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Beachgoers love the ‘hidden gem’ swimming spot with clear water and stunning views

With more sunny weather on the way, beachgoers will be searching for the perfect spot to get away from it all. For anyone lucky enough to find themselves near Cornwall, a social media user has found a ‘hidden gem’ spot.

Of course, there is no shortage of stunning bays along the Cornish coast, and most will be familiar to locals. However, for those travelling from further afield, Treyarnon Bay Beach might be a lesser-known spot that’s well worth a visit.

Found in North Cornwall, the beach is approximately 11 miles from Newquay, and dogs are allowed all year. The Cornwall Beach Guide says: “Treyarnon Bay Beach is an excellent family beach with lots of sand and rock pools and can be used for surfing.”

The stunning spot was recently showcased in a TikTok video by @hannahrebecca__, who told followers: “You need to visit this hidden gem in the UK.” Meanwhile, her video showed families jumping off rocks into the clear water. An impressed commenter wrote: “Soooo blue.” Hannah replied: “Just so pretty.”

Treyarnon Bay Beach is popular with visitors on Tripadvisor, where it is ranked as one of the best things to do in St Merryn. One reviewer wrote: “What a stunning place. If food and drinks are your thing, visit Treyarnon beach. If diving into blue lagoons and rock pools is your thing, visit Treyarnon beach.

“If lounging around on beautiful sandy beaches watching the sea wash up onto the sand is your thing, visit Treyarnon beach. Rock pooling, building sand castles, swimming, relaxing, what ever you like to do – you don’t need to go on a plane to anywhere else in the world with places like this in England. Breathtakingly stunning. A must visit if you’re in Cornwall!!”

Another praised: “Incredible bay with beautiful beach and surfers worth watching! Dog friendly enabling our Staffy to have a great time chasing his football up and down the beach. With the tide out there are some amazing “secret” rock pools with some large and deep enough to swim in!”

A different response read: “What a fabulous bay. Great for wave watching/jumping/boards although strong currents so make sure you stay between the lifeguard flags. The tide goes out a long way revealing rock pools as well as a tidal pool.

“All day parking was £5 (June 2025) and there is a little shop, burger van (great burgers!) and ice cream van. Toilets were available at the YHA. Coastal path takes you round to Constantine bay which is also lovely.”

Someone else said: “Superb beach. Probably my fave beach along with Mawgan Porth, with Constantine a short yet beautiful coastal walk away. Great facilities, lots of rock pools to discover. A definite must to visit if you love sandy beaches and crystal blue sea and waves to surf/bodyboard in.”

The postcode for Treyarnon Bay Beach is PL28 8JR.

Social News reporter Jess Flaherty recently started watching a smash hit crime show which first aired in the mid 00s but the huge twist at the end of one episode was tough viewing

Jess Flaherty is a Senior News Reporter for the Social Newsdesk, working across multiple titles including the Mirror, OK! online, Daily Star and more. She previously worked for the Liverpool ECHO, where she covered breaking news, events and entertainment in Merseyside.

Recently, I’ve started binge-watching the original series of Dexter, and the ending of one particular episode has left me in a state of grief. Okay, maybe I’m being a bit dramatic, but it did shatter me. Any Dexter fans likely knows what I’m referring to, but if you’re yet to watch the show and want to avoid any spoilers, look away now.

Consider yourself warned. Obviously, I’m referring to the shocking twist in the season four finale episode, The Getaway. Dexter, which originally aired from 2006 to 2013, chronicles the life of Dexter Morgan, a serial killer with a moral compass, who works as a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department by day, maintaining his “normal” persona while satisfying his urge to kill by night.

Dexter, played by Michael C Hall, is led to believe he’s a sociopath and a “monster” by his adoptive father, police officer Harry Morgan, who discovered him as a three-year-old child, sitting in a pool of his mother’s blood after she was brutally murdered in front of him.

Harry notices Dexter’s violent tendencies and emotional detachment and, instead of seeking professional psychological help for his clearly traumatised son, he teaches him “the code”.

Dexter harbours a desire to kill, but only those who fit Harry’s code – they must be murderers themselves. Over the years, he carries out ritualistic killings of numerous violent criminals who seem to have slipped through the justice system’s net.

As the series unfolds, Dexter’s actions continue to catch up with him – to devastating effect. In some cases, he even sabotages evidence to let culprits slip through the law’s grasp, just so he can savour the thrill of killing them himself.

This is most evident in season four, where we’re introduced to Arthur ‘the Trinity Killer’ Mitchell, portrayed by the brilliantly terrifying John Lithgow. His performance was so compelling that he bagged a Golden Globe award for his role as the chilling serial killer.

Now, given the show has been around for years, some spoilers are inevitable – I’m bracing myself for the much-maligned ending, and I already knew that the main antagonist in the first season was Dexter’s long-lost brother.

But what season four had in store for viewers took me completely by surprise.

By this stage in the series, Dexter is married to Rita – brought to life with a delightful blend of sweetness and charm by the talented Julie Benz.

Initially, Dexter was attracted to Rita to help maintain his façade of being a “nice, normal guy”, but as the story progresses, it becomes clear he genuinely cares for her. I adored Rita and hoped her influence on Dexter would have a positive effect on him.

However, Dexter’s fixation with the Trinity Killer led to her downfall.

After a tense game of cat-and-mouse, during which Dexter adopts a false identity to get close to Arthur Mitchell and his family, things begin to fall apart.

Mitchell soon realises Dexter isn’t who he claims to be and tracks him down. The Trinity Killer visits him at the police station, where he casually peruses photos of his own violent crime scenes without a care in the world.

Dexter sends Rita and their son away on a belated honeymoon to ensure she’s safe from the sadistic killer.

After some serious tension, Dexter seemingly prevails – he traps Arthur Mitchell on his trusty table and kills him, tossing his hacked up body parts into the ocean.

We’ve seen this scene before – Dexter is nothing if not consistent when it comes to how he completes his crimes.

When he returns home, he discovers a voicemail message from Rita saying she forgot her passport so had to return home to get it.

He calls her, but her phone rings in their house. Dexter walks into the bathroom and there, in a harrowing full circle moment, is his son sitting in a pool of his mother’s blood.

Rita is laying dead in the bathtub, the water crimson – one of the Trinity Killer’s trademarks.

I was hysterical.

The show did an excellent job of convincing us Dexter had won and got the better of the Trinity Killer.

As the show is years old, I have nobody to talk to about this gut punch of a twist so I scoured social media and saw it’s still a widely discussed episode to this day.

I know it’s not an episode I’ll ever forget, no matter what direction the show – and its subsequent spin-offs – takes from here.

If you’re heading out to Benidorm soon, then you may want to heed the advice of a Brit abroad in the Spanish city, as he warned you may want to just get a transfer and not a hire car

A Brit abroad shared if you’re going to Benidorm in August, you should try to avoid renting a car. Harry, who posts on TikTok as @harrytokky, revealed the “warning” for anyone who may be considering driving around the city, because parking is such an issue.

Harry explained that “right now in Benidorm it’s absolutely rammed” because kids are on their school holidays and their parents have taken them away – plus the weather is glorious. But this does mean that parking has become a nightmare, and Harry’s pal said it’s better to get about on “little scooters” as an alternative.

“So, if you’re coming out to Benidorm, especially for the month of August, then I don’t recommend renting a car,” Harry shared.

Harry described the parking as “unreal,” saying it took him “one hour to get a space,” likening it to a “nightmare” situation.

It’s high tourist season, with peak occupancy in the city, and there are also limited spaces.

The city is rammed full of Spanish and international visitors during this time, leading to increased demand for parking spots. While free parking areas exist, they can be difficult to find and access due to the crowds.

Harry’s pal also revealed a “lot of entertainers are late for their shows” because they simply cannot find anywhere to park.

He also claimed they’re having to “park half an hour out of town,” which is causing chaos.

They also shared the prices of renting cars is “ridiculous,” so Harry said his “important message” is that “it’s just not worth it,” and you should “get a transfer”.

In the comments, someone wrote: “What Harry hasn’t told you, a lot of Spanish head to the coast in August, so it affects parking. It’s ‘tourist’ parking, but it’s Spanish people who have driven to the resorts.”

Harry replied: “Lots of Spanish, 100% lots of Europeans too, either way, there’s definitely no parking in Benidorm at the moment. Took me an hour to get parked.”

Another penned: “Free at the bus station or on that car park just before you come into town, or only €16 a day for one of the car parks. Rented a drop top for pride.”

Thankfully, not everything in Benidorm is expensive, however, as Harry shared in a previous video that McDonald’s meals are seriously cheap.

Sitting outside, he said: “And just like that, the food has arrived. Now you will not believe how cheap this was. We’ve got two meals here. Guess how much this costs? €11 (£9.53).”

Harry continued, explaining there are two fries, two burgers, two drinks, and some chicken nuggets on the side as well.

He gushed: “I mean, €11? What do you think, guys? I think that’s an absolute bargain, let’s be honest. €11? In the UK, that’d probably be at least £20.”

In the UK, a large Big Mac meal costs around £7.69, depending on location. Meanwhile, six chicken nuggets cost around £3.49, depending on location.

So Harry is right, it is significantly cheaper in Benidorm. The whole meal would cost roughly £18.87.

A six-year-old boy asked his dad if they were ‘going on the slide’, and his dad corrected him – but a flight attendant on the plane wasn’t as kind and it sparked a discussion

Safety briefings happen every single time you step on an aircraft, and they’re designed to assist you should the unlikely event of an emergency occur while you’re travelling on the plane. It covers details about the brace position, oxygen masks that will drop from the overhead panel if cabin pressure falls, and chutes you might need to utilise during an emergency, among other things that would come in handy if something went wrong.

Naturally, if you have any queries, cabin crew will be delighted to share their expertise with you, as they must complete rigorous training before they’re permitted to work aboard the aircraft, for more than obvious reasons.

Nevertheless, one six-year-old lad received more than he expected when he enquired about using the slide on the plane – likely imagining it was an entertaining playground feature, rather than a potentially life-saving apparatus in the proper circumstances.

Hannah Cantile posted a clip of herself on TikTok, though you could overhear the exchange between the youngster and the flight attendant.

The little lad told his father they were “going on the slide,” and he couldn’t hide his enthusiasm.

The father responded: “No slide,” and the flight attendant supported the dad’s response, explaining the boy wouldn’t be using the slide.

The inquisitive child then enquired: “What’s the slide for?” and the flight attendant explained it’s utilised during “emergencies”.

He candidly added: “So if everybody is about to die, that’s when the slide comes out.”

Hannah awkwardly chuckled at how bluntly he explained this, but many applauded him for preventing the youngster from “asking any more unnecessary questions”.

Someone also remarked that children don’t require “sugar coating and tiptoeing” and should be told the truth – even if it’s harsh.

The slide deploys when passengers need to evacuate rapidly, such as during a fire, smoke in the cabin, a water landing, or a crash landing.

In a water landing, the slide may also serve as a life raft for passengers.

It will automatically inflate if a cabin door opens whilst the door remains in the “armed” position.

Doors are “armed” for slide deployment before take-off and landing, ensuring that during an emergency, the slide will inflate instantly when the door opens.

The slide doesn’t deploy during normal boarding or disembarking; in these instances, the doors are “disarmed” so the slide won’t activate.

Cabin crew are responsible for arming and disarming the doors and for triggering slide deployment during emergencies.

It’s a vital safety mechanism designed to help passengers exit the aircraft swiftly and securely, and it’s not routinely used.

A British woman who is obsessed with travelling has now revealed what it is like working on a cruise ship – from no days off to cheeky guests ‘cheating’ on board

Many of us adore cruise holidays, but could you imagine making a ship your permanent home? While we catch glimpses of maritime life through TV programmes like Below Deck or Disney Channel‘s Suite Life on Deck, you might wonder what the reality is actually like. Fortunately, a young British woman has satisfied this curiosity.

Travel enthusiast Anaya revealed what life is genuinely like residing on a cruise ship – from all the benefits she receives, as well as the exhausting shift patterns. She has been able to journey to destinations including Bali, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Bali, Amsterdam, Singapore, Laos, Dominican Republic, Australia, Italy, Monaco, Spain, Germany, Portugal and Antigua – to mention just a few.

Anaya is employed by Marella Cruises, owned by TUI, in destination services – assisting people in crafting their ideal trip when they disembark the ship, as well as helping them navigate their way around new locations and arranging excursions and activities.

Although she gets to undertake extensive travelling, enjoys exciting experiences and the facilities aboard the vessel, Anaya acknowledges she also grafts tremendously hard. And apparently, securing any time off is virtually impossible, she claims.

READ MORE: Woman takes video of Magaluf party strip in 2025 and reality is devastating

Speaking on TikTok, Anaya revealed: “Basically, it’s like an unwritten rule that when you work on a cruise ship, you just don’t get a day off for the entirety of your contract. Because the cruise is running nearly every day of the year, we can’t have any days off.”

Anaya typically works several hours, enjoys some leisure time, then returns to her duties later in the day. During breaks from her responsibilities aboard the vessel, she’s able to experience ship life and discover the destinations she visits.

The cruise ship employee explained that while each shift differs, she never exceeds 10 hours of work daily.

The travel enthusiast revealed: “Sometimes we have breaks off in the middle of the day and I work in the excursions department so I spend a lot of time on the trips and seeing the places that way.”

She added she “wouldn’t trade it for the world“.

In the comments section of her video, someone enquired what occurs if a crew member becomes unwell.

Anaya responded: “You would see the medical centre if you were ill. If they thought you were too sick to work then you’d get ‘signed off’. If you’ve not been signed off by medical then you’d still have to work.”

The cruise ship worker clarified that employment contracts for staff can span from three months to eight months.

She continued: “In my department you wouldn’t really do more than seven [months], but in my experience I haven’t really done more than five and a half.”

Anaya says people frequently assume you must speak several languages to work aboard a cruise ship, though this isn’t necessarily true. The vessel she works on chiefly accommodates English and Canadian passengers, so she doesn’t need to be multilingual. Nevertheless, other companies might require this on job applications. On top of this, she doesn’t have to fork out rent for her cabin.

She also receives complimentary meals daily and can enjoy onboard entertainment without any extra cost.

Another bonus is that she’s exempt from paying tax while aboard the vessel. What’s more, social gatherings are frequently arranged for crew members each month.

These evenings off can become quite raucous – as Anaya disclosed it’s “very common” for passengers to be unfaithful to their partners while on board.

So could you cope with life on the ocean? If you’re not scared of grafting hard, it sounds like it could be an absolutely brilliant way to explore the globe.

Tourists have been raving about a picturesque UK village that could make you believe you are in Italy. It boasts colourful buildings, secret gardens and so much more

People have been wowed by this beautiful village said to be “like walking though a storybook” which is often mistaken for Italy – but it’s in the UK. While travelling abroad is amazing, it can be expensive, especially in popular tourists spots in Italy. However, just a train ride away or short flight is the peaceful village of Portmeirion in Gwynedd, north Wales, that looks like Lake Como.

The amazing spot, which has been inundated with five star reviews on Tripadvisor, boasts breathtaking scenery, sub-tropical gardens and adorable cottages as well as plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants – and even an authentic Italian-style gelato shop.

The hidden gem boasts colourful buildings, palm trees, and plenty of outdoor seating and hospitality spots overlooking the beautiful seafront.

Tripadvisor describes the spot as a “dreamlike world, full of surprises” full of rich history. The picturesque location has been used as a backdrop for a number of films and TV shows.

READ MORE: ‘We visited one of the UK’s dearest market towns and noticed one problem’

A couple, who call themselves Cez and Gaz and love travelling, shared a viral video of the spot and their review on TikTok recently. Cez said: “Would you believe me if I told you this isn’t an Italian village but it’s actually somewhere in the UK.”

She added: “This dreamy village was designed in the 1920s by a Welsh architect to bring a touch of the Mediterranean to Britain and it took nearly 50 years to build. It’s tucked away on the coast, it’s full of colourful buildings, secret gardens, sandy beaches and even a giant chessboard.”

She added: “It honestly feels like walking through a storybook. It’s the perfect spot for summer photos, getting your steps in or enjoying some delicious food.”

“My mum got married here, it was so special,” added one. “How have I never heard of this?” commented one other. “No way, really I can’t believe this,” added another.

One other said: “I had a mini holiday there last year and I stayed in the castle upon entry.” Another shared: “Well worth the entry price. We got there early and it wasn’t too busy. If it looks familiar it was the backdrop for the show The Prisoner in the ’60s.”

You have to pay to visit the village. It is priced at £20 per day for adults, £17.50 for students and visitors over 60. Children between ages five and 15 can visit for £15, while children under five can visit for free. Visitors can also get family tickets. All tickets can be purchased from the Portmeirion website.

How to get there

If you are travelling from England, a train from London will take you a minimum of five hours and 50 minutes. From Manchester it takes around five hours, and generally about four hours and 45 minutes from Birmingham on a train. Many people opt to drive or travel by coach when holidaying to Wales.

If you would prefer to fly, you can catch a plane to Anglesey Airport – 30 miles from Portmeirion. The hub hosts twice daily flights from Cardiff Airport on weekdays.

The nearest major international airports to Portmeirion are Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport, both approximately two hours away by road.

The journey from Manchester airport and Liverpool airport is around 100 miles, and takes about two hours. So if you live down south, it might be a good idea to fly up to northern England first if long car or train journey are not for you.

Do you have a travel-related story? Get in touch at [email protected].

Sierra Noelle visited the UK this summer and she had a few things to say about it. You may be surprised to learn that her new favourite place isn’t actually in England

An American tourist’s visit to the UK has left viewers absolutely gobsmacked after her heartfelt reaction proved utterly priceless. Sierra Noelle chronicled her travel escapade online, and she certainly had plenty to share about it following her memorable expedition.

She delivered her verdict to her TikTok audience, and it’s left people completely stunned by her unfiltered honesty, as it appears Wales truly caters to all tastes, and she was bursting to share her impressions, leaving Welsh people utterly charmed by her glowing tribute to their homeland. In her video, Sierra confessed that Wales had been occupying her thoughts constantly since her return stateside.

It seems Wales has a talent for capturing hearts based on her video. It’s not the first time Americans have shared their travel tales from Wales either.

Sierra revealed: “I have one more thing to say. I keep looking back at my photos from my trip to Wales, and it physically pains me that I am so far away it, and I don’t know when I’m going to go back.

“But, guys, Wales is so cool. Everyone is so nice there and it’s so pretty. Castles are really cool. Everyone needs to go, but be respectful and don’t mess it up and be nice to the sheep.”

In an earlier post, Sierra disclosed how she’d become completely smitten with Wales during her inaugural summer visit. She’s now so besotted that she worries it’s transformed into her “entire personality.”

Sierra gushed about the medieval castles, explaining these historical treasures simply don’t exist back in America. She considers them absolutely “amazing” to wander through.

In total, she managed to explore around eight castles, such was her fondness for them. Despite her enjoyable experience, she recommended that prospective visitors seek travel advice from locals for a more enriching Welsh adventure.

Her exploration was evidently a joyous one, and she’s clearly eager to return, even if it might not be possible in the near future. Since sharing her experiences, thousands have tuned into her clips, with many leaving their thoughts in the comments section.

One viewer responded: “As a Welsh person, this is so lush to see someone talking about Wales, which people don’t speak about enough. We have the most castles in any country on earth and also have some of the best beaches.

“Also, Welsh people have been voted the friendliest in the UK. I’m so happy you visited and enjoyed.”

Another chimed in with: “As a Welsh person, I love this. I feel like Wales is so unknown/underrated both in and outside of the UK. Wales is awesome. Glad you enjoyed.”

A third commenter added: “As an Aussie who lived in Wales for seven years, I can’t recommend Wales enough. The landscape is so amazing and beautiful.”

Meanwhile, another viewer shared: “I love hearing people be excited about the so many castles. Taken for granted when you live here. My local castle is Conwy.”

THE viral brand behind Labubu dolls will soon be on sale at one of Britain’s biggest toy chains at stores across the country.

From today, shoppers will be able to find toys from the highly sought-after brand.

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The Entertainer will see POP MART toys at select stores around the UK, as the start of a larger nationwide roll-out in coming months.

POP MART has grown its global audience, particularly with consumers’ increasing love for collectible toys like Labubu dolls.

The company, based in China, has pioneered the collectable toy market that is for both children and adults by merging art, fashion and pop culture.

They have revealed UK fans fans will be able to get their hands on iconic blind box collectables from POP MART.

This includes limited-edition favourites like MOLLY and SKULLPANDA which will be at select The Entertainer stores today.

The brand is already available at the latest The Entertainer store in Bluewater.

Six locations are included in the trial of POP MART products at The Entertainer, before they are rolled-out to additional stores nationwide in coming months.

The stores where the toys can be found include:

• Manchester Arndale
• Kingston The Bentall Centre
• Lakeside Shopping Centre
• Milton Keynes Centre: MK
• Sheffield Meadowhall
• Stratford Westfield

Coming in mystery-style blind boxes, a surprise figure is contained inside.

This has added to the growing excitement and demand for these products, which have even been popular amongst celebrities like Dua Lipa and Rihanna.

Chief Product Officer at The Entertainer, Brian Proctor, said: “As the POP MART phenomenon continues to rapidly grow, we’re thrilled to reveal that The Entertainer will stock the popular toys in selected stores.

“The upcoming arrival of POP MART at The Entertainer highlights our ongoing commitment to offering innovative and exciting products to our customers. In addition to the arrival of POP MART, we will continue to ensure that our diverse product range offers plenty of choices for toy fans across the country.”

The Entertainer has over 160 stores across the UK, with thousands of toys and games to offer customers.

It also provides through a thousand concessions like Tesco and Matalan, as well as trading internationally and online.

News of the products coming to the UK comes just as huge crowds have been swarming to toy stores to snap up the viral Labubu Dolls at POP MART stores countries across the world.

A queue in the German city of Berlin was seen extending all the way around the block of a POP MART store as it just opened with Labubu dolls.

The craze for these collectable toys has also being going off online.

TikTokers have been raving about the collection of new plush toys that have labelled the “next Labubus“.

The Wakuku dolls have been compared to Labubus, and shoppers are also able to get a blind box of the toys online.

These toys have really taken the internet by storm – with Chinese toymaker POP MART’s valuation skyrocketing to £31.6bn.

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While capturing that perfect selfie while on vacation can be exhilarating, there’s one type of selfie that could land you in trouble — especially in a national park or nature reserve.

With summer in full swing across most parts of the world, millions of people are making travel plans to make the most of the sunshine. These days, national parks and nature reserves are emerging as a popular choice for wholesome getaways, providing holidaymakers a chance to immerse themselves in their surroundings and get up close and personal with the great outdoors.

While on holiday, people naturally tend to click pictures in order to preserve a special moment in time and even though capturing that perfect selfie on vacation can be exhilarating, there’s one type of selfie that could land you in trouble. It comes after a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

READ MORE: Universal Credit households to receive new £320 Cost of Living payment this summerREAD MORE: AIMEE WALSH: ‘I met Bonnie Blue as TV show feeds rage-bait machine and earns millions’

Why a popular travel selfie could see you barred from a nature reserve

Taking the perfect selfie with wild animals might seem like a harmless holiday highlight — but experts are warning that it could lead to grave consequences. According to travel expert Naturetrek, snapping certain pictures in protected areas could disturb wildlife, violate conservation regulations, and even result in a permanent ban from reserves.

The selfie trend that’s raising eyebrows

Tourists in the UK and overseas are increasingly chasing “up-close” wildlife photos — particularly with seals, nesting birds, or rare species in national parks. Some even cross clearly marked boundaries or stray from designated paths to achieve that perfect shot.

But whilst the results might appear spectacular on Instagram, the effect on wildlife can be catastrophic. Naturetrek explains that constant human interference in delicate habitats can disrupt breeding, force animals to desert their offspring, and result in prolonged environmental distress.

A Naturetrek spokesperson shares: “One of the worst offenders we’ve seen is people trying to take selfies with seal pups or nesting seabirds. It only takes a few seconds of disturbance to frighten adult animals away – and that can have lasting consequences.”

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What the regulations state

Nature reserves across the UK and throughout Europe maintain stringent guidelines for public conduct – particularly during mating or breeding periods. These encompass remaining behind barriers, keeping noise levels down, and never feeding or getting close to wildlife.

Violating these regulations can result in immediate fines, ejection from the site, or prohibition from returning. Certain locations now additionally supervise visitors via drone surveillance or ranger monitoring. Perpetrators have been captured on film climbing fences or crouching beside animals to secure a “wildlife close-up”.

According to Naturetrek: “It’s not just about physical harm – even the sound of a phone shutter or a quick movement from a selfie stick can spook some species.”

Alternative options that are safe

Wildlife snappers and experienced tour guides suggest admiring animals from afar – utilising binoculars or long lenses for superior snaps. Numerous reserves provide guided strolls or hides, where guests can safely watch and photograph animals without danger. “If you want great wildlife photos, patience is key,” advises Naturetrek. “The best shots are often taken quietly, with respect, and without disturbing the natural behaviour of the animals.”

Respect nature, safeguard the experience

Naturetrek cautions that if current trends persist, more reserves may be compelled to limit access, tighten restrictions, or close certain areas entirely during peak seasons. The travel expert says: “We understand the desire to capture the moment – but if that moment harms nature, it’s not worth it. Our wild spaces need protection, and that means putting the camera down when needed.”

So, the next time you’re on a hike, boat trip, or coastal tour, think twice before you edge in for a selfie. Respect the distance, heed local advice, and savour the encounter without intrusion. You’ll protect wildlife – and your access to these stunning locations – for years to come.

Naturetrek adds: “At the heart of every memorable wildlife experience is respect. By choosing not to disturb, you become part of the solution — helping to preserve nature’s wonders for generations to come.”

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Tourists visiting Paris have been urged to check their suitcases for one item of clothing after a woman was banned from entering several clubs because of what she was wearing

If you’re planning a trip to Paris this summer, you might want to double-check your luggage to make sure the clothes you’re taking adhere to a little-known rule about fashion in the French capital. The balmy summer weather we’ve been experiencing means most of us have been living in shorts, T-shirts, and sandals for the past few weeks.

Anyone heading off to parts of Europe, such as Spain, France, and Italy this summer will probably also be packing very similar clothes into their suitcases, as the warm weather is set to continue. But if your summer holiday includes Paris, one woman who recently visited the city has a stark warning about what outfits you should pack.

Laney Tucker, from the US, recently spent time in Paris with some friends, and took to Instagram after her trip to tell other women to make sure they’ve packed the right footwear in their suitcase before they fly out to the city.

She claimed she was turned away from multiple nightclubs while trying to enjoy a Parisian night out because she was wearing sandals, and the dress code for the clubs stated she needed to be wearing heels.

The woman claimed she eventually got into a club by claiming that her sandals were a designer brand, but she wished she had packed a pair of heels to save herself the hassle.

She said: “Important note to all the girlies coming to Paris: We didn’t get into a couple of clubs last night because we were wearing sandals. Almost everywhere requires heels.

“I did get us into one club by telling the bouncer my sandals were Valentino, and to be honest, I hate myself for that. Take me straight to jail.”

In the caption, she wrote: “The self-loathing I feel right now … but a girl’s gotta do what she’s gotta do to get into the club.”

Commenters on the post were split. Some people believed Laney lacked “common sense” for trying to get into a club with sandals on, while others argued that the heels-only rule is “outdated” and “nonsense”.

One French national wrote: “As a French [person], I hoped this nonsense heels in clubs [rule] was over. Seriously. Men enter clubs wearing sports gear, and we have to break our feet on the dancefloor.”

But someone else argued: “What kind of adult wears sandals to a club in Paris, or anywhere that’s not on a beach?”

Others pointed out that the rule likely doesn’t require women to wear heels, but instead simply requires all people to wear closed-toed shoes for health and safety reasons.

Dress codes in Paris

For the most part, you can wear whatever you want when travelling around the city of Paris itself. However, some evening restaurants and nightclubs have far stricter rules about what you can and can’t wear.

According to Clubbable, women should look to wear “elegant” short dresses, leather jackets and trousers, or “fashionable” jeans. Women should not wear big jumpers, trainers, sportswear, or beachwear.

Clubbable claims men should always wear a shirt on a night out in Paris, whether it’s a casual floral number or a proper dress shirt. This can be paired with casual jeans or trousers.

One woman has shared a ‘game-changing’ way to store liquids in your hand luggage before a flight – and it’s something she only learnt after being married to a pilot for 13 years

In the majority of UK airports, any liquids in your carry-on luggage must be under 100ml and stored in a transparent bag for easy inspection by security personnel. While you can take bigger containers in your hold luggage, those making smaller trips might only have hand luggage with them for the journey.

While some major UK airports have recently implemented new scanners that permit up to two litres of liquids in hand luggage, it’s always prudent to check the regulations at your destination to avoid having to discard your favourite toiletries at security on your return trip.

If you’re still required to limit your liquid items on your next flight, or if you’re simply trying to conserve space for more clothing in your suitcase, fear not. A frequent traveller, who happens to be a pilot’s wife, has shared a straightforward hack for packing toiletries that many wish they’d known sooner.

The woman, Laurie, advised passengers in an Instagram video to stop storing their liquid containers upright in their clear bags. While this is how products are typically displayed in adverts for visual appeal, it’s rather impractical.

Instead, Laurie suggests laying your liquids horizontally, assuring travellers they’ll be amazed at how much difference this simple adjustment can make.

She revealed: “This is the number one travel hack I learned as a pilot’s wife after about 13 years of packing only a carry-on suitcase. If you pack the liquid containers horizontally so that they are all lying flat, for some reason, you can fit more in.

“The tiny things, like my mascara and my primer, can fit vertically in the open pockets of space, much like you would do in a suitcase. Hope this travel hack helps!”

The tip might be a no-brainer for some seasoned travellers, but it left numerous commenters astounded, with many expressing surprise at not having thought of it before.

One individual shared their newfound enlightenment: “I was today years old when I learned this from you! I love my compression bags for clothing … just got home from a two-leg trip and whew … carry-on was heavy! Thanks for your great tip.”

Another chimed in: “I recently traveled and realised the same thing. Huge difference in room.”

Meanwhile, a third praised: “Love this tip Laurie!”

What liquids can I take to an airport?

There are limits on how much you can carry in your hand luggage. For those with checked baggage, it’s wise to stow liquids there. The term ‘liquids’ encompasses a broad range of items including all beverages, foodstuffs such as soups, jams, and syrups, cosmetics and toiletries, sprays like shaving foam and deodorant, contact lens solutions, and gels like hair and shower gel.

The regulations for carrying liquids in your hand luggage can differ from one airport to another. It’s advisable to familiarise yourself with the rules at your departure airport, any transit airports, and your return journey airport before setting off.

Most airports enforce a rule that prohibits passengers from taking liquids in containers larger than 100ml through security checks. This rule remains in effect even if the container is not filled to capacity. However, some airports may permit you to carry liquid in containers that can hold up to two litres.

In addition, you might be required to place liquids into a separate, clear bag. While this isn’t a universal requirement across all airports, it’s always better to be prepared or do your homework in advance.

If the airport instructs you to segregate liquids into a separate bag:

• Containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm
• Contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed
• The bag must not be tied at the top
• You’re limited to one plastic bag per person
• You must show the bag at the airport security point

Neil Armstrong was worried about potential charges over luggage size restrictions when he flies with his family of nine – so he decided to take matters into his own hands

When Neil Armstrong and his family of nine were gearing up to fly with a budget airline, he was concerned about potential extra charges due to luggage size restrictions. The clan had booked flights with Ryanair, an airline notorious for its stringent carry-on bag policy and associated fees.

To sidestep a hefty bill, the 54-year-old took the initiative. Equipped with cardboard and tape, he constructed his own replica of the airline’s sizer cage in just 15 minutes. He then used this DIY sizer to measure all the family’s hand luggage, ensuring there would be no costly surprises at the airport.

READ MORE: EasyJet, Ryanair and TUI travellers warned over little-known rule that could stop them flying

A viral video on TikTok shows Neil diligently crafting the sizer to the exact dimensions of 40x20x25cm. The father-of-three confessed that he had to swap his own hand luggage backpack after discovering it didn’t fit into his homemade box, reports the Daily Record.

However, he is now confident he has avoided a potential £510 fee, based on Ryanair’s standard charge of €60 (£51) per bag. The graphic designer remarked that he felt ‘like a Ryanair employee’ while inspecting the bags but urges other patrons of the budget airline to follow suit.

His daughter, Imogen (Immy) Armstrong, 20, shared a TikTok video of Neil assembling the box, which has since amassed over 200,000 views. Neil, from Maidstone, Kent, said: “The family had a bit of a snigger but they think it’s a great idea. I’m proud of it. I’ve read that people have been charged so I wanted to be sure that our bags would fit. I didn’t want to get caught out.

“You can get the tape measurer out but that’s not really accurate and I saw the boxes at the airport but when you’re there it’s too late. I thought I’d make my own and all 10 of us can get our hand luggage and make sure it fits in that.

“I went and got some cardboard, followed the strict centimetre rule, stuck the cardboard together and made this box. The rest of the family only live streets away so I told them to come round when they have a minute and pop their bags in.

“It’s not until you mock something up that you can actually visualise it (the Ryanair measuring box). I don’t want to spend my holiday spending money on a bag. I realised the bag I was going to take wasn’t going to fit so I’ve used another one. I felt like a Ryanair worker, saying to the kids ‘no that won’t do. Go and get another one (bag)’. I’d encourage other people to do it too so they’re not caught out.”

The family is now confidenT that they will avoid any extra baggage fees for their flight from London Stansted to Tenerife. Imogen’s TikTok video bore the caption ‘When your dad doesn’t wanna pay Ryanair £70 so makes his own hand luggage check’.

A TikTok user reacted by saying: “A new level of airport dad has been unlocked.” A second person commented: “Honestly, great idea.” A third quipped: “Hey, I don’t blame him! Work smarter not harder.” Ryanair has been approached for a response.

Graham White, 48, is a fan of the budget airline and regularly jets off to Benidorm – but was left disappointed after his most recent flight to Alicante as he expected more

Numerous Brits are devoted followers of Ryanair journeys as they’re budget-friendly and reliable, plus transport you from point A to point B, typically arriving precisely on schedule. However, when one bloke, who frequently travels to Benidorm, took a Ryanair flight, was left “livid” because the remarkably inexpensive £16.99 journey didn’t feature one particular service.

Graham White posted clips of his adventures at the beloved Spanish coastal destination with his 75,000 TikTok supporters. Yet the 48-year-old felt disappointed when stepping aboard his latest flight to Alicante. On July 25, he travelled on his extraordinarily affordable ticket, but he and his mate were left seething that the £16.99 fare didn’t feature WiFi connectivity.

He revealed: “My mate thought WiFi was included. My mate couldn’t believe [that it wasn’t]. I even asked [the flight attendant] if the pilot would let him use his hotspot.”

In a video, which accumulated 1,800 views thus far, Graham personally questioned the flight attendant about why the internet wasn’t functioning – but passengers on the aircraft were left puzzled as to why he even posed the enquiry.

The cabin crew member clarified they “don’t have it at all,” and somebody in the background remarked: “You’re lucky you have a seatbelt; you’re on Ryanair.

“No WiFi, but their card machines work to sell you things,” someone raged in the comments area.

However, others were speechless and left weeping with laughter emojis, questioning why anyone would anticipate WiFi on Ryanair flights, when it’s not typical on short haul. Ryanair’s website clearly states: “No. Currently, we do not offer Wi-Fi on our flights. Sorry.”

Graham has previously gained online attention for his escapades in Benidorm, including pointing out a spot where a pint is cheaper than a cuppa.

He’s not the only one sharing content from Benidorm, alerting Brits to its potential pitfalls.

Harry, who posts under the handle @harrytokky, revealed that building a simple sandcastle could result in a hefty fine. Yes, you read that correctly – you could be fined for creating a humble sandcastle.

Constructing a sandcastle could set you back a staggering £87 (€100), so you might want to reconsider engaging in this innocent childhood pastime.

In a recent video, Harry Poulton shared the holiday destination is practically deserted as tourists are being “priced out” of the resort.

He described it as the “weirdest thing you can get fined for in Spain,” adding you “probably didn’t even know you could get penalised for it” because it’s so odd.

His mate, Louis Grier, assumed he was referring to public indecency, but it was merely building sandcastles, which he described as “mad”.

“Supposedly, you could be obstructing walkways,” he ranted, concluding the video by calling it “a bit bizarre”.

Reporter Lucy Marshall felt like she went back in time as she rode the Northern Belle train last week. She shared her experience after paying a hefty price for the luxury experience from Yorkshire to Edinburgh

09:05, 26 Jul 2025Updated 13:08, 26 Jul 2025

Lucy covers lifestyle and social news for the Daily Mirror and other Reach PLC sites. She is passionate about sharing real life stories and is always on the hunt for the latest viral story. Lucy is particularly interested in women’s issues, health, relationships, internet trends and unique lifestyles.
The proud Yorkshire-born reporter previously worked as Life Writer at Hull Live, as well as a News Reporter for Yorkshire Live and Leeds Live.

It’s 8am on a Thursday morning and bag pipes can be heard around Wakefield Westgate station as a sea of mothers, daughters, grandparents and loved up couples could be seen dressed up to the nines on the platform awaiting the Northern Belle train.

Steam bellows out of the train before coming to a halt. Passengers beam as train staff, dressed in smart, traditional railway uniform roll out branded red carpets and greet guests as they board the luxurious carriages named after British castles or stately homes around the UK. I feel like a Royal Family member and can’t wait for my first sip of champagne.

As a regular train traveller – who more than often ends up with cancelled journeys, rowdy passengers or delays – I couldn’t wait to get a taste of this luxurious experience that I often see celebrities and influencers raving about on social media. So what better time than for my sister’s 30th birthday to enjoy such a treat. Loved ones had also shared stories of how “amazing” the train is and insist it is a must-try. But while I was excited, priced at a whopping £550 per person, my expectations were high.

The deluxe train takes passengers on rides to racecourses, castles, seaside towns, and more. We were travelling from West Yorkshire to Edinburgh, where we would also experience a tour of the Royal Yatch Britannia. The train picked up passengers from Huddersfield, Wakefield and York. It was due to also stop at Leeds but due to a fault [shock] this stop was taken off the pick up list.

After a wonderful greeting, I was seated in the Harlech carriage – the last one. If you are with a group, you will be put in a four booth seat, while couples were sat at a two-seater table at the other side.

READ MORE: Hotel guest told ‘everything in mini fridge is free’ but is astounded by contents

We also loved that a magician came round and performed tricks which left us totally baffled and wowed. The views from the train up to Scotland were amazing to see and I also observed the toilets were clean and enjoyed the White Company hand cream and luxury of using cotton hand towels instead of tissue or a dryer.

Four-hour stop in Edinburgh

After arriving at Edinburgh station, stuffed with champagne and delicious food, we got on a a private transfer from Waverley Station to Leith, before our tour of the Royal Britannia.

For some 40 years, the magnificent Royal Yacht Britannia cruised round the world carrying the late Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh on 968 State visits. They sailed more than a million miles, entertaining impressed prime ministers, presidents and foreign monarchs, while keeping the flag flying for Great Britain, before it stopped sailing in 1997.

It was also used for a pre-wedding party in July, 2011 as the extended Royal Family joined Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall for a cocktail party on board.

I loved seeing the staff quarters on board and we could not get over the size of the bed that the Queen and Prince Phillip would stay in. The beds looked like they were made for children. It was totally fascinating and we had a hand held phone which provided informative information. I loved hearing about the Queen’s favourite places on board and seeing the dining room where they held important dinners.

If you are a royal fan, keen sailor or love history, you will really enjoy it. Those on board the Northern Belle who weren’t keen on this spent the four hour break from the train exploring Scotland’s capital city instead.

Six-course meal and evening experience

The Northern Belle looks even more beautiful at night time as the lamps inside make it look magical.

We got back on the train for more champagne before a sumptuous six-course dinner with fine wines on our memorable journey home.

Then we ordered our three main courses at the start of the journey, as well as selecting the bottle of wine we would share to accompany each course and our selection of port to go with the cheese course. I opted for the Lishman’s of Ilkley Ham, Hock Terrain, followed by the Terroir et Saisons slow-braised daube, and finished off with Eton Mess of Annabel Strawberries.

While waiting for a main course we enjoyed a selection of canapés – including Yorkshire Asparagus Donut, British Raj Chicken, and Royal Siberian Baerii Caviar. The caviar canape was by far my favourite; it was salty and delicious.

I couldn’t quite believe how amazing the quality of food was on a train. Haven eaten in plenty of high end and Michelin-starred restaurants, this meal was up there thanks to the fantastic presentation, incredible flavours, and quality.

But the star of the show was yet to come – the cheeseboard. Oh my, the size of the board was as big as the tables. It was simply a cheeselover’s dream. We had the choice of Batch Clothbound Cheddar, Duke of Wellington Blue, Flat Capper Brie and Sheffield Forge. Of course I tried them all. There was also a choice of different crackers, jams and chutneys.

Around this time, a two-man band came around and played music at each seats. This was super fun and got everyone clapping together on the train which was really sweet. While fabulous, they only did one song at each seat. Throughout the rest of the journey both travelling to and from Edinburgh there was no music. So I think considering it is listed as part of the experience, the band could have played for longer or some classical music could have been put on in the background.

The evening was finished off with us ordering espresso and porn star martinis. I was shocked that not all drinks were including within the price. While it was great to share a bottle of wine, and that is enough, throughout the rest of the long journey if you want a drink you have to pay extra for it. To be honest I think this is pretty appalling when you are paying £550 I think the price should cover all drinks for the day.

Overall I absolutely loved this experience and was totally wowed. It has also made me want to try other fancy train rides too. It’s a brilliant way to not only enjoy luxury, spend a long period of time having fun with friends, a partner or family, but it also allows you to see new places.

While I think it is totally justified it’s an expensive experience, I do think £350-£400 would be a more appropriate amount for what we got on the day. If they included all drinks and provided more entertainment I believe it would be worth the full price.

But would I ride it again? Absolutely.

Would you pay this much to ride a train? Comment below.

A travel expert warned against taking one item of clothing off on a plane, and it’s left some people feeling a little bit queasy, especially when they know the potential consequences

Appropriate aircraft attire is so important, yet countless passengers continue to disregard this guidance, sporting leggings, crop tops, and man-made fabrics. With so many adorable airport ensembles to choose from – tracksuits and trainers being perennial travel staples – many holidaymakers prefer to touch down at their destination already dressed for summer in flowing floral frocks or shorts paired with sandals, primed to bask in the sunshine.

However, a travel guru has revealed crucial information you’d be foolish to dismiss, as ignoring her advice could lead to revolting health consequences that you definitely don’t want occurring before your getaway begins.

Kate Van Dyke, who serves as Travel and Leisure’s associate social media editor, declared: “Before you head to the airport for your next trip, here’s what not to wear on the plane.”

She implored travellers to “leave the open-toed shoes in your suitcase,” explaining that you’ll “be doing your neighbour a huge favour”.

The expert also cautioned that it’s “probably been a while since that carpet and under the seats were deep cleaned”.

But what makes exposing your bare feet on an aircraft so revolting?

Removing your footwear during flight subjects your feet to numerous bacteria and potential dangers.

Aeroplane floors are seldom given a proper scrub between journeys, meaning passengers risk encountering bacteria, fungi, and viruses that could trigger infections like athlete’s foot, plantar warts, or potentially more severe skin conditions – particularly if you’ve got any cuts or grazes.

Carpet surfaces frequently harbour bodily fluids, food spillages, and various other nasties, heightening the chances of picking up something rather unpleasant.

Moreover, the arid cabin atmosphere and cramped conditions can leave your skin more vulnerable to irritation and cracking, which only amplifies infection risks.

While the likelihood of contracting something genuinely serious remains fairly minimal for most healthy individuals, it’s typically more sanitary to keep your footwear – or at minimum your socks – firmly in place throughout your flight, particularly during loo visits, as what appears to be water might actually be something considerably more revolting.

Kate also cautioned against wearing “avoid strong fragrances,” while airborne, so although you might fancy dousing yourself with 100 spritzes of that gorgeous perfume you spotted in Duty Free, if it’s likely to offend fellow passengers, it’s probably best avoided.

She explained: “Scents spread far and wide when you’re in an enclosed space like a plane cabin, and your favourite fragrance may be overpowering to others.”

In the comments section, some travellers insisted there was “nothing like” removing your shoes “on a flight,” declaring “sorry not sorry”.

“I had to tell the man behind me to put his shoes back on. The smell was about to knock me out,” one person joked. A woman advised: “Avoid all fragrances, because they can set off some serious migraines for some of us.”

One bloke revealed: “I hate to say it, but I wear shoes that I can run in in case there’s an emergency.”

A woman has left people divided after a mum asked her to swap seats with her son for a ‘stupid’ reason, but she branded her as selfish and accused her of ‘making a scene’

Everybody has their preferred plane seat, which is likely to be a window or an aisle. The middle seat is often one that’s dreaded – especially if you’re sitting next to random people. But when one woman asked if she could swap with the occupant of a window seat on the plane for a “stupid” reason and was told no, she was seething.

Posting a video of her side of the interaction, @life_in_mini_stories shared a clip of a woman sitting in a window seat, minding her own business. Of course, many times when you occupy these seats, you’ve paid an additional fee for the pleasure.

She shared a woman allegedly said to her: “Excuse me, would you mind switching seats? My son really wants to sit by the window. He just loves watching the clouds.”

The female responded by saying she couldn’t switch, because she “picked this seat ahead of time”. The woman in the video also shared she also likes looking outside during a flight.

The mum was incensed already, saying she didn’t understand why the woman wouldn’t swap with her, pointing out “nobody has ever refused before”.

She also seethed: “You must not have kids; otherwise, you’d know it’s normal to give your seat up for a child. Or do you want him crying for the whole flight?”

The woman in the video explained it wasn’t her “problem” if the child was crying, stating once more that she wouldn’t be giving up her seat.

“If you wanted your son to sit by the window, you should’ve planned ahead and booked a window seat,” she pointed out.

The mum said she wasn’t “paying extra just because one person thinks she’s smarter than everyone else”. She also continued her attack, saying: “You’re a grown woman, have some shame,” accusing her of “making a scene”.

But the female responded by pointing out she knows she’s a “grown woman,” and that’s why she books her seat “ahead of time instead of guilt-tripping strangers into giving theirs up”.

The mum accused her of not caring about other people’s feelings, or children, branding her as “disgusting”.

In the comments of the video, someone wrote: “You’re 100% in the right and she has absolutely no right to ask.”

Another added: “Asking is okay, but she needs to take no for an answer.”

“While I agree that I’d keep my seat, I also think the mother of the child has a right to ask as much as I have the right to say hell no,” somebody shared.

A man seethed: “NEVER give up a seat you prepaid extra for! ESPECIALLY to accommodate those who tried to be clever by not paying for seats they wanted.”

Someone joked: “You’re teaching that child and parent a great lesson… In the real world you, #1 plan ahead, #2 stand your ground, #3 you can’t get what you want by crying.”

Booking a summer getaway is a major highlight for many people each year but one popular tourist hotspot has undergone a major change that’s got many people vowing to never return

Tourists have vowed to “never again” visit a popular holiday hotspot after it underwent some unwanted changes this year. Jetting off to a sunnier climate is a highlight of many people’s summers, with guaranteed sunshine, blue skies and the soothing sounds of the ocean a top priority.

Some European countries have established themselves as firm favourites for British tourists, and regularly top the travel wish list for people of all ages. Whether it’s Greece, Spain, France, Italy or Portugal, the continent has an abundance of varied, enticing options to suit all budgets and desires. For some holidaymakers, the destination of choice centres around the availability of bars and clubs, with many keen to take advantage of a thriving nightlife.

This seems to be the case for Albufeira, a popular coastal city based in the southern Algarve region of Portugal. It’s famous for its nightlife, with an abundance of accommodation and activities to indulge in.

Recently, however, its iconic strip has drawn some criticism due to how busy it’s become – one of the downsides to the city’s enduring popularity.

One tourist, who works as a DJ in Albufeira, recently shared a video of the packed strip on TikTok and it’s put many people off from ever returning to the city.

The 11-second clip shows people packed shoulder to shoulder outside the famous bars and nightclubs. Over the top of the footage, the DJ penned the words: “‘iS AlbUFeIrA eVEn BuSy?’ Have you seen the strip.”

The mix of capital letters with lowercase letters is typically used on social media to convey a mocking tone.

In the caption, he simply added: “How busy is too busy?”

The video racked up more than 754K views, with fellow TikTok users keen to share their thoughts. Lots of people pointed out it seems to be much busier this year than it was last year.

One person said: “Oh my that’s some difference from last July,” while another agreed: “Was nowhere near this last year”.

A third shared: “I was there on Saturday and never again!” A fourth said: “Canny be enjoyable that”.

Someone else asked: “is this supposed to make you want to go?”

Another TikTok user said: “Disgusting I can smell the sweat through the screen,” and another simply said: “No thanks.”

However, not everyone had this perspective or experience. One person shared: “It was the perfect amount of busy last week.”

And another wasn’t put off at all: “Ye looks boss that.”

For those keen to avoid the intense crowds, one TikTok user advised: “Best time for Albufeira is mid May to end of May if [you] don’t want to deal with this.”

To which the original poster replied: “Spot on.”

Before it became a major holiday destination, Albufeira used to be a sleepy fishing village. Its golden, sandy beaches are varied with some spots busy and bustling, and others offering secluded coves near dramatic cliffs.

Despite being renowned for its busy nightlife strip, it’s also an ideal destination for families and couples looking for a scenic getaway.

People have been left in stitches after American readers revealed what confused them in the Harry Potter books

Americans have revealed what confused them about the Harry Potter books, and it turns out lots of readers mistook British references for magical inventions. The “hilarious” mistakes were highlighted in a video shared by TikTok user @kelley_morgan.

Kelley Morgan told followers: “Here’s some things that I used to think were magic but it turns out they’re just British. It’s pretty common for like a ten or an eleven-year-old American, like, first time they’re learning about British culture, is through the Harry Potter books, so a lot of times they’ll think certain things that are normal for British people are like magical and like Harry Potter.”

She explained: “The first one is true for me, but also the one that people joke about the most, and it’s the one where they’re punting students. There’s a part in Harry Potter where there’s a swamp in the hallways, and then the janitor has to punt students across to get to their classes.

“In American English a punt is like a drop kick and because the world is like magical anyway we think oh he’s kicking students really hard across the swamp, but it turns out in British English punting is like a boat with a stick, like a marsh boat. So it turns out he was just boating them across, he was not kicking them.”

Kelley was also confused by British schools. “Another one is school houses. We don’t have those at all, and I know not everywhere in England has them but apparently a lot of schools do have different school houses and you actually get sorted into the houses and then you earn points for your house. It’s kind of weird to me. It sounds fun, but we don’t do that like at all.”

She added: “Along the same lines, prefects, which are like the authority figures within the houses is apparently a real thing. We don’t have that at all. I think the closest thing that we might have is a hall monitor, but nobody really likes the hall monitor kids. Also, hall monitor is not a common thing. I don’t think we ever had home monitors in my school, but it’s just something you see on TV. Next, the American content creator revealed she was confused to read about Christmas crackers.

“They always talk about having Christmas crackers and to us a cracker is a snack. I don’t even know what you call it like a cracker, like a chip, not your kind of chip. Then I just assumed fun presents and confetti and stuff fell out of the cracker because they have candy with toys in them in the book.

“So I’m like oh it must fall out of the cracker, but apparently it’s a really common thing like in a lot of European countries where you pull both ends of a thing and it pops.”

Finally, she turned her attention to pudding. “I thought they just really liked pudding cause they always say like oh I’m gonna go eat some pudding, like I can’t wait for pudding. They always have pudding after dinner cause over there pudding just means dessert and over here it’s a very specific dessert.”

The video received over 400,000 views and lots of comments from American readers who had a similar experience. Someone commented: “What’s most hilarious about the punting is not that it was a different word, but that we all collectively accepted that Filch drop kicked kids across a pond. No questions asked.”

A different response read: “I legitimately love pudding and was a little bit disappointed when I found out that it just means any dessert. I thought they were always having my favourite dessert!”

Another comment said: “I had the reverse issue — thinking things that were unique to Harry Potter were actually just normal British things. I thought for way too long that all British kids wrote with quills.”

Sharon Osbourne said Ozzy, her husband of 43 years, died “surrounded by love” on Tuesday following a journey with Parkinson’s disease, which affectsthe central nervous system

A fiery throwback clip of Sharon Osbourne protecting her husband Ozzy is going viral following the rock icon’s death.

Fans have praised Sharon’s loyalty as, in the clip, the mum of three hits back at Megan Hauserman, then a contestant on Rock of Love: Charm School, who had insulted Ozzy. Megan had said: “The only thing you’ve managed to do as a celebrity is to watch your husband’s brain turn into a vegetable.”

But Sharon turned to the audience and said: “I feel so sorry for her,” before standing up, calmly taking a sip from her cup — and then hurling the rest of the drink in Megan’s face. The explosive exchange happened during the 2008 series of Sharon’s show, which saw contestants compete to develop proper etiquette in order to win $100,000 (£73,000).

Megan, a model and actress, was eliminated in episode four of her series, shortly after the showdown with Sharon, then aged 56 and a household name in the music and TV industries in the US and the UK. She told her audience: “They can f*** with me… I don’t give a sh** — but not my family.”

READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne insider lifts the lid on why ‘we just fell in love with’ the family

Security scrambled on the stage as tensions escalated on the VH1 programme. Following the feisty confrontation, Megan sued Sharon for battery and distress, while Sharon countersued, saying the reality star had assumed the risk and broken their TV agreement by suing. The case quietly settled in 2011 for an undisclosed six-figure sum.

Since then, Megan, 43, has starred in her own short-lived, infamous dating show: Megan Wants a Millionaire. It was axed during the first – and last – season with just three episodes airing in 2009.

Social media users took aim at Megan this week as the Rock of Love: Charm School clip re-emerged online. They also lauded Sharon’s loyalty, with one user stating: “The way she loved Ozzy is something not common… She really, REALLY loved her husband.” Another posted: “Ozzy was so blessed to have someone as loving as she was.”

A further fan posted: “Ozzy was the king of metal, but she was the queen. Never attack royalty.” Another comment reads: “GO Sharon. She doesn’t play when it comes to her man.”

And music manager Sharon, 72, expressed her heartbreak at Ozzy’s passing this week. The TV personality, who has been a judge on The X Factor, said in a family statement: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

She married Ozzy in Hawaii, US, in July 1982 and went on to have three children; Jack, Kelly, Aimee, with the music legend. The family’s light-hearted reality TV series, The Osbournes, was a huge hit and ran for three seasons between 2002 and 2005. Ozzy died on Tuesday “surrounded by love” following a battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Netflights travel expert Amanda Parker tackles the viral ‘free upgrade’ flight myth that’s circulating TikTok, offering three alternatives to boosting your luck for freebies

A travel expert has addressed a popular TikTok hack that promises to upgrade your flights for free. With the trend going viral this summer as jetsetters buckle up for a holiday abroad, Brits are desperate to know just how to save their coins whilst maxing out their luck.

One flier has circulated on TikTok, accumulating over 2.5 million views for sharing his means of a free upgrade. He said: “A little charm and confidence go a long way”. Instructing viewers to go to the lengths of buying chocolates at the airport and boarding last, the user suggested fliers charmingly gift the flight attendants upon board for a magical free upgrade.

READ MORE: Least crowded European beach holiday destinations revealed as UK beauty spot makes Top 5

Splitting viewers in two over whether this trick really works or not has led to flying experts at Netflights coming forward to shed light on this gift-theory and whether sweet-talking is worth a shot.

Netflights’ Amanda Parker said: “The travel hack of buying flight attendants a gift, and sweet-talking them when boarding the plane has gone viral. Kindness will always be appreciated by airline staff, so small gestures like snacks or gifts won’t go unnoticed.

One TikTok comment shares, “as ex-cabin crew I can confirm this works”. However, the chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade just by handing over a box of chocolates might be slim”.

She went on, saying: “Free upgrades are usually determined by strict criteria, including frequent flyer status, ticket class, availability, and airline policies, unfortunately, not by last-minute sweet talk as you board the plane!”.

“The gift and sweet-talk hack may work, so it’s worth a try; but, we warn you not to get your hopes up, as these moments are the exception, not the rule! You may just strike lucky if your flight attendant likes chocolate M&M’s!”

As an alternative, Netflight provided their expert tips on how to really up your chances of that sought-after upgrade and ‘freebies’:

Join loyalty programmes

Frequent fliers and loyal customers are most likely to bag the free upgrades so take advantage of all those summer trips by joining an airlines reward scheme. Netflight adds that “even if you don’t fly frequently, some credit cards allow you to earn points that count towards upgrades. Over time, this can significantly boost your chances of an upgrade”.

Travel in off-peak periods

You can boost your luck by traveling in off-peak hours and days. Less popular times mean flights are quieter, therefore there are more Premium seats available – your chances suddenly peaking. Netflight suggests “to avoid flying in school holidays and Friday evenings or weekends” and to opt for “midweek flights at midday” as they are “typically quieter”.

Be polite and have good manners

Seems simple but whilst politeness won’t equal an instant upgrade, they never hurt. Staff should always be treated with respect, no matter whether you’re pinning for that upgrade or not. That being said, Netflight agrees that “being kind can make you stand out, so a small gift like chocolates might be remembered”. Either way, your flight attendants will definitely appreciate it.