visited

The Canary Islands have been put on a ‘no go’ list for 2026, and even as a big fan of the beautiful archipelago, I can see why the surge in visitor numbers might be putting people off

It’s not often you see a warning against a holiday destination you’ve repeatedly visited, but this week, American travel guide producer Fodor released their annual ‘No List’, a guide to all the destinations they recommend against visiting in 2026.

Among the crowded cultural sites and areas of natural beauty being ruined by overtourism, there was a Spanish addition: the Canary Islands. Beloved by Brits thanks to a microclimate that has made them a major winter sun destination, with almost 18 million visitors last year, tourism is at the heart of the Canaries. This is one area that I never thought I’d see on a do-not-visit list.

Yes, the islands have had a fair share of problems and negative attention this year, from overtourism protests in the summer to reports of delays at airports due to new EU passport checks. But with warm weather, relatively inexpensive living costs, and natural beauty in abundance, will Brits really want to abandon the Canary Islands?

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My most recent trip to the Canaries was in March of this year, when I visited Lanzarote. The weather in the UK was grim at the time, and Ryanair flights were cheap, so my travel companion and I decided it would be the perfect last-minute break to escape the gloom.

And it seems like many others had the same idea. Our flight was full, which surprised me at first, given that it was midweek in March. But of course, the Canaries are a year-round destination, so others were like us trying to escape the wintery weather. Arriving late in the evening, thankfully, the queues through the airport were quick.

My first indication that the island’s popularity had skyrocketed was the difficulty in booking a hotel and the corresponding rise in prices. Having visited at off-peak times in the past, there are usually plenty of hotels and apartments to choose from, even at the last minute. However, this time, most of the cheaper spots had booked up, leaving us with out-of-budget luxury accommodation or places with terrible reviews.

Luckily, we did get a good deal at a hotel called Caybeach Sun in Playa Blanca. It had mixed reviews, so I was nervous, but it actually turned out to be lovely. With a heated pool, decently sized apartments, and close proximity to the beach, it was a surprising hit at just over £60 a night.

The Canaries have recently seen a crackdown in holiday lettings, and while this was before I arrived, the changing regulations over the past year could have impacted the amount of choice on offer and the prices.

After dropping off our bags, we headed to Playa Blanca’s beachfront, which has lots of bars and restaurants. In the past, the number of places to eat meant that finding a table was easy, but even late at night, we found many restaurants full to capacity. The only places with seats were a couple of dodgy bars that had men outside practically trying to pull you in, which is never a good sign.

This was a common theme during our stay, whether we visited the town or the marina, everywhere seemed full. While it wasn’t quite the crowds you’d find in Venice or Santorini, it felt like the sort of crowds you’d usually only see in Spanish resorts in the summer. It was good to see people supporting the local restaurants and shops, but I could see how year-round crowds would be having an impact on islanders.

John Dale Beckley, founder of the sustainability platform CanaryGreen.org, told Fodors: “Residents have started protesting because they’re genuinely fed up. Traffic is one of the biggest issues. What used to be a 40-minute drive from the north can now take well over an hour each way. The government previously changed regulations that allowed residents to rent out their properties on Airbnb and Booking.com. This has driven up both rental prices and property values. Many young people now find it almost impossible to rent or buy a home.”

There have been reports of an increase in violent crime on the Canaries, and warnings that thefts get worse in the winter season, as organised gangs visit hotspots such as Tenerife, knowing it will be packed with visitors. The increases in rent caused by the tourist surge have also led to locals moving away from popular areas, reportedly leaving businesses struggling to recruit workers.

Of course, lots of people will point out that I’d chosen to go to a popular destination, so what could I expect? However, March is usually a quiet time on Lanzarote as the winter sun crowds are heavier in December and January, while the summer rush is still a long way off. If the island is this busy in March, I can imagine it becoming extremely crowded during the peak months.

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So, should Brits avoid the Canaries? Personally, I’d think twice if you’re the sort of person who doesn’t like crowds and prefers a quieter break. There are many winter sun alternatives emerging as contenders to the Canaries, such as the Azores and Cape Verde. However, I did still have a great time in Lanzarote. I love its unique volcanic landscape, the beaches are wonderful, and I’ve never received a less than friendly welcome, so I’m very much in two minds about whether I’d go back in 2026.

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The price of olive oil has been soaring.

Strolling through an olive grove in southern Italy, surrounded by trees, many of which were more than 200 years old, I was bathed in sunshine and calm with only the warm breeze floating through to branches to break the idyllic silence.

Frantoio Mafrica is a family-owned olive mill, which has been handed down from generation to generation. While it looks like little more than olive trees in a sunlight dappled grove to us visitors, to the owner they’re his family heritage. When he looks at them he sees his grandfather, who also worked the land.

The mill also uses donkeys to help transport the olives after picking, which is done in the traditional way by shaking the tree when they’ve 50 percent green and 50 percent black. And meeting the baby donkey who wanted nothing more than cuddles was one of the highlights of my entire trip to Calabria with Great Rail Journeys.

The family secret to processing the olives into the highest quality extra virgin olive oil was also unexpected. Rather than pressing the olives, they’re washed with water as they’re pulped to make sure every bit of Italian goodness goes into the oil. The process is all completed 24 hours after harvesting.

After trying the oil with bruschetta I can confirm it was like nothing available in your local Tesco: utterly delicious. Calabria is one of Italy’s major olive producing regions, with more than 50 types grown there including the only white olive. However, you would have had to have been hiding under a rock to be unaware of the soaring cost of olive oil.

Frantoio Mafrica explained the heart-breaking reason behind this alarming rise, and it’s not the market forces behind the soaring costs of other food. In fact, it’s because huge swathes of Italian olive groves have been hit by a terrible disease, which has killed the trees, many of them hundreds of years old.

As olive trees take so long to grow, the devastation of burning huge numbers of the diseased and dead trees has been a terrible price to pay for a country and region so fiercely proud of its ‘liquid gold’.

Knowing the passion, work and care that goes into making the best olive oil – and the devastation this blight has caused – I’ll complain much more quietly at the price next time.

UNDISTURBED views of hazy mountains are all around.

My focus, however, is on the plate in front of me, piled high with cheeses including sulguni, a sour and briney variety famous in this part of the world.

I take a glug of red wine and notice everyone at my table, like me, has been rendered speechless by the sumptuous spread.

You may think I’m in the South of France or Italy — but no, I’m in Georgian capital Tbilisi, and the place is stunning.

In April this year easyJet launched a direct route to this former Soviet republic from Luton — and with the city’s magnificent wine scene and travel prices that won’t break the bank, it’s not hard to see why it is soaring in popularity.

Now is an ideal time to visit, when temperatures are in the low twenties — perfect for exploring and, more importantly, eating until you’re fit to burst.

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Georgians take great pride in their culinary excellence and there are several dishes which simply have to be tried while you’re here.

Khachapuri, a national delicacy, is top of my list and can be picked up from most cafes and restaurants in the city.

Made of gooey cheese melted into a thick, hollowed-out, loaf-like bread, and often served with runny-yolked egg, this traditional staple is as heavy as it is tasty.

Luckily, virtually every meal in Tbilisi comes with a Georgian salad, consisting of tomatoes and cucumbers, so don’t worry about getting towards your five-a-day.

It’s amazing how much flavour the city’s chefs can add to the simplest of ingredients — and beans are no exception.

I tried them in a dish loved by locals, lobiani. Mashed kidney beans are cooked in onions and spices and stuffed into a flatbread.

Sofiko restaurant does an excellent version and what’s better is that its dishes are served alongside mesmerising city views.

When you are able to eat no more, Tbilisi’s cobbled streets are ideal for walking off all the food.

The city’s architecture reflects a fascinating blend of Persian, Arabic and Soviet styles, due to its occupations by all of these empires over the years.

Just make sure you pack comfy shoes. I’d booked a tour with a local guide, Nik, who told me: “Georgia would be the biggest country in the world . . . if it was flat”.

Bearing this in mind, I opted for the cable car up to the Narikala Fortress —an ancient stronghold built by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali in the fourth century, which looks over Tbilisi.

Up there you can see the imperious Mother of Georgia statue, a 20-metre figure built in 1958 to mark the city’s 1,500th anniversary.

In one hand she carries a sword — and in the other wine, to reflect the area’s fine vineyards.

Some of the world’s most celebrated grapes are grown in Georgia’s Kakheti region and no restaurant or bar is short of a good local white or red.

Kiketi Farm, a natural wine cellar around 45 minutes from Tbilisi, is the place to head if you want to sample some of the best tipples.

For such quality, I expect a steep bill for my tasting session. But the 30 lari I am charged works out at a very affordable £8.50.

Don’t guzzle too much, though, as you’ll also want to take advantage of everything else on offer at the farm — which includes horse riding.
Staff are so friendly that they even attempted to give me a culinary masterclass.

It’s safe to say that despite their efforts to teach me how to make khinkali — a type of dumpling crammed with meat or veg — I reckon this job is best left to the local chefs.

If you’re after even more rural delights, an hour or so from Tbilisi is the Kass Land attraction park and its spectacular Diamond Bridge.

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Bestriding the Dashbashi canyon 300 metres below, this transparent glass walkway is no more than two metres wide but 240 metres long — and features a colossal diamond- shaped structure at its centre, housing an all-glass sky bar with panoramic views.

Some find the experience rather daunting but I found it truly spectacular — especially when you can sip wine while drinking in the knockout views.

THERE’S a county in England that’s been my secret holiday hotspot since I was a child – and now it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.

I love a trip to Lincolnshire, which has something for everyone, whether you love castles, coastline, charming cobbled streets or grand country houses.

So it came as no surprise when Lincoln Castle was given gold for its overall visitor experience by VisitEngland, while Lincoln Guildhall won acclamation in the best told story and tour categories.

My first visit to Lincoln was when my grandma took me to the famous Christmas market in the 1990s.

It was lovely wandering the cobbles near the cathedral, browsing the stalls.

More recently, the market became a victim of its own success and hasn’t run for a couple of years now, because the city became overwhelmed by the number of visitors thronging its historic streets.

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But there’s still loads to do in the county town over the festive season, with carol concerts galore at the cathedral, an illuminated light trail at the castle and hand-carved ice sculptures throughout the city centre on the first weekend in December.

Thirty miles away, on the border between Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, is Belvoir Castle, near Grantham, which was recognised by VisitEngland in the best told story category.

And Mrs Smith’s Cottage in Navenby, halfway between Lincoln and Grantham, was named a hidden gem.

It must have been quite difficult to single out just a few attractions for recognition, as Lincolnshire has a lot to offer when it comes to affordable days out and holidays.

It’s always been a popular destination for Midlands folk heading to the coast, but seems to have slipped below the radar for much of the rest of the country.

I’ve been visiting Sutton on Sea, Mablethorpe and Skegness for as long as I can remember and I love to head back to that stretch of coast with my family, as it feels like a little slice of childhood nostalgia.

We used to stay in a chalet owned by a family friend, with a path down to the nearby beach.

Nowadays, we’re more likely to be found at Butlin’s in Skegness or Haven Golden Sands near Mablethorpe as we love the pools and family entertainment at both.

And more recently, I’ve discovered lots of great days out further inland.

If you want to give Lincolnshire a look, the area around Grantham is easily accessible and has lots to do.

Belton House has one of the biggest outdoor adventure playgrounds in the National Trust.

We often visit in the summer, when the gardens have extra family activities and the miniature train is usually running.

But lots of visitors head there in the winter for its award-winning light trail.

If you prefer smaller sites, I loved Woolsthorpe Manor, the birthplace of Isaac Newton where he is reputed to have discovered gravity when he watched an apple falling from a tree in the garden.

There’s a small hands-on science centre if you’ve got little ones who are keen to follow in Newton’s footsteps.

If you’re after somewhere to stay to explore everything the county has to offer, I really rate Away Resorts Tattershall Lakes, which is about 45 minutes from the coast, Lincoln and Grantham.

It’s a great base for days out, no matter which direction you drive.

It has lovely hot tub lodges, an indoor splash pad for little ones with a view out over the lake, a lakeside lido for summer swimming and an atmospheric spiegeltent for shows, which really comes into its own at Christmas time.

And just nearby is the Kinema in the Woods, which has been running in a converted sports pavilion for more than a century, making it one of the oldest cinemas in the country.

This quirky little spot is just one local that reflects the laid-back Lincolnshire way of life.

It’s lovely to see this much-loved Midlands mecca finally getting a bit of the limelight.

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For more recommended spots by VisitEngland, here are the 20 most-visited attractions in England that are completely free to enter.

Plus, Britain’s best hidden gems have been named from free museums to brewery tours.

The city that is steeped in history and culture, and is often regarded as one of the best in the world – but did you know it is also home to its fair share of ‘spiritual’ powers?

Edinburgh. A city drenched in heritage and tradition, considered by countless visitors as amongst the globe’s finest – but were you aware it harbours its fair share of ‘spirutual’ forces?

Seasoned traveller Jason Cranwell discovered this firsthand, expanding his consciousness, and his palate, to the opulent Scottish destination.

He said: “Whisky drinking is a pastime I have always been happy to leave to other people. In truth, it was to avoid the risk of it leading to a more fulfilling existence than my overdraft can handle.”

During his two-day adventure, Jason explored the Johnnie Walker Experience on Princess Street.

Despite being a self-proclaimed ‘Peroni guy’, this revelatory encounter demanded he expand his boundaries and taste some throat-burning scotch.

Jason revealed: “After answering some questions about my palate, I was soon tentatively sipping my first tailored whisky sample. Decent.

“Then the second. OK, this is not unpleasant, and then the third, a celestial cocktail creation whose recipe is now committed to memory in perpetuity like a school assembly hymn.”

It became immediately obvious precisely why the venue commanded a colossal £150million price tag the moment Eleanor began guiding everyone through what Jason characterised as “immersive rooms”.

Within was a labyrinth of polished, 360-degree wall displays, hand movement detection and striking LED installations. The chief storyteller was Evie who was a “genius” when it came to narrating the whole experience.

“Close your eyes and you could be listening to a Wikipedia biog entry,” Jason remarked, “Open them and you find yourself captivated by this Whisky Wonka.”

Next on the agenda was a trip to The Real Mary King’s Close, a subterranean maze of 17th century homes off the Royal Mile that remains remarkably intact. Makenzi took on the role of tour guide for this excursion, embodying an ancient servant for an hour-long expedition through history, covering plagues and air raid shelters.

Beyond the theatrical pursuits, Edinburgh offers outstanding dining and drinking venues. Jason and his group, seeking a swift change of tempo, chose to pop into Valvona and Crolla, a classic Italian delicatessen on an artisan strip near Leith Walk.

Founded in 1934 by Alfonso Crolla and currently operated by his great-granddaughter Olivia, what first seems like a charming narrow family establishment extends into multiple sections filled with delights around every corner.

From the delectable cheese display to the extensive collection of personally-selected wine bottles with bespoke labels chosen by the staff, and upstairs sat a restaurant hosting the most diverse mix of diners. “With the possibility of delicious antipasti, panatella and pasta paired with a highly recommended wine-tasting session hosted by the in-house sommelier for £38, who says you can’t put a price on authenticity?” Jason asked.

Venturing further down Leith Walk, you’ll find the trendier parts of town. The seafood restaurant Plaice, located at the hip venue ASKR on Constitution Street, is a pop-up eatery adorned with spray-painted decor and a menu focused on healthy options.

Jason shared his culinary experience: “I had a starter plate of scrumptious peri-peri tiger prawns that I scooped out onto my oyster-buttered warm sourdough bread, inadvertently creating the bougiest sandwich ever. My main course of bluefin tuna, caught in British waters but served up Japanese-style and bathed in sesame oil, topped it all off.”

For the trip, he stayed at Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge, conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Haymarket train station. The hotel’s pièce de résistance is the Lochrin Rooftop Bar on the sixth floor, which was crowned Hotel Bar of the Year at the esteemed 2024 Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

According to TimeOut, Edinburgh ranks among the top 53 cities worldwide for living. One of its key attractions is an innovative food and drink scene, described as featuring an “ever-evolving selection of forward-thinking bars and eateries”.

In 2023, TimeOut also listed Edinburgh among the 53 best cities globally to reside in, praising its dynamic array of bars and restaurants.

Earlier in 2024, Edinburgh was hailed as one of the “best places for an autumn city break” by The Times, the only UK location to earn this accolade. They penned: “Edinburgh’s snug restaurants, historic hotels and warming whiskies only get better in the cooler months. “Hike around this sloping city of quirky alleys, a waterfront port and towering castle walls in jumper-and-jeans weather, allowing time to reach its blustery natural viewpoint, Arthur’s Seat.

“In conclusion, Jason simply ended with the words: “Oh, Edinburgh, I think I’m smitten.”

THERE have been worrying mutterings in my six-year-old son’s school
playground that Father Christmas isn’t actually the real deal.

But it took a simple sentence from a Lapland UK Santa to make Alex
firmly believe again.

He told him: “I hear you’ve been line leader at school Alex. How fantastic is that!”

His jaw dropped with amazement that the big man knew this – while my
eyes filled up with tears at the magical moment.

We were at Lapland Manchester which opened this year after the success
of its first site Lapland Ascot.

When tickets launched in March, more than 750,000 people joined a virtual queue for tickets ranging from £65 up to £155 per person, depending on the date, with both kids and adults paying the same.

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As we arrived at the grand Capesthorne Hall, near Macclesfield in
Cheshire, excitement was high.

We were guided through the first of many sparkly walkways and
transported into a fairytale magical world where for the next four and
a half hours each and every member of staff constantly remained in
character.

At the woodland check in, porter Buzz wished us a “cheery-hi” and
put his thumb on his nose and wiggled his fingers.

It was the Lapland gesture we were all doing in return by the end of the day!

He gave Alex and my goddaughter Maia an “Elvn Passport” so they could
pass through an enchanted forest to meet Father Christmas and his
elves.

Tickets suggest arriving here 45 minutes before your allotted time –
I would double that so you can get a coffee and exchange your money
for Jingles, the Lapland currency.

We, together with about 200 people, were led to a woodland area where
a theatrical show explained there’s strictly no “grump-a-Lumps”
allowed in Lapland.

Then another walkway led to a performance where we had to wiggle our fingers, squash our noses, blink three times and curl our toes so a huge door could open for the next stage to the Toy Factory.

Alex finally started to understand what was really going on.

After booking your Lapland tickets you receive an invite “from Santa”
explaining he is so busy this year he needs “kind” kids to help him
save Christmas.

Alex was put to task making a soft toy polar bear.

He silently went to work and then put the polar bear on a conveyor belt to Santa.

He was proud as punch with a job well done.

Next was The Lapland Bakery with another show from Mother Christmas but Alex only really cared about decorating a gingerbread house – and eating it.

Then my favourite part of the experience.

The Elven Village – a magical world with a starry ceiling and snow covered trees.

You have 90 minutes there to send a letter to Father Christmas from
the Post Office, visit the library or buy sweets, toys or decorations
in the shops.

I was gutted we had booked Lapland in the middle of the day because
Alex was starving.

The food was great and he loved the £10 kids meal deal of sourdough pizza, chunky chips and juice.

But it meant we had to rush around – and didn’t have time to wait in the queue for the ice skating rink.

I placated my tearful child with a chocolate coated giant marshmallow
on a stick, and winced at the £6 price tag.

Next came the Reindeer Lodge before entering a grand waiting room to see Santa.

This was organised beautifully.

Staff quietly confirmed details from your booking confirmation that Alex had been “line leader” before an elf took us down a long forest pathway.

Finally we arrived at a little wooden house… and Santa himself.

This was no garden centre Santa.

He was a wide girthed, full bearded jolly version (with a very strong west midland accent!), and a bit of cheeky banter about him, too.

Santa thanked the kids for making the polar bears, made them honorary elves, gave them a soft toy gift and discussed their achievements.

It was perfectly done, we didn’t feel rushed for a second and after
saying goodbye Alex said he now knew Santa was “real”.

When he wakes on Christmas morning that will be confirmed because,
before leaving, I was discreetly handed a replica toy polar bear
together with a thank you note from Santa for December 25.

That is guaranteed to keep his – and my – Christmas dreams alive so we
can return to the magic of Lapland UK next year.

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For other Christmas experiences in the UK, you could also head to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London.

Or perhaps head on one of these 27 free festive experiences across the UK for families including light trails and Santa’s grotto.

This gorgeous city is better in November, but in summertime huge anti-tourism demos took place – and I understand why residents in this stunning place are so angry.

I’ve just touched down in the UK from a Spanish city that was basking in a balmy 26C in November, with hardly any tourists in sight. The destination has recently been dubbed an anti- tourism holiday spot, but all the locals I encountered were incredibly welcoming – and I got a glimpse into why some holidaymakers might not be as welcome.

Having visited Palma in Mallorca several times over the years, this was my first off-peak trip to the largest Balearic island, but I’d certainly consider a November visit again. The weather was still delightfully warm and sunny, the Mallorcan people I met were extremely friendly, and it was a real treat to explore the city and the island without the usual throngs of tourists.

During the summer of 2025, the height of the tourist season, large-scale anti-tourism protests erupted on the streets of Palma, with locals brandishing signs telling holidaymakers to go home – and frankly, I can’t blame them.

I can empathise with their tourism grievances, having grown up in Devon where similar issues arise – and I’ve even had the experience of living next door to an Airbnb a few years back which brought its own set of problems with non-locals.

Mallorca grapples with over-tourism during the summer months when the island is swamped with visitors. However, travelling off-peak is a more sustainable way to appreciate the island while respecting the locals – and it offers a genuine taste of Mallorcan life, reports the Express.

Despite being a Brit myself, I can’t help but acknowledge that some of our fellow countrymen can be quite the nuisance in popular holiday destinations, with their excessive drinking and disruptive behaviour tarnishing the reputation of many a Spanish resort.

Adding to this, the surge in short-term holiday rentals has spiralled out of control in numerous sought-after locations, including the Mallorcan city of Palma and other Spanish hotspots like Barcelona.

This issue of residential properties being converted into holiday cottages or Airbnb lettings is a global phenomenon, affecting places from Cornwall to London, Spain to America, and everywhere in between.

A local family residing in Mallorca shared with me that the island’s peak season is a living nightmare for them, with parking woes and a significant increase in traffic causing chaos.

The family expressed their struggle to enjoy the summer months as the beaches become “too crowded”, parking becomes a mission impossible, and many eateries, particularly in Palma, are “too busy”.

One native Mallorcan woman voiced her frustration, stating that many locals are irate due to skyrocketing rents – a consequence of mass holiday rentals like Airbnb in a neighbourhood which inflate the ‘average’ rent due to an overall comparison (which includes high holiday home rents).

She also highlighted a “worrying shortage of affordable housing”, particularly in the capital, Palma. Given that Mallorca is a relatively small island, about 62 miles wide, constructing more “affordable” homes isn’t a straightforward solution.

One can’t help but ponder: if all these holiday homes were converted back into residences for locals, would there still be a housing crisis in the UK – or indeed in Mallorca?

Prioritising tourism creates environments that become nearly uninhabitable for local residents, which seems nonsensical. It’s clear that something is amiss when governments aren’t prioritising housing for locals – and the need to protest is entirely understandable.

Over-tourism also results in excessive traffic, unmanageable crowds and significant parking issues, creating an unpleasant environment for both residents and visitors. During my time in Mallorca, I navigated the island by bus, which was simple and efficient.

Strolling through Palma’s tree-lined streets in November, when tourists are few and far between, is my idea of a city break. Although the Christmas lights haven’t been switched on yet, they will be soon (on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 8pm).

I can envision how stunning the festive lights will look once the official Christmas lights switch-on takes place in Palma, as star-shaped decorations were already adorning the streets in preparation for this event.

The streets of Palma were so pristine and clean, I didn’t spot a single person littering, whereas in the UK, it’s not uncommon to see adults – and children – discarding rubbish on the roads or in scenic areas.

During my stay in Mallorca, I lodged at the HM Palma Blanc hotel, a truly friendly and luxurious place that offered comfort and an incredible breakfast. I tend to steer clear of Airbnb-style holiday lets as much as possible, recognising the havoc they can wreak in tourist-heavy areas.

With a plethora of markets in the capital city, independent shops, and fantastic eateries, I’d certainly consider another winter visit to Mallorca – it was genuinely delightful.

I visited the UK’s most popular Christmas Market to see if it was better than Edinburgh’s – and I was not disappointed

For me, Christmas has always been about beach barbecues as summer kicks off, sun-drenched mornings around the tree and barefoot garden parties. However, since relocating to London from New Zealand last year, I’ve been attempting to embrace the winter Christmas spirit.

Last year, I experienced my first-ever winter Christmas Market in Edinburgh, and it wasn’t quite my cup of tea. I believe in giving everything a second chance, so this year I returned to the markets – but with a twist.

Instead of braving the crowds at Edinburgh’s market, I ventured to Manchester. My visit happened to coincide with Manchester’s market being crowned the best in the UK by both Time Out and holiday gurus at Christmas Tree World – and I can understand why.

The day I visited, the sun was out and the markets were teeming with activity. I opted to visit the market in Albert Square, but if you’re keen to explore Manchester’s markets, they are dotted throughout the city, reports the Express.

The one in Albert Square boasted a helter skelter and a Ferris wheel, but I had a single-minded mission: I was after a Yorkshire pudding wrap.

My boyfriend was busy expressing his doubts that I would find one because it didn’t seem particularly Christmassy, but as we turned a corner, I spotted a sign selling exactly what I was craving.

I opted to have my wrap served in a bowl, selecting pork as my protein. It cost me £11 and the portion was absolutely enormous.

It was precisely what I craved, the meat was beautifully seasoned, all the accompaniments were cooked to perfection, and the gravy was thick, rich and salty – exactly how I like it.

Despite how tasty it was, the serving was so substantial that I genuinely couldn’t manage it all, much to my embarrassment.

Next on my list was another first: mulled wine. At the Edinburgh Market last year I sampled a mulled cider and thoroughly disliked it so this was somewhat nerve-wracking.

I selected an apple and blackberry mulled wine, which I believed was £6.50 but ended up setting me back £10 because I had overlooked the “mug deposit” fee of £3.50.

Fortunately, this was absolutely worth the confusion because, unlike my previous mulled alcoholic drink, this one was completely delicious. It tasted somewhat like hot Ribena, which I adore anyway and warmed me straight through.

It felt like the ideal beverage for enjoying beside the fire as the rain hammered down outside. I was a massive fan; though, I am still awaiting my refund for returning my mug to the stall.

My final experience at the Manchester Christmas Market was a crumble. I spent £8 for an apple and cinnamon crumble with vanilla custard, and whilst it wasn’t the finest I have ever tasted in my life, it was sweet, delicious and satisfied me perfectly.

In my view, the Manchester Market completely outshines Edinburgh. Despite being bustling and lively, I could still navigate through it easily and never had to queue for more than five minutes for anything.

Moreover, the food was superior, and all the stalls were manned by friendly, cheerful staff. I left feeling energised and eager for Christmas – and I strongly suggest anyone in the vicinity give it a visit.

The UK’s Christmas markets are back and bigger than ever, with a huge variety of food and drink on offer – but Christopher Megrath made a mistake with during his first visit

The Liverpool Christmas Markets are in full swing, with a tantalising array of mouth-watering scents wafting through St George’s Plateau.

The North West city’s festive fair has been named one of the nine best in the country this year, following a poll of Which? readers. It outperformed its larger sibling market in Manchester.

Clarke Events, the masterminds behind the markets, have hinted that this could be the “best year yet”, and they might just be right. The annual market attracts thousands of visitors each year, and with the event running until Christmas Eve, there’s ample time for shoppers to pop by and soak up the festive vibes.

Since relocating from Church Street in 2016, the markets have found a successful home at St George’s Plateau. Christopher was among the first wave of visitors when the gates opened this morning and was instantly spoilt for choice.

In a moment of gastronomic folly shortly after arriving at the Liverpool market, Reach’s Christopher Megrath made a beeline for one of the most ostentatious food trucks in sight – a decision he would soon rue.

Nestled towards the back of the plateau, near St John’s Gardens, is the festive pie truck. With four fillings on offer and all the trimmings, it was Christopher’s first port of call on this culinary Christmas journey.

Christopher was warmly welcomed by two delightful staff members who good-naturedly ribbed him for ordering at the wrong side. The ensuing chat was a surprisingly pleasant exchange he hadn’t anticipated over a pie, reports the Liverpool Echo.

On offer were beef, ham and vegetable pies, but Christopher opted for turkey with all the trimmings, smothered in gravy. For those wanting a bit more, apple sauce and cranberry are also available.

After bidding goodbye to the traders, Christopher found the most inviting patch of damp ground to sit and tuck into his meal.

Christopher’s cardboard pot was filled with a turkey pie, two pigs in blankets, a couple of carrots and Brussels sprouts, a dollop of mashed potato and stuffing, all smothered in just the right amount of gravy, setting him back £13.

The filling was predominantly vegetables, including cabbage, turnip and even more Brussels sprouts, interspersed with a few chunks of turkey. The crust was a bit on the tough side for his liking, but the filling was scrumptious.

It took him about five minutes to polish off the lot, ensuring not a drop of gravy was wasted.

Overall, Christopher relished the meal, but quickly realised that starting his market visit with a makeshift roast on-the-go was a terrible idea. He spent another hour meandering around the grounds, sampling light bites and sweet treats, but the festive pie had done him in.

Christopher was delightfully stuffed.

If you want to keep your energy levels up for the rest of the evening, Christopher would recommend visiting the truck at the end of your journey. Christopher felt like taking a nap afterwards. Do make sure to sample a bit of everything, as the variety on offer is truly splendid, he explained.

Liverpool Christmas Market is also set to tantalise taste buds with a vast array of international flavours. Regular favourites will include Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwurst, noodles, salt and pepper chicken, halloumi, Greek gyros and souvlaki, roast pork baps, mac n cheese, burgers, siu mai, donuts, waffles, crepes, fudge, sweets, home bakes and hot crumble pudding.

For those with a sweet tooth, there’ll be brownies, cookies, hot cookie dough, candy floss, popcorn, toasted marshmallows, fresh baked macaroons, churros, candy and hot roasted chestnuts. A full list of traders and prices can be found here.

Narberth in Pembrokeshire is home to some of Wales’ best independent stores – and they can all be found on one high street.

This special little town and its charms are both well-known enough for it to thrive but still well enough off the beaten path to feel like a hidden gem that’s not overwhelmed with tourism.

Not on a main road and often overlooked in favour of nearby seaside resorts, this Pembrokeshire town is packed with independent shops and boutiques, cosy pubs and outstanding restaurants. And there are no chain shops or empty lots to be seen.

While heading west for a short break, I called in to eat at a place called Hwb for the first time and found so much more, including some of Wales’ finest restaurants to pubs, local butchers, antique shops, clothing boutiques, bridal stores and hair salons.

In addition to these, there’s the “Quirky Garage,” which sells an array of knick-knacks, with a particular focus on oversized animal models; there’s an arts centre; a community-run library situated in a quaint old school; a social club where pints are a steal at £3.10; another arts centre; and “The Shop at No47”, self-described as “quite possibly Pembrokeshire’s most perfectly pleasant place to peruse”.

On the high street, I saw a sign on a lamppost announcing an upcoming “hymns and Pimms” night at the local church. The former town hall of Narberth, crowned with a clock tower and a petite steeple, stands solitary on a traffic island at one end of the high street, with stone steps leading up to its entrance.

Today, it houses The Golden Sheaf, a shop selling chic clothes, books, home furnishings and jewellery, but the building itself harks back to the 1830s. It was built on the site of an old tap where townsfolk would gather for their water supply.

Its original clock, until very recently, was wound weekly by a town council member, following the same meticulous instructions from over a century ago.

The area, however, is not all quaint and quirky boutiques. Just beyond the town centre lies the opulent Grove, a breathtakingly exclusive hotel and restaurant offering food, rooms and surroundings that rival anything Wales has to offer.

It’s a bit pricey, with rooms starting at around £250 a night, suites exceeding £500, and a seven-course tasting menu in its flagship restaurant setting you back £145 per person. Even amongst all of Wales’ most picturesque and intriguing towns, Narberth holds its own.

Locals describe it as “an effervescent little place with a robust sense of community” and say those who reside here “live for the lifestyle”. This becomes immediately apparent upon reaching the bustling high street at its core, which teems with people perusing shop windows and popping in and out of stores even during a Tuesday lunchtime.

The sheer amount of activity in the town centre contradicts its modest 3,000 population. Calling it a hidden gem might be stretching things within Wales, where it frequently earns recognition as the finest place to reside, yet it remains relatively unknown throughout the UK.

I cannot state precisely how many independent retailers and enterprises it boasts, but approximately 50 appears a reasonable estimate from wandering about. However, the high street isn’t all that Narberth offers.

The moment you venture beyond the town’s boundaries, you discover yourself within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, amongst the UK’s most spectacular locations and home to breathtaking coastlines, the Preseli hills and other magnificent towns such as Tenby and Saundersfoot, both within easy reach of Narberth (and both considerably more renowned, possibly due to their seaside attractions).

‘It’s not like this by accident’

“When I was growing up here in the 90s, there were a few basic shops on the high street and around 20 grizzled old pubs,” says Beth Alexander, who grew up in the town. Writing on the Visit Wales website, she adds: “But the town had an arts scene bursting forth that brought all sorts of live music and performance to this small Welsh town.

“They say that the arts are a great regenerator, and you can see this played out in Narberth. Today it is an effervescent little place with a robust sense of community, a thriving high street packed with independent shops and cafes, and a full calendar of events.”

Chris Lees-Price, who founded Hwb, has previously told WalesOnline: “The community here likes to protect local businesses by using them, and there’s a real pride in the town because you see how hard people have had to work to make things happen and to make Narberth this way. It’s not by accident.”

It’s a sentiment echoed time and again by residents and business owners throughout the area. Tragically, there aren’t many towns like Narberth remaining, with countless others across Britain having fallen victim to mounting pressures, including the collapse of high street retail and the dominance of chain stores (the sole chain visible in Narberth was a Spar).

The national vacancy rate for high street premises throughout Britain stands at approximately 13.8%. I didn’t spot a single vacant shop in Narberth. The closure of the nearby Oakwood theme park this year, after decades of thrilling schoolchildren with its rides, might have cast a shadow over the town, but it doesn’t seem to have had much of an impact.

It would be a different story if the nearby Bluestone Wales holiday park were to close, but thankfully, there’s no sign of that. Many visitors to Bluestone visit Narberth for a day of shopping and eating.

Where to eat in Narberth

Let’s start with Hwb, which was a delightful surprise. I loved it so much that within days of my first visit, I took two one-hour-long detours to eat there on subsequent family days out.

The independent food and drinks hall is housed in an old Victorian school at one end of the high street. There are four food vendors – selling burgers, Thai food, tacos and Indian street food respectively – and three of the four I’ve tried so far are fantastic.

I sampled an onion bhaji naan wrap that was bigger than my head but still managed to feel light and vibrant instead of heavy and greasy, and a halloumi and pineapple taco that was packed full of flavour. The fries from Top Beef burgers are among the best I’ve had, and my kids raved about them.

There’s also a bar featuring 18 draft beers and cider taps, in scenes more akin to Shoreditch than rural west Wales. Equally impressive is Plum Vanilla Cafe, another cafe-deli hybrid dishing up flavour-packed vegetarian grub like falafel flatbreads, Korean rice bowls featuring battered cauliflower, plus heaps of cakes.

There’s also Top Joe’s delivering “absolutely incredible” pizzas, calzones and antipasti alongside cocktails, plus Stopio, a cycling cafe.

For fine dining, there’s Annwn, which secured a spot among the Good Food Guide’s 20 finest restaurants in the UK in 2022 after just 12 months of trading.

It’s also earned recognition from the Michelin guide, with a 10-course tasting menu priced at £150. Then there’s Fernery at The Grove hotel, offering a seven-course tasting menu for £145.

As you can see, it’s a remarkably impressive array of dining spots for a small town housing just a few thousand residents. You’ll discover far fewer choices in much larger towns.

Activities around Narberth

It’s not just within Narberth itself that you’ll discover plenty to occupy your time. The town sits amid the stunning Pembrokeshire countryside and coastline. World-class beaches lie nearby at Pendine, Tenby and Saundersfoot. The brilliant family destination Folly Farm offers enough entertainment for an entire day, combining multiple play zones with wildlife including lions, giraffes and rhinos. The dramatic and striking castles of Carew and Manorbier are also just a brief drive away.

WINDING my way through narrow streets, the smell of jasmine and mint tea fills the air as I pass craftsmen, locals doing their shopping and an abundance of cats.

It would have been easy to think I was in the souks of Marrakech, but I’m in Tunis, the capital of Tunisia.

While its Medina is not as chaotic as its Moroccan counterpart, the historic streets bustle with locals selling their wares as tourists like me squeeze through.

From traditional clothing to jewellery, perfume to sweet treats, there’s any amount of treasures to be found just as long as you’re prepared to haggle.

The Medina was built around the big mosque — nicknamed the Olive Tree Mosque due to the trees there in the 8th century ­— but it is also home to 100 smaller mosques.

While Tunisia is an Islamic country, its history and influences are vast — including Arab, Andalucian, Turkish and Berber — and are visible to see as you take in the colourful arched doorways, former palaces and humble homes.

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On a day trip from my hotel, I learned about the rich culture of Tunis and the ancient ruins of Carthage, whose most famous son Hannibal (of elephants fame) became one of history’s most celebrated generals and took on the might of the Roman Empire in the Second Punic War.

I also visted the town of Sidi Bou Said, which couldn’t be more different from the capital, despite being just a short drive away.

It could easily be mistaken for Mykonos or Santorini in Greece thanks to its pretty white buildings with their bright blue doors and windows, many with bougainvillea climbing up and creating a canopy above them.

With stunning views across the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Tunis, the town has cobbled streets and a history of inspiring world-famous artists, and it’s now home to numerous galleries.

This charming and relaxed outpost is a place tourists are bound to appreciate after the hustle and bustle of the Medina.

Thankfully I also had the option of returning to my hotel — TUI Blue Palm Beach in Hammamet — to rest and recharge.

Around an hour’s drive south of Tunis, the all-inclusive hotel, which had a full refurbishment in 2024, is right on the beach.

With gardens filled with palm trees, it’s a great place to relax if all you want to do is sunbathe and swim in one of the two pools. Temperatures are still a toasty mid-20s in November and December.

It also has a large spa with four massage rooms as well as a traditional hammam, steam room and an indoor pool. It was pure bliss after a long day exploring.

But if history is your thing, then a visit to the Roman archaeological site of Oudhna is a must.

Traditional cookery class

Founded at the end of the 1st century, it is one of the largest and most important sites in Tunisia, and the Capitol is one of the largest temples in North Africa.

Visitors can also step inside the Roman amphitheatre, which had space for 16,000 spectators in its heyday and also admire the impressive Roman aqueduct that runs through the valley.

Local tour companies are also an option, with Sawa Taste of Tunisia organising more one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors.

I took part in a traditional cookery class at Villa Ma-Amoura, a stunning renovated property in the Cap Bon region.

During the class, our group made a Tunisian brunch of Mlawi — a traditional flat bread — and shakshuka, a tasty dish with tomatoes, onions, peppers, egg and spices. Delicious.

As with its culture, Tunisian food is inspired by different countries including Spain, France and Italy.

Couscous is a popular dish, with either fish or lamb, and sweet versions are also available.

That’s one thing I liked about the hotel’s buffet, it offered a good selection of local dishes each day as well as cuisines from other countries.

If you don’t want to go too far from the hotel so you’re back in time for the various buffet hours, but do want to explore a bit of the area, Hammamet is perfect.

The hotel is in the north of the town, which has become one of the country’s most popular seaside resorts, and a short taxi ride will bring you to its Medina.

Significantly smaller than the one in Tunis, it is still an impressive sight thanks to its 13th century Spanish fortress, which is on the water’s edge.

Reaching the top and heading round the fortress walls offers you views across the turquoise waters one way, and the white washed buildings the other.

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Meanwhile back on street-level, you can do a spot of shopping, enjoy a mint tea in a waterfront cafe or play spot the cat as you wander around the alleyways, and trust me, there are a lot of cute kitties to count!

As we enter the depths of winter, my sunny break at the TUI Blue Palm Beach was just the shot of Vitamin D I needed and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure as we ventured out to explore Tunisia’s rich history and culture.

I’M standing open-mouthed on the edge of the desert, south-west of Cairo, the magnificent Great Pyramid of Giza directly in front of me.

For 4,000 years it was the tallest structure on the planet, and it is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing.

Here in Egypt at its base, with the heat of the afternoon sun radiating around me, I’m struck by its awesome scale and the astonishing human endeavour that constructed it in the desert 4,500 years ago.

Experts believe it took around 100,000 men 20 years to build this tomb for the ruling pharaoh Khufu, and mystery still surrounds the methods of its construction.

“Could they build this without belief? Could they build it without science? Could they build it without art?” says my tour guide, Dr Tarek Sarhan.

“Three things: Belief, science, art. This is the triangle of civilisation.”

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A short distance away on the Giza ­Plateau is the Great Sphinx — a colossal limestone statue of a mythical creature, part lion, part human.

Even with its nose missing, this enormous creature still cuts an imposing figure.

History courses through the foundations of this captivating site.

But my four-day trip to the Egyptian capital is characterised not just by the old, but by the new.

Just over a mile from the pyramids, the $1.2billion new Grand Egyptian Museum has finally opened more than two decades after work first started.

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

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

Another striking set piece here is the museum’s Grand Staircase, punctuated by fascinating relics of some of ancient Egypt’s most important kings and queens.

I walk up, passing statues, columns, granite doorways and sarcophagi.

At the top, a vast window frames the three main pyramids of the Giza Plateau.

Here is where visitors will also find GEM’s 12 main galleries, but the main draw will always be the entire contents of the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun, displayed together since it was first found by British Egyptologist Howard Carter.

The collection, of course, includes Tutankhamun’s spectacular gold mask, throne and chariots.

The collection, of course, includes Tutankhamun’s spectacular gold mask, throne and chariots

Standing in front of statues of kings and queens is only part of the picture.

At the city’s National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, I get to stand in front of their mummified bodies.

Located in the Old Cairo district of the city, this modern museum has a large and open exhibition space with artefacts spanning prehistoric times to the modern day.

But for its biggest draw, I have to descend to the underground Royal Mummies’ Hall.

This dark-walled, low-lit space is now the resting place of 20 royal mummies — 18 kings, including Ramses II, and two queens — displayed in glass cases.

Some of them are showcased with the coffins they were found in.

Sweet perfume fills the air

Shadows shift as visitors move through this superbly presented exhibition and there’s a sense that one of these mummified bodies might suddenly be reanimated.

There is certainly life to be found in Cairo’s vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar.

The intricate, linking alleyways of this open-air marketplace are lined with stalls selling everything from lanterns and ­candles to jewellery and figurines.

Colourful textiles and printed designs hang from walls and stands, and a sweet perfume fills the air.

Away from the buzz of the bazaar, the five-star Waldorf Astoria is an oasis of calm.

Located in the upmarket Heliopolis district, its high-ceiling, glass-walled curved atrium is part botanical garden, part chic Art Deco lounge.

There is certainly life to be found in Cairo’s vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar

My room here is spacious and quiet and the breakfast offering a lavish buffet selection with additional a la carte options and a pancake and French toast station.

EasyJet now offers year-round flights direct to Cairo’s Sphinx airport from Luton as well as a huge choice of packages with easyJet holidays.

If your visit here is brief, you won’t want to miss the sweeping and unforgettable views of this fascinating city from the citadel of Salah El Din.

This ancient fortification served as the seat of power in Egypt for 700 years and it remains one of Cairo’s major attractions.

Inside is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali with its stunning domes, towering minarets, ornate interior and huge central chandelier.

The vistas from this elevated position are wonderfully panoramic.

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As I take my transfer back to Sphinx along one of the city’s upgraded highways, I remember the words of my guide, Dr Tarek, in front of the Great Pyramid: “Egypt is a story with no end.”

Perhaps nowhere is this truer than in Cairo, which is building on its past as it looks to the future.

There’s a never-ending list of places across the UK where you can get your hands on a hearty dish of fish and chips. But there’s one particular chippy that has long been hailed as ‘the best’

Fish and chips are a staple in British cuisine, and have been famously classed as the national dish for centuries. Whether that’s eating them at the seaside, indulging in a fish supper at your local pub, or making your own variation at home, there’s nothing quite like it.

But there’s one UK village thought to offer one of the best places to enjoy the delicacy. Nestled in the village of Beamish in County Durham, which “hasn’t changed over 100 years”, is Davys Fish & Chips.

Content creator and avid foodie, Callum (@streetfoodanalysis), took to TikTok to share a video of the hearty eatery, labelling it the “best” in the country. In a video showing a glimpse inside Davys Fish & Chips, Callum said: “This is the fish and chip shop trapped in time.

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“One of the last in the world that uses coal to heat the original 1950s fryers with fish and chips cooked in beef dripping.”Proving just how delicious Davys Fish & Chips is, Callum shared a clip of himself indulging in the dish as he exclaimed, “Wow”.

With a perfect crisp on both the fish and chips, it’s not just Callum who has given rave reviews of this frozen-in-time fish and chip shop. His video was flooded with comments from others who have sampled the famed meal from this charming eatery, with its blue counter and original features. One affirmed: “Beamish fish and chips were the best fish and chips I have ever had.”

A second penned: “Beamish is one of our favourite places to go, as for the chip shop, it’s amazing, you can’t get better. It’s the one on the mining village, beware, the portions are huge. Can’t wait to go back.”

“Love going to Beamish, those fish n chips are absolutely worth the 2 hour wait”, a third noted. Another added: “Love Beamish the chips are a must.”

While another commented: “The fish n chips looked amazing! Absolutely beautiful place! And visitors still keep on visiting Beamish!” “Love Beamish, the chippy is unreal!” one more declared.

In the video, which has accumulated more than 500K likes, Callum said the chippy is found in Beamish, where “the sweet shop makes candy by hand and the bakery makes the same cakes as a century ago.” He also noted that it’s a place which rarely has phone signal, adding to its quaint and historic appeal.

ARRIVING in India, I feel like Dorothy entering Oz. This country is an assault on the senses in every way.

One minute I’m practising sunrise yoga to the peaceful sound of birds chirping; the next, I’m surrounded by loud honking cars and bikes on a bumpy bus ride through the city.

My serene morning walk at the green Lodi Gardens sits in complete contrast to the brightly coloured markets, selling vibrant yellow flower garlands under the smell of rich incense, that I’m exploring just hours later.

It was my first visit to India and naturally, as a solo female tourist, safety was at the forefront of my mind. But the tide is changing with regard to how women are accepted across the country, and this has been incorporated into Intrepid’s unique Women’s Expedition tours.

It supports locals on the ground, and I met some during my stay in Chandelao.

A tiny village an hour from Jodphur and off the tourist trail, it is home to just 3,500 people.

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There, I explored the local arts centre Sunder Rang, which employs women to work — uncommon especially in more rural areas.

The shop is full of multicoloured items made from scrap fabrics, with everything from clothing and bags to decorations on sale.

One of the young jewellery makers let me try my hand at threading beads as we huddled together in the shade.

Due to my novice skills, I resorted to buying her handmade necklaces (guided by her on which to choose, as they even earn commission).

My art skills were tested further at Chandelao Garh, a stunning 17th century former fort now a hotel with 20 rooms and a swimming pool.

Locals taught me the art of Rangoli — circular patterns drawn on the ground in celebration.

I was only slightly offended when the cheeky hotel dog Pluto walked all over my wonky chalk designs.

Chandelao is the kind of village where slowness is encouraged — be it a sunset walk through the streets or a leisurely candlelit dinner chased by a Kingfisher beer.

But just a few hours east is the crowd-heavy Jaipur, nicknamed the Pink City for its terracotta walls.

Keen to escape the market chaos, I opted for a tour with Renu, a rare female tuk-tuk driver and now chair of tour company Pink City Rickshaw.

While the women face adversity from both family and other male drivers, the job gives them economic independence.

I was whirled around in the electric tuk-tuks, exploring the Old City with street food stops to keep me going in the 33C heat. I recommend trying Sabudana tikki, an Indian hash brown with tapioca, followed by a cooling kheer rice pudding.

The female rickshaw drivers were patient enough to let me take my selfies at the famous pink Hawa Mahal palace, too.

Built to allow the female royal household to watch the city without being seen by others, the towering palace wall was too beautiful to skip.

It was as I was gazing up at the intricately carved windows (of which there are 953) that my driver explained some of the stares we noticed from locals while in the tuk-tuk.

“We’ve seen male drivers crash into walls, they are so shocked to see a woman behind the wheel,” Renu told me with a laugh.

My experience of the Fast & Furious-esque rickshaws that squeeze through impossible gaps in the traffic means this doesn’t exactly surprise me. Thankfully, the women drive at a slower, safer pace for any nervous travellers.

Travelling further east, we head to Agra, home to the historic red sandstone Agra Fort and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal.

Haggled for scarves

It’s worth the 4.30am wake-up to see the sky lighting up behind the domed mausoleum, built over two decades by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

It’s almost impossible to comprehend the details that remain after 400 years, with the bright white marble towering 240ft high, ornamented with jewels and intricate patterns.

The early start also allows you to avoid the huge crowds and the midday heat.

I managed to skip the lunchtime crush by visiting Sheroes, a cafe run by acid-attack survivors.

It’s a hard visit, where staff share their stories about being injured.

Over homecooked chickpea curries and roti, I chatted to 25-year-old Dolly, who was attacked as a child by a man 22 years her senior. The cafe gave her confidence to re-enter society.

Being a female traveller, the Intrepid tour helped me explore the country safely as a woman.

I stopped in Jodhpur, the Blue City, and learned about the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort which was used to film Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises, and the live-action movie The Jungle Book.

And in chaotic Delhi, I haggled for handwoven scarfs from eager market vendors, before being dragged into dance by a man wearing a bejewelled elephant outfit.

India might have a way to go still when it comes to equality. But it’s certainly on the right trajectory.

And with Virgin Atlantic now celebrating 25 years of flying to this awe-inspiring country, it shows this a destination that will always be top of British holidaymakers’ bucket lists.

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I’ll be back.

After a click of my new ruby red Indian slippers, of course.

One Reddit user said they had visited markets in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, and Estonia last winter, and the experience soon began to lose its sheen.

Visiting a Christmas market is a delightful festive tradition for many. The ambience and festivity make them a great way to get into the seasonal spirit, and there’s a chance of finding some unique Christmas gifts you wouldn’t spot elsewhere.

But there can be too much of a good thing, as one Reddit user discovered when they visited eight different markets across Europe last winter. Posting on the social media site, the user said they had visited markets in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, and Estonia, and the experience soon began to lose its sheen.

They wrote: “When I visited more than two or three markets in a short time (weekend) they all started to blur together really quickly. Each market had its own things, like different themes, food, and decorations, but after a few markets, it became hard to remember what things were in which city.

“All the markets started to feel repetitive, like a general ‘winter/Christmas market’ packed with people rather than something new and interesting in each location.”

They added they were disappointed to see local, handmade products were often drowned out by mass-produced goods. Concluding, they said they would still be visiting some Christmas markets this year, but would spread out their visits, and wouldn’t go to as many.

“I don’t regret my travel decisions – mainly because the markets were not the main point of my travels,” they said. “But if they were, I would be, just because it turns into one big blur so easily.

“So I will definitely recommend checking out some Christmas market or two if they’re your thing, just spend a little bit more time there to actually translate and understand all the cool local products they have.”

Commenters were mixed in their reactions, with some agreeing, but others saying they loved visiting Christmas markets in the lead-up to the big day.

One wrote: “I think going to one Christmas market – either here at home or somewhere else – per year can be charming, but to be honest, the whole thing has become so industrialised that I’m pretty done even after one. But I see it as more of an experience and usually don’t want to buy much.

“Like part of the charm is being outside, getting rosy cheeks, dipping in somewhere for a cappuccino or hot chocolate, or having eiswein, being with friends and not having structure or plans. Goes honestly for outdoor markets not at Christmas time, also, but there is something unique and charming at Christmas. It is sad about the squeezing out of real artisans.”

Another said: “Visiting too many Christmas markets quickly can really drain the experience and make them blur together tbh. It is actually smart to focus on one or two. I’d also support local artisans over mass produced souvenirs to keep the culture and quality alive.”

But a third said: “I’ve been to lots of Christmas markets with nice local food, crafts and arts that you can’t easily find elsewhere. And even if it is stuff you can find elsewhere, often the ambience is often quite nice. Talking about the real deal, German markets, and the best of Dutch markets; many other countries have markets which are fake touristy imitations of the real deal.”

And another said: “I love the markets, and go to several for the vibe and the food and the gluhwein. German village markets are fantastic.”

Tropea in the Calabria region of Italy has recently been voted the prettiest village in the whole country

Few places can be beaten for splendour than the duomo in Florence, and turning a corner to be greeted by the Colosseum in Rome would take anyone’s breath away.

Travel to Italy and you’re never far from a spectacular sight – be that the shores of Lake Garda, which as a dyed in the wool Cumbrian even I have to admit looks like the Lake District on steroids, to the canals, gondolas and majestic cathedral of Venice, and Verona’s amphitheatre and Juliette’s balcony to the high end shops of Milan, there really is something for everyone.

But venture a little of the beaten track, and escape the hordes of tourists battling for an inch of beach in the Amalfi coast, to travel south to the untapped and undiscovered region known as Calabria and you’ll step into the ‘real Italy’ – and back in time.

One of the crown jewels of this region, which is Italy’s poorest, is the stunning medieval town of Tropea, where I was lucky enough to spend a blissful week. And it’s not just me who’s a fan, the town was recently voted the prettiest in Italy, which I think we can all agree means it was up against some stiff competition.

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Nestled into the cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea, this ancient town tumbles down the rock face and into the turquoise blue of the ocean.

Surrounded by stunning golden beaches with plenty of room to feel like you have them to yourself, this town has a magical dream-like quality.

Tropea has survived it all – invasions, earthquakes and bombings – to stand proud on the clifftops. Its array of noble palaces and stunning churches, all contained within the winding, cobbled streets of the old town.

I was lucky enough to spend a week in Calabria with Tropea as my base. A glorious sunny October afternoon spent strolling through its streets, with secret, hidden alleys at every turn, and sampling the delicious food from the region, including the sweet, red onions and spicy ndjua, was an utter delight.

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Stopping for one of the most delicious ice-creams I’ve ever eaten while overlooking the awe-inspiring Tyrrhenian from one of the many viewing points in this quaint little town quite simply took my breath away. Meanwhile, stopping for a crisp, white wine in an ancient tavern half way up the cliff face on my way back from the beach was the perfect way to while away a few hours.

If it’s history you’re after, then Tropea has it in bucketloads – from the cathedral to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, the church on the rock, gazing out into the wide expanse of azure sea.

From the incredible viewing points, you have an amazing view of Stomboli, the still erupting volcano which lights up the night sky every evening off this part of the coast of Italy.

I have but one complaint about this undiscovered, Italian hidden gem – and that’s that I don’t live there and only got to spend a week wandering its beautiful streets.

TWISTING the handles of his personal periscope around, my son Billy lets out an excited gasp.

Through the lens he’s able to catch a glimpse of the rollercoasters and colourful rides that await him at Chessington World of Adventures, right on the doorstep of our hotel.

I’m staying in one of the theme park’s new Paw Patrol-themed rooms, offered up just in time for half term.

Part of Chessington’s Safari Resort hotel, the five new pup-tastic bedrooms offer a glimpse of what’s to come when a new Paw Patrol-themed land opens next spring.

Nothing has been spared on making these spaces as immersive as possible.

Funky bunk beds have been disguised as the famous Paw Patroller truck featured in the show, with a driver’s seat at the front and a steering wheel that little ones can play with.

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A yellow periscope in the main room, that fans will recognise as a replica of that from the Paw Patrol Lookout Tower, is surrounded by coloured bean bags which kids can plonk themselves on when spying on the theme park.

And if the view from the periscope isn’t enough to impress them, the bedroom window one will be.

Rooms overlook the park’s Wanyama Reserve, and one afternoon we were treated to the sight of two giraffes munching away on their leafy dinner.

I was grateful for some tranquillity to balance out the “wow” of the all-singing, all-dancing bedroom.

The decor here is bold and bright, with huge murals of the pups showing their wacky adventures.

Rooms sleep up to two adults, in a plump double bed, and three children.

They also come with a special Paw Patrol parking outside.

Even when you’re dining at one of the two restaurants, you’re likely to bump into your little ones’ favourite character.

As Billy tucked into his junior Wanyama burger (£7) at dinner, he clocked Skye giving some of her fans a high-five and a cuddle across the room.

If you don’t get to meet your hero at the hotel, Paw Patrol guests can nab fast-track entry to daily meet-and-greets with Chase, Skye and Rubble in the park.

A night’s stay comes with a huge buffet breakfast – which has everything from a full English to pancakes and pastries and is available from 7am to 10am.

Access to the hotel’s Savannah Splash Pool means children can burn off any extra energy.

After an action-packed day here, adults will be just as grateful for the ultra-comfy beds as the kids are.

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Paw Patrol stays start from £155 for a family of four, including bed and breakfast. Stays include early ride access, a Pup Pass (meet-and-greet fast track pass) and a Reserve & Ride one-shot pass.

Guests staying before the Paw Patrol-themed land opens will have a chance to be one of the first to ride the new rollercoaster in 2026.