Tui

Located on the Atlantic coast, the country has a subtropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons, with average high temperatures in March reaching 34C

A breathtaking destination boasting 34C temperatures in March and direct flights from Britain offers travellers 50 miles of spectacular coastline featuring white-sand beaches. Dubbed ‘The Smiling Coast of Africa’, the Republic of The Gambia – or simply The Gambia – is so called after The Gambia River, which forms the core of the country’s geography.

It’s also mainland Africa’s smallest country and is celebrated for its friendly inhabitants. Situated along the Atlantic shoreline, The Gambia enjoys a subtropical climate characterised by distinctive dry and wet seasons.

In the capital, Banjul, average peak temperatures during March climb to 34C, whilst the ocean reaches an agreeable 26C. British holidaymakers travelling to Gambia can select from 17 airlines, according to Booking.com..

TUI operates holiday packages to The Gambia featuring flights from London Gatwick and Manchester Airport to Banjul International Airport, the nation’s capital. The journey from Britain takes approximately six and a half hours.

Despite measuring just 31 miles at its widest point, The Gambia features 50 miles of shoreline blessed with white-sand beaches, with standout locations including the coastal areas of Kotu and Kololi.

Surrounded entirely by the West African state of Senegal, The Gambia’s official language is English and has experienced “long spells of stability” since gaining independence from nearly 150 years of British colonial governance in 1965, according to the BBC.

A haven for nature enthusiasts, The Gambia is home to hippos, chimpanzees, crocodiles, and more than 600 species of birds. The nation also features nine distinct tribes, with the Mandinka forming the largest.

YouTuber Waleed Maoed, who recently visited The Gambia, documented his experience with locals in a video about the nation: “Honestly, it has been a great day in Gambia, home of the Smiling Coast.

“People here are awesome. Very welcoming. I definitely recommend visiting this country. This country is pretty cool.” He noted that despite having travelled to “many places” across Africa, Gambians had proven “super kind”.

The Gambia is a predominantly flat, low-lying strip of land split by the Gambia River, and, in what will come as a relief to those of us who struggle with jet lag, it operates on the same timezone as the UK.

Notable attractions include the River Gambia National Park, Kotu Beach, Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Albert Market and the historical Kunta Kinteh Island (previously called James Island).

Regarding traditional food, white rice accompanied by fiery sauces proves popular, according to The Gambian Experience, with the peanut-based Domoda stew serving as the national dish.

Additional specialities include spiced meat snack afra, meat-and-rice dish benachin, okra stew, palm wine, a bread variety called tapalapa, non-alcoholic wonjo juice, and chicken yassa.

Back in March 2013, Didi Danso penned a piece in the Mirror documenting a journey to The Gambia: “Stepping off the plane, warm air blasted me in the face. Temperatures are usually around 30C – one of the main reasons for its popularity with winter and spring sun-seekers.

“In the airport and beyond, people greeted me with a smiling face. This was so infectious that by the end of each day, my cheeks ached from smiling back.

“My first stop was the beautiful Kombo Beach Hotel in Kotu resort, where a light and airy room with a private balcony offered views of the ocean and beaches.

“Waking up to the sound of the sea was a delightful way to start the day. It convinced me to take a walk on the beautiful Bakau Beach – something I’d recommend to all.”

FANS of Spain will be happy to hear that TUI has launched new holidays to the Spanish city closest to the UK.

Taking less than two hours to fly to, Bilbao is the largest city in Spain‘s Basque Country.

And now it will be getting new TUI holidays this spring.

The city used to be an industrial port before it was later transformed into a modern city with unique architecture.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one example of the interesting architecture in the city.

It was designed by Frank Gehry and inside visitors can expect 20 galleries full of art.

Read more on travel inspo

TAKING OFF

I’ve visited 50 countries & this much-loathed budget airline is the world’s best

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

Make sure when visiting to see Jeff Koons’ Puppy, which is the world’s biggest flower statue with more than 38,000 flowers that are even changed twice a year.

The museum costs £13.10 per person to visit.

Whilst visiting, you should also head to Casco Viejo, which is the city’s medieval old town and is filled with shops, cafes and the Santiago Cathedral.

It is a great spot for food lovers as there are lots of restaurants and bars offering pintxos (small snack dish) along with txikitos (small glasses of wine).

Pintxos usually cost from £1.80.

Of course, whilst you are in the city, take a stroll along the Nervion River to see views of Zubizuri Bridge, Iberdrola Tower and the San Mames Stadium.

Spain‘s famous Rioja region is also nearby, so wine lovers can head off on a day trip to tour one of the historic wineries and have a taste of the local wine.

If you want to see the city from a different angle, then head on the Funicular de Artxanda and you will travel to the top of Mount Artxanda, which has amazing panoramic views of the city.

For dinner, check out Mercado de la Ribera, which is Europe’s largest covered market serving fresh food.

Temperatures in the summer hit around 26C with lots of sunshine.

What’s even better is that Bilbao is only a short flight from the UK, taking just two hours.

With TUI, travellers can fly to Bilbao from Bristol, London Gatwick, London Heathrow and Manchester Airports.

Two night breaks with return UK flights can be found for just £127pp when travelling next month.

TUI’s commercial director Chris Logan said: ”Bilbao offers a truly special city break.

“With incredible art, fantastic food and beautiful scenery all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who want the authentic taste of Spain.

“Outside peak summer, it’s fantastic value too with great hotels, unforgettable experiences and some of the best food in the country, all in a walkable city.”

For more inspiration on Spanish holidays, here are the best Spanish resorts you’ve never heard of.

Plus, the Spanish holiday resort that has the cheapest all-inclusive holidays this summer for families on a budget.

While this lesser-known region in Spain is growing in popularity, it still gets only a fraction of visitors that other cities see, and it allows you to enjoy a completely different type of Spanish culture

TUI has added a new city break destination to its roster for spring, and it’s in a part of Spain that’s growing in popularity with Brits and has a unique look.

If you’re bored of the Spanish Costas and want to escape the usual packed tourist spots, then Northern Spain is becoming an alternative for Brits who want to see a different part of the country. The Basque Country alone saw a 40% increase in visitors last year, although this still only puts the area at 182,000 tourists a year- a fraction of the visitors to Southern Spain.

At the heart of the Basque Country is Bilbao, and if you’ve never been to this part of Spain, it’s an excellent starting point for immersing yourself in the area’s unique beauty and culture.

TUI will offer city breaks to Bilbao from four major UK airports this spring: Bristol, London-Gatwick, London-Heathrow, and Manchester. With flights from London taking just under two hours, it’s ideal for a long weekend or mini break.

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

In a Lonely Planet article, one travel writer wrote: “When your plane banks toward Bilbao Airport for the final approach, the lush forest passing below looks nothing like the Spain you thought you knew.”

The climate and landscapes of this region are worlds away from the dry, sunny south, with milder weather that can be a respite from summer heatwaves. In March and April, daily highs are around 17C, while over the summer, it hits around 26C, and the south often bakes in temperatures in the mid-30s. It also gets more rain than the south, giving the surrounding area a fresh green look.

Bilbao sits on the banks of the Nervión River, and one of its most popular spots is its old town, also known as Casco Viejo. With colourful buildings dating back to medieval times, a grand cathedral, and the beautiful neoclassical Plaza Nueva, full of bars and restaurants, it’s the perfect city break destination.

In contrast, the Guggenheim Museum, with its unique Frank Gehry-designed exterior, looks different from anything else in the city, yet draws people in with its vast collection of contemporary art. Even if you don’t venture inside, it’s worth walking past to see its titanium-clad exterior shining in the sun.

In addition to its cultural delights, Bilbao is known for its colourful food scene, and as you wander the streets, you’ll find plenty of pintxos bars. A northern alternative to tapas; pintxos are bite-sized pieces of bread topped with ingredients from jamón to seafood or cheese, held together by a cocktail stick.

Another famous product of Northern Spain is its Rioja wines, which are the perfect pairing for a plate of pintxos. You can enjoy a day trip to wineries near the city, or simply visit one of the many wine bars for a tasting.

TUI’s deals include a 7-night stay 4T NYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels on a room only basis from £583 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing a Double or Twin Comfort Room departing from London Gatwick on the 14th of April 2026 with hand luggage only.

Or you can book a seven-night holiday staying at Hotel Sirimiri on a room-only basis from £451 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing a Double or Twin Standard Room departing from London Heathrow on the 21st of April 2026 with hand luggage only. Prices are subject to availability and may change. To find out more, visit the TUI website or download the official app.

Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

TUI, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2 and British Airways rules on flying with pets including the airlines that do allow you to bring animals into the cabin

Every pet owner has found themselves missing their cuddly companion when away from home. If you’re particularly close to your dog or cat, you might even be wondering whether it’s possible to take them with you. Policies vary from airline to airline, as does the cost. It’s also worth checking the requirements for bringing pets to your destination, as well as returning to the UK with your pet, as you’ll need to follow a number of steps to get them through customs.

Here’s what some popular airlines say about travelling with animals.

TUI

Pets aren’t allowed in the cabin of TUI’s aircraft, although registered assistance dogs can travel with their owners for free. Any other animals need to travel in the hold, and TUI say pets will usually go on the same flight as their owners. Its website reassures owners that: “The hold is pressurised and at the same temperature as the passenger cabin.”

Pets need to be kept in a travel box with a water bowl, and cannot be medically sedated, although herbal calming products cam be used. Owners will need to call or email TUI beforehand to check whether their pet can be accommodated, as some routes have restrictions, and to arrange for their pet’s travel in advance.

EasyJet

EasyJet’s policy is clear: “Animals are not allowed on our flights, apart from recognised registered guide and assistance dogs.” Animals can not be carried in the cabin or hold.

Passengers travelling with assistance dogs will need to contact the special assistance team in advance, at least 48 hours before the flight, and will need to provide documents that the pet is a trained assistance dog. The dog will also need an animal health certificate, or pet passport if accepted, and the necessary vaccination certificates depending on the destination.

Ryanair

Ryanair also say: “We do not carry animals on board any Ryanair flights, except guide/assistance dogs on certain routes.” Assistance dogs need to be registered with an organisation such as Assistance Dogs International (ADI), Assistance Dogs UK, or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).

Ryanair added: “Emotional support or therapy dogs that are not recognized as assistance dogs by the above organizations are not permitted to travel with Ryanair.” It also has a list of requirements for assistance dogs on its website.

Jet2

Jet2 does not allow pets in the cabin or hold, and assistance dogs are the only animals allowed onboard. Assistance dogs travel with their owner for free, and Jet2 advise that passengers should contact their Assisted Travel Team before travelling so arrangements can be made.

It advises: “Please note an additional seat may be required to ensure there is enough floor space for the assistance dog to lie down, and if this is the case, an additional charge may be applicable depending on the size of the assistance dog.” Jet2 also warned: “If the assistance needs (including carriage of assistance dogs) of customers on the same flight create conflicting health issues, we reserve the right to decide how the conflict shall be resolved at our absolute discretion.”

British Airways (BA)

BA advise that all pets must be carried in the hold on flights to and from the UK. It has partnered with cargo services that specialise in the transport of pets, details of which can be found on its travelling with pets page.

BA warn: “British Airways is unable to accept emotional support dogs for travel in the cabin on any British Airways operated flights. Your emotional support dog can travel as a pet.” However, it also makes an exception for assistance dogs, which can travel free of charge in the cabin. Assistance dogs will need to be registered and trained with a suitable organisation, and the dog will need to be registered ahead of the flight’s departure.

Air France

Air France is one of the few European airlines to allow pets in the cabin, but there are restrictions. It only allows cats or dogs up to 8kg in weight, and up to 75kg in total with its carrier. Pets over this size must go into the hold.

Owners will need to contact Air France before they travel and check the strict list of requirements. Certain breeds with snub-noses will need to be cleared by a vet to fly. This includes pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats. Pets can’t travel in the cabin on intercontinental flights and aren’t allowed in business class.

Vueling

Spanish airline Vueling also allow some pets onboard including dogs, cats, birds, and turtles, although they must be kept inside a carrier at all times when in the cabin. It does not allow pets in the hold.

The maximum weight for pets travelling on Vueling is 10kg including the carrier, and it’ll need to go under the seat in front of you. Pet owners will need to check the requirements for their destination country and should contact the airline to book their pet’s space.

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

PARTS of the UK have seen rain every day of 2026 so far.

But there is a popular country in Africa where you can find sunshine as it has the least amount of rainfall in the world.

Egypt is constantly ranked the country with the lowest average annual rainfall in the world.

In one year, it only gets about 0.7 inches of rain – in comparison, the UK sees on average 47 inches.

This week, while the UK shivers in freezing temperatures and possible snow, Egypt is basking in highs of 30C.

The good news for Brits is that Egypt is incredibly accessible with the flight time being as little as five hours – and there are very cheap holiday offers throughout the year.

FEB-ULOUS TIME

February half term days out for UNDER £10, including free and £1 attractions

DREAMY DEALS

Our pick of the best long haul holidays for short haul prices

The most popular resort towns for Brits are scattered along the Red Sea – these are Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna, and Marsa Alam.

You can pick the destination depending on what kind of break you’re after.

Sharm El Sheikh, on the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is a premier Red Sea resort city with world-class diving and snorkelling thanks to its stunning coral reefs.

Hurghada is also a Red Sea city and is known for having incredible beaches along with great nightlife in Sakalla.

Just up the coast from Hurghada is El Gouna – a secure and gated resort town with high-end hotels, golf courses and marinas.

Meanwhile, Marsa Alam is further south – its U-shaped Abu Dabab Bay is known for its sea turtles and sea cows.

You can spend 10 nights at in Giza for as little as £249 each with loveholidays.

The hotel has spacious bedrooms – some even have bathtubs in the rooms.

The rooftop is the perfect place to gaze at the ancient pyramids, and guests can hire out BBQ equipment for some outdoor cooking.

The price is room only and includes flights from London Stansted.

Staying in Giza, a city on the west bank of the Nile is the perfect stop for anyone wanting to explore Egypt’s history.

It is home to the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World—the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx.

Over in Hurghada, you can stay at the 4-star Elysees Dream Beach Hotel which has its own beach, and lots of children’s facilities.

A 10 night stay at Elysees Dream Beach Hotel (starting on February 26) starts from £339pp this includes breakfast – and flights from London Stansted.

Hurghada is the perfect spot for a ‘fly and flop’ break – and February sees more mild temperatures as in peak summer season it can get as hot as 38C.

For a different kind of holiday, why not check out an Egyptian river cruise?

TUI offers package cruises from £1459pp with the Legends of the Nile.

This package is across seven nights, it’s all inclusive with a superior cabin which comes with air conditioning and shower as well as other room amenities.

Guests can explore spots like Aswan, Edfu and Kom Ombo seeing ancient cities and ruins.

One Travel Writer hopped onboard a TUI river cruise when it first launched.

She said: “I got to explore the ancient lands of Egypt in possibly the best way a tourist can — a cruise along the River Nile on board Al Horeya, TUI’s first river cruise ship to sail outside of the European waterways.

“Luxor was the first stop on my seven-night bucket list adventure.

“And I was desperate to explore the Valley Of The Kings where some of Egypt’s most illustrious — and notorious — Pharaohs are buried.

“After a busy day of exploring this fascinating city on the Nile’s east bank, the double bed in my Superior French Balcony Cabin seemed all too inviting.

“From the first night, the Egyptian rosé wine Shahrazade became my tipple of choice – luckily, stays aboard the TUI Al Horeya are all-inclusive which meant I could swig back as many wines as I fancied.”

For more on Egypt, here’s the perfect destination for families seeking adventure from scaling pyramids to snorkelling and desert safari.

Plus, Jet2 is restarting flights to one much-loved winter sun destination for the first time in 16 years.

A cabin crew member met the love of her life on a flight to Tenerife after he helped her in an awkward moment – the couple are now happily married and about to celebrate their 25th Valentine’s Day together

Back in June 2001, flight attendant Alexis Milford-White went to work as usual, expecting nothing out of the ordinary as she boarded the TUI flight to the Canary Islands. Ready, as always, to assist her passengers.

Little did she know she was about to meet her future husband Stuart at 30,000 feet in the sky while he was heading off on holiday with his friends.

One simple act of kindness on his part “broke the ice” and the pair began meeting up regularly. Just two months into their fledgling relationship, Alexis was struck down with a debilitating illness, which is when Stuart really proved their love was the real deal.

READ MORE: Man buys every scratch card on Ryanair flight and winnings floor himREAD MORE: UK tourist pulled off plane in Mexico and left stranded after ‘admin error’

It was during a routine Boeing 757 flight from Manchester airport – where 32-year-old Alexis was based – to Tenerife that the lovebirds first encountered each other. Stuart, 24, was sitting in the emergency exit row and travelling on holiday with friends. He’d already struck up a conversation with the cabin crew member who had caught his eye when an unfortunate, clumsy moment saw him step in to save her blushes.

“We got chatting throughout the flight, and at one point he even helped me when I dropped the money from duty-free sales all over the cabin floor,” Alexis said. “It was one of those moments that just broke the ice”.

Thankfully, Stuart acted on his feelings and asked for Alexis’ phone number, messaging her shortly after, even though he was soaking up the sun with his pals. “Three days later, I got a text from Stuart, and that was it,” she said. “We stayed in touch throughout his holiday and would talk on the phone for hours, sometimes up to 12 hours at a time.”

Alexis, who had dreamed of being a flight attendant since she was a little girl, landed her role after taking a leap of faith and quitting her bank job. She believed her career path was “meant to be,” just as when she managed to work on Stuart’s return flight home from Tenerife, which she said “felt like fate.”

During the journey, the pair had the chance to make plans to meet when they got back in the UK. Although there was some distance between their homes, with Stuart living in Birmingham and Alexis in Preston, they made sure they hooked up weekly.

However, it was after just two months into their new and exciting relationship that Alexis became seriously ill with a spinal bacterial infection, which meant she could no longer walk. Such a debilitating health battle, with the challenges it brought, may have signalled the end for many new couples. But it only cemented their commitment.

Alexis was forced to give up work for a long time as she learnt to walk again using water rehabilitation, but Stuart was right there by her side. “Without hesitation, Stuart left his training in Birmingham to come and be with me,” she said. “He was an amazing support and it became clear very quickly we were meant to be together.”

After six months, he moved in with Alexis, and the huge Disney fans married in 2004 at Disney in Florida. They’ve been inseparable ever since and are about to celebrate their 25th Valentine’s Day together.

Alexis is now back working for TUI and thinks her travelling means they make the most of their time together. “We’ve had our ups and downs like any couple,” she said. “But if it wasn’t for that flight, we wouldn’t be together. I went to work that day thinking it was just another shift, and instead, I met my husband, and he’s my rock. Even after all these years, it still amazes me that love found us in the sky.”

Holidaymakers have been left enraged after major health scares in Cape Verde have caused confusion over whether or not it is safe to travel to the West African archipelago

A major travel warning has been issued as six Brits have tragically died after going on holiday in Cape Verde. More than 150 people have become ill in recent months, dealing with horrifying stomach bugs that cause a range of symptoms, including fever, severe diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.

The UK health authorities have been investigating the sudden spate of illness and found that the outbreak of salmonella and shigella has been linked to travellers to Cape Verde – a popular destination for British holidaymakers looking for some winter sun. Now, terrified tourists have been plunged into chaos, unsure of whether or not to take the risk and travel to Cape Verde for their booked holidays, or potentially take a massive financial hit.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has found that of the 118 cases of shigella reported since 1 October, a staggering 95 percent of people had been to Cape Verde, particularly the Santa Maria and Boa Vista areas.

READ MORE: Holidaymakers told to drink bottled water after six Brits dieREAD MORE: ‘My wife went on TUI dream holiday to Cape Verde – now she’ll never come home’

Leading holiday company TUI has come under fire from holidaymakers over the ongoing nightmare, with comments flooding in on a public Facebook group about how the company has allegedly handled the health scare. One furious traveller claims that TUI “lied all through this,” alleging that the company had denied that anyone else had become unwell.

“TUI have lied all through this,” the seething customer claimed. “They told me when I was ill there were no other complaints, this is total rubbish!! I wasn’t the only one ill after 10 days, we had people much worse than me who were hospitalised & they denied it all !!!” It is unclear when the tourist visited Cape Verde, but they posted in the group four days ago.

Another holidaygoer posted that their digestive system has “never been the same again” after falling ill on holiday in Cape Verde back in August 2023, urgently warning other holidaymakers who might have planned trips there to rethink and avoid it altogether. “It was confirmed that the shellfish was carrying shigella from the sea and that’s how I got it – I have never been the same again with my digestive system”. They continued: “Be careful…the pools constantly being closed due to illness as well! It’s a toss up for risking it for sun or changing to somewhere you [know] you’ll be OK I [know] I won’t ever go again.”

Those posting in the group paint a grim picture of the conditions on their TUI holidays, with many criticising the holiday company for how they handle complaints. “I fell ill with Shigella in October and as far as I’m aware [TUI] have never admitted there was ever an issue,” claimed one customer. “I would advise against going. I’ve never felt so poorly or been so scared.”

The complaints about Cape Verde resorts go beyond illnesses. One poster claimed the hotel they stayed in was like a “war zone” and eventually they had to shell out £700 extra to move to a better facility. They claimed that TUI “didn’t want to listen to my legitimate concerns” and “wouldn’t help in any way”.

Insisting that “the hotel I originally booked should never have been advertised on their website,” they added: “I was in Sal and arrived home just 2 weeks ago. I wasn’t staying in a RUI resort. Yes, I too unfortunately got Shigella. Had multiple issues over the week I was there, TUI were less than helpful on their App, using the Complaints process (recommended by a Rep that was at the hotel!).

“This is the first holiday I have ever had where I felt so relieved and happy to be going home. Never Again!!” The holidaymaker added that they “wouldn’t recommend anyone going to Cape Verde at the moment and I won’t be going back, which is a shame as it does have its lovely parts and the people are friendly.”

Another tourist said that they managed to “dodge shigella” but the unhygienic conditions at their hotel were horrifying – with an “intermittent water supply” and “cockroaches EVERYWHERE!”. They wrote: “One of our party had a large cockroach sat on his shoulder as he was eating in the Italian a la carte restaurant”. They claimed that no one at the hotel could wash their hands properly as their was no running water, sewers were being “pumped out” right by the pool, adding that they “ will never go anywhere with TUI again.”

The new UKHSA study found local swimming pools, local water and poor sanitary conditions, as well as possible infection from hotel buffets and excursions, can increase the risk of infections like salmonella, shigella, giardia and cryptosporidium.

Terrifyingly, four of the Brits who died after travelling to Cape Verde all passed away within a four month period. Irwin Mitchell solicitors are representing the families of the six people who have died overall – and also over 1,500 people who have fallen ill after visits to holiday destination.

Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, Mark Ashley, 55, of Bedfordshire, 64-year-old Karen Pooley, from Gloucestershire, and a 56-year-old man all died last year after contracting severe gastric illnesses while on the islands off the coast of west Africa.

Mark’s family have been left in “complete shock” by his death. His wife, Emma, 55, explained that she never thought when they headed on holiday that she would end up losing her husband. “We went to Cape Verde expecting a relaxing break, but Mark became violently ill and never recovered.”

Mark, a self-employed forklift truck driver, became unwell just three days into the trip to Cape Verde. The couple, who had been married for 26 years, stayed at the five‑star Riu Palace Santa Maria resort in Sal. Mark became extremely lethargic, and suffering from stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever, lawyers representing the family said. Emma – an early years assistant manager – said that their TUI holiday cost over £3,000 and she had raised concerns over the hotel’s hygiene.

Emma says that she reported that her husband had become very unwell via TUI’s app on 9 October. When they got home to Houghton Regis, Mark – who had diabetes – collapsed and was rushed to hospital on 12 November. Tragically, he was pronounced dead by the staff just minutes after.

Other tragedies include part-time nurse and mother-of-one Elena Walsh, who died in August 2025 after falling ill while staying at the Riu Cabo Verde resort on the same island.

And Karen Pooley, from Lydney, died after travelling with a friend to the Riu Funana resort in Sal on October 7, 2025. The fortnight’s holiday cost £3,000 and was booked through Tui, the law firm said. The retired mother-of-two became sick on October 11 with gastric symptoms including diarrhoea, and in the early hours of the next day she slipped on water leaking from a fridge while going to the bathroom.

She was transferred to a local clinic and over the next four days, Ms Pooley continued to experience diarrhoea and vomiting, alongside severe pain from her fractured femur. Deteriorating, the 64-year-old was airlifted to Tenerife for urgent care on October 16 and died in the early hours of the next day, lawyers said. Her husband Andy, 62, said: “We’re utterly heartbroken. Karen was the kindest, loveliest person.

“She was a devoted wife and mum who loved swimming, walking the dog in the Forest of Dean, and volunteered at a local charity shop. She was also a wonderful friend who lit up every room she entered. We’re devastated and struggling to understand how she went on holiday and never came home.”

Irwin Mitchell said Karen’s initial death certificate, issued by the Cape Verde authorities, said she died of multi-organ failure, sepsis, cardio‑respiratory arrest and a broken left leg.

The other two Britons who have died since 2023 are Jane Pressley, 62, of Gainsborough, who died in January 2023 after falling ill while holidaying at Riu Palace Hotel in Santa Maria, Sal, the previous November, and a man in his 60s from Watford. He died in November 2024 after suffering gastric illness following a trip to Cape Verde, Irwin Mitchell said. Families of all six people are making personal injury claims for damages against Tui, the provider of many package holidays to the island country.

Now, the UKHSA has updated its travel advice on the Travel Health Pro website for Cape Verde. It urges people to choose food that is freshly prepared, fully cooked and served piping hot. In areas without a reliable clean water supply, drink only bottled or boiled water, including when brushing your teeth, and avoid ice in drinks, it added.

People are advised to only eat fruit they peel themselves and avoid salads that may not have been washed in safe water. Shigella is a gastrointestinal bug that can cause severe diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. It can be caught from contaminated food, water or surfaces. Salmonella is often caused by eating or handling contaminated food.

Tui did not respond to requests for comment.

Avoid paying a massive fee at the airport gates by checking your cabin bag size before you fly. With half term on the way, here’s the latest sizing regulations for some of the most popular airlines

One thing that often catches passengers out when flying on budget airlines is cabin baggage allowances. On busy flights, it’s common to see the dreaded bag sizer coming out, and being over just a centimetre can mean you end up paying a massive fee to check your bag at the gate.

To make things even more confusing, cabin bag size allowances change all the time, so even if you’re a frequent flyer, you can get caught out. It’s always best to check the size of the cabin bag that’s included with your ticket just before you go, so you can avoid hassle at the gates.

It’s also much cheaper to pay for extra bags when you book your flight, not once you’re at the airport, so always make sure you’ve booked the amount you need in advance.

Cabin bag allowances by airline

READ MORE: Jet2 makes major flight change for July, August and SeptemberREAD MORE: Woman living in the Grand Canyon shares reality of remote life with 1 drawback

Ryanair

Ryanair is notorious for strictly enforcing cabin baggage sizes, and if you’re taking a bag on board, you should make sure you get the tape measure out and check the dimensions before you head to the airport.

However, there’s good news for Ryanair passengers: the free underseat bag included in its basic fare can now be slightly larger. Previously, this small bag had to fit in a sizer with the dimensions of 40 x 25 x 20 cm, but since summer 2025 it can now be up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. These free bags need to fit under the seat in front of you, and usually people bring a handbag, laptop bag, or small rucksack.

Technically, there’s no weight limit on these small bags, as long as they fit under the seat, but passengers will need to be able to carry and handle them, and an excessively heavy bag could be noticed by flight attendants.

Passengers can also pay to bring a second cabin bag of up to 55 x 40 x 20cm onboard with them, and this bag has a weight limit of 10KG. Passengers will need to lift this bag into the overhead locker above them, so bear this in mind when packing. If you prefer to check a bag, you can add a 10KG, 20KG, or 23KG bag to the hold. Prices vary depending on route and availability.

EasyJet

Budget airline easyJet is also known for strictly monitoring bag sizes, and you’ll see lots of orange sizers around the airport so you can check whether your luggage will fit. However, it’s best to measure bags at home when they’re packed so you can adjust accordingly.

Everyone who flies with easyJet gets one small underseat cabin bag included in the price. This can be up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm in size, and easyJet states it can’t exceed 15KG in weight.

Customers also have the option to book a second cabin bag of 56 x 45 x 25 cm maximum, including handles and wheels. As a bonus, if you book a second bag, you get speedy boarding included. When booking your flight, you also have the option to pay for up to three checked bags of 15KG, 23KG, or a whopping 32KG. Some airports offer a twilight bag drop for passengers on early flights, meaning you can check your luggage the night before heading off and head straight for security in the morning.

Jet2

Whether you’ve booked a package holiday with Jet2, or just a flight, cabin baggage allowances are the same. You get a small bag of 40 x 30 x 20cm, which must fit under the seat, and the price also includes a 10KG piece of hand luggage of up to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. Again, you must ensure measurements include handles, wheels, and other fixtures.

Package holidays include 22KG of checked baggage, but if you’ve only booked a flight, you can still add a checked bag for a fee. Passengers can buy up to three bags of 22KG in weight, perfect for those who don’t like to travel light.

Families travelling with young kids can also bring a collapsible pushchair, car seat, and/or travel cot free of charge.

British Airways

British Airways (BA)’s economy basic fare includes a handbag and a cabin bag. The former can be up to 40 x 30 x 15cm in size and needs to easily fit under the seat in front, while cabin bags can be up to 56 x 45 x 25cm in size. However, BA can only guarantee that the smaller item will be allowed on board. If there’s not enough space in the overhead locker, your cabin bag may need to go in the hold.

BA also offers a range of options for checked bags, depending on the flight route you take and which classes are available. Economy with checked bag includes a 23KG bag in the hold, and unlike most airlines, BA put a size restriction on these checked bags of 90 x 75 x 43cm. Those lucky enough to fly business or first class get much bigger allowances.

READ MORE: Stay overnight at Alton Towers, Chessington or Legoland and get year’s free entry to top theme parksREAD MORE: PAW Patrol land first look as Chessington seeks children to test rides

TUI

If you’ve booked a flight only on TUI Airways, you’ll get a piece of hand luggage of up to 10KG in weight for free, and this can measure up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm. You can also bring a small personal item like a handbag or laptop bag of up to 40 x 30 x 20cm that’s placed under the seat in front of you. TUI emphasises that passengers must be able to lift their hand luggage into overhead storage compartments themselves.

Customers can also add a checked bag when booking their flight, with prices depending on the route and availability. However, if you book a package holiday through TUI and are flying with its airline, then 20KG of checked luggage is included. Some holiday types, such as TUI BLUE or cruises, have a 25KG allowance, so it’s worth checking your booking confirmation before you go.

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

AH, Ibiza. Those heady days of raving until dawn, no kids, and a lot of cocktails.

Take. Me. Back.

Well actually, two kids, slightly less dancing and a few less Espresso Martinis later, Tui might just have done it.

We’d tried once before, when our daughters were three and six, with less success, but with Lyla and Martha now 10 and 12, could we have finally hit the sweet spot?

Tui’s Holiday Village Seaview Ibiza is designed for kids, there’s no doubt about it.

With the busiest entertainment, sports and club programme I’ve ever come across, there’s literally about one hour in the day (after breakfast, before 10am) that they’re not catered for.

GLASTO WITH SNOW

The French resorts which are more like ‘Ibiza in the snow’

EUR-ON

The ‘insane’ family hotel in Europe with six floors of play zones and a water park

Along with an onsite water park, three pools, snooker tables, an aerial walk, table tennis, arcades, paddle boarding and kayaking, there are also kids’ clubs, and stage, swimming and football academies.

There’s plenty of daytime fun and free games around the resort, too.

And all that is before an entire evening of child-friendly entertainment that begins as the pools close at 6pm.

In fact, it’s so busy, there’s a whole app devoted to the hotel, where you can book slots in advance for anything and everything your children could want to do on holiday.

As you squinted in the sunshine from your sunlounger (which, happily, the resort doesn’t let you reserve with your towel until after 8am) it was almost like watching a group of excitable Oompa Loompas rushing around Willy Wonka’s factory.

But instead of chocolate, they were squealing about the variety of fun they could have.

Although, it’s worth pointing out that as part of the all-inclusive, you can help yourself to free ice creams and afternoon cakes — so it pretty much is like Wonka’s factory.

Children zoomed around the resort, which is like a mini city — and because it felt so safe, my girls could dash between pools and the snack bar unaccompanied, while my husband David and I watched from the loungers.

We had to accompany the girls to the waterpark until we decided that as they were such good swimmers, and there were almost as many lifeguards as kids, we didn’t need to.

‘But what about the adults?’ I selfishly asked myself as we arrived, and I saw what the girls had in store.

Well, that’s exactly where Tui has played its trump card.

Favourite nights ever

Research conducted last year found that 60 per cent of parents miss their child-free clubbing days (like me) and regularly relive them with family kitchen discos (yes I do).

Inspired by this, Holiday Villages called on the youngest ever DJ duo — the brilliantly named Half Punk — to grace the island and give families enjoying their first summer holiday weekend a night to remember.

When I heard that the pair were 12 and 10, I wondered if they were actually going to DJ or just play at it.

But lo and behold. To mark 25 years since their namesakes Daft Punk released One More Time, the two properly mixed.

I’m not sure the hordes of children standing staring at the front fully embraced the old-school house music blaring out by the two helmeted youngsters — but the parents certainly did.

Eyes shut in ecstasy and arms were held aloft as confetti cannons blasted, glow sticks shimmered and the bass speakers reverberated around the resort.

You could instantly spot the old ravers who had allowed themselves to be taken back to those carefree days of thumping tunes and dancing like no one was watching.

And then after, a silent disco got all the youngsters involved again — wide-eyed at the adults belting out chart-toppers and throwing shapes like loons.

I’m not sure there’s anything better than properly dancing with your children on a dancefloor — and as we finally sank into our beds, we all decided it had been one of our favourite nights abroad ever.

And don’t think the fun stopped there. We also managed to get up the energy for a Neon Nights disco and an Ibiza Sunset dance while we were there.

The resort is right next to the beautiful sandy Port Des Torrent beach — with ­pedalos for hire and tavernas to relax in while watching the fabulous Ibiza sunsets.

We were lucky enough to get invited on a Meet The Sea boat trip, which aims to educate kids about the oceans.

Having sailed out to just off an uninhabited island, you snorkel with a marine specialist, who teaches you why the sea is nothing to be scared of.

He’ll even pick up sea anemones and cucumbers from the sea bed and let you hold them, while back on board the chef cooks paella. It’s a truly magical experience.

Plus, you’re just across the bay from San Antonio, so if you do feel the urge for nightclubs, you’re literally a bus ride away.

The hotel’s buffet restaurant was also ­perfect for the pickiest of eaters, with every kind of food a child could possibly ask for, and theme nights as well, so it didn’t get too samey.

You also get two free meals per week at the speciality restaurants, with Italian, American and grill options.

And as for the reps, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anyone more smiley and enthusiastic, even as they did the dance routine to Bruno Mars’ APT for the 19th time that day.

Like Butlins on steroids, I knew Tui had hit its mark when our eldest daughter, without any word of a lie, turned to me and said: “This is better than the Maldives.”

NEW city break packages have been launched by TUI – to a destination set to be even bigger this year.

The new packages, on sale now, will connect Brits to the city of Cairo in Egypt.

The latest in its city break packages, flights will operate from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.

Passengers will travel on British Airways, easyJet or Egyptair flights.

Five night holidays start from £696pp, which includes return flights, transfers, luggage and stays at Nile Sky Suites Hotel with breakfast.

TUI’s Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “With winter sun, world-famous sights and great value all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who are after sunshine but want more than a beach holiday.

DECKS APPEAL

I went on the all-inclusive TUI cruise that stops in Europe’s prettiest cities

DREAM ISLAND

Safest African country is tropical island with TUI packages and 60p meals

“Egypt is one of the best-value winter sun destinations. You get brilliant hotels, unforgettable experiences and fantastic value for money, especially during the winter months” added Logan.”

The city of Cairo’s nickname, especially by locals, is ‘mother of the world’ for many believing it is the centre of civilisation.

Its main attraction is the Pyramids of Giza – the only remaining ancient wonder of the world – as well as the Great Sphinx.

There is also the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest of its kind in the world.

The Sun’s Dean Agius visited soon after it opened.

He explained: “The enormous building, covering an area of 470,000 square metres, houses more than 50,000 artefacts — and the centre­piece of its collection will bring all 5,000-plus treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb together for the first time.

“Stepping through its pyramid-shaped entrance, the 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II sits in GEM’s soaring central atrium.”

TUI also said there are “lesser-known hidden gems” in Cairo too, including the green oasis Al-Azhar Park, which has amazing city views.

Cairo remains around 20C in winter, although is hitting highs of 26c this week – making it an ideal winter sun holiday destination around five hours from the UK.

Summer temperatures can hit around 36C.

Brits can also explore the rest of Egypt, with other popular experiences including Nile River cruises.

There is the city of Luxor, home to Luxor Temple and the famous Valley of the Kings.

Otherwise popular beach resorts include Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, including the nearby El Gouna.

TUI has restarted flights to Sharm el Sheikh from East Midlands, taking off later this year.

Egypt has long been a popular, affordable holiday destination for Brits.

However, its affordability is seeing it boom even more this year, according to experts.

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy said earlier this week: “North Africa is performing well, with […] Egypt standing out.”

The airline will restart flights to two destinations in Egypt in 2027.

After scrapping routes back in 2011, the new flights will connect to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.