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Tucked away in the English Channel between England and France, Sark is often described as the jewel of the Channel Islands. Saskia Rowlands took a trip to Sark to see for herself

We’re told time travel is impossible.

But after spending a day on the tiny island of Sark, I wasn’t so sure.

Tucked away in the English Channel between England and France, the island is often described as the jewel of the Channel Islands. With no cars, winding country lanes and horse-drawn carriages, it feels like stepping back to the 1950s. My mum and I visited during a stay in nearby Guernsey – and months later, we’re still talking about it.

Getting there was an adventure in itself. After surviving a very choppy ferry crossing from Guernsey, we pulled into Sark’s tiny harbour. Walking through a stone archway, we were greeted by one of the island’s most charming traditions, the ‘toast rack’ – a tractor-drawn carriage that ferries visitors up the steep hill into the village.

As we trundled through the winding lanes, lined with hedgerows bursting with wildflowers, the stresses of life vanished. The only sound was the distant clip-clop of horses’ hooves and the occasional ding of a bicycle bell. There wasn’t a single car in sight. And that’s because there aren’t any. Private cars have never been allowed on Sark and are actually banned by law.

The only motorised vehicles permitted are tractors – used for farming, deliveries and transporting visitors – and a tractor-pulled ambulance. Instead, Sark’s 500 residents and visitors explore the island by bicycle, on foot or by horse and cart.

So in true local spirit, we headed to Avenue Cycles, where we hired two mountain bikes. With maps tucked into our baskets, our Sark adventure had officially begun. The island measures just 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, so you can easily explore every nook and cranny in a day. There are no paved roads, and the tracks are quite rocky, so it’s not the smoothest ride, but it all adds to Sark’s charm.

Our first stop was one of the island’s most famous landmarks, La Coupée – a narrow strip of land connecting Big Sark and Little Sark. The dramatic isthmus, formed from sedimentary rock, is now protected by railings, but it wasn’t always so safe. Until 1900, there were no barriers at all, and on windy days, local schoolchildren would reportedly crawl across on their hands and knees.

It’s easy to overuse the word “breathtaking,” but standing above the bright blue sea as waves crashed against the rocks below genuinely took our breath away. Repairs meant we could only walk halfway across before turning back, but it was still one of our highlights.

Back on our bikes, we headed for another of the island’s quirky attractions, Sark Henge. Built in 2015, the modern stone circle is made up of nine standing stones, each carefully aligned with either a local landmark or the position of the sun, marking the winter and summer solstices and spring and autumn equinoxes.

After taking a moment to soak up yet another spectacular view, we began feeling peckish, so we made our way to Sark’s one and only supermarket to pick up lunch. More like a traditional village shop than a supermarket, we were surprised by just how much was packed inside, including an impressive selection of Waitrose products.

We kept things simple, picking up freshly caught Sark crab, lemon and cress, and a packet of crackers before finding a bench next to Sark’s famous gold Royal Mail post box. We visited just before the island geared up for its busy summer season, but the stylish café Sark Yard looked like the ideal place to stop for coffee or lunch when it’s open.

No trip to Sark would be complete without a visit to Caragh Chocolates, one of the island’s best-loved spots. What began as owner Caragh’s hobby of making chocolates for her family in 1989 has since grown into an internationally acclaimed business.

The charming stone cottage chocolate shop makes its treats using cream from Sark cows and also has a café overlooking a pretty garden. We parked our bikes outside and headed in for cups of Earl Grey and chocolates. It was superb.

Sadly, our time on Sark was drawing to a close, but there was just enough time for one final stop at Lorraine’s Pottery and Silver Studio. Run by local artisan Lorraine Nicolle, the charming little workshop sells hand-thrown stoneware and silver trinkets, along with offering pottery lessons.

After one last cycle through Sark’s winding lanes, our adventure had come to an end. We wheeled our bikes back and made the walk down to the harbour, where the ferry was waiting to take us back to Guernsey.

As we looked back at the island disappearing into the distance, it was hard not to wish we could stay just a little longer. Sark felt like somewhere out of a storybook. Its magic will never leave us.

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A MUCH-LOVED family ride has been forced to close after it appears it derailed and the track split.

The Big Dipper at Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the oldest operating rollercoasters in the world.

Yesterday afternoon, the wooden rollercoaster was forced to close and is still closed today, following some of the carriages of the ride derailing, with a video shared on social media also showing the track split down the middle.

Several videos shared on social media show the ride at a halt on a low part of the track.

The track in front, which rises before a drop, appears to be broken in several places – though, reportedly, no one was hurt.

One rider, Reanna Harrison-Berry, 20, who was riding with her boyfriend, said they heard a “crunch” sound as they went uphill.

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Just moments later, the cart then rolled backwards, with some claiming that the carriages had ‘derailed’.

Reanna added: “As we went three-quarters of the way up the big hill, it just completely smashed backwards really quickly.

“The next thing we realised we were tilted to the left and the back carriage was completely to the right – it was quite scary.”

Another rider said: “We went pretty quick upwards, but then it juddered and rolled back really quickly.

“I was terrified, I’m not going to lie. I’ve never had that happen on a rollercoaster before. We didn’t really know what to do.”

Once the riders deboarded, they gave statements and were offered a free Burger King.

Reanna said: “I couldn’t eat because I was so shaken up, but my boyfriend got a free meal and a couple of other people ate.”

The Big Dipper features five drops and a number of twists and turns.

It was first built in 1923, making it over 100 years old but was later extended in 1934.

The track stretches over a kilometre long and travels up to 34.8mph.

The ride was closed on July 20, 21 and 22 for routine maintenance and then reopened yesterday before the incident in the afternoon.

A spokesperson from Pleasure Beach Resort said: “The Big Dipper came to a stop on Thursday, July 23, around 2pm, at a very low point in the ride.

“Following this, a manual deboarding took place with guests guided safely by trained operators.

“All riders were checked by first aid trained staff, with no injuries reported.

“An internal investigation is taking place to determine the root cause.”

When Sun Travel asked if the ride will be closed for the foreseeable future, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort declined to comment.

Brits heading out to Spain may want to rethink their travel plans ahead of soaring temperatures, as they experience a different kind of holiday without a safe trip to the beach

Tourists hoping to catch a tan on the beach in Spain may be disappointed to learn that close to 27 beaches so far will in fact be a tourist-free zone as the scorching heat takes a hold.

The Costa Blanca is set to see a huge beach ban this week amidst dangerous weather warnings to protect locals’ and tourists’ safety.

Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, has predicted strong storms and gusts of wind, which have the potential to cause thermal blowouts. As a result, local councils are forcing shutdowns as Alicante is set to see its most dangerous weather days of the summer in the final week of July.

Thermal bursts, or blowouts, are a phenomenon in which precipitation evaporates as it crosses dry air in warm environments. This phenomenon causes a sudden spike in temperature and strong winds.

Inland temperatures are forecast to reach up to 45 degrees, and the province remains under a yellow weather warning, as thunderstorms could bring hazardous conditions to the area.

Three municipalities in total, including Alicante, Guardamar del Segura, and Orihuela, have decided to raise red flags on their beaches to prevent the potential risks caused by the extreme shift in weather, Mercia Today suggests.

Orihulea City Council confirmed that all beaches along the coast will be closed from 5pm, July 23, with the red flags banning all swimming activity.

This restriction affects the likes of Punta Prima Beach, Cala Mosca, Cala Estaca, Cala Bosque, Cala Capitan and Cala Cerrada, as well as any coves in the area.

Meanwhile, Alicante City Council has also activated emergency measures, where all municipal beaches will be closed for visitors, along with parks, gardens and wooded areas.

The ban affects popular tourist beaches such as Postiguet, San Juan Beach, Urbanova-El Saladar, Aguamarga, La Almadraba and Albufereta, according to the Olive Press.

All three councils have supposedly asked that beachgoers remove the likes of umbrellas and any other objects that have the potential to be thrown around by the strong gusts of wind.

Authorities are advising tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and steer clear of beaches and exposed coastal areas for their own safety. Although, as things stand, there is no official statement that advises against travel to any parts of Spain due to the heatwave.

If you are someone travelling out to Spain amidst these extreme temperatures or travelling around the country during the hottest days, you should take general precautions to avoid the sun.

Typically, the hottest hours are from 11am to 3pm, so it’s best to avoid this time if possible, all while staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen and light, breathable clothing.

As for your villa, holiday home or hotel space, be sure to bring inside any parasols, outdoor furniture, plant pots and loose objects that live on any balconies or terraces. If the thunderstorms develop, it is best to stay indoors where possible and most definitely avoid walking near exposed costal spots.

The adjoining municipalities of Santa Pola and Torrevieja have yet to make a statement over their beaches, but this could change.

IF YOU are looking for your next holiday, then you can head to a brand new waterpark in Europe.

Coral Bay, La Leyenda Perdida has opened at PortAventura World’s waterpark in Spain.

The entire land is inspired by an ancient sunken pirate land, that has risen from the ocean floor.

Overall, the new land spans 5,000sqm and has several different attractions for visitors to explore.

There’s Cyclone, for example, which is the world’s second water coaster and the first in Europe.

And then there’s The Crab – a multi-slide tower, with five different slides suitable for all ages.

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The little ones aren’t left out either, with Splash Port – an interactive water play zone.

However, the ultimate star of the show is Pirate Bay, which is the world’s first multi-adventure pool.

In the pool you can expect different obstacles to tackle, as well as a swimming area.

The land also has a new dining area called El Bucanero, along with rest zones.

Day tickets to the Caribe Aquatic Park cost from €35 (£29.93) per adult and €31 (£26.51) per child.

If you stay at one of PortAventura World’s hotels, you will get discounted entry to the waterpark.

For example you could stay at Hotel Roulette as a family of four for two nights in September, for £272.24, which works out at £34.03 per person per night.

While you’re there, you should head to the main theme park too.

One mum who recently visited said: “In under an hour we had been left rattled racing each other on wooden coaster Stampida, cooled off in the Grand Canyon Rapids and been blown away by multi-dimensional dark ride Uncharted and eight-loop coaster Dragon Khan.

“Luckily the park is not just bold, it’s also beautiful, with lush landscaping across the six themed lands of Mexico, Polynesia, China, Far West, Mediterranea and SesamoAventura, where we could recover from the adrenaline rush and soaring temperatures.”

It also has Ferrari Land, which has the tallest and fastest rollercoaster in Europe.

FOREIGN holidays this summer are shaping up to be the cheapest they’ve been in decades – and we’ve found some of the best deals out there.

With peak August package holidays starting from just £188pp and all-inclusive weeks away from £269pp, the dreaded school holiday price surge appears to have collapsed.

Brits’ booking behaviour has been impacted by the cost of living crisis, summer heatwaves and worries over the Iran war and increase in fuel prices, with many opting for a staycation this year instead.

Meanwhile, holiday companies have slashed the price of package holidays abroad – and almost nobody seems to have noticed.

The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, explained: “The conflict in the Middle East – and resulting fears about fuel availability – saw many of us pause our holiday planning.

“Many also chose to wait as England stormed through to the semi-finals of the World Cup.

“With the cost of living still an issue for millions AND the sun shining in yet another heatwave across the UK, there were yet more reasons for us to wait before we booked.

“And that’s resulted in some incredible deals as the big tour operators desperately tempt us to put our holiday pounds on the table.

“Jet2 – now the UK’s largest tour operator – opened its 14th base at Gatwick as the summer season took off putting it in direct competition with its great rivals TUI and easyJet at the UK’s second biggest airport for the first time.

“Increased competition will mean all of the big operators trying to tempt us to book with the kind of holiday prices we haven’t seen in a decade.”

To help you cash in on these price drops, we’ve rounded up seven of the cheapest family holiday deals we could find this summer.

All of these package hols are within the school summer holidays, based on a family of two adults and two kids, and come in at under £300pp.

Marmaris, Turkey – £239pp

Marmaris on Turkey‘s turquoise coast is a very popular family destination, and for good reason.

The resort is a sun-drenched playground packed with golden sandy beaches, ancient castles and a lively waterfront that gives Marmaris that unmistakable holiday buzz.

The Grand Villa Sol Apart offers a brilliant, budget-friendly base close to all the action.

Relax by the sparkling outdoor pool with a drink from the poolside bar, then catch evening entertainment shows out on the terrace.

There’s also a shuttle to whisk you straight to the beach in ten minutes, plus the Aqua Dream Water Park is just a five-minute drive away.

Majorca – £285pp

For beaches with powder-soft sands and waters so calm they feel like a giant paddling pool, take a family holiday to Alcudia in Majorca.

The O7 Be Klub hotel boasts a staggering 11 swimming pools, complete with waterslides and children’s splash zones.

When the sun goes down, head over to the open-air Garden Theatre for live shows, or challenge the family to a round of mini golf.

Alcudia Beach is easily reached by a scenic, three-minute boat trip which takes you straight from the hotel down to the sand.

Tenerife – £188pp

Costa del Silencio is a laid-back Tenerife resort known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, peaceful seafront boardwalk and glass-clear natural pools far away from any noisy crowds.

The Parque Carolina Apartments offer a relaxed place to stay with plenty of room for big families, plus a pretty sun terrace made for catching rays.

The self-catering apartments come with fully-equipped kitchens, plus private patios to enjoy breakfast out in the sun.

When you’re ready for a dip, the bright yellow cliffs and clear waters of Playa Amarilla beach are just a few minutes’ stroll away.

Plus golf lovers can tee off at nearby Amarilla Golf or Golf del Sur, while a 15-minute drive takes you to world-class waterparks like Siam Park and Aqualand.

And at an unbelievable £188pp, this island getaway is the cheapest package holiday deal on our list.

Bulgaria – £279pp

With sweeping golden beaches and famously cheap prices, Sunny Beach is a go-to pick for a bargain summer break.

The Sunny Day Club hotel is an ideal spot for families, tucked into a quieter northern patch of the resort.

Days here revolve around the giant outdoor pool, where parents can laze out on a lounger while little ones burn off energy in the children’s playground.

When hunger strikes, there’s an on-site restaurant and cafe serving unfussy family favourites, plus a poolside snack bar for quick bites.

The buzzy bars, shops and restaurants of Sunny Beach are just a short bus ride away, with a convenient bus stop directly outside the hotel.

Agadir, Morocco – £189pp

For some guaranteed summer heat, head to Agadir, where temperatures sit in the high 20s to early 30s in August.

The Moroccan resort boasts a six-mile stretch of sand to enjoy, plus a vibrant centre with bustling souks and budget-friendly restaurants.

The whitewashed Appart Hotel Igoudar sits right next to a bustling local market, where you can wander past colourful souks selling local goods and spices, as well as browse for souvenirs.

Here you’re a five-minute stroll from the main beach, with a spacious self-catering apartment to return to after days out exploring.

Costa Brava, Spain – £209pp

Blanes offers traditional Spanish charm with its wide sandy shores, lively tapas bars, and bustling seaside promenade.

Hotel Esplendid feels like your own little oasis, where a turquoise swimming pool is sheltered by massive, leafy gardens.

Active families will love the sports setup, with tennis, volleyball, and three separate swimming pools, including an indoor heated option.

There’s also a kids club and games room to keep boredom strictly off the itinerary.

Here you’re just steps from S’abanell Beach, which is the longest sand beach on the Costa Brava.

Pick between sunbathing on its sands or taking in the stunning coastline views from the water on a jet ski or pedalo.

Antalya, Turkey – £269pp

Sitting on Turkey’s sun-drenched southern shores, Mahmutlar in Antalya pairs quiet beaches with dramatic mountain backdrops.

Sun Star Beach Hotel delivers a classic hassle-free, all-inclusive family holiday.

The palm-lined outdoor pool is complete with a yellow waterslide, plus plenty of loungers – so no need to worry about sunbed hoggers.

We found a bargain all-inclusive package that covers buffet meals, poolside snacks and drinks.

There’s even an on-site spa to escape to with a traditional Turkish bath and sauna, allowing you to truly unwind.

You’re also just a minute’s walk from the hotel’s own private beach, and a short bus ride away from central Alanya where you can explore its historic hilltop castle and harbour.

An animal welfare charity has shared advice for holidaymakers who find stray animals

The RSPCA has shared advice for any travellers worried about stray cats they spot on holiday. The animal welfare charity has urged people to do one thing in such a situation.

The experts explained that it’s important to check if cats look underfed or unwell. In a Facebook post, the charity explained: “It’s common to see street cats while on holiday abroad, but not all cats may need our intervention, and it’s important to know how to help them responsibly, wherever you may be this summer.”

The post was accompanied by a video. In the clip, an RSPCA staff member explained exactly what holidaymakers can do to help stray animals. She told viewers: “Here’s how you can help stray cats abroad this summer. It can be tempting to wish to help cats whilst overseas, but not all cats need our help. Do they look skinny or unwell? Or do they look quite well fed?

“You can also check if the cat has had its ears clipped, and what that means is that the cat has been caught, neutered, and then rereleased back into the area.”

The expert continued: “What you can also do is speak to the local people in the area, who may be able to let you know the organisations, or individuals out there, currently caring for the cats. You may also find that at your local gift shop, at your resort, there is actually cat food in there, and that’s to encourage tourists to buy the cat food and feed the cats.

“What you may also be able to do is make a donation. This donation will probably go towards maybe treatment or even the trap, neuter, and release programme.”

Holidaymakers could also write to tourism boards or public officials. For instance, people could send a letter encouraging the local authority to offer their help, the RSPCA said.

“You could even write to those in power, or even tourist boards. You could explain that you love visiting their country, but were sad to see so many cats in need of help, and would love to see an investment into that line of work in the future.”

In the video’s caption, the RSPCA encouraged animal lovers to ‘share this advice with fellow holiday-goers and check out International Cat Care for more information.’ International Cat Care is a global charity. The charity’s website reiterates that cat lovers can help by finding out who is already helping in the area they are visiting.

It said: “Ask about the local people or organisations who are working in the area. There may be individuals, charities, local municipality activity or non-government organisations (NGOs) working in the area to help the cats.”

IF you’re jetting off to any beautiful Red Sea resorts this summer check your passport before travelling.

Unlike countries in the EU, Egypt requires more time left on your passport and it’s catching Brits out with some missing out on their holidays altogether.

There are two very important requirements to get into Egypt for Brits.

The first is that your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least six months after the date you arrive.

The second is that it must have at least one blank page to be stamped.

Most countries only require three months left on a passport after the date of arrival, so it’s not surprising that some Brits are being caught out.

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One woman recently missed out on a £6,500 holiday to Egypt.

Victoria Vigors was headed on a two-week ‘holiday of a lifetime’ with her family but was stopped before boarding.

Her nine-year-old daughter Roxie’s passport was being scanned and is was then they discovered Roxie’s passport did not have the required period of validity remaining for travel to Egypt.

Roxie’s passport technically expired on January 4, 2027, but with Egypt requiring at least six months left on them, it meant it wasn’t valid.

Talking to creatorzine.com, Victoria said: “I wasn’t aware of the rules. For people like me who don’t always travel and it’s the first time with my children, I didn’t know.

“I would have thought when I put her passport details in to check in that would tell me it wasn’t valid.”

Victoria added: “That would be a simple system to install so save this agony and heartbreak.”

The family are now trying to get an emergency passport to try and enjoy the last few days of the trip they’ve paid for, as they were unable to get a refund.

Also check visa requirements into the country as they vary depending on the location.

For example if you are staying for less than 15 days at a resort in Sharm El Sheikh, you don’t need a visa.

However, if you’re heading to Hurghada you’ll need a visa which you can apply for online or on arrival.

If you apply online, e-visa applications must be submitted a minimum of seven days.

Another country to be aware of the entry rules is Turkey which needs at least 150 days left on passports from the date of arrival.

If you find your passport is technically out of date shortly before your holidays, then you can look at getting a fast-track renewal.

Before travelling this summer, here are all the new rules you need to be aware of, from eGates and passports to visas and power banks.

UK passengers have been warned over a ‘risk’

Airport bosses at London Gatwick have issued an alert to those taking checked baggage with them while travelling. The UK’s second busiest airport, which handles around 43 million passengers each year, is urging holidaymakers and other travellers to “pack right [for a] safe flight”.

In a new post on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday airport chiefs said: “Power banks, spare batteries and vapes should always travel in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. If damaged or overheated in the hold, they can pose a fire risk.”

Before flying travellers should: “Carry power banks and vapes in your hand luggage, keep spare batteries protected from short circuits, and check your airline’s rules before travelling”. The alert added: “A safer journey starts with careful packing.”

Further information found on the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website explains that vapes and power banks can overheat and cause a fire. It adds that you can only take two power banks per person, and that these should never be re-charged onboard the aircraft.

“You may be asked to put power banks in your seat back pocket rather than in an overhead locker. Phones, tablets and laptops should normally be taken with you in the cabin unless they are completely turned off and protected from damage.”

Travellers should also pack their own bags, avoiding any restricted or banned items, and keep essentials such as medicine in hand luggage.

ARE you a stinky food smuggler or perhaps a brazen barefooter? Because how you behave while on your flight this summer could reveal a lot about your personality. 

New research by Booking.com has found that two-thirds of Brits treat the aeroplane cabin as a home-from-home, with a tenth admitting they kick off their shoes and go barefoot. 

Major bugbears included passengers eating smelly food, watching films without headphones, leaning over fellow travellers to take photos of the sky, and doing manicures. 

With more than four million passengers set to fly from British airports this month, The Sun’s Lynsey Clarke asks psychologist Emma Kenny what the most common in-flight behaviours say about you.

Among the biggest pet peeves for people – whether it’s on a plane or on public transport – are space hoggers and ‘manspreaders’.

If your seat is in the middle and you take up both armrests, you may irritate your neighbours, but Emma says: “You probably have a strong sense of what you consider fairness. 

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“Many people believe the middle seat has earned both armrests, so if you confidently claim them, you’re likely someone who values unwritten social rules. 

“Just remember there’s a difference between quietly claiming your space and elbowing your neighbours into submission.”

BAREFOOT BRIGADE

Reddit threads consistently cite this as one of the most disgusting cabin behaviours and some passengers have even uploaded photos of the so-called ‘barefooters’.

Speaking about those who did this, Emma says: “Comfort is clearly your priority.

“You probably become so relaxed in your surroundings that you momentarily forget you’re still sharing the space with hundreds of strangers. 

“It’s less about being deliberately inconsiderate and more about becoming so comfortable that your social awareness quietly checks out.”

BLACK COFFEE BORES  

If you shun the delights of the cabin crew’s trolley and prefer to order a simple black coffee, then this flight is not your first rodeo.

Emma says: “If you order black coffee you’re probably a seasoned traveller who sees flying as a practical part of the journey rather than the start of the holiday. 

“You tend to be organised, forward-thinking and focused on arriving feeling your best.

“Black coffee drinkers often give the impression of someone who’s done this many times before and has their travel routine down to a fine art.”

SEAT STICKLERS 

Do you always book the same seat every time you fly?

Emma says: “You’re probably someone who likes routine, predictability and being in control of your environment.

“Knowing exactly where you’ll be sitting removes one more decision from the journey, helping you feel organised and relaxed.

“It’s a habit often seen in people who like planning ahead and minimising unnecessary stress.”

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

However, if you tend to skip the seat reservation, and hope others will swap so you can sit with your party, it means you’re a glass half-full kind of person.

Emma says: “You’re probably optimistic and naturally spontaneous, with a tendency to believe everything will somehow fall into place.

“While that flexibility can be one of your strengths, it can also mean expecting other people to accommodate plans you didn’t make in advance.

“It’s a classic example of assuming everyone shares your relaxed approach, which is very rarely the case.”

CHATTY NEIGHBOUR 

If you are always up for a good chinwag with the person sitting next to you, it says a lot about you.

Emma adds: “You’re likely highly sociable and energised by conversation.

“For some people, talking also helps reduce anxiety and makes unfamiliar situations feel more comfortable.

“The trick is recognising when your neighbour is equally chatty, or when they’ve put their headphones on for a very obvious reason.”

SEATBELT TWITCHER 

It isn’t easy being constrained in the seat for long periods.

And if you’re someone who unbuckles before the seatbelt sign goes off and talks through the safety presentation, then you are probably optimistic by nature.

Emma says: “You’re probably experiencing what’s known as optimism bias, the belief that nothing is going to happen because nothing ever has before.

“Familiarity can make us complacent, but experienced travellers know that paying attention to the safety briefing and waiting for the seatbelt sign to switch off before unbuckling is a small habit that can make a big difference.” 

BACKPACK BASHER 

If you’re the passenger who keeps your backpack on right until you get to your seat, then you are very goal focussed.

Emma says: “You’re probably so focussed on reaching your seat that you lose awareness of what’s happening around you. 

“Psychologists call this attentional narrowing, we become so focussed on one goal that we overlook how our behaviour affects others.

“Unfortunately, the people you’ve accidentally whacked with your backpack are usually very aware of it.”

JUST ONE LAST CALL-ERS 

Some passengers find it difficult to switch off and insist on making one last Facetime call, or filming a TikTok video before take-off.

Emma says: “You probably enjoy sharing experiences as they happen.

“You’re someone who likes documenting life and bringing friends and followers along for the journey.

“The challenge is remembering that not everyone wants to be an extra in your travel content.”

AND…RELAX-ERS

A quarter of Brits drink alcohol in the airport and one tenth admit to ‘getting drunk’ mid-air, according to a survey for the Institute of Alcohol Studies. 

Emma says: “For many people, the holiday begins the moment they clear security, so ordering a beer, wine or G&T is all part of switching into holiday mode. 

“It often reflects someone who enjoys marking occasions with little rituals and embraces experiences rather than simply getting from A to B. 

“For nervous flyers, though, it can also be a way of taking the edge off pre-flight anxiety, although alcohol isn’t the best remedy for that.”

BRITS have now been advised against travelling to two countries in the Middle East.

It comes one month after the travel ban was lifted, but an escalation of conflict between the US and Iran means the rules have been put back in place.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has advised “against all but essential travel” to both Bahrain and Kuwait.

The travel warning for travel to Bahrain was lifted on June 18 after being in place since March.

But the FCDO has since changed the advice due to a “risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region”.

It added: “On 20 July, the US Embassy Manama issued an advisory that Iran may seek to target unspecified locations in central Manama.

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“Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.”

The FCDO has advised against travel to Kuwait as well.

The advice detailed: “Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region, including Kuwait, against US military and civilian infrastructure.

“There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. 

“British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions.”

Non-essential travel is considered to include holidays, and while Brits can choose to go against the advice, this invalidates your travel insurance.

The FCDO has told Brits booked onto flights to check details with their airline before travelling.

Leonard R. Garner Jr. loves roller coasters. And the mostly-retired television director and actor has a place in his heart for Universal Studios Hollywood, the theme park atop the studio where he spent many days behind a camera.

He also adores the tranquility of his home. As a resident of Toluca Lake, the tiny neighborhood nestled below the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World and other park staples, Garner watched with curiosity as Universal Studios began erecting Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, its new outdoor, high-speed thrill ride. He continued to track the construction over the next three or four years while out on afternoon walks.

At last, when Universal Studios began testing the ride this spring, Garner breathed a sigh of relief. “I was amazed at how quiet it was,” he said. “I could not hear it at all.”

But he wasn’t considering one detail: There were no people on it.

Everything changed, Garner and numerous other Toluca Lake residents said, the summer day when Universal Studios began running the coaster with a full slate of riders. There were screams. They were loud — piercing even double-paned windows. And they were constant.

“Disturbing,” said one resident, Dr. Christopher Zito.

“You think something is happening,” said Patrick Nazari, another resident. “Like someone is getting murdered out there.”

Garner said he stopped in his tracks. “I heard it, and I thought to myself, ‘There are going to be problems with this.’”

Universal’s new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster can be seen (and heard) from Toluca Lake.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

Headaches at least, both for the residents of Toluca Lake and for Universal Studios Hollywood in the days before the ride’s opening this summer. For residents, there’s panic as to what, if any, recourse they may have at this late stage, with one man joking he may forever have to blast loud music all day to mask rider screams. For Universal Studios Hollywood, the complaints, first reported on social media and quickly picked up by media outlets, have added a sudden jolt of negative publicity around what was intended to be the North American ride of 2026.

Longtime Toluca Lake residents have had to get used to its high-powered neighbor making changes over the past few decades. Through the last 10 years in particular, Universal Studios Hollywood has accelerated in growth, evolving from a behind-the-movie-magic showcase to a park that’s increasingly ride-centered, each addition bringing with it new worries of disruptions to the community. None, say residents, have been more tone-altering than this one.

Karen Rogers has lived in Toluca Lake for more than 20 years. “It was a never a roller coaster kind of park,” she said. “When a lot of residents moved in, it was about the history of film, and everything was inside the park. This is different because it’s hanging over a neighborhood. It’s just disappointing.”

Rob Cerny remembers the moment he heard the screams. He had just exited the Metro B Line across the street from the studio.

“Every minute you hear this big scream,” he said. “When I got home, my wife was upset. It’s made our backyard unusable. It’s extremely prominent, the noise. I really don’t think this is going to be tenable.”

Around the issue of noise, Universal Studios Hollywood has been proactive with Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, devoting a website to just how silent and unobtrusive its groundbreaking coaster would be. Multiple noise mitigation efforts were undertaken — sound walls, scream shields and even pea gravel in the coaster’s tracks.

And those were all welcome, say Garner, Cerny and other residents. All are eager to speak out, but they’re also cautious. They’re aware that some of those who have gone to the press have been attacked on social media, with many a non-Toluca Lake resident appearing unsympathetic to their cause, comparing them to not-in-my-backyard complainers.

Toluca Lake residents are fearful Universal’s Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will be constant noise.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

If you live next to a theme park, goes the primary argument, what did you expect?

“That’s a good point,” said Cerny, who has resided next to Universal Studios for 30 years, around the time the park was opening what is now known as Jurassic World: The Ride, but long before additions such as the “Harry Potter” franchise or Nintendo.

“This was not Magic Mountain,” Cerny continued. “I grew up here. It was a studio tour place. Now it’s a major thrill theme park. That’s a different deal.”

And it’s not, he said, background noise, such as the barely audible soundtrack from Wizarding World. “It’s screams,” he said. “Screaming is a disturbing noise. It’s not a lullaby.”

Universal says it’s listening.

“We appreciate hearing from the community, and that feedback is an important part of the process,” reads a statement from Universal Studios Hollywood. “The coaster is currently in its testing and commissioning phase, which is designed to evaluate the attraction over time and under a variety of operating conditions. As part of that process, we are actively reviewing sound levels to ensure the coaster is operating in compliance.”

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift has been about a decade in the making. It’s a feat of engineering, situated on a hill between the park’s upper and lower lots, extending out toward Lankershim Boulevard. Universal has its own interest in limiting noise from the ride, beyond being a polite neighbor, as it is still a working studio.

The theme park has made outreach into the neighborhood over the years in an attempt to assuage concerns, be it distributing fliers or attending community meetings. And many a Toluca Lake resident enjoys some theme park perks courtesy of Universal, such as free parking, and invites to pre-opening events at the park. Garner still speaks fondly of getting on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge before the bulk of the public.

“We all went to meetings about it,” Rogers said of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. “Universal says they want to be a good neighbor. They made a big deal about making it the quietest coaster ever. Well, that’s nice, but you can’t put tape over people’s mouths.”

While residents say the screaming is crushingly loud, there’s no indication as of yet the ride violates any county standards. The path for the coaster was cleared with 2013’s Universal Studios Specific Plan. Presented to and approved by the County of Los Angeles, the documents outline studio, theme park and hotel expansion plans, detailing requirements such as as height, noise and more. While nothing in the papers explicitly previewed any potential ride specifics, such as a 72 mph coaster with 360 degree rotating cars, county officials note there was also nothing in the pitch for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift that would violate terms of the plan.

Thus, say county officials, there was no requirement for Universal to hold public hearings to be granted approval to build the coaster. That’s left some residents feeling slighted, saying they were unaware of the attraction until ground was moved.

Universal Studio Hollywood’s Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will reach speeds of 72 mph and take riders on multiple inversions.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

It should be noted, however, that before construction began, Universal Studios did place speakers on its old special effects and stunt buildings to see how noise traveled down the hill. And as per the documents, Universal Studios Hollywood must track noise at six designated monitoring sites outside and around the park. At least three are in the heart of Toluca Lake, situated on or near Valley Springs Lane.

Residents are also given a number to call for complaints such as a noise. Zito has been in touch with park technicians near his home, noting they are sitting with microphones and equipment to capture sonic readings. “I always go up to them and say, ‘You’re not here when it’s really noisy,’” he said. Another resident spoke of downloading a smartphone app to track decibel levels throughout the day, intending to document the noise of the coaster screams and report any violations.

Allowable decibel levels in the neighborhood vary depending on the time of day, as well as the type of noise. Operational sound, such as those from an attraction, are classified differently than “impulsive noise,” such as a gunshot from a film production. A scream, said county officials, is considered operational noise, and decibel levels should hover somewhere around 50 dBa during peak hours.

Most decibel charts consider that moderate noise, somewhere between steady rainfall and a dishwasher. Over the years Universal has been required to make alterations to its attractions, such as replacing some live special effects in its “Waterworld” show with prerecorded digital tracks.

The office of county supervisor Kathryn Barger is aware of the complaints of Toluca Lake residents. Her staff has been facilitating a conversation with people at Universal Studios and has found them to be “very willing partners,” said Helen Chavez Garcia, Barger’s communications director. “They are very interested in finding common ground to address the community concerns, while also meeting their bigger objectives of bringing a new attraction to keep their theme park thriving. They’ve been good partners at the table and this is going to be a continued work in progress.”

With the coaster slated to open in the coming days or weeks, residents aren’t optimistic for change or the sudden construction of more noise buffers. Rogers, for instance, said her and husband have begun shopping for water fountains, wondering if installing them in their backyard will mask the screams. Coaster fan Garner, however, said the only recourse may be to find a way to live with — and enjoy — the ride.

“I’m dying to get on it,” he said. “I’m sure it’s going to be something to experience and I’m sure it’s going to be great.”

Then he pauses for a moment. “But I don’t want to have to listen to it all day and into the night.”

A UK beach is drawing crowds as people think it’s so gorgeous. In fact, many say it’s just as pretty as “being in Greece”, and they have shared just how stunning they think it is

There are so many beautiful beaches in the UK, but a certain beauty spot has been drawing in crowds due to its natural splendour. Many admit they think it’s a totally gorgeous spot, and they have even compared it to being in stunning locations like Greece.

Footage of the stunning area in Pembrokeshire, Wales, has taken the internet by storm, enchanting countless viewers with its spectacular scenery. It’s been hailed as so picturesque – with its crystal-clear waters and jaw-dropping views – that many reckon it’s “just like being in Greece” and the location has since gone viral.

It’s not the only Welsh beach to have caught people’s eye recently either. Previously, another beach in Wales was deemed to be one of the best in the UK.

On TikTok, Wander Wales posted: “When you realise this isn’t Greece… it’s Wales.” The clip, shared alongside the caption, showed off the incredible surroundings in all their glory.

What is it like?

The view from Barafundle Bay features gleaming sands, turquoise waters and utterly breathtaking scenery. On a glorious day, it’s hard to imagine anywhere more spectacular to spend your time.

Since being uploaded, the video has racked up thousands of views, with dozens of enthusiastic comments flooding in. Many viewers were quick to agree that the location is truly magical.

One wrote: “Sat there now. Best beach I’ve ever been to.”

Another added: “So enjoyed my visit to Barafundle last year.”

A third replied: “Stunning. Proud to be Welsh when we have beaches, sceneries and views like this.”

Meanwhile, a fourth remarked: “Yes! Gorgeous place. I live in Wales and there’s something stunning around every corner!”

Another also noted: “My favourite beach for a swim after a walk around the lily ponds and a walk to the café. A perfect day out.”

Where is it?

If you’ve never been before, Barafundle Bay is extremely well-visited. Indeed, it’s regularly cited as one of the finest beaches in Britain and across the globe for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

You’ll find it at Stackpole Estate, within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. There are just a few things worth knowing before you head there.

The beach can only be reached via a picturesque 0.5-mile (20 to 25-minute) walk from the closest car park at Stackpole Quay. The brief journey includes steep steps and clifftop paths.

Nevertheless, it’s an absolutely breathtaking spot to visit. If you’re on the lookout for somewhere fresh to discover this summer, it could feel every bit as good as jetting off abroad.

FANCY a classic sightseeing trip to London? I’ve found the best way to take in the city’s breath-taking skyline.

Us Brits are lucky to have a fantastic capital city which packs in fascinating landmarks, futuristic skyscrapers, and majestic bridges as well as historical 11th century buildings which still stand today.

Book a River Thames Lunch Cruise – ON SALE for £38 (was £53)

And if you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, there’s one sightseeing experience you won’t want to miss.

City Cruises have a range of Thames sightseeing cruises which let you take in the London city skyline from the water from an open-air deck or swanky indoor lounge.

You can pick from a classic sightseeing cruise, which starts from only £15 per adult and £10.25 per child, or treat yourself to a Jazz, Elvis tribute or even a Murder Mystery cruise.

I decided to try out the London Lunch Cruise on the River Thames, which is the most popular option that City Cruises offer.

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Not only is this the most popular experience, but it’s currently on sale – down to £38 a ticket instead of £53. That’s the cheapest lunchtime cruise on the River Thames we could find.

Considering you get a fancy two-course meal, panoramic views of London’s top landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye, plus expert commentary – this is one hell of a bargain.

The tour starts by stepping onboard at the Tower Millennium Pier, a central spot that’s easy to get to by taking the underground to Tower Hill.

I stepped onboard to find a very spacious cabin, with a sleek downstairs dining area dotted with white tablecloths, plus an upper deck that’s perfect for making use of in sunny weather.

Lots of guests around me were celebrating birthdays or special occasions, dressed up to the nines snapping shots for Instagram or family photos.

And this is certainly the place to take pictures, with flattering golden sunlight pouring in through the windows, plus landmarks like Tower Bridge, The Shard and Big Ben as your backdrop.

Book a River Thames Lunch Cruise – ON SALE for £38 (was £53)

As it turns out, the food onboard was just as impressive as the views.

I only waited around 15 minutes from being seated until my main course arrived – and the presentation of the dish was Masterchef-worthy.

There are two options for your main course: a vegetarian cassoulet with oyster mushrooms and white beans, or a roasted supreme of chicken with fondant potatoes and veg.

I went for the latter, and was blown away by the rich creamy mushroom sauce and the cheesy fondant potato. The decadent dish would have wowed me in a high-end restaurant, let alone on a Thames cruise.

After a short rest came dessert – a baked cheesecake with a gooey white chocolate centre and a heavy drizzle of tart raspberry coulis, plus tea or coffee. Could you picture a more perfect pudding?

With a full belly and warm coffee in hand, there’s nothing left to do but lean back and watch London glide past your window

The route takes you from the pier across to Canary Wharf, where you can admire the futuristic skyline and spot six of the UK’s 10 tallest buildings.

From here you’ll turn back around and head all the way towards Big Ben.

This is when the commentary begins, so you’ll soak up centuries of London history along the way. I recommend heading up to the deck for the best views.

You’ll glide under nine magnificent bridges including Tower Bridge, London Bridge and – my favourite – the Wibbly Wobbly bridge (AKA Milennium Bridge).

You’ll also get up-close with the bright red pillars of the lost 18th century Blackfriars Bridge which jut out from the water.

Plus you’ll cruise under “Ladies’ Bridge” – the unofficial nickname of Waterloo Bridge, which was built largely by women during World War II.

It was fascinating to see historic landmarks nestled in-between glossy modern offices and huge skyscrapers.

One of these impressive slices of history is Cleopatra’s Needle – the oldest structure in London. The obelisk was built in 1450 BC, and made its way over to London from Egypt in 1878.

Finally you’ll pass spots like the Globe Theatre and the London Eye until you reach the Houses of Parliament – stop for a quick selfie – then it’s back to the pier.

Although I live in London, I left feeling like I’d learned so much about my city that I didn’t even before, thanks to the knowledgeable tour guide.

Overall, the lunch cruise was a fantastic way to pack in sightseeing, fascinating history, and a delicious meal into one relaxing experience.

Plus when you step off, you’ve got the Tower of London, Borough Market and more on your doorstep to continue ticking off the best of London.

Click below to browse City Cruises‘ options, starting from £15 for a sightseeing cruise.

Browse City Cruises’ experiences – starting at £15 per adult

Prices correct at the time of publication.

IF YOU are heading away this summer, you might want to check whether you need to expect lengthy queues at your destination.

A major airline boss has called out the destinations you can expect to experience chaos this summer thanks to Europe’s new Entry/Exit System (EES).

According to easyJet boss Kenton Jarvis, the EU’s EES is “a bit of a mess”, highlighting the Canary Islands in particular, according to TTG Media.

Popular destinations in the Canary Islands include Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Tenerife, Lanzarote and La Palma.

He also highlighted that there are issues in Milan Linate Airport, including recently a number of passengers missed their flight due to long queues at border control.

There are some destinations that are handling the new system well though, such as the Greek islands.

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He added: “The EU had a very long time to prepare for something they have not prepared very well.”

Jarvis also explained that planes can only wait so long for passengers, before they need to leave without them.

This was the case in Milan, where the plane was held for an hour before eventually leaving.

If they had waited longer, they might have missed their slot for take-off or the crew would then go into working overtime.

He is now advising passengers to arrive at the airport earlier, to allow for the extra time to get through border control.

And Jarvis is also pushing for the grace period for EES to be extended into the winter.

If you are unable to get through border control due to queues, in time for your flight, easyJet will put you on another flight with the airline.

Jarvis added: “It should be a good thing when everyone has been registered because they will be able to use e-gates, but until then it is clunky.”

RYANAIR boss has warned Brits not to be late for their flight as planes will takeoff without them.

The news comes after reports of hour-long delays at border control as a result of the introduction of the EU’s new Entry/Exit system (EES).

Talking on The Telegraph’s podcast, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said: “We will not wait for anybody.

“Our priority is to those passengers who are at the boarding gate when boarding starts. If you’re not at the boarding gate when we finish boarding, the plane is going without you.”

He further added that it is the responsibility of the traveller to leave enough time to get themselves through the airport on time.

It comes after reports of up to six-hour long queues at passport control and in some cases, passengers have missed flights as a result.

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At the beginning of June, 150 Ryanair passengers missed their flight from Toulouse to the UK due to the queues.

In another case, British passengers who were still in the airport queuing through passport control missed their Ryanair flight from Athens to London Luton.

One passenger told the BBC at the time that there had been a “mega queue” at Athens International Airport where hundreds of people were waiting at both security and passport control.

The plane took off without around 50 of its passengers.

However, Michael O’Leary said that planes cannot wait for anyone caught up in the chaos.

He added: “We’re not delaying our flights for people who are stuck in passport control queues.

“They have to show up at the airport earlier [and] be at the boarding gate, otherwise they’re not flying.”

Ryanair had previously called for EES to be delayed until September to save the summer holidays – but it has continued to go ahead.

With EES still in place, airlines are advising Brits to leave arrive three to four hours early for your flight to Europe this summer.

Some people who fall ill will suffer more than others

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert to certain holidaymakers, with some told to avoid particular areas while abroad. It comes as cases of a rare disease have jumped up, as per the most recent figures.

UKHSA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter: “Are you, or someone you know, heading off on a tropical trip? It’s worth being aware of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe joint pain. Check out our blog post to learn how to stay protected.”

Further information within the blog explains that there were 112 confirmed and probable cases of chikungunya reported among travellers returning to England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2024 – almost one and a half times the number reported in 2023. UKHSA added: “Travel to India accounted for the majority of these cases, followed by travel to Pakistan and Brazil – all popular destinations for people travelling from the UK”.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), between January 2025 and September 2025, chikungunya was responsible for 40 deaths in Europe, as well as some 115 deaths in the Americas. There are currently no targeted treatments available for chikungunya, so preventing mosquito bites is essential.

Recommended precautions include using repellent containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin, and wearing loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing to cover your arms and legs. Mosquitoes breed in standing water around human habitation.

UKHSA is urging travellers to avoid “areas with natural and artificial water containers” to help reduce their risk of exposure. UKHSA guidance adds: “Unlike some mosquito species that prefer rural areas, Aedes mosquitoes thrive in urban environments and often bite indoors, making hotel room precautions equally important.”

Chikungunya symptoms

First symptoms are usually a high fever and severe joint pain, often worse in the small joints or where there have been previous injuries. Many who contract the virus also experience muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and skin rashes.

Most people make a full recovery within a fortnight, though the joint pain can persist for months or even years in some cases. Around one in every 1,000 people with the virus experience serious complications.

Young babies, elderly people, and those with underlying health conditions are more at risk of serious complications. UKHSA adds: “Occasional complications affecting the eyes, nervous system, heart, and digestive system have been reported.”

Before any overseas travel it is vital to check Foreign Office information, including any health precautions that need to be taken, here

As Brits set out to fly abroad this summer, they may need to know when is best to arrive at the airport – some may have been going too early or even way late this whole time

When to arrive at the airport? It’s a question as old as time itself.

As airports are set to experience heavy amounts of visitors during the school holidays and summer months, travellers are keen to prepare more than ever for any potential delays or ways to make their journey as smooth as possible.

Whichever airline you’re flying with this year, you may find that what they expect of their passengers is very different. The exact arrival time, bag drop-off times and gate closures can vary from airline to airline, so it’s best to check ahead of time.

It’s always wise to give yourself enough time to allow for security checks and face any check-in or passport queues. Often, bigger airports can have bigger queues, and so this is worth bearing in mind ahead of your flying schedules.

TUI

According to TUI, passengers should arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure for short and mid-haul flights. For long-haul flights, give yourself more time and arrive within 3.5 hours before.

Passengers have the chance to review their specific itinerary when they press ‘Manage My Booking’ on the TUI website, confirming the ideal departure terminal and times.

Easyjet

For easyJet flights, it is suggested that you turn up at the airport at a minimum of two hours before your flight is due to take off. This aligns with the airlines’ bag drop-off desks, which typically open two hours before the flight and close around 40 mins to an hour prior to departure.

As for boarding times, boarding typically starts 40 minutes before departure and closes strictly 30 minutes before the scheduled time.

Ryanair

Ryanair’s Help Centre offers information on specific terminal time recommendations, but overall, the airline operates on a strict two-hour arrival time recommendation. This aligns with the time that the bag drop-off and check-in desks open for passengers, two hours prior to departure time.

Although many Reddit notes advise that passengers should allow longer when flying out of busier airports such as London Stansted or during the peak holiday months.

The boarding gate must be reached at least 30 minutes before the flight leaves, as gates typically close 20 minutes beforehand, and therefore, two hours should allow for enough time for this.

Jet2

Jet2 recommends, according to their website, arriving at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. The airline’s check-in desks close 40 minutes before this time.

It’s worth noting that if you’re flying with Jet2 and are travelling with hand luggage only, as long as you already have a boarding pass, you can arrive as late as 90 to 120 minutes before your flight’s departure.

The cost to drop friends and family off at the airport this summer has increased by a third at most airports across the UK – with some short stays costing a whopping £10

Dropping off family and friends at the airport this summer will cost you even more as new research has found that fees have increased by a third over the last year.

It was found that 16 out of 20 airports analysed had increased or introduced so-called “kiss and fly” fees since last summer, according to the RAC.

Some airports are now charging as much as £10 just to stop outside the terminal for a few minutes.

The most costly airports are still Gatwick and Stansted, with terminal drop-offs costing £10 at both.

The bigger shock comes as the only major airport that offered free terminal drop-offs, London City, now has one of the costliest fees charged on a per-minute basis.

Drivers dropping off relatives at London City are now charged £8 for five minutes, making it the highest charge per minute among airports included in the research.

The next most expensive drop off zones are outside of England’s capital.

One is in Scotland, as Edinburgh charges £8.50 for up to 10 minutes. Bristol also charges the same fees.

The RAC noted the average cost of airport drop-off fees has increased by around a third over the past year, despite many of the world’s busiest airports continuing to offer free terminal drop-offs.

The organisation highlighted that none of the busiest airports in the European Union charge drivers for dropping passengers off outside terminals.

In some of the world’s busiest hubs, including Dubai, these fees also do not exist.

Most UK airports do have alternative options that are free, however these are usually located in mid or long-stay car parks, with passengers needing to catch a shuttle bus to the terminal.

RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “It’s disappointing to see so many airports charging so much for what many regard as a simple act of kindness in dropping off family and friends.

“Having a captive audience should be no excuse for these farewell fees, especially when they’re completely at odds with how major airports around the world operate.

“Of course, airports need to manage the limited space they have carefully, but if free, convenient drop-off zones work at many other international airports, then why not here?”

Mr Dennis also warned drivers to take extra care when using airports with “park now, pay later” systems without barriers.

He said: “Those that drop off but miss the signage or forget to pay soon afterwards can face a parking charge notice as high as £100 – a fee that feels distinctly disproportionate to the contravention.”

There were only four airports in the study that had not increased their costs. Liverpool John Lennon, East Midlands, Belfast City and Southampton.

Most expensive airport drop-off charges:

• £10: Gatwick and Stansted
• £8.50: Bristol and Edinburgh
• £8: Bournemouth, Leeds Bradford and London City
• £7: Aberdeen, Birmingham, Glasgow, Heathrow, Luton and Southampton
• £6: Liverpool John Lennon and Newcastle
• £5.50: Manchester
• £5: Belfast International and East Midlands
• £4.50: Cardiff
• £4: Belfast City

Sun and citrus in the south of France

The town of Menton on the French Riviera is beautiful at any time of the year but becomes even more of a treat during the annual Lemon festival (Fête du Citron, 10-28 February 2027). Its microclimate, courtesy of the Alps to the north blocking colder winds, gives Menton lemons a distinct fragrance, flavour and quality that set them apart. For me, the event transformed a damp cold UK winter into a fortnight of colour, taste and light. There were food tastings, salads made with lemons, tarts, cakes and pies all full of zesty colour and flavour at stalls and markets in the town. There are sculptures made from citrus fruit, parades and exhibitions in the Golden Garden of Light (Jardins Biovès). More than a food festival, it’s a celebration of what nature can give to the world.
April

Veneto’s Tiramisù World Cup

Last autumn, I discovered there is an annual Tiramisù World Cup. I was staying in Treviso (the lovely town near Venice where the dessert originated) during the three-day event featuring tastings, demonstrations from local chefs and a judging contest involving the public. There’s also folk music in the streets, and restaurants offer promotional prices on set meals from about €20 for two courses. In fact, sitting in a mini gondola, prosecco in one hand, bowl of tiramisu in the other, gliding along a canal past ornate houses while the distant snow-capped mountains of the Dolomites sparkled in the sunshine, certainly aided my appetite for food and life.
Peter

A cheeky celebration in Tuscany

The Gota Cotta festival in Tuscany (4 October) is a celebration of local meat – pork cheeks. It was a niche product, falling out of favour, but a group of local butchers created the festival to celebrate the local delicacy. It takes over the medieval hilltop town of Colle di Val d’Elsa in Siena province with stalls selling everything from pasta to gelato – all made with pork cheek. There’s also excellent wine and craft beers … all in the most beautiful setting.
Rebecca Nicholl

Switzerland knows its onions

I stumbled across Zibelemärit, Bern’s annual onion fair, on a chilly November morning. The old town was packed with farmers selling beautifully braided onions, garlic and seasonal produce. The streets were filled with tempting aromas from stalls frying onion tarts and serving steaming bowls of onion soup and cafes selling sweet onion-shaped pastries. A mug of warming glühwein was the perfect accompaniment. It was a wonderfully local event and chatting to growers about their harvest made me feel part of a genuine celebration of Swiss farming traditions. Zibelemärit takes place on the fourth Monday in November.
Susanna

The Italian town devoted to leeks

You have to admire the town of Cervere in Piedmont, south of Turin, which is so devoted to its leeks that it has erected a permanent pavilion called the Palaporro (porro is Italian for leek) for its annual festival, called Fiera del Porro Cervere (7-22 November). Book ahead for the sit-down tasting menu, or buy leeky treats such as gratin and risotto to take away, as we did. During the sagra, the town centre is packed with stalls, many heaving with the distinctive bunches of extra-long local leeks. Our favourite part was taking a shuttle bus down to the sandy leek fields in the valley, where enthusiasts explained the traditional cultivation techniques.
Martha

Farmers and brass bands in North Yorkshire

Malton is a little village in North Yorkshire that punches way above its size when it comes to food festivals. The annual festival is worth a visit in late spring (29-30 May 2027), but so are the monthly farmers’ markets that bring together incredible local suppliers and makers. Plus, there’s a good chance of hearing a top-class brass band while you mooch and taste. Bloomin’ marvellous!
Beth

Newcastle’s battle of the food vendors

Wylam Brewery’s street vendor food battles in Newcastle upon Tyne showcase local independent eateries serving their bestselling dishes to win a chance at being crowned the culinary King of Newcastle at the final Battle Royale (28 & 29 August). The competitions are wittily titled, for example Lord of the Wings for the chicken wings competition (23 & 24 October) and Argie Bhaji (27 & 28 November) for Indian street food. The concept is simple: each event offers different cuisines from pizza to pan-Asian to plant-based. The winner of each event is the vendor with the most pre-paid tokens. Set in the idyllic Exhibition Park, with DJs playing into the night, locals know not to miss these summer festivals.
Carly Bamborough

‘A proper northern’ affair in Bolton

Bolton food & drink festival (28-31 August) is brilliant because it feels properly northern: busy streets, good smells, live music and families everywhere. It is not trying to be too polished, which is why it works. You can wander from stall to stall, try something different, grab something sweet for the kids and still feel like you are part of the town. The best bit is the atmosphere. Chefs, local businesses, music and people all come together in one place. It is simple, affordable and full of energy. For a family day out, it is hard to beat.
Nicholas Pearce

The pride of Plymouth

Plymouth Flavour Fest, at the end of May each year, ranks among the finest food gatherings I’ve experienced anywhere. Boutique delicatessens form neat rows, with smartly dressed stallholders presenting produce with infectious pride. Pies, salamis, chillies, confectionery, preserves, hot food – all the good stuff laid out irresistibly. Take a cool bag and budget for things you never knew you needed. Plymouth’s Armada Way is perfect for the event, never claustrophobic when busy. A short stroll takes you to the Hoe, perfect for munching on a treat overlooking one of the finest harbours in the world. Good food brings out the best in people and, for a few hours at least, the world is put to rights.
Grant Wyness

‘Ireland’s culinary playground’

Every October, the charming fishing town of Dingle transforms into Ireland’s ultimate culinary playground. The Dingle food festival (2-4 October) brings more than 60 venues to life for the famous Taste Trail, where pubs, galleries and shopfronts serve up local seafood, artisan cheeses and much more. Add bustling market stalls, cookery masterclasses and workshops, live street music and a strong zero-waste ethos, and you’ve got a weekend that celebrates the best of Irish food, drink and hospitality, all with Irish small-town warmth.
John O’Kelly

This small seaside town has had to install a park and ride due to the sheer number of visitors, and its narrow, winding streets are a difficult place to find a parking spot in the summer holidays

If you’ve ever taken the kids to a seaside town or popular attraction during the six week summer holidays, you’ll know the pain of driving around in circles looking for a spot.

A lot of tourist hotspots, such as beach towns, have old, narrow roads, and often, car parking is expensive and a long walk away from any attractions. It’s one of the most annoying things about trying to enjoy a day out in the summer.

A new study, which looked at parking across the UK’s seaside towns and tourist hotspots during the summer break claims it has found the worst place to find a parking space during this time.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the worst place to park is in Cornwall, which, as a county, welcomes around four million overnight visitors and 14 million day trippers a year. The pretty fishing town of St Ives took the top spot, with a huge number of visitors heading to its beach or art galleries finding it tough to grab a parking spot.

The study, carried out by Indigo Car Hire, looked at average parking costs, the number of parking spots per 1,000 visitors, and the number of car parks within a mile of the town centre. It also looked at the number of Google reviews that mentioned tourists facing parking problems.

These factors were then scored out of 100, with St Ives easily topping the list with 92 out of 100. A recent TripAdvisor review said: “Felt we should visit as we’re in Cornwall for a week, but having failed to find any parking anywhere we were glad to get out.”

Another claimed: “We had to re-attempt visiting St Ives due to a lack of parking. In order to park we had to come between 8am-9am, just FYI. Locals are very friendly and try to help.” While one said it was a “Very nice place with lots of restaurants and shops, but totally crowded with tourists in July. You can hardly find a parking space which are very expensive!”

But the small town is tackling its parking issues. Visit St Ives has tips on where to park when visiting, and recommends either using a park and ride car park just outside the town, or parking at nearby St Erth station and taking the St Ives Bay Line, a 15-minute train ride that gives you incredible coastal views as you arrive at the town.

St Ives wasn’t the only Cornish spot to make the list. Padstow came in fourth, while Newquay came in tenth. In second place the seaside town of Whitby in North Yorkshire scored 89 out of 100 for poor parking, with some visitors parking at the neighbouring village of Sandsend and braving the 45-minute walk into town.

A recent review said: “We saw car parks, but they were totally full no matter what time of day it was, same with the on-street parking near the front.” While another claimed there was “plenty of parking. However very expensive. £2.60 for an hour.”

Cherie Carter, managing director at Indigo Car Hire, said: “According to an RAC survey earlier this year, a third of drivers struggle with parking anxiety. The aim from this study is not to discourage drivers from visiting hotspots like St Ives or Whitby, but to help travellers enjoy their summer break with fewer unexpected frustrations when they arrive.”

Top 10 worst places for parking in the six-week holidays

1. St Ives, Cornwall – 92/100
2. Whitby, North Yorkshire – 89/100
3. Tenby, Wales – 87/100
4. Padstow, Cornwall – 85/100
5. Salcombe, Devon – 82/100
6. Southwold, Suffolk – 80/100
7. Bournemouth, Dorset – 79/100
8. Brighton, East Sussex – 77/100
9. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire – 76/100
10. Newquay, Cornwall – 75/100

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

IF you love both quaint English pubs and period films, then a stay at the Pilsley Inn is a must.

Here is everything you need to know about a stay at the pub in Derbyshire.

Where is the Pilsley Inn?

In a sleepy Peak District village, this charming country pub and hotel is on the Duke of Devonshire’s Chatsworth Estate with its stunning house and 1,000 acres of woods and parkland just a five-minute drive away.

What is the hotel like?

Known as The Devonshire Arms until a year ago, the hotel has been renamed with the addition of five new barn conversion rooms, designed by Lady Burlington.

Staff were warm, friendly and helpful, offering us a selection of nearby walks to make the most of the stunning Derbyshire countryside.

Dogs are welcome in the pub and to stay in the farmhouse and family rooms and there is free on-site parking.

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What are the rooms like?

There are 18 individually designed bedrooms either in the main inn or the converted adjoining barn and farmhouse.

We stayed in one of the farmhouse rooms.

Most of these rustic yet stylish spaces feature high four-poster beds, rich fabrics and plush bathrooms and come with a flatscreen TV, fridge and hot drink facilities and wifi, plus Chatsworth biscuits and toiletries.

Ground floor rooms also have an outside area to sit and soak up the countryside views.

The Chatsworth Experience package, from £124pp, includes overnight stay, dinner and breakfast along with tickets to Chatsworth House.

See chatsworthescapes.co.uk/pilsleyinn.

What is there to eat and drink?

Definitely eat here – the cosy restaurant, with tables around the bar area, serves classic British fare with food locally sourced from the Chatsworth Estate.

Sat near a roaring fire, we enjoyed carrot and coconut soup, duck breast with sweet potato croquettes and cherry sauce and Derbyshire beef and ale pie, all of which was delicious and well presented.

For breakfast, which is served in the restaurant, there are a range of continental or cooked options.

What else is there?

Stunning Chatsworth House, famously used as a location for the 2005 Pride And Prejudice movie, is close by and well worth a visit.

From May to October, The Pilsley Inn offers a Chatsworth Experience package that includes a tour of the house, which was a big highlight of our visit as well as the garden, parkland and farmyard with free parking.

Is it family friendly?

Find designated Family Rooms on the ground floor with bunk beds for 2 children and a children’s menu that even fussy kids will love – definitely ticks the boxes for a family friendly stay.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

There are Farmhouse Rooms located on the ground floor and the Hilltop room has a walk-in shower making it easily accessible.

The Chatsworth Escapes team are also happy to talk through any specific needs. 

After an 18-month closure prompted by the Palisades fire and subsequent damaging floods, Temescal Gateway Park reopened Friday, restoring access to beloved trails in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Hikers can walk along Temescal Creek, crossing a few charming wooden bridges, or take one of the steep ridge line trails to gape at the ocean as they gasp for air. But the popular Temescal Canyon Trail, which takes hikers to Temescal Falls, remains closed.

In this edition of The Wild, our weekly outdoors newsletter, I will quickly outline what you need to know about returning to Temescal Canyon. My visit Friday was actually my first, but given the serenity I found in this coastal alcove, I will absolutely return. (Note: As of this morning, Google Maps still showed the park was closed; that is inaccurate.)

The Michael J. B. Allen memorial bench sits on a nice overlook in Temescal Canyon.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Temescal Gateway Park is a 141-acre expanse in Pacific Palisades that features a babbling brook, oak and sycamore canyons and trails that zigzag up the mountains, providing views of the Pacific Ocean and its coastline. It is owned by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy but managed by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.

From the park, you can hike into Topanga and Will Rogers state parks, although some state park trails remain closed. Those include:

People who frequented Temescal Canyon before the Palisades fire will notice the inevitable changes that come after a fire. Trail crews removed several fire-damaged trees, including multiple mature oaks, as dead trees can and do fall unexpectedly, according to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. The agency plans to continue reforestation projects in the park as money becomes available.

You can easily enter the park through its entrance off Sunset Boulevard. Upon entry, you’ll need to pay the $12 day-use fee at one of the machines stationed around the parking lot if you’re parking on the property. (And it’s not something to roll the dice on — I saw at least one couple get ticketed.)

A burned wayfinding sign on the Temescal Ridge Trail, which was left from the Palisades fire.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I parked under a large coast live oak and headed northwest onto the Temescal Ridge Trail, which is exposed and has minimal shade but offers multiple options for day hikes, including:

• A quick out-and-back up Temescal Ridge Trail to one of the route’s popular lookout points.
• A 3.1-mile lollipop loop, taking Temescal Ridge Trail about 1.4 miles north to Bienveneda Trail, which loops you back around to the Temescal Ridge Trail at 2.3 miles into your journey.
• Or even farther up, as Temescal Ridge Trail leads to other longer trails in the Santa Monica Mountains.

A hiker heads up Tesmescal Ridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I huffed up the trail and was pleased with how quickly I could see the ocean. Several burned trees and shrubs remain, but they’re surrounded by an abundance of plant life coming back, including cliff aster and laurel sumac.

Along the route, I was pleasantly surprised by the exuberance of my fellow hikers. Multiple people stopped me — a fun experience for a reporter — to just share how wonderful they felt being back in the park. “Isn’t this great?” one hiker shouted to me as she headed up the ridge line. A couple from Minnesota told me they’d flown in the day before and were eager to get back to Temescal Canyon, their favorite spot to hike in L.A.

A burned tree with native plants growing up and around it.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

My next stop was along the Sunset Trail, a 0.4-mile trail that runs along Temescal Creek. While I marveled at the gnarled and twisted old oak trees along the trail, I met a 14-year-old Parson Russell terrier named Finnegan. She seemed just as happy to be back as the people I encountered, especially on this shady trail next to running water.

Workers have installed three wooden bridges that cross over the creek, giving this short jaunt a whimsical feel. It ends near the road, and I turned back north, taking the sidewalk past picnic tables and rock shelters in a sycamore grove.

The Sunset Trail along Temescal Creek.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I would have loved to visit the Temescal Canyon Trail to see Temescal Falls, but as I mentioned, that trail remains closed.

Isabela Noriega, a project manager at the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Agency, said the agency will work with California State Parks officials to begin restoring the route, as only a portion of the trail is within the boundaries of Temescal Gateway Park and the rest is on state land.

“You’ll remember the fires happened Jan. 7, and then we got storms in February,” Noriega said. “So there was a lot of erosion [and] dirt debris that washed out the trails. [It’s] two disasters piling up on top of each other that we’re working to deal with.”

Instead, the third trail option you’ll have is the Rivas Canyon Trail, a fun jaunt up the hillside that features several sets of wooden stairs. You can access the trail at either of its trailheads (see map).

I started at its southern trailhead, which is behind a few buildings and near some machinery and felled trees. From there, I walked north along a wide path shaded by oak trees before taking the first set of stairs up.

One of multiple sets of stairs along the Rivas Canyon Trail.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

You’ll continue up the stairs, the views of the ocean growing better as you gain elevation. I was able to spot four sailboats as I hiked.

Although the trail is well maintained, there was a short stretch that was thick enough with cliff asters to make me grateful I wore pants. There were also a few spots where I paused to lightly stomp because low-lying branches of native shrubs covered the trail. These shady sites are great nap spots for rattlesnakes, which are common to the area.

Burned trees surrounded by native plants growing back after the Palisades fire scorched the hillside.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

About half a mile in, you’ll reach the Michael J. B. Allen memorial bench, built in honor of a UCLA professor and avid hiker. This is a nice spot to take a break and have a snack.

Right after this first bench, the trail is speckled with rocks that reminded me of dinosaur eggs or little bits of the moon. These moments always make me wish I’d paid far more attention in geology class, as I can generally only provide such riveting commentary as “Look at that pretty rock” or “Hey, is that a geode?” (It’s never a geode.)

Stairs lead to the overlook point where there’s a memorial bridge for local trail legends Rob and Mary Ann Webster.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I continued east to the second memorial bench, built in honor of Ron and Mary Ann Webster, two beloved advocates of the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s often said that, if you’ve hiked in the Santa Monicas, you’ve likely stepped foot on a trail Ron designed.

The view from Rivas Canyon Trail in Temescal Canyon.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I decided to end my day on the Websters’ bench. The self-care app I use had recommended I spend 15 minutes outside that day reading, and this felt like a fine spot to finish a fascinating piece about how to properly measure a mountain.

I paused, though, first to take in the view.

All around me, there were reminders of both the fire and its aftermath — burned-out trees and plants. But past the hillsides dotted with native plants returning in force, I saw the wooden frames of several houses being rebuilt. It was a reminder that this park’s reopening is another signal that nature, ourselves included, will continue onward.

3 things to do

A stargazer calibrates a telescope to look at the Orion Nebula during a star party hosted by the Los Angeles Astronomical Society in L.A.

(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)

1. Savor s’mores and the stars in Chinatown
Los Angeles State Historic Park, a 32-acre expanse of public land in Chinatown, will host a “Park After Dark” event with the L.A. Astronomical Society from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday. Telescopes will be set up, and park workers will help guests make s’mores around a community campfire at the park’s roundhouse bridge. Learn more at the park’s Instagram page.

2. Doddle along the dunes in Santa Monica
The Santa Monica Helping Hub and the Coastal Alliance will co-host a dune walk from 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday in Santa Monica. Conservation biologist Ashley Oelsen, the alliance’s founder, will lead guests through the dunes and share why the stretch of beach is ecologically significant, serving as important habitat for threatened shorebirds and native coastal plants. Register at eventbrite.com.

3. Bend under the Buck Moon in L.A.
We Explore Earth, a local outdoors nonprofit, will host a full-moon hiking experience from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday in Elysian Park. Attendees will start meeting at 5:45 p.m. before heading on the hike at 6:25 p.m. After taking the Elysian Park west trail, participants can continue the evening with yoga, live music and stargazing with telescopes. Free, but donations of $5 to $10 are appreciated. Register at eventbrite.com.

The must-read

Crowds hike their way up the Mist Trail, one of the more popular trails in Yosemite National Park.

(William Hale Irwin/For The Times)

I am seemingly always planning my next adventure, including frequently pondering how soon I can return to Yosemite National Park. I last went in August and swam in the Merced River, hiked to Taft Point, saw Tunnel View at sunset and even went skydiving. But this past summer, that itch has felt more like a siren’s call as, like many outdoors lovers, I’ve been saddened by reports of serious overcrowding at one of America’s crown jewels. Over the past few weeks, I spoke to park-goers who’ve been to Yosemite this season, and I asked them: “Is it possible to still have fun there?” The answer, as I wrote in this story, was essentially, “Yes, but only if you plan accordingly.” Thankfully, they shared some tips on how to do that.

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

A bald eagle believed to be Jackie, one half of the celebrity raptor couple in Big Bear, was taken to a wildlife rehabilitation center in Ojai after being rescued this past weekend. Times staff writer Lila Seidman reported that a team with the San Dimas Raptor Rescue arrived around 1:30 a.m. Saturday in Big Bear Lake and found a weak and tired eagle on the lake’s shoreline. The eagle was then transported to the Ojai Raptor Center, where the reason for her deterioration remains unknown. “Queen Jackie is in the best of care! And will be able to return soon!” one YouTube user wrote Tuesday evening in the livestream’s chat. “Sending all our love & prayers to her and the kiddos and her amazing hubby super Shadow holding it down!”

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.