warning

Brits have been urged to brush up on local driving rules, as experts warn wearing two types of holiday footwear while behind the wheel could result in a hefty €344 (£282) fine

Sun-worshipping Brits jetting off to the likes of Spain and Greece this year have been issued a stark driving warning.

If sitting on a coach with a bunch of strangers in stifling heat isn’t how you want your holiday to begin, you may have already considered hiring a rental car. It’s a great way to roam around the lesser-visited parts of the country – means you’re not tied down to the strict agenda of the tour trip – and allows you to live out your fantasy of whizzing through the Amalfi Coast with the sun-roof down.

However, it is always worth brushing up on local driving laws before you get behind the wheel. Many European countries have different rules compared to the UK, and we’re not just talking about which side of the road you should drive on…

READ MORE: Spanish islands’ all-inclusive 6-drink cap and what it really means for tourists

Over in the UK, it is not explicitly illegal to drive in summer footwear like flip-flops or crocs. Under Highway Code Rule 97, drivers must wear clothing and footwear that ‘allow them to use the vehicle controls properly’ – but if you’re found to be driving without proper control, you could be found guilty of ‘careless driving’.

This carries a £100 on-the-spot fine (but issued fines may be as high as £5,000) as well as three-nine points on your licence, or even a driving ban. In a statement sent to the Mirror, Jamie Barke, Managing Director at CarMats4U.com, explains that the rules in holiday hotspots like Spain, France, and Greece, are quite similar. “While they don’t explicitly ban flip-flops, crocs, or barefoot driving, vaguely worded laws can allow local authorities to fine drivers if their footwear is deemed unsafe,” the expert added.

In Italy, minor motoring offences risk a €87 (£72) fine, but can climb up to €344 (£282). This falls under the the Codice della Strada, Article 141) which states the driver must always maintain control of their vehicle. Over in Portugal, fines range from €60 (£50) to €300 (£251) for failing to ‘abstain from practices that may impair safe driving’.

Spain’s Ley sobre Tráfico, Circulación de Vehículos a Motor, Article 13, makes it clear that drivers must always maintain control of their vehicles. Failure to do so can lead to fines of up to €200 (£167). Similarly, French law dictates that ‘drivers must be in a condition to perform all necessary driving manoeuvres’ – or risk a maximum fine of €150 (£125) – while Greece can fine holidaymakers up to €100 (£83) if they do not drive ‘with caution’.

Again, none of these driving rules explicitly ban any kind of footwear. But, if your choice of shoes impacts your driving, or ability to control your vehicle, you may still be fined. The expert also argued that beyond safety concerns, beachwear could cause a hidden risk to your car’s interior. This could be particularly costly if you’re hiring your car from a company and didn’t take out extra protection.

“Flip-flops and crocs often mean tracking in sand, grit, and moisture into the car after beach trips,” Jamie added. “These elements can damage interiors over time. To avoid fines and for additional safety, we always recommend keeping a spare pair of proper driving shoes in your car and using an easy-to-clean car mat to prevent long-term interior damage.”

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Swathes of Brits have been stung by a post-Brexit passport rule that has sparked mass confusion – and resulted in passengers being denied boarding, despite having documentation that is still ‘in date’

Brits jetting off across Europe this summer risk being turned away at the gate – even if their passport is still ‘in-date’. Swathes of disgruntled passengers are still being caught out by a sneaky post-Brexit rule that could completely sabotage your next holiday. Even with soaring prices, it might be worth renewing your passport now – rather than risk being denied to fly at the airport.

According to reports, around half a dozen Brits were being turned away every single day at one UK airport due to the way the passport rules – which many feel are extremely unclear – were being applied. So, here’s everything you need to know about travelling across Europe this summer, and when you should renew your passport.

READ MORE: Spanish islands’ all-inclusive 6-drink cap and what it really means for tourists

“If you are a national from a country outside the EU wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a valid passport and possibly a visa,” explains the European Union. “Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU and it must have been issued within the last 10 years.”

To clarify, this means your passport must have been issued within the previous 10 years on the day that you enter an EU country. It must also be valid until the end of your stay, plus an additional three months.

However, one British artist was denied boarding by Norwegian airlines on March 23 as her passport was issued ‘more than nine years and nine months ago’. Her passport’s date of issue was June 13, 2015 – and it is due to expire in August – meaning she meets both criteria laid out by the EU.

“Upon arriving at check-in, the automated system directed me to the desk,” she said. “The staff member consulted a colleague, who stated my passport was invalid because it was issued more than nine years and nine months ago. But there is no such rule. This decision demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the actual entry requirements.”

The anonymous artist claims she lost around £700, and had to spend hundreds of pounds on an emergency passport renewal and replacement flight. According to the Guardian, The Copenhagen police department stood by its decision – and confirmed that once a passport is nine years and nine months old from the date of issue – it is invalid – as the Schengen does not recognise ‘extensions of 10-year-passports’.

Prior to October 2018, Brits renewing their passports could add up to nine extra months from their previous passport on to the expiry date. But post-Brexit, and EU countries are refusing to accept passports that have been issued more than 10 years ago altogether.

How much is a new passport?

Passport fees increased last month (April, 10) meaning a standard online application made from within the UK rose from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults and £57.50 to £61.50 for children. Postal applications also increased from £100 to £107 for adults and £69 to £74 for children.

According to GOV UK, the fee for a Premium Service (one day) application made from within in the UK is now £222 for adults and £189 for children, while overseas standard paper applications increased from £112.50 to £120.50 for adults and £77 to £82.50 for children.

“The new fees will help the Home Office to continue to move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.,” the government added. “The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.”

Have you been stung by the passport change? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story

Travel expert reveals five types of accommodation that should set off alarm bells for savvy travellers – and the list might surprise you

A travel expert has unearthed five kinds of lodgings that shrewd tourists should dodge. At the pinnacle of his list sits the notoriously overpriced airport hotel, trapping many who favour convenience without considering the toll on both their wallets and overall holiday joy.

Travellers looking for the perfect getaway may want to think twice before clicking “book now”, according to an expert who pointed out five red flags. Javier Sobrino, the mastermind behind Descubriendo Viajes – a bespoke Spanish travel platform – has spoken out, asking travellers to do their research before booking.

He waves a cautionary flag at deceivingly cheap all-inclusive resorts, particularly those plagued by dismal reviews. The expert also had some advice about booking airport hotel accommodation.

Javier said: “Unless you’ve got a flight departing before 8am, you’re wasting your final night in a sterile room when you could enjoy a meal with local flavour and charm.”

While some all-inclusive packages promise savings and some of course are well worth the ease in booking, some guests often report ‘let-downs’ such as dilute beverages, dodgy buffet sanitation, and an underwhelming vibe.

“Budget all-inclusives often serve mediocre food in buffets where items sit out for hours,” Sobrino cautions. Poorly rated all-inclusive packages are more likely to disappoint, according to reviewers.

Mr Sobrino suggests keeping a “vigilant” eye on food-related critiques and steering clear of resorts that have left holidaymakers less than unimpressed reports the Express.

Guests are advised to pay close attention to food-related reviews and avoid any resort where the majority of comments are lukewarm at best.

Should less than a quarter of feedback gleam with “excellent” badges, chances are high for an unsatisfactory stay.

Mr Sobrino also points out that seemingly inexpensive roadside hotels in remote locations can harbour unseen drawbacks that have the potential to derail an adventure, especially for travellers not well-acquainted with the territory.

Hotels situated along highways often fall short due to subpar soundproofing, limited dining options, and a general feeling of seclusion.

Sobrino recounted a personal experience where he booked a roadside hotel near Valencia that appeared decent in photos, only to discover it was adjacent to a noisy truck stop, resulting in sleepless nights and missed local experiences.

Although the prices may be enticing, the lack of convenience and ambiance makes these hotels a poor choice for most travellers. Being too far from city centres or attractions can easily turn a dream trip into a logistical nightmare.

Sobrino also warns against hotels undergoing renovations, as they often mislead guests by downplaying disruptions. “They’ll offer slight discounts while claiming renovations are ‘minimal’, but arrive to find half the amenities closed and construction noise starting at 7am,” he said.

The expert advises travellers to contact hotels directly before booking to inquire about any ongoing work and to be wary of vague or evasive answers.

Lastly, hotels offering extremely low prices in prime locations should be approached with caution, as they often conceal poor conditions behind slick marketing. “They either have hidden fees that double the price, terrible service, or rooms that haven’t been updated since the 1980s,” he warned.

According to Sobrino, “A truly great stay isn’t about luxury, it’s about honest value delivered with genuine hospitality.”

A tourist-magnet country that welcomed more than 18 million international visitors last year will be hit hard by fresh travel warnings from the FCDO – and it could invalidate your insurance

Brits have been issued a stark warning following escalating tensions in a country that welcomes tourists in their droves. Last year, a staggering 18.89 million international visitors flocked to India – lured in by the country’s fascinating history, stunning architecture, and stellar street food.

Classed as the world’s seventh largest country, spanning some 1.2 million square miles, India is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the world – including Amber Palace, Agra Fort, and Humayun’s Tomb. Of course, a trip to the country isn’t complete without having a selfie in front of the majestic Taj Mahal.

Touted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this 17th century marble mausoleum and its pristinely symmetrical garden has attracted A-listers and political figures from across the globe. It’s where Princess Diana was snapped sitting on a bench – without her prince.

READ MORE: Major EU airline chaos as 1,400 flights suddenly axed with UK airports included

But, for almost 80 years, India has been locked in a military exchange with Pakistan over Kashmir, an area claimed in full and administered in parts by both countries. This conflict flared up on May 7 when India launched attacks on what it described as ‘terrorist infrastructure’ in Pakistan – in response to gunmen opening fire on a group of domestic tourists visiting Pahalgam, a popular part of Indian-administered Kashmir.

On May 10, the government of Pakistan stated that both countries have agreed to stop military action. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) therefore updated its travel advice on May 22, but still advises against ‘all travel to parts of India’ – including within 10km of the India-Pakistan border.

“FCDO advises against all travel to the region of Jammu and Kashmir (including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, the city of Srinagar and the Jammu-Srinagar national highway), except for: travel by air to and from the city of Jammu, travel within the city of Jammu, and travel within the Union Territory of Ladakh,” the body added. “FCDO [also] advises against all but essential travel to the state of Manipur including the capital, Imphal.

“Curfews and restrictions continue in parts of Manipur following violent ethnic clashes that broke out in 2023. Intermittent incidents have continued and escalated in September 2024.”

Even tourist hotspots like Goa, renowned for its sugar-like beaches and cobalt waters, come with risks. The FCDO says the destination’s popularity has given surge to ‘opportunistic criminals’ that operate in the area.

“There have been some serious incidents involving British nationals in recent years, including sexual assaults and the murder of a young female traveller,” the FCDO added. “It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places in Goa. If you drink alcohol outside the limits of a licensed premises, you could be fined or given a prison sentence. You can drink within the limits of a registered beach shack or bar, for example, but not on an open beach or road.

Travelling to a country with an FCDO warning could mean your travel insurance is invalid. You can read the government’s full advice on India here.

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While it can be tempting to close your eyes while you’re waiting for your flight to depart, a member of cabin crew has revealed why you should avoid having some shut-eye

You might think that taking a snooze before your plane takes off is harmless, but a flight attendant has revealed a vital reason why you should avoid doing it on your next getaway.

Catching a flight can be tiring, especially if you’ve woken up at 3am to get to the airport in plenty of time for your long-haul flight. The early starts can quickly catch up with you, and before you know it, you’ve drifted off while waiting for everyone to board the plane.

But flight attendant, Ale Pedroza, who lives in Orlando, Florida, has revealed ‘what not to do’ on a flight – and top of her list is when not to nap.

“Let’s talk about things you shouldn’t do on an airplane – coming from a flight attendant,” she said in a TikTok video. “The first tip is try not to fall asleep before take off. I know travelling can be exhausting and sometimes you just want to get on an airplane and go straight to sleep.”

READ MORE: Terrifying airport near-miss as planes almost crash in view of New York skyline

She continued: “So not only is it not good for your ears to fall asleep before take off but you also want to remember that taxiing is one of the most crucial phases of flights. You want to make sure that you are completely aware and completely awake in case of an emergency or in case you have to evacuate.”

Ale, who has worked in the industry for a decade, then shared tip number two. “Next is do not consume your own alcohol. It is against federal relations to consume your own alcohol because we do need to make sure that you are drinking responsibly.

“And if you are drinking your own alcohol we can’t really track that. It is a federal thing, it is not an airline thing.” Serving your own alcohol on a plane is also banned in the UK.

Finally, she concluded: “One of the most obvious ones is don’t walk around barefoot on any airline or any airplane. If you decide to take your shoes off in your seat, that’s a different story, but do not walk into the lavatory with bare feet. You never know what you are stepping on, and the floor is not always the cleanest!”

It comes after air steward Tommy Cimato urged passengers not to wear shorts on a flight. The aviator turned video creator, who boasts more than 450,000 followers on his account @tommycimato, warned that wearing shorts can potentially pose a risk without you even realising it.

READ MORE: Brits heading to Spain should make four checks now after Airbnb crackdown

“Don’t or try not to wear shorts when on an airplane. You never know how clean it’s going to be, so if you’re wearing trousers you’re going to have fewer germs,” he explained.

Sharing other vital first-hand advice with his followers, Tommy went on: “Do not ever push the flush button or lever with your bare hands. It’s honestly just unsanitary and it’s pretty gross, so when you flush use a napkin or tissue. Don’t forget to drink water and stay hydrated! You’re going to want about 16 ounces for every flight that you go on.

“Do not fall asleep or lean your head on the window. You’re not the only person to do that and you don’t know how many people or children have wiped their hands or other things all over the window. Don’t feel afraid to let a flight attendant know that you’re feeling sick. We are there to help so if you need food, water, or an air sickness bag then please feel free to let us know.”

READ MORE: Water-resistant nine-person tent with ‘three bedrooms’ gets price slashed by over £100 in sale

CHILLING travel warnings have been issued for tourists visiting Turkey amid Brit mum Beth Martin’s mysterious death in Istanbul’s public hospital.

Ms Martin, 28, tragically died after suddenly falling ill during her dream holiday in the country.

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She was rushed to a two-star-rated public hospital, where she is said to have taken her last breath and had her heart allegedly removed without any permission.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) warns that coroners in Turkey can take small tissue samples and organs for testing “without the family’s permission” under Turkish laws.

The advisory says that these orphans are usually returned before the person’s body is released.

However, Turkish authorities “might keep he body parts without permission in exceptional circumstances”, the foreign office warned.

The travel warning was placed before Ms Martin’s death and has nothing to do with her tragic case.

That’s because hospitals in Turkey have faced accusations of stealing organs and facilitating illegal transplants.

Meanwhile, the British government in its travel advisory warned tourists to be aware of medical treatments in the country.

The Foreign Office suggested that people visiting the country for medical tourism should exercise caution and discuss plans with a UK doctor beforehand.

The travel advisory reads: “We are aware of six British nationals having died in Turkey in 2024 following medical procedures.

“Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure.”

Ms Martin was wheeled to Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital – a low-rated public hospital built on the outskirts of the Turkish capital.

After scrambling for an ambulance, she was finally admitted to the hospital, which offers Istanbul‘s International Patient Service serving foreign patients.

The doctors are understood to have checked her heart by performing an angiogram – a form of X-ray that shows blood vessels.

After doing the checks, the doctors told husband Luke they did not find anything suspicious.

However, Ms Martin was dead by the very next day – leaving Luke to explain the tragedy to their two young children, aged 8 and 5.

Her family claims they were left completely in the dark by Turkish authorities throughout the whole ordeal.

And sickeningly, once they finally got back to the UK with her body, a UK autopsy revealed her heart had been removed – without any prior consent or authorisation.

Marmara Pendik Hospital is now facing a negligence investigation over Ms Martin’s sudden death, according to Ms Martin’s family.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) is also making its own enquiries with local authorities, the Daily Mail reports.

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The public hospital has a low rating on Google, averaging just two stars.

A website operated by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Health states that the hospital’s principles are “transparency and accountability [with] people at the focal point of the fairness of the health service that is excellent”.

The Sun has reached out to the hospital for comment.

Meanwhile, Luke told how he was then shocked when Turkish police initially accused him of poisoning and killing his wife after her shocking death.

She was being treated in intensive care, he said, before adding he was banned from seeing her.

Beth and Luke’s parents flew out the following day and were again kept in the dark.

They were then shocked to discover Beth had been transferred to another hospital overnight, due to “concerns with her heart”, with none of the family members informed.

Close friend Ellie, who travelled to Turkey to try and help, detailed her experience of what happened after Beth’s death.

She revealed that Beth was supposed to be transferred to a private clinic.

But the public hospital was slow to act and “stopped her” from doing so.

She told how the doctors were acting strangely.

Ellie explained: “All they went on about is ‘are you going to sue the hospital? Sign this bit of paper’.

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“I said: ‘Is there something we should be suing for? Do you know something we don’t? Because that’s really suspicious.'”

The family, who have not been told her cause of death, claim they were also forced to carry Beth in a body bag through the hospital.

She blasted the hospitals, saying: “The insurance company wanted to move her to a private hospital but the public hospital in Istanbul were not cooperating, they were being slow and delaying reports and not sending information over.

“They stopped her.”

She noted how suspicious it was that Beth’s hair was in “perfect” shape despite the mum undergoing “45 minutes of CPR”.

She speculated: “They said they did 45 minutes of CPR but anyone who has ever had CPR or has seen CPR knows how brutal it is.

“When I saw Beth in the morgue after she had her hair in two French plaits and they were perfect.

“There is no way they did CPR for 45 minutes, I know that,” she defiantly stated.”

She added that medical reports rule out food poisoning as a cause of death, but they still do not confirm how exactly the mum died.

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The cost of a trip to the beach in parts of Turkey including Bodrum have shot up in recent years, despite free access to the coast being enshrined in the law of the land

The sky-high price of spending an afternoon basking in the sun on some of Turkey’s best-known beaches has been revealed.

Each year, around 1.5million visitors flock to Bodrum city, which sits on the far south-western edge of Turkey and enjoys sunny days and warm seas. In recent years its reputation as one of the best value resort cities on the Aegean has been dented, as sky-high inflation rates across the country hit the pockets of citizens and visitors alike.

Since 2018, the country’s economy has been plagued by currency depreciation and high inflation, which has eroded households’ budgets. While annual inflation eased to 48.6 percent in October, down from 75.5 percent last May, the country’s cost-of-living crisis continues to weigh heavily on many. A recent report found that a quarter of retirees in the country have been forced back in work.

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

READ MORE: ‘Brit’ tourist ‘attacked’ on busy beach after refusing to use sunlounger

While the struggle is being felt most keenly by those living on low wages in the country, price rises are also very noticeable to tourists. This week Ersin Süzer, a famous columnist in Turkey, has shone the spotlight on the cost of a day at the beach in Bodrum.

While access to almost all beaches in Turkey is enshrined in law, in reality bars, restaurants and clubs are taking over more and more of the coastline in areas such as Antalya and Bodrum. Often, sun loungers crowd out sun worshippers who simply want to lounge on the sand.

In recent months, the ‘towel movement’ has sprung up, with angry locals heading to certain beaches en masse to protest against large developments. Among them is Omer Onal, a 71-year-old bookshop owner. He told Balkan Insight how frustrating the situation has become: “We can’t even demonstrate on the Ayayorgi coastline because there is no public path, only a beach club entrance.”

The issue of who controls the beach – and who is welcome to visit – came to a head in Damlatas Beach in the Alanya district of Antalya earlier this month. A tourist was beaten by resort staff after refusing to hire a sunbed because it was too expensive, it was reported.

To avoid a similar shock, it’s best to know how much you might be asked to pay when in Turkey.

Here is the minimum cost of spending a day at some of the better-known beaches of Bodrum, according to Mr Süzer.

• Lucca Beach: £84 (Minimum spend)
• Bobo by Stay: £114 (Minimum spend)
• Match Girl Hotel: £172 (Minimum spend)
• Mandarin Oriental: £134 (Entrance fee)
• Edition Hotel: £101 (Entrance fee)
• Buddha Bar and Beach: £189 (£63 entrance fee, £126 minimum spend)
• No 81 Hotel: £67 (Minimum spend)
• Flamm Hotel Beach: £67 (Minimum spend)
• Scorpios Beach: £143 (£58 entrace fee, £85 minimum spend)
• Highlight Hotel: £67 (Minimum spend)

VAPING is more addictive than nicotine gum and has a “high potential for abuse”, experts warn.

A study by West Virginia University in the US found that young people enjoy vaping more than chewing gum, which makes it more addictive.

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E-cigarettes were originally invented to help smokers quit tobacco and reduce their risk of cancer.

However, use of the gadgets rocketed in people who never smoked and has become an addiction in its own right.

The study tested the effects of e-cigs and nicotine gum in 16 current or former smokers aged 18 to 24.

They had no nicotine overnight and then chewed gum for 30 minutes or used a vape in the morning, before answering questions about their cravings.

Lower cravings & higher satisfaction

Results showed that people who used vapes rated their cravings and withdrawal feelings significantly lower than gum users, and rated their personal satisfaction higher.

This suggests the e-cigs have a stronger effect which may make it easier to get hooked.

Study author, PhD student Andrea Milstred, said: “Today’s electronic cigarettes have great potential to produce addiction in populations that are otherwise naive to nicotine.

“This often includes youth and young adults.”

The British Government plans to outlaw disposable vapes and crack down on the flavours that are allowed, in a bid to make them less appealing to teenagers and young people.

Writing in the journal Nicotine and Tobacco Research, Ms Milstred suggested vaping might be more addictive than gum because it uses a form of nicotine that does not taste as bitter or harsh.

What are the new vape laws?

Ministers have pledged to crackdown on poorly regulated vapes and e-cigarettes following an explosion in the number of teenagers who use them.

New rules for manufacturers and shopkeepers are expected to come into force in late 2024 or early 2025.

They are set to include:

• Higher tax rates paid on vapes increase the price and make it harder for children to afford them
• A ban on single-use vapes in favour of devices that can be recharged
• A ban on colourful and cartoonish packaging that may appeal to youngsters
• Tighter controls on flavourings and a ban on unnecessarily sweet or child-friendly ones like bubblegum and candy
• More regulation on how and where they are displayed in shops, potentially putting them out of sight
• Harsher penalties for shops caught selling them to under-18s

The ban on disposable vapes is part of ambitious government plans to tackle the rise in youth vaping.

A report published by Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) last June found 20.5 per cent of children in the UK had tried vaping in 2023, up from 15.8 per cent in 2022 and 13.9 per cent in 2020.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt also announced plans to impose a tax on imported e-cigs and manufacturers, making vapes more expensive.

The duty will apply to the liquid in vapes, with higher levels for products with more nicotine.

A 20-year-old university student has shared her concerning experience of working in bars along Tenerife’s party strip, Playa De Las Americas. She now has a warning for other holidaymakers looking to work on the island

At the tender age of 20, having finished my second year at university, I embarked on a memorable adventure to Tenerife with a friend. We had landed jobs as bartenders and had our own flat just a stone’s throw from all the excitement in Playa De Las Americas – the island’s party central.

The thrill of independence was what excited us most. Like many young holidaymakers on the island, it was our first taste of such freedom. The resort is the ideal blend for a party holiday – a stunning beach hosting numerous boat parties, a plethora of bars featuring top DJs serving cheap drinks, and other fun-loving tourists ready for a good time.

However, there’s a darker side to the island, a hidden underbelly – a serious drug underworld. It’s easy to see how some unsuspecting Irish and Brits abroad can innocently land themselves in hot water, reports Wales Online.

READ MORE: ‘Hidden’ Greek island is ‘Europe’s cheapest holiday destination’ with few tourists

Seven years ago, working and living in Tenerife was an absolute dream – I loved it so much that I returned for another season the following summer. Despite earning less than €4 an hour and serving drinks six nights a week, I was having the time of my life.

Our days were spent lounging by the pool or basking in the sun on the beach, while our nights were dedicated to serving drinks with a smile. When we finished work, we had VIP access to all the top festivals and lively parties.

However, the vibrant nightlife came with an unspoken rule that you’d indulge in a tipple whilst on shift. In these tourist magnets, being a bartender wasn’t just about shaking up cocktails – you were expected to be the heart and soul of the party.

When the bar crawls descended, it was your signal to leap onto the bar, bust out some dance moves, and pour spirits directly into the party-goers’ mouths. That said, cavorting around on the bar wasn’t exactly my idea of fun – a sentiment my boss hinted at when they suggested I “needed to be more fun like the other girls”.

Eventually, I switched to a karaoke bar frequented by hen and stag parties, which didn’t exactly enhance my views on love, especially seeing how often newlyweds departed with the evening’s entertainers.

I observed other bars engaged in more sinister activities, serving as sanctuaries for dealers throughout the night. Many young workers on the strip, oblivious to the grave risks, found themselves entangled in perilous situations linked to these dealers.

Directing drug-seeking tourists to these dealers would net them a swift €10. Meanwhile, my mate and I were practically begging for tips just to be able to afford a drink, unlike others who seemed to live without such financial concerns.

While drinking on the job was encouraged, there were penalties for overindulgence. The punishment? A €50 fine, which was more than we made in a night.

We also had to dedicate three or four hours each week to giving the bar a thorough clean. If we failed to turn up, we faced another €50 fine.

The two summers I spent there were certainly memorable, but I consider myself fortunate not to have encountered any significant issues – except for the occasion when my handbag was snatched from me as I strolled home.

Every country or city has its challenges, but these party hotspots appear to operate within their own lawless microcosms. To all young people setting off on your first party holiday, have fun, but stay vigilant.

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May 15 (UPI) — Criminals could be using AI to send malicious texts and voicemails impersonating United States officials, the FBI warned Thursday.

“Since April 2025, malicious actors have impersonated senior US officials to target individuals, many of whom are current or former senior US federal or state government officials and their contacts,” a release from the FBI said.

The bureau warned recipients not to assume that these calls and texts are authentic. The techniques are known as smishing and vishing and attempt to establish a rapport with the recipient before trying to get them to divulge sensitive personal information.

Once the scammers have established trust, they attempt to get victims to switch to a different messaging platform via a hyperlink and try to access personal financial and other sensitive information, the bureau said. And also attempt access to other information related to current or government officials.

The FBI did not disclose which officials have been target or whether any were convinced to divulge personal or government information.

Spain has launched a fresh crackdown on a specific group of pedestrians known as ‘phone zombies’ as it looks to cut down on road accidents in the country

Holidaymakers caught wandering dangerously with their phones in Spain could be slapped with a hefty fine.

Spain has initiated a tough new campaign against careless pedestrian conduct to tackle the surge in street mishaps – and it spells trouble for holidaymakers addicted to their smartphones. The Spanish traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), has delivered a stern caution to those who wander the pavements engrossed in their devices.

Under fresh rules, pedestrians caught using their mobile phones while walking, particularly close to or on streets, could face an €80 (£67) penalty, while graver infractions like jaywalking may incur fines up to €200 (£170).

Officials have identified the growing problem of “phone zombies” – individuals who meander into traffic while engrossed in texting or browsing – as a significant danger not only to themselves but also to other road users.

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In a direct message posted on its social media platforms, the DGT stated: “Use the zebra crossings properly, they’re there for a reason. Don’t use your phone while crossing, no, not even for a selfie. Eyes up, feet down, and only step out if it’s safe for you and the drivers.”

The statement continued with clear instructions: “Obey traffic signals. Stay off motorways and dual carriageways, they’re for wheels, not heels,” emphasising that the clampdown is vital for “safe mobility for all.”

Particularly, tourists planning trips to popular destinations like Majorca are being cautioned, reports the Express.

Authorities on the island, which has long been subject to complaints about both local and tourist driving standards, are facing increasing pressure to address traffic chaos and pedestrian risks. The problem is only anticipated to escalate as a proposal is being considered to permit learner drivers to practice with experienced drivers, not just instructors, at the helm.

READ MORE: ‘Stunning’ Anglesey holiday cottage with sea views, hot tub and availability in school holidaysREAD MORE: 15 most dangerous places in the world that no tourist should ever visit

As Spanish roads become increasingly challenging for both drivers and pedestrians, both tourists and locals are being encouraged to pay more attention and look up from their phones, or they could face a substantial fine whilst on holiday.

There are plenty of other laws in place across Spain designed to control behaviour. In Alicante for example there are heavy fines for noisy tourists. Recently the city tightened versions of their 2019 rules placed by the city council. These simple rules against tourist noise pollution, however, could cost Brits over £25,000 if breached.

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The country as a whole has declared that tourists will now be fined as high as £8,000 for not having legal proof of their accommodation whilst travelling. This translates into a booking confirmation letter or email – which is easy enough for hotel stayers, but for those visiting friends and family that reside there, proof becomes a lot more complicated.

Cities like Benidorm have announced a new change to their tourist law: a beach fine for any who steps onto its sandy coasts between midnight and 7 AM. In an effort to preserve its beaches and prevent potential crime, Benidorm’s fines are a significant sum that can land between £640 and £1,030 and will also target romantics opting for a night-time swim or sleeping under the stars.

The magnitude of the earthquake has since been updated to 6.0 as a tsunami warning was issued after the earthquake struck near the coast of Crete, which is the most populous of the Greek islands

Holidaymakers in Crete have been warned to steer clear of coastal areas amid tsunami concerns following an earthquake.

An urgent tsunami alert was sounded on the Greek island this morning after a significant 5.9 magnitude tremor hit near the coast of Crete, Greece‘s most densely populated island. The Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection in Greece subsequently announced: “A magnitude 5.9 earthquake occurred 48km SE of Kasos. Risk of possible Tsunami in your area. Move away from the coast immediately. Follow the instructions of Local Authorities.”

The quake’s magnitude has been revised to 6.0 since the initial reports. Coastal alerts were issued this morning in regions frequented by holidaymakers from all over Europe, including Brits.

For those with travel plans to Greece who are reconsidering their trip in light of the earthquake, it’s crucial to understand your legal position and refund entitlements.

Have you been impacted by the earthquake? Email [email protected]

READ MORE: Greece earthquake: TUI sends honeymoon duo terrifying ‘get to high ground’ alert hours after landing

This issue is particularly pertinent at present, as several top European holiday spots have recently been affected by natural calamities, power outages, and social unrest, prompting many travellers to think about cancelling their forthcoming holidays.

This advisory follows a recent caution from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to tourists planning trips to Turkey after a 6.2-magnitude quake struck Istanbul on April 23.

The FCDO has issued a warning that “many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and ‎tremors”, cautioning that these natural events can be “high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose ‎a risk to life”. ‎.

In other news, Spain and Portugal have been plunged into disarray due to an unexpected blackout, leaving millions, including British holidaymakers, in chaos.

Tourists flocking to Spanish destinations like the Balearic and Canary Islands are being alerted about possible upsets this summer, as local activist groups are set to intensify their anti-tourism demonstrations.

With travel abroad currently fraught with unpredictability, the specialists at Tiger.co.uk are advising Brits to verify cancellation policies with their travel insurers if they’re considering pulling out of their plans and seeking reimbursement.

Regrettably, standard insurance packages typically don’t cover travellers who simply decide against going on their trip – a situation referred to as ‘disinclination to travel’ within the insurance industry, where providers usually won’t compensate.

However, there’s an important caveat: when the FCDO advises against travel to a particular area, such as it has done for regions of Turkey within 10km of the Syrian border due to “fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism”, travel companies are obligated to offer either a full refund or alternative arrangements. It’s vital to note that travelling to a location against FCDO advice is likely to nullify any travel insurance coverage.

As of 11am on May 14, the FCDO has yet to issue guidance on the earthquake that struck Greece.

Ian Wilson, a travel insurance specialist and managing director at Tiger.co.uk, commented: “While the chances of being caught up in a natural disaster or civil unrest while abroad are relatively small, it is understandable that some travellers will have concerns about safety and potential disruption to their holidays this summer and may be thinking of cancelling their trip.”

He warned that: “However – unless the UK Foreign Office has issued official advice against travel to your chosen destination – you will most likely be left out of pocket if you choose to cancel, as tour operators or insurance providers are not obligated to refund you for having a change of heart.”

He further explained that: “Most standard travel insurance policies contain cancellation cover which provides cover if your holiday can’t go ahead, but this will only apply in circumstances beyond your control, such as a sudden illness or the death of a close relative.”

Stressing the fallout of personal decisions, he said: “In short, if you decide you no longer want to travel but the provider says the trip can still go ahead, you will have limited grounds to seek reimbursement.”

For those still anxious about travelling, Wilson advised: “However, if you have a trip booked and are still worried about travelling, you may want to consider looking into travel disruption insurance, which offers protection for a wider range of risks, should the unexpected happen.

“This means that if your holiday is impacted by a natural disaster, an outbreak of civil unrest or sudden airline strike, you are likely to be protected financially.

“When planning your holiday abroad, it is important to do some research to ensure your intended destination is safe for tourists. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has a red list of over 70 countries that have no-go zones for UK travellers, and visiting these areas could invalidate your travel insurance.

“Always make sure you check the destination on the FCDO website and look out for any warnings against travel before you book a trip.”

DRIVERS are being warned they could face £100 fines as councils crack down on so-called ‘ghost plates’—illegal number plates intended to evade speed and bus lane cameras.

These plates often use reflective or obscuring materials to avoid detection by traffic enforcement systems.

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In Wandsworth, council chiefs are taking action to shut down the loophole.

These banned plates, often referred to as 3D or 4D plates, reflect camera flashes and can render a vehicle invisible to enforcement systems.

Council bosses have issued a stark warning about rogue motorists using ‘ghost plates‘ to avoid detection.

These plates, which are not legal for road use, are being used by some drivers to beat traffic rules and avoid fines.

Authorities are now ramping up efforts to stop them.

Two years ago, the head of the national Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system revealed that a shocking number of drivers – roughly one in 15 – could easily outsmart the system.

On leaving his post, Professor Fraser Sampson wrote to Transport Secretary Mark Harper expressing his frustration over the lack of government action on the issue.

To combat the problem, new cameras capable of spotting these ‘stealth’ number plates have been rolled out in some areas.

In Wolverhampton, local enforcement officers were equipped with upgraded technology during a strict clampdown last year.

Drivers caught using ghost plates can expect to be hit with a £100 fine.

In his letter to Mark Harper, Prof Sampson detailed how motorists were getting around the law using reflective materials, cloned plates, and other deceptive tools to avoid penalties for speeding, low-emission zone breaches, or bus lane violations.

According to Prof Sampson, the ANPR system has a 97 per cent success rate in reading plates but still produces 2.4 million incorrect readings daily.

That margin of error could mean innocent drivers end up being wrongly fined.

Prof Sampson has raised major concerns about the vulnerability of the system, which still depends heavily on readable number plates despite advances in technology.

He said: “For all its technological advancement and operational indispensability, the ANPR system still relies ultimately on a piece of plastic affixed to either end of a vehicle.

“Served by a wholly unregulated market, what my predecessor termed the humble number plate represents a single and readily assailable point of failure with the ANPR network being easily defeated by the manufacture and sale of stealth plates, cloned registration marks and other rudimentary obscurant tactics.”

He added: “The result is that the ability to frustrate the ANPR system remains staggeringly simple at a time when proper reliance on it for key public services such as policing, law enforcement and traffic management is increasing daily.”

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A National Park in Indonesia is famous for its stunning pink beaches, but to best enjoy the area there are a few policies travellers need to be aware of, including where to stay and when to visit

Pink beaches are a bucket list destination for avid travellers given their scarcity and, in some cases, protected status. These special beaches – defined by the distinct pale pink hue of their sands – can be found in various parts of the world, from Greece to Barbados to Sardinia.

The Komodo Islands of Indonesia are one such infamous destination. The UNESCO Heritage Komodo National Park comprises 29 islands, with Komodo Island being just one among many including other well-known destinations like Rinca and Padar.

Komodo itself has become famous for two things, one being the Komodo dragon and the other its iconic pink sands. But its notoriety has led to a few warnings being issued to would-be tourists over the years.

READ MORE: Incredible EU beach with pink sand is so cherished visitors are banned forever

In 2019, for instance, Komodo Island was considering completely closing off to tourists after reports that Komodo dragons were being smuggled from the island. The closure was initially intended to start in 2020 but was later cancelled, though general tourism of the park is still closed.

Now tourists are warned of another precaution when planning to visit the island, a further consequence of the island’s increasing popularity. Due to growing crowds, travellers are urged to avoid arriving during certain periods to limit crowding.

According to the travel marketplace, Seek Sophie, travellers should avoid the rainy season from January to March as boat trips don’t run during this time. That said, the only way to see Komodo National Park is on an island-hopping boat tour. Travellers can choose between a sightseeing boat tour or a diving boat trip. Even one-day speedboat trips can be cancelled though, if weather conditions are poor.

Komodo National Park requires all boat trip passengers pre-register their journey. After you have booked your boat trip, you’ll be required to submit a copy of your passport with your photo, full name, nationality, and passport number to your boat host at least one day before your trip, otherwise you’ll be denied entry to the park.

If you’re aiming to see the Komodo dragons as well as the famous pink beaches, avoid July and August which is mating season. Seek Sophie also advises travellers to avoid arriving during local holidays like Raya as these are generally exceptionally busy times, unless you’re prepared to queue for popular attractions like the Padar lookout.

But don’t let the tourist warnings and policies scare you off, Komodo National Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that is certainly worth experiencing first-hand. In fact, Time Out recently listed the Padar Island viewpoint as one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Once you are in the Park though, there are several pink beaches to explore, though the one near Komodo Island is where most boats stop off. That said, because of its convenience and popularity, the sand has grown increasingly paler as travellers make souvenirs of the sand.

Tourists taking sand became a huge problem on pink sand beaches, particularly the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) of northern Sardinia. Budelli Island – home to one of only two pink sand beaches in Italy – subsequently barred access to all tourists for life.

As on Komodo Island and most pink beaches, the sand gets its distinct colour from the high concentration of red-coloured, shelled microorganisms that are ground by the waves and transported to the beach. After decades of tourists collecting the sand and with no time to recover, beaches like Spiaggia Rosa eventually lose their colour completely.

Those planning a trip to the Komodo National Park are encouraged to be respectful of the ecological sensitivity of the area. It is to protect the region that there are no hotels in the Park. Travellers wishing to prolong their trip can stay in Labuan Bajo town or opt for an overnight boat.