visited

FUELLED by a glass of Moet from the 24-hour champagne bar, I sleepily made my way to the resort’s palm-lined beach club, nibbling on a golden chocolate-covered strawberry as I plodded.  

So far, so Dubai . . .  except I am actually in Turkey at the Cullinan Belek hotel. 

Which means, after a short four-hour flight from the UK, I was swept into the kind of luxury you would expect from one of the 5H properties on The Palm Jumeirah — only without the seven-hour journey, or the jet lag.  

Plus, it meant I was feeling fresh enough to go from the plane to the party in minutes. 

Cullinan Belek’s Galapagos beach bar was pumping as masked dancers beckoned in revellers with their flaming torches and a live DJ played Balearic-style beats. 

Its troupe put on two original shows a night – one more family-friendly piece in the main auditorium and a more progressive, late-night number for the adults, like tonight’s, which took its inspiration from Moroccan belly dancers.  

SHOW OFF

The best family-friendly Christmas show? The great British Panto, of course

RIDE ON

I went to the European theme park named the best in the world with 100 attractions

A waiter served me a freshly-shaken, personalised cocktail from his cart, and before long, I was dancing barefoot on the beach.  

Cullinan Belek won the Luxury All-Inclusive Resort gong at the World Travel Awards in 2024, but if I needed further proof of its prestige, I found it back at our Superior Duplex room. 

There’s a pillow menu, top-of-the-range tech to control lights, curtains and air, plus divine Bvlgari toiletries in the two bathrooms.  

But the real treat is the swim-up infinity pool which lapped my second-floor terrace, overlooking the main resort.  

A quick plunge shook off last night’s cocktails and a trip to the hotel’s C’Espace spa beckoned. 

Somehow the hotel’s gym even managed to make sweating feel refined as it is among the best I’ve ever used — yes, it even beats those in Dubai. 

As well as the usual equipment there is a Pilates reformer stand, yoga room, decent set-up for weight-lifters, plus even an indoor and outdoor Hyrox zone for those seeking an on-trend workout.  

And if you’re after something more relaxed, I’m told the Cullinan’s golf course is the best in Belek, which has become known as the heartland for the sport with the hotel offering special packages for enthusiasts.

There are 14 sections to browse for breakfast, ranging from your standard pastries and fry-ups to Indian cuisine, Mexican breakfast burritos and a juice bar.  

Instead, I signed up to play sport-of-the-moment padel — as made popular by the Princess of Wales — and was immediately hooked, as it had all the fun of tennis without as much running.  

That felt like more than enough activity for one day, but it turns out another challenge lay ahead.  

The Mare main restaurant is an epic buffet set-up, larger than any I’ve seen before — yes, even larger than those in Dubai.  

There are 14 sections to browse for breakfast, ranging from your standard pastries and fry-ups to Indian cuisine, Mexican breakfast burritos and a juice bar.  

Variety might be the spice of life, but at that hour of the day, the choice was sometimes overwhelming and the crowds and queues tricky to navigate.  

Away from the throng of the buffet, though, is where the Cullinan Belek really excelled. 

The resort has two Italian restaurants as well Greek, Asian, teppanyaki and a steakhouse plus a number of snack bistros, a patisserie and an in-house chocolatier. So I got to work.  

In the evening, some of these carry an additional charge on top of the all-inclusive package but each time it felt worth it. 

Great value 

I particularly enjoyed the beef in hot sauce from Nori Asian, which, for an extra €25 per person, allows you to dine to the sounds of live music as you sit among the petal design of the Azure pool.  

Meanwhile The Beef Grill puts its succulent steaks at the centre of the action, with the cuts displayed in a huge chiller spanning the length of the restaurant, and an open kitchen grill.  

The real jewel in the hotel’s crown, however, is the huge water park which offers an oasis for families, alongside a football pitch, splash pool and tons of beach games…

The €55-per-person surcharge felt great value when the signature starters of Meat Sushi and Onion Blossom were prepared at our table by an intrepid server with a blow torch.  

The real jewel in the hotel’s crown, however, is the huge water park which offers an oasis for families, alongside a football pitch, splash pool and tons of beach games as well as indoor bowling alley and games consoles. 

The offering for children is impressive — but all the more so because these facilities somehow nestle unobtrusively alongside the chic, laidback aspects, just like at the super hotels in Dubai. 

Which was ideal for me, lazing by the adults-only pool as I awaited my next cocktail from the roller-skating waitress. 

If Cullinan Belek is a Dubai dupe, then honestly, who needs the real thing? 

PLODDING down the steep cobbled ramp, I was already starting to believe that I was stepping into a fairytale.

The boat, bobbing on the water, was the start of my journey to another world.

And, as I drew closer to my destination — a small, mist-shrouded island that was the inspiration for Neverland in JM Barrie’s Peter Pan stories — the storybook setting felt even more real.

Eilean Shona is a rugged tidal island in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides.

“Hidden gem” is an apt description of the place, with visitors having to drive down a long and winding road on the mainland before they even reach the boat taxi that will ferry them to the island.

Boats aren’t on a regular schedule either — the island, and its manor house, Eilean Shona House, is privately owned by Sir Richard Branson’s sister Vanessa, who transformed the destination into a luxury eco-friendly retreat in the 1990s.

BLUE SKYE THINKING

Explore the scenic wonderland of the Hebrides on a personalised cruise

PEX APPEAL

Escape the crowds and take a dip in basement pool of Edinburgh’s Apex Hotel

I really did feel like Wendy when I spotted Neverland for the first time, hidden beneath the clouds.

Just like JM Barrie’s mythical land, the island is covered in thick green woodland.

But this is far from your typical island retreat. Don’t expect speedy wifi, shops and roads, because Eilean Shona is completely car-free, has no shops and only nine people live here.

Instead, you can expect whimsical walks, white sand beaches and a cosy Scottish atmosphere.

The best way to get your bearings is with a refreshing walk to the summit of the island, 265 metres above sea level, which boasts spectacular views over Loch Moidart and the small isles of Rum and Eigg, as well as the Isle of Skye.

You can reward your hiking efforts with a slurp of vodka, because while whisky is the spirit more typically associated with Scotland, this island is where the premium spirits brand Sapling began.

Sat on a bench near the water’s edge in 2018, the brand’s founders, Ed Faulkner and Ivo Devereux, came up with the idea for a climate-positive spirit.

Sapling vodka and gin was formed — spirits that didn’t mess with the environment. In fact the firm gives back to it, by planting a tree each time a bottle is sold.

It was the perfect tipple to accompany me as I sat back and took in the calm of the starlit sky overhead, after retreating back to the manor house where I was staying.

Roaring fireplaces

There are a number of smaller cabins and cottages for those who are travelling solo or in a smaller group, but the manor house offers a more grand experience.

It’s a bit like a miniature version of The Traitors castle, with roaring fireplaces, ornate bathtubs, high ceilings and a grand staircase.

The 19th-century property was originally owned by Captain Swinburne, a Royal Navy seafarer, and it started out as a hunting lodge.

Swinburne went on to develop a great love for the pine trees that he saw on his travels and ended up transforming the landscape of Eilean Shona into one of the most diverse pine collections in Europe.

However these spectacular trees are only part of what makes the island’s surrounding so breathtaking.

My mornings consisted of refreshing plunges off the manor’s pontoon into chilly water, followed by dashes into the sauna afterwards.

You can follow it up with a hike or kayaking, or head to the other end of the island to see a gorgeous beach, which is like nowhere else in the UK, where soft, sugar-like sand meets serenely calm waters.

Eilean Shona House is the island’s main accommodation, sleeping up to 18 people, with a dining room that can host up to 20.

There is a library as well, with a full-sized billiards table, dartboard and a large collection of board games, while in the drawing room sits a grand piano, a cosy seated alcove and views of the loch.

The house can be booked either self-catering or fully catered, with a minimum stay of three nights.

Other options include the Shepherd’s Cottage, which sleeps two people, and the Old Schoolhouse, which sleeps four.

On Eilean Shona I could exchange the real world for Captain Hook’s imaginary version — and for a short time, I didn’t need to worry about growing up.

After travelling to nine Spanish cities over several years, two stole my heart with their ancient culture, stunning architecture and unique atmosphere – and you can explore them both by train

Over the years, Spain has become one of my favourite places to visit. Mallorca was the first foreign place I visited as a young adult in the 1990s – and I’ve returned there numerous times since. Mallorca’s capital city, Palma is a splendid destination for a winter break, but there are two lesser-known Spanish cities that have truly left an impression on me.

In total, I’ve journeyed to nine Spanish cities over several years, each one special and distinct in its own way. From inland Madrid to vibrant Seville or the coastal southern province of Cádiz, every location has been memorable and unique, reports the Express.

I’ve visited Barcelona a couple of times, even spending several months there once, and while it’s a fantastic city, it was two other Spanish cities that truly captured my heart. The first city that enchanted me is described by Lonely Planet as “truly one of Spain’s most magnificent cities” – and I wholeheartedly agree. It’s an ancient city not far from Madrid named Toledo.

I visited this historic place alone several years ago, outside of the busy season, so there were hardly any tourists. However, like many other places, Toledo can sometimes draw too many visitors these days.

This atmospheric place is an old walled city with a haunting aura of past lives; you can almost feel the layers of history that have unfolded in Toledo. This ancient city is perched on a hill, encircled by the Tagus River (El Rio Tajo in Spanish).

When I stepped off the train from Madrid, the sight of Toledo genuinely took my breath away – at first glance I mistook the river for a moat, though I’ve since learnt that it winds naturally around the hill upon which this city sits. Lonely Planet noted that Toledo “was known as the ‘city of three cultures’ in the Middle Ages” where “Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities peacefully coexisted”.

Yet even today, it’s that sense of diverse culture that feels compelling and somehow magical, as if it’s been absorbed into the walls of the ancient buildings here. There are mosques, synagogues and one of Spain’s “finest Gothic cathedrals” within this city.

Historically, Toledo is said to have been named by the Romans before later becoming an Arabic fortress. The old town area is brimming with history, featuring sights such as the “Puerta de Valmardon” – the oldest city gate within the walls.

The most ancient monument still standing in Toledo is believed to be the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, constructed in the year 999, though throughout this sprawling city, you’ll discover so much of interest spanning numerous eras.

Now onto my next most memorable Spanish city, perhaps even less well-known than Toledo – and you can actually catch a train from Toledo to get to this next beautiful destination: Córdoba. I’ve explored much of Spain via rail journeys – and I’d thoroughly recommend it.

You get to see so much of the countryside when you travel by train abroad. The Spanish city of Córdoba, nestled in the Andalusia province in the south of Spain, is a city I had the pleasure of visiting a few years ago – and it’s another very memorable place.

After spending two days in Seville, having initially flown into Malaga, Córdoba was less than an hour’s train ride away from Seville – and what a captivating place it turned out to be.

Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, which flows from Seville to Cádiz, Córdoba is brimming with nature and wildlife. The Sierra Morena Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to Córdoba.

I visited Córdoba in October when it was still quite hot, with daytime temperatures reaching 40C. While I would recommend visiting at a cooler time of year, the city was incredibly atmospheric.

Known as the ‘city of flowers’, Córdoba is adorned with floral decorations in its streets, on monuments and balconies. One particularly vibrant street is the Calleja de las Flores.

One of the city’s most awe-inspiring features is the Roman Bridge of Córdoba. Featured in series 5 of Game of Thrones as the “Long Bridge of Volantis”, it offers exceptional views and tranquil riverside walks.

The city itself is bustling, and at its heart lies the Mezquita Cathedral de Córdoba. This unique mosque-cathedral is an incredible structure that was once under Moorish rule centuries ago before being converted into a Catholic cathedral.

Córdoba, set amidst ancient surroundings, exudes a lively atmosphere. Every glance reveals something intriguing, from the whitewashed or vibrantly coloured homes to the unspoilt cobbled streets.

It’s an unforgettable destination, offering a blend of culture and delectable cuisine, such as the Córdoban Salmorejo soup – a delightful concoction of garlic, tomato and olive oil, even served at breakfast.

My journey through this city was part of a larger adventure that included visits to Malaga, Seville, Córdoba and the coastal city of Cádiz. Each of these places had its own unique charm.

Fringed by the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no surprise that Cádiz is renowned for its fried seafood selection – incredibly fresh and delicious.

The city’s central market (Mercado Central) is a treasure trove of stalls including local fish and irresistibly sweet churros. The market has a truly local feel; while tourists do visit, they’re not as prevalent as in other Spanish seaside locations.

In this city, which gazes out across the ocean towards Morocco and beyond, the daily and frequent tolling of bells from the Cádiz Cathedral adds to the continental ambiance.

A stroll along the coast here is simply beautiful, with sandy beaches lining the way. Although the sea was rough during my October visit, preventing me from swimming, the water temperature remained pleasantly warm.

Touring the cities of Andalusia was a fantastic way to experience this region of Spain and it’s something I’d certainly do again. In my view, it’s incredibly rewarding to see several different places in one exploratory holiday.

There’s another city worth mentioning at the opposite end of the country in north-eastern Spain, which I visited on a separate occasion – Girona.

Girona is less than an hour by train from Barcelona. I made the journey there from the beach resort of Lloret de Mar while on holiday – it’s another captivating city with a remarkable old town.

While in Girona’s old town, I explored the Passeig de la Muralla, which has numerous steps leading to high points offering stunning views of the surrounding province. Although this city is inland, there are several beach areas just a short drive or train ride away.

Girona is a blend of ancient structures and vibrant new buildings. Spain’s official tourism website describes this city as being “of Roman origin with medieval, Romanesque, Gothic and modernist architecture”.

This city also served as another Spanish filming location for Game of Thrones.

This year’s edition of a famous Christmas market has been the target of criticism, mainly for overlooking one important thing.

Forget London or Manchester — according to expert testing platform Which?, the best Christmas market in Britain is the one in Bath.

The historic city was voted Which? Readers’ favourite medium-sized city, and is renowned for hosting one of the UK’s biggest and most established Christmas markets every year, with over 200 stalls.

Which? praised the Bath Christmas Market for its reputation for offering good food, drink, and festive activities.

Visitors can browse everything from handmade wooden furniture and garden sculptures to knitwear, fragrances, and gifts for pets, while also sampling regional delicacies such as foraged jams and seasonal baked treats.

However, despite its accolades and picturesque setting, the market does not appear to please everyone. In a recent Mail on Sunday feature analysing UK Christmas markets, Bath was rated only “OK” for a weekday visit.

According to Jane Fryer’s feature, although the market was not as overcrowded as previous visitors had complained, it fell short of expectations in one key area: the lack of Christmas spirit. This included music, limited lighting, or the absence of traditional seasonal touches, such as Santa or entertainers.

She noted that many stalls sold everyday market items, such as bags, coats, and T-shirts, rather than the expected festive goods and crafts. While the occasional stall offering local arts and foods was “charming,” the overall impression was that the place felt much less Christmas-ready than it should.

She also highlighted a broader trend among visitors nationwide, noting complaints about high prices, repetitive stalls, and overcrowding at many festive markets.

Fryer reported a mix of reactions from Bath’s visitors. Some had travelled specifically to see the market and were delighted by the traditional mulled wine, local foods, and the town’s scenic backdrop. Others, however, expressed disappointment, describing the experience as “not very Christmassy” due to the lack of music or entertainment.

Across social media and travel review platforms, Bath has been widely labelled underwhelming this year — not only because of logistical or layout issues but, primarily, due to a perceived lack of festive atmosphere.

Elsewhere in her piece, Fryer praised other seasonal markets she visited, particularly those with strong visual theming, live entertainment, and an overall more festive ambience, highlighting how these elements can significantly enhance the visitor experience.

Amsterdam’s iconic Christmas market serves glühwein, raclette and festive treats just one hour from the UK – it needs to be on your radar this winter.

There’s only so much time to soak up the Christmas spirit before the big day, and despite work and life becoming more hectic than usual, I managed to swap the hustle and bustle of London for Amsterdam. It was my first trip back to the Dutch capital in a decade, with my arrival coinciding with the start of one of the city’s most iconic Christmas markets, reports the Express.

Christmas markets in the UK can be hit or miss, and I must admit, the ones I’ve visited over the years have never quite matched those on the continent. The first time I realised our markets didn’t measure up was just a few years ago when I visited Vienna, which can only be described as Christmas on steroids.

The largest Christmas market in Amsterdam springs up in the shadow of the Rijksmuseum on Museumplein, where you can blend the festive spirit with a visit to some of the city’s most renowned museums and galleries.

We arrived on its opening day, and even though we visited in the evening, we managed to dodge the wall-to-wall crowds. This was something I never experienced in Vienna, and on this occasion, I was extremely grateful for it.

Entry to the market is free, but you’ll have to fork out €16 for the joy of skating on its ice rink. Much like other European markets, Amsterdam’s was adorned with wooden chalets offering everything from knick-knacks to treats, piping hot cups of glühwein and food from all around the world.

There was even a cabin flying the Union Jack selling fudge. Who would have thought that British fudge was such a hit overseas?

No visit to a Christmas market would be complete without trying some of the local specialities. A Dutch wurst is a robust cured pork sausage typically served with stamppot, a blend of mashed potatoes and kale. However, it seemed we had arrived too late. No wursts for us.

So we settled for the next best thing: barbeque jumbo sausages served on toasted slices of bread with pickled onions and gherkins, topped with crispy onions and mayo. This isn’t your average sausage sandwich. Trying to tackle every bite is a mouthful, overflowing with chunks of smoky sausage and crumbly onions.

It was evidently a popular choice, with crowds gathering around the open flame grill right in the heart of the action, with sausages sizzling and emitting a tantalising aroma. A barbeque might not be what you expect in the depths of winter, but blimey, was it needed.

Sadly, the warmth emanating from the grill wasn’t enough to heat our bones while we waited, so two cups of glühwein were called for. Glühwein is traditional German mulled wine, delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise.

I’m not entirely certain what the secret is, but somehow the Germans manage to perfectly balance the red wine and spices in a way that all the mulled wine I’ve sampled at UK Christmas markets always seem far too acidic. Glühwein is the ideal beverage to warm you to your core, particularly in a freezing city in December, even if the city is renowned for its beer.

When our sausages finally turned up, they were heaped with pickled onions and gherkins. Much like a Scandi open sandwich, it was bursting with diverse flavours, so unlike any festive fare you’d find back home.

You received an entire jumbo sausage on one slice of bread, quartered to actually fit into your mouth. The smoky pork was wonderfully offset by the sharp tang from the pickles, with a different texture provided by crispy onions. This isn’t your typical Christmas market grub, but it was delightful to sample some local specialities.

However, no Christmas is complete without a generous helping of cheese. A classic choice at European Christmas markets is bubbling, ooey, gooey raclette.

We opted for the traditional pairing of raclette and potatoes. What could be more perfect? The humble new potato smothered in smoky melted cheese.

The cheesy spuds were served with some more crispy onions and a fresh coleslaw. Now this is what Christmas is truly about. I would devour a bucketful of raclette if they’d offered one.

Sausages, glühwein and raclette: the holy trinity of Christmas market food.

Even though it was late at night and the crowds were thinning, there was still a buzz among the youngsters and families huddled around the electric heaters trying to stay warm, sipping from steaming cups, welcoming the festive season. Compared to Vienna, Amsterdam’s markets offer a more tranquil start to the Christmas season.

Is this the best Christmas market I’ve ever visited? Probably not, but I’m always fascinated to see how other countries embrace the festive season.

Amsterdam is one of those cities where you can spend hours just wandering around, and we certainly did plenty of that. You can meander from spot to spot with ease, particularly if navigating foreign public transport baffles you. That being said, Amsterdam’s public transport runs like clockwork.

From the moment you step out of Amsterdam Centraal, you can sense the Christmas spirit in the air. I returned to the city for the first time in ten years, and up until this point, I hadn’t felt all that festive.

Amsterdam served as a stepping stone into Christmas for me before I head back to Vienna again for round two of Christmas on steroids. If there’s anywhere you should flee to in December, it’s Amsterdam. It’s only a train journey away.

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A Christmas market in a seaside city features unique gifts, delicious food stalls and live music with traders from across the UK and Ireland. It’s a great place to find presents

A festive market is buzzing just a short stroll from where I am. I’ve already made a few visits to this Christmas spectacle and the atmosphere is truly enchanting. There’s an extensive array of stocking fillers, unique clothing at fantastic prices, and a delicious assortment of food and drink.

The city of Plymouth is aglow with twinkling lights and brimming with festive cheer. Live music fills the Piazza, featuring Christmas carols as well as rock, pop, soul and more — and traders have travelled from all corners to showcase their specialities here this December.

Market vendors have expressed their love for the “vibrant” locale, with many sellers making their first trip to the coastal city. Having frequented the Plymouth Christmas Market for a decade, I can confidently say that this December, it’s radiating a particularly sparkling energy.

Nestled between the breathtaking scenery of Dartmoor National Park, which also offers a stunning winter backdrop, and the beautiful county of Cornwall to its west, Plymouth is ideally situated, reports the Express.

Local traders Adam and Nicola Webb, who run Nicky’s Glow Beads & Gifts in the nearby Cornish town of Saltash, have set up a fantastic stall at this year’s Plymouth Christmas Market, offering top-quality Italian jumpers for sale.

I snagged a cosy red jumper for £18 from this market stall, and I’m smitten with it. But it’s not just about jumpers in every colour of the rainbow, they also offer glow bead bracelets — a charming gift that comes in various hues and glows in the dark.

Sparkling festive brooches are up for grabs at this stall for a mere £5, along with some rather unique and appealing aroma diffusers. I reckon most shoppers could unearth a thrilling gift here.

The business has been flourishing since 2014 under the care of the husband-and-wife team of Adam and Nicky, who claim that quitting their jobs to start the venture was the “best thing” they’ve ever done.

Adam and Nicky craft all the beadware, including the glow bracelets, and also peddle clothing, accessories and gifts. I’ll certainly be making a return visit to this stall before the market wraps up on December 21.

But the next stall I dropped by was equally enchanting — and the gin on offer really caught my eye. Stall holder Hamish Thoburn of Garden Libations, a Plymouth first-timer, described the city as “very vibrant” and said he’d met “lots of lovely people” at the Christmas market while trading.

He journeyed down from Wales to sell his distinctive beverages. Speaking about his gin, Hamish revealed: “Stinging nettle gin is our biggest seller, a little tart at the beginning and it goes well with sparkling water, a slice of lime and a sprig of mint to make a nettle mojito.”

Naturally, I had to sample the nettle gin. It was remarkable and unique — it would make a fantastic gift, making this stall a must-visit.

Also trading at Plymouth’s festive market for the first time is Karl Toyne, who journeyed down from Lincolnshire. His business, Aunt Annie’s Fudge, has been around since 1966, offering intriguing flavours like lemon meringue, banana swirl and Ferrero Rocher — and it’s “award winning”.

Karl revealed: “I like the city, I’ve never been this far south before, it’s my first time ever in Plymouth and it’s a nice place. I’ve been running this family business for 15 years, but Aunt Annie’s Fudge has been going for a long time.”

I also had a chat with Damien Morgan from Tam Events. He travelled from Ireland to serve hungry customers delicious bratwurst, adding a continental flair to the Christmas market.

Damien shared: “I’ve been doing this since I was 18 years old. I’m now 33, travelling around the UK doing the markets and doing these Christmas markets.

“This is our first year in Plymouth, the crowds here are exciting, we’ve seen good reviews on it and the people are just lovely — it’s a lovely seaside city too, very beautiful.”

Local lady Mary Freeman has been a trader at Plymouth Christmas Market for 12 years. Her business, M & N Freemans, serves up a scrumptious festive feast encased in a massive Yorkshire pudding, which I’ve sampled and can attest that it’s utterly heavenly, plus it’s very Christmassy.

Mary shared why she loves to trade here: “I’m local, I was born and bred in Plymouth, every year we come in and get a unit, it’s my hometown. I love the atmosphere, especially when it’s lively. This year, there’s a lot of new traders, different food and different things, so hopefully it’s the busiest yet.”

Plymouth Christmas Market is on for several more days, with the final day being Sunday, December 21, when the Armed Forces Choir from Theatre Royal Plymouth will perform from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.

If you pop by, don’t forget to check out the Snow Globe, surrounded by “swirling snow and sparkling lights”. It’s an absolutely perfect spot to snap a festive photo with your family or mates.

Malta was a British colony from 1814 to 1964. Sam Teesdale went to check out a small island state has kept itself closely aligned to the UK since its independence

Malta is a country with long and proud ties to the UK. A British colony from 1814 to 1964, the small island state has kept itself closely aligned to the UK since its independence. There are many similarities, socially, politically, and physically, between the UK and Malta, and it’s no wonder so many Brits take their holidays there.

Easyjet crowned Malta as 2025’s most coveted alternate holiday destination, and with flights from the UK at just £20 and a flight time of just over three hours, it’s no wonder it ranks so highly. So what similarities and home comforts can Brits find on the tiny island nation?

Driving on the left

In the cab from the airport, I was surprised to see cars with the steering wheel on the right-hand side of the car. Maltese roads are driven on the left, just like the UK, which will help make any nervous British drivers feel a lot more at ease.

Many of the roads are narrow and crowded. Maltese drivers are not particularly known for their politeness on the roads, unlike British drivers, so the familiarity certainly helps. They tend to drive in a more Mediterranean/ island style, so quick thinking and adaptable driving skills are needed when navigating busy roads.

Zebra and Pelican crossings

I also noticed that Malta has the same zebra crossings as we have in the UK, featuring black and white stripes, a designated crossing area, and flashing yellow Belisha beacons that sit atop poles. It was also interesting to see that Pelican crossings in Malta have the same text and push/wait buttons as those in the UK.

UK brands

I was also struck by the abundance of British brands on the island, such as Marks and Spencer, Costa Coffee, Iceland and Spar. It was a humbling sight to see frozen Greggs Steak Bakes in the local Iceland, but it quickly made me feel right at home from the get-go.

Plug sockets

All plug sockets in the hotel I stayed at, the Ax Odycy, were those of the famously three-pronged sockets that we have in the UK. This was a welcome change, as gone was the need to shell out on an overpriced EU adapter in duty-free.

So, British travellers will be relieved to know that each of their plugs is completely compatible with Maltese power sockets.

Legal and educational system

Malta has a parliamentary system similar to Britain, and the Maltese educational system features a two-year sixth form and A-levels, in preparation for university.

The language

English is one of the two official languages, with Maltese being the other. It’s a common sight to spy street signs and information presented in both English and Maltese – a helpful tool for any lost tourists trying to find their way back to their villa.

Journalist Liv Clarke visited a joyful Christmas market in a UK town which she says matches any European-style winter wonderland – and has ‘the best’ hot chocolate

Christmas Markets have been bustling for several weeks now and journalist Liv Clarke says she’s “certainly no Grinch” when they pop up, adding that she “relishes” them. Based in Manchester, Liv took a train to an exceptional festive wonderland recently – and she was left enchanted with the “different” kind of Christmas market.

Liv said she loves to “uncover something new each year” at Christmas markets and found herself “whizzing over to Yorkshire on the train on a frosty November morning”, to see how they celebrate Christmas across the border. Heading to Halifax, which hosts an annual Christmas Market each year in the grand Piece Hall, Liv, being a “proud Yorkshire lass” herself, was more than happy to head to the West Yorkshire town.

She said that “getting to these markets couldn’t be simpler” via a pretty train journey – and Liv described the “stunning Grade-I Georgian building” of the the Piece Hall which “boasts a massive 66,000sq ft open-courtyard” as being truly memorable.

She said: “I hopped on the train from Manchester Victoria to Halifax, which takes around 40 minutes, and the Piece Hall is roughly a five-minute stroll from the train station. My ticket set me back £12.59 for an open return which I booked on Trainline the day before, including Railcard discount.”

This works out just over £6 each way, she added, having booked ahead of travelling, which means you can sometimes find one-way tickets at low cost, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Liv said: “The train journey itself was picturesque, especially with a heavy frost adding a sparkle to the rugged landscape of the South Pennines. I passed through Rochdale, Todmoden and Hebden Bridge along the way, admiring the canals and mills which looked particularly striking in the bright sunshine.

“Upon my arrival in Halifax, it was a mere short stroll to the Piece Hall, tucked away from the main thoroughfare. Entry is through one of four gates situated on each side of the square, and there’s something rather grand about stepping through the archway.

“The gate I chose boasted an exquisitely ornate design, adding to the enchantment of the experience. It was still early when I arrived, with many stallholders preparing for the day ahead, but I was already taken with the layout; compared to Manchester, it was refreshing to see the markets here confined to one area, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the main high street.”

While waiting for the markets to fully open, Liv took the opportunity to explore the Piece Hall itself, describing “dozens of shops” lining all four sides of the square.

She said: “Given its location on a slight incline, there are varying levels depending on which side you’re on, yet each open-air walkway affords stunning views of the square below.

“On the ground floor, you’ll discover a plethora of cafes and restaurants, many of which stay open late into the evening. I treated myself to a hot chocolate from The Bakery (£3.95), which ranks among the best I’ve ever tasted: rich, chocolatey and perfectly sweetened.”

The Piece Hall is home to shops selling a wide array of items, from handmade gifts to antiques – and while these independent shops operate year-round, “the markets provide a significant boost, with many market traders even supplying the permanent shops”, Liv reported.

Shelly Foster, who runs The Handmade Gift Shop, shared her recommendation for the best time to visit, telling Liv: “The markets are always full of joy, the best time is around 4.30pm, just before sunset when everything is glowing. The markets are open until 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays but the bars and restaurants stay open much later, often with live music creating a lovely atmosphere.”

Lou Harkness-Hudson, who operates Hudson Belle, a shop selling gifts and homeware, said: “It’s just the most unique, unusual place to come, it’s a fantastic building, an excellent community. The markets are a crucial time for us and really boost footfall, it doesn’t get any busier than this. They bring people here to shop and have a nice day out.”

Liv continued to explore, adding: “Back at ground level, the markets were open and shoppers started to wander around as the morning sun began to thaw us all out. There was a fantastic selection of stalls, with many naturally selling products from Yorkshire.

“From rum to cheese to chilli oil – if you can name it, they sell it. Then there were stalls selling hats, gloves and scarves, which I imagine were in high demand during my chilly visit, along with several traders offering the most beautiful decorations and trinkets you could imagine.

“Adding to the enchantment was a merry-go-round and a large Ferris wheel, although it was spinning a bit too quickly for my taste. Given that it was a swinging-seat style wheel, I opted to sit this one out. Nonetheless, it was pleasant to observe.”

In one corner of the square, a towering Christmas tree stood majestically, with a massive ‘Christmas’ sign displayed against the balustrades of the Piece Hall’s second floor behind it, creating an idyllic scene. Liv described.

Liv added: “It’s the setting of the Piece Hall that makes this place special – it genuinely feels like you’re in a European city, rather than in the north of England.

“Naturally, there are far fewer food stalls here than in Manchester, which I found quite appealing. No overwhelming choices here; instead, I easily settled on my early lunch: a Yorkshire Bratwurst from The Sausage Box.

“This was crafted with a locally sourced pork Bratwurst from ‘Lishman’s of Ilkley’, served in a brioche bun with sauerkraut, pickles, crispy onions, ketchup and mustard, all for £9. It was a sight to behold and almost seemed too good to be true.”

Upon taking a bite, Liv said it “lived up to its looks”. She described the sausage as “succulent with a hint of smokiness, the toppings combined to create a flavour explosion, and it was surprisingly easy to eat – no stringy bits of meat or tough bread causing a mess”.

Liv added: “It felt much more thrilling than the Bratwurst stalls we have here in Manchester.”

“Naturally, there’s a stall selling Yorkshire pudding wraps if that tickles your fancy. As a proud Yorkshire lass myself, I wouldn’t dare to sample a pudding made by anyone other than my own mum while in God’s Own County, so I gave that one a miss.

“Other stalls were serving up Indian street food and Paella, while the surrounding eateries included an Italian restaurant and a wine bar that looked rather inviting. After my Bratwurst, I fancied something sweet, so I made a beeline for the churros stall.

“I must confess, it took three attempts to get my hands on some churros, as twice I was informed that the machine was, quite literally, frozen. But as they say, third time’s the charm, and I finally secured my paper cup of golden churros, dusted with crunchy cinnamon sugar and sitting in a pool of chocolate sauce.”

The churros cost £8, with the sauce costing an extra £1, which “seemed reasonable given the generous portion size” which Liv “couldn’t even finish”.

She added: “While I’m not usually one for sweets, even I found these delightful, with the texture being spot-on and just the right amount of chewiness. The sauce was scrumptious and tasted like genuine chocolate rather than a synthetic substitute.”

Summing up the festive experience, Liv said that “everything about the markets was a joy: the location, the people, and the food” – and if she visits again she may even brave a spin on the Ferris wheel, but she’s “making no promises”.

Father Christmas has found a new way to soar above the rooftops, with the London Eye launching its Santa in the Sky experience which is full of dramatic twists and turns

The London Eye fell victim to an April Fool’s earlier this year when it was claimed that it was to be dismantled and shipped to Scotland.

Originally called the Millennium Wheel, the 135 metre tall observation structure is still very much in place and currently holds the title of the UK’s most popular tourist attraction with more than 3million visitors a year.

It is the focal point for London’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks and has played host to thousands of marriage proposals since it opened its pods in 2000.

The revolving pods give visitors a birds-eye view across London and its historic monuments from the towering Shard to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Hyde Park and Nelson’s Column.

And this year, there is something new to see. Father Christmas has traded his sleigh for the big wheel, setting up shop to meet visitors young and old.

The unique Santa in the Sky experience sees guests depart for the North Pole from the VIP lounge, where they are met by the affable elf, Crumbly Bakewell.

Kids first visit Mrs Clause, who helps them write and post a letter to her husband before making them promise not to leave him any gingerbread on account of his seasonal weight gain.

After a highly entertaining performance of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer that kids and adults will both love, it’s on to the wheel.

The middle bench in the Santa pod has been removed and replaced with a cosy fireplace and reading nook, along with a comfy chair for the man himself.

The experience is interactive from the start. While ascending, kids are asked to help Santa and Crumbly Bakewell build a map by spotting some of the key landmarks across the skyline.

Then they draw their preferred gift on a picture that Santa signs, before he reads T’was the Night Before Christmas to his rapt audience. But the smartest part that floored my four year old was when Santa whipped out the letter that he’d previously written on the ground.

After that, children receive a present, which in our case was a generously sized lego set. Back on solid ground, it was time to say a regretful goodbye to Crumbly Bakewell, my son was bereft!

His verdict would be a solid 10, and I found it to be one of the most authentic and entertaining Santa experiences out there and we will definitely be back.

Tickets are available until Christmas Eve and start at £79 for an adult and child. For more information, visit the London Eye website.

Legoland in Windsor, Berkshire, has been transformed into an immersive Christmas experience, launching its very own Winter Wonderland complete with snow-covered trees and Father Christmas

As a child of the eighties, a Christmas treat was a trip to a questionable Santa’s grotto where fake Barbie dolls were the default gift. But these days, Christmas experiences are in bountiful supply – from light shows, and breakfasts with Santa to ice rinks, ice bars and Christmas markets.

The Santas in the grotto have upped their game and expectations are high when it comes to sharing the magic of Christmas. So which experience to choose? My son is four and Lego is currently his sun and moon so Legoland’s Winter Wonderland seemed like a safe bet.

This winter, the theme park in Windsor has been transformed into an immersive Christmas experience, with twinkly lights, a giant Duplo Christmas tree and a sprawling Christmas Kingdom. We did the Meet Father Christmas experience, which saw elves guide us from Legoland through a mysterious corridor to a snow-covered North Pole.

After navigating through a maze of snow-topped fir trees, we arrived at Santa’s hidden cabin where my son suddenly got stage fright and was too shy to talk. But Father Christmas was lovely and made jokes about my husband’s past on the naughty list. The gift was an impressive Legoland dragon soft toy that he’s slept with ever since.

The Lego City Deep Sea Dive Adventure was also a massive hit, with a submarine taking young explorers through an underwater world filled with stingrays and sharks. He got his first taste of life on the road at the Lego City Driving School and discovered a love for the faster rollercoasters such as Merlin’s Challenge and The Dragon which takes you through the castle before plunging through the treetops.

There are also loads of shows to choose from including the Elf Training Academy show, the Festival of Flurries and Nutcracker’s Marching Band. And for certain dates over Christmas and New Year, dogs are welcome too!

Dark fell just after 3.30pm and we stayed until close. Enjoying the rides under the moonlight was a magical and memorable experience.

The Winter Wonderland runs until January 4 with tickets from £32 per person at https://www.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/legoland-at-christmas. Dogs are permitted entry on December 14, 21 and 28 with a meet Father Christmas upgrade available from 5pm.

Meanwhile, LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany has recently unveiled plans for a new theme park land based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter books, and fans will even be able to enjoy an overnight wizarding experience with themed accommodation.

Details of the brand new attraction are currently being kept strictly under wraps, with the park confirming it’ll be announcing further information in the next 12 months.

In a statement, Peter van Roden, EVP of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, said: “We are always looking for new ways for the millions of Harry Potter fans around the world to extend the magic and further connect with the iconic films. This new destination will allow fans to step into in the familiar LEGO Harry Potter aesthetic they have been constructing for years and physically experience the wizarding world like never before.”

While there are already Harry Potter-themed lands at some Universal resorts, as well as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where fans can see where the movie was filmed, this is the first Wizarding World attraction for Lego.

And while many places, such as private rentals, offer unofficial wizard-themed accommodation based on the franchise, the park will offer the first official themed accommodation.

Switzerland’s largest city is often overlooked by tourists, but its Christmas markets offer unique food experiences including wasabi cheese and fondue served on a train

As Christmas approaches, many flock to Colmar in France for its enchanting half-timbered houses or Lapland in Scandinavia for guaranteed snow and Santa sightings. However, this year I decided to break away from the norm and kick-start the festive season with a hidden treasure.

From bracing dips in the river dressed as Father Christmas to sampling unfamiliar cuisine, this city offers a unique Christmas experience like no other.

This became evident as soon as I landed in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. Often overlooked due to its reputation as a financial hub rather than an Instagram hotspot, it’s frequently dismissed as merely a gateway to the country, a place to rush through on the way to the breathtaking alpine landscapes elsewhere. But that would be doing it a disservice.

Dig a little deeper, look past the clichés, and you’ll uncover one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets – Zurich is just as vibrant at Christmas as any ski resort. The Weinachtsdorf Christmas market, situated in a city centre square near the lake shore, is a perfect example.

Switzerland may be famed for its world-beating cheese, but have you ever tried a variety that’s greener than your yuletide tree?

My palate was sent into raptures after tasting the wasabi-flavoured cheese at one particular stall, which caught the eye in a striking pistachio green hue. Alongside it sat “tricolore” cheese, spiced with paprika, chilli and carrot atop a goat cheese foundation, plus a black lemon version enhanced with charcoal (reminiscent of a Limoncello-infused Lindt chocolate bar, yet as dark as coals on a crackling festive hearth).

The range was so impressive that other typically “exotic” flavours, such as truffle, jalapeno and pesto, appeared almost commonplace by comparison.

The lively Christmas spirit was already in full flow. Salmon sizzled over open fires in preparation for lunch, fondue pots bubbled enthusiastically and vendors beamed warmly whilst seeking out customers.

The star attraction for those seeking refuge from the chill is a substantial fondue chalet, its interior wonderfully cheese-scented, leaving little doubt about the delectable fare on offer. Meanwhile, whilst everyone adores the classic Christmas favourites like mince pies and marzipan (and in Switzerland’s case, raclette and fondue), it’s equally simple to avoid predictability through an extensive selection of international food stalls, offering everything from Chinese dim sum to Mexican tortillas and Indian street food, each presenting their own distinctive festive twist.

The German bratwurst – a beloved sausage snack – is a must-try here, but I also came across a rather unexpected festive pudding that’s traditional in Switzerland: chestnut purée cheesecake. The artistic rendition is designed so that each portion resembles a snow-capped mountain peak.

After refilling my glass with cinnamon-infused gluhwein (mulled wine) followed by spiced apple punch, I wandered further through the market and quickly happened upon a delightful pick-and-mix stand advertising “old fashioned British fudges”. Flavours ranged from bubblegum to honey and pistachio, whilst neighbouring chocolate vendors left me utterly spoilt for choice with varieties including coffee, Irish cream, pink gin and cherry.

Whilst the market’s European-crafted presents carry hefty price tags, the food offerings are considerably more affordable, and sampling these culinary delights is an experience well worth having. Following a few hours meandering through the market, I headed to the locally celebrated Café Conditorei 1842, renowned for its legendary postcard-perfect interior, where I indulged in hot chocolate and cake.

Later, as dusk descended, I made my way towards the city’s celebrated shopping boulevard, the Bahnhofstrasse, joining the throngs of spectators gathered to witness the Christmas illuminations being switched on. Signalling the official start of the festive period, these lights are nicknamed Lucy, a moniker drawn from the Beatles’ classic ‘Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds’.

My scarf, adorned with twinkling stars against a midnight blue backdrop, mirrored the Lucy lights and shielded my ears from the biting wind when pulled over my head. While Audrey Hepburn may not have had to contend with freezing temperatures as she donned a headscarf in a vintage car along the European coast, my Swiss setting offered a festive touch with snowflakes….

After enjoying the city’s renowned Singing Christmas Tree, featuring Santa hat-clad choir members belting out tunes from Cher to the Backstreet Boys, it was time for supper. Zurich boasts an array of fantastic dining options – the festively decorated ceiling of Coco Grill and Bar deserves a special nod – but that evening, there was no doubt about my destination: the famed Fondue Express Train at Polerzauber.

Zurich’s globally celebrated fondue is displayed to its full glory on this charming little train, perched high above the Christmas markets at Zurich Central Station. From my elevated vantage point, I watched shoppers splurge at an impressive 120 stalls, all under the watchful gaze of a towering tree, the undeniable centrepiece of the station hall.

Dunking my bread and potatoes into the steaming pot, it became instantly clear why Switzerland boasts such a stellar reputation for world-class cheese – and you can elevate the experience further by incorporating additions such as “a pinch of blue cheese from the [local] dairy”, white Alba truffles, mountain herbs and even champagne. Vegans needn’t feel left out either, as a dairy-free alternative of this iconic dish is available.

One traditionally Swiss – though entirely optional – method of finishing the meal involves requesting a raw egg to be cracked into what remains of the cheese, creating a flavour combination that Polerzauber promises will deliver “probably the best scrambled eggs ever”. It’s undoubtedly unforgettable – and just to make certain it stays with you, the restaurant also stocks its own branded Christmas jumpers, which naturally all the staff sport whilst on duty.

Had I been blessed with additional time, I would have expanded my Christmas market tour to encompass the one situated on Zurich’s own mountain, the Uetliberg. It showcases handcrafted and locally sourced products, whilst on misty days, there’s the possibility of finding yourself enveloped by fluffy white clouds at eye level thanks to the elevation.

Conversely, should the skies be clear, you can drink in a panoramic view stretching to the distant Alps – meaning regardless of conditions, it appears you simply cannot go wrong. Finally, the locals of Zurich have a rather unconventional way to ring in the festive season – an icy dip in the nearby river.

This annual tradition takes place during the first week of December, and even brave tourists can join in if they complete the necessary paperwork in advance.

Despite temperatures potentially dropping to a chilly minus 5C, around 300 festive swimmers don their swimsuits and signature Santa hats each year for the so-called Santa Swim (or Samichlausschwimmen in German). It might be a challenge for the fearless, but it’s hard not to get swept up in the Christmas spirit in a city so committed to the cause.

Some locals boast about the cleanliness of their river, claiming it’s so pure there’s no food for fish, while others highlight the much-touted health benefits of ice bathing. Upon leaving, I was left with no doubt that Zurich’s quirky traditions and distinctive flavours create a unique Christmas experience that simply can’t be found elsewhere.

Book the holiday

Swiss International Airlines (SWISS) provides one-way flights to Zurich from various UK airports. The fare includes all taxes, fees and surcharges, one piece of checked luggage up to 23kg and one piece of hand luggage. Book at swiss.com.

Room rates at Hotel Seidenhof start from 320 CHF (£300) per night, including breakfast, based on two adults sharing a double room. Discover more and book at sorellhotels.com.

For further details on Zurich, head over to zuerich.com. You can also purchase the Zürich Card here, which offers unlimited 2nd class travel in Zurich, various lake cruises, free entry to popular museums, a 50% discount on selected public city tours, and a host of additional discounts and exclusive offers.