TUI

Tony Holliday, 57, was left with a fractured right leg, head and shoulder injuries after the crash – which happened after being given a complimentary quadbiking trip while on holiday

A holidaymaker who is suing TUI at the High Court following a quad bike crash has issued a stark warning to tourists while on excursions abroad after he suffered serious injuries which “should never have happened”.

Tony Holliday, who now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, required two operations on his right leg after he collided with rocks and was thrown from a quad bike while on an excursion in Cape Verde in March 2023.

The property developer travelled to the island, off the coast of west Africa, with his wife, Bev, and two of his daughters, Keeley and Rhianna.The 57-year-old, from Cockermouth, Cumbria, is suing TuUI UK, claiming it misrepresented the nature of the excursion and was negligent, and is seeking more than £500,000 in damages.

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Mr Holliday has now urged travellers to take precautions while abroad. He said: “Please check everything. If something doesn’t feel right… take the full checks, make sure everything’s there (and) the health and safety looks like it’s in place.” He continued: “We asked questions at the time but were not given the correct answers.”

Mrs Holliday, 54, said: “Make sure that you’ve got the right insurance in place, that you’re going through your tour operator, and just think carefully about the excursions that you take your family on and that you go on, and just to try and look out for things that we didn’t see.”

The family agreed to go on the free quad bike excursion as compensation for issues with lost luggage and rooms smelling of sewage earlier in the trip.

In court documents filed by law firm Stewarts, which is representing Mr Holliday, Sarah Prager KC said that TUI staff described the excursion as “suitable for total beginners”, despite the company saying online that it was an “off-road adventure”, an “action-packed excursion”, and “four adrenaline-pumping hours” on “very powerful machines”.

Mr Holliday believed the excursion was provided by Tui but later found out it was organised by a local provider. Mr Holliday continues to suffer from anxiety and issues with sleep following the incident, and said he “feels a second slower than where I should be”.

He said: “Although I went through it, I didn’t witness what my family had to witness, and I don’t think they’ll ever get that image out of their head. So it’s not just me who has suffered. I think the full family has suffered through this. It should never have happened.”

Mrs Holliday said: “It’s really strange when you’ve got a partner who has no fear… he gets himself out there and he loves the challenge, work-wise. It’s really strange to then find yourself in the position where he hasn’t got that confidence any more, and your life completely changes. He will get back, he will get back to where he is. We’ll make sure he does.”

Chris Deacon, international injury lawyer at Stewarts, said: “Sadly, every year I see cases like Tony’s, of people sustaining serious, life-changing injuries on holiday excursions. One of the key factors which influences whether a person can bring a compensation claim for their injuries is how the excursion (is) booked.

“This is because booking your excursion through your tour operator as part of your package holiday brings with it certain protections under the package travel regulations.

“If you book through a small, local provider, there is a risk they won’t be insured, fully or at all, with no safeguard that the tour operator may have risk assessed the provider or activity, and the added complication of potentially having to bring your legal case in a foreign jurisdiction.

“What is also worth knowing is that many travel insurance policies exclude high-risk activities such as quad biking, parachuting, bungee jumping and certain watersports. So even if you have travel insurance, don’t assume it will cover you for everything.”

A spokesperson for TUI said: “We are sorry that Mr Holliday was injured during his holiday to Cape Verde. As this is now a legal matter, we are unable to comment any further at this time.”

Tui is understood to be opposing the claim and is due to file its defence at the High Court later this year.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport has been closed since the end of the 2022 summer season after its then owner, Peel Group, declared it financially unviable

Doncaster Sheffield Airport has moved one step closer to reopening following positive talks.

TUI and Ryanair have been in conversation with the group running the relaunch project, giving hope that the now mothballed airport could start jetting holidaymakers off once again.

Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme Labour MP Lee Pitcher announced the DSA Action Group “sat down with TUI’s UK & Ireland commercial director” and “chaired a positive DSA Action Group meeting with Ryanair, represented by their head of public affairs.”

“We discussed Ryanair’s position on Doncaster Sheffield Airport — and I’m pleased that they’ve agreed to be introduced to Fly Doncaster, the company that will manage the airport in partnership with international operator Munich International,” Mr Pitcher said, the Doncaster Free Press reported.

In January, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary refused to rule out returning his company’s flights to the North East airport, but admitted being based at the site was “a hard sell.”

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The CEO used an interview with Sky to push for air passenger duty (APD) to be scrapped, something he has called for regularly, despite airlines paying no tax on the very polluting fuel they use.

“I think its a very tough sell for somewhere like Doncaster in the shadow of Leeds Bradford. I wish them well but its certainly not part of our growth plans in the UK – which isn’t to say we wouldn’t put some flights back into Doncaster if APD was scrapped,” Mr O’Leary said.

“We certainly would look at it if it was the price of scrapping APD, we would guarantee to put flights back into Doncaster.”

Signing up airlines will be key to any future reopening of Doncaster Sheffield, which has been dormant since November 2022.

The City of Doncaster Council has pledged to have Doncaster Sheffield Airport up and running by spring 2026, according to West Bridgford Wire. This development follows South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard’s indication that a decision regarding the release of gainshare funding for the airport’s revival is expected in “early September”, a move seen as pivotal for the travel hub’s resurgence.

This new schedule signifies yet another postponement, with initial plans aiming for a summer restart. “The plan remains to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport in Spring 2026,” confirmed a spokesperson for Mayor Jones, acknowledging several dependencies still in play.

“Once we have the Gainshare decision signed off in early September we can finalise our plans, including progressing with our Airspace, signing-up airlines and freight providers and to employ and train the hundreds of staff required to operate an airport.”

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Previously reliant on TUI as its sole operator before the Peel Group shut it down due to financial woes, the airport’s future now rests with FlyDoncaster. The company, formed by Doncaster Council, is optimistic about the airport’s economic prospects once it reopens.

Back in 2016, the airport saw its busiest year, with 1.25 million passengers passing through its gates. German company Munich Airport International (MAI) is set to deliver operational and management expertise. Earlier in February, MAI’s managing director Dr Lutz Weisser mentioned it was “too early” to talk about specific airlines or destinations, but confirmed ongoing confidential talks with carriers.

“The UK is a very important aviation market and we are interested in Doncaster because it is all there. This is not a greenfield project, this is not something that needs to be built. You don’t have the risks of planning approval or construction and all these other things,” he explained, as reported by the BBC.

“It may need some renovation, and recertification is important, but it is all in place. It just needs a bit of polishing and then you have an airport and that is exciting.”

At a recent council meeting, Christian Foster, who is both the council programme director and director of FlyDoncaster, shared ambitious plans for diversifying airline operations at Doncaster. The Sun quoted him saying: “Working with our advisers from Munich we are very clear we want to target a number of airlines and have already been having those conversations for over 12 months with certain airlines.

“Having a strategy where you only have an airport with one airline doesn’t work for Doncaster and hence we want a minimum of four to five and that’s where we are working at. We are very keen to get our airspace returned back to 24 hours for next year.”

Meanwhile, TUI has teased the possibility of a return to Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which previously featured in its roster for flights to sun-soaked spots such as Cyprus and Spain. Reminiscing about former ties, a TUI spokesperson remarked in February: “TUI has always supported Doncaster Sheffield Airport, proudly flying customers from the region and were disappointed when the airport closed. We’re excited about actively engaging with stakeholders about a potential re-opening.”

The plane to London Gatwick from Cancun was diverted almost five hours into the flight

Passengers were left stranded at an airport for over 17 hours a flight was diverted due to a couple apparently smoking onboard. Brit Terry Lawrance, 66, said it was like a “war zone” with passengers camped out on rows of airbeds, after his flight home from Cancun, Mexico, on was grounded.

About an hour after take-off on July 8, the captain of the London Gatwick-bound TUI flight announced two passengers had been smoking in the toilets, and that if it continued, he would have to divert. After another three-and-a-half hours, the captain announced the plane would now be diverting to Bangor International Airport, Maine, US.

They landed at 21.30 local time – and the two alleged smokers were turfed off the flight. But Terry said the other passengers sat in their seats for another five hours and even taxied to take-off, before the flight was abandoned as the original crew were not able to continue to operate the rest of the flight back to Gatwick due to legal working hours.

Consequently, a relief flight was readied immediately, and a new crew were dispatched from the UK to the US to fly everyone back. The passengers were then kept in a room – which Terry claims is part of the military airbase section of the airport – for over 15 hours while the airline works to sort a relief crew.

A flight to take passengers home to Gatwick eventually took off at 15:00 local time (20:00 BST) on Wednesday, July 9 – with all passengers now safely home. Videos taken by Terry show rows of beds as passengers awaited updates, whilst another video shows vehicles approaching the plane after touching down in Bangor.

Terry said: “We were there for over 12 hours – it all went pear shaped. Everybody was fed up. In fairness, they started bringing out airbeds, but it was like free-for-all for vultures.

“It was like a warzone in a lounge – rows and rows of beds. All our luggage was still on the plane whilst we waited. TUI told us a relief crew was being sent from the UK because the current crew had used up their hours.”

Tracking on Flightradar24 shows the plane turning back towards Maine, shortly after entering Canadian airspace. Terry said: “After an hour the captain came on and said someone had been smoking in the toilet – he read the riot act and said if it continues, we’d have to divert.

“About three hours later, around the border with Canada and he came on to let us know that the plane was being diverted to Bangor, Maine. Once we landed, they removed the two passengers.

“They were obviously drunk. The captain then said we’d be getting going again once the paperwork has been done. We were sat on the plane on the ground for five hours – the plane started taxing again and we thought ‘great’ and then they said there was a problem with flight plan, and we have to get off.

“Next thing, we’re not going anywhere, and we’ve got to stay in this small lounge. We waited six or seven hours before we were offered a drink.”

TUI declined to comment.

Flying with your food could see you fall foul of the law – and those munching on a picnic could face fines

As the school holidays approach and annual leave is scheduled, thousands are preparing for their summer getaways abroad. With package holiday prices reportedly seeing a 4.2 per cent increase compared to last year, families will be keen to save pennies wherever possible.

One such expense that can be trimmed is the cost of food at airports or on planes. It’s well-known that airport food tends to be pricier than its counterparts outside the terminal, and the same applies to in-flight meals.

This price hike can be attributed to several factors including high airport rents, operational costs, and the fact that passengers represent a captive market, leading to inflated prices.

That’s why it might be more economical to bring your own food onboard to tide you over until you reach your destination.

However, airlines have their own regulations regarding what can and cannot be brought into the cabin. Recent reports suggest that even purchasing a meal deal at the airport to take with you could potentially result in a fine, according to the Daily Record.

Travellers flying from Britain to an EU country could inadvertently breach laws surrounding the importation of meat or dairy products. This means any sandwiches must be eaten or discarded before disembarking the plane to avoid penalties.

It’s crucial to familiarise yourself with your airline’s policy on bringing food onboard. Certain foods may be prohibited as they are categorised as liquids, which are still subject to the 100ml restriction.

This rule does not apply to baby food and milk.

The government has also cautioned that some food items can cause issues for x-ray machines at security checkpoints.

They advise: ‘Food items and powders in your hand luggage can obstruct images on X-ray machines. Your bags may need to be checked again manually by security. You can put these items in your hold luggage to minimise delays.”

So, what are the regulations for carrying food and beverages on some of our favourite airlines?

Ryanair

Ryanair permits passengers to bring any type of food or non-alcoholic drinks into the cabin. However, if these items are in your carry-on luggage, they must comply with the airline’s stipulated weight and size allowances.

The budget carrier does have a couple of restrictions though. Passengers are not allowed to board with a hot beverage due to safety concerns. Additionally, boarding with an alcoholic drink is also prohibited.

They stated: “In the interest of safety we cannot allow passengers to board the plane with hot drinks or consume their own alcohol during the flight.”

EasyJet

This airline is quite accommodating when it comes to passengers bringing their own food, but they do remind customers to be mindful of the rules regarding the importation of certain food types into the country they’re flying to.

Their website states: “You can bring food into the cabin, although we do sell a range of delicious food and drink on board. There’s a 100ml limit for liquid food, like soup or custard.

“Different countries have different regulations about importing food and drink, so make sure you check the rules for your destination.”

EasyJet has a policy in place that lets passengers take a hot drink onto the plane, but it needs to have been purchased at the airport and come with a secure lid for safety reasons.

TUI

TUI offers a different experience as travellers on flights exceeding seven hours are treated to complimentary meals and beverages. On shorter journeys, however, customers are permitted to bring their own provisions. TUI recommends opting for “low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.

They also say that they’re unable to heat up any meals onboard, save for warming baby bottles

Jet2

.Jet2 takes a firmer stance by categorically stating that no hot foods are permitted on their flights. When it comes to cold food, they say: “You can bring cold snacks and treats, but they must be packaged appropriately and meet any applicable security regulations. “

The airline also emphasises that anything deemed unsuitable due to weight, size, nature or because it’s fragile or perishable – or potentially affecting the comfort, health or safety of others – including hot or smelly foods and drinks, won’t be accepted on board.

New routes include East Midlands Airport to Antalya in Turkey, meaning another winter-sun destination has opened up for those in the Midlands, as well as East Midlands to Sharm El Sheikh and Cardiff Airport to Hurghada, resulting in year-round flying from Wales to Egypt

Bookings have opened for TUI’s latest holiday destinations.

The German package giant has announced it will be adding capacity to locations in the Canary Islands and Egypt, as demand for sizzling getaways continues to be strong—despite the roasting hot May and June that the UK has just experienced.

New routes include East Midlands Airport to Antalya in Turkey, meaning another winter-sun destination has opened up for those in the Midlands, as well as East Midlands to Sharm El Sheikh and Cardiff Airport to Hurghada, resulting in year-round flying from Wales to Egypt.

Once its 2026/27 winter programme begins, TUI will connect British holidaymakers with more than 2,000 hotels across 50 destinations. New places to stay this year include three new concept hotels: the TUI BLUE Yaramar in Costa del Sol, the TUI MAGIC LIFE Redsina in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, and the stunning HOLIDAY VILLAGE Skanes Resort in Tunisia.

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TUI will also be flying holidaymakers out to Phuket in Thailand and Montego Bay in Jamaica, with an additional weekly flight from London Gatwick.

Couples looking for somewhere sunny to tie the knot may be tempted by a TUI wedding in Thailand. The travel firm is adding the South Asian country to its wedding destination list for the first time, bringing the total number to 15, with over 125 venues to choose from.

TUI has also added Arctic Lakeland to the programme, with direct flights from Manchester to Kajaani twice a week. Keen to tap into the trend, TUI said the addition would meet demand for traditional Lapland holidays, which “consistently sell out year after year.”

Chris Logan, commercial director at TUI UK, said: “Our Winter 2026 programme is designed with great value at its core. We understand that Brits are looking for both affordability and exceptional experiences, which is why we’ve expanded our range of destinations and included some great-value getaways to choose from. We’re making winter getaways more accessible than ever before. Whether it’s a week of winter sun in the Canaries or a dream holiday to the Caribbean, there really is something for everyone.”

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Bookings for the Winter 2026 programme are available starting today through TUI’s website, app, and retail stores across the UK.

New holidays on offer include:

Thailand Escape A 14-night holiday to Khao Lak, Thailand, staying at the 3T+ The Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak on a bed and breakfast basis from £1,595 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing an Annexe Deluxe double room with pool view and balcony, departing from London Gatwick on 2 December 2026, with 20kg hold luggage per adult and transfers included.

East Midlands to Antalya Getaway A seven-night holiday to Antalya, Turkey, staying at the 5T TUI Palm Garden on an all-inclusive basis from £975 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing a double room with balcony, departing from East Midlands on 30 March 2027, with 25kg hold luggage per adult and transfers.

TUI MAGIC LIFE Redsina, Egypt A seven-night holiday to Sharm El Sheikh, staying at the 5T TUI MAGIC LIFE Redsina on an all-inclusive basis from £896 per person. Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a family area deluxe double room with garden view and balcony, departing from London Gatwick on 26 November 2026, with 20kg hold luggage per adult and transfers.

Paul and Ellie Bell’s Greek getaway was cut short after the couple were ejected from their hotel and told they couldn’t fly home – but TUI say the decision was based on “repeated incidents”

A British couple were left stranded in Corfu after being booted out of their hotel and denied boarding on their return flight to the UK, claiming that TUI “washed their hands of them”.

North Shields couple Paul Bell, 64, and his wife Ellie, 65, had booked a week-long half-board holiday at the Terezas Hotel in Sidari, Corfu, having previously enjoyed a stay there.

Their holiday was abruptly cut short when TUI removed them from their hotel and prevented them from flying home, despite the couple having booked a package deal.

Paul is baffled as to why they were ejected and then left several hundred pounds out of pocket, having to arrange an alternative flight home with Jet2, take a taxi to the airport instead of a transfer, and book into another hotel for the remainder of the holiday.

In letters seen by ChronicleLive, TUI stated that the decision was based on repeated incidents during their stay which were deemed unacceptable and disruptive. However, Paul contests this, stating that TUI never asked him or Ellie for their side of the story.

Earlier in the holiday, Ellie had voiced her dissatisfaction to the manager about the quality of the food, which Paul described as “tepid” and “not very nice”. He said: “Some of the things you would get were rice with sprouts, or another time you’d have rice with a slice of beetroot in it.

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“My wife spoke to the manager twice, she complained about the food being inedible and he didn’t seem interested. She asked him to join us for breakfast the next day so we could show him what we meant, but he never turned up.”

The couple enjoyed a day out, but upon their return, they “had a word” with the representative. The following day, as Paul and Ellie awaited their excursion to Corfu town, they were stunned to receive a letter stating they could no longer stay at the hotel.

Dated May 20, the letter read: “You caused a serious disturbance by shouting inside the hotel restaurant in front of other guests, resulting in significant distress and disruption to the peaceful environment of the hotel,” and “you directed aggressive and disrespectful language towards both hotel staff, the hotel owners, and TUI representatives on site.”

Paul insists that they did nothing wrong, highlighting that no one from TUI sought their side of the story before making a decision. He claimed: “I don’t remember anybody shouting.

“We only spoke to the rep when she was present at the hotel, and there was no disrespect towards her. They’ve made a decision based on the manager’s account without hearing us out. But surely every story has two sides? I was livid; it completely ruined our plans for the day.”

Paul and Ellie were instructed to contact the UK consulate for further assistance, rather than being given a chance to respond or appeal. On May 21 at 22.28, they received another letter stating that Ellie was prohibited from boarding the TOM1531 flight on Friday, May 23.

Just over 12 hours later, an additional email stated that both Paul and Ellie would be barred from the flight. TUI explained this decision was made in line with their terms and conditions, due to “due to your conduct and behaviour”.

On Thursday, May 22, Paul booked flights home from Corfu with Jet2 for later that day, costing €328.56 (£284). However, after returning to North Shields, they received another email from TUI stating that “the refusal of carriage for Paul Bell and Eleanor Bell has now been revoked, and you will now be allowed travel on your inbound flight”.

Paul said: “That doesn’t help us now, because we were told we have to make our own travel arrangements and we came home. We had to pay €60 (£50) for a taxi to the airport as well, because we weren’t allowed on the transfers.

“When we go on holiday, we try to go somewhere nice and quiet, sit and chill, try the local stuff, go to the towns and see the scenery and to have food like we did (in the hotel) was really disappointing. We got no back-up whatsoever from TUI.

“They took whatever the manager said as gospel and came to a decision just like that. Had we been drunk and disorderly, fine, but we weren’t – we’ve never had any bother on any holidays before, until this time with TUI.”

ChronicleLive reported that TUI plans to refund the couple’s flights home with Jet2.com and their journey to the airport. TUI declined to comment further.

Paul is not the only North East holidaymaker to come back from Corfu feeling let down by their experience. Earlier in June, Westerhope gran Susan Edwards vouched to never book with the tour operator again after moaning that there was “no English food” available at the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel.

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Turkey has always been a holiday spot I consciously avoided – I’d heard a number of negative things and I suppose those just stuck with me.

Turkey was always a holiday destination BelfastLivereporter Sheena McStravick deliberately steered clear of — she had heard a fair share of negative reviews that seemed to have stuck. As such, she has always chosen the familiar territories of Spain and France for family getaways.

However, she said around the block enough times now to realise that she should visit places firsthand before forming an opinion, so that’s precisely what my family and Sheena did. They set off from Belfast International to fly to Dalaman, a region of Turkey she admitted that she had never come across.

As it turns out, it’s a rather popular tourist hotspot, and two flights were departing from Belfast on the same afternoon they took off. The newly revamped Belfast International Airport was a brilliant kick-off, with the fresh new look and impressive duty-free zone finally fitting for an international airport.

“It was a bustling Monday afternoon with hundreds of others also jetting out of the airport, so it was an absolute blessing to be booked into the Causeway Lounge, avoiding the extremely lengthy queues for the food outlets,” Sheena wrote.

The lounge was “ideal relaxed beginning” to the holiday, with reserved seating, plenty of room for the kids to watch the planes, a nice selection of soups, wraps, and sweet treats, hot beverages, and a fully stocked bar.

“I’d certainly recommend booking this in advance, as the airport was packed that day. Many folks were unable to gain entry because it had reached capacity with bookings.”

Sheena’s entire holiday was booked via TUI, so everything was sorted, from her flights to transfers to the hotel. They stayed at the TUI Blue Sensatori Akra in Feithye, which was about a 45-minute transfer from the airport and situated in a “really tranquil and serene spot, nestled among a forest and a beach.”

Upon arrival in Dalaman, everything from TUI was very quick and straightforward, the App pinging with their bus number as they exited the plane and collected luggage.

“The TUI Blue hotel had everything we desired and so much more. With two children aged seven and three with us, it was perfect,” she wrote.

“Upon check-in we were presented with a checklist of items for ‘Little Travellers’ that the hotel could provide if needed, it had everything from pushchairs to nappies, wipes, baby baths, baby monitors, potties, and so much more, I’ve never seen a hotel so well equipped for families with young children.

“Situated right next to the beach, our room on the second floor had absolutely stunning views across the hotel. The hotel also features some incredible swim-up rooms on the ground floor, which looked incredibly relaxing.”

With five swimming pools, including a superb children’s splash pool, water slides, and an adults-only area, there was genuinely something for everyone. Unsurprisingly, Sheena’s two children were glued to the water slides, which were open for two hours each morning and afternoon, perfect for dodging the day’s peak heat.

The hotel also prides itself on a fantastic kids’ club suitable for youngsters aged 3 to 12, as well as a dedicated baby club with a fully equipped nursery.

When it comes to entertainment, this hotel was never short. The evening entertainment provided by the TUI Blue cast team was particularly outstanding, with the nightly appearance of the TUIBots being a major highlight for the kids.

“From Disney-inspired performances to dazzling shows filled with incredible music and dancing, this team ranks among the best I’ve ever seen on holiday. Their patience and kindness towards all the children were truly remarkable.”

No matter your preference, there was entertainment for everyone, whether you preferred a more chilled live music setting in the Piano Bar or cool beach vibes with a nightly DJ at the Caretta Cocktail Bar. Conveniently located next to the brilliant outdoor children’s play park, the latter an “absolutely genius idea”.

She added: “Another standout feature was the food. I don’t reckon I’ve ever seen such a variety at an all-inclusive resort! The separate children’s buffet was a massive hit, allowing the little ones to pick their own food and serve themselves.

“The Restaurant offered a vast array of top-notch fresh produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with special themed menus each evening. And if that wasn’t enough, there are an additional five restaurants on site, including Chinese, Turkish and Italian – you certainly won’t be short of options!”

There was “genuinely no need to leave this fantastic resort”, as it included shops, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, a football pitch, and so much more.

However, if you fancied a bit of exploration, the market town of Feithye was just a 15-minute shuttle boat ride away, where you could browse the shops and grab a bite in the cafes and restaurants. You can also get there via a public bus, which picks up right outside the hotel.

The Sensatori Akra, while perfectly suited for families, is also a brilliant spot for a couples getaway or if you have older teenage children.

There are specially designated rooms, a large pool area, restaurant and bar that are adult only and suitable for those aged 16 plus, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxing child-free zone.

“Despite my initial reservations about holidaying in Turkey, this trip has completely dispelled any fears or concerns I had,” Sheena said.

“The numerous individuals I chatted with during my stay echoed the same sentiment: once you’ve experienced Turkey, you won’t want to holiday anywhere else, and I can certainly understand why.

“While other tourist hotspots in Spain seem to actively discourage tourists, Turkey embraces them with open arms and a warm disposition. I’ll definitely be returning!”

TUI holiday deals

Use code EARLYBIRD when logged into your myTUI account, at your local TUI store or agent. Plus, combine with a Free Child Place for even better value.

Valid on summer 2026 holidays departing from Belfast between 1st May 2026 and 31st October 2026. *T&Cs apply.

Lucy Hylton, 39, says the hotel she stayed in was ‘filthy’ and had broken furniture, and that they resorted to eating out half the time they were there

A Manchester family have been left devastated after their £12,000 luxury getaway to Jamaica turned into an ordeal they describe as a ‘nightmare’. Lucy Hylton, 39, recounted the horrendous conditions at the five-star resort where the buffet was ‘filthy’, with broken furniture – forcing them to dine out for half of their stay.

Upon arrival, they found dirty rooms, one of which had such a bad odour that it was nearly impossible to breathe in. With a young child in tow, the Hyltons were further troubled by relentless fire alarms throughout their stay.

Lucy and her husband, Zata Hylton, 30, splurged £6,000 on a two-week all-inclusive vacation at Royalton Negril, Jamaica, to introduce their four-month-old son Leo to his Jamaican relatives.

Joining them, Lucy’s parents Sheila Hoy, 69, and Graham Hoy, 68, also invested £6,000 hoping to delight in their grandson’s first overseas experience, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The five-star resort promises to give guests a “luxurious experience, mouth-watering gourmet meals and superior, friendly service at every turn”. But Lucy said: “It was a nightmare from check in.

“Our room was dirty,” she continued. “Mum and Dad’s room was horrendous. It stunk so bad you could barely breathe, the shower door was broken, the couch was broken, and the TV was broken.”

The buffet’s condition, with its unkempt floor and damaged fixtures, stunned her further. “The floor was dirty. It was unbelievable” she added.

Lucy recounted the holiday nightmare, detailing the appalling state of their accommodation: “The grills were thick with grime, and the microwaves looked like they’d never been cleaned.”

Despite opting for an all-inclusive package costing £6,000 each, the family chose to dine out: “We would never usually eat out because it was all-inclusive, and we paid £6,000 each, but we were scared to eat from the buffet, so we ate out seven times.”

She also described a distressing incident involving her son Leo: “On the second to last night, the fire alarm was going off at 11pm.. “We thought they might be testing it, even though it was a weird time. The fire alarm in the room next door was going off constantly.

“Our fire alarm was going off every ten minutes from 1 am to 5 am. They came and removed the bit that makes the noise, which is dangerous.”, she added.

The situation escalated, affecting the entire family: “Leo was screaming so he had to wear ear defenders, and we sat on the balcony until 5am. Some issues are small, but together they’re a problem. Because we were stressed, Zatar and I were arguing.”

Her parents were also affected by the ordeal: “My mum and dad were desperate to go home from day three.”

The trip was meant to be special, as they had saved for a year to introduce Leo to his relatives.

Their booking was made through TUI, who informed them two months before the trip that the hotel was downgraded from their platinum collection, yet assured that the expected five-star facilities remained unchanged.

Following their complaint, the family’s rooms were cleaned, and they were offered an alternative room. They were also offered complimentary beach cabanas with waiter service and a discount voucher as goodwill gestures.

The couple has been battling for a refund from TUI for the cost of their hotel stay but claim the travel company has refused to budge.

Lucy expressed her frustration, saying: “They said there’s nothing they can do. Their response is disgusting, but I’m not shocked by it. It was our first family holiday, and we were so looking forward to it, but it was horrible.

“I felt terrible for my mum and dad, and I felt responsible because I’d recommended it. My husband is so upset because I’ve got a stale taste in my mouth for Jamaica, and that’s his home country and my son’s heritage.

“He had high expectations of introducing Leo to his family.”

“I’ll never use TUI again, “she added. “TUI is the only company that flies from Manchester to Jamaica.”

This trip marked Lucy’s fourth visit to the hotel, which she claims has deteriorated since her last stay in 2021.

She complained: “I’ve always said Jamaica is the best Caribbean island, the people are friendly, it’s authentic and there’s loads to do, but this has put me off.”

TUI declined to comment when approached by Manchester Evening News.

TUI has unveiled a brand new flight route, whizzing Brits over to a stunning country filled with intricate architecture, vibrant shopping scene and a rich history – and it’s just 3 hours from the UK

A tiny UK airport is slated for a huge boost after securing an exclusive new route with TUI.

The travel firm has announced it will debut direct flights from Newcastle Airport to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, later this year – just in time for the ski season. The service will operate once a week on Saturdays, with the first flight scheduled to depart on Saturday, December 20.

TUI says the new route, which will complement the existing London Gatwick, Dublin, Manchester and Birmingham services, will help connect the north-east to Bulgaria’s winter sports resorts – such as Bansko, Pamporovo and Borovets. The new flights are available on a flight-only basis, as well as part of Crystal Ski Holidays packages.

Sofia is a great budget-friendly destination for ski enthusiasts who don’t want to break the bank by visiting the ultra-expensive Alps. The city is surrounded by soaring mountains that you can hike in the summer – or race down in the winter in your salopettes.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back holiday, don’t worry. Sofia is filled with stunning architecture, a ubiquitous history, and plenty of cheap bars. History buffs will love St Alexander Nevski Cathedral, a Neo-Byzantine landmark renowned for its gold and green dome. The church was built as a memorial to the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish Liberation War and boasts an intricately beautiful interior.

Vitosha Boulevard is great for those wanting to admire the rugged mountains from afar. The pristine strip is filled with a ‘rich array’ of shops, eateries, and cafes and perfectly encapsulates the ‘spirit of the city’. Day trips to Rila Monastery – the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria – and the nearby Rila Lakes are also popular.

In a statement sent to the Mirror, TUI’s Chris Logan said the firm was ‘excited’ to introduce the new route following ‘strong customer demand’. “The Bulgarian ski resorts have always been a popular choice with Crystal customers, and we’re pleased to make the destination even more accessible for travellers from Newcastle and the North of England,” he added. “Boasting high quality hotels, excellent value for money, highly rated ski schools and lively nightlife, Bankso, Pamporovo and Borovets are brilliant ski resorts all easily reached from Sofia Airport with transfers included with Crystal Ski Holidays.”

Leon McQuaid of Newcastle Airport also welcomed the news, praising TU for ‘continuing to invest’ in the hub. “This exciting new destination gives our passengers even more choice to explore some of Europe’s best-value ski resorts and it’s another great addition to our growing winter schedule,” he added. “We look forward to celebrating with TUI Airways when the new route takes off in December.”

TUI is currently offering return flights to Sofa from Newcastle for just £293, which includes 15kg of checked-in luggage and 10kg of hand luggage per person.

*Prices based on passengers departing on January 10, 2026 and returning on January 17, 2026.

Ryanair will implement a major boarding pass change this winter which will see scores of travellers forced to use digital alternatives to the traditional paper boarding passes

Like most British holidaymakers, you likely download your boarding pass onto your phone to avoid queuing at an airport kiosk or finding a printer.

While early check-in and digital boarding passes are convenient and eco-friendly, some passengers still prefer the tangible version. But Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary, has announced that in 2025, the airline will fully transition to digital, with plans to phase out airport check-in desks altogether.

This means the company will no longer accept printed boarding passes, requiring passengers to have theirs ready for scanning on their phones.

Although this might irk those who aren’t tech-savvy, Ryanair states that 60% of its customers use digital boarding passes, with paper ones becoming less popular.

READ MORE: Every new Ryanair route coming to UK airports this summer

At present, Ryanair also charges a hefty £55 to passengers who forget to check in and download their boarding passes before arriving at the airport. This change could potentially eliminate such hidden fees.

Ryanair confirmed that the move to mobile boarding passes will be pushed to November 3, 2025, after it was initially set to take effect by May 2025. In the lead up to the new measure, here are the boarding pass rules for the UK’s most popular airlines.

TUI

The boarding pass rules for TUI depend on whether you’re flying with them. Online check-in is available for all TUI customers travelling on TUI flights (those with flight numbers starting with TOM).

If you’ve booked through TUI but are flying with a different airline, you’ll need to check that specific airline’s website for their boarding pass regulations.

On the TUI website, passengers are informed: “To log into the airline website you will be asked for your flight reference number. Please note, this is not the same as your TUI booking reference. Your flight reference number will be a 6-character alpha-numeric code and can be found on your booking confirmation, e-ticket or in manage my booking on the TUI website.”

easyJet

easyJet promotes the use of their app for downloading mobile boarding passes to keep travel details at hand whilst also cutting down on paper waste. Nonetheless, easyJet acknowledges that some airports in their network are yet to accept mobile passes.

The comprehensive list of easyJet airport destinations requiring a printout of your boarding pass is detailed below:

• ADB – Izmir
• AGA – Agadir
• AYT – Antalya
• AQJ – Aqaba
• BEG – Belgrade-Beograd
• BJV – Milas Bodrum
• DJE – Djerba
• ESU – Essaouira
• HRG – Hurghada
• IVL – Ivalo
• JSH – Sitia
• LXR – Luxor
• NBE – Enfidha-Hammamet
• PRN – Pristina
• RAK – Marrakech
• RBA – Rabat Sale
• RMF – Marsa Alam
• SPX – Cairo Sphinx
• SSH – Sharm El Sheikh
• TIA – Tirana
• TNG – Tangier Ibn Batouta

Passengers departing from these locations can still check-in online via www.easyJet.com but should remember to print out their boarding passes for flying. Additionally, note that a portion of these airports insists on a document check pre-security.

British Airways

British Airways gives travellers the flexibility to opt for either mobile or printed boarding passes and extends the convenience to Apple Watch users as well.

If you’ve got the British Airways app installed, it can alert you when your flight is ready for check-in. Once you’ve checked in and downloaded your boarding pass, you can access it offline on your Apple device.

Here’s how to get your boarding pass on your Apple Watch:

1. Download the British Airways app on your iPhone and Apple Watch.
2. Check in for your flight using your iPhone.
3. Download your boarding pass to your iPhone’s Passbook/Wallet via the British Airways app.
4. Scan your Passbook boarding pass at security and boarding gates.

Alternatively, you can print your boarding pass on regular paper, allowing you to bypass the kiosk and head straight through security. However, BA notes that this depends on your departure airport.

Wizz Air

Wizz Air allows passengers to present both online and printed boarding passes. To board your flight, ensure your complete the following steps:

1. Check in online on our website, using the WIZZ mobile app, or at the airport.
2. Print or download your boarding card.
3. If you have checked baggage to drop off, visit the baggage drop desk in advance. Check-in and baggage drop-off times can be found in the Check-in and Baggage Drop-off Times section.
4. If you hold non-EU travel documents, please proceed to the check-in counter to have your documentation checked and your boarding card stamped.
5. Present the boarding card, along with your travel documents, at the gate no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

A family looking forward to a two-week holiday at a five-star hotel in Jamaica were left shocked after an adults-only festival hosted by the resort led to ‘all hell breaking loose’

Liverpool mum Katie had been eagerly looking forward to her TUI holiday in Jamaica, but says her stay there was ruined by raunchy guests who exhibited “sexual behaviour […] for all to see”.

During an appearance on BBC’s Rip Off Britain, Katie and her sister Rachel spoke of Jamaica as their “second home”, and somewhere where they regularly take their children to visit relatives.

According to Katie, whose husband lives in the Caribbean island nation, it’s important for her children to stay connected to their dual culture. She shared: “Jamaica is our second home. We’re really, really proud of the island and love the culture.”

Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the children hadn’t been able to visit their grandparents in Jamaica for two years. And so, the family booked a two-week stay at the Luxury Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in Montego Bay.

The group of 24 family and friends spent approximately £15,000 on their booking, which should have been a dream holiday. Unfortunately, things allegedly took a turn.

READ MORE: Brits call out ‘horrendous’ hotel behaviour but admit ‘we find it funny’

At first, the five-star hotel appeared perfect, with the group impressed by the delicious food, gorgeous grounds, and the great service provided by members of staff. The resort advertised plenty of family-friendly facilities, including watersports and a kids’ pool, and felt like the ideal place to bring little ones.

Then, four days into their stay, the tone changed when the group learned the hotel was hosting a four-day music festival, Fantasy Island. Marketed as an adults-only festival, Fantasy Island was attended by some 700 revellers, who apparently “didn’t care” whether or not their antics were suitable for children.

The sisters shared: “All hell broke loose. The main pool was overtaken. People were drinking like fish. It’s fine if it’s in a nightclub, not morning time around a pool with children. There was sexual behaviour going on at the pool bar for all to see. They didn’t care if there were children there.”

After Katie complained to the hotel manager and TUI rep, she was offered four free nights by the hotel, while TUI offered them £150 per person in vouchers or £100 in cash. They believe this compensation just wasn’t enough.

Katie and Rachel weren’t the only guests to take issue with the Fantasy Island event. NHS worker Emma Owen and her family were drawn to the hotel due to its family-friendly appeal, and paid £7,000 for an 11-night all-inclusive break. She recalled seeing attendees “vomit in the pool” as the festival got underway.

Travel expert Lisa Minot stated: “It really is down to the tour operator to inform their guests that there is going to be a significant change or impact on their holiday.”

A TUI spokesperson previously told the Daily Express: “We’re very sorry that some of our customers’ holidays were impacted by this unexpected event at the Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in August 2021.

“While the hotel did not make us aware in advance, we understand how upsetting this was, and have offered a refund for the full four days, along with our sincere apologies. We’d like to reassure customers that this hotel will no longer be hosting this event.”

The Mirror has reached out to TUI for additional comment.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at [email protected]

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Brits booking flights with easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, Jet2 and more airlines should take note of the rules around what alcohol you can and can’t bring on flight

Whether you’re buying some alcohol in duty-free or hoping to pack some bottles in your suitcase to save money on the other side, there are strict rules on what booze you can and can’t bring on planes.

Brits flying with the likes of easyJet, TUI, Jet2, British Airways and Ryanair should be aware of the rules before heading to the airport, or you could risk your drinks being confiscated.

That’s because there’s a little-known rule around the exact alcohol you can take on a flight – and it can catch some Brits out. It all comes down to the drink’s Alcohol By Volume (ABV), which measures how much alcohol is in a specific volume of a beverage. Airlines including easyJet and Ryanair have a ban on any alcohol with an ABV of over 70%.

If you bring alcohol on a flight, check the ABV as usually, airlines have a rule that if your drink’s ABV is over 24% then it must be sealed and packed in either an airport shopping bag or your cabin bag. This applies to alcohol that’s bought in duty-free too. Alcohol drinks with an ABV of under 24% are not usually subject to restrictions.

READ MORE: Brits in Benidorm warned of 3 little-known beach rules that can land them hefty finesREAD MORE: 4 key passport checks Brits need to do before Spain, France and Greece holidays

Then of course, if you’re planning to bring booze before you get to the gate, you’ll need to make sure your drinks also adhere to the 100ml liquid restrictions at airport security.

As for drinking on an aircraft? The law is pretty clear, stating that “a person must not enter any aircraft when drunk, or be drunk in any aircraft”. Those who break the rules could risk being denied boarding or, if they’re disruptive on the flight, could face fines or further action when they land.

Airlines such as Jet2 have a ban on you drinking your own booze – you’ll need to buy it from the drinks trolley and have it be poured by a cabin crew member. These rules can differ, so to make life a little easier we’ve rounded up individual airline rules around booze below.

easyJet

The airline’s website states: “You can bring alcohol bought in the airside departure lounge into the cabin, as long as it’s unopened. Alcohol must be lower than 70% abv, and packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag. It’s strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution.”

Ryanair

The airline allows you to bring your duty-free bag with duty-free items into the cabin, alongside your cabin bags. (But be warned they do check them so it’s not necessarily an extra bag you can use for all of your belongings as a way to get around cabin rules). Meanwhile, “alcohol with an ABV of more than 70% (140% proof) is not permitted” on Ryanair flights.

TUI

The airline’s website allows “alcoholic beverages, containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume, when in retail packagings in receptacles not exceeding 5 L, with a maximum total net quantity per person of 5 L for such beverages”.

Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol by volume are not permitted, but those under 24% abv are not subject to restrictions (unless you’re taking them through airport security in which case the 100ml rule applies).

Jet2

Jet2’s website is clear: “You may not bring on board alcohol for the purposes of consumption whilst on the aircraft. For safety reasons we restrict the consumption of alcohol on board. Only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. It is an offence to be drunk on any aircraft. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to customers at our absolute discretion.”

Alcohol with an abv over 70% will not be allowed in either your checked or hand luggage.

British Airways

“There’s no limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you can travel with as long as their alcohol volume is below 24%,” a statement on the airline’s website reads. “You can bring up to five litres of alcohol with an alcohol volume between 24% and 70%. This can travel in your cabin bag if you purchased it in the airport duty-free shop, or you can pack in your checked baggage.

“Drinks above 70% alcohol volume are not permitted on board our aircraft in either checked baggage or hand baggage. Please see the hand baggage requirements section above for information about taking liquids in your hand baggage through the security check areas.”

While air passengers are allowed to carry alcoholic drinks into the cabins of most UK airlines, there are strict rules surrounding quantity, type and consumption

Travellers are widely banned from consuming their own alcohol on-board a flight, but they are allowed to bring sealed bottles into the cabin.

There’s a whole host of restrictions travellers need to be aware of, and flicking open a can of beer or popping open a bottle of wine, unless you’ve bought it from a flight attendant, is strictly prohibited on all airlines.

It’s more than likely you’ve bought a discounted bottle of your favourite tipple at the duty-free shop in the departures lounge, but you will need to wait until you land to enjoy it responsibly.

We’ve rounded up the rules you need to be aware of on some of the UK’s most popular carriers.

READ MORE: Pretty coastal town with UK’s best hidden beach named cheapest seaside day out

Ryanair

Ryanair allows passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.

Additionally, alcohol with an ABV of more than 70% (140% proof) is not permitted onto the aircraft either through carry-on luggage or in your checked-in baggage.

If you wish to drink onboard, duty-free purchases of tobacco and alcohol may also be available on all flights to the EU from non-EU member states.

READ MORE: What is methanol poisoning? Inside the deadly trend targeting young backpackers

Jet2

Jet2 explicitly states that passengers may not bring alcohol on board their carriers for the purposes of consumption whilst on the aircraft, with the brand reminding passengers that it is an offence to be drunk on any aircraft.

Only alcoholic drinks purchases on board can be consumed during the flight, but the airline reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to passengers at their absolute discretion.

Jet2 also states that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.

British Airways

When it comes to the carry of alcohol into the cabin, British Airways says there is no limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you can travel with as long as their alcohol volume is below 24%. Though consumption of your own alcoholic beverages onboard is prohibited.

Still, you can carry up to five litres of alcohol with an ABV between 24% and 70%. This can travel in your cabin bag if you purchased it in the airport duty-free shop. Drinks above 70% alcohol volume are not permitted on board any British Airways aircraft in either checked baggage or hand baggage.

TUI

TUI passengers are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into the cabin with some stipulations. Alcoholic beverages containing more than 24% but no more than 70% ABV are permitted in checked baggage and carry-on baggage.

The beverages need to be in retail packaging and be no more than five litres per individual receptacle, with no more than five litres total net quantity per person for such beverages.

easyJet

easyJet passengers are permitted to bring alcohol bought in the airside departure lounge into the cabin, as long as it’s unopened. Alcohol must be lower than 70% abv, and packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag.

It’s strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution.

Being drunk on a flight: The rules

Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary has more recently spoken out about drunk passengers causing mayhem on-board, after binge-drinking in the airport before getting onto the plane. In some heated incidents, brawls have erupted and cabin crew members have been assaulted.

He has called for a two-drink maximum restriction at airport bars to clamp down on this issue, which is not just confined to the budget airline. In the UK, it’s a criminal offence to board an aircraft while drunk, or to be drunk while on-board.

Fines of up to £5,000 can be slapped on offending passengers with up to two years in prison. Drunk customers who cause chaos mid-flight could face a huge £80,000 bill to cover the airline’s costs if it is forced to divert.

Travel Supermarket says: “The law also gives cabin crew significant authority. They have the right to refuse to serve alcohol to any passenger and if they believe someone is drunk, they can take measures to restrain them if necessary.”

In a huge blow to Brits, EU countries have green-lighted controversial plans to lengthen the wait time before delayed passengers can claim compensation for both short and long-haul journeys

Customers flying with some big name air operators on short-haul flights have been hit with a brutal four-hour warning over a controversial shakeup.

After 12 years of wrangling, EU countries have green-lighted plans to lengthen the wait time before flyers can lodge claims for delayed flights. Currently, passengers have to be delayed by more than three hours before qualifying for compensation.

However, under the new stipulations – which still have to be negotiated with the European Parliament before they become law – short-haul travellers will only be eligible to claim compensation after being delayed by four hours or more, while those on longer journeys will have to sit tight for a six-hour hold-up before they can lodge a compensation claim.

READ MORE: Ryanair axes all flights from EU airport and adds new UK flight in major revamp

It’s not all bad news though, as EU nations have also agreed to increase the amount of compensation for those delayed on short-haul journeys from €250 (approx £210.47) to €300 (£252.56). But, passengers hit with delays on long-haul flights could see their compensation reduce from €600 (£505) to €500 (£420).

The trade body Airlines for Europe (A4E), which represents companies such as Ryanair, easyJet and Lufthansa, and The European Consumer Organisation, the BEUC, both slammed the rules – arguing it would deprive the majority of passengers from being able to claim compensation. This is because most delays are only between two and four hours.

“Europe has been waiting for transparent and workable passenger rights for 12 years and member states have fallen at the final hurdle to deliver,” A4E said. “Member states have diluted the European Commission’s original proposal and introduced even more complexity.”

According to Yorkshire Live, German members of the European People’s Party have also expressed their disapproval, stating that ‘decreasing the rights to compensation for air passengers would be a step in the wrong direction’. “Reimbursement after a three-hour delay has been standard for many years and should remain so,” they added.

A senior EU diplomat is believed to have said that ‘no politician wants to say more than four hours’ at risk of dampening Europeans’ holiday plans. The news comes amidst accusations by 16 consumer protection associations from 12 Member States against seven budget airlines for imposing unfair charges on passengers’ hand luggage.

“The European Court of Justice has made it very clear that hand baggage is an integral part of the basic ticket price. Normally, there is no surcharge on the price as long as the hand luggage is of a reasonable size,” explained Steven Berger, a solicitor with the European Consumers’ Organisation (BEUC).

“All we’re seeing is a proliferation of airlines charging for this baggage… We’re calling for very clear rules. Passengers must be able to take one piece of luggage, a small suitcase or a rucksack.”

He added: “At the moment, there are two different opposing positions among the member states in the Council. On the whole, you have the camp of the member states that are going to defend the three hours to be able to benefit from the right to compensation and others that are going to ask for five hours and nine hours based on distance. So right now this is really the big source of conflict.”

*Prices based on EUR to GBP conversions at the time of writing.

What do you think of the proposed rules? Let us know in the comments section below

A couple were left reeling after being offered £200 and some counselling sessions in response to their complaints about what should have been a luxury five-star getaway in the Dominican Republic

A furious couple blasted their travel company for offering them counselling after their dream trip turned into the holiday from hell.

Alan Stevens had booked a luxury five-star getaway to the Dominican Republic through TUI as a special birthday present for his wife Sarah, but their 17-day stay in the beachside resort of Punta Cana was marred by a litany of disasters.

The couple were horrified to see guests vomiting and defecating in the pool, others having public sex, and even a dead body covered in a sheet.

After complaining to TUI following their 2023 trip, Alan was flabbergasted to be offered just £200 in vouchers and counselling sessions for his £3,000 holiday, while TUI claimed the issues were largely “outside of our control”.

NHS healthcare assistant Alan from Hull said the five-star Riu Republica Hotel in Punta Cana – pitched as boasting an “on-the-beach location and a first-class pool scene” on TUI’s website – was “seedy” and “unsafe”, and claimed he and his wife were offered drugs multiple times.

And despite complaining to their holiday rep, Alan claimed they were met with complete indifference. “When we went out to the pool for the first time, we saw guests smoking weed in the pool, people having sex in the pool, and it all felt really seedy,” he told HullLive.

“We saw one woman being sick all over herself in the pool, and another guest actually defecate in the pool – it was disgusting. We were approached by people offering us drugs about 10 times in the 17 days we were there. There were no security guards either, which made it all feel very unsafe.”

Alan added: “It stank of weed, there was food and sick scattered about everywhere. I can’t stress how dirty and seedy it was. No one told us that this was a ‘party hotel’, and I’m shocked that TUI would ever think this would be an appropriate place for my wife and I to stay.”

While they were there, a 35-year-old woman fell from a fourth-floor balcony and died. Her body was covered with a sheet, which Alan and Sarah saw as they walked past.

He later told the BBC that he’d been told two other guests had died from drug overdoses at the hotel while he was there, but when he’d spoken to the hotel manager about the body she’d seen, she reportedly answered: “People die every day.”

He added that the pool had to be emptied twice a day “because the water was so murky”. “People were chucking their drugs in the pool and there was absolutely no security,” he said. “When doing our research, no holiday provider described it as a ‘party hotel’ – but it was.”

Alan and Sarah ended up staying at a quiet pool with older guests and confined themselves to the restaurant nearest their room, “so we weren’t exposed to any more chaos”.

He said TUI had offered to move the couple to another hotel, but they declined after hearing from other guests that the alternative hotel “was just as bad”.

Mr Stevens said the offer of £200 in compensation was “a joke”, while the offer of counselling sessions “due to the events that you witnessed” was “really disheartening” after spending “tens of thousands of pounds” with TUI in the past.

A TUI spokesperson said at the time: “We are sorry to hear of Mr Stevens’s experience during his stay at the Riu Republica Hotel. At TUI, we strive to make travelling with us a smooth experience from start to finish, but unfortunately on this occasion, and largely due to factors outside of our control, we did not meet our usually high standards.

“Our team has been in contact with Mr Stevens and he was offered a gift voucher as a gesture of goodwill, as well as counselling from CCP (Centre for Crisis Psychology), but unfortunately this was declined.”

TUI added to the BBC that the Riu Republica Hotel “is not exclusively available for TUI guests”.

Passengers may think they’re ahead of the game by bringing their own food and drink onto the plane – but not every airline is so lax when it comes to allowing consumption on-board

Most UK airlines allow passengers to carry food in both their hand luggage and checked baggage, though it is the quantity that may vary.

If you are planning to bring food into an aeroplane for consumption at your end destination, you should also keep in mind the customs regulations for the country you are visiting, as they all differ. Every passenger will have their hand luggage screened by security ahead of boarding – and it is here that people carrying specific items may be pulled up on what they’ve packed.

See below for a list of some of the most popular UK carriers and what they say about bringing food on-board a flight.

READ MORE: Ryanair travel rules for Brits visiting Spain, Greece, France or Portugal this summer

Ryanair

Ryanair permits passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.

Baby food is subject to more lenient liquid rules. Ryanair mandates that if you are travelling with an infant (8 days-2 years), there is no limit to the amount of baby milk, powdered milk, sterilised water and baby food you can bring onboard. Additionally, baby food does not need to be placed in transparent plastic bags like other liquids.

easyJet

Yes, easyJet passengers can bring food into the cabin. However, when it comes to liquid foods, the carrier’s 100ml limit on liquids and gels still applies. That means large quantities of soups and custards are not permitted.

Only alcohol bought in the airport departure lounge and unopened can be brought into the cabin. It must also be lower than 70% abv and stored in either your cabin bag or an airport shopping bag. Passengers are forbidden from drinking their own purchased alcohol on board and can face prosecution for doing so.

Baby food, sterilised water and milk are the only exceptions to the 100mL liquid maximum. However, easyJet warns there is still a 2L maximum and you may be asked to taste the food for security purposes.

British Airways

The British Airways website states that passengers: “Can take solid foods like sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, nuts, etc. into the cabin but the same restrictions for liquids apply to liquid foods, e.g. drinks, soups, sauces, jam or jelly.”

The carrier also warns passengers to verse themselves in the restrictions of the country that are travelling to and from. “The country of your destination may restrict the types of food allowed into the country, e.g. meat, fresh fruit and vegetables are forbidden by many countries.”

TUI

TUI passengers are permitted to bring food into the cabin, but the airline advises passengers to pack “low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.” This is because refrigerators and microwaves are not available for passenger use. That said, flight crews are able to warm milk bottles for infants in hot water as needed.

Jet2

Jet2 does not clearly outline its hand luggage restrictions when it comes to food. However, the airline does state that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.

Jet2 also doesn’t allow hot drinks or hot food on their planes. It also says you cannot bring food onboard if it’s not allowed by the laws of the country you’re flying from, to, or over.

One flight attendant has taken to social media to shed light on why crews always greet passengers at the plane doors prior to take-off – and it goes beyond just simple politeness

A flight attendant has shared insider information about why passengers are welcomed at the doors of a plane during boarding. Frequent flyers will be familiar with the standard boarding protocol that includes a warm welcome at the plane doors – usually consisting of big smiles and gentle direction to the correct aisle to find your seat.

Naturally, this is assumed by many to be a show of basic politeness, considering flight attendants are the face of any airline. Another common assumption is that the greeting is meant to lay the groundwork for a pleasant flight experience or even, to simply check boarding passes for one final time.

However, one working flight attendant alleges that hospitality is not the primary motivation for the warm reception. The real reason for the greeting is to give flight attendants the opportunity to conduct a visual assessment of passengers before take-off.

In a now-viral TikTok video, MrsMiva – who claims to work for TUI out of Stuttgart airport – has explained flight attendants use the boarding process to check if passengers are able fliers. According to the creator, flight attendants need to determine if passengers are “too drunk or sick to fly”.

In the caption for the video, MrsMiva explains that the pause at the door helps attendants see who might be able to assist in the unlikely event of an emergency. The video – which has been viewed over 18 million times – started a lively conversation in the comments section, with many seconding MrsMiva’s claim.

Many commenters confirmed they’ve certainly experienced the attendant greeting and that the reason behind it is valid and logical. One commenter who also claimed to be a long-time attendant confirmed the policy, writing: “FA (flight attendant) of eight years – or to check if they could be an ABA (able-bodied assistant).”

The comments took a turn as users began to explain the different types of flight attendants they had encountered in their travels. Some said they had “really chill” attendants, while others added theirs were helpful when they were in poor condition to travel.

Being able-bodied and physically fit is a requirement of passengers wishing to sit next to emergency exit doors, which may be why attendants double-check this at the door. Emergency exit seats are often coveted for their extra legroom, though they can cost extra.

Passengers that sit near the emergency exit doors must be willing and able to assist flight attendants in the unlikely event of an emergency. For this reason, Ryanair’s terms and conditions state that it “can change your allocated seats at any time, even if you had reserved it, if we need to do this for operational, safety or security reasons.”

The airline’s guidelines stipulate that passengers who wish to sit in rows 1, 16, or 17 where emergency exits are located must meet certain criteria, including being over 16 years old, capable of assisting in an emergency, travelling without an infant, not requiring airport special assistance of any kind, not requiring a seat belt extender, and not having an extra comfort seat booked.

Many flight attendants have begun sharing trade secrets on social media, letting passengers in on the reason for many common behaviours or practices. Another TikTok account recently revealed why flight attendants sit on their hands while they’re in jumpseats.

Another cabin crew members also shared when it is – and isn’t – acceptable to recline your seat on an plane. And how you can ensure you have a more enjoyable flight and be a considerate passenger.