IF you’re looking for a winter getaway that really won’t break the bank, then look no further than this Bulgarian town.
The experts athoppa analysed dozens of European locations to find the most budget-friendly depending on factors like cost of a hotel and possibly what matters most to Brits – the average price of a pint.
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Bansko in Bulgaria has some of the cheapest drinks and accommodation in EuropeCredit: AlamyThe town also offers affordable ski passes tooCredit: Alamy
Coming in second place, but having the cheapest price of pints of all of them was Bansko in Bulgaria.
The town is two hours away from the capital of Sofia and is known for its ski resorts and a beautiful mountain landscape.
In the pretty Bulgarian destination, hoppa found the average cost of a pint to be just 90p.
Some of the highest rated bars include Pirin 75 which has been praised for its cocktails, and the Happy End Bar which one visitor described as a “cracking apres ski bar”.
Other affordable aspects include a stay in a 3-star hotel which averages out at £57.
Sun Travel found a five-night stay between December 15-20 at the Hotel Tanne in Bansko works out at just £47.60 per person per night.
The four-star hotel is found at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and is perfect for skiers as it’s 300 metres from the gondola lift.
Rooms have mountain views and guests can relax at the on-site spa centre which has a hot mineral water pool, salt room, herb sauna, an outdoor Japanese bath and a pool with hydro beds and water cannons.
There’s also a gym, café, Viennese lounge and piano bar.
A five-night stay in the Hotel Tanne in December costs from £47.60pppnCredit: Booking.comThe hotel also has an on-site spa centre with pools and a herb saunaCredit: Booking.com
It’s even become cheaper and moved from sixth to third place after a 2.8 per cent drop in costs.
In the study, the average cost of a six-day ski pass and ski/boot hire for one person plus ski school (five-six half days), a range of drinks and lunch on the slopes cost £572.14 in Bansko.
Whereas in the likes of Cervinia, La Thuile and Sestriere in Italy all costs came in at over £700.
The most expensive was in Zermatt in Switzerland which came in at £1,345.76pp.
Away from the slopes, other popular activities in Bansko include trekking up Vihren, exploring Pirin Street, visiting the Neofit Rilski Museum and Velyanova House.
The one downside to Bansko is that it doesn’t have an airport.
However, the closest one is in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria where flights in December are as little as £16.
Certain places like Hotel Tanne will supply airport shuttles with journeys taking around two hours.
Ontario’s Christmas on Euclid experience began in 1922, when the fire department decorated a tree in the old city hall park with 125 colored electric lights, 2,200 feet of decorations and 900 square feet of cotton batting “for a snow effect,” according to a history on the event’s website. The event grew with merchant-promoted holiday extravaganzas such as the time in 1930 when Santa dropped from an airplane and landed on the roof of a bank to toss numbered slips into the crowd. (Those lucky enough to grab a slip could collect a prize donated by a local retailer.)
In 1958, the Christmas on Euclid Avenue Committee, sponsored by the Assn. of Commerce and Industry (later renamed the Ontario Chamber of Commerce), embarked on holiday programs “that would bring back a traditional respect, and meaning for the celebration of Christmas,” including the construction of 12 illuminated scenes depicting the nativity and life of Jesus with life-sized wood figures carved by Mexican immigrant sculptor Rudolph Vargas.
Today, the holiday celebration includes a blend of old and the new, with the 12 historic nativity scenes, which visitors can experience through an online history, and more modern light shows such as the annual Holiday Light Parade, tree lighting ceremony and drone show at Ontario Town Square on Dec. 6, which includes cookie decorating and visits with Santa.
Date: The historic nativity scenes are on display from Nov. 27 through Jan. 1 along Euclid Avenue. The Holiday Light Parade & Tree Lighting is Dec. 6 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. A menorah procession is scheduled for Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at Ontario Town Square.
While Split and Dubrovnik are some of Croatia‘s busiest cities, Zadar is also worth a visit.
Not only does it often have highs of 28C in summer, but it is cheap too – beers can be found for around £2.30.
There is also the famous Sea Organ, which plays music powers by waves as well as light shows at night.
TUI has excursions such as waking tours or trips to the nearby National Parks.
TUI’s Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “We’re excited to introduce Zadar to our growing city break programme.
“It’s a destination that truly has it all, with a stunning coastline, rich history, and authentic Croatian culture around two and a half hours from the UK.
Boat trips along the coast of Zadar are popularCredit: Alamy
“Whether you’re exploring the Old Town, relaxing on nearby beaches or enjoying a sunset boat tour, Zadar is the perfect choice for customers looking for an alternative spot on the Adriatic Coastline.”
Some of the holidays on offer include five night and return flights from £520.
The Sun’s Alex Goss recently visited Zadar.
He said; “For our final meal, we headed to restaurant Kornat in Zadar, one of the best in the town that offers seafront Croatian dining at its finest, with black tie service and an impeccable local wine list.
“We had seabass roll stuffed with shrimp cream, tuna steak with a spinach and wasabi sauce and beef carpaccio with homemade dough cones stuffed with cottage cheese from the island of Pag.
Just make sure you’re not too hungover to tackle Zadar’s mind-bending Museum of Illusion the next day.”
Zadar is also a great spot for island hopping across Croatia.
MORE flights have been cancelled today amid a nationwide strike abroad.
The walk out across Belgium is following the new plans introduced by the country’s prime minister to reduce the debt.
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A nationwide strike in Belgium has seen more flights cancelled today
Brussels Airport confirmed they have cancelled 110 of the 203 incoming flights today.
This is in addition to the departing flights already axed due to the strike.
The remaining 93 incoming flights will still go ahead.
In a statement yesterday, Brussels Airport confirmed: “Due to the national industrial action on Wednesday 26 November in which the staff of the security and handling service provider is participating, we unfortunately expect major disruptions to our airport operations on that day.”
Hundreds of Brits will be affected by the cancellations as airlines including BA and Ryanair operate flights.
British Airways has cancelled all of its London Heathrow to Brussels flights.
And Ryanair has cancelled all of their flights to Brussels Charleroi which affects routes from Manchester and Edinburgh.
Flights between Manchester and Brussels that are operated by Brussels Airlines have also been cancelled.
Brussels Charleroi Airport also said in a statement: “Due to the national day of action planned for Wednesday 26 November by a united front of trade unions and the lack of staff available to ensure safe operations, Charleroi Airport will not be able to operate scheduled departures and arrivals.
“Passengers scheduled to fly via Charleroi on November 26 will be contacted in the coming days by their airline for a rebooking or refund.”
Antwerp and Ostend-Bruges airports are fully operating stick.
It’s not just flights affected, as Eurostar travel has also been affected.
A number of trains between Paris and Belgium have been cancelled or delayed this week.
They told passengers: “Please keep an eye on our live train info page which we’ll update as soon as we know the strike impacts our timetable.
“Public transport and domestic train traffic could be disrupted. If you have a connecting journey, please check for travel updates with the relevant carrier ahead of your trip.
“You may need to allow extra time for your journey.”
Ferries and domestic trains are also being affected and cancelled.
Ryanair and British Airways flights have been cancelled
Milo Boyd went to check out if £55 for a room at one of the 55 Spoons hotels that are dotted across the UK is good value, or if the price point really is too good to be true
Love it or loathe it, Spoons is a British institution.
The mega-chain has around 800 joints across the UK and raked in £2 billion last year. Everything from its unique-to-the-venue 70s-inspired carpets to its weirdly cheap drinks, from its very outspoken CEO Tim Martin to its ability to buy up grand Victorian buildings and turn them into drinking dens, is etched into the British psyche.
But what you might not know, and what I didn’t, is that Spoons not only runs hotels, but has been doing so since 1998. Its first venue, in Shrewsbury, had 22 rooms for customers as well as the better-known drinking side of the business. Since then, 54 other Spoons Hotels have opened.
Put off by Mr. Martin’s intervention in British politics and the idea that it’s out-competing independent boozers with its mass buying power, in recent years, my trips to Spoons have been limited to bouts of airport necessity and, occasionally, using its bathrooms without buying anything. However, after its hotel was judged to be the most affordable in the country by Which? earlier this month, I decided to put past gripes behind me and give it a go.
On a cold Wednesday in November, I turned up at Thomas Ingoldsby in Canterbury, freezing and bedraggled following a long bike ride from Broadstairs. What I experienced warmed my chilly cockles and turned my view of Spoons on its head.
The offering is, quite simply, incredible. Here is the breakdown:
Price
Clearly price is a strong point in Spoons pubs, and the same is true in its hotels. In the Which? survey it was one of only two hotels to score 4* for value for money, the other being the overall winner, Coaching Inn Group. While Coaching’s average room rate is £128 a night, Spoons charges just £70 on average. A double room at the Thomas Ingoldsby, booked for next Wednesday, is just £55.
I tucked into a £2.99 veggie breakfast in the morning after an evening of £1.89 pints of ale. Both were pretty good. Maybe it’s been too long since I ventured outside the M25, but those prices just seemed absurdly low. In 2025, when stepping outside alone seems to rob you of at least £20, the budget friendliness of this experience was by far the most significant factor.
Vibe
Before my hotel stay, the last time I ventured into a Spoons had me wander into the cavernous and eerily quiet Coronet on London’s Holloway Road. The difference in vibe could not have been more stark on this particular frosty Wednesday night in Canterbury. The drinkers were out in full force in East Kent. University students, groups of jolly OAPs, lone men reading books and eating onion rings. All of life was there.
The hotel rooms are a short flight of stairs from the pub, which means you can easily stumble up at the end of it all or treat yourself to a deli wrap and chips in the bath. A member of staff told me it is possible to rent out a room spur of the moment, although overly drunk guests may be refused.
The room
The room itself was pretty faultless. I’ve been to a lot of budget hotels in my time, and this one was up there with the best of them. The (likely) worst-case scenario when staying at the lower price-range establishments is furniture that’s falling apart, a room that feels dirty and bedbug traces. The best case is a room in which everything feels well looked after, new or new enough, clean and well considered. The Ingoldsby delivered all of that, while having double rooms that were comfortably big enough for an impromptu last-orders party (although I imagine such things aren’t encouraged or allowed).
The room also had a large desk with a well-stocked tea tray, a sizeable TV and a view of Canterbury Cathedral I suspect few hotels in the city could compete with. Only two of the Ingoldsby’s rooms have that view. Not only do those on the other side of the hotel not look out onto the seat of Anglicanism, they’re a little disturbed by morning lorry movements, I was told. If you can bag it, room 110 is the one to get.
After a long, cold day of cycling across Kent, I was happy to discover the thermostat could be turned all the way up to 25 C, and delivered on that promise. It was like being on holiday.
What’s included
Sadly, Spoons hotel does not have an all-inclusive package. Who knows what mania would break loose after that many bottles of Hooch and triple-cooked chips. But the actual offering is not meagre.
Decent Wi-Fi, a couple of packets of biscuits, fresh towels, two bottles of water and enough tea, coffee and hot chocolate sachets to keep you going before check-out at 11. A morning bite is not included, but with breakfasts that cheap, it didn’t seem worth complaining about.
In conclusion
A friend’s wise dad once told me that Spoons is the closest thing to a real social institution that this country has left. As nightclubs go under and members’ societies close, there are fewer and fewer places for people to meet. Spoons might be one of the last remaining true third spaces we have left in the UK, where all sorts from all demographics want to go. And now that it’s delivering rooms this good and cheap as well, it’s even harder to deny its pull.
The updated passport will remain dark blue and feature the King’s Coat of ArmsCredit: HM Passport Office/PA WireInside will be new watermark designs depicting the four nationsCredit: Home Office
It isn’t just the cover that’s changing, there will be a difference inside too.
The watermark images will depict the natural landscapes from all four UK nations from Ben Nevis, the Lake District, Three Cliffs Bay and the Giant’s Causeway.
The new passport will also have technology built into them with improved anti-forgery designs.
These include updated holographs and translucent features within the pages, which make them harder to forge or tamper with.
There’s even a unique passport number built into each one using laser marking.
They’re hard-wearing too – like with the previous design the photograph page is made from an ultra-thin polycarbonate meaning it shouldn’t be easily damaged.
The UK government claim this makes it the “most secure British passport ever made”.
Migration and citizenship minister Mike Tapp said the redesign is “a new era in the history of the British passport”.
He added: “It also demonstrates our commitment to outstanding public service – celebrating British heritage while ensuring our passports remain among the most secure and trusted in the world for years to come.”
As for when you can get one, the Home Office has said that the new passports are ready to go.
The new passports are said to be ‘the most secure British passport ever made’Credit: Home Office
So anyone applying for a new passport from now will receive one with the updated design.
You don’t need to rush to get the upgraded version though as passports featuring Queen Elizabeth II’s coat of arms will remain valid until their expiry date, the government said.
Since 2023, newly issued passports have been in the King’s name, but the coat of arms hasn’t been changed.
The last redesign of the British passport was in 2020 which saw the return of the navy blue cover which replaced the EU burgundy after Brexit.
Millions of Brits still have the previous dark red passports which are still permitted for use until they expire.
However, anyone using a red passport needs to be mindful of the EU rules which were introduced when the UK left the EU five years ago.
Since Brexit, any additional months on top of the 10 year validity of passports are no longer accepted.
It’s been a while since I’ve struggled into damp neoprene of a morning. It’s the second day of a wintry weekend in Croyde, north-west Devon; I’m stiff from an hour in the sea the previous afternoon, and the upper part of the super-thick wetsuit won’t budge past my elbows. Together, my husband, Mark, and I jiggle and pull and yank it over my limbs. Finally, five minutes later, I am in a silver-blue sea, entirely empty, save for us. White-crested waves roll in, broiling and foaming, rocketing us forward towards the empty swathe of sand. For once there are no other boarders to dodge, no surfers whisking past: it’s exhilarating, extraordinary and … really rather cold.
Croyde has long been a family favourite, but visiting in November does feel a bit of a gamble. It has a reputation as something of a ghost town in the off-season, with a large number of second homes and rentals that stay dark from October to April. But when an unexpected email landed from Endless Summer Beach House offering a 20% discount on winter stays, it seemed the ideal 30th birthday treat for my nephew, Ben. So, together with his girlfriend, Tasha, best mate, Rob, and my sister Caroline, we decided to take the plunge and find out what off-season Croyde is actually like.
When Mark and I arrive, the sky is unexpectedly blue, and we pull on our wetsuits and head straight for the sea. One of the joys of Croyde is that it doesn’t really change: the dunes that separate the beach from the village are strictly protected, saving both from the development that has scarred nearby resorts such as Westward Ho! and Woolacombe. Instead, the fields that flank the dunes are alive with rabbits grazing quietly, scampering away in white-tailed flashes as we pass.
Annabelle and her husband, Mark, on Croyde beach. Photograph: Annabelle Thorpe
At first, it feels strange to find the beach so deserted, but seeing it free of windbreaks, ballgames and pop-up tents renders its raw, natural beauty even more dramatic. It’s no wonder the place gets overrun in the summer months, when the sea froths with hundreds of bodyboarders and surfers, red and yellow lifeguard flags billowing in the breeze. Today there is nothing but sky and sea: a jagged patch of blue above the long curve of Hartland Point, a curtain of misty rain slowly dissipating Lundy island into the flint-grey wash of the ocean.
Later, when I nip into the village to pick up some bread, the narrow main street is almost as deserted as the beach. The Saltrock surfwear shop is open, as is The Hub, beloved by Ben for its lemon crunch ice-cream (and all of us for the pasties). The Post Office shows distinct signs of life, as does The Thatch pub, but otherwise most places are closed until spring. As I stroll back, I think about how it takes 15 minutes to queue for an ice-cream in summer, with the Post Office out of anything fresh by about 9.30am.
Walking on Baggy Point, from left: Rob, Mark, Annabelle, Caroline, Tasha and Ben. Photograph: Annabelle Thorpe
Not everything is shrouded in silence. When we head to The Thatch for dinner on Friday night, the place is packed and buzzy (I had feared it might just be us), although I suspect almost everyone else is local. As ever, the food is fantastic: crisp salt and pepper squid and a Balinese seafood curry, tangy with lemongrass and galangal, served with a heap of coconut sambal that adds up to the best dish I’ve eaten out all year. The boys find room for banoffee pie and apple tart.
There are plenty of other signs of life, too. On Saturday, we head to Braunton (15 minutes’ drive) for the annual firework display, heading down pretty lanes we didn’t even know existed – we never usually get much further than the car park and the Co-op. It’s lovely to get a sense of the place as it really is, with all the flummery and frenetic pace of summer stripped away. On the walk to the beach, the few people we pass are smiley and friendly – a shared delight at having Croyde’s gorgeous dunes and coastline pretty much to ourselves.
Coming away out of season has other benefits too: we don’t expect good weather, so a sunny Saturday is an absolute boon. When it rains all day Sunday, we pull on wet weather gear and stride out around Baggy Point, where the sea – now a palette of steel, platinum and foaming white – is just as spectacular as under blue skies. Once it’s dark, we play board-games, watch old films, eat hearty curries and bolognese – with no squabbling over why the barbecue won’t light and whether the sausages are cooked through.
The Thatch pub. Photograph: Richard Naude/Alamy
The problem with tagging places such as Croyde as “ghost towns” in the off-season is that it deters people from visiting – the very thing our seaside resorts need most. The village was quiet, but far from dead – and, frankly, if you go with a group, you make your own atmosphere anyway. By the time we were packing the cars on Monday lunchtime (another off-season bonus is that accommodation owners are often more flexible about arrival and departure times), we were already talking about booking a return visit next November. Some might call Croyde a ghost town, but it had all the spirit we needed for an early winter break.
Endless Summer Beach House, sleeps 10, from £920 for a three-night break. For a 15% discount on four-night stays or longer, until March 2026, use the code EndlessSummer15
Nov. 25 (UPI) — The Bureau of Labor Statistics on Tuesday released September data from its producer price index, showing modest increases in core wholesale prices that came in lower than experts had predicted.
The PPI for final demand products — what producers and manufacturers get paid for their goods and services sold to consumer businesses — in September increased 0.3%. But when excluding food, energy and trade services, BLS reported that final demand wholesale prices increased just 0.1% — half the expected 0.2% increase.
September’s data release was delayed by “the lapse in federal appropriations” caused by the 43-day federal government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, which the agency noted in its data report.
“While BLS completed data collection prior to the lapse, BLS could not complete data processing and review until appropriations resumed,” the agency said. “Subsequent PPI data releases will also be delayed.”
Overall, BLS reported that final demand increased by a seasonally adjusted 0.3% in September, following a 0.1% decline in August and 0.8% increase in July. On an unadjusted basis, PPI final demand increased 2.7% for the 12-month period that ended in September.
Broken down, the index for final demand on goods increased by 0.9%, the largest increase since a 0.9% jump in February 2024. Two-thirds of this increase can be blamed on energy prices leaping by 3.5%, while food prices increased 1.1%.
Among individual products, the cost for gasoline increased 11.8%, with increases also seen among meats, residential electric service, cars and ethanol. Prices for fresh and dry vegetables, however, dropped by 1.8%, and decreases were also seen in prices for metal ores and residual fuels.
BLS reported that the index for final demand services in September was unchanged, following a 0.3% decrease in August. Price increases of 0.8% were seen among transportation and warehousing services.
Among services, airline passenger service prices increased by 4%, and food wholesaling, chemicals and related products and furniture, among others, also saw prices rise. The margins for machinery and equipment wholesaling dropped 3.5% percent, while apparel, jewelry, footwear and portfolio management also saw price decreases.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and her son, Niko, welcome Waddle, the alternate to the National Thanksgiving turkey, to the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on Tuesday. Later, President Donald Trump will pardon Waddle and the national turkey, Gobble, who were both raised in North Carolina and will live out the rest of their lives under the care of North Carolina State University. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI | License Photo
The hotel has six pools, an aquapark and entertainment from festivals to karaoke, and even cinema nights.
It also has ultra all-inclusive options with gourmet meals all day and night.
A seven-night stay at the Luna Vista Belek starts from £770pp including flights from London Gatwick.
3HB Faro, Portugal
The five-star luxury3HB hotel is in downtown Faro but is still quiet enough that it won’t feel like its in the heart of the city.
Most read in Beach holidays
Rob said: “If you want a city break that feels like a beach resort, this is it”.
Common mentions in the reviews are the modern rooftop pool area and ‘ridiculously good breakfasts’.
The hotel has two restaurants as well as a rooftop bar that looks over the city and is a five-minute walk from the centre of Faro.
A seven-night stay at the 3HB Faro starts from £830pp (room only) with flights from London Gatwick.
The Eagles Nest Studios has an onsite pool and is tucked away in a small villageCredit: Unknown
Eagles Nest Studios, Kefalonia
The Eagles Nest Studios is in the tiny village of Lourdas in Kefalonia at the foot of Mount Ainos – which means you get amazing mountain and sea views.
Rob calls it the “definition of an underrated Greek gem” and reviews compliment the “unbelievably kind owners”, “panoramic hillside views” and “simple but spotless rooms”.
It’s even been lauded as a ‘four star experience at a two star price’.
The Eagles Nest Studios is a perfect stay for anyone looking for simplicity – it has an onsite pool and local tavernas.
A four-night stay at the Eagles Nest Studios starts from £420pp (on a self-catering basis) with flights from London Gatwick.
Basar Hotel is less busy than others near to Marmaris in TurkeyCredit: Unknown
The white-washed peaceful complex has an outdoor pool, guests can stay in one of the roomy apartments that’s equipped with speedy Wi-Fi.
Reviews have described the place as a “luxury Airbnb” and Rob reveals the reason that it isn’t as booked up because it’s slightly tucked away.
A seven-night stay at La Concha Boutique starts from £565pp (on a self-catering basis) with flights from London Gatwick.
Hotel Iliana Panormos on the island of Crete is near to beaches and local tavernasCredit: On the Beach
Hotel Iliana Panormos, Crete
The Hotel Iliana Panormos is a two-star hotel on the island of Crete with a central courtyard and swimming pool.
Reviews say it’s a “proper Greek family run gem” in the village of Panormos near pretty tavernas.
The hotel looks classically Greek with white walls with terracotta rooftop tiles and bright blue doors.
It’s only 150m from pretty sandy beaches as well as watersport spots, and it’s within walking distance of local tavernas and shops.
A seven-night stay at Hotel Iliana Panormos starts from £370pp (on a self-catering basis) with flights from London Gatwick.
A Suite Side in Antalya can be booked from £455ppCredit: Unknown
A Suite Side, Turkey
A Suite Side is a three-star complex in Side, Antalya that has self-contained apartments with a shared pool.
Rob reveals that guest reviews say it feels a “boutique design hotel but with Turkish value for money“.
The hotel is missed because it doesn’t have sea views – but it’s a very short walk away from the beach front.
There are plenty of rooms up for grabs including those with garden and pool views, others come with Jacuzzis – but all come with a furnished balcony or terrace, an open-plan living room and kitchen.
At the hotel are multiple pool areas, one for adults and a smaller one for children.
A seven-night stay at A Suite Side starts from £455pp (on a self-catering basis).
The family run Idyll Suites has a huge pool and central courtyardCredit: On the Beach
Idyll Suites, Gran Canaria
The adults only Idyll Suites is found in sunny Gran Canaria which has sunny terraces and incredible ocean views.
In fact, the 24 deluxe suites and 23 superior suites, all face the sea and have beautiful panoramic views.
Reviews say it feels like a “luxury suite at a mid-range price” with many guests stating they return year after year.
It’s self-catering, but nearby is the Delicias restaurant and a place to enjoy Mediterranean specialities – and hotel guests get an exclusive discount.
AS winter sets in, many Brits are already looking ahead to their next holiday.
But travel experts have revealed the destinations that shouldn’t be on your 2026 bucket list, including a sunny favourite for UK residents.
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Fodor’s Travel has revealed its No 2026 List of destinations to avoid
From overtourism to negative environmental impacts, there are a variety of reasons to avoid this stunning locations.
Fodor’s Travel has revealed its No 2026 List, explaining: “Its purpose is to highlight destinations where tourism is placing unsustainable pressures on the land and local communities.”
While the round-up of locations is “not a call for boycott”, it aims to highlight the issues facing each area, urging tourists to “ease up on a spot for now–not forever”.
“Give a rest to any location that clearly needs a breather,” the travel pros encouraged readers.
The list includes a popular tourist destination for Brits as well as a city set to host next year’s World Cup.
Antarctica
Environmental experts have discouraged the overtourism of Antarctica until visitor caps can be put in place
Unlike most destinations, Antarctica doesn’t need marketing campaigns to lure visitors to fuel its existent economy.
In fact, it doesn’t have an economy at all, and therefore doesn’t need tourists.
Despite this, the remote region welcomed 120,000 visitors from 2023 to 2024, a number which is projected to double by 2033.
Mike Gunter, professor of political science and chair at Rollins College in Florida, who studies ecotourism and environmental policy, spoke about the recent shift in tourism for Antarctica.
“Unfortunately, in the last quarter century, Antarctica has been moving more toward mass tourism instead of the traditional ecotourism world,” he explained.
Expedition ships offer visitors a chance to set foot on the driest land on the planet and witness calving glaciers.
Elizabeth Leane, professor of Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, pointed out that a major draw of Antarctica is that it “still has that mystique of being the last place, the last wilderness”.
However, Jessica O’Reilly, associate professor of anthropology at Indiana University and an advisor to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings, explained: “The environment is fragile, and it’s a rare environment”.
“That’s why people want to go there, but it’s also why it can’t really sustain high numbers of tourism,” she said.
With no caps on visitation in Antarctica, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has only been able to set out voluntarily regulations for visitors.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands have been named on Fodor’s No List for 2026, with overtourism as the main reason
With warm temperatures for most of the year, the Canary Islands have established themselves as a long-time favourite destination for Brits.
From cheap prices and direct flights to world-class waterparks and stunning scenery, there are many draws to the destination.
However, a whopping 7.8 million visitors in 2025 alone has left locals concerned over how much their islands can take.
Thousands even marched through the streets of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote in May under the banner, “Canarias tiene un límite” (“The Canaries have a limit”).
The booming tourism is causing soaring housing costs and mounting environmental strain, threatening the foundations of island life.
While tourism contributes more than a third of the Canary Islands’ GDP and employs roughly 40% of its population, it has come at a price.
“Residents have started protesting because they’re genuinely fed up,” says John Dale Beckley, founder of the sustainability platform CanaryGreen.org.
“The government previously changed regulations that allowed residents to rent out their properties on Airbnb and Booking.com.
“This has driven up both rental prices and property values. Many young people now find it almost impossible to rent or buy a home.”
Meanwhile, there have also been “alarming losses in biodiversity” due to overcrowding.
And water scarcity and infrastructure strain are predicted to be the next looming crises.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Travel experts advised visitors to avoid Glacier National Park, Montana, USA for the time-being, allowing it time to recover from the environmental impacts of tourism
First opened in 1910 with the displacement of the Blackfeet tribe, Glacier National Park (GNP) in Montana struggles to live up to its name.
“For a lot of these species, climate change is what they call a ‘threat multiplier,’” Jamison explains. “
It magnifies existing threats and intensifies them … We’re seeing changes to migration routes, to seasonal habitats and winter range, and to entire populations.”
For some travelers, the last-chance draw of the rapidly melting glaciers has motivated visits to the park.
Already one of the most visited national parks in the US, Glacier saw around 300,000 more visitors in 2024 than 2023.
These large and growing numbers have various impacts on the park, from traffic congestion on Glacier’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road to the faster accumulation of garbage, and a greater risk of wildlife disturbance.
Glacier National Park has implemented policies to mitigate some of the effects, with visitors required to have timed reservations to enter during peak summer months and hours since 2020.
However, the damage may already have been done.
“The challenges absolutely are unprecedented,” says Jamison. “At no point in the history of Glacier Park have so many existential threats intersected all at once.”
Isola Sacra, Italy
Locals from Isola Sacra, Fiumicino have shared their concerns of the environmental impact of a cruise port in the small coastal townCredit: Alamy
This small community near Rome has been given the green light for a new port, where some of the world’s largest cruise ships will dock.
These plans have caused backlash from residents and environmental campaigners.
Despite the devastating impact of the cruise industry on other Italian areas such as Venice and Santorini, the quiet coastal district of Isola Sacra in Fiumicino is set to become the next cruise destination.
Located just 20 miles from Rome, the stunning area will become home to a pier for mega cruise ships, each over 230 feet high, over 1,150 feet long, and capable of carrying up to 6,000 passengers.
Authorities say the project will bring an employment boom, however various local and national associations have been fighting against these development plans since 2010.
Long-time residents of Isola Sacra have formed Tavoli del Porto, a committee working to safeguard the area.
“Only together can we stop these projects that threaten to destroy a delicate ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, agricultural land, unique vegetation, and terrestrial and marine animal species,” the activists told local press ahead of a protest planned in November.
The project includes measures for the protection of marine biodiversity, with Fiumicino’s seabed so shallow it will require 105 million cubic feet of sand would to be extracted to create a deep channel allowing access for ships.
The Jungfrau Region, Switzerland
The Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland also featured on the No 2026 ListCredit: Alamy
Located in the Bernese Oberland of central Switzerland, the Jungfrau Region stretches from the valleys of Interlaken to the imposing summits of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
The area is most famous for its Alpine villages of Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Mürren.
However despite its stunning scenery, the Jungfrau Region faces the challenge of balancing a booming tourism with the preservation of its environment and local quality of life.
The popularity of the area strains natural resources and the daily lives of residents, making now a critical moment to address sustainability.
According to Jungfrau Railways’ corporateannouncements, both visitor numbers and profits have never been higher.
More thana million people visited the Jungfraujoch, the ridge that joins two of the Bernese Alps’ towering 13,000-foot peaks dubbed “the Top of Europe”, in 2024, up 5.1% from the previous year.
Meanwhile, the Eiger Express gondola transported more than 2.1 million passengers, while the Harderbahn, Firstbahn, and Lauterbrunnen-Mürren cableways also broke attendance records.
In the first half of 2025, transport income has generated record profits, offering tourists the chance to reach the high Alps.
But this booming industry has had a visible impact on the surrounding countryside.
“Where there was ice, there are now trees,” explained climate and science reporter Mark Poynting of the Great Aletsch.
Mexico City
Mexico City has been struggling with overtourism in recent yearsCredit: Getty – Contributor
Set to host the opener of the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, this city
On July 4, large protests erupted in Mexico City against gentrification, short-term rentals, and rising rents.
Signs reading “Mexico for Mexicans” and “gringos out” were spotted across the city.
Similar to the Canary Islands, the proliferation of Airbnb and other short-stay listings are contributing to housing displacement and rental inflation in the city.
“Simply put, Airbnb should be banned from Mexico City,” says Natalia de la Rosa, the Mexico City-born and bred operations leader of Club Tengo Hambre.
“It’s a platform that incentivizes evictions and tears at the social fabric of communities in neighbourhoods.”
“Deep-pocketed elites and large corporate and international portfolios purchasing entire apartment buildings to convert them into short-term rentals are negatively impacting our city,” she added.
Inside Airbnb, an advocacy group that analyzes the company’s footprint on residential areas through data-driven research, estimates that there are over 25,000 short-term rentals in the city.
Airbnb listings in the city have shot up by 35% since 2020.
Mombasa, Kenya
Mombasa in Kenya has seen a recent boom in tourism, which has put a strain on local resourcesCredit: Alamy
With a record 2.4 million international arrivals last year, Kenya’s tourism industry has been booming, making travel the third-largest industry in the country for amassing foreign currency.
Cruise travel is one of the sector’s new tourism products, bringing a 164% rise in port traffic in coastal cities Mombasa and Lamu in 2024.
However, despite the country’s vigorous campaign to attract more travelers, Kenyan officials do not have a clear understanding of how many tourists it can accommodate without harming ecological health.
Mombasa, the country’s oldest coastal city, renowned as “the white and blue city,” now hosts 70% of tourists visiting the coast.
And now overtourism has left the city grappling with depleting resources, overcrowding, poor and congested roads, poor waste management–littered beaches and polluted oceans.
Officials have continuously prioritized tourism over local needs, going so far as to establish a Tourists’ Inspectorate Unit, a special security team safeguarding tourist centres, despite worries about crime outside these areas.
Montmartre, Paris
Montmarte in Paris has also been named on the No 2026 List
Paris’ hilltop village of Montmartre has long drawn tourists to its picturesque cobbled streets, from Van Gogh lovers to John Wick fans alike.
Montmartre, once a village on the outskirts of the city, has remained untouched, maintaining the narrow cobbled streets of yore.
Today, these picturesque ruelles are considered an undeniable tourist draw in the city.
However in recent years, it’s become more than the 30,000 residents can bear.
Rémy Knafou, professor at Paris 1–Panthéon Sorbonne and author of several books on overtourism has noticed that even previously quieter spots, notably the northern flank of the hill, now teem with tourist shops.
“At night, the Place du Tertre is completely invaded by café and restaurant terraces,” Knafou told Fodor’s.
“Some of the population living in the area is protesting–discretely, politely, but firmly–its discontent. It is therefore possible to speak of overtourism.”
Local government officials claim that they are working to reduce the impact of tourism on residents.
However, if trends continue in this way, experts warn Montmartre may be “progressively emptied of its population.”
Hoseasons has launched its Black Friday sale, which includes discounts on thousands of breaks, and there’s one near The Tolkien Trail.
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Families can snap up an inexpensive break with Hoseasons(Image: Hoseasons)
Hoseasons, who operate 750 holiday parks across the UK, has launched a huge Black Friday sale, with discounts on a number of its family-friendly staycations.
The holiday park operator will be offering up to 30% off over 10,000 of its breaks, and 40,000 with discounts of up to £250. The sale will include self-catering accommodation at holiday parks, lodges, and even their boat holidays.
Best of all, parents on a budget will be able to find some bargains even during school holiday weeks, with a range of inexpensive breaks available, including some that work out at just over £50 a night during the summer holidays.
A family of four could book a seven-night break at Beacon Fell View in the Ribble Valley of Lancashire for just £295, with accommodation in a silver three-bedroom caravan.
This is based on a break starting August 21, 2026 and works out at just £52.14 per night. The park is close to the Lake District and Blackpool, meaning there’s plenty for families to do nearby.
It also has an indoor swimming pool, so kids can enjoy the water even if the British summer doesn’t bring warm weather, plus lots of entertainment facilities.
The Ribble Valley
The Ribble Valley is a beautiful place to explore with lots of open countryside and lush green hills. Bring the kids bikes along and try the family friendly cycling trail at Gisburn Forest.
At just over 5.5 miles long, the route has plenty to see along the way from a horse farm to the calm waters of Stocks Reservoir.
Just down the road is the The Tolkien Trail where you can follow in the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien, and see the sights that inspired the author to write books such as Lord of the Rings.
Take a day trip to Blackpool for traditional seaside vibes and lots of family fun. Visit the SEA LIFE Centre where the new Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse is bound to thrill the younger members of your group.
Kids will love climbing and crawling through the deep, dark woods and finding their favourite characters in this immersive experience.
Another option for families is a seven-night break available at North Shore Holiday Park, just a short walk from Skegness, starting July 22, 2026.
This is priced at just £285 for four people. This is a one-bedroom apartment, but it has additional sleeping space in the lounge for two.
The site has its own pub and restaurant, playground, and amusements, plus Skegness’s North Beach is just a 15-minute walk away with golden sands and a seal sanctuary.
Skegness Beach was recently voted the best in East England by The Times, who rated the water quality as excellent, and said of the beach: “It’s big, soft and golden, with views across the Wash to the Norfolk coast.”
Skegness also has the Pleasure Beach, a seafront theme park with rollercoasters and lots of family fun. There’s also Skegness Aquarium which has lots of colourful and exotic sea life to spot.
It also has Jurassic Falls, a dinosaur-themed area where you can meet life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that bring the past to life.
If you can’t wait until summer to get away, how about an Easter break? You can book four nights for four sharing at Hemsby Beach Holiday Park for March 30, 2026, which is in most schools’ Easter break dates, for just £135.
This bargain price includes accommodation in a two-bedroom chalet, and includes access to an indoor pool and the show bar with daytime and evening entertainment for all ages.
The park is located in a lively part of Norfolk, with lots of amusements, classic seaside fun, plus long sandy beaches for spring walks.
Great Yarmouth is just a 20-minute drive away with its sandy beach, historic pier, and Joyland, an old-school amusement park that has classic rides the kids will love.
Yarmouth is also home of the Hippodrome Circus, a unique venue from the early 20th century which has huge events and water shows, with the summer months bringing a popular circus to the town.
For May half term week, you can book a four-night break arriving May 25, 2026 near the Yorkshire Dales for just £249 for four people.
Stay in the highly-rated Badgers Retreat Holiday Park, with accommodation in a cosy two-bedroom traditional lodge that has everything you need for a family holiday.
The lodge is set in 26 acres of grounds with plenty of space for the kids to play, and the market town of Richmond is nearby with historic sites to explore.
Visitors can explore the local Swaledale Museum, a quaint local spot that focuses on preserving the history of the lead mining community who used to live in the area.
You’re also close to the 14th century Bolton Castle, a well-preserved medieval building that has vast gardens including a maze. Eagle-eyed TV viewers may recognise it as a filming location for shows including Heartbeat and All Creatures Great and Small.
All these deals are subject to availability, with popular dates and parks likely to sell out quickly. The Hoseasons Black Friday sale ends on December 4. Find out more and book breaks here.
A brand new direct train line will be connecting three capital cities of Europe for the first time next spring, and there is no cooler trio than these top cities
15:46, 25 Nov 2025Updated 16:26, 25 Nov 2025
Prague is one of the cities that visitors can look forward to(Image: Portia Jones)
For the first time next spring, a brand new direct train line will connect three of Europe’s most vibrant capital cities – Prague, Berlin and Copenhagen. These fantastic destinations, known for their rich culture, history, delectable cuisine, local beers and lively nightlife, have always been a hit with British tourists.
This exciting venture is a joint project between Czech Railways (D), Deutsche Bahn (DB), and Danish State Railways (DSB), supported by the European Commission, which is eager to promote cross-border rail travel among both tourists and locals.
The trains used on this route will be D’s ComfortJet trains, capable of speeds up to 230km per hour (140mph) and seating 555 passengers. A seasonal night train will also be introduced to maximise the use of this new route.
Set to open on 1 May 2026, just in time for the summer season, the new route promises to offer British visitors an easy and convenient way to explore these three amazing capitals.
This development follows the completion of renovations on the Berlin to Hamburg line, and according to Railway News, stops in both these cities will be included in the route, reports the Express.
So, what’s the scoop on this service? Time Out reports that it will likely operate twice daily, taking seven hours between Berlin and Copenhagen, and 11 hours from the Danish capital to Prague. A seasonal night train between Hamburg and Copenhagen will be extended to utilise the new route.
The trains themselves will accommodate 555 passengers, with 99 of those in first-class. Onboard, travellers will have access to a dining car, cinema area, and even adjustable seating.
Prices for 2026 haven’t been announced yet, but the journey from Copenhagen to Berlin currently costs around £43, and the shorter trip between Berlin and Prague starts from as little as £13.87, totalling £57.44.
The three cities are almost directly aligned, with Prague being the southernmost, then up to Berlin and onto Copenhagen in Scandinavia. All three are renowned for their cool vibes.
Prague is often hailed as a “cool” city to visit due to its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It offers an incredible atmosphere with mystical vistas, medieval castles and bridges, and a combination of classical and modern scenes, from grand palaces to unique street art.
Many Brits love the affordable prices, particularly the cheap beer, efficient public transport, and exciting nightlife alongside its historical and architectural designs.
Berlin is famed for its vibrant energy, diverse populace, and striking differences between historic landmarks and modern architecture. The city’s nightlife is globally recognised, boasting renowned clubs and a variety of late-night venues, making it a prime spot for clubbers.
The city also boasts a thriving art scene, with a significant portion of the Berlin Wall adorned with graffiti art, serving as a poignant reminder of the city’s war-ravaged past.
Lastly, there’s Copenhagen. With its mix of old-world allure and contemporary Scandinavian design, a lively food culture, commitment to sustainability, and high living standards, it’s a must-visit destination for 2026.
Known for its clean, canals, cycling culture, imaginative architecture, and focus on creativity and community, it’s the perfect conclusion to a three-city break that takes in some of Europe’s amazing capitals in one go.
Launching on 1 May, the new service will enable passengers to travel between the three capitals without needing to change trains, with further stops planned in key cities including Dresden and Hamburg.
The connection will provide two daily return services. Journey times are anticipated to be roughly seven hours between Berlin and Copenhagen, and approximately eleven hours between Prague and Copenhagen, according to Railway News.
Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin said: “Deutsche Bahn’s new direct connection connects three European capitals – Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen. This strengthens Berlin as a hub in Europe. At the same time, the new direct rail connection is an important contribution to a sustainable transport transition; even more people can now travel to and from Berlin in an environmentally and climate-friendly way.”
Postolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism added: “The expansion of high-speed rail, especially cross-border rail, is our top priority. This new connection between the Czech Republic, Germany, and Denmark is a strong example of progress on this path. And I am particularly proud that it is the first of ten European Commission pilot projects to support the realisation of new cross-border rail connections.”
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Ahead of winter holidays and festive trips away, a flight attendant has now shared a clever travel hack to get an extra bag on board without paying a penny more
15:14, 25 Nov 2025Updated 15:15, 25 Nov 2025
Flight attendant shares ‘genius’ method to sneak extra bag on board(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
Whether it’s a summer holiday or a winter trip away, one thing is always certain and that’s packing with luggage allowance is tricky to get right. Pack too much and you run the risk of having a bag that’s too heavy or won’t fit the cabin luggage standards, but if you pack too light then you run the risk of being forced to wash your clothes whilst away.
Yet it doesn’t have to be so hard, as a flight attendant has now shared a clever travel hack to get an extra bag on board without paying a penny more.
Flight attendant Miguel Muñoz shared a sneaky trick to help passengers dodge extra luggage fees by utilising a duty-free shopping bag, and it’s the perfect trip for your Christmas getaway.
Miguel’s genius idea reurposes a duty-free bag to carry clothes and other items that won’t fit in your hand luggage, you can essentially sneak an extra bag on board.
According to Miguel, “duty-free bags don’t count as carry-on baggage,” so gate agents tend to turn a blind eye.
To take advantage of this hack, holidaymakers can either bring a duty-free bag from home or purchase one at the airport’s duty-free shop.
Miguel said: “If you have something that doesn’t fit in your suitcase or you want to bring an extra bag on board, here’s the trick.
“All you have to do is carry a duty-free bag. Or ask for one at the duty-free shop and you place whatever you want in the shopping bag. There is obviously limited space, but at least you are bringing an extra bag on the plane with you.”
He added: “Now you know. If you ever find yourself in that situation, just put whatever you want in a duty-free bag. You are welcome!”
Miguel’s trick comes after another hack has gone viral, using a “fake pillow” where passengers use a pillowcase filled with extra items, as the pillow doesn’t typically count as a piece of luggage.
This hack has been shared by hundreds of travellers on social media, who claim that security officers and gate agents rarely bat an eye.
TikTok has also been filled with tips and tricks from savvy travellers all keen to carry more, without the hefty fees for extra baggage. A savvy traveller from Handluggageonly explained on the platform, “Pack all the clothes you need in your backpack but if that person checking you in for your flight turns around and says anything about your bag being overweight and tries to charge you the excess baggage fare, simply pop over to the bathroom and wear as many clothes as possible.
“Technically, no one can say anything about the fact that you just wore your extra clothes on you instead of having them in your luggage and more importantly – they can’t charge you the extra fare as your bag weight should be much more in line.”
Perfect for a winter staycation this English rural village has featured in a number of high-profile films including War Horse, Doctor Dolittle, Stardust and The Wolf Man.
This “idylic” village has been named the “most beautiful in England” and featured in films(Image: Getty)
A village tucked away in the stunning Cotswolds has been dubbed as “idylic” and hailed as the “most beautiful village in England”.
Tucked away in a leafy valley in the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is frequently dubbed the “prettiest village in England” and it’s not hard to see why.
For winter it offers the perfect getaway for an enchanting and festive vacation, stepped in medieval history and architecture.
With history dating all the way back until the 12th century, Castle Combe dates back to the Middle Ages and is steeped in history and folklore.
According to a visitors guide from The Crown Inn pub in the village, and reported by The Express, the charming village has become a firm favourite for people from far and wide.
Not only does Castle Combe have a rich and full history, it’s a popular filming spot for films and TV dramas including War Horse, Doctor Dolittle, Stardust and The Wolf Man.
Often providing the backdrop for period dramas and historical films, Castle Combe has honey-coloured cottages built from local stone – and these ancient buildings are still one of the village’s most distinctive features today.
Remarkably, Castle Combe was particularly known for producing a red and white cloth called “Castlecombe”, which was highly sought after in the markets of Bristol, Cirencester, London and even overseas.
In the 15th century, King Henry VI granted Castle Combe the right to hold a weekly market, and the unmistakable Market Cross monument still stands tall today.
Now as a historical village, it’s not surprising that Castle Combe is fiercely protective of its aesthetic. This includes putting a strict ban on modern attachments such as TV dishes and external wires on the exteriors of its houses, with these restrictions playing a key role in preserving the historic village’s authentic appearance.
The church also houses a faceless clock which is said to be one of the oldest working clocks in the country.
For those less interested in history, the village also has plenty to offer. Visiting Castle Combe in winter offers an enchanting experience with its picturesque, frozen scenery, crisp air, and inviting atmosphere.
You can enjoy winter walks, explore quaint shops, and warm up in pubs and tea rooms with hearty meals. It’s the perfect place for a cosy getaway over the winter months and for celebrating the New Year in style.
RYANAIR has axed hundreds of thousands of seats across many routes in Europe resulting in Brits losing direct routes to some of their favourite holiday destinations.
If you’re trying to think of some alternative spots for your next holiday, the experts at MoneySuperMarket along with Sun Travel have found options some for you.
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Bergerac will no longer have direct flights after Ryanair cut the routeCredit: Alamy Stock PhotoBut a beautiful alternative is Carcassonne in the south of FranceCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Carcassonne, France
In 2025, Ryanaircut many services to Franceincluding its route to Bergerac which is known for its half-timbered houses and medieval streets.
If you still want that for your next break, Carcassonne is a great alternative.
“For an aesthetic even closer to Bergerac, the village of Alet-les-Bains is only an hour’s drive away, with half-timbered houses that feel like a step back in time.”
Brits can fly directly from London Stansted to Carcassonne with Ryanair with a flight time of two hours.
Or fly from Manchester and arrive in the French city in just two hours and 10 minutes.
Marrakesh, Morocco
It’s not just France that’s affected, Ryanair announced it would be cutting its routes routes to Tenerife North starting from winter 2025 season.
However, if it’s winter sun that Brits are looking for, then there are a few other spots to fly to instead.
Marrkesh is a great alternative for anyone looking for a sunny holidayCredit: Alamy
Whether you’re looking for a city break or a beach destination – each city offers something different.
But all have souks to explore, pretty resorts and hotels as well as high winter temperatures.
Flying to Marrakesh takes under four hours from the UK and flights from London are as little as £15 in December.
Krakow is a foodie alternative for anyone who will miss the direct route to BriveCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Krakow, Poland
Ryanair also cut flights to Brive in France as a result of the rising tax rate.
But if you still fancy the charm of the French city that’s known for its fantastic food, then you might find what you’re looking for in the Polish city of Krakow.
MoneySuperMarket added: “Brive is loved for its food markets, history, museums, and that artisanal distillery feel, but Krakow could be an alternative with a stunning medieval old town, lively markets, and rich museums.
“Krakow also offers its own vodka distillery experiences, bringing the same taste of local culture while also being an easy city to reach from many UK airports.”
Brits can fly to Krakow from major airports in the UK with flights taking just over two and half hours.
In January one-way tickets are as little as £15.
Ryanair is axing routes to the Azores from March 2026Credit: AlamyInstead, head to the pretty archipelago of Madeira in PortugalCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
The autonomous Portuguese islands are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and have long been a favourite with UK holidaymakers.
One alternative recommended by the team at Sun Travel is beautiful Madeira.
Still in Portugal, the archipelago has the lush greenery of the Azores as well as black sand beaches.
It’s not just about nature, though, as there are still bustling cities like Funchal where holidaymakers can explore the Old Town and visit the Mercado dos Lavradores market.
Or wander through the pretty Madeira Botanical Garden and Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
Flights to Madeira depart from the likes of Bristol, Manchester, Bournemouth, Leeds, Nottingham, Liverpool and London for as little as £16.
Ryanair has axed flights to Vigo in SpainA pretty alternative is the city of Porto in PortugalCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Porto, Portugal
In August 2025, Ryanair said confirmed that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped including those to Vigo.
The city is known for its vibrant seafood scene, beautiful Atlantic coastline, and as a gateway to the Cíes Islands which are just a 45-minute ferry trip away.
For a different budget-friendly, and direct route from the UK – check out Porto.
The coastal city in northwest Portugal is known for its huge bridges, port wine production, and colourful, winding streets.
Its position by the sea means that, like Vigo, it has plenty of fresh seafood.
While you’re there, don’t forget to try the ‘Porto sandwich’ called Francesinha, which is made with layered meats like steak, ham, and sausage between toasted bread slices.
You can fly directly from the UK to Porto from London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The flight time is under two and a half hours – and they’re as little as £15.
A charming town that’s perfect for a weekend break, with independent shops, great places to eat and drink, and stunning hikes on its doorstep
One UK town is the ideal place for a shopping staycation this Christmas(Image: Love Treorchy)
As the festive season approaches, you might be meticulously planning your shopping trips. However, your local high street may not fit the bill.
If you fancy a change of scenery this December, a staycation in one Welsh town could offer the perfect blend of exploration and independent boutiques. One destination that might not have sprung to mind is tucked away deep within Rhondda, South Wales.
Treorchy and its bustling high street are ideal for a relaxed Saturday morning stroll, perusing the many independent shops, with the rest of the day free for dining, drinking or, weather permitting, a post-lunch ramble around the nearby hills and waterfalls.
Shops
The true allure of Treorchy lies in its quaint independent shops, where you’ll discover gifts and stocking fillers galore. At the top of Bute Street, there’s the florist, Lili Wen, where – alongside beautiful bouquets and wreaths – you’ll find homely yet chic housewares and trinkets, reports the Express.
For those who relish rummaging through trinkets and gifts, Wonder Stuff is a must-visit. This delightful gift shop has been trading for over two decades, selling adorable stationery, mugs, cards, and food and drink gifts.
Just a few doors down, Green Valley may seem like a simple fruit and veg shop – and it is – but it also stocks sustainable gifts, a variety of hot sauces, Christmas items, treats and, intriguingly, cosy Nordic socks.
Beyond The Lion pub, two unique shopping experiences await. Sparkilicious is a haven of chic gifts and homeware, puzzles, games and toys.
Just across the road, Celtic Dragon Retro presents a different kind of treasure chest, brimming with retro game consoles and games, collectable toys and comics. You’ll discover everything from Pokémon and WWE, Star Wars, Marvel and DC to Disney.
They even offer gaming tables for a breather during your shopping spree! Treorchy’s high street also features an array of clothing shops, baby stores, drapers and jewellery shops worth a visit.
Places to eat and drink
Treorchy is teeming with coffee shops and snack spots, such as Hot Gossip, which is currently offering a large festive drinks menu.
The Cwm Farm Shop serves up a hearty breakfast, Sunday roast, homemade pies and pasties, and daily specials. Their cawl is particularly commendable, and many of the dishes use locally-sourced meat from the nearby farm owned by the same family.
For dinner, the Pencelli Hotel offers a full menu of pub classics, tapas items, curries and flatbreads. Alternatively, you can enjoy a pub meal or pizza at the Cardiff Arms Bistro, with dishes like beef short rib, grilled monkfish and prawn curry.
Christmas attractions
Treorchy is one of many towns in Rhondda Cynon Taf that hosts a Christmas celebration. This year, the parade will commence on Saturday, November 29.
Treorchy Library is set to spread some festive cheer with Santa Saturdays every weekend in December, where kids can meet Father Christmas in his grotto. Plus, late-night shopping will kick off on 3rd December and continue every Wednesday throughout the month.
For those who fancy a bit of an adventure, the upper Rhondda offers stunning views and invigorating hikes. Just take a drive up to the Bwlch hilltop for a breathtaking view over Treorchy and Cwmparc, or head to the top of the valley to the Rhigos viewpoint for a glimpse of Bannau Brycheiniog on a clear day.
One hike that’s a must for walkers is the Blwch mountain circular, a 13km stretch from Treorchy up to the viewpoint. And if you’re visiting from out of town, The Pencelli and Cardiff Arms Bistro both offer cosy accommodation options.
There is a catalogue of Christmas markets dotted across Europe for a festive getaway, with one transforming the city into a magical winter wonderland just a few hours away.
The Christmas market is something out of a fairytale (Image: Getty Images)
With Christmas just a month away, many of us are turning our attention to celebrating the festivities, and what better way than a stroll around a European market with a warming cup of spiced mulled wine.
One particular Christmas market, set against a backdrop of fairytale charm and medieval architecture, is merely hours away from the UK.
Bruges Christmas market is one of the most notable in Belgium, if not Europe, as the city transforms into a spectacular scene with Christmas trees, colourful fairy lights and charming wooden chalets.
The celebrations, also known as the “Winter Glow”, also welcome its glittering ice skating rink and a mesmerising light experience trail through the city.
Nestled in the heart of the city centre, the Christmas market will span over two locations, each area offering its own festive ambience.
In Grote Markt, you’ll find traditional wooden chalets adorned with gift inspiration, from handcrafted ornaments to Belgian chocolates, as well as an ice rink for gliding among the enchanting backdrop.
Another part of the Christmas market, albeit a little smaller, is in Simon Stevinplein, with a focus on “short-chain and craft products”.
Nearby, you’ll find cobbled streets with cosy cafés, where you can experience the scent of local chocolatiers while taking in the Gothic architecture of this well-preserved city.
You certainly won’t go hungry at the Christmas market with Belgian treats like fresh waffles and cheeses on offer, or a spiced mulled wine or traditional beer at the “IJsgloed” Winter Bar that overlooks the ice skating rink.
The bar is adorned with lights, decorations, wooden barstools, and barrels, creating a snug haven to soak up the festive scenes.
During a trip, you can also wander along the 3.5km light trail through the historic city to admire 10 fascinating light installations set within unsuspecting venues.
While Bruges is small, the intimate atmosphere and magical setting of “Winter Glow” that envelops the city, from November 21 to January 4, make it one of the most charming in Europe.
Furthermore, you can climb the 366 steps of the iconic 83-meter-high Belfry of Bruges (Belfort van Brugge) and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city.
You can also take a brisk walk along its winding canals through the city, often dubbed the “Venice of the North”, or wander through Minnewaterpark with its tranquil lake and serene surroundings.
What’s more, you can catch the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Brussels Midi/Zuid in under two hours, before a quick hour train to Bruges, making it super easy for a winter getaway.
Or why not extend your trip and experience both Belgian cities for a festive trip like no other?
If you’re looking to step into the festive spirit, there’s a new Christmas market coming to a popular seaside area in the UK for the very first time, with a variety of stalls and seasonal treats.
A new Christmas market is arriving in the UK with more than 30 stalls (Image: Getty Images)
It’s the most magical time of the year, when we start planning our festive day out – and there’s nowhere better than a Christmas market. And this year, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark is welcoming its own for the very first time with free entry.
Stretching along the English Riviera on the South Devon coastline is Goodrington beach which is home to Splashdown Waterpark at Quaywest. The hugely popular attraction is the UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark, boasting 11 adrenaline-filled flume rides and a giant play area for young children.
During the warmer months, Splashdown Quaywest welcomes hundreds of visitors to race down their slides and this year had a record-breaking number of thrill-seekers. While the waterpark is currently closed until Spring 2026, it will host its first ever Christmas market during two weekends this December, boasting more than 30 stalls.
The new Christmas market is designed to bring more activity to the desirable seaside area of Goodrington throughout the year, along with a touch of festive cheer. Along with its local craft stalls offering gift inspiration, seasonal treats and festive drinks will also be available, accompanied by a range of fun-packed activities and entertainment for children.
The Christmas market will be held on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, and again on Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21 from 11.30am to 6.30pm. Joyfully, entry into the Christmas market will be free, with the event aimed at supporting local traders.
Group Marketing Director and co-owner of the waterpark, Jackie Richmond, told Torbay Weekly: “We are excited to be bringing the first of what we hope will be a number of fun events that will take place out of waterpark season. The Christmas Market Weekends and Festive Fridays will, we hope, bring vibrancy, community spirit and holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike.
“We love Goodrington and want to make it a focus for people both in the summer and beyond, creating something for our local community to enjoy. We hope this event will be something that we can grow year on year.”
Additionally, there will be another event called Festive Fridays, offering hot drinks and Bratwurst-style hot dogs from the Quaywest Snack Shack from 4pm to 6pm. You can grab a warming treat from the shack before a brisk walk along Goodrington beach on four consecutive Fridays on November 28, December 5, December 12 or December 19.
Aside from the famed waterpark, Goodrington is a popular destination for a seaside getaway, featuring Paignton Beach and its classic British pier nearby. While the weather will be brisk, this could be the ideal time to visit the Devonshire coast – shopping at the new Christmas market, taking a stroll along the beaches, and visiting some of the area’s beloved attractions, all while avoiding the usual summer holiday crowds.
What’s more, Paignton train station is just a short walk away from Splashdown Quaywest and Goodrington Beach, and there are plenty of hotels dotted along the coastline if you want to extend your stay.
IT’S the most wonderful time of the year, as Brits flock to Christmas markets to browse festive gifts and sip piping hot mulled wine.
Now, the country’s best eight spots for top-notch Christmas markets have been revealed, but notably missing one major city.
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The UK’s best cities for Christmas markets in 2025 have been revealedChester Christmas market made the list, but some major cities missed outCredit: Getty
A survey of 4,000 people by consumer champion Which has revealed Brits’ favourite Christmas market destinations all over the country.
The top eight cities were: Bath, Chester, Durham, Winchester, Wells, Liverpool, Edinburgh, York and Belfast.
This means that Manchester was a glaring exception to the list, despite its markets offering 200 stalls across nine locations this year in the popular northern city.
The selection offers something for everyone, from quaint cobbled lanes to grand squares and gothic cathedrals.
Bath is already a tourist hotspot, a Regency gem which was voted the UK’s best medium-sized city this year.
It’s market offers 200 chalets where punters can peruse a massive selection of goods, with many of the stallholders based in the South West.
Expect everything from foraged jam to pet gifts.
In Northern Ireland, Belfast plays host to a market ideal for foodies, from crocodile burgers to local produce every weekend.
It also includes a funfair, and takes place at the steps of the grand Victorian City Hall building.
If you are looking to spot some WAGs doing a spot of Christmas browsing, Chester would be the city to head to.
With its 80 stalls spiralling out from it’s gothic town hall, customers will be delighted with the range of indie options like artisan liqueurs available in this footballer-favourite city.
It is also one of the better cities for accessibility like parking and lack of crowds.
Another historic northern city, Durham’s festive market is a handmade affair, with optional tickets to gain admission to the crafts and gift marquee of 120 stalls costing £4.50.
The free section of the market only has 30 stalls, so more minimalist than some of the others.
It lasts two days, between 5 and 7 December, so worth bearing in mind it could be extremely popular.
Scotland’s offering is found on the iconic East Princes Street in Edinburgh, where revellers can enjoy typical festive options like stocking fillers and gluhwein in the shadow of the city’s imposing castle.
The fair also has a Ferris wheel, and the market lasts into early January, offering the perfect place to celebrate Hogmanay.
Liverpool was crowned the best big city, and it’s Christmas market looks set to live up to the city’s top-rated culture and shopping.
St George’s Hall, with its statuesque columns and strings of twinkling lights, offers a beautiful backdrop to the festivities.
Down in Somerset, Wells has long been a hidden gem, with it’s 850 year old cathedral and moat filled with swans which was immortalised in the 2007 film Hot Fuzz.
In beautiful Wells, the Christmas market is a fleeting affairCredit: GettyIn the past, Wells Christmas market has included reindeer, to the delight of childrenCredit: Alamy
This is very much a market by and for locals, offering gifts crafted in the community, and some regional fare.
Another city most well-known for its stunning cathedral, Winchester is a classy pick for a refined market-goer.
The stalls are set out in front of the ancient landmark, and punters will peruse hand-painted buttons and horsehair brushes.
At the York Christmas Festival, traders operate out of alpine chalets decked with tinsel and wreaths.
Known for its winding lanes and generous Yorkshire hospitality, the city’s market is a staple, as it has been going for over 30 years.
It is a fantastic place to browse for gifts- anything from food and drink to art prints.
The list was created from Which’s best UK cities survey, which means every spot also boasts good-quality food and cultural activities as well as their markets.
Other cities which nearly made the cut included Newcastle, for its top-scoring food and drink offering, Glasgow for its cultural sites, and London, which boasts a plethora of markets.
Which also recommended the UK’s prettiest villages which might be worth a trip or stay this Christmas for their chocolate-box scenery.
These included Avebury in Wiltshire, with its thatched cottages and prehistoric circles.
Another good option would be Llangollen, a picturesque Welsh town with stunning views over the River Dee.
In Edinburgh, the market takes place in a spectacular settingCredit: Alamy Live NewsThe city’s historic streets are always a good option for Christmas shoppingCredit: Alamy
A MAJOR UK airport has officially closed part of a terminal after 60 years of operation.
Large sections of the departures and arrivals halls have shut, with only one airline remaining in the terminal.
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Manchester Airport is currently undergoing a £1.3 billion transformationCredit: AlamyA section of Manchester Airport’s Terminal 1 has been closed as part of the massive restructureCredit: Alamy
Manchester Airport’s Terminal 1 has now closed to all passengers, except those travelling with Ryanair.
The terminal was opened by Prince Philip in 1962 and entered its final phase of closure last week.
Airport transformation
Meanwhile, Terminal 2 has undergone a 10-year, £1.3 billion transformation which has more than doubled its size.
After an extension to the terminal opened in 2021, the airport is now in the final stages of overhauling the original Terminal 2.
In the meantime, Terminals 1 and 3 will operate as a temporary hybrid hub for Ryanair until the full closure of Terminal 1 in early 2026.
Airline passengers have described the Terminal closure as the “end of an era”.
Fond farewell
A spokesperson for the airport told the BBC staff have been “really touched by all the lovely comments and by people sharing their memories”.
“Since the 1960s, T1 has been the starting point for millions of journeys,” Manchester Airport said in an official post.
The airport, which ranks as the UK’s busiest outside of London, has become well-known for the unique chandeliers in Terminal 1.
These iconic Venetian glass chandeliers were removed in 2003 and were placed on display in various museums.
However, these iconic features will now be on display in Terminal 2, where they are being resurrected to form a new piece of art.
“Even though we love Terminal 1, we weren’t really prepared for just how many other people share our affection for it,” said an airport spokesperson.
“It may be the end of an era for Terminal 1 as we know it, but we wanted to take some time to really celebrate it because it’s truly a part of the history of the North and plays a key part in lots of people’s memories of international travel.”
The airport rep added that passengers will not need to worry about extra traffic in Terminal 2 as a result of the closure.
“There is absolutely nothing that anybody needs to worry about, we have invested in the terminal facility and the road network as well,” they said.
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