, situated in a former Salvation Army Hall, serves as a local cultural centre, while pubs and venues throughout the area host a dynamic blend of up-and-coming and established live music.

During a visit in early June, I stumbled upon Crouch End’s annual festival, reportedly one of the UK’s largest independent community festivals, taking place at Hornsey Town Hall in the neighbourhood’s centre.

It was established to unite local creatives and celebrate the community and the arts. I have never witnessed a neighbourhood come together so harmoniously and happily to champion and recognise their area.

A brief history of Crouch End

Crouch End began life as a modest rural settlement at the crossroads of ancient pathways, deriving its name from a wooden cross that once stood where the Clock Tower now sits.

It remained predominantly agricultural for centuries until the railway arrived in late 1867, triggering swift expansion. New housing, retail outlets and enterprises transformed the district into a flourishing Victorian suburb and, by the close of the 19th century, Hornsey’s commercial centre.

The iconic Clock Tower, still standing today, was erected in 1895 to commemorate local reformer Henry Reader Williams, symbolising Crouch End’s evolution. More than 130 years on, it remains the neighbourhood’s most recognisable landmark and the focal point of the local community.

Why is the area so hidden?

Crouch End no longer has a railway station, with no underground tube or overground trains serving it. The nearest stations are Finsbury Park, Archway, Hornsey, and Crouch Hill.

According to Ham High, “The line never quite achieved its potential in terms of passenger numbers.” They added: “In the mid-1930s, a plan was devised to incorporate the track and stations into London Underground’s Northern Line.

“Work on electrification was started but then halted early in the Second World War and subsequently abandoned. A peak-hours-only service was maintained using locomotives and rolling stock almost as old as the stations – but that simply staved off the inevitable, and Crouch End and the handful of other stations on the line closed to passenger traffic in July 1954.”

Crouch End may not be on the typical tourist trail, but those who stumble upon it tend to fall head over heels for it. American travel blogger, A Lady in London, paid the area a visit and shared: “Crouch End is one of my favourite under-the-radar London neighbourhoods.

“It has lots of independent shops and restaurants, vibrant streets, and great views of London. East of Highgate and south of the Alexandra Palace, it stays incognito partly because it’s not really on the tube.”

Yet beyond its delightful, characterful appeal, locals cherish the area for its close-knit, welcoming community spirit that looks out for one another — a quality that’s genuinely hard to come by in the capital.

Speaking to long-term resident Judith Abbs, who has called the area home for a number of years, she said: “We thought we knew Crouch End quite well before we moved here five years ago. But one wonderful surprise has been how many friendly people we meet.

“My husband is disabled, and a passing stranger often stops to ask if they can help. It really has a strong community feel.”

This pier is undergoing restorations after being closed for decades

A long-neglected pier is currently in the midst of a multi-million-pound restoration project, with the aim of welcoming visitors back through its gates within the next few years. The Grade-II listed Birnbeck Pier first opened its doors in 1867, remaining in operation for 127 years before being shut down in 1994 owing to serious safety concerns.

Situated in Weston-super-Mare, the pier held the unique distinction of being the only one in the entire country to connect the mainland to an island — a small, rugged outcrop known as Birnbeck Island. In the years following its closure, the island continued to serve as a base for the RNLI to launch lifeboats; however, this too came to an end in 2014 when the pier was declared too hazardous.

Before that, the island had been requisitioned by the Admiralty during World War 2, serving as a top-secret facility for weapons testing.

Once the pier reopened after the war, it never truly recaptured its former glory, and changed hands numerous times amongst various private owners.

A lack of upkeep eventually rendered the pier unsafe, leading to its closure to the public in 1994. Since 1998, it has featured on the National Heritage at Risk Register.

Restoration plans were initially drawn up back in 2006, but were repeatedly shelved following successive changes in ownership.

The pier has since been acquired by North Somerset Council, and with the help of £5.5million in National Lottery funding, restoration work has now got underway.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that an extra £62,120 had been secured from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, administered by Historic England.

Following the announcement of this additional funding, Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s cabinet member overseeing the Birnbeck Pier project, said: “It’s great that Historic England has been able to top up our initial grant application.

“This additional money has allowed us to instruct specialist contractors to restore the entrance gates and turnstiles and install important design features on the southern Toll House to honour Eugenius Birch’s original design.

“I’m very much looking forward to seeing the flag flying at the entrance to the pier in celebration of work once it’s complete next summer.”

THOUSANDS of people have been evacuated across the south of France due to huge wildfires across the region.

Along with flights being forced to divert, we’ve explained everything you need to know.

What is happening in France right now?

Extreme temperatures in France have resulted in huge wildfires that have sparked evacuations.

Emergency services including water-dropping helicopters and firefighters have been deployed, with more than 3,000 people evacuated, after highs of 44C have been reported.

The blaze in France is believed to have been sparked by a discarded cigarette butt.

Officials have spent much of the summer battling with wildfires in France, with over 9,000 reported along the Mediterranean coast.

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Where are the wildfires in France?

The current wildfires have affected the towns of Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon.

Three campsites popular with both locals and tourists were evacuated in response.

An airport in Perpignan was also forced to temporarily close with flights diverted to other airports such as Toulouse.

Two fires also broke out on the outskirts of Marseille, France’s second-biggest city.

Is it safe to travel to France right now?

All of France is safe to travel to, although the UK Foreign Office has some guidance regarding wildfires in the country.

It says: “Wildfires can start anywhere in France during the summer months, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

“Fires have become more frequent because of drought and high temperatures.

“French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.”

It also warns that anyone who causes a wildfire – even by accident – can face fines and even prison.

Anyone caught up in a wildfire should call fire services on 18 or emergency services on 112.

Ken Marino loves living in L.A.

Living here has certainly been good for his acting career. Though he broke into the business as a member of NYC-turned-MTV sketch comedy group the State in 1994, he moved to L.A. in the fall of 1997 when he landed a role in the second season of “Men Behaving Badly,” an NBC sitcom. Marino shot just 13 episodes before the show was canceled. Still, he stayed in L.A., landing roles in much-loved shows like “Veronica Mars,” “Party Down,” “The Residence” and “Running Point.” He’s also co-written a few things, including “Role Models” and “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass,” out July 10, which was filmed in and around Los Angeles.

In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.

“Working around L.A. and running around to jobs is how I got to understand L.A.,” Marino says. “It’s just a very comfortable city to live in. I just think it’s fun to be able to bounce around and do anything you feel like doing.”

Here’s how Marino would spend his perfect, carefree Sunday in Los Angeles.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

6 a.m.: Dog walking, coffee and flowers

We have two dogs. They need to go outside in the morning and eat, and they are very vocal about it. For a while, every morning at 5:58 my one dog, Dot, would start whining and moving around until I’d go “yeah, OK, let’s feed you.”

In our family, I’m the one who feeds the dogs and takes them out, because I’m a morning person. I enjoy it when it’s not fully light out, maybe making myself a coffee or taking a walk to this place called Project Bloom Coffee. It’s a little mom and pop kind of place and they have terrific coffee and breakfast sandwiches. They’re also a florist. Sometimes they even use this cool paper holder with a handle where, on one side you put the coffee and then on the other side you put your beautiful flower display. So then you get to walk home with your coffee and your flowers together and it’s something I’ve never seen anywhere else.

7:30 a.m.: Online chess

After I go get my coffee and walk the dogs, I’ll still be the only person up so I’ll get on my computer and get a couple of games of chess in. I play people from around the world online on Chess.com, and I usually either get frustrated or feel like I’m the best chess player in the world. Anyway, I’m getting my rating up on the app and I’m very excited about it. I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of chess tutorials on TikTok and YouTube that teach me how to play better.

9 a.m.: More coffee and “911”

If I go to Project Bloom, I’ll bring my wife a coffee and some flowers but if not, we have a little espresso and cappuccino maker so I’ll use that to make her a cappuccino, which I’ll bring to her in bed. She’s always very happy about that and then I’ll go try to wake my [16-year-old] daughter up, which usually takes about two or three tries until I take her phone, set the timer for five minutes, and then put it on the other side of her room so she has to get out of her bed to turn it off when it sounds.

She and I have been religiously watching “911” recently. We started with Season 1 and now we’re about six or seven seasons in so I’ll make her breakfast — maybe a Nutella crepe with some little cherry tomatoes on the side, which is weird but she likes it or maybe some oatmeal — and then we’ll watch “911” and talk about our favorite characters, like Buck, Chimney and Bobby.

Noon: Lunch on the Westside

We have a little apartment in Marina Del Rey that’s right by the beach so sometimes I’ll go out there with the dogs, just to sit for a while and enjoy. I usually walk between the Venice pier and Washington Street, but sometimes I’ll go further north and walk along Venice Beach if I want to hang out with some freaky deakies.

When I’m over on that side of town, there’s a couple of places that I might go for food, like this Italian restaurant called Ospi that’s in Venice. They’re incredible. They make their own homemade pasta and it’s delicious. There’s also this chain called Guisados, and I love their tacos so sometimes I’ll do that too. Venice Ramen is good too, and they do these things called jumbo gyoza that are absolutely delicious. They’re like 2.5 times bigger than a normal gyoza, like palm-sized, and I really like them.

2 p.m.: Play practice and a pint

My daughter is in two plays right now at this place called the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in Santa Monica, so it’s my responsibility to take her over there and drop her off for practice. When I do that, if it’s a Sunday, I might want to grab a Guinness somewhere and watch basketball. There’s a bar called Weary Livers down the street that has a lot of board games and it feels like you’re in somebody’s basement, which is good. It’s also right next to the Brixton, which is another nice bar that I’ll go to from time to time if I’m waiting for my daughter to finish rehearsal because it’s a lot of driving otherwise.

4 p.m.: Garage band practice

Typically on Sunday, we’ll also have a rehearsal for the Middle Aged Dad Jam Band. [Editor’s note: Marino co-founded the group with David Wain, whom he’s known since “The State” and who co-wrote “Wet Hot American Summer.”) We’ll play for a couple of hours in David’s garage, trying out new songs and working out what we’re going to do at our next live show.

6 p.m.: Guerilla promotion

Right now, David [Wain] and I are trying to figure out different promotional things we can do for our movie, “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass,” so maybe we’d do some more of that. It’s a really funny movie and we sold it at Sundance.

Anyway, two Sundays ago we walked around with our friend Frank Barrera, who is also one of the camera operators on “Gail Daughtry.” We went to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and we shot promos for the movie where we were talking to different people and pretending that the Gail Daughtry cinematic universe is vast and has been around for decades, like we were asking people what their favorite Gail Daughtry movie is. It confused a lot of them, but every once in a while somebody would say something so we’re using those for promo spots.

I also spent some time just running up and down the street being very overly enthusiastic and screaming “the new Gail Daughtry movie is coming out!” and then we shot people’s reactions, which were typically “confusion” and “not caring.” Like, “Stop yelling at me, weirdo.”

7:30 p.m.: Thai takeout

On weekends, my wife and I like to order from a specific Thai place that’s won many awards. It’s called Luv 2 Eat Thai Bistro and it’s absolutely fantastic. The crab curry is so delicious and they do these street food sausages that we crave. They come with ginger and peanuts and garlic, plus a big slab of raw cabbage and some hot peppers and we’ll eat them like popcorn, just throwing them in our mouths while we catch up on “Survivor.” The flavor is just insane, and we think about how good they are all the time.

9:30 p.m.: Checkmate

After we watch “Survivor,” usually what happens next is that we’ll end up going, “Should we watch a movie?” Then we’ll look around for a movie for a while and then my daughter will be like, “Hey, Mom! Come in here and watch this YouTube show with me” so my wife will get pulled away, and I’ll immediately pick up my computer and start playing chess again. I like to bookend my day with a quiet chess game in the morning and another quiet game at night. It’s a nice way to wind down.

I’ll typically play a minimum of about three games before my eyes start to close because they’re trying to fall asleep. That’s when I’ll quit because I’ll be making stupid moves and it affects my rating, like “Oh, I just lost that game because I fell asleep while my computer was on,” so that’s how I know when I’m done.

THIS summer, it looks like it’s time to call a truce on the great Spain vs. Turkey debate.

Because by looking at the latest booking data, I’ve noticed a massive change in 2026.

More and more Brits are swapping Europe’s traditional heavyweight resorts for a handful of Greek destinations.

These spots serve up the exact same sunshine, brilliant beaches, and all-inclusive value – often for a chunk less money.

And because I work in travel, my screen is basically permanently locked onto live price trends and capacity numbers.

The pattern right now is clear: holidaymakers are moving away from the usual high-premium hubs in Spain, the Canaries or the Turkish rivieras because Greece has suddenly become the ultimate value loophole.

A massive influx of flight capacity from the UK means you can bag that peak-summer Mediterranean experience without paying the usual school holiday markup.

If you want to know where the smart money is heading this summer, these are the seven Greek spots I’d be circling.

7. Ixia, Rhodes

If there’s one Greek resort that’s aggressively stealing traffic from the traditional Spanish and Turkish mainstays this summer, it’s Ixia.

Our data shows a massive wave of holidaymakers ditching the likes of Benidorm, Alanya, Costa Adeje, Costa Teguise, Marmaris, and Torremolinos specifically to head here.

It gives you that classic beach holiday setup people love, but with a slightly more premium edge, proper decent hotels, and historic Rhodes Old Town sitting just a ten-minute taxi ride down the road.

Plus, you get a constant coastal breeze, which makes the peak August heat infinitely more comfortable than the suffocating temperatures you get elsewhere.

I spotted five nights at the Belair Beach from Edinburgh on 21 August, with half board and flights included, from £375pp.

The hotel sits right across the road from the front, but the real insider perk here is their specialised windsurfing and water sports station directly on the sand.

Because Ixia is a world-class windsurfing hub, the hotel has gear hire sorted right on your doorstep, meaning you can try your hand at proper coastal sports for a fraction of what a commercial water sports center down the coast would fleece you for.

6. Ialyssos, Rhodes

Just around the bay from Ixia is Ialyssos, another Rhodes resort that’s turning into one of the island’s biggest success stories.

The booking data tells us that the crowds usually bound for Benidorm, Costa Adeje, Alanya, and Marmaris are pivoting here instead.

It offers the exact same guaranteed August sunshine you’re chasing in the western Med, but swaps the crowded strips for a much more relaxed, authentic village vibe and some brilliant, family-run apartment setups.

I found five nights at the Trianta Hotel Apartments from 19 August, with flights included, from £255pp.

Landing peak summer flights and accommodation for barely over two hundred and fifty quid is a massive result.

This property is notoriously highly rated by return guests, and the standout feature here is its poolside taverna nights.

Instead of serving up generic, mass-produced package food, the family that runs the place cooks up proper, home-style Greek mezze using vegetables grown in their own garden lot behind the apartments. It’s elite local dining on a shoestring budget.

5. Messonghi, Corfu

If you’re after somewhere that feels slower, greener, and a bit more rustic than the sprawling concrete mega-resorts, Messonghi is a top-tier shout.

And this year, it’s proving particularly popular with Brits swapping away from Benidorm, Costa Adeje, and Alanya.

Corfu‘s scenery is stunning, the beaches are incredibly calm, and a massive boost in regional UK flight routes this year has driven package prices right down into bargain territory.

One standout deal I spotted was five nights all inclusive at Canvas by Mitsis Messonghi from 20 August, with flights included, from £478pp.

And getting a fully loaded, peak-season Mitsis property under the £500 mark is an absolute steal.

The beachfront setting and massive pool complexes at this hotel are brilliant for keeping kids occupied, but what elevates this place above so many Spanish hotels for me is the complimentary, on-site aqua park.

They’ve integrated a proper mini waterpark into the resort grounds with zero entry fees, saving you from shelling out €40 a head for a public waterpark day trip into town.

4. Faliraki, Rhodes

Faliraki has completely reinvented its identity over the last decade.

While people of my generation might still associate it with rowdy 18-30 nightlife, today it’s quietly morphed into one of Rhodes‘ best all-round family beach resorts.

I’m seeing a huge influx of families swapping over from Benidorm, Marmaris, the Costa Blanca, and Alanya to secure one of the island’s widest sandy coastlines and a massive number of modern hotels.

I found five nights at the Hillside Studios from 25 August, with flights included, from £340pp. 

It serves as a brilliant, no-nonsense base with an immaculate pool area, but the secret benefit of this specific hotel is its location near the Erimokastro hills.

Because it sits just outside the central valley, the hotel offers an incredibly peaceful night’s sleep away from the main resort hum, and it puts you right on the doorstep of the hidden, cliff-sheltered Astron Beach cove – a spot most tourists completely miss!

3. Kiotari, Rhodes

If your main holiday priority is peace, quiet, and premium lounging, Kiotari is easily one of my favourite recommendations on the map.

More people are moving here from heavy-hitting hubs like Alanya in Turkey because the hotels feel noticeably more luxurious and modern than the older resort blocks elsewhere in the Med, serving up wide beaches, reliable sunshine, and massive all-inclusive footprints without the premium price tag.

One deal that stood out to me was five nights all inclusive at the Kiotari Miraluna Beach Resort from 19 August, with flights included, from £535pp.

My pick of the features at this resort is easily the cinema lounge.

They run open-air family movie nights right on the edge of the sand under the stars in the evening, which is a fantastic, high-end touch that lets you unwind with a drink by the waves while the kids are completely glued to a big screen.

2. Hersonissos, Crete

Crete never goes out of fashion, and Hersonissos remains the undisputed king of its value market.

Holidaymakers are increasingly swapping over from traditional mainstays like Benidorm and Marmaris, tempted by Crete’s reliable weather, lively waterfront, and massive choice of hotels.

It delivers that buzzing, lively atmosphere that Brits love, but pairs it with incredible independent tavernas, fascinating ancient history, and excellent flight availability from pretty much every major UK runway.

I spotted five nights at the Palatia Village Apartments from 20 August, with self-catering and flights included, from £283pp.

The hotel serves up fantastic, panoramic views across the bay, but the real selling point here is the traditional Cretan architecture of the rooms.

The apartments are styled like a mini, stone-walled Greek village rather than a sterile hotel corridor, meaning you get that high-end, boutique aesthetic for under three hundred quid.

1. Kavos, Corfu

Kavos might raise a few eyebrows on a value list, but the resort landscape here is changing rapidly.

Beyond the main neon strip, there is an influx of quieter, family-run properties that are drawing in couples and budget-conscious travellers who simply want cheap sun without the chaos.

And these great summer prices are driving a massive spike in people swapping here instead of choosing Spain’s traditional budget resorts.

A deal that really caught my eye was five nights at the Oula Maisonettes from 25 August, with self-catering and flights included, from just £235pp.

This is a small, family-run complex that heavily over-delivers for the money.

The absolute best feature here is the independent duplex layout of the maisonettes themselves.

Having your living area completely separate from the upstairs sleeping quarters gives you a proper apartment feel, allowing you to relax on your private terrace with a cold drink after the kids have gone to bed without waking them up.

Jet2 has reminded passengers to bring their physical card on board to help keep its cashless onboard service running smoothly and efficiently

Jet2 has encouraged passengers to bring a simple everyday item on board to help minimise certain in-flight delays. The airline says having this item helps keep its onboard service running smoothly and efficiently.

In the “onboard service and conduct” section under payments, it states: “To make our service as efficient as possible, we only accept card payments.”

Urging travellers to bring a card with them, which may help any delays with orders, it adds: ” We’ve also introduced a few updates to contactless, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. So, please bring your physical card to use chip and PIN when needed.”

Can I smoke or drink alcohol on a Jet2 flight?

Passengers should also be aware that only alcohol purchased on board is permitted to be consumed during the flight. Smoking is strictly prohibited.

It warns: “In accordance with safety laws, smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited on all flights. Please note that only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks at our absolute discretion.”

Passengers could be kicked off Jet2 flight

Passengers are also reminded that disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated. The aircraft’s Captain has the authority to refuse boarding or take appropriate action against anyone considered disruptive, disorderly, or likely to pose a risk or cause unnecessary inconvenience to fellow passengers or crew.

It adds: “Anyone falling foul of this provision shall be liable to indemnify us in full against any liability or loss we may suffer as a result. In addition, they may be prevented from flying with us in the future.”

You can read about Jet 2’s Conduct on Board here.

A NEW multi-million attraction with a karting experiences is planned for the UK.

A new £10.2million attraction for Kilvey Hill in Swansea, Wales, is currently being discussed by Swansea Council.

Called the Swansea Skyline project, the attraction would have a gondola-style lift stretching over one-mile long from the Hafod-Morfa Copperworks to the top of the hill.

There would also be a downhill karting experience from the top of the hill via three winding tracks.

A promotional video for the new attraction also showed that the tracks could be used at night too, lit with neon lights.

There would then also be a sky swing and a number of walking and cycling trails.

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For when you get hungry, there would also be a restaurant onsite with a separate bar overlooking the bay.

And for kids needing to let off some steam, a children’s playground is planned for outside as well.

In an update this week, work has started on the base station for the gondola as well as on Kilvey Hill, where the groundworks for the ‘luge’ tracks has started.

The company behind the project is based in New Zealand and Swansea Skyline would be their first site in the UK, as well as Europe.

According to the projects website, the company said: “We are here because we believe Kilvey Hill is an extraordinary place, and we’re committed to benefiting the Swansea community for the long term.”

Kilvey Hill sits just outside the city of Swansea and is known for being a 193 metre hill with panoramic views of the city centre, Swansea Bay and the coastline.

Currently, the spot is popular for woodland walks and mountain biking.

The attraction hopes to open in 2028.

World Cup fans in Benidorm were left floored after they were allegedly “attacked for wearing England shirts”. Natalie Brookfield shared the story as she opened up about the incident

The World Cup has got many football fans hooked, but some people actually venture to Benidorm to enjoy the sporting event while soaking up the party atmosphere. However, for one group of Brits, it seems things didn’t go to plan, as they were allegedly “attacked for wearing England shirts”.

Natalie Brookfield detailed what reportedly happened after the incident unfolded at the popular holiday destination, and it clearly left her and her friends pretty shocked. In a candid TikTok video, she explained what took place in Benidorm, while filming their red and soar-looking eyes, and it’s left people in total disbelief as they can’t believe such an incident occurred during the World Cup.

It’s not the first time the travel hotspot has hit the headlines recently either. Previously, it was reported sunbeds were empty at the destination for a totally unlikely reason.

Over footage of the group in their England shirts, Natalie wrote: “Wearing an England top to Benidorm? Apparently that’s a sprayable offence.

“Three girls and two guys pepper sprayed us for no reason. To anyone in Benidorm wearing England shirts, stay alert. We weren’t the only ones this happened to.”

In the clip, you see the three friends donning their England shirts and looking quite uncomfortable. It looks like their eyes were stinging following the alleged attack, and they appeared totally stunned too.

The video has since gone viral, after being viewed more than 50,000 times. Over 1,000 people also commented to share their thoughts and well wishes.

One said: “Benidorm in 2026 is crazy.” Another added: “Me and my friends wore NUFC tops in Benidorm and only received love from everyone. I’m sorry to hear this.”

A third replied: “It’s a terrible shame. Benidorm was once the party and fun centre. Very sad world we live in.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I have been going Benidorm for 10+ years and unfortunately, over the past two years, I have seen more of this. I won’t stop going, but I will say don’t let it put you off going back and hope you are good.”

Someone else also noted: “I was in Benidorm on Monday. Loads wearing England tops! No problems.”

It’s something that got a lot of people talking, as people seem to have encountered mixed experiences at the party destination. However, for Natalie, it’s evident the group had a bit of a shock, but it’s unclear if they reported the incident.

Do people travel to Benidorm to watch the World Cup?

Little you may know, thousands of British tourists flock to Benidorm to watch the World Cup. Many fans choose the Spanish resort over travelling to host cities.

A five-night holiday in Benidorm often costs less than a single match ticket in the US, and flights from the UK to nearby Alicante see massive spikes during the tournament.

Why Milos is unforgettable

We first noticed Milos as we travelled home from Crete, flying directly above it and deciding that was where we must go next. It didn’t disappoint. The island was calm, peaceful and strikingly beautiful. Milos isn’t well known, but it should be; the true home of the Aphrodite of Melos, displayed in the Louvre, Paris as the Venus de Milo. The northern coast was spectacular, shaped by volcanic activity and particularly picturesque. Sarakiniko is the perfect stop for photographs with its white rock. Truly an unforgettable trip.
Chris Rimell

Chasing waterfalls on the Pelion peninsula

We visited the incredibly beautiful Pelion peninsula in east, central Greece, and based ourselves in the tiny town of Damouchari, staying at the Kastro Studios above the village shop with a prime position overlooking the harbour and a one-minute walk to the white pebble beach. We swam in the harbour and off the beach, snorkelling with interesting fish and crustaceans, and took a very hot walk (take plenty of water) along the coast to the Fakistra beach where we cooled off under a waterfall and my daughter spent the afternoon doing handstands in the sea. Our walks included eating home-cooked meals at tiny roadside restaurants and drinking very strong coffee under a 1,000-year-old plane tree in a village square. A perfect, slow and really memorable trip full of exploration and fun.
Layla Astley

Beach boat trips on Symi

Getting the ferry from hectic Rhodes, we had heard that something special was waiting for us on Symi. Tucked away just off the Turkish coastline, this hidden little island in the Dodecanese was the perfect place to switch off for a week. Every day was a different boat trip to a new beach, such as Marathounda Bay, with its free-ranging goats searching for scraps between the sunbeds and stones. However, the true highlights were the shaded tavernas found on the edge of each shore where we refreshed ourselves to our hearts’ content with seafood, salad and a cold Mythos.
Steve

Strolling around Venetian palazzos on Syros

Syros – the administrative capital of the Cyclades – is a wonderful place. Between relaxed strolls around Venetian palazzos (large houses) and swimming off the rocks in Ermoupoli, we got a bus to the other side of the island to Galissas beach. Here, after asking locals, we made an anecdotal map and hiked to Agios Stefanos, a chapel in a cave almost in the sea. Watching the sunset there was a magical experience. The story goes that a fisher was saved here from being dragged under the sea by a giant octopus, after praying to Saint Stephen, and so he built this chapel to thank him.
Rosie

The healing power of Hydra

After my mum, June, died, our family decided to go somewhere warm of heart and chose Hydra in the Saronic Gulf, off the east coast of the Peloponnese. Still rumpled from our flight, we took a ferry from Piraeus and sailed off towards a kindly family hotel, the Hydroussa. A tiny, car-free island with a long history was explored in an afternoon. We mostly just took dips (in the clearest seas I’ve ever swum in), read, ate, remembered and gently healed.
Dawn

An archaeological gem near Preveza

The little-known archaeological site of ancient Kassopi was one highlight of our visit to the charming little port of Preveza, on the central west coast. The mountainside was drowning in wildflowers, and the bees, butterflies and lizards were our only companions – apart from the warden who seemed agreeably surprised to see us. We had the entire site to ourselves and wandering through the remains of the city and its third-century BC theatre, with an azure sea in the background, was an unforgettably romantic and quintessentially Greek experience. Later that day, we went dolphin-watching in the Ambracian Gulf, followed by wonderful Preveza prawns for dinner.
Gerald Willmore

Back in time on Antiparos

Most guidebooks recommend doing a day trip to Antiparos from Paros, its much bigger neighbour, but we stayed for five days – the best decision of our trip to the Cyclades. Like stepping back decades into a much less-touristed Greece, the island has a modest beauty and peaceful aura that charmed and calmed us. We stayed in Statheros Garden and enjoyed morning dips in the turquoise waters at Panagia beach, just a few metres away. Paros is only a few minutes away by ferry so there’s plenty of scope for exploring beyond beautiful Antiparos Town and Sifneiko bay.
Alice

Amorgos is as epic as in the Big Blue

The Big Blue is a film I have watched countless times and seeing the 11th-century monastery of Amorgos rise out of the rock face as Eric Serra’s soundtrack kicks in has stayed with me. Seeing it in real life when I travelled to this most charming of Greek islands was truly unforgettable.
Ed Simpson

A true adventure on Kefalonia and Ithaca

As a boy, I went to Kefalonia with my parents and stayed in the fishing village of Fiskardo in the north. Beautiful beaches, fantastic food and sun aplenty, yet a highlight for me was hiring a small motorboat with my father and darting across the bay to the island of Ithaca. We may have got a little carried away exploring, leading to us running out of fuel and having to be rescued! Nevertheless, it was a true adventure. My father passed in 2022, and our speedboat adventure is a memory I hold dear to this day.
Dan Law-Jones

Winning tip: wildlife deep in the Vikos gorge

We’ve just returned from a road trip in beautiful northern Greece, a highlight of which was the awe-inspiring Vikos gorge – the deepest gorge in Europe by ratio of depth to width. We frequently saw tortoises trundling along on our hiking route through the gorge, and also had a brief encounter with a horned viper (one of Europe’s most venomous snakes), underlining the array of wild creatures that are resident here, which include brown bears, wolves, Egyptian vultures and wild boar. We enjoyed the tranquility of the Voidomatis Springs, a crystal clear pool at the bottom of the gorge. It’s a perfect place for a dip if you’re feeling brave – the water is a bracing 4-7C year round!
Beatrice

From its famous monthly markets to artisan boutiques, this charming town should be on your radar

The UK is brimming with stunning towns and villages, and I’ve been fortunate enough to explore quite a few. One aspect that has consistently struck me is how distinct they all are, even when they’re situated close together.

Some are bustling and contemporary, while others seem stuck in the past. That’s precisely why I adore discovering the UK, as you’re never quite sure what you’ll encounter.

Frome in Somerset is one of those destinations that genuinely lingers in your memory afterwards. It isn’t one of those household-name tourist hotspots like Bath or Wells, but that’s part of what makes it special.

Nestled in eastern Somerset near the Wiltshire border, Frome wasn’t particularly high on my list of places to visit, but I’m absolutely delighted I made the trip.

Frome, pronounced Froom, is positioned in a valley along the River Frome, roughly 13 miles from Bath. Historically, it flourished as a wool and textile town, and you can still spot remnants of its heritage in the architecture and street patterns today.

What made the town particularly memorable for me was its blend of historic and contemporary elements, which seemed to resonate with virtually everyone.

There are twisting medieval lanes, Georgian terraces, and former industrial structures sitting alongside modern cafes and independent retailers.

It has long been a market town, and that heritage remains central to its character, which is largely why I chose to visit after spotting it on TikTok.

The highlight is the Frome Independent Market, held on the first Sunday of each month. The entire town centre essentially transforms for the day.

Streets become packed with stalls offering everything from artisan food and freshly baked bread to handcrafted goods, antiques and clothing. There’s frequently live music and street food on offer too.

Even when the big monthly market isn’t on, smaller regular markets maintain that community atmosphere throughout the week.

Its high street has also been recognised as one of the finest in the UK on multiple occasions, and it was easy to see why.

Beyond markets and shopping, one of the most enjoyable aspects of Frome is simply wandering around it. It’s compact enough to navigate with ease, yet packed with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Catherine Hill is arguably the most iconic street in the town. It’s steep and cobbled, lined with independent shops.

But it’s also among the finest vantage points, offering views back across the town’s rooftops.

There’s also a thriving arts and culture scene there. Galleries, studios and numerous creative venues are dotted throughout the centre, and the Frome Festival in July brings the town alive with music.

If you’re after something more peaceful, there are numerous riverside walks, as well as being far from open fields and rolling hills. The town is ideal for anyone and everyone.

Like many outdoors lovers, I love a last-minute camping trip.

There’s a special kind of magic when the stars align, you snag a reservation and realize you’ll soon be sleeping under the stars in a place you’ve never been.

But given the popularity of California’s campgrounds, is it really possible to book a campsite on short notice? In this edition of The Wild, our weekly outdoors newsletter, I will explain not only how you can but also where you will be more likely to find open spots (even, if lucky, on a holiday weekend).

L.A. sits within a quick drive to both the San Gabriel and Santa Monica mountains, two expansive ranges that offer multiple opportunities.

But first, I want to share what I learned in my conversation with Mike Lee, owner of Campsite Tonight, a website and app that monitors campgrounds throughout California for cancellations so its users can book sites.

One of the expansive views of the San Gabriel Mountains that can be found at Chilao Campground.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I’ve long been a skeptic of using private websites to book a campsite on public lands. But given Lee is an avid camper, dad and Californian running the site on his own, I wanted to hear him out.

Lee was motivated to take over Campsite Tonight a few years ago after finding himself frequently frustrated with how challenging it was to book campsites at state and national parks in California at times when his busy family could take a vacation.

Campsite Tonight frequently scans several websites throughout California and several other states (including Utah for those dreaming of a trip to Zion National Park). His site checks the popular campgrounds every 12 seconds for cancellations while less popular campgrounds are scanned often but less frequently.

He also offers data for popular campsites too, so users can learn more about when to look. For example, at Yosemite’s Upper Pines Campground, Lee includes that 11 a.m. Pacific is the peak hour when cancellations appear (and about 31% of reservations there are booked within seven days of arrival).

A tent in the evening light at Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite National Park.

(William Hale Irwin / For The Times)

Lee’s app offers limited-but-still-useful features to free users, including some ability to search for open sites, and is $29.99 a month or $59.99 a year for advanced features, including the option to more rapidly book a campsite at a national park by essentially linking your Campsite account with your Recreation.gov account.

Running the website has “taught me, as I’ve looked at the data more and more, that last-minute camping is actually pretty achievable,” Lee said while sitting inside a tent in a campground near Yosemite. “The biggest thing is being flexible. Before, if I didn’t book it in advance or if I didn’t get [a site when I wanted], I would never look again. Now I look more.”

Lee said he’s noticed fewer cancellations on long weekends, although there will still be families that can’t make their trips. After we initially spoke, Lee built a page specifically to scan for campsites available over Fourth of July weekend. I was surprised by just how much remained open.

Leo Carrillo State Beach.

(Mike Cilantro / For The Times)

Scanning the page on Tuesday, I noticed a spot at Leo Carrillo State Park. Although it was for Wednesday night, I was tempted. Multiple campsites remained open in Los Padres National Forest, even over the weekend. A random campground in Sequoia National Forest made me look at just how far of a drive it would be from my apartment. And I noticed there was even a spot free at a Big Sur campground on Sunday evening. “No, you can’t, er, you shouldn’t drive that far for one night of camping,” I told myself. (Should I, though?)

That said, there are several first-come, first-served campgrounds near L.A., especially in Angeles National Forest, for those who’d like to stay closer to home or can’t find something online.

Here is a quick guide to what I recommend trying to snag. Given it’s a holiday weekend, it will still be more challenging, but if you can leave early Friday, I don’t think it’ll be impossible to camp at one of these spots.

For those looking for simple car camping (beginner)

A campsite at Chilao Campground with a large campfire ring.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Each of these campgrounds are in Angeles National Forest, offer piped water and vault toilets, and have sites with picnic tables, parking spots and campfire rings.

• Chilao Campground: A large campground with 84 sites spread over two loops, Little Pines and Manzanita. Its landscape features large boulders, sweeping views and pine trees (especially the eponymous loop). Piped water is available, although it is at times turned off, so please check the campground website before heading out. The Chilao Visitor Center, open on the weekends, is nearby.

A campsite in Chilao Campground shaded by several pine trees.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

• Crystal Lake: A 120-site campground north of Azusa. It sits at 5,539-feet elevation and features great views of nearby peaks, including Mt. Islip and Windy Gap. Visitors can fish in Crystal Lake when it’s deep enough and find a hot meal at Crystal Lake Cafe and General Store.
• Monte Cristo: A campground with 19 individual drive-in sites, including some with large shady sycamore trees. A small seasonal creek runs through the middle of the campground and has small pools in spring and early summer. (Note: Because of its proximity to L.A., this one can fill up quickly.)

For adventurers willing to plan just a bit, even last minute (intermediate)

Oak Flat Campground.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

These sites offer their own escape, but because they lack potable water (unless otherwise noted) and are farther away from L.A., they require more planning than those on the “beginner” list. Each site has picnic tables and campfire rings. The campgrounds below are in Angeles National Forest unless otherwise noted.

• Horse Flats: A shaded 26-site campground that offers easy access to nearby trails, including Mt. Hillyer and the Silver Moccasin Trail.
• Oak Flat: A campground north of Castaic just off the 5 Freeway with 20 sites situated around a nice small meadow shaded by several oak trees.
• Musch Trail Camp: This small-but-charming backpacking campground in Topanga State Park features flush toilets and sinks and requires only a one-mile hike in, a trek that’s on the easier end of moderate.
• Sawmill: A rustic eight-site campground whose main challenge, outside of its lack of water, is just reaching it, as campers must take a steep gravel road off Pine Canyon Road (see website for information on road closure).

For experienced trekkers looking for quick escapes (expert)

One of a handful of sites at the Valley Forge Trail Camp in Angeles National Forest.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

These backpacking sites offer backcountry adventures for those with the time and the right gear.

• Glenn Camp: A 10-site forested haven next to the West Fork of the San Gabriel River that’s reached via a seven-mile paved road that can be hiked or biked; no restrooms available, so campers will need to follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Valley Forge: Reachable via 2.4-mile hike along the Gabrielino Trail from Red Box Picnic Area, this six(ish)-site campground has picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets and is a sylvan refuge of mighty pines next to the pristine West Fork of the San Gabriel River.
• Cooper Canyon: A backcountry campground shaded by towering old pine trees with about five sites, offering vault toilets, campfire rings, klamath stoves, large picnic tables and bear-proof boxes. Because of the Angeles Crest Highway closure, you will need to reach the site either by walking the closed road or Pacific Crest Trail.

Regardless of where and when you go, I hope you have a wonderful time enjoying our public lands. Please remember to practice the Leave No Trace principles and, in short, leave it cleaner than you found it!

3 things to do

A volunteer waters plants in the nursery at North East Trees in Ascot Hills Park in El Sereno.

(William Hallstrom)

1. Restore native plants in Ascot Hills
North East Trees, a climate resiliency nonprofit, needs volunteers from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at its native plant nursery in Ascot Hills Park (4371 Multnomah St.). Participants will get hands-on experience working with native plants as they help water and restore habitat. Learn more at the group’s Instagram page.

2. Sketch plankton in Playa del Rey
Nature Nexus Institute, an environmental equity nonprofit, will host two beach ecology sketching events: an online option Tuesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and then an in-person event on July 12 in Playa del Rey. Learn more at the group’s Instagram page.

3. Check out the birds in Calabasas
Two National Park Service volunteers will host an easy bird walk from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas. Participants will walk less than a mile at an easy pace, stopping often to observe the birds. Children are welcome. Register at eventbrite.com.

The must-read

A visitor walks on the Redwood Canopy Trail at Trees of Mystery in Klamath.

(Andrew Cullen / For The Times)

If you’re sitting there, daydreaming over your next adventure, consider this California wildlife factoid: Our state is home to 139,000 acres of protected public lands where nearly half of the world’s remaining old-growth redwood forests live. The allure of walking beneath these giants is what drew writer Edwin Goei to head to Humboldt County. Goei maps out a guide for The Times of how an Angeleno can make the long-but-worthy trip there (including how to snag an $80 round-trip flight). “I learned that Humboldt County — including the cities of Eureka, Arcata and Ferndale — is full of treasures beyond its abundance of the Earth’s tallest trees,” Goei wrote.

Excuse me while I go research flights there.

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

You have until Monday to snag a free California State Parks Historian Passport. In honor of both Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the state is offering the pass — which typically costs $50 — to anyone who registers for it through ReserveCalifornia.com, but just for a few more days. The pass will be good through the rest of 2026 and will allow unlimited entry for up to four people to state historic parks and museums that charge a per-person admission fee or a vehicle day-use fee. I was amazed that it took less than 10 seconds once I was logged into my ReserveCalifornia account to secure my pass. Enjoy!

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.

IF you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and glam hotels but your bank account is saying otherwise, you don’t have to cancel your summer plans just yet.

While traditional holiday hotspots like Spain and Greece are reliable, they are becoming increasingly expensive.

Luckily, there’s a handful of stunning European destinations offering amazing holiday vibes for a fraction of the cost.

How about the white sand beaches of Albania, or the affordable resorts of Montenegro

We’ve rounded up three incredible, wallet-friendly European countries where your money stretches further.

This means spectacular package holiday deals starting from just £159pp.

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Albania

Bathed in sunshine for over 300 days a year, Albania offers stunning natural landscapes, sweeping beaches and cheap hotels that feel ultra-luxurious.

The coastline blends the dramatic, rugged scenery of the Balkans with the sparkling, turquoise waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas.

Your budget stretches remarkably far here compared to holiday hotspots like the Greece or Italy.

For a mix of golden beaches and historical sites, head to Durres, where you can climb the Venetian Tower or explore Roman ruins for free.

For wallet-friendly restaurants and stunning landscapes, try Sarande, which is home to the Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with scenic thick forest overlooking the shore.

Or head to Vlore to stroll its pretty old town lined with boutique cafes and shops, hop on a boat trip to visit stunning sea caves and stay in one of its super glam hotels for a very affordable price.

OUR TOP DEAL

The four-star Ames Hotel & Spa in Vlore is a glamorous hotel with its own private beach and spa.

It’s a small, friendly hotel that is perfect for couples, where you can spend your days taking beach walks and unwinding in the sauna and steam bath.

The deal we’ve found is for early October, which would still be nice and warm with temperatures sitting at 24°C.

The five night stay with breakfast at the Ames Hotel & Spa in Vlore, including return flights from London Luton, is for £219pp.

Montenegro

More and more Brits are catching on to Montenegro as their next holiday destination, with its other-worldly beaches and affordable package holidays.

Budva is a buzzing coastal spot with a walled medieval Old Town to explore, and even an island you can visit called Sveti Nikola dubbed by locals as ‘Hawaii Island’.

For a spot of sunbathing, head to Mogren Beach, where towering limestone cliffs shelter two sandy coves with turquoise waters.

Similarly, spots like Ulcinj and Bar are great value coastal towns – Ulcinj is home to Velika Plaza, or ‘Long Beach’, an eight-mile stretch of sand with shallow waters to paddle in and activities like kite boarding.

While Bar is home to unique attractions like Red Beach, a cove with a maroon-coloured shore, and King Nikola’s Palace, a castle-turned-museum surrounded by lush green gardens.

Visit Becici for endless golden beaches dotted with loungers, activities like paragliding and paddleboarding, and high-end hotels for cheap.

OUR TOP DEAL

The Eurostars Queen of Montenegro hotel is in Becici, where a pristine stretch of beach is backed by a line of luxurious yet affordable hotels, visited by the likes of Madonna and Angelina Jolie.

The hotel itself has a huge wellness zone with a Turkish bath, tropical shower, saunas and whirlpool – as well as a sprawling outdoor infinity pool.

Rooms alone usually cost between £200 – £250 per night, however we’ve found a very affordable deal.

We found a deal for a five night stay with breakfast at the Eurostars Queen of Montenegro in Becici, including return flights from London Stansted, for £325pp.

Bulgaria

You might already know about Sunny Beach, but Bulgaria is home to a whole host of affordable coastal resorts that you may never have heard of.

Just south of Sunny Beach, Nessebar is the affordable and arguably more beautiful neighbour.

Both the north and south beach offer soft sands and clear, shallow water – plus a strip of seafront bars and restaurants that feel less chaotic than the party vibes of

This ancient city feels like an open air museum, with and Old Town packed with 20 ancient Byzantine churches and a fascinating ancient fortifications.

Further up the coast you’ll find Golden Sands, a resort that earns its name with a two-mile beach backed by a buy promenade lined with buzzy restaurants and seafront bars.

This family-friendly resort town also has plenty of attractions and activities like Aquapolis Water Park and off-road buggies.

OUR TOP DEAL

Perla Golden Sands is an action-packed, family-friendly hotel backed by the vibrant greenery of a natural park.

The hotel has plenty to do for kids, including an adventure playground, kids club, evening shows and activities like table tennis and horse riding.

And a week-long holiday is an absolute bargain.

We found a deal for a seven night stay with breakfast at the Perla Golden Sands with return flights from London Luton for £209pp.

*Prices correct at the time of publication.

A hiker has shared a video of herself exploring a stunning coastal town which is just over an hour’s train journey from London and offers visitors the luxury of a hidden beach with its own shipwreck

A hiker has highlighted a breathtaking town which boasts a secluded beach complete with its own shipwreck. Zoe Tehrani, who is based in the London, posted footage of herself climbing down a rusty ladder onto the shingle beach before setting off on a winding trail across the cliff face.

“There might also be a creepy tunnel that used to be a smuggling route,” she enthused in a TikTok video. Zoe went on to describe her journey, explaining she boarded the train at London St. Pancras and travelled for 66 minutes.

The town she visited is Dover, which has a railway station located just a 10-minute walk from the coastline. “It’s not the most scenic to get there, but at least there’s a mist tunnel along the way,” Zoe continued.

“I followed signs for the White Cliffs of Dover, passed colourful houses, headed up the chunky hill then at the top the trail levelled out nicely.”

Zoe then aimed her camera down towards the beach, and headed off once more on another winding trail, making a steady descent. She warned that inside the smugglers’ tunnel there are no lights, which is “a little bit creepy”.

“There’s a few things you need to know about this beach,” she added. “It’s underwater at high tide, so it needs to be out a bit – and you don’t want to sit [directly] below the cliffs because they are crumbling.”

Zoe decided to take a swim in the Channel, which meant carefully picking her way through seaweed to reach the water.

“You definitely want sea shoes for this one,” she suggested. “And it’s much nicer to get in when the tide is a little higher, so I chilled for a bit, had some lunch and then it was perfect.”

The White Cliffs of Dover paths are managed by the National Trust, which advises online: “There is a wheelchair-friendly footpath that leads to a viewing point, ideal if you just want a short route to see the famous cliffs.

“This all-weather path is built with a staggered incline, which allows for a few breathers on the way up. At the top is one of the best views of the cliffs, with the rolling green landscape and sheer chalk edge, dropping to the sea below.”

Venturing further along gives walkers a choice of routes, which are steeper closest to the cliff edge and more gentle further inland.

“These will take you to Fan Bay Deep Shelter and South Foreland Lighthouse,” the National Trust continues. “Beyond the lighthouse, you can continue walking the coast path to St Margaret’s, Kingsdown, or even Walmer or Deal.

“The ground can be uneven and the weather unpredictable, so please wear stout shoes and dress appropriately.”

Responding to Zoe’s clip, one TikTok user commented: “[I] went. Worth it for the views and the challenge but the beach/water is pretty bad. And the ladder was so scary, almost vertical.”

While a second person praised: “Stunning area.”

One British expat was left completely overwhelmed and exhausted after ditching her life in the UK, and revealed what no one talks about when making such a huge change

Many of us have contemplated what it would be like to ditch the UK and move abroad. One Brit who made it a reality found the move came with surprises and heartbreaking challenges.

Maria Randall, who hails from London, had been on a spontaneous three-day holiday with her husband when they made the brave decision to leave the UK in favour of sun-soaked Croatian rays. Just three weeks later, with their dog in tow, the couple boarded a one-way flight in the summer of 2023, filled with excitement ahead of their new life on the Adriatic coast.

But the reality of the mega move quickly sank in, and Maria found herself overwhelmed and drained.

“I was exhausted,” the 54-year-old told creatorzine.com. “People imagine moving abroad is exciting and glamorous, but I felt strangely numb. Everything had happened so quickly that I had barely had time to process it. I was excited, scared and wondering whether I had completely lost my mind.”

Even Maria’s first solo trip to the supermarket left her in tears as she got lost when Google Maps stopped working and felt deflated on arrival. And sadly, things didn’t get any better.

“I did not recognise any of the products on the shelves,” she recalled. “Something as simple as buying food suddenly felt difficult.”

Feeling overwhelmed and peckish, Maria innocently grabbed a cereal bar as she walked around the shop, only to be met with a furious local. “A man started shouting at me in Croatian, and I burst into tears,” Maria said.

“Later, I realised he worked for the supermarket and probably thought I was trying to steal the cereal bar before paying for it.

“Looking back now, it is funny. At the time, I wanted to get on a plane and go home. Coming from Britain, I was used to quieter and more reserved interactions. I genuinely thought people were arguing all the time. It took me a while to realise that what sounded aggressive to me was often just a normal conversation.”

As the couple began to settle into their new life in Croatia, their beloved dog sadly died shortly after the move. “Everything still felt unfamiliar and unsettled, and suddenly I was dealing with the loss of a much-loved family member as well,” she said.

Tragedy struck again when Maria lost her younger brother and mum, all within an 18-month period. She shared: “Nobody really talks about that side of living abroad. People see the sea, the sunshine and the photographs, but they do not see what it feels like when major family events happen hundreds of miles away.”

In addition to the family losses, Maria, who is severely lactose intolerant, faced her own health battles and was rushed to the hospital following a dairy contamination incident. “Being in an ambulance and then a hospital environment where I struggled to understand what was happening around me was one of the most frightening experiences I have had since moving here”, she revealed.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, things turned a corner. “I began to understand the culture. I started to appreciate the people,” Maria said.

“I made friends, many of them fellow expats who understood exactly what it was like to start again in a new country.” Maria even found herself taking on an unexpected business venture by running her own boat tour company, Island Discovery.

She explained: “It started as a conversation, then somehow I had a boat, then a website, then a skipper, then our first guest.” Maria’s skipper, Pasko, is actually someone she had met on a boat trip soon after arriving in Croatia.

“We stayed in touch, and when I launched Island Discovery, he was the first person I asked to join me”, she said. “Today I joke that he is my Croatian son.”

Maria has now settled into her life in the beautiful seaside town of Podstrana near Split, and is busy running boat tours around the Croatian coastline. Her love for the Adriatic Sea is part of why she stayed through the challenges she faced.

“There is something magical about the Adriatic,” she said. “The colour of the water still amazes me, and some mornings when I am walking my Jack Russell, Sid, along the coastline, I spot dolphins in the distance. Those moments never get old.”

While she misses parts of the UK, including Wagamama and “a proper Chinese takeaway”, Croatia has firmly become their home. “It is where I have built a business, it is where I have made friendships, it is where I walk Sid every morning,” Maria shared.

Today, she believes that many people underestimate the realities of uprooting their lives abroad. She also noted that Croatia has changed significantly in recent years, with higher rents, rising food and restaurant prices, and a “huge amount of development taking place”.

“Everywhere I look, there are new apartment blocks, villas and construction projects appearing, she said. “Personally, I think Croatia has changed significantly since joining the EU and later adopting the euro, although that’s just my observation.”

Despite this, it’s the place where Maria “rediscovered” herself and now calls home. “When I moved here, I thought I knew exactly who I was. What I did not expect was to spend my fifties learning about websites, social media, marketing, accounting, boating and how to build a business from scratch,” she explained.

“I realised I was tougher than I thought. I learned not to let other people dictate my mood. I learned to laugh at myself when things go wrong. Looking back, I do not think Croatia simply changed where I live. I think it changed who I am.”

Looking back, Maria said: “If I could give one piece of advice to the version of myself boarding that Croatia Airlines flight in July 2023, it would simply be, ‘buckle up, it will be one hell of a ride’.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

ANOTHER UK travel firm has entered administration after 15 years.

Travel Bespoke Ltd, which also operated under Chalet Bespoke, Ski Bespoke and Spa Bespoke, had closed after more than a decade of selling ski and chalet holidays.

According to The Herald, the company use to offer “bespoke luxury ski experiences”.

Many of the packages were to ski resorts across Austria, France, Switzerland, Canada and the USA.

And the packages could be booked with or without flights.

As for the chalet trips, many featured luxury accommodation with some including spa stays.

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It comes as the Midhurst, Sussex holiday company stopped being an ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) holder, which is the UK financial protection scheme that is run by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Due to this, anyone that had a holiday booked with the company will be refunded.

ATOL reported at the end of May that they had “contacted the affected ATOL protected consumers directly”.

It added: “If you have not been contacted and believe you are entitled to a claim against an ATOL protected booking, please supply your booking details with supporting documentation by email to claims@caa.co.uk”.

Travel Bespoke Ltd is one of numerous travel companies that have gone out of business this year.

Earlier this week Groupia Ltd – which focused on group trips such as hen and stag dos as well as weekend getaways – entered administration after 24 years, cancelling some holidays.

Other UK travel firms that have entered administration this year include luxury holiday firm Salamander Voyages with yacht holidays across Greece, Italy, Croatia, and Turkey as well as Regen Central Ltd, which used to sell package holidays.

A MAJOR airport in the UK is launching new overnight weekend trains for the first time.

Late-night airport passengers no longer need to break the bank to hail a cab.

Thousands of travellers heading to and from London Stansted Airport will soon be able to catch trains through the night.

Stansted Express is launching a trial overnight service that will run every Friday night into Saturday morning from July 3.

The new service is aimed at passengers travelling on late-night and early-morning flights during the busy summer holiday season.

During the summer trial, trains will run every 30 minutes between 11.30pm and 5am, linking Stansted Airport with Tottenham Hale and London Liverpool Street.

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Most of the overnight trains will operate between Stansted Airport and Tottenham Hale, where passengers can connect with the Victoria line Night Tube to continue their journeys across London.

A handful of early morning services will also start from, or continue to, London Liverpool Street.

The journey from Stansted Airport to Tottenham Hale takes around 36 minutes, providing a quick link into the capital.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy, said: “These overnight Stansted Express services will make a real difference to people arriving late or travelling for early flights – connecting them straight into London via the Night Tube.

“Alongside contactless ticketing at every London airport, we’re building a railway that works for passengers and drives growth across the country.”

The trial will be running until September 25, giving flyers more transport options during the busy holiday season.

Stansted Express will evaluate how many passengers use the late-night trains during the trial before deciding whether to make them permanent.

I was lucky enough to visit this gorgeous island and I can’t wait to go back.

Summer is here, and with that comes summer holidays. Living in the UK, we’re blessed to have Europe on our doorstep – but with so many options, how can you decide where you want to go? There’s the popular spots of course, places like Barcelona in Spain or Mykonos in Greece.

However, these destinations can quickly become overrun with other tourists who have had the same idea as you and what should have been a relaxing break can soon become an overcrowded nightmare.

Luckily, there are plenty of places that are just as beautiful but without the sky-high price tag and teeming crowds. One such place is a charming Greek island, just a few hours ferry ride from the bustling capital of Athens.

I was lucky enough to visit this island a few years ago, and it absolutely blew my mind.

It’s got the bright blue and shining white buildings that are iconic of Greece, as well as the crystal clear beaches – some of which look like they’ve been plucked straight from another planet.

There’s charm in every corner of the cobbled streets, as well as delicious food and laid-back beachfront bars.

This paradise is Paros, a pear-shaped island in the middle of the Aegean Sea. It’s the perfect spot to base yourself if you fancy a bit of island hopping, with its even quieter sister island, Antiparos, just minutes away by boat.

When you step off the boat at the main Paros port in Parikia, you are greeted by gorgeous beaches and a market square lined with tavernas and bars.

Bougainvillaea grows across the narrow streets, and there are plenty of boutique shops to explore, too.

Sleepy cats wander to and fro across the alleys, and if you fancy taking a day trip, you can hire a car, scooter or even a buggy to travel across the island to the other village of Naoussa.

Here, the town buzzes with life, and you can eat some of the tastiest seafood, freshly caught. It’s also home to one of the island’s most stunning beaches.

Kolymbithres looks alien due to its large, clay rock formations that line the bright blue, calm ocean.

If you fancy it, you can hire a sunbed – but the rock formations make a perfectly good bed in of themselves.

Some sections are small enough for one or two, while other, larger recesses can fit dozens. It’s a fabulous place to spend the day, dipping in and out of the water and sunning yourself on the white-washed cliffs that surround it.

Behind the bay, there are a few bars and taverns where you can buy drinks and snacks, then carry them back over to the beach. Make sure to take all your rubbish with you to avoid spoiling this beautiful bay.